Jim Knowles prepares Tennessee defense for season opener against Furman

Defensive coordinator Jim Knowles prepares for his Tennessee debut on September 5 against Furman at Neyland Stadium. The No. 18 Vols enter the game as 46.5-point favorites. Knowles stated his expectations for the unit include avoiding yards allowed, securing a shutout, and preventing first downs. The team faces personnel challenges following a season-ending injury to safety Edrees Farooq and the medical disqualification of projected edge rusher Chaz Coleman. In response, coaching staff are cross-training players such as Qua Moss to maintain defensive depth. Jordan Norman is the expected starter at the edge position as the program aims to establish a consistent pass rush. The opening game serves as the first competitive look at Knowles' schemes before the schedule intensifies with a road matchup against Georgia Tech and an early SEC contest against Texas.

• 5:22 PMYahoo Sports — What Jim Knowles wants from Tennessee football defense vs Furman. It's a lot