Mike Ekeler, special teams coach for the Tennessee Volunteers, is departing for Nebraska.
Mike Ekeler’s Departure from Tennessee: What it Means for the Volunteers and Nebraska
The world of college football coaching is dynamic, ever-changing, and often filled with surprises. One of the most significant changes in the Tennessee Volunteers’ football program recently was the announcement that Mike Ekeler, the special teams coach, is leaving the program to take on a new role at Nebraska. Ekeler’s departure marks the end of a key tenure for Tennessee, especially as the special teams unit was one of the team’s standout elements during his time in Knoxville. His move to Nebraska introduces a shift that could impact both programs, and it raises important questions about what comes next for Tennessee and how Nebraska plans to build on the momentum of this hire.
Mike Ekeler’s decision to leave Tennessee for Nebraska comes as part of the coaching carousel that sweeps across college football every year. Coaches leave for various reasons—whether it’s for career advancement, personal opportunities, or a desire to take on new challenges. In Ekeler’s case, his move to Nebraska is seen as a step forward in his coaching journey. But for Tennessee, it’s a blow to a special teams unit that showed improvement under Ekeler’s leadership. His exit creates a vacancy at a critical coaching position that the Vols will need to fill as they continue their pursuit of conference championships and national prominence.
This article will examine Ekeler’s tenure at Tennessee, his contributions to the program, and the potential ramifications of his departure for both Tennessee and Nebraska.
Mike Ekeler’s Tenure at Tennessee
Before diving into the specifics of Ekeler’s departure, it’s important to understand his background and the impact he had at Tennessee. Mike Ekeler joined Tennessee’s coaching staff in 2022 as the special teams coordinator under head coach Josh Heupel. A highly experienced and respected coach, Ekeler was known for his energetic personality and detailed approach to special teams, which are often the most overlooked aspect of a football team but can prove crucial in close games.
Tennessee’s special teams had been a work in progress in the years prior to Ekeler’s arrival, with several areas of improvement needed. Ekeler’s impact was felt immediately, as he helped elevate Tennessee’s play on both coverage and return units. His emphasis on discipline, execution, and effort led to a noticeable improvement in the Volunteers’ special teams performance in 2022 and beyond.
Key Contributions to Tennessee’s Special Teams
- Kickoff and Punt Coverage: Under Ekeler’s watch, Tennessee’s kickoff and punt coverage units became much more effective. This improvement was important, as field position can often be a decisive factor in close games. The Vols’ ability to limit return yardage and prevent explosive plays on special teams helped them gain an edge over opponents, especially in high-pressure SEC matchups.
- Return Game Success: Another area where Ekeler made his mark was in the return game. While Tennessee had talent in the return game, Ekeler’s coaching brought structure and a renewed focus to this aspect of the special teams. His attention to detail and teaching of key fundamentals enabled the Volunteers to capitalize on opportunities in the return game, giving their offense better starting field position.
- Consistency in Kicking Units: One of the most difficult areas to manage in special teams is the kicking game. Tennessee had several inconsistencies in the placekicking and punting units before Ekeler arrived. But his experience and focus on fundamentals helped stabilize these areas. His work with the kickers ensured Tennessee could rely on a consistent performance from both their punters and placekickers, a key component of any successful team.
Ekeler’s impact on special teams was undeniable, and it was clear that Tennessee’s special teams units were noticeably more disciplined and effective under his leadership. His departure creates a significant hole in an area that is often a deciding factor in high-stakes games.
Why Mike Ekeler Left for Nebraska
While his tenure at Tennessee was successful, the decision to leave for Nebraska presents a natural progression in Ekeler’s career. There are several factors that likely influenced his decision to make the move to Nebraska, which we will explore below.
Nebraska’s Appeal and Program Growth
Nebraska has been rebuilding its football program since the departure of legendary head coach Tom Osborne, and while they’ve had their ups and downs, the program has significant potential. Nebraska is one of the most storied programs in college football history, with a passionate fan base and the resources to compete at the highest level.
