Now that one half the season is over, following is an assessment of six SEC teams by alphabetical order. The other six will be posted tomorrown.

ALABAMA (4-2) - Some felt the Tide would be a little down this season, but they were rolling before the injury to QB Brodie Croyle. Defense has played well for most of the year, as has the running game. Continued strong play by the defense and development of adequate quarterback are essential to keeping the Tide rolling. The road is difficult because undefeated Southern Miss, Tennessee, Auburn and LSU comprise four of the final five games. GRADE: C+

ARKANSAS (3-2)- The Razorbacks have played better than most expected with a 3-2 record that includes a two-point loss to Texas and a 15-point loss to Florida. The loss to Florida was more competitive than the score. The offense has played very well, but the defense hasn’t been quite as good as past Hog defenses. The last half of the season could be a backbreaker. The Hogs still have to deal with Auburn, Georgia and LSU. GRADE: B-

AUBURN (6-0)- Perhaps the biggest surprise in the SEC this season. The defense, which lost several excellent players, was considered a liability heading into the season. But that has not been the case. QB Jason Campbell has become a real leader and has really excelled in the new offensive scheme. The running game is clicking on all cylinders. Only Arkansas, Georgia and Alabama may stand between the Tigers and an undefeated season. GRADE: A

FLORIDA(3-2): The Gators have failed in their two biggest tests (Tennessee and LSU). Their most impressive win came against Arkansas, although they failed to perfect the death roll in that game. The Hogs almost came from way back to have a shot at winning the game. Only LSU turnovers gave them a chance to defeat the Tigers. Wins against Georgia and FSU, the top teams on the remaining schedule, could salvage the season, as long as they hold serve against MSU, USC and Vanderbilt. GRADE: D+

GEORGIA (4-1): This season is probably reminding Dawg fans of the season under Jim Donnan that they were supposed to be a great team. Donnan’s team walked on eggshells and that may be the case this season. Although the defense has played consistently well, the offense, which should be a strength, has strugggled most of the season. Just when it looked like the offense had found its groove in blasting LSU, Tennessee’s defense shut it down. Wins against Arkansas, Florida and Auburn are critical. GRADE: C

KENTUCKY (1-4): Everyone felt the Wildcats would struggle on offense this season, but few expected the defense to play as poorly as it has. The Wildcats haven’t been competitive and even lost to Ohio at home. A dramatic turnaround must occur in the second half, but that is unlikely. Out of the six remaining games (USC, Auburn, MSU, Georgia, Vanderbilt and Tennessee), the Cats may win two (MSU, Vanderbilt).