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Tennessee Retires Smokey XI After Mascot Struggles With Stadium Noise

Tennessee announced that Smokey XI is retiring after just three years, saying the bluetick coonhound never adapted to Neyland Stadium’s noise despite two years of work with handlers and vets. His “reserved temperament” often forced dad Smokey X to fill in. Smokey XI, now four, will live quietly with his caretakers as the Vols select Smokey XII for next season.