Let's take a morning spin around the SEC:
- South Carolina QB Connor Shaw is earning praise for his gutty performance in Thursday's 17-13 squeaker over Vanderbilt. After getting knocked out in the second quarter with a bruised right shoulder, Shaw returned and led the Gamecocks to the game-winning TD early in the fourth quarter. Now 9-1 as a starter, Shaw said he'll "absolutely" play Saturday, Sept. 8 in the home opener against East Carolina.
- In Nashville, Tennessean columnist David Climer called officials' failure to throw a pass-interference flag "a death blow" for the Commodores. The controversial no-call on fourth down all but ended Vandy's comeback hopes. But coach James Franklin and wideout Jordan Matthews, whose arm was grabbed on the play, held their tongues.
- No one has ever questioned the athleticism of Auburn's new starting QB, Kiehl Frazier. "He knocks you down with the ball," wide receiver Emory Blake told Al.com. "Probably the strongest arm I've ever seen on a quarterback." The question is how quickly Frazier will develop into the leader Auburn needs.
- Expectations are rising for Florida's defense. LB Jonathan Bostic said the Gators plan to be one of, if not the best defense in the nation. Ten starters return from a unit that ranked eighth in total defense (299.5). The defense's biggest focus is on improving at the end: Florida allowed 72 fourth-quarter points in SEC games last year.
For more up-to-the-minute news and analysis from SEC bloggers Daniel Lewis and Larry Hartstein, follow @CBSSportsSEC.
