Jared Curtis Outshines Blaze Berlowitz in Vanderbilt’s 35-26 Win as Coach Declines to Name Starter

Overview

• The Commodores beat Delaware 35-26 on Sept. 12 with freshman Jared Curtis finishing 14-for-22 for 210 yards, one passing touchdown and two rushing TDs while starter Blaze Berlowitz went 3-for-9, 29 yards and lost a fumble.
• Lea said Curtis’ entry in the third series was part of a prescribed plan, that the staff will further evaluate the quarterbacks on Sept. 14, and that he has not committed to a long-term starter ahead of the Sept. 19 game with NC State.
• Vanderbilt’s defense and special teams swung momentum by producing six sacks from five players and a blocked-punt touchdown that helped fuel the 21-point third quarter comeback.
• Offensive problems beyond quarterbacking persisted, including a thin running game (123 rushing yards), multiple receiver drops, tackling lapses, procedural penalties and an early knee injury to blocking tight end Cole Spence listed as week-to-week.
• The matchup forces a quick decision because Curtis is a high-profile five-star freshman whose strong play raises expectations while the team must fix execution and injury issues before facing stronger conference competition.