Week 5 of the 2025 regular season brings an intriguing matchup as the Utah State Aggies travel to FirstBank Stadium in Nashville to meet the Vanderbilt Commodores. Scheduled for Saturday, September 27, 2025, at 12:45 PM, this afternoon game will be broadcast on SECN. Both teams bring distinct strengths to this outdoor field encounter. Utah State comes into this game with a 3-1 record, having excelled at home but faced challenges on the road, as evidenced by their 0-1 road record. The Aggies most recently dominated McNeese State Cowboys with a 48-7 win, showcasing their high-octane offense. Their previous road experience against Texas A&M resulted in a 44-22 loss, highlighting potential vulnerabilities away from home. Vanderbilt, ranked #18 in the AP poll and #20 in the Coaches Poll, holds a pristine 4-0 record, demonstrating consistency both at home and on the road. Their last game was a commanding 70-21 victory against Georgia State Panthers, asserting their offensive dominance. Playing in their home stadium, the Commodores aim to continue their undefeated streak against the visiting Aggies.
Vanderbilt vs Utah State At a Glance
- Game Location: FirstBank Stadium in Nashville, TN
- Broadcast Details: Watch on SECN
- Game Odds: Vanderbilt is favored with a moneyline of -2057
- Utah State Record: Currently 3-1 this season
- Vanderbilt Record: Undefeated at 4-0 this season
- Kickoff Time: Scheduled for 12:45 PM on Saturday, September 27, 2025
Vanderbilt Commodores Ready to Take on Utah State Aggies
Utah State Aggies Offense Overview
Utah State’s offensive performance has been pivotal in their recent games. Their passing game has shown significant improvement, contributing to their overall success. The Aggies’ ability to generate first downs has been a key factor in maintaining offensive momentum.
With a solid mix of passing and rushing yards, Utah State can challenge any defense they encounter. The team has focused on balancing their offensive strategies to optimize scoring opportunities. This multifaceted offense is designed to keep opponents guessing and off-balance.
Defense Under Scrutiny
Defensively, Utah State has experienced both strengths and weaknesses this season. Their ability to force turnovers, including interceptions and fumbles, has been a highlight. However, containing the run game has posed challenges at times.
Consistency in defensive play will be crucial against Vanderbilt’s potent offense. The Aggies are aware of the need to tighten up their defensive schemes to mitigate Vanderbilt’s scoring threats. Effective tackling and discipline will be pivotal in this matchup.
Key Players to Watch
The Aggies’ quarterback has been a standout performer, showcasing precision in passing. His connection with the wide receivers has been instrumental in their offensive success. On defense, the linebackers have been pivotal in both run-stopping and pass defense.
Special teams also play a significant role, with their kicker being reliable in clutch situations. The coordination between the offense, defense, and special teams will be vital for Utah State’s overall performance. Key contributions from playmakers will be necessary to compete against Vanderbilt.
Utah State Aggies Betting Trends
- ATS – Last 5 Games: 3-2 (60%)
- O/U – Last 5 Games: 2-3 (40%)
- SU – Last 5 Away Games: 2-3 (40%)
- ATS – Last 5 Away Games: 3-2 (60%)
- O/U – Last 5 Away Games: 1-4 (20%)
Utah State Aggies: A Road Test Awaits
Offensive Performance
The Utah State Aggies have had an impressive start to the 2025 season, securing a rank of 20th in points for, with a total of 147 points. Their passing game stands at 44th, tallying 985 yards, while the rushing attack matches that rank with 730 yards. These statistics underscore a balanced offensive approach capable of challenging opponents in multiple facets.
Key to their offensive prowess is the efficiency in securing first downs, with 85 so far this season, which places them 25th in the nation. This ability to sustain drives and convert on crucial downs has been pivotal for the Aggies’ success. It will be critical for them to maintain this momentum on the road.
Defensive Outlook
Defensively, the Aggies have shown strength in pressuring the quarterback with 10 sacks, placing them 8th nationally. Their defense also excels in creating turnovers, with 4 interceptions and a rank of 5th, alongside a fumble recovery ranking tied for 5th. This aggressive defensive play can shift momentum and create opportunities for their offense.
However, the Aggies have allowed 97 points against them, ranking 67th, which indicates room for improvement in limiting opponents’ scoring. The defensive unit will need to tighten up to complement their offensive strengths, especially in high-pressure away games.
Recent Performance
In their recent game, Utah State dominated McNeese State with a commanding 48-7 victory, showcasing both their offensive and defensive capabilities. Their balanced attack yielded 293 passing yards and 337 rushing yards, illustrating their ability to adapt and execute effectively. Such performances have built confidence and momentum heading into upcoming challenges.
Despite a setback against Texas A&M earlier in the season, where they fell 44-22, the Aggies have shown resilience by bouncing back with consecutive wins. This resilience will be tested again as they prepare for their away game against the Vanderbilt Commodores.
Key Players to Watch
Quarterback Bryson Barnes has been instrumental, leading the offense with 982 passing yards and ranking 1st on the team. His ability to distribute the ball efficiently and score is crucial for the Aggies. On the ground, Miles Davis has contributed 310 rushing yards, providing a dual threat that defenses must respect.
Wide receiver Braden Pegan has also been a standout performer with 303 receiving yards and 3 touchdowns. His ability to make big plays downfield adds a dynamic element to Utah State’s offense. These players will be pivotal in continuing the Aggies’ offensive success.
Betting Trends
- SU – As Favorite: 14-1 (93.3%) over the last 15 games
- O/U – As Underdog: 9-0 (100.0%) over the last 9 games
- ATS – All Games: 7-0 (100.0%) over the last 7 games
- ATS – Totals ≥ 50: 7-0 (100.0%) over the last 7 games
- SU – Home Games: 5-0 (100.0%) over the last 5 games
Vanderbilt vs Utah State Prediction: Over 59.5
Vanderbilt’s offensive capabilities have been on full display this season, scoring a staggering 70 points in their recent game against Georgia State. Their offense ranks 6th nationally in points for, and they have a balanced attack with 1034 passing yards and 900 rushing yards. This high-powered offense, combined with Utah State’s ability to score, suggests a game with plenty of points.
Utah State has demonstrated their offensive potential, ranking 20th in points scored this season, which should contribute to a high-scoring game. Although they rank 67th in points against, both teams’ offensive prowess should drive the total score upward. With both teams’ offenses being efficient, the conditions are ripe for the over to hit.
Vanderbilt has been a strong performer in games with high total points, holding a 12-4-1 record in over/under for totals 50 or more. This trend is further supported by their 18-8-1 record in over/under home games since 2021. These trends indicate a likelihood of the total points exceeding the set line of 59.5.
Given the offensive capabilities of both teams and the trends in Vanderbilt’s recent games, the over is the favorable pick. Expect a final score with Vanderbilt outpacing Utah State, resulting in a combined total exceeding the line of 59.5.
- Vanderbilt vs Utah State Prediction: Over 59.5
- Vanderbilt vs Utah State Score: Vanderbilt 45 – Utah State 21
