RECORD BREAKING ENROLLMENT
Despite a decreased acceptance rate, UT sets institutional record for student population, retention rates as fall 2024 enrollment numbers are finalized.
DAILY BEACON STAFF AND POLICY INFORMATION
EDITORIAL
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Bella Hughes
MANAGING EDITOR: Emma Love
COPY CHIEF: Caden Dyer
NEWS EDITOR: Shelby Wright
ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR: Emma Caskill
SPORTS EDITOR: Caleb Jarreau
ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR: Trevor McGee
OPINIONS EDITOR: Ansley Graves
PHOTO EDITOR: Erick Gomez-Villeda
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ENGAGEMENT EDITOR: Sarah Portanka
COVER DESIGN: Ciara Chauncey
PHOTO CREDIT: File / The Daily Beacon
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Letter from the Editor: Navigating a presidential election through the lens of a college newsroom
ADVERTISING PRODUCTION ARTISTS: Donatella Thomas
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BELLA HUGHES Editor-in-Chief
What does news mean to you? Now that we are less than 50 days away from the presidential election, news plays a prominent role in our lives. Whether you are an avid subscriber to news outlets or you let TikTok dictate your news consumption, there is a constant in both mediums: information.
Information is more accessible than ever, and with news at our fingertips comes information’s antagonist — misinformation.
Misinformation disguises itself as factual to an impressionable eye and is then construed to be seen as the truth. The role of journalist then enters to report accurate information to mass audiences.
As a college paper that predominantly caters to a student audience, it’s difficult to navigate where we fit into the equation. After studying Beacon archives and researching other college newspapers in the SEC, I’ve realized that college papers are integral in covering a national election.
Young voters have a privilege and a power to determine the outcome of the election. For many undergrad students, this is our first time voting in a national election. In our rookie year, it’s important for us to use the resources we have available and participate in democracy.
I urge you all to move beyond an article’s surface level. Research terms you don’t know and policies that are unfamiliar. There is power in a singular vote, and significance in an informed decision. Cross reference news outlets — even ours, we are learning too.
As an editor for a college paper, I recognize the urgency of both reporting and information. Admittedly, I am nervous to report on the election, but that shouldn’t stop us from pursuing good, factual work.
As a college paper, we are somewhere between being a legitimate source — and maybe the primary source for students’ local news — and a teaching outlet for student journalists. Two things can be true at once, but first and foremost, we are legit.
After weeks of brainstorming what our election coverage could look like, one thing remains constant in my mind: Journalism and the relationship readers have with content is democratic of its own right.
One of the many beautiful things about working in college news is that we produce news for students by students. Our editors and reporters understand what it means to filter through TikTok edits, marketing tactics and
live tweets during a debate the same way you do.
Generation Z’s specific media lens has become a key driver in news coverage. Major outlets are trying to get our attention through punchy headlines and Instagram graphics — I’ve gone down the rabbit hole myself.
As students, we are eager, confused and hungry for the truth. That’s where we come in as student journalists.
We have a dual perspective of “brat summer” strategies and real-deal research on economic policy because for the first time ever, our vote actually holds weight and these issues impact our life on a greater scale.
Over the next two months, it is my hope for our newsroom to strengthen the relationship you have as a reader and a voter.
Access to information is a privilege and an obstacle. We want to hear from you and the issues that matter most to you as a student, first time voter, out-of-state resident and human. We are here to translate the major media outlets’ narrative and create something that is digestible for first time voters — after all, we are in this together.
The editor inbox is open. I want to hear what motivates you as a voter, hesitations or ques-
tions you have and how you are navigating the news landscape. Let’s lean on each other as we make our way through election season.
I encourage you all to exercise your democratic right by one, registering to vote before Oct. 7, and two, participating in local journalism. Reading, doing an interview with a student reporter or submitting news tips supports our civic duty.
Vols Vote initiates hosted by the Howard Baker Center bring democratic initiates closer to you. Take advantage of these resources as they are specifically programmed to take the hesitation and confusion out of election season.
As our newsroom continues to brainstorm ways to cover the election in a way that motivates students to vote, become civically engaged on a micro level and develop the skills to find validity in sources, I encourage you, the reader, to go beyond the first article you come across and dig a little deeper. Tap into your curiosities, distastes and speculations to find the answer that brings truth to light. At the end of the day, it’s about what news means to you.
Reach Editor-in-Chief Bella Hughes at editorinchief@utkdailybeacon.com.
Students checking in to a voter registration event at the 21st Mortgage Plaza on Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Ericksen Gomez-Villeda / The Daily Beacon
Covering the presidential debate: Here’s what UT students are concerned about
LOUIE PERRY Contributor
How can both former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris energize young Americans? The answer — focus on the issues that 18 to 29-year-olds actually care about, according to students.
On Tuesday, Sept. 10, many UT students eagerly tuned in from across campus to listen to the first presidential debate between Trump and Harris. The last few months saw the unprecedented events that led to President Biden stepping away from the nomination, allowing the vice president to take the stage.
This debate was about policy — a 90-minute discussion juxtaposing both candidates’ views on inflation to foreign policy issues. Going into the debate, The New York Times stated in a recent poll that only 18% of Americans had not made up their mind on their preferred choice, leaving the bulk of the vote already decided.
