The Tennessee Volunteers football program, also known as the "Big Orange," represents the University of Tennessee (UT) with pride and passion. With a history dating back to 1891, the Vols have established themselves as one of college football's most respected teams. Let's delve into their rich history, intense rivalries, and numerous accomplishments.
History & Rivalries
The Vols have forged fierce rivalries with several teams, including the Alabama Crimson Tide, Vanderbilt Commodores, and Kentucky Wildcats. Notable rivalries emerged after the formation of the SEC Eastern Division in 1992, with the Florida Gators, Georgia Bulldogs, and South Carolina Gamecocks.
Conference Affiliations
Tennessee has been affiliated with various conferences throughout its history. They started as an independent team from 1891 to 1895, followed by the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Association (1896-1920), Southern Conference (1921-1932), and the Southeastern Conference (1933-present).
Championships
The Volunteers have an illustrious championship history, including six claimed national titles in 1938, 1940, 1950, 1951, 1967, and 1998. They have also won 16 conference championships, including 13 in the SEC. Their impressive bowl record of 30 wins demonstrates their ability to perform on the big stage.
Head Coaches
Over the years, Tennessee has been led by exceptional head coaches. One iconic figure is Robert Neyland, who coached the Vols for 21 seasons, amassing 173 victories. Other notable coaches include Bowden Wyatt, Doug Dickey, Johnny Majors, and Phillip Fulmer, who have been inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.
Logos and Uniforms
The classic combination of orange and white identifies the Vols. These colors were chosen by Charles Moore, a member of the inaugural Tennessee football team in 1891. The team adopted black uniforms from 1911 to 1920, and in recent years, they introduced the "Smokey Gray" alternate jerseys.
Traditions
The Vols boast several cherished traditions. The checkerboard end zones, inspired by the checkerboard design on the clock tower at Ayres Hall, have become synonymous with Tennessee football. "Rocky Top," a popular fight song, is played by the Pride of the Southland Marching Band, while the iconic "T" signifies the team's pride and determination.
Smokey, the Mascot
Smokey, a beloved Bluetick Coonhound, has been the official mascot of the Vols since 1953. Smokey X leads the team onto the field during games, exemplifying their tenacity and spirit. The costumed mascot also entertains and energizes fans throughout each game.
The Vol Walk
The Vol Walk is a cherished pregame tradition that captures the excitement and support of Vols fans. Before every home game, the team walks through a sea of cheering fans, creating an electrifying atmosphere.
All-time Record
The Vols boast an impressive all-time record, with 865 wins, 414 losses, and 53 ties. Their home stadium, Neyland Stadium, has witnessed many historic victories and currently holds the record for the highest home-field win total in college football history.
Hall of Fame
Tennessee has produced a remarkable number of College Football Hall of Famers. With 24 inductees, the Vols have the most representatives from the SEC and rank highly in terms of all-time college football programs.
Future Opponents
As the SEC expands and eliminates its divisions, Tennessee will face new conference opponents. The 2024 conference schedule includes matchups against Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi State, Oklahoma, and Vanderbilt.
Tennessee Volunteers football is more than just a team; it's a beloved institution with a legacy of excellence. Through the years, they have captivated fans with their thrilling performances, fierce rivalries, and unwavering commitment to the game. With a rich history and a bright future, the University of Tennessee Volunteers continue to inspire and uplift their devoted supporters.
Smokey IX before a November 2007 game against Vanderbilt
