Tennessee Volunteers shake up the transfer portal with national predictions for offensive tackle Ori Williams and running back Zylan Perry. Can Josh Heupel’s squad solidify key positions before the season kicks off? Eric Cain investigates how Williams could immediately contend for the starting right tackle spot and what Perry’s arrival means for the backfield alongside standout DeSean Bishop, as the Vols look to boost their struggling rushing attack – if both commit to Tennessee. The episode also tracks high-impact visitors like Kansas safety Lyrik Rawls, Penn State defensive lineman Xavier Gillium, and potential additions from the Jim Knowles-Penn State pipeline, including linebacker Amare Campbell and safety King Mack – or even Chaz Coleman. Eric Cain breaks down Tennessee’s recruiting priorities—quarterback, safety, defensive line—and examines the quarterback market’s volatility. Is Tennessee’s portal strategy the key to an SEC breakthrough, or will gaps remain in the Vols’ postseason push?

Tennessee Volunteers kick off transfer portal season with a big splash—defensive back Qua Moss commits after a standout year at Kansas State. Can the Vols’ revamped secondary help fuel a deeper SEC run? Eric Cain breaks down Moss’ impressive versatility, coverage stats, and tackling prowess compared to departing starters like Jalen McMurray, highlighting why Moss could be a cornerstone for Tennessee’s defense. Key storylines include potential impact additions like LSU’s Ory Williams and Colorado safety Tawfiq Byard, crucial staff moves under Jim Knowles, and why Tennessee’s pursuit of at least four more defensive backs is urgent. The episode also analyzes recent Vols basketball struggles in SEC play, spotlighting turnover woes and free throw issues. As the Vols aggressively target transfer talent and solidify their coaching staff, is a stronger season within reach? Get expert insights, player breakdowns, and all the latest transfer buzz from Rocky Top.

Friday was a busy news day for Tennessee football as head coach Josh Heupel and defensive coordinator Jim Knowles finalized the defensive staff. What do new assistants Anthony Poindexter, Andrew ‘AJ’ Jackson and Michael Hunter bring to the Vols? Why were Rodney Garner and William Inge retained? What will the style of this defense be moving forward? Friday was also the first day of the transfer portal and Tennessee lost players such as Rickey Gibson, Caleb Herring and Max Gilbert to go along with Thursday departures Lance Heard and Bennett Warren. What does all this mean for Tennessee and who are some names linked to the Vols out of the portal?

Tennessee Volunteers gear up for a transformative Transfer Portal season as Eric Cain outlines Josh Heupel’s aggressive recruitment strategy and the major roster renovations on Rocky Top. With the quarterback hunt in full swing and high-stakes NIL deals rumored, will Tennessee land a game-changing signal-caller without overspending? Key needs at defensive back, defensive line, and running back drive the conversation, raising critical questions: Can the Vols fill crucial gaps while navigating key departures like Peyton Lewis? Eric Cain dissects portal losses, analyzes Tennessee’s biggest transfer targets—including the debate over splurging for top QBs—and spotlights coaching changes impacting defensive schemes. He also shares candid New Year’s resolutions for Tennessee football, baseball, and basketball, including fixes for clock management and the evolving point guard role under Rick Barnes. This episode is your essential guide to Tennessee’s high-stakes offseason and the Vols’ pursuit of SEC dominance.

Tennessee football starting left tackle Lance Heard announced he will enter the transfer portal. What’s the issue here? Is this a massive loss for the Big Orange? What’s the plan for his replacement? How does this affect fellow offensive tackle and former five-star David Sanders, as well as Jesse Perry? Will Tennessee’s Josh Heupel and Glen Elarbee be in the market for an offensive tackle in the transfer portal? Eric Cain reacts to it all on a bonus episode of Locked on Vols.

Tennessee Volunteers’ offseason heats up as Eric Cain breaks down Jim Knowles’ fast-tracked approach to assembling his defensive staff with the transfer portal window opening. Will keeping renowned defensive line coach Rodney Garner give the Vols an edge, and could potential newcomers Andrew Jackson or Anthony Poindexter reshape the future of Tennessee’s defense? Critical questions surround linebacker coaching decisions and potential staff shakeups, just as portal timing makes coaching hires more urgent than ever. Eric Cain recaps the Volunteers’ heartbreaking loss to Illinois in the Music City Bowl, spotlighting the game’s pivotal momentum swings, key turnovers, and why the Alabama matchup became a season-defining turning point. From Joey Aguilar’s impact under center to lingering frustrations with missed opportunities, the episode explores Tennessee Football’s biggest challenges and what fans should expect with the program’s roster and staff overhaul as 2026 approaches.

