The University of Tennessee’s football program has made great strides under head coach Josh Heupel, and with his high-powered offense and the energy he brings to the sideline, the Volunteers have been a force to be reckoned with in the SEC. However, when it comes to facing a program like Ohio State—one of the most consistently dominant teams in college football—Heupel must remember one thing: he can’t coach scared if Tennessee wants to come out on top.
Tennessee has the talent, the fan support, and the coaching staff to compete with Ohio State, but Heupel’s approach to the game will be the determining factor in whether the Volunteers can pull off a massive win. The high stakes of facing a juggernaut like Ohio State require a bold mindset, a willingness to take calculated risks, and the refusal to be intimidated by the history and tradition that the Buckeyes bring to the table.
The Stakes Are High
First and foremost, a game against Ohio State is no ordinary matchup. The Buckeyes have been a staple in the College Football Playoff (CFP) race for the better part of the last decade, often competing for national championships. The Buckeyes have an incredible roster, filled with future NFL talent, and their defense is as stingy as any in the country. On offense, Ohio State has one of the most dynamic quarterback-wide receiver duos in the nation, and their running game is also consistently elite. Ohio State presents a complete team, making them a formidable opponent on paper.
For Tennessee, a program that has seen a resurgence under Heupel’s leadership, this is a statement game. Beating Ohio State is not just about one win on the season—it’s about proving that the Volunteers can compete with the best in the nation. It’s about solidifying Heupel as a coach who can take Tennessee to the next level and build a consistent winner in Knoxville.
But with all the hype surrounding Ohio State, it’s easy for teams to get overwhelmed. That’s where Heupel’s approach becomes critical. Heupel can’t afford to approach this game with a fear-based mentality—one where he plays it safe, avoids taking chances, or relies too heavily on conservative tactics in hopes of staying close. If Tennessee wants to beat Ohio State, Heupel has to take risks, be bold, and show his players that they have what it takes to compete at the highest level.
The High-Powered Offense Needs to Shine
Josh Heupel is known for his up-tempo, high-scoring offenses, and this is where Tennessee can make a statement against Ohio State. The Volunteers’ offense must be the centerpiece of their attack. Heupel’s philosophy has always been centered around pushing the tempo, spreading the field, and making defenses work in space. Against Ohio State, this could be their greatest advantage, but only if Heupel sticks to what works.
Too often, when faced with elite teams, coaches have a tendency to play conservatively, abandoning their offensive identity in favor of a more cautious game plan. Heupel can’t afford to do this. Against Ohio State’s defense, Tennessee must stay aggressive, especially early in the game. Whether it’s through quick passes, using their speed in space, or executing trick plays, the Vols need to take every opportunity to push the ball downfield and challenge Ohio State’s defense.
One key area where Tennessee has the potential to make a difference is with their dynamic quarterback, Joe Milton. Milton has the arm strength to make throws that other quarterbacks can’t, and Heupel needs to take advantage of that by stretching the field vertically. Ohio State’s secondary is often among the best in the country, but they can be vulnerable when quarterbacks are willing to take calculated risks and challenge them deep. Heupel can’t be afraid to let Milton air it out, even if it means risking an interception or two. Playing scared on offense, especially against a defense like Ohio State’s, will only invite pressure and allow the Buckeyes to dominate the tempo of the game.
Play Aggressive on Defense
While Tennessee’s offense will likely be the key to winning the game, the defense cannot be ignored. Against an offense as potent as Ohio State’s, the defense must play with intensity, toughness, and aggressiveness. Heupel’s approach to defense must mirror his philosophy on offense: no fear, just execution.
Ohio State’s offense, led by a dynamic quarterback and playmakers all over the field, can overwhelm a defense if they are allowed to dictate the pace. The Volunteers need to force Ohio State to play at their pace, disrupting their rhythm with relentless pressure and timely blitzes. Heupel cannot afford to play a passive defense and simply wait for mistakes to happen. He must dial up pressure to get in the face of Ohio State’s quarterback and disrupt their timing. Sitting back and hoping to contain Ohio State’s offense without forcing them into uncomfortable situations would be a mistake.
Tennessee will also need to make tackles in space. Ohio State’s skill players are fast and elusive, meaning the Vols must be sound in their tackling technique. Heupel can’t afford to see missed tackles become big plays; the defense must be physical and aggressive at all levels. Whether it’s stopping the run or preventing big yardage through the air, Tennessee must show no fear in taking the fight to Ohio State.
Play to Win, Not to Lose
In big games like this, it’s all too easy for coaches to fall into a conservative mindset, especially when they face an opponent with Ohio State’s reputation. Heupel can’t afford to play not to lose. This isn’t a game where you take the air out of the ball or try to “manage” the contest and hope for a miracle. Instead, Heupel must coach to win, instilling a mindset of aggression and confidence in his team.
This mentality extends to in-game decisions as well. Whether it’s going for it on fourth down, calling a surprise onside kick, or trusting his offense to make a play in crucial moments, Heupel cannot let fear dictate his decisions. Ohio State will come into the game expecting a challenge, and Tennessee’s best chance at winning will be by showing that they are just as confident, just as capable, and just as hungry as the Buckeyes.
The Bottom Line
If Josh Heupel wants Tennessee to stand toe-to-toe with Ohio State, he cannot coach scared. Fear leads to hesitation, and hesitation leads to missed opportunities. Against a team as talented as Ohio State, the margin for error is razor-thin. To win, Heupel must trust his players, rely on his system, and embrace the risk that comes with competing at the highest level.
By keeping the offense aggressive, playing tough on defense, and taking calculated risks, Tennessee can show the nation that they are not intimidated by Ohio State’s reputation. They’re ready for the challenge, and Heupel is the man to lead them to victory.
