The biggest football game is East Tennessee just got a lot bigger audience.
"This thing keeps getting bigger. I've made the comment maybe we can get this thing overseas next year. Maybe London," said
Alcoa Football Coach Gary Rankin.
ESPN2 announced Monday that they will air the Maryville-Alcoa rivalry on Sunday, August 26th at noon.
The coaches were pretty concerned about the game being played on a Sunday, and how it would affect their routine, the school work, and of course, church.
"I said no way. I don't think we can do that. I don't think I can be there. My wife won't allow it. You may have to play without me, but I talked to the local ministers in Alcoa, and when you think about it, it's a once in a lifetime thing for these children and these kids, and a great thing for this community," said Coach Rankin.
"We're going to try and make a positive out of not going to church that day. But it's an exciting thing and hopefully we can put on a good show. Hopefully the game is very competitive. People will see that good football is played in Tennessee," said Maryville Football Coach George Quarles.
Many churches have agreed to have early worship times so everyone in Blount County can make the game.