The Vanderbilt football program is experiencing a remarkable resurgence, transforming from years of struggle into a contender in college football. After enduring a decade of subpar performances, highlighted by ten consecutive seasons with records below .500 from 2014 to 2023, the Commodores made a stunning impact last season. They not only managed to defeat No. 1 Alabama but also finished with a respectable 7-6 record, signaling a shift in momentum.
This season has been even more impressive for Vanderbilt, as the team started strong with a 5-0 record. Despite facing a setback against Alabama, the Commodores bounced back effectively, defeating No. 10 LSU 31-24 and earning their first AP Top 25 ranking at No. 10 since 1947. Now, Vanderbilt heads into the much-anticipated ReliaQuest Bowl matchup against No. 23 Iowa with an outstanding 10-2 record, marking the first time in the program’s history that it has surpassed the 10-win milestone.
However, the Commodores will face their challenge without key player Eli Stowers, an All-American tight end who has chosen to opt out of the bowl game to prepare for the NFL Draft. Head coach Clark Lea expressed his full support for Stowers’ decision, emphasizing the tight end’s significant contribution to the team’s success. “Eli has been such an incredible part of this team, and I’m so proud to have him as a Vanderbilt football alum,” Lea stated. He highlighted Stowers’ health and future in professional football as paramount and emphasized the importance of allowing players to make choices that benefit their careers.
Stowers has established himself as a standout player during his time at Vanderbilt, having transferred from New Mexico State and quickly becoming one of the top tight ends in college football. This season alone, he earned All-SEC honors for both 2024 and 2025, won the prestigious John Mackey Award, and received the William V. Campbell Trophy. His stats speak for themselves: 62 receptions for 769 yards and four touchdowns in the current season, totaling 111 catches for 1,407 yards and nine touchdowns over two years.
The upcoming ReliaQuest Bowl against Iowa poses a formidable challenge for Vanderbilt, especially without Stowers’ offensive presence. Kick-off is scheduled for December 31 at 12:00 PM ET, with the game being broadcast on ESPN. As Vanderbilt looks to build on its recent successes, the program is not only aiming for an 11th win but is also keen on establishing a new standard of excellence in college football.