Three Reported Notes From Tennessee Football's Scrimmage

The Tennessee Volunteers have a full season ahead of them as they have yet to begin the 2026 season, but are inching closer to their first contest against the Furman Paladins. Recently, the Vols completed fall camp ahead of their mock game week, which was concluded with a second scrimmage.

Here are some of the notes from the day.

The Safeties Had a Massive Day

Tennessee safety TJ Metcalf (1) catches the ball at a Tennessee football preseason practice in Knoxville, Tenn., on Aug. 12, 2026. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

It was reported that the Tennessee Volunteers safeties had a massive day, as both expected starting safeties finished the day with an interception. Those two safeties were TJ Metcalf and Dejuan Lane, who are filling in for an injured Edrees Farooq. These two safeties are both new to the Tennessee program and were able to make some of the biggest plays in the contest. While it remains unknown how much return room the two had, the interceptions were good enough to make the headlines, reassuring that the safety spot remains in good hands, even if the captain is injured and out for the season.

Faizon Brandon Uses His Legs and Was Dominant Doing So

Tennessee Volunteers quarterback commit Faizon Brandon competes in the 2025 Elite 11 event. | Brooks Austin

It is known that playing the quarterback position in Knoxville comes with some heavy expectations; however, one of the traits that is viewed as a plus rather than a standard is the ability to run. Luckily for the Vols, if they decide to go with Faizon Brandon, he is excellent with his legs. It was reported that he was excellent when it comes to rushing, as he would have had some big gains if the plays weren't blown dead to keep the quarterbacks from taking hits. This could be one of the massive factors when considering who should be the starting quarterback in Knoxville, Tennessee.

There May Be a New Battle Worth Keeping an Eye On

Tennessee offensive lineman Ory Williams (77) participates in a drill during Tennessee football preseason practice in Knoxville, Tennessee, Aug. 11, 2026. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

The position battles are far from done when it comes to the upcoming season, which includes arguably the newest and freshest battle. That position battle is at the right tackle position, as Ory Williams was originally expected to be the starter, but Jesse Perry has made things interesting. While nothing is confirmed, it still seems likely that Williams could be the starter at right tackle. It also remains likely that Perry will receive some key snaps when it comes to guard and tackle this season.

There are more notes that are worth learning, and I encourage those to watch Eric Cain's video, as he breaks down what he is hearing from the second practice.

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