Vanderbilt (1-2, 0-1) is coming off an extremely disappointing performance in Atlanta vs. Georgia Tech which resulted in a 38-7 blowout loss. The Commodores were only able to muster 275 yards of offense (4.5 per play) to the Yellow Jackets’ 511 (8.1 ypp) and weren’t able to score again after their first possession of the game.

With a crucial nonconference matchup at Western Kentucky coming up this weekend, here’s what coach Derek Mason had to say during Wednesday’s SEC teleconference:

On the third-down defense having issues:

“I think it has more about the teams we have played against. Middle Tennessee, Georgia Tech — the ball comes out fast, and we don’t have the opportunity to get to the quarterback considering that. The first part of the schedule has been a challenge. We have to get guys down, that’s been the emphasis.”

On getting the offense going:

“We need to get some drives going, not an individual game. We had a good week in pratice. Our red zone offense has been good, just need to get there.”

On playing local teams:

“It’s great to see local community get together, most people say you have nothing to gain but that’s how they see it. Playing in these games give local prospects to see us and for us to see them.”

On the biggest thing to improve:

“We need to execute better and be more composed. That’s what we have to do to win — bring some consistency to the field.”