SEC storyline: Can Alabama repeat
Since the AP poll began in 1950, only 10 preseason No. 1 teams ended up No. 1 at the end of the season. Since 1991, it has happened three times: FSU in 1993 and 1999, and USC in 2004.
As for repeat champions, USC did it in 2003-04 in the AP poll at least (though it appears the 2004 BCS title will be vacated because of NCAA sanctions). If you take away USC, then Nebraska was the last team to repeat in 1994-95. The last time Alabama did it? 1978-79.
The Tide have most of their dynamic players returning on offense, including Heisman Trophy winning RB Mark Ingram, his backfield complement Trent Richardson, QB Greg McElroy, WR Julio Jones and three offensive linemen. Remember, McElroy hasn’t lost a game as a starter since middle school.
OrlandoSentinel.com
7/12/10
Magnolia Tribune
