Tennessee offensive lineman RJ Perry (70) and Tennessee offensive lineman Jeremiah Crawford (53) after the Vols game against Ball State in Neyland Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Vols Ball State Bp
Unlike last year, Tennessee football managed to put on a show in its opener. The Vols flat-out dominated the Ball State Cardinals 59-10, and the fun started almost immediately with an interception on the first play of the game. UT is now 1-0, and fans have lots of reasons to believe in the program’s potential after what they saw in this one.
Thursday’s opener wasn’t just about the success on the field, though. The Vols entered a newly renovated Neyland Stadium that saw the return of the V-O-L-S letters, this time on either side of the scoreboard. There was also a new jumbotron in the north end zone, adding even more flare.
All of that made it a night to remember, similar to how in 1996 they beat the UNLV Runnin’ Rebels 62-3 to honor the expansion of the north end zone. Heupel and the Vols are off and running, and there’s no telling what’s in store for them after this one. Before looking ahead, though, let’s take a look at the photos from Tennessee football’s memorable victory.
Sep 1, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers head coach Josh Heupel during the Vol Walk before the game against Ball State at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 1, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers players and fans during the Vol Walk before the game against Ball State at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports
Scenes from the Vol Walk before TennesseeÕs game against Ball State in Neyland Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Vols Ball State Bp
The Pride of the Southland band during the Vol Walk before TennesseeÕs game against Ball State in Neyland Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Vols Ball State Bp
Fans cheer during the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s game against Ball State in Neyland Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Vols Ball State Bp
Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel and his children Jace and Hannah before Tennessee’s game against Ball State in Neyland Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Vols Ball State Bp
Scenes from the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s game against Ball State in Neyland Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Vols Ball State Bp
Vol fans cheer during the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s game against Ball State in Neyland Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Vols Ball State Bp
Young Vol fans cheer during the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s game against Ball State in Neyland Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Vols Ball State Bp
Vol fans cheer during the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s game against Ball State in Neyland Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Vols Ball State Bp
Scenes from the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s game against Ball State in Neyland Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Vols Ball State Bp
Young Vol fans cheer during the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s game against Ball State in Neyland Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Vols Ball State Bp
Fans wait for the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s game against Ball State in Neyland Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Vols Ball State Bp
Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel during the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s game against Ball State in Neyland Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Vols Ball State Bp
Vol fans cheer during the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s game against Ball State in Neyland Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Vols Ball State Bp
Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) walks in the Vol Walk ahead of the Tennessee football season opener against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
A Power T is worn in a Vol fan’s hair during the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s game against Ball State in Neyland Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Vols Ball State Bp
Tennessee fans wait for the Vol Walk at the General Neyland statue during the Vol Walk ahead of the Tennessee football season opener against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee fans arrive to the stadium ahead of the Tennessee football season opener against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee quarterback Tayven Jackson (3) during the Vol Walk ahead of the Tennessee football season opener against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
A Tennessee cheerleader cheers during the Vol Walk ahead of the Tennessee football season opener against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee fans arrive to the stadium ahead of the Tennessee football season opener against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
A young Tennessee fan waits for the Vol Walk ahead of the Tennessee football season opener against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee Head Coach Josh Heupel greets fans during the Vol Walk ahead of the Tennessee football season opener against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee Head Coach Josh Heupel greets fans during the Vol Walk ahead of the Tennessee football season opener against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee players walk in the Vol Walk ahead of the Tennessee football season opener against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
A Tennessee player greets fans during the Vol Walk ahead of the Tennessee football season opener against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee players walk in the Vol Walk ahead of the Tennessee football season opener against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
A Tennessee player takes a selfie at Vol Walk during the Tennessee vs Ball State football game in Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Utvsballstate 0476
Tennessee linebacker Elijah Herring (44) during the Vol Walk ahead of the Tennessee football season opener against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Smokey waves a UT flag at Vol Walk during the Tennessee vs Ball State football game in Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Utvsballstate 0055
Fans pose for a photo at Vol Walk during the Tennessee vs Ball State football game in Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Utvsballstate 0090
A Tennessee player walks at Vol Walk during the Tennessee vs Ball State football game in Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Utvsballstate 0432
A fan poses for a photo at Vol Walk during the Tennessee vs Ball State football game in Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Utvsballstate 0149
