Urban Meyer degrades Tennessee’s CFP hopes after Nico Iamaleava’s ugly departure: ‘they’re screwed’
The Tennessee Volunteers football program has had quite the offseason, but things didn’t really heat up until the end of spring practice when presumed starting QB Nico Iamaleava made a decision that turned the program upside down. What began as contract negotiations quickly escalated into Iamaleava leaving the program for good—all in the blink of an eye.
While it is believed that Iamaleava’s decision, along with his family’s, was motivated by financial factors, the Iamalevas are denying this, placing the blame squarely on Tennessee. The Volunteers didn’t have the best offensive line last season, but during this offseason, they worked hard to improve it—though it still wasn’t enough.
I am told — moments ago — Nico Iamaleava is going to UCLA. Family still claims it’s NOT about the money, it’s about the Vol Football offense. I was not told what the Bruins are paying,” Colin Cowherd posted.
With Iamaleava’s departure, a window opened for what could be the first-ever college football trade. Tennessee seized the opportunity, acquiring UCLA’s Joey Aguilar.
“Aguilar fits what Tennessee is looking for: a proven starter with one year to play. He passed for 6,760 yards and 56 TDs over the last two years at App State. He’s also a very capable runner. Heupel and the Vols are definitely looking for another QB,” Chris Low wrote.
However, despite adding Aguilar, Urban Meyer believes that losing Iamaleava will be too big of a blow
