Tennessee reveals "Checker Neyland" game against hated SEC rival

Fireworks are set off before an SEC football game between Tennessee and Ole Miss in a checkered Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Saturday, Oct. 16, 2021.

Kns Tennessee Ole Miss Football
Fireworks are set off before an SEC football game between Tennessee and Ole Miss in a checkered Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn. on Saturday, Oct. 16, 2021. Kns Tennessee Ole Miss Football | Calvin Mattheis/News Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK

The "Checker Neyland" game has become a tradition on Rocky Top, where Tennessee fans checker Neyland Stadium orange and white to create one of the most beautiful pictures in college football. 

Tennessee announced it will open its SEC schedule with its Checker Neyland game when it hosts Georgia on Rocky Top on September 13. 

This will be the ninth Checker Neyland game since the start of the new tradition. It originally began as a fan initiative and has grown to a full-embraced part of Tennessee's season, with the athletic department encouraging fans to participate and bring the energy to help the Vols on the field. 

Tennessee's record hasn't been great in Checker Neyland games, despite the added excitement from the fans. The Vols hold a 4-4 record with wins over Florida in 2016, 2022, and 2024, and Texas A&M in 2023. 

The Georgia game will also be when Tennessee recognizes John Henderson for his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame.

Tennessee has also announced its game against Arkansas on October 11 will be its Champions Weekend game, where the Vols will welcome past SEC and NCAA Champion teams and players to celebrate anniversaries throughout the game. 

Homecoming has also been officially announced for November 15 against New Mexico State. That game will also serve as the Vols' Salute to Service game, recognizing service members, veterans, and their families the week of Veterans Day. 

Finally, Senior Day was officially announced for the home finale against Vanderbilt on November 29. This will be an opportunity to recognize and honor Tennessee football's senior athletes ahead of the in-state rivalry game.