Vanderbilt football opens the 2025 season with FCS opponent Charleston Southern on Aug. 30 at FirstBank Stadium.
Diego Pavia and the Commodores offense face higher expectations this season, though that should have little to do with Saturday’s results.
The Buccaneers were 1-11 last season in FCS and were ranked last in their conference preseason poll.
Here’s how the Tennessean’s experts pick Vandy-Charleston Southern:
Vanderbilt-Charleston Southern picks: Does Vandy cover against FCS opponent?
Aria Gerson, Vanderbilt beat reporter: Vanderbilt 45, Charleston Southern 10
The main issue in this game for Vanderbilt should be keeping everyone healthy. It’s the type of game where the Commodores could run up the score, but it might not be prudent to do so.
Gentry Estes, columnist: Vanderbilt 38, Charleston Southern 14
It won’t be easy for the Commodores very often this season. But this one should be.
Tom Kreager, sports director: Vanderbilt 42, Charleston Southern 10
Diego Pavia gets a Week 1 warm up before shutting it down in the second half. The defense looks sharp. And the Commodores take the first step toward their national championship goal. Oh, and then the real season starts a week later.
This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Vanderbilt football vs Charleston Southern picks: Diego Pavia, Commodores rout
