No. 8: Syracuse Orange vs Tennessee Volunteers on a neutral field at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Georgia.
Date: Saturday, August 30th
Time: 12:00 PM ET / 9:00 AM PT
Location of game: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Georgia TV/Streaming Broadcast: ABC
Quarterback Uncertainty is a reality for both teams: They are breaking in new quarterbacks, and for Tennessee, the offseason focal point was the transfer of now UCLA quarterback Nico Iamaleava to UCLA. Joey Aguilar, who transferred to UCLA from Appalachian State, then transferred to Tennessee, won the starting job for the Vols for the season opener. For Syracuse, former Notre Dame quarterback Steve Angeli was named the starter over redshirt sophomore Rickie Collins, but it is possible both could play in the season opener. The play of these two new QBs may be a deciding factor in the game's outcome.
Coaching Matchup to watch in this game: This is an important game for both head coaches. Josh Heupel led Tennessee to the College Football Playoffs last season and is looking to build on that success in his fourth season as the Vols coach. For Syracuse's Fran Brown, a win over an SEC top-tier team would be a major statement in his second year with the program. In his first year as Syracuse's head coach, he led the Orange to a 10-win season that included a Holiday Bowl victory. Both coaches are looking to build on last season's success, and winning the season opener will help them get off to a great start this season.
History Between Tennessee and Syracuse in football: Tennessee and Syracuse football history is limited, but Tennessee has been very successful in their few games they have played against one another.
All-Time Series Record between these two teams: Tennessee leads the all-time series 3-0.
Meetings between these two football programs: The teams have only played each other three times, with the most recent time being in 2001.
First time playing each other in 24 Years: This will be the first time these two teams have met since the 2001, making this a highly anticipated game in non-conference play.