It’s a big day for former Tennessee Vols. A documentary on Tamika Catchings is set to be revealed on SEC Network, Candace Parker made another WNBA All-Star game, and Kennedy Chandler will find out where he goes with the NBA Draft set for tonight. Meanwhile, Aaron Willis, who transferred from UT, revealed he is joining the Houston Cougars.
Beyond those former players, though, our morning update on Rocky Top does involve lots of things happening with the program specifically. One of them involves the university officially designating home football games for this year, a huge part of the scheduling.
That’s not the only football news of the day, though. There’s more with that sport and involving former Vols, as one was interviewed by an outlet about the state of the program. Meanwhile, we have a story involving the overall athletic program with regard to NIL deals, so there is some major news happening. Let’s start with the scheduling.
Official designations for 2022 home football games announced – UTSports
The 2022 Tennessee Vols football schedule includes seven home games, with their opener against the Ball State Cardinals set for a Thursday night on SEC Network. Other home designations have been set as well, including homecoming, which will be when they host the UT Martin Skyhawks on Oct. 22, which will be a week after they face the Alabama Crimson Tide.
"The annual Salute to Service game, which honors our nation’s service members, veterans and their families, is slated for Nov. 12 when Missouri visits Neyland Stadium. The home finale against the Tigers will also serve as Senior Day."
NIL totals for Vols revealed – Matt Ray, SI.com
On Wednesday, the total amount of money secured via NIL deals for Tennessee Vols athletes by Spyre Sports was revealed by The Volunteer Club on Twitter. Spyre partnered with UT to lead the school’s Name Image and Likeness initiative, and 126 athletes received a total of $3.6 million.
"The Volunteer Club, mentioned in the post above from Spyre, is an opportunity for even the casual fan to participate in the NIL efforts. It offers multiple levels of membership, which includes perks and access to events, and it has been something that Spyre believes can be a difference in how successful they are at Tennessee."
Larry Seivers speaks on Vols – Ken Lay, VolsWire.com
Former Tennessee football wide receiver Larry Seivers, who was a two-time All-American in the 1970s, recently spoke about his involvement with UT athletics. Seivers is on the 2023 College Football Hall of Fame ballot.
"The former Vol recorded 117 receptions, 1,924 receiving yards and eight touchdowns during his Tennessee career.Seivers told Vols Wire he still follows the Vols from afar."