Vanderbilt Commodores Football Preview for 2026

The Vanderbilt Commodores are gearing up for the 2026 college football season, following a historic 2025 campaign where they achieved 10 wins for the first time in program history. The team will now rely on five-star freshman Jared Curtis, who is the No. 2 quarterback recruit in the 2026 class, to lead their offense.

Despite the loss of standout quarterback Diego Pavia and tight end Eli Stowers, Vanderbilt retains a strong offensive lineup, including their top two running backs and leading wide receiver Junior Sherrill. With Tim Beck as the offensive coordinator, the Commodores aim to maintain their offensive efficiency.

However, questions remain about the defense, which ranked 88th nationally in EPA per play allowed last season. The return of seven experienced players and the addition of transfers like Talan Carter and Ricardo Jones are expected to bolster the unit. The development of Curtis will be crucial for the team's aspirations to reach a bowl game for the third consecutive year.