Knoxville, Tennessee, October 13, 2025
News Summary
The Kentucky Wildcats will take on the No. 7 Tennessee Volunteers in a crucial SEC football matchup. Scheduled for 7:45 p.m. (EDT) at Neyland Stadium, fans can catch the game on SEC Network. This rivalry, dating back to 1925, includes the historical Beer Barrel Trophy, though it has not been awarded since 1998. Both teams enter the game with high stakes, as Kentucky seeks to improve their record while Tennessee aims to maintain their strong performance.
KNOXVILLE, TENNESSEE — The Kentucky Wildcats are poised to clash with the No. 7 Tennessee Volunteers on Saturday in an important Southeastern Conference (SEC) football matchup. The game is set to kick off at 7:45 p.m. (EDT) at Neyland Stadium, which boasts a seating capacity of 101,915 fans. Broadcast coverage will be available on the SEC Network, allowing fans to catch every play of this highly anticipated contest.
Viewers can tune into the game on various cable providers, including Spectrum Cable (Channel 516), DISH Network (Channel 404), DirecTV (Channel 611), and UVerse (Channel 607, 1607 HD). The SEC Network announcing team will feature play-by-play commentator Tom Hart, analyst Jordan Rodgers, and sideline reporter Cole Cubelic. For fans who prefer radio coverage, WLAP-AM 630 and WBUL-FM 98.1 will provide live updates, along with a statewide network of UK radio affiliates. Satellite radio listeners can find coverage on XM Channel 374.
For an enhanced viewing experience, fans can follow live updates through sports columnist John Clay on Kentucky.com. Streaming options are also available via WatchESPN.com and the WatchESPN app, depending on the viewer’s TV service provider.
This football matchup is steeped in tradition, carrying the legacy of the Beer Barrel Trophy, awarded to the victor of the long-standing rivalry between Kentucky and Tennessee since 1925. However, the trophy has been retired since 1998 following a tragic incident involving Kentucky players, leaving it absent from the competition since that year. Historically, Kentucky has faced Tennessee every year since 1919, with the exception of 1943. In head-to-head competition, Tennessee holds a significant advantage with an all-time record of 85-26-9 against Kentucky.
The game is essential for both teams. Kentucky enters with a record of 3-5 overall and 1-5 in the SEC, looking to improve their standing. Meanwhile, Tennessee boasts a strong 6-1 record and stands 3-1 in the conference, underlining the challenge that Kentucky faces. With the SEC’s new nine-game schedule, Kentucky is guaranteed to compete against Tennessee, South Carolina, and Florida for the next four years, highlighting the significance of this annual meeting.
In addition to the on-field action, recent recruiting visits have elevated the excitement surrounding the game. In particular, 2028 prospect Ashton Taylor visited Tennessee, praising the school’s enthusiastic fan base and celebrated SEC traditions. Taylor expressed his desire to return for more game experiences as the season progresses, particularly the match against Arkansas.
The stakes are high for both teams as they prepare for what promises to be a thrilling contest. With both fan bases eager for a victory, the spirit of competition will be palpable in Neyland Stadium.
FAQ
What time does the Kentucky vs. Tennessee game start?
The game is scheduled to kick off at 7:45 p.m. (EDT) on Saturday.
Where can I watch the game?
The game will be broadcast live on the SEC Network. It is also available for streaming on WatchESPN.com and the WatchESPN app, depending on your TV provider.
What is the history behind the Beer Barrel Trophy?
The Beer Barrel Trophy has been awarded to the winner of the Kentucky vs. Tennessee rivalry since 1925 but has been retired since 1998 due to a tragic incident involving Kentucky players.
What are the current records of both teams?
Kentucky has a record of 3-5 overall and 1-5 in the SEC. Tennessee has a record of 6-1 overall and 3-1 in the SEC.
How many times have Kentucky and Tennessee met historically?
Kentucky and Tennessee have played every year since 1919, except for 1943. Tennessee holds a historical advantage with a record of 85-26-9 against Kentucky.
Key Features of the Kentucky vs. Tennessee Game
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | Saturday |
| Kickoff Time | 7:45 p.m. (EDT) |
| Location | Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, TN |
| Capacity | 101,915 |
| TV Broadcast | SEC Network |
| Radio Broadcast | WLAP-AM 630, WBUL-FM 98.1 |
| Historical Record | Tennessee leads the series 85-26-9 |
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Additional Resources
- Knox News
- Kentucky.com
- A to Z Sports
- Sports Illustrated
- 247Sports
- Wikipedia: Kentucky Tigers
- Google Search: Tennessee Football
- Google Scholar: SEC Football Rivalry
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Kentucky Wildcats
- Google News: Tennessee vs Kentucky Football
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