Cooper Ranvier delivered when Tennessee’s offense couldn’t finish drives against Alabama.
Four first-half field goals helped the Volunteers build a halftime lead Saturday, and the junior kicker’s performance earned him co-SEC Special Teams Player of the Week honors Monday.
For Tennessee coach Josh Heupel, Ranvier’s success reinforced the confidence the coaching staff already had in him.
“I’m excited for him that he performed the way that he did, the way that we think he’s capable of on Saturday,” Heupel said Monday. “But he’s extremely confident. He’s experienced, and he’s ready to go play the next play.”
Ranvier connected from 29, 33, 41 and 34 yards in Tennessee’s 26-10 victory over Alabama. He also converted both extra-point attempts in the second half, finishing with 14 points.
The four field goals were the most by a Tennessee kicker in a game since November 2024. Ranvier improved to 10-for-11 on field-goal attempts this season.
But the conditions made his performance particularly impressive.
Following Saturday’s victory, Heupel praised Ranvier for delivering in swirling winds at Neyland Stadium.
“Coupe did an unbelievable job in probably as windy of a day as we’ve had inside of that stadium since I’ve been here,” Heupel said. “Put everything right through the uprights, and that was a huge part of the game early.”
The junior’s performance also carried personal significance.
Following the game, Ranvier shared an emotional moment on the field with family and friends as Tennessee fans celebrated the rivalry win.
Heupel was asked Monday about that moment and the confidence Ranvier provides as Tennessee prepares to face South Carolina.
Heupel emphasized the kicker’s experience and ability to move forward.
That mindset could become increasingly valuable as Tennessee returns to the road.
The No. 11 Vols travel to South Carolina on Saturday, facing a Gamecocks team coming off a bye week.
Heupel stressed Monday that Tennessee must prepare for both the road atmosphere and an opponent with additional time to prepare.
“They got an extra week with the bye last week,” Heupel said. “Physically, they’ll be as fresh as you can be at this point in the season.”
Heupel also emphasized the importance of preparation and execution in SEC games, where small mistakes can change the outcome.
“The margins are just, they’re small, they’re tight,” he said. “A play here or there makes a huge difference.”
For Tennessee, Ranvier has already demonstrated how valuable reliable special teams can be in those moments.
And after Saturday’s performance, Heupel believes the Vols have a kicker prepared for whatever comes next.
