Inside Joey Aguilar’s 100-day crash course to become Tennessee football quarterback
In the spring of 2025, Tennessee Volunteers football underwent a significant quarterback transition. Joey Aguilar, a seasoned signal-caller with experience at Appalachian State and UCLA, was thrust into the starting role following the unexpected departure of Nico Iamaleava. This article delves into Aguilar’s rapid adaptation to his new environment, highlighting the challenges and strategies that defined his 100-day journey to becoming Tennessee’s starting quarterback.(Reuters)
Joey Aguilar’s path to Tennessee was marked by swift decisions and transitions. After a standout career at Appalachian State, where he threw for 6,760 yards and 56 touchdowns over two seasons, Aguilar transferred to UCLA in late 2024. However, following Nico Iamaleava’s transfer from Tennessee to UCLA, Aguilar re-entered the transfer portal and committed to the Volun
Upon his arrival at Tennessee, Aguilar was introduced to the team’s offensive playbook, which was tailored to the fast-paced, high-tempo system under head coach Josh Heupel. The initial days were spent familiarizing himself with the terminology, formations, and expectations of the offense. Aguilar’s prior experience in a similar system at Appalachian State provided a foundational understanding, but the nuances of Tennessee’s approach required focused study and adaptation.
A critical aspect of Aguilar’s adjustment was developing rapport with Tennessee’s wide receivers. Understanding their routes, timing, and tendencies was essential for effective execution. Aguilar organized additional practice sessions, often staying after team drills to work on timing and communication. His leadership and commitment to building these relationships were evident and began to pay dividends as the weeks progressed.
Recognizing the importance of mental preparation, Aguilar dedicated significant time to film study. He analyzed opposing defenses, focusing on their schemes, tendencies, and individual players. This allowed him to anticipate defensive strategies and make informed decisions during practices. Additionally, he worked closely with Tennessee’s coaching staff to refine his understanding of defensive coverages and how to exploit them effectively.
To acclimate to the pressures of live competition, Aguilar participated in simulated game scenarios during practice. These sessions were designed to mimic the intensity and unpredictability of actual games, providing Aguilar with opportunities to make quick decisions under pressure. Feedback from coaches and teammates during these simulations was invaluable in refining his decision-making and poise in the pocket.
As the season opener approached, Aguilar intensified his study of Tennessee’s playbook. He worked closely with offensive coordinator Joey Halzle to ensure a deep understanding of each play’s objectives and variations. This comprehensive knowledge enabled Aguilar to make adjustments at the line of scrimmage and communicate effectively with his teammates.
Beyond his on-field responsibilities, Aguilar focused on integrating himself into the team culture. He participated in team-building activities, fostering camaraderie and trust among his teammates. His leadership qualities became more pronounced as he took on a mentorship role for younger players and demonstrated a commitment to the team’s success.
In the final weeks leading up to the season opener, Aguilar’s preparations became more game-focused. He honed his timing with the offensive line and running backs, ensuring smooth handoffs and protection schemes. Additionally, he continued to review film, focusing on specific opponents and potential game situations. This meticulous preparation aimed to ensure Aguilar was fully equipped to lead the team on game day.
Aguilar’s hard work culminated in the season opener against a formidable opponent. Despite the challenges of stepping into a new system and leading a high-profile program, Aguilar demonstrated poise and competence. His performance was a testament to the dedication and effort invested during the preceding weeks. While the team faced challenges, Aguilar’s leadership and resilience were evident, setting a positive tone for the remainder of the season.
Joey Aguilar’s 100-day journey to becoming Tennessee’s starting quarterback was marked by rapid adaptation, intensive preparation, and unwavering commitment. His ability to integrate into a new system, build relationships with teammates, and perform under pressure underscores the importance of adaptability and leadership in collegiate athletics. As the season progresses, Aguilar’s experiences and growth will undoubtedly continue to influence Tennessee’s football program.
