ESPN College Football

Phil Steele has released his 2012 preseason All-SEC teams [PDF], and the first unit is dominated by Alabama and LSU players.

Of the 28 spots on the first team, 12 are occupied by players from Alabama and LSU, and that counts special teams. Alabama placed six players on the first team and LSU five, although Tyrann Mathieu was named as both a cornerback and punt returner.

The Alabama players making the first team were offensive tackle D.J. Fluker, offensive guard Chance Warmack, center Barrett Jones, noseguard Jesse Williams and linebackers C.J. Mosley and Nico Johnson. In addition to Mathieu, the LSU players earning first-team honors were offensive tackle Alex Hurst, defensive end Sam Montgomery, safety Eric Reid and punter Brad Wing.

The biggest surprise to me in looking over Steele's top four teams was that LSU defensive end Barkevious Mingo was only third team. Mingo tied for third in the SEC last season with 15 tackles for loss. Also, Florida defensive end Dominique Easley was only fourth team, but Easley did tear his ACL in the last game of the regular season last year. Tennessee's Tyler Bray was not selected among the top four quarterbacks.

Here's a look at the entire first team:

OFFENSE

QB Tyler Wilson, Arkansas
RB Marcus Lattimore, S. Carolina
RB Knile Davis, Arkansas
WR Ryan Swope, Texas A&M
WR Da'Rick Rogers, Tennessee
WR Cobi Hamilton, Arkansas
TE Philip Lutzenkirchen, Auburn
C Barrett Jones, Alabama
OG Chance Warmack, Alabama
OG Larry Warford, Kentucky
OT D.J. Fluker, Alabama
OT Alex Hurst, LSU

DEFENSE

DE Sam Montgomery, LSU
DT Jesse Williams, Alabama
DT John Jenkins, Georgia
DE Corey Lemonier, Auburn
LB Jarvis Jones, Georgia
LB C.J. Mosley, Alabama
LB Nico Johnson, Alabama
LB Sean Porter, Texas A&M
CB Tyrann Mathieu, LSU
CB Johnthan Banks, Mississippi St.
S Bacarri Rambo, Georgia
S Eric Reid, LSU

SPECIAL TEAMS

K Caleb Sturgis, Florida
P Brad Wing, LSU
KR Tre Mason, Auburn
PR Tyrann Mathieu, LSU

There's no doubt that Alabama should be outstanding again in its offensive line this coming season.

College football analyst Phil Steele is certainly a believer. In his "Phil Steele's 2012 College Preview," which will hit newstands June 5, Steele has center Barrett Jones, guard Chance Warmack and tackle D.J. Fluker making up three-fifths of his preseason first-team All-America selections on the offensive line.

South Carolina running back Marcus Lattimore, Georgia linebacker Jarvis Jones, LSU cornerback Tyrann Mathieu, Georgia safety Bacarri Rambo and Florida kicker Caleb Sturgis were the other SEC players to earn first-team honors. Mathieu was selected at two different positions -- cornerback and punt returner.

The SEC players receiving second-team All-America mention from Steele were:

• Arkansas running back Knile Davis
• Tennessee receiver Da'Rick Rogers
• Arkansas receiver Cobi Hamilton
• Kentucky offensive guard Larry Warford
• Texas A&M offensive tackle Luke Joeckel
• Texas A&M offensive tackle Jake Matthews
• LSU defensive end Sam Montgomery
• Alabama nose guard Jesse Williams
• Georgia nose guard John Jenkins
• Alabama linebacker C.J. Mosley
• Mississippi State cornerback Johnthan Banks
• LSU safety Eric Reid
• LSU punter Brad Wing

The third-team All-Americans from the SEC were:

• Arkansas quarterback Tyler Wilson
• Auburn tight end Philip Lutzenkirchen
• LSU offensive tackle Alex Hurst
• Florida defensive tackle Sharrif Floyd
• Auburn defensive end Corey Lemonier
• Alabama linebacker Nico Johnson
• Texas A&M linebacker Sean Porter
• Alabama cornerback Dee Milliner
• Alabama safety Robert Lester

The following from the SEC made the fourth team:

• Texas A&M receiver Ryan Swope
• Arkansas tight end Chris Gragg
• Arkansas offensive guard Alvin Bailey
• LSU offensive tackle Chris Faulk
• South Carolina defensive end Jadeveon Clowney
• Florida safety Matt Elam
• Texas A&M Dustin Harris

We're putting spring behind us and looking toward the fall with our post-spring power rankings:

1. LSU: The Tigers had one of the best springs around. Things were quiet off the field, and the offense rallied behind quarterback Zach Mettenberger. Coach Les Miles was very impressed with Mettenberger's play and maturity, and expects LSU's offense to be more balanced with him under center. LSU can still use four or five running backs, as well. Defensively, the Tigers are stacked once again, especially up front with two potential first-rounders in ends Sam Montgomery and Barkevious Mingo. Questions surround the inexperienced linebackers, but Kevin Minter had a tremendous spring in the middle. On paper, LSU is equipped with the talent to make another title run, and gets Alabama at home this year.

2. Alabama: While the defending national champs saw a lot of "new" faces on defense this spring, coach Nick Saban left happy with where his players were -- but not satisfied. There is still work to be done, especially in the secondary, where the Tide must replace three starters. Dont'a Hightower and Courtney Upshaw are gone at linebacker, but the coaches were impressed with how Nico Johnson, C.J. Mosley and Adrian Hubbard played this spring. Some think Hubbard, a redshirt sophomore, could be Bama's top pass-rusher. Offensively, quarterback AJ McCarron is back, more mature and surrounded by a very veteran line. He has a group of younger receivers to throw to, but has at least four quality running backs. Alabama's road to repeating is tougher, with games at Arkansas and LSU.

3. South Carolina: A healthy Marcus Lattimore (knee) at RB makes South Carolina an even better contender for the SEC East crown. His status is uncertain, but the pieces around him are pretty impressive. Quarterback Connor Shaw had an impressive spring, and looks ready to be the passer coach Steve Spurrier wants him to be. The defense is once again stacked, especially up front with ends Jadeveon Clowney and Devin Taylor. There are questions in the secondary, with two new, young starters in Victor Hampton (cornerback) and Brison Williams (safety), while senior Akeem Auguste returns after missing last season with a foot injury. Still, Spurrier is chirping about his SEC counterparts, so you know he thinks he's got a good team this year.

