1998 Tennessee Volunteers football team

• FB Shawn Bryson
• PK Jeff Hall
• G Mercedes Hamilton
• LB Al Wilson
• QB Tee Martin

Source:{{cite web | title=1998 Football Roster | website=University of Tennessee Athletics | date=2022-08-03 | url=https://utsports.com/sports/football/roster/1998 | access-date=2024-12-13}}{{cite web | last=Farner | first=Keith | title=WATCH: Tennessee honors 1998 national title team before Florida game | website=Saturday Down South | date=2018-09-22 | url=https://www.saturdaydownsouth.com/tennessee-football/watch-tennessee-honors-1998-national-title-team-before-florida-game/ | access-date=2024-12-13}}

{{CFB schedule

| rankyear = 1998

| poll = AP

| timezone = Eastern

|{{CFB schedule entry

| date = {{dow tooltip|September 5, 1998}}

| time = 12:00 pm

| w/l = w

| nonconf = y

| away = y

| rank = 10

| opponent = Syracuse

| opprank = 17

| site_stadium = Carrier Dome

| site_cityst = Syracuse, NY

| tv = ESPN

| score = 34–33

| attend = 49,550

| source = {{Cite news |last=Stevens |first=Kevin |date=September 6, 1998 |title=Vols thwat Orange's rally |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/press-and-sun-bulletin-vols-thwat-orang/157264533/ |access-date=October 16, 2024 |work=Press & Sun-Bulletin |via=Newspapers.com}}

}}

|{{CFB schedule entry

| date = {{dow tooltip|September 19, 1998}}

| time = 8:00 pm

| w/l = w

| rank = 6

| opponent = Florida

| opprank = 2

| site_stadium = Neyland Stadium

| site_cityst = Knoxville, TN

| tv = CBS

| gamename = rivalry

| score = 20–17

| overtime = OT

| attend = 107,653

| source = {{Cite news |last=Cash |first=Rana L. |date=September 20, 1998 |title=Errors finally sink UF |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-miami-herald-errors-finally-sink-uf/157265166/ |access-date=October 16, 2024 |work=The Miami Herald |via=Newspapers.com}}

}}

|{{CFB schedule entry

| date = {{dow tooltip|September 26, 1998}}

| time = 7:00 pm

| w/l = w

| nonconf = y

| rank = 4

| opponent = Houston

| site_stadium = Neyland Stadium

| site_cityst = Knoxville, TN

| tv = PPV

| score = 42–7

| attend = 106,417

| source = {{Cite news |last=Harding |first=Thomas |date=September 27, 1998 |title=Vols answer questions with win over Houston |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-commercial-appeal-vols-answer-questi/157265297/ |access-date=October 16, 2024 |work=The Commercial Appeal |via=Newspapers.com}}

}}

|{{CFB schedule entry

| date = October 3

| time = 3:30 pm

| w/l = w

| away = y

| rank = 3

| opponent = Auburn

| site_stadium = Jordan-Hare Stadium

| site_cityst = Auburn, AL

| gamename = rivalry

| tv = CBS

| score = 17–9

| attend = 85,214

| source = {{Cite news |last=Halvatgis |first=Jenna |date=October 4, 1998 |title=Auburn squanders opportunities |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/pensacola-news-journal-auburn-squanders/157265416/ |access-date=October 16, 2024 |work=Pensacola News Journal |via=Newspapers.com|agency=Associated Press}}

}}

|{{CFB schedule entry

| date = October 10

| time = 3:30 pm

| w/l = w

| away = y

| rank = 4

| opponent = Georgia

| opprank = 7

| site_stadium = Sanford Stadium

| site_cityst = Athens, GA

| gamename = rivalry, College GameDay

| tv = CBS

| score = 22–3

| attend = 86,117

| source = {{Cite news |last=Bagnato |first=Andrew |date=October 11, 1998 |title=For Vols, there's no hedging |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/chicago-tribune-for-vols-theres-no-hed/157265515/ |access-date=October 16, 2024 |work=Chicago Tribune |via=Newspapers.com}}

}}

|{{CFB schedule entry

| date = October 24

| time = 3:30 pm

| w/l = w

| rank = 3

| opponent = Alabama

| site_stadium = Neyland Stadium

| site_cityst = Knoxville, TN

| gamename = Third Saturday in October

| tv = CBS

| score = 35–18

| attend = 107,289

| source = {{Cite news |last=Morris |first=Dan |date=October 25, 1998 |title=Rolled tide |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/71635998/rolled-tide/ |access-date=October 16, 2024 |work=The Jackson Sun |via=Newspapers.com}}

}}

|{{CFB schedule entry

| date = October 31

| time = 12:30 pm

| w/l = w

| away = y

| rank = 3

| opponent = South Carolina

| site_stadium = Williams–Brice Stadium

| site_cityst = Columbia, SC

| gamename = rivalry

| tv = JPS

| score = 49–14

| attend = 69,523

| source = {{Cite news |last=Iacobelli |first=Pete |date=November 1, 1998 |title=Vols Tee-off on USC |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-times-and-democrat-vols-tee-off-on-u/157265707/ |access-date=October 16, 2024 |work=The Times and Democrat |via=Newspapers.com}}

}}

|{{CFB schedule entry

| date = November 7

| time = 4:00 pm

| w/l = w

| nonconf = y

| homecoming = y

| rank = 2

| opponent = UAB

| site_stadium = Neyland Stadium

| site_cityst = Knoxville, TN

| tv = PPV

| score = 37–13

| attend = 106,508

| source = {{Cite news |last=Avento |first=Joe |date=November 8, 1998 |title=Scenario may suit 8–0 Vols |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/90485854/scenario-may-suit-80-vols/ |access-date=December 12, 2021 |work=Johnson City Press |via=Newspapers.com}}

