Jordan’s Week 1 SEC Power Rankings

Jordan Smith brings you his first SEC Power Rankings of the season. Check back each Friday for the newest preview and analysis as he breaks down the top teams in the conference.

1. Texas

This Week: @ Ohio State
Outlook: All eyes are on the Longhorns in the game of the week as they travel to face the reigning national champion, Ohio State. There is no better way to make a statement than right out of the gate.

2. Georgia

This Week: vs. Marshall
Outlook: I have questions about Georgia, specifically at the QB position. Still, the talent level alone keeps them at number two to start the year.

3. LSU

This Week: @ Clemson
Outlook: LSU could have the best offense in the league this year. That said, I remain skeptical about the defense. Should they be better? Yes. Have they struggled the last two years? Also yes.

4. Alabama

This Week: @ Florida State
Outlook: Similar to Georgia, Alabama has elite talent across the board. Ty Simpson at QB may determine how the season unfolds.

5. Texas A&M

This Week: vs. UTSA
Outlook: The Aggies feel a little high at number five, but returning the most starters in the league justifies a top-five starting rank.

6. South Carolina

This Week: vs. Virginia Tech
Outlook: Shane Beamer has done impressive work in Columbia. LaNorris Sellers is electric and could be a darkhorse Heisman candidate.

7. Ole Miss

This Week: vs. Georgia State
Outlook: The defense looks solid, but the offensive line is still shaky. First-year QB Austin Simmons will be tested, but we likely won’t learn much about the Rebels in week one.

8. Tennessee

This Week: vs. Syracuse
Outlook: Tennessee is loaded with talent, but Dylan Sampson, their 1,500-yard, 22-TD RB from last year, is not walking through the door. That could be an issue.

9. Florida

This Week: Long Island University
Outlook: Florida was a different team in the second half of 2024. Who really are they? D.J. Lagway is electric if he stays healthy.

10. Missouri

This Week: Central Arkansas
Outlook: Familiar faces return on defense, and the new offense in COMO will be tested. Keep an eye on RB Ahmad Hardy.

11. Auburn

This Week: @ Baylor
Outlook: A strong early test for the Tigers. The WR room is loaded and could be one of the best in the country. The key is whether Jackson Arnold can get them the ball.

12. Oklahoma

This Week: vs. Illinois State
Outlook: Brent Venables is in a make-or-break season. The defense will be stout, but can John Mateer provide the offensive spark Oklahoma needs?

13. Arkansas

This Week: vs. Alabama A&M
Outlook: Similar situation to Oklahoma. Week one may not reveal much about the Hogs this year.

14. Vanderbilt

This Week: vs. Charleston Southern
Outlook: Nobody expected Diego Pavia to return, but the fact that he’s back gives Commodore fans excitement and hope.

15. Kentucky

This Week: vs. Toledo
Outlook: Toledo could be dangerous. QB Zach Calzada gets the first shot under center. Kentucky fans may want to keep an eye on this one.

16. Mississippi State

This Week: @ Southern Miss
Outlook: The defense has to improve; last year was rough. This matchup feels like the Super Bowl for Southern Miss.

That wraps up Week 1 of the SEC Power Rankings. The conference is loaded with talent and storylines, and each week will bring new surprises.

Keep checking back Saturday mornings for Jordan’s latest rankings and previews as the SEC season unfolds.