4. Georgia: The Bulldogs should be higher on this list, but when you take into account the suspensions of four defensive starters at the beginning of the season, they slide a little. Georgia returns nine defensive starters, including one of the nation's best linebackers in Jarvis Jones, and some firepower on offense, led by veteran quarterback Aaron Murray, who could get some early Heisman love. It also sounds like enigmatic running back Isaiah Crowell is slowly turning things around. Yet again, the Bulldogs have a favorable SEC schedule, with no games against Alabama, Arkansas or LSU, so their road to the SEC championship is easier than South Carolina's, but keep an eye on that inexperienced offensive line.

5. Arkansas: If not for Bobby Petrino's embarrassing dismissal, the Razorbacks might be ranked higher. Offensively, it doesn't get much better than what Arkansas has. Tyler Wilson returns as arguably the league's best quarterback, and he'll get to work with one of the most complete backs around, Knile Davis, who is returning from a devastating ankle injury. An older and more improved offensive line returns, and so does a talented receiving corps led by Cobi Hamilton. But there are questions. How effective will interim coach John L. Smith be, especially if something goes wrong? Will Marquel Wade's suspension leak into the fall after his spring arrest? And will the defense improve and be more aggressive under new coordinator Paul Haynes? The good news is that Alabama and LSU play in Fayetteville this fall.

6. Florida: The chemistry is much better in Gainesville. Florida returns 10 starters from a defense that ranked eighth nationally in 2011. Matt Elam looks like a budding star at safety, and Florida's linebacking group is solid. Buck/defensive end Ronald Powell could be out after tearing his ACL this spring, but coach Will Muschamp recently said Powell is off crutches. Stud defensive tackle Dominique Easley is also walking fine after tearing his ACL in last year's season finale. The Gators have their third offensive coordinator in three years, and unproven sophomore quarterbacks Jacoby Brissett and Jeff Driskel are still battling. Florida has unproven running backs and receivers, but the offensive line toughened up tremendously.

7. Auburn: The Tigers welcomed two new coordinators, Scot Loeffler and Brian VanGorder, this spring, and by all accounts players were very receptive. Coach Gene Chizik is still dealing with a lot of youth, as close to 70 percent of his roster is made up of underclassmen. One of those underclassmen is quarterback Kiehl Frazier, who made strides as a passer this spring and seems to have the edge in the quarterback race with Clint Moseley, who missed some of the spring with a sore shoulder. The defensive line will be the team's strength, with end Dee Ford exploding this spring and Corey Lemonier returning. There is a lot of depth up front on defense, which will go a long way for the Tigers.

8. Missouri: Coach Gary Pinkel and his players have made it clear they aren't intimidated by the move to the SEC. These new Tigers return solid offensive firepower, but there has to be some concern about quarterback James Franklin, who missed most of the spring after having surgery on his throwing shoulder. Plus, Mizzou's backup QB could miss games this fall after his recent arrest, so the Tigers' offensive success will be riding on Franklin's health. The Tigers are replacing a few starters on both lines, but feel confident about both areas. Mizzou will face a Georgia team down a few defensive players in Week 2, but must travel to South Carolina, Florida, Tennessee and Texas A&M.

9. Tennessee: A lot is different in Knoxville, as the Vols welcomed seven new assistant coaches. Coach Derek Dooley insists the changes were for the best, but there's still going to be some adjusting to do this fall. The good news is that Tennessee returns a lot on both sides of the ball, starting with quarterback Tyler Bray and receivers Justin Hunter and Da'Rick Rogers. A healthy trio there makes Tennessee's passing game one of the best in the league. Questions remain on the offensive line and at running back, but improvements were made this spring. New defensive coordinator Sal Sunseri would like to run more 3-4 this fall, but players aren't totally comfortable, leaving some concerns.

10. Mississippi State: Quarterback Tyler Russell finally looks ready to take over as the guy in Starkville, and he'll have a veteran receiving corps to work with. However, that group still has a lot to prove, especially senior Chad Bumphis. The running game looks solid with LaDarius Perkins and Nick Griffin, and the offensive line got help from the junior college ranks. Defensively, there are a few holes to fill up front and in the secondary, but Johnthan Banks and Corey Broomfield are a solid cornerback tandem and linebacker is set with a few vets back, including stud Cameron Lawrence. Junior college defensive end Denico Autry has to perform early to help a line with a couple of holes.

11. Texas A&M: The Aggies have some holes to fill this year, but the offensive line will be a strength. Left tackle Luke Joeckel, a future first-rounder, leads a line that returns four starters. Star wide receiver Ryan Swope is back, and running back Christine Michael should be healthy (knee) this fall, but quarterback is an issue. Sophomore Jameill Showers has the edge right now, but like all of his competitors, he lacks experience. The defense will lean on linebackers Sean Porter, Steven Jenkins, Jonathan Stewart and converted end Damontre Moore, but the secondary has depth and experience issues, and the team will still be adjusting to a new staff led by coach Kevin Sumlin.

12. Vanderbilt: There is some solid offensive talent in Nashville, starting with running back Zac Stacy and receivers Jordan Matthews and Chris Boyd, but coach James Franklin is still waiting for quarterback Jordan Rodgers to be more consistent. The offensive line is very thin and could barely get through spring. The defense must replace a handful of starters and leaders, but Franklin felt better about guys like linebacker Chase Garnham, defensive end Walker May and cornerback Trey Wilson. Vandy's schedule will be tough this fall, and if that offensive line doesn't hold up, getting back to a bowl will be tough.

13. Kentucky: Coach Joker Phillips was pleased with how spring practice ended, especially when it came to finding offensive playmakers, like receivers Demarco Robinson and Daryl Collins. Quarterback Maxwell Smith had a solid spring, but struggled during the spring game, meaning the battle with Morgan Newton and freshman Patrick Towles should go into the fall. The offensive line is still trying to get by after losing three starters, and the Wildcats must replace six starters at linebacker and in the secondary. Given the Wildcats' schedule, they will need to sweep their nonconference games to be in bowl shape.

