Tennessee Pursues National Champion, FootballScoop Award-Winning Coach

As the University of Tennessee seeks to bolster its football program, head coach Josh Heupel is eyeing Derek Owings for the position of director of strength and conditioning. This move aims to strengthen the Vols’ performance on the field, particularly following last season’s challenges.

Tennessee Pursues National Champion Coach Derek Owings

Derek Owings, currently the reigning FootballScoop Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year, has garnered considerable attention due to his successful track record. He previously collaborated with Heupel during the 2018 season at the University of Central Florida. Their professional relationship potentially positions Owings as a prime candidate for the Vols’ vacant position.

Previous Success and Demand

Owings recently concluded his tenure with Indiana, where he played a pivotal role in the team’s first national title and a remarkable run in the 12-team College Football Playoff. The Hoosiers defeated notable teams, including Alabama and Oregon, ultimately besting Miami in the championship game at Hard Rock Stadium. Indiana secured its place in the playoffs after upsetting Ohio State and earning the top seed.

Financial Incentives and Coaching Background

• Owings previously received over $900,000 annually at Indiana.
• Tennessee is reportedly willing to offer him a salary exceeding $1 million.
• Heupel has recently dismissed strength coach Kurt Schmidt, signaling a shift in the program’s approach.

Owings’ coaching career spans six seasons at Indiana and previous tenures at James Madison, Utah State, and Texas Tech. He started his journey at Eastern Michigan and concluded under Bobby Lamb at Mercer, where he achieved All-Southern Conference honors.

Challenges for Tennessee Football

Last season, Tennessee faced significant criticism regarding its lack of physicality, culminating in disappointing losses, including a Music City Bowl defeat to Illinois. The end of the season saw Heupel part ways with several defensive staff members as he sought to revamp the team’s strategy.

As the situation unfolds, Owings’ potential return to the collegiate coaching landscape is highly anticipated. His connection with Heupel and impressive credentials position him as a crucial addition to Tennessee’s efforts to enhance their football program and improve performance on the field.