(Image courtesy vucommodores.cstv.com)HOOVER, Ala. – For decades, Vanderbilt athletics have usually been the doormat of the Southeastern Conference, hindered by its meager fan base and high academic standards.
New coach James Franklin does not feel sorry for his program.
The 39-year-old was confident during his first address at SEC Media Days in Alabama on Friday, saying Vanderbilt has several recruiting advantages if it uses them properly.
Franklin also said his team has several good players, but "we just don't have enough of them."
The rebuilding project won't be easy. The Commodores have finished with a 2-10 record in each of the past two seasons and have several holes to fill on both sides of the ball.
Vanderbilt opens the season at home against Elon University from the Division I Football Championshop Subdivision (formerly Division I-AA).
Six of the Dores' first eight games are in Nashville, including the first three of the season.
(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
