12/9/08
Placing our top 25 expectations upon the Commodores may sound somewhat out of whack, especially after this team lost six of their last seven regular season games to close out the '08 season. After being undefeated through their first five games, college football in Nashville was starting to make some noise before the bottom dropped out. And they will still lack a big-time receiver, which is why All-SEC defensive back D.J. Moore has lined up on the outside offensively on a few occasions. In fact, the questionable return of Moore (who may skip off to the NFL) is a prime variable for formulating this squad’s chances. Experience is prevalent, but a shortage of playmakers is glaring. At least this offensive line returns every starter, which gives coaches a chance to improve on their faults through the off-season. Mackenzie Adams is a running QB, so line play will be key. Still, it’s defense that enabled the Commodores to go bowling this year. One of the best corners in the SEC, Moore leads a speedy back seven capable of creating turnovers and making plays. The DL shows signs of improving, and like their counterparts on the other side of the ball, this bunch will bring everybody back. The nation’s 25th-ranked scoring defense will welcome back all (depending on Moore’s decision). This may be one of head coach Bobby Johnson's (2008 SEC Coach of the Year) most experienced groups across the two-deep. He has done more with less, and given the current state of the SEC (where anyone has a shot at winning more than seven games), Vanderbilt has the same chance as any other team (save ‘Bama and Florida). They likely won't garner this type of respect in most polls heading into next August. The Commodores need to prove winning can actually be achieved here with consistency. No one is claiming this bunch can become world-beaters, but they are being put on notice as having the most experience in the league. Building on the best year here since 1982 (last time they played in the post-season and finished at or over .500) will substantiate our belief in Vandy’s ’09 potential.