SEC Power Poll All-SEC Team: Robert Ayers

For your insomniac/early bird special, we help will roll out the inaugural SEC Power Poll All-SEC team by covering the defensive line.

First, we'll introduce Robert Ayers, one-half of the defensive ends on this team.


Ayers, a senior Volunteer from Cilo, South Carolina, was initially recruited to Knoxville to play linebacker. After putting on 40 pounds, however, Ayers possessed ideal size and athleticism to become one of the SEC's premier defenders. Statistically, Ayers racked up 49 total tackles, 15.5 tackles-for-a-loss, 3 sacks, 1 interception, 1 pass deflection, 6 quarterback hurries, and 1 forced fumble. Ayers is projected to a be a later-round pick in the upcoming NFL draft and has the potential for a promising NFL career. Obviously, Ayers was a bright spot on this season's uncharacteristically struggling Tennessee team.

Stay tuned on Friday for the second all-SEC defensive end per the ever wise SEC blogosphere.

For the rest of the SEC Power Poll All-SEC coverage, visit Team Speed Kills.