Knoxville, Tennessee, October 14, 2025
News Summary
The Tennessee Volunteers defeated the Arkansas Razorbacks with a score of 34-31 in a thrilling college football matchup at Neyland Stadium. After trailing at halftime, Tennessee showcased their resilience by scoring 24 points in the second half. Key performances included running back DeSean Bishop with 146 rushing yards and Peyton Lewis, who scored two crucial touchdowns. In addition, the Volunteers’ defense forced three fumbles, solidifying their victory over Arkansas, who remains winless in SEC play.
Tennessee Volunteers Secure Thrilling 34-31 Victory Over Arkansas in College Football Showdown
Knoxville, Tennessee – The Tennessee Volunteers achieved an exciting 34-31 victory over the Arkansas Razorbacks on October 11, 2025, at Neyland Stadium. The win improved Tennessee’s record to 5-1, with a 2-1 mark in Southeastern Conference (SEC) play, while Arkansas fell to 2-4, remaining winless in SEC competition at 0-2.
The game was a display of resilience from Tennessee, which faced a late second-quarter deficit of 17-10 before rallying with an impressive second half performance. With 24 points scored after halftime, the Volunteers demonstrated their ability to respond under pressure.
DeSean Bishop led the charge for Tennessee, delivering the best performance of his career with 146 rushing yards on 14 carries, including a touchdown during the first half. However, after Bishop sustained an injury in the third quarter, running back Peyton Lewis stepped up, contributing two significant touchdowns to secure the victory for the Volunteers.
Lewis rushed for a 2-yard touchdown late in the third quarter to give Tennessee a 27-17 advantage. He later extended Tennessee’s lead to 34-17 with a 3-yard touchdown run early in the fourth quarter. Tennessee’s defense also played a crucial role in the victory, forcing and recovering three fumbles during the game, including one by defensive back Jadon Perlotte, who recovered a fumble forced by linebacker Joshua Josephs from Arkansas quarterback Taylen Green.
In the third quarter, Tennessee’s Max Gilbert made a 50-yard field goal, granting the Volunteers a 20-17 lead, while Arkansas kicker Scott Starzyk had earlier put the Razorbacks ahead with a 28-yard field goal in the first quarter. The defensive efforts of Tennessee were highlighted when Jordan Ross forced a fumble early in the game with a sack on Green, which added to the mounting struggles for Arkansas.
Arkansas made a late-game push, scoring two touchdowns to narrow the gap to 34-31; Green threw both touchdown passes for the Razorbacks. However, Tennessee’s defense held firm to secure the victory, preventing Arkansas from completing the comeback.
This victory was particularly significant for Tennessee as it came after last year’s upset loss to Arkansas, reinforcing the Volunteers’ determination to turn the tide in their favor this season. The kickoff for this event was set for 4:15 p.m. and was broadcast nationally on SEC Network, building excitement for the matchup between these two SEC rivals.
Key Game Insights
- Tennessee’s Record: The Volunteers improve to 5-1 (2-1 SEC).
- Arkansas’ Record: The Razorbacks fall to 2-4 (0-2 SEC).
- Notable Performers: DeSean Bishop – 146 rushing yards, 1 TD; Peyton Lewis – 2 TDs.
- Defensive Plays: Tennessee’s defense forced three fumbles during the game.
- Game’s Momentum: Tennessee scored 24 points in the second half after initially trailing.
Background Context
The rematch was especially anticipated following last year’s upset defeat, adding an extra layer of intensity to the encounter. This season, Tennessee aimed to leverage home-field advantage at Neyland Stadium to reassert their position among the top teams in the SEC.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What was the final score of the Tennessee vs. Arkansas game?
Tennessee defeated Arkansas 34-31 on October 11, 2025.
What were Tennessee’s overall records after the game?
The Volunteers improved their record to 5-1 (2-1 SEC).
Who were the standout players in the game?
Running back DeSean Bishop had 146 rushing yards and 1 touchdown, while Peyton Lewis scored 2 touchdowns.
Game Highlights Summary
| Feature | Tennessee Volunteers | Arkansas Razorbacks |
|---|---|---|
| Final Score | 34 | 31 |
| Tennessee Record | 5-1 (2-1 SEC) | 2-4 (0-2 SEC) |
| Rushing Leader | DeSean Bishop: 146 yards, 1 TD | None reported |
| Touchdowns | Peyton Lewis – 2 TDs | Taylen Green – 2 TD passes |
| Defensive Plays | 3 forced fumbles | None reported |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Alabama Set to Host Tennessee in Key SEC Clash
Tennessee Volunteers Football History Preserved by Collector
University of Tennessee Enhances Gameday Experience at Neyland Stadium
Warm Autumn Expected in Knoxville
University of Tennessee Aids Hurricane Katrina Evacuees
Own a Piece of Neyland Stadium as Auction Opens
University of Tennessee Engages in Partnership with adidas
Knoxville Area Urban League Hosts Annual Shoes for School Event
University of Tennessee Launches Exclusive Sports Network
United Airlines Expands Travel Options for Tennessee Fans
Additional Resources
- Knox News: Tennessee vs. Arkansas Live Updates
- Wikipedia: Tennessee Volunteers Football
- UT Sports: Postgame Notes Tennessee vs. Arkansas
- Google Search: Tennessee Football
- Knox News: Tennessee Football Mailbag
- Google Scholar: SEC Football
- Knox News: Josh Heupel on Tennessee Defense
- Encyclopedia Britannica: College Football
- Knox News: Tennessee vs. Kentucky Game Info
- Google News: Tennessee Volunteers
Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
The KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKnoxville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Knoxville, Knox County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Dogwood Arts Festival, Big Ears Festival, and Knoxville Asian Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership and United Way of Greater Knoxville, plus leading businesses in healthcare, education, and energy that power the local economy such as Covenant Health, University of Tennessee, and Tennessee Valley Authority. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
