by Fred Perdue
SEC Preview
As summer camps come to a close, the hard work is about to pay off. Big time players will make big time plays in big time games. Blood, sweat and tears will be shed as the most dominate conference in the nation takes their respective fields once again. Bearing another national champion in the Alabama Crimson Tide in 2015, teams within the SEC and around the country see the losses and view it as a weakness. Florida looks to repeat as SEC Champs. LSU looks to regain its crown while Ole Miss and Tennessee look to overcome demons of the past and get to the mountain top. Let’s take a look at the toughest conference in college football today… THE SEC
Preseason Media Poll
Eastern Division (First-place votes in parenthesis)
| School |
Points |
| Tennessee (225) |
2,167 |
| Florida (57) |
1,891 |
| Georgia (45) |
1,860 |
| Kentucky |
933 |
| Vanderbilt (2) |
810 |
| Missouri |
807 |
| South Carolina (2) |
800 |
Western Division (First-place votes in parenthesis)
| School |
Points |
| Alabama (246) |
2,220 |
| LSU (76) |
1,984 |
| Ole Miss (5) |
1,479 |
| Texas A&M (3) |
1,130 |
| Arkansas (1) |
1,047 |
| Auburn |
890 |
| Mississippi State |
518 |
SEC Champion
| School |
Votes |
| Alabama |
223 |
| LSU |
59 |
| Tennessee |
29 |
| Georgia |
7 |
| Florida |
5 |
| Ole Miss |
4 |
| Texas A&M |
1 |
| South Carolina |
1 |
| Vanderbilt |
1 |
| Arkansas |
1 |
Alabama
Location: Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Stadium: Bryant-Denny Stadium
Capacity: 101,821
Mascot: Big Al
Conference: SEC
Schedule:
Head Coach: Nick Saban
Offensive Coordinator: Lane Kiffin
Defensive Coordinator: Jeremy Pruitt
2015 record 14–1 (7–1 SEC)
Returning Starters
Offense: 6
Defense: 5
Key Losses
Jacob Coker-QB, Kenyan Drake-RB, Richard Mullaney-WR, Ryan Kelly-C, Dominick Jackson-OT, Derrick Henry-RB, Jarran Reed-DE, Denzel Devall-DE, Dillon Lee-LB, Reggie Ragland-LB, Cyrus Jones-CB, Geno Matias-Smith-FS, A’Shawn Robinson-NG (NFL). Kirby Smart-DC (Georgia HC)
Offense
The Alabama Crimson Tide are the gold standard in college football. Head Coach Nick Saban guided his team to its 4th national title in the last 7 seasons. The Tide head into the 2016 season with what seems like the same question, a first year quarterback. The Tide have won their last three titles with first-year starters (McElroy, McCarron, Coker). Cooper Bateman, sophomore David Cornwell, redshirt freshman Blake Barnett, and freshman Jalen Hurts will battle for the signal caller duties. Whoever wins out will certainly have some explosive weapons to throw to. Wide Receivers Calvin Ridley, ArDarius Stewart, and Tight End O.J. Howard emerged in a big way down the stretch of the 2015 season and look to ride that wave into the 2016 campaign. Star junior left tackle Cam Robinson will try to put away a tumultuous offseason and focus on things on the field as he leads a rebuilt offensive line with senior Alphonso Taylor anchoring the right side. Derrick Henry has moved on but in typical Crimson Tide fashion, talented running backs are plentiful. Damian Harris is a name many aren’t familiar with but is very consistent between the tackles and to add a little thunder to his lightning, Bo Scarborough, who is very similar in stature to Henry.
Defense
Jeremy Pruitt returns to take over a defense that may be better the previous iteration. Kirby Smart has returned home as the Head Coach of the Georgia Bulldogs but life goes on in Tuscaloosa. The scheme will stay the same. The days of lumbering slow interior defensive lineman in the 34 defense are over. The Crimson tide have opted for more athletic bodies in the trenches, which has proven to help in an ever evolving college game dominated by spread offenses.
In past seasons the Crimson Tide defense has lost the likes of Courtney Upshaw, Dont’a Hightower, Dre Kirkpatrick, and struggled the following season. The 2015 Alabama defense lost a host of talent in the front seven as well as a two-way player in defensive back Cyrus Jones, who was a primary return man. The 2016 iteration of the Alabama defense will more than make up for the losses on both ends. Defensive Lineman Jonathan Allen spurned the NFL to come back to handle unfinished business. Reuben Foster has waited his turn and has improved by leaps and bounds. Tallying 73 tackles last season, which was good for second, Foster has improved in pass coverage and finds his way into opposing teams’ backfields. This is Foster’s defense now and his fingerprints will be all over it by seasons end. Pass Rusher Tim Williams recorded 10.5 sacks coming off the bench in obvious passing situations. Now being thrust into a starting role, the former ESPN 300 member looks to wreak havoc on all opposing quarterbacks. Alabama boasts one of the best secondaries in the nation. With Minkah Fitzpatrick, Marlon Humphrey, Eddie Jackson and Tony Brown all coming back, teams will really find it hard to throw the ball.
