SEC: Emory Blake
Our look at the SEC's most productive returning players in 2012 continues with wide receivers.
Past producers:
The SEC returns five of the top 10 statistical wideouts from a year ago. Top statistical receiver Jarius Wright has departed, but the No. 2 receiver in the SEC is back, which means he'll have a chance to claim the crown as the league's top wideout in 2012.
Here is the conference's top returning producer at receiver:
Da'Rick Rogers, Tennessee: While Rogers dealt with some issues last season that didn't pertain to football, he was still one of the best receiving threats in the SEC. He lead the league with 67 catches and was second with 1,040 receiving yards. He was also second in the conference with nine receiving touchdowns. Rogers finished the season averaging 15.5 yards per catch and hauled in six 100-yard receiving games, including having three in Tennessee's last four games. When he's totally invested, Rogers is a handful for defenders to stop. He's not only fast and can break away from defenders in a hurry but with his 6-foot-3, 215-pound frame, he's a much bigger load for defensive backs to handle.
The SEC returns four more of the top 10 statistical receivers from a year ago:
Rogers will have his hands full trying to take the title of the SEC's best receiver, and it'll start in his own backyard, as big-time deep threat Justin Hunter is back from his ACL injury. Hunter might be the most gifted receiver in the league and he's showed in the past that it's hard to find a better deep threat with the speed and length he possesses. Quarterback Tyler Bray is no doubt salivating at the thought having both of these guys completely healthy for the fall.
Arkansas might have lost three NFL receivers from last year, but don't forget about Cobi Hamilton. Though he's been overshadowed at times, the senior-to-be has 85 career catches for 1,519 yards and 13 scores. He's fast and physical and with Tyler Wilson throwing the ball, he'll have plenty of chances to make a strong run as the league's best.
Odell Beckham at LSU came on strong as a true freshman last season, catching 41 passes for 475 yards and two touchdowns, and now that Rueben Randle is gone, Beckham should be LSU's top receiving target this fall. Florida's Andre Debose has yet to have a complete season at receiver, but he's the Gators best deep threat. If he can finally focus in a little more, he'll get more touches. Kentucky's La'Rod King was 11th in the league in receiving last year, and that was with major issues at the quarterback spot. A more settled QB situation in Lexington should help him move up the receiving chart.
As for some newcomers, Ryan Swope at Texas A&M is the first name you have to consider. He was third in the Big 12 in receiving, catching 89 passes for 1,207 yards and 11 touchdowns. He could have easily left for the NFL after last season. At Missouri, T.J. Moe returns as the Tigers' top receiver, but deep threat Marcus Lucas and incoming freshman Dorial Green-Beckham could also do some damage this fall. Lucas is a guy the coaches can't wait to let loose, but if Green-Beckham is as good as the coaches hope, he could be an instant star.
Past producers:
The SEC returns five of the top 10 statistical wideouts from a year ago. Top statistical receiver Jarius Wright has departed, but the No. 2 receiver in the SEC is back, which means he'll have a chance to claim the crown as the league's top wideout in 2012.
Here is the conference's top returning producer at receiver:
Da'Rick Rogers, Tennessee: While Rogers dealt with some issues last season that didn't pertain to football, he was still one of the best receiving threats in the SEC. He lead the league with 67 catches and was second with 1,040 receiving yards. He was also second in the conference with nine receiving touchdowns. Rogers finished the season averaging 15.5 yards per catch and hauled in six 100-yard receiving games, including having three in Tennessee's last four games. When he's totally invested, Rogers is a handful for defenders to stop. He's not only fast and can break away from defenders in a hurry but with his 6-foot-3, 215-pound frame, he's a much bigger load for defensive backs to handle.
The SEC returns four more of the top 10 statistical receivers from a year ago:
- Jordan Matthews, Vanderbilt: He caught 41 passes for 778 yards and five touchdowns, and averaged 19 yards per catch.
- Tavarres King, Georgia: He caught 47 passes for 705 yards and eight touchdowns, and averaged 15 yards per catch.
- Malcolm Mitchell, Georgia: He caught 45 passes for 665 yards and four touchdowns, and averaged 14.8 yards per catch.
- Emory Blake, Auburn: He caught 36 passes for 613 yards and five touchdowns, and averaged 17 yards per catch.
Rogers will have his hands full trying to take the title of the SEC's best receiver, and it'll start in his own backyard, as big-time deep threat Justin Hunter is back from his ACL injury. Hunter might be the most gifted receiver in the league and he's showed in the past that it's hard to find a better deep threat with the speed and length he possesses. Quarterback Tyler Bray is no doubt salivating at the thought having both of these guys completely healthy for the fall.
Arkansas might have lost three NFL receivers from last year, but don't forget about Cobi Hamilton. Though he's been overshadowed at times, the senior-to-be has 85 career catches for 1,519 yards and 13 scores. He's fast and physical and with Tyler Wilson throwing the ball, he'll have plenty of chances to make a strong run as the league's best.
Odell Beckham at LSU came on strong as a true freshman last season, catching 41 passes for 475 yards and two touchdowns, and now that Rueben Randle is gone, Beckham should be LSU's top receiving target this fall. Florida's Andre Debose has yet to have a complete season at receiver, but he's the Gators best deep threat. If he can finally focus in a little more, he'll get more touches. Kentucky's La'Rod King was 11th in the league in receiving last year, and that was with major issues at the quarterback spot. A more settled QB situation in Lexington should help him move up the receiving chart.
As for some newcomers, Ryan Swope at Texas A&M is the first name you have to consider. He was third in the Big 12 in receiving, catching 89 passes for 1,207 yards and 11 touchdowns. He could have easily left for the NFL after last season. At Missouri, T.J. Moe returns as the Tigers' top receiver, but deep threat Marcus Lucas and incoming freshman Dorial Green-Beckham could also do some damage this fall. Lucas is a guy the coaches can't wait to let loose, but if Green-Beckham is as good as the coaches hope, he could be an instant star.
As one of the unquestioned leaders on Auburn’s football team, Emory Blake has a problem with anybody labeling last season as a transition year.
Sure, the Tigers were coming off an unbeaten 14-0 season and national championship in 2010, and it’s a fact that only six starters returned from that team. Gone were Heisman Trophy quarterback Cam Newton, Lombardi Award winner Nick Fairley and four senior starters on the offensive line.
It was an entirely different football team -- one with first- and second-year players dominating the depth chart -- that scratched out an 8-5 season a year ago.
But a transition year?
Blake isn’t buying it; not at Auburn.
“For us, we never think of a year as a transition year,” said Blake, who led the Tigers in catches (36) and receiving yards (613) last season despite missing three games with a high-ankle sprain.
“We’re out there trying to win every game. That’s just the attitude we have at Auburn. It doesn’t matter who we lost or who we have coming back. That’s the standard here. We’re going to go into every game and fight and feel like we’re supposed to win. I felt like we did that. We just had some things go against us and weren’t as successful as we were the year before.”
One of those things that went against Auburn was a passing game that was virtually non-existent, particularly the downfield passing game.
Nobody in the SEC completed fewer passes than Auburn in regular-season play, and the only two teams that had fewer passing yards than the Tigers were Ole Miss and Kentucky.
“We just never could get our passing game going, and that made us easy to defend,” Blake said.
Even more frustrating for Blake was the high-ankle sprain that plagued him the second half of the season. He suffered the injury in the 16-13 win over South Carolina, and his only action the next three games was one play against Florida.
That’s after catching four touchdown passes in his first five games. He only caught one more the rest of the way, although he came back and hauled in six catches for 108 yards in the Chick-fil-A Bowl once he had a chance to fully rest the ankle.
“That’s just what we needed, our offense having one of its best games at the end of the year and everybody finally not being banged-up, because it’s carried over into the offseason,” Blake said.
This spring has only created more excitement for Blake, who’s moving around a lot more in the Tigers’ new offense than he did in the past. First-year offensive coordinator Scot Loeffler is installing more of a pro-style system, according to Blake, and the Auburn staff has made it clear that one of the goals is to get the ball to Blake during his senior season.
In fact, receivers coach Trooper Taylor has thrown out there the “80 for 80” theme.
Blake, who wears No. 80, is all for that idea. Then again, what receiver doesn’t want to catch 80 passes?
“I feel like I have the confidence, the ability and the experience to be one of the top receivers in the SEC, and if you’re one of the top receivers in the SEC, you’re one of the top receivers in the country,” Blake said. “We’re all excited about the possibilities in this new offense. We’re still learning, but it’s a fresh start, a clean slate for a lot of guys.”
Whereas the Tigers leaned on Michael Dyer and the running game last season, they won’t have that option in 2012. Dyer followed Gus Malzahn to Arkansas State.
The 6-foot-2, 197-pound Blake is now the closest thing the Tigers have to a proven go-to guy on offense.
In his last 13 games dating back to the national championship season, he’s caught eight touchdown passes. His 13 touchdown catches over the past two seasons are more than any returning SEC player.
“You would be hard-pressed to find a receiver that runs better routes or is smarter,” Taylor said. “He may not be the fastest or the biggest or the strongest, but I guarantee he’s productive.”
Blake also has the luxury of talking shop with his dad, Jeff Blake, who was a quarterback in the NFL for 14 seasons.
And now that the Tigers are running an offense that more closely resembles what they’re running in the NFL, Blake looks forward to even more of those conversations.
“It’s a more universal offense,” Blake explained. “Coach Malzahn’s offense was more his offense, more the stuff he created. This is more pro-based now, especially the lingo, and my dad can relate more. I can call him now and talk about what we’re doing, and I think that’s going to be a big help in learning the offense.”
