Regular Season Review: Vanderbilt Football

Vanderbilt finished the regular season 8-4, earning the most regular season wins since the 1982 season. Vandy Mania's Don Yates breaks down the Commodores' stunning 2012 regular season.

1. With the regular season over, has Vanderbilt met or failed expectations?

They’ve exceeded expectations. Vanderbilt has won five SEC games in a season for the first time since 1935 and is going to back-to-back bowl games for the first time ever.

2. What one player has made the difference this season?

Wide receiver Jordan Matthews continues to improve. He’s caught 87 passes for 1,262 yards and seven touchdowns. That receiving yardage is the most ever in season at Vanderbilt.

3. What are the key improvements that need to be made before the bowl game?

Vanderbilt should work on fine tuning and improving all phases of its game before the bowl. They should also work with young players to help develop them for next season.

4. What has been the dominant headline of the regular season?

“Vanderbilt breaks another record”. For instance: Vanderbilt won its sixth game in a row by defeating Wake Forest 55-21. That’s the first 6-game winning streak for Vandy since 1955. If Vandy can win its bowl game it’ll be the first 9-win season for the ‘Dores since 1915.

5. If the recruiting class stays in-tact, what are your expectations for next season?

Vanderbilt should be able to go to another bowl and win 6-8 games or more again.