Vanderbilt decides on starting QB for Week 1, per report
By Andrew Olson
Published:
After two exciting seasons with Diego Pavia, Vanderbilt has a new starting quarterback in 2026. On Tuesday, a decision was reportedly made.
ESPN’s Pete Thamel and others are reporting that Clark Lea is going with senior Blaze Berlowitz as QB1 to open the 2026 season. Berlowitz was competing with true freshman Jared Curtis, a 5-star prospect in the 2026 recruiting class.
Sources: Vanderbilt senior Blaze Berlowitz will be the starting quarterback to open the season for the Commodores. He’ll make his first career start against Austin Peay on Sept. 5. Five-star true freshman Jared Curtis will also play in that game, marking his first career snaps. pic.twitter.com/IflEFhbFlV
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) August 25, 2026
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Like Pavia, Berlowitz played for Vanderbilt offensive coordinator Tim Beck at New Mexico State before transferring to the Commodores. He has seen limited action in 3 seasons of college football.
Berlowitz was 10-of-19 for 134 yards in 2023. He did not see game action during the 2024 season at Vanderbilt. Last season, Berlowitz was 9-of-17 for 131 yards and a touchdown in 6 appearances for the Dores.
Vanderbilt opens the 2026 season hosting Austin Peay on Sept. 5.
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Andrew writes about sports to fund his love of live music and collection of concert posters. He strongly endorses the Hall of Fame campaign of Fred Taylor.
