In a recent episode of The Players Lounge Tennessee, backup quarterbacks Gaston Moore and Jake Merklinger, alongside student assistant Phillip “Deez” Lund, made a compelling case for the University of Tennessee to incorporate “Spooky Rocky Top” more frequently during games. The suggestion stems from their shared enthusiasm for the song, which they believe has the potential to enhance the atmosphere at Neyland Stadium.
“I wish we could play it more,” expressed Merklinger, capturing the sentiment of the group. Moore chimed in, calling the song “tough,” while Lund suggested it would be an excellent choice for third downs, emphasizing its energy and crowd-inspiring potential.
“Spooky Rocky Top” has already been featured in critical moments during games, notably played during a pivotal third down in the fourth quarter of the recent win against Florida, which helped rally the Vols to a crucial stop. Given its success in that scenario, the backup quarterbacks argue for its increased use in similar high-stakes situations.
While there is a strong case for more frequent play, there are differing opinions on its role in the game. The suggestion is not to replace the traditional third down song entirely but to reserve “Spooky Rocky Top” for significant moments in big games. For instance, during the second half of a tightly contested SEC matchup, the song could serve as a rallying cry for the team and fans alike, maximizing its impact when the stakes are highest.
However, to maintain its effectiveness and excitement, the song should not be overused. Avoiding its play during less critical situations, such as random third downs in non-conference games, would help preserve its unique significance. The goal is to strike a balance that allows the Vols to harness the energy of “Spooky Rocky Top” at the right moments, ensuring it remains a special part of the game-day experience at Tennessee.
