1985 Tennessee Volunteers football team

The 1984 Tennessee squad had managed a 7–4–1 record, ending with a narrow 28–27 loss to Maryland in the Sun Bowl. While they had defeated rival Alabama 28–27, they lost important games to Auburn and Florida, and had been upset by Kentucky.

Prior to the 1985 season, long-time athletic director Bob Woodruff announced his retirement. Head coach Johnny Majors expressed interest in serving as both coach and athletic director, but the university hired former coach Doug Dickey."UCLA at Tennessee" (ABC Sports broadcast)", Knoxville, Tennessee, September 14, 1985. Accessed at YouTube.com, April 8, 2013.

Quarterback Tony Robinson entered the 1985 season as a candidate for the Heisman Trophy. During the 1984 season, he had completed 156 of 253 passes for 1,963 yards, falling just short of his predecessor Alan Cockrell's single-season record of 2,021 yards (set in 1983). His 61.7% completion percentage had broken the single-season record set by Johnny Majors in 1956.[http://diglib.lib.utk.edu/fbpro/main.php?bid=738&pg=12 1985 University of Tennessee Football Guide] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029204740/http://diglib.lib.utk.edu/fbpro/main.php?bid=738&pg=12 |date=October 29, 2013 }} (University of Tennessee, 1985), p. 12. Fifth-year senior Daryl Dickey, Robinson's backup, would start the final seven games after Robinson suffered a season-ending knee injury. Three redshirt freshmen were competing for the third-string quarterback slot: Jeff Francis, Randy Sanders, and Greg Hargis.[http://diglib.lib.utk.edu/fbpro/main.php?bid=738&pg=20 1985 University of Tennessee Football Guide] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304000753/http://diglib.lib.utk.edu/fbpro/main.php?bid=738&pg=20 |date=March 4, 2016 }} (University of Tennessee, 1985), pp. 18–19.

All-American prospect Tim McGee was the leading returning wide receiver, having caught a school record 54 passes in 1984. McGee entered the 1985 season needing 45 catches, 828 yards, and 5 touchdowns to set school career records in all three categories, a feat which he would accomplish. McGee was joined in the starting lineup by junior college transfer Eric Swanson (20 catches for 186 yards in 1984), while junior Joey Clinkscales and sophomore Vince Carter would see significant playing time. Olympic sprinter Sam Graddy joined the team as a receiver during spring practice. Senior Jeff Smith (6'3", 235 pounds), who had caught 26 passes for 416 yards in 1984, was the team's starting tight end, while Tim Hendrix (6'5", 223) would see significant playing time.

The running back slot was wide open following the graduation of 2nd-team All American Johnnie Jones. Sophomore Charles Wilson began the season as the starter, and was joined by redshirt freshman Keith Davis and junior Pete Panuska. One notable addition to the running back corps was Jeff Powell, a member of the track team who had been awarded the football team's final scholarship at the end of spring practice. Fullback duties were handled by 250-pound junior Sam Henderson, 225-pound sophomore William Howard and 230-pound junior Jim Miller.

The offensive line had lost Raleigh McKenzie and Bill Mayo to graduation, but returned future NFL players David Douglas (6'4", 266 pounds), Bruce Wilkerson (6'5", 258), Daryle Smith (6'5", 257), John Bruhin (6'4", 273), and Harry Galbreath (6'1", 260). Todd Kirk (6'3", 257) was the starting center. Tony Williams (6'3", 272) would also see playing time.

On defense, the Vols had lost three linebackers to the NFL Draft: Carl Zander, Alvin Toles, and Reggie McKenzie. The key returning linebacker was Dale Jones, who had registered 109 tackles in 1984, and had garnered a reputation for making big plays. Jones was joined by senior Lavoisier Fisher, junior Tyrone Robinson, sophomores Kelly Ziegler and Darrin Miller, and freshman Bryan Kimbro. The defensive line was led by senior Richard Brown (6'1", 263 pounds) and junior Robby Scott (6'1", 274), while sophomores Mark Hovanic (6'3", 245), Fred Bennett (6'0", 258) and Richard Cooper (6'6", 272) had shown promise as freshmen.

The Vols' secondary was considered the strongest part of the defense at the beginning of the season, with Tommy Sims and Terry Brown registering strong seasons in 1984. They were joined by junior Charles Davis and sophomores Terry McDaniel, Andre Creamer and Victor Peppers. Chris White, a fifth-year senior who had seen scant playing time prior the 1985 season, would come off the bench to lead the team with 9 interceptions and receive All-American honors.[http://www.utsports.com/sports/m-footbl/fballamerica/whitec.htm Chris White] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150905143254/http://www.utsports.com/sports/m-footbl/fballamerica/whitec.htm |date=September 5, 2015 }}", UTSports.com. Retrieved: April 8, 2013.

The Vols' special teams were also dealing with inexperience, having lost kicker Fuad Reveiz and punter Jimmy Colquitt to the NFL. Carlos Reveiz, Fuad's younger brother, stepped in at kicker, while sophomore Bob Garmon was named the starting punter. Joel Farmer was the team's long snapper, while Randy Sanders was the primary holder. Tim McGee and Andre Creamer handled punt returns, while Pete Panuska, Keith Davis, and Jeff Powell handled kick returns at various times during the season.

Head coach Johnny Majors had compiled a 108–82–5 record during his 17 years as a head coach, which included five seasons with Iowa State (1968–1972), four with Pittsburgh (1973–1976), and eight with Tennessee (1977–1984). His record at UT at the start of the 1985 season was 51–39–3.[http://diglib.lib.utk.edu/fbpro/main.php?bid=738&pg=33 1985 University of Tennessee Football Guide] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029205552/http://diglib.lib.utk.edu/fbpro/main.php?bid=738&pg=33 |date=October 29, 2013 }}, University of Tennessee, 1985, p. 25. While he had taken the Vols to four consecutive bowl games, he had yet to win an SEC Championship.

