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Vanderbilt football returns to FirstBank Stadium on Saturday, November 14, for a major SEC challenge against the No. 3 Alabama Crimson Tide. The Commodores enter the matchup at 4-5, while Alabama arrives with a 7-2 record and renewed College Football Playoff momentum.
The game carries added intrigue because Vanderbilt stunned Alabama in Nashville during the teams’ previous meeting at the stadium. The Commodores won that 2024 contest 40-35, creating one of the most memorable upsets in recent program history. Alabama will be determined to prevent a repeat, but Vanderbilt has another opportunity to shake up the SEC race on its home field.
Vanderbilt Football Faces a Critical SEC Test
Vanderbilt snapped a five-game losing streak last Saturday with a narrow 25-23 victory over Mississippi State. The Commodores built a 16-0 halftime lead before Mississippi State rallied, turning the game into a tense finish.
Kicker Brock Taylor played a decisive role, converting six field-goal attempts, including impressive makes from 54 and 55 yards. Quarterback Jared Curtis passed for 168 yards, while Makhilyn Young rushed for 63 yards. Sedrick Alexander added 59 rushing yards and a touchdown as Vanderbilt held on for the win.
The victory gave the Commodores a much-needed boost late in the regular season. Vanderbilt now faces one of the most difficult tests on its schedule, but the team’s previous home success against Alabama should provide confidence. A win would give the Commodores another landmark victory and could dramatically change the conversation around their season.
Alabama Arrives After Explosive Win Over LSU
Alabama enters the game after defeating LSU 31-13, its second consecutive victory. The Crimson Tide trailed 13-10 late in the third quarter before scoring 21 unanswered points to pull away.
Quarterback Keelon Russell completed 17 of 24 passes for 206 yards and three touchdowns. Two of those touchdown passes came in the fourth quarter, helping Alabama take control when the game was still within reach. Rico Scott caught three passes for 67 yards, while Kaleb Edwards finished with 50 receiving yards and a touchdown.
Alabama’s defense also delivered a strong performance. Luke Metz recorded 11 tackles and an interception, while Devan Thompkins contributed two sacks. The Crimson Tide will look to maintain that defensive pressure against a Vanderbilt offense capable of producing explosive plays.
Keelon Russell Injury Adds Urgent Quarterback Drama
Russell’s health became a major storyline before kickoff after he suffered an ankle issue during the victory over LSU. His availability was described as a game-time decision, and reports indicated that Austin Mack was expected to start if Russell could not play.
The quarterback situation could significantly affect Alabama’s approach. Russell has shown accuracy and poise during his breakout season, but Mack would be asked to guide the offense in a difficult road environment. Vanderbilt’s defense will likely test the Alabama quarterback early with pressure and disguised coverage.
For Vanderbilt, the priority will be slowing Alabama’s passing attack while limiting scoring opportunities in the red zone. The Commodores also need to avoid the mistakes that allowed Mississippi State to erase most of a 16-point deficit last week.
How to Watch Alabama vs. Vanderbilt
- Date: Saturday, November 14, 2026
- Kickoff: 12:45 p.m. ET
- Location: FirstBank Stadium in Nashville
- TV: SEC Network
- Streaming: Available through participating live television services
Alabama is favored because of its national ranking, recent form and offensive firepower. Vanderbilt, however, has already demonstrated that it can challenge the Crimson Tide in Nashville. The Commodores will need another disciplined performance from Taylor, Curtis and the defense to keep the game close.
The matchup also carries postseason implications for Alabama. With the Crimson Tide pursuing a College Football Playoff position, a loss to a 4-5 opponent would be damaging. Vanderbilt, meanwhile, can strengthen its bowl outlook and create another signature moment by defending its home field.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Vanderbilt play Alabama?
Vanderbilt hosts Alabama on Saturday, November 14, 2026. Kickoff is scheduled for 12:45 p.m. Eastern Time.
What channel is the Alabama vs. Vanderbilt game on?
The game will be televised nationally on SEC Network.
Is Keelon Russell expected to play?
Russell’s ankle injury made him a game-time decision. Reports indicated that Austin Mack was expected to start if Russell was unavailable.
What happened in Vanderbilt’s last game?
Vanderbilt ended a five-game losing streak by defeating Mississippi State 25-23. Brock Taylor made six field goals in the victory.
Did Vanderbilt beat Alabama recently?
Yes. Vanderbilt defeated Alabama 40-35 in Nashville during the teams’ 2024 meeting.
