The Tennessee Volunteers are expected to start quarterback George MacIntyre against the No. 6 Alabama Crimson Tide on Saturday.
According to a new report from On3’s Chris Low and Pete Nakos, MacIntyre would make his second consecutive start for the No. 14 Volunteers as true freshman Faizon Brandon continues to work through a shoulder injury.
Brandon returned to throwing at practice Tuesday, but MacIntyre has handled the offense since replacing him during Tennessee’s win over Auburn.
“Tennessee is expected to start quarterback George MacIntyre on Saturday against Alabama, sources tell On3’s Chris Low and Pete Nakos,” the On3 report says.
MacIntyre then made his first career start last weekend against Arkansas. He completed 18 of 29 passes for 247 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions in the 24-17 victory.
Tennessee coach Josh Heupel had left the decision open when addressing the media on Monday as he waited to further evaluate Brandon’s status.
“We’ll find out here through the week,” Heupel said. “We get on the grass tomorrow and we’ll work toward Saturday.”
That said, Heupel praised MacIntyre’s performance against Arkansas.
“I thought he was decisive with the football,” Heupel said. “He was going to the right spot and made some plays.”
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According to On3, Tennessee could still use both quarterbacks against Alabama. Brandon opened the season as the starter and led the Volunteers to a 3-0 start before their loss to then-No. 1 Texas, and his presence in Saturday’s game would depend on his rehab.
Brandon has thrown for 697 yards, seven touchdowns and one interception in five games while adding three rushing scores.
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Both Tennessee and Alabama enter Saturday at 5-1, with one SEC loss apiece. The Volunteers host the Crimson Tide on Saturday at 3:30 p.m. ET on ABC.
