SEC’s Best in-Conference Games 2016: #2: Florida at Tennessee

Florida Offense vs. Tennessee Defense

Like many SEC teams, Florida had a quarterback competition this off-season. Unlike most other coaches, Jim McElwain has already chosen a winner. Luke Del Rio is the man for the Gators. Del Rio was a walk-on at Alabama, then he transferred to Oregon State, and now he’s the starter in Gainesville. It has been quite the journey. Now we will all see if it pays off.

At running back the Gators lost Kelvin Taylor to the NFL. That leaves three men competing for his vacated spot. They are: Jordan Scarlett, Jordan Cronkrite, and Mark Thompson. If Scarlett can fix his ball securities issues the job is probably his. If not then it’s probably Thompson’s. Cronkrite will provide good depth.

Antonio Callaway may be a one-man show at receiver this season, but it will be a show worth watching. Callaway is incredibly explosive, averaging 17.6 yards per touch a season ago. Junior Brandon Powell is also a returning starter. He offers a reliable, albeit less flashy, second option.

At offensive line the Gators return the entire left side of the line. They’ll be looking for Fred Johnson and Tyler Jordan to step up at right tackle and right guard respectively.

Last year Tennessee’s defense was solid, though not elite. They ranked 36th in the country in total defense. The good news for the Vols is that pretty much the entire unit is returning for another crack at the division crown.

Derek Barnett is an excellent pass rusher at defensive end, while his counterpart Corey Vereen is more of a veteran run-stuffer. Tackle Kahlil McKenzie has slimmed down in an effort to up his quickness and stamina. The Vols have good depth as well, particularly at end. Wherever Jonathan Kongbo plays expect him to be a terror.

At linebacker Jalen-Reeves Maybin will lead the way. His partner Darrin Kirkland Jr. will be right there with him. Together, they form the critical joint that the entire defense will pivot on. Cortez McDowell looks to man the other side of the linebacking corps.

Tennessee also has one of the premiere cornerbacks in the conference in Cameron Sutton. The only really glaring potential Achilles’ heel of the defense is the safety position. Both of last season’s starters are gone. Todd Kelly Jr. looks to be the man on one side, while the other side may be occupied by the explosive return man Evan Berry.

Advantage: Tennessee

Next: Special Teams and Coaching