Will new Vols defensive coordinator Jim Knowles coach from the press box or the sideline at Tennessee?
One of the questions that fans have about new Tennessee Vols defensive coordinator Jim Knowles is whether he’ll coach from the sideline or the press box on game days. Most offensive coordinators coach from the press box — so they can get a clearer picture of what’s happening on the field. Many defensive coordinators will […]
One of the questions that fans have about new Tennessee Vols defensive coordinator Jim Knowles is whether he’ll coach from the sideline or the press box on game days.
Most offensive coordinators coach from the press box — so they can get a clearer picture of what’s happening on the field.
Many defensive coordinators will coach from the press box for the same reason, but you’ll also see plenty that prefer coaching from the sideline.
The advantage of coaching on the sideline is that coordinators can communicate with players more easily and get a better feel for the emotion of the game. It can be hard, however, to see the entire field from the sideline — which can make calling defensive plays a challenge.
Tim Banks, who served as Tennessee’s defensive coordinator from 2021 to 2025, coached from the press box during his time on Rocky Top.
Jim Knowles has coached from the press box in recent seasons
Knowles hasn’t been introduced to the media yet at Tennessee, so we aren’t sure what his game day plans will be for the 2026 season.
The former Ohio State and Penn State defensive coordinator has coached from both the sideline and the press box in the past. In recent years, though, Knowles has been in the press box on game days.
Knowles told reporters earlier this year that the press box is the best place for him to “think” and “stay a couple of plays ahead”.
“The best place to be in order to think and remain calm and try to stay a couple of plays ahead and a series ahead is in the press box,” said Knowles in February. “That’s just what I found for myself, is that there’s a camera up there on me. Hopefully, you’re not going to see me reacting to a bad play, or even if we get a great play. I really try to stay centered. My job is to not cheer, or react, or yell.”
Based on Knowles’ game day approach the last few seasons, and the comments he made earlier this year, it seems like a safe bet to assume he’ll be in the press box on Saturdays next fall.
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