Latest news will test Peyton Manning's loyalty to Tennessee
When it comes to former Tennessee Vols who support the program, I'm not sure there's anyone that shows more passion than Peyton Manning. Whether it's heading to Omaha to support the Vols in the College World Series, or showing up in Athens for a game against a heavily favored Georgia Bulldogs squad, it seems like […]
When it comes to former Tennessee Vols who support the program, I'm not sure there's anyone that shows more passion than Peyton Manning.
Whether it's heading to Omaha to support the Vols in the College World Series, or showing up in Athens for a game against a heavily favored Georgia Bulldogs squad, it seems like Peyton is always supporting his alma mater.
Big news that was revealed on Wednesday, however, could test Peyton's loyalty to the Vols.
The 2024 SEC schedule was revealed on Wednesday evening and it features Tennessee taking on Oklahoma.
Earlier in the day, ESPN's Peter Burns reported that every SEC team will play Oklahoma and Texas in 2024 and 2025. Since the Vols are taking on the Sooners in 2024, it means that Tennessee will play Texas in 2025 in a battle of "the real UTs".
While I don't know Peyton's future plans, I'd be willing to bet quite a bit of cash that he'll be at that Tennessee/Texas game in 2025.
And it's not just because his Volunteers will be playing.
Former five-star quarterback Arch Manning, Peyton's nephew, will be a true freshman at Texas this fall. That means he'll be a junior in 2025 when the Longhorns face the Vols. And presumably, Arch and Texas will be chasing a national championship in 2025, as will Tennessee and former five-star quarterback Nico Iamaleava (who will also be a junior in 2025).
So who does Peyton root for?
It's obvious that Peyton bleeds Orange (the right shade of Orange). But family is family. And regardless of Peyton's love for the Vols, it's hard to imagine the Tennessee legend rooting against his brother Cooper's son.
I would bet that Peyton will try to stay out of the view of the cameras while supporting his alma mater and his nephew. And maybe he'll discreetly cheer for both sides. Knowing Peyton, he'll handle it with class. But it could still be a tough/awkward situation for Manning to be in.
Peyton Manning gives hilarious thoughts on coaching one day
Anytime the Tennessee Vols are going through a coaching search — which has been far too often over the last 14 years — there are inevitably fans who bring up Peyton Manning's name. The Vols legend is a beloved figure in East Tennessee. And he possesses one of the best football minds on the planet. […]
Featured image via Caitie McMekin/News Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK
