Up for the challenge

by Barca Blog - With two new starters in Vanderbilt’s secondary, Western Carolina quarterback Zack Jaynes instead chose to go after one of the nation's top senior cornerbacks last Saturday.

Myron Lewis welcomed the test, breaking up three passes (which tied a career-high) while just missing interceptions on two of them.

“I was a little surprised,” Lewis admitted, “but I love it when people challenge me. I’m always up for it. I’ve always got to stay on my toes. I was ready to make plays and was prepared for them to throw my way. It just gives me more practice and prepares me for later in the season.”

Lewis, who was named to the Jim Thorpe Award preseason watchlist, leads all current Commodores with six career interceptions. You can bet he'll continue to make opponents pay for targeting him.

SI.com recognizes Myron Lewis

by Barca Blog - Vanderbilt fans are familiar with the talents of junior cornerback Myron Lewis... but some on the national stage are finally starting to take notice. Cory McCartney for SI. com put Lewis on his list of ten players primed for breakout seasons in 2009.

We all remember Lewis' game-winning interceptions against Auburn and Boston College, but take a look at where he ranked among Commodores in several statistical areas in 2008:
Sacks - 5.0 (T1st)
Interceptions - 5 (2nd)
Pass Breakups - 6 (2nd)
Pass Defended - 11 (2nd)
Forced Fumbles - 2 (3rd)
Tackles - 76 (T4th)

Oh, and other great news to share. NBC's Friday Night Lights (one of the best shows on TV) has been renewed for two more years. Can't wait for more from Coach Taylor and the boys from Dillon. Plus we'll try to get an exclusive interview with Lyla Garrity when she comes to campus in the fall.