ESPN analyst Greg McElroy suggests the order of quarterback reps in Tennessee's spring practice indicates MacIntyre is leading the competition, with freshman Faizon Brandon close behind.
Tennessee will start its fifth different quarterback in as many seasons this year, but the identity of that player might already be taking shape during spring practice.
With an official decision unlikely until August, ESPN analyst Greg McElroy offered insight on the Always College Football podcast, pointing to the order in which quarterbacks are receiving reps as a key indicator.
“Here’s where it gets a little interesting," McElroy said. "The rep order in practice is maybe telling us something, even if Coach Heupel is unwilling to. In the first practices, it was MacIntrye first, Brandon second and Staub third. That’s kind of significant.”
MacIntyre's Experience Gives Him an Edge
MacIntyre, a redshirt freshman, entered spring camp as the perceived frontrunner. As the only quarterback on the roster with experience in Josh Heupel's system, he's consistently taken the most first-team reps.
Brandon Impressing Early
Faizon Brandon, a true freshman and a consensus five-star recruit, has been running second in the rep order. McElroy, along with reports from Locked on Vols and On3.com, indicate Brandon has stood out during spring camp.
Staub Likely the Third Option
While McElroy views it as a three-quarterback battle, recent reports suggest transfer quarterback Ryan Staub is currently the No. 3 option. Despite being the only quarterback on the roster with starting experience, Staub appears to be behind MacIntyre and Brandon.
Week 1 Starter?
MacIntyre's familiarity with Heupel's system likely gives him the inside track to start Week 1 against Furman at Neyland Stadium. The expectation is that both MacIntyre and Brandon will see playing time this season, potentially even splitting starts.
While Brandon's potential is undeniable, the early rep distribution and MacIntyre's existing knowledge of the offense suggest Heupel is prioritizing experience to open the season.
The spring game will offer the first public glimpse into the competition, but the rep order during practice has already established a clear hierarchy. Further developments will be worth watching as the team progresses through spring.