Special Teams.
The Tide rarely have weaknesses but if any it would be their kicking game. Kicker Adam Griffith garnered second-team All-SEC honors last season after connecting on 23 of his final 28 field goal attempts, but missed four of his five field goal attempts during Alabama’s spring game in April. When the Tide seem to struggle the most is when their kickers don’t cash in. Saban and Co. will need to have this fixed before it becomes an issue.
Biggest Concern Heading into 2016
Many fans will point to the quarterback but 3rd down will be the biggest question mark for the Tide this season. The 2015 offense converted a mere 37% of 3rd down chances, the team hasn’t been below 40% since 2009. The Tide have to covert at a high clip to keep their eventual first year quarterback in rhythm and sustain drives.
LSU
Location: Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Stadium: Tiger Stadium
Capacity: 102,321
Mascot: Mike the Tiger
Conference: SEC
Schedule:
Head Coach: Les Miles
Offensive Coordinator: Dave Aranda
Defensive Coordinator: Cam Cameron
2015 Record: 9-3
Returning Starters
Offense: 9
Defense: 10
Key Losses
Vadal Alexander-OT; Jerald Hawkins-OT (NFL), Lamar Louis-SLB, Deion Jones-WLB, Jalen Mills-NB (NFL), Jamie Keehn-P
Offense: The Leonard Fournette Heisman campaign was in full tilt in 2015. Expect much of the same in 2016 and this time he isn’t coming alone. Sophomore Derrius Guice rushed for 436 yards last season and should give some much needed help to the Heisman hopeful. It’s not out of the realm of possibilities to see two 1,000 yard backs in Baton Rouge, behind an offensive line that didn’t lose much. With OC Cam Cameron no longer in the booth, Quarterback Brandon Harris, along with Wide Receiver duo Malachi Dupre and Travis Dural, look to give the offense a spark. Harris is the most gifted quarterback in the SEC but his talent has to meet the production at some point if the Tigers want to have College Football Playoff aspirations.
Defense:
The Tigers hang their hat on defense. With so many young players last season it’s amazing how they managed to be so good. With that being said, Dave Aranda will be the third defensive coordinator in the last three seasons bringing a new 3-4 defense with him. ends Arden Key and Lewis Neal will be asked to be more stand-up, outside rushers but Aranda won’t abandon the traditional hand in the dirt approach that has produced so many great defensive linemen at LSU. Aranda is preaching a more aggressive take with this defense. In the middle of this defense is Kendall Beckworth. His talents will be heavily relied upon as the linebacking corp is thin, which gives opportunities for young guys to get playing time. The defensive backfield is where LSU will be able to flex its muscle the most. Tre’Davious White returns for his senior season after leading his team in pass break ups in 2015. Jamal Adams earned second-team All-SEC honors due in large part to some big time hits and his four interceptions last season. Alongside him, Rickey Jefferson, a crafty veteran who can provide good coverage and leadership. The Tigers should be able to overcome some youth a bit better than last season with some entrenched leaders.
Special Teams
Trent Domingue was the primary place kicker for the Tigers going 23 for 27 in 2015. The Aussie infusion of talent has been a consistent trend. Aussie redshirt freshman Josh Growden may be tasked to replace the graduated Jamie Keehn, another Aussie who was LSU’s starting punter for the last three seasons.
Biggest Concern Going into 2016 Season
The struggles at quarterback have been apparent for years in Baton Rouge. Brandon Harris has to be more consistent on early downs. The Tigers’ running game will only carry them so far. Brandon Harris has to STEP UP.
Ole Miss
Location: Oxford, Mississippi
Stadium: Vaught-Hemingway Stadium
Capacity: 59,347
Mascot: Rebel
Conference: SEC
Schedule:
Head Coach: Hugh Freeze
Offensive Coordinator: Matt Luke, Dan Werner (Co-Coordinator)
Defensive Coordinator: Jason Jones, Dave Wommack (Co-Coordinator)
2015 Record: 10-3
Returning Starters
Offense: 6
Defense: 5
Key Losses
Jaylen Walton-RB, Cody Core-WR, Aaron Morris-OG, Ben Still-C, Justin Bell-OG, Fahn Cooper-OT, Laquon Treadwell-WR (NFL), Laremy Tunsil-OT (NFL), Channing Ward-DE, Woodrow Hamilton-NT, C.J. Johnson-MLB, Denzel Nkemdiche-OLB, Trae Elston-ROV, Mike Hilton-NB, Robert Nkemdiche-DT (NFL)
Offense: The Rebels return the top QB in the conference in Chad Kelly. Kelly threw for 4,042 yards and 31 touchdowns while taking down eventual SEC West and National Champion Alabama. That is where the good news comes to an end. J.D. Walton, Laquaon Treadwell, and Leremy Tunsil are all gone and the Rebels, despite their strong efforts in recruiting, are in rebuild mode. They are relying on Senior Akeem Judd and junior Jordan Wilkins in the backfield, and Washington transfer Damore’ea Stringfellow and Senior tight end Evan Engram in the passing game. Superstar recruit Greg Little will be tasked with replacing Tunsil and anchoring an inexperienced offensive line. The Rebels have enough talent to not fall out of contention but it will be on Chad Kelly to keep them afloat.
