Josh Heupel's vague Nico Iamaleava update is leaving everyone guessing

If you were expecting Tennessee Volunteers head coach Josh Heupel to provide a definitive answer on the playing status of Nico Iamaleava for Saturday, we're sorry to disappoint you. In recent days, Heupel seemed adamant that his star quarterback would be good to go to take on Georgia.

However, a new report from Pete Thamel on Tuesday night was concerning, as he said Iamaleava is in the concussion protocol and his availability for Week 12 is up in the air. Heupel hopped on the SEC teleconference for the week and he couldn't have been more vague about things.

"Nico has been good here in the early part of the week," Heupel told reporters. "I’ll refer everybody to the availability report that comes out later tonight, and everybody can wait with anticipation for that."

Nico Iamaleava's status to take on Georgia remains totally up in the air

Thanks for clearing everything up, Josh! Now, everyone must wait to see what shows up on the availability report. It's going to be a big-time blow for the No. 6 Vols if Nico is forced to sit this one out due to his concussion.

However, Tennessee players have been talking up QB2 Gaston Moore throughout the week, making it clear that they trust him running the offense if his number is called. When Iamaleava went down against Mississippi State, Moore took over in the second half.

He finished completing 5-of-8 pass attempts for 38 yards. Iamaleava was 8-of-13 for 174 yards and two touchdowns. We're not saying anything wild by pointing out that Iamaleava is far and away the better QB for this team. However, if he can't play, Moore will have to step in and play at a high level.

Heupel and his players have strong belief in Moore. Soon enough, we'll find out if Iamaleava can play or not. If he can, it's going to be a major boost for Tennessee's goal of upsetting UGA in Athens. If he's out, the challenge is going to be made tougher for Heupel and Co.