In Alabama football’s first road encounter with Vanderbilt since 2017, the Commodores are challenging what many consider the top team in college football.
At halftime of the game at FirstBank Stadium, Alabama finds itself trailing Vanderbilt 23-14, having allowed two rushing touchdowns and a score from an interception return. Jam Miller is responsible for both of Alabama’s touchdowns.
This marks the most points Vanderbilt has scored against Alabama in a single game since September 14, 1996, with the Commodores’ 23 points exceeding their total from the last five matchups with Alabama combined.
The Crimson Tide is aiming for its fifth consecutive victory to start the 2024 college football season, having previously defeated Western Kentucky, South Florida, Wisconsin, and Georgia. Conversely, Vanderbilt has secured wins against Virginia Tech and Alcorn State, but has recently suffered losses to Georgia State and Missouri.
As the game develops, live updates on the Alabama vs. Vanderbilt matchup will continue.
Midway through the second quarter, Jam Miller cut into Vanderbilt’s lead, scoring his second rushing touchdown of the game, wrapping up a 9-play, 83-yard drive in 2:41. Alabama now trails 23-14.
Alabama’s offensive line saw a substitution as right guard Geno VanDeMark replaced Jaeden Roberts at the two-minute mark of the second quarter. Roberts was observed on the sideline with his helmet.
Shortly after, a 15-yard reception from Jalen Milroe to Kobe Prentice extended Alabama’s drive, though Prentice later exited the game due to injury following a targeting review that yielded no penalty.
Vanderbilt added to its lead with a 51-yard field goal by Brock Taylor, bringing the score to 23-7.
Alabama struggled to maintain offensive momentum and faced a three-and-out against the Vanderbilt defense, capped off by an incomplete pass on third down, resulting in a punt.
In a pivotal moment, a potentially damaging fumble from Alabama’s Emmanuel Henderson was overturned, ruling him down at the 13-yard line. However, Vanderbilt capitalized on another turnover, regaining possession in Alabama’s red zone.
Vanderbilt’s Sedrick Alexander scored his second touchdown of the day, capping a 17-play, 75-yard drive that took 9:50, extending the Commodores’ lead to 20-7.
At the end of the first quarter, Vanderbilt led Alabama 13-7, with Sedrick Alexander accounting for a rushing touchdown and the Commodores converting on a defensive touchdown after an interception from Jalen Milroe.
Vanderbilt started strong, achieving a 10-play, 75-yard touchdown drive led by Diego Pavia, culminating in a 5-yard run by Alexander.
Before kickoff, Alabama won the coin toss and deferred to the second half, allowing Vanderbilt to start with the ball.
Predictions for the game favored Alabama, with expectations of a decisive win, contrasting with the actual competitive nature of the matchup.
As the teams head into the matchup, various NFL representatives were present at FirstBank Stadium, including scouts from the Los Angeles Rams, New Orleans Saints, Tennessee Titans, and several others.
Alabama’s injury report indicated no changes leading up to the game; wide receiver Kendrick Law was out, and linebacker Justin Jefferson was classified as a game-time decision.
Weather conditions in Nashville were projected to be sunny with temperatures around 87 degrees, setting the stage for an exciting SEC clash.
Historically, Alabama holds a dominant record against Vanderbilt, with 60 wins in 83 meetings. The Commodores last secured a victory against Alabama in 1984, and Alabama has remained unbeaten in Nashville since 1969.
With both teams having solid starts to their 2024 seasons, fans can expect an intense contest as the Crimson Tide and Commodores face off.