14. Ole Miss: The arrival of coach Hugh Freeze brought a lot of positive change to Ole Miss, especially off the field, but there are still a lot of concerns. There are depth issues at just about every position, especially running back and defensive tackle. Even one of the most experienced groups, the offensive line, has struggled mightily with picking up Freeze's spread offense and is the team's biggest weakness. Academic issues are also worrying Ole Miss' staff, and top running back Jeff Scott and cornerback/receiver Nickolas Brassell are in that group. Quarterback is still up for grabs, but progress was made on defense, especially in the secondary.

From billboards to an untimely joy ride, the SEC has seen a lot of change in recent months.

The black Missouri billboards sprinkled around the South, reading “PROUD TO BE SEC: MIZZOU” coupled with those not-so-discrete Texas A&M/SEC TV adds ushered in the arrival of the SEC’s new families. But their exodus from the Big 12 wasn’t the only big change for the league.

The league said goodbye to a load of defensive talent and lost a couple of head coaches -- and even more assistants. Still, for as much change that has been made, it seems the overall results will be the same.

“You have to give the SEC a lot of credit,” Missouri coach Gary Pinkel said. “I tell a lot of people that we played in the Big 12, which is a great conference, but they just have more good team in [the SEC]. It’s remarkably competitive.”

LSU, Georgia, South Carolina and Florida, four top-10 defenses from a season ago, return relatively intact this fall. Of those four, all but Florida will be involved in national championship discussions to start the season, especially LSU.

On paper, the Tigers might be the most talented team in the country. The defensive line possesses three potential first-rounders and the Honey Badger (Tyrann Mathieu) is still lurking in a secondary stocked with talent and athleticism.

The offense has to be better with Zach Mettenberger taking over at quarterback. He possesses the skill to throw the ball pretty much whenever he’s asked to, so that will be a major upgrade. He’ll also have plenty of weapons with five able running backs to choose from -- including Michael Ford and Spencer Ware who were both ranked in the top 10 in SEC rushing -- and a talented, young receiving group.

The scary thought is that a lot of people around the program think Les Miles might have a better team in 2012.

Georgia has 15 total starters returning, including a potential Heisman candidate in quarterback Aaron Murray, and yet again has a favorable schedule. South Carolina looks like it’s a healthy Marcus Lattimore and a more polished Connor Shaw away from making it back to Atlanta.

While defending national champion Alabama is down a handful of defensive starters from last season, the Crimson Tide can’t be counted out. The defense has more than capable players ready to fill holes. Nico Johnson and C.J. Mosley are ready to take over at linebacker, while Jesse Williams and Damion Square will lead up front. The secondary still has veterans Dee Milliner and Robert Lester and welcomes junior college studs Deion Belue and Travell Dixon.

“We’re going to be younger on defense. We don’t have as much experience, but we’ve got some good players,” coach Nick Saban said.

“I was pleased with the progress that we made -- not satisfied with where we need to be.”

Then, there’s Arkansas.

After Bobby Petrino's infamous motorcycle ride, the Razorbacks look to bounce back with an offense capable of pushing Arkansas to an SEC title and beyond. We still don’t know how effective interim coach John L. Smith will be, but he’ll have quarterback Tyler Wilson, running back Knile Davis and receiver Cobi Hamilton at his disposal, and that will make things easier.

With an improved offensive line and some talented, young receivers, Arkansas will score points. Now if only the defense can keep up …

There will no doubt be awkward situations ahead in the SEC. Making flights to Kansas City and Houston will seem wrong. Watching an entertaining coach’s news conference at Arkansas will feel unnatural. And not knowing what to expect from a Saban defense will confuse you.

But with everything that has changed, one thing that should remain is another championship run.

There’s still just too much clicking for the SEC.

Our look at the SEC's most productive returning players in 2012 continues with a look at the top tacklers.

Past producers:

• Quarterback
• Running back
• Wide receiver
• Tight end
• Sacks

The SEC returns three of the top 10 tacklers from 2011, but don't let that fool you. There's still a lot of quality out there on those SEC defenses. Last season's tackling king, Kentucky linebacker Danny Trevathan, is gone, and so are his 143 tackles. But the league's No. 2 tackler is back.

Here's a look at the top tackler returning in the SEC:

Cameron Lawrence, LB, Mississippi State: He was second in the SEC with 123 tackles and had 50 solo stops. He also averaged 9.5 tackles per game. The 6-foot-3, 230-pounder found ways to take down opposing offensive players by roaming all over the field for the Bulldogs. Lawrence started on the outside, but made his presence known on many different areas of the field with his speed and relentless attitude. Lawrence picked up right were he left off this spring, and the coaches expect him to be just as valuable this fall. It'll be tough to stop Lawrence from taking the tackling crown in 2012.

The SEC returns two more of its top tacklers:

• Daren Bates, LB, Auburn: He registered 104 tackles, including 59 solo, and averaged eight tackles a game.
• Jonathan Bostic, LB, Florida: He registered 94 tackles, including 60 solo, and averaged 7.2 tackles a game.

Those three will certainly get their chances to fight for the crown, but there are other players to keep an eye on as well this fall. Dont'a Hightower and Courtney Upshaw are gone at Alabama, but that means Nico Johnson and C.J. Mosley will have the chance to take some of that lost production.

Missouri linebacker Andrew Wilson was a stud last season with his team-high 98 tackles, so he'll definitely be in the race this season. So will South Carolina's Devonte Holloman, as he moves back to the Spur position that he lost last season to Antonio Allen, who led the Gamecocks in tackles. Georgia's Jarvis Jones will also take a crack at it. He was the best when it came to making plays behind the line of scrimmage last season, but you better believe offenses will look to protect the backfield more against him. That means he'll have more opportunities to make plays past the line, and he's just as deadly when he isn't rushing the passer.

Ole Miss linebacker Mike Marry had a solid season in 2011, accumulating 81 total tackles. He's turned into a better player, and with the Rebels lining up in all sorts of different defensive formations, he'll be moving all around the field to make plays. Also, keep tabs on Arkansas linebacker Alonzo Highsmith and defensive end/linebacker Tenarius Wright. Highsmith had a tremendous 2011 season, racking up 80 tackles, and with the team's top tacklers gone, expect his production to increase. And if Wright stays at linebacker, he'll have more opportunities to add to his tackling numbers.

