Next in Line: SEC Offensive Breakout Players for 2024

These five players could become offensive breakout candidates in the SEC in 2024.

In college football, a breakout season refers to a significant and noticeable improvement in a player’s performance. A performance that propels them from relative obscurity to prominence within their team and the broader collegiate landscape. This surge in performance can be characterized by substantial statistical achievements, impactful game-changing plays, and a consistent display of athleticism. For many athletes, a breakout season positions them as key leaders and playmakers within their team. Essentially, it marks a transformative period where the athletes potential becomes fully realized. The SEC is considered one of, if not the most, competitive conferences in college football. And these five players in the SEC could see a breakout campaign in 2024.

Tennessee – Quarterback Nico Iamaleava

Nico Iamaleava is poised for a breakout campaign, showcasing his precise throwing and athleticism to lead the Volunteers to a successful season. His ability to deliver accurate passes under pressure will be a cornerstone in Tennessee’s spread offense. This will allow the team to capitalize on quick, efficient drives. Iamaleava’s keen sense of timing and field awareness makes him a strong playmaker with some dual threat capabilities. He is capable of threading the needle between defenders and finding open receivers with ease. His technical prowess in passing not only ensures high completion rates but also minimizes turnovers, a crucial factor in maintaining momentum and securing victories in close contest.

Utilizing his playmaking ability within Tennessee’s spread offense, Iamaleava’s athleticism adds a dynamic edge to the Volunteer’s strategy. His quick footwork and agility enable him to extend plays outside the pocket. In other words, he keeps the defenses on their heels and opens up opportunities for explosive gains. Whether executing designed quarterback runs or improvising under duress, his dual-threat capability forces opponents to account for his movements at all times. This versatility enhances the effectiveness of the spread offense. Through his leadership and talent, the Volunteers are well-positioned to make significant strides and compete at the highest level this season.

Oklahoma – Quarterback Jackson Arnold

Jackson Arnold, the Oklahoma Sooners’ sophomore quarterback, will look to make an impact as the team transitions into the highly competitive SEC. Arnold is a prospect known for his strong arm and quick decision-making. These are two key traits that can benefit the Sooners within the SEC.

Arnold spent his freshman year learning and adapting to the collegiate level, and it has equipped him with valuable experience and a deeper understanding of the game’s nuances. Despite the challenge of entering a new conference known for its strong defenses, Arnold’s innate athleticism and growing confidence suggest he could thrive under pressure.

While the Sooners may lack an abundance of established playmakers, Arnold’s versatility and ability to create plays on the fly could compensate for this deficiency. His knack for finding receivers in tight windows will be crucial in maximizing the potential of the existing roster. Furthermore, Arnold’s leadership and ability to inspire his teammates can foster a more cohesive and resilient offensive unit. His chemistry with the coaching staff and their trust in his abilities will likely lead to more tailored and dynamic play-calling. They will exploit his strengths and keep opposing defenses off balance. As a result, Arnold’s breakout season could be fueled by his individual skills and the adaptability of the Sooners’ offensive approach.

Texas – Running Back Cedric Baxter

Texas running back Cedric Baxter is primed to be one of many potential breakout players in the SEC in 2024. He has the potential to become the lead back in the Longhorns’ backfield. With his imposing frame, Baxter embodies the workhorse back that Texas traditionally favors. Baxter is capable of handling a heavy workload while consistently moving the chains. His physicality allows him to break through initial contact and gain critical yards after contact. When you combine this with his strength and endurance it positions him perfectly to dominate the ground game. He alone can ensure Texas maintains control of the clock by wearing down opposing defenses.

Beyond his sheer power, Baxter’s impressive contact balance and adequate speed make him a versatile and dangerous weapon. He has the ability to stay on his feet to keep the chains moving. In crucial situations, Baxter can turn potential losses into positive gains. While not a burner, his speed is sufficient to exploit gaps and break into the second level. His balance and vision allow him to navigate through traffic and pick up substantial yardage. This blend of attributes makes Baxter an impact player on the ground. Baxter can grind out tough yards or break off for big gains. His style of running will ensure Texas’s running game remains a potent force throughout the season.

Georgia – Wide Receiver Colbie Young

Colbie Young is set for a breakout campaign, possibly emerging as quarterback Carson Beck’s favorite target. Young displays exceptional ball control and an impressive catch radius. His ability to secure contested catches and maintain possession in tight coverage makes him a reliable target in critical situations. His recipe as a reliable target also includes precise route running with awareness to find soft spots in the defense. Whether executing short, precise routes or stretching the field, Young’s dependable hands and focus ensure that he can consistently convert opportunities into receptions. This will help Georgia sustain drives and maintain offensive momentum.

In addition to his reliable hands, Young’s athleticism and speed make him capable playmaker. His quick acceleration and agility allow him to create separation from defenders. On the other hand, his long strides while running make him a deep threat that can take the top off opposing defenses. This combination of skills not only provides Beck with a versatile target but also forces defenses to account for Young on every play. By leveraging his natural athleticism and speed, Colbie Young has the potential to make big plays consistently. He will play a part in the Bulldogs’ offensive success in their pursuit for a National Championship.

Ole Miss – Wide Receiver Tre Harris

Harris is primed to be one of many SEC breakout players in 2024. His strong chemistry with quarterback Jaxson Dart will give him the opportunity to surpass 1,000 yards receiving. Harris and Dart have developed a robust connection, characterized by precise timing and mutual trust. This rapport enables Dart to confidently target Harris in various situations. Harris executes his routes with precision and speed securing his targets. Their on-field synergy translates into more accurate and timely throws. This maximizes Harris’s opportunities to rack up significant yardage. As a result, Harris is likely to become Dart’s go-to receiver. Especially in critical moments when the Rebels need a reliable playmaker to move the chains.

Additionally, the arrival of wide receiver Antwane “Juice” Wells Jr. could enhance Tre Harris’s breakout potential by diverting defensive attention. With Wells on the field, defenses will have to spread their focus. This strategic advantage allows Harris to exploit single coverage more frequently. Ole Miss will utilize his speed and agile route running to allow him to create separation. The combination of Harris’s quickness and route running will make a threat in both short and deep passing scenarios. As defenders split their efforts to account for multiple receiving threats, Harris will find more opportunities. Look out for Harris to make impactful plays helping the Rebels drive the ball down the field.

In the end any athlete can have a breakout season, however, I feel these 5 candidates are in the right situation to make it happen. For more Devy insight follow me on X @ThePPRShow and be sure to follow @FFLeagueWinners to stay up to date with all of our articles. Thank you for reading.