Assistant coaches are more important than ever to the recruiting process, and in the SEC the right assistant can be key to a school’s success. We break down five assistant coaches who are helping their schools to hot starts in the 2018 recruiting class.

MORE: Big Ten recruiters off to fast starts in 2018

Biggest get: Kelvin Joseph

Raymond is one of the best recruiters in the country, and while he hasn’t netted a commitment since February, it’s because he has the luxury of already having two of the nation’s best in the fold in Kelvin and Nadab Joseph. Kelvin Joseph has been committed for more than a year, and while he’s looking around, it’s hard to see him playing for anyone but Raymond at the next level. Nadab Jospeh has been committed for 11 months and could be the next Florida-based player to shine with the Tigers. Raymond is also the head recruiter for the nation’s No. 2 overall player, Patrick Surtain, who is undecided at the moment but has the Tigers high on his list.

Biggest get: Jashaun Corbin

Tennessee has nabbed seven commits in the last month, and Scott has played a major role in the Vols' success. His ties to the state of Florida continue to pay dividends, headlined by Corbin, a four-star running back at a position of need in this year’s class. Add in three-star quarterback Michael Penix, whose stock is on the rise this offseason, and a pair of other offensive commitments in Jatavious Harris and Ollie Lane, and Scott is stocking the Tennessee offense with quality players that fit his scheme.

Biggest get: Iverson Clement

Florida’s class is small, sure, but the work Seider has done can’t be overlooked. He played a huge part in landing both four-stars C.J. Smith (DB) and Clement (RB) along with high three-star wider receiver Corey Gammage. More important than the players he’s landed in 2018, however, is the reputation Seider is building as an ace recruiter in the Southeast and beyond. Prospects find Seider relatable and routinely mention his name following visits. He’s long been known as a top recruiter but seems to be taking the next step now that’s he’s landed at UF.

Biggest get: Jalil Irvin

Hand is a coach who is all about connecting with the kids he recruits - he is like a father figure to many. He is easy to talk to, he makes recruits feel comfortable, and he is a coach many talk about wanting to play for. He has played a big role in Auburn landing offensive linemen Jalil Irvin and Kameron Stutts as well as in-state athlete Kolbi Fuqua.

Biggest get: Nero Nelson

Buckley knows the south, and he knows how to recruit the south. He played at Florida State, he knows how speak the language as a coach on the recruiting trail and he has helped the Bulldogs get off to a good start this cycle. Buckley has been the lead recruiter for athlete Nelson and cornerback Esaias Furdge.