Run game struggles and other Vanderbilt football final thoughts from Ole Miss game

Vanderbilt football faces significant challenges ahead after their 52-17 loss to Ole Miss on October 10, 2023. It marked the largest margin of defeat since a 47-6 loss to South Carolina in 2023. The Commodores are currently 3-3, 0-3 in the SEC, and their future looks uncertain as they struggle to secure a bowl game. Their next opponent is Arkansas, currently 2-4, 0-3 in the SEC.

The analysis of the game highlights several key areas of concern. Firstly, the run game has been a persistent issue. Makhilyn Young, Vanderbilt's leading rusher, gained only 40 yards on nine carries, with the other eight carries yielding just six yards. Blaze Berlowitz, who came in during the final minutes, managed 23 yards on four carries.

The lack of production from the running backs, including Jamezell Lassiter, Evan Hampton, and Sedrick Alexander, further exacerbated the problem. Jared Curtis, who was dealing with a lower-body injury, did not contribute significantly to the run game.

Secondly, Vanderbilt's offensive line has been struggling. The team has not consistently recruited or developed high school linemen, leading to a turnover of the majority of the offensive line every year. Mitchell Smith, a promising transfer, missed the game due to injury, and Jasper Ngokwere, a 4-star tackle committed for 2027, is yet to arrive.

Thirdly, the quarterback situation has created confusion. Blaze Berlowitz, who had been the better performer in preseason, was sidelined due to the quarterback battle. Curtis, who had a better preseason, missed valuable development time. The quarterback situation remains unresolved, which could impact the team's performance in future games.