SEC: Anthony Dixon
Going back to my post on potential 1,000-yard rushers next season in the SEC, I thought it would be interesting to see who has produced the most 1,000-yard rushers in the league over the past five seasons.
That would be Arkansas with six, including four different players. Darren McFadden did it twice, and so did Felix Jones. In fact, they both rushed for 1,000 yards in the 2006 and 2007 seasons.
Florida and Vanderbilt have not had a 1,000-yard rusher over the past five seasons.
The Gators’ last 1,000-yard rusher was Ciatrick Fason in 2004 with 1,267 yards. The last time the Commodores produced a 1,000-yard rusher was Jermaine Johnson in 1995 with 1,072 yards.
Last season, Marcus Lattimore became the first South Carolina player to rush for 1,000 yards since Derek Watson had 1,066 yards in 2000.
Here’s a rundown:
Arkansas: 6 (Darren McFadden 1,830 yards in 2007, Darren McFadden 1,647 yards in 2006, Knile Davis 1,322 yards in 2010, Felix Jones 1,168 yards in 2006, Felix Jones 1,113 yards in 2007, Michael Smith 1,072 yards in 2008)
Auburn: 3 (Cam Newton 1,473 yards in 2010, Ben Tate 1,362 yards in 2009, Mike Dyer 1,093 yards in 2010)
LSU: 3 (Charles Scott 1,174 yards in 2008, Stevan Ridley 1,147 yards in 2010, Jacob Hester 1,103 yards in 2007)
Ole Miss: 3 (Dexter McCluster 1,169 yards in 2009, BenJarvus Green-Ellis 1,137 yards in 2007, BenJarvus Green-Ellis 1,000 yards in 2006)
Tennessee: 3 (Montario Hardesty 1,345 yards in 2009, Arian Foster 1,193 yards in 2007, Tauren Poole 1,034 yards in 2010)
Alabama: 2 (Mark Ingram 1,658 yards in 2009, Glen Coffee 1,383 yards in 2008)
Georgia: 2 (Knowshon Moreno 1,400 yards in 2008, Knowshon Moreno 1,334 yards in 2007)
Mississippi State: 2 (Anthony Dixon 1,391 yards in 2009, Anthony Dixon 1,066 yards in 2007)
Kentucky: 1 (Rafael Little 1,013 yards in 2007)
South Carolina: 1 (Marcus Lattimore 1,197 yards in 2010)
That would be Arkansas with six, including four different players. Darren McFadden did it twice, and so did Felix Jones. In fact, they both rushed for 1,000 yards in the 2006 and 2007 seasons.
Florida and Vanderbilt have not had a 1,000-yard rusher over the past five seasons.
The Gators’ last 1,000-yard rusher was Ciatrick Fason in 2004 with 1,267 yards. The last time the Commodores produced a 1,000-yard rusher was Jermaine Johnson in 1995 with 1,072 yards.
Last season, Marcus Lattimore became the first South Carolina player to rush for 1,000 yards since Derek Watson had 1,066 yards in 2000.
Here’s a rundown:
Arkansas: 6 (Darren McFadden 1,830 yards in 2007, Darren McFadden 1,647 yards in 2006, Knile Davis 1,322 yards in 2010, Felix Jones 1,168 yards in 2006, Felix Jones 1,113 yards in 2007, Michael Smith 1,072 yards in 2008)
Auburn: 3 (Cam Newton 1,473 yards in 2010, Ben Tate 1,362 yards in 2009, Mike Dyer 1,093 yards in 2010)
LSU: 3 (Charles Scott 1,174 yards in 2008, Stevan Ridley 1,147 yards in 2010, Jacob Hester 1,103 yards in 2007)
Ole Miss: 3 (Dexter McCluster 1,169 yards in 2009, BenJarvus Green-Ellis 1,137 yards in 2007, BenJarvus Green-Ellis 1,000 yards in 2006)
Tennessee: 3 (Montario Hardesty 1,345 yards in 2009, Arian Foster 1,193 yards in 2007, Tauren Poole 1,034 yards in 2010)
Alabama: 2 (Mark Ingram 1,658 yards in 2009, Glen Coffee 1,383 yards in 2008)
Georgia: 2 (Knowshon Moreno 1,400 yards in 2008, Knowshon Moreno 1,334 yards in 2007)
Mississippi State: 2 (Anthony Dixon 1,391 yards in 2009, Anthony Dixon 1,066 yards in 2007)
Kentucky: 1 (Rafael Little 1,013 yards in 2007)
South Carolina: 1 (Marcus Lattimore 1,197 yards in 2010)
2009 overall record: 5-7
2009 conference record: 3-5
Returning starters
Offense: 7; Defense: 8; Kicker/punter: 2
Top returners
QB Chris Relf, WR Chad Bumphis, TE Marcus Green, OT Derek Sherrod, DE Pernell McPhee, LB K.J. Wright, FS Johnthan Banks, SS Charles Mitchell
Key losses
QB Tyson Lee, RB Anthony Dixon, LB Jamar Chaney, CB Marcus Washington
2009 statistical leaders (* returners)
Rushing: Anthony Dixon (1,391 yards)
Passing: Tyson Lee (1,444 yards)
Receiving: Chad Bumphis* (375 yards)
Tackles: Jamar Chaney (90)
Sacks: Pernell McPhee* (5)
Interceptions: Corey Broomfield* (6)
Spring answers
1. Relf’s improvement: He was more of a specialty player last season, sort of a designated runner from the quarterback position. But junior Chris Relf was one of the Bulldogs’ most improved players this spring, in particular with regard to his passing. At 240 pounds, he’s one of those guys nobody wants to take on head-on when he takes off down the field, but he should be much more of a legitimate passer in 2010 than he was a year ago. Plus, throwing the football is what redshirt freshman Tyler Russell does best, so it should be a good combo.
2. Muscle in the defensive line: The Bulldogs struggled to stop people when they really needed to last season, which made defensive line play a priority this spring. Tackles Fletcher Cox and Josh Boyd are both bigger and stronger after playing as undersized freshmen a year ago, and junior college newcomer James Carmon is massive at 345 pounds. The bell cow of the group is senior end Pernell McPhee, who had 12 tackles for loss last season in his first tour through the SEC. He has a chance to be one of the best defensive linemen in the league in 2010.
3. Second time around: Now that Dan Mullen has laid the groundwork, he feels like the second season will go much smoother. There shouldn’t be any questions about expectations or how Mullen wants it done. He does have a few new staff members, notably defensive coordinator Manny Diaz. Look for the Bulldogs to attack a little more next season on defense and really go after the quarterback. The Bulldogs also played a bunch of freshmen on defense last season who are now battle-tested entering their sophomore seasons.
Fall questions
1. Finding Dixon’s replacement: Anthony Dixon was the heart and soul of Mississippi State’s offense last season. The Bulldogs leaned on him all year, and he delivered. They won’t be able to replace him with one guy. It’s probably going to take three, as nobody really jumped out there and won the job this spring. Junior Robert Elliott has the most experience, but junior college transfer Vick Ballard and redshirt freshman Montrell Connor will both factor into the rotation.
2. Development at receiver: Chad Bumphis had a nice freshman season, but Mullen still wants to see him become a more complete receiver. He was good once he got the ball in his hands. The next step is becoming more proficient at getting open and running better routes. Mullen thinks the Bulldogs are thin right now across the board at receiver, especially when you consider they’re running a spread offense. He wants to see more development, period, at the receiver position.
3. Winning the close ones: The Bulldogs took LSU, Houston and Florida to the fourth quarter last season, but couldn’t close the deal. Learning how to win those games is what separates teams in the SEC. With so many young guys on the field a year ago, Mississippi State found itself on the short end of the experience factor more times than not in crucial situations. We’ll see how much the Bulldogs have grown up and how much they learned about keeping their poise during those key moments in games.
Lunchtime links: Tebow home for the draft
April, 21, 2010
4/21/10
12:30
PM ET
By
Chris Low | ESPN.com
Scouring the SEC to see what all is out there:
- Tim Tebow has declined the NFL's invitation to be in New York for the draft and will watch it from his family's ranch just outside Jacksonville.
