Grading QB Faizon Brandon in Tennessee win over Auburn where he was benched

Freshman quarterback Faizon Brandon was substituted by backup George MacIntyre in the second quarter during Tennessee's 24-14 victory over Auburn on October 3. After trailing 7-3 with just 3:42 left in the second quarter, Tennessee's coach Josh Heupel cited Brandon's lack of performance and physical condition as reasons for the substitution.

Brandon, a former five-star recruit, initially started the first four games before being replaced by MacIntyre. In this abbreviated performance against Auburn, Brandon had limited success with just three completions for no yards, no touchdowns, and one interception. He also had four rushing attempts, totaling minus-9 yards, including two sacks.

Throughout the season, Brandon has managed to accumulate 697 passing yards, seven touchdowns, and one interception, along with 130 rushing yards and three touchdowns. Notably, his only completed pass for positive yards was a 7-yard touchdown to tight end Trent Thomas on the opening play of the game, which led to a fumble by the receiving tight end but was ruled as a forward pass, as the player had lost forward progress.

The interception Brandon threw in the second quarter proved to be a significant turning point, as it provided Auburn with prime field position, allowing them to score their first touchdown just four plays later.