Josh Heupel shuts down QB questions at weekly presser: ‘I’m done with the quarterbacks’
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The old adage goes, “if you have two quarterbacks, you have none.” Modern college football, with NIL and roster size, gives a little more leeway with that statement. Regardless, Josh Heupel has no interest in continuing to talk about his passers.
During a Monday afternoon press conference, Heupel quickly moved past a question about what he’s analyzing when deciding who will be Tennessee‘s starting quarterback on Saturday.
“Okay, next question,” Heupel said. “I’m done with the quarterbacks. Politely, I’m sorry.”
The Volunteers turned to backup George MacIntyre vs. the Auburn Tigers after Faizon Brandon went 3-of-8 with an interception to start the game. MacIntyre completed 80% of his passes (8/10) for 86 yards in relief for Heupel, whose offense rode DeSean Bishop’s legs — 34 carries, 220 yards, three touchdowns — to a 24-14 victory.
Tennessee (4-1, 1-1 SEC) still has everything in front of it for 2026, thanks to a strong rushing attack and tough defense (14.6 points allowed per game). However, to truly threaten for a College Football Playoff championship, the Vols will need either Brandon or MacIntyre to emerge as their signal-caller. They can’t expect to beat the biggest CFP title contenders without a passing offense.
Tennessee faces Arkansas on Saturday (4:15 p.m. E.T., SEC Network).
