Vanderbilt secured its first 10-win season in program history with a dominant 45-24 win over No. 18 Tennessee, keeping its College Football Playoff hopes alive. The Commodores' strong performance, especially against a ranked rival, puts pressure on the CFP committee to consider them for a spot.

Quarterback Diego Pavia was the catalyst, throwing for 268 yards and a touchdown while rushing for 165 yards and another score. His confidence and playmaking ability were key to Vanderbilt's 582 total yards, making him a critical factor in any postseason matchup.

Sedrick Alexander added 115 rushing yards and three touchdowns, and the Commodores dominated the third quarter, holding the ball for the first 6:35 and scoring two touchdowns to break a 21-21 halftime tie. This ability to control the game on the ground and in time of possession will be vital in their next game.

Amid interest from Florida, Vanderbilt signed coach Clark Lea to a six-year extension, providing stability and motivation. The team's response to this news was a focused, record-setting performance, indicating strong leadership and unity heading into the postseason.

Virginia Tech fell behind 20-3 at halftime after Miami scored on all four first-half possessions. The Hokies' inability to keep pace early forced them into a comeback mode, limiting their offensive options.

Despite the loss, Virginia Tech rushed for 194 yards against Miami's top-ranked rushing defense (81.8 ypg). Marcellous Hawkins led with 72 yards on eight carries, showing the Hokies can move the ball on the ground against elite units.

Interim coach Philip Montgomery noted the team played physically and on the edges, but the early deficit prevented them from sustaining drives. He believes they could have added more if they had maintained possession and avoided the quick hole.

The Hokies have lost five of six games and are playing out the season under an interim coach. With James Franklin set to take over, the team is in a transitional phase, which may affect focus and execution in the final game.

Virginia Tech faces rival Virginia on the road. The Hokies will look to end a three-game losing streak and build momentum for the new coaching era, but must address slow starts and defensive lapses against a capable opponent.