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SEC Football 2025 Predictions originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
After watching the Big Ten win the last two national championships, the SEC is eager to return to the top of college football in 2025. The SEC doesn't lack for contenders to reach that goal, as Texas, Georgia, LSU, and Alabama are among the top frontrunners to win it all and headline the conference predictions for this year. Those four teams hold an edge in the first tier, but a second wave of teams - South Carolina, Florida, Ole Miss, Oklahoma, Texas A&M, and Tennessee - isn't far behind.
The SEC is loaded with depth, as Missouri could surprise once again, and Auburn has the pieces in place to take a step forward in coach Hugh Freeze's third season. Arkansas and Vanderbilt should make bowl games in '25, while Kentucky and Mississippi State are poised to improve after going a combined 1-15 in SEC play last fall.
How does Athlon Sports project SEC for 2025? Steven Lassan predicts and ranks all 16 teams in SEC for this fall:
ORDER NOW: Athlon Sports 2025 College Football Preview Guide
Texas quarterback Arch Manning© Scott Wachter-Imagn Images
SEC Championship Prediction: Texas over Georgia
Texas is 25-5 with back-to-back trips to a College Football Playoff semifinal over the last two years. Coach Steve Sarkisian has clearly elevated the Longhorns back to a spot among the nation’s best and in a position to reload (instead of rebuild) every year. With the roster again stocked with talent, the next step is clear: Win a national title.
Expectations are sky high for quarterback Arch Manning in his first season as the starter. The sophomore should give Texas more big-play ability in the passing game, as well as an additional rushing threat than former starter Quinn Ewers. Helping Manning ease into the starting role is the return of running backs Tre Wisner and CJ Baxter (missed ‘24 due to injury), and a receiving corps featuring intriguing talents in wide receiver Ryan Wingo and tight end Jack Endries. Replacing four starters on the line is Sarkisian’s biggest concern on offense.
Texas led the SEC in fewest yards per play (4.4 yards a snap) and ranked second in points allowed (15.3 points a game) last season. Despite the departure of defensive back Jahdae Barron and a couple of other pieces, this unit could still rank as the No. 1 group in the SEC. End Colin Simmons and linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. are two of the best individual defenders in the nation, while cornerback Malik Muhammad should contend for All-America honors. The concerns about this unit are minimal. But how the secondary shuffles to replace Barron, along with Sarkisian’s efforts to reload at defensive tackle through the portal, are two areas to watch this fall.
Related: Projecting the Top 25 College Football Teams for 2025
The Bulldogs return only seven starters and have a few more preseason question marks than usual under coach Kirby Smart. However, don’t expect that to slow down Georgia, as Smart’s program should be in the mix to win it all once again.
The biggest concerns for Georgia rest on offense. New quarterback Gunner Stockton played flashed potential (but also plenty to work on) in limited snaps last season. Now, the junior must to prove he can handle the No. 1 role for a full season. The Bulldogs must also replace four starters up front and spark a rushing attack that ranked No. 15 in the SEC last fall. Transfers Noah Thomas (Texas A&M) and Zachariah Branch (USC), along with the return of Colbie Young, should transform Georgia’s receiving corps back into one of the best in the SEC after an inconsistent ‘24.
Smart’s defense only brings back three starters, but this unit will rank among the best in college football once again. CJ Allen and Raylen Wilson headline a deep linebacker unit, while Christen Miller and Jordan Hall anchor the defensive line. Smart and coordinator Glenn Schumann must navigate some turnover on the back end and could be mixing and matching deep into fall practice. Safety KJ Bolden is the next star in the secondary. Finding edge rushers - potentially Army transfer Elo Modozie - is another offseason priority.
Related: Ranking the SEC Coaches for 2025
LSU QB Garrett NussmeierNelson Chenault-Imagn Images
The ‘25 season is a crucial one for coach Brian Kelly’s tenure in Baton Rouge. Although LSU is 29-11 under Kelly’s watch, the program has yet to earn a playoff trip and finished outside of the top 25 last season after going 5-3 in SEC play. With a loaded transfer class and a solid group of returnees, a playoff spot is the expectation in ‘25.
Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier passed on the NFL for one more season in Baton Rouge. After throwing for 4,052 yards and 29 touchdowns last year, Nussmeier ranks among the top signal-callers in the nation. The receiving corps is stocked with talent, as Aaron Anderson and Chris Hilton team with transfers Nic Anderson and Barion Brown to provide a deep set of weapons for Nussmeier. For LSU to challenge for a SEC title, improving the rushing attack and revamping a line with four new starters is the top priority this offseason.
