[Tuck4Bama]

Defensive tackles don't grow on trees.

After all, who grows up aspiring to play in the middle of the trenches, taking on hulking offensive linemen so their defensive end or linebacker teammates can be freed up to make tackles and have their names called over the public address system?

That said, it's no great surprise that Vanderbilt Coach Bobby Johnson points to that spot pretty quickly when he discusses his team's depth — or lack of same.

Heading into the season, Johnson characterized the position as 'thin,' and the results in Saturday's 41-17 win against Richmond reflected such.

The Commodores virtually played a three-man rotation at the two spots, with Greg Billinger spelling starters Theo Horrocks and Gabe Hall. David Whittington saw some time toward the end of the contest, in the middle of a defense that allowed 310 yards — including 149 rushing yards.

Vandy bemoans its depth at tackle