Welcome to another edition of Big Orange Sunday with former UT Defensive Coordinator Doug Mathews! On this week's show, Doug reacts to the biggest news of the offseason: the hiring of Jim Knowles as Tennessee's new Defensive Coordinator. Doug explains why the 60-year-old veteran is the "proven" solution the Vols need, breaking down Knowles' aggressive philosophy and his ability to fix the fundamental tackling and containment issues that plagued the defense in 2025.

As the Vols prepare to face Illinois in the Music City Bowl on December 30th, Doug outlines the team's holiday practice schedule and discusses the current roster turnover. He also tackles the biggest question mark for 2026: the quarterback position. Will Josh Heupel stick with his talented young guns like Merklinger and McIntyre, or look for a veteran in the portal? Doug weighs in on what he calls the "toughest decision" of Heupel's tenure.

<p data-path-to-node="2">Welcome to another edition of Big Orange Sunday with former UT Defensive Coordinator Doug Mathews! On this week's show, Doug reacts to the biggest news of the offseason: the hiring of Jim Knowles as Tennessee's new Defensive Coordinator. Doug explains why the 60-year-old veteran is the "proven" solution the Vols need, breaking down Knowles' aggressive philosophy and his ability to fix the fundamental tackling and containment issues that plagued the defense in 2025.</p>
<p data-path-to-node="3">As the Vols prepare to face Illinois in the Music City Bowl on December 30th, Doug outlines the team's holiday practice schedule and discusses the current roster turnover. He also tackles the biggest question mark for 2026: the quarterback position. Will Josh Heupel stick with his talented young guns like Merklinger and McIntyre, or look for a veteran in the portal? Doug weighs in on what he calls the "toughest decision" of Heupel's tenure.</p>

Former University of Tennessee coordinator Doug Mathews brings you the latest news and analysis every weekend on 104-5 The Zone. Find the show LIVE every Sunday morning at 8 AM and check out the full podcast right here every weekend.

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