Vanderbilt football released Bankins after special teams mistakes cost them big in 2015.
Special teams coach Charles Bankins and offensive line coach Keven Lightner won't return to Vanderbilt football in 2016, according to the Tennessean. Those two embattled assistants, along with director of player development Al Smith, were told their contracts would not be renewed on Tuesday. Head coach Derek Mason was diplomatic when it came to addressing these moves.
Mason cited a difference in philosophy rather than poor performance for the coaching changes. Their release in mid-December will allow both coaches to seek jobs elsewhere.