Overview
- Tennessee confirmed Banks’ dismissal and Heupel called the move necessary for the program’s future, pledging a search for a new defensive coordinator.
- Linebackers coach William Inge will serve as interim defensive coordinator for the Dec. 30 Music City Bowl against Illinois in Nashville.
- The Vols finished the regular season allowing about 28.8 points and 395.5 yards per game, with at least 30 points surrendered in seven of eight SEC contests and a pass defense near the bottom of the league.
- Banks’ tenure included a standout 2024 season that reached the College Football Playoff and earned him Broyles Award finalist honors for a unit that allowed just 16.1 points per game.
- Injuries and personnel losses, including All-America corner Jermod McCoy’s torn ACL, Rickey Gibson’s season-ending injury and Boo Carter’s dismissal, were cited as factors, while media reports say Banks’ recent extension carries a buyout in roughly the $4.3 million range.