Derek Mason has led Vanderbilt to an improvement in his second year as head coach, but nothing would endear him to the Commodore faithful more than a road win in Knoxville. He'll have his hands full this year against a Tennessee team that's won four straight bowl games en route to their natural habitat in the Citrus Bowl.
This year's showdown will provide a little extra motivation for Vanderbilt. The 'Dores are 4-7, and a fifth win could push them into possible postseason contention. With more bowl slots available than eligible teams, the NCAA may have to dig down into the catacombs of the five-win programs to fill out the lowest-tier bowl slots.