Tennessee (1-0) will host Pittsburgh (1-0) Saturday in the Johnny Majors Classic at Neyland Stadium.
Kickoff is slated for noon EDT. ESPN will televise the Week 2 matchup.
Ahead of Saturday’s contest, first-year head coach Josh Heupel met with media for the final time on Thursday. Below is a transcript of Heupel’s media availability provided by the University of Tennessee.
Opening Statement
“Just finished up our Thursday walkthrough, great energy from the guys, looking forward to kickoff. Earlier today I got a chance to talk to Bobby (Majors). Looking forward to having him here and being able to celebrate the Johnny Majors Classic, recognizing him, his family, his efforts and what they meant to Tennessee football. Excited to have him here this weekend (to be) a part of our coin toss and that celebration. We are looking forward to kickoff. Our guys are excited. Now, it’s time to go play.”
On punt return considerations
“Some of it is just what you’re seeing from the other side of the football. If they are rugby (punting) it, spray and seal, making sure you’ve got guys back there to contain it. Also, you’re looking at potential fake opportunities, so making sure you are defending the field.”
On the play of Joe Milton III
“He got off-balance a couple of times, but (there are) things he’s done right. I think he will be in a better position here this week.”
On the backup offensive linemen
“If Cooper (Mays) wasn’t able to play, you would see a little more rotation there this week. Here in the last 48 hours, Coop has made some really good jumps, so we will find out Saturday morning where he is at, whether he is able to go or not.”
Josh Heupel previews Tennessee-Pittsburgh (continued)