Butch, if he's going to win football games, Vandy has a tough row to hoe in the SEC. It's a solid program that would dominate several conferences and he should be proud to have been invited. That said, it's one of the very top academic universities in the country, and a degree from Vanderbilt is, in itself, a very special pedigree. They hold a very high standard for academics. They are sometimes called the "Harvard of The South".
I live about an hour from Nashville. It's a great town that's known for it's hospitatlity. Nashville has plenty to offer and the Southern charm of a smaller town...but it's no small town, just has that feel. He will be playing in a conference that will get him lots of exposure, if he develops into the talent that pro teams are looking for....they'll see him.
I'm a die hard UK fan, but give Vandy the credit that they deserve. As an academic institute, they are first class all the way, and he should jump at the chance to go to such a school, unless he has truely pro potential. In that case, I say go where he has a premier football program to play in. Otherwise, Vandy is a great choice IMO.
I'd love to visit with you while you're so close, if you have the time. You could make it a business trip and bring me a tuner...kinda joking...kinda not. I would be happy to meet you somewhere and have lunch/dinner. PM or call me.---Mike Ezell