BIG HIRE: The Good & Bad of Jim Knowles Defense as Tennessee Football Makes STATEMENT

Tennessee Volunteers face a pivotal offseason as quarterback uncertainty looms and new defensive coordinator Jim Knowles joins the staff. Will Josh Heupel find the right answer at QB with Jake Merklinger in the transfer portal and questions swirling around Joey Aguilar’s eligibility? The stakes are high as Tennessee weighs transfer portal options and navigates NIL realities with high-dollar quarterback prospects.Eric Cain breaks down Heupel's candid press conference remarks on roster strategy, the delicate balance of managing young talent like George MacIntyre and Faizon Brandon, and how transparency shapes transfer portal decisions. The discussion spotlights Knowles' impressive defensive track record and why he's poised to transform the Volunteers' defense. Plus, Eric Cain revisits pre-season predictions—both hits and misses—shedding light on Tennessee's evolving roster and playoff ambitions. Can the Vols retool and reclaim national relevance this fall? Neyland Press Corps Substack: https://neylandpress.substack.com/Catch Locked on Vols, wherever you find your podcasts. ▶️https://linktr.ee/cainerSupport Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!QuoSee why over 90,000 businesses trust Quo, formerly OpenPhone. Get started free and get 20% off your first 6 months at https://www.Quo.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. PelotonLet yourself run, lift, flex, and push forward. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ today at https://www.onepeloton.com.DoorDashWith DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18.MazdaIt’s the small details that make the big plays. And just like there’s more to every player, there’s more to a Mazda vehicle. Mazda. Move and Be Moved. GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.MonarchTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE at https://www.monarch.com/lockedoncollege for 50% off your first year.FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

SEC powers battle for playoff supremacy as Alabama eyes revenge—and Oklahoma’s defense sets the tone. Can Ty Simpson fight through injury to ignite the Crimson Tide offense, or will Oklahoma’s healthy lineup, led by AR Mason Thomas, clamp down yet again?Chris Gordy and more break down Alabama vs. Oklahoma, Texas A&M’s crucial test against Miami, and Ole Miss’s playoff bid with Pete Golding at the helm. The squad analyzes availability reports, key injuries to Josh Cuevas and Jam Miller, turnovers, and special teams’ X-factors. Is Carson Beck’s big-game record enough for Miami? Plus, what could sink Ole Miss’s hopes against Tulane and how will SEC rivals exploit coaching shakeups?Don’t miss sharp playoff picks, bold predictions, and key insights into SEC playoff hopes and national championship implications. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tennessee Volunteers football faces a pivotal offseason as uncertainty surrounds the quarterback position. Can five-star Faizon Brandon or current freshman standout George MacIntyre seize the starting role, or will Josh Heupel target the transfer portal despite big-money challenges? Eric Cain explores the impact of heralded signees like Tristen Keys, Tyreek King, and Brayden Rouse, highlighting positional battles and where true freshmen talent could break through in 2026.On the hardwood, Tennessee basketball bounces back in style, snapping a three-game losing streak with a dominant win over Louisville. Guest Ryan Schumpert breaks down the defensive turnaround, standout moments from Ja’Kobi Gillespie and Jaylen Carey, and the rotation dilemmas facing coach Rick Barnes. Key insights include super sophomore contributions on defense, linebacker depth concerns, and looming decisions ahead of Music City Bowl and SEC play. Are the Volunteers ready to surge in both football and basketball? Neyland Press Corps Substack: https://neylandpress.substack.com/Catch Locked on Vols, wherever you find your podcasts. ▶️https://linktr.ee/cainerSupport Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!QuoSee why over 90,000 businesses trust Quo, formerly OpenPhone. Get started free and get 20% off your first 6 months at https://www.Quo.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. PelotonLet yourself run, lift, flex, and push forward. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ today at https://www.onepeloton.com.DoorDashWith DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18.MazdaIt’s the small details that make the big plays. And just like there’s more to every player, there’s more to a Mazda vehicle. Mazda. Move and Be Moved. GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.MonarchTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE at https://www.monarch.com/lockedoncollege for 50% off your first year.FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tennessee Volunteers score big with the hiring of Jim Knowles as defensive coordinator, igniting fresh optimism for a defensive turnaround in 2026. Can Knowles’ proven experience be the missing piece for Josh Heupel’s squad? Eric Cain and Josh Ward break down how Knowles’ arrival could reshape Tennessee’s defensive identity, dissect the challenging SEC schedule, and examine the roster’s readiness to evolve. Key matchups, including clash-ups against Texas A&M, Auburn, and