Tennessee football: Photo gallery from Vols' 45-42 win at Kentucky

If Josh Heupel is going to restore Tennessee football back to the level Vol fans want it to be at, celebrating a win this much over the Kentucky Wildcats won’t be common. However, he effectively guaranteed the Vols a winning season with this win, and given the mess he inherited to start the year, that’s a huge deal.

Not only does that make the win memorable, but the game itself also makes the win memorable. UT’s last win over Kentucky was also a thrilling victory that came down to a fourth down stop. However, that was more of a defensive struggle. This one came in the form of a shootout.

In the process, there became many moments frozen in time everybody would like to look back on. These are the types of wins that make the sport so special, so it’s obviously appropriate to relish it to a certain degree. That’s what we’re going to allow for here. This is a photo gallery of Tennessee football’s thrilling win at Kentucky.

Tennessee Head Coach Josh Heupel greets fans during the Vol Walk ahead of an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee fans wait outside the stadium before an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee offensive lineman Javontez Spraggins (76) greets fans during the Vol Walk ahead of an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee fans cheer as the Vols drive before an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Tennvskentucky1106 0182 /

A Tennessee player walks to the stadium during the Vol Walk ahead of an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee players greet fans during the Vol Walk ahead of an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

A Kentucky fan dressed as a banana gets caught as Vols exit buses during an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Tennvskentucky1106 0077 /

Tennessee Head Coach Josh Heupel exits the bus during an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Tennvskentucky1106 0045 /

Tennessee and Kentucky fans walk to the stadium before an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee fans walk to the stadium before an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Vol fans pose for a photo before an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Tennvskentucky1106 0210 /

Tennessee fans walk to the stadium before an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

A young Tennessee fan watches as the team walks to the stadium during the Vol Walk ahead of an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Timothy Sharp throws a football with a friend during an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Tennvskentucky1106 0193 /

A Tennessee fan basks in this sun before an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Fans wait for the Vols to drive up before an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Tennvskentucky1106 0141 /

Fans wait for the Vols to pull up on buses before an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Tennvskentucky1106 0021 /

Fans walk towards the stadium during an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Tennvskentucky1106 0118 /

Tennessee fans greet the team during the Vol Walk ahead of an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Vols fans walk towards the stadium during an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Tennvskentucky1106 0133 /

Tennessee defensive back Alontae Taylor (2) greets fans during the Vol Walk ahead of an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee Head Coach Josh Heupel calls during an NCAA college football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the South Carolina Gamecocks in Knoxville, Tenn. on Saturday, Oct. 9, 2021.Kns Tennessee South Carolina Football /

Tennessee quarterback Gaston Moore (13) warms up before an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee and Kentucky fans find their seats in the stands ahead of an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee players warm up before an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee wide receiver Jalin Hyatt (11) runs on the field during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

A Kentucky and Tennessee fan eat popcorn in the stands before an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee players prepare to take the field for warm up as fans cheer from the stands before an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee fans pose with a Power T flag ahead of an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

A Tennessee fan cheers as the Vols run onto the field to warm up before an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Tennvskentucky1106 0292 /

Tennessee Offensive Coordinator and Tight Ends Coach Alex Golesh walks on the field before an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Vols warm up on the field before an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Tennvskentucky1106 0314 /

Tennessee linebacker Kwauze Garland (15) warms up before an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Nov 6, 2021; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Kentucky Wildcats running back Kavosiey Smoke (0) runs the ball during the first quarter against the Tennessee Volunteers at Kroger Field. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-USA TODAY Sports /

Nov 6, 2021; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Kentucky Wildcats quarterback Will Levis (7) hands the ball off to running back Chris Rodriguez Jr. (24) during the first quarter against the Tennessee Volunteers at Kroger Field. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-USA TODAY Sports /

Nov 6, 2021; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) throws a pass during the first quarter against the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-USA TODAY Sports /

Nov 6, 2021; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Tennessee Volunteers wide receiver Velus Jones Jr. (1) catches a pass and runs the ball in for a touchdown during the first quarter against the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-USA TODAY Sports /

Nov 6, 2021; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Kentucky Wildcats running back Kavosiey Smoke (0) scores a touchdown during the first quarter against the Tennessee Volunteers at Kroger Field. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-USA TODAY Sports /