The most notable addition to the Tennessee coaching staff was Ken Donahue, who had worked as an assistant coach under Alabama's Bear Bryant for 21 years. Donahue was initially hired as a defensive line coach in February 1985, but was promoted to defensive coordinator in March after Larry Marmie announced he was leaving for Arizona State."[https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1817&dat=19850328&id=MjodAAAAIBAJ&sjid=8KUEAAAAIBAJ&pg=6582,8641237 Donahue Takes Coordinator Job] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151118211621/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1817&dat=19850328&id=MjodAAAAIBAJ&sjid=8KUEAAAAIBAJ&pg=6582,8641237 |date=November 18, 2015 }}", Tuscaloosa News, March 28, 1985, p. 13. Prior to Spring practice, long-time Vol assistant George Cafego retired."[https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=LjodAAAAIBAJ&sjid=8KUEAAAAIBAJ&pg=4834,7175007&dq=george-cafego&hl=en Tennessee Kicking Coach George Cafego Retires] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151119111916/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=LjodAAAAIBAJ&sjid=8KUEAAAAIBAJ&pg=4834,7175007&dq=george-cafego&hl=en |date=November 19, 2015 }}", Tuscaloosa News, March 24, 1985, p. 38. In late March, the Vols hired Tennessee Tech defensive coordinator Dick Bumpas to coach linebackers.

Four members of the 1985 staff later became head coaches at Division I programs: Walt Harris, Phillip Fulmer, David Cutcliffe and Ron Zook. Kippy Brown has worked as an assistant coach in the NFL, and was briefly UT's interim head coach following the abrupt departure of Lane Kiffin in January 2010. Gerald Brown, an administrative assistant, later became the running backs coach for the Atlanta Falcons.

Bruno Pauletto, the Vols' strength coach, was an Olympic shot putter who won the gold medal for the Canadian team at the 1982 Commonwealth Games, and was a member of the Canadian team at the 1984 Olympics.[http://diglib.lib.utk.edu/fbpro/main.php?bid=738&pg=38 1985 University of Tennessee Football Guide] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170812193240/http://diglib.lib.utk.edu/fbpro/main.php?bid=738&pg=38 |date=August 12, 2017 }}, University of Tennessee, 1985, p. 37.]

The Vols opened the 1985 campaign hosting #10 UCLA, which was coming off a 9–3 season in 1984, and had defeated defending national champion BYU in their first game of the 1985 season. Bruins coach Terry Donahue entered the game needing one win to become UCLA's all-time winningest football coach."[http://diglib.lib.utk.edu/fbpro/main.php?bid=234&pg=68 UCLA Coach Terry Donahue] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304084007/http://diglib.lib.utk.edu/fbpro/main.php?bid=234&pg=68 |date=March 4, 2016 }}", Tennessee Versus UCLA Official Program, University of Tennessee, September 1985, p. 65. The Bruins' offense featured running back Gaston Green, two future NFL receivers, Willie "Flipper" Anderson and Mike Sherrard, and All-American kicker John Lee. Matt Stevens and David Norrie were vying for time at quarterback.Gibson Smith, "[http://diglib.lib.utk.edu/fbpro/main.php?bid=234&pg=18 1985 UCLA Bruins Scouting Report] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304084025/http://diglib.lib.utk.edu/fbpro/main.php?bid=234&pg=18 |date=March 4, 2016 }}", Tennessee Versus UCLA Official Program, University of Tennessee, 1985, pp. 14–15.

Following a bye week, the Vols hosted the Auburn Tigers, who entered the game ranked #1 in the nation, and had defeated the Vols in the teams' previous three meetings. The Tigers' offense was led by eventual Heisman Trophy winner Bo Jackson, who had averaged 247.5 yards per game and nearly 10 yards per carry in his first two games of the season. Auburn struggled with uncertainty at quarterback, however, with Jeff Burger, Bobby Walden, and Pat Washington all vying for the starting position.Gibson Smith, "[http://diglib.lib.utk.edu/fbpro/main.php?bid=235&pg=18 1985 Auburn Tigers Scouting Report] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304001720/http://diglib.lib.utk.edu/fbpro/main.php?bid=235&pg=18 |date=March 4, 2016 }}", Tennessee Versus Auburn Official Program, University of Tennessee, 1985, pp. 14–15.

After hosting Wake Forest, the Vols traveled to Gainesville to play the Florida Gators. Florida coach Galen Hall entered the game with an 11–0–1 record, having shut out LSU the previous week. Florida's offense featured the school's all-time leading rusher Neal Anderson and John L. Williams in the backfield, quarterback Kerwin Bell, and future NFL receiver Ricky Nattiel. Many Gator fans saw this game as an opportunity for revenge, as they blamed Tennessee for leading the movement to strip the Gators of their 1984 SEC Championship for rules violations committed under Hall's predecessor, Charley Pell.Sharon Robb, "[http://articles.sun-sentinel.com/1985-10-13/sports/8502150086_1_florida-defensive-line-gators-tony-robinson Gators Drop Tennessee Volunteers] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029192712/http://articles.sun-sentinel.com/1985-10-13/sports/8502150086_1_florida-defensive-line-gators-tony-robinson |date=October 29, 2013 }}", Fort Lauderdale Sun Sentinel, October 13, 1985. Retrieved: March 27, 2013.

In the fifth game of the season, the Vols visited Alabama for the "Third Saturday in October" rivalry. The Tide entered the game 4–1 following a 19–17 loss to Penn State in the previous week. The Vols had won the teams' previous three meetings, and desperately needed a win to stay in contention for the SEC Championship. The Tide was led by quarterback Mike Shula (the son of NFL coach Don Shula) and future All-American running back Bobby Humphrey on offense, and All-American linebacker Cornelius Bennett on defense."[https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1985-10-20-sp-14101-story.html Vols Stop Tide, Lose Robinson]", Los Angeles Times, October 20, 1985. Retrieved: March 27, 2013.

Tennessee hosted Georgia Tech for its sixth game of the season. The Yellow Jackets entered the game 4–2 following a narrow loss to Auburn in the previous week. The Vols had edged Georgia Tech 24–21 the previous year, but were playing without star quarterback Tony Robinson, who had suffered a season-ending knee injury against Alabama. The Yellow Jackets' offense was led by All-ACC quarterback John Dewberry and receiver Gary Lee, though leading rushers Cory Collier and Jerry Mays were out with injuries.Gibson Smith, "[http://diglib.lib.utk.edu/fbpro/main.php?bid=237&pg=18 Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets Scouting Report] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161022080537/http://diglib.lib.utk.edu/fbpro/main.php?bid=237&pg=18 |date=October 22, 2016 }}", Tennessee Versus Georgia Tech Official Program, 1985, pp. 14–15. Linebacker Ted Roof and lineman Pat Swilling led the Jackets' elite "Black Watch" unit on defense.Luciana Chavez, "[https://web.archive.org/web/20061129065226/http://www.newsobserver.com/122/story/514086.html Duke's Faith in Roof Far From Blind]", The News & Observer, November 24, 2006. Retrieved at archive.org, March 27, 2013.

