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2w ago

Tennessee to Open 2026 Season at Neyland With Freshman Faizon Brandon Starting

The game gives Tennessee a live look at its new quarterback as predictive models and bookmakers overwhelmingly favor the Vols.

Nov 29, 2025; Louisville, Kentucky, USA; Louisville Cardinals kicker Cooper Ranvier (36) attempts a kick against the Louisville Cardinals during the first half at L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium. Louisville defeated Kentucky 41-0. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Rhodes-Imagn Images
Tennessee quarterback Faizon Brandon (11) during Tennessee football’s first preseason practice in Knoxville, Tennessee, Aug. 5, 2026.
Oct 11, 2025; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Tennessee Volunteers running back Desean Bishop (18) runs for a touchdown against the Arkansas Razorbacks during the first quarter at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • The Vols will host Furman on Saturday, Sept. 5 at 3:30 p.m. ET at Neyland Stadium with the game carried on SEC Network+.
  • Coaches confirmed true freshman Faizon Brandon as Tennessee’s Week 1 starter, making this matchup his first live-game opportunity to run the offense.
  • Analytical models and aggregated betting markets project a lopsided Tennessee win, with ESPN’s Matchup Predictor giving the Vols a 99% chance and a consensus spread near Tennessee -48.5.
  • Furman enters off a 20-3 season-opening win over Anderson University with fifth-year QB Jake Garcia starting, but coverage frames the game as a typical Power Five tune-up rather than a close contest.
  • Beyond the scoreline, the game will let Tennessee test its offensive line, evaluate running back DeSean Bishop and rookie skill players such as TK Keys, and assess kicker Cooper Ranvier in live conditions.