SEC: Sal Sunseri
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.
Now that the initial ESPN 150 is out, it's time to take a look at how each SEC team is doing in the world of recruiting as the spring comes to an end.
Florida leads the SEC with seven 150 members, while Alabama and Georgia have six each. Auburn was one of two teams to have two top-10 150 members in its class.
Yes, it's very, very early, but recruiting is something that never seems to lose its popularity.
Here's a look at each SEC team's class thus far:
ALABAMA
2013 verbal commitments: 11
Spotlight: Linebacker Reuben Foster of Auburn, Ala., is not only the top linebacker prospect out there but he's the No. 2-rated player in the country, according to ESPN recruiting services. Alabama is rarely short of talent at the linebacker position and from all accounts, Foster won't have a problem fitting in. He registered 185 total tackles, including 144 solo tackles, 34 tackles for loss and 18 sacks as a junior
ESPN 150 members: 6 (2. ILB Reuben Foster of Auburn, Ala.; TE-H of O.J. Howard of Prattville, Ala.; RB Altee Tenpenny of North Little Rock, Ark.; RB Tyren Jones of Marietta, Ga.; OG Andy Dodd of Lindale, Ga.; ATH ArDarius Stewart of Birmingham, Ala.
ARKANSAS
2013 verbal commitments: None
Spotlight: None
ESPN 150 members: None
AUBURN
2013 verbal commitments: 8
Spotlight: Carl Lawson of Alpharette, Ga., is only the No. 2 defensive end in the country because Robert Nkemdiche just happens to play his position. He's considered one of the most explosive players in the country, regardless of position, and registered 31 tackles for loss, including 15 sacks as a junior.
ESPN 150 members: 4 (DE Carl Lawson of Alpharetta, Ga.; DT Dee Liner of Muscle Shoals, Ala.; WR Earnest Robinson of Pinson, Ala.; ILB Trey Johnson of Lawrenceville, Ga.
FLORIDA
2013 verbal commitments: 15
Spotlight: Running back Kelvin Taylor of Belle Glade, Fla., is the top running back prospect in the country and he's a Gator legacy. His father, Fred Taylor, was an All-American running back at Florida and Kelvin hopes to follow in his father's footsteps. He's been playing varsity since eighth grade and rushed for 2,884 yards and 40 touchdowns last year.
ESPN 150 members: 7 (DT Caleb Brantley of Crescent City, Fla.; RB Kelvin Taylor of Belle Glade, Fla.; OLB Daniel McMillian of Jacksonville, Fla.; WR Ahmad Fulwood (Jacksonville, Fla.; S Nick Washington of Jacksonville, Fla.; S Keanu Neal of Bushnell, Fla.; OLB Quinton Powell of Daytona Beach, Fla.)
GEORGIA
2013 verbal commitments: 15
Spotlight: Athlete Derrick Henry of Yulee, Fla., is a big, physical prospect who might be able to line up all over the field at the next level. Right now, he's known more for his skill at running back, but won't be afraid to move around if needed. He rushed for nearly 2,800 yards last year and had 39 rushing touchdowns.
ESPN 150 members: 6 (ATH Derrick Henry of Yulee, Fla.; ATH Tramel Terry of Goose Creek, S.C.; CB Shaq Wiggins of Tyrone, Ga.; QB Brice Ramsey of Kingsland, Ga.; S Tray Matthews of Newnan, Ga.; ILB Johnny O'Neal of Dublin, Ga.)
KENTUCKY
2013 verbal commitments: 1
Spotlight: Defensive tackle Jacob Hyde of Manchester, Ky., is Kentucky's only commitment at the moment, but he's a very big body at a position of need for the Wildcats. The 300-pounder has shown good strength and can fill up the middle, especially on running plays.
ESPN 150 members: None
LSU
2013 verbal commitments: 9
Spotlight: Athlete Jeryl Brazil of Loranger, La., can do it all. He can play multiple positions and has the speed and athleticism to drive opponents crazy, no matter where he lines up. He can play any of the corner positions or be a stud slot receiver on the offensive side of the ball.
ESPN 150 members: None
MISSISSIPPI STATE
2013 verbal commitments: 2
Spotlight: Wide receiver Brandon Wells of Bogue Chitto, Miss., lines up as a quarterback now, but he'll likely move to wide receiver when he gets to the college level. He's a very raw athlete right now and might be a project, but there's no question that he can make plays when the ball is in his hands, as he rushed for 1,212 yards and 11 touchdowns last year.
ESPN 150 members: None
MISSOURI
2013 verbal commitments: 9
Spotlight: Athlete Chase Abbington of St. Peters, Mo., is a dynamic athlete who might be a running back now, but like most top athletes at the high school level, could move around once he gets to the college level. At 6-foot-4, he could be an outside receiver. If he adds some weight, he could also be a future player at tight end, too.
ESPN 150 members: None
OLE MISS
2013 verbal commitments: 4
Spotlight: Defensive tackle Christopher Robinson of Shreveport, La., isn't the biggest interior lineman, but he makes plays. He'll need to bulk up some, but a college eating/workout plan will help that. The key for Ole Miss is that it got a solid player who might be able to come in and help its defense early.
ESPN 150 members: None
SOUTH CAROLINA
2013 verbal commitments: 6
Spotlight: Wide receiver Jasper Sasser of Jacksonville, Fla., plays both receiver and running back, but will likely stay at receiver when he gets to college. Getting another playmaker at wide receiver is something the Gamecocks certainly won't mind and Sasser is someone who can make plays on the outside and be a threat coming out of the backfield as well.
ESPN 150 members: None
TENNESSEE
2013 verbal commitments: 4
Spotlight: Outside linebacker Corey Vereen of Winter Garden, Fla., is someone who will fit right into Sal Sunseri's 3-4 defensive scheme. He's one of those "tweener" athletes who can line up as a pass-rushing linebacker or put his hand in the ground and be an end. He appears to be at his best when he's allowed the freedom of standing up and rushing.
ESPN 150 members: None
TEXAS A&M
2013 verbal commitments: 14
Spotlight: Tight end Derrick Griffin of Rosenberg, Texas, is the top tight end prospect in the country. He plays more receiver right now at the high school level, but it looks like he'll grow too big for that position, making him a perfect H-back. He's fast and athletic, which will make him a true mismatch for defenders through the middle of the field.
ESPN 150 members: 5 (TE-H Derrick Griffin of Rosenberg, Texas; ATH LaQuvionte Gonzalez of Cedar Hill, Texas; QB Kohl Stewart of Houston, Texas; OG Joas Aguilar of N. Richland Hills, Texas; WR Jamar Gibson of Baytown, Texas)
VANDERBILT
2013 verbal commitments: 7
Spotlight: Quarterback Johnathan McCrary of Ellenwood, Ga., is a top dual-threat quarterback prospect and was a major get for coach James Franklin. He might be a big body, but he has excellent speed and can make though throws on the run. He threw for more than 2,400 yards and had 27 touchdown passes and his athleticism will continue to make him a nuisance for defenses.
ESPN 150 members: None
Florida leads the SEC with seven 150 members, while Alabama and Georgia have six each. Auburn was one of two teams to have two top-10 150 members in its class.
Yes, it's very, very early, but recruiting is something that never seems to lose its popularity.
Here's a look at each SEC team's class thus far:
ALABAMA
2013 verbal commitments: 11
Spotlight: Linebacker Reuben Foster of Auburn, Ala., is not only the top linebacker prospect out there but he's the No. 2-rated player in the country, according to ESPN recruiting services. Alabama is rarely short of talent at the linebacker position and from all accounts, Foster won't have a problem fitting in. He registered 185 total tackles, including 144 solo tackles, 34 tackles for loss and 18 sacks as a junior
ESPN 150 members: 6 (2. ILB Reuben Foster of Auburn, Ala.; TE-H of O.J. Howard of Prattville, Ala.; RB Altee Tenpenny of North Little Rock, Ark.; RB Tyren Jones of Marietta, Ga.; OG Andy Dodd of Lindale, Ga.; ATH ArDarius Stewart of Birmingham, Ala.
ARKANSAS
2013 verbal commitments: None
Spotlight: None
ESPN 150 members: None
AUBURN
2013 verbal commitments: 8
Spotlight: Carl Lawson of Alpharette, Ga., is only the No. 2 defensive end in the country because Robert Nkemdiche just happens to play his position. He's considered one of the most explosive players in the country, regardless of position, and registered 31 tackles for loss, including 15 sacks as a junior.
ESPN 150 members: 4 (DE Carl Lawson of Alpharetta, Ga.; DT Dee Liner of Muscle Shoals, Ala.; WR Earnest Robinson of Pinson, Ala.; ILB Trey Johnson of Lawrenceville, Ga.
FLORIDA
2013 verbal commitments: 15
Spotlight: Running back Kelvin Taylor of Belle Glade, Fla., is the top running back prospect in the country and he's a Gator legacy. His father, Fred Taylor, was an All-American running back at Florida and Kelvin hopes to follow in his father's footsteps. He's been playing varsity since eighth grade and rushed for 2,884 yards and 40 touchdowns last year.
ESPN 150 members: 7 (DT Caleb Brantley of Crescent City, Fla.; RB Kelvin Taylor of Belle Glade, Fla.; OLB Daniel McMillian of Jacksonville, Fla.; WR Ahmad Fulwood (Jacksonville, Fla.; S Nick Washington of Jacksonville, Fla.; S Keanu Neal of Bushnell, Fla.; OLB Quinton Powell of Daytona Beach, Fla.)
GEORGIA
2013 verbal commitments: 15
Spotlight: Athlete Derrick Henry of Yulee, Fla., is a big, physical prospect who might be able to line up all over the field at the next level. Right now, he's known more for his skill at running back, but won't be afraid to move around if needed. He rushed for nearly 2,800 yards last year and had 39 rushing touchdowns.