Blake doesn’t think the learning curve will be a steep one. He already sees considerable progress with everybody. In particular, he says Loeffler has zeroed in on the quarterbacks.
“With everybody we have coming back and everything Coach Loeffler brings to the table, we should be a much more consistent offense,” Blake said. “Just seeing how quarterback-oriented [Loeffler] is, there’s no doubt in my mind that he’s going to have whoever wins that job ready to play.
“We have to help the defense out more this year. There were too many times that we didn’t do our part last year. We need to create more explosive plays and finish games, and we have the players and the attitude to do that.”
Sure, the Tigers were coming off an unbeaten 14-0 season and national championship in 2010, and it’s a fact that only six starters returned from that team. Gone were Heisman Trophy quarterback Cam Newton, Lombardi Award winner Nick Fairley and four senior starters on the offensive line.
It was an entirely different football team -- one with first- and second-year players dominating the depth chart -- that scratched out an 8-5 season a year ago.
But a transition year?
Blake isn’t buying it; not at Auburn.
“For us, we never think of a year as a transition year,” said Blake, who led the Tigers in catches (36) and receiving yards (613) last season despite missing three games with a high-ankle sprain.
[+] Enlarge
John Reed/US PresswireEmory Blake takes a lot of confidence into his senior season.
John Reed/US PresswireEmory Blake takes a lot of confidence into his senior season.One of those things that went against Auburn was a passing game that was virtually non-existent, particularly the downfield passing game.
Nobody in the SEC completed fewer passes than Auburn in regular-season play, and the only two teams that had fewer passing yards than the Tigers were Ole Miss and Kentucky.
“We just never could get our passing game going, and that made us easy to defend,” Blake said.
Even more frustrating for Blake was the high-ankle sprain that plagued him the second half of the season. He suffered the injury in the 16-13 win over South Carolina, and his only action the next three games was one play against Florida.
That’s after catching four touchdown passes in his first five games. He only caught one more the rest of the way, although he came back and hauled in six catches for 108 yards in the Chick-fil-A Bowl once he had a chance to fully rest the ankle.
“That’s just what we needed, our offense having one of its best games at the end of the year and everybody finally not being banged-up, because it’s carried over into the offseason,” Blake said.
This spring has only created more excitement for Blake, who’s moving around a lot more in the Tigers’ new offense than he did in the past. First-year offensive coordinator Scot Loeffler is installing more of a pro-style system, according to Blake, and the Auburn staff has made it clear that one of the goals is to get the ball to Blake during his senior season.
In fact, receivers coach Trooper Taylor has thrown out there the “80 for 80” theme.
Blake, who wears No. 80, is all for that idea. Then again, what receiver doesn’t want to catch 80 passes?
“I feel like I have the confidence, the ability and the experience to be one of the top receivers in the SEC, and if you’re one of the top receivers in the SEC, you’re one of the top receivers in the country,” Blake said. “We’re all excited about the possibilities in this new offense. We’re still learning, but it’s a fresh start, a clean slate for a lot of guys.”
Whereas the Tigers leaned on Michael Dyer and the running game last season, they won’t have that option in 2012. Dyer followed Gus Malzahn to Arkansas State.
The 6-foot-2, 197-pound Blake is now the closest thing the Tigers have to a proven go-to guy on offense.
In his last 13 games dating back to the national championship season, he’s caught eight touchdown passes. His 13 touchdown catches over the past two seasons are more than any returning SEC player.
“You would be hard-pressed to find a receiver that runs better routes or is smarter,” Taylor said. “He may not be the fastest or the biggest or the strongest, but I guarantee he’s productive.”
Blake also has the luxury of talking shop with his dad, Jeff Blake, who was a quarterback in the NFL for 14 seasons.
And now that the Tigers are running an offense that more closely resembles what they’re running in the NFL, Blake looks forward to even more of those conversations.
“It’s a more universal offense,” Blake explained. “Coach Malzahn’s offense was more his offense, more the stuff he created. This is more pro-based now, especially the lingo, and my dad can relate more. I can call him now and talk about what we’re doing, and I think that’s going to be a big help in learning the offense.”
Blake doesn’t think the learning curve will be a steep one. He already sees considerable progress with everybody. In particular, he says Loeffler has zeroed in on the quarterbacks.
“With everybody we have coming back and everything Coach Loeffler brings to the table, we should be a much more consistent offense,” Blake said. “Just seeing how quarterback-oriented [Loeffler] is, there’s no doubt in my mind that he’s going to have whoever wins that job ready to play.
“We have to help the defense out more this year. There were too many times that we didn’t do our part last year. We need to create more explosive plays and finish games, and we have the players and the attitude to do that.”
Schedule: Auburn opened spring practice on Friday at 9:30 a.m. The Tigers’ A-Day spring game is set for April 14 at 3 p.m. at Jordan-Hare Stadium. Prior to the spring game, Auburn will unveil statues that morning commemorating its three Heisman Trophy winners – Pat Sullivan, Bo Jackson and Cam Newton. All three players are scheduled to attend the ceremony.
What’s new: Scot Loeffler takes over for Gus Malzahn as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach. Loeffler was on the Temple staff last season, but has previously worked at Florida, Michigan and with the Detroit Lions. Malzahn left to take the Arkansas State head-coaching job. The Tigers’ defensive staff has just about been completely overhauled. Brian VanGorder is the new defensive coordinator after coming over from the Atlanta Falcons. He replaces Ted Roof, who is now the Penn State defensive coordinator after initially leaving to take the UCF defensive coordinator job. Willie Martinez will coach the Auburn secondary. Martinez was previously on Oklahoma’s staff and was the Georgia defensive coordinator prior to that. Tommy Thigpen has moved over to coach linebackers after coaching the Tigers’ safeties his first three years on the job. Defensive line coach Mike Pelton is the only one on the Auburn defensive staff that will be coaching the same position as a year ago.
On the mend: Tight end Philip Lutzenkirchen and defensive end Nosa Eguae are both recovering from surgeries and won’t practice this spring. Both players are expected to make a full recovery and be ready for the fall.
On the move: Sophomore C.J. Uzomah is moving from receiver to tight end. Defensive end Joel Bonomolo has left the team.
Key battle: Even though Michael Dyer was the centerpiece of the Tigers’ offense last season, they don’t seem to be fretting now that he’s gone. Maybe that’s because they like their talent at the running back position. Senior Onterio McCalebb returns, and while he’s been an excellent speed threat, he’ll have his hands full in terms of securing the role of every-down back. Sophomore Tre Mason filled in for Dyer in the Chick-fil-A Bowl and has a promising future. The same goes for transfers Corey Grant and Mike Blakely, both of whom sat out last season per NCAA transfer rules. Grant, who started his career at Alabama, has shined in the Tigers’ strength and conditioning program, and Blakely was rated as one of the top 10 running backs in the country when he signed with Florida in 2011. Grant and Blakely both enter spring practice weighing in the 205-pound range.
New faces: Fullback Jay Prosch has transferred from Illinois and will be eligible to play this fall. The 6-foot, 253-pound Prosch is a devastating blocker as well as an excellent special-teams player. Four freshmen who enrolled early are also going through spring practice, including quarterback Zeke Pike. The other three are offensive tackle Shane Callahan, offensive tackle Patrick Miller and linebacker Javiere Mitchell.
Breaking out: There’s not a lot of suspense about this one. Everybody on the Plains can’t wait to see redshirt freshman Greg Robinson, who’s the favorite to win the Tigers’ left tackle job on the offensive line. Robinson is freakishly athletic and has impressed coaches and teammates with his strength, quickness and power. The 6-foot-5, 305-pound Robinson was the talk of bowl practices last December. Senior receiver Emory Blake said of Robinson, “He’s a beast of a person.”
Don’t forget about: Auburn’s secondary took its lumps last season. The Tigers finished last in the SEC in pass efficiency defense and gave up 23 touchdown passes while making just 11 interceptions. Despite those struggles, junior cornerback Chris Davis has everything it takes to be one of the premier defensive backs in this league. He battled injuries last season and wasn’t 100 percent. But he’s good in coverage, tackles well and has excellent instincts. The Tigers have to improve in the secondary next season. That’s a given. If Davis can stay healthy, here’s betting that he emerges as the anchor of that unit.
All eyes on: One way or the other, the Tigers will have a new starting quarterback to open the season for the sixth straight year. Last year, it was Barrett Trotter. The year before that, it was Cam Newton. And the year before that, it was Chris Todd. That’s just the way it’s gone at the position for the Tigers, who won’t be in any rush to name a starter. In fact, Loeffler doubts there will be a starter named this spring and doesn’t mind letting the competition extend into the preseason. Junior Clint Moseley has the most experience, but sophomore Kiehl Frazier has the edge in overall athleticism. Pike will also be getting reps. Ultimately, it’s going to be who adjusts best to what Loeffler wants to do on offense, which really hasn't been defined to this point.
What’s new: Scot Loeffler takes over for Gus Malzahn as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach. Loeffler was on the Temple staff last season, but has previously worked at Florida, Michigan and with the Detroit Lions. Malzahn left to take the Arkansas State head-coaching job. The Tigers’ defensive staff has just about been completely overhauled. Brian VanGorder is the new defensive coordinator after coming over from the Atlanta Falcons. He replaces Ted Roof, who is now the Penn State defensive coordinator after initially leaving to take the UCF defensive coordinator job. Willie Martinez will coach the Auburn secondary. Martinez was previously on Oklahoma’s staff and was the Georgia defensive coordinator prior to that. Tommy Thigpen has moved over to coach linebackers after coaching the Tigers’ safeties his first three years on the job. Defensive line coach Mike Pelton is the only one on the Auburn defensive staff that will be coaching the same position as a year ago.
