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Kentucky has outplayed Vanderbilt thus far in Saturday’s game. However, the score is just 17-7 at the half.
The difference was 13-yard interception return by Darrius Sims in the second quarter to give Vanderbilt its only score of the game. The Commodores now have more defensive touchdowns (6) than offensive scores (5).
Sims single-handedly kept Vanderbilt in last week’s game against No. 13 South Carolina. Sims returned the opening kickoff for 91 yards and added a 100-yarder in the third. Vanderbilt struggled otherwise and was outscored 21-10 in the fourth quarter.
Saturday’s game has been more of the same for the Commodores. Wade Freebeck threw for 53 yards on 3-0f-7 passing in the first half. The Commodores running backs combined for 29 yards on 14 carries, with leading rusher Ralph Webb seeing just 16 yards on seven carries.
Vanderbilt needs to play more aggressive in the second half, but continue to avoid making costly turnovers. The Commodores improved to a -5 turnover margin with Sims’ touchdown return, which is still disappointing. Derek Mason must focus on keeping possession and avoiding costly plays as the game continues.
The Commodores will also need to slow down a hot start by Patrick Towles. Towles has 175 yards, a touchdown and an interception on 10-of-22 passing. Vanderbilt must answer with a solid performance on defense in the second half and pressure the redshirt sophomore.
A former freelance journalist from Nashville, Jason covers Tennessee, Vanderbilt and Kentucky
