Vanderbilt is getting its young phenom quarterback back just in time to host No. 9 Ole Miss on Saturday afternoon. Sources are telling CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz that five-star freshman Jared Curtis is expected to return against the Rebels, after sitting out last week’s game against Georgia due to an injury. This isn’t just a big game; it’s a huge moment for the Commodores’ offense.
The Grind and the Comeback: Curtis’s Wild Ride So Far
Curtis last hit the field in Week 4, when Vandy faced Auburn on the road, and man, did he take a beating. He ran the ball 18 times in that game, getting sacked four times in the process. That’s a rough day at the office for anyone, let alone a freshman. It’s no surprise he was sidelined for the Georgia matchup. Veteran Blaze Berlowitz stepped in for that game, completing 52.2% of his passes for 190 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Berlowitz actually won the starting job out of camp, but Curtis quickly surpassed him on the depth chart, making his first start against NC State in Week 3.
Through just four games, Curtis has shown flashes of exactly why he was tabbed as a five-star recruit and the No. 2 overall player in the 2026 signing class by 247Sports. He’s connected on 64.3% of his throws for 746 yards, four touchdowns, and three interceptions. Sure, decision-making has been a bit of a problem early on, but come on, the kid’s a freshman! That’s totally expected, and the talent is undeniable.
Why This Return Is a Nightmare for Ole Miss
Curtis’s return isn’t just good news; it totally elevates the ceiling of the Vanderbilt offense. They actually have a chance to score some serious points on Ole Miss this weekend, and here’s why that’s a problem for the Rebels: their defense has left a lot, and I mean *a lot*, to be desired, especially against the run. That unit ranks a dismal 127th nationally, giving up 194.8 rushing yards per game. Yikes.
That stat means the ‘Dores should be able to lean on running back Sedrick Alexander. The dude already leads the team with 200 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns. If Alexander can keep those chains moving for Vanderbilt, it’s going to take a ton of pressure off Curtis, who, let’s remember, is only making the second start of his college career. This is a Nashville native with a shot to cement himself as a hometown hero if Vandy can pull off the upset. They haven’t beaten the Rebels since 2018, so the stage is set for something special this Saturday afternoon.
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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