Derek Mason experienced a disappointing first year as head coach at Vanderbilt. After three consecutive bowl game appearances and back-to-back nine-win seasons, the Commodores finished with a 3-9 (0-8 SEC) record.

Mason fired four assistants this past week, including offensive coordinator Karl Dorrell, defensive coordinator David Kotulski, wide receivers coach Marc Lubick and strength coach Bill Hughan. Dorrell, Kotulski and Hughan each had previous ties to Mason before joining his staff in January.

Dorrell severed as the offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach at Northern Arizona when Mason played as a cornerback and return specialist. Kotulski and Hughan were both assistants with Mason at Stanford.

Vanderbilt’s top potential candidate is another coordinator that’s worked with Mason in the past. Boise State offensive coordinator Mike Sanford worked alongside Mason at Stanford. During his first season, Sanford led the Broncos to a top-10 ranking in points and yards, as well as the No. 22 overall ranking and the 2014 Mountain West Championship.

Sanford would be a perfect fit for the Commodores, as he brings a West Coast offense, similar to the team’s scheme this past season. However, it may be tough for Vanderbilt to lure Sanford away from his alma matter. Sanford played quarterback for the Broncos from 2000-04.

The Commodores’ defensive coordinator vacancy is an even greater mystery. With the move taking place yesterday, there aren’t many candidates linked to the position. However, with Mason’s expertise lying on the defensive side, he should be capable of finding a suitable replacement.

However, several other SEC programs are looking to hire defensive coordinators, so it will less enticing for the struggling Commodores to use the “SEC incentive” during the interview process. The best case for Vanderbilt would be to find a defensive position coach on the rise and offer a coordinator position.

Mason needs to replace his staff soon as the Commodores find themselves less than two months away from National Signing Day. The coach needs to find coaches capable of bringing in top talent and mentoring the prospects to their full potential.