Tennessee football coach Josh Heupel speaks after Alabama game Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-10-18 | Tennessee plays Alabama on Saturday (3:30 p.m. ET) at Neyland Stadium. Join us live after the game as Josh Heupel gives a post game press conference. » Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY » Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4 » KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media: Twitter: @knoxnews Facebook: / knoxnews Instagram: / knoxvillephoto And for UT sports: Twitter: @GoVolsXtra Facebook: / govolsxtra
Hows the panic meter looking at Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee and beyond? Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-10-15 | They're starting to sweat in Tennessee. They're pulling their hair out in Alabama. They're wondering in Georgia when the mean machine broke down. And at Ole Miss? Oof. It's bleak.Robust Texas looks like a near-lock for the College Football Playoff. Elsewhere in the SEC, it's hold on tight.On today's episode, hosts Blake Toppmeyer and John Adams bust out the panic meter and take a reading of Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia and Ole Miss, and they're pounding the panic button for one of those four programs.Later in the episode, a temperature check on Billy Napier's situation at Florida and a discussion of who could replace Napier, if not Lane Kiffin.And, of course, Week 8 picks against the spread!» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
Is Tennessee football facing playoff elimination game against Alabama? Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-10-15 | With half the SEC battling for College Football Playoff spots, Tennessee and Alabama face a potential elimination game on the Third Saturday in October.On today's episode, hosts Adam Sparks and John Adams set the stakes for Saturday’s rivalry between the Vols and Crimson Tide.Tennessee’s defense is hot, but its offense is ice cold. That combination usually wouldn’t be enough to knock off the mighty Crimson Tide. But this Alabama team is flawed – perhaps just as flawed as Tennessee.On Saturday, the rivals will search for their identity and a path to the playoff. But only one will find it in Neyland Stadium. So let’s talk about it.Other topics: How can play-calling help Nico Iamaleava? Does Alabama have more problems than Tennessee?» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
Tennessee football coach Josh Heupel speaks after Florida game Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-10-13 | Tennessee plays Florida on Saturday (7:00 p.m. ET) at Neyland Stadium. Join us live after the game as Josh Heupel gives a post game press conference. » Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY » Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4 » KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media: Twitter: @knoxnews Facebook: / knoxnews Instagram: / knoxvillephoto And for UT sports: Twitter: @GoVolsXtra Facebook: / govolsxtra
Here’s what is wrong with Tennessee offense and why it matters vs Florida Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-10-08 | Does Tennessee’s offense have a seasonal cold or an incurable disease? Either way, the Big Orange looked very pale in a dreadful 19-14 loss at Arkansas.Nico Iamaleava looked bad. His offensive line looked worse. And coaches didn’t seem to have a solution for their struggles.On today's episode, hosts Adam Sparks and John Adams are going to try to diagnose the Vols’ illness and determine whether there’s a cure before the Florida game.» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
Can Kalen DeBoer recover from Alabamas humiliating loss? Plus, who else is in playoff danger? Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-10-08 | Alabama football suffered one of its most humiliating moments in the proud history of its blue-blooded program on Saturday when Vanderbilt stunned, shocked and embarrassed the Tide.Tennessee, knowing misery loves company, provided rival Alabama a little comfort by losing to Arkansas.And Missouri got unmasked as a fraud in College Station.The SEC's playoff picture is topsy-turvy, and, on today's episode, hosts Blake Toppmeyer and John Adams offer a playoff reset for the conference. Only Texas looks safe, while Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee and others may continue to sweat their playoff chances.Plus, Week 7 picks against the spread!» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
How Tim Banks turned Tennessee football fans from critics to staunch supporters Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-10-02 | After three years of Tennessee fans wanting to run Tim Banks out of town, he’s got the No. 1 defense in college football.» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
True or False?: Florida should hire Mark Stoops, not Lane Kiffin, if Billy Napier fired Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-10-01 | Georgia could get off the mat and win the national championship after losing to Alabama. The Bulldogs have that level of talent.Or, alternatively, Georgia could miss the College Football Playoff entirely, in what would be a stunning way to begin the 12-team playoff era.Meanwhile, Auburn’s Hugh Freeze has elbowed his way onto the hot seat to give Florida’s Billy Napier and Arkansas’ Sam Pittman company.On today's episode, hosts Blake Toppmeyer and John Adams apply a true-or-false verdict to a number of situations unfolding around the conference.Among topics of discussion: Will Hugh Freeze be fired? Is Georgia going to miss the playoff? Will Lane Kiffin be the next Florida coach? Would Mark Stoops be a better choice for the Gators?Also, Week 6 picks against the spread!» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
Knoxville police and fire departments discuss prep and safety ahead of severe weather Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-09-26 | A press conference is held at the Public Safety Complex by the Knoxville Police Department and Knoxville Fire Department about preparations and safety measures ahead of sever weather, Thursday, Sept. 26, 2024.