Defense: The Rebels have to replace star defensive tackle Robert Nkemdiche with pass rushers Marquis Haynes, who tied the school’s single season sack record with 10 and Fadol Brown. If Brown can become more consistent, he should be able to garner some future NFL attention along the way. Senior Issac Gross’ (who missed almost the entire 2015 season after neck surgery) rushing ability could be just what this Land Shark defense needs. The Rebels run a 4-2-5 defense, which places a lot of stress on their defensive backs. Graduate transfer Rommel Mageo and junior college transfer Detric Bing should be able to lend a hand to a defense that flew around last year. Senior Tony Conner returns at nickel back. Having to replace two starting safeties will be a tough task as well. The pass rush will be key early on until things are settled on the back end.
Special Teams:
Junior kicker Gary Wunderlich hit 19-of-25 field goal attempts to become the SEC’s top scorer at the position. He doubled as the team’s long-distance punter as well. The Rebels have not produced enough big plays in the return game but could improve on what is already a solid group on kick and punt coverage.
Biggest Concern Going into 2016 Season:
The offensive line is in shambles due to so many departures from last season. Chad Kelly will have to make quick decisions early and the running game will have to make do with what it has.
Texas A&M
Location: College Station, Texas
Stadium: Kyle Field
Capacity: 102,512
Mascot: Reveille
Conference: SEC
Schedule:
Head Coach: Kevin Sumlin
Offensive Coordinator: Noel Mazzone
Defensive Coordinator: John Chavis
2015 Record: 8-5
Returning Starters
Offense
Defense
Key Losses
Kyle Allen-QB, Kyler Murray-QB, Tra Carson-RB, Mike Matthews-C, Joseph Cheek-OG, Taylor Bertolet-K, Germain Ifedi-OT (NFL), Julien Obioha-NG, Alonzo Williams-DT, Brandon Williams-CB, De’Vante Harris-CB, Drew Kaser-P
Offense: The days of Johnny Football making miraculous plays are long gone. Both former 5-Star Quarterbacks Kyle Allen and Kyler Murray are both gone as well. It is up to Oklahoma transfer Trevor Knight and junior Jake Hubenak. Knight won the starting job in Spring and is exactly what this offense needs, a dual threat. Christian Kirk (80 receptions for 1,009 yards and 7 touchdowns as a true freshman) headlines a talented group of receivers. Senior Josh Reynolds, an All-SEC selection two years ago, has averaged 17 yards per catch and has 18 touchdown grabs in his career at A&M. Ricky Seals-Jones looks to build on a solid sophomore year in which he had 45 catches for 560 yards. The offensive line is up and down, along with a running game that has been nonexistent for the duration of Coach Kevin Sumlin’s tenure in College Station. The pass happy approach from the Big 12 still lingers in College Station. There might not be a next year to get this right. The clock is ticking
Defense: This is not your father’s ‘Wrecking Crew” defense. Headlined All-America junior Myles Garrett and senior Daeshon Hall who combined for 19.5 Sacks. There isn’t a ton of experience at the second and third levels of the defense. Otaro Alaka returns after missing almost all of the 2015 season with shoulder and elbow injuries. Safeties Armani Watts and Justin Evans are as good as any tandem in the SEC. Donovan Wilson, who led the team with five interceptions, excels in his role at nickel. Stopping the run has been the issue for the Aggies since they joined the SEC and that won’t change again.
Special Teams
The Aggies will have to replace both kicker and punter spots. Braden Mann is a true freshman and Daniel LaCamera has yet to attempt a collegiate field goal. Shane Tripuka punted twice last year. Christian Kirk and Speedy Noil are entrenched as return men with ALL-SEC honors attached to their names. No worries there.
Biggest Concern Going into 2016 Season
Kevin Sumlin has set an unrealistic bar of excellence since taking over in college station. The Johnny Manziel Era was one of the best in college football history. Welcome back to reality in Aggie Land. Sumlin is starting to feel the heat and its only going to get hotter with expectations through the roof. The inability to sustain drives with a running game as well and the inability to stop the run will ultimately be the demise of this team, if these issues aren’t addressed.
