Every question surrounding the Tennessee Vols next fall begins and ends with the offense. The Vols missed out on every portal quarterback target they pursued, and with Faizon Brandoin potentially emerging as QB1, many believe the unit could take a step back with a true freshman under center.
The 24-team playoff idea is something Tennessee fans have every reason to hate
Given that, Brad Crawford of CBS Sports released his SEC post-spring overreactions, one of his most interesting takes involved Tennessee and its offense. Crawford said:
"Josh Heupel's offense takes a step back: That's the assumption, but a projection that should be handled with extreme care. Tennessee's offensive line could be a strength of the team, and the Vols are confident in their backfield despite talent losses. At quarterback, Heupel will have to decide between George MacIntyre and Faizon Brandon during fall camp after the two battled without separation this spring. Given this scheme's production under his tutelage, perhaps Heupel deserves the benefit of the doubt here, especially after Tennessee failed to sign a transfer at the position this cycle after losing Joey Aguilar to eligibility.
Brad Crawford thinks Tenensee will take a step back on offense in 2026
I actually love this take from Crawford and don’t think it’s too spicy at all. And by love, I don’t mean I like the outcome, but I do think it’s a fair opinion with evidence to back it up. Tennessee’s offensive line feels a bit up and down right now. On paper, the unit looks really solid, but the spring game didn’t exactly inspire a ton of confidence. Still, having an elite ball carrier like DeSean Bishop can help erase some of those issues.
Tennessee also has a ton of big-time playmakers with wide receivers Braylon Staley, Mike Matthews, and tight end Ethan Davis. Staley and Matthews combined for over 1,600 yards last fall, while Davis really came on late in the season. However, with no real idea of how the quarterback situation will play out, it’s fair to expect at least some regression from the unit.
Where I push back is that I still think Tennessee will have a strong offense. They simply have too many good athletes and too much talent on that side of the ball to be anything less than solid. If they can get even average quarterback play, this offense should be really good. Plus, Josh Heupel has proven he’s one of the best play-callers in the sport, and he has evolved the offense during his time to be less gimmicky and more pro-style. The offense will likely be more run-heavy leaning on Bishop and Tulane transfer Javin Gordon to make big plays. I wouldn't be shocked to see Heupel mix in more play action.
Like it or not, Crawford gave a fair and level-headed take when it comes to Tennessee’s offense next fall. Sure, the Vols have the potential to be one of the top units in the country, but with a new quarterback who will likely be a freshman, it isn’t unfair to expect Tennessee to take a slight step back.
Add us as a preferred source on Google