How Volunteer fans tailgate is one thing, but how some of them get to game days is quite another. UT’s “Vol Navy” boats are docked on the Tennessee River as far as the eye can see. That’s because Neyland Stadium is one of only three college stadiums in America located near a major body of water, in this case, the Tennessee River.
Add the catch of the day to some sweet Tennessee BBQ, and you’ve got a winning combo. But before the main course, get things going with Rocky Top Popcorn. Vol fans put their own spin on a traditional appetizer when they sprinkle in bacon, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, and buttermilk ranch dressing mix.
For dessert, another great hybrid the UT folks have discovered is a pineapple upside down carrot cake. Because orange must work its way onto the menu at some point.
“My favorite Tennessee tradition is the color coordination by stadium section to make the giant orange and white checkerboard,” says UT alumnus Nicole Haines. “One year they switched which sections were orange and which ones were white because they thought the old system was bringing the team bad luck. We’ll do anything to help our team win.”
Now that’s dedication, ladies and gentlemen. Neyland Stadium is a massive venue holding up to 102,455 fans, good for fifth largest in the country. Tennessee appears ready to finish what it started with potential improvements that would expand concourses, restrooms and improve concession areas.