Arkansas
Location: Fayetteville, Arkansas
Stadium: Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium
Capacity: 72,000 (expandable to 80,000)
Mascot: Tusk III
Conference: SEC
Schedule:
Head Coach: Bret Bielema
Offensive Coordinator Dan Enos
Defensive Coordinator Rob Smith
2015 Record: 8-5
Returning Starters
Offense: 5
Defense: 9
Key Losses: Brandon Allen-QB, Sebastian Tretola-OG, Mitch Smothers-C, Jonathan Williams-RB, Hunter Henry-TE (NFL), Denver Kirkland-OT (NFL), Alex Collins-RB (NFL), DeMarcus Hodge-DT, Rohan Gaines-SS
Offense: Junior Austin Allen, the younger brother of three-year starter Brandon Allen takes over at quarterback. The Razorbacks have to replace two very talent running backs and the first tight end drafted in 2016 NFL Draft. With the insertion of the younger Allen, expect another heavy dose of the running game with caries split among Kody Walker, who suffered a broken foot midway through spring drills, Rawleigh Williams, who is coming off neck surgery, Damon Mitchell, and possibly blue-chip signee Devwah Whaley.
Keon Hatcher is back, along with fellow seniors Drew Morgan, Dominique Reed and Cody Hollister. Morgan, who blossomed with 10 TD catches, is coming off shoulder surgery. Reed’s speed and agility add an extra dimension. Jared Cornelius is a quality slot receiver. Jeremy Sprinkle takes over at tight end.
The bread and butter of this offense is the offensive line. While having to patch things up with converted defensive tackle Hjalte Froholdt playing left guard, while Brian Wallace and Colton Jackson could be the other two starters.
Defense:
In 2015 the hogs defense ranked 58th overall, struggling to slow spread offenses and giving up a bevy of big pass plays. This time around Jeremiah Ledbetter moved from end to tackle to provide an agile, explosive interior presence, and Taiwan Johnson is back at nose. The secondary is where the most improvement is needed. DB coach Paul Rhoads does get back Several veterans including cornerbacks Jared Collins, D.J. Dean, and Henre’ Toliver, safety Josh Liddell and versatile Kevin Richardson. Santos Ramirez and De’Andre Coley are big hitters at strong safety.
Special Teams:
This group struggled mightily with multiple kicks blocked, costing them game after game. Punter Toby Baker is primed for a big season after averaging 41.2 yards per punt in his first year as a starter. Cole Hedlund has to get better lift on his kicks after 9-of-15 on field goals.
Biggest Concern Going into 2016 Season
The Hogs have to learn to finish or they will continue to be middle of the pack or bottom feeders. It’s as plain and simple as that.
Auburn
Location: Auburn, Alabama
Stadium: Jordan-Hare Stadium
Capacity: 87,451
Mascot: Aubie
Conference: SEC
Schedule:
Head Coach: Gus Malzahn
Offensive Coordinator Rhett Lashlee
Defensive Coordinator: Kevin Steele
2015 Record: 7-6
Returning Starters
Offense: 6
Defense: 6
Key Losses
Ricardo Louis-WR, Melvin Ray-WR, Shon Coleman-OT (NFL), Peyton Barber-RB (NFL), Avery Young-OT (NFL), DaVonte Lambert-DE, Cassanova McKinzy-BUCK, Kris Frost-LB, Justin Garrett-LB, Jonathan Jones-CB, Blake Countess-S
Offense: Jeremy Johnson had the most disappointing season any quarterback could have had in a long time. With Auburn pre-ordained as the sleeper national champion and expected to set records for offensive production, that all came to a halt after a couple weeks in 2015. Johnson looked lost and his back up Sean White didn’t look any better. JUCO transfer John Franklin III could prove to be the answer to its issues thanks to his speed in the zone-read attack. Peyton Barber took off for the NFL and Roc Thomas decided to transfer. It will be up to former five star running back Kerryon Johnson to carry the load after Jovon Robinson was recently dismissed. Johnson has big-time play ability and should be featured in the offense. The offensive line was simply okay while the receivers do lose two solid players in Ricardo Louis and Melvin Ray but should be fine if the quarterback position can improve, and it should, or the Tigers are doomed.
Defense
Kevin Steele has a monster on his hands. With Carl Lawson, Montravious Adams, Carlton Davis, and a host of others returning, the defense will be able to carry this team. The pass rush gets an early season test as they face DeShaun Watson & Co. Tre’ Williams and Illinois graduate transfer T.J. Neal lead a thin linebacker corp that loses 601 career tackles. If the pass rushers can harass quarterbacks early, this defense could be scary.
Special Teams
Daniel Carlson has a big leg and showed it off last year with a 50-yard bomb. Returning for another year should keep points on the board. Kevin Phillips emerged a weapon last year with a whopping 41.0-yard average, 17 inside the 20-yard line. Being able to flip the field and give opposing offenses long drives could be paramount to a dominant defense that will need to carry a struggling offense.
Biggest Concern Going into 2016 Season
It seems to be a recurring theme but the quarterback position has to be addressed or it won’t matter how good this defense is, the Tigers will crash and burn again.