On the mend: Tight end Philip Lutzenkirchen and defensive end Nosa Eguae are both recovering from surgeries and won’t practice this spring. Both players are expected to make a full recovery and be ready for the fall.
On the move: Sophomore C.J. Uzomah is moving from receiver to tight end. Defensive end Joel Bonomolo has left the team.
Key battle: Even though Michael Dyer was the centerpiece of the Tigers’ offense last season, they don’t seem to be fretting now that he’s gone. Maybe that’s because they like their talent at the running back position. Senior Onterio McCalebb returns, and while he’s been an excellent speed threat, he’ll have his hands full in terms of securing the role of every-down back. Sophomore Tre Mason filled in for Dyer in the Chick-fil-A Bowl and has a promising future. The same goes for transfers Corey Grant and Mike Blakely, both of whom sat out last season per NCAA transfer rules. Grant, who started his career at Alabama, has shined in the Tigers’ strength and conditioning program, and Blakely was rated as one of the top 10 running backs in the country when he signed with Florida in 2011. Grant and Blakely both enter spring practice weighing in the 205-pound range.
New faces: Fullback Jay Prosch has transferred from Illinois and will be eligible to play this fall. The 6-foot, 253-pound Prosch is a devastating blocker as well as an excellent special-teams player. Four freshmen who enrolled early are also going through spring practice, including quarterback Zeke Pike. The other three are offensive tackle Shane Callahan, offensive tackle Patrick Miller and linebacker Javiere Mitchell.
Breaking out: There’s not a lot of suspense about this one. Everybody on the Plains can’t wait to see redshirt freshman Greg Robinson, who’s the favorite to win the Tigers’ left tackle job on the offensive line. Robinson is freakishly athletic and has impressed coaches and teammates with his strength, quickness and power. The 6-foot-5, 305-pound Robinson was the talk of bowl practices last December. Senior receiver Emory Blake said of Robinson, “He’s a beast of a person.”
Don’t forget about: Auburn’s secondary took its lumps last season. The Tigers finished last in the SEC in pass efficiency defense and gave up 23 touchdown passes while making just 11 interceptions. Despite those struggles, junior cornerback Chris Davis has everything it takes to be one of the premier defensive backs in this league. He battled injuries last season and wasn’t 100 percent. But he’s good in coverage, tackles well and has excellent instincts. The Tigers have to improve in the secondary next season. That’s a given. If Davis can stay healthy, here’s betting that he emerges as the anchor of that unit.
All eyes on: One way or the other, the Tigers will have a new starting quarterback to open the season for the sixth straight year. Last year, it was Barrett Trotter. The year before that, it was Cam Newton. And the year before that, it was Chris Todd. That’s just the way it’s gone at the position for the Tigers, who won’t be in any rush to name a starter. In fact, Loeffler doubts there will be a starter named this spring and doesn’t mind letting the competition extend into the preseason. Junior Clint Moseley has the most experience, but sophomore Kiehl Frazier has the edge in overall athleticism. Pike will also be getting reps. Ultimately, it’s going to be who adjusts best to what Loeffler wants to do on offense, which really hasn't been defined to this point.
Take Two: Who faces steeper challenge?
March, 22, 2012
Mar 22
4:40
PM ET
By
Edward Aschoff and
Chris Low | ESPN.com
SEC bloggers Chris Low and Edward Aschoff will occasionally weigh in on different questions facing the league. We'll both have strong opinions, but not necessarily the same opinion. We'll let you decide who's right.
Today's Take Two topic: Auburn's Scot Loeffler and Florida's Brent Pease are two of six new offensive coordinators in the league. Who faces the steeper challenge in 2012 -- Loeffler or Pease?
Take 1: Chris Low
The truth is that both offenses were hard to watch last season, and Auburn’s 17-6 victory over Florida was a clinic in bad offensive football. The two teams were a combined 4-of-26 on third down, and there were 16 punts in the game. Neither team passed for more than 128 yards. Loeffler takes over an Auburn offense that’s losing its most productive player by far. Running back Michael Dyer was suspended for the bowl game and then wound up transferring to Arkansas State. He rushed for 1,242 yards and scored 10 touchdowns. Loeffler wants to bring a more physical style to Auburn’s offense, and even without Dyer, wants to be a run-first team. The Tigers aren’t lacking in talent at the running back position, and Onterio McCalebb has quietly been one of the league’s best breakaway threats the last two seasons. But the trick may be finding somebody who can make the tough yards and get it done between the tackles. Maybe that somebody is Florida transfer Mike Blakely. That’s what this spring is for.
The starting quarterback job is also up for grabs, although Loefller said he’s not in a rush to name a starter this spring. The Tigers also have to replace both offensive tackles. So there’s not a lot for Loeffler to hang his hat on this first season, at least in the way of proven offensive players. Loeffler has a vast coaching background, but he prefers more of a pro-style attack. It will help if the Tigers’ receivers can stay healthy. The passing game a year ago rarely produced any big plays down the field. Loeffler’s smart enough to realize that he has to play to his personnel. What makes that so difficult, though, is that it’s hard to say right now that the Tigers do anything particularly well on offense given what they have returning. Loeffler’s definitely going to need some new faces to emerge. He's also going to need a lot of focus out of everybody on offense this spring as the Tigers make the transition from Gus Malzahn's system. That transition isn't going to happen overnight, meaning it could take the Tigers a few games next season before they figure out what they do best.
Take 2: Edward Aschoff
I think both of these coaches will have their hands full this spring and fall. Both have to deal with inexperience at just about every position. But for Pease, he has to deal with more unproven players than Loeffler. Loeffler might have an interesting quarterback battle on his hands, but he at least has a proven running back in Onterio McCalebb and a proven receiver in Emory Blake. Pease has neither. Florida has three young quarterbacks -- Jacoby Brissett, Jeff Driskel and Tyler Murphy -- running backs that have had consistency issues, unproven wide receivers and an offensive line that returns most of the parts of a unit that struggled mightily last season. The good news is that it sounds like the offensive line added some bulk during the offseason, and when you have four starters returning, improvements are inevitable.
Florida still isn't sure which quarterback will step up and lead this team. Brissett had the edge heading into spring, but Driskel was the top high school quarterback in his class for a reason. No matter which one prevails, baby steps will still have to be taken this fall because the winner will still be a little bug-eyed come SEC play. What would help is if a receiver or two steps up during the offseason. Since Riley Cooper left after the 2009 season, the Gators have lacked a consistent go-to receiver. Quinton Dunbar has shown flashes this spring, but he did last spring as well and caught just 14 passes in 2011. Frankie Hammond gets a lot of praise in practice, too, but it hasn't consistently translated onto the field. Andre Debose was Florida's best deep threat, but it's time for him to do more for this offense and be more reliable in all types of situations, not just deep throws. One thing that will help is that the tight end position should be solid with Jordan Reed and A.C. Leonard coming back. As for running back, Mike Gillislee has the talent to be a solid starter this fall, but he has to do more than just carry the rock. He has to improve his blocking as well. Mack Brown has the tools as well, but getting the offense down is his first objective because it has kept him off the field for two years. Pease is Florida's third offensive coordinator in three years and brings new elements like the others did, so the Gators are having to learn even more. It will be a challenge, but there are bodies to work with. It's all about getting his guys to understand things before the season starts or Florida's offense will continue to struggle.
Today's Take Two topic: Auburn's Scot Loeffler and Florida's Brent Pease are two of six new offensive coordinators in the league. Who faces the steeper challenge in 2012 -- Loeffler or Pease?
Take 1: Chris Low
[+] Enlarge
AP Photo/Austin McAfeeRB Onterio McCalebb should provide Auburn explosiveness out of the backfield in 2012.
AP Photo/Austin McAfeeRB Onterio McCalebb should provide Auburn explosiveness out of the backfield in 2012. The starting quarterback job is also up for grabs, although Loefller said he’s not in a rush to name a starter this spring. The Tigers also have to replace both offensive tackles. So there’s not a lot for Loeffler to hang his hat on this first season, at least in the way of proven offensive players. Loeffler has a vast coaching background, but he prefers more of a pro-style attack. It will help if the Tigers’ receivers can stay healthy. The passing game a year ago rarely produced any big plays down the field. Loeffler’s smart enough to realize that he has to play to his personnel. What makes that so difficult, though, is that it’s hard to say right now that the Tigers do anything particularly well on offense given what they have returning. Loeffler’s definitely going to need some new faces to emerge. He's also going to need a lot of focus out of everybody on offense this spring as the Tigers make the transition from Gus Malzahn's system. That transition isn't going to happen overnight, meaning it could take the Tigers a few games next season before they figure out what they do best.
Take 2: Edward Aschoff
I think both of these coaches will have their hands full this spring and fall. Both have to deal with inexperience at just about every position. But for Pease, he has to deal with more unproven players than Loeffler. Loeffler might have an interesting quarterback battle on his hands, but he at least has a proven running back in Onterio McCalebb and a proven receiver in Emory Blake. Pease has neither. Florida has three young quarterbacks -- Jacoby Brissett, Jeff Driskel and Tyler Murphy -- running backs that have had consistency issues, unproven wide receivers and an offensive line that returns most of the parts of a unit that struggled mightily last season. The good news is that it sounds like the offensive line added some bulk during the offseason, and when you have four starters returning, improvements are inevitable.
