Tennessee’s resurgence in college football has been significantly tied to the steady performance of its quarterbacks. The Volunteers have transitioned through several talented signal-callers, including Josh Dobbs and Hendon Hooker, creating a legacy of strong leadership on the field.
The latest in this impressive lineup is freshman Nico Iamaleava. Despite being a redshirt freshman, Iamaleava has demonstrated remarkable skills, amassing 2,512 yards and 19 touchdowns while achieving a 65.2 percent completion rate in his first substantial season. His contributions were key in securing victories over tough opponents like NC State, Oklahoma, and Alabama—teams that have consistently ranked in the AP Top 25. For Tennessee to progress in the upcoming College Football Playoff, Iamaleava’s performance will be crucial.
As questions arise about what might happen should Iamaleava be sidelined, the depth chart behind him offers some insights. Currently, the Volunteers’ quarterback roster includes:
1. Nico Iamaleava (freshman)
2. Gaston Moore (senior)
3. Jake Merklinger (freshman)
4. Navy Shuler (senior)
Iamaleava leads the team, showcasing his prowess throughout the 2024 season. If he can maintain his health, he promises to be a prominent figure in Tennessee’s offensive strategy for the foreseeable future.
Behind Iamaleava is Gaston Moore, a senior who transferred from UCF and joined the Volunteers in 2021. While his game time has been limited, Moore stepped in during Iamaleava’s recent injury against Mississippi State and has a modest completion rate of 59.3 percent from his appearances this season.
Jake Merklinger, a true freshman, serves as the next option. Having demonstrated potential in his first two games against Chattanooga and Kent State, he emerged as a four-star recruit from Calvary Day School in Georgia.
Completing the depth chart is Navy Shuler, a senior and son of Tennessee football legend Heath Shuler, who adds a familial legacy to the team’s quarterback lineup. He also has previous college experience at Appalachian State.
In summary, while Iamaleava is the standout player, Tennessee has capable backups who can step up in challenging times, ensuring that the Volunteers remain competitive as they aim for playoff success. With a strong foundation in their quarterbacking ranks, there is optimism for Tennessee’s future in college football.