One of the key players in the success of the 1906 Commodores was quarterback Innis Brown. Brown was one of the top passers in the country during his time at Vanderbilt, and he played a big role in the team’s offensive prowess. He led the team to victory over Sewanee with a 25-yard touchdown pass, and he also threw three touchdown passes in a game against Ole Miss.
Another standout player on the 1906 Vanderbilt team was halfback Frank Kyle. Kyle was a versatile player who could both run and pass the ball, and he was a major contributor to the team’s offensive success. He scored two touchdowns in a 41-0 win over Kentucky, and also helped lead the team to victory over Georgia Tech with a 35-yard run.
The Vanderbilt defense was equally impressive in 1906, and was led by captain and fullback Bill Neely. Neely was a force to be reckoned with on both sides of the ball, and his leadership helped the team shut out several opponents. Vanderbilt’s defense was so dominant that they held seven of their opponents scoreless, including a 23-0 win over Alabama.
The 1906 season was also notable for the controversy surrounding Vanderbilt’s game against Michigan. Michigan was one of the top teams in the country at the time, and Vanderbilt was eager for a chance to prove themselves against them. The game was scheduled to take place in Nashville, but Michigan refused to travel south due to concerns about the safety of their players.
The controversy escalated when Michigan coach Fielding Yost accused Vanderbilt of trying to play dirty in the game by hiring a group of ringers to play on their team. Vanderbilt denied the accusations, and the two teams ended up playing a controversial 0-0 tie in Ann Arbor. The game was marred by a number of penalties and injuries, and it remains one of the most controversial in college football history.
Despite the controversy, the 1906 Vanderbilt Commodores football team remains one of the most dominant teams in college football history. Their undefeated season and impressive record of shutting out opponents cemented their place as one of the greats, and their legacy continues to be felt today. From Innis Brown’s passing prowess to Bill Neely’s leadership on defense, the 1906 Commodores were a team that will always be remembered as one of the very best.