Most teams take a step back after losing an All-SEC starter to a conference rival and one of its best young guards to his father’s alma mater via a transfer portal. But Georgia’s running back corps could still be the best in the FBS, even with Jamon Dumas-Johnson going to Kentucky and Marvin Jones Jr. going to Florida State. Coach Kirby Smart has stockpiled four- and five-star linebackers like a tree in recent seasons. Senior Smael Mondon Jr.
, the No. 1 prospect in the class of 2021 according to ESPN Recruiting, has developed into a dominant inside linebacker. Second graders C.J. Allen and Raylen Wilson were the No. 2 recruits in the 2023 class at inside linebacker and outside linebacker, respectively. Junior Jalon Walker was the third outfielder in 2022. The Bulldogs just added a No. 1 receiver (Justin Williams) and a No. 1 wide receiver (Chris Cole) in their latest recruiting class. While Georgia’s defensive front may no longer have a dominant superstar like Jalen Carter or Jordan Davis, it has plenty of star power behind it. — Mark Schlabach.
When quarterback TreVeyon Henderson decided to return for his senior season, it was already a boon for the Buckeyes. But then Mississippi quarterback Quinshon Judkins officially transferred to Columbus the night Michigan won the CFP national title against Washington. Henderson (926 yards and 11 touchdowns in 2023) and Judkins (2,725 yards and 31 touchdowns in two years with the Rebels) could be the best running duo in the country and will make life easier if quarterback Will Howard transfers to Kansas State. . — Blake Baumgartner.
The Rebels have never had a problem scoring under Lane Kiffin, and it shouldn’t be a problem in 2024. In each of Oxford’s four seasons, Kiffin’s offense has averaged more than 33 points per game. This is Jaxson Dart’s third season as Ole Miss’ starting quarterback, and the combination of experience and big-play ability at quarterback is always a good place to start. Dart’s receiving corps, led by wide receiver Tre Harris and tight end Caden Prieskorn, should be one of the nation’s best. The Rebels also added size and experience to their offensive line with four transfers, including Diego Pounds, who was a left tackle from North Carolina last season. — Chris Low.
The quarterback combo of Brady Cook and Luther Burden III could be as productive as any pass-rushing duo in the country. Cook returns as a senior after a season a year ago in which he threw for 3,317 yards, 21 touchdowns and six interceptions. He does his best to get the ball to Burden as much as possible. Burden, now a junior, was second in the SEC with 86 receptions last season and third in the nation after catching for 725 yards. Cook and Burden had six passing games of 40 yards or longer in 2023. — Matala.
