6. Jones’ media strategy
Some of Jones’ most critiqued moves have been ones he’s made behind the microphone this year. His cliché-driven speech was embraced by the fanbase early in his tenure as he worked hard to rebuild the program, but it wasn’t well-received this year as the Vols fell short of expectations. For example, he didn’t acknowledge disappointment the week that Florida clinched the SEC East, and then went on to say that the team could still play for a bowl championship, and then later infamously called the senior class champions of life.
The 2016 slogan was “own it,” and that’s something many have accused Jones of not doing when things have gone awry. A little bit more candor and authenticity might help Jones’ public image in the future.
