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I don’t need the gift of clairvoyance to know Georgia football will be picked No. 1 when the media vote next week to predict the SEC standings.
Kirby Smart’s Bulldogs are the new Alabama, especially with Nick Saban retired. Pencil in UGA at No. 1. No need to overthink this.
The better question is, which team will be ranked No. 2 in the media’s predicted order of finish?
In a 12-team College Football Playoff, more than two SEC teams will qualify, so reaching the conference championship game doesn’t wield the same influence it once did. A team that misses the SEC Championship could host a first-round playoff game.
Even so, there’s incentive to reach Atlanta, because the SEC’s champion becomes eligible for a first-round playoff bye.
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Here are teams I’d consider for the SEC’s No. 2 spot in the standings:
The case for: Texas returned ample production from last season’s team that beat Alabama in Tuscaloosa and reached the CFP semifinals. Quarterback Quinn Ewers is established, and many teams would envy Texas’ offensive line.
The case against: The Longhorns’ SEC newcomer status adds an element of mystery. How will they fare in their new digs? Also, will Texas be as strong at wide receiver and defensive line as it was last season?
Alabama
The case for: Nick Saban didn’t leave a bare cupboard. Jalen Milroe returns as a dynamic quarterback, and working with Kalen DeBoer could enhance his development. DeBoer took Washington to the national championship game in Year 2, so a second-place conference finish in Year 1 at Alabama is realistic.
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The case against: Alabama will encounter a stout schedule. Also, Alabama faces more uncertainty surrounding its secondary, wide…
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/georgia-football-no-1-sec-100449749.html
Author : Knox News | The Knoxville News-Sentinel
Publish date : 2024-07-11 10:04:49
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