SEC: Tyler Russell
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.
2011 overall record: 7-6
2011 conference record: 2-6
Returning starters: Offense: 5; defense: 7; kicker/punter: 1
Top returners
QB Tyler Russell, RB LaDarius Perkins, WR Chad Bumphis, WR Arceto Clark, OG Gabe Jackson, DT Josh Boyd, LB Cameron Lawrence, CB Johnthan Banks, S Nickoe Whitley
Key losses
QB Chris Relf, RB Vick Ballard, OG Quentin Saulsberry, DT Fletcher Cox, LB Brandon Wilson, S Charles Mitchell
2011 statistical leaders (*returners)
Rushing: Vick Ballard (1,189 yards)
Passing: Chris Relf (1,212 yards)
Receiving: Arceto Clark* (442 yards)
Tackles: Cameron Lawrence* (123)
Sacks: Fletcher Cox (5)
Interceptions: Johnthan Banks* (5)
Spring answers
1. Turning the corner: With Darius Slay having a huge spring, the Bulldogs should be well stocked at cornerback. Slay didn’t arrive from junior college until last summer, so he was sort of feeling his way around the league last season. But he looked much more comfortable this spring, and the Mississippi State coaches feel like they have three starters at cornerback. Johnthan Banks and Corey Broomfield combined for 21 interceptions over the past three seasons, and Banks is being projected as a first-round draft choice next April.
2. Running back depth: Vick Ballard’s toughness and consistency make him a tough component to replace in Mississippi State’s offense, but the Bulldogs exited the spring trying to figure out how they’re going to play four running backs in the fall. It’s always a plus to have that kind of depth in the SEC, and all four are a little bit different. Speedy junior LaDarius Perkins and 225-pound sophomore Nick Griffin complement each other perfectly, and both are big-play threats. Redshirt freshman Josh Robinson is a blur in the open field, while redshirt freshman Derrick Milton is a punishing runner.
3. Autry off the edge: The Bulldogs needed a finisher off the edge, and it looks like they’ve found him in junior college newcomer Denico Autry. Throughout the spring, Autry was a fixture in the backfield and combines a quick first step with an aggressive in-your-face approach to rushing the passer. He was one of the top junior college prospects in the country, and judging from his performance in the spring, he has a chance to be a real difference-maker for the Bulldogs in 2012.
Fall questions
1. Replacing Cox: When Fletcher Cox got it going during the second half of the season last year, there was no stopping him. He made everybody on that defense better. Now that he’s gone early to the pros, one man’s not going to replace him. Everybody in the middle of that defensive line will need to elevate his game, starting with Josh Boyd. The good news is that Boyd is plenty capable, although it’s not going to be the same without Cox playing alongside him. Freshman Quay Evans was an early enrollee and demonstrated this spring why he was one of the top tackle prospects in the country. He won’t have to wait long to get onto the field.
2. Passing game consistency: Tyler Russell took the kind of steps this spring Dan Mullen was hoping to see. Throwing the ball from the pocket is what he does best. He still has to prove he’s going to take care of the ball, and the Bulldogs have to prove they can protect him. Mullen is encouraged by this group of receivers, and 6-4 redshirt freshman Joe Morrow has a chance to be special. The key is putting it all together and getting more production, period, out of the passing game than the Bulldogs did a year ago.
3. Tightening up special teams: The Bulldogs figure to be in a lot of close games in 2012, which means making field goals from 45 yards on in will be critical. Derek DePasquale is gone, and Brian Egan, a former Parade All-American, will get a chance to prove that he can make big kicks for the Bulldogs. They also need to make the return game a weapon and have the athletes to do it (Chad Bumphis, Jameon Lewis and Banks), while shoring up their coverage on kickoffs will be equally important. In short, if the Bulldogs are going to get back to winning eight or more games, special teams will be the difference.
2011 conference record: 2-6
Returning starters: Offense: 5; defense: 7; kicker/punter: 1
Top returners
QB Tyler Russell, RB LaDarius Perkins, WR Chad Bumphis, WR Arceto Clark, OG Gabe Jackson, DT Josh Boyd, LB Cameron Lawrence, CB Johnthan Banks, S Nickoe Whitley
Key losses
QB Chris Relf, RB Vick Ballard, OG Quentin Saulsberry, DT Fletcher Cox, LB Brandon Wilson, S Charles Mitchell
2011 statistical leaders (*returners)
Rushing: Vick Ballard (1,189 yards)
Passing: Chris Relf (1,212 yards)
Receiving: Arceto Clark* (442 yards)
Tackles: Cameron Lawrence* (123)
Sacks: Fletcher Cox (5)
Interceptions: Johnthan Banks* (5)
Spring answers
1. Turning the corner: With Darius Slay having a huge spring, the Bulldogs should be well stocked at cornerback. Slay didn’t arrive from junior college until last summer, so he was sort of feeling his way around the league last season. But he looked much more comfortable this spring, and the Mississippi State coaches feel like they have three starters at cornerback. Johnthan Banks and Corey Broomfield combined for 21 interceptions over the past three seasons, and Banks is being projected as a first-round draft choice next April.
2. Running back depth: Vick Ballard’s toughness and consistency make him a tough component to replace in Mississippi State’s offense, but the Bulldogs exited the spring trying to figure out how they’re going to play four running backs in the fall. It’s always a plus to have that kind of depth in the SEC, and all four are a little bit different. Speedy junior LaDarius Perkins and 225-pound sophomore Nick Griffin complement each other perfectly, and both are big-play threats. Redshirt freshman Josh Robinson is a blur in the open field, while redshirt freshman Derrick Milton is a punishing runner.
3. Autry off the edge: The Bulldogs needed a finisher off the edge, and it looks like they’ve found him in junior college newcomer Denico Autry. Throughout the spring, Autry was a fixture in the backfield and combines a quick first step with an aggressive in-your-face approach to rushing the passer. He was one of the top junior college prospects in the country, and judging from his performance in the spring, he has a chance to be a real difference-maker for the Bulldogs in 2012.
Fall questions
1. Replacing Cox: When Fletcher Cox got it going during the second half of the season last year, there was no stopping him. He made everybody on that defense better. Now that he’s gone early to the pros, one man’s not going to replace him. Everybody in the middle of that defensive line will need to elevate his game, starting with Josh Boyd. The good news is that Boyd is plenty capable, although it’s not going to be the same without Cox playing alongside him. Freshman Quay Evans was an early enrollee and demonstrated this spring why he was one of the top tackle prospects in the country. He won’t have to wait long to get onto the field.
2. Passing game consistency: Tyler Russell took the kind of steps this spring Dan Mullen was hoping to see. Throwing the ball from the pocket is what he does best. He still has to prove he’s going to take care of the ball, and the Bulldogs have to prove they can protect him. Mullen is encouraged by this group of receivers, and 6-4 redshirt freshman Joe Morrow has a chance to be special. The key is putting it all together and getting more production, period, out of the passing game than the Bulldogs did a year ago.
3. Tightening up special teams: The Bulldogs figure to be in a lot of close games in 2012, which means making field goals from 45 yards on in will be critical. Derek DePasquale is gone, and Brian Egan, a former Parade All-American, will get a chance to prove that he can make big kicks for the Bulldogs. They also need to make the return game a weapon and have the athletes to do it (Chad Bumphis, Jameon Lewis and Banks), while shoring up their coverage on kickoffs will be equally important. In short, if the Bulldogs are going to get back to winning eight or more games, special teams will be the difference.
Spring practice is officially over in the SEC and the NFL draft is behind us. We've ushered in the new and pushed out the old. As we count down the hundred-something days until college football's 2012 season officially begins, we thought it'd be a good idea to look at the most productive players coming back at their respective positions.
We'll look at the top passers, running backs, wide receivers, defenders, etc., over the next few days and judge things on statistical categories, such as yards for quarterbacks and skill players.
Note: No offensive linemen are on this list because we aren't counting pancakes. This isn't EA Sports' NCAA Football. Also Missouri and Texas A&M players aren't here, either, because they weren't in the league last season, but that won't keep us from talking about them.
We'll start things off with the quarterbacks, and unlike 2011, this year's crop has a little bit more experience and name power. That's because hardly any starters departed, so that means the race to be crowned the SEC's top signal caller is up for grabs in 2012.
Here's a look at the top statistical quarterback returning this season, and the others who finished 2011 in the top 10 statistically:
Tyler Wilson, Arkansas: Wilson threw past the competition in 2011, leading the SEC with 3,638 yards, which was 489 yards more than the No. 2 statistical passer, Georgia's Aaron Murray. He also led the SEC with a rating of 148.4. He was second in the league with 24 touchdown passes, but threw just six interceptions. He probably also led the league in times he was leveled by opposing defenders without the ball in his hands. Somehow, that tough guy just kept getting up. Wilson led the SEC with 261.3 passing yards per game against conference foes, and was second with 14 passing touchdowns in league games. Wilson had three NFL receivers and one of the league's most talented tight ends at his disposal, but he has cannon for a right arm, and when he's settled in the pocket, his delivery is as pretty as it gets.
The SEC returns five more of the top 10 statistical passers from a year ago:
Missouri's James Franklin could find himself high on the list of SEC quarterbacks this fall, as well. He was sixth in the Big 12 with 2,865 passing yards, throwing 21 touchdown passes with 11 interceptions, but also rushed for 981 yards and 15 more scores. He said this spring that he's looking to be much more of a throw-first quarterback in 2012.
SEC passing games were bashed left and right last season, but I don't think that will be the case in 2012. The players mentioned above are one reason, and the other is that there is a solid cast of unheralded players heading up offenses this fall. Auburn's Kiehl Frazier made strides this spring under new offensive coordinator Scot Loeffler, and his battle with Clint Moseley should be pretty fun this fall. Florida's sophomores-to-be -- Jacoby Brissett and Jeff Driskel -- improved a lot under new coordinator Brent Pease.
You also can't forget about juniors Zach Mettenberger at LSU and Tyler Russell at Mississippi State. Mettenberger has the potential to be a top passer in this league, and will be a major upgrade for the Tigers' offense. Russell was much more confident at quarterback this spring at Mississippi State.
This will always be a run-first league, but the quarterbacks should earn more respect in 2012.
We'll look at the top passers, running backs, wide receivers, defenders, etc., over the next few days and judge things on statistical categories, such as yards for quarterbacks and skill players.
Note: No offensive linemen are on this list because we aren't counting pancakes. This isn't EA Sports' NCAA Football. Also Missouri and Texas A&M players aren't here, either, because they weren't in the league last season, but that won't keep us from talking about them.
We'll start things off with the quarterbacks, and unlike 2011, this year's crop has a little bit more experience and name power. That's because hardly any starters departed, so that means the race to be crowned the SEC's top signal caller is up for grabs in 2012.
Here's a look at the top statistical quarterback returning this season, and the others who finished 2011 in the top 10 statistically:
Tyler Wilson, Arkansas: Wilson threw past the competition in 2011, leading the SEC with 3,638 yards, which was 489 yards more than the No. 2 statistical passer, Georgia's Aaron Murray. He also led the SEC with a rating of 148.4. He was second in the league with 24 touchdown passes, but threw just six interceptions. He probably also led the league in times he was leveled by opposing defenders without the ball in his hands. Somehow, that tough guy just kept getting up. Wilson led the SEC with 261.3 passing yards per game against conference foes, and was second with 14 passing touchdowns in league games. Wilson had three NFL receivers and one of the league's most talented tight ends at his disposal, but he has cannon for a right arm, and when he's settled in the pocket, his delivery is as pretty as it gets.
