OrangeMoundTNVol
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11/1/25 OU Game Visitor List
- Thread starter jvols1999
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Sandman Vol
No Colonel Sanders, you’re wrong!
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OrangeMoundTNVol
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I want both Juco tackles. We need to restock that room, but of course I will never bet against CRG.The two 2026 JUCOs are super interesting to me.
For one, neither of them are particularly highly rated or recruited. Next, I wonder if they reflect the staff thinking about the additional 18-20 spots on the roster and how best to fill them with relatively cheap guys with some JUCO experience that can potentially help right away.
I wasn't able to find anything on the CB Terrell, but he's got the requisite height for a UT CB and appears to have picked up a bunch of offers (albeit lower level) since the season started. The DL Whitaker is super interesting and has the profile of a guy you could see Garner being interested in. For one, he's got the size G looks for at 6'3 280 (current weight on his JUCO website) and looks to be a playmaker inside based on his counting stats. Being a RS-SO (redshirted a season at LaTech) he's definitely an older dude with some experience.
Lastly, check this out from Gabe Brooks of 247 on Feb 5th, 2023 in a Weekly Rankings update:
"One of the more fun prospects we watched lately is Louisiana Tech signee Delvin Whitaker, who finishes the 2023 cycle as a high three-star 87 edge projection on 247Sports. Whitaker plays violent at the point of attack and is a bona fide hitter with broad pursuit range relative to his 6-foot-2, 245-pound build. He's also played valuable offensive snaps as a jumbo back with above average functional athleticism. Whitaker owns a 41-foot shot put best and has also played basketball. His layered positional experience and multi-sport background at St. Francisville (La.) West Feliciana make Whitaker one of the more intriguing prospects in the state of Louisiana's outgoing class."
Size, functional athleticism, and experience...
JCVol00
Fire Tim Banks
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Sandman Vol
No Colonel Sanders, you’re wrong!
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Jackcrevol
All Day Long!
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Sandman Vol
No Colonel Sanders, you’re wrong!
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Recruit reactions from Tom Loy:
Here is the latest chatter out of Knoxville.
"My favorite moment was walking out of the tunnel and taking in the crazy atmosphere," said Henderson. "What made it a great visit was the family atmosphere. They were welcoming, and everyone on staff knew who I was.
Henderson was with linebackers coach William Inge. The two continue to hit it off. Inge made it clear that his versatility and potential to make a day-one impact upon arrival a what stand out.
"The defense played great," said Henderson. "Regardless of what was happening. The offense had a lot of ups and downs, but the defense continued to play with relentless effort."
"What stands out to me is the consistency they have been showing," he added. "They implement their linebackers. They are displayed in their defense."
TOM'S TAKE
Tennessee is a big player in this recruitment. They have been pushing the right buttons as of late, and this gameday visit was an eye-opener, from what I'm told. Ohio State, Florida State, and Oregon are doing a great job as well, but keep an eye on the Vols here.
"My favorite moment with Tennessee was definitely the game," said Tatum. "Also, talking with coach Elarbee about plays and concepts. When someone gets hurt, the next man behind him knows what they are doing.
"Tennessee, the place itself," added Tatum, when asked about what appeals most about the program. "Everyone there are great people and welcoming."
While on campus, most of his time was with offensive line coach Glen Elarbee and offensive assistants Phil Serchia and Chris Labidou.
TOM'S TAKE
Regarding Tatum's interest, Tennessee made a big move. Miami has been the team to beat and still might have the edge, but the Volunteers made a great impression and tightened this race up quite a bit.
"My favorite moment of the trip was being in that stadium with 102,000 fans cheering their team on," said Baker. "It was really a great experience.
"When watching the game, Joey definitely caught my eye," continued Baker, who was impressed with Tennessee quarterback Joey Aguilar. "Even though it was a tough game, he had about 300 yards passing and two or three touchdowns, so it goes to show how much passing the ball is a vital part of their game."
The Tennessee coaching staff continues to make a great impression on Baker. He speaks regularly with them, including Heupel and quarterbacks coach Joey Halzle.
"I love the coaches," said Baker. "I talk to them a lot and get a chance to build good relationships with them, which is a big part of my requirements of my choice."
TOM'S TAKE
If Tennessee pushes for an early pledge, look out. Baker is extremely interested in the Vols. That said, he's originally from Fort Lauderdale, so keep an eye on the Sunshine State schools. Florida State is one that has piqued his interest, and he'll be back in Tallahassee for the Virginia Tech game on Nov. 15.
