Mike Bethea

CAREER Redshirted in 2024 after joining the program as a walk-on from Maryville College, where he was an All-CSS second team selections as a sophomore in 2023 … Played in two games. 2024 – RS-SOPHOMORE Redshirted during his first season at Tennessee after joining the team as a walk-on … Played in two games and recorded one tackle for the year … Made his UT debut in season-opening win over Chattanooga (8/31) … Recorded first-career tackle in win over Kent State (9/14). 2023 – SOPHOMORE (MARYVILLE COLLEGE) Named a 2023 All-CCS Second Team selection … Played in 10 games and finished with 21 tackles, four tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, one forced fumble, two quarterback hurries, two pass breakups and one interception which was returned 78 yards for a touchdown. 2022 – FRESHMAN (MARYVILLE COLLEGE) Appeared in eight games and totaled 18 tackles, including eight tackles for loss … Finished tied for the team lead with four sacks and four quarterback hurries … Had one pass breakup and one forced fumble. HIGH SCHOOL & PERSONAL Attended Westwood High School in Blythewood, South Carolina for two years before moving to East Tennessee and playing his final two high school seasons at powerhouse Maryville High School where he was a team captain as a senior in 2021 … Posted 237 career tackles, including 69 during his senior season … Was selected for 2021 Rivalry Showcase and NUC All-American Game … Tabbed a 2021 Class 6A All-State Second Team selection and The Daily Times Defensive Player of the Year … Son of Michael and Levette Bethea … Has two sisters, Lauryn and Madyson, and one brother, Dylan … Majoring in communication studies with a minor in sociology … Also played volleyball in high school … X handle is @0pr0blemz … Instagram handle is @ilym1keyy