"We didn't have a pro allegiance": Singer Kenny Chesney looks back on Tennessee being his favorite childhood team despite being from Knoxville

Country music superstar Kenny Chesney is not just famous for his chart-topping hits but also for his unconditional love for the Tennessee Volunteers. Growing up in Knoxville, Chesney's love for the Volunteers was ingrained early, as there was no professional sports allegiance.

Appearing on The Pat McAfee Show, Chesney remembered his childhood and steadfast fandom.

"I grew up watching college football with my father," he said. "I grew up in Knoxville. We didn't have a pro football allegiance -- it was all Tennessee football. So I'm still going to watch Tennessee play football. I don't care how much it all changes." [01:45]

Chesney's deep connection with the Volunteers also stems from his friendship with former Vols quarterback Peyton Manning. The two have been seen together numerous times, both on stage and off.

Despite the fast-changing world of college sports, including NIL deals and the transfer portal, Chesney's passion for football remains unshaken.

Chesney's bond with the Volunteers goes beyond just being a fan; it’s part of his identity. His first stadium concert was at Neyland Stadium in 2003.

Can the Tennessee Volunteers make it to CFB playoffs?

Former NFL quarterback Greg McElroy believes that head coach Josh Heupel’s high-octane offense, which led the nation in scoring in 2022, could make a run for the college football playoffs in 2024. The key to their success? The development of their highly touted QB1, Nico Iamaleava.

Iamaleava made a name for himself with a stellar outing in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl, where he led the Vols to a commanding 35-0 victory over the Iowa Hawkeyes. McElroy stated:

"So, with a slightly improved passer – assuming Nico Iamaleava is – and a running game that’s going to continue to be dynamic, and a defense that has shown to be really solid, Tennessee could definitely challenge at the top of the league." [13:00]

A strong offensive line and a defense anchored by the top-ranked edge rusher James Pearce Jr., further bolsters playoff prospects for Josh Heupel. However, McElroy cautions that much depends on whether Iamaleava can maintain top form throughout the season.

The SEC is undoubtedly watching closely, as Vols' potential resurgence could shake up the conference and the playoff race.