KNOXVILLE — University and local law enforcement agencies say attendance for the UT-Georgia game may be the season’s largest, and they are urging fans to arrive early for the 7:45 p.m. kickoff.
“The Georgia game is always one of our largest in terms of attendance,” Philip Scheurer, vice president of operations, said Tuesday. “We’re asking fans to cooperate by not waiting until the last minute to try to enter the stadium.
“The usual screening measures will be in effect, and with the larger crowd it will take longer for fans to get to their seats,” he said. “Stadium officials have authority to inspect any items coming through the gates.”
Gates will open at 5:45 p.m. The traditional Vol Walk starts at 5:30 p.m. from Gibbs Hall to the stadium.
The Pride of the Southland Marching Band’s march to the stadium begins at 6:05 p.m. at the music building.
Backpacks and other large items are not permitted inside the stadium, and those items not allowed cannot be stored or left at the gate, Scheurer said. Cushions, small radios, cell phones, and diaper bags for infants are permitted.
Directional parking will be used in Area 9 and Lots 1,2,4 and 5. The new parking garage on the corner of Cumberland Avenue and 11th Street is open for donors assigned to the garage. After the game, traffic on 11th Street will be one-way northbound to Western Avenue.
Phillip Fulmer Way from Middle Drive to Tee Martin Drive, Peyton Manning Pass, Middle and Lower drives and Estabrook Drive will be closed 30 minutes before kickoff.