Live it up, Vanderbilt. Finally, after 26 years of frustration and heartbreak, the Commodores have done it.

With a 31-24 victory over Kentucky Saturday, Vanderbilt (6-4, 4-3 Southeastern Conference) snapped a four-game losing streak and reached bowl eligibility for the first time since 1982. The Commodores won for the first time in 20 tries since 1983 in trying to reach a sixth victory in large thanks to terrific performances from quarterback Chris Nickson and do-it-all cornerback D.J. Moore.

Making the big plays with his feet and arm that made him a star two years ago, Nickson passed for 155 yards and a season-high three scores and also ran for 118. Making his first start since playing Mississippi State on Oct. 11, the redshirt senior was razor-sharp from the get-go.

Vanderbilt surged ahead 14-0, striking first on the scoreboard for the first time all season. Nickson hooked up with Moore on two touchdown passes, where Moore burned his man and Nickson delivered a perfect strike both times. The two touchdowns were Moore's first two career receptions.

Moore starred on the defensive side too. His first interception set up a Vanderbilt touchdown to put the Commodores up 21-7, and his second interception halted a Kentucky comeback effort with two minutes to play in the game.

The jubilant players doused coach Bobby Johnson on the sideline, who said the mood in the locker room afterward was one of pride.

"There is elation within our locker room right now and within our coaching staff," Johnson said. "It's pride and joy, no doubt about it."

Moore said it all after the game.

"It feels so good to get out and get our sixth win," he said. "It feels like a ton of bricks have been taken off our back after this game."