William Lyons, an experienced election and government expert in the Knoxville area, spoke at the Howard H. Baker School of Public Policy and Affairs on Tuesday evening at a pre-debate discussion hosted by the Baker School Student Association on this issue.
“It’s a debate about reaching the small number of undecided voters and then the other element is their supporters, those that are not motivated enough to turn out and vote. … Motivating those on the fence is going to be very important,” Lyons said.
In the 2022 midterms, America saw one of the highest voter turnouts for youth voters aged 18-29, with around 23% going to the ballot box. However, even with high emotions through this election, time will tell if Harris and Trump can actually mobilize that base and get them to turn out — especially when it regards college and graduate students.
What can mobilize the base? What will energize these often overlooked young voters? Sticking and discussing policy that matters to young Americans seemed to be the consensus at the Baker School viewing party.
Jenna Hudgins, a second-year master’s in public policy, came in with a heavy focus on the economy.
“I’m looking forward to seeing how both candidates are going to face higher inflation levels and how those are affecting middle-class citizens, as well as how those price gouging laws that Kamala Harris has been talking about are actually going to play a role,” Hudgins said.
She was not alone in that question.
Maggie Lingle, a second-year graduate student studying public administration at
the Baker School came to the viewing with a question on where candidates stood on affordable housing policy, and what specific things each candidate would do.
This is an issue that hits home for many UT students who face a lack of housing on campus as well as high-priced off-campus living. In a discussion hosted at the Baker School last September, a panel discussed the crisis here in Knoxville highlighting
“I’d have liked to have seen a bit more clear-cut answers to the questions. These broad answers were important, but when you’re being broad you also need to have some specific answers and I didn’t see that tonight.”
Hayden Springer Freshman Political Science Major
the fact that there’s been a nearly 50% increase in rent costs in the last few years, due to the high demand from students.
New developments are being built on and off campus to address the issue, but it’s something hitting close to home for many UT students. However, it’s an issue on an even broader scale. A Harvard University research group found that Americans are “cost-burned” by their renting prices, meaning they’re spending close to 30% of their income on housing alone.
Harris did highlight the issue.
“We know that we have a shortage of homes and housing, and the cost of housing is too expensive for far too many people,” Harris said.
It wasn’t clear if there were specific plans to deal with affordable housing conflicts, other than clumping it together with a tax cut solution which seemed to be the answer for many economic issues listed throughout the night.
Trump did not mention affordable housing specifically during the debate, but cited his support for international tariffs on imported goods and tax cuts to help Americans in economic relief during high inflationary living. While mentioning these policies, he repeatedly discussed his belief in his administration’s strong economy and low inflation.
Besides the economy and rising housing prices, students questioned abortion poli-
cies from both sides.
Sydney Myers, a freshman double majoring in psychology and political science, said, “I’m looking for Roe v. Wade.”
She wanted to hear clear answers on where each candidate stood on abortion issues as there seemed to be some ambiguity of views over the last few weeks.
“Every legal scholar, every Democrat, every Republican, liberal, conservative they all wanted this issue to be brought back to the states where the people could vote. And that’s what happened,” Trump said in regards to his involvement with the overturning of Roe v. Wade.
He went on to highlight his support for exceptions in cases of rape, incest and for the life of the mother. While being pressed about his recent views flip-flopping on the Florida abortion measure that would ban abortion after six weeks, which he first said he supported and changed his tune on the next day, it still wasn’t clear if he supported or didn’t support the measure.
However, he did highlight his disapproval of late-term abortions, and what seemed to echo throughout this segment was his vocal support for IVF treatment, something both the former president and vice president agree on.
“I absolutely support reinstating the protections of Roe v. Wade,” Harris said.
She highlighted the support for na-
tional abortion legislation. However, both candidates seemed to spar about whether Harris would support late-term abortions and whether Trump would sign a national abortion ban.
Both danced around the question, with Trump saying the bill would never come to his desk as there wouldn’t be enough votes, also emphasizing his view that abortion isn’t a federal issue, but the case of Harris and late-term abortion was left unclear.
As the debate concluded with closing statements, many students left feeling disappointed.
“I think a lot of important questions were asked by the moderators,” Hayden Springer, a freshman political science major said. “I’d have liked to have seen a bit more clear-cut answers to the questions. These broad answers were important, but when you’re being broad you also need to have some specific answers and I didn’t see that tonight.”
As of now, there is not a second presidential debate scheduled, but Oct. 1 will highlight the policy differences of vice presidential candidates Senator J.D. Vance of Ohio and Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota during the single vice presidential debate hosted in New York City on the CBS network.
The Howard H. Baker School of Public Policy and Affairs Student Association hosted a viewing party and pre-debate discussion Tuesday night to discuss all things elections, current issues and voting. Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2024. Louie Perry / Contributor
Where we were, where we are headed
A look at record high number of enrollment rates, how UT plans to maintain university growth
BELLA HUGHES Editor-in-Chief
Fall 2024 enrollment numbers are finalized, and UT has set a new institutional record after receiving a record number of retention rates for the second consecutive year.
