Vanderbilt delivers monumental upset against top-ranked Alabama, securing its all-time largest victory.
Despite never scoring a victory against a top-tier team in their record books, the Commodores managed to keep pace with Alabama.
Vanderbilt established an early 13-point lead in the opening quarter, successfully fending off Alabama's powerful offense, which was spearheaded by Heisman contender Jalen Milroe and breakout rookie wide receiver Ryan Williams, aged 17.
Just following the halftime break, Milroe raced for a 14-yard touchdown run, reducing the gap to 23-21. However, Vanderbilt's quarterback, Diego Pavia, responded by throwing a touchdown of his own to widen the lead.
On the subsequent Alabama possession, Milroe tossed a 58-yard pass to Williams, who executed an acrobatic catch and managed to stay inside the boundary lines, further narrowing the lead to 30-28.
Vanderbilt responded once more, converting a field goal and subsequently scoring another touchdown via Pavia, extending their lead to 40-28.
With under five minutes remaining in the game and their backs against the wall, Alabama required a touchdown to remain competitive. Alabama successfully navigated their way down the field and found the endzone thanks to a two-yard rushing touchdown by Williams.
Vanderbilt's offense remained unperturbed as they ran down the clock, securing the victory with wild celebrations ensuing at FirstBank Stadium.
Before Saturday's encounter, Vanderbilt had a dismal record of 0-60 against top-ranked opponents, holding the record for the most losses without a victory in NCAA history.
Pavia concluded the game with 252 passing yards, two touchdowns, and 57 rushing yards. Vanderbilt running back Sedrick Alexander contributed two touchdowns.
Lea, Vanderbilt's head coach, shared his sentiments with the SEC Network, stating it took everything they had to defeat Alabama.
"That's a really talented squad," Lea said. "For the next 12 hours, I will relish in this triumph. We have more to accomplish, but this is what Vanderbilt football should be about – significant wins on significant stages. We'll get more of it."
Vanderbilt put an end to a 23-match losing streak against Alabama and secured their first victory against the Crimson Tide since 1984.
Following Saturday's game, Vanderbilt stands at 3-2, while Alabama suffering a setback at 4-1.
Vanderbilt is set to face Kentucky away from home in their next game, while Alabama hosts South Carolina.
After the thrilling game, Lea highlighted the importance of these wins for Vanderbilt football, stating, "We have more to accomplish, but this is what Vanderbilt football should be about – significant wins on significant stages." Regardless of their past struggles in sports, Vanderbilt continues to show dedication and resilience, aiming for more victories and challenging their rivals.
