Who is the best defensive end in SEC football? Is it Derek Barnett of the Tennessee Vols or Myles Garrett of the Texas A&M Aggies?
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Derek Barnett and Myles Garrett have been referred to by many as the best two defensive ends in the SEC and even the nation. Both have put up big time numbers ad are going to be huge NFL prospects. As they both enter their third campaign in this tough conference, who has been better?
If you look at stats, and just stats, you’ll see that Garrett has Barnett beat. However, looking at stats doesn’t do justice to Barnett.
Myles Garrett has recorded 24 sacks in two years as an Aggie. With 12.5 sacks this past season, Garrett recorded 3.5 of those against Nevada, a lesser opponent. Derek Barnett had three sacks against Ole Miss when they were ranked #3 in 2014. This was when Barnett really caught eyes.
Garrett always had Barnett beat in sack totals, but the truth is Garrett was racking up his numbers against non-SEC foes. Barnett made his name big during conference play.
Let’s go to tackles. This is an area where Barnett thrived at while Garrett struggled. Garrett is primarily a pass rusher. His freshman year, he didn’t start early in the season because of his performance against the run. Barnett can stop the run along with rushing the passer. Barnett has 141 tackles compared to Garrett’s 112 through two seasons.
That’s one thing about Barnett. His motor is relentless. He will continue to fight off the offensive tackle to try and do whatever he can do to make a play. The best part is there will be a play that will break down the field and Barnett will be 30 yards from the line of scrimmage to make the tackle.
Either way, teams are going to want these guys. Both Garrett and Barnett are both projected to leave school early in a 2017 NFL Mock Draft. Garrett is predicted at #3 with Barnett at #6.
To pick a better college football player between the two, Barnett has to be the pick. He is the more complete defensive player than Garrett. To be the best at your position, you have to be the best at all phases and not just one. The best quarterbacks don’t just throw the ball, they more than that and then some. Barnett doesn’t just rush the passer, he will chase a play down to prevent any further damage.
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The two will be able to face each other this year at Kyle Field on Oct 8.