Vanderbilt coach Derek Mason’s job is safe for 2020 despite losing seven or more games in each of his six seasons with the Commodores.
Athletic director Malcolm Turner confirmed the decision to retain Mason in an interview Tuesday with The Tennessean.
“I think Coach Mason is a man of the highest character and utmost integrity,” Turner told the paper. “I think he understands Vanderbilt. He has my full support and that of interim chancellor Susan Wente and our university leadership.
“Coach Mason knows we stand by him. But I also know that Coach Mason is committed to building his program the right way.”
Mason’s record since taking over in 2014 is 26-46, including 2-8 this season and 10-37 against Southeastern Conference opponents.
His Commodores have played in two bowl games, losing the Independence Bowl in 2016 and the Texas Bowl in 2018 and finishing both campaigns with 6-7 records.
In 2017, Mason’s original deal was extended from two years to five years. He received another contract extension in February, according to The Tennessean. Public records show he earned $3.4 million with a base salary of $2.9 million in 2017, the most recent year figures were available.
Vanderbilt hosts East Tennessee State on Saturday and finishes its season at rival Tennessee on Nov. 30.
