Jason Witten wishes he could have played in ‘Battle at Bristol’
By Andrew Olson
Published:
Jason Witten had a decorated career at Tennessee from 2000-02, but he sounds jealous of Team 120, which gets to play in the “Battle at Bristol” against Virginia Tech.
“I would’ve love to have played in it,” Witten told WJHL of Johnson City, Tenn. “Not only for the fans, but for the players and the entire community, I think it’s going to be a great experience.”
The “Battle” was a popular topic with Witten back in his hometown Elizabethton, Tenn., about 20 miles south of Bristol, for his annual football camp. While he wishes he were suiting up for the Vols on Sept. 10, Witten is just glad to see the game finally happen.
“I think it’s going to be great,” Witten said. “It seems like they’ve been talking about that for 20 years and now it’s finally actually happening. Two great programs right here, couldn’t be in a better place where football is such a pivotal part of families.”
The Dallas Cowboys tight end is a vocal supporter of his alma mater, but he has another reason to watch the Week 2 – family bragging rights. Shaun Witten, Jason’s brother, played at Virginia Tech from 1999-2002, part of a team that played for a national championship his freshman season.
“I think he knows the deal,” Jason said. “He doesn’t need me to trash talk, he knows the Hokies don’t have much of a chance in that one.”
Edit: The article previously implied Virginia Tech won the national championship in 1999. The Hokies lost to Florida State.
Andrew writes about sports to fund his love of live music and collection of concert posters. He strongly endorses the Hall of Fame campaign of Fred Taylor.
