Knoxville, September 23, 2025
News Summary
The University of Tennessee has unveiled a new gameday plan aimed at improving the fan experience at Neyland Stadium. Key changes include earlier gate openings, new access routes for students, and enhanced security measures. The Pride of the Southland Band will also march to ease congestion. These updates come in response to delays experienced during previous home games and aim to streamline traffic management and increase overall enjoyment for fans.
Knoxville
The University of Tennessee has announced a new gameday plan aimed at enhancing the fan experience at Neyland Stadium. As part of this plan, gates will open for all fans two and a half hours before kickoff, starting at 10:15 a.m. ahead of the upcoming UAB game on September 20, 2025. These changes are a direct response to congestion and delays experienced during the first two home games of the season.
Key Changes to the Gameday Plan
- Gate Openings: Gate 20 will reopen for all fans, while students will still enter through the southeast corner at Gate 4.
- Access Information: Students are encouraged to walk down Lake Loudoun Blvd. and turn left onto Phillip Fulmer Way at the Pat Summitt statue for more straightforward access.
- Pride of the Southland Band: The band will march on Pat Head Summitt Street starting at 11:05 a.m. to ease congestion.
- Security Measures: An extended security perimeter will be established on the south end of the stadium with metal detectors located at the southeast corner near the Zeanah Engineering building.
Traffic and Crowd Management
To facilitate smoother traffic management, UT Athletics and campus officials are collaborating with local law enforcement. A focus will be placed on improving guidance for fans exiting parking garages following the game, addressing previous concerns regarding delays experienced during entry.
Tailgating and Parking Arrangements
Fans will enjoy free movement throughout the area until four hours before kickoff, which is designed to relieve congestion. Those parking in G10 will be permitted to transport coolers up Phillip Fulmer Way and Peyton Manning Pass until the four-hour mark.
Instructions for Game Day
After four hours before the game, fans are encouraged to head to G3/G4/G5/30. They can take the stairs or elevator to reach their chosen tailgate spot. In addition, new gate openings along the fence line on Phillip Fulmer Way will be available for post-game exit.
Background Context
The initiatives come after challenges faced by fans during the first two home games of the season against ETSU and Georgia, where significant delays and confusion at entry points created an unsatisfactory experience. The University is committed to making the necessary adjustments to improve the gameday atmosphere for all attendees.
FAQ Section
When do the gates at Neyland Stadium open for the upcoming UAB game?
Gates at Neyland Stadium will open for all fans two and a half hours before kickoff, starting at 10:15 a.m. for the upcoming UAB game on September 20, 2025.
What changes have been made regarding fan entrance?
Gate 20 will be reopened for all fans, while students will continue to enter through the southeast corner at Gate 4.
How will the Pride of the Southland Band participate in the game day activities?
The Pride of the Southland Band will begin its march on Pat Head Summitt Street at 11:05 a.m. to further manage congestion.
What security measures will be implemented?
An extended security perimeter will remain on the south end of the stadium, and fans will be required to use metal detectors at the southeast corner of Neyland Stadium, near the Zeanah Engineering building.
What are the tailgating rules for fans?
Fans parking in G10 will be allowed to move coolers up Phillip Fulmer Way and Peyton Manning Pass until four hours before kickoff.
Key Features of the New Gameday Plan
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Gate Opening Time | Gates will open for all fans 2.5 hours before kickoff at 10:15 a.m. |
| Student Entrance | Students will enter through the southeast corner at Gate 4. |
| Band Marching | The Pride of the Southland Band will march on Pat Head Summitt Street at 11:05 a.m. |
| Security Measures | Fans will use metal detectors at the southeast corner near the Zeanah Engineering building. |
| Traffic Management | Improved coordination with local law enforcement for efficient fan exit. |
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Additional Resources
- Tennessee Athletics Announces Football Gameday Updates
- KnoxNews: Tennessee Football Neyland Stadium Fan Congestion
- UT Daily Beacon: Tennessee Football Hosts UAB Live Updates
- Clarksville Online: Tennessee Vols Football Plays UAB
- Rocky Top Insider: Four Quick Takeaways Tennessee Football Routs UAB
- Wikipedia: Tennessee Volunteers Football
- Google Search: Tennessee Football Game Updates
- Encyclopedia Britannica: College Football
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