LSU is also counting on a step forward by its defense this fall. The Bayou Bengals showed some improvement in coordinator Blake Baker’s debut in ‘24 but more is needed. Optimism is high a step forward is coming thanks to help in the portal, along with the return of a couple of key starters, including preseason All-American Whit Weeks. Help for the trenches should come in the form of Patrick Payton (Florida State), Jack Pyburn (Florida), and Bernard Gooden (South Florida). Also, the secondary is poised for improvement with cornerback Mansoor Delane coming from the portal to join five-star freshman DJ Pickett. Look for Houston transfer AJ Haulcy to make an impact at safety.
Kalen DeBoer’s debut in Tuscaloosa wasn’t all bad with a 9-4 record. However, nine wins and no playoff trip (especially in the first year of a 12-team format) was certainly below the standard at Alabama. With the Crimson Tide returning a loaded roster, along with DeBoer feeling more comfortable in his second season, a playoff spot is the expectation in ‘25.
DeBoer didn’t make massive adjustments after last year, but he did bring in a trusted lieutenant to call plays in Ryan Grubb. The DeBoer-Grubb pairing guided Washington’s offense to a spot among the nation’s best from 2022-23 and expectations are high for this reunion in ‘25. Provided a quarterback emerges from the Ty Simpson, Austin Mack, and Keelon Russell battle, all of the pieces are in place for a prolific offense this fall. Simpson has the edge in overall experience and left spring with an inside track on the starting job. The Crimson Tide have one of the best receiving corps in the nation with Ryan Williams back after a standout freshman campaign. Left tackle Kadyn Proctor and center Parker Brailsford return to form a strong foundation up front.
Alabama’s defense had a few early speed bumps as it transitioned to new coordinator Kane Wommack. However, this unit found its rhythm late in the season and finished ‘24 by holding opponents to just 17.4 points a game. In addition to having a greater overall familiarity with the scheme, seven returning starters provides optimism this unit will be even better in ‘25. Safety Keon Sabb, cornerback Domani Jackson, and linebacker Deontae Lawson lead the way for Wommack’s group.
Related: SEC Coaches Talk Anonymously About Conference Opponents for 2025
Florida QB DJ Lagway© Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images
What a difference a month can make in a college football season. At the midway point of 2024, Florida seemed likely to fall short of bowl eligibility and was also on track for a coaching change with Billy Napier on the hot seat. But by December, the temperature around Napier cooled thanks to an 8-5 final record and huge victories over Ole Miss and LSU.
Another tough schedule is on tap for Florida in ‘25, but Napier’s team has the pieces in place to make a run at the playoff. Quarterback DJ Lagway’s development is a big reason for optimism in Gainesville, and the sophomore is supported by one of the SEC’s top offensive lines. Jadan Baugh (673 yards) headlines a deep stable of running backs, with Eugene Wilson III’s return after missing most of ‘24 critical with the departure of Chimere Dike and Elijhah Badger. Lagway was limited in spring practice due to injury but appears to be on track to return at full strength for the opener.
In addition to Lagway, another reason for the Gators’ optimism in ‘25 was the late-season play of the defense. This unit held each of their final four opponents to 17 points or less and allowed 4.2 yards per play or less in three out of those matchups. Five starters are back for coordinator Ron Roberts to build around, including end Tyreak Sapp, tackle Caleb Banks, and linebacker Grayson Howard. Sorting out the secondary dealing with some turnover at cornerback is Roberts’ biggest concern.
Related: Projecting the Top 25 College Football Teams for 2025
The Gamecocks were one of the hottest teams in college football at the end of the regular season with six straight victories to finish 9-3. Coach Shane Beamer’s team just missed the College Football Playoff after that late-season surge but is poised for another postseason run this fall.
Quarterback LaNorris Sellers is a big reason why South Carolina can make the playoff in ‘25. After a slow start and early injuries, Sellers emerged as one of college football’s top quarterbacks down the stretch with an average of 342.8 total yards a game in November. New coordinator Mike Shula is tasked with taking Sellers’ play to the next level and additional help could come in the form of an improving group of receivers. Nyck Harbor is a breakout candidate, with Jared Brown and Mazeo Bennett providing support on the outside. Three new interior starters must be identified up front. The Gamecocks could lean on a backfield-by-committee approach to replace running back Rocket Sanders.
South Carolina’s defense ranked among the best in the SEC in ‘24 by holding opponents to 18.1 points a contest. Coordinator Clayton White has work to do in order to keep this unit performing at a high level. The Gamecocks return rising star end Dylan Stewart after a standout freshman year. However, fellow end Kyle Kennard and the bulk of the team’s top contributors at defensive tackle and linebacker have departed. Standout safety Nick Emmanwori will be missed on the back end.
