ESPN’s College GameDay has appointed comedian Nate Bargatze as the guest picker for the much-anticipated matchup between Missouri and Vanderbilt, scheduled for this Saturday. With Vanderbilt ranked 10th and Missouri 15th, the stakes are high for both teams.
Nate Bargatze: The Guest Picker
Nate Bargatze, a Nashville native and devoted Vanderbilt supporter, will participate in the pregame festivities for the second time. He previously appeared on College GameDay on November 4, 2023. Known for his humor and sports knowledge, Bargatze promises to entertain fans as he shares his insights.
Musical Performances Enhance the Show
This week’s College GameDay will feature live musical acts from acclaimed artists Kenny Chesney and Dierks Bentley. Both artists will perform from Wyatt Lawn, contributing to the lively atmosphere of the event.
- Kenny Chesney: The eight-time Entertainer of the Year will perform “Get Along.” He has headlined over 204 major stadium shows.
- Dierks Bentley: A Vanderbilt alumnus and 15-time Grammy nominee, Bentley will kick off his performance with “What Was I Thinkin” and also feature “IYKYK.”
Game Stakes for Missouri and Vanderbilt
This game holds significant implications for both teams in the context of the College Football Playoff. ESPN analyst Heather Dinich highlighted how vital this matchup is. For Vanderbilt, a win could elevate their playoff chances to 49%, according to the Allstate Playoff Predictor.
Vanderbilt’s Strong Position
Vanderbilt’s strong showing, including a notable victory against LSU, has positioned them favorably in the AP Poll. They remain a compelling story in college football under head coach Clark Lea.
Challenges for Missouri
Missouri also faces pressure, as they seek their first win against a ranked opponent. The lack of a strong strength of schedule has hampered their playoff hopes, ranking them 103rd in terms of opponent winning percentage.
As College GameDay gears up for this exciting event, fans can look forward to both the entertainment and the crucial matchup between Missouri and Vanderbilt. With Nate Bargatze at the helm as guest picker, the pregame show promises to be both informative and enjoyable.