The SEC returns five more of the top 10 statistical passers from a year ago:
- Aaron Murray, Georgia: He passed for 3,149 yards, a league-high 35 touchdowns with 14 interceptions, and had a rating of 146.4
- AJ McCarron, Alabama: He passed for 2,634 yards, with 16 touchdowns and five interceptions, and had a rating of 147.3
- Tyler Bray, Tennessee: Though he was injured for the middle part of the season, he passed for 1,983 yards, with 17 touchdowns and six interceptions, and had a rating of 144.8.
- Jordan Rodgers, Vanderbilt: He passed for 1,524 yards, with nine touchdowns and 10 interceptions, and had a rating of 113.8.
- Connor Shaw, South Carolina: He passed for 1,448 yards, with 14 touchdowns and six interceptions, and had a rating of 148.3.
Missouri's James Franklin could find himself high on the list of SEC quarterbacks this fall, as well. He was sixth in the Big 12 with 2,865 passing yards, throwing 21 touchdown passes with 11 interceptions, but also rushed for 981 yards and 15 more scores. He said this spring that he's looking to be much more of a throw-first quarterback in 2012.
SEC passing games were bashed left and right last season, but I don't think that will be the case in 2012. The players mentioned above are one reason, and the other is that there is a solid cast of unheralded players heading up offenses this fall. Auburn's Kiehl Frazier made strides this spring under new offensive coordinator Scot Loeffler, and his battle with Clint Moseley should be pretty fun this fall. Florida's sophomores-to-be -- Jacoby Brissett and Jeff Driskel -- improved a lot under new coordinator Brent Pease.
You also can't forget about juniors Zach Mettenberger at LSU and Tyler Russell at Mississippi State. Mettenberger has the potential to be a top passer in this league, and will be a major upgrade for the Tigers' offense. Russell was much more confident at quarterback this spring at Mississippi State.
This will always be a run-first league, but the quarterbacks should earn more respect in 2012.
Junior quarterback Tyler Russell capped his spring looking very much in command this past Saturday in Mississippi State's annual Maroon-White spring game.
Russell finished 24-of-43 for 312 yards and two touchdowns in leading the Maroon to a 33-22 victory over the White before an announced crowd of 22,604. It's obvious the Bulldogs have tweaked their offense to take advantage of Russell's ability to throw the ball from the pocket, and they threw it quite a bit this spring. The concern is going to be protecting Russell, who was sacked five times in the spring game. Guard Tobias Smith was still recovering from knee surgery this spring, and he will be one of the Bulldogs' leaders up front in the fall. They're still searching for the right combination in the offensive line and also trying to develop some depth.
There's no shortage of depth at running back. Redshirt freshman running back Josh Robinson ripped off a 55-yard touchdown run. Junior LaDarius Perkins had 55 yards on seven carries, including an 11-yard touchdown run -- all in the first half. Redshirt freshman Nick Griffin also showed up this spring. Perkins may be the starter going into the season, but he's going to have plenty of competition.
Russell was able to spread the ball around this spring, and this should be the best group of receivers and tight ends the Bulldogs have had under Dan Mullen. Even All-SEC cornerback Johnthan Banks lined up at receiver in the spring game and caught a 17-yard pass. Sophomore Jameon Lewis led the Mississippi State receivers with 10 catches for 144 yards and a touchdown, and redshirt freshman Joe Morrow continued to impress with six catches for 97 yards, including a 17-yard touchdown pass from Russell. The 6-foot-4, 205-pound Morrow gives the Bulldogs a bigger threat who will be a tough matchup for teams down the field.
True freshman defensive tackle Quay Evans had three sacks (all in the first half), and could very well open the 2012 season as a starter. Sophomore linebacker Ferlando Bohanna had a game-high eight tackles.
The game was played on a 55-yard field because a stage was set up in one end zone for a concert following the game.
Fans can read more about the Bulldogs' spring game here.
Russell finished 24-of-43 for 312 yards and two touchdowns in leading the Maroon to a 33-22 victory over the White before an announced crowd of 22,604. It's obvious the Bulldogs have tweaked their offense to take advantage of Russell's ability to throw the ball from the pocket, and they threw it quite a bit this spring. The concern is going to be protecting Russell, who was sacked five times in the spring game. Guard Tobias Smith was still recovering from knee surgery this spring, and he will be one of the Bulldogs' leaders up front in the fall. They're still searching for the right combination in the offensive line and also trying to develop some depth.
There's no shortage of depth at running back. Redshirt freshman running back Josh Robinson ripped off a 55-yard touchdown run. Junior LaDarius Perkins had 55 yards on seven carries, including an 11-yard touchdown run -- all in the first half. Redshirt freshman Nick Griffin also showed up this spring. Perkins may be the starter going into the season, but he's going to have plenty of competition.
Russell was able to spread the ball around this spring, and this should be the best group of receivers and tight ends the Bulldogs have had under Dan Mullen. Even All-SEC cornerback Johnthan Banks lined up at receiver in the spring game and caught a 17-yard pass. Sophomore Jameon Lewis led the Mississippi State receivers with 10 catches for 144 yards and a touchdown, and redshirt freshman Joe Morrow continued to impress with six catches for 97 yards, including a 17-yard touchdown pass from Russell. The 6-foot-4, 205-pound Morrow gives the Bulldogs a bigger threat who will be a tough matchup for teams down the field.
True freshman defensive tackle Quay Evans had three sacks (all in the first half), and could very well open the 2012 season as a starter. Sophomore linebacker Ferlando Bohanna had a game-high eight tackles.
The game was played on a 55-yard field because a stage was set up in one end zone for a concert following the game.
Fans can read more about the Bulldogs' spring game here.
While there were six SEC spring games this weekend, six other teams also took part in scrimmages over the the weekend:
ARKANSAS
Quarterback Tyler Wilson had yet another big scrimmage for the Razorbacks. Wilson completed 39 of 49 passes for 448 yards and three touchdowns during Friday's scrimmage. Wilson completed 20 consecutive passes at one point.
Wilson has yet to throw an interception in Arkansas' three spring scrimmages. He led the offense on scores on seven of the offense's 11 possessions Friday.
The good news for Wilson is that his production has come against the first-team defense. The bad news for Arkansas is that his production has come against the first-team defense. But maybe Wilson is just playing that well this spring.
Wide receiver Marquel Wade led Arkansas with nine receptions for 98 yards, while tight end Chris Gragg caught eight passes for 83 yards and a touchdown on Friday. Receiver Javontee Herndon added five receptions for 73 yards and two scores.
Defensive tackle Robert Thomas led the defense with four sacks, while defensive end Austin Flynn added three sacks.
Wide receiver Cobi Hamilton, linebacker Tenarius Wright and tight end Austin Tate all sustained injuries Friday, but coaches didn't feel they were serious.
Check out more from Arkansas' scrimmage here and here.
KENTUCKY
The Wildcats took part in a very spirited scrimmage Saturday. It was one that left coach Joker Phillips proud of both the offense and defense.
The 90-minute scrimmage featured the first-, second- and third-team offense and defense. The offense started things well, with quarterback Maxwell Smith leading a 70-yard drive on 13 plays. He capped the drive with a 21-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver La'Rod King.
Smith finished the scrimmage completing 25-of-38 passes for 227 yards and four touchdowns. King also led the offense in receiving with seven catches for 76 yards and two scores.
Kentucky's defense stepped up considerably after that, allowing just one touchdown and a field goal on the next 10 possessions, including seven three-and-outs.
You can find more info on Kentucky's scrimmage here.
MISSISSIPPI STATE
Despite a fast start by the offense, the defense won Mississippi State's scrimmage Friday after forcing five turnovers late.
The first- and second-team defense held the offenses to four touchdowns and a field goal on 27 possessions. They also registered seven sacks and four interceptions.
After quarterback Tyler Russell led touchdown drives of 75 and 80 yards on the offense's first two possessions, the defense stepped up, forcing a few three-and-outs for the first- and second-team offense.
Russell had an impressive outing inside Davis Wade Stadium, passing for 310 yards, two touchdowns and three interceptions.
Wide receiver Joe Morrow had arguably the play of the day when he caught an 83-yard touchdown pass. He sprinted 50-plus yards to the house after spinning off of cornerback Corey Broomfield about 30 yards up field. Morrow finished with 103 receiving yards, while tight ends Malcolm Johnson and Brandon Hill registered 110 and 75 receiving yards, respectively.
The player of the day might have been senior cornerback Darius Slay, who intercepted three passes.
Head coach Dan Mullen missed the practice after the birth of his daughter Friday.
For more on Mississippi State's scrimmage, check here and here.
OLE MISS
It was an air affair in Oxford, as Ole Miss quarterbacks combined for eight touchdowns in the Rebels' Saturday scrimmage.
Barry Brunetti finished the day with 119 passing yards and two touchdowns. He also rushed seven times for 41 yards and two more scores.
But he didn't do much to separate himself from junior college transfer Bo Wallace, who threw for 113 yards and three touchdowns. He also carried the ball five times for 32 yards and another score.
However, both had their hiccups, as Wallace completed less than 45 percent of his passes and Brunetti threw two interceptions. Coach Huge Freeze told reporters after the scrimmage that he had mixed emotions about both, but felt Wallace played a little better Saturday.
"Standing out there it's real clear to me our quarterbacks, our personnel, we don't quite understand the game," Freeze said. "Third-and-2 we don't know those things. We have very little awareness of those at times. We get in second-and-5s and we get negative plays because we try to do more than we can do. Then it puts you in third-and-8, instead of just keeping it third-and-5. There's so many things that we have to understand."
Brunetti threw two 20-yard touchdowns, one to wide receiver Ja-Mes Logan and one to receiver Vince Sanders. Logan also caught two touchdown passes from Wallace, who also hit receiver Terrell Grant for another score.
For more on Ole Miss' scrimmage, you can go here and here.
TENNESSEE
Justin Hunter picked up right where he left off the last time he played inside Neyland Stadium.
After missing most of last season with an ACL injury, Hunter caught three passes for 70 yards, including a 50-yard touchdown pass in his return to Neyland.
Quarterback Tyler Bray completed his first seven passes of the day and finished with 180 yards and a touchdown on 13-of-23 passing.
While Hunter had a solid outing, sophomore wide receiver Jacob Carter was the top receiver of the day, catching four passes for 102 yards.
Marlin Lane, who has improved a lot this spring, had the big day that he needed with his 71 rushing yards and a touchdown on 12 carries.
Defensively, the Vols got sacks from defensive linemen Jordan Williams, Willie Bohannon and Steven Fowlkes. Defensive backs Justin Coleman, Izauea Lanier and Rod Wilks added six tackles.
For more on Tennessee's scrimmage, go here.
TEXAS A&M
As the quarterback race continues in College Station, redshirt sophomore Jameill Showers stood out in Texas A&M's scrimmage over the weekend. He threw for more than 150 yards and two touchdowns. He also threw an interception, but only after it was dropped by a receiver.
Showers played in seven series with both the first- and second-team offense.
Redshirt freshman Johnny Manziel split snaps with Showers, throwing for more than 150 yards and two touchdowns as well, but he threw two interceptions, with one that was returned for a touchdown by junior defensive back Toney Hurd Jr.
None of the offenses' possessions reached double digits in plays. Turnovers, sloppy play and penalties hurt the offense in the Aggies' first open scrimmage of the spring.
"We just have to be more consistent in our play on both sides of the football, and that's why we're here," coach Kevin Sumlin said. "For the quarterbacks to go operate the way they did, checking plays and moving around, it's encouraging. It gives us a real starting point."