Considering the loaded roster, preseason expectations, and favorable schedule, the 2024 season was a missed opportunity for Ole Miss to make the playoff. However, the news wasn’t all bad for coach Lane Kiffin last year. The Rebels won at least 10 games for the third time in four years and are 21-5 over the last two seasons.
Kiffin is facing a massive rebuild on both sides of the ball, but the “Portal King” should keep this program near the top of the SEC. Rising star quarterback Austin Simmons is a big reason for optimism, and Kiffin reloaded a receiving corps hit hard by departures through the portal. How Simmons develops behind a rebuilt offensive line could decide just how high this team climbs in the SEC.
Similar to the offense, Kiffin is facing a major rebuild on defense. Coordinator Pete Golding has elevated Ole Miss’ defense over the last two years but only two starters are back for ‘25. Expect transfers Princewill Umanmielen and Da’Shawn Womack to speed up the rebuilding process up front. TJ Dottery and Suntarine Perkins are back to anchor a strong second level. However, concerns remain in the secondary entering fall practice.
Texas A&M head coach Mike ElkoMandatory Credit: Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images
Coach Mike Elko reset the foundation at Texas A&M with a solid 8-5 debut last season. Although the Aggies stumbled late, the program remained in the mix to win the SEC West until the final week of the ‘24 campaign. Question marks remain this fall, but Elko seems to have Texas A&M on the right path.
If the Aggies are going to make another run at a SEC Championship Game appearance or contend for the College Football Playoff, quarterback Marcel Reed’s development looms large. Reed showed flashes of promise last season but also finished 11th in the SEC in quarterback rating. The junior won’t have to carry this offense on his own. The Aggies return one of the deepest backfields in the nation, headlined by Le’Veon Moss and Rueben Owens. Also, the offensive line should be among the best in college football with all five starters returning. Landing Mario Craver (Mississippi State) and Kevin Concepcion (NC State) provides much-needed big-play or difference-making ability to the receiving corps.
Elko wasn’t satisfied with the defensive performance last season and plans to take on a larger role in the play-calling in ‘25. Replacing three standouts - Shemar Turner, Shemar Stewart, and Nic Scourton - is a huge test up front. The secondary was an area of frustration for Elko last year, but the return of Tyreek Chappell from injury, along with a couple of transfers, should help the pass defense improve in ‘25. Linebacker Taurean York is one of the best in college football.
Related: Ranking the SEC Coaches for 2025
After the program’s second losing record in three years, Oklahoma coach Brent Venables is squarely on the hot seat entering 2025. But Venables had a productive offseason to get this team on track in its second trip through the SEC. In addition to hiring Ben Arbuckle from Washington State to work as the team’s new offensive coordinator, Venables opted to take over as the defensive signal-caller.
Outside of the coaching changes, the team’s biggest move in the offseason was landing Washington State quarterback John Mateer from the portal. The familiarity between Arbuckle and Mateer should help the Sooners hit the ground running on offense after this unit averaged only 16.5 points in SEC games last year. How Mateer adapts to playing tougher defenses in the SEC is one of 2025’s biggest unknowns. Additionally, Oklahoma needs its offensive line and receiving corps to step up after injury-plagued ‘24 campaigns. A healthy Deion Burks at receiver should make a huge difference in the passing game. Also, California transfer Jaydn Ott adds a big-play threat out of the backfield.
Defense certainly wasn’t Oklahoma’s problem in ‘24. This unit held SEC teams to 5.2 yards a play and ranked No. 13 nationally in defensive success rate. With Venables handling the play-calling duties, this unit could be even better this fall. R Mason Thomas is back to lead one of the SEC’s top defensive lines, while Kip Lewis anchors the second level with Danny Stutsman off to the NFL. Safety Billy Bowman will also be missed, but rising stars Peyton Bowen and Eli Bowen are back to headline the secondary.
The Volunteers spent most of the offseason quietly reloading after last year’s run to the College Football Playoff. However, the spotlight shifted to Knoxville in April. Quarterback Nico Iamaleava opted to transfer after a high-profile breakup, leaving coach Josh Heupel and his staff scrambling to address a major void on offense. Will a favorable schedule and Heupel’s ability to adapt and get the most out of a roster overcome some of the question marks about this team?
After transferring from Appalachian State to UCLA in December, Joey Aguilar left Los Angeles to fill the void left behind by Iamaleava’s departure this spring. Aguilar won’t have the benefit of a spring practice to jell with his new teammates, but the senior brings a solid skill set and experience to keep this offense on track. The ground game was the strength of Heupel’s ‘24 offense. However, Dylan Sampson is off to the NFL, leaving Star Thomas, Peyton Lewis, and DeSean Bishop as the go-to backs. The Volunteers desperately need sophomore Mike Matthews to emerge as a star in an unproven receiving corps, while four starters have to be replaced up front.
