Tennessee names Faizon Brandon starting QB ahead of 2026 season opener
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 24, 2026, 1:47 PM
Last updated Aug 24, 2026
Tennessee has named freshman Faizon Brandon as its starting quarterback for the upcoming season, confirmed under two weeks before the opener against Furman on September 5. Brandon, a five-star recruit and the No. 2 quarterback in the 2026 class, impressed coaches throughout spring and fall practices, edging out sophomore George MacIntyre. The Volunteers face a challenging schedule as Brandon makes his debut, including matchups against top-ranked opponents such as No. 5 Texas and No. 13 Alabama early in the SEC slate. Tennessee’s offensive line and returning skill players are expected to support Brandon as he adapts to college competition.
- •Brandon led Grimsley High to consecutive state titles with a 35-1 record.
- •Tennessee's schedule features four teams ranked in the top 15 of the preseason AP poll.
- •Brandon's first start is set for September 5 against Furman.
- •Tennessee returns 74% of its offensive line snaps from last year.
- •The Volunteers face a tough road schedule, including games at Arkansas and South Carolina.
- 1:47 PMYahoo Sports — Faizon Brandon named Tennessee football starting QB: What to know of true freshman
- 1:12 PMCBS Sports — Tennessee names Faizon Brandon starting QB: Five-star freshman faces daunting SEC slate in 2026
"Tennessee football has named true freshman Faizon Brandon, a five-star recruit, as its starting quarterback heading into the 2026 season
"The young QB will face big challenges this fall as Tennessee seeks a return to the CFP
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsAug 24, 2026, 1:47 PMFaizon Brandon named Tennessee football starting QB: What to know of true freshman
Tennessee football has named true freshman Faizon Brandon, a five-star recruit, as its starting quarterback heading into the 2026 season
- CBS SportsAug 24, 2026, 1:12 PMTennessee names Faizon Brandon starting QB: Five-star freshman faces daunting SEC slate in 2026
The young QB will face big challenges this fall as Tennessee seeks a return to the CFP
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