Season Opener at FirstBank Stadium
On September 5, 2026, the Vanderbilt Commodores took the field at FirstBank Stadium and secured a 28‑9 win over the Austin Peay Governors, marking the team’s fifth consecutive sold‑out appearance and their first game back after a 248‑day layoff.
The contest unfolded under a blistering sky, with temperatures soaring to 98 °F and a heat index that felt like 103 °F, adding a layer of physical challenge for both squads.
Vanderbilt’s defense was relentless, shutting out Austin Peay throughout the first half and setting the tone for the Commodores’ dominant performance.
Guided by offensive coordinator Tim Beck, the Commodores employed a methodical, long‑drive approach that saw quarterback Blaze Berlowitz, who had taken over from freshman Jared Curtis, orchestrate precise, time‑consuming marches down the field.
Key moments included Sedrick Alexander’s powerful runs, a decisive fourth‑and‑1 conversion that turned into a touchdown, and a fourth‑quarter scoring run by Berlowitz himself, both of which helped the Commodores pull away.
Austin Peay managed a response when Chris Parson connected with Marvin Sims and Denver Harper for a 24‑yard touchdown pass, but the early 6‑5 lead evaporated as Vanderbilt’s defense held firm.
A sudden lightning strike forced a brief pause with only two minutes remaining, yet the game concluded with Vanderbilt’s 28‑9 advantage intact.
Looking ahead, the Commodores are slated to face Delaware on September 12 at 3:15 p.m. at the same venue, continuing their early‑season slate.