ESPN 150 members: 6 (ATH Derrick Henry of Yulee, Fla.; ATH Tramel Terry of Goose Creek, S.C.; CB Shaq Wiggins of Tyrone, Ga.; QB Brice Ramsey of Kingsland, Ga.; S Tray Matthews of Newnan, Ga.; ILB Johnny O'Neal of Dublin, Ga.)
KENTUCKY
2013 verbal commitments: 1
Spotlight: Defensive tackle Jacob Hyde of Manchester, Ky., is Kentucky's only commitment at the moment, but he's a very big body at a position of need for the Wildcats. The 300-pounder has shown good strength and can fill up the middle, especially on running plays.
ESPN 150 members: None
LSU
2013 verbal commitments: 9
Spotlight: Athlete Jeryl Brazil of Loranger, La., can do it all. He can play multiple positions and has the speed and athleticism to drive opponents crazy, no matter where he lines up. He can play any of the corner positions or be a stud slot receiver on the offensive side of the ball.
ESPN 150 members: None
MISSISSIPPI STATE
2013 verbal commitments: 2
Spotlight: Wide receiver Brandon Wells of Bogue Chitto, Miss., lines up as a quarterback now, but he'll likely move to wide receiver when he gets to the college level. He's a very raw athlete right now and might be a project, but there's no question that he can make plays when the ball is in his hands, as he rushed for 1,212 yards and 11 touchdowns last year.
ESPN 150 members: None
MISSOURI
2013 verbal commitments: 9
Spotlight: Athlete Chase Abbington of St. Peters, Mo., is a dynamic athlete who might be a running back now, but like most top athletes at the high school level, could move around once he gets to the college level. At 6-foot-4, he could be an outside receiver. If he adds some weight, he could also be a future player at tight end, too.
ESPN 150 members: None
OLE MISS
2013 verbal commitments: 4
Spotlight: Defensive tackle Christopher Robinson of Shreveport, La., isn't the biggest interior lineman, but he makes plays. He'll need to bulk up some, but a college eating/workout plan will help that. The key for Ole Miss is that it got a solid player who might be able to come in and help its defense early.
ESPN 150 members: None
SOUTH CAROLINA
2013 verbal commitments: 6
Spotlight: Wide receiver Jasper Sasser of Jacksonville, Fla., plays both receiver and running back, but will likely stay at receiver when he gets to college. Getting another playmaker at wide receiver is something the Gamecocks certainly won't mind and Sasser is someone who can make plays on the outside and be a threat coming out of the backfield as well.
ESPN 150 members: None
TENNESSEE
2013 verbal commitments: 4
Spotlight: Outside linebacker Corey Vereen of Winter Garden, Fla., is someone who will fit right into Sal Sunseri's 3-4 defensive scheme. He's one of those "tweener" athletes who can line up as a pass-rushing linebacker or put his hand in the ground and be an end. He appears to be at his best when he's allowed the freedom of standing up and rushing.
ESPN 150 members: None
TEXAS A&M
2013 verbal commitments: 14
Spotlight: Tight end Derrick Griffin of Rosenberg, Texas, is the top tight end prospect in the country. He plays more receiver right now at the high school level, but it looks like he'll grow too big for that position, making him a perfect H-back. He's fast and athletic, which will make him a true mismatch for defenders through the middle of the field.
ESPN 150 members: 5 (TE-H Derrick Griffin of Rosenberg, Texas; ATH LaQuvionte Gonzalez of Cedar Hill, Texas; QB Kohl Stewart of Houston, Texas; OG Joas Aguilar of N. Richland Hills, Texas; WR Jamar Gibson of Baytown, Texas)
VANDERBILT
2013 verbal commitments: 7
Spotlight: Quarterback Johnathan McCrary of Ellenwood, Ga., is a top dual-threat quarterback prospect and was a major get for coach James Franklin. He might be a big body, but he has excellent speed and can make though throws on the run. He threw for more than 2,400 yards and had 27 touchdown passes and his athleticism will continue to make him a nuisance for defenses.
ESPN 150 members: None
Some Thursday linkage:
- Alabama misses on one quarterback target, but impresses another.
- Robenson Therezie is making strides in Auburn's secondary.
- A more experienced Florida offensive line wants to drop the "soft" label.
- Billy Liucci of TexAgs.com sits down with first-year Texas A&M coach Kevin Sumlin.
- Tennessee defensive coordinator Sal Sunseri's lesson plan is catching on this spring.
- Cornerback Dehendret Collins joins Ole Miss' first-team defense.
- Georgia's defensive line provides hope and stability for the Bulldogs.
- Bobby Petrino's motorcycle accident could save lives.
- Mississippi State is getting a boost up front offensively from its junior college transfers.
Schedule: Tennessee begins spring practice Monday and concludes with the Orange and White Game on April 21.
What's new: There was a lot of movement on coach Derek Dooley's staff this offseason. Seven new coaches are in Knoxville this spring. Sal Sunseri arrives as the Vols' new defensive coordinator after serving as Alabama's linebackers coach the previous three seasons. After being a defensive assistant at Alabama from 2010-11 and the defensive backs coach at Central Florida for a couple months, Derrick Ansley joined Tennessee's staff to coach the Vols' cornerbacks. Charlie Coiner is Tennessee's new special teams/tight ends coach. Josh Conklin left The Citadel to coach Tennessee's safeties, and Jay Graham left South Carolina to return to his alma mater to coach running backs. John Palermo and Sam Pittman round out Tennessee's new hires. Palermo will coach the Vols' defensive line, and Pittman will coach the offensive line. Tennessee also welcomed seven early enrollees -- Cody Blanc (wide receiver), Alden Hill (running back), Justin Meredith (tight end), Nathan Peterman (quarterback), Darrington Sentimore and Trent Taylor (defensive line), and Tino Thomas (defensive back).
On the mend: Wide receiver Justin Hunter and defensive back/linebacker Brent Brewer are both coming off of ACL injuries from last fall and will be limited during the spring. Linebacker Curt Maggitt, nose guard Daniel Hood and defensive back Prentiss Waggner all had offseason shoulder surgery and will be non-contact this spring. Offensive lineman Zach Fulton will be limited this spring as he tries to recover from a stress fracture suffered a couple of weeks ago during offseason workouts. Offensive lineman JerQuari Schofield and defensive lineman Corey Miller will not be practicing for academic reasons.
On the move: Dooley plans to move a few players around this spring. With Tennessee moving to a 3-4 defense, the team is adding to its linebacker depth. Brewer (defensive back), Channing Fugate (fullback), Jacques Smith (defensive lineman), and Willie Bohannon (defensive lineman) are all working at linebacker this spring. Smith and Bohannon will compete at the Jack linebacker spot. Maggitt is also moving to inside linebacker. Rajion Neal is moving exclusively to running back after playing both wide receiver and running back last season. Waggner is moving back to cornerback after playing safety last season. James Stone, a center last season, will play some guard and tackle this spring.
Questions: The Vols return a lot of bodies on defense, but with a new coordinator, new scheme, and several position changes, there will be starting jobs available. With the 3-4 coming in, Tennessee will be in search of a reliable nose guard. Maurice Couch played there more as last season progressed, but Tennessee's staff thinks very highly of incoming junior college noseguard Daniel McCullers, who will be on campus this summer. Having Hood limited also means depth is an issue there this spring. There is still a little uncertainty in Tennessee's secondary. Waggner moving to cornerback will help with boundary play, but it takes a solid player out of the safety spot. Redshirt senior Rod Wilks takes over at free safey, but has no career starts. The running back position also enters the spring with questions surrounding it. The Vols were last in the SEC in rushing last season, and lose starter Tauren Poole. Only three lettermen return, and none are proven. Neal and Marlin Lane will start spring getting the majority of reps, but they combined for just 414 rushing yards on 102 carries last season.
Key battle: Injuries to Hunter and quarterback Tyler Bray certainly hurt Tennessee's offense last season, but being unable to run the ball effectively really kept the Vols from overcoming their struggles in the passing game. There is no question that Tennessee's run game, which ranked 116th nationally (90.1) last season, needs a major upgrade. Lane and Neal will get the first shots at earning the job this spring, but having Hill on campus early will definitely add some depth, and he should push both this spring. Sophomore Devrin Young, who rushed for 25 yards last season, will also compete for time this spring. Tennessee can't go another season without having much of a running game to speak of if it wants to take a step forward and compete for an SEC East title.
Don't forget about: Tennessee will get back a familiar face on defense this spring when linebacker Herman Lathers returns. After fracturing his ankle last June, Lathers missed all of the 2011 season, but will be full go this spring. Tennessee needs more linebackers, and adding a veteran like Lathers will help. Tennessee's staff is also excited about what Sentimore can bring to the defensive end spot. He played one season at Alabama before going the JUCO route in 2011. He's on campus now, and is listed on the Vols' two-deep at one of the end spots. Sentimore has a good shot at earning a starting spot this spring.
Breaking out: The staff has high expectations for offensive lineman Antonio Richardson. The sophomore spent 2011 playing on special teams, but after being such a highly regarded recruit coming out of high school, the coaches are expecting him to compete for playing time even though the Vols return all five starters. With Fulton limited this spring, Richardson will get his chance to impress. Also, Lane is a player who has the physical tools to make a big jump this spring. He was a top high school prospect, and now has a chance to claim the running back spot for himself. He's a big body with pretty good speed, but Lane needs to work on his consistency.
All eyes on: Bray has yet to play a full season at Tennessee. A thumb injury kept him out for half of the 2011 season, but he appears to be back to full health. He wasn't great when he returned at the end of last season, but rust will do that to a quarterback. Now is a chance for Bray to get back into the swing of things and get more comfortable after his injury. It's also time for him to improve his leadership skills. Those have been called into question during his two years in Knoxville, but now that he's officially a veteran, it's time for him to take hold of this team. He has weapons around him to help his passing numbers, but Bray should look to improve this team as a whole by leading by both example and with his words.
