Columbus Native Back in Town in Hopes of Beating Ohio State as a Tennessee Vols Manager
As a Columbus native, few things are more personal than the prospect of facing off against Ohio State University. For Tennessee Volunteers manager, John “Jack” Mitchell, the upcoming game against Ohio State will be more than just another contest; it will be a symbolic homecoming, a personal milestone, and a chance to prove himself on the national stage.
Mitchell grew up in Columbus, Ohio, the very heart of Buckeye Nation, where his love for college football was nurtured from a young age. His father, a die-hard Ohio State fan, would often take him to games at the iconic Ohio Stadium, instilling in him a deep-seated appreciation for the sport. However, despite the overwhelming support for Ohio State in his hometown, Mitchell’s journey led him to the University of Tennessee, where he has spent the past four years as a football manager. His ascent from a local high school talent to an integral part of the Vols’ football team is a testament to his dedication and passion for the game.
Now, Mitchell finds himself back in the city where it all began, not as a fan in the stands, but as a member of a rival team. It’s a strange feeling for someone who spent most of his life cheering for the Buckeyes, but as the manager of the Tennessee Volunteers, Mitchell’s loyalty lies firmly with his current team. For him, this game represents more than just a chance to beat his hometown team—it’s an opportunity to prove to both Ohio State and Tennessee that his decision to leave home and join the Vols was the right one.
The Road to Tennessee
Mitchell’s path to Tennessee was not an easy one. After high school, he had the chance to play for Ohio State as a walk-on, an opportunity that many players would have jumped at. But for Mitchell, football wasn’t just about playing—it was about contributing to the team in any way possible. He realized that while his physical abilities might not have been on par with some of Ohio State’s top recruits, his love for the sport and his desire to make a difference could still be channeled into a valuable role. That role, he decided, would be that of a manager.
At Ohio State, the manager position is a vital part of the team, ensuring the smooth operation of day-to-day activities, assisting coaches, and being there for the players in ways that extend far beyond the field. Mitchell was excited by the idea of supporting the team in a behind-the-scenes capacity, but after some reflection, he realized that he wanted to challenge himself in a new environment.
Tennessee came calling when he received an offer to join the Volunteers as a football manager, and it didn’t take long for Mitchell to make the decision. He would leave behind his hometown and his cherished memories of Ohio State, but he saw the move as an opportunity to grow, both personally and professionally. He knew that it wouldn’t be easy, but Mitchell was determined to make the most of the opportunity.
“I’ve always loved football, but when the chance to join a team like Tennessee came up, it felt like the right time to take a leap,” Mitchell says. “It wasn’t about leaving Ohio State behind; it was about testing myself and finding a place where I could grow and make a difference.”
A Personal and Professional Challenge
Now, four years later, Mitchell has established himself as an indispensable part of the Tennessee football team. His role as a manager goes beyond just handling logistics and equipment; he serves as a mentor to the players, helping them adjust to the pressures of college football and providing them with emotional support. His bond with the team has become one of mutual respect, and he has earned the admiration of both his teammates and coaches.
But this game against Ohio State will undoubtedly be a personal challenge. Ohio State fans, friends, and family will be in the stands, watching as Mitchell walks onto the field donning Tennessee colors. For many, this will feel like a betrayal of sorts—after all, how could someone who grew up in the shadow of Ohio Stadium wear the colors of a rival school?
In truth, Mitchell is not just facing the challenge of competing against Ohio State; he is also confronting the emotional complexity of returning to his roots as a member of the opposing team. It’s one thing to be away from home for an extended period, but it’s entirely different to go back and face those who once cheered for you, now cheering against you.
“The hardest part is knowing how much Ohio State means to my family and friends,” Mitchell admits. “They’ll always be Buckeyes, but I’m a Volunteer now, and that’s something I’m proud of. It’s about finding the balance between the place where I grew up and the place I’ve come to love. It’s going to be emotional, but I’m ready.”
Tennessee vs. Ohio State: A Game for the Ages
As a game, Tennessee versus Ohio State carries a significant amount of weight. Both teams are powerhouses in college football, each with their storied histories and passionate fanbases. While Ohio State has consistently been a top contender in the Big Ten, Tennessee has built a strong reputation in the Southeastern Conference. A matchup between the two programs always brings high stakes, with the eyes of the college football world fixed firmly on the outcome.
For Mitchell, this game is personal, but it’s also about the bigger picture. Tennessee’s football team has been on a strong upward trajectory, and a victory over Ohio State would solidify their place among the top teams in the nation. While Mitchell may not be playing on the field, his contributions behind the scenes will be felt throughout the game. As he looks ahead to the contest, Mitchell reflects on his journey, knowing that regardless of the outcome, he will have accomplished something extraordinary.
“I’m excited for the game, but I also know that it’s not just about beating Ohio State,” he says. “It’s about honoring the journey that brought me here. Tennessee has given me a chance to grow in ways I never imagined, and for that, I’ll be forever grateful. Now, it’s time to give everything I have to this team.”
For Mitchell, the stakes are high—personally, professionally, and emotionally. As the Tennessee Volunteers take on the Ohio State Buckeyes, it’s clear that this game is not just about the teams on the field. It’s about one man’s journey from Columbus to Knoxville, a path defined by determination, sacrifice, and the unwavering pursuit of greatness. And no matter what happens, Mitchell will walk away from this game knowing that he gave it everything he had, and more.