After playing Rutgers in Knoxville and visiting Memphis State, the Vols began their final conference stretch by hosting Ole Miss. A tie between Alabama and LSU the previous week had left Tennessee and Florida tied for first place in the conference, and with Florida ineligible, the Vols needed only to win their final three games to win the SEC Championship. The Rebels were led by freshman quarterback Chris Osgood (starting in place of the injured Kent Austin), running back Nathan Wonsley, and receiver J.R. Ambrose.Gibson Smith, "[http://diglib.lib.utk.edu/fbpro/main.php?bid=239&pg=18 Mississippi Rebels Scouting Report] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029204938/http://diglib.lib.utk.edu/fbpro/main.php?bid=239&pg=18 |date=October 29, 2013 }}", Tennessee Versus Mississippi Official Program, 1985, pp. 14–15.

In the next-to-last game of the regular season, the Vols traveled to Lexington to play Kentucky in the annual Battle for the Barrel. Kentucky entered the game 5–5 under fourth-year head coach Jerry Claiborne, and had won the teams' previous meeting in Knoxville, 17–12. In the final game of the regular season, the Vols played host to Vanderbilt, which entered the game 3–6–1.

As SEC champions, Tennessee received an automatic berth in the 1986 Sugar Bowl, played on New Year's Day in New Orleans. Their opponent, Miami, entered the game with a 10-game winning streak, which was capped by a 58–7 blowout of Notre Dame. Ranked #2 in the nation, Miami needed a win over Tennessee and a loss by Penn State in the Orange Bowl to lay claim to the national title.Austin Wilson, "[http://diglib.lib.utk.edu/fbpro/main.php?bid=147&pg=12 National Title Could Hinge on Miami-Tennessee Fray] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304075144/http://diglib.lib.utk.edu/fbpro/main.php?bid=147&pg=12 |date=March 4, 2016 }}", The Fifty-Second Sugar Bowl Official Program, 1986, p. 11. Under second-year coach Jimmy Johnson, the Hurricanes featured numerous future NFL players, including quarterback Vinny Testaverde, running backs Alonzo Highsmith, Warren Williams, and Mel Bratton, receivers Michael Irvin and Brian Blades, All-American tight end Willie Smith, and a defense led by linemen Jerome Brown and Kevin Fagan, linebacker Winston Moss, and defensive back Bennie Blades. The Vols would go on to destroy the overconfident Miami Hurricanes 35–7.

{{CFB schedule

| rankyear = 1985

| poll = AP

|{{CFB schedule entry

| date = September 14

| w/l = t

| nonconf = y

| rank =

| opponent = UCLA

| opprank = 10

| site_stadium = Neyland Stadium

| site_cityst = Knoxville, TN

| tv = ABC

| score = 26–26

| attend = 94,370

| source = {{Cite web |last=Dodds |first=Tracy |date=1985-09-15 |title=UCLA's Comeback Kids Are at It Again, 26-26 |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1985-09-15-sp-23235-story.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210514053716/https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1985-09-15-sp-23235-story.html |archive-date=May 14, 2021 |access-date=2025-04-11 |website=Los Angeles Times}}

}}

|{{CFB schedule entry

| date = September 28

| w/l = w

| opponent = Auburn

| opprank = 1

| site_stadium = Neyland Stadium

| site_cityst = Knoxville, TN

| gamename = rivalry

| tv = ABC

| score = 38–20

| attend = 94,358

| source = {{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-commercial-appeal-tennessee-pulls-a/134625857/|work=The Commercial Appeal|title=Tennessee pulls a stunner|date=September 29, 1985|accessdate=November 4, 2023|via=Newspapers.com|archive-date=November 4, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231104205400/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-commercial-appeal-tennessee-pulls-a/134625857/|url-status=live}}

}}

|{{CFB schedule entry

| date = October 5

| w/l = w

| nonconf = y

| rank = 16

| opponent = Wake Forest

| site_stadium = Neyland Stadium

| site_cityst = Knoxville, TN

| score = 31–29

| attend = 93,345

| source = {{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-charlotte-observer-deacons-push-tenn/134632062/|work=The Charlotte Observer|title=Deacons push Tennessee to the limit|date=October 6, 1985|accessdate=November 4, 2023|via=Newspapers.com|archive-date=November 4, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231104224937/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-charlotte-observer-deacons-push-tenn/134632062/|url-status=live}}

}}

|{{CFB schedule entry

| date = October 12

| w/l = l

| away = y

| rank = 14

| opponent = Florida

| opprank = 7

| site_stadium = Florida Field

| site_cityst = Gainesville, FL

| gamename = rivalry

| score = 10–17

| attend = 74,432

| source = {{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-leaf-chronicle-gators-defeat-vols/134631214/|newspaper=The Leaf-Chronicle|title=Gators defeat Vols|date=October 13, 1985|accessdate=November 4, 2023|via=Newspapers.com}}

}}

|{{CFB schedule entry

| date = October 19

| w/l = w

| away = y

| rank = 20

| opponent = Alabama

| opprank = 15

| site_stadium = Legion Field

| site_cityst = Birmingham, AL

| gamename = Third Saturday in October

| tv = TBS

| score = 16–14

| attend = 75,808

| source = {{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/71559343/ground-kicking-games-propel-vols-past/|work=The Montgomery Advertiser|title=Ground, kicking games propel Vols past Tide|date=October 20, 1985|accessdate=November 4, 2023|via=Newspapers.com}}

}}

|{{CFB schedule entry

| date = October 26

| w/l = t

| nonconf = y

| rank = 16

| opponent = Georgia Tech

| site_stadium = Neyland Stadium

| site_cityst = Knoxville, TN

| gamename = rivalry

| tv = ESPN

| score = 6–6

| attend = 94,575

| source = {{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-vols-get-a-kick/134632261/|work=The Atlanta Journal & Constitution|title=Vols get a kick, Jackets get a 6–6 tie|date=October 27, 1985|accessdate=November 4, 2023|via=Newspapers.com|archive-date=November 4, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231104224938/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-atlanta-constitution-vols-get-a-kick/134632261/|url-status=live}}

