Bill Bates played college football at the University of Tennessee from 1979 through the 1982 season, where he was a four-year starter, the first two at free safety and the last two at strong safety. At the end of 1979 he was honored by being named to the Freshman All-American team. He also won the team's "hardest hitter" award on several occasions throughout his career. He was named second team All-SEC as a junior and senior. Bill Bates signed Tennessee Volunteers Schutt NCAA Authentic Mini Helmet #40. PSA Authentication Sticker & Certificate of Authenticity