Vandy notes

It would be nice to write that Vandy is the same old Vandy and that we will roll over them, but after last year we've lost the right to dismiss them out of hand. Perhaps we can earn that right back this year with a convincing win.

Vanderbilt easily beat Miami (OH) Thursday night 34-13 and will bring some confidence in Thursday night's game in Nashville. details

Chris Nickson will get the start over MacKenzie Adams. Adams, we will all remember, started his first game against South Carolina last year in Columbia. Nickson ran for 166 yards on 20 carries against Miami (OH). Known for his running ability, he could prove difficult for South Carolina to contain, and even if the defense can contain him, the defense will still have to gameplan for him.

A group South Carolina may not have to spend time worrying about is the Vanderbilt running back corps. After accounting for Nickson's yards, an end around and reverse the Commodore running backs ran 25 times for 77 yards.

As far as receiver goes gone is unquestionably talented WR Earl Bennett. Hoping to take his place is arguably the most talented receiver on the roster WR Sean Walker. Walker had 2 TDs against the always stout Miami OH defense.

Also gone is LB Jonathan Goff, leaving Vanderbilt with virtually zero star power on the field. The defense, though, thinks highly of itself. JR defensive end Broderick Stewart ridiculously stated that he thinks the Vanderbilt defense is the fastest in the SEC.

"Hands down, I think we're the fastest," he said. "You'll see. We're going to play really fast. We've got guys all over the place who can move, some new faces that people haven't really seen, and it doesn't get any better than having a secondary like ours playing behind you.">

On the less absurd side, CB DJ Moore (from Broome High School in Spartanburg) is someone to watch. As a punt returner he returned a punt 91 yards, not for a touchdown, in last weeks game. He also had an interception. It would be nice is Smelley or Beecher would stay away from his side.

The defensive front seven returns only two starters from last year's surprisingly strong unit. With less than stellar recruiting classes, one would assume it will be difficult for Vanderbilt to replace 5 players up front. Also, Vanderbilt gave up 340 yards to Miami (OH).

As always, tickets are available.

Further reading:

Moral Victory
VandyDan