September 3, 2011; Gainesville FL, USA; Florida Gators head coach Will Muschamp (left) and former head coach Bobby Bowden prior to the game against the Florida Atlantic Owls at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Yet another example of why Twitter is great: former Florida State Seminoles head coach and all-around college football legend Bobby Bowden fired a response in real-time to ESPN.com’s Joe Schad about serving on the College Football Playoff selection committee:

At 83 years old, I’ve earned the right to change my dadgum mind! RT @schadjoe: Last year, Bobby Bowden said he’d serve on playoff committee.

— Bobby Bowden (@TheBobbyBowden) May 18, 2013

Bowden doesn’t owe the new postseason system anything, after giving so much for so many years. Rather, the committee would be fortunate to have the insight of such a well-respected and decorated sideline general. A Hall of Fame, former head coach is a must for the College Football Playoff selection process. So if not Bobby Bowden, who?

Nebraska’s longtime legend Tom Osborne championed a committee made exclusive of outstanding, former coaches a la the Legends Poll. ESPN.com’s Adam Rittenberg outlined the process, including the panel of voters. It’s a Who’s Who of football elite. Check out just a few of the names:

• John Robinson (1978 national champion at USC)

• Gene Stallings (1992 national champion at Alabama)

• LaVell Edwards (1984 national champion at BYU)

• R.C. Slocum

• Vince Dooley

• John Cooper

• Frank Broyles

Another name I would like to see considered include Howard Schnellenberger, architect of the Miami Hurricanes initial success, savior of the Louisville Cardinals and Founding Father of FAU football.

I have read suggestions that media could be included on the selection committee, but cannot endorse this idea. While some of the claims of media bias common among college football fans are not grounded in reality — the SEC is a media creation! — there are real, inherent biases that show up in media all too often.

Outlets’ partnerships with conferences and individual teams to power networks is one that comes to the mind. Another thing to consider when flirting with the possibility of putting media on the selection committee: Skip Bayless has a BCS vote, and Craig James did before embarking on his ill-fated Senate campaign.

Current head coaches (or more realistically, their sports information directors) contributing via the Coaches Poll as they do now in the BCS should be eliminated. They are too close to the situation to provide a fair assessment. Athletic directors handle duties for the NCAA tournament. Gripes about tournament seeding are usually pretty marginal, but that’s with a 68-team window.

How would you, dear SaturdayBlitz.com reader, like to see the College Football Playoff Committee formed? Sound off in the comments.

November 17, 2012; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; A LSU Tigers helmet sits on the field following a game against the Ole Miss Rebels at Tiger Stadium. LSU defeated Ole Miss 41-35. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

Greg Gilmore is a four-star defensive tackle prospect who committed to Les Miles’ LSU Tigers in February. Miles told Jim Kleinpeter of The Times Picayune:

Miles: Greg Gilmore a disruptive tackler and inside force. One guy we frankly had to have. #lsu

— Jim Kleinpeter (@JimKleinpeter) February 6, 2013

“Had to have” is pretty big praise, but Gilmore is a newcomer worth the celebration. The Hope Mills, N.C. native joins the LSU program with a bright future and plenty of goals. He chatted with Evan Massey for SaturdayBlitz.com about his future. Follow Gilmore on Twitter @The_GilmoreEra, and Evan Massey @massey_evan.

Q. What made you sign with LSU? What were the draws that convinced you?
A. The coaching, how thin their roster is, the people and opportunity to play in the NFL.
Q. In addition to LSU, who were the other top-5 programs that were recruiting you?
A. Florida, LSU, Alabama, Oklahoma, and Southern Cal.
Q. How long have you been playing the game of football? When did you know you had this kind of talent?
A. Since I was in 6th grade. And to be honest, I don’t see my talent yet. I believe that I’m very good, but I haven’t gotten to where I can say I’m talented.
Q. What are your goals for your college career at LSU?

A. To be a true freshman all-star. Learn as much as I can obtain about football as possible and start all 4 years. I also want to get as far as I can with my school.
Q. Is there a player in either the NFL or college game that you would compare your game to?
A. Umm, I’m trying to get my body right now so I can play a hybrid 3 tech. Sort of like Suh or Watt. I want to stay as light as possible and strong.
Q. What is your current workout routine?

A. I’m doing the Tommy Moffit off-season workout. But I workout 3 times a week and run twice a week. Sauna on the weekend.
Q. What would you say was your “career highlight” in your career so far?
A. Probably my sack at the Under Armour game.
Q. What would you say that you will bring to the table at LSU? What are the skills that you believe are your best assets?

A. I believe I will help with the run, and potentially be an every down lineman.
Q. Who would you say has made the biggest impact in getting you to this point?
A. My mom. She’s the one who brought me to practice and has been to every game.

November 17, 2012; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Arizona Wildcats running back Daniel Jenkins (3) scores a touchdown during the second half against the Utah Utes at Rice-Eccles Stadium. The Wildcats defeated the Utes 34-24. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports

But Jenkins practiced with Arizona’s Pac-12 counterpart Washington State Cougars in the spring. Jenkins transferred to WSU in January with one season of eligibility remaining and the opportunity to play immediately, as a result of receiving his undergraduate degree prior to switching programs.

In an unusual twist, Jenkins rejoined Arizona on Friday, The Arizona Daily Star reports.

His change of heart has no bearing on Jenkins’ eligibility. He remains eligible for one year, and will return to the Wildcat roster as anticipated before his departure. UA and Washington State face off for the first time since 2010 when the Cougars visit Tucson on Nov. 16.

Dec 1, 2012; Waco, TX, USA; Oklahoma State Cowboys head coach Mike Gundy watches his team prepare to face the Baylor Bears at Floyd Casey Stadium. The Bears defeated the Cowboys 41-34. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

There aren’t many slow seasons anymore in college football with the 24 hour news cycle, year round recruiting coverage, and spring football to supplement the actual season, but with campuses emptying and a two-week dead period in progress on the recruiting trail, the end of May has a tendency to drag for fans. Luckily, there’s a growing feud between Big 12 coaches and the SEC to fill the void.

A little over a week ago, Oklahoma Sooners head coach Bob Stoops called the allusion of the Southeastern Conference’s football dominance “propaganda.” Then Kansas Jayhawks head coach and former Florida Gators offensive coordinator Charlie Weis reiterated that sentiment with a statement of his own.

