5 Things You Need to Know About the Vanderbilt Commodores

It is football time in the Bluegrass once again. After an ugly trip to Knoxville, and a heart-wrenching game in CoMo, the Kentucky Wildcats are back in the friendly confines of Kroger Field. The 3-6 Vanderbilt Commodores will kickoff with the ‘Cats at noon eastern time on the SEC Network. Despite some inspired efforts, the Commodores have lost five straight. However, Coach Clark Lea’s group has shown heart and won’t be a push over on Saturday.

Kentucky needed a miracle roughing the kicker call to ensure a victory over the Missouri Tigers a week ago. Will Levis was very efficient through the air, but the Wildcats still aren’t clicking on all cylinders. The third phase primarily has been a persistent issue for Coach Mark Stoops and his staff. Still, UK is 6-3 with the opportunity to set up a top 25 home matchup with Georgia. Vandy is coming into Lexington with an illness running through the team that will likely leave them short handed. The Wildcats could use a Saturday where they cruise against a team they should have their way with.

As always, make sure you have read Adam Luckett’s Scouting Report for everything you need to know about the ‘Dores. Also, Freddie Maggard has delivered his take on How Kentucky Beats Vanderbilt. Now, let’s dive in to five things you need to know about the Vanderbilt Commodores.

Vanderbilt Turning to Backup Quarterback

True freshman quarterback AJ Swann has been solid and raised the level of the Vanderbilt Commodores offense. However, an injury against South Carolina left him ruled out for Saturday’s matchup with the Wildcats. Coach Lea will turn to veteran backup Mike Wright in the absence of Swann. The junior has eight starts in his career in Nashville and will bring an added dual-threat element to the Commodores offensive attack.

This season, Wright has completed 56 of 96 attempts for 654 yards and eight touchdowns with two interceptions. Where Wright is most dangerous though might be on the ground. He is Vandy’s second leading rusher this season with 337 yards plus four touchdowns which is tied for most on the team. Wright is averaging 7.5 yards per attempt with his legs.

There is an old stigma with Kentucky and backup quarterbacks. The Wildcats will have to avoid that old fate on Saturday against Mike Wright to come out victorious.

Talented Tailback Leads Offense

Mike Wright will give the Vanderbilt Commodores some rushing chops from the quarterback position. However, this offense is led by senior running back Ray Davis. On 155 carries the former Temple back has rushed for 731 yards and four touchdowns. His 4.7 yards per rush, alongside the dual-threat nature of the Commodores backup quarterback, could lead to a heavy rushing attack on Saturday afternoon.

Davis also heavily factors into the Vanderbilt passing game. Out of the backfield, the 5’9″ 205 lbs bowling ball has caught 22 balls for 142 yards and three scores. The check down game could be even more in play with Wright and quarterback so this will be something to monitor. Kentucky must slow down Davis, and if they do, they will likely find a great deal of success.

One Favorite Target Through the Air

Will Sheppard has emerged this season as the favorite target for the Vanderbilt Commodores passing attack. The junior pass-catcher has reeled in 47 balls for 620 yards and a team-leading eight touchdowns. His 13.2 yards per catch on relatively high volume proves some explosive play ability for the 6’3″ wide receiver.

Aside from Sheppard, Wright will be looking to Jayden McGowan. He has caught 38 passes for 411 yards and a pair of scores. As mentioned earlier, the check down option to running back Ray Davis will likely be heavily used against the Wildcats as well.

Star Linebacker Anchors Commodores Defense

The defensive line has left a little be desired for the Vanderbilt Commodores this season. However, at the second level, a star has emerged in Anfernee Orji. The senior leads the team in tackles at 90 and tackles for loss at 6.5. Furthermore, he has put consistent, strong pressure on the quarterback while still being the ‘Dores best run stuffer. If #0 is allowed to get loose and live in the Kentucky backfield it could be a long day for Chris Rodriguez and company.

Porous Defense Has Been Vandy’s Downfall

By all metrics, the offense has gotten better this season in Nashville. However, the Vanderbilt Commodores defense still leaves a lot to be desired. They are allowing 314 yards through the air and nearly 159 yards per game on the ground. That is simply not a defensive recipe for success.

Up front, the ‘Dores defensive line has struggled to put any pressure on opponents. That is good news for a Big Blue Wall that has had its share of issues this season. This will need to be a week where the Wildcats line gives Will Levis the necessary time to pick the secondary apart. Kentucky has talented enough weapons on the outside that this one could turn ugly if Levis stays upright.