Jacob Coker Makes USA Today's Potential Heisman Top Ten

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10. QB Jacob Coker, Alabama

Coker's a bit of a wild card due to his lack of starting experience, but three factors place him in the Heisman mix. The first is his talent: Coker came close to earning the starting job at Florida State last offseason before transferring after the BCS National Championship Game – nearly bypassing Jameis Winston, and it was closer than some might think. The second is his surrounding talent with the Crimson Tide, from another solid offensive line to skill players such as wide receiver Amari Cooper and running backs T.J. Yeldon and Derrick Henry. Finally, Coker has the advantage of playing quarterback at Alabama, and Heisman voters are kind to the starting quarterbacks on the nation's best teams.

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5. RB Todd Gurley, Georgia

Gurley stands as the SEC's best shot at the Heisman. He's also the key to Georgia's hopes of fulfilling its preseason hopes: Mark Richt and the Bulldogs are quietly brimming with confidence after a disappointing 2013 season. Gurley is going to lead the charge offensively with the change at quarterback, meaning his numbers will be more than impressive enough to stand as the top Heisman contender at his position.

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6. QB Nick Marshall, Auburn

Marshall was learning Auburn's playbook on the fly a year ago, essentially giving Gus Malzahn and the Tigers a touch more knowledge and experience under center with each passing week. It's frightening to consider what Marshall can achieve – and how good this offense can be – with a full offseason under his belt. He's not going to set the SEC afire with his arm, but look for Marshall to approach 3,500 yards of total offense and account for 30 or more touchdowns.

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