CBS Sports analyst give Tennessee Vol fans and Neyland Stadium the flowers that others haven’t this offseason
As the 2025 college football season inches closer, Tennessee Volunteers fans have become accustomed to hearing both praise and criticism directed toward their beloved team. In recent years, the Vols have bounced between moments of brilliance and frustration, with expectations swirling as high as Neyland Stadium’s iconic structure. While the program has undeniably made progress under head coach Josh Heupel, many pundits have been cautious about the team’s ability to sustain that success, especially given the fierce competition in the SEC. However, this offseason, something notable has changed: CBS Sports analysts have begun to give the Vols the recognition they’ve long deserved—both for their rising football program and the incredible atmosphere that is Neyland Stadium.
For Tennessee fans, the recognition feels like a long-overdue acknowledgment of what has been one of college football’s most storied programs. The Vols have had their share of ups and downs over the years, with moments of brilliance and seasons that left something to be desired. Yet through it all, the Tennessee fanbase has remained steadfast, unwavering in its loyalty and proud of its rich football history. They know better than anyone that Neyland Stadium is more than just a place where games are played—it’s a living, breathing monument to Tennessee football, a cathedral that holds generations of memories and dreams. And this offseason, CBS Sports analysts have finally given Tennessee and its iconic home field the “flowers” that others haven’t, offering the kind of praise that not only feels right but has been sorely lacking.
The backdrop to this praise is important. Tennessee has not been a national powerhouse since the late 1990s and early 2000s, when the team was led by legends like Peyton Manning and coached by Phillip Fulmer. In recent years, the Vols have struggled to reclaim their former glory, with several coaching changes and inconsistent performances keeping the program in a rebuilding phase. But under Heupel, the tide has started to shift. Heupel’s fast-paced, high-scoring offense has breathed new life into the program, taking the Vols from mediocrity to SEC contenders. As Heupel continues to develop his players and install his system, the Vols have steadily moved up the ranks, earning respect from fans and pundits alike.
What sets Heupel’s Tennessee teams apart from others, especially in the SEC, is not just the offensive explosion but also the atmosphere surrounding the program. And it’s not just the team itself that has captured the attention of CBS Sports analysts—it’s the environment, the culture, and the tradition that make Tennessee one of the most unique and exciting programs in the nation.
For Vols fans, there is no place like Neyland Stadium. The stadium, with a capacity of over 100,000, has been the setting for some of college football’s most memorable moments, from heartbreaking losses to unforgettable victories. But what makes Neyland different from other college football venues is the unmatched passion and energy that flows through its stands. The sight of 100,000 fans in orange, the deafening roar when the Vols make a big play, and the thunderous rendition of “Rocky Top” echoing through the night sky—all of this makes Neyland Stadium one of the most electric and intimidating places to play in college football.
CBS Sports analysts have taken notice of the power that Neyland brings to the table, and this offseason, they have made it a point to highlight just how special it is. They’ve praised the Vols’ fanbase for its unwavering loyalty, calling it one of the most passionate and devoted groups in the country. The stadium itself, they argue, is a reflection of the fans’ dedication, a true fortress for the team that provides a significant home-field advantage. As analysts have pointed out, playing at Neyland is not just about the noise—it’s about the psychological impact it has on opposing teams. Few stadiums in college football can match the intensity and magnitude of Neyland when it’s at full capacity, and CBS Sports has rightfully acknowledged this.
One particular piece of praise that stood out this offseason was how analysts noted that Tennessee’s home-field advantage was not just about size or noise but also about history. Neyland Stadium is an iconic venue with a rich tradition that dates back to the 1920s. Over the decades, it has hosted some of the most significant games in college football history, from legendary matchups to SEC showdowns that have shaped the landscape of the sport. The rich history of the program, the legacy of players like Manning, Al Wilson, and Reggie White, and the unshakable connection between the team and its supporters all contribute to an atmosphere that is unlike any other in college football.
In their coverage, CBS Sports analysts have also gone beyond just praising the stadium itself; they’ve given credit to the Vols’ ability to create a culture of excellence and pride around their program. They’ve called Tennessee’s resurgence in recent years a “reawakening,” pointing out that the team’s success under Heupel is a product of the culture that has been carefully cultivated over the years. Vols fans have long supported their team, even during the lean years, and CBS Sports analysts have acknowledged that loyalty as a driving force behind the team’s eventual return to prominence. The dedication of Tennessee’s fanbase, combined with the passionate support of the university, has created an atmosphere that is difficult to replicate anywhere else.
This recognition of Tennessee’s cultural significance is not just a nod to the past but a call to the present. CBS Sports analysts have also highlighted the unique way that Heupel’s system has resonated with fans, generating excitement not only for the victories on the field but also for the thrilling, fast-paced brand of football that the Vols are known for. The team’s explosive offense, led by dynamic quarterbacks like Hendon Hooker, has not only brought Tennessee back to the top of the SEC standings but also reignited the fanbase’s enthusiasm. The “Heupel effect” has created a new era of Vols football, one that is entertaining, high-scoring, and built on an exciting, up-tempo offense that has transformed the program into a force to be reckoned with. CBS Sports analysts have given Heupel credit for instilling this new identity in the Vols, praising his ability to modernize the offense while staying true to the core values that make Tennessee football so special.
In particular, CBS analysts have lauded the Vols’ offensive line and the skill development of their quarterbacks and skill position players. They’ve recognized that Tennessee’s offensive system, while fast-paced, requires a high level of discipline and precision—traits that the Vols have shown to possess in abundance. The offensive line, which has been a key point of focus for Heupel’s staff, has helped set the tone for the team’s success, giving the quarterbacks the time they need to execute their plays and providing a reliable ground game. These elements, combined with the playmaking ability of players like Jaylen Wright and Bru McCoy, have made Tennessee one of the most exciting teams in college football.
Moreover, the analysts’ acknowledgment of Neyland Stadium’s role in Tennessee’s success isn’t just about the sheer spectacle of it all. They’ve also pointed to the way the fans play an integral role in creating an environment that encourages the team to perform at its highest level. The energy that radiates from the stands during pivotal moments has been credited with providing the Vols with a mental edge, helping them remain focused and motivated, even in high-pressure situations. The crowd’s enthusiasm and unwavering support have been described as a true “X-factor” in Tennessee’s resurgence.
As the Vols continue their march toward SEC and national contention, CBS Sports analysts have made it clear that Tennessee should be taken seriously. The combination of Heupel’s innovative offense, the strength of the team’s skill players, and the unparalleled atmosphere at Neyland Stadium has put Tennessee in the conversation as one of the top programs in college football. While other teams in the SEC continue to dominate the conversation, the Vols are no longer just a team that’s “on the rise”—they are a legitimate contender, and CBS Sports has made it a point to highlight that fact.
Tennessee Vols fans and Neyland Stadium have been given the flowers they’ve long deserved by CBS Sports analysts this offseason. The recognition isn’t just about the team’s recent success on the field but about the larger culture, history, and atmosphere that make Tennessee football so special. With Heupel’s leadership, a dynamic roster, and the unparalleled energy of Neyland Stadium, the Vols are primed to continue their ascent in the world of college football. For fans who have long believed in the power of their program, it’s a moment of validation—a sign that the hard work, dedication, and passion have finally been recognized by the national stage. As the 2025 season unfolds, one thing is clear: Tennessee football is back, and it’s here to stay.