According to Chancellor Donde Plowman, the university has been “on the rise” for several years, and enrollment rates are no exception. Here’s how several avenues of campus expansion have revolutionized UT grounds as we know them.
A look at enrollment
The 14-day enrollment period has come to a close, and the final student population numbers have been set for the fall semester. Despite the acceptance rate decreasing below 35% in March, UT’s popularity amongst undergraduate applicants hadn’t diminished. The admissions office received 59,764 appli-
cations — an increase of 18.4% overall.
Of the 59,764 applications, 13,515 came from in-state residents — an 11.1% increase from last year. This comes after the induction of the guaranteed admissions program — a program that grants admission to the top 10% of Tennessee high school students, or those who have a 4.0 GPA or higher.
This was put in place to keep students from flagship high schools across the state in, thus investing in Tennessee’s “best and brightest,”according to UT System President Randy Boyd. As a result, the class of 2028 is highly represented by in-state students, making up 4,348 occupants of the 6,604 class size — a 13% increase from last year.
Retention and graduation rates reach new heights
UT now holds a total student population of 38,728 — a 6.7% increase from last year and an institutional record to date. Retention rates are a key driving force in the inflation
of the student body. Retention hit a new high with 91.9% of first-year students returning to campus for sophomore year.
In addition to retention rates, graduation rates have found success of their own, growing for the fourth consecutive year. Seventyfour percent of students are graduating in six years and 62% of students are graduating in four years.
Under Chancellor Plowman’s leadership, retention rates have grown more than five percentage points from former 86.5%, from when she first joined UT, whereas four-year graduation rates have grown nearly 10 percentage points from the former 53.8%.
Plowman’s strategic plan
In an interview with The Daily Beacon in September 2022, Plowman mentioned the very intentional, strategic plan that she and the admissions team had been working on, stating that the strategic plan was the reason for increasing retention rates.
“We have had a very intentional strategic enrollment strategy,” Plowman said in the 2022 interview. “Some of that started before I got here, investing in out-of-state recruiters, for example. But we also have recruiters all over the state of Tennessee.”
This was just a preliminary phase of the university growth plan which has expanded to the admission and retention rates we know today.
Student success increases efforts Student success initiatives have grown in tandem with the student population. The CliftonStrengths assessment is introduced to every first-year student as a way of navigating individual motivators and key factors for personal success. Students are assigned a Vol Success Team — a group of faculty trained in career development, academic coaching and other aspects of student enrichment.
These programs are designed to maintain student motivation and make undergraduates feel connected to campus early. This month, Amber Williams, the vice president of student success, introduced Student Success Express — an extension of success programs and initiatives to put CliftonStrengths to practice.
Plowman credits these initiatives to the university’s record growth.
“The hands-on programming and community building efforts that we have put into place over the last several years are paying off and helping ensure our students have the confidence and the resources they need to thrive here on Rocky Top,” Plowman said in a news release. “I’m incredibly proud of the way everyone on campus, including faculty, staff and administration, take ownership in the success of our students.”
Keeping up with the count
To reconcile rapid growth, several construction plans were introduced in the past two years. New residence halls, classroom facilities, an entertainment center and new departmental buildings are set to accommodate the abundance of people on campus.
Two new student residence halls — one on Caledonia Avenue and the other on Andy Holt Avenue — were announced in October 2023 and are expected to open in fall 2025. The hall on Andy Holt Avenue is set to house 780 beds, and the residence on Caledonia Avenue is projected to be a two-building complex with 1,160 beds.
Along with housing updates, academic buildings are underway. The new nursing building is on track to open in fall 2025 and will feature classrooms, labs and simulator areas that emulate patient hospital care.
Construction on the Jenny Boyd Carousel Theatre and the Haslam Business Building are in the early stages of development, with tentative opening dates for fall 2026 and 2027.
Campus development is crucial in maintaining the growth of the university and sustaining the overall strategic vision and plan of the institution.
“These campus investments are critical pieces to enabling the university’s mission to prepare students for the workforce and meet the needs of Tennessee,” said Senior Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration Paul Byrnes in a news release. “Meeting the physical needs of our campus with innovative spaces for learning, experiencing campus life and supporting our students sets them up for success.”
GIVE Volunteers offers students a chance to ‘travel with a purpose,’ help communities in need
The University of Tennessee is known for being the Volunteers, and with that title strives to create opportunities for students to get involved with the community and carry out what being a Vol truly means. GIVE Volunteers is just one of many organizations that partners with the university to provide students with more information about various volunteer opportunities.
GIVE Volunteers is an organization that allows students to travel and work on sustainable service projects around the United States and throughout the world. They focus on discovering what resources are available in the city they are working with to develop projects based on accessibility and longevity.
Currently, the organization has projects in seven countries, including the United States, Thailand, Costa Rica, Laos and more.
“GIVE was founded from a people perspective,” Julia Nitti, a volunteer coordinator and the customer support specialist at GIVE Volunteers, said.
This means that they want to create the best projects for the people living in the communities they focus on. They do not create
many projects because the organization’s mission would be overlooked when attempting to fulfill so many obligations.
