Paul Finebaum Names SEC Team Being Overlooked for All the Wrong Reasons

"I think it started that day in April when Nico walked out of there," Finebaum said. "I'm not sure it has completely recovered because nobody knows what to make out of Aguilar. To me, I think Tennessee is better off. I didn't think Nico was ever what everyone made him out to be. He was good, not great. Serviceable."

Paul Finebaum Thinks Joey Aguilar Is 'Capable'

Finebaum remains unconvinced about Tennessee this offseason. He has previously mentioned that the absence of Iamaleava complicates the evaluation process until Aguilar's performance becomes clearer. Finebaum believes that Aguilar is a capable quarterback.

“I think being Nico-less makes it more challenging until we really know more about Aguilar,” Finebaum previously said. “I think he’s capable. But, you think about the big games…I think 9-3 is realistic.”

Aguilar boasts impressive statistics, having thrown for 6,760 yards, 56 touchdowns and 24 interceptions, while completing 60.1% of his passes. Additionally, he has rushed for 452 yards and five touchdowns during his two seasons with the Appalachian State Mountaineers.

Tennessee's Schedule Provides Opportunity to Return to College Football Playoff

The Volunteers' schedule this offseason appears favorable. Athlon Sports’ Kyle Wood has ranked Tennessee’s schedule as the third easiest in the conference.

Wood emphasized that September will be a crucial month for the Volunteers. They will start the season with a neutral-site game against the Syracuse Orange in Atlanta, followed by a home game against the Georgia Bulldogs two weeks later. After these matchups, Tennessee's toughest challenges will be more spaced out.

Although Finebaum is not particularly optimistic about the Volunteers this year, their schedule gives him some hope, leading him to believe Tennessee could finish the season with a 9-3 record.

The Volunteers will begin their season on August 30 against Syracuse at noon ET.