In preparation for Saturday’s matchup between Vanderbilt and Georgia, Saturday Down South is taking a look at the key matchups that may decide the showdown between the Commodores and Bulldogs.

Vanderbilt defense vs. Georgia offense

Perhaps the only bright spot for this Vanderbilt team is its defense. This unit is beginning to find its identity under Derek Mason, and now faces a one-dimensional Georgia offense relying heavily on the legs of Todd Gurley, Sony Michel (out this week) and Nick Chubb.

Georgia averages over 460 yards per game, 300 of which are compliments of Gurley and his crew. The Georgia coaching staff has made no secret that they intend to keep using their best player and no team has yet shown the ability to stop the run against the Bulldogs.

The Vanderbilt defense is no pushover, however. The Commodores are fourth in the league in sacks with 12. Vandy also has three defensive touchdowns this season: two fumbles returned and an interception returned for a score. Nigel Bowden, Caleb Azubike and Darrius Sims can make some plays, but that defense has seen the field way too much due to the ineptness of its offense.

Can the Commodores make a few plays to slow down the Bulldog rushing attack? Or do Gurley and company have a field day?