Vanderbilt University's football team has declared senior Blaze Berlowitz as its primary quarterback for the 2026 season. This announcement, confirmed by ESPN's Pete Thamel, highlights Berlowitz's successful bid for the top spot against promising five-star freshman Jared Curtis. Although Berlowitz will make his debut as a starter, having previously played in six games last season, the team plans for Curtis to also feature in the opening game against Austin Peay.
Berlowitz, a 6-foot-3, 200-pound athlete, showcased his abilities last year by completing nine out of seventeen passes for 131 yards and a touchdown, alongside 81 rushing yards and another touchdown from eleven carries. His journey to Vanderbilt included a stint with the New Mexico State Aggies in 2023, where he played one game before transferring. His notable performance with the Aggies was in the Conference USA Championship Game, where he threw for 134 yards and a touchdown.
The team is set to kick off its season on September 5th against Austin Peay, followed by a match against Delaware in Week 2. A significant challenge awaits in Week 3 when they host the NC State Wolfpack, marking their first encounter with a major conference opponent. This season opener is eagerly anticipated by fans, with the game scheduled for 6 p.m. CT and available for streaming on SEC Network+.
The determination and strategic decisions made by the Vanderbilt coaching staff, culminating in Berlowitz's selection, underscore a commitment to fostering talent and competitiveness. This approach not only provides experienced players with leadership roles but also ensures that emerging talents like Curtis are given opportunities to develop and contribute, paving the way for a dynamic and engaging football season.
