Freshmen Quarterbacks Poised to Lead Tennessee’s SEC Programs

The two SEC programs in Tennessee might both start their seasons with freshmen quarterbacks. At No. 20 Tennessee, Faizon Brandon has been chosen over sophomore George MacIntyre. Coach Josh Heupel announced this decision on Monday. Meanwhile, Vanderbilt is seeing Jared Curtis compete against senior Blaze Berlowitz to succeed the 2025 Heisman Trophy runner-up Diego Pavia.

Tennessee’s Quarterback Situation

Tennessee’s quarterback duel began when Joey Aguilar, who amassed 3,565 yards last year, failed to secure an eligibility extension. Brandon, who aimed to work hard regardless, noted that Aguilar not receiving the extra year intensified his motivation, given the quarterback battle. While at Grimsley High School in Greensboro, N.C., Brandon passed for 6,374 yards and 79 touchdowns, further running for 1,261 yards and 21 touchdowns, leading the team to consecutive state championships. Standing at 6-foot-4, he ranked as the nation’s No. 3 quarterback and No. 10 overall prospect as per the 247Sports composite.

“He earned the right to start with his consistent performance in training camp and throughout the scrimmages,” stated Coach Heupel. The coach highlighted Brandon’s development and consistent play during these periods.

Vanderbilt’s Quarterback Race

Jared Curtis aims to attain a starter role at Vanderbilt. The 6-foot-3 freshman gained considerable attention after retracting his commitment to Georgia to play for Vanderbilt, becoming the highest-ranked recruit in the school’s history. Curtis was ranked fourth overall in his class by the 247Sports composite. At Nashville Christian Academy, Curtis threw for over 9,500 yards and rushed for over 2,100 yards, culminating in a state title and earning the Tennessee Gatorade player of the year honor.

Coach Clark Lea remarked post an Aug. 16 scrimmage, “The raw ability and skill are evident, from arm strength to play-making potential.” He admitted Curtis has been inconsistent but also explosive at times. Berlowitz, Curtis’s competitor, began his career at New Mexico State with 36 career passes.

Freshmen to Watch Nationally

Texas WR Jermaine Bishop Jr.
Jermaine Bishop Jr. might soon secure a crucial offensive role. The 6-foot wideout was the No. 58 overall prospect in his class according to the 247Sports composite ranking.

Alabama RBs Trae’shon Brown and EJ Crowell
Alabama’s struggling ground game could create opportunities for freshmen running backs. Crowell, a five-star prospect, ranked 15th in the 247Sports composite but an ankle injury has limited him. Brown, though a three-star recruit, showed preseason promise.

Miami OL Jackson Cantwell
Cantwell is expected to immediately bolster Miami’s offensive line, departing Nixa High School as the first offensive lineman named Gatorade national player of the year. His class ranking placed him second overall.

Washington OT Kodi Greene
Kodi Greene is projected as Washington’s starting left tackle. He played at Mater Dei in Santa Ana, Calif., and ranked third among tackles and 26th overall in his class.

Ohio State WR Chris Henry Jr.
Chris Henry Jr. may become Ohio State’s next standout wide receiver. Ranked 14th overall by the 247Sports composite, he looks to join All-America receiver Jeremiah Smith in significant roles.

Michigan RB Savion Hiter
Ranked as the No. 1 running back and 12th overall prospect, Savion Hiter impressed in preseason camp. His senior season featured 1,455 rushing yards and 25 touchdowns, promising a notable role alongside Jordan Marshall, who achieved 932 yards last year.