The SEC didn’t have a team in the national championship game for the first time in nine years, but many still consider them to be the best conference in the country. Here are the best players that will try and lead their teams – and the conference – back to the top of the mountain:
5) Jacob Coker - Alabama
Coker has the size and arm strength to be successful in Lane Kiffin's offense, and will finally get a chance to see the field in extended action. Alabama relied on a lot of quick screens and their dominant running game last year, and that won't change much in 2015. However, Coker has the ability to make their passing attack even more dangerous.
4) Jeremy Johnson - Auburn
“Like Nick Marshall, but bigger and better” is how one scout described Johnson, who completed 28 of 37 passes in 2014 with three touchdowns and no interceptions in mop-up duty this year. The Tigers will be a better team in 2015, and very few of their offensive weapons are graduating or leaving for the NFL. Gus Malzahn’s offensive scheme will ensure Johnson has the opportunity to put up Heisman-caliber numbers, and he'll give Auburn a potent passing attack to go along with their dominant ground game.
3) Joshua Dobbs - Tennessee
Dobbs led Tennessee to a 4-2 record after taking over during the last six games of the season, passing for 1,206 yards and nine touchdowns while rushing for 469 yards and eight more touchdowns. He needs to improve his decision making, but having a whole offseason as the starter should help in that regard. His athleticism and arm talent make him a dangerous weapon, and Dobbs could be the breakout star in the SEC.
2) Maty Mauk - Missouri
Mauk guided Mizzou back to the SEC Championship Game in his first full season as a starter, and another year experience should make him that much more dominant. His athleticism has allowed him to make a lot of plays with his legs, but he should be able to start hurting teams from the pocket now as a junior.
1) Dak Prescott - Mississippi State
Prescott was the Heisman favorite halfway through the season after he carried Mississippi State to the No. 1 ranking in the country, but he fell apart late in the year when teams figured out that he isn’t the most accurate passer. His bruising and productive running style still make him the most dangerous quarterback in the conference, but if he can improve as a passer this offseason, he’ll be a Heisman contender again.
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