Today, Oklahoma State Cowboys head coach Mike Gundy was the latest to take a swipe at the SEC. Gundy didn’t do so by taking a verbal swipe like his Big 12 peers, but instead refused to allow transferring quarterback Wes Lunt a release to any SEC schools or Southern Miss.

Transfer rules have been a rather fiery issue in college football, as coaches are often allowed to dictate the future of transferring athletes by narrowing their options prohibitively via technicalities in their release. In the case of Lunt, Gundy’s decision is a curious one because the true sophomore to be only was seeking transfer to the five schools on his list (Southern Miss, Illinois, Louisville, Vanderbilt and Tennessee).

None of those schools play in the Big 12, none compete directly against Oklahoma State in recruiting and none are on any of Oklahoma State’s future schedules. Common courtesy generally dictates that Wes Lunt–who left under good terms and in good academic standing according to Mike Gundy himself and Oklahoma State University–be allowed to transfer to the school of his choosing.

So why, pray tell, is Gundy excluding SEC schools and Conference USA resident Southern Miss from the running?

Well, when it comes to Southern Miss the easiest conclusion to arrive at is that Mike Gundy is taking a shot at his former offensive coordinator Todd Monken, who is now the head coach at Southern Miss. The Golden Eagles are not a threat to compete with Oklahoma State in any imaginable scenario, and if Lunt were to transfer to play in a familiar system at a Conference USA school, that’s conceivably where he’d pose the smallest threat.

I’m not sure if there’s bad blood between Gundy and Monken, but it certainly looks like a bit of gamesmanship on behalf of Mike Gundy.

However, the SEC blow is similarly peculiar. Oklahoma State isn’t naturally competitive with the SEC in any way, and only Mississippi State is slated to play the Cowboys at any time in the future, so, once again, it looks like Gundy’s just flexing his muscles at the SEC as a whole.

The Big 12 and the SEC currently make the most convincing case for best conference in the land, and that discussion inevitably spills into message board forums all over the Internet. However, it’s hard to understand why Big 12 coaches seem to care about the SEC’s perception SOOOOO much.

The only debate of consequence we’ve had about the best conference in college football is of whether or not the SEC is AS dominant as we think they are. In other words, we’ve conceded that the SEC is better right now, but in interest of arguing for argument’s sake, we’re yelling about how large the gap actually is.

It’s become commonplace to accuse the SEC of lacking depth, although advanced statistical analysis simply doesn’t agree. However, there are some reasonable arguments to be made that the Big 12 is starting to reel them in.

But, the problem for the Big 12 is that they’ve allowed themselves to get wrapped up in perception at a time when the perception simply doesn’t matter anymore. They don’t have a particularly great case, but even if they did, they’re ten years late to the party.

The BCS is history beginning in the fall of 2014, and where the SEC’s perceived strength allowed them to steal national championship bids in the past, the playoff essentially eliminates that concern. Finally, the Big 12 will have it’s chance to prove themselves on the field.

Also, do you think Nick Saban gives a damn if people operate under the assumption that the Big 12 is deeper than the SEC? And even if he did, do you think he’d let everyone see how much it bothered him?

No. He’d go out and schedule Texas in their own backyard (Cowboys Stadium, of course) and tell them to go out back and pick their own switch. Then he’d scowl in the postgame press conference about how his young defensive backs have a lot of room for improvement (that third quarter touchdown pass when Bama was up 35-10 was simply unacceptable).

Sure, this argument is fun to have as a fan, but if you were a coach why would you want to get involved? Stoops and Weis look agitated. Mike Gundy, on the other hand, looks genuinely spiteful, AND hypocritical to be quite frank.

Gundy himself was on the verge of taking a truckload of money from Tennessee, and now he’s denying Wes Lunt the chance to seamlessly transfer there. And he can’t go get a phenomenal education at Vanderbilt, for what? The 1-in-10,000 chance that Oklahoma State plays the Vols or the Commodores in a national semifinal during Lunt’s three remaining years of eligibility?

It’s asinine.

I get that there’s a rivalry here. I get that the Big 12 feels slighted, too, but I’m not sure how Big 12 coaches taking their junk out and waving it at the SEC makes it any better.

Worst of all, a kid who just wants a chance to play ball is caught in the middle of it.

Apr 13, 2013; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines head coach Brady Hoke watches from behind the offense during the Spring Game at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Brady Hoke riling up Michigan Wolverines fans this week generated plenty of buzz — or is that squawks? Regardless of how it’s described, his charge that the Notre Dame Fighting Irish is “chickening out” of the rivalry with Michigan drew plenty of reaction.

Following Irish nose tackle Louis Nix III’s reaction on Twitter was a blast. Getting into the spirit of a true college football rivalry, Nix sounded off.

@jake_brown I think it’s fun

— lOUIS NIX III (@1IrishChocolate) May 14, 2013

@jake_brown Hoke is a big guy so I respect him. I’m all about jokes….fires me up for season.

— lOUIS NIX III (@1IrishChocolate) May 14, 2013

I will eat the BONES. Lol

— lOUIS NIX III (@1IrishChocolate) May 14, 2013

The indefinite suspension of the storied Michigan-Notre Dame rivalry was already on the horizon, scheduled to wrap up by 2018 before the UND athletic department reached an agreement to play five ACC opponents each season. The restructuring of its schedule left Michigan out. Notre Dame’s contractual obligation to face ACC opponents is the closest the program will be to a full conference schedule, and was bound to jeopardize some of the many, longstanding rivalries it has held for decades.

Such is the reality of the new college football landscape. The conclusion of Florida-Miami was announced this week, as well. Scheduling meaningful, out-of-conference games is increasingly difficult with the looming uncertainty of a playoff.

Michigan-Notre Dame is a sexier rivalry than the Notre Dame and Michigan State, but the latter is more rooted in tradition. If we’re to lament the demise of the game’s traditions, well…the Wolverines and Fighting Irish last missed one another in 2001, the fourth season in seven that the two didn’t play. The Irish and Spartans? There was a two-year layoff in 1995 and 1996, the first hiatuses in the series in nearly four decades.