Sophomore linebacker Donnie Baggs, junior linebacker Charlie Thomas, junior linebacker Domonique Patterson and senior linebacker Jonathan Stewart all registered sacks in the scrimmage.
For more on the Texas A&M's scrimmage, go here and here.
ARKANSAS
Quarterback Tyler Wilson had yet another big scrimmage for the Razorbacks. Wilson completed 39 of 49 passes for 448 yards and three touchdowns during Friday's scrimmage. Wilson completed 20 consecutive passes at one point.
Wilson has yet to throw an interception in Arkansas' three spring scrimmages. He led the offense on scores on seven of the offense's 11 possessions Friday.
The good news for Wilson is that his production has come against the first-team defense. The bad news for Arkansas is that his production has come against the first-team defense. But maybe Wilson is just playing that well this spring.
Wide receiver Marquel Wade led Arkansas with nine receptions for 98 yards, while tight end Chris Gragg caught eight passes for 83 yards and a touchdown on Friday. Receiver Javontee Herndon added five receptions for 73 yards and two scores.
Defensive tackle Robert Thomas led the defense with four sacks, while defensive end Austin Flynn added three sacks.
Wide receiver Cobi Hamilton, linebacker Tenarius Wright and tight end Austin Tate all sustained injuries Friday, but coaches didn't feel they were serious.
Check out more from Arkansas' scrimmage here and here.
KENTUCKY
The Wildcats took part in a very spirited scrimmage Saturday. It was one that left coach Joker Phillips proud of both the offense and defense.
The 90-minute scrimmage featured the first-, second- and third-team offense and defense. The offense started things well, with quarterback Maxwell Smith leading a 70-yard drive on 13 plays. He capped the drive with a 21-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver La'Rod King.
Smith finished the scrimmage completing 25-of-38 passes for 227 yards and four touchdowns. King also led the offense in receiving with seven catches for 76 yards and two scores.
Kentucky's defense stepped up considerably after that, allowing just one touchdown and a field goal on the next 10 possessions, including seven three-and-outs.
You can find more info on Kentucky's scrimmage here.
MISSISSIPPI STATE
Despite a fast start by the offense, the defense won Mississippi State's scrimmage Friday after forcing five turnovers late.
The first- and second-team defense held the offenses to four touchdowns and a field goal on 27 possessions. They also registered seven sacks and four interceptions.
After quarterback Tyler Russell led touchdown drives of 75 and 80 yards on the offense's first two possessions, the defense stepped up, forcing a few three-and-outs for the first- and second-team offense.
Russell had an impressive outing inside Davis Wade Stadium, passing for 310 yards, two touchdowns and three interceptions.
Wide receiver Joe Morrow had arguably the play of the day when he caught an 83-yard touchdown pass. He sprinted 50-plus yards to the house after spinning off of cornerback Corey Broomfield about 30 yards up field. Morrow finished with 103 receiving yards, while tight ends Malcolm Johnson and Brandon Hill registered 110 and 75 receiving yards, respectively.
The player of the day might have been senior cornerback Darius Slay, who intercepted three passes.
Head coach Dan Mullen missed the practice after the birth of his daughter Friday.
For more on Mississippi State's scrimmage, check here and here.
OLE MISS
It was an air affair in Oxford, as Ole Miss quarterbacks combined for eight touchdowns in the Rebels' Saturday scrimmage.
Barry Brunetti finished the day with 119 passing yards and two touchdowns. He also rushed seven times for 41 yards and two more scores.
But he didn't do much to separate himself from junior college transfer Bo Wallace, who threw for 113 yards and three touchdowns. He also carried the ball five times for 32 yards and another score.
However, both had their hiccups, as Wallace completed less than 45 percent of his passes and Brunetti threw two interceptions. Coach Huge Freeze told reporters after the scrimmage that he had mixed emotions about both, but felt Wallace played a little better Saturday.
"Standing out there it's real clear to me our quarterbacks, our personnel, we don't quite understand the game," Freeze said. "Third-and-2 we don't know those things. We have very little awareness of those at times. We get in second-and-5s and we get negative plays because we try to do more than we can do. Then it puts you in third-and-8, instead of just keeping it third-and-5. There's so many things that we have to understand."
Brunetti threw two 20-yard touchdowns, one to wide receiver Ja-Mes Logan and one to receiver Vince Sanders. Logan also caught two touchdown passes from Wallace, who also hit receiver Terrell Grant for another score.
For more on Ole Miss' scrimmage, you can go here and here.
TENNESSEE
Justin Hunter picked up right where he left off the last time he played inside Neyland Stadium.
After missing most of last season with an ACL injury, Hunter caught three passes for 70 yards, including a 50-yard touchdown pass in his return to Neyland.
Quarterback Tyler Bray completed his first seven passes of the day and finished with 180 yards and a touchdown on 13-of-23 passing.
While Hunter had a solid outing, sophomore wide receiver Jacob Carter was the top receiver of the day, catching four passes for 102 yards.
Marlin Lane, who has improved a lot this spring, had the big day that he needed with his 71 rushing yards and a touchdown on 12 carries.
Defensively, the Vols got sacks from defensive linemen Jordan Williams, Willie Bohannon and Steven Fowlkes. Defensive backs Justin Coleman, Izauea Lanier and Rod Wilks added six tackles.
For more on Tennessee's scrimmage, go here.
TEXAS A&M
As the quarterback race continues in College Station, redshirt sophomore Jameill Showers stood out in Texas A&M's scrimmage over the weekend. He threw for more than 150 yards and two touchdowns. He also threw an interception, but only after it was dropped by a receiver.
Showers played in seven series with both the first- and second-team offense.
Redshirt freshman Johnny Manziel split snaps with Showers, throwing for more than 150 yards and two touchdowns as well, but he threw two interceptions, with one that was returned for a touchdown by junior defensive back Toney Hurd Jr.
None of the offenses' possessions reached double digits in plays. Turnovers, sloppy play and penalties hurt the offense in the Aggies' first open scrimmage of the spring.
"We just have to be more consistent in our play on both sides of the football, and that's why we're here," coach Kevin Sumlin said. "For the quarterbacks to go operate the way they did, checking plays and moving around, it's encouraging. It gives us a real starting point."
Sophomore linebacker Donnie Baggs, junior linebacker Charlie Thomas, junior linebacker Domonique Patterson and senior linebacker Jonathan Stewart all registered sacks in the scrimmage.
For more on the Texas A&M's scrimmage, go here and here.
A Friday stroll around the SEC:
- Arkansas' Knile Davis has no plans to leave, and has already spoken to athletic director Jeff Long about the search for Bobby Petrino's replacement.
- Alabama's Nick Saban is excited to see his first teams go head-to-head in Saturday's spring game.
- Auburn's Trovon Reed is learning to manage big expectations.
- Antonio Goodwin's defense rests without calling Gene Chizik or Trooper Taylor to the stand.
- Darrington Sentimore has been hard to miss this spring at Tennessee.
- Athlon ranks the SEC quarterbacks in 2012, and Georgia's Aaron Murray is at the top of the list.
- Georgia's Mark Richt voices support for his offensive coordinator, Mike Bobo.
- Georgia athletic director Greg McGarity defends the school's strict drug testing policy for athletes.
- Missouri running back Kendial Lawrence welcomes good health.
- The Vanderbilt players select quarterback Jordan Rodgers and defensive end Walker May as team captains for the 2012 season.
- Florida strength and conditioning coach Jeff Dillman seeks to keep the Gators' momentum going in the offseason.
- Ole Miss' coaches think C.J. Johnson is destined for greatness at defensive end.
- Mississippi State's offense is looking for revenge in Friday night's scrimmage.
Hitting the SEC links on a Thursday.
- Recruits are keeping an eye on Arkansas as athletic director Jeff Long searches for a new head coach.
- Harry King of the Arkansas News Bureau writes that going with an interim coach may be the best direction for Arkansas.
- Shon Coleman's battle with cancer and his return to the football field are an inspiration to his Auburn teammates.
- Herbicide injury reappears in Toomer's Oaks.
- Ole Miss' assistants have taken slight drop in total salary from the staff under Houston Nutt.
- LSU coach Les Miles will be a part of the NFL Network draft broadcast.
- Former Alabama linebacker Rolando McClain settled a two-year-old lawsuit with an Alabama student.
- Alabama linebacker Adrian Hubbard is trying to be a playmaker for the Crimson Tide wherever he can on the field.
- Kentucky hopes wide receiver Demarco Robinson can ramp up the return game for the Wildcats.
- Mississippi State's versatile linebackers have become the strength of this Bulldogs team.
- Quarterback Tyler Russell is starting to master Mississippi State's offense.
- Florida recruits feel confident about the Gators after spring game.
- Georgia continues to toe the line when it comes to drug testing.
- Georgia's offensive line is working hard to forge a bond up front.
- Tennessee's tight ends are moving all around the football field this spring.
- The Vols are building to keep the kicking game consistent.
- Mitch Morse is a leading candidate to be Missouri's next starting center.
- Demolition is still an option for Texas A&M's Kyle Field.
SEC mailbag: Let's hear from the champ
April, 11, 2012
Apr 11
5:00
PM ET
By
Edward Aschoff | ESPN.com
Our bracket challenge champion has been crowned and it’s time to officially hear from our winner.
Jnhatcher0405 took home the imaginary trophy with his “Rammer Jammer” bracket, which crushed the competition with 1,660 points.
We told him he could have his 15 minutes of fame, so here is your champion:
Jnhatcher0405: I, Josh Hatcher, am truly honored to be named the SEC Blog Challenge winner and am grateful to Ed and Chris for acknowledging my incredible bracket selecting abilities. I would like to say Thank You to those who made it possible: 1. Kentucky 2. Kansas 3. Ohio State 4. Loovul 5. Ed 6. Chris I would also like to thank Wallace Wade, Frank Thomas, Bear Bryant, Gene Stallings and Nick Saban for bringing The University of Alabama Crimson Tide fourteen - yes, fourteen - NCAA National Championships. I am a bit embarrassed as I was under the impression that the winner received lifetime tickets to all home, away and neutral Alabama games. (Mr. Saban, if you're reading this, I would settle for sideline access to the 2012 Iron Bowl…Sir.) Since, evidently, that is not the case, I would like to introduce a couple of recommendations. Firstly, as the inaugural winner of this award, I see no reason why it should not be forever known as "The Josh Hatcher Award". All future winners should have their name engraved on a plaque bearing my likeness. I would be more than willing to supply a photo. Secondly, as evidenced by the scores below, it is obvious that I should be included as a featured bracket next year. Josh Hatcher: 1660 Big 12 Blog Challenge Winner: 1600 Nick Lachey: 1290 Dexter Fowler: 1270 Jay Bilas: 1260 Colin Cowherd: 1260 Rajon Rondo: 1250 Tony Reali: 1240 Andy Katz: 1180 Lebron James: 1160 Jim Furyk: 1110 Mike Hill: 1100 Mark Schlereth: 1090 President Obama: 1020 Dick Vitale: 1010 Pau Gasol: 1010 LaMarr Woodley: 820 Phil Hellmuth: 530 Michelle Beadle: 460. ROLL TIDE ROLL!!!"
Now, on to the questions:
Knowles in Atlanta writes: What is the likelihood of Arkansas pursuing Gus Malzahn as their new head coach? Would he not be a perfect fit (knowing the program, state, recruiting, etc.)? Thanks.
