As the spring football season approaches, the SEC gears up for an exciting period of preparation and evaluation. Despite several teams opting out of traditional spring games, the intrigue surrounding various storylines remains high, making this season one to watch closely. Teams will be eyeing NCAA College Football Playoff hopes while navigating roster changes and player development.
Alabama Crimson Tide
2024 record: 9-4
Spring storyline: With coach Kalen DeBoer’s leadership following a pivotal first year without Nick Saban, there’s substantial pressure to reclaim a College Football Playoff spot. This off-season, the focus will be primarily on fortifying the offense, especially at quarterback. Notably, Ryan Grubb, previously with Washington, returns to their staff as the offensive coordinator.
Position of intrigue: After Jalen Milroe announced he would enter the NFL draft, Ty Simpson is seen as the frontrunner for the quarterback position. However, he faces competition from transfers like Austin Mack and promising freshman Keelon Russell, who turned heads during his high school career.
Player to watch: The offensive line proved itself last season by halving the number of sacks allowed. Key returning players, including left tackle Kadyn Proctor and center Parker Brailsford, will be vital as they strengthen the line, ensuring protection for whoever emerges as the starting quarterback.
Arkansas Razorbacks
2024 record: 7-6
Spring storyline: Coach Sam Pittman looks to reverse a trend of three-season performances with six or more losses. Facing a daunting schedule, the Razorbacks aim to identify their core players while creating depth across their roster.
Position of intrigue: Arkansas is determined to enhance its offensive line to minimize the sacks allowed. The addition of experienced transfers aims to improve protection for quarterback Taylen Green, who faced considerable pressure last season.
Player to watch: With key departures in the receiving corps, eyes will be on transfer Kam Shanks, who not only excelled in punt returns but also had impressive numbers as a receiver last season.
Auburn Tigers
2024 record: 5-7
Spring storyline: After consecutive losing seasons under coach Hugh Freeze, Auburn is searching for improvement. This spring, a robust focus on offensive capabilities, particularly at quarterback, will be crucial as they navigate a tough schedule.
Position of intrigue: Transfer quarterback Jackson Arnold faces significant expectations this spring. With a mixed starting history at Oklahoma, Arnold looks to solidify his leadership within a revamped Tigers’ offense.
Player to watch: Georgia Tech transfer Eric Singleton Jr. has potential as a standout playmaker after impressive seasons in the past, bolstering Auburn’s receiving group alongside returning talents.
Florida Gators
2024 record: 8-5
Spring storyline: Following a strong finish last season, coach Billy Napier looks to establish a consistent offensive flow, taking advantage of quarterback DJ Lagway’s emerging talent amidst a tough schedule.
Position of intrigue: Identifying reliable targets for Lagway is crucial with several top receivers departing. New recruits like J. Michael Sturdivant could make a significant impact.
Player to watch: Linebacker Aaron Chiles is poised to take over a crucial role on defense following the exit of key players. His physical prowess makes him a player to monitor closely.
Georgia Bulldogs
2024 record: 11-3
Spring storyline: The Bulldogs are concentrating on improving an offense that faltered at critical moments last season. With four new starters needed on the offensive line and a new quarterback stepping in, there’s work ahead to refine their attack.
Position of intrigue: The offensive line, once a stronghold, faces significant changes. Ensuring proficient protection will be vital for whoever takes the reins at quarterback.
Player to watch: Georgia’s receiver corps is under scrutiny after a season of dropped passes. Incoming transfers Zachariah Branch and Noah Thomas have the potential to revitalize the group, contributing to a more successful air attack.
Kentucky Wildcats
2024 record: 4-8
Spring storyline: Coach Mark Stoops is emphasizing a return to Kentucky’s blue-collar roots after a disappointing previous season. Building a resilient team after securing a significant influx of new players will be key.
Position of intrigue: The offensive line aims to regain its form with the introduction of new talent. With several transfers coming in, there’s potential for successful restructuring.
Player to watch: Quarterback Zach Calzada’s experience and leadership will be critical for the Wildcats, who need strong performances from their passing game.
LSU Tigers
2024 record: 9-4
Spring storyline: With quarterback Garrett Nussmeier returning, LSU is set to contend aggressively. Coach Brian Kelly’s off-season adjustments focus heavily on strengthening the roster.