}}

|{{CFB schedule entry

| date = November 14

| time = 3:30 pm

| w/l = w

| rank = 1

| opponent = Arkansas

| opprank = 10

| site_stadium = Neyland Stadium

| site_cityst = Knoxville, TN

| tv = CBS

| score = 28–24

| attend = 106,365

| source = {{Cite news |last=Sharp |first=Tom |date=November 15, 1998 |title=Friendly fumble; Late turnover brings UT back from brink |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-leaf-chronicle-friendly-fumble-late/157265925/ |access-date=October 16, 2024 |work=The Leaf-Chronicle |via=Newspapers.com}}

}}

|{{CFB schedule entry

| date = {{dow tooltip|November 21, 1998}}

| time = 3:30 pm

| w/l = w

| rank = 1

| opponent = Kentucky

| site_stadium = Neyland Stadium

| site_cityst = Knoxville, TN

| gamename = rivalry

| tv = CBS

| score = 59–21

| attend = 107,252

| source = {{Cite news |last=Rosenblatt |first=Richard |date=November 22, 1998 |title=Top-ranked Vols wallop flat Wildcats |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/messenger-inquirer-top-ranked-vols-wallo/157266046/ |access-date=October 16, 2024 |work=Messenger-Inquirer |via=Newspapers.com|agency=Associated Press}}

}}

|{{CFB schedule entry

| date = {{dow tooltip|November 28, 1998}}

| time = 3:30 pm

| w/l = w

| away = y

| rank = 1

| opponent = Vanderbilt

| site_stadium = Vanderbilt Stadium

| site_cityst = Nashville, TN

| gamename = rivalry

| tv = ESPN2/JPS

| score = 41–0

| attend = 41,600

| source = {{Cite news |date=November 29, 1998 |title=Tennessee tops Vandy to stay undefeated |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-salt-lake-tribune-tennessee-tops-van/157266164/ |access-date=October 16, 2024 |work=The Salt Lake Tribune |via=Newspapers.com|agency=Associated Press}}

}}

|{{CFB schedule entry

| date = {{dow tooltip|December 5, 1998}}

| time = 8:00 pm

| w/l = w

| nonconf = y

| neutral = y

| rank = 1

| opponent = Mississippi State

| opprank = 23

| site_stadium = Georgia Dome

| site_cityst = Atlanta, GA

| tv = ABC

| gamename = SEC Championship Game

| score = 24–14

| attend = 74,795

| source = {{Cite news |last=Newberry |first=Paul |date=December 6, 1998 |title=Tennessee overtakes Mississippi State 24–14 |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-courier-journal-tennessee-overtakes/157266262/ |access-date=October 16, 2024 |work=The Courier-Journal |via=Newspapers.com|agency=Associated Press}}

}}

|{{CFB schedule entry

| date = {{dow tooltip|January 4, 1999}}

| time = 8:00 pm

| w/l = w

| nonconf = y

| neutral = y

| rank = 1

| opponent = Florida State

| opprank = 2

| site_stadium = Sun Devil Stadium

| site_cityst = Tempe, AZ

| gamename = Tostitos Fiesta Bowl

| tv = ABC

| score = 23–16

| attend = 80,470

| source = {{Cite news |last=Schmadtke |first=Alan |date=January 5, 1999 |title=Vols top 'Noles for national title |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-orlando-sentinel-vols-top-noles-for/157266434/ |access-date=October 16, 2024 |work=The Orlando Sentinel |via=Newspapers.com}}

}}

}}

{{See also|1998 NCAA Division I-A football rankings}}

{{Ranking movements

| poll1title = AP

| poll1firstweek = 0

| poll1lastweek = 15

| poll1_0=10

| poll1_1=8

| poll1_2=6

| poll1_3=4 (2)

| poll1_4=3 (2)

| poll1_5=4

| poll1_6=3 (3)

| poll1_7=3 (3)

| poll1_8=3 (3)

| poll1_9=2 (3)

| poll1_10=1 (46)

| poll1_11=1 (37)

| poll1_12=1 (42)

| poll1_13=1 (41)

| poll1_14=1 (70)

| poll1_15=1 (70)

| poll2title = Coaches Poll

| poll2firstweek = 0

| poll2lastweek =15

| poll2_0=10

| poll2_1=7

| poll2_2=6

| poll2_3=4

| poll2_4=5

| poll2_5=5

| poll2_6=4

| poll2_7=4

| poll2_8=4 (1)

| poll2_9=3 (2)

| poll2_10=1T (25)

| poll2_11=2 (18½)

| poll2_12=2 (22½)

| poll2_13=2 (24½)

| poll2_14=1 (60)

| poll2_15=1 (62)

| poll3title = BCS

| poll3firstweek =8

| poll3lastweek =14

| poll3_8=3

| poll3_9=2

| poll3_10=1

| poll3_11=1

| poll3_12=1

| poll3_13=1

| poll3_14=1

}}

{{See also|1998 Syracuse Orangemen football team}}

{{Americanfootballbox

|bg=#fff

|bg2=#eee

|titlestyle={{CollegeSecondaryStyle|Tennessee Volunteers|year=1998|border=1}};text-align:center

|state= autocollapse

|title=Game One – No. 10 Tennessee Volunteers (0–0) at No. 17 Syracuse Orangemen (0–0) – Game summary

|date=September 5, 1998

|time=12 Noon EDT

|road=No. 10 Volunteers

|R1=7 |R2=7 |R3=10 |R4=10

|home=No. 17 Orangemen

|H1=0 |H2=10 |H3=3 |H4=20

|stadium=Carrier Dome • Syracuse, New York

|attendance=49,550

|weather=

|referee=Steve Shaw (SEC)

