KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) -- Friday Grace Christian's middle school football team takes the field for the first time without Coach Jeff Smith.

The former Vol died over the weekend.

Head Coach Travis Flickinger says, "He was always encouraging kids to try football. it was neat to see him."

Complications from the flu claimed the life of their coach, former Vols offensive lineman Jeff Smith, last weekend.

Smith inspired middle school players at Grace Christian Academy, like his own son, Patrick Smith.

Patrick says, "Just seeing all the pictures of him playing at UT and everything just motivated me to play.

While Smith's family starts to heal, the Rams battle for the regional title.

Flickinger says, "It's been hard just throughout the whole week, but everyone's been real nice through grace. and everyone's gave us everything. everyone's taking care of us."

Friday, Patrick Smith will take the field, even without his dad by his side.

"It will be hard, but I really want to play, especially against Oneida."

Now the team mentally prepares for a tough match-up on the field and in their hearts.

Flickinger says, "They needed to play it for closure as much as the coaching staff needs to because he would want us to play it."

Patrick agrees.

"Just to do what I'm supposed to and try to make my dad proud."