- Alabama's Nick Saban won't be able to win his case against the Crimson Tide as the preseason No. 1 team in the country, writes Kevin Scarbinsky of The Birmingham News.
- After what happened with Andre Smith two years ago, Saban has hired an outside consultant to assist players in their selection of an agent, writes Gentry Estes of The Mobile Press-Register.
- Kentucky sophomore linebacker Ridge Wilson is starting over after running into trouble off the field last season, writes Chip Cosby of The Lexington Herald-Leader.
- Arkansas receiver Joe Adams returns to the practice field after missing three of four practices last week, writes Brandon Marcello of The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette.
- Former Tennessee safety Eric Berry would be a rarity if he goes in the top 5 picks of the NFL draft, writes David Paschall of The Chattanooga Times Free Press.
- Former Mississippi State running back Anthony Dixon is just trying to be "cool" as he awaits the NFL draft, writes Kyle Veazey of The Jackson Clarion-Ledger.
- A new study reveals what Georgia football players make on the SAT.
Reviewing Mississippi State's spring game
April, 19, 2010
4/19/10
9:04
AM ET
By
Chris Low | ESPN.com
The first thing to know about Mississippi State's Maroon-White spring game is that the Bulldogs drew 34,127 fans, which was billed as the largest spring attendance in "Mississippi" history.
Also, as Kyle Veazey of The Jackson Clarion-Ledger pointed out, the last four digits from that crowd (4-1-2-7) reflected the score from Mississippi State's win over Ole Miss last season in the Egg Bowl.
Coincidence?
Given the way Mississippi State coach Dan Mullen hasn't been afraid to stoke the fire in the rivalry, probably not.
Chris Relf won the quarterback battle Saturday, but he also had the benefit of playing with most of the offensive line starters. He was 13-of-24 for 184 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions.
Redshirt freshman Tyler Russell got off to a rocky start, as his first pass of the game was intercepted by Damein Anderson. Russell finished 12-of-27 for 125 yards and was intercepted twice. He was also sacked three times.
Spring games often times aren't the best indicator, but Relf looks to be a little bit ahead of Russell coming out of the spring. But they're so different as players that the Bulldogs should be able to use them both next season, depending on the situation.
Mississippi State's defense played it pretty vanilla, but Mullen mentioned safeties Nickoe Whitley and Dennis Thames as players who jumped out at him during the spring game.
The race to replace Anthony Dixon at running back will rage into the summer. The reality is that it's probably going to be a couple of different guys. Vick Ballard and Montrell Conner both showed flashes Saturday.
Also, as Kyle Veazey of The Jackson Clarion-Ledger pointed out, the last four digits from that crowd (4-1-2-7) reflected the score from Mississippi State's win over Ole Miss last season in the Egg Bowl.
Coincidence?
Given the way Mississippi State coach Dan Mullen hasn't been afraid to stoke the fire in the rivalry, probably not.
Chris Relf won the quarterback battle Saturday, but he also had the benefit of playing with most of the offensive line starters. He was 13-of-24 for 184 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions.
Redshirt freshman Tyler Russell got off to a rocky start, as his first pass of the game was intercepted by Damein Anderson. Russell finished 12-of-27 for 125 yards and was intercepted twice. He was also sacked three times.
Spring games often times aren't the best indicator, but Relf looks to be a little bit ahead of Russell coming out of the spring. But they're so different as players that the Bulldogs should be able to use them both next season, depending on the situation.
Mississippi State's defense played it pretty vanilla, but Mullen mentioned safeties Nickoe Whitley and Dennis Thames as players who jumped out at him during the spring game.
The race to replace Anthony Dixon at running back will rage into the summer. The reality is that it's probably going to be a couple of different guys. Vick Ballard and Montrell Conner both showed flashes Saturday.
Position superlatives: Mississippi State
March, 25, 2010
3/25/10
12:11
PM ET
By
Chris Low | ESPN.com
Today, we take a look at what should be the strongest and weakest positions for Mississippi State entering the 2010 season:
Strongest position: Defensive line
Key returnees: Pernell McPhee, Fletcher Cox, Josh Boyd, Nick Bell, Devin Jones
Key departures: Kyle Love
The skinny: It’s always nice to have a stud in your defensive line, a player the other team has to plan around, and that’s where McPhee comes in this season. He was very good as a junior after coming over from junior college and led the Bulldogs with 12 tackles for loss. But with this being his second year in the league, he has everything it takes to be the best defensive end in the league. Cox and Boyd both played last season as true freshmen, and both are listed as starters this spring at tackle. Even though they play inside, both are extremely athletic. The newcomer to watch inside is 6-foot-7, 345-pound James Carmon, who played at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College last year. There’s a lot of promising young talent up front defensively for the Bulldogs. In addition to Cox and Boyd, Bell, Jones and Shane McCardell are three other sophomores who’ve played.
Weakest position: Running back
Key returnees: Robert Elliott
Key departures: Anthony Dixon, Christian Ducre, Arnil Stallworth
The skinny: Take away a player as productive as Dixon from any offense, and there are going to be obvious questions. He led the SEC in rushing last season with an average of 126.5 yards per game, and the Bulldogs leaned on him every step of the way. There are some talented guys eager to replace him, but very little experience. Juniors Robert Elliott and Vick Ballard are listed atop the depth chart this spring at running back. Mississippi State fans have been waiting for Elliott to break out. Maybe this is his year after playing in Dixon’s shadow and being slowed by injuries. Ballard put up gaudy numbers in junior college last season, while 225-pound redshirt freshman Montrell Conner will also get a long look. All three will be running behind an experienced offensive line. Four of the five starters from a year ago are back up front.
Strongest position: Defensive line
Key returnees: Pernell McPhee, Fletcher Cox, Josh Boyd, Nick Bell, Devin Jones
Key departures: Kyle Love
The skinny: It’s always nice to have a stud in your defensive line, a player the other team has to plan around, and that’s where McPhee comes in this season. He was very good as a junior after coming over from junior college and led the Bulldogs with 12 tackles for loss. But with this being his second year in the league, he has everything it takes to be the best defensive end in the league. Cox and Boyd both played last season as true freshmen, and both are listed as starters this spring at tackle. Even though they play inside, both are extremely athletic. The newcomer to watch inside is 6-foot-7, 345-pound James Carmon, who played at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College last year. There’s a lot of promising young talent up front defensively for the Bulldogs. In addition to Cox and Boyd, Bell, Jones and Shane McCardell are three other sophomores who’ve played.
Weakest position: Running back
Key returnees: Robert Elliott
Key departures: Anthony Dixon, Christian Ducre, Arnil Stallworth
The skinny: Take away a player as productive as Dixon from any offense, and there are going to be obvious questions. He led the SEC in rushing last season with an average of 126.5 yards per game, and the Bulldogs leaned on him every step of the way. There are some talented guys eager to replace him, but very little experience. Juniors Robert Elliott and Vick Ballard are listed atop the depth chart this spring at running back. Mississippi State fans have been waiting for Elliott to break out. Maybe this is his year after playing in Dixon’s shadow and being slowed by injuries. Ballard put up gaudy numbers in junior college last season, while 225-pound redshirt freshman Montrell Conner will also get a long look. All three will be running behind an experienced offensive line. Four of the five starters from a year ago are back up front.
After I pointed out recently that South Carolina quarterback Stephen Garcia was the leader in total offense last season in conference games, several of you asked about the leaders in the other statistical categories in conference games only.
Here goes:
In rushing, Alabama’s Mark Ingram led the way with 128.8 yards per game, but Mississippi State’s Anthony Dixon was right on his heels at 127 yards per game.
Interestingly enough, five of the top seven rushers from a year ago in SEC games are gone. The only two back are Ingram and Kentucky’s Derrick Locke, who averaged 84.4 yards per game.
Arkansas’ Ryan Mallett was the passing leader in conference games. He threw for 273.6 yards per game. Garcia wasn’t far behind with an average of 263.1 yards per game.
