Get ready, Vols fans—2026 is shaping up to be a season for the ages at Neyland Stadium. Tennessee football has unveiled its marquee home game designations for the 2026 season, and the headliner is a showdown that will have the entire college football world watching.
On September 26, the Texas Longhorns will make their first-ever trip to Knoxville for the Checker Neyland game. And here's where it gets even better: Texas quarterback Arch Manning—yes, that Manning—will take the field against the Vols on the same hallowed ground where his uncle, legendary QB Peyton Manning, once dazzled. It's a family affair that promises to be an unforgettable orange-and-white spectacle.
Checker Neyland has become one of Tennessee's most beloved traditions, transforming the stadium into a sea of alternating orange and white sections. Fans can check their seat assignments and find out which color to wear at CheckerNeyland.com. This will be the sixth straight season the Vols have hosted a Checker Neyland game after a four-year hiatus, and the tenth overall. Tennessee holds a 4-5 record in these games, with three of those wins coming against Florida. Under head coach Josh Heupel, the Vols are 3-2 in Checker Neyland contests.
The 2026 season kicks off on September 5 against Furman, but the excitement doesn't stop there. Homecoming is set for November 7 when Kentucky comes to town—a matchup that has been all Vols under Heupel, who is 5-0 against the Wildcats. Champions Weekend will take place on October 3 against Auburn, honoring past SEC and NCAA title winners. Interestingly, Auburn is now coached by former Tennessee offensive coordinator Alex Golesh, and his safeties coach is Tim Banks, who was fired as UT's defensive coordinator in December.
The Salute to Service game, honoring military members, veterans, and their families, will be on September 19 against Kennesaw State, which is coached by former Vols running backs coach Jerry Mack. Finally, senior day will be celebrated on November 21 when LSU visits, led by former Tennessee head coach Lane Kiffin.
Whether you're planning to checkered the stadium in orange and white or just want to be part of the electric atmosphere, 2026 is a season you won't want to miss. Gear up now and make sure your wardrobe is ready for every game day tradition.