SEC offenses finally having their season to shine

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — The offenses are having their way in the Southeastern Conference these days.

League teams are averaging 31.1 points per game. That leads all FBS conferences, ahead of the Pac-10, Big 12 and others more known for their offensive prowess.

The sometimes high-flying Gators aside, the SEC has been known for years as a grind-it-out running conference dominated by rugged defenses. It was just ninth in scoring two years ago at 25.6 points per game.

However, new offenses and talented players have led to more up-and-down games, led by No. 2 Auburn and quarterback Cam Newton. The Tigers lead the SEC in scoring at 42.8 points per game and are undefeated despite allowing 24.9 points per game, eighth-best in the conference.