We’ve got three months and some change before Tennessee hits the field at the newly renovated Neyland Stadium for year two under Josh Heupel. Quarterback Hendon Hooker returns, along with stud No. 1 receiver Cedrick Tillman, creating a level of expectation that we haven’t seen in a few years on Rocky Top.
Though it’s not even officially summer just yet, we now know the kickoff times and television designations for Tennessee’s first three games — all non-conference matchups.
Sept 1: Ball State at Neyland Stadium –7 p.m., SEC Network
For the second season in a row, Tennessee will open on a Thursday night against an opponent from the MAC.