Staley Says Tennessee Is Sharpening Up for Kentucky
Published November 2, 2026: Tennessee receiver Braylon Staley discussed the Volunteers’ preparation for their SEC matchup with Kentucky, emphasizing discipline, practice and quarterback George Macintyre’s growth.
Tennessee receiver Braylon Staley said the Volunteers used their bye week to rest and prepare for a Week 10 meeting with No. 8 Kentucky. Tennessee entered the break 6-2 overall and 3-2 in SEC play after a 27-24 loss to South Carolina. The Vols were ranked No. 16 in the AP poll and tied for fifth in the conference standings.
Staley said the team needs to reduce penalties after the South Carolina game. He described Tennessee’s practice work as focused on avoiding false starts and offsides, and said attention to detail throughout the week would matter as the season continues. Receiver coach Kelsey Pope pressed the group to get aligned and set quickly, Staley said.
He called Kentucky a sound team, pointing to its experienced safeties and secondary. Staley also discussed his growing connection with quarterback George Macintyre, saying they watch film with receivers to study defensive alignments, disguises and coverage. Staley said Macintyre has become more confident and vocal as he has taken charge of the offense, and that hearing him direct players in the huddle has been positive.