This past weekend, Knoxville Police Department Organized Crime Unit detectives received information that a subject who was possibly involved in a shooting that happened in Alabama was in the Knoxville area. The subject was identified as Abdul Khalil’Llah, 26 of Anniston, Alabama. OCU detectives were able to determine that Khalil’Llah was wanted out of Georgia for failure to appear on a previous felon in possession of a weapon charge.
On Monday, October 28, 2024, OCU detectives were able to track Khalil’Llah to an AirBnB at 103 Greenbrier Drive, where he and another male were observed entering a vehicle and leaving. The vehicle was eventually stopped in a parking lot near S. Northshore Drive and Baum Drive, where Khalil’Llah and his passenger, Varrenzo Bradford, 26 of Statham, Georgia, were detained. Bradford was found to be in possession of a Glock handgun, methamphetamine, and cocaine. In the course of the investigation, it was discovered that Bradford was also a convicted felon.
Detectives then obtained a search warrant for the home at 103 Greenbrier Drive, which was executed later that day. When the search warrant was executed, a man and woman were found in the home and detained. Neither were charged.
During the search, detectives located two additional firearms and a drum magazine. Khalil’Llah was charged with fugitive from justice for the outstanding warrant out of Georgia. Bradford was charged with felon in possession of a firearm and possession of a firearm during a dangerous felony. OCU detectives were assisted throughout the day by agents with the A.T.F.
On Tuesday, investigators from Alabama came to Knoxville, where OCU detectives and A.T.F. agents assisted in follow-up investigation and interviews.
Additional charges are pending from the stop and search warrant on Monday, while the investigation into the shooting in Alabama is continuing.
Whenever Dylan Sampson greets fans during the Vol Walk or goes through pregame warmups, he can always be seen donning his signature chain. The neckwear features his initials, jersey number and a small, red rose pendant. The rose is an homage to Tupac Shakur’s famous poem, “The Rose that Grew from Concrete,” which reads as follows.
Did you hear about the rose that grew from a crack in the concrete? Proving nature’s laws wrong, It learned to walk without having feet. Funny it seems, but by keeping its dreams, it learned to breathe fresh air. Long live the rose that grew from concrete when no one else ever cared.
Sampson says he keeps the chain as a reminder that even when life isn’t perfect, to keep growing and blooming no matter the circumstances. After two seasons forming an elite trio in Tennessee’s running back room, Sampson has taken the reins as the starting back in 2024 and blossomed into one of the top offensive players in the country.
The Baton Rouge, Louisiana, native has grown a lot in his time at Tennessee. His journey began in 2022 when he enrolled early and made an immediate impression on the coaching staff. His speed, explosiveness and playmaking ability were evident from the start, and he quickly caught attention as a rising star. However, just like the rose, Sampson’s path to success wasn’t always smooth.
One of the defining moments in Sampson’s life came in 2016 when his grandfather passed away from cancer. The loss deeply affected Sampson, at one point even debating giving up athletics entirely.
“There were people in my life outside of my original family who were there for me,” Sampson said on healing from his grandfather’s passing. “A lot of people in my summer track program helped shape me into the person I am today. They taught me what it really means to work hard and have fun.”
What went from his lowest moment ended up serving as a catalyst for his determination. He vowed to honor his grandfather’s memory by working hard and striving for excellence.
Sampson’s commitment to his craft is evident in his approach to the game. He is known for his dedication to the weight room, his meticulous preparation and his relentless pursuit of perfection. His coaches and teammates rave about his work ethic and his leadership qualities.
On the field, Sampson is a force to be reckoned with. He possesses a rare combination of speed, power and agility that allows him to make defenders miss and break long runs. His ability to find a crease in the defense and burst through the line of scrimmage is a sight to behold.
After delivering a memorable performance against Alabama, Sampson’s head coach had high praise for his RB1’s efforts against the Crimson Tide.
(The performance) epitomizes him as a competitor. He’s special. He can feel the ability to run, get out in space and get behind his pads… (we) gave him an opportunity to get started and create some plays. Resiliency from him too, he gets banged up a little bit and fumbles early but comes back and keeps competing. Huge part of the game tonight.