Florida still isn't sure which quarterback will step up and lead this team. Brissett had the edge heading into spring, but Driskel was the top high school quarterback in his class for a reason. No matter which one prevails, baby steps will still have to be taken this fall because the winner will still be a little bug-eyed come SEC play. What would help is if a receiver or two steps up during the offseason. Since Riley Cooper left after the 2009 season, the Gators have lacked a consistent go-to receiver. Quinton Dunbar has shown flashes this spring, but he did last spring as well and caught just 14 passes in 2011. Frankie Hammond gets a lot of praise in practice, too, but it hasn't consistently translated onto the field. Andre Debose was Florida's best deep threat, but it's time for him to do more for this offense and be more reliable in all types of situations, not just deep throws. One thing that will help is that the tight end position should be solid with Jordan Reed and A.C. Leonard coming back. As for running back, Mike Gillislee has the talent to be a solid starter this fall, but he has to do more than just carry the rock. He has to improve his blocking as well. Mack Brown has the tools as well, but getting the offense down is his first objective because it has kept him off the field for two years. Pease is Florida's third offensive coordinator in three years and brings new elements like the others did, so the Gators are having to learn even more. It will be a challenge, but there are bodies to work with. It's all about getting his guys to understand things before the season starts or Florida's offense will continue to struggle.
The SEC still has three bowl teams left, but we're going to take a look at some players who have already seen their seasons come to an end.
It was a fun weekend of football and a good weekend for the SEC. The conference went 4-2, with Georgia and Vanderbilt being the only teams to come up short.
With those games came some pretty good performances from players.
Here are some top performers:
It was a fun weekend of football and a good weekend for the SEC. The conference went 4-2, with Georgia and Vanderbilt being the only teams to come up short.
With those games came some pretty good performances from players.
Here are some top performers:
- Vick Ballard, RB, Mississippi State: He saved one of his best performances for last, as he rushed for 180 yards and two touchdowns on just 14 carries. His touchdowns went for 60 and 72 yards.
- Archibald Barnes, LB, Vanderbilt: He was all over the field for the Commodores, leading the Liberty Bowl with 10 total tackles. He also blocked a field goal in the fourth quarter that gave Vandy some life late.
- Emory Blake, WR, Auburn: Blake made his day in the Georgia Dome look easy as he caught six passes for 108 yards in the win over Virginia in the Chick-fil-A Bowl.
- Jon Bostic, LB, Florida: He was one of the most active players on defense this past weekend, recording eight tackles, including four for loss.
- Brandon Boykin, CB, Georgia: In his final game as a Bulldog, Boykin found a way to put points on the board three different ways in the Outback Bowl. First, he forced a safety when he stuffed Michigan State's Keshawn Martin on the Spartans' first offensive play. He then returned a punt 92 yards for a touchdown and caught a 13-yard touchdown late. His punt return was the longest play in Outback Bowl history.
- Jadeveon Clowney, DE, South Carolina: The true freshman put a stamp on his first season by recording two sacks for a loss of 13 yards. He finished the Capital One Bowl with four total tackles.
- Fletcher Cox, DT, Mississippi State: Cox made sure he went out with a blast in the Music City Bowl, recording seven tackles, with two coming for loss, had a sack and blocked a field goal.
- Casey Hayward, CB, Vanderbilt: He grabbed eight tackles, including one for loss, and grabbed two interceptions. With his picks, Hayward tied for first in career interceptions at Vanderbilt.
- Alshon Jeffery, WR, South Carolina: If not for his ejection, Jeffery's numbers would have been much better. Still, he caught just four passes for a game-high 148 yards. He snagged Connor Shaw's Hail Mary touchdown pass at the end of the first half and had a 78-yard reception.
- Tavarres King, WR, Georgia: King was almost one of the heroes for Georgia, catching six passes for a career-high 205 yards and had an 80-yard touchdown reception, which was also a career long. Before Boykin's punt return, King's play stood as the longest play in Outback Bowl history.
- Onterio McCalebb, RB, Auburn: Taking over as Auburn's lead back in the Chick-fil-A Bowl, McCalebb had a game-high 109 rushing yards, including a long of 60 yards. He also recorded a 3-yard touchdown run and caught two passes for 53 yards, including a 25-yard touchdown.
- Alec Ogletree, LB, Georgia: He was all over the field for the Bulldogs, recording an Outback Bowl-high 13 tackles, including two for loss, broke up two passes and had a sack.
- Chris Rainey, RB, Florida: Rainey ended his Florida career with a great showing against Ohio State in the Taxslayer.com Gator Bowl. He led Florida with 71 rushing yards, had 31 receiving yards and blocked a punt that was scooped up and run in for a touchdown by linebacker Graham Stewart.
- Connor Shaw, QB, South Carolina: Shaw didn't let the big stage bother him, as he passed for 230 yards and two touchdowns, including a nifty Hail Mary to end the first half. He also carried the ball for 42 yards and another touchdown.
AUBURN
Record: 7-5, 4-4 SEC
The Tigers carried the defending national champion banner into this season, but it was an entirely different team than the one that went 14-0 and capped the 2010 season with a 22-19 victory over Oregon in the Tostitos BCS National Championship Game.
Gene Chizik’s third team on the Plains was about as young as it gets. In fact, the Tigers will probably start as many as 11 underclassmen in the bowl game. They played 17 true freshmen during the season, which was the second most nationally to Texas’ 18.
Despite all the new faces in key spots, Auburn still managed to squeeze out a 7-5 season and wound up .500 in the league.
Just getting to that point was an accomplishment for Chizik and the staff when you consider that the Tigers had trouble stopping people all season long and finished 11th in the SEC in scoring defense (29.3 points) and total defense (405.8 yards). They gave up 1,603 yards of total offense in their first three games.
Offensively, Auburn never really found a rhythm. Barrett Trotter opened the season at quarterback, but Clint Moseley took over in the last five games. The Tigers also worked true freshman Kiehl Frazier into the equation, but were hurt by injuries to top receivers Emory Blake and Trovon Reed and struggled to make anything happen in their downfield passing game.
The finish to the season was what was so disappointing for the Tigers, who lost three of their last four SEC games to LSU, Georgia and Alabama by a combined 132-31 margin.
Offensive MVP: Running back Michael Dyer. Without Dyer, the Tigers would have really been in trouble offensively. He carried the ball 242 times, the second-most carries in the conference, and put together his second straight 1,000-yard season. Dyer’s 1,242 rushing yards averaged out to 103.5 per game. He and Alabama’s Trent Richardson were the only two players in the league to average more than 100 rushing yards per game.
Defensive MVP: Defensive end Corey Lemonier. He showed up in flashes as a true freshman, but became a more disciplined player this season as a sophomore and emerged as one of the SEC’s top big-play defenders. Lemonier ranked second in the league with 9.5 sacks and tied for fourth with 13.5 tackles for loss. He also forced five fumbles, tying him for second in the league.
Turning point: Auburn looked like it would get out of October without too much damage. The Tigers had already beaten South Carolina and Florida, but lost at Arkansas. Then came the LSU debacle. Auburn was obliterated in the second half and lost 45-10. Two more blowout losses followed in the final month of the season to Georgia (45-7) and Alabama (42-14).
What’s next: The Tigers will be looking for some momentum heading into the offseason when they take on Virginia in the Chick-fil-A Bowl on Dec. 31 in Atlanta. Just like a year ago, offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn has been a hot commodity in head-coaching searches. The Tigers will do what they can to hold onto him.
Record: 7-5, 4-4 SEC
The Tigers carried the defending national champion banner into this season, but it was an entirely different team than the one that went 14-0 and capped the 2010 season with a 22-19 victory over Oregon in the Tostitos BCS National Championship Game.
Gene Chizik’s third team on the Plains was about as young as it gets. In fact, the Tigers will probably start as many as 11 underclassmen in the bowl game. They played 17 true freshmen during the season, which was the second most nationally to Texas’ 18.
Despite all the new faces in key spots, Auburn still managed to squeeze out a 7-5 season and wound up .500 in the league.
Just getting to that point was an accomplishment for Chizik and the staff when you consider that the Tigers had trouble stopping people all season long and finished 11th in the SEC in scoring defense (29.3 points) and total defense (405.8 yards). They gave up 1,603 yards of total offense in their first three games.
Offensively, Auburn never really found a rhythm. Barrett Trotter opened the season at quarterback, but Clint Moseley took over in the last five games. The Tigers also worked true freshman Kiehl Frazier into the equation, but were hurt by injuries to top receivers Emory Blake and Trovon Reed and struggled to make anything happen in their downfield passing game.
The finish to the season was what was so disappointing for the Tigers, who lost three of their last four SEC games to LSU, Georgia and Alabama by a combined 132-31 margin.
Offensive MVP: Running back Michael Dyer. Without Dyer, the Tigers would have really been in trouble offensively. He carried the ball 242 times, the second-most carries in the conference, and put together his second straight 1,000-yard season. Dyer’s 1,242 rushing yards averaged out to 103.5 per game. He and Alabama’s Trent Richardson were the only two players in the league to average more than 100 rushing yards per game.
Defensive MVP: Defensive end Corey Lemonier. He showed up in flashes as a true freshman, but became a more disciplined player this season as a sophomore and emerged as one of the SEC’s top big-play defenders. Lemonier ranked second in the league with 9.5 sacks and tied for fourth with 13.5 tackles for loss. He also forced five fumbles, tying him for second in the league.
Turning point: Auburn looked like it would get out of October without too much damage. The Tigers had already beaten South Carolina and Florida, but lost at Arkansas. Then came the LSU debacle. Auburn was obliterated in the second half and lost 45-10. Two more blowout losses followed in the final month of the season to Georgia (45-7) and Alabama (42-14).