}}

|{{CFB schedule entry

| date = November 2

| w/l = w

| nonconf = y

| homecoming = y

| rank = 19

| opponent = Rutgers

| site_stadium = Neyland Stadium

| site_cityst = Knoxville, TN

| score = 40–0

| attend = 92,188

| source = {{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-central-new-jersey-home-news-tenness/134632357/|work=The Central New Jersey Home News|title=Tennessee rolls over Rutgers, 40–0|date=November 3, 1985|accessdate=November 4, 2023|via=Newspapers.com|archive-date=November 4, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231104224937/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-central-new-jersey-home-news-tenness/134632357/|url-status=live}}

}}

|{{CFB schedule entry

| date = November 9

| w/l = w

| nonconf = y

| away = y

| rank = 19

| opponent = Memphis State

| site_stadium = Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium

| site_cityst = Memphis, TN

| score = 17–7

| attend = 49,617

| source = {{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-leaf-chronicle-tigers-growlbut-vols/134632475/|work=The Leaf-Chronicle|title=Tigers growl, but Vols hang on for victory, 17–7|date=November 10, 1985|accessdate=November 4, 2023|via=Newspapers.com|archive-date=November 4, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231104224937/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-leaf-chronicle-tigers-growlbut-vols/134632475/|url-status=live}}

}}

|{{CFB schedule entry

| date = November 16

| w/l = w

| rank = 18

| opponent = Ole Miss

| gamename = rivalry

| site_stadium = Neyland Stadium

| site_cityst = Knoxville, TN

| tv = TBS

| score = 34–14

| attend = 92,482

| source = {{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/kingsport-times-news-vols-stuff-ole-miss/134624232/|work=Kingsport Times-News|title=Vols stuff Ole Miss, 34–14|date=November 17, 1985|accessdate=November 4, 2023|via=Newspapers.com|archive-date=November 4, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231104201751/https://www.newspapers.com/article/kingsport-times-news-vols-stuff-ole-miss/134624232/|url-status=live}}

}}

|{{CFB schedule entry

| date = November 23

| w/l = w

| away = y

| rank = 16

| opponent = Kentucky

| site_stadium = Commonwealth Stadium

| site_cityst = Lexington, KY

| gamename = rivalry

| tv = TBS

| score = 42–0

| attend = 57,160

| source = {{cite news|title=Vols' delayed fuse blasts Cats 42–0|newspaper=Lexington Herald-Leader|author=Jerry Tipton|date=November 24, 1985|pages=C1, C7|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/86574561/vols-delayed-fuse-blasts-cats-42-0/|via=Newspapers.com|archive-date=October 6, 2021|access-date=October 6, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211006013645/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/86574561/vols-delayed-fuse-blasts-cats-42-0/|url-status=live}}

}}

|{{CFB schedule entry

| date = November 30

| w/l = w

| rank = 10

| opponent = Vanderbilt

| site_stadium = Neyland Stadium

| site_cityst = Knoxville, TN

| gamename = rivalry

| tv = TBS

| score = 30–0

| attend = 97,372

| source = {{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/asheville-citizen-times-so-sweet-vols-b/134623333/|work=Asheville Citizen-Times|title=So sweet, Vols blank Vandy to win SEC title|date=December 1, 1985|accessdate=November 4, 2023|via=Newspapers.com|archive-date=November 4, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231104200151/https://www.newspapers.com/article/asheville-citizen-times-so-sweet-vols-b/134623333/|url-status=live}}

}}

|{{CFB schedule entry

| date = January 1, 1986

| w/l = w

| nonconf = y

| neutral = y

| rank = 8

| opponent = Miami (FL)

| opprank = 2

| site_stadium = Louisiana Superdome

| site_cityst = New Orleans, LA

| gamename = Sugar Bowl

| tv = ABC

| score = 35–7

| attend = 77,432

| source = {{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-shreveport-journal-orange-crush-but/134632734/|work=The Shreveport Journal|title=Orange crush, but Tennessee, not Miami, does the damage|date=January 2, 1986|accessdate=November 4, 2023|via=Newspapers.com|archive-date=November 4, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231104224939/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-shreveport-journal-orange-crush-but/134632734/|url-status=live}}

}}

}}

{{cite web |url=http://www.utsports.com/sports/m-footbl/fball-history/1980-89.html |title=Tennessee Football History and Records: Tennessee Results 1980–89 |publisher=University of Tennessee Athletics |access-date=March 12, 2012 |archive-date=September 21, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130921145533/http://www.utsports.com/sports/m-footbl/fball-history/1980-89.html |url-status=dead }}

{{See also|1985 UCLA Bruins football team}}

{{Americanfootballbox

|title=#10 UCLA (1–0) at Tennessee (0–0)

|Road=UCLA

|R1=10 ||R2=0 ||R3=0 ||R4=16

|Home=Tennessee

|H1=0 ||H2=13 ||H3=7 ||H4=6

|date=September 14, 1985

|stadium= Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tennessee

|StartTime=

|TimeZone=

|ElapsedTime=

|attendance= 94,370

|scoring=

; 1st Quarter

• UCLA – Gaston Green 72-yard run (John Lee kick)
• UCLA – Lee 39-yard field goal

; 2nd Quarter

• TENN – Carlos Reveiz 49-yard field goal
• TENN – Tim Hendrix 4-yard pass from Tony Robinson (Reveiz kick)
• TENN – Reveiz 33-yard field goal

; 3rd Quarter

• TENN – Joey Clinkscales 68-yard pass from Robinson (Reveiz kick)

; 4th Quarter

• TENN – Reveiz 31-yard field goal
• TENN – Reveiz 40-yard field goal
• UCLA – Al Wilson 8-yard pass from David Norrie (Jeff Nowinski pass from Norrie)
• UCLA – Willie Anderson 25-yard pass from Norrie (Green run)

|stats=

;Passing

• UCLA – Norrie 10/15, 138, 2 TD, 1 INT
• TENN – Robinson 23/35, 387, 2 TD

;Rushing

• UCLA – Green 24–194–1
• TENN – Wilson 12–45

;Receiving

• UCLA – Sherrard 7–120
• TENN – McGee 5–142; Clinkscales 4–106–1

|TVAnnouncers=Keith Jackson (play-by-play), Frank Broyles (color), Tim Brant (sideline)

|TV= ABC

|reference="[http://diglib.lib.utk.edu/fbpro/main.php?bid=748&pg=103 Last Season] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140202133837/http://diglib.lib.utk.edu/fbpro/main.php?bid=748&pg=103 |date=February 2, 2014 }}", 1986 University of Tennessee Football Guide (University of Tennessee, 1986), pp. 100–104.[http://collegefootballbelt.com/1985/1985%20Game%20Summaries/UCLA%20at%20Tennessee.htm UCLA Bruins at Tennessee Volunteers (September 14, 1985)] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120213165918/http://collegefootballbelt.com/1985/1985%20Game%20Summaries/UCLA%20at%20Tennessee.htm |date=February 13, 2012 }}, College Football Belt. Retrieved: April 1, 2013.