Josh Heupel
Through only seven games this season, he has accumulated 838 yards and amassed 17 rushing touchdowns — one shy of the single-season program record for rushing scores set by Gene McEver in 1929. On the Tennessee career charts, Sampson currently sits fourth all time in rushing touchdowns at 30, chasing McEver again who totaled 37 in his time on Rocky Top from 1928-31.
The 2024 season has been a year of dominance for Sampson. He has consistently produced at a high level and established himself as one of the best running backs in the country. Sampson’s ability to make plays in both the running and passing game has made him a valuable asset to this Tennessee offense.
“He’s always had great vision and great pace,” Heupel said of Sampson’s development. “Obviously, he has good long speed and he’s really good between tackles. I think his growth of continuing to understand what we’re doing and physical development, just his strength in the middle of the football field, he’s really strong in between the tackles. He continues to make a bunch of plays for us and finish the game in the right way, which is huge.”
Before his arrival at Tennessee, Sampson made a name for himself as a standout running back at Dutchtown High School in Louisiana. Thanks to his speed and agility, Sampson shattered school records and earned all-state honors. His performances on the football field caught the attention of college coaches across the country, and he ultimately decided to commit to the Volunteers.
The transition from high school to college football can be challenging for even the most talented players. Sampson faced his own set of obstacles as he adjusted to the increased speed and physicality of the game. However, his natural ability and work ethic allowed him to quickly adapt.
In his freshman season, Sampson saw limited playing time but made the most of his opportunities. He showcased his ability to make defenders miss, and he finished the season with several impressive performances.
Sampson’s sophomore season was a real breakout year. He established himself as a key contributor to the Tennessee offense, and he became a fan favorite with his electrifying runs and touchdown celebrations. Sampson’s ability to break tackles and find the end zone made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.
While Sampson’s on-field accomplishments are impressive, it’s his character and his commitment to making a difference that truly set him apart. He is a dedicated student, a passionate community advocate and a role model for young athletes.
Sampson is deeply involved in the community. He is a passionate advocate for social justice and equality, and he uses his platform to raise awareness about important issues. Sampson believes that athletes have a responsibility to give back and make a positive impact on society.
I want to continue to be a successful football player and give back to the community. I also want to be a role model for young people. I am grateful for the opportunities that I have been given and I want to use my platform to make a positive impact on the world.
Dylan Sampson
Sampson’s story is one of inspiration and perseverance. He has exceeded all expectations and emerged as a national star. But what truly makes him special is his character, his determination and his commitment to making a difference.
Zeigler is one of five players on the first team. The other honorees are Auburn’s Johni Broome, Florida’s Walter Clayton Jr., Alabama’s Mark Sears and Texas A&M’s Wade Taylor IV.
Fourteen of the 15 selections across the three teams are identical to the media vote, with the lone change coming on the third team. Texas’ Tre Johnson made the cut in place of Florida’s Alex Condon.
Zeigler, who hails from Long Island, N.Y., averaged 11.8 points, 6.1 assists, 2.8 rebounds and 1.7 steals per game during a stellar junior season in 2023-24. He shot 34.4 percent from deep and posted a 2.79/1 assist-to-turnover ratio, while helping the Volunteers win the SEC regular season title, reach the Elite Eight and finish fifth in the national polls.
A First Team All-SEC choice and SEC Defensive Player of the Year designee from the league’s coaches last year, Zeigler has loaded up on plaudits entering the 2024-25 campaign. He was named a Preseason All-American by both the Blue Ribbon Yearbook (second team) and ESPN’s Jay Bilas (third team), made the Bob Cousy Award Top 20 Preseason Top 20 Watch List and is among the Naismith Trophy Preseason Watch List designees.
Zeigler and No. 12 Tennessee start the regular season Monday at Food City Center, with a 7 p.m. matchup against Gardner-Webb, live on SEC Network+.
To keep up with the University of Tennessee men’s basketball team on social media, follow @Vol_Hoops on Instagram and X/Twitter, as well as /tennesseebasketball on Facebook.
