Vanderbilt football has redefined itself this season, reaching bowl eligibility with a defining 17-7 win over Auburn. Under head coach Clark Lea, the Commodores are now 6-3 and poised to make their first bowl appearance since 2018—a turning point for a program that’s long struggled in the challenging SEC. Lea’s leadership has brought new energy and direction, transforming Vanderbilt from last year’s winless SEC season to a true competitor in 2024.
The win over Auburn follows Vanderbilt’s landmark upset against Alabama earlier this season, which immediately turned heads across the college football world. The victory was even sweeter because it marked the first time since 1955 that Vanderbilt defeated both Alabama and Auburn in the same season. For many fans, it’s a surreal moment, one that underscores how dramatically the program has evolved in a single season.
Vanderbilt's fourth win this season ties the most wins as an underdog of seven points or more by any team in the last 20 seasons 🤯
The Commodores are 6-0 ATS as an underdog this season 😤 pic.twitter.com/1LEtbI20fa
— ESPN BET (@ESPNBET) November 2, 2024
Diego Pavia didn’t exactly wow in quarterbacking Vanderbilt, with 143 yards and two touchdown passes, but a 4-yard to Eli Stowers late in the fourth quarter to give the Commodores a chance to win was a play that swung the game. The Commodores executed a 14-play, 78-yard drive that consumed nearly nine minutes of clock time, sealing the win in one of the most challenging environments in college football: Jordan-Hare Stadium. Vanderbilt’s latest gritty performance proved the team has a strong backbone and can finish in the midst of adversity on the road.
No Denying Clark Lea’s Leadership at Vanderbilt
Pavia has had a long journey to Vanderbilt with previous teams overlooking him. He has thrived under Lea’s leadership though, playing with poise, and making clutch plays for the Commodores this season. By a team of players that most counted out, a team that was overlooked is making a resurgence. They seem ready to make a name for themselves in the SEC this season.
Key transfer players and new fresh talent have boosted the Commodore’s offense and defense, with Lea’s strategic additions to the roster. It took a defensive effort, as Auburn was limited to 50 rushing yards on top rusher Jarquez Hunter and failed to convert multiple field goal attempts.
Also Read: “Take Your A– Home!” – Vanderbilt Lineman Taunt Auburn Following Solid 17-7 Win
Vanderbilt has a bowl-clinching win in the books and is looking to close out a historic season. Yet their road won’t be easy: They still have SEC contests against South Carolina, LSU, and a home finale against Tennessee. With the team’s new mindset, no opponent is too much for them. Lea and his Commodores have made a point that they’re not just making history, but they’re laying the groundwork for the future. Vanderbilt fans can hopefully look ahead to what’s next for the first time in years.
Ncaa Football Tennessee Volunteers At Vanderbilt Commodores
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