Vanderbilt ushered in the 2016 football season with a home game against South Carolina. The contest was a low-scoring affair, with both teams struggling to consistently produce on offense, and the Commodores lost on a late field goal.

After an offseason of optimism, the opening loss was a blow to those who expected Vanderbilt to take a step in Derek Mason’s third season as head coach. Mason knows there is still work to be done, and he believes this is the week when teams make the most improvement.

“Game 1 to Game 2 is generally where you see the biggest improvement and we need to see improvement, especially on third down,” Mason said on Wednesday’s SEC coaches teleconference.

Specifically, Mason mentioned the team’s pass coverage and pass protection as things for the team to improve upon. He also wants to see the passing game get off to a better start this week, and expressed confidence in quarterback Kyle Shurmer.

“This game is really important,” Mason said of Shurmer. “He wanted to play better (vs SC) but that’s done with. We need him to play well and I expect him to have a great game.”

Vanderbilt seeks to earn its first win against Middle Tennessee State on Saturday at 4 p.m. ET.