Senior legacies: SEC players who can leave a mark in final game
The upcoming slate of SEC bowl games marks the final collegiate appearances for several star players. For these athletes, their final game is a chance to secure a legacy with their respective programs and be remembered among the conference’s all-time greats, Here’s a look at five players who can leave a mark in their final game.
Blake Sims, QB, Alabama: Blake Sims entered the season facing doubts, but has emerged as one of the SEC’s best quarterbacks for No. 1 Alabama. Unlike the other players listed, Sims has a chance to make two more appearances should the Tide advance in the College Football Playoffs. However, the senior faces the biggest obstacle in leading Alabama to yet another national championship, which would solidify his spot among the program’s top quarterbacks.
Nick Marshall, QB, Auburn: Marshall enjoyed a decorated career that included last year’s BCS Championship game appearance. The dual-threat quarterback was one of the most exciting players to watch in the SEC during the past two seasons, providing the perfect fit to a Gus Malzahn offense. Marshall will play his final game against Wisconsin in the Outback Bowl on Jan. 1 and should leave as one of the best quarterbacks in Auburn history.
Dylan Thompson, QB, South Carolina: Thompson led the SEC in passing yards, despite also failing to secure several late-game victories. After spending several years behind Connor Shaw, the senior still struggles to emerge out of the former starter’s shadow. Thompson has a chance to end his tenure at South Carolina on a high note with a victory on Saturday against Miami.
Trey Flowers, DE, Arkansas: Flowers capped off a stellar career in Fayetteville with 63 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss and five sacks in his final season. After missing bowl games in each of the past two years, the Huntsville, Ala., native can end his collegiate career with his first postseason victory since 2011.
Markus Golden, DE, Missouri: Golden was one half of the SEC’s best pass rush duo. The senior recorded 68 tackles, 16 tackles for loss and 8.5 sacks in 2014. Golden looks to end his dominant final season on a high note with a victory against Minnesota in the Citrus Bowl.