Mississippi State
Location: Starkville, Mississippi
Stadium: Davis Wade Stadium
Capacity: 61,337
Mascot: Bully
Conference: SEC
Schedule
Head Coach: Dan Mullen
Offensive Coordinator: Billy Gonzales, John Hevesy
Defensive Coordinator: Peter Sirmon
2015 Record: 9-4
Returning Starters
Offense: 7
Defense: 6
Key Losses
Dak Prescott-QB, Darrion Hutcherson-TE, Rufus Warren-OT, Justin Malone-OG, De’Runnya Wilson-WR (NFL), Ryan Brown-DE, Zach Jackson-LB, Will Redmond-CB, Taveze Calhoun-CB, Kendrick Market-SS, Beniquez Brown-LB (NFL), Chris Jones-DT (NFL)
Offense:
The Bulldogs have to replace a school legend in Dak Prescott who set record after record after record. Whether it is Redshirt sophomore Nick Fitzgerald, Brandon Holloway, Aeris Williams, or Ashton Shumpert, don’t be surprised if it’s another season in which the Bulldogs’ leading rusher is their quarterback. Fred Ross had 88 catches for 1,007 yards as a junior, leading a group that includes deep threat Donald Gray and slot options Gabe Myles and Malik Dear.
The offensive line gave up 32 sacks (including 9 vs Alabama) in 2015; three starters return from that porous unit that will need to protect a first year starter.
Defense:
New Defensive Coordinator Peter Sirmon from USC has brought in a new 3-4 defense and looks to take advantage of Defensive end A.J. Jefferson, who led the way last season, recording 13.5 tackles for a loss and five sacks as a junior. Linebacker Richie Brown turned down the NFL in order to stay for his senior year. A top-five tackler in the SEC, Brown will stop the run and rack up a ton of tackles. Will Coleman is a former defensive end, but he’s been moved to a hybrid role in the 3-4 look — as the Viper, Coleman will often stand up at the line of scrimmage and could rush the passer or drop back into coverage. But Brandon Bryant is the star in this defense. With three interceptions and 63 tackles as a redshirt freshman, he is a prototypical ball-hawking safety that can also play the run. Look for a lot of plays to be made this season.
Special Teams
Both Punter Logan Cooke and kicker Westin Graves are solid. Fred Ross is sure-handed on punts and can get a few yards when given the opportunity.
Biggest Concern Going into 2016 Season
Finding a quarterback is going to be tough. Dan Mullen will need to decide quickly. Replacing a legend is never easy but it’s time to move on in a hurry.
Tennessee
Location: Knoxville, Tennessee
Stadium: Neyland Stadium
Capacity: 102,455
Mascot: Smokey
Conference: SEC
Schedule:
Head Coach: Butch Jones
Offensive Coordinator: Mike DeBord
Defensive Coordinator: Bob Shoop
2015 Record: 9-4
Returning Starters
Offense: 10
Defense: 8
Key Losses
Von Pearson-WR, Kyler Kerbyson-OT, Mack Crowder-OG, Marquez North-WR (NFL), Owen Williams-DT, Curt Maggitt-DE, LaDarrell McNeil-SS, Brian Randolph-FS
Offense: The Vols offense keeps knocking on the door year in and year out, of being a threat to dethrone the Gators and Bulldogs as consistent winners in the east. Starting isn’t the problem. The Vols have to finish when it matters. Quarterback Joshua Dobbs and standout running backs Alvin Kamara and Jalen Hurd are the stars of the best rushing attack in the SEC. Dobbs will need to develop more as a passer to take the Vols from being a contender to a championship caliber team. Hurd is only 892 yards away from being the all-time leading rusher in school history, while Kamara, the former Alabama transfer is proving he is an SEC-Caliber back, carving out his own role on an explosive roster filled with playmakers. Veteran wide receivers Josh Smith and Josh Malone look to be more consistent while gaining chemistry with Dobbs in the passing attack that needs a lot of work.
The offensive line returns four starters, with Guard Jashon Robertson anchoring the Vols up front, if he’s healthy.
Defense: New defensive coordinator Bob Shoop inherits a talented defense on all three levels. Linebacker Jalen Reeves-Maybin is described by head coach Butch Jones as the “Heart and Soul” of the Vols defense. Reeves-Maybin is joined by Darrin Kirkland Jr., forming one of the top linebacker tandems in the league.
The defensive line is where depth will become an issue. While Derek Barnett has emerged as one of the best pass rushers in the conference, the interior is light despite the mammoth that is 6’3″, 344-pound tackle Kahlil McKenzie. The Vols face run heavy teams in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina in the East to get where they want to eventually end up.
The secondary features Cameron Sutton, who came back for a crack at an SEC Title. Safety will need to be addressed.
Special Teams: Evan Berry is a threat to take every kickoff to the house and finished a fraction of a yard away from breaking the NCAA’s all-time single-season record for return average. Cam Sutton was just as dangerous on punt returns. Trevor Daniel was a pleasant surprise at punter. He can flip the field and be a coach’s best friend, with a defense as talented as this.
Biggest Concern Going into 2016 Season: The Vols have not been able to finish in the Butch Jones era. Is this the year or will they succumb to the same fate?
