The Tennessee Vols might already have the answer to a major question they could face later this year
If the Tennessee Vols' defense continues to perform at a high level, it seems inevitable that defensive coordinator Tim Banks will receive some head coaching offers. It's hard to know whether or not Banks would leave for a head coaching job at this point in his career (we don't know what jobs will be open […]
If the Tennessee Vols' defense continues to perform at a high level, it seems inevitable that defensive coordinator Tim Banks will receive some head coaching offers.
It's hard to know whether or not Banks would leave for a head coaching job at this point in his career (we don't know what jobs will be open or what offers he might get), but there's probably a good chance he'll take a head coaching gig if offered.
If that happens in early December, it could leave the Vols in a bind when it comes to a potential playoff run. Would Banks stay for the playoff games, or would he leave for the new job as soon as he accepts the offer? (Either decision would be understandable.)
Banks leaving would also mean that Josh Heupel would need to hire a defensive coordinator for the first time since early 2021 when he was hired at Tennessee (and subsequently hired Banks).
Those two scenarios might have the same answer — current Vols linebackers coach William Inge.
Inge, who took over as Tennessee's linebackers coach earlier this year when Brian Jean-Mary left for Michigan, has previous experience as a defensive coordinator, serving in that role (most recently) for two seasons at Washington (2022 to 2023) and two seasons at Fresno State (2020 to 2021).
It would make sense for Inge to take over as the interim defensive coordinator for the playoff given that experience.
And considering how much Heupel loves continuity and promoting from within, it wouldn't be a surprise if Inge is seriously considered as Banks' replacement this offseason in the event that Banks leaves for a head coaching job.
There's obviously a lot of season left before those questions will become relevant (if they even do become relevant…Banks might elect to stay at Tennessee for another season). But I'm sure Heupel is already thinking a couple of steps ahead. And I would bet that Inge is going to be an important factor in whatever decision Heupel makes if/when Banks leaves for a head coaching job.
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