Tennessee Football Unveils 2025 Game Designations: Checker Neyland and Homecoming Dates Set
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Tennessee Athletics has officially announced the designations for the 2025 home football games at Neyland Stadium, highlighting key matchups and traditional celebrations that fans eagerly anticipate each season.
Checker Neyland Returns for Georgia Showdown
The iconic “Checker Neyland” game, presented by Pilot, is scheduled for September 13, when the Volunteers host the Georgia Bulldogs in their Southeastern Conference (SEC) home opener. This will mark the ninth edition of the fan-driven tradition, where attendees coordinate to create a checkerboard pattern throughout the stadium. The game will also serve as the National Football Foundation Hall of Fame On-Campus Salute for former Tennessee defensive lineman John Henderson, a two-time first-team All-American and 2000 Outland Trophy winner, who will be officially inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame later this year.
Homecoming and Salute to Service
The Volunteers’ Homecoming game is set for November 15 against New Mexico State. This matchup will also feature the “Salute to Service,” recognizing and honoring members of the military and veterans for their contributions and sacrifices.
Champions Weekend Celebrates Past Success
On October 11, when Tennessee faces Arkansas, the university will host its fourth annual “Champions Weekend,” presented by Pilot. This event honors past teams and individuals who have secured SEC and NCAA championships, celebrating their achievements and commemorating significant anniversaries.
Senior Day Closes Regular Season
Tennessee will conclude its regular-season home slate on November 29 against in-state rival Vanderbilt. This game will serve as “Senior Day,” providing an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of the team’s senior players in their final home appearance.
Season Outlook
The Volunteers are coming off a strong 2024 season, finishing with a 10–3 record and making their first College Football Playoff appearance. Under head coach Josh Heupel, Tennessee has achieved a 25-4 record at Neyland Stadium over the past four seasons, including notable victories over rivals Alabama and Florida.
With a sold-out season ticket allotment for the third consecutive year and an average attendance exceeding 101,000 fans, the 2025 season promises to be an exciting chapter in Tennessee football history.
For more information on game dates and ticket availability, fans are encouraged to visit the official Tennessee Athletics website.