Kentucky running back Kavosiey Smoke (0) reacts after making a play during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee wide receiver Velus Jones Jr. (1) celebrates a touchdown during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Kentucky running back Chris Rodriguez Jr. (24) is defended against by Tennessee linebacker Aaron Beasley (24) during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Kentucky wide receiver Josh Ali (6) is tackled by a Tennessee defender during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Kentucky running back Kavosiey Smoke (0) runs the ball as Tennessee defensive back Trevon Flowers (1) and Tennessee defensive lineman/linebacker Byron Young (6) defend during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee fans cheer in the stands during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee Head Coach Josh Heupel huddles with the team during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee defensive lineman/linebacker Byron Young (6) defends against Kentucky tight end Justin Rigg (83) during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee wide receiver Velus Jones Jr. (1) celebrates a touchdown with Tennessee wide receiver JaVonta Payton (3) during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee defensive lineman Omari Thomas (21) defends against Kentucky running back Kavosiey Smoke (0) during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee linebacker Jeremy Banks (33) and Tennessee linebacker Aaron Beasley (24) take down Kentucky running back Chris Rodriguez Jr. (24) during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) throws a pass during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Nov 6, 2021; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Tennessee Volunteers wide receiver Jalin Hyatt (11) reacts after he is called out of bounds on his run into the end zone during the second quarter against the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-USA TODAY Sports /

Nov 6, 2021; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Kentucky Wildcats wide receiver Wan’Dale Robinson (1) runs the ball during the second quarter against the Tennessee Volunteers at Kroger Field. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-USA TODAY Sports /

Tennessee wide receiver Velus Jones Jr. (1) celebrates a touchdown with Tennessee wide receiver JaVonta Payton (3) in the end zone during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Nov 6, 2021; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Kentucky Wildcats quarterback Will Levis (7) jumps over Tennessee Volunteers linebacker Aaron Beasley (24) during the second quarter at Kroger Field. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-USA TODAY Sports /

Tennessee Head Coach Josh Heupel during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee wide receiver Velus Jones Jr. (1) catches a pass and runs the ball for a touchdown in the first quarter as Kentucky linebacker DeAndre Square (5) defends during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Nov 6, 2021; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Tennessee Volunteers defensive back Trevon Flowers (1) chases down Kentucky Wildcats running back JuTahn McClain (17) during the second quarter at Kroger Field. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-USA TODAY Sports /

Nov 6, 2021; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Kentucky Wildcats tight end Justin Rigg (83) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the second quarter to put the Wildcats ahead 20-14 against the Tennessee Volunteers at Kroger Field. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-USA TODAY Sports /

Nov 6, 2021; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) runs around Kentucky Wildcats linebacker Jacquez Jones (10) during the second quarter at Kroger Field. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-USA TODAY Sports /

Nov 6, 2021; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Tennessee Volunteers tight end Jacob Warren (87) runs into the end zone for a touchdown during the second quarter against the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-USA TODAY Sports /

Kentucky’s Will Levis celebrates scoring a touchdown against Tennessee.Nov. 6, 2012Kentucky Tennessee 03 /

Kentucky’s Will Levis celebrates scoring a touchdown against Tennessee.Nov. 6, 2012Kentucky Tennessee 01 /

Kentucky’s Will Levis scores a touchdown against Tennessee.Nov. 6, 2012Kentucky Tennessee 04 /

Kentucky’s Will Levis scores a touchdown against Tennessee.Nov. 6, 2012Kentucky Tennessee 05 /

Kentucky’s Will Levis celebrates scoring a touchdown against Tennessee.Nov. 6, 2012Kentucky Tennessee 02 /

Kentucky’s Wan’Dale Robinson grabs a long catch for a first down against Tennessee’s Doneiko Slaughter.Nov. 6, 2012Kentucky Tennessee 13 /

Kentucky’s Will Levis gets a first down against Tennessee.Nov. 6, 2012Kentucky Tennessee 11 /

Kentucky’s Wan’Dale Robinson celebrates a long catch for a first down against Tennessee. Nov. 6, 2012Kentucky Tennessee 14 /

Kentucky Head Coach Mark Stoops speaks to officials during an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Tennvskentucky1106 1251 /

Kentucky tight end Justin Rigg (83) celebrates a touchdown during an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Tennvskentucky1106 0692 /

Kentucky quarterback Will Levis (7) hurdles Tennessee defense for a first down during an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Tennvskentucky1106 1158 /

during an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Tennvskentucky1106 1428 /

Tennessee defensive back Bradley Jones (8) is tackled during an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Tennvskentucky1106 1342 /

Smokey keeps warm in a blanket during an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Tennvskentucky1106 0813 /

Tennessee tight end Jacob Warren (87) runs into the end zone for a touchdown during an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Tennvskentucky1106 0757 /

