We knew college football in this new era would be different, but no one predicted the biggest story of the SEC through the first two weeks of the season.
I’m talking about Vanderbilt’s impressive 2-0 start, of course.
Three non-conference victories in the SEC stand out through the first two weeks of the season. Tennessee looked impressive in its 51-10 dismantling of N.C. State on Saturday and Texas went up to Michigan and embarrassed the defending champs with a 31-12 victory. The SEC schools were favored to win in those Week 2 games, though. Vandy’s Week 1 upset of Virginia Tech represents something entirely different — potential for chaos in the SEC as the league transitions from shamateurism to full-on pro football.
Can’t believe I’m asking this, but is Vandy back?
Coach Clark Lea’s new-look Dores did nothing to dampen the mood over the weekend. Vanderbilt thumped Alcorn State 55-0. Vandy’s raucous student section began the game by chanting quarterback Diego Pavia’s name. This week, Vandy goes on the road to take on Georgia State before beginning conference play at Missouri in Week 4.
All college football players in the SEC will be able to share in the revenue of their athletic departments beginning as early as next season. What does that mean for the sport? If anyone says they know, then they’re lying. Maybe we’re stepping into a brave new world where Vanderbilt is once again good at football.
