Tennessee’s Tim Banks Turns Down Miami, Eyes Clemson Amid Contract Talks

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Tennessee Volunteers defensive coordinator Tim Banks, whose contract expires on Jan. 31, has turned down an offer from the Miami Hurricanes and is now a top candidate for Clemson’s defensive coordinator position, according to sources familiar with the negotiations. Banks, who led the Vols to their stingiest defense since the 1998 national championship team, is in high demand after a standout 2024 season.

Banks’ defense allowed just 16.1 points per game in 2024, ranking eighth nationally and playing a pivotal role in Tennessee’s first-ever appearance in the expanded 12-team College Football Playoff. Despite his success, Banks has not received a contract extension from Tennessee, leaving his future uncertain as other programs vie for his services.

Miami reportedly offered Banks its defensive coordinator position after firing Lance Guidry following a disappointing season. However, Banks declined the offer, according to sources. Miami’s defense struggled in 2024, ranking 68th nationally in points allowed (25.3 per game) and 27th in total yards allowed (327.2 per game). The Hurricanes’ inability to contain big plays, including 43 completions of 20 or more yards, highlighted their defensive woes.

Meanwhile, Clemson has emerged as a potential landing spot for Banks. The Tigers fired defensive coordinator Wes Goodwin on Monday after a season in which their rush defense ranked 85th nationally, allowing 160.6 yards per game. Clemson’s defensive struggles were evident in their College Football Playoff first-round loss to Texas, where they gave up 292 rushing yards.

Under Banks, Tennessee’s defense ranked 10th in rushing defense (103.9 yards per game) and seventh in total defense (293.2 yards per game). The Vols also ranked in the top 10 in third-down defense, fourth-down defense, and tackles-for-loss. Banks’ ability to build a dominant defense despite the challenges of working alongside Tennessee’s fast-paced offense has made him a coveted figure in college football.

Tennessee offered Banks a contract extension late in the 2024 season, according to a source with direct knowledge of the negotiations. However, the delay in offering the extension has raised questions about whether the Vols waited too long to secure his future. Banks earned $1.5 million in 2024, ranking 10th among SEC defensive coordinators and well below the salaries of top earners like LSU’s Blake Baker ($2.5 million) and Michigan’s Wink Martindale ($2.3 million).

Banks’ modest ego and collaborative approach have endeared him to players and coaches alike. He often credits others for the defense’s success and has embraced the challenges of coordinating a defense that frequently faces short rest due to Tennessee’s high-tempo offense. In 2024, the Vols held opponents under 20 points in 10 games, including nine wins.

As Tennessee looks ahead to the 2025 season, Banks’ return could be crucial to maintaining the team’s status as a playoff contender. However, if the Vols fail to secure a new contract, they could face uncertainty on both sides of the ball. With Clemson and other programs circling, Banks’ future remains one of the most intriguing storylines in college football.