Tennessee reportedly makes decision on starting quarterback against Arkansas
By Sydney Hunte
Published:
Tennessee appears set to turn to George MacIntyre when the Volunteers travel to Arkansas in Week 6, according to On3’s Pete Nakos and Chris Low.
True freshman Faizon Brandon started against Auburn in Week 5 but struggled, finishing 3-of-8 for zero yards and an interception before being benched in favor of MacIntyre in the second quarter. The sophomore ended up going just 8-of-10 for 86 yards, as the Vols rode DeSean Bishop’s career-best 220 yards and three touchdowns to a 24-14 win over the Tigers.
According to Josh Heupel, Brandon had been dealing with a shoulder injury stemming from Tennessee‘s Week 4 loss to Texas. Brandon had to leave that one briefly but returned to finish out the game.
For now, though, it looks as if MacIntyre will be getting the call against the Razorbacks. After starting the season as the backup behind Brandon, he is now in line for his first career start.
In 2026, the former four-star recruit has completed 14 of his 20 passes for 148 yards and a touchdown. Before Week 5, his most significant action of the season was Week 1 against Furman, as he finished 5-of-7 for 56 yards and a touchdown in mop-up duty.
He played in two games as a freshman in 2025, including a 6-of-7, 52-yard performance against ETSU in Week 1.
Sydney is an Atlanta-based journalist who has covered everything from SEC and ACC football to MLS, the U.S. men's national soccer team and professional tennis. His work has appeared on such platforms as SB Nation, Cox Media Group and FanSided.