Preseason First Team All-SEC Johni Broome – Auburn Walter Clayton Jr. – Florida Mark Sears – Alabama Wade Taylor IV – Texas A&M Zakai Zeigler – Tennessee
Preseason Second Team All-SEC Jonas Aidoo – Arkansas Johnell Davis – Arkansas Josh Hubbard – Mississippi State Matthew Murrell – Ole Miss Grant Nelson – Alabama
Third Team All-SEC Chad Baker-Mazara – Auburn Alex Condon – Florida Tramon Mark – Texas Collin Murray-Boyles – South Carolina Jaxson Robinson – Kentucky
Preseason SEC Player of the Year Mark Sears – Alabama
The Morristown Police Department enjoyed interacting with all sorts of superheroes, witches, ghosts and many more characters at Boo Fest on Monday. Since Boo Fest is over, that means Halloween is just two days away! Thursday, October 31st our community will see an increase in traffic and pedestrians on sidewalks, in neighborhoods and some stopping on roadways. The Morristown Police Department (MPD) would like to keep this a fun evening for everyone by helping families prepare for the night:
Motorists
· Adjust your speed to accommodate pedestrian traffic.
· Watch for children darting out from parked cars and walking in the roadways, medians, and curbs.
· Watch for children when entering and exiting driveways.
· Watch for children in dark clothing.
· Make sure everyone is buckled up in a moving vehicle.
· Make sure children exit the vehicle on the curb, away from traffic.
Parents
· Make sure an adult or older responsible youth will be accompanying children under the age of 12.
· Plan and discuss trick-or-treat routes.
· Establish a return time.
· Teach children to only stop at homes or apartments that are well-lit, and to never enter a stranger’s home.
· Children should walk on sidewalks, not on the street. If there are no sidewalks, walk on the left side facing traffic. They should not run or go through yards where there could be unseen objects or terrain that could cause falls.
· Bags or sacks carried should be light-colored or trimmed with retro-reflective tape if children are allowed out after dark.
· Children walking should carry flashlights, this will help them see and be seen better.
· Pin a slip of paper with the child’s name, address and phone number inside a pocket in case the child gets separated from the group.
· Make sure your children know not to eat candy until it is inspected.
· Inspect all candy; when in doubt, throw it out.
If all safety tips are followed, this should be a great night for the entire family.
Early voting wraps up tomorrow (Thursday) for the 2024 Presidential and Federal / General Election in Tennessee the Knox County Election Commission says a few of the early voting locations aren’t seeing long lines if you still need to cast your ballot.
The Gibbs Ruritan Club, the newest polling location in Knox County, is seeing shorter lines than the Downtown West location which is seeing longer lines and some voters say they’ve waited in line more than hour there but it moves efficiently.
According to the Tennessee Secretary of State website, Knox County is still below 40% voter turnout through early voting which runs through tomorrow. (Thursday)
Early voting data for Tennessee shows over one million seven hundred thousand votes have been cast during early voting.
This number is through Monday with the estimated turnout just over 35%.
By comparison through 11 days of early voting more voters turned out in 2020 but fewer in 2016.
Oliver Springs, TN (WOKI) Oliver Springs’ chief wastewater operator is now facing charges after an investigation by the Tennessee Comptroller of the Treasury.
According to the office, Travis Thrasher has been charged and indicted for official misconduct and theft for reportedly using more than $3,400 taxpayer dollars to buy personal items, including tires, gas and more.
Thrasher resigned from his position on September 13; officials say he paid the town a check covering the money he’d spent as “repayment.”
The investigation also revealed that the comptroller’s office had identified another, roughly, $3,000 in “questionable” purchases from town employees to include items such as food, auto parts, gift cards and more that were not properly documented.
“Our investigators identified a number of deficiencies within the town’s operations that must be corrected,” said Comptroller Jason Mumpower. “These include adopting a written credit card policy, maintaining invoices for purchases, and establishing more control over gift cards. The town must also enforce its disconnect policies for water and wastewater service and reconcile bank statements to its general ledger each month.”
The comptroller’s office’s latest investigation centers on Travis Thrasher. (Courtesy: Tennessee Comptroller’s Office)
Erwin, TN (WOKI) Thousands of tons of asphalt and rock later and in just 33 days, connectivity is restored to a small East Tennessee town as a portion of I-26 is reopened Wednesday in Unicoi County.
The small town of Erwin relies on major roads like I-26. Speaking to media Wednesday, Tennessee Department of Transportation Commissioner Butch Eley highlighted why getting this portion open was so important.
“The reality is, this means so much more than the assets that we’re putting in to the ground,” Eley said. “This is about community. This is about connectivity. This is about making sure that our people in this community and those around are able to access the basic needs that they’re trying to get to.”