Tennessee’s defense is coming off its best season under coordinator Tim Banks. Over 13 games, the Volunteers held opponents to 16.1 points a contest and 4.6 yards a snap. Edge rusher James Pearce will be missed, but the line still has talent with Joshua Josephs and Bryson Eason returning. Three starters are back in the secondary, including all-purpose threat Boo Carter at safety. Cornerback (and preseason All-America candidate) Jermod McCoy suffered a torn ACL in December but is expected to return for the ‘25 season.
Related: SEC Coaches Talk Anonymously About Conference Opponents for 2025
Auburn wide receiver Cam Coleman Jake Crandall/ Advertiser / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Coach Hugh Freeze has improved Auburn’s talent level in the last three recruiting cycles. However, after back-to-back losing seasons, it’s time for the increased talent to deliver and help this team return to the top 25 and a winning record. After losing 22 turnovers in 2024, just doing a better job at the margins would significantly help the Tigers.
The receiving corps is the unquestioned strength of this team. Cam Coleman returns after a breakout freshman campaign in ‘24, with former Georgia Tech receiver Eric Singleton among the top transfers in college football. But can Auburn get consistent quarterback play from Oklahoma transfer Jackson Arnold? The Texas native doesn’t lack for talent and didn’t have much help around him in Norman last year. However, can Freeze help Arnold put it all together and realize his potential? The Tigers have a committee of backs slated to replace standout Jarquez Hunter, while the offensive line should rank among the best in the SEC.
With the offensive struggles last year, the play of Auburn’s defense was often overlooked. This unit held SEC teams to 4.96 yards a snap and 24.9 points a contest. Coordinator DJ Durkin returns only four starters, but there’s no shortage of talent or options ready to step into the lineup. End Keldric Faulk is one of the SEC’s top defensive lineman. A strong foundation returns in the secondary with cornerback Kayin Lee and safety Kaleb Harris.
Related: Ranking the SEC Coaches for 2025
The Tigers are 21-5 over the last two seasons and enter 2025 as a dark horse team to make a run at a spot in the College Football Playoff. Coach Eli Drinkwitz’s roster has a few holes to fill, but there’s plenty of intriguing talent waiting to step up and a favorable schedule to push for double-digit victories.
Quarterback is the biggest question mark for Missouri this fall. Penn State transfer Beau Pribula showcased his mobility in limited action with the Nittany Lions but has to prove he can be a full-time quarterback and consistently execute in the passing game. If he struggles, junior Sam Horn is next up. ULM transfer Ahmad Hardy should be among the top running backs in the SEC after a standout freshman season in the Sun Belt. Restocking a line with three new starters is also high on the list of concerns for Drinkwitz. The arrival of Mississippi State transfer Kevin Coleman alleviates the loss of receivers Luther Burden III and Theo Wease.
Until the offense finds its footing, the Tigers should be able to lean on their defense. This unit returns seven starters and added help through the portal, including Georgia edge rusher Damon Wilson II, linebacker Josiah Trotter, and safety Jalen Catalon. Add the transfer pickups with a veteran core headlined by linebacker Triston Newson, tackle Chris McClellan, and nickel Daylan Carnell, and it’s easy to see why coordinator Corey Batoon’s group should rank among the best in the SEC.
Coming off a 4-8 record, coach Sam Pittman was squarely on the hot seat in ‘24. Despite that increasing pressure, Pittman rallied Arkansas back to a winning mark with a 7-6 finish and a bowl appearance (and win over Texas Tech). The temperature cooled a bit on Pittman’s seat with the seven-win campaign. However, a tough schedule and a significant roster overhaul provide a challenging path back to the postseason in ‘25.
For Arkansas to reach a bowl or exceed preseason expectations, a ton of pressure rests on quarterback Taylen Green. In his first year after transferring in from Boise State last fall, Green threw for 3,154 yards and 15 touchdowns and added 602 yards and eight scores on the ground. With another offseason to develop and work under coordinator Bobby Petrino, don’t be surprised if Green is even better in his second year. Pittman hit the transfer portal hard to restock a receiving corps losing its top six statistical receivers or tight ends from ‘24. The development of this group, along with a line undergoing some shuffling, is likely to determine just how far this offense can improve in ‘25. Sophomore running back Braylen Russell is primed for a breakout year.
The question marks about Pittman’s 2025 team extend to a defense returning three starters and is counting on contributions from the portal to reload up front and improve a struggling secondary. The departure of end Landon Jackson to the NFL is a huge loss for this unit. With Stephen Dix and Xavian Sorey back, the linebacker unit should be a strength for coordinator Travis Williams.
