Alvin Dupree is One of the SEC's Most Improved D-Linemen

by:Corey Nichols08/28/13

AlvinDupree

For a guy who’s used to spending a lot of time at linebacker, seeing Alvin Dupree on the list of “Most Improved Defensive Linemen” might be a bit of a headscratcher.  But that’s exactly where the SEC experts at Saturday Down South put him as they look forward to finally seeing football again tomorrow (for real, finally).  What makes them think that the hybrid OLB turned DE is poised for success?  His past performance, and Mark Stoops’ reputation.

Alvin Dupree, DE, Kentucky (JR): Dupree is moving to defensive end under Mark Stoops’ new scheme. He’s played mostly OLB the first two years, combining for 112 tackles, 15 tackles for loss and nine sacks. UK’s D-line will lead the defense, and there’s enough talent around Dupree to where teams can’t double team him every play. Look for Dupree to have a big junior season.

No secret that the D-Line will be leading the defense, since that’s always been Stoops’ specialty.  Few people have a better eye for positional talent on the line than Mark Stoops, and if the guy that’s put a lot of linemen in the NFL thinks you’re able to excel at that position, you kind of have to listen to him.  But it’s good to see that more than just the coaching staff is recognizing that Bud is set to have a solid year.  From being named to the preseason All-SEC 3rd team, and SDS pointing out the likelihood of a strong year, it wouldn’t surprise me to see him end up on the 2nd, or even 1st team All-SEC by the time the season winds down.

Oh, and did you know football starts tomorrow?  F’realz.  Good luck studying or working or doing anything else.

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