Anybody want to venture a guess on who threw the most touchdown passes in SEC games?
That would be Georgia’s Joe Cox with 17. Ole Miss’ Jevan Snead threw the most interceptions with 15.
Arkansas’ Greg Childs led the way in receiving yards per game (92.1), yards per catch (23) and most receiving yards (737) in conference games. Childs’ six touchdown catches were also tops among receivers in conference games.
Ole Miss’ Shay Hodge had the most catches (41), followed by LSU’s Brandon LaFell (39) and Florida’s Aaron Hernandez (38).
The top scorers among position players were Tennessee running back Montario Hardesty and Kentucky quarterback/receiver Randall Cobb, both of whom scored 10 touchdowns.
Ole Miss’ Dexter McCluster topped the league in all-purpose yardage with an average of 160.5 yards per game. The Kentucky twosome of Cobb and Locke were the next two. Cobb averaged 156.9 yards and Locke 156.8 yards.
Defensively, Tennessee linebacker Rico McCoy led the league with 91 total tackles. Georgia linebacker Rennie Curran was second with 90. Florida defensive end Jermaine Cunningham had seven sacks in conference games to lead the way, while Georgia defensive end Justin Houston had 11 total tackles for loss to finish No. 1 in the category. Alabama cornerback Javier Arenas had 10 solo tackles for loss.
Alabama safety Mark Barron had six interceptions in SEC games to rank No. 1 in that category.
Here goes:
In rushing, Alabama’s Mark Ingram led the way with 128.8 yards per game, but Mississippi State’s Anthony Dixon was right on his heels at 127 yards per game.
Interestingly enough, five of the top seven rushers from a year ago in SEC games are gone. The only two back are Ingram and Kentucky’s Derrick Locke, who averaged 84.4 yards per game.
Arkansas’ Ryan Mallett was the passing leader in conference games. He threw for 273.6 yards per game. Garcia wasn’t far behind with an average of 263.1 yards per game.
Anybody want to venture a guess on who threw the most touchdown passes in SEC games?
That would be Georgia’s Joe Cox with 17. Ole Miss’ Jevan Snead threw the most interceptions with 15.
Arkansas’ Greg Childs led the way in receiving yards per game (92.1), yards per catch (23) and most receiving yards (737) in conference games. Childs’ six touchdown catches were also tops among receivers in conference games.
Ole Miss’ Shay Hodge had the most catches (41), followed by LSU’s Brandon LaFell (39) and Florida’s Aaron Hernandez (38).
The top scorers among position players were Tennessee running back Montario Hardesty and Kentucky quarterback/receiver Randall Cobb, both of whom scored 10 touchdowns.
Ole Miss’ Dexter McCluster topped the league in all-purpose yardage with an average of 160.5 yards per game. The Kentucky twosome of Cobb and Locke were the next two. Cobb averaged 156.9 yards and Locke 156.8 yards.
Defensively, Tennessee linebacker Rico McCoy led the league with 91 total tackles. Georgia linebacker Rennie Curran was second with 90. Florida defensive end Jermaine Cunningham had seven sacks in conference games to lead the way, while Georgia defensive end Justin Houston had 11 total tackles for loss to finish No. 1 in the category. Alabama cornerback Javier Arenas had 10 solo tackles for loss.
Alabama safety Mark Barron had six interceptions in SEC games to rank No. 1 in that category.
Taking a look around the SEC as we say hello to March:
- Tim Tebow defends Florida coach Urban Meyer, who is getting some criticism for not correcting Tebow's elongated delivery and throwing motion while Tebow was in college.
- LSU coach Les Miles expects more offensive line production in 2010, writes Randy Rosetta of The Baton Rouge Advocate.
- It's Big Money Monday for Alabama defensive coordinator Kirby Smart, writes Gentry Estes of The Mobile Press-Register.
- Kyle Veazey of The Jackson Clarion-Ledger checks in on former Mississippi State star Anthony Dixon at the NFL combine.
- Former Florida linebacker Brandon Spikes discusses his eye-gouging incident at the NFL combine, writes Pat Dooley of The Gainesville Sun.
- Former Tennessee safety Eric Berry wants to leave no doubt that he's the best player in the draft, writes Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean.
- Rennie Curran says one of the reasons he left Georgia early was because all of his defensive coaches were fired.
- Todd Grantham's new 3-4 scheme energizes Georgia's defense, writes David Hale of The Macon Telegraph.
The fans speak on the SEC's top 30 players
March, 1, 2010
3/01/10
10:30
AM ET
By
Chris Low | ESPN.com
I appreciate your input on the top 30 players in the SEC from this past season, and here are two more entries that I received from you.
The first one is from William in Jackson, Miss., and the second one is from Steve in Atlanta. William has Mark Ingram No. 1, while Steve has Rolando McClain No. 1. Some of the new names on their lists include LSU safety Chad Jones and Vanderbilt running back/return specialist Warren Norman. Both are strong lists.
William's top 30:
No. 1: Mark Ingram, RB, Alabama
No. 2: Rolando McClain, LB, Alabama
No. 3: Tim Tebow, QB, Florida
No. 4: Ryan Mallett, QB, Arkansas
No. 5: Anthony Dixon, RB, Mississippi State
No. 6: Javier Arenas, CB, Alabama
No. 7: Eric Berry, S, Tennessee
No. 8: Dexter McCluster, RB/WR, Ole Miss
No. 9: Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida
No. 10: Eric Norwood, OLB, South Carolina
No. 11: Joe Haden, CB, Florida
No. 12: Aaron Hernandez, TE, Florida
No. 13: Antonio Coleman, DE, Auburn
No. 14: Brandon Spikes, LB, Florida
No. 15: Patrick Peterson, CB, LSU
No. 16: Pernell McPhee, DE, Mississippi State
No. 17: Randall Cobb, QB/WR, Kentucky
No. 18: A.J. Green, WR, Georgia
No. 19: Mike Johnson, OG, Alabama
No. 20: Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee
No. 21: Montario Hardesty, RB, Tennessee
No. 22: Rennie Curran, LB, Georgia
No. 23: Shay Hodge, WR, Ole Miss
No. 24: Ben Tate, RB, Auburn
No. 25: Maurkice Pouncey, C, Florida
No. 26: Malcolm Sheppard, DT, Arkansas
No. 27: Mark Barron, S, Alabama
No. 28: Chad Jones, S, LSU
No. 29: Terrence Cody, NG, Alabama
No. 30: Julio Jones, WR, Alabama
Steve's top 30:
No. 1: Rolando McClain, LB, Alabama
No. 2: Mark Ingram, RB, Alabama
No. 3: Eric Berry, S, Tennessee
No. 4: Dexter McCluster, RB/WR, Ole Miss
No. 5: Ryan Mallett, QB, Arkansas
No. 6: Anthony Dixon, RB, Mississippi State
No. 7: Javier Arenas, CB, Alabama
No. 8: Joe Haden, CB, Florida
No. 9: Tim Tebow, QB, Florida
No. 10: Antonio Coleman, DE, Auburn
No. 11: Aaron Hernandez, TE, Florida
No. 12: Eric Norwood, OLB, South Carolina
No. 13: Brandon Spikes, LB, Florida
No. 14: Patrick Peterson, CB, LSU
No. 15: Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida
No. 16: Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee
No. 17: Ben Tate, RB, Auburn
No. 18: Montario Hardesty, RB, Tennessee
No. 19: Mike Johnson, OG, Alabama
No. 20: Maurkice Pouncey, C, Florida
No. 21: Rennie Curran, LB, Georgia
No. 22: Randall Cobb, QB/WR, Kentucky
No. 23: Shay Hodge, WR, Ole Miss
No. 24: Terrence Cody, NG, Alabama
No. 25: A.J. Green, WR, Georgia
No. 26: Pernell McPhee, DE, Mississippi State
No. 27: Malcolm Sheppard, DT, Arkansas
No. 28: Mark Barron, S, Alabama
No. 29: Brandon LaFell, WR, LSU
No. 30: Warren Norman, RB, Vanderbilt
The first one is from William in Jackson, Miss., and the second one is from Steve in Atlanta. William has Mark Ingram No. 1, while Steve has Rolando McClain No. 1. Some of the new names on their lists include LSU safety Chad Jones and Vanderbilt running back/return specialist Warren Norman. Both are strong lists.
