College Football

Heupel Needs A Plan To Beat Alabama With Current Offense

October 12, 2026

Tennessee’s offense enters a critical test against Alabama on October 17, where the Volunteers must overcome a lack of scoring consistency to avoid another underwhelming season. The team’s 24-17 win over Arkansas last week exposed persistent struggles, particularly in the passing game, as backup quarterback George MacIntyre failed to deliver the explosive production needed against elite defenses.

With starting quarterback Faizon Brandon sidelined by a shoulder injury—one that doesn’t require surgery but leaves his availability uncertain—Tennessee faces a dilemma: Brandon’s rushing ability could bolster the ground game, but his recovery timeline remains unclear. Alabama, meanwhile, has flexed its offensive dominance, scoring 49 points against South Carolina and 56 against Mississippi State, while their recent 20-17 loss to Georgia only reinforced their status as a national title contender.

The Crimson Tide’s defensive prowess could be Tennessee’s only path to victory, but the Volunteers’ offense must evolve beyond survival mode to compete in a game where the home crowd at Neyland Stadium may not be enough to offset their offensive limitations. The stakes are high, as a loss could derail Tennessee’s playoff hopes and leave them in a familiar spot: solid but unremarkable.

For coach Josh Heupel, the challenge is clear—crafting a game plan that maximizes whatever talent is available, whether it’s MacIntyre’s passing or Brandon’s rushing, before facing a team that has repeatedly outscored its opponents this season.