|TV=ESPN

|TVAnnouncers=Dave Barnett (play-by-play), Bill Curry (color commentator) and Dave Ryan (sideline reporter)

|reference=

|scoring=

;First Quarter

• (06:38) TENN –

;Second quarter

• (09:49) SYR –
• (00:53) TENN –
• (00:00) SYR –

;Third quarter

• (08:29) SYR –
• (05:28) TENN –
• (03:15) TENN –

;Fourth quarter

• (12:13) SYR –
• (09:49) SYR –
• (08:29) TENN –
• (06:39) SYR –
• (02:38) SYR –
• (00:00) TENN –

}}

{{Clear}}

Tennessee kicker Jeff Hall converted a 27-yard field goal as time expired to give the Vols a key road win.{{cite web | last=Venkataraman | first=Karthik | title=1998 Vols kicker Jeff Hall drew a picture when he was nine years old of him kicking a game-winning field goal for Tennessee | website=wbir.com | date=2023-09-08 | url=https://www.wbir.com/article/sports/9-year-old-jeff-hall-drew-picture-of-him-kicking-game-winning-field-goal-tennessee-vols-1998/51-b2789158-3e13-42fa-b3fd-c2e8535a929b | access-date=2024-12-03}} This was the second game winning kick of Hall's career, the first coming against Georgia in the 1995 season..{{cite web | agency=Associated Press| title=COLLEGE FOOTBALL : Tennessee Draws a Blank, Kicks Georgia in End : SEC: Hall's mind was clear before game-winning field goal, which makes Manning's 349 yards and two touchdowns passing stand up. | website=Los Angeles Times | date=1995-09-10 | url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1995-09-10-sp-44336-story.html | access-date=2025-01-12}} In his first game as a starter, replacing Peyton Manning, quarterback Tee Martin went only 9-of-26 for 143 yards, but led the Vols into field goal range for the game-winning kick. Running back Jamal Lewis led the Vols with 140 yards rushing and a touchdown. Wide receiver Peerless Price had two touchdown receptions.

Syracuse quarterback Donovan McNabb gave the Volunteer defense fits, putting up 300 yards with a 22-for-28 day.{{cite web | last=Croyle | first=Johnathan | title='Exactly what we needed': Syracuse overcomes storm, crowd to beat Michigan in 1998 | website=syracuse | date=2018-09-12 | url=https://www.syracuse.com/vintage/2018/09/exactly_what_we_needed_syracuse_overcomes_storm_crowd_to_beat_michigan_in_1998.html | access-date=2024-12-13}}

{{-}}

{{See also|1998 Florida Gators football team}}

{{Americanfootballbox

|bg=#fff

|bg2=#eee

|titlestyle={{CollegePrimaryStyle|Tennessee Volunteers|year=1998|border=1}}; text-align:center;

|state=autocollapse

|title=Game Two – No. 2 Florida Gators (2–0) vs No. 6 Tennessee Volunteers (1–0)

|date=September 19, 1998

|time=8:00 p.m. EDT

|road=No. 2 Gators

|R1=3 |R2=7 |R3=7 |R4=0 |R5=0

|home=No. 6 Volunteers

|H1=7 |H2=3 |H3=7 |H4=0 |H5=3

|stadium=Neyland Stadium • Knoxville, Tennessee

|attendance=107,653

|weather=

|referee=Bill Goss (SEC)

|TV=CBS

|TVAnnouncers=Sean McDonough (play-by-play), Terry Donahue (color commentator) and Mike Mayock (sideline reporter)

|reference=

|scoring=

;First Quarter

• (05:54) FLA –
• (04:52) TENN –

;Second Quarter

• (07:12) TENN –
• (00:20) FLA –

;Third Quarter

• (07:36) TENN –
• (05:18) FLA –

;Fourth Quarter

No scoring plays

;Overtime

• (00:00) TENN –

}}

{{Clear}}

Tennessee broke a five-game losing streak against the Gators.{{cite web | title=Football History vs University of Florida | website=University of Tennessee Athletics | url=https://utsports.com/sports/football/opponent-history/university-of-florida/19 | access-date=2025-04-11}} Florida kicker Collins Cooper missed a potential game-tying field in overtime and set off a wild celebration at Neyland Stadium that saw the goalposts and CBS cameras disappear.

The Vols won despite racking up only 235 yards of total offense and going 2 for 13 on third down conversions. The difference was turnovers. The Florida Gators lost four fumbles, and one interception, with three of the fumbles caused by Al Wilson. Jeff Hall made his field goal in the first overtime, setting the stage for the Florida miss and the Vols win.

The Vols also held the Gators to −13 net rushing on 30 attempts. Fullback Shawn Bryson scored on a 57-yard run.{{cite web | title=Goalposts Torn Down After Vols Top No. 2 Florida in Overtime | website=University of Tennessee Athletics | date=1998-09-19 | url=https://utsports.com/news/1998/9/19/football-goalposts-torn-down-after-vols-top-no-2-florida-in-overtime.aspx | access-date=2024-12-13}}

{{-}}

{{See also|1998 Houston Cougars football team}}

{{Americanfootballbox

|bg=#fff

|bg2=#eee

|titlestyle={{CollegePrimaryStyle|Tennessee Volunteers|year=1998|border=1}}; text-align:center;

|state=autocollapse

|title=Game Three – Houston Cougars (0–3) vs No. 4 Tennessee Volunteers (2–0)

|date=September 26, 1998

|time=7:00 p.m. EDT

|road=Cougars

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

|home=No. 4 Volunteers

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

|stadium=Neyland Stadium • Knoxville, Tennessee

|attendance=106,417

|weather=

|referee=Al Ford (SEC)

|TV=PPV

|TVAnnouncers=Bob Bell (play-by-play) and Tim Priest (color commentator)

|reference=

|scoring=

;First Quarter

• (09:33) TENN –

;Second Quarter

• (14:52) TENN –
• (10:09) TENN –

;Third Quarter

• (11:05) HOU –
• (07:36) TENN –

;Fourth Quarter

• (10:56) TENN –
• (06:35) TENN –

}}

{{Clear}}

Junior quarterback Tee Martin threw for four touchdowns and 234 yards en route to the Vols win over the Houston Cougars. Jamal Lewis recorded 135 rushing yards and one touchdown.{{cite web| title=Martin's Four TD Passes Key as Vols Fly Past Houston | website=University of Tennessee Athletics | date=1998-09-26 | url=https://utsports.com/news/1998/9/26/football-martins-four-td-passes-key-as-vols-fly-past-houston.aspx | access-date=2025-04-11}} The Vols recorded 334 rushing yards and 589 total yards as a team.

