KNOXVILLE, TN - SEPTEMBER 09: The Tennessee Volunteers celebrate a touchdown during the game against the Indiana State Sycamores at Neyland Stadium on September 9, 2017 in Knoxville, Tennessee. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
One of the reasons Josh Heupel has the potential for a surprise first year as head coach of the Tennessee football program is the hospitable schedule. The Vols play eight games at home, and none of their non-conference foes are expected to be in the top 25 this year. They also play in an SEC East that has numerous mediocre teams.