5 Biggest Takeaways: Vandy improves, falls to South Carolina

Vanderbilt fell to 1-2 on Saturday following a 48-34 loss to South Carolina. Here’s the five biggest takeaways from the Commodores’ Week 3 loss.

1. Patton Robinette is the answer at quarterback: Patton Robinette was solid at quarterback before leaving early with a concussion. Robinette threw for 55 yards and a touchdown on 4-of-5 passing before suffering an injury on Vanderbilt’s first offensive scoring drive. The Commodores lost momentum as Robinette left the game, blowing a 14-0 lead and never regaining momentum. If Robinette can stay healthy, he will provide Vanderbilt with a solid option at quarterback.
2. Ralph Webb is a solid running back: Ralph Webb has been Vanderbilt’s best player this season. He has consistently posted impressive numbers and Saturday was no exception. Webb rushed for 97 yards and a 5.1 average on 19 carries. For the Commodores to be successful, Webb must remain the focal point of their offense.
3. Darrius Sims provides a threat on special teams: Darrius Sims single-handedly kept Vanderbilt in Saturday’s game. His opening 91-yard kickoff return gave the Commodores early momentum. Sims would later score on a 100-yard return in the third quarter to cut Vandy’s deficit to 24-21. Sims looked like an elusive playmaker that could flip the field in close games for Vanderbilt.
4. Vanderbilt needs to keep momentum on its side: The Commodores stayed in Saturday’s game for three quarters. In the fourth, Vanderbilt was outscored 21-10, leading to a disappointing final score. The Commodores came out inspired and seemed to lose their edge once Robinette fell victim to injury. Vanderbilt must improve on this moving forward.
5. Derek Mason has potential: Two weeks ago, Derek Mason seemed lucky to be able to make it through his first season. On Saturday, fans saw a glimpse of why Vanderbilt decided to hire him last January. Mason had his team prepared and looking competitive for most of the contest. Mason has potential to be a successful coach with the proper personnel.

Jason Hall

A former freelance journalist from Nashville, Jason covers Tennessee, Vanderbilt and Kentucky