William's top 30:
No. 1: Mark Ingram, RB, Alabama
No. 2: Rolando McClain, LB, Alabama
No. 3: Tim Tebow, QB, Florida
No. 4: Ryan Mallett, QB, Arkansas
No. 5: Anthony Dixon, RB, Mississippi State
No. 6: Javier Arenas, CB, Alabama
No. 7: Eric Berry, S, Tennessee
No. 8: Dexter McCluster, RB/WR, Ole Miss
No. 9: Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida
No. 10: Eric Norwood, OLB, South Carolina
No. 11: Joe Haden, CB, Florida
No. 12: Aaron Hernandez, TE, Florida
No. 13: Antonio Coleman, DE, Auburn
No. 14: Brandon Spikes, LB, Florida
No. 15: Patrick Peterson, CB, LSU
No. 16: Pernell McPhee, DE, Mississippi State
No. 17: Randall Cobb, QB/WR, Kentucky
No. 18: A.J. Green, WR, Georgia
No. 19: Mike Johnson, OG, Alabama
No. 20: Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee
No. 21: Montario Hardesty, RB, Tennessee
No. 22: Rennie Curran, LB, Georgia
No. 23: Shay Hodge, WR, Ole Miss
No. 24: Ben Tate, RB, Auburn
No. 25: Maurkice Pouncey, C, Florida
No. 26: Malcolm Sheppard, DT, Arkansas
No. 27: Mark Barron, S, Alabama
No. 28: Chad Jones, S, LSU
No. 29: Terrence Cody, NG, Alabama
No. 30: Julio Jones, WR, Alabama
Steve's top 30:
No. 1: Rolando McClain, LB, Alabama
No. 2: Mark Ingram, RB, Alabama
No. 3: Eric Berry, S, Tennessee
No. 4: Dexter McCluster, RB/WR, Ole Miss
No. 5: Ryan Mallett, QB, Arkansas
No. 6: Anthony Dixon, RB, Mississippi State
No. 7: Javier Arenas, CB, Alabama
No. 8: Joe Haden, CB, Florida
No. 9: Tim Tebow, QB, Florida
No. 10: Antonio Coleman, DE, Auburn
No. 11: Aaron Hernandez, TE, Florida
No. 12: Eric Norwood, OLB, South Carolina
No. 13: Brandon Spikes, LB, Florida
No. 14: Patrick Peterson, CB, LSU
No. 15: Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida
No. 16: Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee
No. 17: Ben Tate, RB, Auburn
No. 18: Montario Hardesty, RB, Tennessee
No. 19: Mike Johnson, OG, Alabama
No. 20: Maurkice Pouncey, C, Florida
No. 21: Rennie Curran, LB, Georgia
No. 22: Randall Cobb, QB/WR, Kentucky
No. 23: Shay Hodge, WR, Ole Miss
No. 24: Terrence Cody, NG, Alabama
No. 25: A.J. Green, WR, Georgia
No. 26: Pernell McPhee, DE, Mississippi State
No. 27: Malcolm Sheppard, DT, Arkansas
No. 28: Mark Barron, S, Alabama
No. 29: Brandon LaFell, WR, LSU
No. 30: Warren Norman, RB, Vanderbilt
With the weekend behind us, we return to our countdown of the 30 best players in the SEC from this past season.
It had been a defensive smorgasbord up until this point, but this next guy was easily one of the top handful of offensive players in the league in 2009 and will be extremely difficult to replace:
DixonNo. 7: Anthony Dixon, RB, Mississippi State: You could make a case that there wasn’t another player in the SEC more valuable to his team than Dixon was to the Bulldogs in 2009. Their offense revolved around the bruising 245-pound senior running back, who re-wrote the Mississippi State record books. Dixon led the SEC in rushing yards per game (126.5 yards) and finished with a school-record 1,391 yards in 11 games while also rushing for 12 touchdowns. He leaves Mississippi State as the school’s all-time rushing leader with 3,994 career yards and set the single-game record last season when he erupted for 252 yards in the 31-24 win over Kentucky. Extremely durable, Dixon averaged an SEC-high 23.4 carries per game and proved that he wasn’t just a power runner. He had a 70-yard touchdown run against Arkansas and was in some of the best shape of his career. It paid off with the best season of his career.
It had been a defensive smorgasbord up until this point, but this next guy was easily one of the top handful of offensive players in the league in 2009 and will be extremely difficult to replace:
SEC position battles to watch in the spring
February, 12, 2010
2/12/10
10:13
AM ET
By
Chris Low | ESPN.com
Positions will be won and lost all across the SEC this spring.
And in some cases, nothing will be settled until preseason practice resumes in August.
Here are five position battles to keep an eye on as spring practice in the SEC gets under way on Feb. 25 with LSU kicking it off. Two months later, Arkansas and Kentucky will both shut it down on April 24 with their spring games:
1. Georgia quarterback: Joe Cox won’t be around to blame anymore. He’s gone after one year on the job, meaning this spring will be one big scrap for the Bulldogs’ starting quarterback job. Junior Logan Gray is one of the most athletic players on the team and will probably get first dibs on proving that he’s the guy. Whether or not he throws the ball well enough to play winning football in the SEC remains to be seen, which means it will probably come down between redshirt freshmen Aaron Murray and Zach Mettenberger. Both were on campus for spring practice a year ago and know the system. Mettenberger is a taller, pocket passer with a big arm, while Murray possesses the kind of versatility all coaches are looking for in a quarterback. The early indications are that Murray has that “it” factor and may be the one to beat.
2. Alabama cornerback: Not only is Alabama short one cornerback, but both starting cornerbacks from its national championship team are gone with Kareem Jackson leaving early for the NFL. Don’t feel too sorry for the Crimson Tide, because there’s a cache of talent waiting in the wings. Sophomore Dre Kirkpatrick has all sorts of potential after coming in last season as one of the top defensive back prospects in the country. He certainly isn’t lacking for confidence. Nick Saban also went out and signed two of the top cornerbacks prospects in the country this year in DeMarcus Milliner and John Fulton, and both players are already on campus and will go through spring practice. Don’t forget about LSU transfer Phelon Jones, either, and junior college newcomer DeQuan Menzie will arrive this summer.
3. Tennessee running back: Montario Hardesty was one of the most pleasant surprises in the league last season. He was a workhorse for the Vols after enduring injury concerns for much of his career. He led the SEC with 282 carries while rushing for 1,345 yards, which was 300 yards more than he’d gained in his first three seasons combined. The reality is that it may take a couple of players to replace his production. Sophomore Bryce Brown is a big, strong runner who showed flashes last season, but was probably overhyped coming out of high school when he was tabbed by some as the No. 1 prospect in the country. The guy to watch is junior Tauren Poole, who didn’t get much of a chance under the previous staff. He’s got to watch his fumbling. Redshirt freshman Toney Williams was extremely impressive last spring before tearing his ACL in summer workouts, while sophomore David Oku is a guy who can catch it and run it.
4. South Carolina weak side linebacker: It’s known more commonly around Columbia as Eric Norwood’s position, although the Gamecocks were able to move the three-time All-SEC selection around to different spots during his career. He provided so many big plays over the last couple of seasons that replacing him won’t be easy. One of the guys who will probably get the first shot is sophomore Reggie Bowens, who has great speed and has been trying to find the right position after coming to South Carolina as a safety. He was out the entire season two years ago with a shoulder injury and was plagued by knee problems last season. Junior Shaq Wilson had to move inside last season because of injuries in the middle, but also could end up moving back to the weak side. Tony Straughter and Quin Smith are two other guys to keep an eye on this spring.