What's new: There was a lot of movement on coach Derek Dooley's staff this offseason. Seven new coaches are in Knoxville this spring. Sal Sunseri arrives as the Vols' new defensive coordinator after serving as Alabama's linebackers coach the previous three seasons. After being a defensive assistant at Alabama from 2010-11 and the defensive backs coach at Central Florida for a couple months, Derrick Ansley joined Tennessee's staff to coach the Vols' cornerbacks. Charlie Coiner is Tennessee's new special teams/tight ends coach. Josh Conklin left The Citadel to coach Tennessee's safeties, and Jay Graham left South Carolina to return to his alma mater to coach running backs. John Palermo and Sam Pittman round out Tennessee's new hires. Palermo will coach the Vols' defensive line, and Pittman will coach the offensive line. Tennessee also welcomed seven early enrollees -- Cody Blanc (wide receiver), Alden Hill (running back), Justin Meredith (tight end), Nathan Peterman (quarterback), Darrington Sentimore and Trent Taylor (defensive line), and Tino Thomas (defensive back).
On the mend: Wide receiver Justin Hunter and defensive back/linebacker Brent Brewer are both coming off of ACL injuries from last fall and will be limited during the spring. Linebacker Curt Maggitt, nose guard Daniel Hood and defensive back Prentiss Waggner all had offseason shoulder surgery and will be non-contact this spring. Offensive lineman Zach Fulton will be limited this spring as he tries to recover from a stress fracture suffered a couple of weeks ago during offseason workouts. Offensive lineman JerQuari Schofield and defensive lineman Corey Miller will not be practicing for academic reasons.
On the move: Dooley plans to move a few players around this spring. With Tennessee moving to a 3-4 defense, the team is adding to its linebacker depth. Brewer (defensive back), Channing Fugate (fullback), Jacques Smith (defensive lineman), and Willie Bohannon (defensive lineman) are all working at linebacker this spring. Smith and Bohannon will compete at the Jack linebacker spot. Maggitt is also moving to inside linebacker. Rajion Neal is moving exclusively to running back after playing both wide receiver and running back last season. Waggner is moving back to cornerback after playing safety last season. James Stone, a center last season, will play some guard and tackle this spring.
Questions: The Vols return a lot of bodies on defense, but with a new coordinator, new scheme, and several position changes, there will be starting jobs available. With the 3-4 coming in, Tennessee will be in search of a reliable nose guard. Maurice Couch played there more as last season progressed, but Tennessee's staff thinks very highly of incoming junior college noseguard Daniel McCullers, who will be on campus this summer. Having Hood limited also means depth is an issue there this spring. There is still a little uncertainty in Tennessee's secondary. Waggner moving to cornerback will help with boundary play, but it takes a solid player out of the safety spot. Redshirt senior Rod Wilks takes over at free safey, but has no career starts. The running back position also enters the spring with questions surrounding it. The Vols were last in the SEC in rushing last season, and lose starter Tauren Poole. Only three lettermen return, and none are proven. Neal and Marlin Lane will start spring getting the majority of reps, but they combined for just 414 rushing yards on 102 carries last season.
Key battle: Injuries to Hunter and quarterback Tyler Bray certainly hurt Tennessee's offense last season, but being unable to run the ball effectively really kept the Vols from overcoming their struggles in the passing game. There is no question that Tennessee's run game, which ranked 116th nationally (90.1) last season, needs a major upgrade. Lane and Neal will get the first shots at earning the job this spring, but having Hill on campus early will definitely add some depth, and he should push both this spring. Sophomore Devrin Young, who rushed for 25 yards last season, will also compete for time this spring. Tennessee can't go another season without having much of a running game to speak of if it wants to take a step forward and compete for an SEC East title.
Don't forget about: Tennessee will get back a familiar face on defense this spring when linebacker Herman Lathers returns. After fracturing his ankle last June, Lathers missed all of the 2011 season, but will be full go this spring. Tennessee needs more linebackers, and adding a veteran like Lathers will help. Tennessee's staff is also excited about what Sentimore can bring to the defensive end spot. He played one season at Alabama before going the JUCO route in 2011. He's on campus now, and is listed on the Vols' two-deep at one of the end spots. Sentimore has a good shot at earning a starting spot this spring.
Breaking out: The staff has high expectations for offensive lineman Antonio Richardson. The sophomore spent 2011 playing on special teams, but after being such a highly regarded recruit coming out of high school, the coaches are expecting him to compete for playing time even though the Vols return all five starters. With Fulton limited this spring, Richardson will get his chance to impress. Also, Lane is a player who has the physical tools to make a big jump this spring. He was a top high school prospect, and now has a chance to claim the running back spot for himself. He's a big body with pretty good speed, but Lane needs to work on his consistency.
All eyes on: Bray has yet to play a full season at Tennessee. A thumb injury kept him out for half of the 2011 season, but he appears to be back to full health. He wasn't great when he returned at the end of last season, but rust will do that to a quarterback. Now is a chance for Bray to get back into the swing of things and get more comfortable after his injury. It's also time for him to improve his leadership skills. Those have been called into question during his two years in Knoxville, but now that he's officially a veteran, it's time for him to take hold of this team. He has weapons around him to help his passing numbers, but Bray should look to improve this team as a whole by leading by both example and with his words.
Auburn is going to pay first-year defensive coordinator Brian VanGorder $850,000 for each of the next two seasons.
Remember when $500,000 was considered top dollar for a premier defensive coordinator in the SEC? Not anymore.
Alabama's Kirby Smart was already at $850,000, making him the highest-paid defensive coordinator in college football. Given the way his defense played last season in leading the Crimson Tide to its second national championship in three years, Smart might not be at $850,000 for much longer.
Two other SEC defensive coordinators are also in line for nice raises.
LSU's John Chavis could approach $1 million annually when his new deal is finalized. Chavis was already making $700,000, but has turned down overtures from Texas, Georgia and Clemson, among others, in the last couple of years. With the way he has re-energized the Tigers' defense, he deserves to be in that $1 million stratosphere.
The same goes for Georgia's Todd Grantham, who earned $750,000 last season. Georgia athletic director Greg McGarity has already said that the school is working on an extension for Grantham, whose defense finished fifth nationally in total defense last season and was the driving force behind the Bulldogs' turnaround after starting the season 0-2.
At the very least, look for both Chavis and Grantham to go well above the $800,000 mark.
In fact, when it's all said and done, there's likely to be five defensive coordinators in the SEC next season making $800,000 or more. New Tennessee defensive coordinator Sal Sunseri signed a three-year deal worth $2.4 million after coming over from Alabama.
Remember when $500,000 was considered top dollar for a premier defensive coordinator in the SEC? Not anymore.
Alabama's Kirby Smart was already at $850,000, making him the highest-paid defensive coordinator in college football. Given the way his defense played last season in leading the Crimson Tide to its second national championship in three years, Smart might not be at $850,000 for much longer.
Two other SEC defensive coordinators are also in line for nice raises.
LSU's John Chavis could approach $1 million annually when his new deal is finalized. Chavis was already making $700,000, but has turned down overtures from Texas, Georgia and Clemson, among others, in the last couple of years. With the way he has re-energized the Tigers' defense, he deserves to be in that $1 million stratosphere.
The same goes for Georgia's Todd Grantham, who earned $750,000 last season. Georgia athletic director Greg McGarity has already said that the school is working on an extension for Grantham, whose defense finished fifth nationally in total defense last season and was the driving force behind the Bulldogs' turnaround after starting the season 0-2.
At the very least, look for both Chavis and Grantham to go well above the $800,000 mark.
In fact, when it's all said and done, there's likely to be five defensive coordinators in the SEC next season making $800,000 or more. New Tennessee defensive coordinator Sal Sunseri signed a three-year deal worth $2.4 million after coming over from Alabama.
Terry Joseph, who coached the Tennessee defensive backs and also served as the Vols' recruiting coordinator the last two seasons, has taken a job on the Nebraska staff.
Joseph informed Tennessee coach Derek Dooley of his decision on Friday. Joseph had coached with Dooley at Louisiana Tech and came with him to Tennessee.
With Joseph leaving, that means the Vols will have an entirely new defensive staff next season. He's also the seventh assistant coach to leave Tennessee's staff since the end of the 2011 season.
Sal Sunseri is the Vols' new defensive coordinator after coming over from Alabama. Derrick Ansley, who was a graduate assistant at Alabama and worked with the Crimson Tide's secondary, was hired in February to coach the Vols' cornerbacks. John Palermo is the Vols' new defensive line coach after spending the last two seasons at Middle Tennessee. Palermo also coached on the Washington Redskins' staff and spent 15 years coaching at Wisconsin.
Dooley said last month that he felt the program had been energized by all the new coaching blood. The only two coaches remaining from his original staff are offensive coordinator Jim Chaney and receivers coach Darin Hinshaw, who's moving over to receivers after coaching the Vols' quarterbacks the past two seasons.
Joseph informed Tennessee coach Derek Dooley of his decision on Friday. Joseph had coached with Dooley at Louisiana Tech and came with him to Tennessee.
With Joseph leaving, that means the Vols will have an entirely new defensive staff next season. He's also the seventh assistant coach to leave Tennessee's staff since the end of the 2011 season.
Sal Sunseri is the Vols' new defensive coordinator after coming over from Alabama. Derrick Ansley, who was a graduate assistant at Alabama and worked with the Crimson Tide's secondary, was hired in February to coach the Vols' cornerbacks. John Palermo is the Vols' new defensive line coach after spending the last two seasons at Middle Tennessee. Palermo also coached on the Washington Redskins' staff and spent 15 years coaching at Wisconsin.
Dooley said last month that he felt the program had been energized by all the new coaching blood. The only two coaches remaining from his original staff are offensive coordinator Jim Chaney and receivers coach Darin Hinshaw, who's moving over to receivers after coaching the Vols' quarterbacks the past two seasons.