What’s next: The Tigers will be looking for some momentum heading into the offseason when they take on Virginia in the Chick-fil-A Bowl on Dec. 31 in Atlanta. Just like a year ago, offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn has been a hot commodity in head-coaching searches. The Tigers will do what they can to hold onto him.
Happy Monday to everybody. Let's hit the links:
- Tennessee senior linebacker Austin Johnson says the Vanderbilt game will define the Vols' season.
- Kentucky is reeling heading to Georgia this coming weekend.
- A contract extension is likely for Georgia coach Mark Richt, but what about defensive coordinator Todd Grantham?
- South Carolina coach Steve Spurrier doesn't hold out much hope that Kentucky can knock off Georgia.
- Auburn receiver Emory Blake says a "couple guys shut it down" in the 45-7 loss to Georgia.
- LSU coach Les Miles simply wants to play Jordan Jefferson, writes Glenn Guilbeau of Gannett Louisiana News.
- Alabama quarterback AJ McCarron stays positive despite his early mistakes last week.
- Mississippi State coach Dan Mullen says the Bulldogs remain just a few plays away.
- Florida coach Will Muschamp says he sees improvement, regardless of the results.
- Arkansas' seniors go out in style at Razorback Stadium.
ATHENS, Ga. -- After blowing right past Auburn in the first half, Georgia shifted to cruise in the third quarter.
With the game well in hand and the Bulldogs leading 38-7, there is no need for Georgia to get reckless or silly. The Dawgs went from picking on Auburn's secondary to concentrating on the running game and eating up clock in the third quarter.
Auburn got a big play out of the passing game with a 36-yard pass from Clint Moseley to Emory Blake at Georgia's 39-yard line. However, the drive ended two plays later when Michael Dyer fumbled for the second time today and Alec Ogletree scooped it up.
Since then, Georgia has done nothing but run the ball to close the quarter out.
Auburn might have a little life now, as Georgia's Isaiah Crowell fumbled for the second time, giving the Tigers the ball at their own 32.
With the game well in hand and the Bulldogs leading 38-7, there is no need for Georgia to get reckless or silly. The Dawgs went from picking on Auburn's secondary to concentrating on the running game and eating up clock in the third quarter.
Auburn got a big play out of the passing game with a 36-yard pass from Clint Moseley to Emory Blake at Georgia's 39-yard line. However, the drive ended two plays later when Michael Dyer fumbled for the second time today and Alec Ogletree scooped it up.
Since then, Georgia has done nothing but run the ball to close the quarter out.
Auburn might have a little life now, as Georgia's Isaiah Crowell fumbled for the second time, giving the Tigers the ball at their own 32.
Here are some notes the SEC gave us that you might not know about as you enter Week 11:
- Alabama has not allowed an opponent to score more than 14 points during the first nine games of the 2011 season and 10 straight games dating back to the 2011 Capital One Bowl against Michigan State. The Crimson Tide defense leads the nation in scoring defense (7.1 ppg), total defense (187.0 ypg), rushing defense (56.3 ypg), pass efficiency defense (83.1 rating) and pass defense (130.7 ypg). The last time Alabama held its opponent to 14 points or less for at least 10 straight games was 1975-76 when the Tide did it in 14 straight games. The school record for consecutive games holding an opponent to 14 points or less is 31 from 1960-63. No other team in the nation has allowed an opponent to score no more than 14 points in every game this season.
- Arkansas has 16 touchdown drives of less than two minutes in 2011, bringing the total under coach Bobby Petrino to 78. Last season, Arkansas had 26 touchdown drives of less than two minutes. The Razorbacks have scored 11 touchdowns of more than 50 yards in 2011 and have scored at least one in all eight of their victories. Alabama and Arkansas are tied for the SEC lead with seven plays from scrimmage 50-yards-or-longer.
- Auburn junior running back Onterio McCalebb is tied for first among SEC running backs and is tied for 22nd nationally with 23 receptions. He is tied for 16th in the SEC in catches for all players. He has caught at least one pass in 12 straight games dating to Nov. 26 against Alabama in 2010. For his career, McCalebb is ninth in school history for receiving yards by a running back with 388. He is second on the team in receptions with 23. The last back to lead Auburn in receptions was Tucker Frederickson in 1964 with 14.
- Florida is one of three SEC teams -- Mississippi State and South Carolina the others -- who are tied for fourth nationally with only one play allowed on defense for more than 50 yards this season. Michigan, South Florida and Utah have not allowed a play of more than 50 yards this season. The longest play from scrimmage allowed by Florida this season was a 57-yard pass by LSU’s Jarrett Lee to Rueben Randle.
- At seven wins in a row, Georgia has matched its longest winning streak during a season in the Mark Richt era. During this streak, Georgia has outscored the opposition, 250-99. The Bulldogs have held their opponents to just eight offensive touchdowns in the past seven games. A win against Auburn would give the Bulldogs six straight SEC wins for the first time since 1982. In the Vince Dooley era, Georgia had a stretch of 23 consecutive SEC wins from 1980-83.
- Kentucky seniors Danny Trevathan and Winston Guy are the SEC’s top two tacklers. Trevathan has charted a career-high-tying 17 tackles in each of the past two games and is now the league’s top tackler with 111 this season. Guy trails Trevathan with 93. The duo rank fifth and tied for 16th, respectively, in the nation with 12.3 and 10.3 tackles per game. Trevathan and Guy are one of three teammate duos that are ranked nationally in tackles in the top 20 (Wisconsin’s Chris Borland and Mike Taylor; Ball State’s Travis Freeman and Aaron Morris).
- LSU goes into its Western Kentucky game this weekend with a 19-3 record in games played as the nation’s top-ranked team. LSU was 5-0 as the No. 1-ranked team in 1958, followed by a 7-1 record at the top spot in 1959. LSU was 2-2 as the No. 1-ranked team in 2007 and it is 5-0 this year. LSU is 7-2 under Les Miles in games as the nation’s top-ranked team. With a 9-0 mark this season, LSU is off to its best start since 1973 when the Tigers won their first nine. LSU is 9-0 for just the fourth time in school history. In addition to 1973 and this year, LSU’s other 9-0 starts came in 1958 when the Tigers won all 11 games, and in 1908 when they were 10-0.
- Ole Miss has excelled on special teams this season. The Rebels lead or are tied for the SEC lead in punt returns (25.11 ypr) and field goal percentage (100.00). Ole Miss is second in kickoff coverage (46.9 net average) and third in punting (43.91 ypp) and net punting (39.24 net). Tyler Campbell is third in the SEC and tied for 9th in the nation in punting (43.91 ypp) and Bryson Rose is tied for first nationally, hitting on all seven field goal attempts this season.
- Mississippi State’s defense has given up 17 touchdowns in nine games this season, which is tied for sixth nationally and third in the SEC. The Bulldogs have given up eight touchdowns on the ground and nine through the air. Alabama (six) and LSU (10) are first and second in least touchdowns allowed nationally this year. Also on defense, the Bulldogs are tied for 26th nationally and tied for fifth in the SEC with 11 passes intercepted.
- South Carolina has an SEC-leading 17 interceptions this season, including 13 over the past five games. Two have gone for “pick-sixes” with one from Antonio Allen against Georgia and one from Devin Taylor at Arkansas. The school record for interceptions in a season is 23, set three times: 1981, 1984 and 1987. The Gamecocks have matched their best season under Steve Spurrier with 27 turnovers forced through nine games. The previous mark of 27 under Spurrier was set during the 2008 season. The school record for turnovers forced in a season is 39, set in the 12-game 1987 campaign.
- Tennessee’s 2011 schedule ranks as the toughest in the nation in 2011, according to the NCAA’s toughest schedule rankings based on cumulative opposition. The combined records of UT’s 2011 opponents are 65-32 (49-21 past/16-11 future), which is 67.0 percent. LSU and Oklahoma are tied for second at 66.3 percent (65-33 overall) and Iowa State fourth at 66.0 percent (64-33). Kansas and Auburn are tied for fifth at 65.6 percent (63-33 overall).
- The Vanderbilt defense has limited seven of its eight FBS foes to less rushing yards than they average. Last week, Florida became the first FBS Vandy opponent to top its season rushing yardage when it totaled 197 yards on the ground. The unit has held four teams -- Elon, UConn, Ole Miss and Arkansas -- under 100 rushing yards. The unit limited its first seven FBS opponents to an average of nearly 80 yards below their game averages.
- This marks the seventh week this seaosn that the SEC has had at least six teams ranked in the AP poll. The SEC has had six teams ranked in the AP poll at least one week every year since 2003. Since 1992, the SEC has had at least five teams ranked in the AP Top 25 a total of 234 times, an average of 11.7 times per season.
- Going into Saturday’s LSU-Alabama game, the teams combined for 2.70 points per offensive drive and had scored on 48.7 percent (TD + FG) of its offensive drives. In the game, they combined for scores on 22.7 percent of its offensive drives (no TDs, 5 FGs) and averaged 0.68 points per drive.
- Going into Week 11, Georgia has posted the biggest turnaround from this time last season. The Bulldogs’ 7-2 mark this year is three games ahead of last season’s 4-5 mark at this time. Vanderbilt has the league’ second biggest turnaround at two games, advancing from 2-7 at this time last season to 4-5 this year.
- The SEC has six of the top 20 pass defenses in the nation, according to the latest NCAA statistics. Alabama leads the nation, giving up 130.67 yards per game, followed by South Carolina in third (154.00), LSU ninth (177.44), Florida 11th (182.78), Tennessee 17th (186.78) and Mississippi State 19th (188.11).