"Honestly, getting to talk to the staff," said Gerken, when asked for the highlight of the trip. "Tennessee has been my family and my favorite staff to talk with. They're extremely personal and always spend quality time just chatting it up. Being able to spend time with me before one of their biggest games of the season meant a lot to me and my family."
What made Gerken feel even better about Tennessee was freshman offensive lineman and former five-star David Sanders Jr. taking the time to talk with him leading up to the visit, but then putting together a strong performance on the field.
"My guy David Sanders stood out to me," said Gerken. "We've talked a little bit on social media, and he talked to me quite a bit in the spring at camp. What the staff has done with him so far is extremely impressive for him being a true freshman. I can't wait to see him keep growing into a dog and be drafted in a few years."
Gerken is a regular at Tennessee. This was his fifth visit to campus. They continue to push all of the right buttons.
"They treat me with so much respect. Honestly, I just love the environment Tennessee has. It's by far the prettiest campus, and the fans are one of a kind. The staff is the best you can get."
TOM'S TAKE
The Tennessee offer was a big one. The Vols hold an edge in this recruitment. He is still talking to a variety of schools and is excited about many, but Tennessee is the team to beat right now.
"It was cool to witness the Blackout, considering it was Halloween," said Hall. "The highlight was talking to Coach Heupel on the field prior to the start of the game, and him telling me what he thinks of me as a player. Nights like that night are what the culture at Tennessee is all about, and just picturing myself playing in front of 100,000 fans."
Hall is a top priority for Tennessee in 2028. It was no surprise to hear that the staff was all over him from start to finish.
"I spent most of my time talking to defensive coordinator Tim Banks. He likes my size and feels that I can come in and contribute right away. I also spent time with Coach 'G' [Rodney Garner], Coach 'Chop' [Levorn Harbin], and Coach Cooper [Bell]. Basically, the entire defensive line staff. They all talked about how much I've grown since the June camp and have the ready-now body that they look for to play in their system."
TOM'S TAKE
Tennessee is a definite threat in this recruitment. Others have done extremely well as of late, including Notre Dame and Indiana to name a few, but it's clear that the Volunteers, due to the strong effort from the staff and the love shown by so many coaches, have put themselves in a good, early spot for the coveted defensive lineman.
"The trip to Tennessee was fire," he said. "My favorite part was just being in that atmosphere. The fans and energy there are different. You can tell the whole place loves that program.
"I spent a lot of time with different coaches," he continued. "Coach Alben and Coach Robinson Jr. showed a lot of love and kept it real with me. They talked about how I'd fit in their offense and defense, and how they develop their guys the right way, both on and off the field."
Tennessee's culture is what appeals to Rein. That makes sense since he's currently a part of a Baylor School program built on that. He's all about family. That stands out about Tennessee.
TOM'S TAKE
From what I'm told, Tennessee is in a very good spot for Rein. No, he's not a slam-dunk to land there, as there are some heavy hitters in play, including Alabama, Ohio State, and Georgia to name a few, but what's clear is that the Vols have set themselves up to be a sure-fire bet to be a finalist when that time comes.
"What caugh my eye was definitely how big they are in person," said Cunningham. "On television, they look like regular guys. In person, they're huge.
"Overall, being invited to go see them play made the trip amazing," he continued. "Then getting on the field to see them warm up in the black uniforms was special."
Cunningham, like many others, was impressed with the Tennessee fanbase.
"All of the fans bought in when the game is going on. It makes the atmosphere a whole lot better when you're playing."
TOM'S TAKE
Keep an eye on Tennessee here. It's early. There is a long way to go. However, there is a connection here, as he is a good friend and former teammate of Vols freshman David Sanders Jr. Cunningaham is an elite defensive lineman and one Tennessee is all over. Outside of them, keep an eye on South Carolina, Clemson, Georgia, and North Carolina.
"The tradition of Tennessee and just how much it means to the fans, and everyone else that is on the sideline," said Steele, when asked what appeals most about the Vols. "I also love how Coach Huepel was a quarterback, and he understands how reliant a tight end can be, and knows how to use his tight ends."
Steele says the highlight of the trip was during his time with the coaching staff prior to kickoff.
"My favorite moment was just seeing how the coaches interacted with my parents and how much my mom loved it," said Steele. "Also, when they played Rocky Top pregame."
