Freshmen may help VU in a special way

The number of true freshmen who play at Vanderbilt has been steadily declining in recent years, and Coach Bobby Johnson generally interprets it as a sign of progress for his program.

In 2005, wide receiver Earl Bennett and kicker/punter Bryant Hahnfeldt were the only true freshmen to see action. In 2004, seven were used.

While Johnson hopes the trend continues, he also acknowledged that perhaps more rookies should have played in 2005, particularly on special teams.