How many Tennessee football fans will be at Ohio State for CFP game? Let's discuss
It’s officially game week for Tennessee football, and this one’s extra special — it’s playoff edition.
Tennessee Volunteers fans are gearing up for a bold attempt to stage a ticket takeover of Ohio State’s stadium. Meanwhile, the team is hard at work preparing to face an exceptionally talented Ohio State Buckeyes squad. Behind the scenes, the coaching staff is juggling another pressing matter: managing the complexities of the transfer portal.
On this week’s episode of The Volunteer State podcast, hosts Adam Sparks and John Adams dive deep into the Vols’ first-ever College Football Playoff (CFP) game. They analyze the matchup against Ohio State, speculate on how many UT fans might show up in Columbus, and explore some of the controversies brewing in the background.
Additionally, the duo discusses why a handful of Tennessee players are already in the transfer portal instead of focusing on CFP practices, urging fans to reconsider their harsh criticisms.
Here’s what you need to know about the game: No. 9 seed Tennessee (10-2) is set to take on No. 8 seed Ohio State (10-2) on Saturday at 8 p.m. ET. The game will be broadcast on ABC and ESPN, with the action unfolding at Ohio Stadium in Columbus, Ohio.
For the full breakdown, check out the podcast. But for now, let’s highlight the key takeaways from this week’s discussions.
Will Ohio State Really Allow 30,000 Tennessee Fans to Pack “The Shoe”?
A hot topic of conversation is whether Tennessee’s passionate fan base can create a sea of orange within Ohio Stadium, fondly known as “The Shoe.”
Officially, CFP road teams like Tennessee are allocated just 3,500 tickets. However, reports and online chatter suggest that the Vols could have as many as 30,000 fans in attendance. Sparks and Adams remain skeptical about that number but agree on one thing: UT fans will show up in significant numbers.
This game is monumental for Tennessee, and Vol Nation is known for its unwavering dedication. For many fans, the opportunity to see their team play in its first-ever CFP game is worth the trip to Columbus. Whether the number reaches 30,000 or not, the presence of UT supporters is expected to be felt and heard.
Should Fans Be Upset About Players Entering the Portal During the CFP?
One of the more polarizing issues surrounding Tennessee’s CFP appearance is the decision of some players to enter the transfer portal before the game. Nine scholarship players have already entered the portal and will not be participating in the playoff matchup.
Sparks explained that these players are primarily seeking more playing time rather than lucrative NIL deals, emphasizing the challenges they face. The short portal window forces players to balance the demands of transferring with the opportunity to play in career-defining CFP games. Sparks expressed empathy for their predicament, calling it a tough decision.
Adams weighed in, noting that some fans belong to an “anti-NIL, anti-transfer portal” camp. These fans are critical of the evolving landscape of college football, but Adams was blunt: the transfer portal and NIL are here to stay, and fans need to adapt to the new reality.
The hosts also debated whether coach Josh Heupel should allow players who have entered the portal to participate in CFP games. While Adams argued in favor of it, Sparks cautioned that players splitting their focus between the CFP and their next chapter might not perform at their best.
Talent vs. Vibes: Breaking Down the CFP Matchup
When it comes to the game itself, Sparks and Adams framed the matchup as a clash of “talent versus vibes.”
Ohio State boasts one of the most talented rosters in all of college football. However, the Buckeyes are under immense pressure after a shocking loss to their rival, Michigan, which left coach Ryan Day facing heavy criticism. For Ohio State, this game feels like a “national championship or bust” situation, adding a layer of tension to their preparations.
In contrast, Tennessee enters the game with a different mindset. The Vols are riding high on confidence and good vibes, even as a 7.5-point underdog. They’re loose, motivated, and ready to prove themselves on one of the biggest stages in college football. The key question is whether this positive energy can help them overcome the talent disparity between the two teams.
Sparks and Adams identified critical matchups that could determine the outcome of the game. To hear their full analysis, listeners are encouraged to check out the podcast.
A Historic Moment for the Vols and Their Fans
For Tennessee football, this CFP appearance marks a significant milestone. It’s not just about the game; it’s about the journey the program has taken to get here. From a program that faced challenges and questions about its future to a team now competing on college football’s grandest stage, the Vols have given their fans plenty of reasons to celebrate.
This excitement is reflected in the overwhelming support from Vol Nation, whether it’s fans planning to fill The Shoe or those passionately debating the decisions of players and coaches.
While Ohio State poses a formidable challenge, the Vols are embracing their underdog role and the opportunity to shock the college football world. As Sparks and Adams noted, this game is about more than just talent on the field; it’s about the energy, determination, and belief that Tennessee brings to Columbus.
With the game fast approaching, all eyes will be on the Vols to see how they handle this pivotal moment. Will their positive momentum carry them to victory, or will Ohio State’s raw talent prove too much to handle? One thing is certain: this matchup is one for the history books.
To catch all the insights and in-depth analysis, be sure to tune into The Volunteer State podcast. Whether you’re part of Vol Nation or just a college football enthusiast, this is a game you won’t want to miss.
