By Caroline Vincent

Gus MalzahnGus Malzahn

Expectations: Auburn fans are hoping that the return of their offensive coordinator now-turned head coach will bring back the glory and success of the Tigers’ 2010 national championship season. Just being competitive against their opponents will be a step up from last year’s rough season and fans are no doubt hoping for some SEC wins at the very least.

Quote: “Our goal is to play faster than anybody in college football. We feel like, if you can execute our offense at a fast pace, it’s a big advantage. So we’ll be striving for that.”

Verdict: Malzahn is brave to aim for such a goal, but fulfilling it will prove to be difficult as he has yet to find a quarterback that can effectively run his offense. But if that changes, the Tigers may end up with at least a 6-6 season.

 

Mark Stoops

Expectations: Kentucky fans are hoping that their new coach will begin the rebuilding process that will hopefully lead to future success. The Wildcats need to establish their legitimacy in the country’s toughest conference.

Quote: “We have an awful lot on the line. We can’t take anything for granted at Kentucky right now. We can’t just show up and beat anybody.”

Verdict: Taking over a new program can be difficult, but having to completely turn one around will prove to be even more challenging for Stoops. Even if he is successful in recruiting, this year will be an especially challenging one as the Wildcats have a difficult schedule. Perhaps Stoops will be able to rebuild, but not this year. I see a 4-8 record in his program’s future.

 

Butch Jones

Expectations: Fans are hoping that the Tennessee Volunteers can return to their former glory days. The pressure is on Butch Jones to find it and restore the Vols’ ability to compete against SEC rivals.

Quote: “It’s better to be a player-coached team than a coach-coached team.”

Verdict: Tennessee needs to quickly regain its competitive edge. I see this coaching change as a positive for the program, but it might be slow going. Butch Jones may not be able to win more than five games this year.

 

Bret Bielema

Expectations: The Arkansas Razorbacks have not suffered from troubled seasons lately like other teams in the conference (excluding last year’s experimental train wreck with the interim coach), but this new coach could make them even better than expected. Fans are hoping for a seamless transition and to stay competitive in the SEC west.

Quote: “We want to play normal American football.”

Verdict: Bielema seems to be very confident in his team and his offensive strategy. I see his style of play resulting in about seven wins for the Razorbacks.