Texas vs. Vanderbilt SEC Game Preview, Odds, TV

**No. 12 Texas Prepares for SEC Showdown Against No. 18 Vanderbilt at DKR**

**AUSTIN, Texas – November 20, 2024** – A significant SEC battle is set to unfold this Saturday, November 23rd, as the No. 12 Texas Longhorns host the No. 18 Vanderbilt Commodores at DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin. Kickoff for the crucial conference matchup is slated for 3:30 p.m. Eastern Time (2:30 p.m. Central Time). Fans unable to attend can catch all the action live on CBS or stream it via Paramount+.

The Longhorns enter the contest as heavy favorites, currently sitting at -16.5 points against the Commodores. The total points for the game are projected around 52.5. On the money line, Texas is listed at -800, while Vanderbilt stands as a substantial underdog at +550, reflecting the challenge they face on the road.

Both teams are riding momentum from recent victories. Texas secured a solid 35-21 win over Florida in Gainesville last weekend, showcasing their offensive firepower and defensive resilience. Vanderbilt, meanwhile, pulled off a gritty 24-20 victory against Missouri, demonstrating their ability to close out tight games in conference play.

Texas holds an impressive 8-2 overall record and a 5-2 mark in SEC play, positioning them well as the season winds down. Vanderbilt, under head coach Clark Lea, has surprised many with a strong 7-3 overall record and a 4-3 standing in the SEC, exceeding preseason expectations and pushing for a stronger bowl bid.

All eyes will be on Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers, who is expected to be back under center. Ewers had been nursing an ankle sprain suffered back on November 9th against Arkansas. His return is a significant boost for the Longhorns’ potent offense. “Quinn has worked tirelessly to get back, and we’re confident in his ability to lead this team,” stated Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian earlier this week. “Vanderbilt presents a tough challenge, and we’ll need our best performance.”

Beyond Ewers, the Longhorn offense will rely heavily on running back C.J. Baxter, who has consistently delivered impactful performances throughout the season, providing a crucial ground attack. For Vanderbilt, quarterback Drew Richmond has been a revelation, leading the Commodores’ offense with poise and efficiency, a key factor in their success this year. “Drew has been exceptional,” commented Vanderbilt’s Clark Lea. “He’s a true competitor, and we’re excited for him to showcase his talents on a big stage against a top-ranked opponent.”

Historically, Texas boasts a perfect 3-0 record against Vanderbilt. However, the last time these two programs met was way back in 1988, making past results largely irrelevant for Saturday’s conference clash. This game marks a new chapter in their rivalry as full-fledged SEC opponents.

Weather conditions for Saturday in Austin are expected to be ideal for football, with clear skies and temperatures in the 70s, setting the stage for a festive atmosphere at DKR.

According to analysis from CBS Sports, the prediction leans towards a 31-17 victory for Texas. While this projection favors the Longhorns, it also suggests that they might not quite cover the hefty 16.5-point spread, hinting at a more competitive game than the betting lines suggest. The Commodores will undoubtedly be looking to defy expectations and pull off a major upset in the heart of Texas.