Tennessee football has a storied history in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), one of the most competitive conferences in college football. The SEC is known for its high level of play and rich traditions, and the upcoming season will be no different, especially when it comes to facing some of the league’s most talented quarterbacks. For Tennessee, the challenge of navigating through these elite signal-callers will be crucial for success.
In this article, we will take an in-depth look at Tennessee football’s SEC quarterback opponents for the upcoming season, analyzing the strengths, weaknesses, and playing styles of each opposing quarterback. Understanding these quarterbacks will not only offer a preview of the season but also give insight into what Tennessee’s defense will face and what challenges it will need to overcome in order to achieve success in the SEC.
1. Alabama – Jalen Milroe
Alabama’s quarterback situation in recent years has been nothing short of remarkable, with future NFL stars like Tua Tagovailoa and Bryce Young leading the Crimson Tide. In 2025, Jalen Milroe is expected to be the starting quarterback for Alabama. Milroe, a dual-threat quarterback, brings a combination of size, speed, and arm strength that makes him a dangerous opponent.
Milroe has shown flashes of brilliance during his time at Alabama, and his ability to make plays with his legs is particularly concerning for opposing defenses. He possesses a strong arm that allows him to attack all levels of the field, and he has the mobility to extend plays or take off running when necessary. However, consistency has been an issue for Milroe, and his ability to maintain accuracy on deep passes and make the right decisions under pressure will be key factors in his development.
Tennessee’s defense will need to contain Milroe’s mobility and force him to stay in the pocket. If they can disrupt his rhythm and force him into mistakes, it will give Tennessee a better chance of slowing down Alabama’s high-powered offense.
2. Georgia – Carson Beck
Georgia has become a powerhouse in college football, and a significant part of their dominance has been their quarterback play. Carson Beck, who is expected to take over as the starter for the Bulldogs, comes with a reputation of being a poised and accurate passer.
Beck has the benefit of being in a system that emphasizes a balanced attack, which allows him to work efficiently both through the air and on the ground. While not known for his mobility, Beck is a smart quarterback who makes quick decisions and has a knack for finding open receivers. His accuracy on intermediate throws and ability to manage the game will make him a tough opponent for Tennessee.
What sets Beck apart is his ability to make throws in critical situations. With Georgia’s defense often providing a cushion, Beck can take advantage of less pressure and execute in the red zone. Tennessee’s defense will need to stay disciplined and avoid giving up big plays, as Beck will capitalize on any mistakes.
3. Florida – Graham Mertz
Florida’s quarterback situation has been a bit more fluid in recent seasons, but Graham Mertz is expected to take over as the starter for the Gators in 2025. Mertz, who transferred from Wisconsin, brings a wealth of experience and the ability to throw the ball effectively. At Wisconsin, Mertz showed flashes of his talent but struggled with consistency at times.
Mertz is a pocket passer who has the ability to make throws down the field, and he has a quick release that allows him to get the ball to his receivers quickly. However, he will need to prove that he can handle the pressure of playing in the SEC, as Florida’s offensive line has often struggled in recent years.
For Tennessee, limiting Mertz’s ability to find his rhythm early will be important. The Tennessee defense will need to put pressure on him, forcing him into tough throws and making sure that he doesn’t get comfortable in the pocket.
4. Kentucky – Devin Leary
Kentucky has long been known for its strong defense and solid running game, but the Wildcats have struggled to find consistent quarterback play. However, in 2025, they are expected to field one of the more experienced and talented quarterbacks in the SEC in Devin Leary, who transferred from NC State.
Leary is a highly skilled passer with a strong arm and a high football IQ. He is capable of throwing the ball with precision and has the ability to make all the necessary throws on the field. Leary’s decision-making and ability to read defenses will be crucial for Kentucky’s offense, as they will look to balance the passing game with a potent rushing attack.
Tennessee’s defense will need to get after Leary and disrupt his timing in the pocket. Leary is dangerous when he has time to survey the field, so Tennessee will need to apply consistent pressure to prevent him from finding rhythm.
5. LSU – Jayden Daniels
Jayden Daniels, the starting quarterback for LSU, will be one of the most dynamic and dangerous players that Tennessee faces in the 2025 season. Daniels is a dual-threat quarterback who can beat you with both his arm and his legs, making him one of the most versatile quarterbacks in the SEC.
Daniels has the ability to extend plays with his legs, and he’s also a gifted passer who can make deep throws with precision. His ability to read defenses and make quick decisions under pressure is what makes him particularly dangerous. He is also an excellent runner, capable of taking off for big gains when the pocket breaks down.
To contain Daniels, Tennessee’s defense will need to stay disciplined in both coverage and their pass rush. If they can contain him in the pocket and avoid allowing him to escape on designed runs, they’ll have a better chance of limiting LSU’s offense.
6. Mississippi State – Will Rogers
Mississippi State has been known for its Air Raid offense under head coach Mike Leach, and even though Leach has since passed away, the team is expected to continue running a similar offensive system. Will Rogers, a highly productive and efficient quarterback, is expected to return as the starter for the Bulldogs.
Rogers is a quick-thinking and accurate passer who excels at short and intermediate throws. He is known for his ability to make quick decisions and get the ball out quickly to his playmakers. His lack of mobility means that Tennessee’s defense will have an opportunity to get pressure on him, but Rogers’ ability to get the ball out quickly could make that challenging.
For Tennessee to succeed against Mississippi State, they will need to disrupt Rogers’ timing with quick and aggressive pressure. They’ll also need to play tight coverage in the secondary to force Rogers into difficult throws.
7. Missouri – Brady Cook
Brady Cook, the starting quarterback for Missouri, is expected to be a player to watch in the SEC in 2025. Cook has shown flashes of brilliance during his time at Missouri, but his consistency has been a concern. Cook is an athletic quarterback who can make plays with his legs, but he is also capable of making throws downfield.
Cook’s ability to make plays in the running game is something that will keep Tennessee’s defense on its toes. However, if Tennessee can contain him as a runner and force him to throw from the pocket, they’ll have a better chance of slowing him down.
Missouri will likely look to use a balanced offensive attack, with Cook serving as a key cog in both the passing and running game. Tennessee’s defense will need to stay disciplined in coverage and be aware of Cook’s ability to scramble.
8. South Carolina – Spencer Rattler
Spencer Rattler is one of the most high-profile quarterbacks in the SEC, and he is expected to be a major challenge for Tennessee in 2025. After transferring from Oklahoma, Rattler has had a somewhat up-and-down career, but his talent is undeniable. Rattler has the arm strength and accuracy to make all the throws necessary in the passing game, and he also has a knack for making big plays when it counts.
Rattler can be inconsistent at times, particularly when under pressure, but when he’s on his game, he’s one of the most dangerous quarterbacks in the league. Tennessee will need to get pressure on him and force him into mistakes, as Rattler is prone to turning the ball over when facing heavy pressure.
