What do tennessee football fans yell at kick off

The unforgettable sound of neyland stadium at kickoff

Few sounds in college football are as iconic and spine-tingling as the roar that erupts from Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tennessee, at the moment of kickoff. For decades, Tennessee Volunteers fans have cultivated a game-day experience that is uniquely their own, characterized by a passionate and coordinated outpouring of sound. When the ball is teed up and the referee's whistle signals the start of the game, the collective voice of the "Vol Nation" transforms into an undeniable force, signaling both anticipation and unwavering support for their beloved team. This isn't just a random burst of noise; it's a symphony of tradition, pride, and an almost ritualistic expression of identity.

The energy builds well before the coin toss, starting with the legendary Vol Walk, the Pride of the Southland Marching Band's pre-game show, and the electrifying entrance of the players running through the "T." By the time the ball is placed on the tee, the stadium is a powder keg of emotion, ready to explode. The yell isn't just one thing; it's a combination of specific chants, songs, and an overarching, guttural roar that truly encapsulates what it means to be a Tennessee Volunteer fan on game day.

The iconic anthem: "rocky top"

More than just a song, it's a battle cry

The most prominent and universally recognized element of what Tennessee football fans yell at kickoff, and indeed throughout the game, is the song "Rocky Top." While officially adopted as a state song of Tennessee, for Volunteers fans, it's their unofficial fight song and a cornerstone of the game-day experience. As kickoff approaches, the stadium speakers often blast the instrumental, or the Pride of the Southland Marching Band plays it, prompting a massive sing-along from the stands. The lyrics, especially the chorus, are belted out with incredible fervor:

• "Rocky Top, you'll always be, home sweet home to me."
• "Good ol' Rocky Top, Rocky Top, Tennessee."

The timing of "Rocky Top" is critical. It's played and sung multiple times, but the crescendo often aligns perfectly with key moments, including the run-out of the team and, crucially, the pre-kickoff sequence. The sheer volume and unity of thousands of fans singing "Rocky Top" as the ball is kicked off sends shivers down the spine of opponents and energizes the home team. It's a tradition that dates back to its popularization in the early 1970s and has only grown stronger, becoming synonymous with Tennessee football itself.

"go big orange!": the simple, potent chant

A direct declaration of loyalty and support

Beyond "Rocky Top," another fundamental component of what Tennessee football fans yell at kickoff, and throughout the game, is the simple yet incredibly powerful chant: "Go Big Orange!" This phrase is a direct, unambiguous declaration of support for the University of Tennessee's athletic teams, whose primary color is orange. It's often chanted in a call-and-response format, or in a rhythmic, repeated manner, especially during critical moments.

At kickoff, after the initial burst of "Rocky Top" or as a preceding burst of energy, "Go Big Orange!" reverberates through the stadium. It's a primal scream of encouragement, a wish for success as the ball sails through the air. This chant is easy to learn for newcomers and provides a bedrock of unified support. While not as elaborate as "Rocky Top," its simplicity is its strength, allowing tens of thousands to chant it in perfect unison, creating a wall of sound that can genuinely intimidate visiting teams. For instance, in a close game against a rival like Florida, the "Go Big Orange!" chant at kickoff sets a combative tone for the entire contest.

The power of the collective roar and other subtle yells

From anticipation to pure adrenaline

While "Rocky Top" and "Go Big Orange!" are the most identifiable components, the "yell" at kickoff is also a complex blend of individual expressions coalescing into a singular, massive roar. This collective sound is an unfiltered release of excitement, tension, and hope. It's the sound of 100,000+ people holding their breath for a split second, then exhaling a torrent of noise as the foot connects with the ball.

Smaller, more nuanced yells also contribute. You might hear individual shouts of "VOLS!" or "Defense!" if the Volunteers are kicking off to the opponent. There's also a distinct anticipation build-up, where the crowd noise rises steadily to a fever pitch, only to explode at the moment of contact. This pre-kickoff build-up is often accompanied by clapping, stomping, and even the waving of orange and white shakers, all contributing to the sensory overload that defines a Neyland Stadium kickoff. Legendary coaches like Bear Bryant and Steve Spurrier have often remarked on the unique challenge of playing in such an electrifying atmosphere.

The tradition's enduring legacy and impact

More than just noise: it's identity

The collective yell at kickoff for Tennessee football fans is far more than just noise; it is a fundamental pillar of the team's identity and a powerful psychological tool. This tradition creates an instant home-field advantage, making it difficult for opposing teams to communicate and concentrate in the initial moments of the game. It also solidifies the bond between the team and its supporters, fostering a deep sense of community and shared purpose.

This tradition is passed down through generations. Children attending their first game learn the words to "Rocky Top" and the cadence of "Go Big Orange!" from their parents and grandparents. It's a cultural touchstone that connects alumni, current students, and fans from across the globe. Whether watching from the stands of Neyland Stadium, a living room, or a sports bar, the moment of kickoff and the associated cheers evoke a deep sense of pride and belonging that transcends the outcome of any single game. It is a testament to the enduring passion of the Vol Nation and a defining characteristic of college football culture in the American South.