Mississippi Rebels
2000 overall record: 7-5
Conference record: 4-4 (t-3rd in West)
Returning starters
Offense: 6
Defense: 5
Kickers: 1
2000 statistical leaders (* - returners)
Rushing: Deuce McAllister (767 yds)
Passing: Romaro Miller (2,012 yds)
Receiving: Grant Heard (655 yds)
Tackles: Shawn Johnson (78)
Sacks: Derrick Burgess (9.5)
Interceptions: Ken Lucas (5)
What's new
The Rebels have a new but veteran defensive coordinator in Don Lindsey, who is saddled with an undersized and inexperienced defensive line. He believes the unit has good depth, though, and says he will do some things scheme-wise to help them succeed. If he can do that, the Rebels should have a fantastic season.
Battling it out
The Rebels have three different receiving positions in their scheme and plenty of talent to go around. Jamie Armstrong returns after starting all 12 games last year, and he is currently joined at the top of the depth chart speedsters Chris Collins and Omar Rayford. Talented redshirt freshmen Bill Flowers and Trey Fryfogle are contending for starting spots, as is junior Ross Barkley.
Eye catcher: FS Von Hutchins
One of the pleasant surprises of the spring was Hutchins, who had played mainly on special teams as a freshman. He showed great progress as a tackler and good instincts with the ball in the air. Hutchins was named the most improved defensive player of spring practice by the coaches and was given the top spot at free safety entering the fall.
Budding star: Eli Manning
Is there more pressure being Archie's son or Peyton's brother? Whatever the answer, Eli doesn't seem to feel it. He threw for three touchdowns in the fourth quarter of the Music City Bowl and then showed great improvement with increased snaps throughout the spring. He threw four TD passes in the spring game and looks prepared to live up to that family name.
Brad Edwards researches college football for ESPN and is a contributor to ESPN.com throughout the year.