Why were taking Tennessee football seriously as a national championship contender Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-09-25 | Tennessee football played like a complete team against Oklahoma. Was it Josh Heupel's most impressive victory as Tennessee's coach? No. But, more so than any other game, it showed that the Vols can win with defense. And wins like that will be needed as Tennessee aims to advance from being a good program to becoming a national championship contender.On today's episode, hosts Blake Toppmeyer, Adam Sparks and John Adams weigh in on Tennessee's national championship potential.They also push back on the argument that Heupel coached too conservatively against Oklahoma. And, they engage with a doomsday scenario that could keep Tennessee out of the playoff if the Vols finish 10-2.» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
Why Alabama vs. Georgia matters to Kalen DeBoer, Kirby Smart for different reasons Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-09-24 | It’s not the “Game of the Century,” but it is the Game of September.No. 1 Georgia at No. 4 Alabama.This is Kirby Smart’s latest opportunity to prove he rules college football in the absence of Nick Saban.It’s Kalen DeBoer’s chance to show that the Alabama job is not too big for him, that the Tide selected the proper heir to Saban.On today's episode, hosts Blake Toppmeyer and John Adams preview Saturday’s clash of titans in Tuscaloosa and debate which coach needs a win in this game more.Later in the episode, a look at how Tennessee sizzles, and Hugh Freeze fizzles at Auburn. Finally, Week 5 picks against the spread!» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
The Volunteer State: Why Tennessee vs. Oklahoma is bigger for Brent Venables than Josh Heupel Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-09-18 | » Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
SEC Football Unfiltered: We consider10 candidates if Florida football fires Billy Napier Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-09-17 | It's not a college football coaching search if Urban Meyer's name doesn't appear atop a fan base's wish list.'Hire Urb! Back up the Brinks truck. Make him say no!'Great plan, but what's idea No. 2 when Urb's Audi doesn't come roaring down University Avenue?Better yet, what's idea No. 3 if Lane Kiffin says no?Where would Florida football turn then when the time comes to replace Billy Napier? (Don't say Nick Saban. Not happening.)On today's episode, host Blake Toppmeyer serves up nine potential candidates whom the Gators might consider when they inevitably cut the check to move on from Napier. Co-host John Adams rejects most of Toppmeyer's ideas before offering a rebuttal candidate that might be the most intriguing option of all.Plus, Week 4 picks against the spread!» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
Tennessee football coach Josh Heupel speaks after Kent State game Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-09-15 | Tennessee plays Kent State on Saturday (7:45 p.m. ET SEC Network) at Neyland Stadium. Join us live after the game as Josh Heupel gives a post game press conference. » Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY » Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4 » KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media: Twitter: @knoxnews Facebook: facebook.com/knoxnews Instagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephoto And for UT sports: Twitter: @GoVolsXtra Facebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
Volunteer State Podcast: Cant get no respect: Why Tennessee football still gets snubbed in rankings Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-09-11 | Where's the love for Tennessee after the Vols smashed North Carolina State 51-10? Weren't the Wolfpack supposed to be a quality opponent? The Vols made them look like mincemeat. So, explain how Tennessee lags behind at No. 9 in the US LBM coaches poll and No. 7 in the AP poll.On today's episode, hosts Blake Toppmeyer, Adam Sparks and John Adams unpack what might be contributing to Tennessee's ranking and whether it matters. Adams says he'd rank Tennessee within the top five – but he doesn't have an AP vote this year.The crew also revises their record projections for Tennessee.» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
SEC Football Unfiltered: In our newest CFP projections, hello, Tennessee Vols. Goodbye, LSU Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-09-10 | Our preseason College Football Playoff projections missed the mark.I mean, Iowa? Was that pick for real, or a bad dream?In any case, we're making revisions. At least we don't have to eliminate Notre Dame from the field. We never had the Irish in our projections.On today's episode, hosts Blake Toppmeyer and John Adams admit their mistakes and revise their playoff projections. Later in the episode, they examine Texas' frontrunner credentials after the Longhorns smashed Michigan, and the bill comes due for Hugh Freeze's miscalculation at Auburn.Also, Week 3 picks against the spread!» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
