Vanderbilt didn't lead NC State in Week 3 until the final second of the game. That's all it took for the Commodores to steal one at home, 35-31, before traveling to Jordan-Hare Stadium in Week 4 to face Auburn.
Vanderbilt EDGE Miles Capers forced a fumble from NC State quarterback CJ Bailey in the end zone on the very last play, which cornerback Cayden Daniels recovered for a game-winning touchdown. One second was left on the clock, but the Wolfpack's lateral-heavy final play also ended up in the Commodores' hands.
NC State offensive coordinator Kurt Roper made the kind of mistake the computer makes on easy mode in EA Sports College Football 27. There will be repercussions in Raleigh, and Roper is high on the fanbase's list of grievances.
It's all celebration in the Music City, though. For now.
Vanderbilt is rolling into Week 4 undefeated with a win over an ACC opponent. The Commodores beat Delaware, rather unconvincingly, and FCS Austin Peay through the first two weeks.
The competition level skyrockets ahead of Week 4. Is Vanderbilt ready for the deep end against the Tigers?
Is Jared Curtis ready for Auburn's defense?
Jared Curtis had a strong first career start, though there were uneven moments. The true freshman threw for 277 yards and three passing touchdowns. Curtis also had two interceptions.
Perhaps most importantly, though, Curtis didn't give up. He led his team back down 17 in the second half to win, though it was the Commodores' defense that sealed the deal. That's a lot of leadership from a young player.
Does that translate in a hostile environment in Lee County, Alabama, though?
Curtis topped an NC State team with a limited pass rush and an inability to create havoc plays. Auburn is not a soft program by any stretch defensively under DJ Durkin. Curtis will benefit from having the confidence of winning his first start, but it's an entirely different beast to win on the road in the SEC.
Curtis has not faced an athlete of the caliber of Xavier Atkins or Elijah Melendez blitzing through the A-gap.
The game changes for Curtis in Week 4.
Vanderbilt has the wind at its back against Auburn
The game changes for the Tigers, too.
What previously could've been a Vanderbilt team resigned to taking its place at the back of the SEC is now one riding an emotional high.
Auburn certainly can't overlook the Commodores now. Perhaps the trap-game element is gone. Tennessee on Rocky Top loomed the first week of October, so Week 4 could've been one to look past.
Not anymore. We'll see how Golesh's program handles a red-hot Vanderbilt. The Commodores may be more dangerous after stealing victory from the jaws of defeat.
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