Smokey XII Set for Official Debut at 2026 Orange & White Game

Image: University of Tennessee

By Aidan Sidoti

The University of Tennessee announced Thursday morning that Smokey XII will make his official debut on Saturday, April 11 for the Orange & White spring game at Neyland Stadium, entering the next generation of one of college football’s most beloved traditions.

Smokey XII steps into the role following the retirement of Smokey XI, who served the program for two seasons before stepping away due to his reserved temperament and discomfort in large public settings. He is now enjoying a quieter life with his brother and his father, Smokey X.

The new Smokey, a bluetick coonhound named Neyland, has been fostered and trained at the UT College of Veterinary Medicine, where staff and students have spent months preparing him for the energy and intensity of SEC football Saturdays. That process has included exposure to large crowds and gameday environments, including appearances at Tennessee basketball games.

“Neyland, aka Smokey XII, might just be Vol Nation’s most heartwarming walk‑on success story,” said Paul Plummer, dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine. “This beautiful bluetick coonhound has found his forever family on Rocky Top. With training support from devoted students and expert guidance from the nation’s best veterinarians, Smokey XII is ready to meet his new Volunteer family and bring excitement to fans everywhere he goes.”

As Smokey XII prepares for what is expected to be one of Tennessee’s strongest home schedules in recent memory, the program is surely confident he’ll be ready for the high‑intensity moments that define SEC football.