3 technically open QB battles that were totally decided in spring camp
Tennessee QB battle: Joe Milton over Nico Iamaleava
Under most other circumstances, Joe Milton would come into the 2023 season as the undisputed starter for Tennessee. These aren’t normal circumstances though. Five star quarterback Nico Iamaleava, the No. 3 recruit in the country, arrived this spring to create an intriguing QB battle.
On one hand, Josh Heupel has a veteran with actual starting experience. On the other hand, he has a true talent who could be an x-factor for the offense, closer to what Hendon Hooker was able to deliver.
The Spring Game gave both the chance to prove they’re the guy. What they proved is what we probably already knew going into camp: Milton is the guy for now. Iamaleava is the future.
Milton was 9-of-13 for 79 yards and a touchdown. He didn’t do anything particularly incredible, but he moved the offense effectively. That’s all he really needed to do.
Iamaleava had the most impressive throw of the day, but went 8-of-16 for 112 yards. He clearly has some learning to do. And no one should blame him for that, he’s playing college football when he should be finishing his final semester of high school.
Heupel hasn’t named a starter yet but Milton has it in hand.
Next. 5 QB recruits who will be better than Arch Manning. dark
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