TOM'S TAKE
As it stands now, Alabama and Tennessee seem to be doing the best job. Others in the mix are Ole Miss, Auburn, and LSU. Others will surely enter the mix, but it's clear that Steele is likely going to eventually land in the SEC.
"Tennessee has a great fan base," said Hill. "You can't find another 3rd down chant in the nation that goes up to 120 dB. As soon as we got there, as usual, we were taken care of by our host. Abby was on point, which made it so easy. Meeting the offensive line staff was great."
The Volunteer coaching staff continues to make a great impression on the offered lineman from the Peach State. The love the coaches show is appealing to Hill.
"I spent most of my time with coach Elarbe, the offensive line coach. He knows Peach County very well, and we talked about our success playing in an offense very similar to theirs. We talked about blocking schemes and just putting in the work to be the best player on the field. As I always hear, just turning 15 a couple of months ago, they are excited and can't believe my film."
TOM'S TAKE
A long way to go in this recruitment, but Hill is clearly loving Tennessee. Georgia is doing a great job as well. Georgia Tech has cemented itself as a player. Auburn is making him a priority. Florida State is also firmly in the top group. Again, Hill is far from a decision, but the Vols continue to chip away and put themselves in a good spot.
"Probably talking to all of the coaches," said Curry, when asked for the highlight of the trip. "It's always fun talking to them pregame. I was with [offensive analyst] coach KJ Parmer. We talked about my upcoming playoff game and some of my film.
"Watching the game, the fast-paced offense and how they get their playmakers the ball," he added, when asked what grabbed his attention. "Chris Brazzell II caught my eye the most on the field. He is a fun receiver to watch get open and make contested catches."
TOM'S TAKE
As a whole, Curry likes Tennessee a ton. The coaching staff, their ability to develop players for the next level, it's all very appealing to the sophomore wideout. Tennessee is the leader right now. They are the team to beat.
Cc: @benholt06 for your 2027 board post
Here is the latest chatter out of Knoxville.
TOP247 LB KADEN HENDERSON (2027)
Tampa (Fla.) Jesuit Top247 linebacker Kaden Henderson is one of the top prospects in the class of 2027. The 6-2, 200-pounder, who is ranked by 247Sports as the No. 49 overall player in the country, had a great visit to Tennessee."My favorite moment was walking out of the tunnel and taking in the crazy atmosphere," said Henderson. "What made it a great visit was the family atmosphere. They were welcoming, and everyone on staff knew who I was.
Henderson was with linebackers coach William Inge. The two continue to hit it off. Inge made it clear that his versatility and potential to make a day-one impact upon arrival a what stand out.
"The defense played great," said Henderson. "Regardless of what was happening. The offense had a lot of ups and downs, but the defense continued to play with relentless effort."
"What stands out to me is the consistency they have been showing," he added. "They implement their linebackers. They are displayed in their defense."
TOM'S TAKE
Tennessee is a big player in this recruitment. They have been pushing the right buttons as of late, and this gameday visit was an eye-opener, from what I'm told. Ohio State, Florida State, and Oregon are doing a great job as well, but keep an eye on the Vols here.
TOP247 OL SEAN TATUM (2027)
Fort Pierce (Fla.) John Carroll Top247 offensive lineman Sean Tatum is a big-time talent in the class of 2027. 247Sports lists the 6-4, 310-pounder as the No. 224 overall prospect next cycle."My favorite moment with Tennessee was definitely the game," said Tatum. "Also, talking with coach Elarbee about plays and concepts. When someone gets hurt, the next man behind him knows what they are doing.
"Tennessee, the place itself," added Tatum, when asked about what appeals most about the program. "Everyone there are great people and welcoming."
While on campus, most of his time was with offensive line coach Glen Elarbee and offensive assistants Phil Serchia and Chris Labidou.
TOM'S TAKE
Regarding Tatum's interest, Tennessee made a big move. Miami has been the team to beat and still might have the edge, but the Volunteers made a great impression and tightened this race up quite a bit.
THREE-STAR QB DERRICK BAKER (2027)
Alpharetta (Ga.) Milton three-star quarterback Derrick Baker is a name to know in the 2027 class. The 6-2, 220-pounder is ranked as the No. 43 talent at his position next cycle. Tennessee has already extended an offer."My favorite moment of the trip was being in that stadium with 102,000 fans cheering their team on," said Baker. "It was really a great experience.
"When watching the game, Joey definitely caught my eye," continued Baker, who was impressed with Tennessee quarterback Joey Aguilar. "Even though it was a tough game, he had about 300 yards passing and two or three touchdowns, so it goes to show how much passing the ball is a vital part of their game."
