Opening Move Sets Tone
Vanderbilt Commodores will open their season against Austin Peay with Blaze Berlowitz listed as the starting quarterback, a move that reflects a short‑term tactical choice rather than a permanent reshaping of the depth chart.
Coach Clark Lea explained that the selection is primarily about giving the team the best chance to win the first game, while still keeping the door open for competition throughout the year.
Jared Curtis, the player the program views as its quarterback of the future, still received snaps in the opener, providing him an opportunity to stake his claim for the starting role in the seasons ahead.
Berlowitz brings a familiarity with the Commodores’ offensive scheme and has shown steady improvement in decision‑making, particularly in short‑range passing, which the staff believes can translate into immediate production.
Curtis has publicly stated he will not transfer because of the decision, and the coaching staff expects him to see enough playing time to determine whether he can ultimately eclipse Berlowitz before the end of the campaign.