Edward Aschoff: I definitely think that he’s an option because of all of the reasons you just stated. Now, would he be willing to leave Arkansas State after just getting there? I’m not sure, but there’s no question that Arkansas is a better job and is the type of job that Malzahn is no doubt looking to get to. He’d owe just $700,000 of buyout money, but how much would his conscience owe? It’s a moral issue for Malzahn at this point. It wouldn’t be the best PR move if he decided to leave after only a couple of months on the job, but would many really blame him for heading to a much better and more prestigious job? One that he would be very familiar with? One that he could win at and recruit at? At first, his image would take a hit, but I think that a lot of people would sit back and say they’d do the same thing in his shoes. It wouldn’t surprise me in the least bit if Malzahn’s name is brought up a lot when talking about the Arkansas opening. I also think that Jeff Long has a really tough decision to make. The players are clamoring for him to stay in-house, and that would work short term, but you have to think long term with this job. Don’t go for the quick fix. This is a good program and you have to look at the best options. Maybe it’s someone with no ties to Arkansas. This position can’t be filled on emotions. Some real thought has to be put into it.
Ramón in Ecuador, South America writes: Housekeeping question: Why don't TAMU and Mizzou logos and links appear in the SEC blog page and continue to appear in the B12 page?
Edward Aschoff: I’m actually glad this showed up in the mailbag this week because my Twitter has been overrun with this question. Since not every sport at either school has made the move to the SEC we’re holding off until everyone officially has. That happens on July 1, so save the date!
Terry in Las Vegas writes: Is there any word coming out of Tuscaloosa about Duron Carter?
Edward Aschoff: It sounds like he’s still struggling to get things taken care of off the field. He’s been out at practice, but still isn’t participating. He teased on Twitter that he’d be back, but hasn’t really been back. I think this is something that is truly frustrating coach Nick Saban. Carter has the ability to be a real deep threat and playmaker for the Crimson Tide, but I don’t know if quarterback AJ McCarron will ever really know. It’s more than football when it comes to Carter and he can’t seem to get things taken care of. The longer this takes, the less I think we’ll see him be that star people expected him to be.
AC in Fulton, Mo., writes: Where would you rank the Mizzou linebacking core in the SEC and who do you think has the best linebacking core in the SEC?
Edward Aschoff: I think it has to be pretty high up. Georgia might have the best, while Mississippi State, Florida, Tennessee and South Carolina have pretty talented units as well. Alabama is Alabama, so that linebacker group will be tough to face. But Missouri returns three players --Andrew Wilson, Zaviar Gooden and Will Ebner -- who have combined for 484 career tackles. Ebner was out last season and was granted a fifth year. All of them are talented and experienced. I think you have to put Missouri’s linebacker unit up there with the top ones in the SEC. Don’t judge by the former conference, these are good players.
Jared in Mississippi writes: Is State going to beat anyone in the West besides Ole Miss this year? We used to get an upset or two back in our 3-9 years, but it seems now that people know we'll put up a fight, we can't get over the hump.
Edward Aschoff: I absolutely think Mississippi State will be more competitive this year. Injuries to the offensive line wrecked that offense last season, so a healthy line will go a long way for a team that returns a host of weapons. The receivers have to step up, quarterback Tyler Russell has to get more comfortable and running backs LaDarius Perkins and Nick Griffin have to pick up where Vick Ballard left off. The defense should be pretty good and improved, even without Fletcher Cox. With that said, having Arkansas, Auburn, Tennessee and Texas A&M at home will help. Those are all winnable games for the Bulldogs, especially with Arkansas’ current coaching situation. Add Kentucky to the list of games the Dawgs can win as well. Four or more wins wouldn’t be a surprise at all.
Robert in Decatur, Ill., writes: Getting ready to leave for deployment for National Guard. If I can only record 2 game of Missouri's to have sent to me, which would you choose and why? If possible could you tell me what Mizzou has to do to win the East and what are their chances? Thank you guys for the welcome to your great conference and I look forward to following your blog while overseas!
Edward Aschoff: Thanks for everything you’ve done! We really appreciate it and you. As for Mizzou, I would say the SEC opener against Georgia on Sept. 8 because it’s going to be absolutely electric. Those Tigers fans are going to be bouncing off the walls at Faurot Field. Plus, Georgia will be down some defenders, especially in the secondary, so that will be an advantage for Missouri’s high-flying spread offense. The second game would have to be at home against Alabama. It’s the defending champs! It’ll be a very tough game for the Tigers, but expect another great atmosphere in Columbia. Missouri has to stay healthy this year. The offensive line brings back some good experience, but it and the defensive line were both banged up this spring and that can’t happen this fall. I think the spread can work in this league because of the skill weapons Mizzou has, but making sure the lines are secure is the top objective.
Jnhatcher0405 took home the imaginary trophy with his “Rammer Jammer” bracket, which crushed the competition with 1,660 points.
We told him he could have his 15 minutes of fame, so here is your champion:
Jnhatcher0405: I, Josh Hatcher, am truly honored to be named the SEC Blog Challenge winner and am grateful to Ed and Chris for acknowledging my incredible bracket selecting abilities. I would like to say Thank You to those who made it possible: 1. Kentucky 2. Kansas 3. Ohio State 4. Loovul 5. Ed 6. Chris I would also like to thank Wallace Wade, Frank Thomas, Bear Bryant, Gene Stallings and Nick Saban for bringing The University of Alabama Crimson Tide fourteen - yes, fourteen - NCAA National Championships. I am a bit embarrassed as I was under the impression that the winner received lifetime tickets to all home, away and neutral Alabama games. (Mr. Saban, if you're reading this, I would settle for sideline access to the 2012 Iron Bowl…Sir.) Since, evidently, that is not the case, I would like to introduce a couple of recommendations. Firstly, as the inaugural winner of this award, I see no reason why it should not be forever known as "The Josh Hatcher Award". All future winners should have their name engraved on a plaque bearing my likeness. I would be more than willing to supply a photo. Secondly, as evidenced by the scores below, it is obvious that I should be included as a featured bracket next year. Josh Hatcher: 1660 Big 12 Blog Challenge Winner: 1600 Nick Lachey: 1290 Dexter Fowler: 1270 Jay Bilas: 1260 Colin Cowherd: 1260 Rajon Rondo: 1250 Tony Reali: 1240 Andy Katz: 1180 Lebron James: 1160 Jim Furyk: 1110 Mike Hill: 1100 Mark Schlereth: 1090 President Obama: 1020 Dick Vitale: 1010 Pau Gasol: 1010 LaMarr Woodley: 820 Phil Hellmuth: 530 Michelle Beadle: 460. ROLL TIDE ROLL!!!"
Now, on to the questions:
Knowles in Atlanta writes: What is the likelihood of Arkansas pursuing Gus Malzahn as their new head coach? Would he not be a perfect fit (knowing the program, state, recruiting, etc.)? Thanks.
Edward Aschoff: I definitely think that he’s an option because of all of the reasons you just stated. Now, would he be willing to leave Arkansas State after just getting there? I’m not sure, but there’s no question that Arkansas is a better job and is the type of job that Malzahn is no doubt looking to get to. He’d owe just $700,000 of buyout money, but how much would his conscience owe? It’s a moral issue for Malzahn at this point. It wouldn’t be the best PR move if he decided to leave after only a couple of months on the job, but would many really blame him for heading to a much better and more prestigious job? One that he would be very familiar with? One that he could win at and recruit at? At first, his image would take a hit, but I think that a lot of people would sit back and say they’d do the same thing in his shoes. It wouldn’t surprise me in the least bit if Malzahn’s name is brought up a lot when talking about the Arkansas opening. I also think that Jeff Long has a really tough decision to make. The players are clamoring for him to stay in-house, and that would work short term, but you have to think long term with this job. Don’t go for the quick fix. This is a good program and you have to look at the best options. Maybe it’s someone with no ties to Arkansas. This position can’t be filled on emotions. Some real thought has to be put into it.
Ramón in Ecuador, South America writes: Housekeeping question: Why don't TAMU and Mizzou logos and links appear in the SEC blog page and continue to appear in the B12 page?
Edward Aschoff: I’m actually glad this showed up in the mailbag this week because my Twitter has been overrun with this question. Since not every sport at either school has made the move to the SEC we’re holding off until everyone officially has. That happens on July 1, so save the date!
Terry in Las Vegas writes: Is there any word coming out of Tuscaloosa about Duron Carter?
Edward Aschoff: It sounds like he’s still struggling to get things taken care of off the field. He’s been out at practice, but still isn’t participating. He teased on Twitter that he’d be back, but hasn’t really been back. I think this is something that is truly frustrating coach Nick Saban. Carter has the ability to be a real deep threat and playmaker for the Crimson Tide, but I don’t know if quarterback AJ McCarron will ever really know. It’s more than football when it comes to Carter and he can’t seem to get things taken care of. The longer this takes, the less I think we’ll see him be that star people expected him to be.
AC in Fulton, Mo., writes: Where would you rank the Mizzou linebacking core in the SEC and who do you think has the best linebacking core in the SEC?
Edward Aschoff: I think it has to be pretty high up. Georgia might have the best, while Mississippi State, Florida, Tennessee and South Carolina have pretty talented units as well. Alabama is Alabama, so that linebacker group will be tough to face. But Missouri returns three players --Andrew Wilson, Zaviar Gooden and Will Ebner -- who have combined for 484 career tackles. Ebner was out last season and was granted a fifth year. All of them are talented and experienced. I think you have to put Missouri’s linebacker unit up there with the top ones in the SEC. Don’t judge by the former conference, these are good players.
Jared in Mississippi writes: Is State going to beat anyone in the West besides Ole Miss this year? We used to get an upset or two back in our 3-9 years, but it seems now that people know we'll put up a fight, we can't get over the hump.
Edward Aschoff: I absolutely think Mississippi State will be more competitive this year. Injuries to the offensive line wrecked that offense last season, so a healthy line will go a long way for a team that returns a host of weapons. The receivers have to step up, quarterback Tyler Russell has to get more comfortable and running backs LaDarius Perkins and Nick Griffin have to pick up where Vick Ballard left off. The defense should be pretty good and improved, even without Fletcher Cox. With that said, having Arkansas, Auburn, Tennessee and Texas A&M at home will help. Those are all winnable games for the Bulldogs, especially with Arkansas’ current coaching situation. Add Kentucky to the list of games the Dawgs can win as well. Four or more wins wouldn’t be a surprise at all.
Robert in Decatur, Ill., writes: Getting ready to leave for deployment for National Guard. If I can only record 2 game of Missouri's to have sent to me, which would you choose and why? If possible could you tell me what Mizzou has to do to win the East and what are their chances? Thank you guys for the welcome to your great conference and I look forward to following your blog while overseas!
Edward Aschoff: Thanks for everything you’ve done! We really appreciate it and you. As for Mizzou, I would say the SEC opener against Georgia on Sept. 8 because it’s going to be absolutely electric. Those Tigers fans are going to be bouncing off the walls at Faurot Field. Plus, Georgia will be down some defenders, especially in the secondary, so that will be an advantage for Missouri’s high-flying spread offense. The second game would have to be at home against Alabama. It’s the defending champs! It’ll be a very tough game for the Tigers, but expect another great atmosphere in Columbia. Missouri has to stay healthy this year. The offensive line brings back some good experience, but it and the defensive line were both banged up this spring and that can’t happen this fall. I think the spread can work in this league because of the skill weapons Mizzou has, but making sure the lines are secure is the top objective.
The links are always worth waiting for:
- Ole Miss' Nick Brassell has spent his spring in the classroom.
- Several key players are expected to miss Georgia's G-Day spring game.
