It was a memorable afternoon for Tennessee football . The Vols did everything they could to force their fans to sweat it out, but they came away with a 38-33 win over the Florida Gators in the end to enter their bye week 4-0. At No. 11 in the AP Poll and No. 12 in the Coaches Poll, they have a great shot at the top 10 this week.
UT was able to do it in front of an electric audience and with College GameDay in attendance. It’s the Vols’ second win over a top 25 team on the year. Simply put, no matter how much of a scare it was at the end after they almost blew a 38-21 lead, Rocky Top gave its fans plenty to celebrate.
We don’t know how good Florida is, and frankly, it doesn’t really matter. Tennessee football desperately needed to exorcise those demons, and they were able to do it in this game in a big way. Let’s look back on one of the most memorable days enjoyed by UT in a long time with all the photos related to the game.
Avin Moore, 3, of Knoxville enjoys the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Tennessee football’s Vol Walk before the game against Florida on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Vol fans wait for the Vol Walk to start before Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Vol fans during the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Tennessee defensive lineman/linebacker Tyler Baron (9) during the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Tennessee head football coach Josh Heupel high fives fans during the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football A young Vol fan gator chomps during the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Vol fans take a selfie during the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Vol fans wait for the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Fan signs during the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Tennessee defensive lineman Omari Thomas (21) during the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football A young Florida Gators fan among Vol fans during the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Fans sing “Rocky Top” during the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Five star quarterback recruit Nico Iamaleava waves to Vol fans during the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Tennessee defensive lineman Bryson Eason (20) high fives fans during the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football A mustard bottle sign during the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football A Florida Gator fan laughs as he’s playfully taunted by Vol fans during the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Florida fans are heckled as they walk towards the stadium before the Vol Walk before a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 00007 Tennessee players greet fans during the Vol Walk before a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 00396 Florida fans are heckled as they walk towards the stadium before the Vol Walk before a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 00007 A Vols fan is seen during the Vol Walk before a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 00134 Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) greets fans during the Vol Walk before a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 00425 The Tennessee Volunteer waves the flag during the Vol Walk before a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 00170 Tennessee players greet fans during the Vol Walk before a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 00283 Tennessee head football coach Josh Heupel walks in the Vol Walk before a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 00192 Tennessee head football coach Josh Heupel throws thee ball to his son after the Vol Walk before a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 00331 The Pride of the Southland band enters during the Vol Walk before a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 00100 Vols fans greet Tennessee commit Nico Iamaleava who is seen on a balcony, during the Vol Walk before a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 00051 Tennessee linebacker Jeremy Banks (33) greets fans during the Vol Walk before a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 00294 Vols fans congregate during the Vol Walk before a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 00146 Tennessee fans cheering as the football team walks past during the Vol Walk before the game against Florida on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Tennessee football’s Vol Walk before the game against Florida on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Sep 24, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; A Tennessee Volunteers fan before the game against the Florida Gators at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Sep 24, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers fans before the game against the Florida Gators at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Sep 24, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) warms up before the game against the Florida Gators at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Sep 24, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Florida Gators quarterback Anthony Richardson (15) warms up before the game against the Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Tennessee wide receiver Kaleb Webb (84) warms up before the first half of a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 00497 Former Vols quarterback Josh Dobbs is seen on the sidelines before the first half of a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 00515 A Florida fan uses binoculars before the first half of a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 00484 Former Vols basketball player Grant Williams is seen on the sidelines before the first half of a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 00448 A Vols fan is seen before the first half of a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 00479 Fans checker Neyland before the first half of a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 00439 Tennessee offensive lineman Gerald Mincey (54) before Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Tennessee linebacker Elijah Herring (44) before Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Fans checker Neyland Stadium before Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Tennessee running back Jabari Small (2) before Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Fans checker Neyland Stadium before Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Sep 24, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) runs with the ball against the Florida Gators during