Tennessee opened the 2025 season with a commanding 45-26 win over Syracuse at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, jumping to a quick 17-0 first-quarter lead behind Peyton Lewis's touchdown run and Colton Hood's fumble return score. Joey Aguilar threw three touchdown passes, including a 73-yard strike to Braylon Staley, while the Volunteers' defense contained Syracuse despite Yasin Willis's three rushing touchdowns for the Orange. Tennessee maintained control throughout, sealing the victory with Aguilar's third touchdown pass late in the fourth quarter.