Tennessean reporter Adam Sparks, who covers Vanderbilt, answered questions for the AJC about the Commodores. You can follow him on Twitter here and read his coverage here.
Q: What is the season outlook for Vanderbilt?
A: Well, a lot of that depends on this game and the next (at Western Kentucky). I thought coming into the season that Vandy would need to go at least 3-1 in its first four games to have a chance at bowl eligibility. Winnable games against Missouri, Kentucky and Tennessee State are still ahead, and there are other possibilities for a victory. But beating Georgia Tech and Western Kentucky would be pretty pivotal for bowl hopes, in my opinion. Vanderbilt's defense was pretty good last season, and it looks to be again. The big question is the offense, which has had one good game and one bad game thus far.
Q: What do the Commodores do well?
A: Defense and rushing offense. Last season, head coach Derek Mason, a former Stanford defensive coordinator, became the defensive play-caller, and it instantly transformed the Commodores into a strong unit. Linebackers Zach Cunningham and Oren Burks are especially good. On offense, running back Ralph Webb is coming off a 211-yard game, and he's now complemented by power back Khari Blasingame for a good one-two punch.
Q: Where are they weak?
A: Passing offense and special teams are still big question marks. Sophomore quarterback Kyle Shurmur protects the ball well, but Vandy has also made a habit out of passing for less than 100 yards in a game (and they don't run a triple-option, where that seems normal). Shurmur got hot last week, completing 13-of-14 after an 0-of-7 start, so we'll see if that carries over into this game. On special teams, Vandy has been shaky the past couple of seasons. A missed field goal and a blocked punt have occurred in the first two games, but Vandy also has forced two turnovers on punt coverage teams.
Q: How do you see the matchup with Georgia Tech?
A: Two running teams will probably keep it on the ground most of the afternoon. I think both teams see moderate success running the ball, but it will be low-scoring. I'm picking Vandy to win 20-17, making a big defensive play and hitting a field goal. I could see it going either way, but turnovers and time of possession should be critical in the outcome.
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