Nico Iamaleava injury update: Josh Heupel reveals positive news on Tennessee QB

There was big injury news coming out of Tennessee on Saturday as quarterback Nico Iamaleava sat out the second half vs. Mississippi State. Gaston Moore finished out the game in his place, helping the Volunteers hold on for the 33-14 win.

Fans were holding their breath for an update on the quarterback postgame and coach Josh Heupel offered one. Fortunately, he had good news.

“We anticipate having him next week,” Heupel said.

Iamaleava, a former five-star recruit in the 2023 cycle, is in his first season as the Tennessee starting quarterback. He has so far thrown for 1,705 yards and nine touchdowns with four interceptions on the season.

The Volunteers improved to 8-1 (5-1 SEC) with the win against the Bulldogs. Iamaleava threw for 174 yards and two touchdowns in the first half before suffering the injury. With Tennessee still fighting for a spot in the College Football Playoff, the health of Iamaleava will be crucial to its chances.

Heupel added that holding Iamaleava out for the second half was merely a precautionary measure. It’s certainly good news that the injury isn’t anything serious, especially with a matchup against Georgia looming for next week.

Tennessee is one of three one-loss teams remaining in the SEC along with Texas and Texas A&M. If Iamaleava stays healthy, the Vols should have every opportunity to compete for a conference title.

Kickoff for next week’s game against Georgia is set for 7:30 p.m. ET in Athens. If the Vols manage to win that one, they’ll be in great shape.