re: next years defense really concerns me

I actually think we will be better next year.

My reasoning:
1) DTs: Ferguson and Johnson will be more experienced. Most of the time (Brockers being an exception), it takes awhile for DTs to become truly disruptive in the SEC (e.g. Dorsey, Nevis). I think either Ego or Freak get there in 2013, maybe both. Obviously, Logan coming back would make the rotation even better.

I like the backups too: Mickey Johnson and Quentin Thomas

2) LBs: First off, we got Chavis. Even if we lose Minter, we have Alexander, Barrow, T. Jones, D. Jones, and Louis. This group has worlds of potential. If Minter stays, scary good. (Barrow/Minter/Alexander ).

3) CBs: Collins and Mills got great on-the-job training this year. I expect them to be better next year. It looks like Simon may return, which would be a bonus.

4) Safety: Loston will be back head-hunting (as long as he stays healthy) and providing leadership. Corey Thompson and Ronald Martin will battle for the other spot, imo. Sandolph is the dark horse here.

*Having experience at every level of the defense would be nice: Logan, Minter, Simon, and Loston. I hoping for 3 out of 4.

In sum, we should get more pressure from the interior lineman next year, and better coverage down field. We will have a weaker pass rush from the DEs, but I think we will be better against the run with Hunter and Rasco. The formula will be a little different than 2012, but, imo, the results will just as good or better.