Heupel gives update on DeSean Bishop injury after career-best performance

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel addressed the status of running back DeSean Bishop, who left Saturday’s win over Arkansas with an injury after a career-best performance.

The redshirt sophomore standout from Knoxville racked up a career-high 146 yards and a touchdown on just 14 carries before exiting the game in the third quarter after an apparent leg injury. Peyton Lewis ran for two scores following Bishop’s exit and senior running back Star Thomas had 10 carries in Tennessee’s 34-31 victory.

Heupel discussed Bishop’s status ahead of the Third Saturday in October showdown against sixth-ranked Alabama and the overall running back rotation during his media availability on Monday.

“I feel like DeSean will be ready to go in this one, but we trust all those guys. [Peyton Lewis] had a great game the other night, finished it off in four-minute in a really, really good way. A couple of goal-line situations. [Star Thomas] has played really well throughout the course of the year, and the young guys are ready to go play too.”

Josh Heupel

The No. 11 Vols are seeking their first win in Tuscaloosa since 2003 in the prime time clash that will air on 6 News. Tennessee has won two of the last three matchups in the rivalry, with both victories coming at Neyland Stadium.

Bishop was a star at Karns High School before arriving on Rocky Top in 2023. His 8,347 rushing yards and 102 rushing touchdowns rank second and third all-time in Tennessee high school football history, respectively, and he was a two-time Tennessee Titans Mr. Football Award winner. He has rushed for 481 yards so far this season, the fifth-most in the SEC.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WATE 6 On Your Side.