Neyland Stadium, home of the Tennessee Volunteers, has long stood as one of college football’s most intimidating environments. With over 100,000 passionate fans clad in orange, the stadium shakes with energy every Saturday in the Fall. But according to EA Sports’ upcoming College Football 26 video game, Neyland doesn’t even crack the top 10 in its “Toughest Places to Play” rankings—landing instead at a puzzling No. 12.
That ranking didn’t sit well with CBS Sports’ Josh Pate.
Known for his extensive travel and in-person game coverage across the country, Pate is no stranger to elite college football atmospheres. And on his show, Late Kick with Josh Pate, he didn’t hold back when reacting to the surprising placement of Neyland Stadium.
Calling the rankings a “crime against humanity,” Pate wasted no time setting the record straight. “I’ve never been in an avalanche before,” he said passionately. “But I would imagine Tennessee taking the lead on you in the fourth quarter and ‘Rocky Top’ blaring—that’s what an avalanche of orange feels like.”
The imagery captures exactly what Vol Nation brings to the table. Under head coach Josh Heupel, Tennessee has reignited the passion of its fan base. From raucous night games against SEC powerhouses to high-stakes non-conference battles, Neyland has become a venue that rattles opponents and turns mistakes into momentum shifts. Quarterbacks lose their rhythm, play-callers fumble communication, and the crowd only gets louder.
Pate’s defense of Neyland wasn’t just emotional—it was grounded in firsthand experience. He’s been there. He’s seen how the place erupts, especially when the game is on the line. “There are few venues in the sport that match the volume, pressure, and intimidation factor of Neyland Stadium,” he added.
And he’s not alone in that belief. Tennessee’s home-field advantage has become legendary for a reason. Whether it’s the roar after a goal-line stand or the deafening eruption following a long touchdown, the Vols’ house delivers.
So, while EA Sports might be content placing Neyland at No. 12, Josh Pate—and much of the college football world—knows better. Neyland Stadium doesn’t just deserve respect. It demands it.
