The SEC showdown between No. 20 Vanderbilt (5-1, 1-1 SEC) and No. 11 LSU (5-1, 2-1 SEC) is set for Saturday, October 18, 2025, with kickoff scheduled for 11 a.m. ET at FirstBank Stadium in Nashville, Tennessee. The game will be broadcast live on ABC, as confirmed by the SEC’s official announcement.
Game Preview
Vanderbilt enters Week 8 well-rested after an open week that followed their first loss of the season — a 30-14 defeat to Alabama, which avenged the Crimson Tide’s 2024 loss to the Commodores. Despite the setback, Vanderbilt remains one of the SEC’s most improved programs, showing strong defensive discipline and efficient quarterback play through the first half of the season.
Meanwhile, LSU comes into this matchup with renewed confidence after a 20-10 win over South Carolina in Baton Rouge on October 11. The Tigers’ defense shined in that victory, limiting the Gamecocks’ offensive production and creating key turnovers. Head coach Brian Kelly’s squad is now focused on maintaining momentum as they push toward the SEC West title race.
Key Storylines
- Vanderbilt’s Bounce-Back Opportunity: After falling to Alabama, can the Commodores’ offense find its rhythm again against an LSU defense that just held South Carolina to 10 points?
- LSU’s Road Challenge: The Tigers have been dominant at home, but FirstBank Stadium has proven to be a difficult venue for ranked opponents in recent years.
- Quarterback Duel: Vanderbilt’s precision passing attack faces off against LSU’s aggressive secondary — a matchup that could determine the outcome.
How to Watch Vanderbilt vs. LSU
- Date: Saturday, October 18, 2025
- Kickoff Time: 11 a.m. ET / 10 a.m. CT
- TV Channel: ABC
- Live Stream: Available on the ESPN app and ABC.com (with TV provider login)
What’s at Stake
Both teams sit at 5-1 overall, making this an early-season statement game with major SEC implications. For Vanderbilt, a win would solidify their top-20 ranking and keep them in contention in the SEC East. For LSU, another conference victory would strengthen their path toward Atlanta and the SEC Championship Game.