South Carolina, set the stage for must-win moments and potential SEC upsets.Plus, Eric Cain highlights the rise of Tennessee’s super sophomores—Mike Matthews, DeSean Bishop, and Ethan Davis—and what their growth signals for the Vols’ future. Special guest Noah Taylor revisits the dramatic 1974 Liberty Bowl victory over Maryland, spotlighting legendary moments from Condredge Holloway and Larry Seivers. Don’t miss this comprehensive analysis of the Tennessee Volunteers’ path to redemption on Rocky Top. Neyland Press Corps Substack: https://neylandpress.substack.com/Catch Locked on Vols, wherever you find your podcasts. ▶️https://linktr.ee/cainerSupport Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!QuoSee why over 90,000 businesses trust Quo, formerly OpenPhone. Get started free and get 20% off your first 6 months at https://www.Quo.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. PelotonLet yourself run, lift, flex, and push forward. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ today at https://www.onepeloton.com.DoorDashWith DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18.MazdaIt’s the small details that make the big plays. And just like there’s more to every player, there’s more to a Mazda vehicle. Mazda. Move and Be Moved. GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.MonarchTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE at https://www.monarch.com/lockedoncollege for 50% off your first year.FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tennessee Volunteers face a pivotal quarterback decision as the transfer portal heats up—will Josh Heupel seek an experienced starter or trust in young stars like George MacIntyre and Faizon Brandon? Eric Cain breaks down all the big names, including DJ Lagway, Dylan Raiola, and Brendan Sorsby, exploring their fit on Rocky Top and how returning offensive weapons could shape the 2026 season.Key topics include new defensive coordinator Jim Knowles’s first priority list, staff evaluations, and the Vols’ approach to portal recruiting at safety, linebacker, and defensive line. Plus, listener mailbag questions spark debate over the bowl system, potential program “Santa” wishes, and which freshmen might fill draft departures. The race for Tennessee’s next starting QB and program direction takes center stage—will the Volunteers emerge as SEC contenders or stick with a youth movement? Neyland Press Corps Substack: https://neylandpress.substack.com/Catch Locked on Vols, wherever you find your podcasts. ▶️https://linktr.ee/cainerSupport Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!QuoSee why over 90,000 businesses trust Quo, formerly OpenPhone. Get started free and get 20% off your first 6 months at https://www.Quo.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. PelotonLet yourself run, lift, flex, and push forward. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ today at https://www.onepeloton.com.DoorDashWith DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18.MazdaIt’s the small details that make the big plays. And just like there’s more to every player, there’s more to a Mazda vehicle. Mazda. Move and Be Moved. GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.MonarchTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE at https://www.monarch.com/lockedoncollege for 50% off your first year.FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Get ad-free episodes, access to our members-only Discord community, exclusive shows, and more by joining the Everydayer Club. The free daily show isn't going anywhere—this is just for those who want to take it to the next level. Learn more and sign up at https://lockedonvols.supercast.com/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tennessee Volunteers face a pivotal offseason as Jermod McCoy, Chris Brazzell and Arion Carter declare for the NFL Draft. How will Josh Heupel’s squad adapt after losing SEC-leading receiver Brazzell and top prospects on defense? Eric Cain assesses Tennessee’s NFL-bound talent, Mel Kiper Jr.’s big board placements, and the emerging roles for standouts like Braylon Staley, Mike Matthews, and Ty Redmond.Contract extensions for offensive coordinator Joey Halzle and passing game coordinator Kelsey Pope signal continuity, but defensive staff changes loom with Jim Knowles’ arrival. Key themes include Tennessee’s wide receiver depth, linebacker rotation adjustments after Carter’s exit, and breakout performances from freshmen like Jaden Perlotte. Will Tennessee target top talent in the transfer portal, and can Knowles reshape the defense? Eric Cain breaks down recruiting wins, portal priorities, and how these moves set the stage for the Volunteers’ 2026 season. Neyland Press Corps Substack: https://neylandpress.substack.com/Catch Locked on Vols, wherever you find your podcasts. ▶️https://linktr.ee/cainerSupport Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!QuoSee why over 90,000 businesses trust Quo, formerly OpenPhone. Get started free and get 20% off your first 6 months at https://www.Quo.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. PelotonLet yourself run, lift, flex, and push forward. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ today at https://www.onepeloton.com.DoorDashWith DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18.MazdaIt’s the small details that make the big plays. And just like there’s more to every player, there’s more to a Mazda vehicle. Mazda. Move and Be Moved. GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.MonarchTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE at https://www.monarch.com/lockedoncollege for 50% off your first year.FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tennessee Volunteers reveal a 2026 football schedule packed with powerhouse matchups and historic rivalries. Can Josh Heupel’s squad capitalize on a “navigable” SEC slate and reignite excitement for season ticket holders weary from recent years? Eric Cain spotlights must-watch home games against Texas, Auburn, Alabama, Kentucky, and LSU—plus the Volunteers’ first-ever regular season showdown with the Longhorns and a revival of storied battles with South Carolina and Arkansas.Key highlights cover Tennessee’s all-time records against each opponent, intriguing coaching changes—like Lane Kiffin’s surprising LSU jump and Alex Golesh’s Auburn arrival—and critical schedule quirks, including strategic bye weeks and consecutive home stretches. Eric Cain unpacks the impact of contract extensions for Joey Halzle and Kelsey Pope, examines SEC landscape shifts, and asks: Which games pose the toughest tests on the road to a breakout year? Don’t miss this fast-paced Tennessee Football breakdown and the inside scoop on the Volunteers’ path to glory. Neyland Press Corps Substack: https://neylandpress.substack.com/Catch Locked on Vols, wherever you find your podcasts. ▶️https://linktr.ee/cainerSupport Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!QuoSee why over 90,000 businesses trust Quo, formerly OpenPhone. Get started free and get 20% off your first 6 months at https://www.Quo.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. PelotonLet yourself run, lift, flex, and push forward. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ today at https://www.onepeloton.com.DoorDashWith DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18.MazdaIt’s the small details that make the big plays. And just like there’s more to every player, there’s more to a Mazda vehicle. Mazda. Move and Be Moved. GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.MonarchTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE at https://www.monarch.com/lockedoncollege for 50% off your first year.FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tennessee Volunteers land a marquee hire as Jim Knowles signs on as defensive coordinator—can his safety-driven defense ignite a playoff run on Rocky Top? Eric Cain explores what Knowles brings from Ohio State and Penn State, breaking down contract details, coaching style, and what this bold move signals for Josh Heupel’s program.Guests Zach Sayko and Jay Stephens offer sharp insights into Knowles’ complex system, the crucial role of versatile safeties, and why a quick turnaround may require patience. The conversation digs into defensive weaknesses, struggles with recruiting, and lingering questions after a disappointing Penn State stint. Will Knowles’ hard-nosed approach elevate Tennessee’s defense above last season’s woes? Get expert analysis on scheme fit, potential roster shakeups, and what Vol fans should expect from this high-profile hire. Neyland Press Corps Substack: https://neylandpress.substack.com/Catch Locked on Vols, wherever you find your podcasts. ▶️https://linktr.ee/cainerSupport Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!QuoSee why over 90,000 businesses trust Quo, formerly OpenPhone. Get started free and get 20% off your first 6 months at https://www.Quo.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE. PelotonLet yourself run, lift, flex, and push forward. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ today at https://www.onepeloton.com.DoorDashWith DoorDash Streaks, you save every Saturday you order — stack it up all season and you could save up to $250. Order this Saturday. Keep the streak alive. Fuel your gameday — only with DoorDash. Terms apply. Promo period through 11/18.MazdaIt’s the small details that make the big plays. And just like there’s more to every player, there’s more to a Mazda vehicle. Mazda. Move and Be Moved. GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.MonarchTake control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE at https://www.monarch.com/lockedoncollege for 50% off your first year.FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Five SEC teams charge into the College Football Playoff, but which squad holds the clearest path to glory? Heated expansion rumors swirl as the SEC hosts debate the possibility of Notre Dame and Kansas joining the conference, while Texas A&M’s electrifying fan base readies Kyle Field for a statement win over Miami. Could Carson Beck’s first trip to College Station turn into an interception frenzy? Alabama vs. Oklahoma emerges as a must-watch rematch—will Ty Simpson and a battered Tide offense bounce back, or does Oklahoma’s relentless defense have the secret sauce?The squad also breaks down Tulane vs. Ole Miss and the impact of Lane Kiffin’s absence, evaluates Heisman hopeful Diego Pavia’s odds against Fernando Mendoza, and dissects the blue chip ratio chatter. With passionate analysis, insider takes on playoff matchups, and candid SEC pride, this preview sets the stage for a playoff race full of rivalry and redemption. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.