Florida
Location: Gainesville, Florida
Stadium: Ben Hill Griffin Stadium
Capacity: 88,548
Mascot: Albert E. Gator
Conference: SEC
Schedule
Head Coach: Jim McElwain
Offensive Coordinator: Doug Nussmeier
Defensive Coordinator: Geoff Collins
2015 Record: 10-4
Returning Starters
Offense: 6
Defense: 7
Key Losses Jake McGee-TE, Trip Thurman-OG, Mason Halter-OT, Will Grier-QB, Demarcus Robinson-WR (NFL), Kelvin Taylor-RB (NFL), Jon Bullard-DE, Antonio Morrison-MLB, Brian Poole-CB, Vernon Hargreaves-CB (NFL), Alex McCalister-DE (NFL), Keanu Neal-S (NFL)
Offense: Florida Gators had five different starting quarterbacks, three offensive coordinators, and some of the nation’s least-productive attacks in the Will Muschamp era. Jim McElwain was brought in to infuse some life into a once high-powered Gators offense. For the first few weeks of the season, under then quarterback Will Grier, The Gators seemed to be back to their old ways, even dropping a staggering 38 points on then SEC West leader Ole Miss. Grier was subsequently suspended by the NCAA for using PED’s and the Gators offense fell apart under Treon Harris. McElwain will be breaking in their now 9th quarterback since Tim Tebow’s final season, in 2009, Luke Del Rio, son of Oakland Raiders head coach Jack Del Rio.
Jim McElwain based his success in previous stops at Alabama and Colorado St. on a tough, physical rushing attack. Jordan Scarlett should emerge as the leader in the backfield. Keep an eye on JUCO transfer Mark Thompson who is a thumper that can make even the most physical linebacker quiver.
Explosive Receiver Antonio Callaway is a playmaker. Averaging 17.6 yards per catch, reaching the end zone six times in 2015, was a good start but he has to stay out of trouble off the field and continue to improve on the field.
Defense: The Gators ranked fourth in the SEC in both total defense and scoring defense in 2015. Carrying an abysmal Gators offense took a toll late in the season as they gave up 503 yards to Michigan during a 41–7 Citrus Bowl drubbing.
The Gators boast one of the top secondaries in the nation, featuring All-SEC cornerback Jalen Tabor, Junior cornerback Quincy Wilson, and senior safety Marcus Maye.
Defensive tackle Caleb Brantley, Defensive end Cece Jefferson, and Senior end Bryan Cox Jr. should be able to put pressure on quarterbacks while being equally effective against the run. With young talented ends Keivonnis Davis and Jabari Zuniga, the depth is there for a deep rotation.
Special Teams: Eddy Pineiro, best known for kicking a 77-yard field goal on YouTube replaces the poor play of Austin Hardin. Punter Johnny Townsend is among the nation’s best and averaged 45.4 yards per kick in 2015.
Biggest Concern Going into 2016 Season: When the Gators solidify their quarterback position everything will fall into place. Luke Del Rio is the starter for now but if he falters expect to see Purdue transfer Austin Appleby.
Georgia
Location: Athens, Georgia
Stadium: Sanford Stadium
Capacity: 92,746
Mascot: Uga & Hairy Dawg
Conference: SEC
Schedule:
Head Coach: Kirby Smart
Offensive Coordinator: Jim Chaney
Defensive Coordinator: Mel Tucker
2015 Record: 10–3
Returning Starters
Offense: 8
Defense: 6
Key Losses: Greyson Lambert-QB, Quayvon Hicks-FB, Malcolm Mitchell-WR, John Theus-OT, Kolton Houston-OT, Marshall Morgan-K, Keith Marshall-RB (NFL), Sterling Bailey-DE, James DeLoach-DE, Chris Mayes-NT, Jordan Jenkins-JACK, Jake Ganus-MLB, Collin Barber-P, Leonard Floyd-SLB (NFL)
Offense: Mark Richt had fifteen successful years in Athens but competing for or winning SEC Championships was not enough for the Bulldog faithful and a change was made. Georgia welcomes home Kirby Smart, a former player to take the reins. The Dawgs offense was riddled with injuries in 2015. The passing game ranked 83rd in the nation and after running back Nick Chubb went down with a gruesome knee injury the offense just seemed to sputter. QB guru Jim Chaney was brought in to develop five-star freshman Jacob Eason, who is expected to battle for the starting slot. Don’t rule out junior Brice Ramsey and his strong arm though. Offensive line coach Sam Pittman was pried away from Arkansas, even if it was at a steep price of a three-year contract at $650,000 per season.
The question on every Bulldog fan’s mind is how will star running back Nick Chubb look after returning from torn ACL in 2015? Backup Sony Michel (who rushed for more than 1,000 yards despite starting only six games last year) returns, but after breaking his arm in an offseason ATV accident don’t expect to see him early on. That leaves stalwart backup Brendan Douglas, who stepped in after Todd Gurley went down a few years ago. This is familiar territory for him.
