Story perspectives

Tennessee Prepares for Syracuse Amid ACC Rivalry Challenges

9/17/2025

Summary

Story summary

Tennessee football will play Syracuse on September 23 in the Aflac Kickoff Game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta.
Under coach Josh Heupel, the Vols hold a 4-1 record against ACC teams, marking their fifth consecutive season facing an ACC opponent.
Tennessee recently lost to Georgia, missing a crucial field goal, extending Georgia's winning streak in the rivalry to nine.
Despite the loss, Tennessee rose to No. 6 in the 247Sports SEC poll, while Georgia regained the top position.
The Gamecocks dropped out of the top-25 polls and fell to No. 12 in the SEC rankings after recent defeats.

History

Historical Context

The Tennessee Volunteers football program, established in 1899, has a storied history, including six national championships, with their most recent title in 1998 under coach Phillip Fulmer. The team achieved a perfect 13-0 season that year, solidifying their legacy. Today, their matchups against ACC teams like Syracuse continue to shape their competitive landscape and playoff aspirations in college football.

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Story summary

Tennessee football will play Syracuse on September 23 in the Aflac Kickoff Game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta.
Under coach Josh Heupel, the Vols hold a 4-1 record against ACC teams, marking their fifth consecutive season facing an ACC opponent.
Tennessee recently lost to Georgia, missing a crucial field goal, extending Georgia's winning streak in the rivalry to nine.
Despite the loss, Tennessee rose to No. 6 in the 247Sports SEC poll, while Georgia regained the top position.
The Gamecocks dropped out of the top-25 polls and fell to No. 12 in the SEC rankings after recent defeats.

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