Some will measure a team’s improvement by changes in win-loss record, division standings or final rankings. But when breaking down the season statistics, all those numbers often reveal that some teams which struggled overall in 2015 made great strides in certain areas.
Here’s a look at several key numbers, and who made progress throughout the season:
SCORING
Points per game:
The Rebels started the season by putting 70-plus points on the board in back-to-back games, and it was clear from the get-go that QB Chad Kelly provided a major boost. Tennessee and Arkansas can feel reassured about hiring new offensive coordinators (Mike DeBord and Dan Enos) after 2014. LSU is the only other SEC offense to have improved in points per game for 2015.
Points allowed:
The Commodores might not be happy with a 4-8 finish, but the defense improved significantly. Texas A&M’s hiring of John Chavis as defensive coordinator appears to have been a wise investment. It could be argued the three SEC East teams made this list from playing the weak offenses in the division.
TURNOVERS
Turnover margin:
The presence of 3-9 South Carolina on top of a most-important category is quite surprising, but turnovers were one area in which the Gamecocks did better this season. Winning the battle of the ball helped Alabama and Florida notch division championships. Vanderbilt has a long way to go, but is certainly moving in the right direction. For all of the criticism Les Miles faced this season, it’s surprising that LSU keeps popping up as an improved team in so many categories.
PROTECTION
Sacks:
Alabama’s elite defensive line led the way as the sack masters of the SEC. New defensive line coach Chris Rumph got the Gators chomping more quarterbacks. After the SEC champions, it’s surprising to see the Tigers, who feared the impact of losing Chavis, along with two lower SEC East teams.
Sacks allowed:
The Volunteers offensive line was aided by QB Joshua Dobbs’ mobility, but regardless, they took a huge step forward in 2015. Ole Miss had to start the season without stud LT Laremy Tunsil, but still managed to protect Kelly. LSU’s sack numbers were virtually guaranteed to go down with RB Leonard Fournette leading the offense. Kentucky got better, but not enough to improve its record (5-7).
THIRD DOWN SUCCESS
Third down conversion percentage:
Many SEC offenses fared much better third down in 2014 than this season. Highly criticized offenses from Vanderbilt and Kentucky actually did a better job staying on the field this season. For Tennessee, it’s another sign of progress for a team working its way back in the SEC East discussion.
Opponent third-down conversion percentage:
The first four teams all had head coaches or coordinators (Derek Mason, Jeremy Pruitt, Chavis, Nick Saban, Kirby Smart) with excellent defensive reputations, and it’s no surprise they got better on getting their offenses the ball back. Florida defensive coordinator Geoff Collins got fans and players to buy into his “Money Down” concept for third-down defense, and it appears to have paid dividends.
Andrew writes about sports to fund his love of live music and collection of concert posters. He strongly endorses the Hall of Fame campaigns of Fred Taylor and Andruw Jones.
