Vanderbilt’s offense faltered throughout its “21-6 loss to seventh-ranked Alabama” on Nov. 14 at FirstBank Stadium.
The Commodores, who are now 4-6, struggled to maintain momentum against their highly favored opponent, according to “reporting by Yahoo Sports.”
Alabama’s offense initially stumbled, creating what appeared to be an opening for an upset, but the home team could not take advantage of the slow start.
Vanderbilt’s offensive woes were highlighted by five consecutive possessions in the first half without gaining a single first down.
During that stretch, the “Commodores combined to lose 18 net yards” after accounting for penalties.
Quarterback Jared Curtis threw for 223 yards on 25-of-41 passing, but the team finished with only 12 rushing yards.
The offense also struggled on third downs, converting only 2-of-15 attempts during the contest.
Despite pregame concerns regarding an ankle injury, Alabama quarterback Keelon Russell started the game for the “seventh-ranked Alabama Crimson Tide.”
Russell managed to throw three touchdowns on consecutive possessions, effectively securing control of the game by the third quarter.
Vanderbilt committed 14 penalties throughout the afternoon, further hindering any chances of mounting a comeback.
The team twice saw promising drives stall in the red zone on fourth-down attempts late in the game.
This defeat leaves Vanderbilt in a difficult position as they attempt to qualify for a bowl game for the third consecutive season.
To reach bowl eligibility, the team must win its final two games of the season.
Those remaining matchups include a road game against Florida and a home contest against Tennessee.
The loss marks a missed opportunity for the Commodores to secure another high-profile upset against a major program.
Local outlets noted that the sluggish offensive performance ultimately kept the team from remaining competitive against the Crimson Tide.