With spring ball underway, all eyes at Tennessee, both fans and coaches, have been on five-star freshman Faizon Brandon and redshirt freshman George MacIntyre as they battle in front of Josh Heupel for the starting quarterback role.
Tennessee poised for huge 2026 NFL Draft as two stars rise into first‑round mix
When it comes to Brandon, it hasn't been all sunshine and rainbows. Riley Haltom of 99.1 THE Sports Animal had some observations on Faizon Brandon's performance so far in the spring. He said, "Brandon just was struggling a little bit yesterday. Just not a lot of plays where he looked super in sync with the wide receivers."
Riley Haltom on Faizon Brandon: "Brandon just was struggling a little bit yesterday. Just not a lot of plays where he looked super in sync with the WR's"
— Joey Petersen (@joeypetersen8) March 25, 2026
This doesn't concern me . One of his biggest focuses has been his footwork. His ability to throw with anticipation will get… pic.twitter.com/rlC28LGabK
Why Tennessee fans shouldn't worry about Faizon Brandon
While this is not the best thing ever, if anyone expected a high school senior who has just early enrolled to be perfect from day one, they are delusional. There were always going to be rainy days, and this is just a part of the development process. He still has so much time to develop and grow in this offense.
The most encouraging part is that a lot of this is correctable mistakes. Brandon has hardly had any time to build rapport and chemistry with the Vols' wide receivers. This is something that will grow over time, especially in the offseason when guys are at some random field throwing routes.
Not to mention, Young quarterbacks typically struggle with mechanics in one way or another as well. In high school, quarterbacks can get by with pure arm strength or athleticism, but in the SEC, it's much different. They have to be on point with their accuracy and deliver a ball in a tight window. This takes not only pure talent, but knowing how the wideout is going to run his route and where he's going to be. Brandon will be just fine.
Given that if Brandon does win the job, he will have plenty of time to build rapport with his playmakers, and he will have so many good weapons around him. He's so young that it's understandable that he will have some bumps in the road. With the quarterback battle just beginning, this is just one mile of a long marathon this offseason.