Vols Fall Practice #7

[SayUWantAreVOLution]

Exactly the point I made in my post above. Despite what they are listed as, Aguilar looks like he could truck over someone. I saw them standing side by side in a practice video a few days ago and the size difference was pretty substantial to the eye.

Joe Milton really looked like he could truck people and run fast and I think he can but I don't think he wants to do that.

Joey A likes to sling it, apparently, more than he likes to run. I agree he looks much bigger than Merk but Hooker looked and was smaller than Joe but Hooker was a more willing and able runner.

It remains to be seen what the strengths of these guys are in SEC competition.

 

[Volle]

As noted, Merc doesn’t throw well on the run, and that’s why I don’t think he’ll win the job… it was glaring in the Spring game when his first option was covered and he had to move in the pocket… too bad GMAC didn’t gain more weight in the offseason. He might be another Tom Brady when he fills out, best arm out there, and can run like a deer.

 

[Ned Ray McWorkher]

Whoever can connect on the deep passes consistently is what I'm concerned with. That was missing the last 2 years. We also need a QB who's not afraid to use his legs

The Qb taking off and running for a first down is a major (and not mentioned nearly enough) concept that's missing from the 2022 offense. Hooker used to confound defenses by stealing first downs. Brought those safeties up too.

 

[WillisWG]

Right, and while we all look forward to GMac being bigger and stronger, at 195, I think he might be as big as Tyler Bray was when he set freshman passing records for us, surpassing Peyton and Ainge. Bray was listed at 210 as a JUNIOR. What was he as a freshman?

Bray was listed as 210 as FR. GMac at 210-215 would be great

 

[Other_Guy]

I keep seeing this narrative on here that Merklinger could potentially win this QB battle and I'm not saying you don't have every right to that opinion but I just don't agree. It seems to be a competition in name only. I've seen those before.

Caleb Calhoun insists CJH will start Aguilar so that there is true open comp next year and that he isn't tied to Merk with a ready GMac or Brandon. It makes sense, especially if they're about even.

 

[SayUWantAreVOLution]

Caleb Calhoun insists CJH will start Aguilar so that there is true open comp next year and that he isn't tied to Merk with a ready GMac or Brandon. It makes sense, especially if they're about even.

I think if Merk or Joey separate himself Heupel will run with them but I kind of agree that Joey has more game experience if they're even.

There's also the thought that getting Merk as much experience as possible is better for the future because next year, if Joey A DOES start and play most of each game, we'll have no QB with very much experience between Merk, G-Mac, and Brandon.

While experience isn't everything, that's a lot of what was originally touted about Joey A: he likes to throw and he's got game experience.

 

[IndianaVol]

I think if Merk or Joey separate himself Heupel will run with them but I kind of agree that Joey has more game experience if they're even.

There's also the thought that getting Merk as much experience as possible is better for the future because next year, if Joey A DOES start and play most of each game, we'll have no QB with very much experience between Merk, G-Mac, and Brandon.

While experience isn't everything, that's a lot of what was originally touted about Joey A: he likes to throw and he's got game experience.

I agree - I think Heupel has learned from his 'mistakes' in the past.
I expect to see Joey A start and play the bulk of the snaps, but we are going to see a lot Merk and G-Mac in as well.

I wouldn't be surprised to see Merk play most of the second half against ETSU.

 

[volfever007]

If Joey A sits his last year after being picked up at the last minute for $1M+, kudos to the young man for his good fortune.

Where can I find that JA is making ＄1M＋?

 

[SayUWantAreVOLution]

I agree - I think Heupel has learned from his 'mistakes' in the past.
I expect to see Joey A start and play the bulk of the snaps, but we are going to see a lot Merk and G-Mac in as well.

I wouldn't be surprised to see Merk play most of the second half against ETSU.

I certainly hope QB2, Merk or Joey or G-Mac, plays most of the 2nd half against ETSU. I want to see G-Mac get some quality snaps because he may be the sleeper in the room.

If G-Mac wraps his head around the offense, next year's QB competition may be a lot of fun to watch.

 

[WillisWG]

 

[SayUWantAreVOLution]

Where can I find that JA is making ＄1M＋?

