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The SEC has traditionally been a pro-style quarterback league, and several teams signed top signal callers for 2015. Although more dual-threat quarterbacks are coming into the league with the differing style of offense, teams still have to have big-armed quarterbacks who can be pocket passers.
Here are the SEC’s top five pro-style quarterback signees:
Editor’s note: Saturday Down South’s references to ratings follow the 247Sports.com composite rankings.
1. Blake Barnett, Alabama (Corona, CA)
The Skinny: Blake Barnett was the highest rated pocket passer to sign with an SEC school, and Alabama had to go to California to get him. Barnett is already enrolled in Tuscaloosa, and if his recruiting prowess is a sign, he’ll be a dynamic player for the Crimson Tide. Nick Saban has repeatedly said he’s not opposed to playing a freshman, and Barnett will battle returner Jacob Coker this spring. Barnett has great footwork and a strong pocket presence, and he projects well in Lane Kiffin’s system.
2. Drew Lock, Missouri (Lees Summit, MO)
The Skinny: Drew Lock may be the best quarterback in the country. The Missouri legacy was the No. 7 ranked signal caller in this class, and he may have the best arm of any passer in the country. His size, strength and intangibles should have Mizzou fans absolutely stoked for him to get on campus.
3. Ty Storey, Arkansas (Charleston, AR)
The Skinny: Arkansas has its future quarterback already on campus. Ty Storey was an early enrollee, and he stayed strong to Arkansas throughout the recruiting process. While Storey isn’t a polished quarterback, he’ll be able to refine his skills at Arkansas. Should the Hogs find a passing game in the near future, Storey could be the one to deliver a championship. Arkansas is building a legit program under Bret Bielema.
4. Quinten Dormady, Tennessee (Boerne, TX)
The Skinny: Quinten Dormady is the only pro-style quarterback the Vols have on the roster in 2015. The Vols also signed two dual-threat quarterbacks in Jauan Jennings and Sheriron Jones, and Jennings is an early enrollee. Dormady is a strong candidate for a redshirt, and furthermore, his career will be interesting watch. Butch Jones will play the best quarterback, but he’s also shown that his system works better with a dual-threat signal caller.
5. Kyle Shurmur, Vanderbilt (Glenside, PA)
The Skinny: Kyle Shurmur is the Commodores’ highest ranked quarterback signee ever, and it comes at a crucial time. The Commodores are unsettled at the position, and it’s wide open. So, Shurmur will be able to compete for the job in 2015. His impact will be based on how quickly he can pick up the offense, but Shurmur is the offensive cornerstone for Derek Mason’s recruiting class.
SEC’s top five signees by position breakdown:
- Pro-style QBs
- Dual-threat QBs
- Running Backs
- Receivers and Tight Ends
- Offensive Tackles
- Offensive Guards and Centers
- Defensive Ends
- Defensive Tackles
- Inside Linebackers
- Outside Linebackers
- Safeties
- Athletes
- Kickers and Punters
A graduate of the University of Florida and founder of Saturday Down South, Kevin is a college football enthusiast.