KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) - The Vols versus the Bulldogs: we are less than 24 hours from kickoff in Athens.

Fans are getting excited for the big game and some got a head start tonight.

Many bars around Knoxville are expecting some of the biggest crowds of the year on Saturday.

But one crowd decided to start partying it up with a tailgate, for fun and a good cause.

At closing time, most Mortgage Investors Group workers head home for the weekend. But Friday night was different.

The parking lot packed with music, games, rides, and lots of tailgating food.

"At the same time, say thanks to all our clients, and all the people that have refinanced their homes and done their mortgage with Mortgage Investors Group," said Kevin Rhea, a worker with the company.

And many that came dropped off non-perishable foods or money for the Second Harvest Food Bank.

Of course, most tailgaters wore the same color, orange, and the UT-Georgia game on their mind.

"I am a little nervous, but I think the fact that it's away is better so we can watch in our own home," said UT fan Tara Roddy.

"We've got to do it. And I'm all for our coach, and he needs all the help he can get," said UT fan Glenn Hammond.

The Bearden Hill Fieldhouse was packed when UT played NC State, and the bar is gearing for a similar crowd for Georgia.

"I think tomorrow could be our biggest game day of the year, a lot of how we do the rest of the year is going to depend on how we do," said Grier Lequire, assistant manager at BFH.

Other fans felt the same way, cautiously optimistic, and hoping to be 4-1 when the clock hits zero.

Volunteer TV and Local 8 News will of course have you covered on game day.

Kickoff is at 3:30 right here on WVLT, and the live postgame report to follow.