5 Biggest Takeaways: Vanderbilt continues to struggle against surging Georgia
By Jason Hall
Published:
The Vanderbilt Commodores (1-5) fell 44-17 to the No. 13 Georgia Bulldogs in Athens. The Commodores have lost three straight since their 34-31 win over Massachusetts in Week 3 and continue to struggle in tough matchups.
Here are five takeaways from Saturday’s game.
1. Ralph Webb is the best option: Ralph Webb continued to show why he is the best option for Vanderbilt’s offense. Webb rushed for 77 yards and a touchdown on 17 carries. Facing a large deficit, the Commodores limited Webb’s carries in the second half. However, the redshirt freshman still remains the focal point of the Commodores offense.
2. Patton Robinette needs to return: Wade Freebeck struggled. Stephen Rivers wasn’t much better. Both quarterbacks combined for 188 yards and an interception on 16-of-31 passing.
The Commodores most efficient option this season has been Patton Robinette, who missed his second consecutive game due to a concussion suffered in Week 4. Robinette must return for Vanderbilt to have any hope of upsetting an SEC team this season.
3. Darrius Sims needs to be more involved in offense: Darrius Sims has excelled as a defensive back and return specialist. In Vanderbilt’s last two games, Sims has two kickoff returns and an interception for touchdowns. With the offensive struggling, Derek Mason would be wise to use Sims’ breakout speed as a wide receiver option. On Saturday, he had just one catch for 14 yards.
4. Vanderbilt’s offense made strides: The Commodores recorded 320 total yards of offense. They also held an advantage in time of possession with a 35:34-24:26 edge. The Commodores are a growing team and will need to progress under a new coach. Vanderbilt will benefit from a non conference matchup next week against Charleston Southern.
5. Derek Mason needs time: Vanderbilt is currently a far cry from the expectations set last season. However, fans need to be patient with Mason and the team in their rebuilding process. The Commodores are a few years away from being a nine win SEC team again and will need to make several moves to reclaim that status.
A former freelance journalist from Nashville, Jason covers Tennessee, Vanderbilt and Kentucky