}}

{{See also|1985 Auburn Tigers football team}}

{{Americanfootballbox

|title=#1 Auburn (2–0) at Tennessee (0–0–1)

|Road=Auburn

|R1=0 ||R2=0 ||R3=0 ||R4=20

|Home=Tennessee

|H1=14 ||H2=10 ||H3=0 ||H4=14

|date=September 28, 1985

|stadium= Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tennessee

|StartTime=

|TimeZone=

|ElapsedTime=

|attendance= 94,358

|scoring=

; 1st Quarter

• TENN – Charles Wilson 6-yard run (Carlos Reveiz kick)
• TENN – Tim McGee 37-yard pass from Tony Robinson (Reveiz kick)

; 2nd Quarter

• TENN – Vince Carter 4-yard pass from Robinson (Reveiz kick)
• TENN – Reveiz 27-yard field goal

; 4th Quarter

• AUB – Tommie Agee 1-yard run (2pt conversion failed)
• TENN – Joey Clinkscales 10-yard pass from Robinson (Reveiz kick)
• AUB – Brent Fullwood 7-yard run (2pt conversion failed)
• TENN – Eric Swanson 30-yard pass from Robinson (Reveiz kick)
• AUB – Kyle Collins 4-yard pass from Bobby Walden (Curtis Stewart run)

|stats=

;Passing

• AUB – Walden 6/18, 71, 1 TD, 3 INT
• TENN – Robinson 17/30, 259, 4 TD, 3 INT

;Rushing

• AUB – Fullwood 15–96–1, Jackson 17–80
• TENN – Davis 13–102; Robinson 6–33

;Receiving

• AUB – Gainous 1–17
• TENN – McGee 6–163–1

|TVAnnouncers=Keith Jackson (play-by-play), Frank Broyles (color), Tim Brant (sideline)

|TV= ABC

|reference=[https://newspaperarchive.com/pacific-stars-and-stripes/1985-09-30/page-22 Pacific Stars and Strips], September 30, 1985, p. 22. Accessed at Newspaperarchive.com, April 10, 2013.

}}

{{See also|Wake Forest Demon Deacons football, 1980–89}}

{{Americanfootballbox

|title=Wake Forest (3–1) at #16 Tennessee (1–0–1)

|Road=Wake Forest

|R1=7 ||R2=0 ||R3=7 ||R4=15

|Home=Tennessee

|H1=14 ||H2=0 ||H3=10 ||H4=7

|date=October 5, 1985

|stadium= Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tennessee

|StartTime=

|TimeZone=

|ElapsedTime=

|attendance= 93,345

|scoring=

; 1st Quarter

• TENN – Pete Panuska 1-yard run (Carlos Reveiz kick)
• WAKE – Michael Ramseur 5-yard run (Jeff Miller kick)
• TENN – Tony Robinson 1-yard run (Reveiz kick)

; 3rd Quarter

• TENN – Keith Davis 22-yard run (Reveiz kick)
• WAKE – Topper Clemons 4-yard pass from Foy White (Miller kick)
• TENN – Reveiz 52-yard field goal

; 4th Quarter

• TENN – Joey Clinkscales 9-yard pass from Robinson (Reveiz kick)
• WAKE – James Brim 7-yard pass from White (Ramseur run)
• WAKE – Greg Scales 18-yard pass from White (Miller kick)

|stats=

;Passing

• WAKE – White 24/39, 270, 3 TD, 1 INT
• TENN – Robinson 13/23, 170, 1 TD, 1 INT

;Rushing

• WAKE – Clemons 18–111; Ramseur 19–92–1
• TENN – Davis 21–102–1

;Receiving

• WAKE – Scales 5–41–1; Brim 3–21–1
• TENN – McGee 4–82; Clinkscales 2–52–1

|TVAnnouncers=

|TV=

|reference=[https://newspaperarchive.com/pacific-stars-and-stripes/1985-10-07/page-24 Pacific Stars and Stripes], October 7, 1985, p. 24. Accessed at Newspaperarchive.com April 14, 2013.

}}

{{See also|Florida Gators football, 1980–89}}

{{Americanfootballbox

|title=#14 Tennessee (2–0–1) at #7 Florida (3–0–1)

|Road=Tennessee

|R1=0 ||R2=3 ||R3=0 ||R4=7

|Home=Florida

|H1=0 ||H2=3 ||H3=14 ||H4=0

|date=October 12, 1985

|stadium= Florida Field, Gainesville, Florida

|StartTime=

|TimeZone=

|ElapsedTime=

|attendance= 74,432

|scoring=

; 2nd Quarter

• FLOR – Jeff Dawson 42-yard field goal
• TENN – Carlos Reveiz 33-yard field goal

; 3rd Quarter

• FLOR – Neal Anderson 9-yard run (Dawson kick)
• FLOR – Anderson 1-yard run (Dawson kick)

; 4th Quarter

• TENN – Tim McGee 20-yard pass from Tony Robinson (Reveiz kick)

|stats=

;Passing

• TENN – Robinson 26/36, 300, 1 TD, 2 INT
• FLOR – Bell 12/17, 143, 1 INT

;Rushing

• TENN – Davis 10–46; Henderson 4–19
• FLOR – Anderson 29–160–2; Williams 13–39

;Receiving

• TENN – Clinkscales 7–101; McGee 6–91–1
• FLOR – Williams 5–47

|TVAnnouncers=

|TV=

|reference=[https://newspaperarchive.com/santa-ana-orange-county-register/1985-10-13/page-112#136569323080325791&imy=9&canvasDetails=LEFT%3A+-933px%3B+WIDTH%3A+2628px%3B+CURSOR%3A+move%3B+TOP%3A+-280px%3B+HEIGHT%3A+4194px Santa Ana-Orange County Register], October 13, 1985, p. 112. Accessed at Newspaperarchive.com April 11, 2013.

