Tennessee has “continued optimism” that Nico Iamaleava will be able to suit up on Saturday night vs. Georgia, according to a report.

That’s via 247Sports’ Matt Zenitz, who said a source went as far as to say that it would be “surprising to a degree” if Iamaleava isn’t able to play vs. the Bulldogs.

“The good thing for Tennessee is, from everything I’ve heard, is [Iamaleava] has continued to progress throughout the course of the week,” Zenitz reported. “And there is continued optimism that he will end up being available come Saturday when they face off against Georgia in that massive showdown.

“The latest information they got last night from one source is that it’s reached a point that it would be surprising, to a degree, if Nico does not end up being available for that game.”

Iamaleava has been in concussion protocol since halftime of the Mississippi State game this past weekend. He’s officially been listed as questionable on each of Tennessee’s first 2 SEC-mandated availability reports this week.

However, another report will be issued on Friday evening. A final report is scheduled to be released approximately 90 minutes before kickoff on Saturday night.

Iamaleava did make the trip to Athens with the rest of the Vols on Friday.

Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. ET on Saturday night.