Spring Opponent Review: Vanderbilt
To cap off a busy September this season, Florida will host Vanderbilt in the fifth game of its 2017 campaign on Sept. 30 in The Swamp.
The Gators have won 25 of their past 26 meetings with the Commodores, currently riding a three-game winning streak in the series. Florida's most recent victory came on the road during the 2016 season, in a 13-6 victory over Vandy that was sealed in the final minutes by a Nick Washington interception.
However, Vanderbilt experienced its greatest success up to this point of the Derek Mason era in 2016. In his third season, the 'Dores went 6-7 (3-5 SEC) and reached a bowl game for the first time since 2013. For his work last year, Mason was awarded with a raise and a three-year contract extension.
Inside the Gators interviewed VandySports.com publisher Chris Lee to get his take on Vanderbilt coming out of spring practices, which concluded March 25. (You can follow Lee on Twitter @chrislee70.)
After the spring, which positions do you think Vanderbilt feels best about on the roster heading into the 2017 season and why? On the flip side, what positions do you see as the Commodores' biggest concerns?
Lee: Vanderbilt is in good shape in terms of depth and quality within its secondary, where safety Ryan White should be an All-Southeastern Conference candidate and sophomore JoeJuan Williams is as talented as VU has had in years, and at receiver, where it has a number of proven veterans and a young talent in Kalija Lipscomb.
But, the running back corps, led by Gainesville native Ralph Webb, a senior who could end up as the Southeastern Conference's No. 2 career rusher with another season like his last, is better than VU's had in decades. Behind him, Khari Blasingame surprised everyone with a successful conversion from linebacker, spelling Webb in short-yardage situations to the tune of 449 yards and 10 touchdowns. But the coaching staff also raves about the physical ability of redshirt freshman (and Jacksonville native) Jamauri Wakefield. Junior Josh Crawford is also capable of producing in spots.
Throw in the experience of senior fullback/tailback Dallas Rivers, whom the staff trusts to not make mistakes, and sophomore fullback Bailey McElwain, an outstanding blocker, and the 'Dores have someone who can do a little bit of everything.
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