Eley said one lane of I-26, in each direction, in Erwin is now open to non-commercial traffic. Commercial traffic is still being rerouted to I-81 and I-77. Additionally, wide loads over 12 feet still are not permitted on the interstate.
TDOT officials added crews used more than 5,000 tons of asphalt and 33,000 tons of rock to repair the bridge around exit 37.
Wednesday’s reopening comes after September flooding from Hurricane Helene closed almost 50 thoroughfares across East Tennessee.
TDOT officials give an update on Helene-damaged I-26 in Erwin, Tennessee. (Courtesy: WVLT)
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — After attacking their second open week of the 2024 campaign with focus and intentionality, the No. 7 Tennessee Volunteers enter the back half of SEC action with another home contest under the lights of Neyland Stadium this Saturday against Kentucky (7:45 p.m. ET, SEC Network).
Tennessee’s defense has been remarkable through the first seven contests of the season, holding each of its opponents under 20 points and ranking top-10 nationally in several major statistical categories – including third in the FBS in both total defense (259.0) and scoring defense (11.6). Rodney Garner‘s defensive line unit has anchored the special group, leaning on the culture and experience of the room to uphold the standard of elite defense on Rocky Top.
“We have spent four years trying to change the culture, trying to instill in these young men how blessed they are to have an opportunity to play somewhere like the University of Tennessee,” Garner said during his Tuesday post-practice media availability. “We’re always playing for something bigger than us individually, be it the T on the side of your helmet or the name on the back of your jersey. Those are the things we represent. I still like to be a little old school with it and instill a brotherhood.
“The older guys in that room that have been there and stuck with us since day one, they have been able to enforce some of those things and let people know that we have standards. This is what is expected, this is what’s going to be tolerated and what is not going to be tolerated.”
Tennessee’s wide receiver corps looks to carry momentum from a successful second half against Alabama into the final stretch of the regular season as the Vols play five games in the month of November. Kelsey Pope‘s crew took advantage of the open week, looking to narrow the gaps on a few close plays and finish the campaign strong.
“Any practice is extra reps to be able to get timing and experience with quarterbacks,” Pope explained. “Guys have been staying after practice all season long but being a lot more intentional in that stuff as of late. To what I alluded to before, guys are hungry because they sense how close we are. I think they’re willing to do whatever it takes to make sure going down this stretch that we finish strong, and we end up making those plays.”
Full comments from Garner and Pope along with select quotes from sophomore defensive back Jermod McCoy, junior defensive lineman Jaxson Moi and redshirt junior defensive back Andre Turrentine can be viewed below.
Tennessee Football Press Conference | Oct. 29, 2024
On if it has been a surprise how impressive the defensive line has been this season… “Obviously, I feel like we’ve done some good things, but there are a lot of things that we need to do a lot better at as far as improving our play. That’s been the challenge week-in and week-out is to try to make sure that we stay focused and keep the main thing the main thing. There’s just so many areas when you sit there and watch the film, critique it and are being truly honest with what’s taking place, that guys see that there is so much room for improvement. Communication, getting people on the same page, being fundamental and using the right techniques and fundamentals where now they can be more productive and even better players. That is our challenge. We spent the off week trying to improve and work on us. Now, we’re back into the scheme and getting ready for Kentucky.”
On the defense keeping their edge for an entire season… “I do think that the depth of the room and the way we’ve played in the room is healthy competition. It creates guys that know that they have to play hard and physically or they’re going to be out sitting over with me. They have a choice, and every man gets to make that choice. Based on those choices and how they perform, that determines how much they’re going to play. The guys have been very good and responsive. That’s the one thing I do like about the room. I like the camaraderie in the room. I don’t feel like there is any jealousy in the room. I think the guys really enjoy playing for one another. They have fun playing together, and they seem to do a really good job of encouraging, critiquing, coaching and pushing each other where it’s not always 100 percent coach led. That’s where I do think we are making some progress in that area when it’s peer led.”