Coaching better at top of Dooley's agenda
February, 16, 2012
Feb 16
3:39
PM ET
By
Chris Low | ESPN.com
As disappointing as last season was for Tennessee, particularly the way it ended with the loss to Kentucky, it wasn’t a total loss for Volunteers coach Derek Dooley.
He learned a lot about himself, learned some hard lessons along the way and also feels like he goes into the 2012 season with a much clearer picture of what has to happen if the Vols are going to make a move in the Eastern Division.
“The number one thing is that we have to do a much better job of coaching at all levels,” said Dooley, whose Vols have suffered through back-to-back losing seasons.
“I watch these cut-ups of what we’re doing. What we were doing schematically was good. How we were doing it was not good. Where I think I failed more than anything, and I told the team this, was making too many excuses for our players. It’s so important as coaches that you set a standard and demand it and hold everybody accountable to it. That’s what the players ultimately want.”
The Vols’ players will have a lot of new faces to learn from going into next season. Six of the nine assistant coaches are new, including defensive coordinator Sal Sunseri.
“We have to do a better job of teaching and holding our players accountable to what we’re teaching, and we have to improve our teaching,” Dooley said. “Look, I put it on us as coaches and me as the head coach. Sometimes, I used the youth and inexperience as too much of an excuse for allowing things to happen we shouldn’t have allowed to happen.”
Dooley thinks the Vols have the talent and the experience to compete now on a consistent basis in the SEC. He’s equally convinced that the staff dynamic is also in place now with the six new assistants and thinks the coaching turnover was actually an energizer for the program.
“I think it’s going to be very healthy,” Dooley said.
That said, he concedes there may be some early growing pains with the Vols moving to a base 3-4 defense under Sunseri.
“It will be an adjustment. It always is,” Dooley said. “But at the end of last season, I felt we were going to need to do more of that anyway [the 3-4 defense] even if we didn’t have a change at coordinator.”
The reason being is that the Vols’ defensive tackles are more in the 275-pound range, and now those guys will become defensive ends in the 3-4 scheme.
“Our defensive ends were 245 pounds, and when you’re playing a 4-3, those are two undersized positions,” Dooley explained. “When you stand the defensive end up and he becomes an outside linebacker, he’s a perfect size, and you move that 3 technique out to a 5 technique, and he’s the perfect size.
“What’s the challenge? You’ve got to find a noseguard in the middle who has some mass, and your inside linebacker’s got to be a little more physical.”
The Vols hope they’ve found that mass in 6-foot-6, 380-pound junior college transfer Daniel McCullers. Maurice Couch is another bigger junior college product who played last season for the Vols and should be even better his second year in the program.
Former Alabama defensive end Darrington Sentimore is already on campus and will go through spring practice after spending last season in junior college. He’s played end in the 3-4 before when he was at Alabama, and Dooley thinks rising sophomore A.J. Johnson will be a perfect fit inside at linebacker and rising sophomore Curt Maggitt a perfect fit as a stand-up outside linebacker.
“I felt our personnel was more suited for the 3-4 on base downs, but we’re still going to run some four-man front stuff,” Dooley said.
He learned a lot about himself, learned some hard lessons along the way and also feels like he goes into the 2012 season with a much clearer picture of what has to happen if the Vols are going to make a move in the Eastern Division.
“The number one thing is that we have to do a much better job of coaching at all levels,” said Dooley, whose Vols have suffered through back-to-back losing seasons.
[+] Enlarge
Jim Rinaldi/Icon SMIDerek Dooley says he learned a lot about himself last season.
Jim Rinaldi/Icon SMIDerek Dooley says he learned a lot about himself last season.The Vols’ players will have a lot of new faces to learn from going into next season. Six of the nine assistant coaches are new, including defensive coordinator Sal Sunseri.
“We have to do a better job of teaching and holding our players accountable to what we’re teaching, and we have to improve our teaching,” Dooley said. “Look, I put it on us as coaches and me as the head coach. Sometimes, I used the youth and inexperience as too much of an excuse for allowing things to happen we shouldn’t have allowed to happen.”
Dooley thinks the Vols have the talent and the experience to compete now on a consistent basis in the SEC. He’s equally convinced that the staff dynamic is also in place now with the six new assistants and thinks the coaching turnover was actually an energizer for the program.
“I think it’s going to be very healthy,” Dooley said.
That said, he concedes there may be some early growing pains with the Vols moving to a base 3-4 defense under Sunseri.
“It will be an adjustment. It always is,” Dooley said. “But at the end of last season, I felt we were going to need to do more of that anyway [the 3-4 defense] even if we didn’t have a change at coordinator.”
The reason being is that the Vols’ defensive tackles are more in the 275-pound range, and now those guys will become defensive ends in the 3-4 scheme.
“Our defensive ends were 245 pounds, and when you’re playing a 4-3, those are two undersized positions,” Dooley explained. “When you stand the defensive end up and he becomes an outside linebacker, he’s a perfect size, and you move that 3 technique out to a 5 technique, and he’s the perfect size.
“What’s the challenge? You’ve got to find a noseguard in the middle who has some mass, and your inside linebacker’s got to be a little more physical.”
The Vols hope they’ve found that mass in 6-foot-6, 380-pound junior college transfer Daniel McCullers. Maurice Couch is another bigger junior college product who played last season for the Vols and should be even better his second year in the program.
Former Alabama defensive end Darrington Sentimore is already on campus and will go through spring practice after spending last season in junior college. He’s played end in the 3-4 before when he was at Alabama, and Dooley thinks rising sophomore A.J. Johnson will be a perfect fit inside at linebacker and rising sophomore Curt Maggitt a perfect fit as a stand-up outside linebacker.
“I felt our personnel was more suited for the 3-4 on base downs, but we’re still going to run some four-man front stuff,” Dooley said.
Making our way around the SEC on a Wednesday:
- A few years can make all the difference in recruiting.
- New Tennessee defensive coordinator Sal Sunseri is pleased with the defensive line help the Vols picked up in the junior college ranks.
- Arkansas' Brandon Mitchell uses his quarterback lessons on the hardwood.
- Former Florida assistant coach Dan McCarney suffered a stroke.
- Former Georgia defensive coordinator Willie Martinez is likely to join Auburn's staff.
- New Alabama offensive coordinator Doug Nussmeier has risen quickly through the coaching ranks.
- Tommy Tuberville, Texas Tech's coach and formerly Auburn's coach, says he still can't figure out why Texas A&M left for the SEC.
- Georgia is bringing back mat drills this offseason.
Wednesday marks an early holiday for college football fans. Just like March Madness has a way of stopping production across America, many grown-ups will all of a sudden find themselves coming down with grave illnesses Wednesday morning that will force them to miss work.
Miraculously, this sickness lasts just about 24 hours.
National signing day has that affect on people. These days, it doesn't matter how old you are, you'll get hooked and you'll find yourself reaching for the phone to inform your boss that you just can't make it in.
(Chances are that he won't be there, either.)
Well, if you're one of those unfortunate souls who is a bit under the weather Wednesday, have no fear. ESPN and its platforms have you more than covered for your national signing day viewing pleasure. ESPNU's National Signing Day Special begins at 9 a.m. ET Wednesday and lasts until 7 p.m. ET. There will be all sorts of news and analysis from ESPN's recruiting experts and plenty of live commitments! You can also watch on ESPN3.com and WatchESPN.
Also, check out ESPN.com's 2012 national signing day preview page to get even more recruiting insight.
Here's a look at the prospects who will have their signings aired on ESPNU:
Here are some other notable ESPNU 150 announcement times:
Miraculously, this sickness lasts just about 24 hours.
National signing day has that affect on people. These days, it doesn't matter how old you are, you'll get hooked and you'll find yourself reaching for the phone to inform your boss that you just can't make it in.
(Chances are that he won't be there, either.)
Well, if you're one of those unfortunate souls who is a bit under the weather Wednesday, have no fear. ESPN and its platforms have you more than covered for your national signing day viewing pleasure. ESPNU's National Signing Day Special begins at 9 a.m. ET Wednesday and lasts until 7 p.m. ET. There will be all sorts of news and analysis from ESPN's recruiting experts and plenty of live commitments! You can also watch on ESPN3.com and WatchESPN.
Also, check out ESPN.com's 2012 national signing day preview page to get even more recruiting insight.
Here's a look at the prospects who will have their signings aired on ESPNU:
- DE Mario Edwards (No. 1 in ESPNU 150): 9:05 a.m.
- OLB Josh Harvey-Clemons (No. 17): 9:15 a.m. -- Will it be Florida, Georgia or Florida State?
- CB Tracy Howard (No. 18): 9:35 a.m. -- Florida was once the leader, but Miami might have taken control after a successful visit over the weekend.
- DT Eddie Goldman (No. 10): 10:05 a.m. -- Alabama and Auburn are competing with Florida State here.
- WR Dorial Green-Beckham (No. 3): 10:15 a.m. -- Arkansas held the lead for a while, but is in a real fight down to the wire with Missouri after his official visit over the weekend.
- OLB Kwon Alexander (No. 29): 11:05 a.m. -- Alabama, Auburn and LSU are all in the hunt.
- S Trae Elston (No. 10 safety): 11:05 a.m. -- LSU and Ole Miss appear to be at the top of his list.
- WR Nelson Agholor (No. 47): 12:05 p.m. -- This sounds like a battle between Florida and USC.
- WR Thomas Johnson (No. 33): 12:20 p.m.
- OT Andrus Peat (No. 9): 1:35 p.m.
- OT Avery Young (No. 61): 2 p.m. -- Auburn, Florida and Georgia area all in the running and this one still appears up in the air.
- CB Ronald Darby (No. 38) 2:30 p.m. -- Auburn has been heavily involved with Darby, but Florida State might have the edge.
