Alabama QB reacts to Tennessee offer

Tanner Bailey got out last spring and summer to a couple camps and, at that time, the rising freshman created a little buzz. He had not even started high school yet, but the 6-foot-2, 181 pound signal caller showed he could spin a football.

Late in his freshman season at Gordo (Ala.), he picked up his first offer from UAB.

Bailey picked up offer No. 2 Tuesday, and this time, it came from an SEC school, Tennessee.

IN HIS OWN WORDS

"I was very excited about the offer. I’m so grateful for the confidence they’ve shown in me the past few weeks. It motivates me to want to work harder," said Bailey.

"I talked to coach Pruitt and coach Chaney Tuesday and they said that they loved my poise and delivery, and also how I handled games so well just to be a freshman.

"When I think about Tennessee, Peyton Manning is a big name that comes to mind. I grew up following Peyton during his NFL Career. Plus, the checkered end zones and fans in the stadium are pretty sweet too.

"I know UT has a winning tradition and that the new staff there is very special. They also signed a great class this year.

"I was overwhelmed when I got the news that coach Pruitt wanted to offer me. My lifelong dream has been to play football in the SEC. I’m just so grateful they are giving me that opportunity."

RIVALS REACTION

Bailey is a big fan of the SEC. He grew up an Auburn fan and he camped there last summer. Other than Tennessee and UAB, schools like Alabama, Clemson, Florida and Mississippi State are already showing interest in the 2022 quarterback. He is planning to take part in some camps this summer and he will be on the road in the coming months at some spring practices. Tennessee will definitely get a visit this spring. It will be his first time in Knoxville.