This season marks head coach Clark Lea's fourth year at Vanderbilt, a tenure marked by struggles. With just two SEC wins and a disappointing 5-7 record in 2022, Lea's job could be safe after an extension through 2029 despite a difficult 2023 season. Vandy's historically poor defense has averaged 36 points per game over the last three years but is showing slight improvement in 2024, allowing 23 points per game with a revamped coaching approach. Lea took over the reins of defense after demoting the previous coordinator, resulting in a shift in defensive strategy that focused on limiting deep passes and utilizing blitzes.

Through the numbers

• Vanderbilt's defense allowed an average of 36 points per game over the last three seasons.
• So far in 2024, they have lowered that average to 23 points per game.
• Middle linebacker Langston Patterson led the team with 74 tackles and 8 TFLs last year and has 29 tackles this season.

Yes but

While the defense is showing signs of improvement, it remains to be seen whether these changes will translate into long-term competitive performances against stronger teams, especially considering previous deficiencies against SEC opponents.

state of affairs

• Clark Lea balances the duties of head coach with the role of defensive coordinator.
• The defensive scheme places an emphasis on limiting deep passes and utilizes a 4-2-5 base with zone coverage.
• Vanderbilt's linebackers play key roles in the defense, particularly Patterson and Longwell.

What's next?

As the season progresses, Vanderbilt's defense will have to test itself against top-tier offensive players like Alabama, which could expose existing weaknesses and assess the effectiveness of the new strategy implemented by Lea.

Conclusion

Vanderbilt's defensive overhaul is promising, but without substantial breakthroughs against top competition, the Commodores could struggle to keep pace, especially against tough SEC opponents like Alabama.