The Tennessee coaching staff continues to make a great impression on Baker. He speaks regularly with them, including Heupel and quarterbacks coach Joey Halzle.
"I love the coaches," said Baker. "I talk to them a lot and get a chance to build good relationships with them, which is a big part of my requirements of my choice."
TOM'S TAKE
If Tennessee pushes for an early pledge, look out. Baker is extremely interested in the Vols. That said, he's originally from Fort Lauderdale, so keep an eye on the Sunshine State schools. Florida State is one that has piqued his interest, and he'll be back in Tallahassee for the Virginia Tech game on Nov. 15.
THREE-STAR OL REED GERKEN (2027)
Perrysburg (Ohio) High three-star offensive lineman Reed Gerken is a 6-5, 290-pounder, who is ranked as the No. 38 offensive tackle in the class of 2027. While in Knoxville, he added an offer from Tennessee, one that had him fired up."Honestly, getting to talk to the staff," said Gerken, when asked for the highlight of the trip. "Tennessee has been my family and my favorite staff to talk with. They're extremely personal and always spend quality time just chatting it up. Being able to spend time with me before one of their biggest games of the season meant a lot to me and my family."
What made Gerken feel even better about Tennessee was freshman offensive lineman and former five-star David Sanders Jr. taking the time to talk with him leading up to the visit, but then putting together a strong performance on the field.
"My guy David Sanders stood out to me," said Gerken. "We've talked a little bit on social media, and he talked to me quite a bit in the spring at camp. What the staff has done with him so far is extremely impressive for him being a true freshman. I can't wait to see him keep growing into a dog and be drafted in a few years."
Gerken is a regular at Tennessee. This was his fifth visit to campus. They continue to push all of the right buttons.
"They treat me with so much respect. Honestly, I just love the environment Tennessee has. It's by far the prettiest campus, and the fans are one of a kind. The staff is the best you can get."
TOM'S TAKE
The Tennessee offer was a big one. The Vols hold an edge in this recruitment. He is still talking to a variety of schools and is excited about many, but Tennessee is the team to beat right now.
TOP100 DL KELLAN HALL (2028)
Louisville (Tenn.) Christian Academy of Louisville Top100 defensive lineman Kellan Hall made the trip. The 6-4, 265-pounder is ranked by 247Sports as the No. 22 overall recruit in the 2028 class."It was cool to witness the Blackout, considering it was Halloween," said Hall. "The highlight was talking to Coach Heupel on the field prior to the start of the game, and him telling me what he thinks of me as a player. Nights like that night are what the culture at Tennessee is all about, and just picturing myself playing in front of 100,000 fans."
Hall is a top priority for Tennessee in 2028. It was no surprise to hear that the staff was all over him from start to finish.
"I spent most of my time talking to defensive coordinator Tim Banks. He likes my size and feels that I can come in and contribute right away. I also spent time with Coach 'G' [Rodney Garner], Coach 'Chop' [Levorn Harbin], and Coach Cooper [Bell]. Basically, the entire defensive line staff. They all talked about how much I've grown since the June camp and have the ready-now body that they look for to play in their system."
TOM'S TAKE
Tennessee is a definite threat in this recruitment. Others have done extremely well as of late, including Notre Dame and Indiana to name a few, but it's clear that the Volunteers, due to the strong effort from the staff and the love shown by so many coaches, have put themselves in a good, early spot for the coveted defensive lineman.
TOP100 TE / EDGE BRAXTON REIN (2028)
Chattanooga (Tenn.) Baylor School Top100 two-way athlete Braxton Rein, who shines as both a tight end and an edge rusher, is a name to know in the class of 2028. 247Sports ranks the 6-6, 230-pounder as the No. 44 overall player in the nation."The trip to Tennessee was fire," he said. "My favorite part was just being in that atmosphere. The fans and energy there are different. You can tell the whole place loves that program.
"I spent a lot of time with different coaches," he continued. "Coach Alben and Coach Robinson Jr. showed a lot of love and kept it real with me. They talked about how I'd fit in their offense and defense, and how they develop their guys the right way, both on and off the field."
Tennessee's culture is what appeals to Rein. That makes sense since he's currently a part of a Baylor School program built on that. He's all about family. That stands out about Tennessee.
TOM'S TAKE
From what I'm told, Tennessee is in a very good spot for Rein. No, he's not a slam-dunk to land there, as there are some heavy hitters in play, including Alabama, Ohio State, and Georgia to name a few, but what's clear is that the Vols have set themselves up to be a sure-fire bet to be a finalist when that time comes.