On how the room got to the point of having no jealousy… “We spent four years trying to change the culture, trying to instill in these young men how blessed they are to have an opportunity to play somewhere like the University of Tennessee. What an honor it is to have a T on the side of your helmet. We’re always playing for something bigger than us individually, be it the T on the side of your helmet or the name on the back of your jersey. Those are the things we represent. I still like to be a little old school with it and instill a brotherhood, just thinking about when I played, how close I was to my teammates and the accountability piece that we tried to hold each other to. Obviously, as a freshman, we had to learn that too from older guys. The older guys in that room that have been there and stuck with us since day one, they have been able to enforce some of those things and let people know that we have standards. This is what is expected, this is what’s going to be tolerated and what is not going to be tolerated.”
On Jaxson Moi and his Polynesian culture… “He is the first one that I’ve been blessed to have the opportunity to coach. I came up second with (Breiden) Fehoko when he came up, and he ended up going to LSU. Coach O (Ed Orgeron) sold him, he was the defensive line coach. I still maintain a great relationship with the kid and his family, so having a chance to coach Jaxson has been a joy. It’s everything that I dreamt that it would be. What he stands for, his character and his work ethic have been really good for that room. He has fit in great with that room. I’m really excited about continuing to see his growth because I do think that he has true, natural leadership ability. In this generation, that stuff is getting harder and harder to find. When you have it and you find it, you have to cherish it. I’m really excited about where he’s headed and what he can mean to our program in the direction that we want our program to continue to go in.”
On how he evaluates James Pearce Jr. beyond stats… “I think if you ask James, just like if you ask anybody, I think he would have to be totally honest with you and say there’s room for improvement. It’s not always about stats. It’s making sure that we’re doing everything within the system, within the scheme, making sure that we’re executing at a high level. Like I tell the guys all the time, anytime that we can learn to put aside our personal goals and ambitions and put the team goals and ambitions first, then at the end of the day they’re going to reap the rewards individually because if we do good as a team and we win at a high level, I do believe that we don’t have enough guys for all the accolades that could come. I’m just trying to stress that team concept and us doing things as a team and doing things for Tennessee and not for individuals, but I think he’s progressing and I think he’s making strides and he’s heading in the right direction. So, we hope that he will continue to peak as we’re going through this stretch right here.”
On what has stood out about Dominic Bailey this season… “The thing about Dom that I admire, he’s a young man that wasn’t given anything, especially probably by me. When I first got here, I had question marks about Dom. He’s a kid who has really bought into what we’re doing and how we want to go about things. He’s changed his attitude, he’s doing those little things. He’s worked himself into being a pretty good football player. I still think there’s even more for him to grow and I think it’s important to him. He shows up to work every day. He has a good attitude and I think he’s made of the right stuff and I think he cares about his teammates and I think he cares about this institution.”
On how to handle Squirrel White’s playing time amidst his injury… “Yeah, I think that’s a fine line you have to draw. I think what gives you the best idea of that is how he handles it in practice. I think every play has a lifespan of its own. With guys like that, I think you have to be in tune and be intentional with how they look, how they respond. I think each play you’re assessing exactly where you are, as far as how comfortable those type of guys are out there.”
On how the receivers have been able to get open down the field the last several games… “I think on the perimeter, we see on film every week how close we are to connecting on those big ones. They won’t always happen, but I think showing guys each week, ‘We’re a depth here away or ball location here away or concentration catch here away.’ I think showing those guys how close we are better emphasizes that we have to continue doing what we are doing, and it’s only a matter of time before you connect on those. I think ultimately when we do, we’ll feel a lot different.”
On how much can be done to work on timing in the passing game during an open week… “Any practice is extra reps to be able to get timing and be able to get experience with quarterbacks. Guys have been staying after practice all season long but being a lot more intentional in that stuff as of late. To what I alluded to before, guys are hungry because they sense how close we are. I think they’re willing to do whatever it takes to make sure going down this stretch that we finish strong, and we end up making those plays.”
On how Chris Brazzell II’s game-winning catch against Alabama can jumpstart his production down the stretch… “I think anytime you make plays in a game like that, big time play in that type of atmosphere, naturally you gain confidence. I think when you go back and you look at the film, you see all the things that you did great, but you combine those with, ‘Man, I could’ve cleaned this up here, or I could’ve had another two or three here.’ I think that gives you more fuel to pair with that confidence to continue to work and really check off those boxes. So absolutely, those plays give you confidence, but more importantly, we have to channel that in the right way and detail the things we need to detail to make more plays like that.”
