Tennessee's Tyre West expresses faith in Nico Iamaleava for 2024: 'We're going to the natty'

Nico Iamaleava, the highly-touted quarterback for Tennessee got his first start against Iowa in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl. It ended up being a 35-0 win where Iamaleava flashed the talent that has Tennessee fans excited about the future of the program.

After the game, defensive lineman Tyre West explained that the win is going to help Tennessee go into the offseason and prepare the team for 2024.

“It really just let us know what pieces we need and let us know where we stand,” West said.

Tyre West also added that he has tons of faith in Nico Iamaleava for the 2024 season based on the bowl and what he’s seen from him in practice. He has so much confidence, in fact, that he thinks a national championship is on the table for Tennessee.

“For a long time. I know getting Nico that we’ve got money. For real, for real…We’re going to the Natty. Knowing him, we’re going to the Natty,” West said.

“His ball awareness. Like everything about him lets you know that he’s supposed to be there.”

Nico Iamaleava was a five-star recruit in the Class of 2023, according to the On3 Industry Ranking. He was also the sixth-ranked player nationally in that class and the third-ranked quarterback overall.

In the win over Iowa, Iamaleava took a few drives to get his feet under him before he showed off just what he’s capable of. That included throwing for 151 yards and a touchdown while also rushing for 27 yards and another three scores. He was named Citrus Bowl MVP.

For Nico Iamaleava, the Citrus Bowl was just the start of Tennessee’s 2024.

“I think I’ve always had confidence in this team,” Iamaleava said. “I knew we was going to go out there and take care of business. I’m glad we came out with the win and got our seniors a ring and the bowl win, so I’m happy for that.”

Josh Heupel on Nico Iamaleava’s first career start

After the game, head coach Josh Heupel opened up about Nico Iamaleava’s performance in his first start.

“I just think, as a young player, the moment, nothing’s too big for him. He’s very in control, and does a great job relating to all the guys at every position on every unit — offense, defense. He’s a dynamic leader already as a young guy. Really pleased with his poise and his playmaking ability today,” Heupel said.

“Thought he did a great job. Just controlling everything. First time starting, just the huddle, the mechanics, operations, controlling our run game protections. All of it, did a fantastic job. Made a bunch of plays throughout the course of it with his arm and his feet. Special player.”