The Fever Dream of 2017: Uncovering the Truth Behind the Gruden Rumors
A Time of Uncertainty
For those who lived through it, the few weeks in 2017 when Tennessee was searching for a new football coach are etched in memory like a wild, unforgettable ride. It was a period of chaos, marked by twists and turns that left fans reeling. Amidst the turmoil, one name dominated conversations across East Tennessee: Jon Gruden.
The Gruden Enigma
Rumors swirled about Coach Gruden’s potential interest in the Tennessee job, fueling speculation and debate. It seemed like every conversation eventually circled back to the “Grumors,” as they came to be known. Now, we have confirmation that there was indeed contact between Gruden and the university, and that he gave serious consideration to the position.
A Path Not Taken
In hindsight, it’s fascinating to think about what could have been if Gruden had taken the reins. Would the Vols have run through the Power T with the same swagger and confidence that defined his NFL coaching career? Alas, we’ll never know for certain. Instead, the program stumbled through the Pruitt era before eventually landing Josh Heupel, who has brought a new era of excitement and promise to Knoxville.
Closure and Camaraderie
For those of us who lived through the Grumors, it’s a relief to finally have closure. Coach Gruden’s recent confirmation of the rumors brings a sense of vindication, proving that we weren’t just chasing a fantasy. And as I look back on our brief encounter, I’m reminded that even rejection can lead to unexpected opportunities. Who knows? Maybe one day, Coach and I will reunite on the gridiron, this time as teammates rather than hypothetical adversaries. Until then, we’ll remain two Vols For Life, bound by our shared passion for the game and our beloved university.
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