Vanderbilt football might be closer to a breakout than you think… but it all comes down to star power. In today’s episode of Locked On Vandy, we break down the key players who could define the Commodores’ season—and why names like Sedrick Alexander and Junior Sherrill are absolutely critical to any offensive success. If those two take the leap, this offense could look completely different in 2026. But the real story? The defense. From an unblockable Brian Allen to a fast, disruptive front and a secondary full of playmakers, this could be one of the nastiest defenses of the Clark Lea era. We also dive into breakout candidates like Nick Rinaldi, Ricardo Jones, and several under-the-radar sleepers who could emerge this season. Plus: Why Vanderbilt’s ceiling could be higher than expected The importance of establishing stars at every level Spring game storylines to watch closely Deep sleepers who could surprise everyone If Vanderbilt is going to shock the SEC… these are the names you need to know. 👇 Drop your take in the comments: Who is the MOST important player for Vandy this season? Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: lockedonvandy.supercast.com Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Rugiet Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl Rugiet. Performance medicine for men. Rocket Money Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join at https://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON. Turbo Tax This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.