Alabama Football: Power Ranking 2022 SEC football defenses
By Ronald Evans
No. 4 – Arkansas Razorbacks
With linebacker Bumper Pool and safety Jalen Catalon, Sam Pittman has two strong players and two team leaders. Alabama transfer linebacker, Drew Sanders will provide an immediate boost. If the secondary can hold up, the Hogs can be good on defense. An offense that does not feature hurry-up and is capable on the ground, is an advantage to Sam Pittman’s defense that has some depth concerns.
No. 3 – Texas A&M Aggies
There is no truth to the rumor the Aggies will start six defensive linemen. Jimbo Fisher may be crazy but he is not that crazy. He has overstocked the position group, providing strong depth, but not much experience. The A&M secondary should be fine, though other than safety, Antonio Johnson, it is not outstanding. Linebacker is a question mark. If the Aggies’ offense is potent, the A&M defense should be good enough to rank as one of the SEC’s best.
No. 2 – Georgia Bulldogs
Kirby Smart’s defense will not be as good as last season. It will still be very good. Smart only has three starters returning for 2022. He does have a nucleus of talent to build around in defensive lineman, Jalen Carter, edge rusher Nolan Smith and defensive backs Chris Smith and Kelee Ringo. Smart has recruited so well, that the roster is filled with less proven talent, but there are some depth concerns in the front seven. The good news is an improved offense will mean the 2022 Georgia defense does not have to match last season.
Note: Check out this list of the best SEC football defensive players.
Midway through the season, I will (if not too embarrassed) re-visit these SEC Football Defense Power Rankings.