Chattanooga Mocs Aim to Revive Dominant Pass Rush

After a drop-off in sacks last season, the Mocs are focused on rebuilding their defensive pressure.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 3:38am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, abstract painting depicting a Mocs football player in the midst of a pass rush, with sharp, angular shapes and planes in the team's colors of navy blue, gold, and white, conveying the aggressive energy of the defensive unit.The Mocs' defense looks to recapture its disruptive pass-rushing identity after a down year.Chattanooga Today

Under head coach Rusty Wright, the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) Mocs football team has established a reputation for an aggressive pass rush in recent years. However, the team experienced a significant decline in sacks last season, and is now determined to regain its dominant defensive presence in the upcoming campaign.

Why it matters

The Mocs' pass rush has been a key part of their defensive identity and success under Coach Wright. Rebuilding that disruptive ability will be crucial for the team to compete in the Southern Conference and achieve its goals for the 2026 season.

The details

After recording 38 sacks in 2024, the Mocs' sack total dropped to just 22 in 2025, a concerning decline that the coaching staff is determined to address. The team is focusing on developing its defensive line and linebacker corps to recapture the relentless pressure that had become a trademark of the Mocs' defense.

  • In 2024, the Mocs recorded 38 sacks.
  • In 2025, the Mocs' sack total dropped to 22.

The players

Rusty Wright

The head coach of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) Mocs football team, who has established the program's reputation for a dominant pass rush.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Mocs will look to their defensive line and linebacker groups to regain their disruptive pass-rushing abilities during spring practices and summer training camp as they prepare for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Rebuilding the Mocs' pass rush will be a key focus for the coaching staff as they aim to return the team to its recent defensive success and compete for a Southern Conference championship.