Vanderbilt extended coach Clark Lea’s contract after a historic 2024 season, its best since 1915.

Vanderbilt University has extended head football coach Clark Lea's contract after a historic 2024 season, marking the program’s best regular season since 1915 and its first 9-2 record since 1922. The Commodores, ranked No. 12 in the AP Top 25 and No. 14 in the College Football Playoff rankings, secured three wins over top-15 teams and achieved their highest national ranking since 1937. Athletic director Candice Storey Lee announced the extension on November 28, 2025, without disclosing financial terms, though reports indicate a six-year deal. Lea, who was named SEC Coach of the Year in 2024, has led Vanderbilt to 16 wins over the past two seasons—the most in nearly a century. The extension reflects the university’s confidence in his leadership and long-term vision, including planned facility upgrades and increased resources.