[Tuck4Bama]

Even after throttling Richmond in the second half on the way to a 41-17 Vanderbilt victory, the Commodores' defenders know they have a long way to go in a short time.

Alabama comes to Vanderbilt Stadium next Saturday. And there is a definite difference between the offense Richmond put on the field and the one Alabama will unleash.

Richmond quarterback Eric Ward was good. Alabama's John Parker Wilson is better. The Crimson Tide's other skill positions will be a definite upgrade. And the offensive lines bear little resemblance.

"We need to get better," understated Commodores linebacker Jonathan Goff, who had seven tackles and an interception in the opening victory.
"We had some trouble getting started, but we played a lot better in the second half. We really stepped it up."

The Commodores' defense got up and running right at the start. On the very first play from scrimmage in the 2007 season, Vanderbilt created a turnover that gave the Commodores possession on Richmond's 24.

Defense knows tough task awaits in 'Bama