Is our D improving?

It's very difficult to say since the quality of our opponents has decreased substantially with each game so far. But I'd like to offer a couple of my observations.

First, the defensive line MUST, MUST, MUST learn how to 'stay in their lanes.' They are over-pursuing by trying to wrap around the play in the backfield, and this is creating huge holes and pockets. They need to 'stay home' and plug the holes. If you can go THROUGH you O-Lineman, then great. Dorsey, Lavalais, and Williams made a living off of it. But trying to go around your blocker almost always leaves you out of position. This is the main reason Tennessee was able to contain Florida. If we don't get better about it, Tebow might rush for 200 yards.

Secondly, from what I recall, both of Jones' interceptions were just a matter of 'right place, right time.' They were both really bad throws, and he was able to catch them by virtue of being 5 yards from the receiver. It wasn't as if he stepped in front of some bullets because he identified the play. I don't want to discount his efforts; Jones is one of my favorite athletes. But I just don't want to over-state what he did Saturday against lesser competition. In general, USL's receivers had entirely too much room on quite a few plays. . .too many for me to feel like they've improved.

Miss St. brings another spread-option offense. And despite the fact that they're terribly over-matched, I think we'll be able to get a much better idea of whether or not our guys are improving against them. Remember, they were one Ducre-dropped pass from tying us up late last year.

Interestingly enough, Georgia will be the first time our defense lines up against a true pro-set offense.