Interesting happenings in the visiting team area after the game

Interesting Happenings in the Visiting Team Area After the Game

Tennessee fans across Neyland Stadium often greet visiting teams with a scattered chorus of boos, but the story beneath the surface is much richer. Behind the South end stands a scene few get to witness, filled with post-game drama and activity.

The current visiting team area dates back to the 1948 stadium expansion, with several updates over nearly 80 years, including a new media room. This space becomes a lively hub after each game, serving multiple purposes and interactions.

The Unique Atmosphere of the Visiting Team Area

Across college football, visiting team areas often seem like an afterthought, but at Neyland, they add a distinct layer to the game experience. Coaches sometimes conduct their post-game radio shows here before meeting the media, which can create friction. The home school’s Sports Information Department (SID) in the press box waits eagerly to share coaches' remarks with reporters covering the game, sometimes leading to delays.

Notable Post-Game Moments

One memorable incident occurred after the 1996 game against Georgia. On-air, Georgia head coach Jim Donnan accused Phillip Fulmer of “running up the score” with a late touchdown pass to Derrick Edmonds.

Jim Donnan said, “Phillip Fulmer ran up the score” during the post-game broadcast.

Off the air, Donnan asked his co-host Loran Smith about dining with Archie Manning the night before, hinting that this might have revealed parts of Georgia’s game plan.

Context on Visiting Team Areas in College Football

Visiting team spaces are often overlooked compared to home facilities.
They still hold important interactions, conflicts, and insights after games.
The energy and occasional tension here contribute to the broader college football atmosphere.

“Those types of contentious moments happen all the time,” reflecting the ongoing drama post-game.

The visiting team area’s unique blend of activity, tension, and storylines enriches the football experience beyond the stands.

Author’s summary: The visiting team area at Neyland Stadium, while rarely spotlighted, is a dynamic and tension-filled space hosting notable interactions and drama after every game.

The Knoxville Focus — 2025-11-05