Two other players to watch out for are Texas A&M linebacker Jonathan Stewart and Vanderbilt linebacker Chase Garnham. Stewart led the Aggies with 98 tackles last season, and Garnham moves into Chris Marve's spot in the middle. A spot where Marve registered a team-high 91 tackles.

A lot of votes were cast and it came down to the wire, but the fans have spoken and South Carolina has won the poll battle of the defenses.

With nearly 12,000 votes cast, South Carolina barely claimed first place with 24 percent of the vote. Alabama was second with 23 percent, while LSU grabbed 21 percent. Georgia got 13 percent of the vote while the category of "Other" received 19 percent.

South Carolina is a solid pick when you look at who returns. Defensive ends Jadeveon Clowney and Devin Taylor are back alongside tackle Kelcy Quarles. Clowney and Taylor combined for 20.5 tackles for loss and 14 sacks. Quarles really progressed as the season went on and provided a nice big, disruptive body against the run.

Veterans return at linebacker, with seniors Shaq Wilson and Reginald Bowens in the middle and DeVonte Holloman is back at the Spur, where he's at his best. Seniors D.J. Swearinger (safety) and Akeem Auguste (cornerback) are back in the secondary, as well.

Most of the questions for this defense lie in the secondary, with sophomores-to-be Victor Hampton (cornerback) and Brison Williams (safety) expected to start this fall. Williams collected a start against Florida last year, while Hampton did most of his damage on special teams. Expect offenses to key in on them early.

At this moment, I'd have to go with LSU. The Tigers return one of the best defensive lines in the country, with two potential first-rounders in ends Barkevious Mingo and Sam Montgomery. And LSU's staff is very excited about what Bennie Logan and Anthony Johnson can do at the tackle spots. This line should be the strength of this team and it will make it hard to run and throw on the Tigers. It'll take pressure off the linebackers, which lose two starters.

The secondary loses Morris Claiborne and Brandon Taylor, but the Honey Badger (Tyrann Mathieu) is back and so is Eric Reid, who might be the league's top safety. Keep an eye on Tharold Simon at cornerback. He should be a solid cover corner this fall.

Alabama is down a handful of starters from last year, but don't think that will send this unit into a tailspin. Defensive tackle Jesse Williams is an animal and linebackers C.J. Mosley, Nico Johnson and Adrian Hubbard aren't slouches by any means. Yes, the secondary is a little green, but corner Dee Milliner and Robert Lester should help provide some stability. JUCO standouts Deion Belue and Travell Dixon impressed this spring and youngsters Vinnie Sunseri and Ha'Sean Clinton-Dix look ready to be big contributors.

And with nine starters returning for Georgia, the Bulldogs should have another solid defensive squad this fall. There has to be some worry with four starters suspended for the beginning of the season, but at full strength, this defense will be a handful, especially with one of the best linebacking corps in the country that includes All-American Jarvis Jones, speedster Alec Ogletree and work horse Michael Gilliard. Once Bacarri Rambo, Sanders Commings, Shawn Williams and Branden Smith are all back and together, Georgia's secondary will be potent.

The tournament is kicking back up today, but enjoy these links before you go ripping what's left of your bracket up.

• Vanderbilt defensive end Tim Fugger has played his way onto the NFL's radar.
• Alabama linebacker C.J. Mosley might have dislocated his hip in the national championship game, but he didn't dislocate his sense of humor.
• Texas A&M coach Kevin Sumlin wants to get in-state recruits.
• Las Vegas says Arkansas is a legitimate national championship contender in 2012.
• Georgia's Malcolm Mitchell is getting defensive in practice.
• Defensive tackle Byron Jerideau is working his way back into South Carolina's starting lineup.
• New Florida offensive coordinator Brent Pease has been impressed with wide receiver Quinton Dunbar so far.
• New Ole Miss athletic director Ross Bjork is a rising star in college athletics, but inherits a job filled with potential issues.
• Mississippi State will air it out more with Tyler Russell taking over at quarterback.
• Defensive tackle Lucas Vincent will bolster a thin Missouri defensive line.
• Kentucky quarterback Maxwell Smith is finding out how much he still has to learn this spring.

We move to linebackers today in our postseason position rankings.

Defensive lines are very important in this league, but there are other guys in the box who have to be pretty reliable as well in this league. This league has done a pretty solid job of producing some top talent at this position as well.

You can see what are preseason linebacker rankings looked like here.

And here are our postseason rankings:

1. Alabama: This unit was at the top of our preseason rankings and didn't budge throughout the season. When you have two All-Americans in Courtney Upshaw, who was the defensive MVP in the Allstate BCS National Championship Game, and Dont'a Hightower it's pretty understandable to see why. Those two combined for 136 tackles, including 29 for loss. Nico Johnson was fourth on the team in tackles, while C.J. Mosley added 37 of his own. Alabama's defense was first nationally in total defense and first in rushing defense, allowing 74.2 yards per game.

2. Georgia: Linebackers are essential to any 3-4 defense, and the Bulldogs' group did quite well in 2011. Georgia ended up with one of the nation's best linebackers in Jarvis Jones, who led the SEC with 19 tackles for loss and 13.5 sacks. He also had 49 quarterback hurries. Michael Gilliard was third on the team behind Jones with 65 tackles. While Alec Ogletree missed part of the first half of the season, the speedster still finished with 52 tackles, including 7.5 for loss. Cornelius Washington, Amarlo Herrera Christian Robinson combined to add 101 more tackles, as Georgia's defense ranked fifth nationally.

3. Arkansas: Arkansas' defense had a lot of bend in it last season, but the linebackers found ways to make plays. Newcomer Alonzo Highsmith was third on the team with 80 tackles, led with 12.5 tackles for loss and had 4.5 sacks. The star continued to be Jerry Franklin, who led the team in tackles (101) for the fourth straight year. Then there was Jerico Nelson, who was all over the field as that hybrid linebacker/safety. He came away with 70 tackles, two sacks and two interceptions. Ross Rasner, who played outside with Nelson, added 53 more tackles and two sacks.