- Noting Texas A&M during spring practice.
- The attorneys for former Auburn player Antonio Goodwin are seeking drug-test information from Auburn.
- It's Tyler Russell's turn to be the man for Mississippi State.
- Three more defensive players part ways with Kentucky.
- Christion Jones is developing into more than just Alabama's team clown.
- Arkansas athletic director Jeff Long is in new territory with the Bobby Petrino dilemma.
- Missouri gets a visit from the SEC's football officials.
- The maturity level is up for Tennessee's Tyler Bray and Da'Rick Rogers.
Schedule: Mississippi State was scheduled to open spring practice on Thursday at 5:30 p.m. ET, but that practice was postponed because of rain. All 15 workouts will be open to the public. The Maroon-White spring game is scheduled for 6 p.m. ET on April 21, and will be part of Super Bulldog Weekend. A concert by Sugarland will follow the spring game.
What’s new: The Bulldogs didn’t have any changes among their nine position coaches, but Niel Stopczynski joined the staff as assistant recruiting coordinator, and Brett Elliott will be a graduate assistant on offense.
On the mend: Offensive guard Tobias Smith (knee), offensive tackle Archie Muniz (knee), and safety Nickoe Whitley (ruptured Achilles) will be limited this spring. Quarterback Tyler Russell won’t be 100 percent after banging up his knee during bowl practice, but he’ll be out there getting first-team reps.
On the move: Receiver Michael Carr has left the football team for a second time, and won’t be back.
Key battle: With Vick Ballard departing, there should be some serious competition at the running back position. Speedy junior LaDarius Perkins has made his share of big plays while backing up Ballard the past two seasons. Now, it’s Perkins’ chance to show he can be the go-to back. Mississippi State coach Dan Mullen has raved about 6-foot, 225-pound sophomore Nick Griffin and the dimension he brings to the offense. Had Griffin not torn his ACL last spring, he would have been a big part of the offense last season. When healthy, he’s looked like the complete package. A pair of redshirt freshmen will also make their case for playing time -- 5-9, 215-pound Josh Robinson and 6-foot, 205-pound Derrick Milton. Robinson was one of the stars of bowl practice last December, and the Mississippi State coaches are eager to see how he follows up this spring.
New faces: Three junior college signees enrolled in January and will go through spring practice. The headliner of the group is defensive end Denico Autry of East Mississippi Community College. Autry also had offers from Alabama, Miami and the USC Trojans. Offensive tackle Charles Siddoway played last season at Butte (Calif.) College after spending a year at California. Center Dylan Holley is a transfer from Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College. The Bulldogs’ top high school signee, defensive tackle Quay Evans of Morton, Miss., is also participating in spring practice after graduating high school early, along with offensive guard/tackle Justin Senior of Hargrave (Va.) Military Academy. Senior is originally from Montreal, Canada.
Breaking out: The Bulldogs lacked a big-play threat in the passing game last season. They simply didn’t have a guy who could consistently stretch the field and keep defenses honest. Redshirt freshman Joe Morrow might be that guy in 2012. At 6-4 and 205 pounds, he’s a big target with speed, and should be a nice complement to senior receivers Chad Bumphis, Arceto Clark and Chris Smith.
Don’t forget about: Chris Wilson’s defense played its best football toward the end of last season. This will be his second season in charge of the Bulldogs’ defense, so look for them to get off to a better start in 2012. The big loss was All-SEC tackle Fletcher Cox, who gave up his senior season to turn pro. But Autry should add some pass-rushing pop from his end position, and even though Evans is just a freshman, he’s somebody who should be able to help in the middle. Johnthan Banks returns as one of the top cornerbacks in the country, and there’s a lot of depth, period, in the secondary. All in all, it’s a defense that should be able to hold its own if the offense takes a while to find its identity in those first few games.
All eyes on: It’s Russell’s show now that Chris Relf has moved on, and it sounds like that show is going to be tailored around Russell’s ability to throw the ball from the pocket. Mullen said Mississippi State’s offense will look different with Russell under center. There was more of a run element to it last season, certainly from the quarterback position, with Relf starting the majority of the season. Russell’s forte is getting the ball down the field. He needs to show more accuracy and more consistency, but the Bulldogs are going to play to his strengths.
What’s new: The Bulldogs didn’t have any changes among their nine position coaches, but Niel Stopczynski joined the staff as assistant recruiting coordinator, and Brett Elliott will be a graduate assistant on offense.
On the mend: Offensive guard Tobias Smith (knee), offensive tackle Archie Muniz (knee), and safety Nickoe Whitley (ruptured Achilles) will be limited this spring. Quarterback Tyler Russell won’t be 100 percent after banging up his knee during bowl practice, but he’ll be out there getting first-team reps.
On the move: Receiver Michael Carr has left the football team for a second time, and won’t be back.
Key battle: With Vick Ballard departing, there should be some serious competition at the running back position. Speedy junior LaDarius Perkins has made his share of big plays while backing up Ballard the past two seasons. Now, it’s Perkins’ chance to show he can be the go-to back. Mississippi State coach Dan Mullen has raved about 6-foot, 225-pound sophomore Nick Griffin and the dimension he brings to the offense. Had Griffin not torn his ACL last spring, he would have been a big part of the offense last season. When healthy, he’s looked like the complete package. A pair of redshirt freshmen will also make their case for playing time -- 5-9, 215-pound Josh Robinson and 6-foot, 205-pound Derrick Milton. Robinson was one of the stars of bowl practice last December, and the Mississippi State coaches are eager to see how he follows up this spring.
New faces: Three junior college signees enrolled in January and will go through spring practice. The headliner of the group is defensive end Denico Autry of East Mississippi Community College. Autry also had offers from Alabama, Miami and the USC Trojans. Offensive tackle Charles Siddoway played last season at Butte (Calif.) College after spending a year at California. Center Dylan Holley is a transfer from Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College. The Bulldogs’ top high school signee, defensive tackle Quay Evans of Morton, Miss., is also participating in spring practice after graduating high school early, along with offensive guard/tackle Justin Senior of Hargrave (Va.) Military Academy. Senior is originally from Montreal, Canada.
Breaking out: The Bulldogs lacked a big-play threat in the passing game last season. They simply didn’t have a guy who could consistently stretch the field and keep defenses honest. Redshirt freshman Joe Morrow might be that guy in 2012. At 6-4 and 205 pounds, he’s a big target with speed, and should be a nice complement to senior receivers Chad Bumphis, Arceto Clark and Chris Smith.
Don’t forget about: Chris Wilson’s defense played its best football toward the end of last season. This will be his second season in charge of the Bulldogs’ defense, so look for them to get off to a better start in 2012. The big loss was All-SEC tackle Fletcher Cox, who gave up his senior season to turn pro. But Autry should add some pass-rushing pop from his end position, and even though Evans is just a freshman, he’s somebody who should be able to help in the middle. Johnthan Banks returns as one of the top cornerbacks in the country, and there’s a lot of depth, period, in the secondary. All in all, it’s a defense that should be able to hold its own if the offense takes a while to find its identity in those first few games.
All eyes on: It’s Russell’s show now that Chris Relf has moved on, and it sounds like that show is going to be tailored around Russell’s ability to throw the ball from the pocket. Mullen said Mississippi State’s offense will look different with Russell under center. There was more of a run element to it last season, certainly from the quarterback position, with Relf starting the majority of the season. Russell’s forte is getting the ball down the field. He needs to show more accuracy and more consistency, but the Bulldogs are going to play to his strengths.
The tournament is kicking back up today, but enjoy these links before you go ripping what's left of your bracket up.
- Vanderbilt defensive end Tim Fugger has played his way onto the NFL's radar.
- Alabama linebacker C.J. Mosley might have dislocated his hip in the national championship game, but he didn't dislocate his sense of humor.
- Texas A&M coach Kevin Sumlin wants to get in-state recruits.
- Las Vegas says Arkansas is a legitimate national championship contender in 2012.
- Georgia's Malcolm Mitchell is getting defensive in practice.
- Defensive tackle Byron Jerideau is working his way back into South Carolina's starting lineup.
- New Florida offensive coordinator Brent Pease has been impressed with wide receiver Quinton Dunbar so far.
- New Ole Miss athletic director Ross Bjork is a rising star in college athletics, but inherits a job filled with potential issues.
- Mississippi State will air it out more with Tyler Russell taking over at quarterback.
- Defensive tackle Lucas Vincent will bolster a thin Missouri defensive line.
- Kentucky quarterback Maxwell Smith is finding out how much he still has to learn this spring.
The quarterback position in the SEC is looking up in 2012 after a so-so season a year ago.
With spring practice set to begin for several teams, we'll take our shot at ranking the projected starters heading into the spring.
This list may and probably will change by the time we get to September. There are always surprises, and you never know how the new guys are going to respond.
A few of the quarterbacks are coming off of injuries, and several of the starting jobs are still up for grabs.
So look at this ranking as a pecking order of who you would pick to be your quarterback in the fall based on what you know right now about that player, his prior experience in the college game, his projected impact in the fall and how much progress you expect him to make over the next six months leading up to the season.
Here's what we came up with pre-spring:
1. Tyler Wilson, Sr., Arkansas: He seriously considered turning pro, and a lot of the analysts felt like he would have gone in the top two rounds. Wilson threw for 3,638 yards and 24 touchdowns and was intercepted just six times in his first season as a starter last year. His best football is ahead of him.
2. Aaron Murray, Jr., Georgia: The only knock on Murray is his interceptions. He threw 14 picks last season, but he also set a school record with 35 touchdown passes. Most of his receiving corps is back in 2012, so look for him to take it to another level next season and break even more records.
3. James Franklin, Jr., Missouri: Granted, he'll be going against SEC defenses for the first time in the fall, but Franklin has proven that he can be effective both running and passing. He just missed 1,000 yards rushing last season (981) and passed for 2,865 yards. He accounted for 36 touchdowns and is the essence of a multi-purpose threat.
4. AJ McCarron, Jr., Alabama: McCarron was outstanding at protecting the ball all of last season, and when the Alabama coaches asked him to step up his game, he delivered in the BCS National Championship Game with an MVP performance. He has all the physical tools to have a breakout season in 2012, and he now has the experience, too.
5. Tyler Bray, Jr., Tennessee: Bray got off to a super start last season before breaking his thumb against Georgia in the fifth game. He's still looking for his first marquee win, but has the arm strength to make the kind of throws few quarterbacks can. His receiving corps should be excellent, although the jury is still out on Bray as a leader.
6. Connor Shaw, Jr., South Carolina: One of the most improved quarterbacks in the league, Shaw closed the 2011 season on fire. He's never going to be a big pocket passer, but he's good on the move and always a threat to take off and run. The Gamecocks have the whole offseason to gear what they do offensively around Shaw's strengths and expand their zone read package.
7. Zach Mettenberger, Jr., LSU: Everybody on the Bayou is eager to see Mettenberger's big arm. LSU coach Les Miles says the Tigers are going to put that big arm to good use next season and throw the ball more. Mettenberger has waited his turn. Once he gains a little experience, he has a chance to be one of the elite quarterbacks in the league.
8. Jordan Rodgers, Sr., Vanderbilt: Once he took over as Vanderbilt's starter last season, the Commodores took off offensively. In particular, they were able to hit more big plays down the field. Rodgers makes things happen with his ability to run and can also throw it. He needs to cut down on his interceptions.
9. Clint Moseley, Jr., Auburn: With first-year offensive coordinator Scot Loeffler taking over, Moseley's ability to throw the ball from the pocket should give him an edge. He still has to beat out Kiehl Frazier for the job, and that's going to be a battle. But the experience of starting toward the end of last season should help Moseley.
