Nashville, October 24, 2025
News Summary
Vanderbilt University’s Wyatt Lawn will host ESPN’s College GameDay live broadcast ahead of the SEC football game between No. 10 Vanderbilt and No. 15 Missouri. This is a significant event, marking Vanderbilt’s first hosting since 2008. Highlights include a lineup of prominent sports personalities, a celebrity guest picker, and musical performances from top country artists, creating an electrifying atmosphere as fans gather for an exciting football matchup.
Nashville – On Saturday, Vanderbilt University’s Wyatt Lawn will come alive as ESPN’s College GameDay broadcasts live from 8–11 a.m. CT ahead of the highly anticipated SEC football matchup between No. 10 Vanderbilt and No. 15 Missouri at FirstBank Stadium. This marks a significant event for both the university and the college football community.
The College GameDay show will air on ESPN, ESPNU, and Disney+, featuring a lineup of well-known sports personalities, including host Rece Davis and analysts Kirk Herbstreit, Desmond Howard, Pat McAfee, and Nick Saban. Football insiders and reporters such as Pete Thamel, Jen Lada, and Jess Sims will also contribute to the coverage, along with betting analyst “Stanford Steve” Coughlin.
This event is noteworthy as it is the first time since October 4, 2008, that Vanderbilt has hosted College GameDay. The buzz surrounding the program is palpable, especially since the Commodores are enjoying their best start in 75 years, achieving their highest AP ranking since 1947. The team has also successfully sold out FirstBank Stadium for the game against Missouri, who currently boasts a strong 6-1 record.
Adding to the excitement, comedian Nate Bargatze, a prominent Vanderbilt fan, will be featured as the celebrity guest picker. In a novel twist, Pat McAfee will host a kicking challenge during the broadcast where a child participant may have the chance to win money by successfully executing a short-range field goal.
The live broadcast will also present musical performances from notable country stars such as Kenny Chesney and Dierks Bentley, enriching the atmosphere ahead of the game. Additionally, Vanderbilt’s head coach Clark Lea will take the stage for a live interview with the College GameDay crew, providing fans with insight into the team’s strategy and preparations.
The atmosphere leading into this broadcast is charged, as the College GameDay feature enhances the local college football scene in Nashville. Wyatt Lawn has previously been the site of a national spotlight, including a successful varsity volleyball match in August, contributing to its reputation as a vibrant university setting.
As excitement builds, both teams are gearing up for a thrilling encounter that promises to be a highlight of the college football season. With strong records and fan support, the showdown between Vanderbilt and Missouri is set to be a memorable occasion.
Key Details of the Event:
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Event | ESPN’s College GameDay Broadcast |
| Date | Saturday |
| Time | 8–11 a.m. CT |
| Location | Wyatt Lawn, Vanderbilt University |
| Matchup | No. 10 Vanderbilt vs. No. 15 Missouri |
| Broadcast | ESPN, ESPNU, Disney+ |
| Celebrity Guest Picker | Nate Bargatze |
| Live Performances | Kenny Chesney and Dierks Bentley |
FAQ
What time is the College GameDay broadcast at Vanderbilt University?
The broadcast will take place from 8–11 a.m. CT.
Who will be featured on the College GameDay crew?
The College GameDay crew will include host Rece Davis and analysts Kirk Herbstreit, Desmond Howard, Pat McAfee, and Nick Saban, along with college football insider Pete Thamel, reporters Jen Lada and Jess Sims, and betting analyst “Stanford Steve” Coughlin.
When did Vanderbilt University last host College GameDay?
Vanderbilt previously hosted College GameDay on October 4, 2008.
What is the significance of the upcoming game against Missouri for Vanderbilt University?
Vanderbilt is currently off to its best start in 75 years and has achieved its highest AP ranking since 1947. The Commodores have sold out FirstBank Stadium for the upcoming game against Missouri, who also holds a strong 6-1 record.
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Additional Resources
Author: HERE Nashville
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