Unbelievable: Paul Finebaum Rips Tennessee’s Quarterback Situation, Says Vols Aren’t Playoff Caliber” When asked if Tennessee’s quarterback situation was in good shape, he offered a resounding “Not fine….read details below 
Tennessee football heads into the 2025 season with high expectations, but not everyone believes the Volunteers are equipped to meet them. College football analyst Paul Finebaum recently expressed serious concerns about Tennessee’s quarterback situation and their overall potential to contend for a College Football Playoff berth. His blunt assessment has stirred debate, particularly among fans hoping to see a repeat appearance in the postseason.
During a recent appearance on ESPN, Finebaum didn’t hold back. When asked if Tennessee’s quarterback situation was in good shape, he offered a resounding “Not fine.” He went on to elaborate that the departure of former five-star quarterback Nico Iamaleava was one of the most significant storylines of the offseason. Nico, who was expected to be the future of the program, transferred after just one year of limited action, leaving a sizable void.
In response, Tennessee added Joey Aguilar, the former Appalachian State standout who also had a brief stint at UCLA. While Aguilar brings experience and athleticism, Finebaum was not convinced he’s the answer. “He’s good, but he’s not great,” Finebaum said. “Nico could have been great, even though he wasn’t last year. Quite frankly, I don’t like Tennessee’s chances at the playoffs at all.”
That blunt evaluation reflects broader skepticism among national media regarding the Volunteers’ outlook. Tennessee’s first-ever playoff appearance last season raised the bar, but duplicating that success won’t be easy. The offense, once the hallmark of Josh Heupel’s system, now faces significant uncertainty at multiple positions.
In addition to the quarterback question, Tennessee has lost key contributors across the offense. Star running back Dylan Sampson is gone, and his departure leaves a significant gap in the backfield. The offensive line also took major hits, with multiple starters either graduating or heading to the NFL. This puts pressure on a restructured unit to protect the quarterback and maintain the uptempo pace Heupel prefers.
The wide receiver group also remains a question mark. While there is talent in the room, no clear No. 1 option has emerged. That makes it even more critical for the quarterback—whether it’s Aguilar or someone else—to establish chemistry quickly. The uncertainty is compounded by injuries, notably to standout cornerback-turned-receiver Jermod McCoy, who is still recovering from a knee injury with no firm timetable for return.
Despite the questions, there is still belief in Knoxville that Heupel can guide the program through this challenging transition. Since taking over in 2021, Heupel has brought energy and stability to Tennessee, turning them into an annual contender in the SEC. However, 2025 may be his biggest test yet. With a new quarterback, key players gone, and the pressure of meeting elevated expectations, Heupel must find answers quickly.
Ultimately, Finebaum’s skepticism echoes what many analysts are starting to say behind the scenes. Tennessee has talent and a proven head coach, but they’re facing too many unknowns to be considered a serious playoff threat at this point. If Aguilar or another quarterback can step up and the offense clicks, the Volunteers could still surprise. But for now, the path back to the playoffs looks steep.
