STARS OF THE GAME- South Carolina

Vanderbilt's 24-17 victory over South Carolina was a collective team effort, however, several players performed in an exemplary manner. Jared Hawkins, Patrick Benoist and Broderick Stewart are honored for their outstanding efforts against the Gamecocks.

Vanderbilt 24

South Carolina 17

First and foremost a special Star is awarded for #36 Chris Reinert for his hard work and dedication as a walk on player and the sacrifices he must have made. Reinert injured his leg on a play blocking for Jared Hawkins on Vanderbilt’s final TD drive. It isn’t easy for a walk on to get on the field in the SEC and Reinert was getting some serious playing time in crucial times thus far into the season. I hope we haven’t seen the last of Chris Reinert because we could all learn some lessons on what hard work and dedication can get you…even if you are 5’9” 185lbs and want to play SEC football.

OFFENSIVE STAR OF THE GAME

RB #31 Jared Hawkins

Pick assisted by John in seat 25. thanks for the help in deciding this one. With Jeff Jennings shoulder injury Vanderbilt knew one thing for certain going into the Thursday night match up with South Carolina…. they were going to find out just what JHawk could do given the opportunity to be a feature back. Jared didn’t disappoint in rushing for a career high 84 yards on 17 carries. Jared’s biggest carry of the night came with just over nine minutes remaining in the game when he went off right tackle did a beautiful spin move and plowed his way into the end zone giving the ‘Dores a 24-10 advantage. Congratulations to JHawk on his career day.

DEFENSIVE STAR OF THE GAME

LB #30 Patrick Benoist

The Commodore linebacking unit makes it’s second straight appearance on the Stars of the game (Chris Marve VU vs. Miami OH) with the big time effort of Commodore linebacker Patrick Benoist. Benoist, a steady performer since arriving as a freshman from Texas power south Lake Carroll. Benoist seemed like he was in on every defensive play and wound up with 15 total tackles on the night with one QB sack of South Carolina QB Chris Smelley.

UNSUNG HEROES OF THE GAME

DE #90 Broderick Stewart

Whether it be through his words (Broderick has been known to lay the occasional smack) or through his actions Broderick Stewart has become a leader of this defense. Broderick has always been impressive as a pass rusher but it was his block on #33 Rashard Langford’s interception that ultimately swung my vote his way. On the play Broderick Stewart got past the South Carolina Tackle and nearly got a sack. Gamecock QB Chris Smelley managed to heave a pass down the middle of the field which was tipped by CB D.J. Moore (can I have one of these without a D.J. “the band” reference?) and landed in the arms of Langford who began his return down the Gamecock sideline. I did not remember seeing the block live but if you watch the replay somehow big #90 managed to get up off the turf after the sack attempt and de-cleat a gamecock trying to pursue Langford. I have no idea how he did it but it was one heck of an effort by all involved especially Broderick.

Others-

Too many to list but

Billinger and SMO for the blocked kick

Chris Nickson for staying calm and directing this effort

Sean Walker- Once again on a reverse on national TV for a big play

T.J. Greenstone-Constantly pushing on that offensive line

The entire offensive line for their work and efforts against one of the best defensive line groups we will see this year. (I yelled at you guys sorry about that)

Dalron spead-Interception and run into scoring position. I hate those kicking nets now more than ever.

GO DORES!!!!