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Game Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
TV: ESPNU
Live Stream: WatchESPN
The Vanderbilt Commodores (3-4) shocked the college football world last Saturday when they went ‘between the hedges’ in Athens and scored an upset victory over the Georgia Bulldogs. The ‘Dores were mostly led by the play of linebacker Zach Cunningham who put on a dazzling performance on defense as Vandy spoiled homecoming for the ‘Dawgs in one of their best efforts of the year.
Now, one week later, they will host Tennessee State in a matchup that no doubt leans towards the Commodores. So much so, in fact, that there’s not even a point spread listed for this upcoming contest on Saturday night in Nashville. That should tell you everything, no?
3 players to watch:
1. Zach Cunningham: The aforementioned stud for Vandy has had a great junior year that was furthered last week against Georgia. Cunningham currently leads the Commodores in tackles with 60.5, good for 16 percent of the team’s total tackles. He also has 13 TFL and a forced fumble on the year as well. Expect him to show out yet again against the Tigers.
2. Ralph Webb: Webb has been one of the best running backs in the SEC in 2016. He currently sits second in rushing yards with 730 and has found the end zone six times. While his yards per carry is at just 4.7, Webb has still found a way to be impactful as the main source of the Commodore offense on the year.
3. Oren Burks: Flying under the radar with Cunningham taking most of hte attention, Oren Burks has made an impact this year also. Burks, a junior, has 21 tackles and two sacks, which are tied for the most on the team alongside senior defensive lineman Adam Butler. Burks has the ability to make plays in the backfield and force pressure, so we’ll see if that turns up against Tennessee State on Saturday night.