Before he was an elite defensive coordinator, Mark Stoops transformed college football secondary’s into some of the best to ever play college football (see: 2001 Miami Hurricanes). Unfortunately, it’s probably been the weakest link of the defense the past two seasons. With fresh new faces and added experience, Stoops’ secondary will take a step forward in year three.
The strongest spots are the two safeties. A.J. Stamps is one of the best in the SEC at free safety. Marcus McWilson is best remembered for his dropped interception late in the Louisville game, but the Junior is ready to move forward after finally finding his comfort zone during the middle of last season after consistently being critiqued by Stoops.