Often overlooked under the national spotlight is the long-lost cousin that is special teams. Whether you like it or not, kickers, punters and return men have an important role that can decide the outcome of a game.

Heading into next season, the special teams in the Pac-12 conference — like every other conference — will experience a new wave of players that could either mean an improvement from last year or a period of transition depending on the size of their respective graduating class.

Here are our top five special teams in the Pac-12 for the coming season:

USC

In addition to receiving five first place votes for top special teams in the Pac-12, the Trojans return Marquise Lee and special teams that ranked first in yards per return on kickoffs. Line that up with Andre Heidari who made 25 of 33 field goals last season — one coming from 50 yards — and the Trojans hold some of the most dangerous special teams in the nation.

Oregon

Despite struggling after losing nationally recognized punter Jackson Rice (2012 Ray Guy Award watch list), the Ducks return a back field featuring De’Anthony Thomas and Keanon Lowe. With the potential to add freshman kicker/punter Matt Wogan into the mix, the Ducks can only get better from last season, making for some of the most capable special teams in the Pac-12.

Stanford

After receiving the second most votes to win the Pac-12 and the North Division, the Stanford Cardinal will, without a doubt, return one the most complete teams in the Pac-12 conference this season. Coach David Shaw has received nothing but praise for his team’s production these past few years and his special teams will continue to hold that tradition as they return a veteran group of players. Along with a second team all-Pac-12 kicker in Jordan Williamson — who hit 13 of 19 field goals last season, his long coming at 54 yards — the Cardinal return a core of tacklers that were notorious for their physical and consistent play. All-in-all, the Cardinal will be in good hands in regards to their special teams next season.

Oregon State

The Beavers had arguably one of the most productive special teams in the Pac-12 last season after ranking first in field goal percentage at 88.9 percent. Luckily, they return both kicker Trevor Romaine and punter Keith Kostol, who a had notable season last year. In addition to hitting 16-of-18 field goals — his long coming at 45 yards — last season, Romaine was the first kicker to be named a First Team All Pac-12 player. Kostol on the other hand landed nearly half (24) of his punts inside the 20-yard line and will look to continue his success in the upcoming season.

Colorado

The Buffaloes have been looking to reach a level of success that used to be customary at Colorado after moving to the Pac-12, and they may just be headed in that direction. Along with returning an Honorable Mention All Pac-12 selection in their punter Darragh O’Neill, the Buffaloes will also welcome back their starting place kicker in Will Oliver. Among his 76 punts from last season, O’Neil landed a season high 61-yard punt and will deservingly be called upon frequently next season. Return man Marques Moseley, who averaged 26.29 yards per return last season, is also coming back.