Photos: The SEC head coaches as college players

Looking into the past of the SEC head coaches is always fun, and browsing the photos of these men as college football players is even better. If you ever wondered what the SEC’s head coaches looked like during their playing days, we’ve got some photos to help.

Hugh Freeze is the only SEC head coach to not play football at the college level. While a few are missing, here are some great photos of the SEC head coaches from decades ago:

Nick Saban, Defensive Back, Kent State

Saban was likely just as intense a player as he is a head coach today. Perhaps the origins of “The Process” go all the way back to Kent State?

Bret Bielema, Nose Guard, Iowa

Bielema looked like your prototypical Iowa lineman, no?

Gus Malzahn, Arkansas (1984-85) and Henderson State (1987-89)

The offensive genius has his roots playing for Arkansas and Henderson State in the 80’s.

Mark Richt, Quarterback, Miami

Though he was a stud quarterback in high school in Boca Raton, Fla., Richt unfortunately backed up the future Hall of Famer Jim Kelly at Miami during his collegiate years.

Mark Stoops, Iowa

Mark and the other Stoops brothers played football at Iowa.

Les Miles, Offensive line, Michigan

The mad hatter began his career as a mad offensive lineman up north at Michigan.

Gary Pinkel, Tight End, Kent State

Like Saban, Pinkel’s roots go back to playing for Kent State.

Jim McElwain, Quarterback, Eastern Washington

Coach Mac has his roots in the northwest. Perhaps his experience at quarterback will help the Gators find answers at that position in 2015.

Steve Spurrier, Quarterback, Florida

Easily the most celebrated player of the group, Steve Spurrier won a Heisman Trophy playing quarterback for the Gators.

Kevin Sumlin, Linebacker, Purdue

Sumlin may know offense, but he began as a terror at linebacker for the Purdue Boilermakers.