Vanderbilt’s three-game winning streak has come to an end following a 27-24 loss to Texas at FirstBank Stadium. Despite the defeat, the Commodores (5-3, 2-2 in SEC) still hold out hope for a bowl game, although their aspirations for a Playoff berth likely faded with this latest result. Vanderbilt initially captured national attention with their thrilling 40-35 victory over Alabama on October 5.
The game began positively for Vanderbilt, as quarterback Diego Pavia opened the scoring with an 18-yard touchdown run in the first quarter. Texas quickly responded with three consecutive touchdowns, leaving Vanderbilt trailing 21-10 at halftime after Brock Taylor successfully kicked a 54-yard field goal just before the break.
In the third quarter, Vanderbilt narrowed the gap to 24-17 on a 3-yard touchdown pass from Pavia to Junior Sherrill, but a subsequent interception by Pavia allowed Texas to add a field goal. Pavia did manage to connect with Eli Stowers for a short touchdown pass late in the game, bringing the score to 27-24. However, Texas recovered the onside kick to seal the victory.
Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers led the way with 288 passing yards, three touchdowns, and two interceptions. Pavia finished the game with 143 passing yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions.
Key game moments included a late touchdown pass by Pavia, a critical interception that halted Vanderbilt’s comeback effort, and a successful field goal by Texas that extended their lead after an interception by Pavia. Overall, while Vanderbilt fought hard until the end, the loss marked a setback in their season.