Heupel: New DC Banks Brings 'Great Energy, Passion, and Experience' to Tennessee

Heupel: New DC Banks Brings 'Great Energy, Passion, and Experience' to Tennessee

News broke earlier this morning about Tim Banks being named as the defensive coordinator of Tennessee. Banks leaves Penn State to come to Tennessee, receiving a significant salary increase and the ability to call his own defense in the SEC.

Moments ago, Tennessee officially announce the Banks hire, and Head Coach Josh Heupel shared a statement on him.

"Tim brings great energy, passion, and experience to the Tennessee football family," Heupel said. "His defenses are known for their aggressive style, as well as their multiple coverages and fronts. He's coached in big games and has a proven track record of success on the field and in recruiting. I know our student-athletes are going to enjoy playing for him. We are fortunate to have someone with Tim's experience and caliber leading our defense."

According to the statement from Tennessee, "Banks owns 14 years of FBS defensive coordinator experience, including four seasons at Illinois (2012-15), two years at Cincinnati (2010-11) and three seasons at Central Michigan (2007-09). During his successful five-year run at Penn State, the Nittany Lions ranked in the top 25 nationally in fewest yards per play allowed all five years and ranked in the top 25 in scoring defense three times and tackles for loss per game three times. He also proved to be an outstanding recruiter during his time.Under Banks' watch from 2016-20, Penn State was among the best nationally in multiple defensive categories – fifth in sacks (221), sixth in fewest passing touchdowns allowed (70), ninth in yards per play allowed (4.8), ninth in forced fumbles (95), 10th in fewest rushing yards per attempt (4.4), 14th in scoring defense (21.2), 13th in rushing defense (132.7), 17th in total defense (344.6) and 25th in pass defense (211.9). The Nittany Lions owned a 46-16 record and posted three 11-win campaigns with three New Year's Six games, including the 2017 Rose Bowl after claiming the Big Ten Championship. Penn State tallied a 33-13 mark in conference play during Banks' time, and the Nittany Lions were second in the Big Ten in overall winning percentage (74.19)."

Banks will inherit a defensive secondary that has several veterans returning, including multi-year starters Alontae Taylor, Kenneth George, and Trevon Flowers.

Banks's remaining staff has yet to be filled out around him, as Rodney Garner is expected to join Tennessee's staff, as well as the possible addition of Willie Martinez. Kevin Simon remains an option to fill a vacant position at Tennessee as well.

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