Story perspectives

Tennessee Volunteers Dominate UAB, Heupel Hits 40 Wins

9/21/2025

Summary

Heupel Celebrates 40th Win

Tennessee Volunteers defeated UAB Blazers 56-24, achieving head coach Josh Heupel's 40th win at the university.
Quarterback Joey Aguilar led the offense with 218 passing yards and three touchdowns, contributing to a total of 510 yards.
The Vols scored two touchdowns in the first four minutes, averaging 52.7 points per game.
Kaleb Beasley returned a fumble for a touchdown against his former coach, UAB's Trent Dilfer.
Tennessee will play Mississippi State on September 27 to continue their SEC campaign.

Summary

Bryant's Penalty Fallout

UAB safety Sirad Bryant received a 15-yard unsportsmanlike conduct penalty for stomping on Tennessee kicker Max Gilbert's foot after an extra point.
Head coach Trent Dilfer expressed disappointment and stated Bryant would face discipline after reviewing the video.
UAB cornerback Donald Lee was ejected for targeting in the first quarter.
Tennessee's offense scored 56 points and gained 510 total yards, while UAB managed 394 yards and committed 13 penalties.
Dilfer's sideline phone use drew social media attention; he clarified it was to share the game atmosphere with his expecting daughter.

History

Historical Context

The Tennessee Volunteers football program, established in 1899, has a storied history, including six national championships, with the most recent in 1998 under head coach Phillip Fulmer. The team achieved a perfect 13-0 record that season, culminating in a victory over Florida State in the inaugural BCS National Championship Game. Today, under coach Josh Heupel, the Volunteers continue to influence college football dynamics in the Southeastern Conference.

1 of 3

Heupel Celebrates 40th Win

Tennessee Volunteers defeated UAB Blazers 56-24, achieving head coach Josh Heupel's 40th win at the university.
Quarterback Joey Aguilar led the offense with 218 passing yards and three touchdowns, contributing to a total of 510 yards.
The Vols scored two touchdowns in the first four minutes, averaging 52.7 points per game.
Kaleb Beasley returned a fumble for a touchdown against his former coach, UAB's Trent Dilfer.
Tennessee will play Mississippi State on September 27 to continue their SEC campaign.

1 / 3