Related: SEC Coaches Talk Anonymously About Conference Opponents for 2025
Vanderbilt QB Diego Pavia© Stephanie Amador / The Tennessean / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
After a 2-10 record and a winless mark (0-8) in conference play in 2023, coach Clark Lea made a couple of major changes in an effort to get Vanderbilt on track in the rugged SEC. Hiring Tim Beck as offensive coordinator and long-time head coach Jerry Kill as an off-field assistant headlined the changes and both paid big-time dividends in ‘24 with the Commodores finishing 7-6.
In addition to the coaching changes, the arrival of quarterback Diego Pavia also had a major impact on the program. Pavia is not only the statistical leader of the offense, but as the upset over Alabama showed last season, his leadership and impact on the rest of the team was noticeable. Pavia needs more help in ‘25, as Vanderbilt generated only eight plays of 40-plus yards last season. Additionally, a revamped offensive line with four new starters is a major concern. Running back Sedrick Alexander, tight end Eli Stowers, and receiver Junior Sherrill form a standout trio of playmakers, but the Commodores could use a few more difference makers to emerge.
Lea took over the defensive play-calling duties last season and guided Vanderbilt to significant improvement. After allowing 36.2 points a game in ‘23, the Commodores limited opponents to 23.4 last year. Lea handed play-calling duties to assistant Steve Gregory for ‘25 but don’t expect many changes on a unit that returns seven starters. Safety Randon Fontenette is one of the best in the SEC, and linebacker Langston Patterson is back to anchor the front.
The 2025 season feels like an important point in coach Mark Stoops’ tenure in Lexington. Last year’s disappointing 4-8 overall mark and 1-7 record in SEC play has caused plenty of unease about the overall direction and health of the program. Those fears only grew larger when assistant Vince Marrow left the team in June to work in an off-field role at rival Louisville.
With a depth chart decimated by losses and a need to improve right away, Stoops turned to the transfer portal for several acquisitions that are counted upon to play immediately. Former Texas A&M/Auburn/Incarnate Word quarterback Zach Calzada should get the nod under center, with portal additions arriving to restock at receiver and rebuild a line losing three starters. The strength of this unit is at running back with Dante Dowdell, Jamarion Wilcox, and Seth McGowan fighting for carries.
Kentucky’s usually solid defense slipped last season, allowing nearly six yards a play in SEC contests and finishing 15th in the conference against the run. Similar to the offense, Stoops hit the portal hard for help. Expect linemen David Gusta (Washington State) and Mi’Quise Humphrey-Grace (FCS South Dakota) and edge rushers Kam Olds (Kent State) and Sam Greene (USC) to factor prominently into the rebuild up front. With three starters back, the secondary should be the early strength of this team in ‘25.
With a major roster overhaul and shift in scheme, all signs pointed to coach Jeff Lebby’s debut in ‘24 being more of a Year Zero setup. That’s certainly the way it played out on the field, as the Bulldogs went 2-10 and finished winless in the SEC for the first time since 2002. The program is in better shape going into ‘25, but a tough schedule will prevent major improvement in the win column.
From stints as a coordinator at UCF, Oklahoma, and Ole Miss Lebby has a track record of assembling high-powered offenses. With another offseason to develop this unit, the Bulldogs should show progress on the scoreboard. Quarterback Blake Shapen is back after missing most of ‘24 due to injury, and the backfield is loaded with intriguing options, including South Alabama transfer Fluff Bothwell. After a shaky performance last season, the offensive line needs to show marked improvement to help this unit reach its potential.
After allowing 38.9 points a game and 7.1 yards per snap in SEC contests last year, Mississippi State’s defense can only go one way in 2025. Coordinator Coleman Hutzler is under pressure to show this unit is on track after a disastrous debut. The second-year coordinator should benefit from a hefty transfer haul that includes several additions to bolster a lackluster pass rush and run defense. Major improvement seems unlikely. But if the Bulldogs are better across the board on defense, Lebby’s team can steal a victory or two in SEC play.
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 16, 2025, where it first appeared.
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After watching the Big Ten win the last two national championships, the SEC is eager to return to the top of college football in 2025. The SEC doesn't lack for contenders to reach that goal, as Texas, Georgia, LSU, and Alabama are among the top frontrunners to win it all and headline the conference predictions for this year. Those four teams hold an edge in the first tier, but a second wave of teams - South Carolina, Florida, Ole Miss, Oklahoma, Texas A&M, and Tennessee - isn't far behind.
