One of the defining features of SEC football is the variety of hostile environments, and Tennessee is about to experience one of the loudest.
The No. 15 Volunteers are preparing for their first true road test of the season against Mississippi State.
There, the clash of cowbells and a roaring crowd are as much a part of the game as the play on the field.
Most of the players of Tennessee’s roster, they haven’t experienced this environment. Such as, running back DeSean Bishop said he has been looking forward to moments like this.
“I’m excited to hear them, honestly,” Bishop said. “I’ve been looking forward to an away game. When you make a big play and no one cheers for you, it makes you uncomfortable — and I like being in uncomfortable situations. That’s when you find out who you really are.”
Defensive Lineman Bryson Eason echoed his teammate, saying the environment will only fuel the Vols.
“I love hostile environments,” Eason said. “It brings out the best in people. We’re going to go out there and have some fun.”
The Vols are 13-9 on the road against the Bulldogs.
However, it’s been a while since Tennessee’s made the trip to Starkville.
The last time Tennessee made the trip to Davis Wade was in 2012.
In that meeting, Mississippi State outlasted Tennessee and won a high-scoring game, 41-31.
Head coach Josh Heupel noted the matchup will test them in many ways.
“I think the uniqueness of it, sound-wise, is what is a part of making this league really special,” Heupel said.
Heupel added, “For us up front, absolutely, communication starts with Sam (Pendleton) and then being able to get all five (offensive linemen) and your tight ends in sync as far as your targets and then your double teams and all that comes off of it.”
State is home to one of the smallest stadiums in the league. The tradition of ringing cowbells makes the environment rival some of the loudest stadiums.
So as Heupel emphasized, communication “will be important in this one.”
The Vols enter Starkville ready to capture its first conference win of the season.