5. Mississippi State running back: Few players in the league left bigger shoes to fill than Anthony Dixon when you consider how big a part of the Mississippi State offense he was last season. There’s no substitute for being able to turn around and hand the ball off to a bruising back the caliber of the 245-pound Dixon. With him gone, it’s going to be a free-for-all to see who emerges as the starter. Junior Robert Elliott has been one of those “potential” guys who may be due for a breakout season. He has great speed and acceleration, but just needs to do it on a consistent basis. Montrell Conner is a 215-pound speedster that redshirted last season. The Mississippi State staff is eager to see what he can do this spring, while junior college newcomer Vick Ballard is already enrolled and will go through spring practice. Ballard rushed for 1,728 yards and 22 touchdowns last season at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College.
And in some cases, nothing will be settled until preseason practice resumes in August.
Here are five position battles to keep an eye on as spring practice in the SEC gets under way on Feb. 25 with LSU kicking it off. Two months later, Arkansas and Kentucky will both shut it down on April 24 with their spring games:
1. Georgia quarterback: Joe Cox won’t be around to blame anymore. He’s gone after one year on the job, meaning this spring will be one big scrap for the Bulldogs’ starting quarterback job. Junior Logan Gray is one of the most athletic players on the team and will probably get first dibs on proving that he’s the guy. Whether or not he throws the ball well enough to play winning football in the SEC remains to be seen, which means it will probably come down between redshirt freshmen Aaron Murray and Zach Mettenberger. Both were on campus for spring practice a year ago and know the system. Mettenberger is a taller, pocket passer with a big arm, while Murray possesses the kind of versatility all coaches are looking for in a quarterback. The early indications are that Murray has that “it” factor and may be the one to beat.
2. Alabama cornerback: Not only is Alabama short one cornerback, but both starting cornerbacks from its national championship team are gone with Kareem Jackson leaving early for the NFL. Don’t feel too sorry for the Crimson Tide, because there’s a cache of talent waiting in the wings. Sophomore Dre Kirkpatrick has all sorts of potential after coming in last season as one of the top defensive back prospects in the country. He certainly isn’t lacking for confidence. Nick Saban also went out and signed two of the top cornerbacks prospects in the country this year in DeMarcus Milliner and John Fulton, and both players are already on campus and will go through spring practice. Don’t forget about LSU transfer Phelon Jones, either, and junior college newcomer DeQuan Menzie will arrive this summer.
3. Tennessee running back: Montario Hardesty was one of the most pleasant surprises in the league last season. He was a workhorse for the Vols after enduring injury concerns for much of his career. He led the SEC with 282 carries while rushing for 1,345 yards, which was 300 yards more than he’d gained in his first three seasons combined. The reality is that it may take a couple of players to replace his production. Sophomore Bryce Brown is a big, strong runner who showed flashes last season, but was probably overhyped coming out of high school when he was tabbed by some as the No. 1 prospect in the country. The guy to watch is junior Tauren Poole, who didn’t get much of a chance under the previous staff. He’s got to watch his fumbling. Redshirt freshman Toney Williams was extremely impressive last spring before tearing his ACL in summer workouts, while sophomore David Oku is a guy who can catch it and run it.
4. South Carolina weak side linebacker: It’s known more commonly around Columbia as Eric Norwood’s position, although the Gamecocks were able to move the three-time All-SEC selection around to different spots during his career. He provided so many big plays over the last couple of seasons that replacing him won’t be easy. One of the guys who will probably get the first shot is sophomore Reggie Bowens, who has great speed and has been trying to find the right position after coming to South Carolina as a safety. He was out the entire season two years ago with a shoulder injury and was plagued by knee problems last season. Junior Shaq Wilson had to move inside last season because of injuries in the middle, but also could end up moving back to the weak side. Tony Straughter and Quin Smith are two other guys to keep an eye on this spring.
5. Mississippi State running back: Few players in the league left bigger shoes to fill than Anthony Dixon when you consider how big a part of the Mississippi State offense he was last season. There’s no substitute for being able to turn around and hand the ball off to a bruising back the caliber of the 245-pound Dixon. With him gone, it’s going to be a free-for-all to see who emerges as the starter. Junior Robert Elliott has been one of those “potential” guys who may be due for a breakout season. He has great speed and acceleration, but just needs to do it on a consistent basis. Montrell Conner is a 215-pound speedster that redshirted last season. The Mississippi State staff is eager to see what he can do this spring, while junior college newcomer Vick Ballard is already enrolled and will go through spring practice. Ballard rushed for 1,728 yards and 22 touchdowns last season at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College.
Every year in the SEC, there are some big shoes to fill.
But next season, we're talking size 18s, 19s and 20s everywhere you look.
When you factor in the talented juniors leaving the conference, new faces, new leaders and new playmakers are going to have to step up like never before in 2010.
That said, here’s a look at the biggest shoes to fill in the league next season. As you might imagine, the names are familiar ones:
1. Florida quarterback Tim Tebow: Contrary to popular belief, Tebow didn’t play seven seasons at Florida. It just seemed that way to everybody he beat up on. As a starter, he was a remarkable 35-6 with a Heisman Trophy, one SEC championship, one BCS national championship, two SEC championship game appearances and two BCS bowl wins. He scored more touchdowns than anybody who’s ever played in the SEC, and he was the kind of inspirational leader that coaches dream about having on their team. It’s impossible to replace everything that Tebow was to the Gators. He’s one of the best college football players of this era. Junior John Brantley gets first chance. He’s a different kind of quarterback than Tebow and is already an extremely polished passer. The Gators’ offense will change with Brantley, a highly recruited player who’s been waiting for his chance.
2. Alabama linebacker Rolando McClain: One of the smartest players Nick Saban has ever coached, McClain was so many things, not only to the Alabama defense, but to the entire team. For one, he was that rock-solid, emotional leader all great teams have. But he was also that guy on the field who knew everybody’s position, knew everybody’s duties and made sure guys were in the right spots. On top of it all, the 6-foot-4, 255-pound McClain was one of the most productive linebackers in the country who was always making game-changing plays. With the Butkus Award winner deciding to turn pro early, Dont’a Hightower is the heir apparent to take over for McClain. Hightower is a great player in his own right, but is coming off reconstructive knee surgery. If he returns close to 100 percent, the Crimson Tide could have their second straight Butkus Award winner.
3. Mississippi State running back Anthony Dixon: We’re going with Dixon at the No. 3 spot for a couple of different reasons. Most importantly, it’s always a chore to replace 126.5 rushing yards per game. Dixon led the SEC in that category. But here’s the other thing: Dixon WAS the Mississippi State offense last season. Dan Mullen rode him the entire season, and Dixon delivered with a record-setting season. With him gone (along with two other senior running backs), the Bulldogs will have to tweak things some offensively in 2010. Making it even more difficult is that there’s not a proven quarterback on campus. Chris Relf was the Bulldogs’ designated runner at quarterback last season and was good in that role. But he only attempted 41 passes in 10 games. Redshirt freshman Tyler Russell will get every chance to win the quarterback job this fall. But when things get hairy, he won't have the luxury of turning around and handing the ball off to Dixon.
4. Ole Miss running back Dexter McCluster: Staying in the state of Mississippi, there wasn’t a more productive or feared player in the league during the second half of the season than McCluster. From the Arkansas game on (or once he moved full time to running back), he carved opposing defenses apart and made the Rebels’ offense so much better with his ability to strike from long distance. The Rebels didn't have to put together long drives all the time because the speedy McCluster was popping long runs left and right. There’s not player in this league, let alone on Ole Miss’ roster, just like McCluster. After all, he became the first player in SEC history to rush for 1,000 yards and have 500 yards receiving in the same season in 2009. It may be that the Rebels have to divvy up his roles next season. Junior Brandon Bolden returns as the featured back, but junior college newcomer Randall Mackey looks like a great fit in the Wild Rebel formation. And Ole Miss also needs to find more ways to get the ball to Jesse Grandy. The wild card is Tim Simon, who looked great early on as a freshman before suffering a nasty knee injury. His recovery could be a lengthy one.