Here are some other notable ESPNU 150 announcement times:
- DE Korren Kirven (No. 100): 8 a.m. -- Sal Sunseri first recruited him to Alabama and now Tennessee.
- DE Dante Fowler Jr. (No. 71): 10 a.m. -- He's committed to Florida State, but Florida hasn't stopped heavily recruiting him.
- DT Leonard Williams (No. 50): 11 a.m. -- It sounds like he's down to Florida and USC.
- S Landon Collins (No. 6): 1 p.m. -- He's committed to Alabama, but we've all heard about the drama surrounding his mother and her desire for him to go to LSU.
- ATH Ricardo Louis (No. 21): 1 p.m. -- He was once committed to Auburn, then Florida State. Now, he's uncommitted, but it sounds like it's Auburn or Florida State.
Tennessee coach Derek Dooley is putting his staff back together and now has just one opening remaining after announcing Friday that Charlie Coiner has been hired to coach the Vols' tight ends and special teams.
Coiner, 51, last coached at North Carolina during the 2010 season when he was hired two weeks into the season to replace John Blake, who resigned. Coiner coached the Tar Heels' defensive line that season, but was out of coaching this past season. Coiner coached in the NFL with the Buffalo Bills and Chicago Bears from 2001-09 and worked with both the tight ends and special teams.
"Charlie has a diverse background in professional and college coaching, and he has had consistent success at both levels," Dooley said. "Charlie has also worked with several of our coaches, which will help make the transition and working dynamic seamless."
Coiner worked under Tennessee's new defensive line coach, John Palermo, at Austin Peay in 1990. From 1995-97, Coiner worked with the Vols' new defensive coordinator, Sal Sunseri, at Louisville, while Coiner and new offensive line coach Sam Pittman worked together at North Carolina during the 2010 season.
The Vols have had five assistant coaches leave for other jobs and a sixth assistant that wasn't retained since the end of the 2011 season.
Dooley still has one more hire to make, and Central Florida defensive backs coach Derrick Ansley is the leader in the clubhouse. Ansley was with Sunseri at Alabama as a graduate assistant on the Crimson Tide's defense the past two seasons before being hired at Central Florida in December.
Coiner, 51, last coached at North Carolina during the 2010 season when he was hired two weeks into the season to replace John Blake, who resigned. Coiner coached the Tar Heels' defensive line that season, but was out of coaching this past season. Coiner coached in the NFL with the Buffalo Bills and Chicago Bears from 2001-09 and worked with both the tight ends and special teams.
"Charlie has a diverse background in professional and college coaching, and he has had consistent success at both levels," Dooley said. "Charlie has also worked with several of our coaches, which will help make the transition and working dynamic seamless."
Coiner worked under Tennessee's new defensive line coach, John Palermo, at Austin Peay in 1990. From 1995-97, Coiner worked with the Vols' new defensive coordinator, Sal Sunseri, at Louisville, while Coiner and new offensive line coach Sam Pittman worked together at North Carolina during the 2010 season.
The Vols have had five assistant coaches leave for other jobs and a sixth assistant that wasn't retained since the end of the 2011 season.
Dooley still has one more hire to make, and Central Florida defensive backs coach Derrick Ansley is the leader in the clubhouse. Ansley was with Sunseri at Alabama as a graduate assistant on the Crimson Tide's defense the past two seasons before being hired at Central Florida in December.
Top prospects remaining for SEC schools
January, 26, 2012
Jan 26
4:00
PM ET
By
Edward Aschoff | ESPN.com
National signing day is so close we can all taste it. Soon, the country's top high school football prospects will be making their college decisions official by signing their names to little pieces of paper.
After talking with the real recruiting minds at ESPN, we've come up with a list of some of the top recruits SEC schools are still after. We took position rankings, the schools' chances and the schools' needs into consideration. This doesn't mean that these are the only ones left, either.
These are just some of the more highly rated players to keep an eye on:
ALABAMA
Note: Alabama has very limited room in its recruiting class. Alabama currently has 27 commitments, meaning that some prospects might have to grayshirt or Alabama will have to count back to its 2011 or 2010 classes with early enrollees if there is room to.
Kwon Alexander, #3 OLB, Oxford, Ala./Oxford: He's an extremely talented linebacker who currently has Alabama, Auburn and LSU at the top.
Eddie Goldman, #1 DT, Washington, D.C./Collegiate Academy: He's the No. 1 defensive tackle in the country and he just happens to be the best at a position of need.
Korren Kirven, #8 DT, Lynchburg, Va./Brookville: Alabama's former linebackers coach Sal Sunseri recruited him hard when he was in Tuscaloosa, Ala., so he knows plenty about the Tide.
Jameis Winston, #1 QB, Hueytown, Ala./Hueytown: He's committed to Florida State, but Alabama would love to have him make a last-minute switch to stay in state.
ARKANSAS
Dorial Green-Beckham, #1 WR, Springfield, Mo./Hillcrest: It sounds like Arkansas is in really good shape with him, but watch out for Missouri.
Jordan Diamond, #10 OT, Chicago, Ill/Simeon: He visited Arkansas last weekend and the Hogs would love to add another lineman.
Davonte Neal, #1 ATH, Scottsdale, Ariz./Chaparral: He could do a lot of damage in Arkansas' offense at wide receiver.
AUBURN
Kwon Alexander, #3 OLB, Oxford, Ala./Oxford: Auburn is in the thick of it for one of the state's best players and needs help at linebacker.
Arik Armstead, #3 OT, Elk Grove, Calif./Pleasant Grove: It's getting pretty tight with he and his brother when it comes to schools, but Auburn got an official.
Stefon Diggs, #3 ATH, Olney, Md./Our Lady of Good Counsel: He's a tremendous athlete and his future will likely be at wide receiver, where he might contribute early at Auburn.
Ricardo Louis, #5 ATH, Miami Beach, Fla./Miami Beach: He was once committed to Auburn, then to Florida State. Now, he's back on the market.
Avery Young, #8 OT, Palm Beach Gardens, Fla./Palm Beach Gardens: He has gotten extremely close to Auburn's staff and has the Tigers as a finalist.
FLORIDA
Nelson Agholor, #6 WR, Tampa, Fla./Berkeley: Agholor can make a lot of plays when he has the ball and Gainesville isn't far from home.
Stefon Diggs, #3 ATH, Olney, Md./Our Lady of Good Counsel: He's the kind of playmaker Florida desperately needs in its offense at receiver.
Josh Harvey-Clemons, #1 OLB, Valdosta, Ga./Lowndes: A big, athletic, fast outside linebacker would be a welcomed addition to Florida's class.
Tracy Howard, #1 CB, Miramar, Fla./Miramar: He's that solid game-changing cover corner Florida wants to add to its defense.
Avery Young, #8 OT, Palm Beach Gardens, Fla./Palm Beach Gardens: Line depth is needed for the Gators and the staff has been on Young for a while.
GEORGIA
Josh Harvey-Clemons, #1 OLB, Valdosta, Ga./Lowndes: He is a real playmaker on the outside and would do well in Todd Grantham's 3-4.
Cordarrelle Patterson, JC WR, Rock Hill, S.C./Hutchinson Community College: He's one of the top JUCO prospects and is a priority for the Bulldogs.
Avery Young, #8 OT, Palm Beach Gardens, Fla./Palm Beach Gardens: He's an extremely athletic lineman who should really excel at left tackle in college.
KENTUCKY
Note: Kentucky has 25 commitments, but could be in the same boat as Alabama when it comes to bringing in more signees.
Raphael Andrades, #152 WR, Tallahassee, Fla./Lincoln: He's a bigger receiver and Kentucky sure needs receivers.
Imani Cross, #20 RB, Gainesville, Ga./North Hall: Kentucky needs playmakers in this class and Cross might be able to contribute early.
LSU
Kwon Alexander, #3 OLB, Oxford, Ala./Oxford: More Tigers interested in snagging this top linebacker prospect.
Landon Collins, #1 S, Geismar, La/Dutchtown: Collins is committed to Alabama, but his mother prefers LSU and he hasn't signed anything ...
Trae Elston, #10 S, Oxford, Ala./Oxford: He's Alexander's teammate and LSU has come at him hard and will get his final official visit.
Cordarrelle Patterson, JC WR, Rock Hill, S.C./Hutchinson Community College: LSU needs another top-notch WR and Patterson fits that need.
MISSISSIPPI STATE
Note: Hey, look, another class that is at 25. Counting back is your friend.
Beniquez Brown, #16 ATH, Florence, Ala./Florence: He can play all over the field, including running back, but he'll likely end up on defense.
Jeremy Liggins #12 ATH, Oxford, Miss/Lafayette: He's a big body and prefers quarterback, but could play multiple positions on offense or even move to defense.
OLE MISS
Trae Elston, #10 S, Oxford, Ala/Oxford: Ole Miss needs help on defense and Elston could provide a boost to the secondary.
Khalid Henderson, #19 OLB, Austell, Ga./Pebblebrook: He was a two-way star in high school, but he'll stick to defense in college.
Jeremy Liggins #12 ATH, Oxford, Miss/Lafayette: Ole Miss' staff would like to keep him at home, but would the Rebels take him as a QB?
SOUTH CAROLINA
Tyriq McCord, #13 DE, Tampa, Fla./Jefferson: He is committed to Miami and his parents love the academics there, but South Carolina has recruited him hard.
Note: Some of our recruiting analysts feel that South Carolina is all but wrapped up here, but there's a chance that coaches could still go after a punter.
TENNESSEE
Quinshad Davis, #51 WR, Gaffney, S.C./Gaffney: Tennessee is search for some offensive playmakers and Davis has that kind of ability in him.
Korren Kirven, #8 DT, Lynchburg, Va./Brookville: Sunseri has recruited him hard at two schools, and has a great relationship with Kirven.