Davy Crockett waves the UT flag at Vol Walk during the Tennessee vs Ball State football game in Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Utvsballstate 0128
A Tennessee player walks at Vol Walk during the Tennessee vs Ball State football game in Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Utvsballstate 0465
Tennessee Quarterback Hendon Hooker walks at Vol Walk during the Tennessee vs Ball State football game in Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Utvsballstate 0549
The Volunteer waves the UT flag at Vol Walk during the Tennessee vs Ball State football game in Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Utvsballstate 0329
The Pride of the Southland Band plays before the Tennessee vs Ball State football game in Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Utvsballstate 0793
UT fans pose for a photo during the Tennessee vs Ball State football game in Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Utvsballstate 0609
A young UT fans cheers before the Tennessee vs Ball State football game in Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Utvsballstate 0951
Pride of the Southland Band crosses PED Bridge during the Tennessee vs Ball State football game in Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Utvsballstate 0632
The Pride of the Southland Band plays before marching into the stadium before the Tennessee vs Ball State football game in Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Utvsballstate 0687
A member of the Pride of the Southland Band plays before the Tennessee vs Ball State football game in Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Utvsballstate 0905
UT fans pose for a photo before the Tennessee vs Ball State football game in Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Utvsballstate 0708
A fan sports UT-themed socks and shoes during the Tennessee vs Ball State football game in Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Utvsballstate 0597
Sep 1, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; A Ball State Cardinals fan poses for a picture before the game against the Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports
Tennessee students pose for the camera before the Tennessee football season opener game against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Players warm up before the Tennessee football season opener game against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee players warm up before the Tennessee football season opener game against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee wide receiver Jack Jancek (22) warms up before the Tennessee football season opener game against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Ball State fans pose for the camera before the Tennessee football season opener game against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee linebacker Ben Bolton (57) and Tennessee linebacker Jeremy Banks (33) warm up before the Tennessee football season opener game against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee tight end Princeton Fant (88) before the Tennessee football season opener game against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Players warm up on the field before the Tennessee football season opener game against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee wide receiver Jalin Hyatt (11) warms up before the Tennessee football season opener game against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee Offensive Coordinator/Tight Ends coach Alex Golesh runs on the field before the Tennessee football season opener game against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee fans take a selfie beside the newly installed VOLS letters in the south end zone before the Tennessee football season opener game against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee students chat in the student section before the Tennessee football season opener game against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee defensive lineman Omari Thomas (21) warms up before the Tennessee football season opener game against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee fans find their seats before the Tennessee football season opener game against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee cheerleaders pose for photos before the Tennessee football season opener game against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee quarterback Tayven Jackson (3) chats with Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) while putting on their uniforms before the Tennessee football season opener game against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee defensive back Wesley Walker (13)before the Tennessee football season opener game against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) takes the field for warm ups before the Tennessee football season opener game against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Sep 1, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers wide receiver Jalin Hyatt (11) reacts after scoring a touchdown against the Ball State Cardinals during the first quarter at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 1, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers defensive back Tamarion McDonald (12) intercepts the ball against the Ball State Cardinals during the first quarter at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 1, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers wide receiver Jalin Hyatt (11) scores a touchdown against the Ball State Cardinals during the first quarter at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports
Tennessee defensive lineman Joshua Josephs (19) before the Vols’ game against Ball State in Neyland Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Vols Ball State Bp
Sep 1, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers defensive back Tamarion McDonald (12) intercepts the ball against the Ball State Cardinals during the first quarter at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 1, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) warms up before the game against Ball State at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports
Tennessee defensive lineman Joshua Josephs (19) before the Vols’ game against Ball State in Neyland Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Vols Ball State Bp
Sep 1, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Ball State Cardinals quarterback John Paddock (5) passes the ball during the first quarter against the Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports
Tennessee defensive back Lucien Brunetti (26) before the Vols’ game against Ball State in Neyland Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Vols Ball State Bp
Tennessee offensive lineman Cooper Mays (63) takes the field before the Tennessee football season opener game against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Sep 1, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Ball State Cardinals quarterback John Paddock (5) calls out a play against the Tennessee Volunteers during the first quarter at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports
A military flyover flies above the stadium as the national anthem is sung before the Tennessee football season opener game against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Sep 1, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) hands the ball off to running back Jabari Small (2) during the first quarter against the Ball State Cardinals at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 1, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) passes the ball against the Ball State Cardinals during the first quarter at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 1, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Ball State Cardinals head coach Mike Neu before the game against the Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 1, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers head coach Josh Heupel before the game against Ball State at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 1, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) passes the ball against the Ball State Cardinals during the first quarter at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports
Tennessee defensive back Jourdan Thomas (25) celebrates a play during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee wide receiver Cedric Tillman (4) is tackled by Ball State defenders during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Former Tennessee basketball players Admiral Schofield, right, and Kennedy Chandler, left, are honored during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) throws a pass during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee running back Jaylen Wright (20) runs the ball down the field during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Sunlight streams onto the Tennessee student section during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Players react after a play during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Ball State cornerback Nic Jones (1) is tackled by Tennessee defensive back Jourdan Thomas (25) during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee wide receiver Jalin Hyatt (11) leaps through the air for extra yardage during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee running back Jabari Small (2) runs the ball during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee wide receiver Ramel Keyton (80) is tackled by Ball State safety Malcolm Lee (2) during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee offensive lineman Darnell Wright (58) during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee running back Jabari Small (2) runs the ball during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee defensive back Tamarion McDonald (12) celebrates a play with Tennessee linebacker Elijah Herring (44) during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee defensive lineman James Pearce Jr. (27) eyes a pass by Ball State quarterback John Paddock (5)while defended by Ball State offensive lineman Corey Stewart (75) during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee running back Jabari Small (2) is tackled by Ball State safety Trenton Hatfield (8) during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee offensive lineman Cooper Mays (63) defends Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) against Ball State defensive lineman John Harris (97)during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee fans cheer in the stands during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) throws a pass during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Smokey sits on the sidelines during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Ball State cornerback Amechi Uzodinma II (3) looks to pass during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee linebacker Jeremy Banks (33) and Tennessee defensive back Kamal Hadden (5) defend against Ball State running back Carson Steele (33) during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee running back Jabari Small (2) runs the ball during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee Head Coach Josh Heupel congratulates Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) after a play during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee fans cheer in the stands during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) and Tennessee wide receiver Cedric Tillman (4) celebrate a play during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee wide receiver Ramel Keyton (80) controls the ball as Ball State safety Loren Strickland (23) defends during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) throws a pass during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
The VOLS letters are lit up during halftime during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee defensive back Wesley Walker (13)before the Tennessee football season opener game against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee running back Jabari Small (2) runs the ball during the Vols’ game against Ball State in Neyland Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Vols Ball State Bp
Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) during the Vols’ game against Ball State in Neyland Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Vols Ball State Bp
Tennessee defensive lineman Da’Jon Terry (95) celebrates a defensive play during the Vols’ game against Ball State in Neyland Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Vols Ball State Bp
Tennessee fans cheer during the Vols’ game against Ball State in Neyland Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Vols Ball State Bp
Tennessee running back Jabari Small (2) runs the ball during the Vols’ game against Ball State in Neyland Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Vols Ball State Bp
Tennessee Head Coach Josh Heupel during the Vols’ game against Ball State in Neyland Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Vols Ball State Bp
Tennessee Head Coach Josh Heupel with quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) during the VolsÕ game against Ball State in Neyland Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Vols Ball State Bp
Tennessee running back Jaylen Wright (20) celebrates with Tennessee running back Jabari Small (2) during the Vols’ game against Ball State in Neyland Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Vols Ball State Bp
Tennessee wide receiver Walker Merrill (19) makes a touchdown catch during the Vols’ game against Ball State in Neyland Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Vols Ball State Bp
Sep 1, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Ball State Cardinals tight end Tanner Koziol (88) scores a touchdown against the Tennessee Volunteers during the second half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports
Ball State running back Carson Steele (33) hurdles over Tennessee defensive back Warren Burrell (4) during the Tennessee vs Ball State football game in Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Utvsballstate 1030 2
Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) jumps into the end zone during the Tennessee vs Ball State football game in Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Utvsballstate 1422 1
Sep 1, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers mascot Smokey during the second half against the Ball State Cardinals at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 1, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Joe Milton III (7) during the second half against the Ball State Cardinals at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 1, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers wide receiver Jimmy Holiday (6) runs for a touchdown against the Ball State Cardinals during the second half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 1, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers wide receiver Jimmy Holiday (6) runs for a touchdown against the Ball State Cardinals during the second half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports
Ball State defensive lineman Justen Ramsey (0) holds back Tennessee offensive lineman Jackson Lampley (50) and Tennessee offensive lineman Parker Ball (65) during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee offensive lineman Cooper Mays (63) during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee running back Jabari Small (2) celebrates a touchdown during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee running back Dylan Sampson (24) runs the ball during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Ball State running back Vaughn Pemberton (27) is tackled by Tennessee defensive back Trevon Flowers (1) during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee quarterback Joe Milton III (7) hands the ball off to Tennessee running back Dylan Sampson (24) during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Ball State fans react to the game during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Ball State wide receiver Yo’Heinz Tyler (6) loses the ball while tackled by Tennessee defensive back Warren Burrell (4) during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee quarterback Joe Milton III (7) hands the ball off to Tennessee running back Dylan Sampson (24)during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee quarterback Joe Milton III (7) lines up a pass during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Ball State running back Vaughn Pemberton (27) is tackled by Tennessee defensive back Trevon Flowers (1) while running the ball during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee running back Dylan Sampson (24) is stopped by Ball State defenders on a run during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee defensive lineman Joshua Josephs (19) dances after the Vols game against Ball State in Neyland Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Vols Ball State Bp
Tennessee offensive lineman RJ Perry (70) and Tennessee offensive lineman Jeremiah Crawford (53) after the Vols game against Ball State in Neyland Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Vols Ball State Bp
Volunteers attempt to rip the ball out Ball State running back Rico Barfield’s (34) hands during the Tennessee vs Ball State football game in Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Utvsballstate 2933
Tennessee offensive lineman Gerald Mincey (54) celebrates after the Vols game against Ball State in Neyland Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Vols Ball State Bp
Volunteers gather and sing the alma mater after the Tennessee vs Ball State football game in Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Utvsballstate 2461
Ball State fans react to the game late in the fourth quarter during the Tennessee vs Ball State football game in Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Utvsballstate 2971
Ball State wide receiver Jayshon Jackson (12) attempts to reel in the catch during the Tennessee vs Ball State football game in Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Utvsballstate 2651
Young fans high five Tennessee offensive lineman Gerald Mincey (54) after the Tennessee vs Ball State football game in Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Utvsballstate 2606
A fan wears a French’s Classic Yellow shirt during the Tennessee vs Ball State football game in Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Utvsballstate 2849
Smokey during the Vols’ game against Ball State in Neyland Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Vols Ball State Bp
Sep 1, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers running back Dylan Sampson (24) is congratulated by teammates after scoring a touchdown against the Ball State Cardinals during the second half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports
Sunlight streams onto the Tennessee student section during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee fans take a selfie beside the newly installed VOLS letters in the south end zone before the Tennessee football season opener game against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee running back Jabari Small (2) runs the ball during the Vols’ game against Ball State in Neyland Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Vols Ball State Bp
Tennessee cheerleaders pose for photos before the Tennessee football season opener game against Ball State in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee wide receiver Cedric Tillman (4) tries to get his feet inbounds during the Vols’ game against Ball State in Neyland Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Vols Ball State Bp
The VOLS letters are lit up during halftime during football game between Tennessee and Ball State at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Utvbs0901
Tennessee offensive lineman Jerome Carvin (75) high fives fans during the Vols’ game against Ball State in Neyland Stadium on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022.Kns Vols Ball State Bp
Recent openers haven’t been all fun for Tennessee football. As we mentioned, they looked ugly in last year’s opener, and 2020 was the COVID-shortened year, so while they won a thriller at the South Carolina Gamecocks, it certainly wasn’t a win they could relax in. They lost their openers in 2019 and 2018 and needed overtime to win them in 2017 and 2016.
It’s safe to say that makes this the most fun opener Tennessee football was able to enjoy since they blew out the Bowling Green Falcons in 2015. That year ended up being the best season the Vols have enjoyed since the Phillip Fulmer era came to an end. Could that be an omen?
We can’t say any of that for sure just yet, but the Vols look to be in good shape. You couldn’t have asked for a better setting. Neyland Stadium was rocking, the offense was clicking, the defense was shockingly good, and now they are on to the next one. Up next will be a trip to the Pittsburgh Panthers, who won a thriller Thursday, on Saturday, Sept. 10.
