Brian Kimbrow Ready to Carry the Load for Vanderbilt Commodores

By Tim Letcher
Don McPeak, USA TODAY SPORTS

The departure of running back Zac Stacy has left a hole in the backfield of the Vanderbilt Commodores. After all, Stacy had a tremendous career in the Black and Gold. He rushed for 3,143 yards in four seasons, including back-to-back 1,000-yard campaigns in 2011 and 2012. Stacy also scored 30 touchdowns in his Vanderbilt career.

While replacing Stacy might seem like a daunting task, head coach James Franklin thinks he has a replacement in mind.

Sophomore-to-be Brian Kimbrow figures to get the majority of the carries for the Commodores in 2013. Last season, as a true freshman, Kimbrow played in all 13 games, rushing 66 times for 413 yards and three scores. Kimbrow also returned kickoffs last season, averaging 22 yards per return.

He showed what he could do, when given the opportunity, in the third game of the 2012 season. In a big win over Presbyterian, Kimbrow rushed for 137 yards on only 14 carries, including a 49-yard touchdown.

This season, Kimbrow should be the featured back in an offense that averaged 30 points per game last season.

He came to Nashville with outstanding credentials. As a senior at Memphis East High School, Kimbrow rushed for 1,969 yards and 21 touchdowns, while averaging a staggering 10.5 yards per carry. He was named a finalist for Tennessee’s 5A Mr. Football, and participated in the U.S. Army All-American Game.

Kimbrow will be an important piece for Vanderbilt during 2013, especially with the departure of quarterback Jordan Rodgers. Having a strong running game in place will help Vanderbilt continue its climb in the Southeastern Conference.

Vanderbilt rushed for 166 yards per game last season, largely on the back of Stacy. This season, it’s Kimbrow’s turn to be the horse in the backfield.

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