None of the deals are known for sure, of course, but he was getting $1.2M at UCLA and ESPN said we'd give him similar.

Sources: UCLA's Aguilar to transfer to Tennessee

Quarterback Joey Aguilar, who threw for 6,760 yards and 56 touchdowns the past two years with Appalachian State, plans to transfer to Tennessee after transferring to UCLA in the winter portion of the transfer portal, sources told ESPN's Chris Low Monday.

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[volfever007]

I agree - I think Heupel has learned from his 'mistakes' in the past.
I expect to see Joey A start and play the bulk of the snaps, but we are going to see a lot Merk and G-Mac in as well.

I wouldn't be surprised to see Merk play most of the second half against ETSU.

I'm hoping I see JA play most of the 2nd half against ETSU, that means the right QB started or we're not gonna be very good on offense unless we're an absolute beast at running the ball.

 

[volfever007]

None of the deals are known for sure, of course, but he was getting $1.2M at UCLA and ESPN said we'd give him similar.

Sources: UCLA's Aguilar to transfer to Tennessee

Quarterback Joey Aguilar, who threw for 6,760 yards and 56 touchdowns the past two years with Appalachian State, plans to transfer to Tennessee after transferring to UCLA in the winter portion of the transfer portal, sources told ESPN's Chris Low Monday.

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So he made over ＄1Mill at UCLA to do nothing then transfer to TN, yep it looks like he won when he was there.

 

[volfever007]

Caleb Calhoun insists CJH will start Aguilar so that there is true open comp next year and that he isn't tied to Merk with a ready GMac or Brandon. It makes sense, especially if they're about even.

So he's gonna kinda throw this season just to have Merk transfer and then have a true freshman in Faizon and a sophomore that hasn't played much compete with another transfer QB? Doesn't make sense but I guess you never know.

 

[SayUWantAreVOLution]

So he made over ＄1Mill at UCLA to do nothing then transfer to TN, yep it looks like he won when he was there.

He likely didn't get the million from UCLA though others can answer how front loaded NIL deals are.

 

[volfever007]

He likely didn't get the million from UCLA though others can answer how front loaded NIL deals are.

Yeah, I guess we never really know what those dudes make.

 

[#1HomeGrownUTVOL]

I can tell you that ain’t true.

And how do you know that and what do you know? At least I named a source can you please elaborate? Not trying to come off As an a hole btw.

 

[LegionnaireOfTheMiserable]

So an ON3 reporter based in Nashville who covers multiple teams has better sources than an ON3 reporter based in Knoxville who specifically covers the Vols?

Interesting take.

If it were Brent, Austin, Rob, or Grant Ramey, I’d give it more weight, but Eric Cain’s opinion doesn’t hold much weight for me. He doesn’t strike me as being too knowledgeable.

 

[LegionnaireOfTheMiserable]

As noted, Merc doesn’t throw well on the run, and that’s why I don’t think he’ll win the job… it was glaring in the Spring game when his first option was covered and he had to move in the pocket… too bad GMAC didn’t gain more weight in the offseason. He might be another Tom Brady when he fills out, best arm out there, and can run like a deer.

I’d pump the brakes on the Tom Brady comparison. Didn’t he go like 2-10 as a high school junior? Next Tom Brady seems like a pretty big leap.

 

[marcusluvsvols]

True freshman Cornerback Tim Merritt is getting lots of buzz. Hubbs said that he seems to be the 4th man at Corner behind only McCoy, Gibson, and McMurray. Thats great to hear...we signed 6 DBs in this 2025 freshman class and theres lots of speed, size, and talent there. They will play significant roles in 2026-28 playoff runs IMO. We have a couple good CBs and Great Safeties coming in 2026 class as well.

Freshman RB Justin Baker is a big strong back at 225 or 230lbs. Bet he makes his presence known on special teams this year. Too many RBs ahead of him to get carries though between the 3 older guys and Daune Morris who is a speedster.

Freshmen LBs Harmon and Perlotte are both future impact players as well. The starters are set at LB, and Spillman/Burns are ahead of the freshmen as well due to experience...but BOTH freshmen LBs were outstanding high 4* guys in HS recruited hard by UGA, Bama etc and don't be surprised to see them get some snaps this year. Both guys are big AND fast, gifted athletes.

