The Vanderbilt Commodores (2-5) held off a second half rally to defeat Charleston Southern 21-20 on Saturday. The Commodores held an 18-10 lead at halftime and allowed 10 unanswered points in the second half. The Commodores used two different quarterbacks, with Johnny McCrary throwing for 169 yards, a touchdown and an interception on 10-of-16 passing.

Here are a couple of thoughts on the game:

What it means: I’ve never seen a team look worse in a winning effort. Vanderbilt did just about all it could to lose to an FCS team. Charleston Southern just refused to accept the gift. The Commodores still have a roulette of quarterbacks and don’t seem to have a solid answer facing several questions.

What I liked: C.J. Duncan emerged as a No. 1 threat at wide receiver. Duncan recorded 119 yards and a touchdown on seven receptions. He was the one bright spot in an otherwise poor offensive performance.

What I didn’t like: Everything. Its unacceptable for an SEC team to struggle against an FCS team like Vanderbilt did. The quarterback situation is in shambles and nothing seems to be working. Even with an early lead, the Commodores managed to have a terrible showing in the second half.

Who’s the man: C.J. Duncan. See above.

Key Play: With seconds remaining and a slim lead, Vanderbilt found itself on its own 3-yard-line. McCrary answered with a 25-yard pass to Natahn Marcus to give the Commodores the first down. With improved field position, the Commodores ran out the clock to hold on to a slim lead.

What’s next: Vanderbilt finally has its much needed bye week in Week 8. The Commodores return to action at Missouri on Oct. 25.