Terrell Owens returns to UTC, generating buzz and winning at homecoming

Terrell Owens was in town watching the Mocs on a roll.

The Mocs lost their first 3, but won their last 5.

Saturday was the UTC Mocs homecoming game and TO was on campus all weekend getting the fans excited.

Terrell Owens is a six-time NFL Pro-Bowl player and also a former UTC athlete.

I just like coming back, giving back and being here. “This is where it all started for me,” Owens said.

During his time at UTC, Owens made his mark in both football and basketball.

He was inducted into the Southern Conference Hall of Fame class of 2020.

I didn’t necessarily go to a Power Five school. I went here at UT Chattanooga. I reached the professional ranks. Like I said, if you’re lucky enough to go to a Power Five school, that’s great, but not everyone will be able to do it. What is the next best option? UTC is here,” Owens said.

Owens partnered with UTC’s Access and Engagement Division to give out 500 free tickets to Hamilton County Schools students, teachers and their families.

SOt- Stacy Lightfoot- Vice Chancellor of the UTC Access and Participation Division

“We are very proud of Terrell Owens as a former UTC drill and he talked about filling the stands and making sure Chattanooga was on fire for UTC’s homecoming,” said Stacy Lightfoot, vice chancellor of UTC’s Access and Engagement Division. .

At game time, despite a little rain, the stands were filled to cheer on the Mocs.

TO is already looking forward to returning next year.

I have been to different schools, universities. I have seen the great support. I have seen the stadium field with fans. That’s not the case here. I want that to happen here, and so this is the beginning. Now you are listening to it here. Hopefully next year we will see this. “I don’t want to see an empty seat next year, at least not even close to that,” Owens said.

The Mocs continued their winning streak, beating VMI 31-10.

UTC plays Western Carolina next Saturday.