Clark Lea gives his impressions of Texas, what he expects during 2024 matchup

One of the biggest topics at SEC Media Days was the future of the conference with Texas and Oklahoma joining in 2024. Ahead of their game in 2024, Vanderbilt head coach Clark Lea was asked to give thoughts on Texas and that game.

As Lea explained, he’s focused more on the present but is excited to compete against traditional brands like Texas and Oklahoma in the future.

“Well, obviously you’re talking to a football coach ahead of fall camp, so my scope is pretty narrow right now,” Clark Lea said. “I’m excited about the way the league is expanding. I think obviously to add Texas and Oklahoma is a statement, and as a competitor, no matter where you are, if you’re a real competitor, you’re looking to measure yourself against the very best. That’s what our league allows us to do.”

Clark Lea explained that his focus isn’t going to be on an opponent like Texas. Instead, he’s focused on making sure that Vanderbilt is as strong as possible on the field.

“No matter who we play against this year or next year, the goal is that they play against a team that knows perfectly who they are, plays to an identity, and has weaponized that identity to puncture the shell of the opponent,” Lea said.

“I want everyone we play against to leave the field having learned something about themselves because that Vanderbilt group is really tough and relentless and never stops and also has the weapons to be dangerous.”

Vanderbilt was facing a massive rebuild when Clark Lead took over. Entering his third season, Lea has a 7-17 record but showed growth in 2022, winning multiple SEC games. Vanderbilt hadn’t won multiple SEC games in a single season since 2018.

“We’re a work in progress that way. A year ago we were inconsistent with how we showed up. This year we’ll be a little further along by the time Texas comes to town. Hopefully we’ll be ready to play Vanderbilt football from the first snap to the last.”

Clark Lea on concerns with Vanderbilt’s corners

There are some concerns about Vanderbilt’s corners coming into the 2023 season, but Clark Lea is confident the Commodores will find talented players to fill gaps.

“Yeah, we have to find the best 11 on both sides. We do return some snaps at corner, but that doesn’t mean that they haven’t played a bunch. This is about finding the people that are capable in the moment,” Lea said.

“Obviously in a game now that is won and lost on the perimeter. We have to give our young players a chance to develop in fall camp. Obviously we have some second year players that are further along in their progress that we expect to have a role on our team.”