Kentucky quarterback Will Levis (7) celebrates a touchdown during an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Tennvskentucky1106 0568 /

Kentucky running back Kavosiey Smoke (0) celebrates a touchdown during an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Tennvskentucky1106 0532 /

Kentucky running back Kavosiey Smoke (0) makes a touchdown during an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Tennvskentucky1106 0485 /

Kentucky tight end Justin Rigg (83) runs into the end zone for a touchdown during an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Tennvskentucky1106 0672 /

Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) dodges defense during an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Tennvskentucky1106 1397 /

Tennessee defensive lineman/linebacker Tyler Baron (9) nearly blocks a touchdown pass thrown by Kentucky quarterback Will Levis (7) during an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Tennvskentucky1106 0662 /

Tennessee assistant coaches congratulate players during an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Tennvskentucky1106 0838 /

Tennessee wide receiver Jalin Hyatt (11) runs the ball down the field during an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Tennvskentucky1106 0921 /

A banana is tossed around in the stands during an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Tennvskentucky1106 0738 /

Tennessee Secondary Coach Willie Martinez calls during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) looks to pass as Tennessee offensive lineman Jerome Carvin (75) defends against Kentucky defensive end Josh Paschal (4) during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Kentucky wide receiver Wan’Dale Robinson (1) loses the ball as Tennessee linebacker Jeremy Banks (33) and Tennessee defensive back Theo Jackson (26) defend during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

A view during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee defensive lineman Matthew Butler (94) defends against Kentucky running back Chris Rodriguez Jr. (24) during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee wide receiver Velus Jones Jr. (1) is tackled by Kentucky defensive back Maxwell Hairston (31) during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Smokey runs on the field during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee linebacker Aaron Beasley (24) defends against a Kentucky defender uring an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee running back Tiyon Evans (8) runs the ball during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee defensive back Theo Jackson (26) breaks up a pass intended for Kentucky wide receiver Wan’Dale Robinson (1) during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee players jump in defense of a field goal attempt during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee running back Len’Neth Whitehead (27) takes down Kentucky running back Kavosiey Smoke (0) during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) runs the ball during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee fans cheer from the stands during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Nov 6, 2021; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Tennessee Volunteers head coach Josh Heupel motions to his team during the fourth quarter against the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-USA TODAY Sports /

Nov 6, 2021; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Tennessee Volunteers wide receiver Cedric Tillman (4) catches a pass in the end zone putting the Tennessee Volunteers ahead of the Kentucky Wildcats 44-35 during the fourth quarter at Kroger Field. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-USA TODAY Sports /

Nov 6, 2021; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Tennessee Volunteers running back Tiyon Evans (8) and tight end Hunter Salmon (89) celebrate with wide receiver Cedric Tillman (4) after he scored a touchdown during the fourth quarter to put the Tennessee Volunteers ahead 44-35 against the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-USA TODAY Sports /

Nov 6, 2021; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Tennessee Volunteers defensive back Theo Jackson (26) and defensive back Alontae Taylor (2) celebrate during the fourth quarter against the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-USA TODAY Sports /

Nov 6, 2021; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Tennessee Volunteers defensive back Kamal Hadden (13) and offensive lineman Javontez Spraggins (76) celebrate after the game against the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-USA TODAY Sports /

Nov 6, 2021; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Tennessee Volunteers wide receiver Velus Jones Jr. (1) celebrates with fans after the game against the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-USA TODAY Sports /

Nov 6, 2021; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Tennessee Volunteers wide receiver Jimmy Holiday (6) celebrates with the cheer team after the game against the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Prather-USA TODAY Sports /

Tennessee offensive lineman Javontez Spraggins (76) celebrates after an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021. Tennessee defeated Kentucky 45-42.Tennvskentucky1106 2096 /

Tennessee offensive lineman Cade Mays (68) points to fans while celebrating after an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021. Tennessee defeated Kentucky 45-42.Tennvskentucky1106 2877 /

Tennessee defensive lineman Matthew Butler (94) signals to Kentucky fans after an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021. Tennessee defeated Kentucky 45-42.Tennvskentucky1106 2892 /

Tennessee assistants celebrate during an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021. Tennessee defeated Kentucky 45-42.Tennvskentucky1106 2815 /

Players listen to the alma mater play after an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021. Tennessee defeated Kentucky 45-42.Tennvskentucky1106 2905 /

Tennessee fans wave goodbye to Kentucky fans as they leave the stadium after an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021. Tennessee defeated Kentucky 45-42.Tennvskentucky1106 2074 /