4. Florida: The Gators' defense ranked eighth nationally in part because of the aggressive play of its front seven. Jon Bostic commanded the middle, leading the team with 94 tackles, including 10 for loss. Jelani Jenkins seemed to come more into his own outside, finishing third on the team in tackles. The big surprise was Lerentee McCray, who played both Sam linebacker and the hybrid Buck. He was one of Florida's most active linebackers and grabbed 7.5 tackles for loss. Ronald Powell started at the Buck, but saw most of his production from defensive end.

5. Vanderbilt: The Commodores entered the season needing to replace three starting linebackers and ended the year with a very impressive linebacking corps. It was led by vet Chris Marve, who was 10th in the league in tackles. Archibald Barnes had a solid year at the Will, ranking fourth on the team in tackles and grabbing two interceptions. Chase Garnham and Al Owens manned the Sam position and combined for 72 tackles and 7.5 tackles for loss. Against conference foes, Vandy's rush defense ranked fourth in the league.

6. LSU: The Tigers were in search of that dominant middle linebacker all season and might have found a budding star in Kevin Minter, really grew into the position by the end of the season and was fifth on the team in tackles. He started 11 games, but shared time with Karnell Hatcher, who finished with 24 tackles. Ryan Baker was LSU's best linebacker, was an outstanding leader and was fourth on the team with 64 tackles. Stefoin Francois was the starter at Sam, but he accumulated just 11 tackles, while backup Tahj Jones registered 27. Still, LSU owned the No. 2 national defense.

7. South Carolina: The Gamecocks saw improvement from this group as the season went on. While the defensive line got a ton of credit, the linebackers did their part in securing the defense's No. 3 national ranking. Antonio Allen spent some time in the box at the Spur position and led South Carolina with 88 tackles and had 9.5 for loss. Rodney Paulk and Shaq Wilson, who returned from injury, rotated at the Mike and combined for 109 tackles. Will linebacker Reginald Bowens added 44 tackles.

8. Kentucky: The Wildcats owned the SEC's top tackler in Danny Trevathan (143), who should have received more national attention. Trevathan was one of the most active defenders around at the Will. Winston Guy played the hybrid linebacker/safety and was third in the SEC with 120 tackles. Ronnie Sneed added 71 more tackles. Kentucky's defense was much more aggressive under new defensive coordinator Rick Minter and got more exotic looks from its linebackers.

9. Mississippi State: Cameron Lawrence was a beast for the Bulldogs in 2011. He was second in the SEC with 123 tackles, and had 49 solo. Senior Brandon Wilson added 94 more tackles. Brandon Maye, who transferred from Clemson, was expected to make a bigger impact for the Bulldogs, but played behind Wilson and was 11th on the team in tackles. Sophomore Deontae Skinner added 69 tackles and Mississippi State ranked in the bottom half of the SEC in total defense.

10. Tennessee: The Vols' top three tacklers were linebackers. The leader was senior Austin Johnson, who finished the season with 81 tackles, including 41 solo. Next were two true freshmen on the outside in A.J. Johnson (80) and Curt Maggitt (56). Both freshmen experienced up-and-down seasons, but were SEC All-Freshman selections. Herman Lathers, who was a projected started, missed 2011 with a fractured ankle, and after the big three, the Vols didn't get a ton out of their linebackers, as Dontavis Sapp was their next most productive linebacker with 20 tackles.

11. Auburn: The Tigers' defense really struggled in 2011 and gave up more than 200 rushing yards a contest. Auburn had to basically start over at linebacker, but lone returning starter Daren Bates had a heck of a year, ranking fourth in the league with 104 tackles. He really tried to make sure he played all over the field last fall. After that, the play was up-and-down. Senior Eltoro Freeman took over in the middle halfway into the year and finished with 58 tackles, while Jake Holland and Jonathan Evans combined for 83 tackles.


12. Ole Miss: The Rebels' defense had all sorts of problems defensively, including allowing 256.5 yards per game and 21 rushing touchdowns. The linebackers took a major hit with the absence of D.T. Shackelford, who missed the season with a knee injury. Mike Marry stepped up at the Mike and led Ole Miss with 81 tackles and five for loss. Freshman Serderius Bryant and junior Joel Kight combined for 122 tackles. Damien Jackson played the Spur and added 64 tackles, but Ole Miss' defense ranked dead last in the SEC.

With national signing day a week away, we’ll take a look today at the recruiting needs of each SEC team, starting with the Western Division. These needs are based on current rosters and voids that will be created with upperclassmen leaving in the next year or two. We realize that a lot of these needs have already been filled by players who’ve committed (or signed) in this class.

Here we go:

ALABAMA

Defensive back: It’s not quite the exodus Alabama faced following the 2009 season in the secondary, but the Crimson Tide lose three starters back there, including both cornerbacks. And safety Mark Barron was the guy who got everybody in the right spots. Alabama signed two junior college cornerbacks, and they’re already on campus.

Receiver: The top four pass-catchers from the 2011 season, including tight end Brad Smelley, are gone. In particular, Alabama could use a big, physical receiver capable of creating mismatches and making big plays down the field.

Linebacker: The Crimson Tide have never been hurting for linebackers, but they lose three good ones in Courtney Upshaw, Dont'a Hightower and Jerrell Harris. Plus, Nico Johnson will be a senior next season and C.J. Mosley will be a junior. There are some young ones waiting in the wings, but Alabama needs to add to its stable.

ARKANSAS

Receiver: When you lose a pair of record-setting playmakers at receiver like Jarius Wright and Joe Adams, that’s always a good place to start. Greg Childs is also gone, so the Hogs are looking for people to fill their spots.

Offensive line: Finding some reinforcements up front on offense is also a big need for the Hogs. The most pressing need is at tackle. One starter in 2011, Grant Freeman, was a senior, and the other, Jason Peacock, will be a senior next season.

Defensive back: The Hogs like the young defensive backs on their roster, but losing Tramain Thomas at safety will be a blow. Eric Bennett also played well at the other safety, but he will be a junior next season. Another cornerback or two would also be nice.

AUBURN

Receiver: The Tigers need some game-breaking receivers. Emory Blake is back, but he’s going to be a senior, and Trovon Reed hasn’t been able to avoid injuries. The vertical passing game was non-existent this past season, and finding some guys who can get down the field and make some plays is a must for the Tigers.

Offensive line: More than anything else, Auburn needs guards and is very thin there. Christian Westerman is a talented, young guy who’s coming, but the Tigers are going to have to replenish the interior of their offensive line.

