Kalen DeBoer warns Alabama about Vanderbilt threat
The Crimson Tide returns to Nashville favored by more than two touchdowns after losing there in 2024.
| Kickoff | 12:45 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Venue | FirstBank Stadium |
| Spread | Alabama -15.5 |
| Total | 48.5 |
| TV | SEC Network |
|---|---|
| Streaming | the ESPN app |
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Follow the full play-by-play and box score →Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer is pushing back against any assumption that Saturday’s Week 11 trip to Vanderbilt will be routine, even with the Crimson Tide favored by more than two touchdowns. Alabama is also returning to Nashville after losing there in 2024.
DeBoer said Vanderbilt’s record does not fully reflect what he has seen on film. He pointed to the Commodores staying within 7 points of Georgia at halftime and holding a late lead against Kentucky, while emphasizing the physical style Clark Lea’s team plays.
Vanderbilt entered last week 0-5 in SEC play before beating Mississippi State 25-23 without Kamario Taylor. Only the 21-15 loss to Auburn was decided by single digits, although DeBoer’s focus is on how the Commodores have kept games competitive through clock control, selective fourth-down aggression and team-oriented play.
The broader numbers explain why Alabama is heavily favored. Vanderbilt ranks 103rd nationally in scoring offense at 23.0 points per game and 109th in scoring defense at 29.4.
Freshman quarterback Jared Curtis leads Vanderbilt’s offense. Through eight games, the former 5-star recruit has completed 145 of 224 passes for 1,657 yards, eight touchdowns and eight interceptions, a 64.7% completion rate. His 76 rushing attempts have produced 172 yards and two scores, averaging 2.26 yards per carry.
DeBoer praised Curtis’ arm strength, touch and ability to stand tall in the pocket, while also identifying his role in Vanderbilt’s quarterback plus-one run game. Wide receiver Junior Sherrill has been Curtis’ clear top target with 76 catches, compared with 17 for the next-closest Vanderbilt player.
That combination gives Alabama a defined defensive assignment: limit Curtis as both a passer and runner while disrupting his connection with Sherrill. DeBoer said the Crimson Tide understands what the film shows and has prepared accordingly.
Why it matters
Alabama has recent evidence that Vanderbilt cannot be dismissed in Nashville. Curtis’ arm talent, running ability and connection with Sherrill give the Commodores a specific way to challenge the Crimson Tide defense.
What to watch next
Alabama visits Vanderbilt on Saturday in the Week 11 matchup.
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