SEC Fantasy QB Rankings

1. Tim Tebow, Florida (JR)
It may be a bit adventurous to project 55 touchdowns from Tebow in 2008, but the junior quarterback will still be one of the top fantasy quarterbacks in the country. With the addition of Emmanuel Moody and emergence of Chris Rainey at running back, Tebow shouldn’t be counted on for 23 rushing touchdowns – but an increase in passing yards appears likely. Head coach Urban Meyer has mentioned the idea of playing a second quarterback to keep Tebow fresh late in the year, but owners should feel comfortable with him as one of the top three fantasy quarterbacks in the country.

2. Matthew Stafford, Georgia (JR)
If the Bulldogs are going to make a run at a national title, they must see continued improvement from Stafford and his receivers. The junior quarterback showed marked improvement from 2006 to 2007, but doesn’t have much week-to-week fantasy value in leagues involving all 120 teams. Stafford did not throw for more than 250 yards in a single contest last season and only tossed more than two touchdowns once. While this junior should be in for another jump in statistics, use him for spot starts and monitor his progression throughout the year.

3. Jonathan Crompton, Tennessee (JR)
Despite the graduation of Erik Ainge, the Volunteers are in great shape at the quarterback position. Crompton has thrown for 498 yards and five touchdowns during his career and reaffirmed the starting position through spring practice. New offensive coordinator Dave Clawson was one of the top hires at his position and should bring new life to the offensive philosophy. Crompton has the ability, but fantasy owners would be wise to take a wait and see approach with his value.

4. Kodi Burns, Auburn (SO)
New offensive coordinator Tony Franklin wants to spice up the Tiger offense and the spread offense is a perfect fit for Burns’ talent. Franklin’s previous stop was at Troy, where the Trojans averaged 453 yards and 34 points per game last season – which allowed quarterback Omar Haugabook to become a top 25 fantasy option. While Burns could easily outperform this ranking, use a little caution with his value, especially since this his first season as a full-time starter and the Tigers had a tough battle for this starting spot in the spring. Although we expect Burns begin the year as the starter, if junior college recruit and former Texas Tech quarterback Chris Todd wins the job, slide him into this spot and move Burns down the list.

5. Jevan Snead, Mississippi (SO)
Rebel fans have high hopes for Snead, as the former Texas quarterback should finally provide a consistent playmaker under center – something they haven’t had since Eli Manning moved onto the NFL. The sophomore quarterback has a strong arm and is noted for his ability to move outside of the pocket. The Rebels will look to bring Snead along slowly, as he had limited experience at Texas. Fantasy owners in keeper leagues will like Snead’s long-term potential, but should be only be considered for a spot start in 2008.

6. John Parker Wilson, Alabama (SR)
In the last five games of the 2007 season, Wilson threw seven interceptions and looked like a quarterback that was struggling to find confidence. 2008 is a new season and the Crimson Tide will be under the direction of new offensive coordinator Jim McElwain. McElwain revitalized the Fresno State offense last season and indicated after spring practice Wilson was growing more comfortable in the offense. If Wilson continues to improve and cuts down on his mistakes, he would be a nice spot starter in select match-ups for owners. However, if he continues to struggle, the Crimson Tide may turn to highly touted quarterback Star Jackson a little earlier than expected.

10. Curtis Pulley, Kentucky (JR)
With Andre’ Woodson’s graduation, the Wildcats are starting over under center. Pulley spent 2007 redshirting, after battling with Woodson in 2005 and 2006 for the starting job. The junior quarterback is known as a great athlete, but needs to become more consistent in the passing game. Pulley and Mike Hartline are expected to continue their battle for the starting job into the fall, but neither are a week-to-week fantasy option.

11.Chris Smelley, South Carolina (SO)
12.Chris Todd, Auburn (JR)
13.Wesley Carroll, Mississippi State (SO)
14.Tommy Beecher, South Carolina (JR)
15.Cam Newton, Florida (SO)
16.Andrew Hatch, LSU (SO)
17.Mackenzi Adams, Vanderbilt (JR)
18.Mike Hartline, Kentucky (SO)
19.Stephen Garcia, South Carolina (FR)
20.Star Jackson, Alabama (FR)