Michigan State athletic director Mark Hollis explained to MLive.com how this traditional, out-of-conference rivalry survived realignment, while others fizzle out:

“The one thing we did proactively as we sat down with Jack (Swarbrick, Notre Dame athletic director) several years ago and came up with a strategy for a four-on and two- off (rotation).

“I’m not comparing this to Michigan’s relationship, because I don’t know what theirs was, but we’ve been in conversations about what we want the future to look like for the past five, six, seven years, and changed the contract to go from every year to four on and two off, and that provided Notre Dame with an opportunity to go out and do some of their national scheduling they desired, and it provided us with an opportunity to bring in teams like Oregon and Miami of Florida, and keep the tradition going but at the same time allow some freshness to come into Spartan Stadium.”

While the Michigan-Notre Dame rivalry has produced exciting moments, and the rivalry sentiment is very genuine, its absence won’t leave us bereft of quality, non-conference football. Michigan isn’t using the opening to schedule down, adding Oregon State, Utah and BYU to the 2015 docket. Notre Dame sees Texas in addition to traditional rivals like USC and Stanford.

History has proven Michigan and Notre Dame will cross paths again, though we can hope it’s sooner than the 35 years the program went without facing off from 1943 to 1978. No matter the duration of this hiatus, Hoke and Nix are at least giving college football fans a tasty send-off.

The Fighting Irish and Wolverines square off Sept. 7 under the lights at the Big House. That’s 113 days from today. Until then, here’s Les Miles in a tiny sombrero:

Two words: The Hat! Great shot. @lsucoachmiles @lsubonnette twitter.com/ESPN_ReceDavis…

— Rece Davis (@ESPN_ReceDavis) May 16, 2013

Everyone is chasing Alabama in 2013, but the Crimson Tide still has enough talent in its pool to earn another celebration in Atlanta. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

The SEC preview opened, predictably enough, with a simple question: Who can catch Alabama?

When you have won three BCS national championships in four years, that question is to be expected.

We at Saturday Blitz have spent the last two weeks breaking down the strengths and weaknesses of every team in the nation’s most decorated and polarizing league in the 21^st century. Now comes time for predictions.

So who’s the team to beat? The answer will not surprise you.

SEC East

Georgia

Projected record: 10-2, 7-1 SEC

Most important game: vs. South Carolina (Sept. 7)

Potential to be upset: at Clemson (Aug. 31)

Forecast: QB Aaron Murray ends with another shot in the SEC Championship Game, partially thanks to a strong run game and partially because of emerging stars on defense such as LB Jordan Jenkins.

South Carolina

Projected record: 10-2, 6-2 SEC

Most important game: at Georgia (Sept. 7)

Potential to be upset: vs. Clemson (Nov. 30)

Forecast: Gamecocks coach Steve Spurrier continues his string of 10-win seasons but South Carolina can’t get the necessary help to overcome an early season loss at Georgia.

Florida

Projected record: 7-5, 4-4 SEC

Most important game: vs. Georgia (in Jacksonville, Fla.; Nov. 2)

Potential to be upset: at Kentucky (Sept. 28)

Forecast: A Gators team that lived on the edge too many times in 2012 regresses back into the SEC pack unless QB Jeff Driskel can win grind out wins this fall.

Vanderbilt

Projected record: 7-5, 3-5 SEC

Most important game: vs. Ole Miss (Aug. 29)

Potential for an upset: None; (If I have to pick one): vs. Georgia (Oct. 19)

Forecast: It’s not that Vanderbilt will be substantially worse in 2013, but rather that the bottom of the SEC East is on the rise with the emergence of Tennessee and Kentucky and with Missouri needing to be on the mend.

Missouri

Projected record: 6-6, 3-5 SEC

Most important game: at Vanderbilt (Oct. 5)

Potential for an upset: vs. Florida (Oct. 19)

Forecast: Coach Gary Pinkel, with his back against the ropes, inspires a big bounce-back season from now-healthy QB James Franklin and the Tigers prove cagy enough on defense to steal enough wins to gain bowl eligibility.

Kentucky

Projected record: 6-6, 3-5 SEC

Most important game: vs. Missouri (Nov. 9)

Potential for an upset: vs. Florida (Sept. 28)

Forecast: Kentucky takes significant steps forward under first-year coach Mark Stoops – especially on defense – and enters the last game of the season needing a home win over Tennessee to gain bowl eligibility.

Tennessee

Projected record: 5-7, 2-6 SEC

Most important game: vs. Vanderbilt (Nov. 23)

Potential for an upset: vs. South Carolina (Oct. 19)

Forecast: The Volunteers rely heavily on a strong run game and hope to weather the storm while a quarterback (to be named later) becomes more seasoned. Tennessee ultimately falls one game short of bowl eligibility under first year coach Butch Jones.

SEC West

Alabama

Projected record: 11-1, 7-1 SEC

Most important game: at Texas A&M (Sept. 7)

Potential to be upset: at Texas A&M (Sept. 7)

Forecast: Coach Nick Saban simply gets too many weapons – and promotes too many talented former five-star recruits on defense – to slip. Alabama rolls to the SEC West title.

Texas A&M

Projected record: 9-3, 5-3 SEC

Most important game: vs. Alabama (Sept. 7)

Potential to be upset: at Ole Miss (Oct. 12)

Forecast: QB Johnny Manziel leads what remains a high-octane offense, but the defense simply loses too much to lead the Aggies to a divisional crown – even after a Week 2 win over Alabama.

LSU

Projected record: 9-3, 5-3 SEC

Most important game: vs. Texas A&M (Nov. 23)

Potential to be upset: at Ole Miss (Oct. 19)

Forecast: LSU continues to be a force in the SEC West but a brutal four-week stretch starting at Georgia and ending at Ole Miss derails any hopes of a divisional crown.

Auburn

Projected record: 7-5, 3-5 SEC

Most important game: vs. Mississippi State (Sept. 14)

Potential for an upset: vs. Ole Miss (Oct. 5)

Forecast: First-year coach Gus Malzahn brings hope back to Auburn and Ellis Johnson’s defense makes a big difference with a talented group that underachieved in 2012.

