What we learned in the SEC West this spring

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Now that spring practice is done around the SEC, it’s time to take a look back at what we learned about the league over the course of the last couple of months.

Remember, everything we learn during spring practice is the gospel for the upcoming season. Really, it’s set in stone and lacks the ability to change or evolve. What we learn now is what we will see when the games are played.

Here’s what we know in the SEC West:

1. Ole Miss’ defensive line is stacked: According to defensive tackle Breeland Speaks, the Rebels could go three-deep at each defensive line position. And he thought that with Issac Gross (neck) out and Herbert Moore (ACL) limited this spring. Only two starters — ends Fadol Brown and Marquis Haynes — are back, but 10 lettermen return and ESPN 300 members Benito Jones (a five-star prospect) and Charles Wiley went through spring. Speaks is taking Robert Nkemdiche’s spot, and might be a bit faster and a have a little more juice than his predecessor. Haynes has 17.5 sacks in two seasons, while tackle D.J. Jones could be a destructive monster in the middle. Getting Gross back to rotate in the middle is big, and Victor Evans and Garrald McDowell bring even more athleticism to the front. Depth and experience will make this a dangerous unit to defend.

Tim Williams was impressive in the Alabama spring game with two sacks. AP Photo/LM Otero

2. Alabama should yet again be dominant on defense: Three potential first-round draft picks are gone, including two …

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