ORLANDO, FL.- The Nico Iamaleava era of Tennessee football is officially underway!
Today (January 1) the #25 Tennessee Volunteers faced the #20 Iowa Hawkeyes in the 2024 Citrus Bowl. Early on into this matchup, it was clear that today is all Vols’. Due to the dominance of the Tennessee defense, the Iowa Hawkeyes couldn’t get anything going offensively, recording 173 total yards (60 Passing, 113 Rushing).
On the other side of the ball, Tennessee’s offense shined. The Volunteers were led by true freshman quarterback, Nico Iamaleava, who recorded 151 passing yards and 1 touchdown, as well as 27 rushing yards and 3 touchdowns.
The #2 overall prospect in the class of 2023 handled the offense beautifully, running his team through a high tempo, hurry up offense. Because of the short turn around, Iowa’s defense never had time to adjust.
Defensively, the Volunteers’ did their job, and more, recording numerous sacks, two interceptions (one returned for a touchdown) and multiple three-and-outs. Today, Tennessee’s defense also recorded their first shut out of the season, completely halting the Iowa offense.
The future of Tennessee football is bright, and the Iamaleava led Volunteers will be a force to be reckoned with for years to come.
