Urban Meyer all over Tennessee 'hype train,' praises Nico Iamaleava supporting cast
On the set of Big Noon Kickoff on Saturday morning, each of the program’s hosts got a chance to discuss which “Hype Train” they were jumping on and Urban Meyer was quick to claim Nico Iamaleava and Tennessee.
The former Florida and Ohio State coach knows a thing or two about elite quarterback play and top-notch offense, and he sees both in the Volunteers.
“I’m all over Tennessee, man,” Meyer said. “They’ve got a great quarterback in Nico Iamaleava. Hey, I love this guy, man. He’s a potential top-10 pick, he’s a first-round draft choice, but he’s not the only show in town. Let’s take a look at a couple of his throws here.”
As the FOX crew showed off a package of Nico Iamaleava highlights, Meyer watched enraptured. He could hardly look away.
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He pointed out a few things, including how effortless Iamaleava makes things look when he’s throwing the ball.
“This ball comes out his hands like it’s a tennis ball,” Meyer said. “Watch this, he’s 6-foot-6, he resets his feet and gets the ball downfield.”
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But there’s another reason why Meyer is locked in on Tennessee as his hype train team. It’s about what’s around Iamaleava.
The Volunteers boast plenty of talent, a testament to the job head coach Josh Heupel has done recruiting players like Nico Iamaleava over the last couple years.
“He’s not the only show in town,” Meyer said. “They’re one of the top defenses in the country. They’re averaging 300 yards passing a game and 275 yards rushing. They’re a top-five team and I’m picking them for the playoffs. I think they’re a heck of a football team.”
Tennessee returns to action on Saturday against Kent State with a game that kicks off at 7:45 p.m. ET on the SEC Network. The team is 2-0 and looking to improve to 3-0 before SEC play begins at No. 15 Oklahoma.