Ole Miss

Projected record: 6-6, 3-5 SEC

Most important game: at Vanderbilt (Aug. 29)

Potential for an upset: vs. Texas A&M (Oct. 12)

Forecast: The Rebels’ record doesn’t indicate a step forward, but Hugh Freeze’s team is a better team in 2013. The best division in college football, teamed with a tough non-conference road game at Texas, leads to a .500 record.

Mississippi State

Projected record: 6-6, 3-5 SEC

Most important game: at Auburn (Sept. 14)

Potential for an upset: LSU (Oct. 5)

Forecast: Hopes of Mississippi State reaching the next level during QB Tyler Russell’s senior season crash into a harsh reality that the SEC West is loaded, leaving the Bulldogs fighting for a bowl berth.

Arkansas

Projected record: 6-6, 2-6 SEC

Most important game: vs. Auburn (Nov. 2)

Potential for an upset: vs. Texas A&M (Sept. 28)

Forecast: Arkansas’ strong pass rush gives it a chance in every game and masks some offensive deficiencies, allowing the Razorbacks to get back to a bowl game in 2013.

SEC Championship prediction: Alabama 29, Georgia 24

A healthy, consistent James Franklin should elevate Missouri back into a bowl game and could help the Tigers climb the ranks in the SEC East. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

NOTE: This is the 15^th and final installment of a 15-part series on 2013′s most pivotal QBs in college football.

Ask any coach about the importance of the quarterback position and he is quick to throw out a tired cliché about quarterbacks getting too much credit and blame.

They will tell you there are 11 guys on the field at all times and each one of them must work together for the team to win.

Coaches know a lot about football. They also know about deflecting pressure from the most important pressure on the field.

How important is the quarterback position? Ask Texas A&M what Johnny Manziel meant to the team in 2012. Ask Auburn about Cam Newton’s worth in 2010. Ask Ohio State after Urban Meyer got a chance to turn around QB Braxton Miller in 2012.

A quarterback might not be everything, but a good one can mask a number of different deficiencies – be it a porous defense, a non-existent run game or erratic special teams.

Teams without a solid quarterback need virtually every other facet of the game to click in order to overcome poor play from the most important position.

This list is designed to spotlight 15 quarterbacks whose play will dictate their teams’ fates. With two exceptions, this list is made up exclusively of established QBs who have been starters for at least half a season.

The carefully chosen term “pivotal” is key here. This is to spotlight teams that could have significant swings based on the position. Players like Manziel and Miller are proven commodities at this point. Florida State has enough surrounding its yet-to-be-named starter – presumably Jameis Winston – to repeat as ACC champ even without great play from the position. Those appearing on this list are opined to have a wider swing.

15. Logan Thomas, Virginia Tech

14. Zach Mettenberger, LSU

13. Bryn Renner, North Carolina

12. Clint Trickett/Paul Millard/Ford Childress, West Virginia

11. Connor Halliday, Washington State

10. Nathan Scheelhaase, Illinois

9. Casey Pachall, TCU

8. Joe Southwick, Boise State

7. Keith Price, Washington

6. Andrew Maxwell, Michigan State

5. Jeff Driskel, Florida

4. C.J. Brown, Maryland

3. David Ash, Texas

2. Max Wittek/Cody Kessler/Max Browne, USC

1. James Franklin, Missouri

It’s easy to forget, but last year at this time it was Missouri – and not Texas A&M – who felt chesty entering the SEC.

Even more ironically, the quarterback position provided Missouri with the optimism and the Aggies with the anxiousness. That’s because the Tigers returned Franklin after a breakout season in 2011. A&M, meanwhile, graduated QB Ryan Tannehill, who went 10^th overall in the NFL Draft.

While Missouri’s quarterback situation lacked controversy, the Aggies’ competition went into mid-August, when coach Kevin Sumlin named a nobody on the national scene his starter.

By now, everyone knows how the Texas A&M situation turned out. Johnny Manziel tore through SEC defenses on his way to the 2012 Heisman Trophy.

That fewer know about the 2012 Missouri quarterback situation speaks to how far the program fell in Year 1 in the SEC.

Troubles began in the spring when Franklin suffered a shoulder injury by diving on a fumble during a March practice.

Franklin rehabilitated from shoulder surgery in time to return for August practice. Despite his shoulder not being 100 percent, Franklin played well to start the season.

He even put Missouri in position to beat Georgia in the Tigers’ first SEC game. Franklin’s two TD passes put the Tigers up 17-9 in the third quarter – and 20-17 late in the third – before the Bulldogs awoke and pulled away.

Then, with Georgia leading 27-20, LB Jarvis Jones happened to Franklin. Jones, the SEC Defensive Player of the Year, intercepted a Franklin pass and returned it to the Missouri 1-yard line. The Bulldogs scored a touchdown on the next play. Then, three snaps later, Jones forced Franklin to fumble with a blindside hit. Georgia recovered and scored a clinching touchdown to ice the game.

The game itself didn’t ruin the Tigers’ season, though they proceeded to win just four more on their way to a 5-7 record. It did, however, force Franklin’s shoulder issues to resurface.

Franklin missed the next game. Missouri coach Gary Pinkel, during a pregame interview, questioned Franklin’s toughness, saying “…he didn’t want to play,” and “(I) was hoping James could play but he didn’t feel like he could do it.” Pinkel later backtracked from his harsh comments but the damage was done.

It especially didn’t help that the Tigers, behind QB2 Corbin Berkstresser, beat Arizona State 24-20.

Franklin returned the following week against South Carolina, but was completely ineffective. He completed 11 passes for 92 yards in the Gamecocks’ 31-10 victory. Worse, Berkstresser led the Tigers to their lone touchdown in garbage time during the fourth quarter.

After Franklin played well in a win over Central Florida, he sprained his knee and had to exit early in a pivotal loss at Vanderbilt and subsequently missed the Alabama massacre.

Franklin’s worst game of the season came a couple weeks later when Missouri’s defense gave then-undefeated Florida as much as it could handle. Led by All-SEC DT Sheldon Richardson, the Tigers shut out the Gators in the first half. Florida managed its two touchdowns after a big play on special teams and an interception of Franklin – his first of three fourth-quarter interceptions.

Though Franklin threw for 236 yards, he did so on just 24-of-51 passing and he threw four interceptions.

