On how he sees his relationship with the players so far on and off the field
“It’s where you’d think it would be. Obviously, just getting to know these guys and spending some time with them. Not only talking X’s and O’s, but just talking life skills in general. It’s been good, but again we realize trust is earned over time. So, we’re constantly working extremely hard to make sure they understand very clearly what our expectations are obviously on the field, but off the field academically and even socially. So, anytime when you’re dealing with relationships it takes time, but for the three practices we’ve had and obviously the short time I’ve been here, myself and the rest of the defensive staff, are working very hard to try to build it.”
On what he has thought of his experience so far personally and if it has gone as he expected
“It’s been great. Obviously, Knoxville is a great town, a great university, Coach Heupel and the defensive staff have been awesome. So, it’s been great, and it’s obviously a learning curve for the whole staff as we get to know our players and get to know each other. We live for challenges and it’s what gets you going a little bit. Obviously, it was a great run at the other place and there was lifelong friends and relationships I developed there, but I’m super excited to be here and to continue to build on a tradition these guys have already established here.”
NEXT: Tim Banks discusses Tennessee’s defense continued