NASHVILLE, Tenn.
As the expanded Southeastern Conference (SEC) approaches the close of its regular season, the addition of two new teams has injected fresh unpredictability into a league that appeared to have settled into its hierarchy dominated by Georgia and Alabama.
The SEC’s new structure, featuring 16 teams and no divisions, does not seem to have altered the landscape much as rivalry week commences. Currently ranked No. 6, Georgia has already secured a spot in the conference championship game for the ninth time since 2011, although a victory in their upcoming game would be crucial for solidifying their playoff aspirations.
An intense rivalry is set to resume with No. 3 Texas squaring off against No. 20 Texas A&M for the first time in 13 years, vying for the other championship slot in Atlanta.
Yet another contender, No. 7 Tennessee, finds itself tied for third in the SEC. The Volunteers see an opportunity to enhance their College Football Playoff prospects in Saturday’s matchup against surprising Vanderbilt. Coach Josh Heupel, however, remains focused on their earlier defeat to then-No. 1 Alabama in October rather than their upcoming opponent.
Heupel commented, “There’s a lot of football to be played,” emphasizing the unpredictability that remains for teams nationwide.
Star Performance
Members of the current SEC, which includes Oklahoma, have captured the Heisman Trophy in six out of the last seven seasons—but this year seems different.
Tennessee’s Dylan Sampson leads the SEC and holds a program record with 22 rushing touchdowns. Additionally, Ole Miss defensive tackle Walter Nolen and Texas offensive lineman Kelvin Banks Jr. are in contention for the Outland Trophy, awarded to outstanding interior linemen.
Georgia features two finalists: defensive back Malaki Starks for the Jim Thorpe Award and punter Brett Thorson for the Ray Guy Award. Kentucky kicker Alex Raynor is also a contender for the Lou Groza award.
Bowl Eligibility
If Auburn can break a four-game losing streak against Alabama, it will ensure that 14 of the 16 SEC teams qualify for bowl games, with Vanderbilt making its first appearance since 2018.
Kentucky has seen its streak of eight consecutive bowl appearances come to an end, while Mississippi State looks to salvage its season in Friday’s Egg Bowl against rival Ole Miss, serving as the Bulldogs’ last hope this year under first-year coach Jeff Lebby.
Coaches Under Pressure
Lebby’s position seems relatively secure as his team works to rebound from the unexpected loss of Mike Leach. On the other hand, Mark Stoops has a hefty buyout of $44 million, which may buffer him this offseason but does place him on a short leash if results do not improve in 2025.
Auburn’s coach Hugh Freeze has been actively recruiting, with hopes for a top-five class. However, another losing season could further intensify pressure from an eager fan base in 2025, particularly if they fall to Alabama.
Florida’s coach, Billy Napier, remains in a solid position after leading his team to consecutive victories against ranked opponents.
Brent Venables of Oklahoma has seen an increase in job security after receiving endorsements from the university’s athletic director and president, with a noteworthy victory over then-No. 7 Alabama helping the Sooners achieve bowl eligibility despite ongoing injury issues.
Youth Influence
Alabama’s standout player Ryan Williams, still just 17 years old, has made a significant impact this season alongside Auburn’s Cam Coleman, both of whom were among the nation’s top wide receiver recruits.
Williams impressed with a remarkable game against Georgia, accumulating 177 yards and two touchdowns, contributing to his overall tally of 42 receptions, 804 yards, and eight touchdowns.
Coleman has also made his mark with 520 yards and seven touchdowns on 30 catches, including an impressive recent performance with 15 receptions for 228 yards and five touchdowns.
Tennessee’s freshman Boo Carter is making moves on both defense and in return duties. His electrifying performance has led redshirt freshman quarterback Nico Iamaleava to consider how Carter might contribute offensively in the future.
Florida freshman DJ Lagway has shown potential when fit, and Napier needs to demonstrate his capability to nurture Lagway and running back Jaden Baugh, among a roster filled with first- and second-year players.
Recruiting Landscape
The SEC is well-positioned to excel during the early signing period set for December 4-6, with 247Sports predicting Georgia will lead in team rankings, followed closely by Alabama, Texas, Auburn, LSU, and Tennessee. Only Ohio State from the Big Ten is expected to break into the top seven.
The urgency of recruiting efforts remains high, as Tennessee recently managed to secure a running back who had been previously committed to Southern California since April.