Auburn Football: Pre-Spring SEC Quarterback Power Rankings

Sep 20, 2014; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide offensive coordinator Lane Kiffen talks to quarterback Jake Coker (14) during the game against the Florida Gators at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports

Fairly or not, Jake Coker brought a lot of attention to himself after he decided to transfer from Florida State in an attempt to get out from beneath the shadow of Heisman Trophy winner and future NFL first rounder Jameis Winston. Unfortunately for Coker, all that attention didn’t help him win the starting quarterback spot at Alabama.

As a junior last year, Coker completed a solid 64.4% of his 59 passing attempts for 403 yards, four TDs and did not throw a pick. However, after splitting some time early in the season, Coker fell off in the on-going competition with Blake Sims.

Sims started every game in 2014 for the Crimson Tide and had a terrific senior season. He completed 252 of his 391 passing attempts (64.5%) for 3,487 yards, 28 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. Sims was also the team’s third leading rusher with 350 yards on the ground and seven more scores.

Now the most experienced signal caller on the roster, Coker again has a chance to take the reins of the Alabama offense, and this time he should capitalize. Like 2014, the 6-foot-5, 230-pound Mobile native won’t be handed the role and he’ll have to beat our Cooper Bateman, David Cornwell and Blake Barnett, but the fact of the matter is that Coker is one of the most talented players in the SEC.

If all goes well with offensive coordinator Lane Kiffin calling the plays for the second year in a row, Coker could have a huge season.

Next: 5. Texas A&M