5. Tennessee safety Eric Berry: Even though Berry’s interception numbers were down last season, he was still the most complete safety in college football. The Jim Thorpe Award winner was used mostly as a hybrid linebacker in Monte Kiffin’s defensive system and ended up leading SEC defensive backs with 87 tackles, including seven for loss. Having a safety the caliber of Berry opens up so many other things for your defense. He makes up for mistakes, takes the pressure off more unproven players in the secondary and forces the opposing offensive coordinator to know where he is at all times. Berry was perennially around the ball and made so many things happen for the Vols the past three years. Plus, he provided some invaluable leadership for that defense. Janzen Jackson has the physical talent to be the next great safety at Tennessee. When he wasn’t suspended last season, he made his presence felt as a freshman. But he still has to prove that he’s going to do the right things both on and off the field.
But next season, we're talking size 18s, 19s and 20s everywhere you look.
When you factor in the talented juniors leaving the conference, new faces, new leaders and new playmakers are going to have to step up like never before in 2010.
That said, here’s a look at the biggest shoes to fill in the league next season. As you might imagine, the names are familiar ones:
1. Florida quarterback Tim Tebow: Contrary to popular belief, Tebow didn’t play seven seasons at Florida. It just seemed that way to everybody he beat up on. As a starter, he was a remarkable 35-6 with a Heisman Trophy, one SEC championship, one BCS national championship, two SEC championship game appearances and two BCS bowl wins. He scored more touchdowns than anybody who’s ever played in the SEC, and he was the kind of inspirational leader that coaches dream about having on their team. It’s impossible to replace everything that Tebow was to the Gators. He’s one of the best college football players of this era. Junior John Brantley gets first chance. He’s a different kind of quarterback than Tebow and is already an extremely polished passer. The Gators’ offense will change with Brantley, a highly recruited player who’s been waiting for his chance.
2. Alabama linebacker Rolando McClain: One of the smartest players Nick Saban has ever coached, McClain was so many things, not only to the Alabama defense, but to the entire team. For one, he was that rock-solid, emotional leader all great teams have. But he was also that guy on the field who knew everybody’s position, knew everybody’s duties and made sure guys were in the right spots. On top of it all, the 6-foot-4, 255-pound McClain was one of the most productive linebackers in the country who was always making game-changing plays. With the Butkus Award winner deciding to turn pro early, Dont’a Hightower is the heir apparent to take over for McClain. Hightower is a great player in his own right, but is coming off reconstructive knee surgery. If he returns close to 100 percent, the Crimson Tide could have their second straight Butkus Award winner.
3. Mississippi State running back Anthony Dixon: We’re going with Dixon at the No. 3 spot for a couple of different reasons. Most importantly, it’s always a chore to replace 126.5 rushing yards per game. Dixon led the SEC in that category. But here’s the other thing: Dixon WAS the Mississippi State offense last season. Dan Mullen rode him the entire season, and Dixon delivered with a record-setting season. With him gone (along with two other senior running backs), the Bulldogs will have to tweak things some offensively in 2010. Making it even more difficult is that there’s not a proven quarterback on campus. Chris Relf was the Bulldogs’ designated runner at quarterback last season and was good in that role. But he only attempted 41 passes in 10 games. Redshirt freshman Tyler Russell will get every chance to win the quarterback job this fall. But when things get hairy, he won't have the luxury of turning around and handing the ball off to Dixon.
4. Ole Miss running back Dexter McCluster: Staying in the state of Mississippi, there wasn’t a more productive or feared player in the league during the second half of the season than McCluster. From the Arkansas game on (or once he moved full time to running back), he carved opposing defenses apart and made the Rebels’ offense so much better with his ability to strike from long distance. The Rebels didn't have to put together long drives all the time because the speedy McCluster was popping long runs left and right. There’s not player in this league, let alone on Ole Miss’ roster, just like McCluster. After all, he became the first player in SEC history to rush for 1,000 yards and have 500 yards receiving in the same season in 2009. It may be that the Rebels have to divvy up his roles next season. Junior Brandon Bolden returns as the featured back, but junior college newcomer Randall Mackey looks like a great fit in the Wild Rebel formation. And Ole Miss also needs to find more ways to get the ball to Jesse Grandy. The wild card is Tim Simon, who looked great early on as a freshman before suffering a nasty knee injury. His recovery could be a lengthy one.
5. Tennessee safety Eric Berry: Even though Berry’s interception numbers were down last season, he was still the most complete safety in college football. The Jim Thorpe Award winner was used mostly as a hybrid linebacker in Monte Kiffin’s defensive system and ended up leading SEC defensive backs with 87 tackles, including seven for loss. Having a safety the caliber of Berry opens up so many other things for your defense. He makes up for mistakes, takes the pressure off more unproven players in the secondary and forces the opposing offensive coordinator to know where he is at all times. Berry was perennially around the ball and made so many things happen for the Vols the past three years. Plus, he provided some invaluable leadership for that defense. Janzen Jackson has the physical talent to be the next great safety at Tennessee. When he wasn’t suspended last season, he made his presence felt as a freshman. But he still has to prove that he’s going to do the right things both on and off the field.
Kentucky's Conner participating in Senior Bowl
January, 27, 2010
1/27/10
10:39
AM ET
By
Chris Low | ESPN.com
I wanted to make sure I pointed out that Kentucky fullback John Conner is also playing in the Senior Bowl. He was a late addition.
The 5-foot-11, 240-pound Conner is an outstanding blocker and would fit in nicely with any team that still uses the fullback a lot. He's athletic enough to catch the ball and has more than held his own during the first two days of practice.
Four of the five running backs playing on the South team are from the SEC. Mississippi State's Anthony Dixon, Auburn's Ben Tate and Alabama's Roy Upchurch are also on the active roster.
Dixon weighed in at 245 pounds, but it wasn't a flabby 245 pounds. Scouts were impressed with his solid build, and he's also going to get some work at fullback this week.
Here are the official heights and weights of SEC players who were present for the weigh-in:
The 5-foot-11, 240-pound Conner is an outstanding blocker and would fit in nicely with any team that still uses the fullback a lot. He's athletic enough to catch the ball and has more than held his own during the first two days of practice.
Four of the five running backs playing on the South team are from the SEC. Mississippi State's Anthony Dixon, Auburn's Ben Tate and Alabama's Roy Upchurch are also on the active roster.
Dixon weighed in at 245 pounds, but it wasn't a flabby 245 pounds. Scouts were impressed with his solid build, and he's also going to get some work at fullback this week.
Here are the official heights and weights of SEC players who were present for the weigh-in:
- Javier Arenas CB Alabama 5-8.5/195
- Geno Atkins DT Georgia 6-1.3/286
- Ciron Black OT LSU 6-4.5/331
- Jamar Chaney LB Mississippi State 6-0.6/241
- Terrence Cody NG Alabama 6-4/370
- Antonio Coleman DE Auburn 6-1.5/255
- Harry Coleman SS LSU 6-1.4/206
- Riley Cooper WR Florida 6-3.4/214
- Morgan Cox DS Tennessee 6-2.6/248
- Anthony Dixon RB Mississippi State 6-0.6/245
- Shay Hodge WR Ole Miss 6-1.3/208
- John Jerry OG Ole Miss 6-5.4/332
- Mike Johnson OG Alabama 6-5.3/306
- Trevard Lindley CB Kentucky 5-11.1/178
- Dexter McCluster RB Ole Miss 5-8.1/165
- Eric Norwood OLB South Carolina 6-0.7/246
- Jeff Owens DT Georgia 6-1.2/304
- Colin Peek TE Alabama 6-5.4/250
- Mitch Petrus OG Arkansas 6-3.1/304
- Charles Scott RB LSU 5-11.3/239
- Ben Tate RB Auburn 5-10.7/214
- Tim Tebow QB Florida 6-2.6/236
- Leigh Tiffin K Alabama 6-0.1/198
- Roy Upchurch RB Alabama 5-11.7/210
- Dan Williams DT Tennessee 6-2.2/329
It’s always a lot of fun three and four years later to see where players were ranked by the recruiting analysts coming out of high school.