Some of their main focuses throughout these projects are English education, sustainable agriculture projects, wildlife conservation and traveling abroad. When students volunteer for these trips, they work alongside the community and help them where needed, rather than taking over a project and minimizing community support.
“This organization is a great way for students to give back to the community while supporting sustainable practices,” Kate
Gourley, a sophomore natural resource and environmental economics student, said.
A representative from GIVE Volunteers was on campus last week to provide more information to students about the organization and answer any questions they might have, such as the cost and funding for students to participate. This also allowed students to learn more about each of the programs that they offer.
Students are responsible for paying the total trip cost, which may seem intense. However, this is an all-inclusive cost for the entire trip. The cost includes ground transportation
to and from the airport and any activities planned, all accommodations, three meals a day, clean water if it is an international trip, all adventure activities, staff salaries and volunteering materials.
Adventure activities include a safari in Tanzania, a zip line in Laos or snorkeling in Hawaii. The organization gives its volunteers the best and most unforgettable experience, especially since, for some students it may be their first time visiting the chosen country or traveling internationally.
If a student is interested in learning more about each program or is looking to apply for a trip, visit their website. Once an application is submitted, the student will find out within three to five days if they have been accepted. Then, they can begin to prepare for the trip of a lifetime.
If there are any further questions about applying or any of the programs, students can text or call (206) 973-7991 or email GIVE Volunteers with any questions that may arise. This is an opportunity for students to get involved with a community worldwide and use their skills to help people of other countries or areas in the United States.
M INE ISSUE III
L A U N C H P A R T Y
Septemper 19th 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm
JAXSON BERG
Contributor
A group photo of GIVE Volunteers during a trip to Costa Rica. Courtesy of GIVE Volunteers
New chemistry building slated to begin construction this winter
JAXSON BERG Contributor
It is no secret that the University of Tennessee has been investing immense time and money into various construction projects across campus. With new residence halls and academic buildings under construction, some are left with questions about what is coming next. The university plans to execute a new chemistry building in the next few years.
The university is working on securing funding for the nearly $200 million project it is developing. It has received permission to self-fund the planning, and the design work is currently underway.
The new building will have nearly 163,000 square feet of new classrooms, offices and workspaces. It will also hold more than 500 students, a significant upgrade from the current chemistry department’s home, Dabney-Buehler Hall, located on the Hill.
This will allow the department to have new and upgraded spaces to teach and carry out the academic plans for students either majoring in chemistry or taking classes through the chemistry department. The new building features 33 research labs for undergraduate and graduate students to utilize and gain hands-on experience in the field.
“The building is planned for the site of the current Panhellenic Building, which is scheduled to be demolished in winter 2024-25,” UT said in a recent statement.
“This new space will also allow for new chemistry practices and technology to be implemented to meet the growing needs of the student body in chemistry.”
Matthew Gobich Sophomore pre-dental student
/ The Daily
The Panhellenic Building was opened in 1964 for sorority use. However, when Sorority Village was completed in 2012, it became a central location for ROTC programs until they moved into Hoskins Library. Now, it is an extra space for students to gather, but it is not currently being used for any programs or academic activities.
The site will be demolished later this year, which means that construction is likely to begin as soon as the funding for the building comes through.
The university is working to create more space for the rising number of undergraduate students on campus, and this space will contribute to that goal.
“The new chemistry building will be far more accessible for students as
it will be located on (Cumberland Ave). This new space will also allow for new chemistry practices and technology to be implemented to meet the growing needs of the student body in chemistry,” Matthew Gobich, a sophomore pre-dental student, said.
Within Gobich’s major, he is required to take many chemistry classes as prerequisites for dental school. The new building will help foster a positive learning environment for anyone in similar situations.
Students are excited to see these new projects being constructed as there will be more updated spaces for them to learn and prepare for future careers. UT strives to create the best possible environment for its students, both socially and academically.
UT plans to spend $33.8 million to construct the new building. The rest of the funding will come through the state throughout the 2024-25 fiscal year. On June 30, 2023, the UT Board of Trustees approved the funding request. This is just one of the many projects that the university is currently planning. More plans and construction are to come to make the campus state-of-the-art in hopes to draw more students in and retain them throughout their entire collegiate and possibly professional careers. UT is excited about this project and will continue to keep students updated throughout the entire process. The university will announce the project’s expected completion date when known.
The Panhellenic Building that is slated for demolition this coming winter. The new Chemistry Building will be built in its place. File
Beacon
SAMANTHA WHITLEY Staff Writer
On Monday, Sept. 9, the Free Store invited students to browse through its items displayed on racks and tables.
The pop-up store was near the Humanities and Social Sciences building. This allowed students to have easy accessibility as they picked up items between classes.
There were several styles of clothing including vintage, athletic, business and casual wear. The two different displays also included many sizes of clothes and shoes.
Few people are aware of the negative effects on resource consumption when purchasing apparel. The UT Free Store website describes how a delivery of a singular T-shirt is a “massive carbon footprint,” due to the many processes of extracting materials from the earth and water used to grow cotton.
Kaelin Porter, a sophomore majoring in wildlife and fisheries, spoke about her perspective of how this idea helps the environment.
