Tennessee Coach William Inge Hospitalized; Wife Asks for Prayers

William Inge, the assistant football coach for linebackers at the University of Tennessee, is currently hospitalized with an undisclosed health issue, prompting his wife to request prayers from the public.

Rae Ann Inge shared an update via her husband's Instagram account on Sunday, stating, "Bill is fighting and please pray for him." She also apologized for being unable to respond to all messages, emphasizing that the family's focus is on his health.

Inge was absent from the Volunteers' recent games, including matchups against Kennesaw State on September 19 and Texas on Saturday. The University of Tennessee initially announced last week that Inge was dealing with a "personal medical issue" and requested privacy for the family.

In a statement released last Friday, Inge himself indicated he was "resting comfortably" and appreciated the well wishes. "I am fighting this illness just like our team fights on Saturdays on the field," he said. "I look forward to supporting our team and wish them well tomorrow."

Following the Volunteers' 20-17 loss to No. 1 Texas, head coach Josh Heupel commented on Inge's condition, noting that it "kind of turned serious in the middle part of the week." Heupel described Inge as "a fighter" and "tough," adding that the team is lifting him up in prayer. He acknowledged the situation was emotional for the program but expressed confidence in his team's ability to focus.

Inge, a former player at Iowa, is in his third season as the linebackers coach on Heupel's staff at Tennessee. He previously held coaching positions at Indiana and Washington. He had been considered a potential candidate to join Kalen DeBoer's staff at Alabama but ultimately remained with Tennessee.

The Inge family includes three children: son Isaiah, a defensive lineman at Tennessee, and daughters Keara and Raya.

The Volunteers are scheduled to host Auburn next Saturday at Neyland Stadium.