Josh Heupel made a shocking move on Monday morning, parting ways with defensive coordinator Tim Banks after five years leading the Tennessee Vols' defense. The decision sent shockwaves through the college football world and immediately sparked speculation about who could fill the vacant position.
The End of an Era
Banks' departure marks a significant shift in Tennessee's defensive strategy under Heupel's leadership. The firing came after Banks had signed a new deal with the program, making the sudden split even more unexpected. The move signals that Heupel believes a change is necessary to elevate the Vols' defensive performance moving forward.
The Search Begins
With substantial financial resources at his disposal, Heupel is setting his sights high as he hunts for Tennessee's next defensive coordinator. The coaching search has already generated considerable buzz in the college football community.
Ryan Walters, Washington's defensive coordinator and former Purdue head coach, has emerged as an early candidate linked to the position. Walters has a notable connection to Heupel, having worked together during their time at Missouri, which could make him an attractive option for the Vols.
Another intriguing possibility is
Justin Wilcox, the former Tennessee defensive coordinator who spent the last nine years as Cal's head coach before being fired by general manager Ron Rivera. Wilcox previously coordinated Tennessee's defense in 2010 and 2011 under Derek Dooley, when the Vols' defense ranked 56th nationally in points allowed in his first year and improved to 36th in his second season.
Wilcox's Potential Return
Wilcox's track record at Tennessee shows promise, particularly when compared to his successor. After Wilcox left for Washington in 2012, the Vols hired Sal Sunseri to replace him—and Tennessee's defense plummeted to 109th nationally in points per game that season. The stark contrast highlights Wilcox's defensive expertise.
During his nine-year tenure at Cal, Wilcox compiled a 48-55 record while achieving bowl eligibility five times. Now a free agent for the first time in a decade, Wilcox has the financial cushion of a buyout from Cal, giving him the flexibility to either take a year off or jump into a new opportunity immediately. However, questions remain about whether Wilcox would be interested in coaching in the competitive SEC environment.
What's Next
Tennessee's defensive coordinator position represents one of the most attractive openings in college football this offseason, with Heupel's financial backing and the program's resources making it an appealing destination for top coaching talent. The coming weeks will reveal whether the Vols pursue an established name like Walters or opt for a familiar face in Wilcox.
1.
Tennessee Parts Ways With Defensive Coordinator Tim Banks2.
5 Candidates to Replace Tim Banks at Defensive Coordinator3.
Tennessee Vols Have Promising Option to Replace Tim Banks4.
Could Tennessee Bring A Former Defensive Coordinator Back?
Sources
1. Sources confirm Tennessee and Tim Banks are parting ways
2. 5 candidates to replace Tim Banks at defensive coordinator
3. ‘Probably the best defensive coordinator in the country’ – Tennessee Vols have a promising option to replace Tim Banks
4. Could Tennessee Bring A Former Defensive Coordinator Back To Replace Tim Banks?
