Freshman QB Jared Curtis Leads Struggling Vanderbilt
Vanderbilt seeks a rebound as freshman quarterback Jared Curtis navigates a four-game losing streak.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Football
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Vanderbilt freshman quarterback Jared Curtis has assumed the starting role as the team faces a four-game losing streak. The Commodores hold a 3-4 overall record and are currently 0-4 in SEC play.
Why it matters
The team must stabilize its offensive performance after a 31-21 loss to Arkansas while missing key personnel. With upcoming matchups on the horizon, the focus remains on finding consistency in SEC competition.
Jared Curtis has completed 101 of 161 passes for 1,242 yards, recording six touchdowns against seven interceptions. He has also contributed 144 rushing yards on 55 attempts.
The players
Jared Curtis
He is a freshman quarterback for Vanderbilt who stepped into the starting role mid-season.
Blaze Berlowitz
He is a Vanderbilt quarterback who is currently sidelined with a broken collarbone.
Junior Sherrill
He is a wide receiver for Vanderbilt who serves as a primary target for passing plays.
Ja'Cory Thomas
He is a wide receiver for Vanderbilt who assists the quarterback in executing downfield passing plays.
The details
Jared Curtis took over as the starter following the game against NC State and relies on wide receivers Junior Sherrill and Ja'Cory Thomas for downfield passing. The team is managing personnel changes after Blaze Berlowitz suffered a broken collarbone on October 10.
Timeline
September 19, 2026: Jared Curtis became the starting quarterback.
October 10, 2026: Blaze Berlowitz suffered a broken collarbone.
October 17, 2026: Vanderbilt lost to Arkansas 31-21.
October 20, 2026: Jared Curtis spoke to the media.
October 24, 2026: Vanderbilt plays Kentucky.
Season Trajectory
The current four-game losing streak significantly dampens Vanderbilt's postseason prospects in an increasingly difficult SEC schedule. Improving offensive execution remains critical to changing the team's momentum heading into their next matchup.
With an 0-4 SEC record, Vanderbilt faces a steep climb to regain competitiveness against conference rivals. Fans should monitor the injury status of the quarterback room, as the loss of Blaze Berlowitz limits the team's depth through mid-November.
The takeaway
Developing consistency under pressure is the primary challenge for the freshman quarterback as the season progresses. Establishing a rhythm with his receivers will be vital for any offensive improvement in the upcoming games.
What happens next
Vanderbilt faces Kentucky on October 24, 2026.
Further reading
For more on the team's performance, see the latest Football updates.
Live Poll
Do you still feel loyal to your local college team during a long losing streak?
