Dec. 13, 2016
Photo credit: Stan Carpenter/Shreveport Times
Shreveport, La. – Addressing a capacity crowd at the Camping World Independence Bowl announcement party, Head Coach Derek Mason offered a dinner table description of what awaits college football fans on Dec. 26 when the 6-6 Commodores battle a 6-6 N.C. State Wolfpack squad.
“This is going to be a game of two well-matched teams,” Mason told the audience. “It’s like two brothers sitting at a table with one piece of chicken between them. It will be interesting to see who gets it.”
Mason and David Williams II, Vanderbilt’s Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics, joined N.C. State Head Coach Dave Doeren and Athletic Director Deborah Yow at the official announcement party Monday night. The event was staged in the club level of Independence Stadium where the two teams will square off in the 41st annual Camping World Independence Bowl. Tickets remain available for the Dec. 26 game, which kicks off at 4 p.m. CT.
Mason said his squad is appreciative of the opportunity to play in the Independence Bowl. The Commodores enter the postseason off impressive Southeastern Conference victories over Ole Miss and Tennessee to cap the regular season.
“Our players and coaches were excited and looking forward to playing in Shreveport, and having an opportunity to continue our season in the Independence Bowl,” Mason said. “We ended the year playing our best football and look to continue playing well here in two weeks.”
Wolfpack coach Doeren echoed Mason’s comments about the bowl pairing. “We had several one-possession games this season, some we won and some we lost. I think Derek’s team was very similar. We’ve been very competitive all season.
Williams told the Shreveport-Bossier City audience that the Vanderbilt community planned to enjoy its visit to the area.
“We’re excited about coming down here to Shreveport, and enjoying the atmosphere surrounding the Independence Bowl,” Williams said. “The people of Louisiana are known for their great food and hospitality, and know how to throw a party. I can promise you we look to play a great football game and have a good time in your community.”
Vanderbilt was competitive all season in Mason’s third year. After starting 2-4, the Commodores finished on a 4-2 run, including conference wins over Georgia, Ole Miss and Tennessee. The Commodores were close in every SEC game. Four of the team’s five league losses were one-possession games.
Like Vanderbilt, the Wolfpack impressed late in the year, defeating Syracuse and rival North Carolina in November. Doeren’s squad also registered wins over Notre Dame and Wake Forest, and narrowly lost to highly ranked Clemson and Florida State.
The Commodores are expected to travel to Shreveport on Dec. 22.
Tickets can be ordered here.
