“Florida State could’ve beaten us” - Vols HC Tony Vitello gets real on thought process after bagging 2024 national championship title
Tony Vitello's Tennessee made history last month, winning the national title for the first time in program history. The Vols had a few challenges en route to their historic championship triumph and Vitello has identified some teams that could have ended Tennessee's run in the postseason.
While speaking on ESPN radio's "Marty & McGee" show, Vitello touched upon the surreal feeling of winning the national title, and how his team got over the line in some close games.
"I've got to be honest," Vitello said. "The whole thing hasn't even sunk in. I just keep having little flashbacks. It's amazing how many good people and things were in place. And there's a weird balance of, ‘Well, we should’ve won.' But Florida State or Evansville could've beat us."
Tennessee suffered a 10-8 loss against Evansville in the Super Regional, which forced a Game 3 between the two teams. However, the Vols crushed the Purple Aces 12-1 in Game 3 to progress to the College World Series.
Notably, Tennessee also managed a narrow 12-11 comeback win over Florida State in its opening game of the College World Series. The Vols also beat the Seminoles 7-2 in their second meeting a few days later, to advance to the CWS finals.
After losing Game 1 of the CWS finals against Texas A&M, the Vols secured back-to-back wins over the Aggies to be crowned national champions.
Tony Vitello's Tennessee needs top recruitment in the offseason to retain the national championship
Despite winning the coveted College World Series title, Tony Vitello has no plans of slowing down anytime soon. The Tennessee coach also jokingly asked Smith and Ryan McGee about their inputs about top prospects in the country.
"If you've got a portal guy out there and you like," Vitello said."you can just text me."
After five years of service, the Vols will see relief pitcher Kirby Connell leave the team in the offseason. Left-handed pitcher Chris Stamos and infielder Ethan Payne will also be done with their college careers. Meanwhile, catcher Charlie Taylor is reportedly set to leave the team.
Vitello and Tennessee need a strong influx of talent to replace some departing members if the Vols are to retain their national championship next season.