Relationships at Tennessee helped push the Vols to the top for Rickey Gibson

Rickey Gibson struggled a little with his decision over the last couple of weeks.

The talented cornerback out of Trussville (Ala.) Hewitt-Trussville got it down to Georgia, Penn State, and Tennessee. He eliminated the Nittany Lions first and then went back-and-forth between the Bulldogs and the Volunteers.

Days before his commitment, the 6-foot, 165-pound three-star came to the decision that he wanted to call Rocky Top home.

“It was really tough, but after thinking about it more and more, I knew Tennessee was the place for me,” Gibson told On3. “I have visited there about four or five times. I have a great relationship with the coaching staff, and it feels like home for me there.”

Josh Heupel and Tennessee offered Gibson much earlier than the other finalists. The Volunteers came in with an offer after Gibson’s junior season and the relationship established since then played a pivotal role in the decision.

“I got very comfortable with the coaches at Tennessee. They got on me early, they had faith in me before a lot of other schools, and they showed really they wanted me. The coaches at Tennessee stayed in touch, they kept inviting me to visit, and they stayed on me.

“The interest they showed from the beginning was so high and the consistency paid off. The coaches were genuine, they never changed, and how they got to know me made a big impact on my commitment.”

Gibson sees Tennessee rising to the top under Heupel

Gibson raved about the energy of defensive backs coach Willie Martinez. Tim Banks‘ defensive plan caught his attention too. The fans in Knoxville excite Gibson as well. But he is about winning and Heupel’s leadership at the top was key in Tennessee beating Georgia and Penn State in the end.

“Coach Heupel will make Tennessee great again,” Gibson said. “He is a special coach with a great offense and the defense is building. He is going to take Tennessee to the top.

“I believe in coach Heupel. I like how his thinking, I like the players he is bringing in, and with the special players and great coaches, Tennessee will be back at the top.”