Alabama Capitalizes on Vanderbilt’s Mistakes to Avenge 2024 Defeat
In a highly anticipated matchup, the No. 10 Alabama Crimson Tide faced off against the No. 16 Vanderbilt Commodores, looking to avenge their defeat from the previous season. The game took place on October 4, 2025, at Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. With memories of last year’s upset still fresh, Alabama emerged victorious, winning 30-14.
Vanderbilt’s Early Advantage
Vanderbilt began the game strong, taking an early 7-0 lead with a 65-yard touchdown run by running back Sedrick Alexander. However, as the game progressed, critical mistakes undermined their efforts.
Key Turning Points
Alabama’s quarterback, Ty Simpson, played a significant role in their victory, completing 23 of 31 passes for 340 yards and two touchdowns. The Crimson Tide capitalized on two critical turnovers by Vanderbilt’s quarterback, Diego Pavia, particularly in the red zone.
Vanderbilt’s Turnovers Impact Outcome
- Pavia turned the ball over twice inside Alabama’s red zone.
- A fumble was caused by linebacker Justin Jefferson after a scramble, leading to a recovery by nose tackle Tim Keenan III.
- An interception thrown by Pavia in a crucial moment stalled Vanderbilt’s momentum and scoring chances.
Coaching Insights
Vanderbilt’s head coach, Clark Lea, acknowledged the importance of protecting the football. He emphasized that mistakes in high-stakes games can lead to significant consequences. Despite the turnovers, Lea expressed confidence in Pavia’s abilities moving forward.
Game Statistics
| Player | Pass Completions / Attempts | Yards | Touchdowns | Interceptions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ty Simpson | 23 / 31 | 340 | 2 | 0 |
| Diego Pavia | 21 / 36 | 198 | 1 | 1 |
Overall, Alabama exhibited control of the game, with a time of possession of nearly 37.5 minutes. They successfully converted 7 of 15 third downs, a vital component of their strategy. In contrast, Vanderbilt struggled to maintain offensive momentum, particularly in the second half, with a mere 22 rushing yards after a productive first quarter.
Looking Ahead
Despite the setback, Pavia remains optimistic about Vanderbilt’s season goals. With a demanding schedule ahead, including games against ranked opponents such as No. 13 LSU, No. 19 Missouri, and No. 9 Texas, the Commodores will need to refocus and capitalize on opportunities to maintain their SEC championship aspirations.
