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Vanderbilt football edges NC State 35-31 with late-game strategy

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 20, 2026, 12:35 AM

Last updated Sep 20, 2026

Vanderbilt football edges NC State 35-31 with late-game strategy

Summary

Vanderbilt football secured a 35-31 victory against NC State on September 19 at FirstBank Stadium. Clark Lea's team implemented a strategy he described as 'every blade of grass' after overcoming a struggling first half, marked by a pivotal fumble that set up a touchdown late in the game. Quarterback Jared Curtis contributed significantly, throwing for three touchdowns despite two interceptions. Lea praised his defense for stepping up and emphasized the importance of this win as the team heads into SEC play with a road game against Auburn on September 26.

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By the Numbers

•Vanderbilt wins 35-31 against NC State at FirstBank Stadium.
•Jared Curtis throws for three touchdowns and runs for 64 yards.
•Clark Lea emphasizes strategy focusing on defensive pressure.
•Vanderbilt records its third straight win this season.
•Next game is on the road against Auburn on September 26.

Latest Updates

12:35 AMYahoo Sports — Vanderbilt football news: How Clark Lea's strategy beat NC State

What they're saying

"
Clark Lea’s Vanderbilt football team scored a dramatic 35-31 win over NC State football in Week 3 action that included a bold proclamation from Robert Griffin III on a botched safety and brutal fumble recovered for a touchdown to win the game. Afterward, Lea shared his prophetic “every blade of grass” strategy with sideline reporter Michella […] The post Vanderbilt football news: How Clark Lea's strategy beat NC State appeared first on ClutchPoints.
— Yahoo Sports

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