SEC Power Rankings: Alabama is SEC’s only elite team

Nov 28, 2015; Knoxville, TN, USA; Vanderbilt Commodores head coach Derek Mason during the first half against the Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports

The Vanderbilt Commodores took a big step in the right direction during the 2015 season, especially on defense. However, the Commodores’ 53-28 loss to Tennessee in the season finale was a quick step back.

Vanderbilt allowed 523 total yards of offense and 27 first downs to the Vols. Tennessee did most of its damage on the ground, and racked up 331 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 52 carries – an average of 6.4 yards per attempt. The Commodores didn’t force a turnover or record a sack, and Vanderbilt also suffered a significant breakdown on special teams when Cameron Sutton returned a punt 85 yards for a touchdown.

On the bright side, Vandy gained more than 400 yards of total offense, including more than 200 both rushing and passing, and scored more points against Tennessee than against any other FBS opponent this season. Quarterback Kyle Shurmur completed 15 of 34 pass attempts for 209 yards, three touchdowns and an interception. Running back Ralph Webb added 149 yards on 21 carries.

The Commodores fell to 4-8 and will not take part in a bowl game for the second consecutive season under head coach Derek Mason, but given Vandy’s two SEC wins this season and great effort that resulted in a few close calls in others, 2015 was a step forward for the program overall.

Next Game: End of Regular Season

Next: Missouri