ESPN names the season-defining game for the Tennessee Vols and it’s one that will have a lot of eyes on it
The Tennessee Vols are facing a nine-game SEC schedule in 2026.
For the first time ever, the Tennessee Vols, along with the rest of the conference, will face a nine-game SEC schedule in 2026.
The Volunteers won’t play rivals Florida and Georgia in 2026 — though Tennessee will still play Vanderbilt and Alabama. Instead, the Vols will face some SEC opponents they don’t often see, including Auburn, Texas A&M, and LSU.
ESPN names the season-defining game for the Tennessee Vols
On Thursday, ESPN named the “season-defining game” for each Power-4 program.
ESPN went with the Vols’ matchup against the Texas Longhorns in Knoxville on September 26 as Tennessee’s season-defining game.
“For one, it’s the Vols’ SEC opener,” wrote ESPN’s Dave Wilson. “Second, it’s Texas’ first-ever trip to Knoxville, and fans are going to be riled up for “The REAL UT” debate. This is a classic “measuring stick” game. The Vols are breaking in a new quarterback with Joey Aguilar’s legal attempts to gain another year being denied, and the much-maligned defense will get a makeover with longtime DC Jim Knowles taking over. Taking on Texas’ retooled offense around Arch Manning will show if the defense is ready to help Tennessee bounce back.”
This game will be of particular interest to Vols legend Peyton Manning since his nephew, Arch, will be the starting quarterback for the Longhorns this fall.
“I haven’t gotten that far,” said Peyton last summer to The Sporting News’ Bill Bender when asked who he’ll pull for when Tennessee plays Texas. “I pull hard for my Tennessee Volunteers every single week, but I’ll be pulling hard for my nephew this year (2025).”
At SEC Media Days last July, Arch was asked if he’s ever had the “real UT” debate (between Tennessee and Texas) with Peyton.
“That’s funny,” said Arch. “He’s actually been to the facility (at Texas) a few times to tour, and he’s made some inside jokes. But I think he’s pulling for me, so we don’t really argue about that. But he’s definitely a legend at Tennessee, I’ll tell you that.”
“I think we’re pretty good at every sport,” added Arch when asked why Texas should be considered the real UT. “We won the [LEARFIELD Directors] cup this year again, so we’re firing on all cylinders.”
Peyton may change his mind about pulling for Arch after his nephew sent a subtle dig his way after being named the Citrus Bowl MVP in December.
“Nothing against the Citrus Bowl, but I think he (Peyton) played in it twice,” said Arch. “I don’t want to have to play in it twice.”
All kidding aside, I’m sure it’s going to be tough for Peyton to watch his alma mater play against his nephew.
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