the first quarter at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Sep 24, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; The Tennessee Volunteers run through the T before the game against the Florida Gators at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Sep 24, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) passes the ball against the Florida Gators during the first quarter at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports The Tennessee Volunteer waves the flag during the Vol Walk before a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 00170Syndication The Knoxville News Sentinel Sep 24, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) passes the ball against the Florida Gators during the first quarter at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Tennessee Runs Through the T in an orange and white checkered Neyland Stadium on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn to mark the start of the NCAA college football game against Florida in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Sep 24, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers place kicker Chase McGrath (40) kicks a field goal against the Florida Gators during the first quarter at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Sep 24, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Florida Gators head coach Billy Napier during the first quarter against the Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Tennessee fans celebrate after Tennessee made a defensive stop during the NCAA college football game against Florida on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Sep 24, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Florida Gators quarterback Anthony Richardson (15) runs the ball against the Tennessee Volunteers during the first quarter at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Sep 24, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Florida Gators quarterback Anthony Richardson (15) during the first quarter against the Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Tennessee placekicker Chase McGrath (40) celebrates with offensive lineman Dayne Davis (66) after scoring a field goal against Florida during the NCAA college football game on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Tennessee defensive back Christian Charles (14) takes down Florida wide receiver Justin Shorter (4) during an NCAA college football game on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Tennessee defensive back Jaylen McCollough (2) pulls down Florida wide receiver Xzavier Henderson (3) during an NCAA college football game between on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) scrambles with the ball during an NCAA college football game against Florida on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Tennessee wide receiver Ramel Keyton (80) is pushed out of bounds by Florida inside linebacker Amari Burney (2) during an NCAA college football game on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Tennessee defensive back Tamarion McDonald (12) tris to wrap up Florida wide receiver Xzavier Henderson (3during an NCAA college football game on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson (15) looks for an open receiver as Tennessee defensive lineman Omari Thomas (21) approaches during the NCAA college football game on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Tennessee defensive back Kamal Hadden(5) gets tangled up with Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson (15) during an NCAA college football game on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Tennessee defensive lineman Byron Young (6) forces Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson (15) out of bounds during an NCAA college football game on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) scrambles with the ball during the NCAA college football game against Florida on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Florida football coach Billy Napier during the NCAA college football game against Tennessee on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 From left, Grant Williams, Jaden Springer, and Jordan McRae at Neyland Stadium during an NCAA college football game between Tennessee and Florida on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Tennessee linemen from left, Elijah Simmons (51), Isaac Green (58). Joshua Josephs (19), and Javontez Spraggins (76) on the sidelines after a play during the NCAA college football game between against Florida on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 The Pride of the Southland marching band during the opening ceremonies of the NCAA college football game between Tennessee and Florida on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Tennessee linebacker Nick Humphrey (31) celebrating after making a defensive stop against Florida during an NCAA college football game on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Sterl the Pearl hype sup fans before the start of the NCAA college football game between Tennessee and Florida on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Pride of the Southland marching band Drum Major Julia Boylan during the opening ceremonies of the NCAA college football game between Tennessee and Florida on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Tennessee defensive back Christian Charles (14) tackes Florida wide receiver Xzavier Henderson (3) during an NCAA college football game on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) is pursed by Florida inside linebacker Ventrell Miller (51) during an NCAA college football game on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson (15) pulls back to throw as Tennessee defensive lineman Omari Thomas (21) approaches during the NCAA college football game on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Sep 24, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers wide receiver Bru McCoy (15) celebrates with tight end Jacob Warren (87) after scoring a touchdown against the Florida Gators during the first half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Sep 24, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers wide receiver Bru McCoy (15) catches a pass in the end zone for a touchdown against the Florida Gators during the first half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) is pressured by Florida outside linebacker Brenton Cox Jr. (1) during TennesseeÕs football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Florida tight end Keon Zipperer (9) celebrates a touchdown during TennesseeÕs football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Smokey dances in the end zone during TennesseeÕs football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson (15) celebrates a touchdown during TennesseeÕs football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Checker Neyland during TennesseeÕs football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Tennessee linebacker Jeremy Banks (33) stands over Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson (15) during TennesseeÕs football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Tennessee defensive back Kamal Hadden (5) tries to tackle Florida tight end Keon Zipperer (9) during TennesseeÕs football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson (15) stiff arms Tennessee defensive back Tamarion McDonald (12) during TennesseeÕs football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Tennessee wide receiver Jalin Hyatt (11) runs after catching a pass during TennesseeÕs football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Florida wide receiver Trent Whittemore (14) catches a pass during TennesseeÕs football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Florida tight end Keon Zipperer (9) celebrates a touchdown during TennesseeÕs football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Tennessee tight end Jacob Warren (87) watches a pass go by him during TennesseeÕs football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Tennessee wide receiver Bru McCoy (15) celebrates a touchdown with teammates during the first half of a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 02204 An official breaks up Tennessee and Florida players during the first half of a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 01558 Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) grabs his chest during the first half of a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 01859 Tennessee wide receiver Bru McCoy (15) stiff arms Florida corner back Devin Moore (28) during TennesseeÕs football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson (15) during TennesseeÕs football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Tennessee wide receiver Jalin Hyatt (11) catches a pass during the first half of a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 01653 Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) celebrates a touchdown during the first half of a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 02052Syndication The Knoxville News Sentinel Tennessee defensive back Montrell Bandy (80) is tackled during the first half of a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 01944 Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) celebrates a touchdown during the first half of a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 02052 Florida wide receiver Justin Shorter (4) makes a catch while defended by Tennessee defensive back De’Shawn Rucker (28)before the first half of a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 01761 Florida players dog pile a Tennessee player during the first half of a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 01686 Tennessee tight end Jacob Warren (87) looks at the ball after missing a pass on third down during the first half of a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 01719 Tennessee wide receiver Ramel Keyton (80) runs the ball during the first half of a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 01940 An official breaks up Tennessee and Florida players during the first half of a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 01558Syndication The Knoxville News Sentinel Tennessee head football coach Josh Heupel talks with officials while watching the Jumbotron replay as they review a play during an NCAA college football game against Florida on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Tennessee defensive lineman Joshua Josephs (19) grabs Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson (15) during an NCAA college football game on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) runs past Florida safety Kamari Wilson (5) during an NCAA college football game on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Tennessee defensive back Tamarion McDonald (12) tries to get to Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson (15) during the NCAA college football game on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Tennessee defensive lineman Joshua Josephs (19) tries to take down Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson (15) during an NCAA college football game on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Florida football coach Billy Napier yells at an official as they review a Tennessee touchdown during an NCAA college football game on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Tennessee defensive back Kamal Hadden (5) tries to take down Florida tight end Keon Zipperer (9) during an NCAA college football game on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Tennessee defensive back Kamal Hadden (5) pulls down Florida wide receiver Justin Shorter (4) during an NCAA college football game between Tennessee and Florida on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Tennessee Outside Linebackers/Special Teams Coordinator Mike Ekeler yells out in celebration after a play during an NCAA college football game against Florida on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) congratulates Tennessee wide receiver Bru McCoy (15) on his touchdown during the first half of a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 02243 Checker Neyland during TennesseeÕs football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) is pursed by Florida inside linebacker Ventrell Miller (51) during an NCAA college football game on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Tennessee running back Jabari Small (2) is down just inches from the endzone during an NCAA college football game against Florida on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Tennessee Outside Linebackers/Special Teams Coordinator Mike Ekeler shares his excitement with ESPN’s Lee Corso during the NCAA college football game against Florida on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Florida football coach Billy Napier yells at an official as they review a Tennessee touchdown during an NCAA college football game on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Sep 24, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers players celebrate with fans after the game against the Florida Gators at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Tennessee baseball head coach Tony Vitello shows off his t-shirt during the second half of a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022. Tennessee defeated Florida 38-33.Utvsflorida0924 03206 Tennessee fans dressed as mustard bottles cheer after Florida’s