The Vols defense held Houston to 239 total yards and recorded three sacks with eight tackles for loss.

{{-}}

{{Linescore Amfootball|

|Road=No. 3 Tennessee

|R1=17 ||R2=0 ||R3=0 ||R4=0 ||RT=17

|Home=Auburn

|H1=0 ||H2=3 ||H3=3 ||H4=3 ||HT=9

}}

The Vols jumped out to an early lead behind the running of Jamal Lewis. However, following a season ending ACL injury, Lewis left the game and the Tennessee defense held on for the 17–9 win.{{cite web | title=Tennessee's Lewis Out For Season | website=CBS News | date=1998-10-05 | url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/tennessees-lewis-out-for-season/ | access-date=2024-12-13}}

In a rematch of the high scoring 1997 SEC Championship Game, the defense needed a score by defensive end Shaun Ellis and a four-play goal line stand from inside the one-yard line to secure the win.{{cite web | title=No. 3 Vols Avoid Upset, Beat Tigers | website=CBS News | date=1998-10-03 | url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/no-3-vols-avoid-upset-beat-tigers/ | access-date=2024-12-13}} They did so without senior captain Al Wilson, who missed the game with a shoulder injury.{{cite web | title=Early Blitz Critical to Tennessee Triumph at Auburn | website=University of Tennessee Athletics | date=1998-10-03 | url=https://utsports.com/news/1998/10/3/football-early-blitz-critical-to-tennessee-triumph-at-auburn.aspx | access-date=2025-04-11}}

{{-}}

{{Linescore Amfootball|

|Road=No. 4 Tennessee

|R1=3 ||R2=6 ||R3=13 ||R4=0 ||RT=22

|Home=No. 7 Georgia

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

}}

Tennessee entered their third game in the 1998 SEC season as underdogs. However, behind the running of Travis Henry and Travis Stephens, and a strong defensive effort, the Vols dominated the Bulldogs.{{cite web | last=Lay | first=Ken | title=A look back at Tennessee's victory at Georgia in 1998 | website=Vols Wire|publisher=USA Today | date=2024-11-12 | url=https://volswire.usatoday.com/2024/11/12/tennessee-vols-georgia-bulldogs-football-1998/#:~:text=Vols%20Wire%20highlights%20Tennessee's%2C%2022,in%20the%201999%20Fiesta%20Bowl. | access-date=2024-12-13}}

Georgia was limited to only 254 total yards and the Vols defense held their opponent without a touchdown for the second straight game.

{{-}}

{{Linescore Amfootball|

|Road=Alabama

|R1=3 ||R2=0 ||R3=8 ||R4=7 ||RT=18

|Home=No. 3 Tennessee

|H1=7 ||H2=7 ||H3=7 ||H4=14 ||HT=35

}}

The Vols pushed their winning streak over Alabama in the Third Saturday in October to four games with a 35–18 victory.{{cite web | title=Football History vs University of Alabama | website=University of Tennessee Athletics | url=https://utsports.com/sports/football/opponent-history/university-of-alabama/3 | access-date=2025-04-11}} The win gave Tennessee a 6–0 record for the first time since 1969.{{cite web | last=Carr | first=Annie | title=1998 National Champions: Vols roll over the Crimson Tide | website=WBIR.com | date=2018-08-15 | url=https://www.wbir.com/article/sports/1998-national-champions-vols-roll-over-the-crimson-tide/51-584426120 | access-date=2025-04-11}}

This time, the Vols Offense relied on Travis Henry who rushed for 113 yards and 2 touchdowns. The play that broke the game open for the Vols was a 100-yard kickoff return by Peerless Price in the 3rd quarter that answered an Alabama touchdown and two-point conversion.

{{-}}

{{Linescore Amfootball|

|Road=No. 3 Tennessee

|R1=7 ||R2=14 ||R3=21 ||R4=7 ||RT=49

|Home=South Carolina

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

}}

Tee Martin set an NCAA record for consecutive completions with 24, leading the Vols to a 49–14 victory.{{cite web | title=No. 3 Vols, Martin Blast S.C. | website=CBS News | date=1998-10-31 | url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/no-3-vols-martin-blast-sc/ | access-date=2024-12-13}} Martin completed his first 23 passes (with one from the previous game) to set the record. He also recorded his first 300-yard passing game by going 23-for-24 for 315 yards and 4 touchdowns.

The Vol Defense held South Carolina scoreless until the 4th quarter, when they had a 42–0 lead.

{{-}}

{{Linescore Amfootball|

|Road=UAB

|R1=0 ||R2=3 ||R3=3 ||R4=7 ||RT=13

|Home=No. 2 Tennessee

|H1=10 ||H2=14 ||H3=10 ||H4=3 ||HT=37

}}

Tennessee took care of the Blazers to win their homecoming contest and move their record to 8–0. It was their first 8–0 start since 1956.{{cite web | title=Homecoming a Happy Affair as Vols Down UAB, 37-13 | website=University of Tennessee Athletics | date=1998-11-07 | url=https://utsports.com/news/1998/11/7/football-homecoming-a-happy-affair-as-vols-down-uab-37-13.aspx | access-date=2024-12-13}}

The Vols racked up 447 total yards, led by the rushing of Travis Henry and the passing of Tee Martin. WR Peerless Price also added 103 yards receiving.

