Aria Gerson, Nashville TennesseanFri, November 28, 2025 at 7:27 PM UTC·1 min readNews of coach Clark Lea's contract extension was met with a standing ovation in a meeting Nov. 28, according to a video posted on Vanderbilt football's social media accounts.
The Commodores' coach had news of his extension announced that morning, ending speculation that he could be considered for open jobs at Penn State, Auburn or Florida. It also came the day before No. 12 Vanderbilt (9-2, 5-2 SEC) faces No. 18 Tennessee (8-3, 4-3) at Neyland Stadium on Nov. 29 (2:30 p.m. CT, ESPN), which would keep it in contention for a spot in the College Football Playoff.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisement"When you think about what we've done to this point, guys, as a program, no one else can claim credit for that," Lea said in the video. "It's us. And I think in life, man, that's what it's about. And it's not easy and it's not straightforward, but it's ownership stake. We've done this together. I am nothing without you. Nothing.
"I love you."
The Commodores coach will reportedly have a six-year deal, according to ESPN. Vanderbilt also recently greenlit upgrades for a new Football Experience Center, though no specific details of the project have been released.
Aria Gerson covers Vanderbilt athletics for The Tennessean. Contact her at [email protected] or on X @aria_gerson.
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