The Vanderbilt Commodores improved their season record to 5-2 after securing a victory over the Ball State Cardinals with a final score of 24-14. The game, held at FirstBank Stadium in Nashville, saw the Commodores execute a well-rounded performance to overcome the Cardinals, who now sit at a 2-5 record for the season.

Oct 19, 2024; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Vanderbilt Commodores quarterback Diego Pavia (2) leaps over Ball State Cardinals defensive back Willizhuan Yates (20) during the second half at FirstBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images

Key Highlights from the Game

The Commodores' offense was on full display, amassing a total of 420 yards. Quarterback Diego Pavia led the charge with an impressive showing, completing 17 out of 31 passes for 275 yards and throwing one touchdown. His connection with tight end Eli Stowers was particularly noteworthy; Stowers caught eight passes for an impressive total of 130 yards and scored one touchdown.

On the ground, Vanderbilt showcased its depth in running back talent. Diego Pavia not only excelled in passing but also led rushing efforts with 82 yards on thirteen carries, including scoring one rushing touchdown that contributed significantly to Vanderbilt's offensive success. Sedrick Alexander and Chase Gillespie also made notable contributions to the running game, adding depth and versatility to Vanderbilt's attack.

Oct 19, 2024; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Vanderbilt Commodores wide receiver Junior Sherrill (0) celebrates the first down against the Ball State Cardinals during the first half at FirstBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images

Vanderbilt's defense was equally up to task, holding Ball State to just two touchdowns throughout the game. The defensive squad tallied two sacks and four tackles for loss against Ball State’s offense. Nick Rinaldi stood out on defense with five tackles and one sack that resulted in significant lost yardage for Ball State.

Special Teams Play A Crucial Role

Special teams played a pivotal role in Vanderbilt’s victory as well. Kicker Brock Taylor successfully converted all three field goal attempts with his longest being from 38 yards out. This flawless performance by Taylor added crucial points on board for Vanderbilt.

Oct 19, 2024; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Vanderbilt Commodores tight end Eli Stowers (9) scores a touchdown as Ball State Cardinals defensive back Willizhuan Yates (20) hits him during the first half at FirstBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images

Punter Jesse Mirco also had an impactful game by pinning down Ball State inside their own twenty-yard line once among his three attempts while averaging nearly forty-six yards per punt which helped shift field position in favor of Vanderbilt throughout much of the contest.

Looking Ahead

The next challenge awaiting Vanderbilt Commodores is against Texas Longhorns at FirstBank Stadium in Nashville on October 26th at 1:00 PM EDT. Fans looking forward to this matchup can catch all action live on ESPN Networks as both teams strive towards securing another win this season.

As we anticipate another exciting encounter featuring these talented squads, sharing insights from this recent victory could spark engaging discussions among fans eagerly waiting next weekend’s clash between Vanderbilt Commodores and Texas Longhorns.

Vanderbilt Commodores - NCAA Football - Recap

Vanderbilt Commodores Triumph Over Auburn Tigers in Overtime Showdown

Did Vanderbilt Commodores' Fourth Quarter Surge Against Texas Longhorns Fall Short?

Did Vanderbilt Commodores' Defense Dominate Missouri Tigers at FirstBank Stadium?

Did Vanderbilt Commodores' Rushing Attack Overpower LSU Tigers at FirstBank Stadium?

Can Vanderbilt Commodores' Defense Turn the Tide Against Alabama Crimson Tide?

Vanderbilt Commodores Sail Past Utah State Aggies with a 55-35 Victory

Vanderbilt Commodores Dominate Georgia State Panthers with a Rushing Avalanche

Did Vanderbilt Commodores' Defense Dominate South Carolina Gamecocks at Williams-Brice Stadium?

Vanderbilt Commodores Storm Lane Stadium, Overpower Virginia Tech Hokies with a Second Half Surge

Vanderbilt Commodores Sail Past Charleston Southern Buccaneers with a Dominant Display

Vanderbilt Commodores Outmaneuver Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets in Season Finale

Vanderbilt Commodores vs Tennessee Volunteers: Did Special Teams Make the Difference?

Vanderbilt Commodores Narrowly Miss Victory Against LSU Tigers at Tiger Stadium

Can Vanderbilt Commodores' Defense Halt the Gamecocks' Charge?

Vanderbilt Commodores Outmaneuver Auburn Tigers in a Defensive Showcase

Vanderbilt Commodores Narrowly Miss Victory Against Texas Longhorns at FirstBank Stadium

Vanderbilt Commodores Overcome Ball State Cardinals in a Tactical Showcase

Vanderbilt Commodores Secure Victory Over Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field

Vanderbilt Commodores Outmaneuver Alabama Crimson Tide in a High-Scoring Affair

Vanderbilt Commodores Narrowly Miss Victory in Overtime Battle at Missouri

Will Vanderbilt Commodores' Late Surge Inspire a Turnaround?