Get ready, college football world, because Vanderbilt is expected to throw five-star true freshman Jared Curtis into the starting quarterback role against NC State this Saturday. After two games with veteran Blaze Berlowitz under center, the Commodores are making a move, and it’s a big one.
The Freshman Phenom Steps Up
This kid isn’t just any freshman. Curtis is the highest-rated recruit in Vanderbilt history, period. He was the nation’s No. 2 overall prospect in the 2026 class, trailing only Houston’s Keisean Henderson as the second-best quarterback prospect. We caught glimpses of him early, like his 7-of-9 for 60 yards in limited action during the 28-9 win over Austin Peay. But it was the Delaware game last weekend where he truly got his chance to shine.
Proving Ground in Delaware
Coach Clark Lea had Berlowitz start against Delaware, but after only two series, Curtis was in. And aside from one Berlowitz three-and-out late in the second quarter, Curtis played the entire rest of that 35-26 victory. He went 14-of-22 for 210 passing yards, threw a touchdown pass, ran for two more scores, and didn’t throw a single interception. Talk about making a statement! Lea, who hinted this was the plan all along, praised him big time after the game. Even though things weren’t perfect with a dropped snap and delay of game, Lea said Curtis “kept us organized enough to lead a touchdown drive,” adding, “I was really impressed with the way he settled into the game.” He knows “there’s a lot to build on from that.”
So, the veteran is out, and the future is now. This Saturday, against NC State, we’ll all be watching to see if Curtis can take everything he learned and build on it. Can he keep that momentum rolling? You know we’ll be watching.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by CBS Sports.
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