There’s been a lot of talk over the last week about how Tennessee is going to handle its quarterback situation in Week 1 against Furman.

We already know that true freshman Faizon Brandon will start the game, but will redshirt freshman George MacIntyre also see action early?

Vols head coach Josh Heupel was asked that question on Monday when he met with reporters, but he wasn’t ready to reveal his plan.

“You’ll find out on Saturday,” said Heupel when asked if he plans to play two quarterbacks against Furman.

Report suggests George MacIntyre will play against Furman

On3’s Pete Nakos reported on Thursday that fans shouldn’t be surprised to see MacIntyre play against Furman.

“Don’t be surprised to see Tennessee play George MacIntyre at some point on Saturday against Furman,” wrote Nakos. “The Volunteers are starting true freshman Faizon Brandon, but getting MacIntyre some game time will be key before a Week 2 game at Georgia Tech.”

Tennessee is a 46.5 point favorite over Furman. This is the type of game where fans may see players play that they didn’t even know were on the roster. The hope will be that even No. 3 quarterback Ryan Staub gets some snaps. So in that sense, of course MacIntyre will see some action.

But I think Nakos’ report is more about the possibility of MacIntyre getting some time with the first team offense.

You never know what could happen in Week 2 against Georgia Tech. If Brandon is sidelined, even for a drive, the Vols need to know that MacIntyre is ready to go. It would be wise to get him some time with the first team offense against Furman just so he has those game reps in case he’s needed against Georgia Tech.

I don’t think we’ll see Heupel rotate quarterbacks every series, and I don’t think you’ll see MacIntyre replace Brandon on the second drive of the game or anything like that. But if the Vols quickly get up 35-0 in the first half, I wouldn’t be shocked if MacIntyre gets a drive with the first team offense.

But as Heupel said, we’ll see on Saturday.