Kiffin, 33, replaces Phillip Fulmer, who had been the Volunteers' football coach for 17 seasons. Fulmer announced last month he was retiring.

Kiffin was fired Oct. 1 by the Raiders after a 1-3 start dropped his record to 5-15. It was his first job as a head coach. He previously had been offensive coordinator at the University of Southern California.

Tennessee was 5-7 this season, sending Fulmer off with a 28-10 victory Saturday over Kentucky.

"I met with all of our players (Sunday) night and they are definitely excited in the direction we are going," said Kiffin. "I felt really good about Tennessee from the start and I am thrilled to be here. We will do things right, but give us time and be patient."