KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Prepare your hearts, VFLs. A new floppy-eared friend is coming to the University of Tennessee next fall, and his name is Smokey XI.
UT dropped a Big Orange Friday surprise on social media with the announcement of Smokey X's successor. Don't worry, though: Smokey X is doing just fine. He's just entering a well-earned retirement.
"Smokey X may still start the 2022 Tennessee football season until Smokey XI is fully ready to take over the sidelines, but Smokey X is soon to retire and transition to a life of being a very good boy at home," Tom Satkowiak with UT Athletics said.
People on social media immediately fell in love with Smokey XI, and it's easy to see why. He's got all the lovable features of his predecessors, but his ears are extra floppy and extra adorable. UT shared a video of the energetic pup wagging his tail as Smokey X calmly exuded his legendary presence.
Even though it only seems like yesterday, Smokey X made his debut in Fall 2013.
Smokey XI joins a historic line of Bluetick Coonhounds who've become one of UT's most popular traditions.