Defensive back: The truth is that the Tigers need help on defense, period. But the secondary has really taken it on the chin, especially this past season. Cornerback Chris Davis, a rising junior, has a chance to be special, but he needs some help around him.

LSU

Linebacker: The Tigers are still loaded on defense, but linebacker was the one area they wanted to address with both Ryan Baker and Karnell Hatcher departing, and they did with six commitments from players projected to play linebacker in college. All six are from the state of Louisiana, too.

Quarterback: Zach Mettenberger will step in as the starter next season, but he will be a junior. There’s nobody behind him who’s ever taken a snap in a college game. The Tigers thought they had highly rated Gunner Kiel in the fold, but lost him to Notre Dame. They need another quarterback.

Receiver: Rueben Randle emerged as one of the best big-play threats in the league this past season, but he’s turning pro early. Russell Shepard is set to return for his senior season, and Odell Beckham Jr., and Jarvis Landry both have a ton of potential. Even so, LSU could use a few more playmakers at receiver.

MISSISSIPPI STATE

Defensive line: Losing All-SEC tackle Fletcher Cox early to the pros hurt. The Bulldogs are suddenly behind in their depth. The numbers up front defensively aren’t where they need to be, which makes this a big class for the Bulldogs in the defensive line. Getting a dynamic pass-rusher is a must.

Offensive line: Finding a couple of guys who can help quickly was a priority, and that’s what the Bulldogs hope they’ve done with junior college additions Dylan Holley at center and Charles Siddoway at tackle.

Linebacker: The Bulldogs lost three senior starters following the 2010 season, and Brandon Wilson won’t return next season. What’s more, Cameron Lawrence will be a senior. The most pressing need is a middle linebacker, and preferably one who could step in and play early.

OLE MISS

Running back: One of the first things new head coach Hugh Freeze will look to do is put some pop in the Rebels’ running game. That starts with bringing in some prototypical SEC running backs in terms of size and speed. Jeff Scott led Ole Miss in rushing last season with 529 yards, but at 5-7 and 175 pounds, he’s more of a speed guy or change-up in this league.

Defensive back: The Rebels will take all the help they can get in the secondary. Safety Damien Jackson is gone. Cornerback Wesley Pendleton will be a senior, while cornerback/safety Charles Sawyer will be a junior.

Quarterback: There are several guys on campus who have played, but the Rebels are still searching for somebody who can come in and give them some consistency at the quarterback position. And with Freeze’s new spread offense, finding the right fit will also be important.

TEXAS A&M

Defensive back: The Aggies will jump into SEC play needing to replace three of four starters in their secondary. Both of their starting cornerbacks are gone, in addition to their best safety. So finding guys who can cover will be at the top of their list.

Defensive line: In keeping with the defensive theme, which is a must if you’re going to survive in the SEC, Texas A&M will be looking to replenish its defensive line. Gone are Ben Bass, Tony Jerod-Eddie and Eddie Brown. Building up a deeper defensive line rotation will be critical for the Aggies.

Running back: Depth at running back is another concern. Cyrus Gray, who rushed for 1,000 yards each of the past two seasons, is gone. Christine Michael returns for his senior season, but he’s coming off a torn ACL. It typically takes three backs to make it through an SEC season.

NEW ORLEANS -- It looks as if C.J. Mosley's interception will come at a cost.

After he picked off an awful flipped pass by LSU quarterback Jordan Jefferson, Alabama's linebacker was pulled down awkwardly by Jefferson on the return. His knee got caught up under him and twisted into the turf.

Mosley was down on the ground for a while before being carted off of the field.

Here's a quick primer as we enter Week 7 in the SEC:

SATURDAY

No. 15 South Carolina (5-1, 3-1) at Mississippi State (3-3, 0-3), 12:21 p.m. ET, SEC Network: It looks like South Carolina has found its quarterback. Sophomore Connor Shaw threw four touchdown passes last week in the 54-3 romp against Kentucky. Mississippi State, meanwhile, could be on the verge of a quarterback controversy. Sophomore Tyler Russell came off the bench to throw three touchdown passes in the second half last week after the Bulldogs trailed UAB 3-0 at the half. Senior Chris Relf said afterward that a big part of the problem was that the coaches needed to trust him more to throw the ball down the field. Even before those comments, coach Dan Mullen said he was placing both of his quarterbacks off limits to the media this week.

No. 1 LSU (6-0, 3-0) at Tennessee (3-2, 0-2), 3:30 p.m. ET, CBS: The month of October looked pretty ominous for Tennessee before the season ever began. Now, it looks like pure torture, continuing with LSU's visit to Neyland Stadium on Saturday. The Vols' sophomore quarterback, Tyler Bray, is expected to miss the rest of the regular season with a broken thumb that he suffered last week in the 20-12 loss to Georgia. Senior running back Tauren Poole also injured his hamstring in that game and is out. The Vols have been held to minus-29 rushing yards in their two SEC games this season. They face an LSU defense that is fourth nationally against the run and allowing just 69.2 yards per game on the ground. The Tigers have already beaten four Top 25 opponents this season, three of those away from home.

No. 2 Alabama (6-0, 3-0) at Ole Miss (2-3, 0-2), 6 p.m. ET, ESPN2: This is a matchup of one of the country's best defenses versus one of the country's worst offenses. Alabama is ranked No. 3 nationally in total defense and hasn't allowed more than 14 points in a game all season. Ole Miss is ranked No. 114 nationally in total offense. The Rebels are coming off a bye week and have had some extra time to spend on offense. Quarterback Randall Mackey had his best game two weeks ago in Ole Miss' 38-28 win against Fresno State, but Alabama's defense has gobbled up opposing quarterbacks all season. The Crimson Tide hope to get sophomore linebacker C.J. Mosley back for this game. He's missed the past two weeks with an elbow injury.

