James Franklin’s bowl record is a testament to his coaching prowess and ability to lead teams to victory. As the head coach of the Vanderbilt Commodores, Franklin has compiled an impressive bowl game resume, making him one of the most successful coaches in the SEC.
Since taking over as Vanderbilt’s head coach in 2014, Franklin has led the team to bowl games in four of his six seasons. His bowl record currently stands at 3-3, with victories over teams like Ole Miss and Wake Forest. This record demonstrates his ability to compete against top-tier opponents and bring his team to the postseason.
One of Franklin’s most memorable bowl game wins came in the 2015 Music City Bowl, where Vanderbilt defeated Wake Forest, 38-24. The victory was a significant upset, as Wake Forest entered the game as the higher-ranked team. This win highlighted Franklin’s ability to rally his team and capitalize on opportunities against stronger opponents.
Another standout moment in Franklin’s bowl record was the 2016 Birmingham Bowl, where Vanderbilt defeated Ole Miss, 38-24. This victory was particularly impressive considering Vanderbilt had been eliminated from bowl eligibility before the game. Franklin’s ability to turn a losing season into a bowl game win is a testament to his resilience and coaching skills.
Despite the mixed bowl record, Franklin’s overall coaching success at Vanderbilt cannot be overlooked. He has led the Commodores to a 37-25 record during his tenure, including a 20-14 mark in SEC play. This success has helped Vanderbilt regain its reputation as a competitive program in the SEC, and Franklin’s bowl record is a significant part of that resurgence.
Looking ahead, James Franklin’s bowl record will continue to evolve as he faces new challenges and opportunities. With a strong recruiting class and a solid foundation in place, Vanderbilt fans can expect Franklin to continue leading his team to bowl games and, potentially, more victories in the future.
