Tennessee Vols: 2017 Pre-Season SEC Power Rankings

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COLUMBIA, MO – NOVEMBER 25: Brett Bielema of the Arkansas Razorbacks directs his team against the Missouri Tigers in the second quarter at Memorial Stadium on November 25, 2016 in Columbia, Missouri. (Photo by Ed Zurga/Getty Images) /

8. Arkansas Razorbacks

I’m contradicting my typical views a bit here, but I think new defensive coordinator Paul Rhoads will make a big difference for the Razorbacks in 2017.

Arkansas was pretty terrible defensively last season. If they can make strides under Rhoads, it will show up in the win/loss column.

Offensively, Arkansas should be consistent in 2017. Quarterback Austin Allen returns, as do four starters along the offensive line.

I think the Razorbacks will be a tough opponent this season and give some of their SEC West rivals a tough game, but they’ll probably come up short against teams like Auburn and LSU.

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