It’s only May, but the college football rumor mill is already in full swing — and for Tennessee fans, one particular scenario is enough to make their stomachs turn.
Josh Heupel, the mastermind behind the Volunteers’ resurgence and fresh off a College Football Playoff appearance, is at the center of unexpected speculation: could he be the man to replace Brent Venables at Oklahoma?
To Vol Nation, the idea is almost unthinkable. Heupel has rebuilt Tennessee into a powerhouse, reigniting the fire in Knoxville with high-octane offense, elite recruiting, and a vision for sustained success. Yes, five-star quarterback Nico Iamaleava’s shocking transfer to UCLA is a blow for 2025. But with another top QB, Faizon Brandon, already committed for 2026, the future remains bright on Rocky Top.
Meanwhile, over in Norman, the vibes are far more uncertain. Brent Venables is entering a pivotal season. After failing to meet lofty expectations, the Sooners are facing pressure — and if things go south in 2025, a coaching change could be on the table. One name that immediately comes to mind for Oklahoma fans and media alike? Josh Heupel.
Heupel isn’t just a successful coach; he’s an Oklahoma legend. As the quarterback who led the Sooners to a national championship in 2000 and a former offensive coordinator under Bob Stoops, his legacy runs deep. But that tenure ended bitterly — he was fired in 2014, a move that left lasting tension. While the wounds may have healed somewhat, it’s unclear if Heupel would ever consider returning to the place that once pushed him out the door.
Veteran journalist Berry Tramel of the Tulsa World stirred the pot during a recent appearance on the Saturday Down South podcast, suggesting that Heupel would be Oklahoma’s “first call” if Venables is fired. “I have no idea if Josh would entertain the notion or accept — I have no idea,” Tramel admitted. “I do know he’s still got a lot of ties [to Oklahoma]. Family still lives here.”
Tramel acknowledged that Tennessee is one of the best jobs in college football right now, and that Heupel might not be eager to leave his current position, especially considering the momentum he’s built. Still, he didn’t rule out the possibility of a return to Norman — and that’s where the anxiety starts to build for Vol fans.
The narrative only intensified after Tennessee traveled to Norman and beat the Sooners last season, a win that seemed especially meaningful for Heupel. It was a statement — not just to Oklahoma, but to the entire college football world — that he’s built something special in Knoxville.
So what happens if Oklahoma parts ways with Venables after the 2025 season? Would Heupel consider a dramatic return? No one knows for sure. But one thing is certain: the buzz around his name is only going to grow. And if the Sooners do come calling, Tennessee fans will be holding their breath — praying they don’t lose the coach who brought their program back to life.
Would you like this version turned into a social media thread or graphic summary?