- The SEC has three of the top eight rushing defenses in the nation. Alabama leads the nation, giving up 56.33 yards per game, followed by LSU in second (78.78) and Georgia 8th (91.11).
- The SEC has five of the top 14 total defenses in the nation. Alabama leads the nation, giving up 187.00 yards per game followed by LSU third (256.22), Georgia seventh (282.00), South Carolina ninth (284.89) and Florida 14th (306.11).
- Other SEC team national statistical leaders: LSU is second in turnover margin (+1.67), Alabama (7.11) and LSU (10.89) are 1-2 in scoring defense, Ole Miss is first in punt returns (25.11), Arkansas is eightth in pass offense (318.67) and LSU is seventh in net punting (40.68).
- Among individual national leaders from the SEC: Florida’s Caleb Sturgis leads the nation in field goals per game, Georgia’s Bacarri Rambo is 2nd, Vanderbilt’s Casey Hayward and Mississippi State’s Johnthan Banks is sixth in interceptions, Arkansas’ Joe Adams is sixth in punt return average, Kentucky’s Danny Trevathan is fifth in tackles, Georgia’s Jarvis Jones is eighth in sacks and seventh in tackles for loss, and Alabama’s Trent Richardson is fifth in scoring, 10th in rushing an 13th in all-purpose rushing.
- This week’s SEC Community Service Team Players of the Week are Auburn junior defensive end Dee Ford (Odenville, Ala.) and Kentucky senior offensive lineman Stuart Hines (Bowling Green, Ky.). The honor recognizes football student-athletes who are active in their communities.
- The SEC is now 34-4 in non-conference games this season, an 89.5 winning percentage. The percentage is second highest among all conferences, behind the Big 12’s 89.7 percent (26-3). In years of 12-game schedules (2002-03; 2005-11), the SEC has won less than 37 non-conference games only once, in 2003 (31).
- In 62 regular season home games, SEC games have attracted 4,704,342 fans, an average of 75,876 fans per game. SEC stadiums have been filled to 95.47 percent of capacity this season.
- This weekend’s Georgia-Auburn game continues the SEC’s longest rivalry. These teams will meet for the 115th time on Saturday, with the first game dating to 1892. Auburn holds the series edge, 54-52-8. The teams are two of the winningest SEC teams of the past 10 seasons -- Georgia is second with a 95-32 mark (.748) and Auburn is fourth with a 92-33 mark (.736).
- Georgia and Tennessee are the only SEC teams to post shutouts during the 2010 and 2011 seasons. The Vols' defense shutout Middle Tennessee, 24-0, this past weekend.
- Auburn is 19-2 when either Emory Blake or Philip Lutzenkirchen catches a touchdown pass, and 6-0 when they both catch one. Blake is finally healthy for the Tigers, and Lutzenkirchen has been one of Clint Moseley's favorite targets.
- The Kentucky-Vanderbilt rivalry is the seventh closest in the SEC since 2000. In the 11 games, the average win margin has been 11.09 points per game. Five of the 11 games have been decided by single digits and nine of the 11 by 19-points or less.
Auburn looking for better road results
November, 8, 2011
11/08/11
3:45
PM ET
By
Chris Low | ESPN.com
If Auburn is going to spoil Georgia's Eastern Division championship plans, one thing definitely has to change for the Tigers.
They need to play better on the road.
In fact, Auburn coach Gene Chizik said Tuesday it would take the Tigers' best road effort of the season to beat the Bulldogs. Auburn's lone road win this season came over South Carolina, a 16-13 decision back on Oct. 1.
In the Tigers' three road losses, they've been outscored by a 121-48 margin and given up an average of 485 yards in total offense. It's worth noting that Clemson rolled up 624 yards, so the Tigers have improved some on the defensive side away from home. It just hasn't been good enough.
The other thing they've done in their three road losses is turn the ball over. They've committed six turnovers and forced only two.
Big scoring plays have also been a problem. In all three losses, Auburn has allowed a scoring play of more than 40 yards. No. 1 LSU had two in the 45-10 blowout of Auburn two weeks ago.
What the Tigers have going for them heading to Sanford Stadium this weekend is that they're rested and should be as healthy as they've been in a while. Auburn had played nine straight weeks before getting a bye last week, which was longer than any other SEC team.
The extra recovery time looks like it's going to pay dividends at the receiver position. Emory Blake and Trovon Reed will both be on the field Saturday against Georgia in what's been an injury-plagued season for both of them.
As Chizik pointed out, even if they're just 85 or 95 percent, having them both on the field at the same time should be a huge boost for an Auburn passing game that has struggled to make plays down the field all season.
They need to play better on the road.
In fact, Auburn coach Gene Chizik said Tuesday it would take the Tigers' best road effort of the season to beat the Bulldogs. Auburn's lone road win this season came over South Carolina, a 16-13 decision back on Oct. 1.
In the Tigers' three road losses, they've been outscored by a 121-48 margin and given up an average of 485 yards in total offense. It's worth noting that Clemson rolled up 624 yards, so the Tigers have improved some on the defensive side away from home. It just hasn't been good enough.
The other thing they've done in their three road losses is turn the ball over. They've committed six turnovers and forced only two.
Big scoring plays have also been a problem. In all three losses, Auburn has allowed a scoring play of more than 40 yards. No. 1 LSU had two in the 45-10 blowout of Auburn two weeks ago.
What the Tigers have going for them heading to Sanford Stadium this weekend is that they're rested and should be as healthy as they've been in a while. Auburn had played nine straight weeks before getting a bye last week, which was longer than any other SEC team.
The extra recovery time looks like it's going to pay dividends at the receiver position. Emory Blake and Trovon Reed will both be on the field Saturday against Georgia in what's been an injury-plagued season for both of them.
As Chizik pointed out, even if they're just 85 or 95 percent, having them both on the field at the same time should be a huge boost for an Auburn passing game that has struggled to make plays down the field all season.
Time to pass out a few helmet stickers as the countdown has now officially begun to next week’s SEC Super Bowl:
Georgia coach Mark Richt: A lot of teams would have unraveled after an 0-2 start to the season, especially when there were so many high expectations. But Richt’s leadership and quiet confidence have steered the Bulldogs back to the forefront of the Eastern Division race. All the negativity surrounding the program after that 0-2 start never made its way onto the team or inside the Bulldogs’ locker room, and that’s a credit to Richt and his entire staff.
Jarvis Jones, LB, Georgia: Defensive coordinator Todd Grantham said before the season that Jones would make a big impact on the Bulldogs’ defense, and the USC transfer has certainly delivered. The sophomore outside linebacker had four sacks in Georgia’s 24-20 win over Florida and also forced a fumble at the Gators’ 18-yard line in the third quarter that led to a game-tying touchdown. Jones’ final sack came on fourth down late in the game and all but finished the Gators.
Jerry Franklin, LB, Arkansas: His 94-yard fumble return for a touchdown turned the entire game around and spearheaded the Hogs’ come-from-behind 31-28 victory over Vanderbilt on the road. The Commodores had the ball at the Hogs’ 3-yard line and were about to take a two-touchdown lead early in the fourth quarter, but Franklin scooped up Zac Stacy’s fumble and raced 94 yards for a touchdown. The Hogs converted the two-point conversion and tied the game. Franklin also led Arkansas with 10 tackles, including 2.5 for loss.
Clint Moseley, QB, Auburn: It was rude welcome to the SEC as a starting quarterback last week for Moseley against LSU, but he came back with a vengeance in the Tigers’ 41-23 win over Ole Miss. Moseley threw the first four touchdown passes of his career, including a pair of scoring strikes to tight end Philip Lutzenkirchen. Moseley, who finished 12-of-15 for 160 yards and no interceptions, also connected with Emory Blake and Quindarius Carr on touchdown passes.
Ellis Johnson, South Carolina assistant head coach for the defense: OK, he’s got a long title, but his defense is carrying the Gamecocks right now. South Carolina beat Tennessee 14-3 on Saturday, the fifth consecutive game that the Gamecocks have held an opponent to 16 points or less. South Carolina held Tennessee to 186 total yards and intercepted two passes, one of those coming after the Vols had intercepted a pass and returned it to the Gamecocks’ 2-yard line. In three of their past five games, the Gamecocks have held opponents without a touchdown.
Georgia coach Mark Richt: A lot of teams would have unraveled after an 0-2 start to the season, especially when there were so many high expectations. But Richt’s leadership and quiet confidence have steered the Bulldogs back to the forefront of the Eastern Division race. All the negativity surrounding the program after that 0-2 start never made its way onto the team or inside the Bulldogs’ locker room, and that’s a credit to Richt and his entire staff.
Jarvis Jones, LB, Georgia: Defensive coordinator Todd Grantham said before the season that Jones would make a big impact on the Bulldogs’ defense, and the USC transfer has certainly delivered. The sophomore outside linebacker had four sacks in Georgia’s 24-20 win over Florida and also forced a fumble at the Gators’ 18-yard line in the third quarter that led to a game-tying touchdown. Jones’ final sack came on fourth down late in the game and all but finished the Gators.
Jerry Franklin, LB, Arkansas: His 94-yard fumble return for a touchdown turned the entire game around and spearheaded the Hogs’ come-from-behind 31-28 victory over Vanderbilt on the road. The Commodores had the ball at the Hogs’ 3-yard line and were about to take a two-touchdown lead early in the fourth quarter, but Franklin scooped up Zac Stacy’s fumble and raced 94 yards for a touchdown. The Hogs converted the two-point conversion and tied the game. Franklin also led Arkansas with 10 tackles, including 2.5 for loss.
