After the dust settled, the goalposts removed and the cigars extinguished, fans and players alike reminisced on the electric atmosphere of Neyland Stadium on that Third Saturday in October. But it wasn’t just the fans that felt the electricity of a Tennessee win over Alabama, many young recruits in attendance were equally impressed. Most were in awe of the stadium, the high decibel level of the fans cheering. It was said that the recruits were the first to rush the field after the last snap was taken. Could a monumental win against the Crimson Tide be the catalyst to sway some of these prospects to the Vols?
Here are a few recruits that attended Saturday’s game and what they had to say about their experience.
Ryan Mosley
The 6-foot-2, 196-pound wide receiver out of Carrollton (Ga.) said this to on3.com “Best game and environment I’ve been to so far,” Mosley said. “The place was crazy. It was so loud. Gave me the chills to be able to play here.
“After tonight I’m super excited to be a part of this recruiting process that they want me to be a part of their program. What I saw today gave me chills and ready to play on Saturdays. This is definitely a top school for me.
“Energy is crazy wild. I love It.”
Leo Delaney
Class of 2026 four-star offensive lineman Delaney, a highly sought-after recruit from Charlotte, N.C. had this to say to on3.com. “The environment in Knoxville was ridiculous!” Delaney said. “I’ve never seen anything like that. It was beyond electric and a big reason I think the Vols won. Tennessee’s culture and my relationship with Coach Elarbee really excited me and the upward trend of the program is really amazing as well.”
Edward Baker
Baker not only took in the game, but the offensive tackle from Baltimore (Md.) got an official offer from Tennessee this weekend. The 6-4, 315-pound Baker was immediately drawn to the tightness of the program. “The visit today was great,” Baker said to on3.com. “Very good overall. Coaches were great. The biggest takeaway from today was how family oriented they are. They didn’t back down or give up when they were down. Love the way the coaches kept their players motivated and never gave up on them. It’s a family!”
Jerimy Finch Jr.
While Indianapolis native Finch is predicted to commit to Notre Dame, the 6-foot-two, 241-pound defensive end was dazzled by his time in Knoxville over the weekend. “The environment in Knoxville was crazy,” Finch said to on3.com. “Great game. It was a time to remember for sure. Watching both goal posts come down after the big win was something unbelievable to witness. I would have to say continuing building the relationships with the coaches is something I’m excited about.”
The win over Alabama already had one recruit announcing his commitment to Tennessee. Shortly after the victory, offensive lineman Brandon Anderson (Kennesaw, Ga.) officially committed to the Vols. How many others will follow his lead?
