Hendon Hooker has been Tennessee’s unquestioned leader and difference-maker this season. The Volunteers quarterback has had a fabulous 2022 campaign and has been a top candidate for the Heisman Trophy in a very historic year for the Vols offense.

However, Hooker went down with a non-contact injury in the fourth quarter against South Carolina. The Vols quarterback was running an option to the left, and he planted awkwardly to cut up field and went down immediately. Hooker looked like he was in a lot of pain and left the game immediately. With the help of trainers, Hooker limped to the locker room. To make matters worse, Hooker fumbled on the play that eventually led to another South Carolina touchdown.

Josh Heupel was asked about Hooker’s injury during his postgame press conference.

“I don’t (have an update on his injury),” Heupel said. “We’ll evaluate him when we get back to town.”

Backup Joe Milton replaced Hooker in the 63-38 loss in Columbia.

Through 11 games this season, Hooker has thrown for 2,888 yards and 24 touchdowns. He’s thrown 2 or more touchdowns in 10 of the 11 games.

Hopefully, Hooker’s injury isn’t as bad as it appeared on the field.