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KNOXVILLE -- Tennessee's Dan Williams doesn't have to travel across the state for a homecoming. Today, home is coming to him.

The 6-foot-3, 320-pound defensive tackle will get to celebrate the Vols' homecoming by beating up on Tiger offensive players he recognizes from his days as a player at Memphis East High School.

Primary among them will be guard Malcolm Rawls, a teammate at Memphis East and one of Williams' best friends.

"Every week I talk to him. We try to see how football's going and just every day life," Williams said. "It's possible I'll line up across from him. It'll be a good chance to see him.

"Once the ball is snapped, we'll be doing what we do with a little attitude, but it will be a funny because it's the first time we've ever played against each other."

Williams doesn't lead the Vols in defensive stats, but his stature has grown as the season has progressed and no one has noticed that more than UT coach Lane Kiffin, who calls the senior a force in the middle.

Third on the team in tackles, with 39, and with nine quarterback hurries, a sack and a recovered fumble to date this season, Williams is making himself known as an NFL prospect as well. He credits defensive line guru Ed Orgeron, who as Ole Miss head coach tried to recruit Williams, with having spurred him to the improved play.