One can very well expect a sellout crowd at Vanderbilt Stadium this week, as head coach Derek Mason and the Commodores will host Alabama for its Southeastern Conference opener.
Both teams enter with 3-0 records, but an upset for Vandy should both skyrocket its program and have the school in serious consideration to win the SEC East.
After dealing with injuries in the last two weeks, the Crimson Tide will return three linebackers – including Rashaan Evans.
Since taking over the defensive play calling, Mason has witnessed the Commodores post some exceptional numbers through three games.
Currently, his group ranks first in the nation in scoring defense (4.3 ppg), first in total defense (198.3 ypg), second in red zone defense (25 percent, touchdowns) and fourth in third down defense (14.3%).
Despite averaging 28 points a game, Vanderbilt’s offense is clicking with junior quarterback Kyle Shumur. Behind him, offensive coordinator Andy Ludwig’s unit is totaling 346 yards per game while having a 77.8 percent rating in the red zone (seven of nine) and a near 50 percent clip on third down (18 of 42, 43%).
With Nifae Lealao of Vanderbilt calling out Alabama as the school’s next victim and the Tide ready to handle business, Nashville (Tenn.) will have no choice but to rock on Saturday.
Listed below is a breakdown of the ‘Dores impact players.
Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDALMag.
