Kentucky’s season can best be explained by the glass half full/half empty scenario. An optimist would deem the Wildcats’ season a success after surpassing their previous win total from the past two combined seasons. However, a pessimist would note that the team started 5-1 and still failed to earn bowl eligibility, ending on a six-game losing streak.

Still, Kentucky has several talented players responsible for an improved record and capable of achieving more success in 2015. Here’s a look at the Wildcats’ best returning players:

1. Josh Forrest, ILB: Forrest had a breakthrough season in 2014. After recording 29 tackles in his first two seasons, the junior finished fourth in the SEC with 110 tackles. Forrest had a career-high 20 tackles in Week 13 against Tennessee and five games with double-digit tackles. The junior added 8.5 tackles for loss and a sack.

2. Stanley “Boom” Williams, RB: It took Kentucky nine games to realize that Boom Williams was its best running back. The true freshman made his first start in Week 9 against Missouri and led the Wildcats with 488 yards and five touchdowns on 75 carries. Williams averaged 6.5 yards per carry, second to fellow freshman Nick Chubb in average for a running back with more than 100 attempts.

3. A.J. Stamps, S: Kentucky ranked No. 44 overall in passing yards allowed, averaging 215.8 yards per game. A.J. Stamps was a crucial part of the Wildcats’ success in their secondary. Stamps (4) and teammate Marcus McWilson (3) combined for seven interceptions, including a 36-yard pick-6 by McWilson against Louisiana-Monroe. The junior was fifth among Kentucky players in total tackles (56). Stamps is a do-everything safety that excels in coverage and stopping running plays. He has the ability to lead Kentucky’s young defense in 2015.

4. Matt Elam, DT: Elam saw limited time as a freshman, but has the highest ceiling of Kentucky’s 2014 freshman class. The 6-foot-5, 372-pound defensive tackle ranked as the No. 1 player in the state of Kentucky and the No. 21 prospect, according to 247Sports.com. Elam has the size and explosiveness to make a surprise impact in his sophomore season, but may not have the endurance to be an every down player.

5. Ryan Timmons, WR: Timmons led Kentucky with 536 yards and two touchdowns on 45 receptions in 2014. The sophomore was the most productive player in a Wildcats receiving corps in dire need of a true No. 1 option. As a junior, Timmons should continue his development and provide a solid option for quarterback Patrick Towles.