Florida strong safety Matt Elam is one of the top emerging defensive stars in the SEC. He put up huge numbers in 2011 as a sophomore -- 78 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, two interceptions, two forced fumbles and seven pass breakups.
Elam made several tackles for loss against Auburn in 2011 (clips via an ESPN broadcast):
Elam is back in 2012 as part of one of the most athletic and talented secondaries in the SEC. Here's a look at how he might follow up his impressive sophomore campaign:
Why he'll flourish: Elam is now in year two of coach Will Muschamp's aggressive defensive scheme. He'll know the system better, he's stronger, faster and should be even more physical in 2012. He also has talent all around him. Nine starters are back from 2011, and the Gators should be strong on all three levels of the defense. If DE Ronald Powell can return from a torn ACL, he should really force opposing QBs to get the ball out their hand quickly. There's really no weak spot in the secondary either. The Gators have at least four CBs who could start most places in the SEC, and Elam and fellow S Josh Evans provide a strong safety net behind them.
Why he'll struggle: There aren't many holes in Elam's game. He's physical enough to rush the passer and support in run defense. He's rangy enough to prevent the deep ball. He will see a lot of top QBs and WRs in 2012. Georgia's Aaron Murray, Tennessee's Tyler Bray, Florida State's EJ Manuel and Missouri's James Franklin are among the potential NFL quarterbacks Elam will be responsible for stopping. The Gator defense might have to carry the team early in the season as it breaks in a new starter at QB. Elam might have fewer tackles in 2012, but that would mean fewer opposing plays are making it into the secondary.
NFL outlook: NFLDraftScout.com has Elam as the No. 1 strong safety prospect for the 2014 draft. He might not wait that long. He'll likely have the option to come out early if he has another strong year in 2012. Barring any major setbacks, he's a first-day type prospect whenever he goes pro.
Projected 2012 stat line: 68 tackles, eight tackles for loss, four interceptions, 10 pass breakups
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