Were talking Vols Nico Iamaleava as Heismanaleava, but are we overreacting? Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-09-04 | Season-opening performances don't get much better than that. It's Nico's time, and Tennessee Vols fans are rejoicing. Iamaleava checked all the boxes in Tennessee's win against Chattanooga. He's the real deal. Call him 'Heismanaleava?' Maybe we're jumping the gun on that one. Just by a smidge.On today's episode, hosts Blake Toppmeyer, John Adams and Adam Sparks revisit Iamaleava's splendid showing in Week 1 and what it means for the Vols' playoff aspirations. Tennessee didn't answer all the questions against Chattanooga. We'll get a better feel for its defense, the secondary in particular, when the Vols face North Carolina State on Saturday.As for the Nico hype train? It's rumbling down the tracks. All gas, no brakes.» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
Dabo Swinney should retire, and Billy Napier is toast: Overreactions or smart takes? Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-09-04 | If Dabo Swinney wants to stand on principle and refuse to take transfers at Clemson, then he should follow Nick Saban into retirement.Also, Billy Napier's Florida tenure is toast after the Gators' flop against Miami.Are those Week 1 overreactions, or smart takes?On today's episode, hosts Blake Toppmeyer and John Adams unpack those ideas and more after a tumultuous opening week.The SEC's chance at five playoff teams took a hit after LSU and Texas A&M lost Top 25 nonconference clashes in their openers. Georgia deserves its frontrunner status, but did UGA show any vulnerability? Also, should Texas roll with Quinn Ewers or Arch Manning?Those are topics under debate in this overreaction-or-smart take edition of the pod. Also, Week 2 picks against the spread!» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
Tennessee football coach Josh Heupel speaks after Chattanooga game Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-09-01 | Tennessee plays Chattanooga on Saturday (12:45 p.m. ET SEC Network) at Neyland Stadium. Join us live after the game as Josh Heupel gives a post game press conference. » Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY » Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4 » KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media: Twitter: @knoxnews Facebook: facebook.com/knoxnews Instagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephoto And for UT sports: Twitter: @GoVolsXtra Facebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
Boyd Sports and Covenant Health announce naming of Knoxville’s new multi-use stadium Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-08-28 | Boyd Sports and Covenant Health announce naming of Knoxville’s new multi-use stadium at a press conference held at the site of the future stadium on Wednesday, August 28, 2024.
Volunteer State: Why its College Football Playoff or bust for Tennessee Vols. And 9-3 wont cut it Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-08-28 | Preseason projections of Tennessee's 2024 record tend to come down to two options: 10-2 or 9-3.That might not sound like much difference, but in the 12-team College Football Playoff era, it's probably the difference between making the playoff or not. Vols fans have their sights set on making the playoff in Josh Heupel's fourth season. Tennessee drew an accommodating schedule, and anticipation for Nico Iamaleava's first season as starting quarterback is off the charts. Still, boobytrap games like those against Oklahoma and Florida could ensnare Tennessee's playoff hopes.On today's episode, hosts Blake Toppmeyer, Adam Sparks and John Adams debate whether this season is playoff or bust for Tennessee. Would 9-3 be an acceptable result in Big Orange Country? Probably not. Not with a 5-star quarterback. Not with a schedule that includes just four preseason ranked teams. Heupel enjoys job security. He's entrenched, playoff or not. But, he should know expectations will increase after he delivered three straight winning seasons.Here's the thing about the playoff tripling in size: It's easier to make the playoff, but fan frustrations for missing the playoff might triple.» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
