Vanderbilt Football Notebook: Offense Struggles, Building O-Line Chemistry, Kevo Wesley's Return

The Commodores' offense had an uneven day in spring practice as new players adjust, but the O-line is working to develop chemistry.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 5:21pm

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Vanderbilt football wrapped up its second practice of the third week of spring ball, but the offense struggled with execution according to coordinator Tim Beck. The new faces on the unit are still getting acclimated to the system. However, the offense performed better in live periods. The focus now is on improving fundamentals and technique as the team prepares for the Black and Gold Game on April 18. Meanwhile, the offensive line is working to build chemistry between the experienced veterans and new transfers and freshmen. And fifth-year senior Kevo Wesley is back on the field after missing last season due to injury, ready to use his experience to help lead the team.

Why it matters

Vanderbilt is looking to build on a strong 2025 season that saw them win the Birmingham Bowl. Getting the offense in sync and the offensive line gelling will be crucial as the Commodores aim to contend in the SEC East. Wesley's return also provides a veteran presence and leadership on the line.

The details

Offensive coordinator Tim Beck said the offense had a 'rough' day of practice, citing a lack of focus and execution from the new players trying to learn the system. However, the offense performed better in the live periods. Beck said it's about continuing to work on fundamentals and techniques rather than adding new things. On the offensive line, coach Chris Klenakis said the chemistry is developing but it's a process that takes time, with the linemen bonding off the field as well as working together on it. Fifth-year senior Kevo Wesley is back after missing last season due to injury, and he's ready to use his experience to help lead the team.

  • Vanderbilt wrapped up its second practice of the third week of spring ball on Thursday, April 2, 2026.
  • The Commodores will hold their Black and Gold Game on April 18, 2026 to close out spring practice.

The players

Tim Beck

Vanderbilt's offensive coordinator.

Chris Klenakis

Vanderbilt's offensive line coach.

Kevo Wesley

A fifth-year senior offensive lineman for Vanderbilt who is returning after missing the 2025 season due to injury.

Cade McConnell

An experienced veteran on Vanderbilt's offensive line.

Orion Irving

An experienced veteran on Vanderbilt's offensive line.

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What they’re saying

“The biggest thing is we've got some new faces trying to get used to some new things. We're not executing where we want to be. Our focus wasn't as good as it needed to be today.”

— Tim Beck, Vanderbilt Offensive Coordinator

“The chemistry is developing. It's a process. It's not done overnight. It takes a lot of work together, but we have definitely taken steps since January and we're progressing the way we should be.”

— Chris Klenakis, Vanderbilt Offensive Line Coach

“I got to be grateful for every opportunity to get to come out here and play football. It's great to watch the guys. Seeing the stuff they did last year was great and just to help the guys from the sideline it was a great opportunity for me and I feel like it's helping the leadership this year as well.”

— Kevo Wesley, Vanderbilt Offensive Lineman

What’s next

Vanderbilt will continue spring practice leading up to the Black and Gold Game on April 18, 2026, where the team will look to build on the progress made and iron out the issues on offense.

The takeaway

While Vanderbilt's offense struggled with execution and focus during this particular spring practice, the team is focused on improving fundamentals and developing chemistry, especially on the offensive line, as they prepare for the upcoming season. The return of veteran Kevo Wesley also provides a boost of leadership and experience.