It’s been a bittersweet season for Vanderbilt running back Ralph Webb.
Webb set the freshman school rushing record, surpassing Kwane Doster’s previous record of 798 yards, during a Week 12 loss to Florida. But the tailback’s celebration was short-lived after fumbling on Vanderbilt’s next two possessions, shifting momentum in the Gators’ favor.
Last week, Webb added just 14 yards to his season total during a 51-0 rout by No. 4 Mississippi State, the Commodores worst loss since 1994. But that’s what the redshirt freshman has experienced in his first year as an active player.
While Webb has seen individual success, Vanderbilt has struggled against both SEC teams and weak competition. He has also seen a fluctuating amount of carries. The Commodores have trailed in the majority of their games and Webb has seen a dip in attempts during the fourth quarter. As Vanderbilt faced an early deficit, the freshman was limited to 11 carries during last week’s loss.
On Saturday, Webb faces in-state rival Tennessee in a season-ending matchup at Vanderbilt Stadium. The Vols rank No. 71 overall in rush defense and are averaging 165.6 yards allowed per game.
But Tennessee has faced the unfortunate task of attempting to stop some of the nation’s best defenses, including four teams averaging over 200 rushing yards per game and ranking in the top-50.
The Vols front seven is made up of several talented players, even in the absence of suspended leading tackler A.J. Johnson. Derek Barnett leads Tennessee with 18.5 tackles for loss. Barnett holds the school freshman record for both TFLs and sacks (9.0).
Curt Maggitt also has a share of the sack lead with nine of his own. Maggitt also has 12 tackles for loss and 38 total. Jalen Reeves-Maybin is second in total tackles with 83. The sophomore emerged as a starting outside linebacker after excelling on special teams as a freshman.
Webb’s performance will hinder on whether Vanderbilt can stay in contention against an improved Tennessee offense. The Vols should take advantage of a favorable matchup with the Commodores leading tackler, Nigel Bowden, questionable for Saturday’s game.
Webb could have a strong performance against the Vols, but needs to get the proper amount of rushing attempts. Should Vanderbilt fall behind, expect to see a pass-heavy scheme in desperation to avoid a growing deficit.
A former freelance journalist from Nashville, Jason covers Tennessee, Vanderbilt and Kentucky
