College Basketball: Vanderbilt Commodores at Florida Gators Preview

While Vanderbilt seemed to be approaching conference play with an undeniably improved focus compared to that of their preseason play, a mental lapse and lackadaisical efforts combined cost the ‘Dores a clutch SEC victory Tuesday night against Arkansas. However, the Commodores look to bounce back against the (No. 11 ESPN/USA Today, No. 12 AP) Florida Gators this Saturday.

After kicking off conference play with a disappointing loss to Tennessee Jan. 7, the Gators have regained their swagger and dashed through conference play on a 6-0 winning streak.

Needless to say, Vanderbilt definitely has their hands full as they take on the extremely versatile guard play of Florida’s Kenny Boynton and Bradley Beal, while also withstanding the jeers of 90,000 roaring fans in the Stephen C. O’Connell Center. Regardless of the challenge facing the ‘Dores, Forward Lance Goulbourne believes there is an internal solution to securing the win Saturday afternoon:

“We need to make a focused effort to improve our second half difference. Last game and in previous games, our defense let us down in the second half. If we maintain our focus for 40 minutes, we have a great chance to win the game.”

This attitude may get the Commodores in the right gear to avenge their loss to the Razorbacks and to pull off an upset in the swamp.

Don’t miss this SEC Showdown Saturday, Feb 4, 2012 at 1p.m. ET.

By Jordan Coleman