On Saturday night, the Vanderbilt Commodores secured a decisive 28‑9 victory over Austin Peay at FirstBank Stadium, marking the program’s first Saturday night home game of the 2026 season.
The Play That Changed the Game
Vanderbilt linebacker Josiah Broxton, who had not anticipated returning punts, seized a true punt from Austin Peay’s Logan Leftrick, sprinted downfield and crossed the goal line for a touchdown that turned the tide of the contest.
The score came during a period when Vanderbilt’s special teams unit had converted every one of its opportunities, a dominance that coach Jeff LePak said was a key factor in the win.
Broxton’s background as a kick returner at Florida State University High School gave him the instincts to track the ball, and his willingness to embrace a role he never expected highlighted the depth‑player philosophy that the Commodores have cultivated.
In remarks after the game, LePak emphasized that special teams are ‘the third pillar of success,’ noting that the unit’s ability to generate extra possessions and favorable field position helped both veteran and younger players gain valuable experience.
Broxton, who had appeared in five of Vanderbilt’s 13 games as a freshman without recording a tackle, expressed pride in his performance and said he aims to become a dependable presence in his position group.