Again? Tennessee football falls in heartbreaking fashion in the Music City Bowl, 30-28 to Illinois on a walk off field goal by Illini kicker David Olano. That’s now the third loss in this bowl game by a combined eight points for the Volunteers. Tennessee’s defense faltered in the second half, the offense was a shell of itself and another crushing turnover and missed field goal proved to be costly. What went wrong for quarterback Joey Aguilar and Josh Heupel on offense? What happens now for the program with assistant coaches and the transfer portal opening on Friday? Eric Cain reacts to it all on this Wednesday edition of Locked on Vols.

Tennessee Volunteers eye a statement win in the Music City Bowl as rising stars Radarious Jackson, Daune Morris and Christian Gass seize their moment on the big stage against Illinois. With Chris Brazzell opting out for the NFL, Eric Cain spotlights underclassmen poised for breakout performances while quarterback Joey Aguilar chases Peyton Manning’s single-season passing record. Can this new-look Vols lineup power past Illinois and cap the season on a high note? Eric Cain delivers a complete scouting report on the Illinois Fighting Illini, including Luke Altmeyer’s efficient offense and Hank Beatty’s playmaking threat from the slot, as well as transfer portal and coaching shakeup speculation for the Vols. Key questions center on Tennessee’s defensive depth, Jim Knowles’ role, and how transfer strategy could shape the roster. Don’t miss this essential Music City Bowl preview packed with analysis, roster updates, and bold predictions for Tennessee fans.

Tennessee Volunteers face high-stakes moments as Joey Aguilar chases Peyton Manning’s single-season passing record and DeSean Bishop closes in on a 1,000-yard rushing milestone in the Music City Bowl against Illinois. Can Aguilar cement his legacy in what could be his final game for Tennessee, and will Bishop become Josh Heupel’s latest elite tailback? The Volunteers’ offense looks to continue their dominance in Nashville, averaging over 46 points per game under Heupel. Eric Cain discusses critical roster changes, including bowl opt-outs, NFL Draft declarations, and key injuries impacting both Tennessee and Illinois. With Tennessee’s secondary thinned by departures and young cornerbacks like Ty Redman set for the spotlight, can the Vols’ defense withstand Illinois’ attack with quarterback Luke Atlmyer? Plus, find out how lineup shifts and rising underclassmen could shape the game’s outcome. Don’t miss this deep dive into the Volunteers’ bowl game storylines and future outlook!

Tennessee Volunteers and Illinois Fighting Illini face off in the highly anticipated Music City Bowl, each aiming to silence doubters after 8–4 campaigns that fell short of preseason College Football Playoff hopes. Quarterbacks Joey Aguilar and Luke Altmyer headline explosive offenses, with Aguilar’s gunslinger style resetting expectations in Knoxville and Altmyer’s clutch playmaking earning praise as Illinois’ best QB in recent memory. Which signal-caller will rise to the occasion under the Nashville lights? Eric Cain and Sunny Verma break down key matchups, including the dynamic wide receiver corps—Illinois’ Hank Beatty and Tennessee’s Braylon Staley and Mike Matthews—along with critical opt-outs like Chris Brazzell and Gabe Jacas. With both defenses struggling and ripe for a high-scoring shootout, predictions, FanDuel odds, and under-the-radar storylines make this bowl preview a must-listen for college football fans seeking insight and bold projections.

