John Chavis has LSU defense back on top just in time for Tennessee

"He had a great experience over there, and he loves that place," said LSU coach Les Miles, who has often spoke of his love for his alma mater Michigan. "I'm sure that he will feel something when he looks over and sees Tennessee Saturday night. I'm certain there'll be some issues, but he'll handle it." Chavis played defensive tackle for Tennessee from 1976-78. He was a graduate assistant coach for the Volunteers in 1979. After nine years as an assistant coach at Alabama A&M and Alabama State, Chavis returned to Tennessee in 1989 and stayed for 20 years — the last 14 as defensive coordinator. He is in just his second year as LSU's defensive coordinator. On Saturday, for the first time in his life, the 54-year-old Chavis will coach against Rocky Top when Tennessee (2-2, 0-1 Southeastern Conference) plays at No. 10 LSU (4-0, 2-0 SEC) at 2:30 p.m. on CBS. "I know this is going to sound like a cliché, but I hadn't really thought about it," Chavis said. "This is all about LSU and how exciting it is to be at LSU, a program with great tradition and opportunities to win championships here. So my focus here has been on taking care of LSU and getting us to the point where we can be the very best that we can be."Just in time for Tennessee, Chavis has LSU No. 1 in the SEC and No. 9 in the nation in total defense with 254 yards allowed a game.