The SEC Network’s SEC Nation pregame show is set to take place this Saturday in Knoxville. The event precedes the highly anticipated matchup between No. 14 Vanderbilt and No. 19 Tennessee. Comedian Nate Bargatze will join the show as a special guest, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere.
Nate Bargatze’s Connection to Nashville
Nate Bargatze, who hails from Nashville, Tennessee, has deep local roots. His mother, Carol, worked in the Vanderbilt athletics ticket office, highlighting his family’s connection to the university. Although he did not attend Vanderbilt, Bargatze pursued studies at Western Kentucky University before launching his successful comedy career.
A Notable Family Legacy
The comedian’s family history in athletics is impressive. His second cousin, Ronnie Bargatze, was a standout three-sport athlete and later became a noteworthy basketball coach at Vanderbilt in the 1970s. Ronnie’s legacy continues, as he was inducted into the TSSAA Hall of Fame in 2018.
Bargatze’s Comedy Career
Nate Bargatze has made significant strides in the entertainment industry. He has hosted Saturday Night Live twice, showcasing his comedic talent on a national stage. In April 2023, he set a remarkable attendance record at the Bridgestone Arena, drawing an audience of 19,365 people to one of his shows.
- April 2023: Set Bridgestone Arena attendance record
- 2025: Hosted the Primetime Emmy Awards
- Multiple Netflix specials available
The upcoming SEC Nation show, starting at 10 AM ET, will be hosted by Laura Rutledge, alongside analysts Paul Finebaum, Roman Harper, Jordan Rodgers, and Tim Tebow. This exciting lineup promises to offer insights into the conference’s latest developments.
Overall, Nate Bargatze’s inclusion in SEC Nation adds a layer of entertainment to the game-day experience, with his local ties and impressive comedic achievements setting the stage for an engaging pregame show.
