NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — For the first time ever the Tennessee-Florida rivalry game is going to take place in December. Pack your coats, Gator fans.
The SEC released its new, 10-game conference-only schedule Monday evening and the Vols’ slate is highlighted by the rivalry game on Dec. 5 in Knoxville. The game could potentially decide the SEC East with the Vols and Gators expected to battle Georgia for the crown.
Tennessee opens the delayed season Sept. 26 at South Carolina before hosting Missouri Oct. 3 and then traveling between the hedges to meet he Bulldogs Oct. 10.
The Vols then host Kentucky before a fourth Saturday in October showdown against Alabama on Rocky Top. The Vols have lost 13 straight meetings in the series.
November packs trips to Arkansas and Auburn around a home date with Texas A&M. Then comes the battle with in-state rival Vanderbilt Thanksgiving weekend before rounding out the schedule with the clash against Florida.
Jeremy Pruitt is entering his third season as Tennessee coach and has a more experienced team that is coming off an 8-5 season that included a Gator Bowl win over Indiana in January.
TENNESSEE SCHEDULE
Sept. 26: at South Carolina
Oct. 3: Missouri
Oct. 10: at Georgia
Oct. 17: Kentucky
Oct. 24: Alabama
Nov. 7: at Arkansas
Nov. 14: Texas A&M
Nov. 21: at Auburn
Nov. 28: at Vanderbilt
Dec. 5: Florida
