The Tennessee Volunteers will be without one of their key assistants this weekend. Linebackers coach William Inge has been hospitalized and will not be on the sideline when No. 14 Tennessee hosts No. 1 Texas on Saturday.

The school announced Thursday night that Inge, 52, is dealing with a personal medical issue. In a statement, Tennessee asked for privacy and prayers for the coach and his family: “Tennessee linebackers coach William Inge has been in the hospital dealing with a personal medical issue. Coach Inge and his family appreciate your prayers and support, and we ask that you respect their privacy at this time.”

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On Friday morning, Inge posted an update on his health, confirming he would miss the game. “I appreciate everyone’s thoughts and prayers,” he said. “I am resting comfortably. I am fighting the illness just like our team fights on Saturdays on the field. I look forward to supporting our team and wish them well tomorrow. GBO.”

Inge joined the Volunteers’ staff in 2024, bringing a wealth of experience from previous stops in college football. His absence adds an emotional layer to an already massive matchup for Tennessee, which is looking to prove itself as a legitimate SEC contender.

The Vols have cruised through the early part of their schedule, handling Furman and Kennesaw State with ease. Their most impressive win came on the road against Georgia Tech, where they rolled to a 45-24 victory. But Texas represents a different beast entirely.

The Longhorns are the top-ranked team in the country, and ESPN’s computer model gives them a 70.3% chance of leaving Knoxville with a win. A victory for Tennessee would send shockwaves through the college football landscape and solidify their place among the nation’s elite.

Kickoff is set for noon ET on ABC, and the atmosphere at Neyland Stadium is sure to be electric. The Vols will also have a celebrity guest picker on ESPN’s College GameDay: Johnny Knoxville, who is no stranger to stirring up a crowd.

While the focus will be on the field, Inge’s health remains a priority. The Vols will be playing with heavy hearts, but also with the motivation to honor their coach’s fighting spirit.