TOP100 DL CORY CUNNINGHAM (2028)
Charlotte (NC) Providence Top100 defensive lineman Cory Cunningham was at Tennessee over the weekend. The 6-3, 265-pounder, who is the No. 31 overall player in the class of 2028, had a great time in Knoxville."What caugh my eye was definitely how big they are in person," said Cunningham. "On television, they look like regular guys. In person, they're huge.
"Overall, being invited to go see them play made the trip amazing," he continued. "Then getting on the field to see them warm up in the black uniforms was special."
Cunningham, like many others, was impressed with the Tennessee fanbase.
"All of the fans bought in when the game is going on. It makes the atmosphere a whole lot better when you're playing."
TOM'S TAKE
Keep an eye on Tennessee here. It's early. There is a long way to go. However, there is a connection here, as he is a good friend and former teammate of Vols freshman David Sanders Jr. Cunningaham is an elite defensive lineman and one Tennessee is all over. Outside of them, keep an eye on South Carolina, Clemson, Georgia, and North Carolina.
THREE-STAR TE LEE STEELE (2028)
Orange Beach (Ala.) High class of 2028 three-star tight end Lee Steele was in Knoxville over the weekend. The 6-6, 205-pounder has seen his stock take off since the start of summer, as he landed offers from Tennessee, Alabama, Ole Miss, Auburn, and others."The tradition of Tennessee and just how much it means to the fans, and everyone else that is on the sideline," said Steele, when asked what appeals most about the Vols. "I also love how Coach Huepel was a quarterback, and he understands how reliant a tight end can be, and knows how to use his tight ends."
Steele says the highlight of the trip was during his time with the coaching staff prior to kickoff.
"My favorite moment was just seeing how the coaches interacted with my parents and how much my mom loved it," said Steele. "Also, when they played Rocky Top pregame."
TOM'S TAKE
As it stands now, Alabama and Tennessee seem to be doing the best job. Others in the mix are Ole Miss, Auburn, and LSU. Others will surely enter the mix, but it's clear that Steele is likely going to eventually land in the SEC.
THREE-STAR OL HUNTER HILL (2028)
Fort Valley (Ga.) Peach County three-star offensive lineman Hunter Hill is a 6-3, 300-pounder from the 2028 class. The industry-generated composite rankings slot him as the No. 189 overall player in the country."Tennessee has a great fan base," said Hill. "You can't find another 3rd down chant in the nation that goes up to 120 dB. As soon as we got there, as usual, we were taken care of by our host. Abby was on point, which made it so easy. Meeting the offensive line staff was great."
The Volunteer coaching staff continues to make a great impression on the offered lineman from the Peach State. The love the coaches show is appealing to Hill.
"I spent most of my time with coach Elarbe, the offensive line coach. He knows Peach County very well, and we talked about our success playing in an offense very similar to theirs. We talked about blocking schemes and just putting in the work to be the best player on the field. As I always hear, just turning 15 a couple of months ago, they are excited and can't believe my film."
TOM'S TAKE
A long way to go in this recruitment, but Hill is clearly loving Tennessee. Georgia is doing a great job as well. Georgia Tech has cemented itself as a player. Auburn is making him a priority. Florida State is also firmly in the top group. Again, Hill is far from a decision, but the Vols continue to chip away and put themselves in a good spot.
UNRANKED WR MAXIMUS CURRY (2028)
Franklin (Tenn.) Battle Ground Academy class of 2028 receiver Maximus Curry hasn't been ranked yet by 247Sports. However, the 5-9, 175-pound speedster has already picked up offers from Tennessee, Vanderbilt, Purdue, Ole Miss, and a handful of others."Probably talking to all of the coaches," said Curry, when asked for the highlight of the trip. "It's always fun talking to them pregame. I was with [offensive analyst] coach KJ Parmer. We talked about my upcoming playoff game and some of my film.
"Watching the game, the fast-paced offense and how they get their playmakers the ball," he added, when asked what grabbed his attention. "Chris Brazzell II caught my eye the most on the field. He is a fun receiver to watch get open and make contested catches."
TOM'S TAKE
As a whole, Curry likes Tennessee a ton. The coaching staff, their ability to develop players for the next level, it's all very appealing to the sophomore wideout. Tennessee is the leader right now. They are the team to beat.
Cc: @benholt06 for your 2027 board post
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