“A lot of people throw their clothes away, but the Free Store is a chance to give your clothes a second life,” Porter said.
This organization recognizes the importance of making sure every student can thrive when they have their essential needs filled. Aside from the pop-ups, the organization has a store that includes more items including clothes, books, kitchen utensils, shoes and even feminine products.
A lot of these belongings are costly. Many students may struggle to afford these materials in addition to their tuition. Fortunately, the Free Store strives to eliminate the stigma of student financial insecurity.
Anna Novio, a sophomore studying nursing at UT, spoke on one of the Free Store’s financial advantages.
“It helps out students that maybe don’t have a car, who can’t go to a store or can’t pay to deliver items,” Novio said.
Every student eventually needs a good formal outfit whether it’s for a presentation or job interview. Luckily, the Free Store has these items in stock.
“A lot of people throw their clothes away, but the Free Store is a chance to give your clothes a second life.”
Kaelin Porter Sophomore, wildlife and fisheries student
Porter spoke on why these items are the most valuable.
“I think professional clothes and shoes because those are more expensive,” Porter said.
Although this store offers significant financial and environmental benefits, it is also a great social outing with friends. Its vibrant atmosphere and thrifting experience create a lively visit and mimic the same experience as shopping at a mall.
“I just have a lot of fun looking through the clothes,” Porter said.
It is simple to donate and provide the Vol community with necessities. To give away items, you drop them off in the bins outside of their porch. It is recommended to only drop off unused items, or gently used items.
Not only can you drop off your own items but you can also make someone’s day by donating specific goods requested by other students.
Hootie and the Blowfish creates nostalgia for the crowd
ARNASHIA GRAY
Contributor
The popular ‘90s band Hootie & the Blowfish, along with openers Edwin McCain and Collective Soul, made a stop at ThompsonBoling Arena at Food City Center the night of Sept. 12 for its Summer Camp with Trucks tour.
The entire show proved that it is possible to feel a sense of nostalgia for something you’ve never experienced. The seats were filled with audience members young and old, and each of them was up and out of their seat when the time came.
Pop-indie artist McCain opened the show by letting the audience know that he would be their “camp counselor” for the next bit — and that is exactly what he was.
McCain led the audience into camp with a multitude of songs from his discography, including popular hits “Tell Me We Belong Together” and “I Could Not Ask for More,” which he said saved him from being a pizza delivery guy.
McCain’s set was both musical and comedic as he shared short anecdotes with the audience at the start of each song. He gave credit to a Polish guitarist who posted a cover of his song “Promise of You,” and described the
cover as a far better version than his own.
McCain’s laid-back set was followed up by ‘90s rock band Collective Soul.
Collective Soul’s set consisted of a multitude of rock-influenced songs, including their hit song “Shine” — a clear audience favorite — as well as an Aerosmith tribute performance of “Livin’ on the Edge” which McCain came back out to sing with lead singer Ed Roland.
Roland and the other members of Collective Soul came onto the stage with three things in mind: love, peace and rock ‘n’ roll.
The best way to describe lead singer Roland is simply cool. Dressed in a pink and orange floral suit and silver shoes, he and the other members took the audience — or “cool cats” as Roland called them — on a journey that felt like jamming out with your friends in the garage. Their set was full of joy that felt like youth, and it was clear the audience felt it too.
Around 9 p.m. Darius Rucker and the other members of the band took to the stage with a multitude of their greatest hits, including “Wishing,” “Let Her Cry” and Rucker’s solo single “Wagon Wheel.”
Rucker shared that the band hasn’t performed in Knoxville since Peyton Manning was a student at UT. Rucker decided to tour this year in celebration of the 30th anniversary of their hit album “Cracked Rear View.”
The middle section of their set consisted of
Darius Rucker performs with Hootie & the Blowfish at Thompson-Boling Area at
Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Erin Turdyn / The Daily Beacon
a heavy bluegrass influence, although Rucker clarified that the band was not a bluegrass band — rather, one that likes to occasionally cosplay as bluegrass.
With nothing but a few guitars and their voices, the band managed to create an intimate setting in an arena that seats over 20,000.
The Summer Camp with Trucks tour is the kind of tour that makes you feel like a kid again, with classic hits from each respective performer that stick in your head but are so good you honestly don’t mind. The concert was pure, free and fun. It makes you want to wish summer would never end.
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Food City Center.
Every record Tennessee football broke in win over Kent State
CALEB JARREAU
Sports Editor
It was Tennessee football’s night on Saturday at Neyland Stadium.
The Vols boat-raced Kent State, rolling to an easy 71-0 victory over the Golden Flashes. What also came in tow was a laundry list of records that the 2024 Tennessee team shattered.
Here’s a look at every record Tennessee broke in its win over Kent State. All of the records broken are in the modern era — after the year 1937.
First quarter points
The Vols broke the first-half point record, dropping 37 points to open the game against Kent State. An onside kick gave the Vols an extra possession which Dylan Sampson punched in with two seconds remaining in the quarter, barely picking up the record.