This 2025 and the 26 classes are full of athletes that will take us to the next level IMO. The very top echelon in FBS where we are looking to make playoff runs nearly every season. What a great time to be a Tennessee VOL.

 

[jasonvol18]

I like that there's a debate over who is ahead in the QB competition at this point. Hopefully that means all three are putting their best on display for the coaches.

I think GMac will be a beast in a year or 2. But no way he'll do we want to see him start this year. He's tiny and would get killed by SEC defense's. He needs a RS year to add 20-25 lbs of weight and muscle.

 

[marcusluvsvols]

Looks like we're set up for a hell of a battle next year too, once we add Faizon into the mix.

This.

Even if Jake transfers after this season for a starting job elsewhere (he was a top10 QB nationally in HS) then we will have GMac with a full years experience vs Faizon who I believe will be an EE in December and is THE #1 QB in the country for good reason in HS. Next years QB competition is gonna be .

Conversely, IF Jake beats out JA for starter at any time this season and returns next year as returning starter AND a junior with 2 full seasons in the program under his belt...MAYBE Faizon redshirts next year and GMac gets a 2nd shot at trying to beat out Jake for the starting job?? Either way...having 3 QBs that were all VERY highly rated HS QBs in the mix next season would be amazing. CJH and staff have done an excellent job at landing and coaching QBs and i love this staff. Great group of coaches IMO.

 

[marcusluvsvols]

Bray was listed as 210 as FR. GMac at 210-215 would be great

Gmac is every bit of 6ft6in barefoot. Hes a tall kid. I don't think he will ever not look "thin" at that height but if he can carry 220lbs or so he should be OK. Guarantee you he is taking in a million calories a day and has been at least since he hit campus. My son and I have both always been "hard gainers" just like him. Its really hard for some people to put on mass. I am with you though...we have a GREAT nutrition and S&C staff these days because this team looks WAY better than any team since Fulmer. Some of that is simply recruiting, but clearly by looking at guys like Perry, Hobbs, Heard etc this staff knows how to change bodies and build monsters. I bet Gmac shows up to fall camp at 220lbs next year to compete with Faizon Brandon. He will need it too.

 

[VOLLeeann]

Heup kicking him some Boo ass

https://atozsports.com/nashville/volunteers/it-seems-pretty-far-right-now-vols-insider-comments-on-the-biggest-question-surrounding-boo-carter-ahead-of-the-2025-season/

 

[NighthawkVol]

something I’m noticing that gets flown a bit under the radar due to the starting qb battle is we may have a real stud in Gmac. He is quietly out throwing these other guys consistently as far as accuracy is concerned. Hope he bulks up just in time to battle Faizon in the near future. I’m optimistic, but in the new age of the portal it is hard to imagine we’ll get to keep everyone involved.

Sidenote: I saw a poster say Aguilar and Merk are the same size. Mark is listed as 6’3 216, JA at 6’3 225, but to the eye test I can see why people would say he is bigger. Aguilar has some serious quads, lol. Just looks more filled out even though the weights are similar.

I was thinking about this this morning after listening to the 247 podcast. It sounds like GMac is on track to be a stud.

I think the best case for Tennessee is that GMac gains another 25-30 lbs, wins the job next year, starts for 2 years, then goes pro. Merck would likely leave after next year, but I think Faizon would stay if he thinks he only has to wait 2 years to start…especially given that he is young for his class and that he will have 5 years to play.

So you’d have 2 years of GMac starting, then 2 or 3 years of Faizon.

On the other hand, if Faizon wins the job as a true freshman, both Merck and GMac probably leave after 2026. So you’d go into 2027 with no backup QB, other than whatever true freshman you sign. It’s nearly impossible to get a portal QB to come be a backup.

If Merck were to win the job in 2026, who knows what would happen. He’d have 3 years left, but would he be a threat to go pro early? I kinda doubt it. So this is worst case scenario because you’ve got a guy who hangs onto the job for 3 years due to experience, but he’s not as dynamic as GMac or Faizon, who both likely leave. It would be kinda like Georgia losing Justin Fields because they started Jake Fromm…an okay QB, but not a game changer.