Why 12-team College Football Playoff wont ruin regular season; plus, Week 1 picks! Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-08-27 | Week 1 is loaded with marquee matchups involving SEC teams, but do season openers mean what they used to in this era of a 12-team College Football Playoff?Florida State lost its opener against Georgia Tech, but the Seminoles retain a clear path to the playoff if they win the ACC Championship. However, that result still carried weight. It decreased the chances of the ACC qualifying multiple teams.For SEC teams, these nonconference games could be the difference between earning an at-large playoff bid or not.On today’s episode, hosts Blake Toppmeyer and John Adams discuss how the expanded playoff affects their perception of the regular season.They also weigh in on Billy Napier’s job security and debate whether Georgia has earned “Alabama status.” The Bulldogs are heavily favored against Clemson.The hosts finish by making their Week 1 picks against the spread.» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
The Volunteer State: Three burning questions as Tennessee football winds down preseason practice Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-08-22 | Preseason practice offers a glimpse at depth chart strengths and weaknesses. We're left with some questions.One player we're not questioning: Nico Iamaleava. The buzz around Tennessee's redshirt freshman quarterback is reminiscent of the hype surrounding Peyton Manning, Heath Shuler and Condredge Holloway. Iamaleava is worthy of that hype.Some other positions are on squishier footing.On today's episode, hosts Blake Toppmeyer, Adam Sparks and John Adams discuss three burning questions that remain unanswered as preseason practice winds down and the Week 1 game against Chattanooga nears.Among the topics are Tennessee's health at running back and wide receiver, and what the heck is going on with that defensive back rotation?» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
SEC Football Unfiltered: Which 12 teams will make College Football Playoff? We lock in our picks Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-08-21 | No more whimsical predictions. It's time to get serious and lock in our playoff picks before the season begins.Yes, we made previous predictions in the winter, spring and earlier this summer, but those were fanciful ideas that come when the season is months away. But, let the record show: These are our final playoff predictions of the preseason.On today's episode, hosts Blake Toppmeyer and John Adams offer their 12 teams for the playoff. While they agree on some teams, they disagree on several. That includes multiple disagreements about SEC qualifiers.Adams offers a sleeper from the SEC among his playoff picks, and he pulls a wild card for one of his final spots that leaves Toppmeyer speechless.Meanwhile, Adams says one of Toppmeyer's playoff picks will be toast after Week 1.» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
What Tennessee footballs branding deal with Pilot Corporation means for Neyland Stadium Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-08-14 | » Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
SEC Football Unfiltered: Why Georgia is the overwhelming favorite to win a national championship Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-08-14 | Georgia is the runaway preseason No. 1 team, and it doesn't matter who's voting. The AP Poll matched the US LBM Coaches Poll in putting the Bulldogs atop the rankings, by a wide margin.Georgia isn't the only loaded team, though. Ohio State bursts with All-America talent, too.On today's episode, hosts Blake Toppmeyer and John Adams examine Georgia's credentials as preseason No. 1, and they unpack the idea of the SEC pushing for more than five playoff bids. Yes, more than five.So, why is Georgia No. 1 and not Ohio State?Two words: Kirby Smart.Georgia's coach is one of three active coaches who have won a national championship, and he's got two. That inspires confidence and expectations. Also, two more words: Carson Beck. Georgia returned its star quarterback, while Ohio State will rely on transfer Will Howard.Later in the episode, the hosts highlight a couple of SEC teams that might leave themselves on the playoff bubble even if they finish 10-2.» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
Austin-East High School students march from school to the City-County Building Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-08-13 | Austin-East High School students are marching from the school to the City-County Building downtown calling for policing reform.Read more: knoxne.ws/3uao3iR» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
University of Tennessee announces a Neyland Stadium naming rights deal with Pilot Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-08-13 | University of Tennessee announces a Neyland Stadium naming rights deal with Pilot, Tuesday, Aug. 13, 2024.
Gay Street Bridge to remain closed until further notice Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-08-12 | A press conference announcing Gay Street Bridge will remained closed until further notice, held in the City-County Building, Monday, Aug. 12, 2024.
