Dylan Sampson Praises Vol Nation as Tennessee Fans Prepare to Storm Ohio State
Tennessee running back Dylan Sampson had high praise for Vol Nation during his recent media availability, emphasizing the unparalleled energy and loyalty of Tennessee fans. The 5’11” playmaker from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, has quickly become a fan favorite on Rocky Top, and his comments about the Tennessee faithful have only endeared him further to the Vols’ diehard supporters.
When asked about Tennessee fans making the trek to Ohio State for the upcoming matchup, Sampson didn’t hesitate to express his admiration:
“That doesn’t surprise me. I just think about the LSU game a couple of years ago—that felt like a home game. No one does it like Vol Nation.”
Sampson’s comments are a testament to the passion of Tennessee fans, who have earned a reputation as one of the most dedicated fan bases in college football. Whether it’s Neyland Stadium’s 100,000-plus crowd singing “Rocky Top” or traveling en masse to away games, Vol Nation consistently proves they’ll go to great lengths to support their team.
Sampson’s reference to Tennessee’s 2022 road victory over LSU was no coincidence. That game, which ended in a dominant 40-13 win for the Volunteers, was notable for the sea of orange that engulfed Tiger Stadium. Many LSU fans were stunned by the sheer number of Tennessee supporters who made the trip to Baton Rouge, creating an atmosphere that felt more like Knoxville than Death Valley.
The LSU game wasn’t an isolated incident, either. Vol Nation’s ability to turn opposing stadiums into virtual home games has become a point of pride for Tennessee fans. From Atlanta to Gainesville to Tuscaloosa, Tennessee supporters consistently show up in force, drowning out the home crowd with chants of “It’s great to be a Tennessee Vol!”
Now, Tennessee fans are gearing up to invade the Horseshoe for a marquee non-conference matchup against Ohio State. The Buckeyes are one of the most storied programs in college football, and Ohio Stadium’s 100,000-seat capacity is known for its deafening noise. But if history is any indicator, Vol Nation will ensure the Volunteers aren’t without support.
Sampson’s confidence in the fan base mirrors the team’s mindset heading into the high-stakes showdown. Tennessee has steadily rebuilt its program under head coach Josh Heupel, and a victory over Ohio State would solidify the Volunteers as a legitimate College Football Playoff contender.
Sampson’s connection with Tennessee fans runs deeper than just words. On the field, he has established himself as a dynamic playmaker, capable of breaking open a game with his speed, vision, and versatility. Whether it’s bursting through the line for a long touchdown run or catching passes out of the backfield, Sampson is a critical piece of Tennessee’s high-powered offense.
Off the field, his humility and appreciation for the fan base have made him a beloved figure. For Sampson, Vol Nation isn’t just a group of fans—it’s a family.
“They’re the best fans in the country. You can feel their energy wherever we go,” Sampson said. “They push us to be better, and we want to win for them.”
Sampson’s comments capture the essence of what makes Vol Nation special. It’s not just about showing up—it’s about showing out, creating an atmosphere that inspires the team and rattles opponents. Whether at home in Neyland Stadium or thousands of miles away, Tennessee fans are a force to be reckoned with.
As the Volunteers prepare to take on Ohio State, one thing is certain: Vol Nation will be there, clad in orange, ready to make their presence felt. For Dylan Sampson and the rest of the Tennessee team, that unwavering support is fuel for their pursuit of greatness.
Because, as Sampson so aptly put it: “No one does it like Vol Nation.”