The countdown to the season-opener getting here for Josh Heupel and Tennessee keeps shrinking, as Furman is headed to Knoxville on Sept. 5. Faizon Brandon has been named the starting quarterback, and expectations are of course going to be sky-high for the 5-star freshman this season.
However, he's not the only one who's going to have to play at an electric level moving forward. Nope, the running backs and receivers must deliver as well, especially to help out an 18-year-old signal-caller. With that said, we've got our season predictions for the QB/RB/WR leaders this year. We'll start off at wideout, where the belief is a monster season will be on the way for Mike Matthews.
Mike Matthews has what it takes to become Tennessee's new WR1
With Chris Brazzell no longer in Knoxville and now in the NFL, a new leading receiver must emerge for the Vols and Heupel. Look for former 5-star prospect Matthews to fill that void, though fellow stud wideout Braylon Staley is also going to be ready to make a monster splash this year too.
Last season, Staley was second in receiving yards with 837, while Matthews was right behind him at 813. Look for these two to be studs once again, but it's Matthews who we think will finish at the top of the list here, with a huge year coming for him. So, how good will Matthews be? Let's go with 68 receptions for 1,105 yards and seven touchdowns.
Another 1,000-yard season should be on the way for Tennessee RB DeSean Bishop
The fact that he doesn't get more national attention is a joke, but Tennessee fans know exactly what junior running back DeSean Bishop can do with the ball in his hands. Last season, Bishop finished with 1,076 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns, really turning heads. Now, more of the same is going to be on the way.
Heupel continues to make it clear that he's going to rely on the rushing attack to help lead this team. Sure, a Heupel offense is known for throwing the ball all over the field, but when you have a true freshman starting, running the ball HAS to be a focus. For Bishop, that means he'll be featured early and often, which will lead to 1,247 rushing yards, and 18 TDs.
What can Tennessee fans expect from 5-star Faizon Brandon in Year 1?
Last but not least, once again, the pressure is on for Brandon. With him signing with the Vols ranked as the No. 3 quarterback in the country, there's of course added eyes on him, especially since he's viewed as the future of this program. There are countless weapons around him, but it will be on Brandon to get them the ball.
Just two seasons ago, Nico Iamaleava helped lead Tennessee to the CFP as a freshman starter. While we're not expecting Brandon to do the same in '26, a big year could be on the way for him. Hopefully Vols supporters will be realistic with their expectations, but if Brandon throws for 2,256 yards and 19 TDs, which is what we're predicting for him, it should be considered a strong first year for him.
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