SEC Football:  The East’s Most Important Defensive Players

Nov 8, 2014; Nashville, TN, USA; Vanderbilt Commodores defensive lineman Nifae Lealao (77) during the second half against the Florida Gators at Vanderbilt Stadium. The Gators won 34-10. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

Vanderbilt’s defensive line is most likely the Commodores’ most talented position group on the entire team.  Between Adam Butler, Caleb Azubike and Nifae Lealao, the Commodores have a respectable SEC position group.

Being respectable may not sound like much, but it will be the lead group for Vanderbilt.  Their most important player is nose guard Nifae Lealao.  Teams will likely try to run the ball against Vanderbilt and now show too much to their upcoming competition.

If Lealao can clog the middle and force Vanderbilt’s opponents abandon their original gameplan, all the better for the ‘Dores.  Making teams adjust will be their best shot at ending their SEC losing streak.

Next: Kentucky