{{-}}

{{Linescore Amfootball|

|Road=No. 10 Arkansas

|R1=7 ||R2=14 ||R3=3 ||R4=0 ||RT=24

|Home=No. 1 Tennessee

|H1=0 ||H2=10 ||H3=10 ||H4=8 ||HT=28

}}

Tennessee fell behind 21–3 in the first half, but capped off a season-saving comeback with a Travis Henry touchdown run in the final seconds.

Henry had 197 yards rushing and the deciding touchdown. The key play of the game and possibly the season occurred in the fourth quarter. Arkansas was nursing a 24–22 lead late in the game and was attempting to run out the clock. Defensive tackle Billy Ratliff pushed Arkansas guard Brandon Burlsworth into quarterback Clint Stoerner, causing him to stumble and fumble.{{cite web | last=Ramey | first=Grant | title=Throwback Thursday: Clint Stoerner stumbles and fumbles | website=247Sports | date=2020-11-05 | url=https://247sports.com/college/tennessee/article/tennessee-football-vols-arkansas-stoerner-stumble-fumble-1998-154229278/ | access-date=2025-04-11}} Ratliff recovered the ball and allowed Tennessee the chance to drive the field and score the game-winning touchdown.{{Cite web |last=Broussard |first=Chris |date=1998-11-15 |title=COLLEGE FOOTBALL; Tennessee's Title Drive Stays Alive, Just Barely |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1998/11/15/sports/college-football-tennessee-s-title-drive-stays-alive-just-barely.html?pagewanted=2 |access-date=2025-04-11 |website=The New York Times}}

{{-}}

{{See also|1998 Kentucky Wildcats football team|Kentucky–Tennessee football rivalry}}

{{Americanfootballbox

|bg=#fff

|bg2=#eee

|titlestyle={{CollegePrimaryStyle|Tennessee Volunteers|year=1998|border=1}}; text-align:center;

|state=autocollapse

|title=Game Ten – Kentucky Wildcats (7–3) vs No. 1 Tennessee Volunteers (9–0)

|date=November 21, 1998

|time=3:30 p.m. EST

|road=Wildcats

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

|home=No. 1 Volunteers

|H1=14 |H2=24 |H3=14 |H4=7

|stadium=Neyland Stadium • Knoxville, Tennessee

|attendance=107,252

|weather=

|referee=Aster Sizemore (SEC)

|TV=CBS

|TVAnnouncers=Sean McDonough (play-by-play), Terry Donahue (color commentator) and Mike Mayock (sideline reporter)

|reference=

|scoring=

;First Quarter

• (11:05) TENN –
• (07:09) TENN –
• (04:56) UK –
• (01:09) TENN –

;Second Quarter

• (12:11) TENN –
• (09:28) TENN –
• (06:16) TENN –
• (00:16) TENN –

;Third Quarter

• (10:02) UK –
• (07:03) TENN –
• (00:00) TENN –

;Fourth Quarter

• (08:41) TENN –
• (04:16) UK –

}}

{{Clear}}

Kentucky struggled after one of their players died and another was injured in an automobile accident early that week, as Tennessee picked up an easy 59–21 win. This game marked the end of the Battle of the Beer Barrel, due to the alcohol-related death that week.

Kentucky QB Tim Couch passed for 337 yards and 2 touchdowns, but Kentucky never threatened after the 1st quarter

{{-}}

{{See also|1998 Vanderbilt Commodores football team|Tennessee–Vanderbilt football rivalry}}

{{Americanfootballbox

|bg=#fff

|bg2=#eee

|titlestyle={{CollegeSecondaryStyle|Tennessee Volunteers|year=1998|border=1}};text-align:center

|state= autocollapse

|title=Game Eleven – No. 1 Tennessee Volunteers (10–0) at Vanderbilt Commodores (2–8) – Game summary

|date=November 28, 1998

|time=3:30 p.m. EST

|road=No. 1 Volunteers

|R1=3 |R2=17 |R3=7 |R4=14

|home=Commodores

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

|stadium=Vanderbilt Stadium • Nashville, Tennessee

|attendance=41,600

|weather=

|referee=Rom Gilbert (SEC)

|TV=ESPN2 – National / JP Sports – Regional

|TVAnnouncers=Rich Waltz (play-by-play, ESPN2) and Rod Gilmore (color commentator, ESPN2) / Bob Kesling (play-by-play, JP Sports), Dave Rowe (color commentator, JP Sports) and David Logan (sideline reporter, JP Sports)

|reference=

|scoring=

;First Quarter

• (06:56) TENN –

;Second Quarter

• (09:08) TENN –
• (03:57) TENN –
• (00:55) TENN –

;Third Quarter

• (14:04) TENN –

;Fourth Quarter

• (09:34) TENN –
• (06:34) TENN –

}}

{{Clear}}

The Vols clinched their second consecutive SEC East Division title with a win in Nashville. Tennessee dominated once again, holding the Commodores scoreless and limiting them to 174 total yards.

