It’s hard to say that one player makes an entire recruiting class great. But when analyzing Vanderbilt’s success on the recruiting trail, its not like you have many options otherwise.

Especially when that player is Jordan Matthews, who remains the most irreplaceable player in Commodores’ history. Matthews holds the SEC record for career receptions (262) and receiving yards (3,759).

As a senior, he led the SEC with career highs in both categories (112 receptions, 1,477 yards). He also had seven of his 24 career touchdowns and averaged 13.2 yards per catch.

Matthews was named a first team All-America wide receiver by USA Today and Athlon Sports, as well a second or third team All-American by the Associated Press, Sports Illustrated, CBS Sports and Phil Steele. The senior was a consensus first team All-SEC and a Biletnikoff Award Semifinalist.

During the James Franklin era, Matthews was the primary option in the Commodores offense. After seeing limited production as a true freshman, the Madison, Ala., native enjoyed a breakout sophomore season in Franklin’s debut season.

Matthews was a starter on all three of Vanderbilt’s bowl teams under the former coach. After his departure, the Commodores struggled to find any consistency at wide receiver in 2014.

Jordan Rodgers was also responsible for many of Matthews’ career numbers. The brother of former NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers started in two Vanderbilt in 2011 and 2012 after transferring from Butte College in 2010.

Rodgers threw for 4,063 yards, 24 touchdowns and 15 interceptions on 299-of-535 career passing. He also rushed for 491 yards and six touchdowns on 208 attempts.

Cornerback Steven Clarke also enjoyed a solid career in Nashville, setting career highs in nearly every stat category as a senior in 2013. Clarke recorded 42 total tackles, including 32 solo, six passes defended, a forced fumble and an interception.

The senior had at least one tackle in every game, including a season-high seven solo tackles in Vanderbilt’s upset win against Georgia. Clarke signed with the Miami Dolphins as an undrafted free agent in 2013.