Points in a half
Tennessee built on its record-breaking first quarter to break the record for first half points as well. The half finished with four touchdowns as the Vols scored nine total to set the new record at 65. It broke the previous record for points in a half which was set in 2022 against UT Martin. That total was 52. You would have to extend back to the 2000 season to find the record before head coach Josh Heupel took over at Tennessee.
According to SEC Network, Tennessee’s 65 first-half points were the most in a half by any team in at least the last 20 seasons. The Vols were just 11 points shy of the FBS record.
Total points
Tennessee dropped 71 points on the Golden Flashes — a new school high in the modern era. The prior mark was 70 points during the 2000 season.
Regardless of era, the 71 points ranks 10th on the program’s all-time list. No SEC team has scored above 70 since Ole Miss in 2015. Saturday was also the first time in the modern era that Tennessee has won by 70 or more points.
Total yards
Tennessee picked up 740 yards of total offense — surpassing the previous program record of 724 against Missouri in 2022.
Four of the top five highest-yardage amount for Tennessee have come under Heupel. The 740 yards is tied for 10th-most in SEC history and for the fifth-highest such mark against an FBS foe.
Other notes
Tennessee running back Sampson tied the single-game touchdown record with four. He becomes the first Vol in the modern era to complete the feat in a half, and joins a list of six other players on the full-game list.
This is also the first Tennessee team to score 50-plus points in its first three games since 1913 — the only other team to accomplish the feat. The 2024 squad is the first in the modern era.
Chris Brazzell II (17) scores a touchdown during a game against Kent State at Neyland Stadium. Saturday, Sept. 14, 2024. Cambree Gliessner / The Daily Beacon
DeSean Bishop (18) runs for a touchdown against Kent State at Neyland Stadium. Saturday, Sept. 14, 2024. Erin Tudryn / Contributor
DeSean Bishop (18) celebrates in the end zone during a game against Kent State at Neyland Stadium. Saturday, Sept. 14, 2024. Cambree Gliessner / The Daily Beacon
Up ahead: Games to watch in Tennessee athletics this week
Contributor
Tennessee’s athletic schedule is packed again, with many teams beginning conference play, as well as softball teeing off their fall season at home against a local opponent.
Sept. 19: Volleyball vs. Western Michigan “T-Credit” opportunity
The No. 16 Lady Vols (5-2) are looking to get back to their winning ways after losing to Wofford 3-2 on Monday night. Tennessee is set for a return to Food City Center after having four straight road matches. Although the Lady Vols are significant favorites, don’t count the Broncos out, since they upset No. 24 Marquette last week. No matter the result, these two teams will meet again the following day, Sept. 20, for another match.
Students can earn “T-Credit” for attending this matchup.
Sept. 19: Soccer vs. Ole Miss “T-Credit” opportunity
The Lady Vols soccer team is coming off one of the best weeks in program history, having shut out No. 7 UCLA and beating No. 5 Memphis 1-0. Tennessee jumped into Top Drawer’s top 25 team this week, sitting at No. 23. The Lady Vols will open SEC play this week, hosting the Ole Miss Rebels at Regal Stadium on Thursday night. A Tennessee win would go a long way as they look to open conference play with a win. This game offers one “T-Credit” to students.
Sept. 21: Men’s and women’s tennis at the ITA All-American Championships
Both the Men’s and Women’s teams are heading to play in the ITA All-American Championships. The Men’s team will travel to Tulsa, Oklahoma, while the Women’s team will play in Cary, North Carolina. This prestigious tournament is also a qualifier for the NCAA Division I Individual Championships, securing spots for ten singles players as well as four doubles teams. Tennessee will compete from Sept. 21-29.
Sept. 21: Men’s Golf at Valero Texas Collegiate
The men’s golf team will compete in the Valero Texas Collegiate golf tournament hosted by the University of Texas at San Antonio. This is a four-day event and will feature some of the top programs in the nation. This is an important event, as the individual winner will receive a berth into the Valero Texas Open.
Sept. 21: Football at Oklahoma
The No. 6 ranked Vols will travel to Norman, Oklahoma, to kick off SEC play. This will be the No. 15 Sooners’ inaugural game in the SEC, and they are faced with a challenge. Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel, a former coach and quarterback with the Sooners, will certainly be ready for this game. The Sooners will present Tennessee with a challenge, but the Vols open the game as a 7.5-point favorite.
Sept. 22: Soccer at Alabama
Following their Thursday night match against Ole Miss, the Lady Vols will travel to Tuscaloosa on Sunday afternoon. The Crimson Tide are 7-2 this season and hold a three-game win streak over the Lady
Vols. Despite this, Tennessee is the favorite heading into the game. The Lady Vols will look to win in Tuscaloosa for the seventh time in program history.
Sept. 23: Women’s Golf at Cavalier Regional Preview
The Lady Vols golf team is back in action after nearly two weeks without play. They will travel to Charlottesville, Virginia, and take part in the Cavalier Regional Preview hosted by the University of Virginia.
Sept. 25: Softball vs. Carson-Newman
The Lady Vols will tee off their fall season with Carson-Newman at home. Tennessee’s head coach Karen Weekly returns
for her 23rd season at the helm for the Lady Vols. Last year, the Lady Vols continued their SEC dominance by taking both the SEC regular season title. Carson-Newman will be a warmup for the Lady Vols as they look to get their 2024 season started on the right note.