On the different things that can lead to bad timing in the passing game… “The best athletes, regardless of whose fault, take accountability in every sport. What could I have done better to make that play? I played the position and my response was always, ‘I’m not going to be the one to be responsible for an incompletion.’ And that has been my message to these guys. No matter where the location is, ball is low or not thrown, it doesn’t matter. I have to be available, and I have to be ready to make a play whenever that time comes. That’s ultimately why we play wideout, is you have to be a playmaker. That’s just a part of our job. That’s kind of the message, not to necessarily point the finger of whose fault, but what could I have done to get the job done a little bit better.”
On if the receivers took their confidence from the second half against Alabama into the bye week… “Yeah, I think first half we didn’t score at all, and then second half you come out and you finally get it started on offense. I absolutely think naturally you gain some confidence. Leaving that game, leaving a couple games this year though, we still haven’t seen our best be put on tape yet. I think what’s unique about this team is most offenses, most players feel that and they tend to pull up or isolate themselves, paralyze themselves. I truly feel like these guys are hungry to go get things fixed every week. You’ve got no idea when that thing is going to get turned over, but you give yourself a chance as long as you continue to work at it and as long as you’re intentional with that work. And that’s what these guys have been doing.”
On the progress of freshman wide receiver Mike Matthews… “Yeah, Mike’s flashed at times, he’s got a really bright future here. I think a lot of stuff comes with experience. Being a freshman in this league is hard, there’s growing pains in this league. I think as long as he continues to do what he’s doing, he’s staying positive, he’s working his butt off. I think as long as he continues to do those things, it’s only a matter of time before he starts to see the plays being made that he wants. That’s the thing, he wants to make plays. He wants to be on the field in critical situations, and he wants to get better. His attitude as of late has been awesome, and that’s what he’s working towards.”
On how he treats younger receivers with so many freshman receivers playing large roles across the country… “Yeah, I think older guys are critical in those types of situations. This age we live in now, everything is visible. You can see everything all across the country right in the blink of an eye. That absolutely has an effect on it. What these guys have to learn at a young age is, I have to run my own race. My race is different from this guy playing here or this guy playing here. You ultimately don’t know where you or them will end up, but what happens is if I’m looking at someone else’s plate and I’m not looking at my own food, my food gets cold and I’m not able to take advantage of my own opportunity. What (Mike Matthews) has done, he’s done an incredible job of not paying attention to outside factors. He could be, but at least around me, around this building, he’s dialed in, he’s got a great attitude, he’s hungry. That doesn’t mean he’s not frustrated. He’s hungry and that’s all I can ask for. Like I said, he’s got a really bright future here because he’s got that attitude, and it’s only a matter of time before he starts to make those plays.”
On what the receivers can do to play better in the first half of future games… “I think don’t press. These guys understand we have to make more plays as an offense, not just the receiver room. I think once you start to press, that creates anxiety, and then I’m not being natural and playing football. I think all these guys have to focus on is, how do I do my job to the best of my ability. It’s that simple. If we do that, every position, every play, man we’ll continue to roll, and you’ll start to see explosive plays. You’ll start to see more of the high-power that these guys are wanting to see.”
On the most encouraging thing he has seen from Dont’e Thornton Jr. … “His positivity. I spoke to it this offseason. He’s had every reason to go the opposite way. He’s dealt with injuries. He’s had tough spurts at times in his play between this year and last year. What that kid has done, he responds to adversity, he responds to success the same way. He goes and works hard, he’s positive and that’s why good things continue to happen to him. He comes in the building with a great attitude every day and that’s all you can ask for. For him, the refreshing thing as coaches, you see a guy that’s continuing to respond no matter what happens, and as a coach that’s all I can ask for.”
On what allowed him to transition well into Tennessee… “Preparation. I’ve done a lot of studying and extra work to try and find a way to stay on top of everything.”
On what aspect of his game he is most proud of… “I like the way I’m more locked in on details. I was young at my old school and was out there playing. I didn’t do a lot of studying. I would just go out there on the field. Now I’m doing a lot more studying and the stuff I have to do to be prepared for the games.”
On why his play style fits the Tennessee defense… “I think because we play a lot of zone and man. I think the versatility between that helps me from getting different looks.”
