ALABAMA
Primary strength: Even though they must replace Heisman Trophy finalist Trent Richardson at tailback, the Crimson Tide should have the most sound offense in the league with returning quarterback AJ McCarron and a front containing Barrett Jones at center, Chance Warmack and Anthony Steen at guard and D.J. Fluker and Cyrus Kuoandjio at tackle.
Primary weakness: The defense is loaded with potential, but only four starters return. Linebacker Nico Johnson and safety Robert Lester are All-SEC candidates, as are Jesse Williams and Damion Square up front, but Alabama has to come together quickly defensively with an opening matchup against Michigan in Dallas and a third game at Arkansas.
Incumbents: QB AJ McCarron, C Barrett Jones, TE Michael Williams, DT Jesse Williams, LB Nico Johnson, S Robert Lester
ARKANSAS
Primary strength: The Razorbacks have the league’s premier quarterback-tailback tandem with Tyler Wilson and Knile Davis, and the loss of three receivers to the NFL should be softened with the return of Cobi Hamilton and tight end Chris Gragg. With this being an even-numbered year, both preseason No. 1 LSU and No. 2 Alabama must visit Fayetteville.
Primary weakness: Interim coach John L. Smith is infinitely more likable than peevish predecessor Bobby Petrino, but Petrino had built a top-10 program before his ouster this spring. It remains to be seen how the Razorbacks will respond with Smith to that first dose of adversity, and the defense has to hold its own to have a chance against Alabama and LSU.