KNOXVILLE — Out of all the kids that are raised Vol fans, few go on to represent their favorite team at Neyland Stadium, but this kid has.
"We love the Vols," said Joe's mom Lisa. "We've been Vol fans for years, Joe grew up a Vol fan, so just super proud and excited."
Sophomore Joe Doyle has earned the starting punting job for Tennessee, and made his Neyland Stadium debut on Saturday against ETSU.
"We're so proud of him, we can't hardly stand it," said Joe's dad Michael. "Can you tell we're excited?"
Joe's parents, Michael and Lisa couldn't wait to hug their son before the game, so excited in fact, they forgot their tickets and had to go back home to get them.
"Yes, but of course it's his fault, not mine," said Lisa. "He's in charge of the tickets so we know how that went."
Joe is a graduate of Farragut High School, and the youngest of six kids. For his parents, the baby in the family is now a starter on Tennessee's roster.
"I cried last week," Lisa said as she laughed. "It's very sentimental for us. Just growing up, he went to Farragut High School and he has a huge support team all around him."
"Joe is special to every member of the family, and he would be special whether he played football or not," said Michael. "He's just a great kid and I can't wait for the people of our the Vol Nation to get to know Joe as a person."
As the game kicked off, perhaps the moment became a little more surreal.
"I think every game will be a surreal moment for us whether he's playing or on the sidelines," said Lisa. "If he can dress up in orange and white, his favorite colors, and run out on the field, that's all I can ask for as a mom."