Above Image Credit: WRUF
When: Saturday, Oct. 26, 4:15 PM EST
Where: FirstBank Stadium (Nashville, TN)
Channel: SEC Network (check your cable listings)
The Texas Longhorns look to bounce back from a tough loss when they face college football’s surprise of the year, the Vanderbilt Commodores.
Vandy’s No Joke This Year
Vanderbilt has turned the college football world on its head this year. The first surprise would have to be the two losses to Georgia State of the Sun Belt Conference and Missouri.
The second and biggest surprise would have that they have five wins right now. Their biggest one happens to be their week six win against Alabama. That one was a historical win because it was the first time in school history that the football team ever defeated an AP top 10 team. It was also their first win against Alabama since 1984.
Vandy QB Diego Pavia is one of the biggest contributors to the team’s recent success. He’s already completed 102 out of 154 attempts for nearly 1,400 yards, 11 touchdowns, and an interception. He also has 118 carries for 470 yards and three touchdowns.
Losing is Not an Option for Texas
It was already hard enough that Texas had their first loss to the resurging Georgia Bulldogs. Now they want to find their way back to the top, but that will be easier said than done.
Like few other SEC teams who share their same overall and conference record, Texas wants to make sure they don’t suffer another loss because there will also be CFP implications in the future.
However, one factor that could complicate things is the quarterback situation. Both Quinn Ewers and Arch Manning were overwhelmed by the Georgia defense. Ewers’s fumbles and interceptions were costly last week and giving in to pressure didn’t help him either.
There’s a chance he could start this game, but he’s also dealing with an abdominal strain. Plus, considering his poor performance recently, Texas could be leaning more towards Manning for this first-time ever Texas vs. Vanderbilt matchup.
Texas vs. Vanderbilt: Final Prediction
The only thing the Texas defense will have to really keep their eye on is Pavia. He’s been impressing everyone with his pass and run game. Sure it’s a little too soon to think if he’s the next Lamar Jackson, but there is no denying his talent on the field.
Texas LB Anthony Hill Jr., has the fourth-most sacks in the conference. I see him as an essential component in keeping Pavia in check. DB Jahdae Barron holds the second-most interceptions in the conference. Imagine the ways Texas can catch up or increase their lead further if he can catch the ball at the right time and places.
Even if Pavia is a great offensive player, Vanderbilt doesn’t match the level of Ewers and the Texas offense. Their defense might not even be strong enough to hold them off. Texas had a bad day last week, and they don’t intend to have another one.
The loss will be tough for Vanderbilt, but they’re going to give it their best shot as Texas will be another true test of their surprising skills and inner strength. This will at least help them prepare for the inevitable bowl season they will partake in.