Sept. 25: Volleyball vs. Alabama
“T-Credit” opportunity Wrapping up the week, Tennessee hosts Alabama in volleyball. The Crimson Tide have had a great start to the season, posting an 8-1 record. The Lady Vols look to steal a crucial game against an SEC opponent.
Students can earn two “T-Credits” for attending this match.
Leah Klurman (21) and the Lady Vols celebrating after a victory against Memphis at Regal Soccer Stadium. Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. Daniel Hahofner / Contributor
Scouting report: Oklahoma players to watch against Tennessee football
Tennessee football will travel to Norman, Oklahoma, to face off with the No. 15 Sooners in Week 4 of the college football slate. The Vols are fresh off a 71-0 trouncing of Kent State.
“College GameDay” will also be visiting Norman for the matchup. Tennessee opens as a solid 7.5-point favorite and looks to continue to win big.
The Sooners have had a good season so far, winning their first three games and four of their last five dating back to last season. However, they have not been the same dominant, high-scoring team that Oklahoma has been in the past. This is also the Sooners first ever in-conference game as an SEC team, beginning what will prove to be a tough five game stretch.
For Oklahoma to have a chance to keep pace with the electrifying Tennessee offense, the Sooners will have to be firing on all cylinders on both sides of the ball, but especially on the offensive side of the ball.
Here are some of Oklahoma’s players to watch out for.
Quarterback Jackson Arnold
This year is somewhat of a new era for the Sooners for many reasons. While it is their first year in the SEC, the people in the crimson and cream are also new. Offensive coordinator Seth Littrell replaces new Mississippi State head coach Jeff Lebby. Former star quarterback Dillon Gabriel is also off to Oregon, giving the reins to former five-star quarterback and redshirt freshman Jackson Arnold.
Arnold has been off to a decent start. He has tallied 484 yards, seven touchdowns, two interceptions and a 58.0 quarterback rating. He has the Sooners at 3-0, but not without his fair share of struggles.
Pressure has been a problem for the young quarterback, having taken nine sacks behind an offensive line with few starts together. He even threw a pick six last week against Tulane’s aggressive blitz. Turnovers have also been a bit of a problem for Arnold. Last season in the Alamo Bowl against Arizona, Arnold had three interceptions. The Vols will be almost undoubtedly the best defense Arnold has faced this year. While he has cut down on the interceptions this year, the Vols defense could provide a challenge.
While Arnold has had some struggles, he has been excelling in a lot of areas. Arnold has all the physical talent you can ask for — he has a rocket arm that can make any throw on the field. He also is extremely mobile, allowing Oklahoma to have designed quarterback runs integrated in the offense. Arnold has had 36 rushing attempts and two touchdowns in
the year, both of which came last game.
He has also been improving. The Tulane game was an important step for the young quarterback against a solid team that has almost upset two top-15 teams this season. He did have a pick six, but bounced back and lead Oklahoma to the win in the end. He also had three touchdowns. Look for Arnold to continue to improve as he settles into his new offense and unleashes his talent on his new conference.
All in all, Arnold is still a young, developing quarterback. He has shown growing pains that every freshman has had, including similar ones to Tennessee quarterback Nico Iamaleava. Also in a new system, Arnold is getting more comfortable in the new offense, showing flashes in both the run and pass game. His offensive line is improving, allowing him to operate more smoothly.
Wide receiver Deion Burks
The wide receiver room for Oklahoma is dealing with a big injury. This spot would belong to leading receiver Nic Anderson, but it is not confirmed whether the deep threat will be available for the game versus Tennessee as he is out with an injury suffered in the preseason. However, Deion Burks has been a serviceable replacement, with 169 yards on 22 receptions with three touchdowns on the
season so far. His best outing came last game with seven receptions for 80 yards, to produce by far his best average of 11.4 yards per reception.
The first-year transfer is a smaller receiver, standing at just 5-foot-9 and 190 pounds. However, his speed and shiftiness make him a real weapon. Arnold and Burks finding their rhythm in their new offense could prove to be a challenge for Tennessee’s secondary if their connection continues to improve.
Even if Anderson is back in full health, Burles could continue to impact the game as the lead target to let Anderson ease back into acton. Alternatively, he could also prove to be a great No.2 option.
Linebacker Danny Stutsman
It is not surprising that a Brent Venablesled team has stars on the defensive side of the ball, and Danny Stutsman is the headliner. The senior linebacker has 33 tackles through three games, including 12 total tackles against Tulane and a season-high 15 against power conference opponent Houston.
Stutsman is a tackling machine who has had over 100 tackles the past two seasons for the Sooners. He was named a third-team AP All-American in 2023 and is the Sooners’ leader on defense. Stutsman’s elite tackling ability could help to counter the strong Ten-
nessee run game, and his matchups against running backs Dylan Sampson and DeSean Bishop will be key in the game. If the Sooners are able to stop the Volunteer running backs, their offense will be more limited and will have to rely heavily on a pass game.
Defensive back Billy Bowman Jr.
