No. 18 Tennessee will face Syracuse to open its 2025 college football season Saturday in the Aflac Kickoff. Rankings reflect the US LBM Coaches Poll.
Kickoff is slated for noon EDT at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. ABC will televise the matchup.
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Each week during the 2025 season, Vols Wire will revisit a memorable game between Tennessee and its upcoming opponent.
Tennessee defeated Syracuse, 34-33, on Sept. 5, 1998 at Carrier Dome in Syracuse, New York. Jeff Hall kicked a game-winning 27-yard field goal as time expired for the Vols.
Tennessee quarterback Tee Martin completed 9-of-26 passing attempts for 143 yards and two touchdowns. He also recorded 80 rushing yards and one touchdown on nine attempts.
Jamal Lewis was Tennessee’s leader for rushing yards (141). He scored one rushing touchdown. Tennessee wide receiver Peerless Price recorded six receptions for 87 yards and two touchdowns.
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Tennessee’s win over the Orange was the beginning of a national championship season in 1998. The Vols finished with a 13-0 record and won the inaugural BCS national title.
More: Tennessee defeats Florida State to win 1998 national championship
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This article originally appeared on Vols Wire: A look back at Tennessee’s win against Syracuse football in 1998