Tee Martin had 241 yards passing and one touchdown, while Travis Henry led the team in rushing with 136 yards and a touchdown. Peerless Price added 181 yards receiving and a touchdown.{{Cite web |title=Football vs Vanderbilt on 11/28/1998 - Box Score |url=https://utsports.com/sports/football/stats/1998/vanderbilt/boxscore/3255 |access-date=2025-04-11 |website=University of Tennessee Athletics |language=en}}

{{-}}

{{See also|1998 Mississippi State Bulldogs football team}}

{{Americanfootballbox

|bg=#fff

|bg2=#eee

|titlestyle={{CollegePrimaryStyle|Tennessee Volunteers|year=1998|border=1}}; text-align:center;

|state=autocollapse

|title=1998 SEC Championship Game
No. 23 Mississippi State Bulldogs (8–3) vs. No. 1 Tennessee Volunteers (11–0) – Game summary

|date=December 5, 1998

|time=8:00 p.m. EST

|road=No. 23 Bulldogs

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

|home=No. 1 Volunteers

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

|stadium=Georgia Dome • Atlanta, Georgia

|attendance=74,795

|weather=

|referee=Steve Shaw (SEC)

|TV=ABC

|TVAnnouncers=Keith Jackson (play-by-play), Bob Griese (color commentator) and Lynn Swann (sideline reporter)

|reference=

|scoring=

;First Quarter

• (00:05) MSU –

;Second Quarter

• (09:32) TENN –
• (05:09) TENN –

;Third Quarter

No scoring plays

;Fourth Quarter

• (08:43) MSU –
• (06:15) TENN –
• (05:47) TENN –

}}

{{Clear}}

Tennessee won its second SEC title, in a defensive struggle. The Vols were held to 249 total yards and scored 3 touchdowns. They were down late in the 4th quarter 14–10, but scored two touchdowns within 32 seconds of each other on passes by Tee Martin.{{cite web | last=Thomsen | first=Ian | title=Price Is Rising Tennessee's standout wideout, Peerless Price, has a singular ability to live up to his one-of-a-kind name when the game is on the line | website=Sports Illustrated Vault | date=1998-12-14 | url=https://vault.si.com/vault/1998/12/14/price-is-rising-tennessees-standout-wideout-peerless-price-has-a-singular-ability-to-live-up-to-his-one-of-a-kind-name-when-the-game-is-on-the-line | access-date=2024-12-03}} This win secured a berth into the National Championship game for the Vols.{{cite web | title=Florida State Meets Tennessee for Title | website=The New York Times | date=1998-12-07 | url=https://www.nytimes.com/1998/12/07/sports/florida-state-meets-tennessee-for-title.html | access-date=2024-12-03}}

{{-}}

{{See also|1998 Florida State Seminoles season}}

{{Americanfootballbox

|bg=#fff

|bg2=#eee

|titlestyle={{CollegePrimaryStyle|Tennessee Volunteers|year=1998|border=1}}; text-align:center;

|state=autocollapse

|title=1999 Tostitos Fiesta Bowl
No. 2 Florida State Seminoles (11–1) vs. No. 1 Tennessee Volunteers (12–0) – Game summary

|date=January 4, 1999

|time=8:00 p.m. EST

|road=No. 2 Seminoles

|R1=0 |R2=9 |R3=0 |R4=7

|home=No. 1 Volunteers

|H1=0 |H2=14 |H3=0 |H4=9

|stadium=Sun Devil Stadium • Tempe, Arizona

|attendance=80,470

|weather=

|referee=Bill Richardson (PAC-10)

|TV=ABC

|TVAnnouncers=Keith Jackson (play-by-play), Bob Griese (color commentator) and Lynn Swann (sideline reporter)

|reference=

|scoring=

;First Quarter

No scoring plays

;Second Quarter

• (14:05) TENN –
• (13:40) TENN –
• (08:59) FSU –
• (01:17) FSU –

;Third Quarter

No scoring plays

;Fourth Quarter

• (09:17) TENN –
• (06:01) TENN –
• (03:42) FSU –

}}

{{Clear}}

Tennessee won its first consensus national championship since 1951 and the first ever BCS title game by defeating the Seminoles 23–16.{{cite web | last=Drape | first=Joe | title=No Poll Needed: Tennessee Locks Up No. 1 | website=The New York Times | date=1999-01-05 | url=https://www.nytimes.com/1999/01/05/sports/college-football-no-poll-needed-tennessee-locks-up-no-1.html | access-date=2024-11-12}} The second ranked Seminoles were favored and boasted superstar WR Peter Warrick. The Vols limited Warrick to 1 catch for 7 yards and scored on long passes to Peerless Price and an interception return by CB Dwayne Goodrich, who was the defensive MVP of the game.{{cite news | last=Shapiro | first=Leonard | title=TENNESSEE GOES OUT ON TOP | newspaper=Washington Post | date=1999-01-05 | url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/sports/1999/01/05/tennessee-goes-out-on-top/49a81f98-103c-4444-941d-1d3346c9120d/ | access-date=2024-12-03}}{{cite web | title=28th Annual Game, 1999 | website=Fiesta Bowl | date=2019-11-27 | url=https://www.fiestabowl.org/sports/vrbofb/roster/28th-annual-game--1999/59 | access-date=2024-12-03}} Price had 199 yards receiving on 4 catches and scored the deciding touchdown in the 4th quarter.{{cite web | last=Harig | first=Bob | title=UT proves Warrick isn't Peerless | website=Tampa Bay Times | date=2005-09-28 | url=https://www.tampabay.com/archive/1999/01/05/ut-proves-warrick-isn-t-peerless/ | access-date=2024-12-03}}

LB Al Wilson led the defense with 9 tackles.