}}

{{See also|1985 Alabama Crimson Tide football team}}

{{Americanfootballbox

|title=#20 Tennessee (2–1–1) at #15 Alabama (4–1)

|Road=Tennessee

|R1=0 ||R2=10 ||R3=3 ||R4=3

|Home=Alabama

|H1=0 ||H2=7 ||H3=0 ||H4=7

|date=October 19, 1985

|stadium= Legion Field, Birmingham, Alabama

|StartTime=

|TimeZone=

|ElapsedTime=

|attendance= 75,808

|scoring=

; 2nd Quarter

• TENN – Charles Wilson 1-yard run (Carlos Reveiz kick)
• ALA – Craig Turner 1-yard run (Van Tiffin kick)
• TENN – Reveiz 38-yard field goal

; 3rd Quarter

• TENN – Reveiz 48-yard field goal

; 4th Quarter

• TENN – Reveiz 28-yard field goal
• ALA – Bobby Humphrey 19-yard pass from Mike Shula (Tiffin kick)

|stats=

;Passing

• TENN – Robinson 10/19, 130, 1 INT; Dickey 1/5, 2
• ALA – Shula 16/29, 216, 1 TD, 2 INT

;Rushing

• TENN – Davis 27–141
• ALA – Humphrey 14–59

;Receiving

• TENN – Wilson 5–42
• ALA – Turner 8–45

|TVAnnouncers=Bob Neal (play-by-play), Tim Foley (color)

|TV=TBS

|reference=[https://newspaperarchive.com/salina-journal/1985-10-20/page-24 Salina Journal], October 20, 1985, p. 24. Accessed at Newspaperarchive.com April 11, 2013.

}}

{{See also|Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets football}}

{{Americanfootballbox

|title=Georgia Tech (4–2) at #16 Tennessee (3–1–1)

|Road=Georgia Tech

|R1=3 ||R2=0 ||R3=0 ||R4=3

|Home=Tennessee

|H1=0 ||H2=0 ||H3=0 ||H4=6

|date=October 26, 1985

|stadium= Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tennessee

|StartTime=

|TimeZone=

|ElapsedTime=

|attendance= 94,575

|scoring=

; 1st Quarter

• TECH – Thomas Palmer 22-yard field goal

; 4th Quarter

• TECH – David Bell 28-yard field goal
• TENN – Carlos Reveiz 55-yard field goal
• TENN – Reveiz 51-yard field goal

|stats=

;Passing

• TECH – Dewberry 12/18, 113, 1 INT
• TENN – Dickey 16/22, 153, 1 INT

;Rushing

• TECH – King 25–65; Mack 7–23
• TENN – Davis 19–56; Howard 5–21

;Receiving

• TECH – Manion 2–35; Lee 2–35
• TENN – McGee 4–41; Davis 6–32

|TVAnnouncers=Jim Simpson (play-by-play), Paul Maguire (color)

|TV=ESPN

|reference=[https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1985-10-27-sp-12860-story.html Southeast Roundup : Florida Has Thoughts About Auburn, Beats Virginia Tech, 35–18] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231015181507/https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1985-10-27-sp-12860-story.html |date=October 15, 2023 }}", Los Angeles Times, October 27, 1985. Retrieved: April 2, 2013.[https://newspaperarchive.com/salina-journal/1985-10-27/page-10 Salina Journal], October 27, 1985, p. 10. Accessed at Newspaperarchive.com April 11, 2013.

}}

{{See also|Rutgers Scarlet Knights football}}

{{Americanfootballbox

|title=Rutgers (1–5–1) at #19 Tennessee (3–1–2)

|Road=Rutgers

|R1=0 ||R2=0 ||R3=0 ||R4=0

|Home=Tennessee

|H1=14 ||H2=10 ||H3=6 ||H4=10

|date=November 2, 1985

|stadium= Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tennessee

|StartTime=

|TimeZone=

|ElapsedTime=

|attendance= 92,188

|scoring=

; 1st Quarter

• TENN – Keith Davis 7-yard pass from Daryl Dickey (Carlos Reveiz kick)
• TENN – Chris White 55-yard interception return (Reveiz kick)

; 2nd Quarter

• TENN – Davis 1-yard run (Reveiz kick)
• TENN – Reveiz 44-yard field goal

; 3rd Quarter

• TENN – Reveiz 48-yard field goal
• TENN – Reveiz 34-yard field goal

; 4th Quarter

• TENN – Reveiz 44-yard field goal
• TENN – Pete Panuska 57-yard run (Reveiz kick)

|stats=

;Passing

• RUT – Hochberg 16/32, 99, 2 INT
• TENN – Dickey 16/21, 194, 1 TD

;Rushing

• RUT – Henderson 8–45
• TENN – Panuska 4–69–1; Davis 17–68–1

;Receiving

• RUT – A. Smith 6–27
• TENN – McGee 5–105; J. Smith 3–69

|TVAnnouncers=

|TV=

|reference=Salina Journal, November 3, 1985, p. 34. Accessed at Newspaperarchive.com.

}}

{{See also|Memphis Tigers football}}

{{Americanfootballbox

|title=#19 Tennessee (4–1–2) at Memphis State (2–5–2)

|Road=Tennessee

|R1=3 ||R2=14 ||R3=0 ||R4=0

|Home=Memphis State

|H1=7 ||H2=0 ||H3=0 ||H4=0

|date=November 9, 1985

|stadium= Liberty Bowl, Memphis, Tennessee

|StartTime=

|TimeZone=

|ElapsedTime=

|attendance= 49,617

|scoring=

; 1st Quarter

• TENN – Carlos Reveiz 23-yard field goal
• MSU – Dan Harkins 24-yard blocked punt return (Thomas Ingles kick)

; 2nd Quarter

• TENN – Tim McGee 19-yard pass from Daryl Dickey (Reveiz kick)
• TENN – Eric Swanson 9-yard pass from Dickey (Reveiz kick)

|stats=

;Passing

• TENN – Dickey 8/17, 128, 2 TD
• MSU – Sparkman 14/21, 147, 2 INT

;Rushing

• TENN – Powell 12–47; Henderson 9–31
• MSU – Womack 22–110

;Receiving

• TENN – J. Smith 2–56; Howard 2–22
• MSU – J. Harris 3–55

|TVAnnouncers=

|TV=

|reference="[https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1985-11-10-sp-3493-story.html Southeast Roundup : Alabama Salvages Tie When LSU Misses on a Late Field-Goal Try] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210127094407/https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1985-11-10-sp-3493-story.html |date=January 27, 2021 }}", Los Angeles Times, November 10, 1985. Retrieved: April 2, 2013.[https://newspaperarchive.com/pacific-stars-and-stripes/1985-11-11/page-22 Pacific Stars and Stripes], November 10, 1985, p. 22. Accessed at Newspaperarchive.com April 13, 2013.