10. Tyler Russell, Jr., Mississippi State: Russell banged up his knee in bowl practice back in December, so he could be limited this spring. He got his chance to start some in the second half of the season a year ago, and there's no question that he can throw it. But he still has to prove he can do all the other things it takes to be a good quarterback in this league.
11. Jacoby Brissett, So., Florida: Talk about being thrown into the fire. Brissett was forced into action against Alabama and then started the next two games against LSU and Auburn last season as a true freshman. He'll have a battle on his hands this spring with Jeff Driskel, and it's a battle that will probably go into the preseason.
12. Bo Wallace, So., Ole Miss: His junior college numbers last season were eye-popping, and he still has to go out and win the job this spring. But Wallace knows Hugh Freeze's system, and at 6-5, has the arm and the presence in the pocket to put up big numbers. Even so, there's a learning curve in this league for all first-year quarterbacks.
13. Maxwell Smith, So., Kentucky: After Morgan Newton struggled with injuries and inconsistency last season, Smith got his chance to see if he could jump-start Kentucky's offense late in the season. He showed some promise before getting banged up and having to miss the Tennessee game. Newton is out this spring after undergoing shoulder surgery, but will challenge for the job in the fall.
14. Jameill Showers, So., Texas A&M: Kevin Sumlin takes over in College Station with a group of quarterbacks that have virtually no college experience. Showers played in four games last season while backing up Ryan Tannehill and threw only five passes. He's the front-runner going into the spring, but Sumlin has made it clear that the competition will be wide open.
With spring practice set to begin for several teams, we'll take our shot at ranking the projected starters heading into the spring.
This list may and probably will change by the time we get to September. There are always surprises, and you never know how the new guys are going to respond.
A few of the quarterbacks are coming off of injuries, and several of the starting jobs are still up for grabs.
So look at this ranking as a pecking order of who you would pick to be your quarterback in the fall based on what you know right now about that player, his prior experience in the college game, his projected impact in the fall and how much progress you expect him to make over the next six months leading up to the season.
Here's what we came up with pre-spring:
[+] Enlarge
Nelson Chenault/US PresswireArkansas QB Tyler Wilson became an attractive NFL prospect after his strong junior season.
Nelson Chenault/US PresswireArkansas QB Tyler Wilson became an attractive NFL prospect after his strong junior season.2. Aaron Murray, Jr., Georgia: The only knock on Murray is his interceptions. He threw 14 picks last season, but he also set a school record with 35 touchdown passes. Most of his receiving corps is back in 2012, so look for him to take it to another level next season and break even more records.
3. James Franklin, Jr., Missouri: Granted, he'll be going against SEC defenses for the first time in the fall, but Franklin has proven that he can be effective both running and passing. He just missed 1,000 yards rushing last season (981) and passed for 2,865 yards. He accounted for 36 touchdowns and is the essence of a multi-purpose threat.
4. AJ McCarron, Jr., Alabama: McCarron was outstanding at protecting the ball all of last season, and when the Alabama coaches asked him to step up his game, he delivered in the BCS National Championship Game with an MVP performance. He has all the physical tools to have a breakout season in 2012, and he now has the experience, too.
5. Tyler Bray, Jr., Tennessee: Bray got off to a super start last season before breaking his thumb against Georgia in the fifth game. He's still looking for his first marquee win, but has the arm strength to make the kind of throws few quarterbacks can. His receiving corps should be excellent, although the jury is still out on Bray as a leader.
6. Connor Shaw, Jr., South Carolina: One of the most improved quarterbacks in the league, Shaw closed the 2011 season on fire. He's never going to be a big pocket passer, but he's good on the move and always a threat to take off and run. The Gamecocks have the whole offseason to gear what they do offensively around Shaw's strengths and expand their zone read package.
7. Zach Mettenberger, Jr., LSU: Everybody on the Bayou is eager to see Mettenberger's big arm. LSU coach Les Miles says the Tigers are going to put that big arm to good use next season and throw the ball more. Mettenberger has waited his turn. Once he gains a little experience, he has a chance to be one of the elite quarterbacks in the league.
8. Jordan Rodgers, Sr., Vanderbilt: Once he took over as Vanderbilt's starter last season, the Commodores took off offensively. In particular, they were able to hit more big plays down the field. Rodgers makes things happen with his ability to run and can also throw it. He needs to cut down on his interceptions.
9. Clint Moseley, Jr., Auburn: With first-year offensive coordinator Scot Loeffler taking over, Moseley's ability to throw the ball from the pocket should give him an edge. He still has to beat out Kiehl Frazier for the job, and that's going to be a battle. But the experience of starting toward the end of last season should help Moseley.
10. Tyler Russell, Jr., Mississippi State: Russell banged up his knee in bowl practice back in December, so he could be limited this spring. He got his chance to start some in the second half of the season a year ago, and there's no question that he can throw it. But he still has to prove he can do all the other things it takes to be a good quarterback in this league.
11. Jacoby Brissett, So., Florida: Talk about being thrown into the fire. Brissett was forced into action against Alabama and then started the next two games against LSU and Auburn last season as a true freshman. He'll have a battle on his hands this spring with Jeff Driskel, and it's a battle that will probably go into the preseason.
12. Bo Wallace, So., Ole Miss: His junior college numbers last season were eye-popping, and he still has to go out and win the job this spring. But Wallace knows Hugh Freeze's system, and at 6-5, has the arm and the presence in the pocket to put up big numbers. Even so, there's a learning curve in this league for all first-year quarterbacks.
13. Maxwell Smith, So., Kentucky: After Morgan Newton struggled with injuries and inconsistency last season, Smith got his chance to see if he could jump-start Kentucky's offense late in the season. He showed some promise before getting banged up and having to miss the Tennessee game. Newton is out this spring after undergoing shoulder surgery, but will challenge for the job in the fall.
14. Jameill Showers, So., Texas A&M: Kevin Sumlin takes over in College Station with a group of quarterbacks that have virtually no college experience. Showers played in four games last season while backing up Ryan Tannehill and threw only five passes. He's the front-runner going into the spring, but Sumlin has made it clear that the competition will be wide open.
We all know that football season never ends in the SEC. Well, it’s cranking back up in earnest next week, at least the spring version, when LSU opens spring practice Thursday.
As usual, there’s a lot that’s new in the SEC, including coaches and even a pair of new teams. Missouri settles into the Eastern Division and Texas A&M into the Western Division.
And while the league lost its share of star players, plenty of star power returns.
We’ll kick off our SEC spring preview with the West, home to the past three national champions, including Alabama this past season.
So without further ado …
ALABAMA
Spring practice starts: March 9
Spring game: April 14
What to watch:
ARKANSAS
Spring practice starts: March 14
Spring game: April 21
What to watch:
AUBURN
Spring practice starts: March 21
Spring game: April 14
What to watch:
LSU
Spring practice starts: March 1
Spring game: March 31
What to watch:
MISSISSIPPI STATE
Spring practice starts: March 22
Spring game: April 21
What to watch:
OLE MISS
Spring practice starts: March 23
Spring game: April 21
What to watch:
TEXAS A&M
Spring practice starts: March 31
Spring game: April 28
What to watch:
As usual, there’s a lot that’s new in the SEC, including coaches and even a pair of new teams. Missouri settles into the Eastern Division and Texas A&M into the Western Division.
And while the league lost its share of star players, plenty of star power returns.
We’ll kick off our SEC spring preview with the West, home to the past three national champions, including Alabama this past season.
So without further ado …
ALABAMA
Spring practice starts: March 9
Spring game: April 14
What to watch:
- McCarron takes charge: As a first-year starter this past season, quarterback AJ McCarron was more of a caretaker on offense for the Crimson Tide and performed well in that role. But next season, he will be asked to do more and will also need to take on more of a leadership role. He played his best game on the biggest stage in the BCS National Championship Game, so he enters this spring with a lot of momentum. If he takes the kind of step Alabama fans hope he will, the Tide will be a load on offense again in 2012.
- Shuffling the deck up front: Replacing veteran center William Vlachos won’t be easy. He’s been a rock in the middle of that offensive line for the past three seasons. Alabama could end up replacing him with another rock. Outland Trophy winner Barrett Jones will get a long look at center this spring after playing left tackle this past season and left guard the season before that. One of the keys for the Tide up front is Cyrus Kouandjio, who had his freshman season cut short by a knee injury. Physically, he’s exactly what you’re looking for at left tackle. However it shakes out, the Tide will get their best five on the field.
- Reloading on defense: Most of the marquee playmakers on defense are gone, and the Tide were gutted in the secondary. But junior college cornerbacks Travell Dixon and Deion Belue are on campus and will be tossed into the mix this spring. It’s also a big spring for rising sophomore safety Ha'Sean Clinton-Dix, and Alabama will be looking for a few more finishers when it comes to rushing the passer and a nose guard to replace steady Josh Chapman. One option may be sliding Jesse Williams inside, although the Alabama coaches like what he gave them at end during his first season on campus.
ARKANSAS
Spring practice starts: March 14
Spring game: April 21
What to watch:
- Getting defensive: There’s a reason Paul Haynes is now calling the shots on defense for Arkansas. The Hogs simply had not made the kind of strides on that side of the ball that coach Bobby Petrino felt like they needed to make if they were going to break through and play for a national championship. Haynes comes over from Ohio State and brings with him an attacking approach. Arkansas fans liked what they saw in the Cotton Bowl, but replacing departing seniors Jake Bequette, Jerry Franklin, Jerico Nelson and Tramain Thomas won’t be easy.
- Ask and you shall receive: The Big Three are gone -- Jarius Wright, Joe Adams and Greg Childs. They comprised the heart of the Hogs’ talented receiving corps for the past three seasons and made a lot of plays. Now, it’s Cobi Hamilton's time to be the leader with a whole cast of less familiar faces jockeying to get into that starting equation this spring. It’s a chance for guys like Marquel Wade, Quinta Funderburk, Julian Horton and Javontee Herndon to show what they can do. Don’t forget about Chris Gragg, who returns as one of the best pass-catching tight ends in the SEC.
- Jewel of the Knile: There were some rumblings that Knile Davis was going to give it a go at the end of last season after fracturing his ankle in the preseason. It didn’t make sense to rush things, though, and Davis should be fully healthy for the 2012 season. How much he does this spring remains to be seen, but you know it’s important for him to at least be out there and getting back into the feel of football. He was doing some things at the end of practice last season. Obviously, the most important thing is to make sure he’s ready to go come September when the season begins, but the spring will provide a glimpse of where he is with his recovery. If he returns to the same form as the 2010 season, Arkansas fans are salivating at the thought of that offense with Tyler Wilson slinging it and Davis running it.
AUBURN
Spring practice starts: March 21
Spring game: April 14
What to watch:
- Defensive restructuring: It was a nightmarish season a year ago for Auburn’s defense, making it no surprise to anybody that Gene Chizik overhauled things on that side of the ball. Only defensive line coach Mike Pelton remains in the same position. Everything else will be new on defense, including Brian VanGorder taking over as coordinator. Willie Martinez joins the staff as the secondary coach, and Tommy Thigpen moves from coaching safeties to coaching linebackers. The Tigers return most of their key players on defense, and youth was certainly an issue last season. But VanGorder’s challenge is getting this unit to play with more consistency and to be more fundamentally sound, particularly when it comes to tackling.
