For the second season in a row, the Auburn defense must replace its top pass-rusher. Last year, Jeff Holland took over the “Buck” position following Carl Lawson’s departure. Holland ended his college career with a monster season, logging 10 sacks, 22 quarterback hurries and 13 tackles for loss. The departure of Holland leaves big shoes to fill, but LB Deshaun Davis believes Auburn’s defensive line will still be the best in the country.

“I do think we have the best defensive line in the country, and I think you’re going to see that again this year,” Davis said at SEC Media Days.

The unit lacks star power, but one interpretation of the All-SEC selections points to Auburn’s defensive line being the most talented in the SEC. The Tigers did not have a defensive lineman named preseason All-SEC first team, but when second- and third-team selections are all tallied, AU has the most defensive linemen on the team overall. DT Derrick Brown made the second team while DT Dontavius Russell and DE Marlon Davidson were named to the third team. All three are returning starters from last year’s squad.

If the Tigers defensive line proves to be the best in the country this season, one would expect to see at least one of the above three linemen to be named first-team All-SEC in the postseason. The unit can also some bragging rights after the NFL Draft, but for now, it’s all about what they’re doing on Saturdays.

“You can turn on the film and judge for yourself,” Davis said. “Those guys just dominate the ball every single snap. They’re trying to create a new line of scrimmage and have the ability to pass rush.”