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The SEC has been known to put out some great defensive players over the years but none is more feared by quarterbacks and lineman alike than the defensive end. Speed has always been a great equalizer in the sport of football but very few conferences can boast the combination of sheer size and speed the SEC brings to the table at the position.
That said look for some great talented up and comers who are ready to carry the banner in to 2014.
Here are the Top 5 Defensive Ends for 2014:
Honorable Mention: Carl Lawson(Auburn), Markus Golden(Missouri)
Lawson will be an absolute beast for Auburn’s defensive front as he racked up 20 tackles, 7.5 for a loss, four sacks seven quarterback hurries and two forced fumbles as a freshman. Some consider him to be one of the fastest rising stars in the SEC. 2014 will tell the tale.
5. Danielle Hunter, LSU (JR)
4. Ray Drew, Georgia (SR)
3. Alvin Dupree, Kentucky (SR)
2. Dante Fowler, Florida (JR)
1. Trey Flowers, Arkansas (SR)
Unless you’re an LSU fan you may or may not know about Danielle Hunter. The upside to him is so large that some have predicted he could be LSU’s next great DE. It’s expected for him to have a coming out party in the SEC for 2014 after racking up 57 tackles, eight for a loss, three sacks and five quarterback hurries. Look for Chavis to have this defense ready to redeem itself in 2014 with Hunter being a leader on the defense.
Drew had a great 2013 season but will look to have an even greater season in 2014 with the new edition of defensive staff that Richt has been able to assemble. Drew managed to tally up 43 tackles, eight for a loss, six sacks and 12 quarterback hurries. Add his aggressive pass rush with the returning linebackers and Georgia’s defense could be one of the best in the nation in 2014.
Alvin was one of the bright spots for Kentucky’s defensive last season and returns for his senior year to add to those numbers. He silently went through the SEC racking up 61 tackles, 9.5 for a loss and seven sacks. What makes him so dangerous is his versatility as he can play at either end or even outside linebacker. With those type of numbers offenses are going to have to make sure to be very aware of where he lines up this season.
The next guy really doesn’t need much of an introduction as he was the only real pass rush threat on Florida’s defense last season. That said he has now catapulted himself to the top of the list for next year’s draft eligible players that scouts will be watching in 2014 and maybe even jockeying for come next May. Fowler brought on this attention tallying up 50 tackles, 10.5 for a loss, 3.5 sacks, seven quarterback hurries and three forced fumbles. Keep your eye on him. Pretty sure the NFL will.
The best new Bielema and staff received going into the post-season was Trey Flower’s decision to return for his senior season. It goes without saying that after racking up 44 tackles, 13.5 for a loss and five sacks he’ll be the best on the Hogs’ defense. Couple him with Darius Philon and watch out SEC the Razorback defense could make some noise in 2014.
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