If the SEC wants to shake its current stigma that the league’s ‘losing traction’ nationally, it needs its star players to remain healthy this season. Some teams could absorb losses to key contributors while others would be decimated if leaders went down at certain positions.

10 players the SEC can’t lose in 2015

Jonathan Williams, RB, Arkansas: We’re not sold on the fact Alex Collins could carry Bret Bielema’s smashmouth-style offense if Williams went down with an injury. Collins has never rushed for 100 yards in a game past September and is the obvious No. 2 coming out of spring ball. If the Razorbacks are in contention for a divisional crown during the second half this fall, Williams and his 1,000-plus yards will be the reason.

Myles Garrett, DL, Texas A&M: The Aggies’ most athletic defender gives Texas A&M an edge at the line of scrimmage, a pass rusher who is still a couple years away from reaching his maximum potential. Scary right? Garrett didn’t become a three-down player until the second half of his freshman campaign, but he won’t be limited at all this season on John Chavis’ new-look unit.

Joshua Dobbs, QB, Tennessee: The SEC needs solid quarterback play to stay relevant on offense in the era of spread, fast-paced schemes and Dobbs is slated to be the Eastern Division’s must-watch talent at the position. Depth’s an issue behind him and Butch Jones knows it. Tennessee’s offensive line is focused on limiting direct shots on Dobbs who will encourage enough contact on his own with his feet.

A’Shawn Robinson, DL, Alabama: If the Crimson Tide defense seeks a return to No. 1 in the SEC and Top 5 nationally, Robinson’s production needs to be substantial. He has the tools to be the focal point on Kirby Smart’s unit, but a slow start as a sophomore stunted his growth. He showed flashes of his 2013 All-American stature during the second half however and Alabama’s coaching staff is hoping that continues.

Evan Boehm, C, Mizzou: This Maty Mauk and Russell Hansbrough-led offense would implode if Boehm missed time, one of the Tigers’ most versatile players along the offensive line. Boehm never misses a block, is rarely out of position and gives Mizzou veteran tenacity up front.

Laremy Tunsil, OT, Ole Miss: Without their best player up front, the Rebels would be up the creek without a paddle considering the offense is breaking in a first-year quarterback this season. College football’s most talented tackle protects the pocket and provides much needed-time for the Ole Miss passing game to operate. Hugh Freeze will lean on him this season.

Nick Chubb, RB, Georgia: Many feel the Bulldogs have the best shot in the SEC to finish unbeaten this fall thanks to a top-heavy Eastern Division, but the nation’s toughest cross-divisional schedule will be a chore. In order to beat Alabama and Auburn this fall, Georgia will need a pair of heroic performances out of its best player and keeping him healthy is vital. Considering Chubb’s impressive numbers as a freshman, the sky’s the limit.

Leonard Fournette, RB, LSU: How will the Tigers overcome season-long challenges at the quarterback position? Feed Fournette, one of the nation’s most complete ballcarriers. In today’s game, running backs won’t lead teams to national championships like a stellar defense or dual-threat gamechanger under center could, but a seismic season from Fournette would certainly put LSU in the mix against some of the league’s perceived frontrunners.

Dak Prescott, QB, Mississippi State: The SEC’s Heisman favorite at 7/1 and the league’s most dynamic offensive player overall, Prescott gives the Bulldogs stability on offense in a competitive West. In baseball, a player’s WAR (wins above replacement) is the model indicator. Prescott’s would be through the roof. Without him, Mississippi State’s a six-win club.

Jeremy Johnson, QB, Auburn: Prescott may be the SEC’s top quarterback heading into the season, but Johnson is the league’s most important in getting back to the College Football Playoff. He’s the straw that stirs the drink for Gus Malzahn’s offense, one with enough potential firepower to lead the league in several categories. If the Tigers can navigate through a treacherous schedule with a healthy Johnson under center, the league has a realistic shot at its eighth national title in 10 years.