A record heat index of 101-degrees was the kickoff temperature at Sanford Stadium for Georgia football's home opener against Tennessee State on Saturday, Sept. 5.

Fans began arriving as early as 90 minutes before kickoff, though the majority were still stuck on the bridge during the national anthem. But early arrivals brought early departures. As soon as the first quarter came to an end, the Bulldogs leading the Tigers 28-0, the stands began shining under the blistering sun as they emptied.

By halftime, more than half of the stadium had been emptied out. Fans were trickling out in droves, with a select few, always loyal groups still remaining at the forefront of the student section, including the university's beloved Paint Line and Spike Squad.

The wind picked up and sky began to turn grey over the nortwest side of the stadium around 5 p.m., with forecasted thunderstorms arriving as early as 6 p.m. according to Accuweather.

This story will be updated.

View of the Northwest side of Sanford Stadium from the press box during Georgia football's 101-degree home opener against Tennessee State on Saturday, Sept. 5, 2026.

This article originally appeared on Athens Banner-Herald: Georgia football opens 2026 season in record-setting heat

Source: Yahoo Sports