**Tennessee 4-Star Commit Highlights Vols’ Unique Recruiting Advantage**
“Home is where the heart is,” and this sentiment is becoming central to Josh Heupel’s strategy for the Tennessee Volunteers in the competitive SEC college football recruiting landscape.
The Vols recently secured another 4-star recruit, Mariyon Dye from Elkhart, Indiana, who announced his decision on Friday, June 28, via X.
Dye, one of Indiana’s top players, had offers from prestigious programs such as the Georgia Bulldogs, Michigan Wolverines, and Ohio State Buckeyes. However, in an interview with On3’s Austin Price, Dye explained why he chose Tennessee.
“It was really just how they treated my family and me,” Dye said. “The relationship I built with Coach Chop and Coach Heup was crucial… The coaches and players made it feel like home. When I told them, they were probably more excited than me. I am so excited to get there and start working. I can’t wait.”
Before Dye’s commitment, the Volunteers already boasted a top-10 recruiting class for 2025. Head coach Josh Heupel, now in his third year at Tennessee, has clearly created a vision focused on family and a sense of home, giving his team a recruiting edge.
Tennessee’s on-field success also bolsters their recruiting efforts. After a 7-6 record in Heupel’s first season, the Volunteers have gone 20-6 over the past two years, including victories in the Orange Bowl and Citrus Bowl.
With Dye’s positive feedback following his commitment, other top recruits across the country may start to take greater notice of the Volunteers.
