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Report: Vanderbilt to hire Derek Mason

Derek Mason coordinated a Stanford defense that held opponents to 19 points per game in 2013. (AP)

Derek Mason (AP)

Vanderbilt's search to replace James Franklin reportedly has ended. Stanford defensive coordinator Derek Mason will soon be named head coach of the Commodores, according to 247Sports.

CBS Sports' Bruce Feldman tweeted that Vanderbilt offered the job to Indianapolis Colts offensive coordinator Pep Hamilton -- and had a plane ready to fly him to Nashville -- but Hamilton passed on the offer.

Shannon B. Terry of 247Sports cited sources saying Mason was the first choice of Vanderbilt athletic director David Williams and the school's search committee.

Jeremy Fowler of CBSSports.com reports that no formal offer has been made, though Mason will have a second interview with the school on Friday.

The San Jose Mercury-Newsreported Thursday that Mason was a finalist for the job. Clemson offensive coordinator Chad Morris was also reported to be a finalist.

MANDEL: Analyzing Lane Kiffin's move to Alabama

Franklin coached the Commodores to two consecutive top-25 finishes before leaving to become head coach at Penn State.

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