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As regular readers of this column know, the author of this space is not lacking for self confidence. However, I know the limitations of my considerable powers of prognostication. This year’s SEC West is a crapshoot at best. This column has the potential to make me look very, very bad. That said, I’ll take that chance. Here…We…Go!
1. LSU. The Tigers return more talent than anyone else in the division. Tasmin Mitchell, Marcus Thorton, and Chris Johnson are a tremendous nucleus to build around for Trent Johnson. However, point guard continues to be a problematic spot for the Tigers. Freshman Chris Bass’ ability to handle the spot will determine how high the Tigers can climb.
2. Alabama. The good news is that Ronald Steele is back. A healthy season from the senior point guard would give the Tide a lottery pick talent at the most important position on the floor. The bad news is that Steele hasn’t been completely healthy since the ‘05-’06 season. JaMychal Green and Alonzo Gee are quality running mates for Steele as Mark Gottfried tries to get Alabama back to the NCAA Tournament and himself off the hot seat.
3. Ole Miss. Andy Kennedy’s squad is probably still a year away from making a run at an SEC title. Chris Warren, David Huertas, and Eniel Polynice give the Rebels a formidable perimeter triumverate. The key to the Ole Miss season will be how quickly a talented group of newcomers develops in the post.
4. Mississippi State. The Bulldogs suffered immense losses with the departures to the professional ranks of Charles Rhodes and Jamont Gordon and the transfer of Ben Hansbrough. My inclination was to pick the 6th in the West. However, Rick Stansbury is one of the most underappreciated coaches in America and Jarvis Varnardo and Barry Stewart are solid building blocks. If the newcomers can contribute, the Bulldogs will be better than expected.
5. Auburn. If you look at experience and returning production, the Tigers should be projected higher than this. That has been the case with Jeff Lebo’s squad before. Some guys are just snakebitten. There will be a new basketball coach on the Plains in ‘09-’10.
6. Arkansas. With Patrick Beverley now plying his trade for pay, John Pelphrey is essentially starting form scratch. The Hogs have a marvelous incoming class, but there isn’t enough experienced talent to expect much joy in Fayetteville this season.
Next up, the SEC East. Until then, stay classy, Volnation.
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The Arkansas fans are drinking the koolaid. Listen to the radio around here and they believe that JP will have them in contention.