Tennessee"s Iamaleava shines with 314 yards in win over Chattanooga

Nico Iamaleava made a remarkable debut as the starting quarterback for the Tennessee Volunteers, throwing for a record 314 yards and three touchdowns in just the first half of the game against Chattanooga. This performance not only set a new school record for first-half passing yards but also showcased Iamaleava's potential as a key player for the team. The Volunteers dominated the game, leading 45-0 at halftime, with Dylan Sampson contributing significantly with 124 rushing yards and three touchdowns. Chattanooga, ranked eighth in the FCS preseason poll, struggled to make an impact throughout the game, failing to cross into Tennessee territory until the second half. The Volunteers' defense was equally impressive, limiting the Mocs to only 74 rushing yards and showcasing their strength on both sides of the ball. Coach Josh Heupel praised Iamaleava's efficiency and emphasized the need for the team to maintain their intensity throughout the game. Dont'e Thornton also had a standout performance, catching three passes for 105 yards and two touchdowns, demonstrating his transition from an inside to an outside receiver. His previous experience at Oregon helped him adapt to the new offensive scheme, and he expressed confidence in his role moving forward. The game concluded with a decisive 69-3 victory for Tennessee, reinforcing their status as a formidable team in the SEC. Chattanooga's coach acknowledged Iamaleava's talent, indicating that he fits well into Tennessee's offensive strategy. The Mocs will look to regroup as they prepare for their next matchup against Georgia State.