Charleston Southern at Vanderbilt

Vanderbilt enjoyed its first winning season since 2013, finishing 7-6 and had its first bowl bid since 2018. The Commodores defeated Georgia Tech 35-27 in the Birmingham Bowl, and they return 19 starters, including QB Diego Pavia, who threw for 2,293 yards, 20 TDs with only four interceptions, and rushed for eight TDs. His eligibility is in question, but apparently, he will be able to play at least until a hearing in mid-September. The Commodores also beefed up their offensive line, which is vital as Pavia played with some injuries the last five games of the season due to mediocre protection. Jordan White, a transfer from Liberty, will be a primary factor in that improvement as he will take over at center. Charleston Southern comes off a 1-11 season, allowing 26.8 points per game, primarily playing an FCS schedule. The Buccaneers have a new offensive coordinator in Seth Strickland, and freshman Caden Clay is projected to be the starting quarterback. Clay totaled more than 3,500 yards and 35 TDs passing and 1,200 yards and 18 TDs on the ground in his high school career. Charleston Southern is 1-5 ATS, 5-1 OVER against the SEC and finished 2024 0-3-1 ATS in its last four games. The OVER is 13-2-1 in Vandy's past 16 non-conference games. Take Vanderbilt to cover, and bet the OVER.