Arkansas' continued progress has been interesting to see this season and one area they showed significant progress in is third-down success. Last season the Razorbacks were 54th nationally in offensive third-down success rate (41.7 percent) but this season, they're 10th (49.3 percent). That's a huge improvement and it was evident in their 17-0 win over LSU when the Hogs were 10-of-17 against the Tigers on third down, a team that usually stops teams on third down (the Tigers are second in the SEC allowing only a 33.1 percent third-down conversion rate to opponents).
Nobody's happy with the defensive performances this season at South Carolina, but the same can be said at other places around the conference, or the country for that matter. The Gamecocks aren't alone. Texas A&M has seen its fair share of struggles that has its defensive coordinator under the microscope. Auburn has had a rough go lately too, though Gus Malzahn showed support for Ellis Johnson. Still, fans want results and they haven't been good for the Gamecocks, who are last in the league in scoring defense (32.7 points per game).
Tennessee quarterback Joshua Dobbs is the Volunteers' present and future at the position but his predecessor, Justin Worley celebrated his 22nd birthday on Thursday by sharing words with Tennessee fans in an open letter. Worley, whose senior season was cut short after he underwent surgery for a torn labrum earlier this month, shares plenty of candid words and vivid images of his time in Knoxville, which is pretty cool to see.
Around the SEC
Texas A&M freshman DE Myles Garrett and other injured defenders will likely return for next week's LSU game.
Missouri teammates rave about safety Braylon Webb's "quiet genius."
Mississippi State WR De'Runnya Wilson overcomes first-year struggles.
Auburn quarterback Nick Marshall wants to play QB at the next level but is open to a position switch.
Ole Miss knows what to expect from Arkansas -- lots of run game.
LSU QB Anthony Jennings said he ignores fan criticism.
Had a great time speaking to @whitwaide 's class today. #HailState pic.twitter.com/tpFwRJsX4m
— Dan Mullen™ (@CoachDanMullen) November 20, 2014