Vanderbilt Football's Win Over Mississippi State Had Clark Lea's Fingerprints All Over It, Which Says Something

A breakthrough in Starkville

Vanderbilt left Starkville with a 25-23 victory, its first against Mississippi State since 2004 and its first win in Starkville since 1971. The result also marked Vanderbilt’s first SEC win of the season and snapped a five-game losing streak.

The Commodores built a 16-0 lead, but Mississippi State fought back after a coverage breakdown and a Jared Curtis fumble near Vanderbilt’s end zone that was returned for a touchdown. Vanderbilt stayed composed and secured the win when Cole Spence caught the onside kick.

A team that stayed resilient

The season had brought many of the problems Lea feared, and Vanderbilt entered the game as an underdog. Yet the team did not fold when its lead disappeared, showing a resilience the article contrasts with some of Lea’s earlier teams.

Mississippi State used backup quarterback AJ Swann, who had opened the season as Vanderbilt’s starter. Despite the opponent’s comeback, Vanderbilt maintained its approach and finished with the victory.

Three phases shape the win

Vanderbilt controlled the ball for nearly 20 minutes longer than Mississippi State and ran for 160 yards on 52 carries. The Commodores converted both of their fourth-down attempts and kept themselves from frequently facing long-yardage situations.

Lea sees renewed spirit

Lea said his players had faced a difficult stretch without withdrawing or retreating. He credited the bye week and renewed enjoyment of football for the energy he saw on the field, saying it was good to get back on track.

The season had tested the team through a polarizing quarterback competition and difficult messaging from Lea. Although some players may not remain at Vanderbilt, those tensions did not define the team’s performance in Starkville.