[Tuck4Bama]

As is so often the case, statistics don't paint the entire picture when it comes to Curtis Gatewood's impact on the Vanderbilt defense.

The senior defensive end, who led the Commodores with seven sacks last season, has yet to tackle an opposing quarterback for a loss through his team's 1-1 (0-1 Southeastern Conference) start.

However, Gatewood has three total tackles for loss and 10 stops in all, ranking among the team leaders in both categories as Vanderbilt heads into Saturday's 6 p.m. matchup with visiting SEC rival Ole Miss.

"Curtis has been doing great," Commodores Coach Bobby Johnson said. "He plays hard and he makes plays."

And Gatewood frees up other teammates to make plays as well.

During the opening quarter of the Alabama game, linebacker Marcus Buggs came free to sack John Parker Wilson while the Tide was occupied with Gatewood.

Vandy defender seeks sacks - Nashville, Tennessee - Tuesday, 09/11/07 -