Just In: Vols Reportedly Tab Jerry Mack as Running Backs Coach

According to a report from Yahoo Sports Pete Thamel, Tennessee has hired Rice offensive coordinator Jerry Mack to Coach Running Backs.

Mack has served as offensive coordinator and assistant head coach at Rice since 2017.

His Bio states: "In his first year on South Main, Mack’s offense produced four individual 100-yard rushing days and three games with players totaling more than 100 receiving yards. He saw a trio of his receivers (Austin Trammell, Austin Walter and Aaron Cephus) each top 40 receptions and 500 receiving yards, the first time since 2008 Rice has had three receivers reach those levels in the same season. This past June, he joined with 40 assistant and positional NFL and NCAA coaches at the 2019 NFL Quarterback Coaching Summit in Atlanta, Georgia.

In four seasons at NCCU, Mack led the Eagles to at least a share of three consecutive MEAC championships and a berth in the 2016 Celebration Bowl, which pits the champions of the MEAC and SWAC each December. He compiled 31-15 record in four seasons as one of the youngest head coaches at the FBS/FCS level. He was named the 2016 HBCU Football Coach of the Year by Black College Sports Page and The Pigskin Club in Washington, D.C. after NCCU smashed its school record for offense on its way to the Celebration Bowl."

Mack has been on an impressive rise over the past decade, and his ties to North Carolina could pay dividends for Tennessee on the recruiting trail. He also had success recruiting the Volunteer State during his time as a coach. He should complete Heupel's offense staff, which has yet to be officially announced.