{{-}}

{{American football roster/Header|year=1998|team=Tennessee Volunteers|teamcolors=y

|offensive_players=

{{American football roster/Player|num=28|class=Sr|first=Myles|last=Atherton|pos=RB|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=45|class=Fr|first=Will|last=Bartholomew|pos=RB|link=y}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=47|class=Fr|first=Kurston|last=Biggers|pos=RB|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=24|class=Sr|first=Shawn|last=Bryson|pos=RB|link=y}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=53|class=So|first=Toby|last=Champion|pos=OG|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=67|class=Jr|first=Chad|last=Clifton|pos=OT|link=y}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=52|class=So|first=Cosey|last=Coleman|pos=OT|link=y}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=71|class=Fr|first=Reggie|last=Coleman|pos=OT|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=6|class=Sr|first=Jeremaine|last=Copeland|pos=QB|link=y}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=21|class=Jr|first=Phil|last=Crosby|pos=RB|link=y|dab=Phil Crosby (American football)}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=82|class=Jr|first=Eric|last=Diogu|pos=TE|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=33|class=Jr|first=Derrick|last=Edmonds|pos=RB|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=96|class=Fr|first=John|last=Finlayson|pos=TE|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=74|class=So|first=Bernard|last=Gooden|pos=OG|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=11|class=Fr|first=Bobby|last=Graham|pos=WR|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=83|class=So|first=Tyrone|last=Graham|pos=WR|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=20|class=So|first=Travis|last=Henry|pos=RB|link=y}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=84|class=So|first=Neil|last=Johnson|pos=TE|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=88|class=Fr|first=Jermaine|last=Kent|pos=WR|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=19|class=Sr|first=Mark|last=Levine|pos=RB|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=31|class=So|first=Jamal|last=Lewis|pos=RB|link=y|dab=Jamal Lewis (American football)}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=87|class=So|first=David|last=Martin|pos=WR|link=y|dab=David Martin (tight end)}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=17|class=Jr|first=Tee|last=Martin|pos=QB|link=y}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=69|class=So|first=Ethan|last=Massa|pos=OG|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=8|class=Fr|first=Joey|last=Mathews|pos=QB|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=80|class=Fr|first=Eric|last=Parker|pos=WR|link=y|dab=Eric Parker (American football)}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=9|class=So|first=Josh|last=Plemons|pos=QB|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=37|class=Sr|first=Peerless|last=Price|pos=WR|link=y}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=72|class=Gr|first=Jarvis|last=Reado|pos=OT|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=54|class=Sr|first=Diron|last=Robinson|pos=OG|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=25|class=So|first=Travis|last=Stephens|pos=RB|link=y}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=28|class=So|first=Dominique|last=Stevenson|pos=RB|link=y}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=9|class=Fr|first=Kevin|last=Taylor|pos=WR|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=77|class=Jr|first=Josh|last=Tucker|pos=OT|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=5|class=Fr|first=Burney|last=Veazey|pos=QB|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=14|class=So|first=Cedrick|last=Wilson Sr.|pos=WR|link=y}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=2|class=So|first=Tom|last=Windle|pos=QB|link=n}}

|defensive_players=

{{American football roster/Player|num=38|class=Jr|first=Roger|last=Alexander|pos=LB|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=29|class=Jr|first=Mikki|last=Allen|pos=DB|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=47|class=Jr|first=Matt|last=Blankenship|pos=LB|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=21|class=Sr|first=Travis|last=Brown|pos=DB|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=94|class=Fr|first=Ed|last=Butler|pos=DE|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=63|class=Jr|first=Josh|last=Campbell|pos=DS|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=92|class=Sr|first=Jeff|last=Coleman|pos=DE|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=93|class=Jr|first=Shaun|last=Ellis|pos=DE|link=y}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=36|class=Fr|first=Maurice|last=Fitzgerald|pos=DB|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=60|class=Sr|first=Matt|last=Goodin|pos=DT|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=23|class=Jr|first=Dwayne|last=Goodrich|pos=DB|link=y}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=7|class=So|first=Deon|last=Grant|pos=DB|link=y}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=55|class=Sr|first=Ron|last=Green|pos=DT|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=52|class=Jr|first=Kevin|last=Gregory|pos=DS|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=18|class=Jr|first=Gerald|last=Griffin|pos=DB|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=99|class=Sr|first=Mercedes|last=Hamilton|pos=DT|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=48|class=So|first=Jerrod|last=Hayden|pos=LB|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=56|class=Fr|first=Bernard|last=Jackson|pos=LB|link=y|dab=Bernard Jackson (arena football)}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=39|class=Fr|first=Andre|last=James|pos=LB|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=35|class=Jr|first=Shawn|last=Johnson|pos=LB|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=34|class=Gr|first=Steve|last=Johnson|pos=DB|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=44|class=So|first=Austin|last=Kemp|pos=LB|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=99|class=So|first=DeAngelo|last=Lloyd|pos=DE|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=30|class=So|first=Andre|last=Lott|pos=DB|link=y}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=98|class=Sr|first=Antron|last=Peebles|pos=LB|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=41|class=So|first=Chris|last=Ramseur|pos=LB|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=40|class=Jr|first=Billy|last=Ratliff|pos=DE|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=97|class=Fr|first=Joe|last=Reid|pos=DE|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=68|class=Jr|first=Spencer|last=Riley|pos=DT|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=76|class=Fr|first=Justin|last=Satterfield|pos=DE|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=15|class=Sr|first=Tim|last=Sewell|pos=DB|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=89|class=So|first=Kenny|last=Smith|pos=DT|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=56|class=Fr|first=Thomas|last=Stallworth|pos=LB|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=45|class=Jr|first=Jonathan|last=Sweet|pos=LB|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=22|class=Sr|first=Corey|last=Terry|pos=DE|link=y}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=46|class=Jr|first=Raynoch|last=Thompson|pos=LB|link=y}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=58|class=Jr|first=Darwin|last=Walker|pos=DE|link=y}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=95|class=Fr|first=Fred|last=Weary|pos=DT|link=y|dab=Fred Weary (offensive lineman)}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=42|class=So|first=Eric|last=Westmoreland|pos=LB|link=y}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=2|class=Jr|first=Fred|last=White|pos=DB|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=27|class=Sr|first=Al|last=Wilson|pos=LB|link=y}}

|special_teams_players=

{{American football roster/Player|num=4|class=Sr|first=Jeff|last=Hall|dab=Jeff Hall (American football)|pos=PK|link=y}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=38|class=Sr|first=Bill|last=Hurst|pos=P|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=43|class=So|first=David|last=Leaverton|pos=P|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=31|class=Jr|first=Robert|last=Loudermilk|pos=PK|link=n}}