Volunteer State Podcast: What Josh Heupels recruiting hot streak means for Tennessee football Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-08-07 | Can we put to bed the narrative that Josh Heupel is an average recruiter?That was one of the knocks on Heupel when Tennessee hired him in 2021. Since then, though, he’s been a steady recruiter – NIL helps – and he’s assembling his best class ever.The Vols are on a recruiting hot streak. Their 2025 recruiting class is positioned for a top-10 national finish. Also, Heupel continues to be a dynamite recruiter of quarterbacks. Tennessee beat out Alabama and LSU to earn a commitment from five-star quarterback Faizon Brandon, the nation’s top-ranked prospect in the 2026 recruiting class.On today’s episode, hosts Blake Toppmeyer, Adam Sparks and John Adams examine the Vols’ recruiting heater and what it means for Heupel’s reputation on the trail.Also, what will Tennessee’s quarterback depth charts look like in 2025 and ’26? The Vols will be stacked at the position in 2025, when Nico Iamaleava should remain the headliner, but will a transfer or two affect the depth chart in ’26?If Iamaleava and Brandon are as good as advertised, Tennessee is well-positioned for the future.» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
SEC Football Unfiltered: Whos overrated and underrated from the SEC in preseason coaches poll? Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-08-06 | The SEC crowded out the competition in the preseason US LBM Coaches Poll. Nine SEC teams are ranked. That’s three more ranked teams than even the Big Ten.Who’s overrated? Who’s underrated? And does the SEC possess a playoff sleeper team lurking under the radar?On today’s episode, hosts Blake Toppmeyer and John Adams unpack the preseason Top 25 and what it means for the College Football Playoff.They consider only two teams to be threats to the SEC reclaiming the national championship: Ohio State and Oregon. They also discuss why the Big Ten might be closer in strength to the ACC or Big 12 than it is to the SEC.And they examine the preseason top 12 and rate each team as “IN” or “OUT” of the College Football Playoff. Adams boots five preseason top-12 teams from his list of playoff qualifiers, while Toppmeyer nixes three top-12 teams from his playoff field.» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
A most unusual trip to cover Todd Heltons Hall of Fame induction via plane, train, automobile Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-07-30 | Todd Helton earned induction to the National Baseball Hall of Fame, and Knox News literally traveled by plane, train and automobile to cover the ceremony.The IT outages stranded reporter Mike Wilson in New York, so he kicked it old school and traveled by Amtrak to Upstate New York. There, in the idyllic town of Cooperstown, Helton earned his enshrinement.A Knoxville native. A standout Vol. Now, a Hall of Famer.Helton was a force of consistency throughout his 17-year career spent entirely with the Colorado Rockies. A sweet-swinging, slick-fielding first baseman, he posted a career .316 batting average.On today's episode, hosts Blake Toppmeyer and Mike Wilson unpack Helton’s journey from Knoxville to Cooperstown -- and Wilson’s hectic, circuitous journey there, as well. They examine Tennessee’s impact on Helton’s career and why some Vols fans still remember him best as a quarterback.» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
SEC Football Unfiltered: Georgia football is out of control. Is Kirby Smart doing enough to stop it? Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-07-29 | Georgia football navigates another offseason marred by player disciplinary issues.The latest: Wide receiver Rara Thomas faces a felony charge of child cruelty and multiple counts of family violence after his arrest last week. Thomas also got cited for three traffic incidents this offseason, adding to Georgia’s string of dangerous driving. Georgia suspended Thomas from the team indefinitely.But, is Smart doing enough to slow Georgia's off-the-field incidents that keep piling up? And, could these disciplinary issues affect Georgia’s on-field performance?On today's episode, hosts Blake Toppmeyer and John Adams weigh in on the situation at Georgia.The hosts say Smart should levy more discipline. Start by dismissing Thomas from the program. In reality, Smart probably won't do much. Coaches have little incentive to be heavy-handed with player discipline. If a coach dismisses an athlete, he can transfer to a conference rival in no time. Plus, there’s no evidence that Georgia's off-field issues hamper the on-field product.Maybe college football would be better served by conferences handling player discipline, rather than coaches and institutions.Later in the episode, a look at Mark Stoops' blistering comments about Kentucky football’s NIL efforts. To hear Stoops tell it, UK is a shoestring operation run by an exhausted coach.» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
