Tennessee will welcome Furman University to Neyland Stadium this fall, renewing a series that dates back to the early 1940s and has produced some of the program’s most memorable early victories.
Game Details
The matchup is set for Saturday, September 5, 2026, with kickoff scheduled for 3:30 p.m. Eastern Time. Fans can watch the contest live on SEC Network+, which will provide exclusive coverage of the non‑conference showdown.
A Brief History
The two schools first met on September 20, 1941, when John Barnhill, in his inaugural season as Tennessee’s head coach, led the Vols to a 32‑6 triumph. Barnhill had succeeded Robert Neyland, who was called into military service that same year.
A month later, on October 24, 1942, Furman returned to Knoxville and suffered a 52‑7 defeat, marking Barnhill’s second season and Tennessee’s 9‑1‑1 finish. The Vols have maintained a 2‑0 edge in the all‑time series, a record that adds a layer of intrigue to the upcoming encounter.
What’s at Stake
Beyond the win‑loss column, the game offers both programs a chance to showcase progress. Tennessee aims to extend its historic dominance, while Furman hopes to demonstrate the resilience of its current squad and add a new chapter to a rivalry that has endured for more than eight decades.
The contest promises a nostalgic glimpse into college football’s past, even as both teams prepare for the modern era of the sport, making it a must‑watch event for fans of the game.