Tennessee QB briefly leaves Alabama game

Tennessee football finds itself in an early deficit against Alabama and is also shifting its focus to quarterback Nico Iamaleava.

In the second quarter of Saturday's game against the Crimson Tide, the Vols quarterback was brought down by Alabama linebacker Justin Jefferson for a sack and appeared to be injured. He was in visible pain for several moments before leaving the field.

He left the pitch under his own power and went straight to the medical tent. On the ESPN broadcast, Iamaleava was seen strengthening his back as he entered the tent with members of Tennessee's practice squad.

Required reading: Tennessee vs. Alabama result today: Live updates, highlights from the week 8 game

Update on Nico Iamaleava's injury

Iamaleava's injury occurred during a sack by Alabama's Jefferson. He left the field and went straight to the medical tent. He left after a few moments and was seen on the sidelines as his replacement entered the game.