Tennessee running back DeSean Bishop (18) runs the ball while defended by Georgia Tech during a college football game between Tennessee and Georgia Tech at Bobby Dodd Stadium in Atlanta, Ga., on Sept. 12, 2026. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Co
Tennessee running back DeSean Bishop (18) runs the ball while defended by Georgia Tech during a college football game between Tennessee and Georgia Tech at Bobby Dodd Stadium in Atlanta, Ga., on Sept. 12, 2026. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Co · USA TODAY Network via Reuters Co

Tennessee got things back on track over the weekend, using a strong second half to beat Auburn, 24-14. The big story was Josh Heupel’s decision to bench Faizon Brandon after a dreadful start by the true freshman quarterback. The Volunteers turned to George MacIntyre, who turned out to be a steadying presence under center.

It remains to be seen what Heupel will do at the position this week, but it would be a surprise if it’s not MacIntyre after what we saw on Saturday. Tennessee’s next test comes on the road at a place that has haunted the Vols over the past two decades. A trip to Fayetteville to face a bad Arkansas team comes next, and Tennessee has a chance to snap one of the odder losing streaks we’ve seen in recent memory.

Tennessee hasn’t won at Arkansas since way back in 2001. The Volunteers are 0-4 since that time, most recently finding a way to lose back in 2024. Much like the Florida game in Gainesville last season, there’s no excuse to go right some wrongs this Saturday afternoon.

According to Fanduel Sportsbook, Tennessee has opened as a 13.5 point favorite over Arkansas. The total is set at 50.5.

To be blunt, things are not good in Fayetteville with the football program. Hunter Yurachek made an uninspiring hire of Ryan Silverfield to replace Sam Pittman this offseason, and support from the fans seems to be at an all-time low. The Razorbacks are 2-3 overall with wins over North Alabama (31-14) and Tulsa (34-6). Arkansas has dropped games to Georgia (45-17), Texas A&M (34-7) and Utah (43-10).

Looking ahead, it’s difficult to find another win on the Razorback’s schedule.

For Tennessee, it’s a chance to build off what you started last week against Auburn. The Volunteers simply took over at the line of scrimmage, bulldozing their way to a victory after a shaky first half. It’s a chance for Josh Heupel to get a long look at George MacIntyre, or maybe even try to build back some confidence in Faizon Brandon. Could we see both play? Just a guess, but I’d say there’s a good chance we do.

Tennessee and Arkansas are set for a 4:15 p.m. ET kickoff on the SEC Network.

Source: Yahoo Sports