Overview
- Multiple outlets reported Tuesday that George MacIntyre will start at quarterback for Tennessee on Saturday, marking the first start of his college career.
- MacIntyre relieved Faizon Brandon against Auburn after Brandon completed 3 of 8 passes for zero yards and threw an interception, and MacIntyre finished 8 of 10 for 86 yards.
- Coach Josh Heupel said Brandon’s right-shoulder injury from the Sept. 26 Texas game was affecting his play and declined to name a starter earlier in the week while the staff evaluated reps.
- MacIntyre’s efficient relief appearance steadied Tennessee’s passing game and helped free DeSean Bishop to rush for 220 yards and three touchdowns in the 24-14 win over Auburn.
- The move is presented as a near-term change rather than a long-term declaration, with Tennessee opening as roughly a 13.5-point favorite and the staff expected to reassess the quarterback situation ahead of the upcoming Alabama game.