Why Paul Finebaum is all in on Tennessee football – but we arent quite there Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-07-25 | Paul Finebaum's optimism grows for Tennessee football.The SEC Network's opinion king emerged from SEC media days feeling more bullish about the Vols' playoff chances and their place within the conference pecking order.Is that sunny outlook warranted?On today's episode, hosts Blake Toppmeyer and Adam Sparks re-evaluate Tennessee's playoff prospects and assess whether their estimation of Tennessee has improved, regressed or stayed about the same throughout the offseason.Their verdict: A 9-3 record is more likely than a playoff berth, but an accommodating schedule nonetheless helps make Tennessee a playoff contender.Also in this episode, an update on the latest developments in the Neyland Entertainment District project that would bring a hotel, restaurant and bar to liven the area around the stadium near the riverfront, at the expense of the G10 parking garage.» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
SEC Football Unfiltered: Hot seat update: Will these 4 SEC football coaches be fired? If so, when? Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-07-25 | The mercury is rising on the SEC’s hot seat before the season even begins.Multiple SEC coaches face potential make-or-break seasons. Sam Pittman (Arkansas) and Billy Napier (Florida) are battling the most heat prior to their openers, but Clark Lea (Vanderbilt) and Shane Beamer (South Carolina) also will encounter critical seasons.On today's episode, hosts Blake Toppmeyer and John Adams take the temperature of those four jobs.Beamer is the only member of the quartet above .500 during his tenure, but the Gamecocks are coming off a season of regression. If Pittman’s record doesn’t rebound after last year’s tailspin, he could trigger a performance clause in his contract that would allow Arkansas to fire him for a discount. Napier’s Gators face one of the nation’s toughest schedules. Lea’s last SEC win came in 2022.The hosts predict three of these four coaches will be fired, but they disagree on which three and debate the timing of the firings.» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
Greg McElroy hypes Nico Iamaleava’s Heisman Trophy campaign. Is Tennessee quarterback deserving? Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-07-17 | Tennessee didn’t select Nico Iamaleava to be among its contingent at SEC media days, but that did little to contain the hype for the Vols’ ballyhooed redshirt freshman quarterback.The Nico train is out of the station, and ESPN’s Greg McElroy jumped into the conductor’s seat this week when he predicted Iamaleava will be a Heisman Trophy finalist. That’s lofty praise for a guy with one career start, but Iamaleava oozes talent.On today’s episode, hosts Blake Toppmeyer, Adam Sparks and John Adams outline Iamaleava’s path to becoming a Heisman finalist and predict whether he’ll be among those in New York City.While no one expects Iamaleava to wilt, part of his Heisman candidacy will be hitched to Tennessee’s playoff status.So, which side of the Heisman finalist cut does Iamaleava fall on? The hosts issue a split verdict.» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
SEC Football Unfiltered: How the Big Ten can close gap on SEC– with Florida State and Clemson Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-07-17 | Greg Sankey says the SEC is 16 strong today and will remain at 16 strong tomorrow.What about the day after that? How about next year? Sankey has less to say about that subject.Meanwhile, fissures linger in the ACC. Florida State wants out of the ACC. The Seminoles and Clemson are both suing the ACC. That's not the sign of a league in harmony.If FSU, Clemson and others defect, where would they go?On today's episode, hosts Blake Toppmeyer and John Adams discuss the possibility of additional SEC expansion and whether the SEC's standing would be damaged if FSU and Clemson wound up in the Big Ten.The SEC might be content at 16, but the risk of standing on the sideline amid further realignment would be the Big Ten growing stronger and narrowing the competitive gap. Adding FSU and Clemson would bring the B1G closer to the SEC. And, for the first time, the Big Ten would penetrate the South.Later in the episode, Toppmeyer and Adams react to some of Nick Saban's spiciest quotes from SEC media days.» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
The Volunteer State: Why Tennessee football should brace for disrespect at SEC media days Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-07-10 | Should Tennessee expect a dose of disrespect when the media who cover the SEC vote next week to predict the conference's standings?Probably a hint of it, at least.Like the Vols, programs like Alabama and LSU offer a mixture of strengths and lingering questions, but Tennessee might struggle to keep up with those programs in the vote. History sways the vote, and Tennessee spent years swimming in mediocrity before Josh Heupel's arrival, while Alabama and LSU thrived.On today's episode, Blake Toppmeyer, John Adams and Adam Sparks predict where Tennessee will be picked in the media's projected order of finish.Their verdict: Tennessee will be picked No. 6. But, two of the hosts think the Vols should be picked higher than that.Also in this episode, an explanation for why quarterback Nico Iamaleava did not make the cut to represent the Vols at media days in Dallas.» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
