On September 5, Furman University traveled to Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tennessee, to take on the No. 18 Volunteers in the second game of its 2026 football season.
The Paladins started strong, building a 14‑0 lead by halftime, but a series of dropped balls and defensive lapses allowed Tennessee to dominate the second half, resulting in a 56‑9 final score.
Coach’s Assessment
Head coach Clay Hendrix reflected on the loss, noting that the team’s defensive struggles and missed opportunities, particularly after the break, cost them the game.
Jake Garcia, a key contributor on the roster, was among those trying to spark the offense, yet the Paladins were unable to translate those efforts into points.
While the outcome was disappointing, teammates and staff highlighted the squad’s resilience and competitive spirit, viewing the setback as a learning experience as the season progresses.