August 25, 2026
Tennessee names true freshman Faizon Brandon starting QB for 2026 opener
The five-star recruit from Greensboro, N.C., beat out sophomore George MacIntyre for the job and has already drawn comparisons to Lamar Jackson from a teammate.
Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel named true freshman quarterback Faizon Brandon the starting quarterback for the Volunteers' season opener against FCS opponent Furman on Sept. 5, the program announced Monday. Brandon, who was the No. 3 ranked quarterback in the Class of 2026, won the job over sophomore George MacIntyre following fall camp competition.
Brandon becomes only the second true freshman quarterback to start a game for Tennessee in the Heupel era, joining Nico Iamaleava, who made his first career start in the 2024 Citrus Bowl against Iowa and was named MVP of that game following a 35-0 Tennessee victory. Brandon will also join Joe Milton III, Hendon Hooker, Iamaleava, and Joey Aguilar as Week 1 starters at quarterback under Heupel.
We named him the starter because we believe in the work that he's put in and how he's continued to grow and play throughout training camp. The second week through the second scrimmage, he's earned that right. I don't think there's just one thing (Brandon did to win the job). In all his control and command of what we're doing offensively — that's run game, RPO game, the drop back, play-action. Combine that with fundamentals, technique, and pocket awareness. You put all that together… decision-making, and taking care of the football while still allowing his playmakers to make plays down the field. You look at the total volume of work and he's earned the right to start.
— Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel
A Jackson Comparison Emerges
Brandon's dual-threat ability has already caught the attention of his teammates. Tennessee EDGE rusher Jordan Norman, who transferred to the program from Tulane this offseason, compared the freshman to two-time NFL MVP and 2016 Heisman Trophy winner Lamar Jackson.
I would say, honestly, it's like trying to tackle Lamar Jackson. Somebody who can run, shake you. I thought I had him. Next thing you know he was out of the pocket. That's one of the plays that stuck out to me like, 'Yeah, he can really do that.'
— Tennessee EDGE Jordan Norman
MacIntyre, a four-star recruit from the Class of 2025, appeared in two games for the Volunteers last season, completing 7 of 9 passes for 69 yards. Tennessee enters the 2026 campaign looking to rebound after losing four of its final seven games in 2025. The Volunteers open at home against Furman on Sept. 5.
