The University of Tennessee has announced an expansion of its football non‑conference slate, adding five contests that will stretch from the 2028 season through 2031. These games are not random fillers; they are deliberate rematches from the Josh Heupel era, a period in which the Vols have already secured victories over each of the prospective opponents.
Financial Terms
Under the agreements, Tennessee will pay $550,000 each to Austin Peay, Chattanooga and UT Martin, while a $1.3 million guarantee will be provided to Bowling Green for the scheduled engagements.
Key Matchups
Specifics of the arrangement include a September 16, 2028 showdown with Chattanooga at Neyland Stadium, a September 8, 2029 meeting with the same opponent, and a September 15, 2029 home game against Bowling Green. Tennessee will open the 2030 season against UT Martin on August 30, and the 2031 campaign will begin with a home game against Austin Peay on August 31.
These contests will also serve as opportunities to revisit historic rivalries, with the Vols holding winning records against all five teams. The schedule also includes future matchups against Tennessee State, Georgia Tech, Western Michigan, West Virginia and Central Michigan, further diversifying the non‑conference portfolio.