Florida (4-2, 2-2) at No. 24 Auburn (4-2, 2-1), 7 p.m. ET, ESPN: The quarterback position will draw a lot of attention on both sides. Auburn coach Gene Chizik says Barrett Trotter is still his starter for now after Trotter managed just 81 passing yards on 6-of-19 attempts with an interception in the 38-14 loss to Arkansas. Chizik said he would take a longer look at the quarterback position in the next day or two. The Gators are prepared to play their second straight game without starter John Brantley, who's out with an ankle injury. It was rough sledding last week against LSU. True freshman Jacoby Brissett got the start. Florida has converted just 6 of 25 third downs the past two weeks against LSU and Alabama, but the defense has had its own issues, giving up 464 rushing yards in the two losses.

Georgia (4-2, 3-1) at Vanderbilt (3-2, 1-2), 7 p.m. ET, Fox Sports South: The Bulldogs have won four in a row and might be in the best position of anybody in the Eastern Division race. They have to keep winning, though, and this will be their second straight road game. Freshman receiver Malcolm Mitchell (hamstring) won't play in this game, but the Bulldogs hope to have him back in time for the Florida game on Oct. 29. The Commodores are searching for any semblance of offense. They haven't scored a touchdown since their 30-7 win against Ole Miss on Sept. 17. Senior quarterback Larry Smith suffered a lower leg injury in the Alabama game in the first quarter and didn't return. Jordan Rodgers finished the game for the Commodores, and could see more time this week.

Florida quarterback John Brantley (high ankle sprain) won't be the only high-profile SEC player out this week with an injury.

Auburn coach Gene Chizik said Tuesday that it's doubtful that Emory Blake will play this weekend at Arkansas. Blake (ankle) was injured last week against South Carolina. He's fourth in the SEC in receiving yards per game (66.6) and leads the Tigers with 19 catches, including four touchdowns.

Auburn was already without its other top receiver, redshirt freshmen Trovon Reed, who's out with a shoulder injury. True freshman Quan Bray will almost certainly see his role expand at receiver against Arkansas, and junior DeAngelo Benton is another guy the Tigers would like to get more out of this week. The good news for the Tigers is that running back Mike Dyer (ankle) looks like he's a go after getting banged up last week against South Carolina.

The Hogs have their own injury problems. Defensive tackle Robert Thomas (knee), cornerback Darius Winston (knee) and receiver Joe Adams (ribs) all left the Texas A&M game early last Saturday. Thomas' injury appeared to be the most serious. Defensive end Jake Bequette (hamstring) has missed the last three games, although there's hope that he will be able to return against Auburn. Cornerback Isaac Madison (shoulder) also didn't play last week, while defensive end Tenarius Wright (broken arm) remains out for at least the next two or three weeks.

South Carolina may be without defensive tackle Melvin Ingram (foot) this Saturday against Kentucky. Ingram was in a walking boot on Tuesday, and coach Steve Spurrier said Ingram probably wouldn't do much in practice this week.

Alabama will know more about the status of linebacker C.J. Mosley (elbow) and backup running back Eddie Lacy (turf toe) later this week. Mosley missed last week's game against Florida, and the original diagnosis when he suffered the injury against Arkansas was two or three weeks.

GAINESVILLE, Fla. -- Florida sophomore defensive tackle Dominique Easley is warming up with the Gators' starters.

There were reports this week that Easley was injured in practice and could be a question mark for the game. He had his left ankle heavily taped on the outside, but was out there with the starters during warm-ups.

Sophomore defensive end Sharrif Floyd was also out there with the starters. He, too, was reportedly banged up this week in practice.

One player who's back this week for the Gators and will be worth watching is tight end Jordan Reed, who missed the past two weeks. Offensive coordinator Charlie Weis really liked what he saw from Reed during the preseason, and don't be surprised if the Gators have a few new things in to get him the ball tonight.

On the Alabama side, with linebacker C.J. Mosley out, junior Nico Johnson will step into Mosley's role in coverage situations. Defensive coordinator Kirby Smart was also pleased with some of the pressure redshirt freshman Adrian Hubbard got on the quarterback last week against Arkansas, so Hubbard could also factor into the Crimson Tide's plans on passing downs.

Anybody out there have any strong opinions on anything regarding SEC football?

Any probing questions?

I’m here for you in this week’s mailbag:

Kris in Huntsville, Ala., writes: How much will not having C.J. Mosley hurt Alabama against Florida with the Gators so good at getting the ball to Chris Rainey and Jeff Demps out of the backfield?

Chris Low: It’s a major blow for the Alabama defense. Mosley was the Crimson Tide’s best coverage linebacker and had the speed and cover skills to stick with fast guys. When he got hurt last week in the Arkansas game, Alabama used a couple of different players to fill Mosley’s various roles, including Dont’a Hightower. The Crimson Tide would prefer to have Hightower rushing on third down, so junior Nico Johnson will fill in for Mosley this week. True freshman Trey DePriest and redshirt freshman Adrian Hubbard were also pressed into action last week against the Hogs. Containing Rainey and Demps out of the backfield will be a key for Alabama, and you can bet that Florida offensive coordinator Charlie Weis has a few things up his sleeve to try and create some mismatches for both players. If the Gators are going to win this game, they’re going to need to hit a couple of big plays. The Crimson Tide are simply too good defensively to take the ball and drive it on them for 10, 11 and 12 plays for touchdowns. Of course, as soon as you say that, you look at the stats and realize that Alabama has only given up four plays this season of 20 yards or longer, and all four were passes. The Crimson Tide are one of eight FBS teams that hasn’t allowed a rushing play of 20 yards or longer this season. And in 104 attempts, Alabama has allowed only three rushes of 10 yards or longer, which leads the country. In other words, the Crimson Tide don’t give up many big plays, either. So we’ll see what, if anything, gives Saturday night in the Swamp.

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Michael in Yigo, Guam writes: Why can’t Mississippi State be consistent with anything?

Chris Low: First of all, Michael, what’s the time difference in Guam? Hope all is well in your part of the world. As for the Bulldogs, their main problem right now is that they’re playing in the Western Division, which is without question the toughest division in all of college football. Alabama and LSU are both top 3 teams. Arkansas still has a chance to be a top 10 team, and Auburn is the defending national champion. I know it’s frustrating Mississippi State hasn’t been able to break through in the West, but I thought last season’s 9-4 finish was an excellent showing for the program. There were big expectations for this season, which makes the two early SEC losses to Auburn and LSU even more disappointing. The Bulldogs are hurting right now in their offensive line, and that’s been a problem. It’s hurt their consistency. Still, let’s see how Saturday’s game at Georgia plays out, and really, the whole season plays out before we kick this one to the curb. Given the current landscape in the West, there’s no shame in winning eight or nine games again.

