Sept. 2, 2011
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by Brandon Barca (Archive) Twitter updates @brandonbarca |
Vanderbilt has taken a cautious approach when it comes to full-speed contact during the preseason. That will change Saturday when Elon visits Vanderbilt Stadium.
Head Coach James Franklin will notice a familiar face when he looks across Dudley Field Saturday. Former Maryland quarterback Tyler Smith transferred to Elon after Maryland’s spring practice. “On the field as a coach, he is tough,” Smith said of Franklin. “He was tough on you with grades, behavior, in meetings making sure you know your stuff. But afterward he would invite us to his house for dinner. He was like a big brother or father-like figure off the field and a great coach on the field.”
The Commodore defensive line plans to unleash a new aggressive scheme in 2011. “They play every down like it is third-and-15,” defensive line coach Sean Spencer said. “I want my guys flying off the football. I think if we can do that, we can create some havoc and chaos in the backfield, which will certainly make your chances of sacks go up higher.”
After a long offseason, the anticipation continues to grow for the season opener. But excitement also brings jitters, especially for players expected to get significant playing time for the first time in their collegiate career. “I really don’t know what to expect with it being my first start,” said offensive guard Mylon Brown. “I’m nervous about it. It is different for me this year because I have a more important role. I’m sure the adrenaline will be pumping even faster.”
Leathers gives us a bunch of statistical nuggets to get ready for the Elon game. Did you know with a touchdown Saturday, receiver Jordan Matthews can become the first Commodore since 2005 to score in five consecutive games?
Defensive lineman T.J. Greenstone plans to bring a starter’s mind set to the field against Elon.
Two more football articles from Elon’s hometown newspaper: Elon receiver sets sights on Hudgins’ lofty records | A football program in transition, Elon faces obstacles
Vanderbilt’s Hall of Fame Weekend includes an autograph opportunity in Vandyville. Visit the Legends Tent to meet several of the 2011 inductees from 5-6 p.m. on Saturday.
If you plan on purchasing men’s basketball season tickets, you better act fast. Tickets are selling at a record pace.
The baseball team will host Cal State-Fullerton for a two-game, fall ball series on football homecoming weekend October 22-23.
Additional Commodore News
Football: What to watch in the SEC: Week 1 (ESPN.com)
Football: SEC predictions: Week 1 (ESPN.com)
Football: Positional previews (InsideVandy.com)
Football: Fred Pancoast recalls his career (VUcommodores.com)
Football: Franklin on SEC Teleconference (VUcommodores.com)
Football: Bear can count on Bennett’s consistency (Chicago Sun-Times)
Women’s Soccer: Coach Greene discusses Tampa trip (VUcommodores.com)
Men’s Golf: Dores head to Pebble Beach (VUcommodores.com)
General: Garvin, Hamilton earn top honors at Awards Dinner (VUcommodores.com)
Videos of the Day
A compilation of significant moments in Vanderbilt football in recent years set to Aerosmith’s “Dream On.”
Crews have spent the last few days getting Dudley Field ready for kickoff.
Photo of the Day
The Commodore soccer team poses for a photo in front of McGugin Center before departing for South Florida yesterday.
Song of the Day
KP suggested Cheap Trick’s “Mighty Wings” as the Song of the Day. Mighty good selection.