Vanderbilt hosts Austin Peay on Saturday in Nashville. Look inside for a game preview and a prediction of the final score.
16Powers
Vanderbilt opens against Austin Peay in Nashville, and this game offers the Commodores a chance to begin the Blaze Berlowitz era with a manageable opponent. Clark Lea named Berlowitz the starting quarterback for the opener, while highly regarded freshman Jared Curtis is also expected to receive playing time.
That makes quarterback usage one of the biggest reasons to watch this game. Vanderbilt wants Berlowitz to establish command of the offense while also allowing Curtis to gain experience without putting the outcome at risk.
Austin Peay will attempt to create pressure and force Vanderbilt into mistakes. The Governors know they cannot afford a straightforward physical game for four quarters. They need turnovers, explosive plays and possibly a special-teams break.
Vanderbilt should counter by relying on its offensive line and running game. If the Commodores consistently gain four or five yards on early downs, Austin Peay will have difficulty generating enough possessions to stay competitive.
Defensively, Vanderbilt should have the advantage in size and experience. The Commodores must tackle cleanly and avoid allowing Austin Peay’s playmakers to turn short completions into long gains.
This is also the type of opener Vanderbilt needs to handle professionally. The Commodores have reached a point where merely defeating an FCS opponent is not enough; they should look organized, physical and confident.
I expect Berlowitz to lead Vanderbilt to an early advantage before Curtis sees extended second-half action.
Predicted score: Vanderbilt 41, Austin Peay 13
