Tennessee football will make the trip west to Starkville to play Mississippi State this Saturday. With the Vols hosting the Bulldogs in both 2024 and 2019, the last time UT played MSU on the road was back in 2012. This means it’ll be a new experience for the Vols’ roster.
The biggest hurdle may be the artificial noise Mississippi State is allowed to generate. Bulldogs fans are equipped with traditional cowbells, which can make a unique sound for opposing offenses.
Before Tennessee makes the trip, three Vols were asked about the atmosphere they’re going to be walking into. Here’s what they said.
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RB DeSean Bishop
On playing at MSU, the cowbells
“I told one of my friends this week, I’m excited to hear them, honestly. I’ve been looking forward to just an away game to get that experience flowing and rolling. Those cowbells are definitely something I’m looking forward to. I hear them on TV, been watching them on TV, it’s interesting. To hear them on TV, I’m interested in hearing them in person.”
On if they’re playing cowbell sounds at practice
“Shoot, I don’t know yet. I guess we’ll see tomorrow when we get in practice. I hope it’s something to get that vibe going. Can’t wait for it. Let’s do it.”
On Mississippi State’s defense
“Physical. Aggressive. Like to club and punch at the ball. Ball security is going to be huge for this week. I know this game is pretty big for them. White-out, unusual for a home game for the opponent to be wearing white. I know it’s going to be a hostile environment. I’ve honestly been looking forward to, kind of been dreaming or having tunnel vision about these away games and just seeing the different types of scenery and different types of vibes everyone gets at theirs. I can’t wait to be a part of that environment.”
DL Bryson Eason
On what he’s looking forward to about MSU’s environment, cowbells
“I think it’s going to be cool to be in that type of environment and be in that hostile area. So I think, for myself, I’m ready for it. I love hostile environments if that makes sense. It kind of brings out the best in people, in my opinion. I’m ready for it. And I think a lot of our guys, it’s going to be something new. Going to be a whole bunch of cowbells. I think it’s going to be cool, man, I think we’re going to go out there, fly around and have some fun.”
LB Jeremiah Telander
On cowbells, playing in a place he hasn’t played before
“College football, man. It’s going to be fun. It’s a blessing to be able to go play in a great stadium like it is over there, man. It’s going to be interesting to see what those cowbells sound like. I’m down for the battle, it’s going to be fun. It’s going to be a long week of preparation and get to it on Saturday.”