On keeping egos positive in the locker room… “First I’d say it starts off with culture, and Coach Garner really builds that from day one when you get here. He lets us know we are going to compete, but at the end of the day, we are a family. A lot of people think you wanna be the only guy, but when you have others who are just as talented and capable as you, it opens up how many plays you can make yourself. They can’t just team up or game plan for one player when you have a whole D-line of great athletes.”
On Polynesian teammates Keenan Pili and Nico Iamaleava… “First of all, Keenan, that hurt me deeply because he’s like a big brother to me. Seeing him down and him being the leader of our defense hurt us emotionally, and not having that big piece there. I think the defense all came together and me personally and some others as well dedicated the rest of my season to him. He’s done so much for not only this program but for a lot of people here. We are trying to honor him in the way that we play and carry ourselves on and off the field. With Nico, he’s a baller. He’s a young guy, but he’s just so calm, he doesn’t let anything phase him. He’s a great leader, very soft-spoken, and very humble. The sky is the limit for that guy and I can’t wait to see all the great things he does.”
On the culture of the defensive line… “It’s made me appreciate it more and just being able to play next to those guys in big-time games. It’s cool to see how we all play off of each other and how we play complimentary football off of each other. One of the big reasons why I came here was because of the culture in the D-line room. I feel like a lot of the guys in the transfer portal, they can go anywhere and start day one, but I liked how I knew that in order to get playing time here, I was going to have to compete and earn my reps and earn the plays I get to make. When you get to the next level, that is what is required. I feel like coming here is helping my game improve so much and I’m thankful for the older guys that brought me in. Coach Garner, Coach Harbin, Coach Ayers it’s a group effort. I’m just thankful for all of them.”
On challenges defending Kentucky’s offense… “Their ability to stretch the field with, like you said, their ability to run two quarterbacks. They have some fast guys on the edge so their ability to try to spread the field. We have the same mindset we did last week taking into this week. How we are going to prepare for the QB run and how we are going to prepare for the guys on the edges.”
On differences from last year’s to this year’s defense… “Our preparation has not changed. I think it is a subtle difference in how we care about each other. How we are there day in and day out for each other on small things so we have each other’s back on Saturday. Whether some guy falls down, some guy is outside of his gap or somebody is getting beat, someone helps him over top. Just the ability to know that your brother is right there Monday through Friday as well as on Sunday and Saturday. Just that small detail has allowed us to play better as a whole.”
On what makes him believe that Jermod McCoy and Rickey Gibson III could be the best cornerback duo in the SEC… “Their ability to make plays on the ball. Their athleticism stands out of course. Their ability to make plays on the ball and confidence to make plays on the ball. Understanding where they are in zone coverages and where they are in relation to their man-to-man coverages. Understanding when to get their eyes around, when to go for a PBU or a pick. Understanding all the way to preparation and what we are trying to do in the defense has allowed them to play the way they are playing.”
OKLAHOMA CITY – Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy was named a semifinalist for the 2024 Paycom Jim Thorpe Award, as announced by the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame and the Jim Thorpe Association on Tuesday afternoon.
The Thorpe Award is given annually to the best defensive back in college football based on performance on the field, athletic ability and character.
McCoy was one of 15 defensive backs across the country, including four from the Southeastern Conference, to make the list for the prestigious honor. He is the eighth player in program history to earn semifinalist status, including the second under head coach Josh Heupel and defensive backs coach Willie Martinez, joining Trevon Flowers (2022). Eric Berry is the only Vol to ever win the award, doing so in 2009.
McCoy has been a lockdown corner during his first season with the Vols after transferring in from Oregon State. The Texas native has not allowed a touchdown all season and ranks fifth in the SEC in passes defended (7) and seventh in pass breakups (5), averaging 1.0 passes defended per game, which is tied for fifth in the league.
The sophomore corner also has two interceptions this season, which is tied for seventh in the SEC. Both of his picks have come in conference play, which ranks tied for second in the league.
Among cornerbacks with over 200 pass coverage snaps this season, McCoy ranks third in the SEC and 10th in the nation in coverage grade (85.4) according to PFF (played 208 coverage snaps). Opponents have targeted him 37 times and he’s allowed only 45.9 percent of those passes to be completed, which is the fifth-best among cornerbacks in the SEC with over 200 coverage snaps.
