Biggest Takeaways from Tennessee's Offensive Staff's Introductory Press Conference

Tennessee Football's offensive coaching staff was introduced earlier this week. Today, the new group of coaches was made available to the media over an hour and a half long media session. As with any new change, there are plenty of takeaways to share. I share mine below on each member of the staff, in addition to the

Cohesion

Tennessee's offensive staff presented a united front during their individual time at the podium. The collective group discussed in-depth evaluating the roster, fitting their scheme to the players around them, and working to build and grow as a unit. Now, there is always coach speak, but the new-look offensive staff never missed a beat, in terms of how they want things to run, how they will install their offense, and what they expect of their players. It was very refreshing to hear the unit all on the same page about helping restore Tennessee to its former glory while stressing the best football players will play on Saturday.

High Praise for Heupel

"He is a football guy." "He is the scariest blend of the best human being with a freaky smart guy." Most people are going to publicly praise their boss when given the opportunity. Today, Josh Heupel received tremendous praise from his offensive coaching staff. Heupel's mind, ability to be genuine, desire to see others succeed, and work alongside others while still being a friend, not just a boss, were key factors mentioned today from the staff around him. Not to beat a dead horse, but that has not come easy on Rocky Top in the last few years.

High Energy and Confidence

Tennessee's new offensive staff is full of young, innovative minds, and they are all full of energy and confidence. It is clear to see they have hit the ground running in Knoxville, and they are confident in what lies ahead of them. Not cocky, just confident. Over the last few years, coaches have made it to Knoxville just to become complacent during their stop. Tennessee's coaches were full of energy, all while exuding confidence about what they are bringing to Rocky Top. They did not avoid questions or act like there was anything to hide. They owned the moment—another refreshing takeaway from today's event.

Individual takeaways

Alex Golesh: While Golesh may not call all of the plays in Knoxville, it is apparent he will be very involved in what Josh Heupel wants to do. He followed Heupel from UCF for a reason. He is a brilliant mind. I talked about him being a rising star in the coaching world. The way he handled the media today with his answers was an impresive first look at what he brings to Knoxville. He is going to be vital in Tennessee's recruiting success and re-building the culture of this team.

Glen Elarbee: Elarbee gave the impression of a veteran NFL lineman who has seen everything the game has to offer but still comes to work with a smile on his face every day. He was poised in his answers, discussing what he has seen from Tennessee's offensive line room so far, how he will attack the recruiting trail, and what he wants in a lineman. I think it is key to mention that he did say Tennessee will not end up back on the low-weight offensive lineman, as they will target 300-pounders, who are mobile and thrive in space.

Kodi Burns: Burns is the SEC veteran on the offensive staff, and he looked comfortable at the podium. Physically, he looked like he could go back to his playing days. Mentally, he displayed why he perfectly fits Heupel's offensive staff. It is clear he is a brilliant mind and will be calling plays somewhere sooner than later.

Joey Halzle: Halzle has been Heupel's right-hand man for over a decade. It is clear he is not territorial, though. There always seemed to be disconnects with Tennessee's previous staff with certain positions, especially the quarterbacks. Halzle openly discussed Heupel being involved in the quarterback room and welcomed that with open arms. Another example of how Tennessee's new staff appeared selfless today.

Jerry Mack: Mack emphasized his recruiting ties today, and by all accounts, he has already hit the ground running. Mack is the new addition to the offensive staff in terms of a previous relationship. His demeanor, confidence, and selflessness seem to align perfectly with what Heupel wants. Heupel planned to bring trusted staff with him to Knoxville with the other four, and he appears to have landed a great option in the fifth spot.

Did you know VR2 on SI does Podcasts? Check out the staff's latest breakdowns here.

VR2 on SI is also on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. Check out any of the links to ensure you do not miss any of the coverage of your favorite Tennessee teams!

You can follow the staff, Matt, Brandon, and Dale on Twitter by clicking any of their names.

Want the latest on national football and basketball recruiting, including Vols targets? Head over to SI All-American for the latest news, blogs, and updates about the nation's best prospects.

Sports Illustrated also offers insight, information and up to the minute details for gamblers. Check it out here.