SEC Football:  The West’s Most Important Offensive Players

Aug 30, 2014; Auburn, AL, USA; Auburn Tigers receiver Melvin Ray (82) celebrates with quarterback Jeremy Johnson (6) after scoring a touchdown agains the Arkansas Razorbacks during the first half at Jordan Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Reed-USA TODAY Sports

Athlon sports and others are predicting that Jeremy Johnson could be even better than Nick Marshall.  If he is even just his equal, he will be Auburn’s most important offensive player in 2015.

According to sports-reference.com, Nick Marshall threw for 2,532 yards, 20 touchdowns, and a 151.1 quarterback rating in 2014.   He also added 791 rushing yards to go with 11 touchdowns.  If Johnson can improve upon those numbers, particularly in the passing game, Johnson will catapult himself into the Heisman conversation.

Gus Malzahn’s offense produces rushing and receiving numbers.   The only question mark each year will be the quarterback spot.  The future looks bright in 2015 with Jeremy Johnson taking over the reins, but Nick Marshall left big shoes to fill.

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