Vanderbilt has fired head coach Derek Mason, the University announced earlier this morning. 

Mason recorded a 27-55 record in seven seasons with the Commodores, however the team is currently 0-8 this season following a 41-0 shutout loss to the Missouri Tigers yesterday. He had three years left on a five-year coaching contract made back in 2017. 

Shortly after his firing, Mason issued a statement expressing his appreciation for the fans and university: 

"On behalf of the entire Vanderbilt community, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to Coach Mason for his many years of dedication and service leading our football program," Athletic Director Candice Storey Lee said in a statement. "Derek cares deeply about the student-athletes under his charge. His tenure at Vanderbilt will be remembered for his steadfast commitment to our student-athletes, not only on the field, but in the classroom and as young people."

Mason led the Commodores to two 6-7 seasons and two bowl games in 2016 and 2018. He also became the first Vanderbilt coach to beat rival Tennessee in three straight seasons since the 1920's. Yesterday, He also became the first coach to play a woman in a Power-5 football game when he tasked Sarah Fuller with being the place kicker against Missouri.

Offensive Coordinator Todd Hitch will act as interim head coach until a new head coach hire is made. The University will begin their search for a new head coach immediately. Vanderbilt travels to No. 9 Georgia to end the regular season Saturday Dec. 5th. 

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