SEC Football Unfiltered: If Georgia football is No. 1 in the SEC, then whos No. 2? Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-07-10 | If Georgia is No. 1 in the SEC, then who's No. 2?The media who cover the SEC will vote to predict the standings next week. The elimination of divisions adds intrigue to the vote. The Bulldogs likely will be picked to win the conference.But, will the media go with newcomer Texas at No. 2? Or, maybe blue blood Alabama? Others like Ole Miss shouldn't be ignored, either.On today's episode, hosts Blake Toppmeyer and John Adams weigh in on who they expect to be No. 2 in the media's vote. They also offer how they're predicting the top five spots in the SEC standings. They agree on Georgia at No. 1, but then the debate gets interesting. Alabama barely makes their top-five cut.Later in the episode, Toppmeyer shares insights from his recent interview with Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer, who is embracing lofty Year 1 expectations.» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
SEC Football Unfiltered: If SEC expands to 20 teams, consider these four ACC schools Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-06-18 | As a 16-team conference with Oklahoma and Texas on board, the SEC is an undeniable super league.The SEC doesn't need to expand again. But, don't rule out the SEC wanting to, especially if the ACC fractures.SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey says the conference is focused on its current membership, but he didn't entirely shut down the idea of further expansion, when asked directly.On today's episode, hosts Blake Toppmeyer and John Adams unpack Sankey's comments and why they might point toward the possibility of the SEC becoming interested in ACC members, if the ACC's media rights deal doesn't hold.Florida State and Clemson are suing the ACC, amid an ongoing battle with the ACC's contract that has, thus far, glued its membership in place.Toppmeyer and Adams offer differing opinions on which four ACC schools the SEC should target, should those schools become available.Later in the episode, an examination of the College Football Hall of Fame candidacies of Mike Leach and Les Miles.» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
The Volunteer State: Tennessee baseball remains CWS favorite, but which teams are top threats? Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-06-17 | Tennessee baseball enjoys prime positioning to reach the College World Series finals. The Vols' epic rally against Florida State in their first game in Omaha will go down as the one of the top moments in program history. Will it also be the moment that unlocked the path to win the program's first-ever national championship?On today's episode, hosts Blake Toppmeyer and Mike Wilson rewind Tennessee's first two victories and assess what's ahead for the Vols.Wilson says Tennessee remains the team to beat in Omaha. He identifies two others from the SEC on the opposite side of the bracket as top threats: Kentucky and Texas A&M.Tennessee fans are making their presence felt in Omaha. Pat Summitt's Lady Vols won their last national championship in 2008. Tennessee's women's indoor track and field team won a national title in '09. Since then, Vols fans have been ravenous for something big to celebrate.Insert Tony Vitello and his Vols.» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
The Volunteer State: Why Vitello ranted about TN baseballs success & a College World Series preview Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-06-12 | How to define success? And what are some good vacation destinations in Mexico?Tony Vitello has answers to these questions. He also has another College World Series team on his hands. Tennessee’s baseball coach uncorked a lengthy rant after his Vols advanced to the CWS, during which he literally quoted the definition of success from the dictionary.What had Vitello so worked up?On today's episode, hosts Blake Toppmeyer and Mike Wilson unpack Vitello’s meandering monologue, in which he defended his team's success, among many other topics, including travel hot spots.What did Vitello have caught in his craw? Well, after Game 2, a reporter implied that past Tennessee seasons were unsuccessful because they failed to produce a national championship. Vitello disagreed.The Vols have been one of the nation's best programs these past several years. Now, can they capture an elusive national championship? Vitello dialed down the pressure on that expectation and explained why the Vols will go to Omaha playing with “house money.”» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
SEC Football Unfiltered: Our 7 lukewarm SEC football takes & whats up with ESPN hating on Ole Miss? Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-06-11 | You’ve heard of hot takes. You’re probably familiar with cold takes.But, do you know of lukewarm takes?They might be the truest predictions of all, and hosts Blake Toppmeyer and John Adams are serving a helping of those lukewarm SEC football takes on today’s episode.What constitutes a lukewarm take? It’s an against-the-grain prediction that doesn’t rise to the piping-hot level of a hot take.A surprise SEC team will be ranked come October? Yep. We’ve got an idea about which one.How many coaches will be fired? Several. More than the number who are on the hot seat right now.A sleeper in the Heisman Trophy race? Certainly. Call your bookie with this bet.Also, are Missouri and Ole Miss actually playoff teams? Thoughts on that, too.Later in the episode, an examination of ESPN’s Football Power Index and some peculiarities within the teams it projects to be top playoff contenders.» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
