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Sports Illustrated released its College Football preseason Top 25 rankings, which includes five SEC teams.
Alabama tops the list at No. 1 overall. SI noted that despite needing to replace starters at several positions, the Tide will still loaded on defense and should once again field one of the nation’s best front sevens.
LSU ranks No. 5 thanks to its plethora of talent at the skill positions including Leonard Fournette, Malachi Dupre and Travin Dural. But SI claimed Brandon Harris, who’s shown inconsistency in the past, will be deciding factor in the offense’s success.
Tennessee ranks No. 10 overall after showing vast improvements in 2015. Like many others, SI suggested the Vols’ returning lineup will benefit even more with the addition of defensive coordinator Bob Shoop. However, Joshua Dobbs will need to prove to be more of an aerial threat in big passing plays.
Georgia is the fourth SEC included at No. 15 overall. The list pointed out that the Bulldogs have plenty of talent on offense, but just as many questions. Kirby Smart needs to decide between veteran Greyson Lambert and five-star freshman Jacob Eason.
The Dawgs also have two of the league’s best running backs in Nick Chubb and Sony Michel, but must first prove that they are healthy. Georgia’s front seven also has talent, but lacks experience. Still, it does have potential to be a pass rushing threat in 2016.
Ole Miss is the final SEC team included at No. 19 overall. SI credited Chad Kelly as the conference’s “best returning starting quarterback” after leading every passing category in 2015. However, the Rebels need to fill several spots on their offensive line and will be without leading wide receiver Laquon Treadwell.
Ole Miss’ defense will also take a hit without do-everything defensive tackle Robert Nkemdiche, who decided to forego his senior season and declare for the 2016 NFL Draft.
Jason covers SEC football for Saturday Down South.
