What Josh Heupel said after Tennessee beat Clemson in Orange Bowl

Josh Heupel and Tennessee will return to Knoxville winners of the 2022 Orange Bowl. The Volunteers defeated the Clemson Tigers 31-14 Friday night.

Quarterback Joe Milton looked outstanding, finishing 18-of-27 for 241 yards and 3 touchdowns. Squirrel White, Ramel Keyton and Bru McCoy all caught touchdowns from Milton.

Tennessee’s defense, however, was the story of the game, as it suffocated freshman quarterback Cade Klubnik for much night. The Tigers signal caller finished 30-of-54 for 320 yards and 2 interceptions. Vols linebacker Aaron Beasley caused havoc all night for Klubnik. Beasley recorded 9 tackles and 2 sacks.

Following the win over Clemson, Heupel spoke to ESPN.

On this team winning 11 games …

“All of the adversity that this group has faced during their careers. What they’ve done the last 23 months, I couldn’t be prouder of a group of individuals. These players, our staff and Vol Nation — everybody’s been along for the journey. It’s been a fun climb. The best is yet to come. Really proud of what we did.”

On Joe Milton …

“He’s a great testament of today’s world of college football with the transfer portal. He’s a guy recognizing that there’s improvement he needs to make. He’s around coaches and players that love him and he can continue to progress. He did a lot of really good things tonight. I’m so happy for him. It was awesome to have Henson (Hooker) here. His legacy here is nothing short of being a champion. We’re not here without him. Absolutely love Hendon and this football team.”

On Aaron Beasley’s huge game …

“His best football is still ahead of him, man. The guy just continues to keep growing inside of what we’re doing defensively in daily habits and attention to the detail. He was dominant tonight. Absolutely great performance by our defense all night long.”