The Tennessee Volunteers are entering a pivotal season with one of the most pressing questions looming over the program: who will be the starting quarterback? With Nico Iamaleava’s departure to the NFL, the Vols are left with an open competition between redshirt senior Joey Aguilar, freshman Jake Merklinger, and redshirt freshman Gaston Moore. Each brings a unique skill set to the table, and head coach Josh Heupel faces a critical decision that could shape the trajectory of Tennessee’s 2024 season. As fall camp approaches, let’s break down the strengths, weaknesses, and potential outcomes of this three-man race.Joey Aguilar arrives in Knoxville as the most experienced quarterback on the roster, having transferred from Appalachian State, where he put up impressive numbers in 2023. The 6-foot-3, 220-pound signal-caller threw for 3,757 yards, 33 touchdowns, and just 10 interceptions while completing 63% of his passes. His ability to push the ball downfield and make quick decisions in the pocket makes him an intriguing option for Tennessee’s up-tempo offense.
Aguilar’s biggest advantage is his experience in high-pressure situations. He led Appalachian State to a 9-5 record last season, including a bowl victory, and has shown he can perform against Power 5 competition. His familiarity with reading defenses and managing games could give him an early edge in the competition. However, the transition from the Sun Belt to the SEC is a significant jump, and Aguilar will need to prove he can handle the speed and physicality of elite defenses.
Another factor working in Aguilar’s favor is his fit in Josh Heupel’s system. While not a true dual-threat quarterback, he has enough mobility to extend plays and keep defenses honest. His arm strength and accuracy on intermediate throws align well with Tennessee’s offensive scheme, which relies heavily on timing and spacing. If he can quickly build chemistry with the Vols’ talented receiving corps—led by Bru McCoy and Squirrel White—he could solidify himself as the starter.Jake Merklinger, a four-star recruit from Savannah, Georgia, is the future of Tennessee’s quarterback room. The 6-foot-3, 205-pound freshman enrolled early and participated in spring practices, giving him a valuable head start in learning the offense. Merklinger’s high school tape showcases his poise, arm talent, and athleticism, making him a tantalizing option for the Vols.
What makes Merklinger stand out is his dual-threat ability. While he’s not a run-first quarterback, he has the speed and agility to pick up yards when the play breaks down—a trait that has become increasingly valuable in modern college football. His throwing mechanics are polished for a freshman, and he displays excellent touch on deep balls. If Heupel wants to inject some youthful energy and explosiveness into the offense, Merklinger could be the answer.
However, starting a true freshman in the SEC is always a gamble. The learning curve is steep, and even the most talented first-year quarterbacks can struggle with the speed of the game. Merklinger will need to show he can process defenses quickly and avoid costly mistakes. If he struggles in fall camp or early-season action, Heupel may opt for a more seasoned option to steer the ship. That said, if Merklinger flashes elite potential, the coaching staff may decide the long-term benefits of getting him experience outweigh the risks.While much of the attention has been on Aguilar and Merklinger, redshirt freshman Gaston Moore shouldn’t be overlooked. A former three-star recruit, Moore has spent a year in Tennessee’s system, giving him a deep understanding of the playbook. Though he lacks the hype of Merklinger or the proven production of Aguilar, Moore has the tools to surprise people.
Moore’s biggest strength is his football IQ. He’s known for his quick decision-making and ability to operate efficiently within the offense. During spring practices, he reportedly showed improved arm strength and command of the huddle. If the competition remains tight, Moore’s familiarity with the system could give him an outside shot at earning the starting job—or at least securing the backup role.
That said, Moore’s ceiling may not be as high as Merklinger’s or Aguilar’s. He doesn’t possess the same natural arm talent or athleticism, which could limit Tennessee’s offensive upside. Unless he makes significant strides in fall camp, he’s likely to be a reliable depth piece rather than the Week 1 starter.rs**
Josh Heupel’s decision will ultimately come down to three key factors: readiness, upside, and fit.
1. **Readiness**: If the coaching staff prioritizes a quarterback who can win games immediately, Aguilar is the safest choice. His experience and steady hand could be crucial in early-season matchups against NC State, Oklahoma, and Georgia.
2. **Upside**: If Tennessee is willing to take a short-term risk for long-term gain, Merklinger could get the nod. His potential to grow into a star might be too enticing to pass up, especially if the Vols view 2024 as a rebuilding year.
3. **Fit**: Heupel’s offense thrives with a quarterback who can make quick reads, deliver accurate passes, and occasionally create with his legs. Both Aguilar and Merklinger fit that mold in different ways, so the staff will have to determine which style gives them the best chance to succeed.This quarterback competition may not have a clear-cut winner right away. It wouldn’t be surprising to see Aguilar start the season as QB1, giving Tennessee stability while Merklinger continues to develop. However, if the Vols struggle early or Aguilar falters against SEC defenses, the freshman could take over by midseason.
Alternatively, if Merklinger dazzles in fall camp, he could seize the job outright and never look back. The ideal scenario for Tennessee is that one quarterback separates himself decisively, avoiding a messy rotation. But in the unpredictable world of college football, flexibility is key.The Tennessee Volunteers have three intriguing options at quarterback, each with compelling cases for the starting job. Joey Aguilar brings experience and reliability, Jake Merklinger offers elite potential, and Gaston Moore provides depth and familiarity with the system. As fall camp unfolds, all eyes will be on this battle, as the chosen quarterback will shape not only Tennessee’s 2024 season but also the future of the program under Josh Heupel.
One thing is certain: whoever wins the job will have enormous shoes to fill, and Vols fans are eagerly awaiting the answer. Will it be the steady veteran, the rising star, or the dark horse? Only time will tell.