Three SEC powerhouses—Alabama, Georgia, and Ole Miss—remain in the hunt for a College Football Playoff title, but which squad has the edge to secure a national championship? The panel debates playoff predictions, debating the strengths and vulnerabilities of Alabama, Lane Kiffin’s Ole Miss, and the ever-dominant Georgia Bulldogs. Can Ole Miss pull off a Disney-worthy run? Will Georgia’s balanced attack prove unstoppable, or is Alabama’s path the clearest to the trophy? The panel hands out holiday “gifts” to every SEC program—think quarterback upgrades, humble pie for LSU, and play-calling wisdom for Tennessee—while roasting rivals with sharp SEC wit. Plus: playoff seeding drama, blue-chip ratios, and skepticism about Big Ten ascendance. Squad up and get the inside scoop on conference bragging rights, transfer portal wildcards, and which SEC teams are primed to bring home national glory.

Tennessee Volunteers fans are buzzing: will a transfer portal quarterback ignite a championship run next season? Eric Cain and Boogie Bentley break down Tennessee’s offseason moves, from the high-stakes pursuit of a game-changing QB to the bold hiring of defensive coordinator Jim Knowles. The hosts debate roster needs, NIL spending, and the risk-reward calculus of investing millions in portal talent, while weighing the future of top prospects like George MacIntyre and Faizon Brandon. Key discussion points include Tennessee’s pressing need for elite safeties, the impact of Knowles’ defensive schemes, and whether young playmakers can seize featured roles. The conversation also spotlights offensive line depth, wide receiver competition, and the importance of this transfer window to the Volunteers’ SEC title aspirations. Will Josh Heupel’s strategic gambles pay off, or is the Vols’ championship window closing? Don’t miss this energetic, insiders-only look at the next chapter for Tennessee football.

Tennessee Volunteers fans get a holiday wish list as Santa Vol joins Eric Cain for a festive look at the future of Tennessee Athletics. Can Josh Heupel land an affordable starting quarterback in the transfer portal and address glaring roster needs at safety and on the defensive line? The episode explores the challenges facing Tennessee baseball post-Tony Vitello, basketball's demand for consistent play from Jalen Carrey and JP Estrella, and the strategic tweaks needed for clock management. Santa Vol grants one wish. What is your Tennessee wish? Santa Vol shares behind-the-scenes stories from Neyland Stadium, memorable encounters with icons like Peyton Manning, and his impact in the community with Josh Dobbs. Josh Ward weighs in on streaming frustrations, sports viewing accessibility, and the need for faster replay systems in college sports. With Music City Bowl buzz and Vols fans hoping for a return to consistency, this episode raises the question: Will Tennessee take the next step and recapture its championship form?

Tennessee and college Football fans Festivus-level frustrations as the College Football Playoff committee’s flawed structure comes under fire. Eric Cain pulls no punches, questioning why Group of Five teams like Tulane and James Madison, fresh off lopsided defeats, still earn playoff bids while college football fans miss out on true heavyweight matchups such as Ole Miss vs. Notre Dame or Oregon vs. Vanderbilt. Is it time for a playoff structure overhaul? Uniform controversies ignite as Noah Taylor shares strong takes on alternate looks and the role of tradition, while the hosts air grievances about NIL chaos, transfer portal madness, and the staggering recruitment spending on balloons. From Rocky Top’s fight song confusion to the spectacle of Pop-Tart Bowl sprinkles, this spirited episode celebrates college sports’ quirkiest moments and sharpest critiques. Get in on the debate as Eric Cain and Noah Taylor take on what’s grinding the gears of Vol Nation and college football faithful everywhere. Happy Festivus!

Joey Aguilar and Colton Hood are Tennessee Football’s MVPs after a record-shattering performances, but can rising stars like David Sanders and DeSean Bishop push the Vols to new heights next year? Eric Cain breaks down Aguilar’s SEC-leading passing stats, electrifying touchdowns, and his rapid adjustment after joining late—raising the question: Is this the best QB story in college football? Superlatives spotlight the surge of Chris Brazzell, who led the SEC in receiving yards, rookie standout Ty Redmond’s tenacious coverage, and DeSean Bishop’s unexpected (near) 1,000-yard rushing campaign. Defensive struggles ignite conversation about Colton Hood’s impact and future potential. From most improved and breakout newcomers to true freshmen defining the future, get expert analysis on Tennessee’s evolving roster, Music City Bowl milestones, and what moves could reshape next season.

