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Entering its 2026 SEC opener at Auburn, Vanderbilt has 12 sacks through three games, tied for fourth nationally according to this preview; Auburn has allowed 13 sacks. The writer considers pressure without extra blitzes possible, not an announced Vanderbilt game plan.

Vanderbilt is 13th in the SEC at 139.3 rushing yards per game through three 2026 games, and quarterback Jared Curtis led its rushing against NC State, this preview reports. Clark Lea wants more horizontal and vertical stretch to aid the run game; he did not announce a new package or running-back rotation for Auburn.

NC State converted nearly half its third downs and 3 of 5 fourth downs against Vanderbilt, versus a 26.83% third-down conversion rate allowed by the Commodores over three 2026 games. Lea challenged the defense to prevent explosive touchdowns and force field goals at Auburn; that is a goal, not a confirmed coverage or blitz change.