Cordarrelle Patterson, JC WR, Rock Hill, S.C./Hutchinson Community College: He's a big-play WR that the Vols would love to snag this year.
VANDERBILT
Harding Harper, #97 OLB, Birmingham, Ala./Carver: Vanderbilt wants to add to the linebacker position and the speedy Harper would do that.
Kevin McCoy, #51 OT, Seffner, Fla./Armwood: Vandy needs depth on the offensive line and McCoy would certainly provide that.
After talking with the real recruiting minds at ESPN, we've come up with a list of some of the top recruits SEC schools are still after. We took position rankings, the schools' chances and the schools' needs into consideration. This doesn't mean that these are the only ones left, either.
These are just some of the more highly rated players to keep an eye on:
ALABAMA
Note: Alabama has very limited room in its recruiting class. Alabama currently has 27 commitments, meaning that some prospects might have to grayshirt or Alabama will have to count back to its 2011 or 2010 classes with early enrollees if there is room to.
Kwon Alexander, #3 OLB, Oxford, Ala./Oxford: He's an extremely talented linebacker who currently has Alabama, Auburn and LSU at the top.
Eddie Goldman, #1 DT, Washington, D.C./Collegiate Academy: He's the No. 1 defensive tackle in the country and he just happens to be the best at a position of need.
Korren Kirven, #8 DT, Lynchburg, Va./Brookville: Alabama's former linebackers coach Sal Sunseri recruited him hard when he was in Tuscaloosa, Ala., so he knows plenty about the Tide.
Jameis Winston, #1 QB, Hueytown, Ala./Hueytown: He's committed to Florida State, but Alabama would love to have him make a last-minute switch to stay in state.
ARKANSAS
Dorial Green-Beckham, #1 WR, Springfield, Mo./Hillcrest: It sounds like Arkansas is in really good shape with him, but watch out for Missouri.
Jordan Diamond, #10 OT, Chicago, Ill/Simeon: He visited Arkansas last weekend and the Hogs would love to add another lineman.
Davonte Neal, #1 ATH, Scottsdale, Ariz./Chaparral: He could do a lot of damage in Arkansas' offense at wide receiver.
AUBURN
Kwon Alexander, #3 OLB, Oxford, Ala./Oxford: Auburn is in the thick of it for one of the state's best players and needs help at linebacker.
Arik Armstead, #3 OT, Elk Grove, Calif./Pleasant Grove: It's getting pretty tight with he and his brother when it comes to schools, but Auburn got an official.
Stefon Diggs, #3 ATH, Olney, Md./Our Lady of Good Counsel: He's a tremendous athlete and his future will likely be at wide receiver, where he might contribute early at Auburn.
Ricardo Louis, #5 ATH, Miami Beach, Fla./Miami Beach: He was once committed to Auburn, then to Florida State. Now, he's back on the market.
Avery Young, #8 OT, Palm Beach Gardens, Fla./Palm Beach Gardens: He has gotten extremely close to Auburn's staff and has the Tigers as a finalist.
FLORIDA
Nelson Agholor, #6 WR, Tampa, Fla./Berkeley: Agholor can make a lot of plays when he has the ball and Gainesville isn't far from home.
Stefon Diggs, #3 ATH, Olney, Md./Our Lady of Good Counsel: He's the kind of playmaker Florida desperately needs in its offense at receiver.
Josh Harvey-Clemons, #1 OLB, Valdosta, Ga./Lowndes: A big, athletic, fast outside linebacker would be a welcomed addition to Florida's class.
Tracy Howard, #1 CB, Miramar, Fla./Miramar: He's that solid game-changing cover corner Florida wants to add to its defense.
Avery Young, #8 OT, Palm Beach Gardens, Fla./Palm Beach Gardens: Line depth is needed for the Gators and the staff has been on Young for a while.
GEORGIA
Josh Harvey-Clemons, #1 OLB, Valdosta, Ga./Lowndes: He is a real playmaker on the outside and would do well in Todd Grantham's 3-4.
Cordarrelle Patterson, JC WR, Rock Hill, S.C./Hutchinson Community College: He's one of the top JUCO prospects and is a priority for the Bulldogs.
Avery Young, #8 OT, Palm Beach Gardens, Fla./Palm Beach Gardens: He's an extremely athletic lineman who should really excel at left tackle in college.
KENTUCKY
Note: Kentucky has 25 commitments, but could be in the same boat as Alabama when it comes to bringing in more signees.
Raphael Andrades, #152 WR, Tallahassee, Fla./Lincoln: He's a bigger receiver and Kentucky sure needs receivers.
Imani Cross, #20 RB, Gainesville, Ga./North Hall: Kentucky needs playmakers in this class and Cross might be able to contribute early.
LSU
Kwon Alexander, #3 OLB, Oxford, Ala./Oxford: More Tigers interested in snagging this top linebacker prospect.
Landon Collins, #1 S, Geismar, La/Dutchtown: Collins is committed to Alabama, but his mother prefers LSU and he hasn't signed anything ...
Trae Elston, #10 S, Oxford, Ala./Oxford: He's Alexander's teammate and LSU has come at him hard and will get his final official visit.
Cordarrelle Patterson, JC WR, Rock Hill, S.C./Hutchinson Community College: LSU needs another top-notch WR and Patterson fits that need.
MISSISSIPPI STATE
Note: Hey, look, another class that is at 25. Counting back is your friend.
Beniquez Brown, #16 ATH, Florence, Ala./Florence: He can play all over the field, including running back, but he'll likely end up on defense.
Jeremy Liggins #12 ATH, Oxford, Miss/Lafayette: He's a big body and prefers quarterback, but could play multiple positions on offense or even move to defense.
OLE MISS
Trae Elston, #10 S, Oxford, Ala/Oxford: Ole Miss needs help on defense and Elston could provide a boost to the secondary.
Khalid Henderson, #19 OLB, Austell, Ga./Pebblebrook: He was a two-way star in high school, but he'll stick to defense in college.
Jeremy Liggins #12 ATH, Oxford, Miss/Lafayette: Ole Miss' staff would like to keep him at home, but would the Rebels take him as a QB?
SOUTH CAROLINA
Tyriq McCord, #13 DE, Tampa, Fla./Jefferson: He is committed to Miami and his parents love the academics there, but South Carolina has recruited him hard.
Note: Some of our recruiting analysts feel that South Carolina is all but wrapped up here, but there's a chance that coaches could still go after a punter.
TENNESSEE
Quinshad Davis, #51 WR, Gaffney, S.C./Gaffney: Tennessee is search for some offensive playmakers and Davis has that kind of ability in him.
Korren Kirven, #8 DT, Lynchburg, Va./Brookville: Sunseri has recruited him hard at two schools, and has a great relationship with Kirven.
Cordarrelle Patterson, JC WR, Rock Hill, S.C./Hutchinson Community College: He's a big-play WR that the Vols would love to snag this year.
VANDERBILT
Harding Harper, #97 OLB, Birmingham, Ala./Carver: Vanderbilt wants to add to the linebacker position and the speedy Harper would do that.
Kevin McCoy, #51 OT, Seffner, Fla./Armwood: Vandy needs depth on the offensive line and McCoy would certainly provide that.
Where are the top SEC prospects headed?
January, 20, 2012
Jan 20
3:30
PM ET
By
Edward Aschoff | ESPN.com
Thursday, we checked out the final ESPNU 150 rankings, letting us know who the top dogs in the recruiting world are.
Today, we're checking out where the top uncommitted players might be heading come national signing day
Here's a list of 10 top prospects considering SEC schools to keep an eye on:
Dorial Green-Beckham, WR
Springfield, Mo./Hillcrest
ESPNU 150 rank: 3 | Position rank: 1 | Grade: 86 | Stars: 5
Height: 6-5 | Weight: 220 pounds
Considering: Alabama, Arkansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas
Thoughts: Any school would be honored to have Green-Beckham on its roster. With his size, speed and athleticism, it's easy to see why he's the nation's No. 1 wide receiver. Alabama seems to be in his top three, but luring him farther away from home will probably be hard, so look out for Arkansas, Missouri and Oklahoma State.
Davonte Neal, ATH
Scottsdale, Ariz./Chaparral
ESPNU 150 rank: 8 | Position rank: 1 | Grade: 85 | Stars: 5
Height: 5-10 | Weight: 175 pounds
Considering: Arkansas, Miami, North Carolina, Notre Dame, Ohio State, USC
Thoughts: It looks like Neal could play on either side of the ball. He has tremendous speed and acceleration, so putting him in the return game is a must for any school that gets him. If he decides to play offense, putting him in an offense where he can make plays in space would be ideal, so Arkansas has a legitimate shot.
Eddie Goldman, DT
Washington, D.C./Collegiate Academy
ESPNU 150 rank: 10 | Position rank: 1 | Grade: 85 | Stars: 5
Height: 6-4 | Weight: 310 pounds
Considering: Alabama, Auburn, Florida State, Miami
Thoughts: In person, Goldman is pretty intimidating to look at. He might have great size, but he also has great speed and balance. He wasn't bothered by the fact that Sal Sunseri left Alabama for Tennessee, so that's good news for the Crimson Tide. Florida State is very much a player for Goldman, as well.
Stefon Diggs, ATH
Olney, Md./Our Lady of Good Counsel
ESPNU 150 rank: 13 | Position rank: 3 | Grade: 84 | Stars: 4
Height: 6-0 | Weight: 185 pounds
Considering: Auburn, California, Florida, USC
Thoughts: If you need a playmaking receiver, Diggs is your man. Florida appeared to be the leader until Charlie Weis bolted for Kansas, but it seems as though the hiring of Brent Peace hasn't hurt the Gators. The offensive coordinator situation at Auburn could be an issue for Diggs. Also, watch out for Maryland, who now has Mike Locksley running its offense, and Ohio State, who has recruiting pro Urban Meyer.
