Tennessee · SECTennessee names true freshman Faizon Brandon starting quarterback for Furman opener
Brandon beat out sophomore George MacIntyre and will make his first career appearance when the No. 20 Volunteers open Sept. 5.
AUG 28, 2026
Tennessee will open the 2026 season with true freshman Faizon Brandon at quarterback against Furman on Sept. 5.
Brandon beat out sophomore George MacIntyre for the job and will make his first career appearance in the 3:30 p.m. ET opener. The No. 3-ranked quarterback in the 2026 recruiting class becomes the second true freshman to start at Tennessee under Josh Heupel, joining Nico Iamaleava, who started the 2024 Citrus Bowl.
Heupel’s explanation pointed to more than a limited opening-week role. He cited Brandon’s command of the offense, understanding of the run game, checks, expanding RPO work and ball security through spring practice and training camp.
“During the course of training camp, he did a great job controlling and commanding what we’re doing offensively,” Heupel said. “Understand the run game, making checks, and his RPO game has continued to grow. He has the ability to distribute the ball at a really high level. He takes care of the football.”
The decision puts Tennessee’s offense in Brandon’s hands after an 8-5, 4-4 SEC finish in 2025, when the Volunteers lost four of their final seven games. Tennessee enters 2026 ranked No. 20 in the AP poll and No. 18 in the Coaches Poll, with a Sept. 12 trip to Georgia Tech following the Furman opener.