The first major decision out of fall camp has been made for the Tennessee football team, as Josh Heupel named Joey Aguilar his starting quarterback for the 2025 season. This news was expected, as Aguilar previously had two years of starting experience.
It's great that big-time call is now off the board. However, there are two more spots on offense that are a bit up for grabs. That'd be running back and center. Who will end up winning those respective jobs and take the field with Aguilar and Co. once Week 1 vs. Syracuse gets here?
Plenty of eyes are on the Tennessee football battle at center during fall camp
Starting off at center, both William Satterwhite and Notre Dame transfer Sam Pendleton have been going back and forth in the competition for the job. If there was a contest tomorrow, signs seem to be pointing that Pendleton would be the starter - he's certainly got the edge.
What makes Pendleton such a special player is that he's also got the ability to slide over and start at right guard. That spot is currently owned by Jesse Perry, but there's also still the slim chance that Pendleton starts at RG and Satterwhite suits up at center vs. the orange. Regardless, a final decision will come soon. Our choice to start is definitely Pendleton.
There will be a running back committee for Tennessee football this season
It really feels like it won't matter who Heupel has start vs. Syracuse, as three running backs will be featured consistently this season. Yup, Duke transfer Star Thomas, Peyton Lewis and DeSean Bishop are all going to see significant action this fall.
Lewis and Bishop were behind Dylan Sampson last season, but now they're ready to take advantage of their extra opportunities getting more carries. Thomas is the veteran of the group and he's coming off a strong season in the ACC with the Blue Devils. Look for all three to complement one another and lead a strong ground game for Heupel.