Josh Harvey-Clemons, OLB
Valdosta, Ga./Lowndes
ESPNU 150 rank: 17 | Position rank: 1 | Grade: 83 | Stars: 4
Height: 6-4 | Weight: 210 pounds
Considering: Florida, Florida State, Georgia, Louisville
Thoughts: Harvey-Clemons is an extremely athletic prospect who should flourish at outside linebacker. With Georgia's defense gaining a lot of momentum heading into 2012, the Bulldogs are definitely in the picture here. Having Todd Grantham certainly helps as well. Florida is also a player for Harvey-Clemons. This one will come down to yet another battle between Florida and Georgia.
Tracy Howard, CB
Miramar, Fla./Miramar
ESPNU 150 rank: 18 | Position rank: 1 | Grade: 83 | Stars: 4
Height: 5-11 | Weight: 175 pounds
Considering: Alabama, Florida, Florida State, LSU, Miami, USC, West Virginia
Thoughts: Howard has the makings of being a top cover corner at the next level. It appears as though Florida is in the driver's seat right now, but LSU could still get an official visit, which might change a lot. Howard is visiting Florida this weekend and there's a chance things could end soon for Howard if things go well in Gainesville.
Kwon Alexander, OLB
Oxford, Ala./Oxford
ESPNU 150 rank: 29 | Position rank: 3 | Grade: 83 | Stars: 4
Height: 6-2 | Weight: 210 pounds
Considering: Alabama, Auburn, LSU
Thoughts: Alabama, Auburn and LSU are at the top for Alexander, but Auburn might have the slight edge at this point. Space could be an issue for Alabama and he still hasn't officially visited there. This could be a battle of Tigers in the end.
Nelson Agholor, WR
Tampa, Fla./Berkeley Prep
ESPNU 150 rank: 47 | Position rank: 6 | Grade: 82 | Stars: 4
Height: 6-1 | Weight: 180 pounds
Considering: Florida, Florida State, Notre Dame, Oklahoma, USC
Thoughts: Agholor is another big-play wide receiver who is very versatile on the field. He could even play in the defensive secondary if asked. Florida and USC are on top, but USC will get his final visit ... and distance doesn't appear to be a factor for Agholor.
Leonard Williams, DT
Daytona Beach, Fla./Mainland
ESPNU 150 rank: 50 | Position rank: 5 | Grade: 82 | Stars: 4
Height: 6-4 | Weight: 265 pounds
Considering: Auburn, Florida, Florida State, Miami, USC
Thoughts: Williams is an extremely athletic big man. He can play both inside and outside on the defensive line. Florida State could be on top for Williams, but space could be an issue for the Seminoles. Auburn and Florida are now very much in the running, as well. Don't count Miami out, either.
Avery Young, OT
Palm Beach Gardens, Fla./Palm Beach Gardens
ESPNU 150 rank: 61 | Position rank: 8 | Grade: 81 | Stars: 4
Height: 6-5 | Weight: 270 pounds
Considering: Auburn, Florida, Georgia, Miami
Thoughts: Young wants to go somewhere where he can develop into a true left tackle, so he'll be eye-balling teams' depth charts closely. The very athletic lineman has always had his pick of schools, but Auburn might have the edge right now. However, don't count out Miami. That's where his final visit will be and a good impression will go a long way.
Today, we're checking out where the top uncommitted players might be heading come national signing day
Here's a list of 10 top prospects considering SEC schools to keep an eye on:
Dorial Green-Beckham, WR
Springfield, Mo./Hillcrest
ESPNU 150 rank: 3 | Position rank: 1 | Grade: 86 | Stars: 5
Height: 6-5 | Weight: 220 pounds
Considering: Alabama, Arkansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas
Thoughts: Any school would be honored to have Green-Beckham on its roster. With his size, speed and athleticism, it's easy to see why he's the nation's No. 1 wide receiver. Alabama seems to be in his top three, but luring him farther away from home will probably be hard, so look out for Arkansas, Missouri and Oklahoma State.
Davonte Neal, ATH
Scottsdale, Ariz./Chaparral
ESPNU 150 rank: 8 | Position rank: 1 | Grade: 85 | Stars: 5
Height: 5-10 | Weight: 175 pounds
Considering: Arkansas, Miami, North Carolina, Notre Dame, Ohio State, USC
Thoughts: It looks like Neal could play on either side of the ball. He has tremendous speed and acceleration, so putting him in the return game is a must for any school that gets him. If he decides to play offense, putting him in an offense where he can make plays in space would be ideal, so Arkansas has a legitimate shot.
Eddie Goldman, DT
Washington, D.C./Collegiate Academy
ESPNU 150 rank: 10 | Position rank: 1 | Grade: 85 | Stars: 5
Height: 6-4 | Weight: 310 pounds
Considering: Alabama, Auburn, Florida State, Miami
Thoughts: In person, Goldman is pretty intimidating to look at. He might have great size, but he also has great speed and balance. He wasn't bothered by the fact that Sal Sunseri left Alabama for Tennessee, so that's good news for the Crimson Tide. Florida State is very much a player for Goldman, as well.
Stefon Diggs, ATH
Olney, Md./Our Lady of Good Counsel
ESPNU 150 rank: 13 | Position rank: 3 | Grade: 84 | Stars: 4
Height: 6-0 | Weight: 185 pounds
Considering: Auburn, California, Florida, USC
Thoughts: If you need a playmaking receiver, Diggs is your man. Florida appeared to be the leader until Charlie Weis bolted for Kansas, but it seems as though the hiring of Brent Peace hasn't hurt the Gators. The offensive coordinator situation at Auburn could be an issue for Diggs. Also, watch out for Maryland, who now has Mike Locksley running its offense, and Ohio State, who has recruiting pro Urban Meyer.
Josh Harvey-Clemons, OLB
Valdosta, Ga./Lowndes
ESPNU 150 rank: 17 | Position rank: 1 | Grade: 83 | Stars: 4
Height: 6-4 | Weight: 210 pounds
Considering: Florida, Florida State, Georgia, Louisville
Thoughts: Harvey-Clemons is an extremely athletic prospect who should flourish at outside linebacker. With Georgia's defense gaining a lot of momentum heading into 2012, the Bulldogs are definitely in the picture here. Having Todd Grantham certainly helps as well. Florida is also a player for Harvey-Clemons. This one will come down to yet another battle between Florida and Georgia.
Tracy Howard, CB
Miramar, Fla./Miramar
ESPNU 150 rank: 18 | Position rank: 1 | Grade: 83 | Stars: 4
Height: 5-11 | Weight: 175 pounds
Considering: Alabama, Florida, Florida State, LSU, Miami, USC, West Virginia
Thoughts: Howard has the makings of being a top cover corner at the next level. It appears as though Florida is in the driver's seat right now, but LSU could still get an official visit, which might change a lot. Howard is visiting Florida this weekend and there's a chance things could end soon for Howard if things go well in Gainesville.
Kwon Alexander, OLB
Oxford, Ala./Oxford
ESPNU 150 rank: 29 | Position rank: 3 | Grade: 83 | Stars: 4
Height: 6-2 | Weight: 210 pounds
Considering: Alabama, Auburn, LSU
Thoughts: Alabama, Auburn and LSU are at the top for Alexander, but Auburn might have the slight edge at this point. Space could be an issue for Alabama and he still hasn't officially visited there. This could be a battle of Tigers in the end.
Nelson Agholor, WR
Tampa, Fla./Berkeley Prep
ESPNU 150 rank: 47 | Position rank: 6 | Grade: 82 | Stars: 4
Height: 6-1 | Weight: 180 pounds
Considering: Florida, Florida State, Notre Dame, Oklahoma, USC
Thoughts: Agholor is another big-play wide receiver who is very versatile on the field. He could even play in the defensive secondary if asked. Florida and USC are on top, but USC will get his final visit ... and distance doesn't appear to be a factor for Agholor.
Leonard Williams, DT
Daytona Beach, Fla./Mainland
ESPNU 150 rank: 50 | Position rank: 5 | Grade: 82 | Stars: 4
Height: 6-4 | Weight: 265 pounds
Considering: Auburn, Florida, Florida State, Miami, USC
Thoughts: Williams is an extremely athletic big man. He can play both inside and outside on the defensive line. Florida State could be on top for Williams, but space could be an issue for the Seminoles. Auburn and Florida are now very much in the running, as well. Don't count Miami out, either.
Avery Young, OT
Palm Beach Gardens, Fla./Palm Beach Gardens
ESPNU 150 rank: 61 | Position rank: 8 | Grade: 81 | Stars: 4
Height: 6-5 | Weight: 270 pounds
Considering: Auburn, Florida, Georgia, Miami
Thoughts: Young wants to go somewhere where he can develop into a true left tackle, so he'll be eye-balling teams' depth charts closely. The very athletic lineman has always had his pick of schools, but Auburn might have the edge right now. However, don't count out Miami. That's where his final visit will be and a good impression will go a long way.
Offseason to-do list: Eastern Division
January, 19, 2012
Jan 19
2:00
PM ET
By
Edward Aschoff | ESPN.com
You've already seen Chris Low's to-do lists for the Western Division teams, so now it's time to check out what the East teams need to take care of before next fall:
FLORIDA
GEORGIA
KENTUCKY
MISSOURI
SOUTH CAROLINA
TENNESSEE
VANDERBILT
FLORIDA
- Two major areas new offensive coordinator Brent Pease needs to hit during his first offseason with the Gators is running back and wide receiver. Florida must find a downhill running back for Pease's offense, and a reliable go-to wide receiver -- two things Florida lacked in 2011.
- With quarterback John Brantley graduating, Pease must find a new starting quarterback. That means developing rising sophomores Jacoby Brissett and Jeff Driskel, who struggled in relief of Brantley at times last season, and Tyler Murphy, who has yet to take a snap.
- Toughen up mentally and physically. The Gators ranked 89th nationally in penalties, and were called out by coach Will Muschamp as being too soft in his first season. Soft can't win in the SEC.
