clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile
Breaking News Tyrin Lawrence returning to Vanderbilt. And there was much rejoicing.

Filed under:

It's Official: Vanderbilt Will Open the 2014 SEC Season Against Ole Miss at LP Field

Vanderbilt and Ole Miss had been rumored to be headed to a NFL stadium for their week two matchup. Now we know they'll kick off the SEC season with a nationally-televised showcase at LP Field.

By Christian D'Andrea
Frederick Breedon

Vanderbilt announced that it will kick off its SEC football schedule at LP Field this season, confirming reports that arose back in April. The Commodores will host their SEC West rival Mississippi at LP Field, the home of the NFL's Tennessee Titans.

The move to LP Field can be viewed in a couple of ways. It's a bit of a compromise for an Ole Miss team that spent last season at Dudley Field for their season opener on a Thursday night. Holding the game at a pro stadium - and making it the SEC's only game on ESPN for week 2 of the NCAA schedule - should bring plenty of attention on two programs that have been overlooked in the past few years. Holding a major conference game at an NFL stadium at a time where fans from both teams can fill seats will help serve as a recruiting tool for both teams as well.

While the move should negate some of Vandy's home field advantage, it should give new coach Derek Mason a better idea of how willing his fanbase is to travel - even when the destination is just the other side of town. If things go smoothly, the Commodores could end up contracting LP Field as a temporary home while renovations are made to Vanderbilt Stadium.

The league also announced a start time for Vandy's week three matchup against Massachusetts. That home game is set to kick off at 11 AM central time (big surprise) and will be televised by FSN.

More From Anchor Of Gold