NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Vanderbilt’s first scrimmage of spring practice had its share of exciting moments, but penalties and discipline issues were a recurring problem. One of the biggest highlights came late in the session when redshirt freshman tight end Brycen Coleman hauled in a deep pass and sprinted 75 yards for a touchdown—only for a yellow flag to bring it back due to a penalty.

That sequence summed up much of the day. While the Commodores showed flashes of offensive improvement, penalties—whether illegal procedures or holding calls—held them back. Head coach Clark Lea wasn’t pleased.

"We learned a lot about what we can't do," Lea said. "Pre-snap penalties, needing to generate stops earlier on defense, finishing plays on the quarterback, and forcing turnovers—those are areas where we fell short today."

Big Plays Show Promise

Despite the mistakes, the offense managed to showcase some explosiveness. Cornerback Martel Hight, who has been testing out reps at wide receiver, contributed to a big play. Coleman continued his strong spring performance, and redshirt sophomore quarterback Blaze Berlowitz delivered some impressive deep throws.

"Offensively, we created some explosive plays, which is an area we need to improve," Lea said. "I was excited to see Martel, Brycen, and Blaze making things happen."

Progress in the Trenches

Vanderbilt’s offensive line has been a weak spot in the past, but Saturday’s scrimmage showed signs of growth. The unit managed to generate more push up front, turning what used to be short gains into solid pickups. With running backs Makhilyn Young and Chase Gillespie sidelined due to injury, starter Sedrick Alexander and walk-on Jamezell Lassiter stepped up.

"I believe our O-line has elevated its play," Lea noted. "They’re moving defenders at the point of attack. Defensively, when we’re not engaged properly, they’ve created space. I’m pleased with the progress."

Quarterback Competition Heating Up

Diego Pavia is locked in as Vanderbilt’s starter, but with five scholarship quarterbacks on the roster (and a sixth arriving this summer), there’s a battle for the backup spot. Berlowitz may be emerging as a contender.

"It was a cleaner day for Blaze," Lea said. "He took advantage of shot opportunities. He’s got athletic and physical tools, a strong arm—now it’s about decision-making and ball security. We can’t afford turnovers."

Berlowitz, a transfer from New Mexico State, has been working under offensive coordinator Tim Beck to refine his game. He knows what’s expected.

"Coach Beck preaches keeping drives alive," Berlowitz said. "We want to control the game, hold onto the ball, and eliminate turnovers. That’s the focus."

Wide Receiver Depth Concerns

Beyond starting receiver Junior Sherrill, Vanderbilt is still searching for reliable pass-catchers. Hight’s transition to offense is part of that effort, but ideally, one of the younger receivers—Boski Barrett, Tristen Brown, Chance Fitzgerald, or Joseph McVay—will step up.

McVay, dealing with an injury, hasn’t been able to get as many reps as needed. The others have made minor contributions, but Lea acknowledged they’re not where they need to be yet.

"Probably a little behind," Lea admitted. "We had a few formational errors today. McVay’s been limited but has made physical strides. Tristen and Boski are growing, but we need them to take the next step. Fortunately, we’re not playing next week, so there’s time. But come fall, we’ll need them to be playmakers."

Moving Forward

Vanderbilt’s first spring scrimmage was a mix of highs and lows. Explosive plays and offensive line improvement were positives, but penalties and depth concerns remain issues to address. With several months before the season opener, Lea and his staff have time to iron out the wrinkles. The Commodores aren’t where they want to be yet, but there are reasons for optimism.

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