So we’ll take a two-part look at this season’s Associated Press All-SEC team and where those players were ranked.
Keep in mind that some of these guys were academic risks, which affected their ranking. Others came in at different positions.
As a teaser, we can tell you that 107 players were ranked ahead of this season’s Heisman Trophy winner, Alabama running back Mark Ingram, in the 2008 class. On the flip side, star players such as Tim Tebow, A.J. Green and Aaron Hernandez were ranked very highly when they signed.
ESPN’s Scouts Inc. wasn’t ranking players in 2005, so there’s no data for players in that class.
We’ll look at the All-SEC offense first and defense later in the day:
OFFENSE
Tim Tebow, QB, Florida
Class: 2006
ESPN’s Scouts Inc: Grade of 90, No. 4 quarterback, No. 1 player in Florida, No. 15 player nationally
Mark Ingram, RB, Alabama
Class: 2008
ESPN’s Scouts Inc: Grade of 81, No. 12 running back, No. 3 player in Michigan, No. 108 player nationally
Anthony Dixon, RB, Mississippi State
Class: 2006
ESPN’s Scouts Inc: Grade of 40, unranked among running backs or nationally
Shay Hodge, WR, Ole Miss
Class: 2006
ESPN’s Scouts Inc: Grade of 76, No. 63 receiver, No. 16 player in Mississippi, unranked nationally
A.J. Green, WR, Georgia
Class: 2008
ESPN’s Scouts Inc: Grade of 91, No. 2 receiver, No. 2 player in South Carolina, No. 5 player nationally
Dexter McCluster, AP, Ole Miss
Class: 2006
ESPN’s Scouts Inc: Grade of 76, No. 71 running back, No. 64 player in Florida, unranked nationally
Randall Cobb, AP, Kentucky
Class: 2008
ESPN’s Scouts Inc: Grade of 74, No. 86 athlete, No. 24 player in Tennessee, unranked nationally
Aaron Hernandez, TE, Florida
Class: 2007
ESPN’s Scouts Inc: Grade of 81, No. 1 tight end, No. 1 player in Connecticut, No. 49 player nationally
Mike Johnson, OL, Alabama
Class: 2005
ESPN’s Scouts Inc: N/A
Ciron Black, OL, LSU
Class: 2005
ESPN’s Scouts Inc: N/A
Mike Pouncey, OL, Florida
Class: 2007
ESPN’s Scouts Inc: Grade of 77, No. 18 offensive guard, No. 71 player in Florida, unranked nationally
John Jerry, OL, Ole Miss
Class: 2006
ESPN’s Scouts Inc: Grade of 40, unranked among offensive linemen and nationally.
Maurkice Pouncey, C, Florida
Class: 2007
ESPN’s Scouts Inc: Grade of 79, No. 9 offensive guard, No. 32 player in Florida, unranked nationally
So we’ll take a two-part look at this season’s Associated Press All-SEC team and where those players were ranked.
Keep in mind that some of these guys were academic risks, which affected their ranking. Others came in at different positions.
As a teaser, we can tell you that 107 players were ranked ahead of this season’s Heisman Trophy winner, Alabama running back Mark Ingram, in the 2008 class. On the flip side, star players such as Tim Tebow, A.J. Green and Aaron Hernandez were ranked very highly when they signed.
ESPN’s Scouts Inc. wasn’t ranking players in 2005, so there’s no data for players in that class.
We’ll look at the All-SEC offense first and defense later in the day:
OFFENSE
Tim Tebow, QB, Florida
Class: 2006
ESPN’s Scouts Inc: Grade of 90, No. 4 quarterback, No. 1 player in Florida, No. 15 player nationally
Mark Ingram, RB, Alabama
Class: 2008
ESPN’s Scouts Inc: Grade of 81, No. 12 running back, No. 3 player in Michigan, No. 108 player nationally
Anthony Dixon, RB, Mississippi State
Class: 2006
ESPN’s Scouts Inc: Grade of 40, unranked among running backs or nationally
Shay Hodge, WR, Ole Miss
Class: 2006
ESPN’s Scouts Inc: Grade of 76, No. 63 receiver, No. 16 player in Mississippi, unranked nationally
A.J. Green, WR, Georgia
Class: 2008
ESPN’s Scouts Inc: Grade of 91, No. 2 receiver, No. 2 player in South Carolina, No. 5 player nationally
Dexter McCluster, AP, Ole Miss
Class: 2006
ESPN’s Scouts Inc: Grade of 76, No. 71 running back, No. 64 player in Florida, unranked nationally
Randall Cobb, AP, Kentucky
Class: 2008
ESPN’s Scouts Inc: Grade of 74, No. 86 athlete, No. 24 player in Tennessee, unranked nationally
Aaron Hernandez, TE, Florida
Class: 2007
ESPN’s Scouts Inc: Grade of 81, No. 1 tight end, No. 1 player in Connecticut, No. 49 player nationally
Mike Johnson, OL, Alabama
Class: 2005
ESPN’s Scouts Inc: N/A
Ciron Black, OL, LSU
Class: 2005
ESPN’s Scouts Inc: N/A
Mike Pouncey, OL, Florida
Class: 2007
ESPN’s Scouts Inc: Grade of 77, No. 18 offensive guard, No. 71 player in Florida, unranked nationally
John Jerry, OL, Ole Miss
Class: 2006
ESPN’s Scouts Inc: Grade of 40, unranked among offensive linemen and nationally.
Maurkice Pouncey, C, Florida
Class: 2007
ESPN’s Scouts Inc: Grade of 79, No. 9 offensive guard, No. 32 player in Florida, unranked nationally
The final rosters for the Under Armour Senior Bowl have been posted. The game is scheduled for 4 p.m. ET on Saturday from Mobile, Ala.
Vanderbilt is the only SEC school not represented in the game.
Here's the list of participating SEC players on the South team:
ALABAMA
CB Javier Arenas
NG Terrence Cody
OG Mike Johnson
TE Colin Peek
K Leigh Tiffin
RB Roy Upchurch
ARKANSAS
OG Mitch Petrus
AUBURN
DE Antonio Coleman
RB Ben Tate
FLORIDA
WR Riley Cooper
QB Tim Tebow
GEORGIA
DT Geno Atkins
DT Jeff Owens
KENTUCKY
CB Trevard Lindley
LSU
OT Ciron Black
LB Harry Coleman
MISSISSIPPI STATE
LB Jamar Chaney
RB Anthony Dixon
OLE MISS
WR Shay Hodge
OL John Jerry
RB Dexter McCluster
SOUTH CAROLINA
LB Eric Norwood
TENNESSEE
DS Morgan Cox
OT Chris Scott
DT Dan Williams
Vanderbilt is the only SEC school not represented in the game.
Here's the list of participating SEC players on the South team:
ALABAMA
CB Javier Arenas
NG Terrence Cody
OG Mike Johnson
TE Colin Peek
K Leigh Tiffin
RB Roy Upchurch
ARKANSAS
OG Mitch Petrus
AUBURN
DE Antonio Coleman
RB Ben Tate
FLORIDA
WR Riley Cooper
QB Tim Tebow
GEORGIA
DT Geno Atkins
DT Jeff Owens
KENTUCKY
CB Trevard Lindley
LSU
OT Ciron Black
LB Harry Coleman
MISSISSIPPI STATE
LB Jamar Chaney
RB Anthony Dixon
OLE MISS
WR Shay Hodge
OL John Jerry
RB Dexter McCluster
SOUTH CAROLINA
LB Eric Norwood
TENNESSEE
DS Morgan Cox
OT Chris Scott
DT Dan Williams
We’ve already taken a look at who needs what in the Eastern Division. Now we turn our attention to the Western Division:
ALABAMA
Secondary: With cornerback Kareem Jackson deciding to leave early for the NFL draft, the Crimson Tide are losing three starting defensive backs from last season’s national championship team. Top recruit DeMarcus Milliner could get a chance to play right away, and sophomore cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick has star potential.