{{American football roster/Player|num=10|class=Sr|first=Benson|last=Scott|pos=H|link=n}}

}}

{{American football roster/Footer|roster_url=|accessdate=

|head_coach=

• Phillip Fulmer

|asst_coach=

• David Cutcliffe – Offensive coordinator/assistant head coach/quarterbacks
• Randy Sanders – Running backs/recruiting coordinator
• Pat Washington – Wide receivers
• Mark Bradley – Tight ends/assistant offensive line
• Mike Barry – Offensive line
• John Chavis – Defensive coordinator/linebackers
• Dan Brooks – Defensive line
• Kevin Ramsey – Defensive backs
• Steve Caldwell – Special teams/defensive ends
• Kurt Roper – Graduate assistant

}}

• QB Tee Martin: 164/285 (57.5%) for 2,442 yards (8.57) with 21 touchdowns vs. 8 interceptions (2.81%). 113 carries for 306 yards (2.71) and 7 touchdowns.
• RB Travis Henry: 195 carries for 998 yards (5.12) and 7 touchdowns. 5 catches for 40 yards and no touchdowns.
• RB Travis Stephens: 120 carries for 537 yards (4.48) and 4 touchdowns.
• RB/FB Shawn Bryson: 24 carries for 207 yards (8.63) and 4 touchdowns. 22 catches for 201 yards and 2 touchdowns.
• RB Jamal Lewis: 73 carries for 497 yards (6.81) and 3 touchdowns.
• WR Peerless Price: 65 catches for 1,119 yards (17.22) and 11 touchdowns.
• WR Cedrick Wilson: 34 catches for 565 yards (16.62) and 6 touchdowns.
• WR Jeremaine Copeland: 29 catches for 455 yards (15.69) and 1 touchdown.

Image:98TennRings.JPG

• Phillip Fulmer:

::* Eddie Robinson Award{{Cite web |title=Eddie Robinson Coach of the Year Award Winners |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/awards/robinson.html |access-date=2024-11-12 |website=College Football at Sports-Reference.com |language=en}}

::* The Home Depot Coach of the Year Award{{Cite web |title=Home Depot Coach of the Year Award Winners |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/awards/home-depot-coy.html |access-date=2024-12-03 |website=College Football at Sports-Reference.com |language=en}}

::* SEC Coach of the Year{{Cite web |title=SEC Coach of the Year Winners |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/awards/sec-coy.html |access-date=2024-12-03 |website=College Football at Sports-Reference.com |language=en}}

::* AFCA Coach of the Year{{Cite web |title=AFCA Coach of the Year Award Winners |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/awards/afca-coy.html |access-date=2024-12-03 |website=College Football at Sports-Reference.com |language=en}}

• David Cutcliffe:

::* Broyles Award{{cite web | last=Sparks | first=Adam | title=Alex Golesh is Tennessee's first Broyles Award finalist since David Cutcliffe | website=Knoxville News Sentinel | date=2022-11-28 | url=https://www.knoxnews.com/story/sports/college/university-of-tennessee/football/2022/11/28/alex-golesh-tennessee-footballs-broyles-award-finalist-david-cutcliffe/69683061007/ | access-date=2024-11-12}}

• Al Wilson:

::* Birmingham Quarterback Club – Most Outstanding SEC Lineman

::* AP, AFCA, and FWAA 1st team All American

::* 'Football News', AP and Coaches 1st team All SEC

• Raynoch Thompson:

::* AP 3rd team All American

::* 'Football News', AP and Coaches 1st team All SEC

• Chad Clifton:

::* 'Football News' 1st team All SEC

::* AP and Coaches 2nd team All SEC

• Cosey Coleman

::* AP 1st team All SEC

::* Coaches 2nd team All SEC

• Dwayne Goodrich

::* AP and Coaches 2nd team All SEC

• Jeff Hall

::* 'Football News', AP and Coaches 1st team All SEC

• Peerless Price

::* AP and Coaches 2nd team All SEC

• Darwin Walker

::* AP 1st team All SEC

::* Coaches 2nd team All SEC

{{main|1999 NFL draft}}

The Tennessee Volunteers had six players selected in the 1999 NFL draft.{{Cite web |title=1999 NFL Draft Listing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1999/draft.htm |access-date=2024-11-12 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}{{cite web | last=Saunders | first=Patrick | title=Broncos pick Al Wilson, Tennessee LB, with '99 1st-round pick | website=The Denver Post | date=2016-02-25 | url=https://www.denverpost.com/2016/02/25/broncos-pick-al-wilson-tennessee-lb-with-99-1st-round-pick/ | access-date=2024-12-13}}{{cite web | last=Backus | first=Will | title=Tennessee Vols football: Why Peerless Price returned to get his degree | website=Knoxville News Sentinel | date=2020-05-18 | url=https://www.knoxnews.com/story/sports/college/university-of-tennessee/football/2020/05/18/peerless-price-degree-graduation-tennessee-vols-football/5209097002/ | access-date=2024-12-13}}

{{Reflist}}

• [https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/tennessee/1998.html Season summary] at Sports Reference

{{1998 Tennessee Volunteers football navbox}}

{{Tennessee Volunteers football navbox}}

{{College football national champion (championship game era) navbox}}

{{Southeastern Conference football champions}}

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Category:Tennessee Volunteers football seasons

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