LSU quarterback Joe Burrow wasn’t even in high school the last time the Tigers played the Vanderbilt Commodores in 2010. At that time, Vanderbilt coach Derek Mason was still a position coach at Stanford, but the two knew each other because Mason worked with Burrow’s father, Jim.

Actually, Mason has known Burrow’s family and been watching the quarterback grow up since he was a kid. With Burrow becoming a Heisman candidate because of his hot start to the 2019 season, Mason said Wednesday he’s “happy for him.”

Mason also described Burrow as a kid, saying he was always “competitive” and “a good athlete” with a “good arm.” The Vanderbilt coach pointed out how confident he looks in his second season at LSU and credited his parents for his leadership skills.

“We have our work cut out for us (against Burrow),” Mason said.

Through two games, Burrow has completed more than 81 percent of his passes for 749 yards. He’s averaging 11.3 yards per attempt with nine touchdowns and one interception.

Vanderbilt’s secondary will have its hands full, which Mason also addressed in his press conference Wednesday, saying the Commodores defensive backs have been “solid at times” but too “inconsistent,” citing they much play smarter.