Big Orange Sunday 5-17-26

Big Orange Sunday 5-17-26

From Big Orange Sunday by 104.5 The Zone | Cumulus Media Nashville

May 17, 2026 · 59 min

About this episode

Coach previews the upcoming volunteer football season, analyzing key matchups and strategies for success.

Coach previews the upcoming volunteer football season from a seasoned coach's perspective. Matthews breaks down the favorable 2026 schedule, analyzing key early matchups against Furman, Georgia Tech, and Kennesaw State that will test the Vols' young quarterbacks before they head into rigorous SEC play. Key topics discussed include: The Quarterback Competition: An evaluation of how Coach Josh Heupel and Offensive Coordinator Joey Halzle will manage talented young signal-callers Gaston Moore and Jake Merklinger early in the season. Roster Strategy: A look at the impact of the expanded 105-scholarship limit, managing the transfer portal, and finding success through "addition by subtraction." Keys to Success: The critical importance of standard fundamental defense and a strong running game to support the passing offense. The episode also includes a sports results segment with Jimmy Hyams, covering Tennessee women's softball regional play, baseball postseason seeding, and recent achievements in track and field and rowing. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

People in this episode

Host: Matthews

Topics covered

  • football season preview
  • quarterback competition
  • roster strategy
  • SEC play
  • sports results

Keywords

  • Tennessee football
  • quarterback competition
  • SEC
  • 2026 schedule
  • sports results

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Tennessee, Furman, Georgia Tech, Kennesaw State, Tennessee women's softball, baseball, track and field, rowing

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