Tennessee Volunteers face a pivotal offseason as quarterback uncertainty looms and new defensive coordinator Jim Knowles joins the staff. Will Josh Heupel find the right answer at QB with Jake Merklinger in the transfer portal and questions swirling around Joey Aguilar’s eligibility? The stakes are high as Tennessee weighs transfer portal options and navigates NIL realities with high-dollar quarterback prospects. Eric Cain breaks down Heupel's candid press conference remarks on roster strategy, the delicate balance of managing young talent like George MacIntyre and Faizon Brandon, and how transparency shapes transfer portal decisions. The discussion spotlights Knowles' impressive defensive track record and why he's poised to transform the Volunteers' defense. Plus, Eric Cain revisits pre-season predictions—both hits and misses—shedding light on Tennessee's evolving roster and playoff ambitions. Can the Vols retool and reclaim national relevance this fall?

SEC powers battle for playoff supremacy as Alabama eyes revenge—and Oklahoma’s defense sets the tone. Can Ty Simpson fight through injury to ignite the Crimson Tide offense, or will Oklahoma’s healthy lineup, led by AR Mason Thomas, clamp down yet again? Chris Gordy and more break down Alabama vs. Oklahoma, Texas A&M’s crucial test against Miami, and Ole Miss’s playoff bid with Pete Golding at the helm. The squad analyzes availability reports, key injuries to Josh Cuevas and Jam Miller, turnovers, and special teams’ X-factors. Is Carson Beck’s big-game record enough for Miami? Plus, what could sink Ole Miss’s hopes against Tulane and how will SEC rivals exploit coaching shakeups? Don’t miss sharp playoff picks, bold predictions, and key insights into SEC playoff hopes and national championship implications.

Tennessee Volunteers football faces a pivotal offseason as uncertainty surrounds the quarterback position. Can five-star Faizon Brandon or current freshman standout George MacIntyre seize the starting role, or will Josh Heupel target the transfer portal despite big-money challenges? Eric Cain explores the impact of heralded signees like Tristen Keys, Tyreek King, and Brayden Rouse, highlighting positional battles and where true freshmen talent could break through in 2026. On the hardwood, Tennessee basketball bounces back in style, snapping a three-game losing streak with a dominant win over Louisville. Guest Ryan Schumpert breaks down the defensive turnaround, standout moments from Ja’Kobi Gillespie and Jaylen Carey, and the rotation dilemmas facing coach Rick Barnes. Key insights include super sophomore contributions on defense, linebacker depth concerns, and looming decisions ahead of Music City Bowl and SEC play. Are the Volunteers ready to surge in both football and basketball?

Tennessee Volunteers score big with the hiring of Jim Knowles as defensive coordinator, igniting fresh optimism for a defensive turnaround in 2026. Can Knowles’ proven experience be the missing piece for Josh Heupel’s squad? Eric Cain and Josh Ward break down how Knowles’ arrival could reshape Tennessee’s defensive identity, dissect the challenging SEC schedule, and examine the roster’s readiness to evolve. Key matchups, including clash-ups against Texas A&M, Auburn, and South Carolina, set the stage for must-win moments and potential SEC upsets. Plus, Eric Cain highlights the rise of Tennessee’s super sophomores—Mike Matthews, DeSean Bishop, and Ethan Davis—and what their growth signals for the Vols’ future. Special guest Noah Taylor revisits the dramatic 1974 Liberty Bowl victory over Maryland, spotlighting legendary moments from Condredge Holloway and Larry Seivers. Don’t miss this comprehensive analysis of the Tennessee Volunteers’ path to redemption on Rocky Top.

Tennessee Volunteers face a pivotal quarterback decision as the transfer portal heats up—will Josh Heupel seek an experienced starter or trust in young stars like George MacIntyre and Faizon Brandon? Eric Cain breaks down all the big names, including DJ Lagway, Dylan Raiola, and Brendan Sorsby, exploring their fit on Rocky Top and how returning offensive weapons could shape the 2026 season. Key topics include new defensive coordinator Jim Knowles’s first priority list, staff evaluations, and the Vols’ approach to portal recruiting at safety, linebacker, and defensive line. Plus, listener mailbag questions spark debate over the bowl system, potential program “Santa” wishes, and which freshmen might fill draft departures. The race for Tennessee’s next starting QB and program direction takes center stage—will the Volunteers emerge as SEC contenders or stick with a youth movement?