Tennessee defensive back Kamal Hadden (13) breaks up a pass to Kentucky during an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021. Tennessee defeated Kentucky 45-42.Tennvskentucky1106 2478 /

Tennessee running back Jaylen Wright (20) runs the ball during an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021. Tennessee defeated Kentucky 45-42.Tennvskentucky1106 2687 /

Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) congratulates Tennessee running back Jabari Small (2) on a touchdown during an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021. Tennessee defeated Kentucky 45-42.Tennvskentucky1106 2183 /

Tennessee linebacker Jeremy Banks (33) takes down a Kentucky player during an SEC football game between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021. Tennessee defeated Kentucky 45-42.Tennvskentucky1106 2621 /

Kentucky’s Will Levis throws for a touchdown against Tennessee.Nov. 6, 2012Kentucky Tennessee 22 /

Kentucky’s Will Levis gets a first down against Tennessee.Nov. 6, 2012Kentucky Tennessee 21 /

Kentucky’s Kavosiey Smoke runs for a first down against Tennessee.Nov. 6, 2012Kentucky Tennessee 15 /

Kentucky’s Wan’Dale Robinson scores a touchdown against Tennessee. Nov. 6, 2021Kentucky Tennessee 20 /

Kentucky’s Kavosiey Smoke runs for a first down against Tennessee.Nov. 6, 2012Kentucky Tennessee 17 /

Kentucky’s Izayah Cumming scores a touchdown against Tennessee’s Trevon Flowers.Nov. 6, 2012Kentucky Tennessee 19 /

Kentucky’s Izayah Cumming celebrates scoring against Tennessee.Nov. 6, 2012Kentucky Tennessee 18 /

Tennessee running back Dee Beckwith (21) celebrates after Tennessee defeated Kentucky 45-42 at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee defensive back Alontae Taylor (2) intercepts a pass intended for Kentucky wide receiver Wan’Dale Robinson (1) and runs the ball for a touchdown during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee running back Tiyon Evans (8) and Tennessee cheerleaders celebrate after Tennessee defeated Kentucky 45-42 at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee running back Jaylen Wright (20) is tackled by Kentucky defensive back Yusuf Corker (29) during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee Head Coach Josh Heupel walks off the field after defeating Kentucky 45-42 at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee Head Coach Josh Heupel during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee defensive back Kamal Hadden (13) is pushed by Kentucky wide receiver Josh Ali (6) during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee wide receiver JaVonta Payton (3) fumbles a pass as Kentucky defensive back Tyrell Ajian (23) defends during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Kentucky wide receiver Wan’Dale Robinson (1) scores a touchdown during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee fans celebrate with Tennessee offensive lineman Javontez Spraggins (76) after Tennessee defeated Kentucky 45-42 at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee defensive back Theo Jackson (26) and Tennessee defensive back Jaylen McCollough (22) defend during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee defensive lineman Ja’Quain Blakely (48) is defended against by Kentucky player during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee Head Coach Josh Heupel celebrates a touchdown by Tennessee defensive back Alontae Taylor (2) during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee wide receiver Velus Jones Jr. (1) celebrates with fans after Tennessee defeated Kentucky 45-42 at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

A Tennessee fan cheers in the final minute of the game during an SEC football game between Tennessee and Kentucky at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Tennessee offensive lineman Javontez Spraggins (76) waves the Power T flag in celebration after Tennessee defeated Kentucky 45-42 at Kroger Field in Lexington, Ky. on Saturday, Nov. 6, 2021.Kns Tennessee Kentucky Football /

Up next for the Vols will be a home game against the Georgia Bulldogs. That’s likely a loss, but with the South Alabama Jaguars and Vanderbilt Commodores at home to close out the season, ever falling below .500 would be a massive surprise. Those were considered circled wins for the program even at the beginning of the year.

That’s what makes this win over Kentucky so thrilling for everybody involved with Rocky Top. The goal was 6-6 this season, and at this point, that seems like a formality. Combine that with not self-imposing a bowl ban, and everybody in Big Orange Nation has reason to be thrilled about the state of the program right now.

Five takeaways from Vols' 45-42 win at Kentucky. dark. Next

As a result, this win is worth celebrating. Look back on the photos and what Tennessee football brought to its fans in the game. Alontae Taylor said the Vols aren’t supposed to lose to Kentucky, and he made sure that truth held.

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Tennessee football: Photo gallery from Vols’ 45-42 win at Kentucky

By Caleb Calhoun | Nov 6, 2021