The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga was wrapping up its spring practices in early March when seventh-year head coach Rusty Wright spoke about the new “three-season” concept of college football.
“We have to make teams now,” said Wright, a former UTC player who had two stints as an assistant before returning to his alma mater to take charge of the Mocs ahead of the 2019 season — which can be considered the end of an era for NCAA Division I football considering what has happened since then.
The COVID-19 pandemic hit the following spring. Eligibility was extended for countless athletes. Changes to rules regarding immediate eligibility made entering the transfer portal more easier than ever. Chasing the financial boost of newly allowed name, image and likeness deals made that process more attractive than ever.
Coaches, including the often old-school Wright, were left to adapt or get left behind.
His approach?