Three-time national champion head coach Urban Meyer believes the Tennessee Volunteers, led by first-year starting quarterback Nico Iamaleava, are poised for a breakout season after their decisive win over Chattanooga last Saturday.
Despite the mismatch on paper, Meyer’s focus was on Iamaleava’s performance, which he felt showcased the quarterback’s potential to lead Tennessee into the College Football Playoff conversation.
The former five-star recruit threw for an impressive 314 yards and three touchdowns, with no interceptions, as the Vols cruised to a 69-3 victory in their 2024 season opener.
Reflecting on Iamaleava’s performance, Meyer said, “This guy is unbelievable. I know they had Joe Milton last year, but this guy is a monster.”
Meyer’s praise for the young quarterback didn’t stop there. On “The Triple Option,” Meyer went on to predict big things for the Vols, stating, “Because of him, I’m putting them to cover the spread (against NC State), and I think they’ll be a playoff team.”
Iamaleava, who had only one previous start – a 35-0 victory over Iowa in last season’s Cheez-It Citrus Bowl – is quickly gaining attention as a potential game-changer for Tennessee.
Meyer’s comments come as the No. 14 Volunteers prepare for a tougher challenge against No. 24 NC State.
Tomorrow’s matchup, set for 7:30 p.m. ET on ABC, will be a key test for both Iamaleava and head coach Josh Heupel, who is entering his fourth season leading the program.
Tennessee finished 9-4 in 2023, and Meyer believes that if Iamaleava can maintain the level of play he showed in the opener, the Vols could carve out a path to the 12-team College Football Playoff.
However, Iamaleava and the Vols know they are in no position to in any way, shape or form look past the tough Wolfpack.
Meyer’s confidence in Tennessee’s potential underscores the significance of Iamaleava’s emergence. The young quarterback has already captured the attention of one of the sport’s most legendary coaches, and tomorrow’s showdown will offer another opportunity to prove whether the Vols are truly ready for the next level.
What are your thoughts on Iamaleava and the Vols?
Do you view them as a legitimate playoff contender? … If Iamaleava continues to ascend, do you give Tennessee a puncher’s chance to win the national title???