Vanderbilt special teams score and penalties mark victory over Austin Peay

Vanderbilt defeated Austin Peay 28-9 on Sept. 5 at FirstBank Stadium in the season opener for the Commodores. Special teams performance highlighted the victory, featuring a punt return touchdown by linebacker Josiah Broxton and a blocked extra point returned for a defensive 2-point conversion by Martel Hight. Kicker Brock Taylor converted both of his field goal attempts. Despite the special teams efficiency, head coach Clark Lea expressed concern regarding disciplinary issues, as the team committed nine penalties for 73 yards. These infractions included four false starts, a delay of game, and several other offensive and defensive errors. Vanderbilt looks to address these communication and execution lapses before its upcoming home game against Delaware on Sept. 12.

• 9:05 AMYahoo Sports — How special teams, penalties impacted Vanderbilt football in season opener