SEC Power Rankings: Alabama in class by themselves, LSU sliding fast

Nov 14, 2015; Nashville, TN, USA; Vanderbilt Commodores safety Oren Burks (20) intercepts a pass by Kentucky Wildcats quarterback Drew Barker (7) (not pictured) returning it for a touchdown during the first half at Vanderbilt Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports

Not only did South Carolina (and not Vanderbilt, as expected) become the first SEC team to become mathematically eliminated from bowl consideration in 2015, the Commodores are still alive for a spot in the postseason thanks to a 21-17 victory over Kentucky Saturday.

Vandy’s hopes for a bowl berth come thanks in large part to a defense that has allowed just 17.4 points and 319.7 total yards of offense per game this season. Kentucky gained a higher than average 352 total yards, but the Commodores made life miserable for quarterback Patrick Towles, who completed only ten of 26 pass attempts for 67 yards, was sacked twice and was intercepted by safety Oren Burks. Burks returned the pick 30 yards for a touchdown that gave Vanderbilt a 14-10 lead in the second quarter, and later intercepted Towles’ replacement, Drew Barker.

Offensively, Ralph Webb carried the load for the Commodores and finished with 113 rushing yards on 33 carries. Quarterback Kyle Shurmur threw for 166 yards and two touchdowns, a 37-yarder to Caleb Scott (who led the ‘Dores with 87 receiving yards on three catches) and a four-yarder to Kyle Anderton.

The win gives the Commodores a confidence boost heading into next week’s home finale against Texas A&M.

Next Game: Saturday November 21 vs. Texas A&M

Next: Auburn