Back on Halloween, the Vols landed two commitments. One of the commitments they received was a response from Wisconsin. That flip came when Brenden Anes turned for Tennessee.
Anes is a junior at Page High School. The three-star linebacker spoke to Tennessee on SI to later explain his decision and thought process in detail.
“There are many reasons why I chose to commit to Tennessee. An important factor was the ability to stay home and be close to my family. It was very important to me to give my family the opportunity to come and support me at all my home games and throughout my college career. Coach Inge and Coach Heupel are also great. They have recruited me really well this past year and I have really come to respect and like them. One of the things Coach Heupel kept telling me was how great Linebacker coach and teacher Coach Inge is. A few weeks ago I attended a practice during the week and was able to sit in the linebackers meeting room in preparation for Florida. It was really great for me to have that experience and see first-hand Coach Inge’s style and how he teaches the game in the meeting rooms and on the field. I had a chance to talk to a few guys and they told me that they also enjoy playing for Coach Inge. That experience of what a day in the life of a Vol LB was like really sealed the deal for me.
Tennessee turning the newly committed volunteer from the previously committed Badger isn’t something you expected on Halloween. The Vols took distance to land Anes. “Tennessee has the distinction of being a top-tier program playing in the SEC. Coach Heupel has said that the SEC is truly the NFL of college football and it is great to compete against the best in the country. Plus, the Gameday environment at Neyland is absolutely crazy. I love it. “I think it’s just a matter of time before Tennessee plays for a national championship and I want to play my part in that for the state of Tennessee and bring one home.”
He explains how Tennessee fans have treated him since he decided to switch to his in-state program. “The Tennessee fan base has been overwhelming, amazing and amazing. I am blessed to have this opportunity to play for the Vols and I would like to thank everyone who reached out and supported and supported my decision. It means a lot and I am so excited that I will do my best every day to make them all proud.”
He will head to Tennessee again as he joins other 2025 targets for an official visit weekend later this month. “I’ll be back on the 23rd for my public transport.”
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