A week later, though, Franklin returned to form by throwing four TDs in a win at Tennessee. He had the Tigers in position to beat Syracuse as well before leaving in the fourth quarter with a concussion. The Orange came back to beat Missouri, effectively ending its bowl hopes.

The concussion ultimately kept Franklin out of the season finale against Texas A&M – a 59-29 defeat.

As a sophomore in 2011, Franklin threw for 2,865 yards and 21 TDs (against 11 INTs) and rushing for 981 yards and 15 TDs. Last year he managed just 1,562 passing yards, 10 TDs (against seven INTs) and 122 rushing yards with no TDs.

Franklin’s season of disappointment was more injury-riddled than poor-performance-laced, though.

Pinkel’s Missouri programs have traditionally risen and fallen along with the play of quarterbacks – perhaps more than most. That’s likely because his spread attack demands a quick, accurate passer who can also spread the field to set up a strike-fast, stealthy run game.

It’s no surprise that Pinkel’s best seasons came with QB Chase Daniel at the helm. Daniel is long gone and Franklin doesn’t possess the same skill set. The latter is faster and shiftier and, when healthy, can attack down the field. However, he has not shown the short-game accuracy often associated with Pinkel offenses. Even during Franklin’s strong campaign, he completed 63.3 percent of his passes. In Daniel’s worst season he completed 63.5 percent of his passing attempts and was up over 72 percent as a Heisman Trophy finalist during his senior season.

Of course, Daniel couldn’t freelance with his legs the way a healthy Franklin can.

Franklin had to compete for the starting job during the spring, when he held off Berkstresser (now relegated to QB3 duties) and heralded freshman Maty Mauk. It will be Franklin’s show when what is likely a critical season for Pinkel begins against Murray State.

With a tougher-than-it-looks non-conference schedule, Missouri will need a steady, play-making presence in Franklin.

If Franklin can return to 2011 form, the Tigers can jump out to a 5-0 start heading into a three-game stretch at Georgia and at home against Florida and South Carolina. If he struggles – be it because of injuries or any other reason – Pinkel might be forced to hit the panic button and move on to Mauk.

National championships are rarely-to-never expectations in Columbia, Mo. But bowl games most certainly are. Especially in an offense predicated more than most on quarterback performance, Franklin’s season will tell the tale for Missouri in 2013.

Sept 22, 2012; Starkville, MS, USA; Mississippi State Bulldogs wide receiver Jameon Lewis (4) leads one of the top SEC special teams units in 2013. Mandatory Credit: Spruce Derden-USA TODAY Sports

1. Vanderbilt Commodores

Only Florida had better all-around special teams than Vanderbilt in 2012, and the Commodores could progress into that same conversation by the end of 2013. Special teams coordinator Charles Bankins is working with a talented group, including dangerous return man Jonathan Krause, kickoff returners Andre Hal and Brian Kimbrow, and kicker Carey Spear.

Spear was reliable for the Commodores last season, connecting on 20-24 field goal attempts — including a perfect 13-13 from 39 yards and in — as well as all 27 of his extra points.  

The departure of punter Richard Kent is the only significant check against the Commodores, though it is a biggie. Kent was an All-SEC selection in 2012.

2. Mississippi State Bulldogs

Mississippi State cracked the top 40 nationally in kickoff return, at 23.1 yards per attempt. Leading returner Jameon Lewis averaged 25.9 yards per attempt, and took one kickoff 100 yards for a touchdown last season. Baker Swedenburg is among the nation’s premier punters, sporting 37 career boots inside 20 yards. Swedenburg rarely afforded opponents the opportunity to return his punts; just 13 were taken all last season. The few chances opposing returners were afforded produced scant few yards, as the Bulldogs covered for an unbelievable 0.5 yards per punt return — far and away, tops in college football.

A question mark is kicker Devon Bell, who struggled on his field goal attempts beyond 30 yards. Bell connected on just 10-17 from that mark. Bell’s touchback percentage on kickoffs was only 20.

3. Florida Gators

Few teams can point to the value of special teams quite like Florida. The Gators won more than once last season largely on the strength of their special teams, both in wreaking havoc on South Carolina and Jelani Jenkins blocking a late La.-Lafayette punt.

Gone is 2012 Lou Groza Award finalist Caleb Sturgis, one of the most reliable kickers in college football over the last few seasons. The Miami Dolphins fifth round selection Sturgis is difficult to replace, and neither Austin Hardin nor Brad Phillips impressed according to spring practice reports.

UF does return All-Conference punter Kyle Christy, one of the highest yard per attempt performers in the nation a season ago. The Gators also welcome back electrifying returner Andre Debose.

4. Auburn Tigers

For all the rebuilding Gus Malzahn and his staff are faced with in Year One, special teams make for a solid foundation to his new team. Auburn excelled in all phases of special teams a year ago, and return most of the vital pieces in 2013. Chief among them is kicker Cody Parkey, who averaged a remarkable 68.8 percent touchback rating on his kickoffs. Parkey’s returned kicks produced very little; in fact, Auburn had the best kickoff coverage in the SEC, allowing only 16.6 yards per. Punter Steven Clark was below 40 yards per attempt on average, but it didn’t hurt the Tigers — despite its defensive inadequacies, AU actually covered punts better than any team in the nation except Mississippi State, allowing fewer than 1 yard (.8) per opportunity.

Running back Onterio McCalebb, who doubled as a dangerous kick returner, is gone. However, punt returner Quan Bray is back. He averaged 12.4 yards per attempt a season ago.

5. LSU Tigers

America will sorely miss the best Australian import since Summer Heights High, punter Brad Wing. Seriously, how many punters have enough chutzpah to draw a taunting penalty on a touchdown rush? Perhaps Wing employed the same logic in leaving LSU early for the NFL. Whatever his motivation, he leaves a void on the Tiger special teams.

Wing’s replacement does have the cushion of playing alongside one of the elite coverage units. The deep Tiger defense supplemented punt coverage to the tune of 3.5 yards per return, and just a touch over 18 yards per kickoff opportunity.

On the opposite side, Odell Beckham filled in for Tyrann Mathieu as punt returner quite nicely, running back a pair of kicks for touchdowns.