Clint Moseley, QB, Auburn: It was rude welcome to the SEC as a starting quarterback last week for Moseley against LSU, but he came back with a vengeance in the Tigers’ 41-23 win over Ole Miss. Moseley threw the first four touchdown passes of his career, including a pair of scoring strikes to tight end Philip Lutzenkirchen. Moseley, who finished 12-of-15 for 160 yards and no interceptions, also connected with Emory Blake and Quindarius Carr on touchdown passes.
Ellis Johnson, South Carolina assistant head coach for the defense: OK, he’s got a long title, but his defense is carrying the Gamecocks right now. South Carolina beat Tennessee 14-3 on Saturday, the fifth consecutive game that the Gamecocks have held an opponent to 16 points or less. South Carolina held Tennessee to 186 total yards and intercepted two passes, one of those coming after the Vols had intercepted a pass and returned it to the Gamecocks’ 2-yard line. In three of their past five games, the Gamecocks have held opponents without a touchdown.
Auburn's Reed will play, Blake doubtful
October, 22, 2011
10/22/11
3:36
PM ET
By
Chris Low | ESPN.com
BATON ROUGE, La. -- Auburn will get receiver Trovon Reed (shoulder) back for Saturday's game against No. 1 LSU.
However, receiver Emory Blake (ankle) is doubtful. DeAngelo Benton will start in place of Blake, who has missed all but one play of the last two games.
Reed has been out the last three games. Without Reed and Blake, Auburn's passing game has struggled to get anything going down the field.
Blake and Reed were both dressed and warming up with the rest of the team Saturday prior to the game.
However, receiver Emory Blake (ankle) is doubtful. DeAngelo Benton will start in place of Blake, who has missed all but one play of the last two games.
Reed has been out the last three games. Without Reed and Blake, Auburn's passing game has struggled to get anything going down the field.
Blake and Reed were both dressed and warming up with the rest of the team Saturday prior to the game.
Different blueprint for Malzahn, Tigers
October, 20, 2011
10/20/11
6:24
PM ET
By
Chris Low | ESPN.com
For most of his career, time of possession has been one of those useless statistics that Gus Malzahn barely even knew existed.
He counted plays, yards and points.
The more, the better.
When one played ended, he wanted his offense over the ball and ready to snap it again.
There was no such thing as playing too fast.
But as Auburn heads to No. 1 LSU on Saturday, the Tigers do so with a markedly different offensive philosophy than Malzahn has preached in the past.
“We’re just trying to do whatever helps our team win and trying to control the clock a little bit more, get some first downs and win the time of possession,” said Malzahn, in his third season as Auburn’s offensive coordinator.
“It’s been different. But at the same time, we’re trying to do whatever gives our team the best chance to be successful. With the pieces of the puzzle we’ve lost, added to the injuries, that’s what we need to be doing.”
Last season, Auburn averaged 41.2 points and 499.2 yards per game with Cam Newton running and passing his way to the Heisman Trophy. The Tigers finished in the top 10 nationally in both categories en route to winning the national championship.
In 2009, Malzahn’s first season on the Plains, the Tigers averaged 33.3 points and 431.8 yards per game and finished in the top 20 nationally in both categories.
Through seven games this season, Auburn is averaging 26.3 points and 360.9 yards per game, ranking the Tigers eighth in the SEC in both categories.
But the most important statistic is that they’ve found a way to carve out a 5-2 record despite a lack of production at quarterback, injuries to their two best receivers (Emory Blake and Trovon Reed), and most recently, an injury to their most consistent offensive lineman (guard Jared Cooper).
“We’re going through some growing pains, but our job is to figure out a way to score points,” Malzahn said. “It’s just one of those years where we’ve got to find a way for these younger guys to grow up in a hurry.”
Malzahn’s offenses have always been able to run the ball, and the Tigers are leaning on the running game more than ever this season. They’re third in the SEC in rushing, averaging 197 yards per game, and sophomore running back Michael Dyer has already carried the ball 147 times for 752 yards.
Only South Carolina’s Marcus Lattimore has carried it more (163 times) in the SEC, but Lattimore is out for the season with a knee injury.
In the past couple of games, defenses have really started to stack the line of scrimmage to stop Auburn’s running game.
That’s because Auburn hasn’t been much of a threat to throw the ball. The Tigers are ranked 106th nationally in passing offense, averaging just 163.9 yards per game.
In the 17-6 win against Florida last week, they threw it just 16 times. That’s not going to cut it against LSU’s defense, even with the suspensions of cornerbacks Tyrann Mathieu and Tharold Simon.
“One thing we’ve got to do is throw the ball vertically down the field better than we have,” Auburn coach Gene Chizik said. “It’s apparent that people have been loading everybody up inside right now because of our wide receiver situation.”
The Tigers are hopeful that Blake will be able to play against LSU, and sophomore Clint Moseley will get his first start at quarterback. Barrett Trotter had started in the first seven games.
“Our challenge has been manufacturing some passing yards when they’re daring you to throw the football,” Malzahn said. “Clint gave us a shot in the arm (against Florida). When things break down and everything is out of timing, that’s when I feel like he’s at his best. He can make some plays when things break down.”
The Tigers will also keep working true freshman Kiehl Frazier into the equation. He’s been their quarterback in the Wildcat formation, but Malzahn also wants to give him more opportunities to throw.
The best thing Auburn has going for it is its penchant for winning close games. The Tigers have never lost under Chizik in games decided by eight points or less.
“The last two years, we’ve won so many close games, and coach Chizik does a great job of leading our group,” Malzahn said. “If we can keep it close, our guys really believe they can win. That’s carried over to this year, and we’ve needed it.”
He counted plays, yards and points.
The more, the better.
[+] Enlarge
Nelson Chenault/US PresswireAuburn offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn, left, has focused on controlling the clock more this season.
Nelson Chenault/US PresswireAuburn offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn, left, has focused on controlling the clock more this season.There was no such thing as playing too fast.
But as Auburn heads to No. 1 LSU on Saturday, the Tigers do so with a markedly different offensive philosophy than Malzahn has preached in the past.
“We’re just trying to do whatever helps our team win and trying to control the clock a little bit more, get some first downs and win the time of possession,” said Malzahn, in his third season as Auburn’s offensive coordinator.
“It’s been different. But at the same time, we’re trying to do whatever gives our team the best chance to be successful. With the pieces of the puzzle we’ve lost, added to the injuries, that’s what we need to be doing.”
Last season, Auburn averaged 41.2 points and 499.2 yards per game with Cam Newton running and passing his way to the Heisman Trophy. The Tigers finished in the top 10 nationally in both categories en route to winning the national championship.
In 2009, Malzahn’s first season on the Plains, the Tigers averaged 33.3 points and 431.8 yards per game and finished in the top 20 nationally in both categories.
Through seven games this season, Auburn is averaging 26.3 points and 360.9 yards per game, ranking the Tigers eighth in the SEC in both categories.
But the most important statistic is that they’ve found a way to carve out a 5-2 record despite a lack of production at quarterback, injuries to their two best receivers (Emory Blake and Trovon Reed), and most recently, an injury to their most consistent offensive lineman (guard Jared Cooper).
“We’re going through some growing pains, but our job is to figure out a way to score points,” Malzahn said. “It’s just one of those years where we’ve got to find a way for these younger guys to grow up in a hurry.”
Malzahn’s offenses have always been able to run the ball, and the Tigers are leaning on the running game more than ever this season. They’re third in the SEC in rushing, averaging 197 yards per game, and sophomore running back Michael Dyer has already carried the ball 147 times for 752 yards.
Only South Carolina’s Marcus Lattimore has carried it more (163 times) in the SEC, but Lattimore is out for the season with a knee injury.
In the past couple of games, defenses have really started to stack the line of scrimmage to stop Auburn’s running game.
That’s because Auburn hasn’t been much of a threat to throw the ball. The Tigers are ranked 106th nationally in passing offense, averaging just 163.9 yards per game.
In the 17-6 win against Florida last week, they threw it just 16 times. That’s not going to cut it against LSU’s defense, even with the suspensions of cornerbacks Tyrann Mathieu and Tharold Simon.
“One thing we’ve got to do is throw the ball vertically down the field better than we have,” Auburn coach Gene Chizik said. “It’s apparent that people have been loading everybody up inside right now because of our wide receiver situation.”
The Tigers are hopeful that Blake will be able to play against LSU, and sophomore Clint Moseley will get his first start at quarterback. Barrett Trotter had started in the first seven games.
“Our challenge has been manufacturing some passing yards when they’re daring you to throw the football,” Malzahn said. “Clint gave us a shot in the arm (against Florida). When things break down and everything is out of timing, that’s when I feel like he’s at his best. He can make some plays when things break down.”
The Tigers will also keep working true freshman Kiehl Frazier into the equation. He’s been their quarterback in the Wildcat formation, but Malzahn also wants to give him more opportunities to throw.
The best thing Auburn has going for it is its penchant for winning close games. The Tigers have never lost under Chizik in games decided by eight points or less.
“The last two years, we’ve won so many close games, and coach Chizik does a great job of leading our group,” Malzahn said. “If we can keep it close, our guys really believe they can win. That’s carried over to this year, and we’ve needed it.”
Arkansas' defense rebounds against Tigers
October, 9, 2011
10/09/11
1:05
AM ET
By
Edward Aschoff | ESPN.com
Arkansas' defense endured a lot of criticism after its first-half performance against Texas A&M last week, but this unit had a major turnaround Saturday.
