Josh Heupel addresses Tennessee’s QB change after win over Auburn
By Mark Kern
Published:
Josh Heupel and Tennessee were able to get a 24-14 win against Auburn on Saturday, but not before Heupel chose to bench quarterback Faizon Brandon late in the first half.
Faizon was coming off a tough game against Texas where he was sacked 10 times. He started 3-for-8 and threw an interception before being benched. After the game, Heupel talked about the decision to pull his star freshman for George MacIntyre.
“We’ll go watch the tape,” Heupel said in his postgame press conference. “Faizon, ultimately, didn’t play his best football. The turnover, progressions. We’ll need them both.”
After he subbed in, MacIntyre played much better, finishing 8-of-10 for 86 yards. His ability to throw the ball played a role for Heupel to make the decision.
“George’s (MacIntyre) ability to throw the football in the second half allowed us the opportunity to make plays,” Heupel said. “It’s a great lesson for everyone in the locker room. You never know when your moment is coming.”
Faizon became the first true freshman to start for the Volunteers in over 20 years. However, since the start of SEC play, he hasn’t been able to put up the same numbers.
If it wasn’t DeSean Bishop going for a career-high 220 yards and three touchdowns, the Volunteers may not have escaped with a win.
Heupel will have a big decision to make heading into Week 6, when the Volunteers hit the road to take on Arkansas.
