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The Strategic Move Josh Heupel Should Consider to Elevate Tennessee Vols’ Offense in 2025

As the Tennessee Vols football program looks to make strides in the highly competitive Southeastern Conference (SEC) and beyond, it’s clear that the offense is at the core of their ambitions. Under head coach Josh Heupel, the Vols have enjoyed a renaissance of offensive football that has captured the attention of college football fans across the nation. However, as they prepare for the 2025 season, Heupel and his staff must take a step back and assess what moves are needed to continue evolving, particularly on the offensive side of the ball.

Heupel’s offensive system is built around high tempo, high-scoring plays, and explosive downfield passes, which have yielded positive results in recent years. With the 2025 season on the horizon, there are a few key decisions Heupel should consider to ensure that Tennessee’s offense not only stays competitive but remains a dominant force in the SEC.

One critical area where Heupel might look to improve is at the quarterback position. While the Vols have had some stability under center, the SEC is notorious for its elite defenses, and the offense needs to be prepared to handle elite competition. Therefore, whether that means adjusting the quarterback play or retooling the offensive strategy, Heupel must consider all possible options to enhance his team’s offensive performance for the upcoming season.

The Importance of the Quarterback Position

It’s no secret that the quarterback is the most pivotal position on any football team, and for Tennessee, this will be no different. As we head into the 2025 season, it’s essential for Heupel to ensure that his quarterback room is not only talented but well-suited to run the type of fast-paced, high-octane offense that has made the Vols successful under his leadership.

The Vols have had strong performances from their quarterbacks in recent years, but with the ever-evolving nature of college football and the SEC, there may be a need for further development or even a shift in leadership at the quarterback position. In particular, if Tennessee continues to face tough competition in the SEC, having a dual-threat quarterback capable of not just throwing the ball deep but also running the ball when necessary could provide an additional dimension to their offense.

The importance of quarterback mobility is evident in today’s college football landscape. Dual-threat quarterbacks add versatility to an offense by making defenses account for both the pass and the run, thereby opening up more opportunities for both the quarterback and the skill players surrounding him. As such, Heupel could consider ensuring that his next starting quarterback is capable of making plays with his legs, as well as his arm, to keep opposing defenses guessing. Whether through developing the current roster or pursuing a more mobile transfer portal candidate, this is an area where the Vols can gain an edge.

Additionally, an area where Heupel should focus is on the quarterback’s mental development. The offensive system Heupel employs requires quick decision-making, reading defenses, and executing plays under pressure. Working on improving the quarterback’s ability to process information at a rapid pace can elevate the offense to new heights, especially in high-stakes games against elite defenses. Whether this comes through more in-depth coaching, experience, or adding a new coach with specialized expertise, Heupel needs to ensure that his quarterbacks are more than just physically gifted but also mentally sharp.

Improving the Offensive Line Play

While the quarterback position gets much of the spotlight, the offensive line is just as important in ensuring that the Tennessee Vols offense continues to thrive. Heupel’s fast-paced offensive scheme requires a strong, cohesive offensive line that can consistently protect the quarterback and open lanes for the running game. If Tennessee is to take the next step in 2025, improving the play of the offensive line should be a top priority.

In the SEC, where some of the country’s best defensive linemen reside, Tennessee’s offensive line needs to be able to hold its own. Heupel may want to consider adjustments in terms of recruiting or development to bolster the unit. A stronger offensive line can provide better pass protection, allowing the quarterbacks more time to survey the field and make deeper throws. It also can lead to improved run blocking, giving running backs more room to make plays. Additionally, if Tennessee’s offensive line can establish dominance at the line of scrimmage, they will be able to control the tempo of games and wear down opposing defenses over the course of four quarters.

Moreover, Heupel could consider implementing more creative offensive line schemes to better support the mobile quarterback. For example, offensive linemen who are more adept at blocking on the move can create more opportunities for designed quarterback runs and play-action passes. By introducing this element into the offensive line’s skill set, Heupel can optimize his offense’s potential and keep opposing defensive coordinators on their toes.

Enhancing the Wide Receiver Group

Alongside quarterback and offensive line development, one of the most exciting prospects for Tennessee’s offense in 2025 is the potential growth of their wide receiver corps. Over the last few years, Heupel’s offense has relied heavily on deep, explosive passing plays that stretch the field and put pressure on defenses. However, as teams get more accustomed to Tennessee’s style of play, Heupel may need to diversify the Vols’ receiving threats.

The wide receivers are central to Heupel’s success, but to keep that success going, the team needs to continue recruiting top talent and developing its current players. In particular, the Vols should focus on adding receivers who can operate well in both short and long-range situations. Incorporating more varied route trees, such as quick slants and timing routes, can help stretch the field horizontally while still taking advantage of Tennessee’s deep passing game.

A key move for Heupel in 2025 could involve working with his wide receivers on their ability to create separation more consistently. In a high-paced system, this is vital to maintaining offensive momentum, especially against tougher defensive teams. Having wide receivers who can consistently win one-on-one matchups allows the quarterbacks to make quicker decisions, which keeps the offense moving at a rapid tempo.

Additionally, adding more size and physicality to the receiving corps could give Tennessee an advantage in contested catch situations. Having receivers who are not only fast but also tough and reliable in one-on-one situations can help balance out the speed-based approach that has defined Heupel’s offense thus far. It would also open up more red-zone opportunities where physicality and strength become critical.

Developing a More Balanced Attack

Tennessee has been known for its high-flying passing attack under Josh Heupel, but in 2025, Heupel should consider developing a more balanced offensive game plan. While the passing game has been successful, leaning solely on one aspect of the offense can sometimes lead to predictability, especially when facing tough defenses.

By developing a stronger running game to complement the pass-first approach, Heupel could create a more balanced and unpredictable offense. This would require not only strengthening the running back position but also employing varied run schemes that force defenses to stay honest. For example, incorporating more zone reads and power runs can force opposing defenses to respect the ground game and not simply focus on stopping the pass.

Furthermore, a balanced offense allows Tennessee to control the tempo of the game better and chew up clock in critical moments, which becomes especially important in close contests. A more balanced attack also helps protect the defense by limiting their exposure to high-paced offenses. By being able to control both the run and pass, Heupel can keep opposing defenses guessing and maintain offensive efficiency throughout the game.

Utilizing the Transfer Portal for Additional Depth

Finally, one of the most effective ways Heupel can elevate Tennessee’s offense in 2025 is through strategic use of the transfer portal. As college football continues to evolve, the portal has become a significant resource for programs looking to fill immediate gaps and bring in high-level talent. Heupel should focus on identifying key players who can contribute right away, whether it be at quarterback, receiver, running back, or offensive line.

By using the transfer portal to add experienced, high-impact players, Tennessee can add immediate depth to its roster and increase competition for starting spots. This can lead to overall improvement in the unit, as players will push each other to perform at a higher level. Additionally, bringing in transfer players with experience in high-level programs can provide valuable leadership in crucial moments.