The Volunteer State: Why Tennessee baseball is equipped to win a national championship Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-06-06 | Tennessee baseball has been here before. Tony Vitello’s success is not new. He’s made winning the expectation. In previous seasons, though, talented Vols teams fizzled before the championship. That doesn’t mean this team will.In fact, these Vols are a deserving frontrunner to win the national championship. Their path will continue with an NCAA super regional against Evansville. The underdog Purple Aces advanced as a 4-seed out of their regional. There’s nothing underdog about these Vols.On today's episode, hosts Blake Toppmeyer, Mike Wilson and John Adams detail Tennessee’s path to a championship and why this team doesn’t feel like a repeat of the 2022 Vols.Two years ago, Tennessee was an NCAA Tournament frontrunner after becoming a smashing regular-season success before getting bounced in the super regional.This team is about its business, though, and these Vols don’t have much weakness. Plus, they enjoy a forgiving path to Omaha.Also in this episode, the hosts explain why Tony Vitello reminds them of some past Vols coaches in other sports.» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
Delta apologizes for mishandling of East Tennessee State golf teams clubs #shorts Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-05-29 | The East Tennessee State men's golf team watched as bag handlers threw their mishandled their clubs.» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
TVA reopens Hibbs Island, downstream from Norris Dam Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-05-29 | TVA rehabilitated Hibbs Island just downstream of Norris Dam to keep it from slowly washing away and is now reopen to fishermen on May 24, 2024.» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
Knox News is the voice of East Tennessee Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-05-22 | » Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
Tennessee baseball is No. 1 seed in SEC Tournament as co-champions Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-05-20 | Tennessee baseball is the No. 1 seed in the 2024 SEC Tournament as the SEC regular-season co-champions.The Vols will play at 5:30 p.m. ET Wednesday against the winner of No. 8 Vanderbilt (35-20, 13-17) and No. 9 Florida (28-26, 13-17) at the Hoover Met in Hoover, Alabama. Tennessee held the tiebreaker with co-champs Kentucky due to a series win against the Wildcats, which meant UT claimed the top seed over the Wildcats.UT earned a bye as a top-four seed. It is the third time in the past three seasons Tennessee has earned a bye as a top-four seed. The first round Tuesday is a single-elimination format before pivoting into double elimination until Saturday's semifinals.All games will be televised on SEC Network except for Sunday's championship on ESPN2 at 3 p.m.Read more: knoxne.ws/3QSlr6j» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
How Josh Heupel, Tennessee football avoid NCAAs transfer epidemic #podcast Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-05-17 | Transfers are a reality of college football in 2024, but Tennessee loses fewer players than most. Even better, the Vols very rarely lose top performers.Tennessee bid farewell to 15 transfers this offseason, three of whom were walk-ons. That's the fewest number of transfer departures for any SEC team. By comparison, Alabama lost 39 players to the portal.How does Josh Heupel pull off this impressive roster retention?On today's episode, hosts Blake Toppmeyer and Adam Sparks unpack Tennessee's effectiveness at limiting its number of transfers.While there's no magic bullet to prevent transfers, the Vols attack this on multiple fronts, from NIL to coaching stability to Tennessee's approach toward adding transfers.Subscribe and listen to the Volunteer State:🎧apple.co/3pVcWJN🎧https://spoti.fi/3wI9LJq» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
Yassin Terou among pro-Palestinian demonstrators arrested at University of Tennessee #shorts Knoxville News Sentinel 2024-05-16 | Police have started arresting pro-Palestinian demonstrators on the University of Tennessee campus.Yassin Terou, a Knoxville restaurant owner and refugee from Syria, was among the 14 arrestees.At about 8 p.m., demonstrators were warned to leave the lawn outside the College of Law by Allen Bolton, UT's interim senior vice chancellor for finance and administration. He said demonstrators could move to the Student Union lawn, which was reserved for them.He told the activists to leave within 10 minutes. After that time, police started arresting demonstrators.» Subscribe to KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2R3WbeY» Watch more on this and other topics from KnoxNews: knoxne.ws/2G0E0R4» KnoxNews is the voice of East Tennessee, from the Smoky Mountains to the Cumberland Plateau. Since 1886, we’ve been reporting on what matters, from Oak Ridge National Laboratory to the University of Tennessee Vols to Dolly Parton. Stay up to date on local news in East Tennessee by following knoxnews on social media:Twitter: @knoxnewsFacebook: facebook.com/knoxnewsInstagram: instagram.com/knoxvillephotoAnd for UT sports:Twitter: @GoVolsXtraFacebook: facebook.com/GoVolsXtra