Position of intrigue: Replacing four offensive line starters while integrating new transfers presents a challenge for Nussmeier and the offensive unit.
Player to watch: With key pass rushers departing, LSU is revitalizing its defensive front with significant new additions aimed at keeping pressure on opposing offenses.
Mississippi State Bulldogs
2024 record: 2-10
Spring storyline: Following a challenging season without an SEC win, coach Jeff Lebby faces a critical opportunity for rebuilding. Addressing defensive weaknesses will be crucial.
Position of intrigue: Seven new defensive linemen join the ranks aiming to elevate the defensive team’s performance after a rough season filled with struggles.
Player to watch: Quarterback Blake Shapen’s return from injury will be pivotal, as he is tasked with steering the offense moving forward.
Missouri Tigers
2024 record: 10-3
Spring storyline: Eliah Drinkwitz looks to lead the Tigers toward playoff contention. Integrating new quarterback Beau Pribula will be essential for maintaining success.
Position of intrigue: The offensive line needs rebuilding after losing starters. New transfers hope to fortify this unit.
Player to watch: Running back Ahmad Hardy comes from a standout season in the Group of 5. He will be crucial for the ground game.
Oklahoma Sooners
2024 record: 6-7
Spring storyline: An overhaul is essential for an Oklahoma offense that struggled mightily last season. Coach Brent Venables has made key staff changes to spark revival.
Position of intrigue: Following a year of injuries, the receiving corps looks to bounce back strongly, adding quality transfers for depth.
Player to watch: Defensive end R Mason Thomas offers a promising anchor on defense, key to improving overall performance.
Ole Miss Rebels
2024 record: 10-3
Spring storyline: With high expectations for playoff contention, Ole Miss scrambles to replace key defensive talent while maintaining momentum.
Position of intrigue: The Rebels’ line will be majorly restructured, with new players required to step up dramatically.
Player to watch: As the new quarterback, Austin Simmons garners attention following a solid performance filling in, pivotal for the Rebel’s success this season.
South Carolina Gamecocks
2024 record: 9-4
Spring storyline: Following a successful season, Shane Beamer’s task will be ensuring consistent performance. Fostering growth around key players becomes a priority.
Position of intrigue: The Gamecocks’ defensive front is bracing for improvement, even with significant graduation losses.
Player to watch: LaNorris Sellers shows promise as a dual-threat quarterback, potentially reshaping the Gamecocks’ offensive strategy.
Tennessee Volunteers
2024 record: 11-3
Spring storyline: After a successful playoff run, the Volunteers focus on replacing departed defensive talent while building upon their ground-breaking achievements.
Position of intrigue: The secondary’s youth garners attention, particularly the contributions of star safety Boo Carter.
Player to watch: The anticipated breakout season for quarterback Nico Iamaleava could be the catalyst for Tennessee’s chance at returning to the playoffs.
Texas Longhorns
2024 record: 13-3
Spring storyline: Arch Manning takes charge as the starting quarterback, spotlighted as a pivotal figure for Texas’ championship aspirations.
Position of intrigue: A remodeled offensive line faces immediate testing. New recruits will be tasked with ensuring Manning receives adequate protection.
Player to watch: Edge rusher Colin Simmons stands out as a key defensive force, having made an immediate impact last season.
Texas A&M Aggies
2024 record: 8-5
Spring storyline: Mike Elko initiates further structural changes following a letdown end to the previous season. Strong recruitment efforts aim to bolster their defense.
Position of intrigue: The return of their entire offensive line offers a boost, dependent on maintaining health among running backs.
Player to watch: Marcel Reed is seen as the future under center for the Aggies, emphasizing growth as the team approaches a new season.
Vanderbilt Commodores
2024 record: 7-6
Spring storyline: After a promising season, Clark Lea is eager to build sustained success while maintaining team morale and development.
Position of intrigue: Quarterback Diego Pavia, returning from an impactful season, will look to further energize the Commodores’ offense.
Player to watch: Pavia’s unique skill set makes him a must-watch quarterback, particularly with a renewed offensive line supporting his efforts this spring.
