SEC Football: The East’s Most Important Defensive Players

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Nov 15, 2014; Athens, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Leonard Floyd (84) reacts after sacking Auburn Tigers quarterback Nick Marshall (14) during the second half at Sanford Stadium. Georgia defeated Auburn 34-7. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

Georgia’s most important defensive player in 2015 is used to having his teammates rely on him. He was voted the team’s defensive MVP in 2014. Junior OLB Leonard Floyd will have to continue his excellent play under defensive coordinator Jeremy Pruitt for the Bulldogs to win the East in 2015.

Floyd was named to Phil Steele’s Preseason All-America First Team and several other all conference and All America teams. Expectations are high for Floyd, but he has a habit of delivering. Floyd played in 12 games while making 11 starts in 2014. His durability will be key this season.

He led the Bulldogs with 6 sacks last year and will need to improve that number in 2015. Floyd forces fumbles, sacks the quarterback and is always in position to make a play. He is a supremely talented grinder that his teammates will hope to rely on all the way to an SEC Championship.

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