It was a crisp fall day this past Saturday as my family and a couple of cousins went to watch the Bulldogs from the University of Georgia take on the Volunteers from the University of Tennessee. This was unique because these teams have traditionally played the first or second week of October. This was a nice change from tradition. Again, the fall colors created a a great backdrop for such a festive occasion.
A Quick Bite
Our journey started with a quick stop to Dunkin’ Donuts. An iced black coffee and several egg/bacon and cheese wraps were enough to hold us over until afternoon concessions. We served with warm hospitality and lots of smiles. The quick service was greatly appreciated.
The Journey Into Knoxville
Our drive into Knoxville was a nature lover’s dream as we saw lots of fall foliage and an abundance of wildlife. We ran into two traffic jams because of 2 separate accidents. We left the interstate so we could get to Neyland drive. The first few parking areas were nothing but orange and white tailgaters preparing for the afternoon main event. As we passed Neyland Stadium, the Vol Navy was now in perfect view. We noticed there weren’t quite as many participants with the Vol Navy and presumed it was because it was much cooler than normal. As we traveled further down Neyland Drive, we began looking for a place to park. It was on this side of the stadium that we saw an abundance of red from the UGA fans. This is the number one team in the nation. Their fans were loud and proud.
Pre-Game Activities
The cost to park was $25. We parked at a church so we know that the money was going to a good cause. We walked along the Tennessee River taking pictures and soaking up all of the friendly banter between fans. We worked our way around the stadium and found a good sunny spot to sit and listen to the pre-game show hosted by a local radio station. As some of our party rested, some of us went to take in more University of Tennessee sights and scenes. The Vol Village opened up at 12. This is an area for fans to meet cheerleaders and occasionally some famous alumni. There are lots of activities for everyone. We also went to the bookstore before the much anticipated Vol Walk, where the players and coaches walk their way to the stadium through the thousands of fans. After the Vol Walk, the gates opened to Neyland Stadium. My wife and I are huge fans of Petro’s Chili and Chips.
We couldn’t leave without getting a souvenir cup filled with Diet Coke. We also had a hot dog and a pretzel. The concessions kept us quite content as the band played before the players made their grand entry. Everyone around us sang the National Anthem with lots of pride. The Pride of the Southland Marching Band formed a giant T. As the band split, the Volunteers came running through the big T as fireworks were set off during their entry. What a spectacle to behold.
The Game
The first quarter saw both teams swapping scores. UGA began to show its dominance in the second quarter as they coasted to an easy 41-17 final score. During the timeouts, the University of Tennessee had several famous alumni make an appearance. Peyton Manning and Candace Parkercame home to cheer on their Volunteers.
Next Week
I’ll be taking a trip to Tuscaloosa. It’s not a game day situation, however, the walk around the University of Alabama was impressive. Until then…
Be blessed and safe travels!!!
