Tennessee linebacker Jeremiah Telander, nicknamed “Power T,” joins The Mike Keith Show, thrilling Vols fans with his intensity and insight.

In a segment filled with fire, passion, and undeniable swagger, Tennessee linebacker Jeremiah Telander — affectionately known as “Power T” — brought his larger-than-life energy to The Mike Keith Show, captivating Vols fans and delivering a jolt of excitement to the Rocky Top faithful ahead of the 2025 season.

The rising junior has become a fan favorite thanks to his relentless motor, hard-hitting play, and deep loyalty to the Power T brand. His appearance on the show wasn’t just a typical player interview; it was a statement — a declaration that Tennessee’s defense is hungry, focused, and ready to make noise in the SEC.

Who Is Jeremiah “Power T” Telander?

Originally from Gainesville, Georgia, Telander was a three-star recruit in the class of 2023 who quickly outperformed his ranking. By the end of his freshman year, coaches were raving about his instincts, toughness, and vocal leadership.

Now entering his third season, Telander has emerged as one of Tennessee’s most respected defensive leaders. Known around the locker room as “Power T,” a nickname that blends his initials with the iconic symbol of Tennessee football, Telander embodies the grit and tradition of the program.

The nickname originated during his freshman year when teammates noticed how often he used the phrase “For the Power T” in team huddles and interviews. Eventually, the nickname stuck — and now, he wears it like a badge of honor.

“I’m not just playing for myself,” Telander said on the show. “I’m playing for every Vol who’s ever worn that jersey, every fan who bleeds orange, and every future kid dreaming of putting on that Power T helmet.”

The Mike Keith Moment: A Star Is Born on the Mic

Mike Keith, the legendary voice of the Tennessee Titans and a beloved sports broadcaster across the state, is known for getting the best out of his guests. But even he seemed impressed by Telander’s blend of confidence and authenticity.

Right from the start of the segment, Telander lit up the room.

“I just want to hit somebody,” he said with a laugh when asked how spring workouts were going. “I’m tired of chasing our own quarterbacks. I want that orange swarm back on Saturdays.”

Telander touched on everything from his offseason training regimen to his playlist (“A lot of Young Dolph, some old-school OutKast for game day vibes”) and the bond among Tennessee’s linebacker corps. But the highlight of the appearance came when he addressed his mindset for the 2025 season:

“We’re not scared of anybody. We respect our opponents, sure, but we’re not backing down. This defense is going to fly around, cause havoc, and put some fear back in the SEC when they see us on the schedule.”

Keith chuckled and responded, “Vol Nation’s gonna love that quote,” to which Telander smiled and said, “They better put it on a T-shirt.”

A Glimpse into Tennessee’s Defensive Identity

Telander’s appearance offered more than entertainment — it gave Vol fans a glimpse into the soul of Tennessee’s defense.

After an inconsistent 2024 season, where the Volunteers flashed brilliance but struggled with depth and discipline at times, Telander said the defense has taken those lessons to heart.

“We took that film room seriously,” he said. “Every busted coverage, every missed tackle — we owned it. Now we’re fixing it.”

He highlighted a renewed focus on fundamentals under new linebackers coach Chris Marve and praised defensive coordinator Tim Banks for challenging the unit every day.

“We’re not going to be the team that talks a big game and doesn’t back it up,” Telander emphasized. “We’re coming for Georgia. We’re coming for Bama. We’re coming for the playoff.”

The “Power T” Mentality: Leading by Example

Telander’s on-field production speaks volumes. In 2024, he notched 78 total tackles, 9 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, and a forced fumble — stats that earned him All-SEC Honorable Mention honors. But it’s his leadership that has truly elevated his role on the team.

Coaches have consistently pointed to Telander as the “heartbeat” of the defense. Whether he’s calling plays from the middle linebacker spot or hyping up teammates on the sideline, Telander brings an energy that’s contagious.

Mike Keith asked what “Power T” means to him personally. Telander didn’t hesitate:

“It means loyalty. It means family. It means being accountable every single rep — in the weight room, on the field, in the classroom. Wearing that Power T means you represent something bigger than yourself. I take that seriously.”

Teammates Weigh In

Following the appearance, several Tennessee players chimed in on social media to support their teammate’s big moment:

• Edge rusher James Pearce Jr. tweeted: “My dawg @PowerT_Telander spoke facts. Defense gon’ eat this year 💯.”
• Cornerback Christian Conyer added on Instagram: “Captain vibes. That’s who we follow into battle.”
• Quarterback Nico Iamaleava reposted a clip of the interview with the caption: “Power T on the mic 🎙️🔥.”

Clearly, Telander’s leadership is respected across the roster, from veterans to freshmen.

Vol Nation Reacts

Vol fans were quick to embrace Telander’s bold tone and unwavering confidence. On the VolQuest message boards and across Twitter/X, clips from the show circulated within minutes.

“He’s got that Al Wilson energy,” one fan wrote, referencing the legendary Vol linebacker. “We haven’t had that kind of vocal dog in years.”

Another added: “If Power T isn’t a team captain this year, I’ll eat my orange bucket hat.”

Merchandise vendors have already reported a spike in demand for “Power T” branded gear, including shirts with Telander’s quotes from the interview.

Telander’s Goals for 2025

When asked about personal goals, Telander’s answer was team-first — but still ambitious.

“I want us to be the number one defense in the SEC. That’s it. If we do that, everything else — awards, NFL stuff — that’ll come.”

He also mentioned a goal to break 100 tackles and lead the team in forced turnovers. But what fired him up most was the idea of hosting a College Football Playoff game in Neyland Stadium under the new 12-team format.

“Can you imagine that? Neyland at night in December? Cold air, packed house, orange everywhere. That’s what we’re grinding for.”

Mike Keith’s Final Take

After the show wrapped, Mike Keith spoke glowingly about Telander during the post-show segment.

“That young man is special,” Keith said. “He reminds me of the old-school Vols — tough, fearless, and full of pride for that jersey. Tennessee fans should be really excited about what they’ve got in No. 27.”

Keith added that Telander is the type of player who not only performs on Saturdays but also inspires the next generation.

“You want a kid in Knoxville or Chattanooga to see him and think, ‘That’s who I want to be.’ He’s got that magnetism.”

Looking Ahead

With fall camp just a few months away, Telander will remain a key voice and presence for a Tennessee team on the rise. The Vols return a strong core on both sides of the ball, and expectations are soaring as they look to break through in the SEC East.

Telander will be at the center of it all — calling the plays, rallying the troops, and carrying the “Power T” banner with pride.

As he said during the show:

“I didn’t come to Tennessee to be average. I came to win titles. And I’m gonna give everything I have to make that happen.”

Final Thoughts:

Jeremiah Telander’s appearance on The Mike Keith Show wasn’t just a media moment — it was a rallying cry. His words resonated, his swagger electrified, and his passion reminded Tennessee fans why they fell in love with college football in the first place.

If “Power T” is the heartbeat of the Vols defense, the rest of the SEC better be ready for one loud, thumping season.