6. Tennessee- Offense was the reason for the Vols’ slump last season. The return of David Cutcliffe should solve that problem, but he will have to overcome four new OL starters. The Vol defense will not be as experienced from both a starting and depth standpoint as in past years with questions at LB and along the DL. Fulmer should be highly motivated to prove last year’s debacle was a fluke

7. Alabama- Questions about the secondary, quarterback and linebacker positions could relegate the Tide to a less successful season than most Tide fans may expect. However, a trademark of Coach Shula thus far has been very good defensive play. Offensive production and continued good defensive play will be the keys to a good season.

8. USC- Linebacker, offensive line and secondary positions must be solidified by young players with limited experience. The offense performed poorly from a statistical standpoint last season, but should improve substantially because of Spurrier’s expertise and the players knowing the system better. An easy schedule helps.

NOTE: The next four teams appear to be just as equal to each other as the previous three teams appear to be. These four teams will struggle to have a winning season. Kentucky and MSU could give some of the better teams fits on a given Saturday. Ole Miss could be a surprise if their JC recruits and some of the highly-touted freshmen can contribute significantly.

9. Kentucky- Last season, the Cats suffered through a disastrous season due in part to injuries. Several young players had to play and proved to be contributors. The Cats were somewhat competitive late in the season. The depth created because of the injuries could be beneficial in 2006.

10. MSU- Dog fans’ patience may be wearing thin with coach Croom. The defense has made some improvement since he became head coach, but the offense has been stagnant. Nothing on paper suggests the offense will be better. The defense should be average or above, which will give the Dogs some chances for victories.

11. Ole Miss- Last season was a tremendous downer for Rebel fans. It appeared the Rebs underachieved last season. There are a lot of holes to fill on defense and some key spots on offense to fill. The 2006 team will not be as experienced as the 2005 team.

12. Vanderbilt- The defense hasn’t made much improvement since Johnson took over as head coach. Vice versa, the offense made a great deal of improvement. The main reason was the excellent play of QB Cutler. Cutler has moved on to the NFL, so the offense should not be nearly as good.

For more detailed information about each team, both collectively and position-by-position, pick up a copy of PHIPPS 2006 SEC Preview. Order online or purchase through Books-A-Million and Hastings, as well as numerous convenience stores and selected newsstands throughout the Southeast.