Saturday Night Recap...

When I called Rob, the VolCon, to ask him where we would meet as we left the stadium, he simply answered his cell phone and said, "Well, at least you got to see an exciting game." Exciting indeed. Michael, David, and I were certainly treated to an exciting, if not nerve racking game, as the Tennessee Vols squeaked out a 31-30 victory over the US Air Force Academy. Confused by the variety and trickery of Air Force's triple option attack, Tennessee was unable to stop the Academy's offensive onslaught. Fortunately, Air Force's defense was as porous as its offense was effective, allowing the Volunteers to keep pace and carry a small lead into the fourth quarter. Late in the final minutes of the fourth, after recovering an onside kick, Air Force drove the ball 50 yards and scored the potential tying towndown. Opting to go for the win on the road with a two point conversion versus the tie with the extra point, Air Force attempted an option sweep that the Tennessee defense was finally able to stuff on the three yard line. Tennessee's victory was secure and we made our way out of the stadium relieved and a little embarrassed by the Vols defensive performance.


Now that you know how we ended the evening, let me tell you a little about how we got the day started. After arriving in Knoxville, David, Michael, Ryan, Rob, Angela, and I enjoyed some very good BBQ and a few early football games on TV. Afterward, we headed to the stadium to initiate David and Michael in the pre-game traditions of the Vol Nation. We found excellent positions to watch the VolWalk, a processional of all the Vol players and coaches as they head into the stadium. We then shifted over to the grassy hillside north of the stadium to watch the band march into view, playing "Rocky Top" for all to hear and cheer.


Finally we headed into the stadium and to our seats. On the way up the ramp to Section MM, I stopped by a Tennessee Traditions kiosk to grant Michael's only request of the night. He had to have a giant orange Tennessee #1 foam finger. That purchase turned out to make both of our nights as Michael cheered his beloved Vols on with his giant finger and I proudly sat along side and smiled. All and all, if you set aside the defensive struggle by the Vols, it was a wonderful night of football with friends and family. Next week, I will be heading back down to Knoxville for a traditional clash of titans as the Vols face off against the Florida Gators. Let us hope that next week's game is less close, but just as victorious for the Vols.