Jarrett Guarantano is not the most popular man in Rocky Top these days. In his fourth season with the Tennessee program, the veteran starter has regressed. He frustrated head coach Jeremy Pruitt and many Volunteers fans with the apparent decision to go “rogue” and try a QB sneak near the goal line against Alabama – which resulted in a turnover and score for the Crimson Tide – instead of running the called play.

With Brian Maurer all but officially out for Saturday’s South Carolina game, there is a strong chance Guarantano will at play against the Gamecocks (and possibly start at QB). At his Wednesday post-practice press conference, UT coach Jeremy Pruitt was asked about some fans posting on social that they may boo Guarantano or boycott the game if the redshirt junior is named the starting QB.

“You’re not going to find a more passionate fan base. … I think they trust we’re going to play the best players who give us the best chance to win and have success,” Pruitt told reporters. “I think when South Carolina comes on the field, they’ll probably be booing. When South Carolina has the ball, I expect them to be loud.”

When asked about when he’ll name a starting quarterback for Saturday, Pruitt noted that there are still three more days of prep before the game.