GEORGIA
- The Bulldogs' coaching staff needs to toughen running back Isaiah Crowell up. As the season went on he visited Georgia's training table more than the end zone in games. He was even booed by Georgia fans when he limped off the Georgia Dome field in the SEC title game. The Bulldogs were inconsistent running the ball because their lead back was always nicked up.
- Getting the offensive line ready will be key to 2012. The Bulldogs will have to replace three seniors on that line, including All-SEC performers Cordy Glenn and Ben Jones.
- Georgia also can't let the success of 2011 go to the Bulldogs' heads. We've seen what can happen to this team when expectations are high and the Dawgs are a favorite.
KENTUCKY
- With how poorly Kentucky's offense performed in 2011, coach Joker Phillips' top priority should be finding offensive playmakers. There is hope that running backs CoShik Williams and Josh Clemons can help in that department, but finding a reliable receiver to complement La'Rod King will help, as no other receiver returns with more than 10 catches from last season.
- Kentucky has to get its quarterback position settled before next season. Morgan Newton was supposed to be the guy last season, but major struggles and an ankle injury paved the way for Maxwell Smith. But neither threw a pass in Kentucky's 10-7 win against Tennessee to end the season.
- Replacing linebacker Danny Trevathan's skill on the field won't be easy, but neither will be replacing his leadership skills. Trevathan was the heart of Kentucky's defense and the team's best leader. It's time for someone else to step up and lead the Wildcats.
MISSOURI
- As the new Tigers on the block, Missouri needs to get used to its new surroundings. That means making any and all offensive and defensive adjustments to match their new SEC foes. That also means getting used to recruiting more in the southeast, especially Florida and Georgia.
- Missouri returns a lot of talent in 2012, but the Tigers need to find a big-play threat at wide receiver. T.J. Moe and Marcus Lucas are back, but one has to emerge as more than just a top target -- he needs to be someone who can consistently make plays on SEC defenses.
- The Tigers' defensive line was supposed to be better than it was in 2011. The SEC is won in the trenches, and if Missouri's line can't hold up against SEC offensive big men, the Tigers will be sunk.
SOUTH CAROLINA
- Marcus Lattimore is one of the best running backs in the country when he's healthy, so making sure his rehab for his knee goes smoothly might be South Carolina's top priority during the offseason. He expects to come back better and stronger, so proper rehab will go a long way.
- Now that Alshon Jeffery is gone, it's time for the Gamecocks to find a replacement. The Gamecocks didn't have any real receiving threats outside of Jeffery in 2011, and only Jeffery and Ace Sanders had more than 20 catches. South Carolina is a little undersized at the position, but developing a proper go-to is a must.
TENNESSEE
- Tennessee must find the pieces to create a legitimate running game. The Vols ranked 116th nationally in rushing, and were the only team in the SEC not to average more than 100 rushing yards a game. Marlin Lane heads the rushing operation, but there are other bodies to help. Developing them is the next step.
- Sal Sunseri takes over a defense equipped with a chunk of young, but talented players. Development in their games is the next step for these players, and that will rest on Sunseri.
- The attitude of this team was questioned in 2011, so for Tennessee to get back to being truly competitive in the East, players need to totally buy in to what Derek Dooley is preaching.
VANDERBILT
- Jordan Rodgers' emergence as Vanderbilt's starting quarterback during the second half of the season was a big plus for the Commodores' offense, but his confidence had to be shaken when he was basically benched for Larry Smith in the Liberty Bowl loss to Cincinnati. Rodgers had his ups and downs last season, but he needs to find the confidence that helped him make Vandy's offense explosive with him in charge.
- James Franklin kept saying that this was a new Vanderbilt team, but the little mistakes that hurt Vandy throughout the years returned. Those mistakes cost them a chance at possibly winning nine games. Franklin must hammer home ball security and make sure this team is a little more mentally tough next season.
Caught your breath yet?
The SEC is perennially a revolving door for football coaches, but the comings and goings have been more furious than ever this year.
Tennessee is setting the pace with six of the Vols’ nine assistant coaches from last season no longer on Rocky Top.
Here’s an updated look at the new coaches in the league and/or those coaches who’ve been promoted to new positions:
ALABAMA
The SEC is perennially a revolving door for football coaches, but the comings and goings have been more furious than ever this year.
Tennessee is setting the pace with six of the Vols’ nine assistant coaches from last season no longer on Rocky Top.
Here’s an updated look at the new coaches in the league and/or those coaches who’ve been promoted to new positions:
ALABAMA
- Offensive coordinator – Doug Nussmeier (Washington)
- Outside linebackers – Lance Thompson (Tennessee)
- Offensive coordinator – Paul Petrino (Illinois)
- Defensive coordinator – Paul Haynes (Ohio State)
- Assistant head coach/linebackers – Taver Johnson (Ohio State)
- Defensive coordinator – Brian VanGorder (Atlanta Falcons)
- Offensive coordinator – Brent Pease (Boise State)
- Defensive backs – Mike Cassity (Marshall)
- Head coach – Hugh Freeze (Arkansas State)
- Co-offensive coordinator/quarterbacks – Dan Werner
- Co-offensive coordinator/offensive line – Matt Luke (Duke)
- Defensive coordinator/safeties – Dave Wommack (Arkansas State)
- Co-defensive coordinator/cornerbacks – Wesley McGriff (Vanderbilt)
- Tight ends – Maurice Harris (Arkansas State)
- Receivers – Grant Heard (Arkansas State)
- Special teams/linebackers – Tom Allen (Arkansas State)
- Defensive line – Chris Kiffin (Arkansas State)
- Defensive coordinator – Lorenzo Ward (South Carolina, promoted)
- Linebackers -- Kirk Botkin (Texas High in Texarkana, Texas)
- Running backs – Everette Sands (North Carolina State)
- Special teams/tight ends – Joe Robinson (North Carolina)
- Defensive coordinator – Sal Sunseri (Alabama)
- Offensive line – Sam Pittman (North Carolina)
- Running backs -- Jay Graham (South Carolina)
- Defensive backs – George Barlow (New Mexico)
- Receivers – Josh Gattis (Western Michigan)
Vols pluck Sal Sunseri from Tide's staff
January, 13, 2012
Jan 13
12:32
PM ET
By
Chris Low | ESPN.com
Tennessee coach Derek Dooley has his new defensive coordinator, and he's a familiar face to both the SEC and Dooley.
Sal Sunseri, the associate head coach and linebackers coach at Alabama for the past three seasons, has agreed to take the Vols' defensive coordinator's job. Tennessee is paying handsomely to get Sunseri, too. He'll receive a three-year deal worth $2.4 million.
Sunseri and Dooley worked together on Nick Saban's staff at LSU in 2000. Before reuniting with Saban at Alabama, Sunseri was the defensive line coach with the Carolina Panthers for seven seasons. So he has experience as both a linebackers and defensive line coach and was also considered one of the top recruiters on the Crimson Tide's staff. ESPN named Sunseri one of the top 25 recruiters in the country in 2011, and 247Sports.com named Sunseri the nation's top recruiter.
"Sal has had unparalleled success over the last decade in not only contributing to team and unit success, but also in his ability to motivate and develop elite individual talent," Dooley said. "His combination of defensive knowledge, recruiting success, high-energy personality, ability to connect with players and personal integrity and character make him an exceptional fit for Tennessee."
The fact that Tennessee was willing to give Sunseri a three-year deal is telling on a couple of different fronts. First, it's a sure sign that Tennessee athletic director Dave Hart is willing to make the commitment and spend top dollar to surround Dooley with quality assistants. New running backs coach Jay Graham and offensive line coach Sam Pittman also received multiyear deals.
Sunseri's $800,000 salary makes him the third highest-paid assistant in the SEC behind Alabama defensive coordinator Kirby Smart and newly hired Auburn defensive coordinator Brian VanGorder, although several guys are in line to get raises.
Sal Sunseri, the associate head coach and linebackers coach at Alabama for the past three seasons, has agreed to take the Vols' defensive coordinator's job. Tennessee is paying handsomely to get Sunseri, too. He'll receive a three-year deal worth $2.4 million.
Sunseri and Dooley worked together on Nick Saban's staff at LSU in 2000. Before reuniting with Saban at Alabama, Sunseri was the defensive line coach with the Carolina Panthers for seven seasons. So he has experience as both a linebackers and defensive line coach and was also considered one of the top recruiters on the Crimson Tide's staff. ESPN named Sunseri one of the top 25 recruiters in the country in 2011, and 247Sports.com named Sunseri the nation's top recruiter.
"Sal has had unparalleled success over the last decade in not only contributing to team and unit success, but also in his ability to motivate and develop elite individual talent," Dooley said. "His combination of defensive knowledge, recruiting success, high-energy personality, ability to connect with players and personal integrity and character make him an exceptional fit for Tennessee."
The fact that Tennessee was willing to give Sunseri a three-year deal is telling on a couple of different fronts. First, it's a sure sign that Tennessee athletic director Dave Hart is willing to make the commitment and spend top dollar to surround Dooley with quality assistants. New running backs coach Jay Graham and offensive line coach Sam Pittman also received multiyear deals.
Sunseri's $800,000 salary makes him the third highest-paid assistant in the SEC behind Alabama defensive coordinator Kirby Smart and newly hired Auburn defensive coordinator Brian VanGorder, although several guys are in line to get raises.
ABOUT THIS BLOG
Chris Low
Low joined ESPN.com in 2007 after 10 years with The (Nashville) Tennessean covering the University of Tennessee and SEC. The Rock Hill, S.C., native lives with his wife in Knoxville and has three sons.
Edward Aschoff
Aschoff joined ESPN.com in 2011 after spending four years covering the University of Florida for The Gainesville Sun. He grew up in Oxford, Miss., before attending UF, graduating with a B.S. in journalism.
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