6. Missouri Tigers

October 27, 2012; Columbia, MO, USA; Missouri Tigers running back Marcus Murphy (6) leads a formidable SEC special teams unit at Missouri. Mandatory Credit: Dak Dillon-USA TODAY Sports

7. Texas A&M Aggies

A&M excelled in most every phase of special teams last season, and returns several key contributors in that facet of the game. Taylor Bertolet boomed 65 touchbacks for a 63 percent average. For a team that scores touchdowns as prolifically as A&M, the defense spends a lot of time on the field. A kicker who can limit the opposition’s opportunities is invaluable, and Bertolet was that for the A&M special teams. When teams did have the chance to take back Bertolet kicks, they had little success. Texas A&M boasted one of the best kickoff coverage defenses in the SEC, allowing just a little over 18 yards per attempt.

He was, however, less consistent in his field goal and extra point duties, going 13-22 on the former and 68-75 on the latter.

Kick returner Trey Williams averaged 22.3 yards per attempt last season, and returns for 2013. The Aggies lose primary punt returner Dustin Harris.

8. Alabama Crimson Tide

It stands to reason a program as stocked with four-and-five-star recruits as Alabama would have premier talent filling out its special teams. Alabama isn’t bad in its special teams coverage by any means, but at 6.5 yards per return on Cody Mandell’s 44.3 average yards per punt, the Crimson Tide ranks No. 34 in the nation. Very rarely does any phase of Nick Saban’s team not rank in the top 10.

The Tide loses Jeremy Shelley, a stalwart of the special teams and perfect placekicker through 2012. He connected on all 69 of his PATs, and all 11 of his field goal attempts. Cade Foster is back to handle kickoff responsibility. He forced touchbacks on over 46 of his attempts. Yet, Alabama gave up a surprising 21.6 yards per return opportunity.

9. Georgia Bulldogs

Malcolm Mitchell, expected to move into a more prominent role on the wide receiving corps, handled both punt and kick return duties a season ago. He was servicable in both phases, though more so as a kickoff returner.

Freshman kicker Marshall Morgan struggled mightily, connecting on just eight of his 14 field goal attempts all season. Morgan also missed on four extra point attempts. Fellow freshman Collin Barber was much more steady at punter, booming 19 kicks inside the 20 yard line. However, the Georgia punt coverage was surprisingly porous. The Bulldogs ranked No. 102 in the nation, with 11.1 yards surrendered per attempt — somewhat perplexing, given the bevy of talent on the roster.

10. Ole Miss Rebels

Senior punter Jim Broadway is gone, as is long-time Rebel placekicker Bryson Rose. A key contributor from a season ago back in the mix is freshman Jaylen Walton 24.7 yards per kickoff return in 2012, including one for a score against Texas.

11. South Carolina Gamecocks

Wide receiver Ace Sanders was outstanding as the Gamecocks punt returner, but is gone for the NFL in 2013. Only Victor Hampton had any opportunities last season among 2013 returning players, and he took just a pair of punts. Kick returner Bruce Ellington is back though, having averaged better than 22 yards per opportunity.

Another team stacked on defense, South Carolina used its depth to stymie opposing in the return game. Punter Tyler Hull returns, but the Gamecocks lose placekicker Adam Yates.

12. Tennessee Volunteers

Cordarrelle Patterson was named to the All-SEC team for his returning ability, but left the Vols with a year of eligibility remaining. Punt returner Devrin Young is back in the mix though, coming off a 2012 in which he averaged 9.7 yards per attempt.

Michael Palardy will work in all facets as kicker and punter, after splitting appearances with Derrick Brodus in 2012. Last season, Palardy connected on 9-12 field goal attempts and 37-40 PATs. Palardy had 16 punts inside 20 yards a year ago.

13. Arkansas Razorbacks

The Razorbacks lose punter Dylan Breeding, one of the NCAA’s top 10 in 2012. His replacement should have the luxury of decent coverage, though. Arkansas cracked the top 30 in yards surrendered in the punting game, and was No. 57 on kickoff returns.

Placekicker Zach Hoker was 32-32 on PATs, but only 11-18 on field goal attempts. Punt returner Nate Holmes was good for 6.3 yards an attempt in his freshman season.

Arkansas falls this low not because it’s particularly bad, but rather the league’s special teams units are demonstrably deep. The rebuilding Razorbacks must prove their ability.

14. Kentucky Wildcats

Kentucky had its issues in special teams last year. Placekicker Craig McIntosh was perfect on PATs, but missed nearly half of his field goal attempts (8-15). With four kicks and punts blocked, Kentucky was also one of the most vexed teams in that regard during 2012. The Wildcats also ranked near the bottom of defending returns, allowing over 22 yards per attempt on kickoffs. Because placekicker Joe Mansour fell below 50 percent on his kickoffs-to-touchbacks, that tranlates to the UK defense often facing unfavorable field position. All told, new special teams coordinator Bradley Dale Peveto faces an uphill climb to get UK where it needs to be competitively.

Ole Miss QB Bo Wallace (14) can help the Rebels improve even more in 2013 if he avoids the turnovers that plagued some of his lesser performances a year ago. Mandatory Credit: Crystal LoGiudice-USA TODAY Sports

Even the nation’s best programs enter the season knowing facets of the game must break right for them to live up to potential. This is our look at what the SEC West teams need to do to meet or exceed expectations in 2013.

Alabama

1. Win the first two: A neutral-field, season-opening game against Virginia Tech in Atlanta and a road game at Texas A&M in Week 2 make up the toughest two-game stretch the Tide will likely face all season. Of course, Alabama coach Nick Saban has proven he can have his team ready for the start of seasons. The Crimson Tide hasn’t lost a September game since Saban’s first season in 2007. The Alabama-Texas A&M game at Kyle Field is among the most highly-anticipated games in the country this season.
2. Be skillfully offensive: While there are three spots along the offensive line to be filled this season, the skill players retain largely intact. QB A.J. McCarron headlines the returners and he has big-time weapons in RB T.J. Yeldon and WR Amari Cooper, who arguably rank atop the SEC at their respective positions. WR Kevin Norwood also has established himself as a talented playmaker and there is a bulk of talent behind Yeldon at tailback. It isn’t like Saban to rely on offense to carry his team and, based on his track record, he won’t have to this year, either. But Saban will have the option of trusting a senior quarterback and brilliant skill players if he sees fit.
3. Don’t break the chain: It hasn’t seemed to matter how many defensive players Saban and Alabama graduate on a year-to-year basis. The Crimson Tide continues to roll. Last year was no different, both with on-field dominance and NFL Draft presence. Alabama loses five starters from 2012, including CB Dee Milliner, LB Nico Johnson and NT Jesse Williams. All that means is Saban has players waiting in the wings who have worked hard and are chomping at the bit to take their turns – and then leave for the NFL.

