The 1990s
Heath Shuler (1991-93)
If not for the quarterback who immediately followed him, Heath Shuler might be considered the Vols’ greatest quarterback from this decade. Shuler was a Heisman runner-up in 1993 and held several of Tennessee’s passing records by the time he graduated. Those would all be broken just a handful of years later, but Shuler graduated as arguably the most decorated quarterback in Tennessee history at the time. Shuler was an All-SEC performer who finished his career with 4,089 yards, 36 passing touchdowns, 383 rushing yards, and 14 scores on the ground.
Peyton Manning (1994-97)
Considered not only the greatest quarterback in Tennessee history, but also one of the greatest quarterbacks in college football history, Peyton Manning to this day still holds the majority of Tennessee’s passing records despite not having played for the Vols in 20 years. Manning was a Heisman runner-up (controversially so), was a two-time All-American, a four-time All-SEC player, Maxwell Award and Davey O’Brien Award winner, and helped the Vols win the 1997 SEC Championship. Manning finished his career with 11,201 passing yards, 89 passing touchdowns, and 12 rushing touchdowns as well. His 39-6 record as a starter is the best in Vol history.
