Croom boasts SEC as top dog

HOOVER | Asked what he thought about the Southeastern Conference having eleven coaches that have won a bowl game and five coaches who claim a national championship, Mississippi State coach Slyvester Croom said the conference is simply the best.

"If you're going to compete in this conference you have to prepare well and play well every week," Croom said. "Any team can beat another at any time.

"I said this as a player and as a coach I think it now more than ever, it's an honor to be a part of the SEC."

Croom said the Bulldogs are reaping the rewards in recruiting of last season's 8-5 season, including a 10-3 win against Central Florida in the Liberty Bowl.

"We're a more talented football team. Lot of things go into being able to win and being able to compete for a championship," Croom said "We're physically and mentally tough. We have great team chemistry. I was pleased with how we finished games and finished the season. I'd like to see us start the season a lot stronger and faster. We have a chance to be a good football team.