The Razorbacks gave up 395 yards to Auburn on Saturday night, but forced three interceptions by Tigers quarterbacks and allowed just two total touchdowns in a 38-14 victory at home. Arkansas fell behind 14-7 before reeling off 31 unanswered points in the last three quarters.
Arkansas struggled to contain Auburn's rushing attack, allowing 291 yards, but the Tigers just couldn't pass to save their lives. Barrett Trotter went from hero a week ago to stumbling against Arkansas. He completed just six of his 19 passes for 81 yards and an interception. Change-of-pace quarterback Kiehl Frazier didn't fare much better with two interceptions on the night.
The Tigers also converted 6 of 17 third downs.
We knew it was going to be a tough game for Auburn's defense. The Tigers looked great last week against South Carolina, but that was with Stephen Garcia throwing the ball their way. This was a much more formidable passing offense. Wilson completed four passes or more each to receivers Joe Adams, Greg Childs and Jarius Wright for a total of 169 yards.
The Razorbacks are still looking for a more consistent running game. Adams had a nice 92-yard run, but outside of that there wasn't much going for the Razorbacks in the rushing department.
Still, this was the kind of win the Razorbacks needed. This team is getting lost in the LSU-Alabama shuffle and until one of those teams loses, the Razorbacks will be on the outside looking in with the rest of the country — particularly if Alabama keeps winning, considering its early-season victory over the Hogs.
Arkansas heads into the bye week at the perfect time. The Razorbacks got a big win and saw improvement on defense. Now, they can work on some of the little things, especially in their run defense, and have a cleaner, hopefully healthier, version of this defense for Ole Miss.
As for Auburn, the Tigers are going through the growing pains we expected from the start. The defense was overmatched and the passing game struggled mightily without top receiver Emory Blake. This was the first game where Auburn was out of it before the fourth quarter.
Auburn is looking to find that defense that traveled to Columbia, S.C., and it will get that chance with Florida coming to town with an offense that barely got off the ground behind true freshman Jacoby Brissett against LSU. Something has to give yet again in an Auburn game.
The Razorbacks gave up 395 yards to Auburn on Saturday night, but forced three interceptions by Tigers quarterbacks and allowed just two total touchdowns in a 38-14 victory at home. Arkansas fell behind 14-7 before reeling off 31 unanswered points in the last three quarters.
Arkansas struggled to contain Auburn's rushing attack, allowing 291 yards, but the Tigers just couldn't pass to save their lives. Barrett Trotter went from hero a week ago to stumbling against Arkansas. He completed just six of his 19 passes for 81 yards and an interception. Change-of-pace quarterback Kiehl Frazier didn't fare much better with two interceptions on the night.
The Tigers also converted 6 of 17 third downs.
We knew it was going to be a tough game for Auburn's defense. The Tigers looked great last week against South Carolina, but that was with Stephen Garcia throwing the ball their way. This was a much more formidable passing offense. Wilson completed four passes or more each to receivers Joe Adams, Greg Childs and Jarius Wright for a total of 169 yards.
The Razorbacks are still looking for a more consistent running game. Adams had a nice 92-yard run, but outside of that there wasn't much going for the Razorbacks in the rushing department.
Still, this was the kind of win the Razorbacks needed. This team is getting lost in the LSU-Alabama shuffle and until one of those teams loses, the Razorbacks will be on the outside looking in with the rest of the country — particularly if Alabama keeps winning, considering its early-season victory over the Hogs.
Arkansas heads into the bye week at the perfect time. The Razorbacks got a big win and saw improvement on defense. Now, they can work on some of the little things, especially in their run defense, and have a cleaner, hopefully healthier, version of this defense for Ole Miss.
As for Auburn, the Tigers are going through the growing pains we expected from the start. The defense was overmatched and the passing game struggled mightily without top receiver Emory Blake. This was the first game where Auburn was out of it before the fourth quarter.
Auburn is looking to find that defense that traveled to Columbia, S.C., and it will get that chance with Florida coming to town with an offense that barely got off the ground behind true freshman Jacoby Brissett against LSU. Something has to give yet again in an Auburn game.
Things got a little cluttered on the blog last week, so our fantasy challenge update had to wait.
The funny thing is that two weeks ago we saw the Young Guns come away with their first victory of the year with a 114-75 win against Over the Hill. I guaranteed victory in the College Football Challenge, and my team made good on my prediction.
One reason for my team's first win of the year was Chris' inability to replace quarterback Tyler Bray, who was on his bye. Still, I don't think Bray would have put up enough to win.
But last week, things went back to normal. Over the Hill (4-1) came back with the fury, winning 134-103 over the Young Guns (1-4). Chris benefited from 63 combined points from Bray and fellow quarterback Tyler Wilson. He even had Joe Adams and Spencer Ware get zero points, but Trent Richardson notched 32 of his own.
However, the king of the day was my new pickup in Arkansas wide receiver Jarius Wright. Wright, who replaced Greg Childs on my team, put up 40 points. My next best scorer was LSU's defense, which got 19.
With Auburn receiver Emory Blake doubtful for the Arkansas game, it's time to bring up another option. That option will be Tennessee's Da'Rick Rogers. I was against picking him up because I figured teams would double-team him more, and they still might, but he is a special talent and I need a healthy body at receiver.
Here's how last week looked:
OVER THE HILL
QB: Tyler Wilson (510 yds, 3 TDs; 6 carries for -29 yds, 1 2pt) -- 34
QB: Tyler Bray (334 yds, 4 TDs; 4 carries for -12 yds) -- 29
RB: Trent Richardson (181 yds, 2 TDs; 2 catches for 27 yds) -- 32
RB: Spencer Ware (5 yds) -- 0
WR: Alshon Jeffery (86 yards, 1 TD) -- 14
WR: Joe Adams (No stats) -- 0
DEF: Alabama (10 pts, 1 TD, 3 sacks,1 INT, 1 fumble, Win) -- 19
K: Ole Miss (1FG, 3 XP) -- 6
TOTAL: 134
YOUNG GUNS
QB: Aaron Murray (160 yds, 2 TDs; 5 carries for 5 yds) -- 14
QB: Chris Relf (157 yds; 31 rushing yds) -- 9
RB: Marcus Lattimore (66 yds, 1 TD) -- 12
RB: Vick Ballard (23 yds; 9 receiving yds) -- 2
WR: Emory Blake (16 yds) -- 1
WR: Jarius Wright (281 yds, 2 TDs) -- 40
DEF: LSU (7 pts, 1 TD, 5 sacks, 1 fumble, 1 Win) -- 19
K: Georgia (1 FG, 3 XP) -- 6
TOTAL: 103
The funny thing is that two weeks ago we saw the Young Guns come away with their first victory of the year with a 114-75 win against Over the Hill. I guaranteed victory in the College Football Challenge, and my team made good on my prediction.
One reason for my team's first win of the year was Chris' inability to replace quarterback Tyler Bray, who was on his bye. Still, I don't think Bray would have put up enough to win.
But last week, things went back to normal. Over the Hill (4-1) came back with the fury, winning 134-103 over the Young Guns (1-4). Chris benefited from 63 combined points from Bray and fellow quarterback Tyler Wilson. He even had Joe Adams and Spencer Ware get zero points, but Trent Richardson notched 32 of his own.
However, the king of the day was my new pickup in Arkansas wide receiver Jarius Wright. Wright, who replaced Greg Childs on my team, put up 40 points. My next best scorer was LSU's defense, which got 19.
With Auburn receiver Emory Blake doubtful for the Arkansas game, it's time to bring up another option. That option will be Tennessee's Da'Rick Rogers. I was against picking him up because I figured teams would double-team him more, and they still might, but he is a special talent and I need a healthy body at receiver.
Here's how last week looked:
OVER THE HILL
QB: Tyler Wilson (510 yds, 3 TDs; 6 carries for -29 yds, 1 2pt) -- 34
QB: Tyler Bray (334 yds, 4 TDs; 4 carries for -12 yds) -- 29
RB: Trent Richardson (181 yds, 2 TDs; 2 catches for 27 yds) -- 32
RB: Spencer Ware (5 yds) -- 0
WR: Alshon Jeffery (86 yards, 1 TD) -- 14
WR: Joe Adams (No stats) -- 0
DEF: Alabama (10 pts, 1 TD, 3 sacks,1 INT, 1 fumble, Win) -- 19
K: Ole Miss (1FG, 3 XP) -- 6
TOTAL: 134
YOUNG GUNS
QB: Aaron Murray (160 yds, 2 TDs; 5 carries for 5 yds) -- 14
QB: Chris Relf (157 yds; 31 rushing yds) -- 9
RB: Marcus Lattimore (66 yds, 1 TD) -- 12
RB: Vick Ballard (23 yds; 9 receiving yds) -- 2
WR: Emory Blake (16 yds) -- 1
WR: Jarius Wright (281 yds, 2 TDs) -- 40
DEF: LSU (7 pts, 1 TD, 5 sacks, 1 fumble, 1 Win) -- 19
K: Georgia (1 FG, 3 XP) -- 6
TOTAL: 103
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.
SEC TEAM COVERAGE
RECRUITING NATION
Florida: GatorNation
Follow everything Florida at GatorNation: Florida Gators football, basketball, news, recruiting and more.
• GatorNation | Blog | RecruitingNation
RECRUITING NATION
Georgia: DawgNation
Follow everything Georgia at DawgNation: Georgia Bulldogs football, basketball, news, recruiting and more.
• DawgNation | Blog | RecruitingNation
