Smokey XII makes national TV debut on ‘Today’ as a ‘promising new recruit’

Smokey XII made his national television debut on NBC’s “Today” this morning in the lead up to his Neyland Stadium debut on Sept. 5. And he was a really good boy.

Two-year-old Smokey − who will celebrate a ceremonial birthday alongside the university on Sept. 10 − follows in the paw prints of his 11 predecessors and is the first rescue dog to assume the role as the University of Tennessee at Knoxville’s mascot.

To share his story with the nation, “Today” came to Knoxville to go live with Smokey XII along with his handlers, members of the Pride of the Southland Marching Band, cheerleaders and his costumed mascot counterpart. The report showed him interacting with fans, practicing his game day routine and taking a trip to the vet.

Watch the full below. Can’t see the player? Tap here.

And be sure to keep an eye out on game day as Smokey XII leads the team through the Power T formed by the Pride of the Southland Marching Band for the season opener against Furman!

Keenan Thomas is the higher education reporter for Knox News. Email: keenan.thomas@knoxnews.com.

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This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: Smokey XII makes national TV debut on ‘Today’ as a ‘promising new recruit’