'GameDay' will broadcast from Vanderbilt's Commons

ESPN announced it will broadcast its College GameDay show at Vanderbilt from the location of The Commons, Vanderbilt’s new home for all first-year students located on the southeastern side of campus.

ESPN announced last weekend GameDay was coming to Vanderbilt, but did not announce where on campus the show would be based until Tuesday. ESPN is coming to Vanderbilt ahead of the No. 19-ranked Commodores' game against Auburn on Saturday.

College GameDay co-hosts Chris Fowler, Lee Corso, Kirk Herbstreit and Desmond Howard will broadcast from The Commons Center patio, facing a terraced lawn surrounded by four new residence halls reserved for first-year Vanderbilt students.

The public is invited to attend the shows, which will air Friday from noon to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 9-11 a.m. On Saturday, gates will open at 7 a.m., with the GameDay hosts starting production from the set as early as 8 a.m.

ESPN officials selected The Commons site after a thorough survey of the Vanderbilt campus.

"ESPN wanted a location that showcases Vanderbilt University, and meets all their needs,” said Vanderbilt Vice Chancellor for University Affairs and Athletics David Williams II. “When their representatives saw The Commons location, they thought it was a natural site."

"It's an outstanding venue, and makes a tremendous statement about our university. I know ESPN is happy and I know Vanderbilt University is delighted with the choice," Williams added.

The Commons includes 10 residence halls or Houses, special study and social areas and the showpiece Commons Center, a modern dining and activity hub.

More details regarding public parking on the Vanderbilt campus for this event will be announced later this week. Full details will be available at the official Vanderbilt athletic website, vucommodores.com.