From there he returned to his alma mater to take over as head coach of the Vanderbilt University football program. Brown's five-year stint with the Commodores from 1986 to 1990 produced a record of 10–45.
Following his departure, he returned to his alma mater to assume the head coaching position for Vanderbilt University football. During his five-year stint with the Commodores from 1986 to 1990, Brown compiled a record of 10 wins and 45 losses.