NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Vanderbilt Vice Chancellor for Athletics and University Affairs and Athletic Director Candice Storey Lee announced today that the university is parting ways with head football coach Derek Mason.
Offensive coordinator Todd Fitch will serve as interim head coach until a replacement for Mason is named, Lee said.
“On behalf of the entire Vanderbilt community, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to Coach Mason for his many years of dedication and service leading our football program,” Lee said. “Derek cares deeply about the student-athletes under his charge. His tenure at Vanderbilt will be remembered for his steadfast commitment to our student-athletes, not only on the field, but in the classroom and as young people.”
Mason became Vanderbilt’s 28th head coach in 2014, coming to Nashville after serving as Stanford’s associate head coach and defense coordinator. Just the second coach in Vanderbilt history to lead two Commodore teams to postseason bowls, Mason was also the first Vanderbilt coach since the 1920’s to defeat Tennessee in three consecutive meetings. Mason, the sixth-winningest coach in program history, compiled a 27-55 overall record at Vanderbilt.
“While this was a difficult decision, but I know this change is necessary,” Lee said. “We wish Derek and his entire family the best.”
The search for a new head coach will begin immediately.