Terry Goodwin and Isaiah McKenzie are speedsters at wide receiver, with the latter being one of the most explosive return men in the nation.
Defense: Former defensive coordinator Jeremy Pruitt did not leave the cupboard bare in Athens. The Bulldogs had the best pass defense in the nation, statistically. Those stats were a little deceiving, due to a weak schedule that included facing two triple option offenses. Alabama, a predominantly run based offense, seemed to pick them apart. Safety Dominick Sanders was first-team All-SEC and anchors a very talented group.
Special Teams: Isaiah McKenzie is a speedster, don’t blink or you will miss him. In just two seasons he has already tied Georgia’s school record for return touchdowns and punt return touchdowns. Marshall Long was signed to be the punter. The placekicking job will be occupied by a walk-on. Close games could yield mixed results.
Biggest Concern Going into 2016 Season: The running theme in the conference is quarterback play and it continues here. The battle between eventual first year starter Brice Ramsey or Freshman Jacob Eason is going to be a battle that Kirby Smart will have to choose wisely.
Kentucky
Location: Lexington, Kentucky
Stadium: Commonwealth Stadium
Capacity: 61,000
Mascot: Blue, Scratch and The Wildcat
Conference: SEC
Schedule:
Head Coach: Mark Stoops,
Offensive Coordinator: Eddie Gran, Darrin Hinshaw
Defensive Coordinator: D.J. Eliot
2015 Record: 5–7
Returning Starters
Offense: 9
Defense: 4
Key Losses
LB Josh Forrest, DT C.J. Johnson, LT Jordan Swindle, LB Jason Hatcher, QB Patrick Towles, S A.J. Stamps
Offense: The Wildcats are breaking in their third Offensive Coordinator in three years. There is a renewed sense of optimism with new co-coordinators Eddie Gran and Darrin Hinshaw from Cincinnati.
Quarterback Patrick Towles lost the job to Drew Barker late despite a subpar performance completing 50 percent of his passes (35-of- 70) for 364 yards, with one touchdown and two interceptions in 2015. He will have to improve on his production if he wants to keep the job.
junior All-SEC contender Boom Williams, senior Jojo Kemp and sophomore Mikel Horton give the Wildcats a three headed monster at running back which should help take the pressure of Barker early on.
Senior center Jon Toth anchors an offensive line that returns four of five starters but needs to improve in obvious passing situations after ranking 85th nationally in sacks allowed (30 Sacks allowed) last season.
Defense: Let’s start with the good. The strength of the defense is the secondary, led by SEC All-Freshman corner Chris Westry. Seniors Blake McClain, Marcus McWilson and J.D. Harmon.
The rest of the defense will be a struggle as they only return just one full-time starter in the front seven. Sophomore Outside Linebackers Denzil Ware and Josh Allen will have to pick up the slack after the offseason dismissal of senior outside linebacker Jason Hatcher. A pair of FBS transfers will have to be enough to patch the porous defense for now until the younger players catch up.
Special Teams: UK’s return game has added little excitement in the Stoops era, but Sihiem King showed potential on kickoffs.
Biggest Concern Going into 2016 Season: Late game collapses on offense have to come to an end. The offense will have to carry the team after so much turnover on defense.
Vanderbilt
Location: Nashville, Tennessee
Stadium: Vanderbilt Stadium
Capacity: 40,550
Mascot: Mr. Commodore
Conference: SEC
Schedule:
Head Coach: Derek Mason
Offensive Coordinator: Andy Ludwig
Defensive Coordinator: Derek Mason
2015 Record: 4–8
Returning Starters
Offense: 8
Defense: 8
Key Losses
Steven Scheu-TE, Jake Bernstein-OG, Spencer Pulley-C, Caleb Azubike-DE, Darreon Herring-ILB, Andrew Williamson-SS, Jahmel McIntosh-FS, Stephen Weatherly-OLB (NFL)
Offense: Kyle Shurmur returns as the presumed 2016 starter to an offense that averaged just 327 yards and 15.2 points per game, and scoring more than 17 points just three times. The youth movement should pay off and it can’t get any worse… or can it?
Ralph Webb followed a 907-yard freshman season with 1,152 yards as a sophomore — the second-highest single-season total in school history. Webb will be the heavily relied on due to the lack of outside weapons.
The 2015 team converted just 21-of-33 of their opportunities inside the 20, with just six field goals and with five of the 15 touchdowns coming against Austin Peay. If the Commodores want to not only keep Mason off the hot seat but also move up the SEC EAST food chain, they have to do better.
Defense: Head coach Derek Mason took over the defense and results were almost instantly productive. With an offense that gave the team virtually nothing, it’s going to be important for the defense to hold teams all season long.
Zach Cunningham and Nigel Bowden should dominate against the run, while Nehemiah Mitchell can work on the end or at linebacker as a hybrid type player.
You won’t catch the front seven blowing up the run or posting massive sack numbers, but a smart veteran group of upperclassmen won’t make a whole slew of mistakes.