- Quarterback quandary: Scot Loeffler steps in as the Tigers’ new offensive coordinator, and right off the bat, he has to settle on a starting quarterback. In the past, Auburn has taken its time with that decision. We’ll see if that changes with Loeffler. Clint Moseley has the most experience and finished last season as Auburn’s starter, but rising sophomore Kiehl Frazier has been around long enough now that he should have his first legitimate chance to win the job. One of the things Frazier has to prove this spring is that he can throw the ball well enough to be the every-down starter. True freshman Zeke Pike is also on campus and will practice this spring.
- Making plays: With Michael Dyer now at Arkansas State, the Tigers have to find somebody else to lean on offensively. Dyer was the Tigers’ offense last season. There are plenty of candidates. Onterio McCalebb would be at the top of that list, and Tigers are also keeping their fingers crossed that receivers Emory Blake and Trovon Reed can stay healthy this season. But finding roles for guys like Tre Mason and Quan Bray will be equally important this spring. Both are supremely talented with the ball in their hands, and the Tigers need to find ways to get them both a lot of touches next season.
LSU
Spring practice starts: March 1
Spring game: March 31
What to watch:
- Forgetting the past: As memorable as last season was for LSU, the way it ended has been difficult for anybody on the Bayou to forget. The 21-0 loss to Alabama in the BCS National Championship Game was a serious downer after 13 straight wins against a killer schedule and still has a lot of LSU fans fuming. The best thing for the Tigers is simply getting back onto the practice field and putting the past behind them once and for all. This will be an extremely talented team once again, but a team that everyone will expect to be right back in the championship race in 2012. Developing the right kind of chemistry and leadership will be critical, and that starts this spring.
- Passing fancy: LSU coach Les Miles has already said that the Tigers will throw the ball more next season, and a big reason is because Zach Mettenberger steps in at quarterback. The Tigers have been spotty in the passing game each of the past two seasons, but throwing the ball downfield and hitting big plays in the passing game is what Mettenberger does best. This spring will be his first chance to be “The Man” for the Tigers, and a big part of that is gaining the trust, confidence and faith in all of the players around him on offense. With all the pieces in place to be a strong running team again, LSU could really take off offensively if Mettenberger has a big season throwing the ball.
- Looking for linebackers: Go back and look at LSU’s signing class, and it’s obvious the Tigers felt like they needed to reload at linebacker. There will be a ton of competition for starting spots this spring at linebacker with a lot of new faces in that mix. Defensive coordinator John Chavis puts a premium on speed, which means you don’t have to be 240 pounds to play linebacker for him. He’s also proven that he’s not afraid to play young guys if they’re ready. This will be a big spring for rising junior Tahj Jones, who has the speed and athleticism to be a perfect fit in Chavis’ system.
MISSISSIPPI STATE
Spring practice starts: March 22
Spring game: April 21
What to watch:
- Tyler Russell’s time: With Chris Relf gone, it’s Russell’s time to show what he can do as the Bulldogs’ full-time starter. He made four starts toward the end of this past season, and throwing the football from the pocket is his forte. Russell still needs to polish up on all of the other things it takes to be a good quarterback in this league, and the Bulldogs also need to create some depth at the position. Look for Dak Prescott to get a lot of work this spring, especially with Russell still nursing the knee he banged up during bowl practice. Prescott redshirted last season and will be a redshirt freshman.
- Drawing a line: The Bulldogs are eager to get junior college newcomers Dylan Holley and Charles Siddoway on the field and see where they fit in up front in the offensive line and if they’re going to be ready to go in the season opener. Holley projects as a center, but could also play guard. Siddoway will get a shot at the Bulldogs’ left tackle job. Sorting out things across the board on the offensive line will be a priority for Mississippi State this spring.
- Safety valve: The good news is that Mississippi returns two experienced cornerbacks in Johnthan Banks and Corey Broomfield, but veteran safety Charles Mitchell is gone. What’s more, Nickoe Whitley tore his Achilles tendon in the Alabama game and won’t be full strength this spring. So finding some reinforcements at safety will be important. Some of the younger guys like Jamerson Love, Dee Arrington and Jay Hughes will have big opportunities to show what they can do, and cornerback Darius Slay could also get a look at safety.
OLE MISS
Spring practice starts: March 23
Spring game: April 21
What to watch:
- The big Freeze: First-year Ole Miss coach Hugh Freeze wants to run a power spread similar to what Arkansas State ran on offense last season. One of the toughest parts of that transition will be getting the offensive line up to speed. Freeze isn’t sure what Ole Miss has returning in the offensive line is tailor-made for a power offense, which means the Rebels’ coaches have some coaching and some recruiting to do. Addressing the offensive line, period, will be a big priority this spring, especially with offensive tackle Bobby Massie deciding to turn pro.
- Wallace on display: One of the things that held the Rebels back last season on offense was that they were never able to get any consistency at the quarterback position. There are still a couple of different options, but junior college newcomer Bo Wallace is probably the front-runner to win the job. He’s on campus and will go through spring practice and isn’t a stranger to Freeze’s offense. Wallace started his career at Arkansas State and redshirted in 2010 when Freeze was the offensive coordinator there. More than anything, Freeze is looking for some real competition at the position with Randall Mackey, Zack Stoudt and Barry Brunetti all returning.
- Recovering on defense: It was a rough season for the Rebels defensively a year ago, and a lot of that was because they were on the field for much of the season. Getting a healthy D.T. Shackelford back at linebacker is huge after he missed all of last season with a torn ACL suffered last spring. It will be interesting to see how much he does in this spring practice. Either way, just having him back out there should help from a leadership standpoint and getting that edge back defensively. The Rebels need to find more finishers up front defensively after finishing 110th nationally with just 13 sacks in 12 games. Creating more turnovers is also a must. Ole Miss finished with 17 a season ago, which was tied for 95th nationally.
TEXAS A&M
Spring practice starts: March 31
Spring game: April 28
What to watch:
- Sumlin takes over: First-year coach Kevin Sumlin takes over in College Station, and the spring will be his first real chance to place his stamp on the program. He’s already said that all jobs are open and purposely didn’t watch any film from the 2011 regular season. He wants to make his own evaluations on the field, which means there will be some serious auditions going on this spring. Sumlin ran a wide-open spread offense at Houston because that’s the kind of personnel he had. He’ll certainly modify his system to fit his personnel this first season at Texas A&M, which likely means running the ball more given the Aggies’ returning experience in the offensive line and their stable of backs.
- Quarterback hunting: One of Sumlin’s first orders of business is finding a quarterback, and there’s at least four candidates on campus. The only guy with any game experience (and it’s not much) is rising sophomore Jameill Showers, who backed up Ryan Tannehill last season. The other two returnees are Johnny Manziel and Matt Joeckel, both of whom will be redshirt freshmen. Manziel is more of a runner, while the 6-4, 230-pound Joeckel is a pocket passer. Sumlin knows at least a little bit about Showers, Manziel and Joeckel. He recruited all three at Houston. There’s also true freshman Matt Davis, who’s already enrolled and will go through spring practice.
- Finishing the drill: As all Texas A&M fans are well aware, the Aggies weren’t what you could call a second-half team last season. In fact, they were far from it, and time and time again wilted in the second half. Sumlin has made it known that one of his goals is for the program to toughen up both physically and mentally. In five of the Aggies’ six losses last season, they were ahead at halftime or at some point in the second half. The defense absorbed much of the blame and definitely has to improve as Texas A&M makes the jump to the SEC, but Sumlin wants to make sure this spring that he instills a programwide toughness that carries over into the fall.
Who has the edge at quarterback next season in the SEC?
Here’s a look at the projected starters in the league in 2012 with their won-loss record as a starter, career total offense, career touchdown passes, career interceptions and career completion percentage.
The quarterbacks are listed in order of wins as a starter:
Here’s a look at the projected starters in the league in 2012 with their won-loss record as a starter, career total offense, career touchdown passes, career interceptions and career completion percentage.
The quarterbacks are listed in order of wins as a starter:
- Aaron Murray, Georgia: 16-11 as a starter, 6,476 total yards, 59 touchdown passes, 22 interceptions, 60 percent
- AJ McCarron, Alabama: 12-1 as a starter, 2,991 total yards, 19 touchdown passes, 5 interceptions, 66.2 percent
- Tyler Wilson, Arkansas: 11-2 as a starter, 4,327 total yards, 31 touchdown passes, 13 interceptions, 62.9 percent
- Connor Shaw, South Carolina: 8-1 as a starter, 2,361 total yards, 15 touchdown passes, 8 interceptions, 66.1 percent
- Tyler Bray, Tennessee: 8-4 as a starter, 2,818 total yards, 35 touchdown passes, 16 interceptions, 57.7 percent
- James Franklin, Missouri: 8-5 as a starter, 4,068 total yards, 22 touchdown passes, 12 interceptions, 63.8 percent
- Morgan Newton, Kentucky: 8-9 as a starter, 2,216 total yards, 14 touchdown passes, 10 interceptions, 52 percent
- Clint Moseley, Auburn: 3-3 as a starter, 727 total yards, 5 touchdown passes, 3 interceptions, 61.1 percent
- Jordan Rodgers, Vanderbilt: 3-4 as a starter, 1,944 total yards, 9 touchdown passes, 10 interceptions, 50 percent
- Tyler Russell, Mississippi State: 2-2 as a starter, 1,776 total yards, 13 touchdown passes, 10 interceptions, 55.1 percent
- Jacoby Brissett, Florida: 0-2 as a starter, 213 total yards, 2 touchdown passes, 4 interceptions, 46.2 percent
- Zach Mettenberger, LSU: 0-0 as a starter, 120 total yards, 1 touchdown pass, 0 interceptions, 72.7 percent
- Jameill Showers, Texas A&M: 0-0 as a starter, 73 total yards, 0 touchdown passes, 0 interceptions, 80 percent
- Bo Wallace, Ole Miss: Junior college transfer who’s yet to see action at the FBS level.
Post-signing day SEC Power Rankings
February, 6, 2012
Feb 6
11:00
AM ET
By
Edward Aschoff | ESPN.com
Now that national signing day is out of the way, we're going to take another look at our SEC power rankings.
You won't see any change really, but we have more confidence in some teams now than we did before:
1. Alabama: The Crimson Tide hauled in the nation's No. 1 recruiting class last week and not only did Nick Saban sign a handful of top-rated players, but he met all of Alabama's major needs with the 2012 class. There are a few freshmen who could make early impacts in Tuscaloosa, including athlete Eddie Williams (Panama City, Fla./Arnold), and wide receivers Chris Black (Jacksonville, Fla./First Coast) and Amari Cooper (Miami, Fla./Miami Northwestern).
2. LSU: The Tigers' class wasn't as highly rated as some recent ones, but Les Miles and his coaches brought in a solid group and there are a few defense players who might see some playing time early. Three starting linebackers need to be replaced and a few freshmen will get their chances. While LSU lost Torshiro Davis ((Shreveport, La./Woodlawn) flipped to Texas, the Tigers brought in ESPNU 150 linebackers Kwon Alexander (Oxford, Ala.) and Ronnie Feist (Edgard, La./West Saint John).
3. Georgia: The Bulldogs needed to get bigger up front and add a couple of playmaking linebackers. Georgia did just that with the handful of athletic defensive linemen signed and grabbed top outside linebacker Josh Harvey-Clemons (Valdosta, Ga./Lowndes), who should thrive in Todd Grantham's 3-4. Georgia's offense could be even better this fall with Keith Marshall (Raleigh, N.C./Millbrook) helping Isaiah Crowell, and the wide receiver depth returning.
