It will mostly be up to Thompson to capitalize on the Vols’ latest win. This week, he and recruiting coordinator Ed Orgeron will canvas the Peach State, targeting over a dozen of the top prospects — many of whom reside in Atlanta and the surrounding area.
The Vols have three commitments from Georgia: receiver Markeith Ambles, defensive end J.C. Copeland and linebacker Michael Taylor.
At least 10 more are in UT’s crosshairs: Florida running back commitment Mack Brown, Clemson athlete commitment Victor Beasley, offensive lineman Ed Christian, Miami linebacker commitment Tyrone Cornileus, Auburn receiver commitment Antonio Goodwin, offensive lineman Jawuan James, West Virginia receiver commitment Quantavious Leslie, Georgia defensive back commitment Alec Ogletree, Georgia defensive tackle commitment Garrison Smith, and defensive tackle Mike Thornton.
With at least seven prospects committed elsewhere, it’s obvious the Vols aren’t afraid to ruffle some feathers in Georgia.
Thompson is the perfect candidate to lead the Vols’ charge in Georgia. The Riverdale, Ga., native has coached the area throughout his career, most notably at Georgia Tech and Alabama.
Recruiting the area is critical to UT’s success, according to Thompson.
“We’re going to put an emphasis in Atlanta,” he said. “And I can promise you with Coach O, (Orgeron), and myself in Atlanta that we’re going to get players out of Georgia. And Georgia players will want to come play at the University of Tennessee because of the past.”