Tennessee’s quarterback competition is officially over, at least for Week 1.
Coach Josh Heupel announced Monday that true freshman Faizon Brandon has earned the starting quarterback job for Tennessee’s season opener against Furman.
Heupel informed the quarterbacks and the rest of the team Monday morning, ending a quarterback competition that also featured George MacIntyre and Ryan Staub.
Brandon’s rapid development ultimately helped separate him.
“I don’t think there’s just one thing,” Heupel said when asked what allowed Brandon to win the job.
Heupel pointed to Brandon’s command of Tennessee’s offense, including the run and RPO games, along with his fundamentals, pocket awareness, decision-making and ability to protect the football.
The freshman also showed an ability to get the ball to Tennessee’s playmakers downfield.
Taken together, Heupel believed Brandon’s complete body of work was enough to earn the opportunity.
The decision completes an impressive rise for a quarterback who arrived at Tennessee as one of the nation’s top prospects but had never taken a college snap.
His work away from the practice field accelerated that development.
Heupel recalled Tennessee’s players receiving several weeks away from the program in May. Brandon remained around the facility, spending time in the weight room, studying film and working through fundamentals on the indoor field.
“That type of mentality, attitude is a tribute to him and his growth,” Heupel said. “That’s why he’s continued to grow as fast as he has.”
Brandon’s growth became increasingly apparent throughout fall camp.
His arm strength and mobility provided obvious physical advantages, but Heupel’s explanation Monday made clear Tennessee’s decision extended beyond raw talent. Brandon showed enough command and consistency within the offense to earn the first opportunity.
Heupel also stopped short of declaring the competition permanently settled.
Tennessee evaluates every position on a weekly basis, and Heupel emphasized that the quarterback room must continue developing throughout the season.
Still, Brandon earned the first chance.
“Somebody’s got to go out and earn the right to be the starter,” Heupel said. “Once he had gotten to that stage, that’s why we named him.”
Brandon will make his college debut when Tennessee hosts Furman on Sept. 5 at Neyland Stadium.