}}

{{See also|Ole Miss Rebels football}}

{{Americanfootballbox

|title=Ole Miss (3–5–1) at #18 Tennessee (5–1–2)

|Road=Ole Miss

|R1=0 ||R2=7 ||R3=0 ||R4=7

|Home=Tennessee

|H1=7 ||H2=10 ||H3=7 ||H4=10

|date=November 16, 1985

|stadium= Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tennessee

|StartTime=

|TimeZone=

|ElapsedTime=

|attendance= 92,482

|scoring=

; 1st Quarter

• TENN – Sam Henderson 2-yard run (Carlos Reveiz kick)

; 2nd Quarter

• MISS – Shawn Sykes 1-yard run (Bryan Owen kick)
• TENN – Reveiz 43-yard field goal
• TENN – Tim Hendrix 11-yard pass from Jeff Francis (Reveiz kick)

; 3rd Quarter

• TENN – Henderson 2-yard run (Reveiz kick)

; 4th Quarter

• TENN – Tim McGee 19-yard pass from Daryl Dickey (Reveiz kick)
• TENN – Reveiz 36-yard field goal
• MISS – J. R. Ambrose 19-yard pass from Mark Young (Owen kick)

|stats=

;Passing

• MISS – Osgood 4/20, 49, 2 INT
• TENN – Dickey 11/17, 203, 1 TD; Francis 5/8 44, 1 TD, 1 INT

;Rushing

• MISS – Wonsley 21–65; Sykes 9–37–1
• TENN – Henderson 15–45–2

;Receiving

• MISS – Perry 2–14; Ambrose 1–19
• TENN – McGee 7–117–1; J. Smith 2–74

|TVAnnouncers=Bob Neal (play-by-play), Tim Foley (color)

|TV=TBS

|reference="[https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1985-11-17-sp-7102-story.html Southeast Roundup: Tennessee Moves Into the Driver's Seat, 34–14]", Los Angeles Times, November 17, 1985. Retrieved: April 2, 2013.[http://grfx.cstv.com/schools/ole/graphics/oldstats/1985-football-stats.pdf Ole Miss Rebels – 1985 Stats] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121105211614/http://grfx.cstv.com/schools/ole/graphics/oldstats/1985-football-stats.pdf |date=November 5, 2012 }}, p. 72. Retrieved: April 9, 2013.[https://newspaperarchive.com/aiken-standard/1985-11-17/page-18 Aiken Standard], November 17, 1985, p. 18. Accessed at Newspaperarchive.com April 12, 2013.

}}

{{See also|Kentucky Wildcats football}}

{{Americanfootballbox

|title=#16 Tennessee (6–1–2) at Kentucky (5–5)

|Road=Tennessee

|R1=3 ||R2=3 ||R3=22 ||R4=14

|Home=Kentucky

|H1=0 ||H2=0 ||H3=0 ||H4=0

|date=November 23, 1985

|stadium= Commonwealth Stadium, Lexington, Kentucky

|StartTime=

|TimeZone=

|ElapsedTime=

|attendance= 57,160

|scoring=

; 1st Quarter

• TENN – Carlos Reveiz 42-yard field goal

; 2nd Quarter

• TENN – Reveiz 49-yard field goal

; 3rd Quarter

• TENN – Tim McGee 37-yard pass from Daryl Dickey (Jeff Smith pass from Dickey)
• TENN – McGee 12-yard pass from Dickey (Reveiz kick)
• TENN – Joey Clinkscales 19-yard pass from Dickey (Reveiz kick)

; 4th Quarter

• TENN – Dickey 1-yard run (Reveiz kick)
• TENN – Pete Panuska 8-yard run (Reveiz kick)

|stats=

;Passing

• TENN – Dickey 11/17, 182, 3 TD
• KENT – Ransdell 11/19, 74

;Rushing

• TENN – Powell 16–88; Davis 11–79
• KENT – Logan 10–72

;Receiving

• TENN – McGee 5–108–2
• KENT – Logan 4–21

|TVAnnouncers=Bob Neal (play-by-play), Tim Foley (color)

|TV=TBS

|reference="[https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1985-11-24-sp-1814-story.html Southeast Roundup: Tennessee Gets Its Offense Going and Beats Kentucky]", Los Angeles Times, November 24, 1985. Retrieved: April 2, 2013.[https://newspaperarchive.com/salina-journal/1985-11-24/page-26 Salina Journal], November 24, 1985, p. 26. Accessed at Newspaperarchive.com April 12, 2013.

}}

{{See also|Vanderbilt Commodores football}}

{{Americanfootballbox

|title=Vanderbilt (3–6–1) at #10 Tennessee (7–1–2)

|Road=Vanderbilt

|R1=0 ||R2=0 ||R3=0 ||R4=0

|Home=Tennessee

|H1=10 ||H2=17 ||H3=3 ||H4=0

|date=November 30, 1985

|stadium= Neyland Stadium, Knoxville, Tennessee

|StartTime=

|TimeZone=

|ElapsedTime=

|attendance= 97,372

|scoring=

; 1st Quarter

• TENN – Tim McGee 6-yard pass from Daryl Dickey (Carlos Reveiz kick)
• TENN – Reveiz 23-yard field goal

; 2nd Quarter

• TENN – Eric Swanson 43-yard pass from Dickey (Reveiz kick)
• TENN – Swanson 24-yard pass from Dickey (Reveiz kick)
• TENN – Reveiz 29-yard field goal

; 3rd Quarter

• TENN – Reveiz 24-yard field goal

|TVAnnouncers=

|TV=TBS

|reference="[https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1985-12-01-sp-5638-story.html Tennessee's 30–0 Victory Takes the Cake: Volunteers Rout Vanderbilt on Way to the Sugar Bowl]", Los Angeles Times, December 1, 1985. Retrieved: April 2, 2013.

