Vols, Wolfpack to face off in Duke’s Mayo Classic in Charlotte

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) – There is no doubt that Tennessee dominated in-state rival Chattanooga on Saturday, 69-3. The Vols’ 69 points were the second-most points scored in the modern era (1937-present).

Now Tennessee is back at work, preparing to face AP No. 24-ranked NC State in the Duke’s Mayo Classic on Saturday night at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte.

“We have a big football game this week. A really good opponent we’re playing. They play all three phases of the game really well together,” Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel said during his Monday press conference.

Even though the Vols started the 2024 season with a 66-point victory, players are still looking for ways to improve their game by watching videos of the important game.

“Football is never going to be perfect. You can always find something,” second-year linebacker Jeremiah Telander said. “So even with the record being what it was, we’re still looking at film and finding ways to improve our game.”

“Obviously there’s always room for improvement. Our coaches are great at finding our weaknesses, pointing them out to us and just making sure we’re constantly improving throughout the season so we’re better every week,” redshirt freshman defensive back Will Brooks said.

Coach Heupel made it clear that his team still has a lot to improve. He knows that this Saturday will be a real test.

“They were really good on defense. It’s going to be a big test for us up front, on the perimeter and at quarterback. They have a really experienced quarterback on offense. They have great playmakers around him. Their special teams are really good, too. A huge test for us this week. We’re excited to travel a few hours away. We can’t wait for Vol Nation to come out. It’s going to be a great competition,” Heupel said.

“We can’t wait. I know it’s the Duke’s Mayo Bowl, I’ve watched it my whole life. I can’t wait to be a part of it. I can’t wait to get back together with the guys and go play, it’s gonna be fun,” Telander said.

This is the first meeting between Tennessee and NC State since Aug. 31, 2012, when the Vols defeated the Wolfpack 35-31. Tennessee is 2-1 against NC State.

The Duke’s Mayo Classic will begin Saturday at 7:30 p.m. between the Vols and Wolfpack.

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