Tide Tames the Commodores, 30-14 in SEC Battle

Blog by Walker Johnson

Oct 4, 2025

TUSCALOOSA — No. 10 Alabama rode the arm of Ty Simpson and a stout defense to a 30–14 victory over No. 16 Vanderbilt, handing the Commodores their first loss of the season.

Simpson bounced back from an early interception to complete 23-of-31 for 340 yards and two touchdowns, registering an efficient afternoon that kept Alabama in control. Running back Jam Miller added punch with grinding out 136 yards and a late TD to seal it.

Vanderbilt threatened early, behind Sedrick Alexander’s 65-yard touchdown run and flashes from quarterback Diego Pavia, but turnovers and limited production in the second half stalled their momentum. Evidently, this would turn into a complete collapse for the Commodores.

Alabama converted all four trips into the red zone into points, while the Tide defense forced key turnovers at critical junctures with including a fourth-quarter interception that all but clinched the game. This win bolsters Alabama’s SEC standing and gives the Crimson Tide momentum heading into next week’s matchup. Vanderbilt, meanwhile, still has a strong resume but will need to rebound quickly in the SEC gauntlet.

413’s Bottomline

Alabama has reasserted themselves being a top contender in the SEC…… for now. They looked sharp, balanced, and disciplined in all aspects of the game. Vanderbilt’s run game has proved it's effectiveness, but the Commodores need to find ways to successfully throw the ball downfield to keep their relevance in the SEC.

Up Next

Alabama (4-1, 2-0 SEC): Visits No. 19 Missouri next Saturday.

Vanderbilt (5-1, 1-1 SEC): Bye week prepping to host No. 13 LSU on Oct. 18.