The 2024 season promises to be a pivotal year for Tennessee Football as the Volunteers aim to build on recent success and compete in the increasingly competitive SEC. From marquee matchups to potential pitfalls, here are the five biggest schedule storylines that every Vols fan needs to know heading into the new season.
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1. Renewed Rivalries: Tennessee vs. Oklahoma
One of the most anticipated games of the season will be Tennessee’s clash with Oklahoma. With the Sooners officially joining the SEC in 2024, this matchup reignites a rivalry dating back to the 2014-2015 home-and-home series. The Vols will face Oklahoma in Norman, marking Tennessee’s first trip there since a hard-fought loss in 2014.
This game carries significant weight, as it will test Tennessee against one of the newest members of the SEC. A win here would provide a major boost to the Volunteers’ national profile and set the tone for their season.
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2. A Brutal Stretch in October
October will be a gauntlet for the Vols, with matchups against Alabama, Florida, and Texas A&M in consecutive weeks. The rivalry with Alabama, famously known as the “Third Saturday in October,” remains one of the toughest games on Tennessee’s schedule.
Florida, now under [insert coach’s name], will travel to Knoxville looking to avenge their recent losses. Texas A&M, led by its talented roster, will also pose a formidable challenge. How Tennessee navigates this stretch could determine their chances of competing for the SEC East title.
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3. The Return of Georgia to Neyland Stadium
Tennessee gets the benefit of hosting the two-time defending national champion Georgia Bulldogs in Knoxville. This game could be the defining moment of the Vols’ season, especially if both teams are in contention for the SEC East crown.
In recent years, Georgia has been the standard in the SEC, and Tennessee will need to deliver their best performance to challenge the Bulldogs. With a raucous Neyland Stadium crowd backing them, the Volunteers will have a chance to rewrite their narrative against the Dawgs.
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#### **4. Trap Games to Watch Out For**
Amid the high-profile matchups, Tennessee must avoid falling victim to trap games. Non-conference opponents like [insert team] and SEC opponents like Missouri or Kentucky could surprise the Vols if they are caught looking ahead to bigger games.
Missouri, in particular, has emerged as a potential spoiler in the SEC East, while Kentucky’s physical style of play always poses a challenge. These games are crucial for Tennessee to maintain momentum and avoid costly stumbles.
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#### **5. Breaking Through in the Postseason Chase**
With the College Football Playoff expanding to 12 teams in 2024, Tennessee has a realistic shot at earning a postseason berth if they can navigate their schedule effectively. However, every game will carry additional weight as the selection committee evaluates resumes based on strength of schedule, quality wins, and overall performance.
The Volunteers will need to secure key wins against top opponents like Georgia, Oklahoma, and Alabama while avoiding losses to mid-tier SEC teams. A strong finish to the season could position Tennessee as a top contender in the new playoff era.
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### Final Thoughts
The 2024 schedule offers Tennessee an exciting blend of challenges and opportunities. While the road to the SEC Championship and the College Football Playoff will be daunting, the Volunteers have the talent and coaching to compete at the highest level.
With marquee matchups, potential revenge games, and must-win clashes, Vols fans can expect a season filled with drama, intensity, and the hope of taking the program to new heights. Circle the dates and get ready for what could be a defining season in Tennessee Football history.
