Who is the Best Tennessee QB Of All Time?
Welcome to the ultimate debate among Tennessee football fans: Who is the best (or second best) quarterback in the history of the University of Tennessee? It’s a given that Peyton Manning, with his extraordinary college career and subsequent legendary status in the NFL, holds the undisputed top spot. But who deserves the honor of being right behind him? This is your chance to have your say!
The University of Tennessee has been a breeding ground for exceptional quarterback talent. From the tactical genius of Condredge Holloway, who broke barriers and records in the 1970s, to the recent brilliance of Joshua Dobbs, whose athleticism and intelligence (you may have heard his major was aerospace engineering) revitalized the Volunteer spirit. Speaking of which, what are we to do with Hendon Hooker’s short but illustrious career?
Also, let’s not forget the likes of Heath Shuler, whose powerful arm and leadership in the early 1990s earned him a Heisman Trophy nomination, or Tee Martin, who led the Vols to a national championship in 1998. Each of these quarterbacks brought something unique to Neyland Stadium, etching their names in the annals of Tennessee football history.
Now, it’s up to you to decide. Who should be ranked as the greatest (or second greatest behind Peyton Manning)? Is it the trailblazing Condredge Holloway, the dynamic Heath Shuler, the championship-winning Tee Martin, or the versatile Joshua Dobbs? Your vote will help settle this debate once and for all.
| Player Name | Years Played | Accomplishments |
|---|---|---|
| Peyton Manning | 1994-1997 | Numerous records at Tennessee, legendary NFL career. |
| Condredge Holloway | 1972-1974 | First African American starting QB in SEC, remarkable mobility. |
| Heath Shuler | 1991-1993 | Heisman Trophy finalist, strong arm and leadership. |
| Tee Martin | 1996-1999 | 1998 National Champion, crucial leadership. |
| Joshua Dobbs | 2013-2016 | Revitalized team with athleticism and intelligence. |
| Casey Clausen | 2000-2003 | Consistent performer, strong in road games. |
| Erik Ainge | 2004-2007 | Record-setting passer, led team to multiple bowl games. |
| Tony Robinson | 1982-1985 | Exceptionally talented, career affected by injury. |
| Tyler Bray | 2010-2012 | Impressive passing yards and touchdowns. |
| Bobby Scott | 1968-1970 | Set several passing records, successful professional career. |
| Hendon Hooker | 2021-2022 | Dynamic playmaker with impressive passing and rushing stats. |
Peyton Manning
Peyton Manning’s tenure at the University of Tennessee set the gold standard for quarterback play. With his unparalleled field vision, precision passing, and leadership, Manning rewrote the school’s record books and left an indelible mark on college football.
- Years Played: 1994-1997
- Accomplishments: Numerous records at Tennessee, legendary NFL career.
- Assigned Votes: 35
Condredge Holloway
Condredge Holloway, known for his groundbreaking role and remarkable mobility, was a trailblazer at Tennessee. His ability to elude defenders and make plays in big moments made him a fan favorite and a pivotal figure in the team’s history.
- Years Played: 1972-1974
- Accomplishments: First African American starting QB in SEC.
- Assigned Votes: 15
Heath Shuler
Heath Shuler’s arm strength and leadership skills brought him national recognition. His command of the offense and ability to make plays both through the air and on the ground made him one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in Tennessee history.
- Years Played: 1991-1993
- Accomplishments: Heisman Trophy finalist, strong arm, and leadership.
- Assigned Votes: 12
Hendon Hooker
Hendon Hooker, the latest in the line of great Tennessee quarterbacks, has shown dynamic playmaking ability with impressive passing and rushing stats. His contributions to the team came at a time of uncertainty for the UT program.
- Years Played: 2021-2022
- Accomplishments: Dynamic playmaker with impressive stats.
- Assigned Votes: 1
Tee Martin
Tee Martin is celebrated for leading Tennessee to a National Championship in 1998. His poise under pressure and ability to deliver in crucial moments etched his name in Volunteer history.
- Years Played: 1996-1999
- Accomplishments: 1998 National Champion, crucial leadership.
- Assigned Votes: 10
Joshua Dobbs
Joshua Dobbs, known for his intelligence and athleticism, revitalized the Volunteer spirit during his tenure. His dual-threat capability and leadership skills made him a standout quarterback.
- Years Played: 2013-2016
- Accomplishments: Revitalized team with athleticism and intelligence.
- Assigned Votes: 8
Casey Clausen
Casey Clausen’s tenure at Tennessee was marked by consistency and resilience, especially in road games. His calm demeanor and tactical understanding of the game made him a reliable and effective leader on the field.
- Years Played: 2000-2003
- Accomplishments: Consistent performer, strong in road games.
- Assigned Votes: 6
Erik Ainge
Erik Ainge’s passing prowess set records at Tennessee. His ability to read defenses and deliver precise throws made him one of the most prolific passers in school history.
- Years Played: 2004-2007
- Accomplishments: Record-setting passer, led team to multiple bowl games.
- Assigned Votes: 5
Tony Robinson
Tony Robinson’s career, though cut short by injury, showcased exceptional talent. His natural ability and flair on the field left fans wondering what could have been had his career not been prematurely halted.
- Years Played: 1982-1985
- Accomplishments: Exceptionally talented, career affected by injury.
- Assigned Votes: 4
Tyler Bray
Tyler Bray made a mark with his impressive passing yards and touchdowns at Tennessee. His arm strength and fearless approach to the passing game made him one of the most exciting quarterbacks to watch.
- Years Played: 2010-2012
- Accomplishments: Impressive passing yards and touchdowns.
- Assigned Votes: 3
Bobby Scott
Bobby Scott’s time at Tennessee saw him setting several passing records. His ability to lead the offense and his subsequent successful professional career are testaments to his skill and dedication to the game.
- Years Played: 1968-1970
- Accomplishments: Set several passing records, successful professional career.
- Assigned Votes: 1

