Arkansas' 49-28 win at Texas Tech was a big one for the Hogs in the Bret Bielema era, perhaps the biggest to date. It's a sign of a program showing improvement after a rough 2013. In the aftermath, much of the discussion focused on the Razorbacks' running game, led by Alex Collins, Jonathan Williams and that big Arkansas offensive line. Rightfully so. But what is easy to overlook is the performance of the Razorbacks' defense, which took some body blows early but had an impressive second half, holding the high-powered Red Raiders to just seven points. New defensive coordinator Robb Smith's crew stood up to the challenge Texas Tech presented and helped Arkansas score a seminal win as a result.
Though they lost, Kentucky opened a lot of eyes on Saturday night in the Swamp. Taking Florida to three overtimes in a 36-30 loss is notable for a program that has been a cellar dweller. One of the reasons for the Wildcats' ability to compete is the increased talent on the field they've gathered in recruiting under coach Mark Stoops. Several of those young Wildcats, especially receiver Garrett Johnson, give Kentucky reason for hope in the future.
Alabama coach Nick Saban is often cited as one of the most detailed-oriented coaches around. That may be true, but it doesn't apply to every part of the game, apparently. Asked after Saturday's win over Southern Mississippi about the play of left guard Leon Brown, Saban admitted that he doesn't pay much attention to the offensive linemen. As a former quarterback and defensive back, he focuses on the skill players. He emphasized that the linemen are important but that he doesn't even "watch them during individual [drills]." You can see the video, where Saban smiles and jokes his way through the soliloquy, here.
Around the SEC
Tennessee's rebuilt offensive line needs work after a five-sacks-allowed performance vs. Oklahoma, but Butch Jones said he's sticking with his current group.
The 369 passing yards allowed by Florida was the most the Gators have given up since 2007. It is cause for concern in the Florida secondary.
Steve Spurrier said he doesn't know how high his team's confidence is or how much South Carolina is supposed to have after the win over Georgia.
Maty Mauk throws a lot of touchdowns. His percentage is higher than that of predecessors James Franklin, Blaine Gabbert, Chase Daniel and Brad Smith.
Freshman running back Ralph Webb has given Vanderbilt a consistent effort through three games.
Mark Richt discusses two pivotal penalties in Georgia' loss to South Carolina
Tweet of the day
Hahahaha, Billy Horschel doing the Gator Chomp on 18 after winning the Tour Championship and getting booed by Georgia fans.
— Dan Wolken (@DanWolken) September 14, 2014