Kicker/punter: How many times did Leigh Kiffin save Alabama last season? There’s a very good chance that true freshman Cade Foster will be the starting kicker next season. He’s already enrolled for this semester and will go through spring practice. It also looks like true freshman Jay Williams will have a chance to step in right away as the Crimson Tide’s punter.
ARKANSAS
Defensive line: The Hogs need help everywhere on defense, but nowhere is that more apparent than the defensive line, especially with All-SEC tackle Malcolm Sheppard departing. Also gone is starting end Adrian Davis.
Linebacker: Wendel Davis is gone from the middle, and the Hogs will have several juniors and seniors playing key roles next season at linebacker. Similar to the defensive line, it’s a position Arkansas has to keep upgrading if this is going to be an SEC championship-caliber defense.
Receiver: Bobby Petrino can never have enough good receivers in his system, and you’re seeing the Hogs stock up on a few more in this class. Plus, Jarius Wright, Greg Childs and Joe Adams will all be juniors next season.
AUBURN
Linebacker: The Tigers were so thin at linebacker last season that starters Josh Byne and Craig Stevens played all 115 snaps in the overtime win against Northwestern in the bowl game. Several in this freshman class, notably LeDarius Owens, could wind up being key contributors next season.
Running back: Ben Tate was that every-down pounder that all SEC teams covet. It remains to be seen if Mario Fannin can be that guy. The Tigers also have Onterio McCalebb returning, but heralded signee Michael Dyer of Little Rock, Ark., will get a chance to show what he can do right away, and the Tigers are also chasing hard after another marquee running back prospect -- Marcus Lattimore of Duncan, S.C.
Defensive end: The big loss was SEC sacks leader Antonio Coleman. The Tigers could use some more dynamic pass-rushers coming off the edge.
LSU
Receiver: With Brandon LaFell departing for the NFL, the Tigers will need some immediate help at receiver. LaFell led all SEC receivers with 19 touchdown catches over the last two seasons. After him, there wasn’t a lot of production at receiver.
Offensive line: Even though tackle Ciron Black didn’t have a great senior season, he was the anchor of LSU’s offensive line in 2009. So the Tigers need to find another tackle and just generally need to get better up front across the board. They gave up far too many sacks (37) and were 11th in the league in rushing offense.
MISSISSIPPI STATE
Running back: Replacing your all-time leading rusher is never easy, but that’s what Mississippi State is faced with now that Anthony Dixon is gone. He was the heart and soul of that offense last season. But he’s not the only one the Bulldogs are losing. Also gone are senior running backs Christian Ducre and Arnil Stallworth.
Quarterback: Junior Chris Relf and redshirt freshman Tyler Russell are Mississippi State’s only two scholarship quarterbacks. The Bulldogs need another one. They made a run at former Florida quarterback Cameron Newton, but he signed with Auburn.
Defensive end: Mississippi State has a lot of young talent on defense, but the priority on that side of the ball is adding at least two more ends.
OLE MISS
Offensive line: The Rebels are losing 12 starters total and were hit especially hard on the offensive line. The strength of their line last season was in the middle from guard to guard, and all three of those guys are gone. John Jerry will be particularly difficult to replace. He started eight games at tackle and five at guard.
Secondary: Gone are both starting cornerbacks as well as free safety Kendrick Lewis, who led Ole Miss in tackles. The Rebels were able to redshirt some younger defensive backs, but there’s not much experience behind them.
Running back: How do you replace Dexter McCluster? The truth is that you don’t. The Rebels still have some decent numbers at running back, but what they’re searching for is a guy they can move around and be effective at several different spots the way McCluster was during his career. Junior college transfer Randall Mackey has that kind of potential.
ALABAMA
Secondary: With cornerback Kareem Jackson deciding to leave early for the NFL draft, the Crimson Tide are losing three starting defensive backs from last season’s national championship team. Top recruit DeMarcus Milliner could get a chance to play right away, and sophomore cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick has star potential.
Kicker/punter: How many times did Leigh Kiffin save Alabama last season? There’s a very good chance that true freshman Cade Foster will be the starting kicker next season. He’s already enrolled for this semester and will go through spring practice. It also looks like true freshman Jay Williams will have a chance to step in right away as the Crimson Tide’s punter.
ARKANSAS
Defensive line: The Hogs need help everywhere on defense, but nowhere is that more apparent than the defensive line, especially with All-SEC tackle Malcolm Sheppard departing. Also gone is starting end Adrian Davis.
Linebacker: Wendel Davis is gone from the middle, and the Hogs will have several juniors and seniors playing key roles next season at linebacker. Similar to the defensive line, it’s a position Arkansas has to keep upgrading if this is going to be an SEC championship-caliber defense.
Receiver: Bobby Petrino can never have enough good receivers in his system, and you’re seeing the Hogs stock up on a few more in this class. Plus, Jarius Wright, Greg Childs and Joe Adams will all be juniors next season.
AUBURN
Linebacker: The Tigers were so thin at linebacker last season that starters Josh Byne and Craig Stevens played all 115 snaps in the overtime win against Northwestern in the bowl game. Several in this freshman class, notably LeDarius Owens, could wind up being key contributors next season.
Running back: Ben Tate was that every-down pounder that all SEC teams covet. It remains to be seen if Mario Fannin can be that guy. The Tigers also have Onterio McCalebb returning, but heralded signee Michael Dyer of Little Rock, Ark., will get a chance to show what he can do right away, and the Tigers are also chasing hard after another marquee running back prospect -- Marcus Lattimore of Duncan, S.C.
Defensive end: The big loss was SEC sacks leader Antonio Coleman. The Tigers could use some more dynamic pass-rushers coming off the edge.
LSU
Receiver: With Brandon LaFell departing for the NFL, the Tigers will need some immediate help at receiver. LaFell led all SEC receivers with 19 touchdown catches over the last two seasons. After him, there wasn’t a lot of production at receiver.
Offensive line: Even though tackle Ciron Black didn’t have a great senior season, he was the anchor of LSU’s offensive line in 2009. So the Tigers need to find another tackle and just generally need to get better up front across the board. They gave up far too many sacks (37) and were 11th in the league in rushing offense.
MISSISSIPPI STATE
Running back: Replacing your all-time leading rusher is never easy, but that’s what Mississippi State is faced with now that Anthony Dixon is gone. He was the heart and soul of that offense last season. But he’s not the only one the Bulldogs are losing. Also gone are senior running backs Christian Ducre and Arnil Stallworth.
Quarterback: Junior Chris Relf and redshirt freshman Tyler Russell are Mississippi State’s only two scholarship quarterbacks. The Bulldogs need another one. They made a run at former Florida quarterback Cameron Newton, but he signed with Auburn.
Defensive end: Mississippi State has a lot of young talent on defense, but the priority on that side of the ball is adding at least two more ends.
OLE MISS
Offensive line: The Rebels are losing 12 starters total and were hit especially hard on the offensive line. The strength of their line last season was in the middle from guard to guard, and all three of those guys are gone. John Jerry will be particularly difficult to replace. He started eight games at tackle and five at guard.
Secondary: Gone are both starting cornerbacks as well as free safety Kendrick Lewis, who led Ole Miss in tackles. The Rebels were able to redshirt some younger defensive backs, but there’s not much experience behind them.
Running back: How do you replace Dexter McCluster? The truth is that you don’t. The Rebels still have some decent numbers at running back, but what they’re searching for is a guy they can move around and be effective at several different spots the way McCluster was during his career. Junior college transfer Randall Mackey has that kind of potential.
ABOUT THIS BLOG
Chris Low
Low joined ESPN.com in 2007 after 10 years with The (Nashville) Tennessean covering the University of Tennessee and SEC. The Rock Hill, S.C., native lives with his wife in Knoxville and has three sons.
Edward Aschoff
Aschoff joined ESPN.com in 2011 after spending four years covering the University of Florida for The Gainesville Sun. He grew up in Oxford, Miss., before attending UF, graduating with a B.S. in journalism.
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