Billy Bowman Jr. is another playmaker on defense for the Sooners. So far, Bowman has an interception, a pass breakup and 10 tackles on the season. He was also named an All-Big 12 first team in 2023 and is a veteran presence in the defensive backfield for the Sooners.
Bowman could be matched up all around the Vol’s deep receiving team. He has proven in the past to have big play ability, racking up three interceptions returned for touchdowns in 2023.
His matchup against any of the wide receivers could be pivotal for the Sooners stopping the Tennessee offense, and he could use that big play ability to force Iamaleava into a mistake. Bowman is the most likely guy to force a game-changing turnover for Oklahoma in what could be a close contest.
Overall, if Tennessee can establish the run game and attack Oklahoma’s inexperienced quarterback and new offensive line, the Vols can control the game and avoid the upset in Norman.
PATRICK FALCON
Contributor
John Slaughter (9) catches a pass during a game against Kent State at Neyland Stadium. Saturday, Sept. 14, 2024.
Cambree Gliessner / The Daily Beacon
Josh Heupel ready for ‘unique’ return to Norman for matchup with Oklahoma
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Josh Heupel knew the questions were coming on Monday.
Oklahoma week has arrived for Tennessee football, and its head coach expectantly fielded several questions about the return to Norman. It is the place where Heupel won a BCS National Championship as a player and began his coaching career as a graduate assistant four years later.
Now, 24 years after wearing an Oklahoma jersey, Heupel will be on the opposite sideline for the first time he can remember.
“It will be unique going back into that stadium,” Heupel said. “It will be different. But it is one that I am really looking forward to. There are so many people who have been a huge part of my journey that I get a chance to go back and hopefully get a chance to say ‘hi’ to a bunch of them.”
Heupel landed some well-timed jokes in his Monday press conference on the topic of his homecoming, keeping it largely lighthearted about a relationship that was severed after the 2014 season when Heupel’s contract wasn’t renewed.
Despite what could be seen as an icy relationship between Heupel and his former head coach Bob Stoops, Heupel expressed his gratitude for Stoops on Monday. Stoops took to social media, misspelling Heupel’s name in a post, but also speaking highly of the nowTennessee head coach.
Stoops also mentioned in the post he is declining all media requests ahead of Saturday’s primetime matchup between No. 6 Tennessee and No. 15 Oklahoma.
“The opportunity that I got from Bob and from Mike (Leach) to come there and play,
what we were able to build there in a short amount of time as a player,” Heupel said. “But then my coaching career, from the guys that I played for to all the coaches that were there during my career, all made a huge impact on me.
“I wouldn’t be here today at Tennessee if I didn’t have all those experiences.”
Heupel also shares a familiarity with the current Sooner coaching staff.
Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables was the defensive coordinator during Heupel’s playing days in Norman, then the two overlapped as coaches in 2004 and from 2006-11. Heupel credited Venables for helping grow him as a young coach.
Venables took over as head coach at Oklahoma in 2021, now leading the Sooners into a new era of being in the SEC.
“He’s as good as they come when you look at what he’s done historically as a defensive coordinator,” Heupel said. “A lot of respect. Huge challenge for us this week.”
Venables isn’t the only connection to Tennessee and its staff. Heupel played alongside offensive coordinator Seth Littrell as well as coaching co-offensive coordinator Joe Jon Finley and running backs coach DeMarco Murray.
Heupel said many of his former friends and teammates have already texted him ahead of the trip to Norman. It will be a large homecoming for Heupel — one he wants to surely come away from with an SEC win.
He also knows what to expect in Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. ET.
“Should be a great crowd,” Heupel said. “It’s a passionate fanbase. I’m expecting them to be extremely quiet for us out of respect to me and our program, too.”
TENNESSEE 35 VS. Oklahoma 17 Illinois AT nebraska usc AT michigan arkansas AT auburn utah AT oklahoma state vanderbilt AT missouri iowa VS minnesota
TENNESSEE 31 VS. Oklahoma 24
Illinois AT nebraska usc AT michigan arkansas AT auburn utah AT oklahoma state vanderbilt AT missouri iowa VS minnesota
TENNESSEE 45 VS. Oklahoma 27
Illinois AT nebraska usc AT michigan arkansas AT auburn utah AT oklahoma state vanderbilt AT missouri iowa VS minnesota
TENNESSEE 44 VS. Oklahoma 36 Illinois AT nebraska usc AT michigan arkansas AT auburn utah AT oklahoma state vanderbilt AT missouri iowa VS minnesota
TENNESSEE 41 VS. Oklahoma 24
Illinois AT nebraska usc AT michigan arkansas AT auburn utah AT oklahoma state vanderbilt AT missouri iowa VS minnesota
TENNESSEE 42 VS. Oklahoma 14
Illinois AT nebraska usc AT michigan arkansas AT auburn utah AT oklahoma state vanderbilt AT missouri iowa VS minnesota
CALEB JARREAU
Sports Editor
Head coach Josh Heupel during the Tennessee Volunteer home football game against the Pittsburg Panthers in Neyland Stadium Saturday Sept. 11, 2021. File / The Daily Beacon
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