SEC Spring Practice: Biggest Question for Every Team in the Conference

Dec 27, 2014; Shreveport, LA, USA; Miami Hurricanes quarterback Brad Kaaya (15) looks to pass as South Carolina Gamecocks defensive end Gerald Dixon (44) pressures during the first half in the 2014 Independence Bowl at Independence Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports

South Carolina Gamecocks

Biggest Question: Can the defense adjust to a new system for a second straight year with defensive coordinator Jon Hoke?

Steve Spurrier reached back to his post-Bob Stoops Florida Gators days for this one. And Jon Hoke is just the man. Or is he?

Remember the last regular season game Hoke coached in college, and in particular the last SEC game? It was on a clear Dec. 1 day in 2001, in which the 18-point favorite Gators gave up 226 yards on the ground to a running back and lost 34-32 due to a terrible rush defense, which happened under Hoke’s watch.

Why Spurrier went back to him is questionable, but what makes it worse is that the confusion of going to a 3-4 defense last year is added to the confusion of learning a new defense again this year. It makes things complicated for the Gamecocks.

And that is why this Spring is so important. The defense needs to adjust to Hoke quickly because if it does, South Carolina could be right back in the SEC Championship race next year.

After all  Dylan Thompson was terrible and is gone, lots of offensive players are back besides him, and a less confused defense makes for a much better team. But to not be as confused, the players have to catch onto Hoke’s style quickly.

And that’s why you have Spring ball.

Next: Tennessee Volunteers