The Alabama Crimson Tide Football vs Vanderbilt Football Match Player Stats took place on October 5, 2024, at Vanderbilt’s home ground, FirstBank Stadium in Nashville. This game is remembered for Vanderbilt’s shocking 40-35 victory. The Commodores entered the match as clear underdogs, considering Alabama was ranked No. 1 nationally, boasting an impressive recent history against Vanderbilt.
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Historically, Alabama had dominated Vanderbilt, winning consistently since 1984. Vanderbilt’s last win against Alabama was 40 years ago, making this triumph even more memorable. This upset was monumental, marking Vanderbilt’s first-ever victory over an AP Top-5 team. Fans and analysts alike are now calling it one of the biggest upsets in recent SEC history.
Key Team Statistics: Alabama vs Vanderbilt Match
| Statistic | Alabama | Vanderbilt |
|---|---|---|
| Total Yards | 394 | 418 |
| Passing Yards | 310 | 252 |
| Rushing Yards | 84 | 166 |
| Turnovers | 2 | 0 |
| Time of Possession | 17:52 | 42:08 |
Vanderbilt controlled critical aspects of the game, notably total yards and rushing. Their superior ground game and ball security (zero turnovers) significantly impacted the result.
Alabama, usually known for balanced offense and defensive prowess, struggled to maintain possession. The two costly turnovers severely hurt their momentum, allowing Vanderbilt to capitalize and manage the clock expertly. Vanderbilt’s extended time of possession proved crucial, limiting Alabama’s explosive offense opportunities.
Star Player Performances: Alabama Crimson Tide
Alabama’s quarterback, Jalen Milroe, delivered a commendable yet mixed performance, completing 18 of 24 passes for 310 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Despite these impressive numbers, the interception he threw early in the game shifted momentum toward Vanderbilt.
Jam Miller, Alabama’s running back, scored two rushing touchdowns and managed 45 yards on five carries, demonstrating efficiency despite limited opportunities. Wide receiver Ryan Williams was another bright spot for the Crimson Tide, gaining 82 receiving yards and a crucial touchdown. However, despite individual brilliance, Alabama struggled to maintain consistent offensive pressure throughout the match.
Swing Performers: Vanderbilt Commodores Player Stats
Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia significantly impacted both passing and rushing. He completed 16 of 20 passes for 252 yards and two touchdowns, also contributing 56 rushing yards. His dual-threat capability kept Alabama’s defense guessing throughout the game.
Running back Sedrick Alexander added crucial ground support, totaling 64 yards on 21 carries, including two pivotal rushing touchdowns. Additionally, tight end Eli Stowers played a crucial role with seven catches for 113 yards, consistently extending drives and frustrating Alabama’s defensive backfield.
Game-Changing Defensive & Special Teams Plays
A notable defensive highlight was Vanderbilt linebacker Randon Fontenette’s interception returned for a touchdown in the first quarter. This early defensive score set the game’s tone, putting immediate pressure on Alabama.
Vanderbilt’s special teams played a disciplined role in field positioning, regularly pinning Alabama deep in their territory. Alabama’s special teams, usually a strength, struggled, giving Vanderbilt an advantage in field position battles that influenced the game’s overall strategy.
Play-by-Play Analysis of Major Scoring Drives
Vanderbilt’s sustained scoring drives, particularly in the second half, were essential. Multiple methodical drives controlled the clock and kept Alabama’s offense off the field. Notably, a 14-play, 82-yard drive ending in a touchdown was instrumental in Vanderbilt’s momentum.
Alabama responded with explosive plays, including Ryan Williams’ 58-yard touchdown reception and Milroe’s critical 14-yard touchdown run. Despite these big plays, Alabama couldn’t consistently replicate the scoring drives required to regain control due to Vanderbilt’s ball management strategy.
What These Stats Reveal: Trends & Tactical Insights
Vanderbilt’s statistical dominance, particularly in time of possession (42:08 vs. Alabama’s 17:52), highlights a clear tactical focus on controlling the game’s pace. Vanderbilt relied heavily on a persistent ground attack and short, efficient passing.
On the other hand, Alabama’s explosive yet inconsistent offense proved insufficient against Vanderbilt’s disciplined defensive play and tactical execution. This match exposed vulnerabilities in Alabama’s run defense and their vulnerability when forced into rushed offensive sets.
Broader Impact: Rankings, Streaks & Upset Significance
The Vanderbilt win reshaped the rankings landscape, dropping Alabama from its coveted No. 1 spot and significantly affecting their playoff chances. This historic upset emphasized the unpredictability and excitement of college football.
Additionally, this victory has enormous implications for Vanderbilt’s football program, boosting their recruitment potential, national attention, and overall team morale. Such a monumental win establishes credibility and sets a foundation for future success.
FAQs
- When did Vanderbilt last beat Alabama before this game?
Before this game, Vanderbilt last beat Alabama in 1984, a gap of 40 years. - Who was Vanderbilt’s top player?
Quarterback Diego Pavia led Vanderbilt, significantly contributing both through passing and rushing. - What was the key factor in Vanderbilt’s win?
Time of possession was critical, as Vanderbilt controlled the clock extensively and limited Alabama’s scoring opportunities. - How did turnovers affect the game?
Alabama’s two turnovers significantly shifted momentum, directly influencing Vanderbilt’s points and game control. - What impact did this result have on Alabama’s rankings?
Alabama dropped from their No. 1 ranking, severely affecting their playoff chances and overall standing.
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