The SEC is loaded with depth, as Missouri could surprise once again, and Auburn has the pieces in place to take a step forward in coach Hugh Freeze's third season. Arkansas and Vanderbilt should make bowl games in '25, while Kentucky and Mississippi State are poised to improve after going a combined 1-15 in SEC play last fall.
How does Athlon Sports project SEC for 2025? Steven Lassan predicts and ranks all 16 teams in SEC for this fall:
ORDER NOW: Athlon Sports 2025 College Football Preview Guide
SEC Football 2025 Predictions
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Texas quarterback Arch Manning© Scott Wachter-Imagn Images
SEC Championship Prediction: Texas over Georgia
1. Texas
Texas is 25-5 with back-to-back trips to a College Football Playoff semifinal over the last two years. Coach Steve Sarkisian has clearly elevated the Longhorns back to a spot among the nation’s best and in a position to reload (instead of rebuild) every year. With the roster again stocked with talent, the next step is clear: Win a national title.
Expectations are sky high for quarterback Arch Manning in his first season as the starter. The sophomore should give Texas more big-play ability in the passing game, as well as an additional rushing threat than former starter Quinn Ewers. Helping Manning ease into the starting role is the return of running backs Tre Wisner and CJ Baxter (missed ‘24 due to injury), and a receiving corps featuring intriguing talents in wide receiver Ryan Wingo and tight end Jack Endries. Replacing four starters on the line is Sarkisian’s biggest concern on offense.
Texas led the SEC in fewest yards per play (4.4 yards a snap) and ranked second in points allowed (15.3 points a game) last season. Despite the departure of defensive back Jahdae Barron and a couple of other pieces, this unit could still rank as the No. 1 group in the SEC. End Colin Simmons and linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. are two of the best individual defenders in the nation, while cornerback Malik Muhammad should contend for All-America honors. The concerns about this unit are minimal. But how the secondary shuffles to replace Barron, along with Sarkisian’s efforts to reload at defensive tackle through the portal, are two areas to watch this fall.
Related: Projecting the Top 25 College Football Teams for 2025
2. Georgia
The Bulldogs return only seven starters and have a few more preseason question marks than usual under coach Kirby Smart. However, don’t expect that to slow down Georgia, as Smart’s program should be in the mix to win it all once again.
The biggest concerns for Georgia rest on offense. New quarterback Gunner Stockton played flashed potential (but also plenty to work on) in limited snaps last season. Now, the junior must to prove he can handle the No. 1 role for a full season. The Bulldogs must also replace four starters up front and spark a rushing attack that ranked No. 15 in the SEC last fall. Transfers Noah Thomas (Texas A&M) and Zachariah Branch (USC), along with the return of Colbie Young, should transform Georgia’s receiving corps back into one of the best in the SEC after an inconsistent ‘24.
Smart’s defense only brings back three starters, but this unit will rank among the best in college football once again. CJ Allen and Raylen Wilson headline a deep linebacker unit, while Christen Miller and Jordan Hall anchor the defensive line. Smart and coordinator Glenn Schumann must navigate some turnover on the back end and could be mixing and matching deep into fall practice. Safety KJ Bolden is the next star in the secondary. Finding edge rushers - potentially Army transfer Elo Modozie - is another offseason priority.
Related: Ranking the SEC Coaches for 2025
3. LSU
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LSU QB Garrett NussmeierNelson Chenault-Imagn Images
The ‘25 season is a crucial one for coach Brian Kelly’s tenure in Baton Rouge. Although LSU is 29-11 under Kelly’s watch, the program has yet to earn a playoff trip and finished outside of the top 25 last season after going 5-3 in SEC play. With a loaded transfer class and a solid group of returnees, a playoff spot is the expectation in ‘25.
Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier passed on the NFL for one more season in Baton Rouge. After throwing for 4,052 yards and 29 touchdowns last year, Nussmeier ranks among the top signal-callers in the nation. The receiving corps is stocked with talent, as Aaron Anderson and Chris Hilton team with transfers Nic Anderson and Barion Brown to provide a deep set of weapons for Nussmeier. For LSU to challenge for a SEC title, improving the rushing attack and revamping a line with four new starters is the top priority this offseason.
LSU is also counting on a step forward by its defense this fall. The Bayou Bengals showed some improvement in coordinator Blake Baker’s debut in ‘24 but more is needed. Optimism is high a step forward is coming thanks to help in the portal, along with the return of a couple of key starters, including preseason All-American Whit Weeks. Help for the trenches should come in the form of Patrick Payton (Florida State), Jack Pyburn (Florida), and Bernard Gooden (South Florida). Also, the secondary is poised for improvement with cornerback Mansoor Delane coming from the portal to join five-star freshman DJ Pickett. Look for Houston transfer AJ Haulcy to make an impact at safety.
