Tennessee safety Andre Turrentine isn’t afraid to ruffle some feathers – or kick Ohio State right in the Buckeyes.
When asked about Neyland Stadium and SEC stadiums being louder than Ohio Stadium and Big Ten stadiums, the transfer from Ohio State said, “I believe louder than any other conference in the country…And I think we’ll have a hell of a season.”
Turrentine should know. He played for the Buckeyes in 2021 then transferred to Tennessee before last season. Therefore, he’s seen plenty of examples of Big Ten and SEC facilities.
Much was expected of Turrentine at Tennessee in 2022 and 2023, but he couldn’t lock down a starting job until the end of last season. Now, Turrentine could be a starting safety for the Vols. How has he changed his approach?
“First and foremost, it was really important for me to step up as a leader,” the Nashville native said. “I feel like I already have that instilled in me to be a leader, but just understanding that it’s not only on the field that I have to lead these guys.
“I have to lead these guys off the field (too), getting these guys together, building a relationship off the field, whether that’s going out to eat on the weekends or just on a normal weekday, getting together and watching film and hanging out. Just building that aspect of trust in the relationship and everything on the field has taken care of itself.”
It’s been a long ride for Turrentine, who probably hasn’t played as much as he expected when he left Ohio State. Now, he could be the Vols’ next starting strong safety. It’s an emotional time, even though Saturday’s season-opener against Chattanooga is still five days away.
“I have those emotions right now,” Turrentine said when asked about the long road he’s travelled to now be considered an SEC starter with a game near on the horizon. “I feel like I’ve carried those emotions all year. All three years, honestly…I’m going to settle in, settle in early and then play my game.”
Where does the newfound confidence come from?
“How last year finished up,” said Turrentine, who started the final three games in 2023. “Not so much in a game setting, but how practice and how the meeting rooms finished up and how they translated into the (offseason).
“Now, here we are. I feel like I’m all the much better. I’m more confident…I understand the mission.”