Arkansas

1. Present a united front: It’s ironic, considering offensive guru Bobby Petrino is largely responsible for assembling this team, but Arkansas’ biggest strength entering the 2013 season is on defense. The front four for the Razorbacks is among the best in the conference. Few teams will be able to pressure opposing quarterbacks like Arkansas, which can stuff the run as well. DEs Trey Flowers and Chris Smith make up one of the best duos in college football.
2. Run, baby, run: QB Brandon Allen won the starting position seemingly because he avoided mistakes. Shortly after first-year coach Bret Bielema announced that Allen at least led in the position battle, QB2 Brandon Mitchell announced his intention to transfer. That means Allen is the only real option to start the season. Spreading the field and passing has rarely been Bielema’s M.O., though. He has predicated offenses on power run games and play-action passing. Expect RB Jonathan Williams to have chances to emerge as a prominent SEC tailback.
3. Regain swagger: Arkansas went 21-5 during Petrino’s final two seasons in Fayetteville and was primed for a run at the SEC West last year before Petrino was relieved of his coaching duties. That spirit and attitude didn’t appear during 2012 and the Razorbacks plummeted to a 4-8 season. For everything Bielema needs to turn around on the field, his ability to improve morale and confidence might be his most critical mission.

Auburn

1. Find a QB: Kiehl Frazier started the season as Auburn’s quarterback. He didn’t last long, turning the position over to Clint Moseley five games into the season. Three games later, true freshman Jonathan Wallace took over. Fortunately for the quarterbacks – and the Tigers – first-year coach Gus Malzahn has made a career out of renovating the position. Even more importantly, Malzahn recruited Frazier and hand-picked junior-college transfer Nick Marshall. Quarterback was not Auburn’s only problem in 2012, but the non-existence of production from the position certainly didn’t help.
2. Stop somebody – anybody: New defensive coordinator Ellis Johnson has built a strong reputation by producing top-flight SEC defenses. That, of course, is saying something. Johnson has his work cut out for him this year. He inherits a defense that gave up an average of 50 points per game over the final three SEC games. Auburn has talent on defense, but – as evidenced by allowing 150 points to Texas A&M, Georgia and Alabama – perhaps lacked heart in a despondent season. The Tigers must find answers at linebacker, but have a reasonably strong defensive front.
3. Go fast, start fast: Malzahn is best known for his hurry-up, no-huddle offense. Though at times when Malzahn hasn’t run the show, coaches have taken out select words from that description. That won’t be the case now that he runs the show. While Auburn adjusts to Malzahn’s pace, it will need to get off to a fast start in order to return to a bowl game in 2013. The Tigers open with three potentially tough but ultimately winnable games. Washington State, Arkansas State and Mississippi State all visit Jordan-Hare Stadium to open the season. If Auburn starts 3-0 it has an outstanding chance to go bowling in Year 1 under Malzahn..

LSU

1. Get Zach Mettenberger comfortable: Last year LSU struggled in the passing game. Part of that falls on Mettenberger, who has a strong arm but lacks accuracy at times. A bigger part, however, focused on receivers dropping passes and inconsistent pass protection along the offensive line. Even if RB Jeremy Hill misses extended time after getting arrested on battery charges during the offseason, the Tigers still have plenty of talent at tailback. RB Kenny Hilliard, nephew of former New Orleans Saints RB Dalton Hilliard, would be among the next to be called upon. Mettenberger has the talent to take his game to another level. Offensive coordinator Cam Cameron will be responsible for making it happens.
2. Reload, don’t rebuild, on defense: Yes, LSU lost a lot on defense. No, it’s not worried. The Tigers are another program that has shown an uncanny ability to replace one star with another future star who builds a household name by midseason. DTs Anthony Johnson and Ego Ferguson have a chance to be special early on as starters.
3. Beat ’Bama: LSU knows the road to Atlanta runs through Tuscaloosa. This year that statement runs more literally than others, considering that the Tigers visit Bryant-Denny Stadium in November. Success in Baton Rouge is dictated by winning division, conference and national championships. To win any of the three, LSU likely must take down the Crimson Tide.

Mississippi State

1. Russell up: The Tyler Russell who quarterbacked the first 11 games last year looked like an all-conference performer. However, there were two more games to be played and Russell didn’t fare nearly as well during them. Now a senior, Russell has one more chance to leave a lasting legacy by helping the Bulldogs climb the ranks in the SEC West. For him to do so, he must quickly adapt to a young receiving corps.
2. Secondary a primary concern: The Bulldogs replace starting CBs Johnthan Banks and Darius Slay and will likely need immediate help to do so. Mississippi State turned to junior-college transfer CB Justin Cox to help the situation. Fortunately, S Nickoe Whitley returns.
3. Find that big win: Mullen has taken State to three bowl games during his first four seasons in Starkville. The knock against him has been simple: He enters the 2013 season just 2-14 against top SEC West teams Alabama, LSU, Auburn and Arkansas. Those two wins came over hapless Arkansas and Auburn teams of 2012. State’s difficulties in big divisional games have become cause for concern.

Ole Miss

1. Pressure opposing QBs: DEs C.J. Johnson and Channing Ward provide the talent to provoke sleepless nights for opposing quarterbacks. Add to the mix Robert Nkemdiche – one of the top prospects in America last year – and the Rebels defensive line has the potential to be a pressure cooker off the edges.
2. Protect your home turf: The start of the Ole Miss schedule is brutal. The Rebels play four of their first five games on the road with back-to-back games at Texas and at Alabama. Then Ole Miss returns to Oxford for six consecutive home games, including mid-October home tilts against Texas A&M and LSU. If the Rebels win all their home games they will avoid regression.
3. No gambling: The good from QB Bo Wallace is obvious. He spent last year as arguably the second-most explosive player in the SEC behind only Texas A&M QB Johnny Manziel. However, his risk-taking ways left him with almost as many interceptions throw (17) as touchdown passes (22). Wallace also rushed for eight TDs, but he needs to get his mistakes under control. If Wallace can cut down on turnovers, the Ole Miss offense can soar to new heights.