Against rival Alabama, McCoy logged a team-high-tying eight tackles (five solo) to go along with half a tackle for loss, one pass breakup and an incredible one-handed interception in the end zone while covering star receiver Ryan Williams that prevented a touchdown and was returned 54 yards.
McCoy was named the Thorpe Award National Defensive Back of the Week after a sensational performance at Oklahoma in Tennessee’s SEC opener, in which he registered three tackles, one pass breakup and an interception that he returned 17 yards. In the win over the Sooners, he logged 48 snaps and did not allow a completion, holding OU quarterbacks to a 0.0 passer grade according to PFF.
The full list of semifinalists for this year’s award can be seen HERE.
Three finalists for the 2024 Jim Thorpe Award will be revealed on Tuesday, Nov. 26 and the winner will be announced on ESPN’s live presentation of The Home Depot College Football Awards on Thursday, Dec. 12.
This past weekend, Knoxville Police Department Organized Crime Unit detectives received information that a subject who was possibly involved in a shooting that happened in Alabama was in the Knoxville area. The subject was identified as Abdul Khalil’Llah, 26 of Anniston, Alabama. OCU detectives were able to determine that Khalil’Llah was wanted out of Georgia…… Continue Reading
Posted on October 31, 2024 by Jim Kelly • 0 Comments
Whenever Dylan Sampson greets fans during the Vol Walk or goes through pregame warmups, he can always be seen donning his signature chain. The neckwear features his initials, jersey number and a small, red rose pendant. The rose is an homage to Tupac Shakur’s famous poem, “The Rose that Grew from Concrete,” which reads as follows. Did…… Continue Reading
Posted on October 31, 2024 by Jim Kelly • 0 Comments
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – The SEC revealed Wednesday evening the results of the preseason voting by the league’s 16 men’s basketball head coaches. University of Tennessee senior guard Zakai Zeigler reeled in Preseason First Team All-SEC recognition, just as he did in the media balloting. Zeigler is one of five players on the first team. The other honorees are Auburn’s…… Continue Reading
The Morristown Police Department enjoyed interacting with all sorts of superheroes, witches, ghosts and many more characters at Boo Fest on Monday. Since Boo Fest is over, that means Halloween is just two days away! Thursday, October 31st our community will see an increase in traffic and pedestrians on sidewalks, in neighborhoods and some stopping…… Continue Reading
Early voting wraps up tomorrow (Thursday) for the 2024 Presidential and Federal / General Election in Tennessee the Knox County Election Commission says a few of the early voting locations aren’t seeing long lines if you still need to cast your ballot. The Gibbs Ruritan Club, the newest polling location in Knox County, is seeing…… Continue Reading
Posted on October 30, 2024 by rtravers • 0 Comments
Oliver Springs, TN (WOKI) Oliver Springs’ chief wastewater operator is now facing charges after an investigation by the Tennessee Comptroller of the Treasury. According to the office, Travis Thrasher has been charged and indicted for official misconduct and theft for reportedly using more than $3,400 taxpayer dollars to buy personal items, including tires, gas and…… Continue Reading
Posted on October 30, 2024 by rtravers • 0 Comments
Erwin, TN (WOKI) Thousands of tons of asphalt and rock later and in just 33 days, connectivity is restored to a small East Tennessee town as a portion of I-26 is reopened Wednesday in Unicoi County. The small town of Erwin relies on major roads like I-26. Speaking to media Wednesday, Tennessee Department of Transportation…… Continue Reading
Posted on October 30, 2024 by Jim Kelly • 0 Comments
FootballOctober 29, 2024 KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — After attacking their second open week of the 2024 campaign with focus and intentionality, the No. 7 Tennessee Volunteers enter the back half of SEC action with another home contest under the lights of Neyland Stadium this Saturday against Kentucky (7:45 p.m. ET, SEC Network). Tennessee’s defense has been remarkable…… Continue Reading
Posted on October 30, 2024 by Jim Kelly • 0 Comments
OKLAHOMA CITY – Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy was named a semifinalist for the 2024 Paycom Jim Thorpe Award, as announced by the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame and the Jim Thorpe Association on Tuesday afternoon. The Thorpe Award is given annually to the best defensive back in college football based on performance on the field, athletic ability and character. …… Continue Reading
