Jimmy’s Blog: Banks makes plea to top-ranked recruit

Jimmy’s Blog: Banks makes plea to top-ranked recruit

By Jimmy Hyams / @JimmyHyams

Tennessee defensive coordinator Tim Banks was speaking Monday at the Knoxville Quarterback Club when the perfect softball question was tossed his way.

“How have you enjoyed working with the greatest defensive line coach in America,’’ Banks was asked.

Sitting a few yards from Banks at another table was the nation’s top-ranked recruit, defensive tackle Walter Nolen, who had been honored as the defensive player of the week by the Club.

Banks didn’t swing and miss as he spoke about defensive line coach Rodney Garner.

“He’s very consistent, no matter where he’s been,’’ Banks said, while Nolen, the Powell High School product, peered as his cellphone, not looking up.

“Whether he’s at UT or some of the lesser programs he was at in the SEC (Auburn and Georgia), he has a way of getting the potential out of those guys. … He’s done a great job with our front, getting those guys to reach their potential. …

“I think he’s definitely a guy that gets the best out of each and every one of his players. That’s not just me saying it. I think if you look at his resume, it speaks for itself.’’

Then came the hammer: “By far, he’s the best in the country and you would be a fool not to want to come play for him,’’ Banks said. “If you want to play in the NFL, this is a good starting place.’’

Nolen had to hear the comment, but he never looked up from his phone.

The audience laughed, even cheered.

But Nolen seemed undeterred.

Nolen, of course, is committed to Texas A&M. He has visited the Aggies multiple times.

He has also visited UT.

Prying Nolen away from A&M would be a major coup for the Vols.

And in the game of recruiting, you never say never.

The early signing period starts Dec. 15.

Sponsored by Big Kahuna Wings: The wings that changed it all

Headlines

What's happening

On-Site Hoops Coverage From Detroit!

On-Site Hoops Coverage From Detroit!

Sports Animal SportsTalk co-host and Vol Network Voice Vince Ferrara hits the road north this weekend as the Tennessee Volunteers Men’s Basketball team continues their March journey in the NCAA Tournament in Detroit, Michigan. Vince will be bringing on-site coverage from Detroit with interviews, practice reports, and game analysis! This incredible on-site coverage would not…

Dogwood Arts Chalk Walk- April 6th

Dogwood Arts Chalk Walk- April 6th

Thousands of art lovers head downtown each year to experience this live art competition in Market Square. Chalk Walk features over 300 artists and collaborative teams working on-site from 8am-5pm to complete their artwork.

Alzheimer’s Tennessee Walk To Make Alzheimer’s A Memory!

Alzheimer’s Tennessee Walk To Make Alzheimer’s A Memory!

Find An Upcoming Walk Near You! Foothills Walk Alcoa High School Saturday, April 6 Knoxville Walk World’s Fair Park Saturday, April 13 Middle Tennessee Walk At Franklin The Park at Harlinsdale Farm Saturday, April 20 5 County Walk Historic Downtown Clinton Saturday, April 27 Tri-Cities Walk Willow Springs Park, Johnson City Saturday, April 27

Knoxville Opera 2024

Knoxville Opera 2024

Check out all the excitement that The Knoxville Opera has to offer this season, including the Rossini Festival April 20th, and Cendrillon May 3rd, 4th & 5th!