Big news for Tennessee Volunteers fans! The 2026 football season is shaping up to be an unforgettable one, and we've got the key dates you need to mark on your calendar. Head coach Josh Heupel is entering his sixth season at the helm, and the Vols will be navigating their third year in a 16-team SEC, now featuring powerhouse newcomers Oklahoma and Texas.

The action kicks off on September 5th at Neyland Stadium, where Tennessee will host Furman in the season opener. But the real highlights come later in the fall. The much-anticipated Checker Neyland game is set for September 26th against Texas—a marquee SEC showdown that promises an electric atmosphere in Knoxville. And for homecoming on November 7th, the Vols will welcome Kentucky, a game that always brings extra energy and tradition to Rocky Top.

Beyond these standout events, Tennessee's 2026 home slate includes Kennesaw State (Salute To Service game), Auburn (Champions Weekend), Alabama, and LSU. On the road, the Vols will face Georgia Tech, Arkansas, South Carolina, Texas A&M, and Vanderbilt. Starting in 2026, Tennessee's permanent SEC opponents will be Alabama, Kentucky, and Vanderbilt, with six rotating foes each year for the next four seasons.

Whether you're planning your game-day wardrobe for Checker Neyland or getting ready to tailgate for homecoming, these are the dates that will define the season. Stay tuned for more updates, and start prepping your orange and white gear now!