Oren Burks (20) intercepts a pass during the first quarter in a 27-16 loss to Ole Miss.
Ben Weinrib: The biggest difference for the Commodores this season has definitely been the defense. Head coach Derek Mason took over playcalling in the last game of the season against Tennessee, and the defense has looked much improved since then. Vanderbilt is 17th in red zone defense, 34th in total defense, and 40th in scoring defense this season, up from 70th in total defense and 107th in scoring defense last season. The defense also forced its first turnovers last game, so they’re just now hitting full stride.