4. Alabama
Kalen DeBoer’s debut in Tuscaloosa wasn’t all bad with a 9-4 record. However, nine wins and no playoff trip (especially in the first year of a 12-team format) was certainly below the standard at Alabama. With the Crimson Tide returning a loaded roster, along with DeBoer feeling more comfortable in his second season, a playoff spot is the expectation in ‘25.
DeBoer didn’t make massive adjustments after last year, but he did bring in a trusted lieutenant to call plays in Ryan Grubb. The DeBoer-Grubb pairing guided Washington’s offense to a spot among the nation’s best from 2022-23 and expectations are high for this reunion in ‘25. Provided a quarterback emerges from the Ty Simpson, Austin Mack, and Keelon Russell battle, all of the pieces are in place for a prolific offense this fall. Simpson has the edge in overall experience and left spring with an inside track on the starting job. The Crimson Tide have one of the best receiving corps in the nation with Ryan Williams back after a standout freshman campaign. Left tackle Kadyn Proctor and center Parker Brailsford return to form a strong foundation up front.
Alabama’s defense had a few early speed bumps as it transitioned to new coordinator Kane Wommack. However, this unit found its rhythm late in the season and finished ‘24 by holding opponents to just 17.4 points a game. In addition to having a greater overall familiarity with the scheme, seven returning starters provides optimism this unit will be even better in ‘25. Safety Keon Sabb, cornerback Domani Jackson, and linebacker Deontae Lawson lead the way for Wommack’s group.
Related: SEC Coaches Talk Anonymously About Conference Opponents for 2025
5. Florida
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Florida QB DJ Lagway© Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images
What a difference a month can make in a college football season. At the midway point of 2024, Florida seemed likely to fall short of bowl eligibility and was also on track for a coaching change with Billy Napier on the hot seat. But by December, the temperature around Napier cooled thanks to an 8-5 final record and huge victories over Ole Miss and LSU.
Another tough schedule is on tap for Florida in ‘25, but Napier’s team has the pieces in place to make a run at the playoff. Quarterback DJ Lagway’s development is a big reason for optimism in Gainesville, and the sophomore is supported by one of the SEC’s top offensive lines. Jadan Baugh (673 yards) headlines a deep stable of running backs, with Eugene Wilson III’s return after missing most of ‘24 critical with the departure of Chimere Dike and Elijhah Badger. Lagway was limited in spring practice due to injury but appears to be on track to return at full strength for the opener.
In addition to Lagway, another reason for the Gators’ optimism in ‘25 was the late-season play of the defense. This unit held each of their final four opponents to 17 points or less and allowed 4.2 yards per play or less in three out of those matchups. Five starters are back for coordinator Ron Roberts to build around, including end Tyreak Sapp, tackle Caleb Banks, and linebacker Grayson Howard. Sorting out the secondary dealing with some turnover at cornerback is Roberts’ biggest concern.
Related: Projecting the Top 25 College Football Teams for 2025
6. South Carolina
The Gamecocks were one of the hottest teams in college football at the end of the regular season with six straight victories to finish 9-3. Coach Shane Beamer’s team just missed the College Football Playoff after that late-season surge but is poised for another postseason run this fall.
Quarterback LaNorris Sellers is a big reason why South Carolina can make the playoff in ‘25. After a slow start and early injuries, Sellers emerged as one of college football’s top quarterbacks down the stretch with an average of 342.8 total yards a game in November. New coordinator Mike Shula is tasked with taking Sellers’ play to the next level and additional help could come in the form of an improving group of receivers. Nyck Harbor is a breakout candidate, with Jared Brown and Mazeo Bennett providing support on the outside. Three new interior starters must be identified up front. The Gamecocks could lean on a backfield-by-committee approach to replace running back Rocket Sanders.
South Carolina’s defense ranked among the best in the SEC in ‘24 by holding opponents to 18.1 points a contest. Coordinator Clayton White has work to do in order to keep this unit performing at a high level. The Gamecocks return rising star end Dylan Stewart after a standout freshman year. However, fellow end Kyle Kennard and the bulk of the team’s top contributors at defensive tackle and linebacker have departed. Standout safety Nick Emmanwori will be missed on the back end.
7. Ole Miss
Considering the loaded roster, preseason expectations, and favorable schedule, the 2024 season was a missed opportunity for Ole Miss to make the playoff. However, the news wasn’t all bad for coach Lane Kiffin last year. The Rebels won at least 10 games for the third time in four years and are 21-5 over the last two seasons.
