Quarterback: Dak Prescott, Mississippi State
The most underrated quarterback in the SEC could very well become the best quarterback in the SEC after a host of big-time players moved on. That’s not a knock on Prescott, because he could have earned that title no matter what. A dual-threat quarterback, Prescott will thrive in his first full season as a starter and, at some stage or another, will be mentioned in the Heisman race.
Running Back: Javorius Allen, USC
Despite a poor performance against Stanford, Allen claimed the number one spot on the depth chart with over 600 yards and 11 touchdowns in the final five games of the season. USC are rebuilding and they have brought in San Francisco’s former offensive line coach Tim Drevno as well as running backs coach Johnny Nansen who developed Bishop Sankey in Washington to help.
Wide Receiver: Bralon Addison, Oregon
With Josh Huff now in the NFL, Addison immediately becomes the number one receiver in Eugene. Quarterback Marcus Mariota returns along with an explosive backfield to keep defensive coordinators focused elsewhere. Addison caught 61 catches last season and that number should see a heafty bump in the right direction.
Tight End: Jesse James, Penn State
The Nittany Lions product is a quality player who has had a steady start to his college career. A tremendous red zone target, James can line up in the slot as well as put his hand in the dirt. As Christian Hackenberg rises through the college ranks he will drag James with him.
Offensive Tackle: Tyler Martz, Wisconsin
Martz already has one season starting at left tackle for Wisconsin under his belt, and everybody is about to find out who he is when he paves the way for Melvin Gordon in 2014. The Badgers are eager to return to a major bowl game and Martz is the physical presence required to get there.
Guard: Darius James, Texas
At 6’5” tall and weighing in at 320 pounds, James is a massive lineman who can play any of the five positions. Furthermore, he was the top-rated guard in the nation when coming out of high school. With two senior guards departing he can fill either role and make a name for himself with powerful run blocking.
Center: Ty Darlington, Oklahoma
After sitting behind Gabe Ikard in 2013, Darlington is ready to lead from the heart of the Oklahoma offensive line. The Sooners beat Alabama in last year’s Sugar Bowl and will need a powerful o-line if they are to keep their well balanced offence rolling.
Defensive End: Trey Flowers, Arkansas
Flowers played in Chris Smith’s shadow this past season but still registered 13.5 tackles for a loss and five sacks. If Arkansas can improve on offense this fall it will allow Flowers to rush the passer and demonstrate the full extent of his abilities.
Defensive Tackle: Caleb Brantley, Florida
Brantley chose Florida over Alabama and state rivals Florida State. After redshirting his freshman year to get into better shape, it is time for Brantley to live up to his four-star potential and cement a starting spot alongside Leon Orr or Darious Cummings.
Linebacker: Myles Jack, UCLA
A talented linebacker with a knack for playing running back, Jack tallied 75 tackles, a team-high 11 pass break ups as well as 265 rushing yards and six touchdowns as a true freshman. With Anthony Barr now out of the frame, Jack is ready to take over the Pac-12 conference.
Cornerback: P.J. Williams, Florida State
The sophomore started 11 games in 2013 and recorded three interceptions and 35 tackles. After playing behind the brilliant Lamarcus Joyner, it is now time for Williams to assume a starting role and unleash his unique combination of ball skills and willingness to get stuck in.
Safety: Landon Collins, Alabama
You may remember Landon Collins as the high school star who upset his mother by choosing the Crimson Tide over LSU, but now he is about to be a college football star. The all-round safety will be thrust into a full-time starting role after stepping in when Vinnie Sunseri went down last season. Will Collins be Saban’s latest defensive prodigy?
Follow Richard on Twitter @Richard_Gatenby