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Chad in Ridgeland, Miss., writes: Chris, lots of discussion about a 14th member. Why do you think there is no discussion about expanding into Florida, UCF or USF, or even in Texas with TCU. I like West Virginia and Louisville. But I'm still wondering why Florida is so protected. Even Georgia Tech should be an option. I guess it depends on who wants it the most and who is the best option. What do you think?

Chris Low: I think cold, hard cash is the driving force behind all this expansion. That’s what I think, which shouldn’t come as a surprise to anyone. The SEC jumped at the opportunity to add Texas A&M because of all those households and all those potential television viewers in the state of Texas, a nice bargaining chip when the television contracts are renegotiated. Plus, you’re taking your brand to an entirely different part of the country and bringing in a whole different group of fans. With Florida, the SEC already has a strong foothold in the state of Florida. I don’t see that South Florida or Central Florida would help you any. Obviously, Florida State would, but I still think it’s doubtful any of the ACC schools are going to leave. Now, if a Florida State or Virginia Tech reached out to the SEC, you can bet that the SEC would be very interested. To me, Virginia Tech makes the most sense. Once again, you’re broadening your horizons as a conference with a new state, new group of fans and you’re also getting a perennial top 20 football school that’s not too far away from a major television market -– Washington, D.C. I wouldn’t rule out TCU, and I still think West Virginia is in play. I also think Missouri will stay put in the Big 12.

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Steve in Bixby, Okla., writes: Why isn't the SEC interested in Oklahoma to join its conference? OU would be a great addition to help solidify the power of the SEC. Texas A&M is going to be the Iowa State of the SEC, not bringing much in the way of tough competition.

Chris Low: Steve, I think it’s the other way around. The question is: Why isn’t Oklahoma interested in joining the SEC? The SEC would love to have the Sooners and made a play for them last year when it looked like the Big 12 might not survive. Also, you’re being a little harsh on the Aggies, aren’t you? Something says they’ll offer a little more to the SEC than the Cyclones have to the Big 12, at least in football.

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Kevin in Columbia, S.C., writes: I understand the Gamecocks haven’t blown out opponents by 50 points like people expected with offensive weapons like Jeffery and Lattimore. However, they are still 4-0 and 2-0 in the SEC and getting no respect from the media. We beat Georgia on the road. Florida hasn't seen a difficult opponent yet, and all of sudden, you guys are right back on the bandwagon. You guys said how good Vanderbilt was coming into Columbia. But when we beat them 21-3, that wasn't enough. I know it's still Vandy, but you were the guys hyping them up ... not us. I just find it frustrating how the media glorifies Florida, Texas, Georgia, etc., even when they don't deserve it.

Chris Low: Actually, I have a ton of respect for what Steve Spurrier and that staff have done in Columbia, raising the talent level and raising expectations to the point where simply getting by against lesser talented teams isn’t enough. South Carolina hasn’t played its best football yet, and I can assure you that the Head Ball Coach isn’t real thrilled by the way his team is playing right now. He sees the bigger picture and knows the Gamecocks will have to be better in all phases if they’re going to get back to the SEC championship game and have a chance to win it. The frustrating thing with this team is that it hasn’t played up to its talent level yet, but there is something to be said for finding ways to win games. And the Gamecocks have done that this season. Maybe this week is when they turn it on. As for the respect factor, they’re going to get plenty of chances to move up in the SEC power rankings. But to this point, they simply haven’t played like they’re one of the top four teams in the league.

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Boyd in Montgomery, Ala., writes: Since Jordan Jefferson has been reinstated, do you think it might be wise and better for the team in the long run if Miles asked Jordan to take a redshirt year to allow Jordan an opportunity to fully deal with his off-the-field problems and cut down on team distractions?

Chris Low: The thing about redshirting a player is that you don’t have to make that decision until the end of the season. I’d say the first thing that will happen is that LSU coach Les Miles and the strength and conditioning staff will assess what kind of football shape Jefferson is in. Keep in mind that he hasn’t been practicing with the team during his suspension. Four weeks is a long time to be away, especially when you’re a quarterback and so much of what makes a successful passing game go is timing. Jefferson is also more of a running threat than Jarrett Lee, so it could be that the Tigers use Jefferson situationally these next few weeks. To me, if LSU has made it this far dealing with everything it had to deal with to start the season, then the Tigers aren’t going to be fazed by Jefferson’s return to the team. Both Lee and Jefferson are seniors, and they both know what's at stake this season. I’d be surprised if either one of them let anything get in the way of team goals at this point. I also think the Tigers will need them both somewhere along the way if they’re going to win a national title.

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Forrest in Joplin, Mo., writes: If Auburn's Barrett Trotter's performance against South Carolina is terrible, what are the chances we'll get to see Kiehl Frazier take over at quarterback? If he's the future of Auburn football, would it hurt to have him at least share the role?

Chris Low: Honestly, Trotter has been the least of Auburn’s worries to this point. He doesn’t play defense, hasn’t missed any tackles and hasn’t been beaten on any long passes. Trotter is fourth in the SEC in pass efficiency and has thrown eight touchdowns passes and only three interceptions. He’s also averaging just under 200 passing yards per game. He’s played solid football for the Tigers, although I think they’re still searching for what their identity is offensively. All that said, offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn is committed to getting Frazier into the game more and expanding his role on offense. I think you’re going to start seeing more of him and not just in the Wildcat formation.

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. -- Alabama played most of its 38-14 victory over Arkansas on Saturday without starting linebacker C.J.Mosley, who injured his elbow.

The Crimson Tide could be without Mosley for two to three weeks, which isn't great timing, especially with Florida coming up next week.

Mosley plays the inside linebacker position on passing downs for Alabama and is one of the Tide's best cover guys. Florida runs a steady diet of speedy running backs Chris Rainey and Jeff Demps on passing routes out of the backfield and slot, and Mosley would play a big role in covering those guys.

Junior Dont'a Hightower moved inside on passing downs Saturday against Arkansas after Mosley was injured in the first quarter. The 6-4, 260-pound Hightower normally lines up outside as a rusher on passing downs.