Mississippi's McCluster is among elite runners

COLUMBIA -- In late October, South Carolina safety Chris Culliver said Alabama's Mark Ingram wasn't the best back on USC's schedule. He said it was Ole Miss' Dexter McCluster.

McCluster has done nothing but prove Culliver right. He's rushed for 739 yards in his past four games (three wins). That includes the eye-popping 282 yards (and four touchdowns) against Tennessee.

Had Houston Nutt used him this way in September, McCluster might win the Heisman - and Ole Miss might be the SEC West team in the title game, not Alabama.

Thumbs up

Anthony Dixon: He's had a great season for a not-so-great team. He has 1,258 yards and 11 yards in 10 games.

Tebow's career: He's an amazing player who happens to be having a pretty all right season. But pretty all right seasons don't win Heismans.

Georgia punting: Drew Butler is outstanding. Twenty-four of his 50 punts have gone for more than 50 yards (he's averaging 48.8 yards a punt). He has a long of 75 yards.

Thumbs down

Les Miles: Miles throws his QB under the bus and gets called for it. These late-season slides are one thing. Leadership in the heart of the adversity is another. Don't be surprised if his seat continues to warm.

Georgia turnovers: Joe Cox has been about what most expected Joe Cox to be. And that's not good. Getting someone ready to throw to A.J. Green should be a priority.

Ironing out the schedule: Having Alabama and Auburn today just doesn't seem right.

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