Nebraska hired Matt Rhule as its new head coach in late 2022, and Rhule quickly set about assembling a coaching staff that could restore the Cornhuskers to prominence. Rhule, a former head coach at Baylor and Temple, is known for his ability to turn around struggling programs. His hiring brought a renewed sense of excitement to Nebraska’s football program, and Rhule’s leadership vision and coaching acumen make Nebraska an attractive destination for coaches looking for a fresh challenge.
For Mike Ekeler, the opportunity to work under a head coach like Matt Rhule and join a program with a strong football tradition was likely appealing. Nebraska’s football program is on the upswing, and Ekeler might have seen this as an opportunity to help build something special while continuing to grow his career. His ability to play a key role in Nebraska’s special teams development and contribute to their overall success likely influenced his decision.
Career Advancement and New Challenges
Coaches often move for career advancement opportunities. After a successful stint at Tennessee, Ekeler may have felt that the time was right to take on a new challenge and further elevate his coaching profile. Special teams coordinators are often overlooked in terms of national recognition, but Ekeler’s move to Nebraska gives him a chance to prove himself on a larger stage.
Additionally, working under Matt Rhule could provide Ekeler with the chance to expand his role within the program. While his primary focus will still be special teams, Rhule’s experience could provide Ekeler with valuable insights into running a program at the highest level, which could be crucial for his long-term career ambitions.
Personal and Professional Growth
Lastly, coaching changes and moves are often motivated by personal considerations. As college football coaching careers are known for their volatility and long hours, coaches like Ekeler might look for a change in scenery or environment that aligns more closely with their personal goals and aspirations. The opportunity to join a rebuilding program like Nebraska, where Ekeler can play a role in shaping the team’s future, may be personally fulfilling as well.
Impact on Tennessee
Mike Ekeler’s departure leaves a hole in Tennessee’s coaching staff that will need to be filled. Special teams play is often an overlooked area, but it is crucial to a team’s success, especially in close games. Tennessee’s special teams units were a strong point during Ekeler’s tenure, and his absence will be felt by both the players and coaching staff.
Challenges of Replacing Ekeler
Replacing a coach like Mike Ekeler will not be easy. Tennessee will need to find someone who not only has the expertise and experience to continue developing the special teams but also someone who can build on the culture of discipline and excellence that Ekeler established. Special teams coaches often work with a variety of players from different positions, so the new hire must be able to connect with a wide range of athletes and motivate them to perform at their best.
Another challenge for Tennessee will be ensuring that the transition does not disrupt the momentum that the program has built under head coach Josh Heupel. The Volunteers have been progressing steadily, with their offense becoming one of the most potent in the SEC, and their special teams played a crucial role in their success. Maintaining consistency in special teams play will be important as the team looks to continue improving.
Potential Candidates for the Position
Tennessee will likely look for a coach with a strong background in special teams play, along with the ability to relate to players and foster a culture of competitiveness. The new coach will need to work well within the context of Heupel’s high-tempo offensive scheme while ensuring that special teams remain a point of strength. Tennessee may also look for a coach who has had experience working with both kickers and return units, ensuring that all areas of special teams are covered comprehensively.
Impact on Nebraska
Mike Ekeler’s arrival at Nebraska is a significant boost to the Cornhuskers’ special teams. Under Matt Rhule’s leadership, Nebraska is looking to revamp its entire program, and Ekeler’s expertise will help solidify one of the most crucial components of the game. As Nebraska works to return to national prominence, having a strong special teams unit will be a key part of the equation.
Ekeler’s focus on discipline and attention to detail will be invaluable for Nebraska, especially in tight games where special teams can make the difference. Additionally, his track record of developing effective kick coverage and return units will give Nebraska an edge in field position battles, which can be vital in the competitive Big Ten.