attempted two-point conversion is incomplete, during the second half of a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022. Tennessee defeated Florida 38-33.Utvsflorida0924 02517 Tennessee players celebrate after the second half of a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022. Tennessee defeated Florida 38-33.Utvsflorida0924 02640 Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) hugs a fan after the second half of a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022. Tennessee defeated Florida 38-33.Utvsflorida0924 02752 Tennessee offensive lineman RJ Perry (79) celebrates after the second half of a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022. Tennessee defeated Florida 38-33.Utvsflorida0924 02613 Sep 24, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers offensive lineman RJ Perry (70) does the gator chomp after the game against the Florida Gators at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Tennessee wide receiver Walker Merrill (19) reacts on the field during the second half of a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022. Tennessee defeated Florida 38-33.Utvsflorida0924 03022 Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson (15) tries to avoid tackles by Tennessee linebacker Jeremy Banks (33) and Tennessee defensive lineman Joshua Josephs (19) during Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Fans watch in disbelief during Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Tennessee defensive back Trevon Flowers (1) and Tennessee linebacker Elijah Herring (44) tackle Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson (15) during the second half of a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022. Tennessee defeated Florida 38-33.Utvsflorida0924 02886 Tennessee running back Jaylen Wright (20) runs into the end zone for a touchdown during the second half of a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022. Tennessee defeated Florida 38-33.Utvsflorida0924 03093 Tennessee defensive lineman Da’Jon Terry (95) tackles Florida quarterback Anthony Richardson (15) during the second half of a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022. Tennessee defeated Florida 38-33.Utvsflorida0924 02421 Tennessee running back Jaylen Wright (20) gator chomps to the crowd during the second half of a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022. Tennessee defeated Florida 38-33.Utvsflorida0924 03106 Tennessee running back Jabari Small (2) runs into the end zone during the second half of a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022. Tennessee defeated Florida 38-33.Utvsflorida0924 02804 Smokey waits to run across the end zone during Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Tennessee offensive lineman Gerald Mincey (54) and Florida tight end Keon Zipperer (9) after Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Tennessee tight end Jacob Warren (87) is tackled by Florida safety Rashad Torrence II (22) during Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Tennessee linebacker Jeremy Banks (33) and Tennessee defensive back Trevon Flowers (1) celebrate after Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Tennessee offensive lineman Jerome Carvin (75) celebrates after Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Fans cheer during Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Tennessee defensive back Trevon Flowers (1) does the gator chomp after Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Tennessee offensive lineman Gerald Mincey (54) celebrates after Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Tennessee tight end Miles Campbell (86) celebrates after Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Tennessee linebacker Elijah Herring (44) celebrates with a water gun after Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Fans react during Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Smokey body slams an inflatable gator during Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Five star quarterback Nico Iamaleava, center, celebrates after Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Tennessee wide receiver Jimmy Holiday (6) celebrates after Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Tennessee linebacker Aaron Beasley (24) celebrates after Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Tennessee defensive lineman Da’Jon Terry (95) celebrates after Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Smokey punches a stuffed gator during a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 02144 Florida football coach Billy Napier yells at an official as they review a Tennessee touchdown during an NCAA college football game on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Syndication The Knoxville News Sentinel Florida running back Nay’Quan Wright (5) during Tennessee’s football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) is tackled during the second half of a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022. Tennessee defeated Florida 38-33.Utvsflorida0924 02383 Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) congratulates Tennessee wide receiver Bru McCoy (15) on his touchdown during the first half of a game between the Tennessee Vols and Florida Gators, in Neyland Stadium, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Utvsflorida0924 02243 Checker Neyland during TennesseeÕs football game against Florida in Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022.Kns Ut Florida Football Bp Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker (5) is pursed by Florida inside linebacker Ventrell Miller (51) during an NCAA college football game on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Utvflorida0924 Florida football coach Billy Napier during the NCAA college football game against Tennessee on Saturday, September 24, 2022 in Knoxville, Tenn.Syndication The Knoxville News Sentinel Of course, things aren’t about to get any easier for Tennessee football. They have a bye to get Hendon Hooker and Cedric Tillman healthy along with a few key other players, but they come off of it with a visit to the LSU Tigers. LSU is playing a lot better than it looked in the opener under first-year head coach Brian Kelly right now.
As a result, the Vols need to be ready. However, winning their first SEC game, and it being a divisional win, is big enough. Given where this program has been in the past, Josh Heupel truly has it riding a wave right now, and that’s something to celebrate.
If Tennessee football does beat LSU, though, then there’s a great chance College GameDay will be on hand once again when the Alabama Crimson Tide come to down the next week. This may be just the beginning of what’s in store for them so watch out.