By : Brantley DeMarcus
(Photo/Brantley DeMarcus -The Mojo Network)
In a dominant performance on Saturday, September 7, 2024, Vanderbilt demolished Alcorn State 55-0 at FirstBank Stadium in Nashville. The Commodores, seeking to build momentum early in the season for harder SEC opponents in the upcoming weeks, executed a complete game, with strong showings on all three areas of the game offense, defense and special teams, to secure their second win of the season going 2-0.
Vanderbilt established control from the jump, opening the scoring with a 35-yard field goal by sophomore kicker Brock Taylor. From there, the Commodores' offense found its rhythm, with quarterback Diego Pavia leading efficient drives not only with passing but being able to extend plays with his legs. Vanderbilt’s running game was also a focal point, with backs like AJ Newberry and Sedrick Alexander tearing through Alcorn’s defense. Alexander’s hard running culminated in a short touchdown run late in the first half, pushing the Commodores to a 27-0 lead at the break.
Vanderbilt's defense completely stifled Alcorn State, holding them to just 1.4 rushing yards per play. Alcorn was unable to get any momentum going, with Vanderbilt's defensive front frequently pressuring the quarterback and preventing the Braves from converting key third downs. Linebacker CJ Taylor and safety De'Rickey Wright, made crucial tackles and plays in coverage, including an interception that set up one of Vanderbilt's scores.
Perhaps the most impressive aspect of Vanderbilt’s performance was its ability to score in all three phases of the game. Special teams also made a significant impact, with Martel Hight returning punts for big gains and even a touchdown, setting up favorable field positions for the offense to capitalize.
In the second half, Vanderbilt didn't let up. They extended their lead with more scoring drives, capped off by a five-yard touchdown run by Alexander. Alcorn State, unable to break through Vanderbilt’s stout defense, was forced to punt on nearly every possession, never finding any offensive rhythm.
This win marked Vanderbilt’s first shutout since 2019, signaling a step forward for Clark Lea's team as they look to improve within the competitive SEC.
The Commodores' defense was the story of the game, but the offensive balance and contributions across the roster suggest that Vanderbilt is developing the depth needed to compete as they move deeper into the season.
The 55-0 rout was a much-needed confidence boost, particularly heading into the tougher part of their schedule, as they prepare to face more formidable SEC competition in the coming weeks.