4. South Carolina: Talk about underrated. South Carolina didn't make much noise at all on national signing day, but the Gamecocks brought in a very balanced class and have a few players who should contribute early to a team that will yet again compete for the SEC East title. Two freshmen to keep an eye on in 2012 are wide receiver Shaq Roland (Lexington, S.C.) and safety Chaz Elder (College Park, Ga./Benjamin E. Banneker).
5. Arkansas: It seemed like the Razorbacks were headed for a very strong finish to its 2012 recruiting class, but watched as top receiver Dorial Green-Beckham (Springfield, Mo./Hillcrest) and four-star offensive tackle Jordan Diamond (Chicago, Ill./Simeon) committed elsewhere. However, Arkansas is still waiting on top athlete Davonte Neal (Scottsdale, Ariz./Chaparral) and signed some pretty talented wide receivers to add to that high-flying offense. Defensive depth was a need and Arkansas added six defensive linemen and snatched Tennessee linebacker commit Otha Peters (Covington, La./Covington) late.
6. Auburn: Before Auburn could complete its recruiting class, it had to find someone to run its offense. The Tigers lured Scot Loeffler away from Temple, getting a coach who knows a thing about teaching quarterbacks. Clint Moseley and Kiehl Frazier should be ecstatic. The loss of Michael Dyer hurts, but Auburn has a stable of running backs to work with and signed one of the best offensive line classes around. Also, athlete Ricardo Louis (Miami Beach, Fla/Miami Beach Senior) could be a real playmaker at wide receiver.
7. Florida: Will Muschamp wanted his team to get tougher and he took a step in the right direction by hitting the line of scrimmage hard in his first full recruiting class. He also got a big back in Matt Jones (Seffner, Fla./Armwood) and having D.J. Humphries (Charlotte, N.C./Mallard Creek) in early should really help the offensive line. Florida is also waiting for a potential receiving threat in Stefon Diggs (Olney, Md./Our Lady of Good Counsel). Muschamp feels better about this team's attitude and expects a more resilient squad in 2012.
8. Missouri: These Tigers could come in and frustrate some of its new SEC East family with the depth it returns. No one is quite sure if top running back Henry Josey will return in 2012 after a major knee injury, but the Tigers added a very complete back in Morgan Steward (Kansas City, Mo./Staley), who could compete for playing time early. But Missouri took home the biggest national signing day prize when Green-Beckham picked Missouri. Mizzou lacked a big-play receiving threat until now.
9. Tennessee: There is a lot of talent returning in Knoxville and the Vols added some quality depth with its 2012 recruiting class. Tennessee took a hit when top inside linebacker Dalton Santos (Van, Texas) flipped to Texas and needed to add a big-time running back to help that offense, but grabbing junior college wide receiver Cordarrelle Paterson (Rock Hill, S.C./Hutchinson Community College) was big. He'll add to an already solid receiving tandem and could provide more leadership. Tyler Bray should have a fun offseason.
10. Texas A&M: The Aggies lose a lot heading into their first season as a part of the SEC Western Division, but helped the future by signing a top-25 class. Running back Trey Williams (Houston, Texas/Andy Dekaney) could provide an early spark for the offense with Cyrus Gray leaving. The receivers got some needed help with the signing of No. 3 receiver Thomas Johnson of Dallas, and outside linebacker Jordan Richmond (Denton, Texas/Billy Ryan) should see early playing time as well.
11. Vanderbilt: James Franklin's first full class at Vanderbilt was a total success. He showed that he won't just compete on the field with the SEC big boys but he'll recruit with them too. He beat out a few bigger schools for ESPNU 150 athlete Brian Kimbrow (Memphis, Tenn./East) and the Commodores added a lot of bigger bodies up front and at linebacker. Vandy's veterans shouldn't have an issue mingling with this solid recruiting class.
12. Mississippi State: The Bulldogs will head into the spring looking to jump start their offense. There is a lot of depth and three senior starters returning at wide receiver, but some oomph needs to return to this offense. It's officially Tyler Russell's time at QB and LaDarius Perkins and Nick Griffin could be a powerful one-two running back punch. Where Mississippi State really struck gold in recruiting was up front, where the Bulldogs added three top defensive linemen, including No. 13 tackle Quay Evans (Morton, Miss.).
13. Kentucky: The Wildcats need playmakers on offense and having running back Josh Clemons come back at full health this year, will go a long way. But Kentucky desperately needed to add more with its 2012 recruiting class. The Wildcats are hoping dual-threat quarterback Patrick Towles (Fort Thomas, Ky./Highlands) can help in that department. Kentucky won't get anywhere without developing the talent already on campus and that's most important at this point.
14. Ole Miss: Hugh Freeze had some defensive success in his first recruiting class as the Rebels' head coach. There is a good foundation with ESPNU 150 defensive tackle Issac Gross of Batesville, Miss., and ESPNU 150 defensive end Channing Ward of Aberdeen, Miss., and the secondary got a boost when safety Trae Elston (Oxford, Ala.) picked Ole Miss over LSU. Now, Freeze turns his attention to players a part of a two-win 2011 season. Generating discipline and finding leaders are key for a program glued to the bottom of the SEC.
You won't see any change really, but we have more confidence in some teams now than we did before:
1. Alabama: The Crimson Tide hauled in the nation's No. 1 recruiting class last week and not only did Nick Saban sign a handful of top-rated players, but he met all of Alabama's major needs with the 2012 class. There are a few freshmen who could make early impacts in Tuscaloosa, including athlete Eddie Williams (Panama City, Fla./Arnold), and wide receivers Chris Black (Jacksonville, Fla./First Coast) and Amari Cooper (Miami, Fla./Miami Northwestern).
2. LSU: The Tigers' class wasn't as highly rated as some recent ones, but Les Miles and his coaches brought in a solid group and there are a few defense players who might see some playing time early. Three starting linebackers need to be replaced and a few freshmen will get their chances. While LSU lost Torshiro Davis ((Shreveport, La./Woodlawn) flipped to Texas, the Tigers brought in ESPNU 150 linebackers Kwon Alexander (Oxford, Ala.) and Ronnie Feist (Edgard, La./West Saint John).
3. Georgia: The Bulldogs needed to get bigger up front and add a couple of playmaking linebackers. Georgia did just that with the handful of athletic defensive linemen signed and grabbed top outside linebacker Josh Harvey-Clemons (Valdosta, Ga./Lowndes), who should thrive in Todd Grantham's 3-4. Georgia's offense could be even better this fall with Keith Marshall (Raleigh, N.C./Millbrook) helping Isaiah Crowell, and the wide receiver depth returning.
4. South Carolina: Talk about underrated. South Carolina didn't make much noise at all on national signing day, but the Gamecocks brought in a very balanced class and have a few players who should contribute early to a team that will yet again compete for the SEC East title. Two freshmen to keep an eye on in 2012 are wide receiver Shaq Roland (Lexington, S.C.) and safety Chaz Elder (College Park, Ga./Benjamin E. Banneker).
5. Arkansas: It seemed like the Razorbacks were headed for a very strong finish to its 2012 recruiting class, but watched as top receiver Dorial Green-Beckham (Springfield, Mo./Hillcrest) and four-star offensive tackle Jordan Diamond (Chicago, Ill./Simeon) committed elsewhere. However, Arkansas is still waiting on top athlete Davonte Neal (Scottsdale, Ariz./Chaparral) and signed some pretty talented wide receivers to add to that high-flying offense. Defensive depth was a need and Arkansas added six defensive linemen and snatched Tennessee linebacker commit Otha Peters (Covington, La./Covington) late.
6. Auburn: Before Auburn could complete its recruiting class, it had to find someone to run its offense. The Tigers lured Scot Loeffler away from Temple, getting a coach who knows a thing about teaching quarterbacks. Clint Moseley and Kiehl Frazier should be ecstatic. The loss of Michael Dyer hurts, but Auburn has a stable of running backs to work with and signed one of the best offensive line classes around. Also, athlete Ricardo Louis (Miami Beach, Fla/Miami Beach Senior) could be a real playmaker at wide receiver.
7. Florida: Will Muschamp wanted his team to get tougher and he took a step in the right direction by hitting the line of scrimmage hard in his first full recruiting class. He also got a big back in Matt Jones (Seffner, Fla./Armwood) and having D.J. Humphries (Charlotte, N.C./Mallard Creek) in early should really help the offensive line. Florida is also waiting for a potential receiving threat in Stefon Diggs (Olney, Md./Our Lady of Good Counsel). Muschamp feels better about this team's attitude and expects a more resilient squad in 2012.
8. Missouri: These Tigers could come in and frustrate some of its new SEC East family with the depth it returns. No one is quite sure if top running back Henry Josey will return in 2012 after a major knee injury, but the Tigers added a very complete back in Morgan Steward (Kansas City, Mo./Staley), who could compete for playing time early. But Missouri took home the biggest national signing day prize when Green-Beckham picked Missouri. Mizzou lacked a big-play receiving threat until now.
9. Tennessee: There is a lot of talent returning in Knoxville and the Vols added some quality depth with its 2012 recruiting class. Tennessee took a hit when top inside linebacker Dalton Santos (Van, Texas) flipped to Texas and needed to add a big-time running back to help that offense, but grabbing junior college wide receiver Cordarrelle Paterson (Rock Hill, S.C./Hutchinson Community College) was big. He'll add to an already solid receiving tandem and could provide more leadership. Tyler Bray should have a fun offseason.
10. Texas A&M: The Aggies lose a lot heading into their first season as a part of the SEC Western Division, but helped the future by signing a top-25 class. Running back Trey Williams (Houston, Texas/Andy Dekaney) could provide an early spark for the offense with Cyrus Gray leaving. The receivers got some needed help with the signing of No. 3 receiver Thomas Johnson of Dallas, and outside linebacker Jordan Richmond (Denton, Texas/Billy Ryan) should see early playing time as well.
11. Vanderbilt: James Franklin's first full class at Vanderbilt was a total success. He showed that he won't just compete on the field with the SEC big boys but he'll recruit with them too. He beat out a few bigger schools for ESPNU 150 athlete Brian Kimbrow (Memphis, Tenn./East) and the Commodores added a lot of bigger bodies up front and at linebacker. Vandy's veterans shouldn't have an issue mingling with this solid recruiting class.
12. Mississippi State: The Bulldogs will head into the spring looking to jump start their offense. There is a lot of depth and three senior starters returning at wide receiver, but some oomph needs to return to this offense. It's officially Tyler Russell's time at QB and LaDarius Perkins and Nick Griffin could be a powerful one-two running back punch. Where Mississippi State really struck gold in recruiting was up front, where the Bulldogs added three top defensive linemen, including No. 13 tackle Quay Evans (Morton, Miss.).
13. Kentucky: The Wildcats need playmakers on offense and having running back Josh Clemons come back at full health this year, will go a long way. But Kentucky desperately needed to add more with its 2012 recruiting class. The Wildcats are hoping dual-threat quarterback Patrick Towles (Fort Thomas, Ky./Highlands) can help in that department. Kentucky won't get anywhere without developing the talent already on campus and that's most important at this point.
14. Ole Miss: Hugh Freeze had some defensive success in his first recruiting class as the Rebels' head coach. There is a good foundation with ESPNU 150 defensive tackle Issac Gross of Batesville, Miss., and ESPNU 150 defensive end Channing Ward of Aberdeen, Miss., and the secondary got a boost when safety Trae Elston (Oxford, Ala.) picked Ole Miss over LSU. Now, Freeze turns his attention to players a part of a two-win 2011 season. Generating discipline and finding leaders are key for a program glued to the bottom of the SEC.
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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