Torren McGaster is among the best in the SEC – and wit Oren Burks a solid safety who can pop against the run.
Special Teams: Improvement in the return game is key. Opponents averaged 15.1 yards per punt return to Vanderbilt’s 6.5 yards per return. Good field position can impact any game and give an anemic offense a shot in the arm.
Biggest Concern Going into 2016 Season
The offense has to improve as a whole and quickly. In a rough and rugged SEC with high powered physical offenses Derek Mason can’t expect his defense to hold teams to under 14 to 17 points every game.
Missouri
Location: Columbia, Missouri
Stadium: Faurot Field
Capacity: 71,168
Mascot: Truman the Tiger
Conference: SEC
Schedule:
Head Coach: Barry Odom
Offensive Coordinator: Josh Heupel
Defensive Coordinator: DeMontie Cross, Ryan Walters
2015 Record: 5–7
Returning Starters
Offense: 5
Defense: 8
Key Losses
Offense: Missouri was the epitome of bad in 2015. Finishing second to last in in the nation averaging just 13.6 points per game and failing to score more than eight points in five of the last seven games. Combine that with issues at quarterback and injuries, and off-field distractions, the 2016 couldn’t come soon enough.
Former Oklahoma offensive coordinator Josh Heupel looks to bring his up-tempo attack that gets the ball out of the quarterback’s hands quickly to a plethora of weapons while stressing the defense in a short and intermediate passing game. Drew Lock is that quarterback, and he’s built for the job. But he needs the weapons around him to work.
The top two returning producers combining for just 56 catches for 676 yards and seven scores. This group has to step up.
Defense: The offensive woes of 2015 were overshadowed by a nasty defense that could get after opposing quarterbacks. Ends Charles Harris and Walter Brady, and tackles Josh Augusta, Rickey Hatley and Terry Beckner Jr., were stalwarts.
Cornerback Aarion Penton and safety Anthony Sherrils combined for 8.5 tackles for a loss, 14 passes defensed, and two forced fumbles last season, and look to continue the trend.
Barry Odom has the pieces in place to show multiple 3-4 and 4-3 fronts and with the consistency on the back end, the defense should be the least of his worries.
Special Teams: Punter Corey Fatony averaged 42.9 yards per kick last year, but the Tigers must replace longtime placekicker Andrew Baggett. The return game was one of the worst in the nation. Improvement has to come at some point.
Biggest Concern Heading into 2016: Weapons for QB Drew Lock have to emerge or it will be another long year for an already struggling offense.
South Carolina
Location: Columbia, South Carolina
Stadium: Williams-Brice Stadium
Capacity: 80,250
Mascot: Cocky
Conference: SEC
Schedule:
Head Coach: Will Muschamp
Offensive Coordinator: Bryan Mcclendon, Kurt Roper
Defensive Coordinator: Travaris Robinson
2015 Record: 3–9
Returning Starters
Offense: 5
Defense: 8
Key Losses
WR-Pharoh Cooper (NFL), QB Connor Mitch (Transfer)
Offense: Pharoh Cooper left for the NFL and took the Gamecocks offense with him. Quarterback Connor Mitch has transferred as well, leaving Will Muschamp scrambling to not only find a signal caller but also dynamic perimeter weapons. At the start of spring, the Gamecocks listed five scholarship quarterbacks. Perry Orth (collarbone) and sophomore Lorenzo Nunez (knee) were unable to complete spring practice due to injuries, Freshman Brandon McIlwain emerged ahead of Michael Scarnecchia.
Junior tailback David Williams finally has emerged as the team’s starter while Sophomore Deebo Samuel, who is explosive, is the only proven playmaker at wide receiver. Tight ends Hayden Hurst and Kevin Crosby should be able to pick up the slack for the lack of playmakers on the outside. This offense is in the worst way right now. Recruiting over the next few seasons will be the only solution.
Defense: Linebacker Skai Moore was the most dynamic player for the Gamecocks defense. Moore was ruled out for the 2016 season due to offseason neck surgery. Ranking 99th in the nation in sacks with 20 and 102nd in tackles for a loss with 64 last year, this defense can’t go anywhere else but up.
Muschamp employs a “Buck” position that is a hybrid Defensive End/Linebacker, that sophomore Boosie Whitlow should fit well. Pressure on the quarterback is key in this defense. Muschamp doesn’t like to bring more rushers than he has to.
Special Teams: Senior Elliott Fry, a former walk-on, will handle field goals and extra points for the fourth consecutive year. Senior Sean Kelly will be the punter, and senior Drew Williams will be the long-snapper. The return game is where the issues arise. Deebo Samuels may have to be a multifaceted talent this year just to spark a nonexistent offense.
Biggest Concern Going into 2016 Season: Expectations are going to be through the roof following the Spurrier era. Fans will have to temper their expectations. A 4-8 or 7-6 season is very realistic based on the talent level or lack thereof on this team. Patience folks…. Patience.
Fred Perdue for War Room Sports
Follow and Interact with Fred on social media @FPerdueSports