}}

{{main|1986 Sugar Bowl}}

{{See also|1985 Miami Hurricanes football team}}

{{Americanfootballbox

|title=Sugar Bowl: #2 Miami (10–1) vs. #8 Tennessee (8–1–2)

|Road=Miami

|R1=7 ||R2=0 ||R3=0 ||R4=0

|Home=Tennessee

|H1=0 ||H2=14 ||H3=14 ||H4=7

|date=January 1, 1986

|stadium= Louisiana Superdome, New Orleans, Louisiana

|StartTime=

|TimeZone=

|ElapsedTime=

|attendance= 77,432

|scoring=

; 1st Quarter

• MIA – Michael Irvin 18-yard pass from Vinny Testaverde (Greg Cox kick)

; 2nd Quarter

• TENN – Jeff Smith 6-yard pass from Daryl Dickey (Carlos Reveiz kick)
• TENN – Tim McGee fumble recovery in end zone (Reveiz kick)

; 3rd Quarter

• TENN – Sam Henderson 1-yard run (Reveiz kick)
• TENN – Jeff Powell 60-yard run (Reveiz kick)

; 4th Quarter

• TENN – Charles Wilson 6-yard run (Reveiz kick)

|stats=

;Passing

• MIA – Testaverde 20/36, 217, 1 TD, 3 INT
• TENN – Dickey 15/25, 131, 1 TD, 1 INT

;Rushing

• MIA – Williams 8–45
• TENN – Powell 11–104–1

;Receiving

• MIA – Irvin 5–91–1; Perriman 5–41
• TENN – McGee 7–94

|TVAnnouncers=Keith Jackson (play-by-play), Frank Broyles (color), Tim Brant (sideline)

|TV=ABC

|reference=Marty Mulé, "[http://www.allstatesugarbowl.org/site106.php 52nd Annual Sugar Bowl Classic] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130307174040/http://allstatesugarbowl.org/site106.php |date=March 7, 2013 }}", Allstate Sugar Bowl official site. Originally published in Sugar Bowl Classic: A History (2008). Retrieved: April 2, 2013.

}}

• Passing: Tony Robinson 91/143, 1246, 8 TD, 7 INT; Daryl Dickey 85/131, 1161, 10 TD, 1 INT; Jeff Francis 14/20, 172, 1 TD, 1 INT
• Receiving: Tim McGee 50–947–7; Joey Clinkscales 22–434–4; Jeff Smith 20–397; Eric Swanson 24–300–4
• Rushing: Keith Davis 141–684–2; Jeff Powell 55–235; Sam Henderson 53–175–2; Pete Panuska 39–196–3; Tony Robinson 44–201–1
• Tackles: Kelly Ziegler 101 (83 solo), Darrin Miller 94 (67), Dale Jones 82 (59), Tommy Sims 62 (42), Chris White 62 (34)
• Tackles for loss: Dale Jones 9
• Sacks: Mark Hovanic 8, Dale Jones 5, Richard Cooper 5
• Interceptions: Chris White 9, Charles Davis 3
• Passes broken-up: Andre Creamer 6, Tommy Sims 5, Richard Cooper 5
• Forced fumbles: Dale Jones 5, Darrin Miller 4
• Fumbles recovered: Chris White 3
• Kicking: Carlos Reveiz 24/28 field goals, 30/30 PAT
• Punting: Bob Garmon 39.1 yards/punt
• ^{Source:[http://diglib.lib.utk.edu/fbpro/main.php?bid=748&pg=106 1986 University of Tennessee Football Guide] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029205337/http://diglib.lib.utk.edu/fbpro/main.php?bid=748&pg=106 |date=October 29, 2013 }} (University of Tennessee, 1986), pp. 105–106.}

• Tim McGee (WR): First-team All-American, All-SEC
• Chris White (DB): First-team All-American, All-SEC
• Dale Jones (LB): All-SEC
• Carlos Reveiz (PK): All-SEC
• Bruce Wilkerson (OL): All-SEC
• Daryl Dickey (QB): Sugar Bowl Most Valuable Player
• Troy Hale (WR): Academic All-SEC
• Randy Sanders (QB): Academic All-SEC
• Johnny Majors (HC): SEC Coach of the Year
• Ken Donahue (DC): SEC Assistant Coach of the Year
• ^{Source:[http://diglib.lib.utk.edu/fbpro/main.php?bid=748&pg=110 1986 University of Tennessee Football Guide] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029204738/http://diglib.lib.utk.edu/fbpro/main.php?bid=748&pg=110 |date=October 29, 2013 }} (University of Tennessee, 1986), p. 108.}

• Most passing yards in a game: 387, Tony Robinson (vs. UCLA)
• Most touchdown passes in a game: 4 (tie), Tony Robinson (vs. Auburn)
• Most interceptions in a game: 3 (tie), Chris White (vs. UCLA)^*
• Consecutive passes without an interception: 106, Daryl Dickey
• Highest single-season completion percentage (min. 100 attempts): 64.9%, Daryl Dickey^*
• Highest career completion percentage (min. 100 attempts): 63%, Daryl Dickey (1981–1985)^*
• Lowest career interception percentage: 1.2%, Daryl Dickey (1981–1985)
• Most single-season receiving yards: 947, Tim McGee
• Most single-season touchdown receptions: 7 (tie), Tim McGee
• Most career receptions: 123, Tim McGee (1982–1985)
• Most career receiving yards: 2,042, Tim McGee (1982–1985)
• Most career touchdown receptions: 16, Tim McGee (1982–1985)
• Most single-season points by kicking: 102, Carlos Reveiz
• Fewest team fumbles lost: 5
• ^{* Indicates record still stands as of the 2012 season}
• ^{Source:[http://diglib.lib.utk.edu/fbpro/main.php?bid=748&pg=118 1986 University of Tennessee Football Guide] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029203733/http://diglib.lib.utk.edu/fbpro/main.php?bid=748&pg=118 |date=October 29, 2013 }} (University of Tennessee, 1986), pp. 116–117.[http://www.utsports.com/sports/m-footbl/guides/2012/records.pdf Records] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304113625/http://www.utsports.com/sports/m-footbl/guides/2012/records.pdf |date=March 4, 2016 }}. UTSports.com. Retrieved: April 10, 2013.}

• Reference:{{cite web |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1986/draft.htm?redir |title=1986 NFL Draft |publisher=Pro-Football-Reference.com |access-date=March 12, 2012 |archive-date=April 14, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120414175828/http://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1986/draft.htm?redir |url-status=live }}

{{Reflist}}

• [https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/tennessee/1985.html Season summary] at Sports Reference

{{Tennessee Volunteers football navbox}}

{{Southeastern Conference football champions}}

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Category:Tennessee Volunteers football seasons

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