What We Heard: Clark Lea, Transfers, and QB Competition After Vanderbilt’s Spring Game
Vanderbilt wrapped up spring practice with its spring game earlier today, and afterward, Clark Lea and several players met with the media.
From the “quarterback competition” to a wave of new transfers adjusting to the program, there was plenty to talk about on the final day of spring football.
Full media availability below
HC Clark Lea
Key Takeaways
- Spring game wasn’t overly significant – Lea emphasized the entire spring as the real evaluation period
- QB competition still wide open – no decision coming anytime soon
- Jared Curtis shows elite physical traits, but needs to continue developing command of the offense
- Emphasis moving forward: decision-making, rhythm, and operating the offense pre- and post-snap
- Lea made it clear: this team won’t try to replicate Diego Pavia – different identity moving forward
- Transfer-heavy roster still coming together, but overall progress and team spirit stood out
- Highlighted Payne Daniel as spring MVP and one of the most consistent players on the team
- TE room is developing – growth from Walt Taylor and others, but still a work in progress
- WR room gaining depth and identity with multiple contributors emerging
- Overall message: progress made, but still a lot of ground to cover before fall
Notable Quotes
- “I think we have a long way to go… but I am pleased with the progress we made.”
- “I’m not going to make a quarterback decision.”
- “Time is going to give him the opportunity to grow into the system.” (on Curtis)
- “You can’t prepare four people to play in a game… this will be a process of elimination.”
- “This team is not going to be about trying to replace Diego Pavia.”
TE Walter Taylor
WR Ja’Cory Thomas
DL Talan Carter
EDGE Edwin Kolenge
Final Thoughts
This Vanderbilt team still has questions to answer, but the direction coming out of spring is clear. There’s more competition across the roster, more transfer talent in key spots, and a staff that believes it can bring it all together before Week 1 this fall.
More key takeaways from spring practice and the spring game available on TDR’s Premium Message Board -> Behind Closed Dores
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