Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel expressed strong confidence in his running back group heading into the 2025 season, noting that the unit is “probably as deep as we’ve been” since his arrival in Knoxville.
The Volunteers have quietly built one of the more balanced and competitive backfields in the SEC, combining returning production with new talent. Veteran running backs bring experience and knowledge of Heupel’s fast-paced offense, while younger players add explosiveness and versatility. This mix has created competition in practice, which Heupel believes will elevate the overall standard of the unit.
One of the biggest advantages for Tennessee is having multiple players capable of carrying the load. Rather than relying heavily on one featured back, the Volunteers have built a committee approach that allows them to stay fresh late in games and throughout the long grind of the SEC schedule. Heupel highlighted the importance of durability, especially with Tennessee’s tempo-driven offense, which often requires fresh legs to sustain momentum.
Beyond physical depth, the group also offers diverse skill sets. Some backs provide power running between the tackles, while others excel in space as receiving threats or change-of-pace options. This versatility gives Heupel flexibility in play-calling and the ability to adapt to different defensive schemes.
With the offensive line showing improvement and the quarterback situation more stable than in past seasons, Tennessee’s ground game could become one of the team’s strengths. For Heupel, having this depth is not just about numbers—it’s about being able to attack defenses in multiple ways and maintain consistency week after week.
If the Volunteers can maximize this talent, their backfield could prove to be one of the key factors in Tennessee’s push to compete near the top of the SEC in 2025.
