SEC Football 2017: Biggest x-factor for every team

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NEW ORLEANS, LA – JANUARY 02: Kamryn Pettway #36 of the Auburn Tigers is tackled by Austin Roberts #95 of the Oklahoma Sooners during the Allstate Sugar Bowl at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on January 2, 2017, in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images) /

Auburn – Kamryn Pettway

Gus Malzahn might have the most intricate running game in college football. His option offense is incredibly hard to stop but Pettway is the real deal in any system. Pettway is an absolute bruiser at close to 240 pounds and will do his damage in the red zone in the NFL. Pettway could have declared this past year but in a loaded class with Fournette, McCaffrey, and others, he ultimately returned to school. If he dominates in 2017 for Auburn, Pettway could find himself in the first three rounds of the draft.

Pettway was a true bell cow having over 200 carries and nearly six yards per carry. If Auburn wants really contend in the conference, Pettway will have to perform better against the likes of Alabama and LSU. In 2016, Pettway was awful against both powerhouse teams. He rushed for 17 yards on 12 carries against Alabama and 61 yards on 17 carries against LSU. His ineffectiveness doomed them in the matchup with Alabama but likely can’t happen again if they hope to defeat LSU again.

Jarrett Stidham will take over at quarterback as a Baylor transfer. Baylor loves the deep ball so it’s interesting how the new quarterback will take his role. If Stidham can take the top off the defense, Pettway might be able to run wild.

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