Texas A&M

1. Find answers along the defensive front seven: Lost in all the hype of QB Johnny Manziel chasing back-to-back Heisman Trophies and the Aggies’ chances of winning the SEC West is the fact that A&M lost a ton on defense. The front seven, especially, will be made up of unproven commodities. DE Damontre Moore’s importance to the 2012 team can’t be overstated. Furthermore, Texas A&M graduated its two top linebackers – Sean Porter and Jonathan Stewart. If the front seven can play beyond its experience, there’s enough talent everywhere else to contend for the SEC crown.
2. Remain road warriors: While the Week 2 bout with Alabama will set the tone for the SEC West, the Aggies’ four road games will go a long way toward determining their overall success. Among those contests is a potentially pivotal matchup toward the end of the season against LSU. Another, at Ole Miss, is a potential trap if A&M isn’t careful. The Aggies went 6-0 on the road last year, including a victory over No. 1 Alabama, so they have shown they can win away from Kyle Field. Doing so again could propel them onto a BCS-bound course.
3. When in doubt, believe in Johnny: If all else fails, having the reigning Heisman Trophy winner taking every snap for your offense is a pretty nice luxury, huh? In case you haven’t noticed, Manziel has game-changing abilities. Ask Alabama. Or the rest of the SEC. Just when opposing defenses think they have a beat on Manziel, he escapes like a thief in the night only to reemerge in the end-zone. He can beat teams with his arm just as easily with his legs. A slight regression would only be natural considering Manziel ventured into previously unchartered terrain as a freshman. But don’t look for him to go too far – he will still be the most electric player in the SEC. The Aggies also feature weapons to surround Manziel – notably RB Ben Malena and WR Mike

QB Max Wittek (13) hopes coach Lane Kiffin will tab him to be the starter for USC in 2013. The Trojans are trying to bounce back from a difficult season that saw them start the season No. 1 and end it 7-6 with a loss in the Sun Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

NOTE: This is the 14^th installment of a 15-part series on 2013′s most pivotal QBs in college football.

Ask any coach about the importance of the quarterback position and he is quick to throw out a tired cliché about quarterbacks getting too much credit and blame.

They will tell you there are 11 guys on the field at all times and each one of them must work together for the team to win.

Coaches know a lot about football. They also know about deflecting pressure from the most important pressure on the field.

How important is the quarterback position? Ask Texas A&M what Johnny Manziel meant to the team in 2012. Ask Auburn about Cam Newton’s worth in 2010. Ask Ohio State after Urban Meyer got a chance to turn around QB Braxton Miller in 2012.

A quarterback might not be everything, but a good one can mask a number of different deficiencies – be it a porous defense, a non-existent run game or erratic special teams.

Teams without a solid quarterback need virtually every other facet of the game to click in order to overcome poor play from the most important position.

This list is designed to spotlight 15 quarterbacks whose play will dictate their teams’ fates. With two exceptions, this list is made up exclusively of established QBs who have been starters for at least half a season.

The carefully chosen term “pivotal” is key here. This is to spotlight teams that could have significant swings based on the position. Players like Manziel and Miller are proven commodities at this point. Florida State has enough surrounding its yet-to-be-named starter – presumably Jameis Winston – to repeat as ACC champ even without great play from the position. Those appearing on this list are opined to have a wider swing.

15. Logan Thomas, Virginia Tech

14. Zach Mettenberger, LSU

13. Bryn Renner, North Carolina

12. Clint Trickett/Paul Millard/Ford Childress, West Virginia

11. Connor Halliday, Washington State

10. Nathan Scheelhaase, Illinois

9. Casey Pachall, TCU

8. Joe Southwick, Boise State

7. Keith Price, Washington

6. Andrew Maxwell, Michigan State

5. Jeff Driskel, Florida

4. C.J. Brown, Maryland

3. David Ash, Texas

2. Max Wittek/Cody Kessler/Max Browne, USC

That there is no clear starter here is a direct indictment against Wittek, who had first shot at the starting spot when Matt Barkley suffered a season-ending shoulder injury last year.

Granted Wittek entered in difficult circumstances, making his first start against No. 1 Notre Dame. He completed 14 of 23 passes for 186 yards, but threw two interceptions against one touchdown.

Fairly or unfairly, Wittek is one of the two faces featured during the series of moments that made both the USC offense and coach Lane Kiffin appear incompetent. With the Fighting Irish leading 22-13 in the fourth quarter, the Trojans had seven snaps inside the 10-yard line (helped by two Notre Dame penalties). Kiffin looked clueless on the sideline and, on USC’s last gasp, Wittek missed an open receiver in the end-zone on fourth-and-goal from the 1.

Still, that performance could have been written off as a young quarterback’s first start against arguably the top defense in the nation.

The worst thing that happened to Wittek – and likely his candidacy for QB1 in 2013 – came after he took all the first-team practice snaps during bowl preparation. Instead of taking a giant step forward, Wittek played poorly again against an average Georgia Tech team in the Sun Bowl.

The Yellow Jackets harassed Wittek into a 14-of-37, 107-yard performance in which he managed one TD while throwing three INTs.

Those consecutive performances left Kiffin second-guessing whether Wittek was, indeed, his quarterback of the future.

Wittek and Kessler split first-team reps throughout spring practice and Kiffin did not name a starter coming out of practice. Browne, a true freshman, reportedly never made a big move during spring ball.

This seems to be a two-man race between Kessler and Wittek. Experience – albeit not spectacular experience – favors Wittek. Kessler has attempted just two collegiate passes.

Whoever goes under center for USC will attempt to blaze a path to redemption after the Trojans, who started No. 1 last season, finished the year 7-6.

With Kiffin’s seat growing hot, there will be obvious questions about how patient the fourth-year coach can be with his chosen QB1. The Trojans will be expected to quickly return back to prominence in a Pac-12 that has seen high-profile coaches enter the league and become formidable.

That means Kiffin doesn’t have time to allow a quarterback to work through struggles.