Recruiting classes can be evaluated in multiple timeframes.

We like to look back on how many players in a particular class turned out to be college stars. We also like to think of which incoming players will contribute immediately to our teams.

This list takes the latter into account. Thus, while programs like Alabama hauled in another Top 5 class, the Crimson Tide already have the talent and depth in place to limit the immediate impact of incoming freshmen. The freshmen and junior college transfers on these teams, though, could see early action while also helping to stabilize their programs.

5. South Carolina

Did Steve Spurrier find himself another Jadeveon Clowney? Probably not, but given South Carolina’s defensive woes last season he’ll gladly take new defensive line talents Marquavius Lewis and Dexter Wideman.

The Gamecocks signed seven defensive lineman in 2015, more than any other position. New linebackers and defensive backs should also help right the ship in Columbia.

4. Tennessee

Butch Jones seems to have found himself a group that is both talented and committed. His 2015 class, ranked the fifth-best in the nation by Rivals, should challenge an already-young Tennessee team for playing time. Ten members of the class also enrolled in January, which Vols fans hope will speed up their learning curve.

With so much new talent, it’s tough to single out any one player. But five-star JUCO running back Alvin Kamara surely will be one of Tennessee’s top weapons this season.

3. Missouri

Gary Pinkel’s 2015 class, while solid for Missouri standards, is further down most rankings than the Tigers’ SEC rivals.

Still, individual Tigers newcomers are being pegged to contribute immediately for a Missouri program struggling with depth. Defensive lineman Terry Beckner Jr. will have to eat up downs after Harold Brantley’s season ending injury, while JUCO transfers Chase Abbington (RB) and Malik Cuellar (OL) are expected to see time at positions with more depth.

2. Auburn

New coaches like to bring in their own players, and Will Muschamp is no exception. Auburn’s new defensive coordinator helped the Tigers land regarded players like defensive end Byron Cowart, linebacker Jeffery Holland and defensive back Tim Irvin.

Given the Tigers’ defensive problems last season, those three and more have a chance to factor into Auburn’s defensive rotation.

1. Mississippi State

Dan Mullen’s new class serves as perhaps the best example of the dual timeframes of a college football recruiting class.

The Bulldogs, which seemed to struggle with depth at the end of last year’s 10-win team, lost half of their offensive and defensive starters. Mississippi State helped solve this by signing 29 new players, third-most in the SEC. Defensive back Jamal Peters and linebacker Leo Lewis are talented enough to contribute immediately, while six new receivers will help reload quarterback Dak Prescott’s artillery.

Mullen’s 2015 class is also his most talented, with more four- and five-star signees than any other class during his time in Starkville. It will be tough for the Bulldogs to duplicate their impressive 2014, but in Mullen’s new class Mississippi State has plenty of players who will be important now and later.