The Tennessee Volunteers are scheduled to head to Athens, GA this weekend, though they might be missing their star quarterback.
Tennessee’s quarterback situation has become a hot topic as Nico Iamaleava’s status for the upcoming game against Georgia remains uncertain.
Head Coach Josh Heupel has expressed confidence that Iamaleava will be “in great shape” to face Georgia, but not everyone is convinced. FOX Sports analyst Chris “The Bear” Fallica recently voiced concerns about Iamaleava’s readiness, questioning if the quarterback will actually be fit to play.
Iamaleava was injured in last week’s game against Mississippi State. After a hard hit from Isaac Smith, he landed heavily on his right side and was pulled from the game as a precaution. Heupel downplayed the injury’s severity, explaining that the decision to bench Iamaleava was to prevent further harm.
However, Fallica’s comments suggest that Iamaleava’s injury might be more serious, potentially involving a concussion that could keep him sidelined. According to Fallica’s sources, those close to the situation doubt he will play. His statement, shared on UGASports.com, noted that “people [he’s] spoken to do not believe that he is going to play.”
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Fallica also pointed out Heupel’s careful approach, suggesting that the coach’s optimism could be a strategy to keep Georgia uncertain, forcing them to prepare for multiple scenarios.
ESPN’s Pete Thamel also shared updates, confirming that Iamaleava is in concussion protocol but did practice with the team on Tuesday. This gives fans some hope, though Iamaleava’s availability still depends on his recovery over the next few days.
With Tennessee’s critical game against Georgia nearing, the Volunteers will be closely monitoring Iamaleava’s progress.
The Volunteers and Bulldogs will kick off at 7:30 p.m. E.T. on ABC/ESPN+. The outcome could have College Football Playoff implications if Georgia, already with two losses, were to lose again. A Tennessee win could also strengthen their position for an SEC Championship game spot, with only one more conference matchup remaining against Vanderbilt.
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