Kiffin is facing a massive rebuild on both sides of the ball, but the “Portal King” should keep this program near the top of the SEC. Rising star quarterback Austin Simmons is a big reason for optimism, and Kiffin reloaded a receiving corps hit hard by departures through the portal. How Simmons develops behind a rebuilt offensive line could decide just how high this team climbs in the SEC.
Similar to the offense, Kiffin is facing a major rebuild on defense. Coordinator Pete Golding has elevated Ole Miss’ defense over the last two years but only two starters are back for ‘25. Expect transfers Princewill Umanmielen and Da’Shawn Womack to speed up the rebuilding process up front. TJ Dottery and Suntarine Perkins are back to anchor a strong second level. However, concerns remain in the secondary entering fall practice.
8. Texas A&M
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Texas A&M head coach Mike ElkoMandatory Credit: Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images
Coach Mike Elko reset the foundation at Texas A&M with a solid 8-5 debut last season. Although the Aggies stumbled late, the program remained in the mix to win the SEC West until the final week of the ‘24 campaign. Question marks remain this fall, but Elko seems to have Texas A&M on the right path.
If the Aggies are going to make another run at a SEC Championship Game appearance or contend for the College Football Playoff, quarterback Marcel Reed’s development looms large. Reed showed flashes of promise last season but also finished 11th in the SEC in quarterback rating. The junior won’t have to carry this offense on his own. The Aggies return one of the deepest backfields in the nation, headlined by Le’Veon Moss and Rueben Owens. Also, the offensive line should be among the best in college football with all five starters returning. Landing Mario Craver (Mississippi State) and Kevin Concepcion (NC State) provides much-needed big-play or difference-making ability to the receiving corps.
Elko wasn’t satisfied with the defensive performance last season and plans to take on a larger role in the play-calling in ‘25. Replacing three standouts - Shemar Turner, Shemar Stewart, and Nic Scourton - is a huge test up front. The secondary was an area of frustration for Elko last year, but the return of Tyreek Chappell from injury, along with a couple of transfers, should help the pass defense improve in ‘25. Linebacker Taurean York is one of the best in college football.
Related: Ranking the SEC Coaches for 2025
9. Oklahoma
After the program’s second losing record in three years, Oklahoma coach Brent Venables is squarely on the hot seat entering 2025. But Venables had a productive offseason to get this team on track in its second trip through the SEC. In addition to hiring Ben Arbuckle from Washington State to work as the team’s new offensive coordinator, Venables opted to take over as the defensive signal-caller.
Outside of the coaching changes, the team’s biggest move in the offseason was landing Washington State quarterback John Mateer from the portal. The familiarity between Arbuckle and Mateer should help the Sooners hit the ground running on offense after this unit averaged only 16.5 points in SEC games last year. How Mateer adapts to playing tougher defenses in the SEC is one of 2025’s biggest unknowns. Additionally, Oklahoma needs its offensive line and receiving corps to step up after injury-plagued ‘24 campaigns. A healthy Deion Burks at receiver should make a huge difference in the passing game. Also, California transfer Jaydn Ott adds a big-play threat out of the backfield.
Defense certainly wasn’t Oklahoma’s problem in ‘24. This unit held SEC teams to 5.2 yards a play and ranked No. 13 nationally in defensive success rate. With Venables handling the play-calling duties, this unit could be even better this fall. R Mason Thomas is back to lead one of the SEC’s top defensive lines, while Kip Lewis anchors the second level with Danny Stutsman off to the NFL. Safety Billy Bowman will also be missed, but rising stars Peyton Bowen and Eli Bowen are back to headline the secondary.
10. Tennessee
The Volunteers spent most of the offseason quietly reloading after last year’s run to the College Football Playoff. However, the spotlight shifted to Knoxville in April. Quarterback Nico Iamaleava opted to transfer after a high-profile breakup, leaving coach Josh Heupel and his staff scrambling to address a major void on offense. Will a favorable schedule and Heupel’s ability to adapt and get the most out of a roster overcome some of the question marks about this team?
After transferring from Appalachian State to UCLA in December, Joey Aguilar left Los Angeles to fill the void left behind by Iamaleava’s departure this spring. Aguilar won’t have the benefit of a spring practice to jell with his new teammates, but the senior brings a solid skill set and experience to keep this offense on track. The ground game was the strength of Heupel’s ‘24 offense. However, Dylan Sampson is off to the NFL, leaving Star Thomas, Peyton Lewis, and DeSean Bishop as the go-to backs. The Volunteers desperately need sophomore Mike Matthews to emerge as a star in an unproven receiving corps, while four starters have to be replaced up front.
Tennessee’s defense is coming off its best season under coordinator Tim Banks. Over 13 games, the Volunteers held opponents to 16.1 points a contest and 4.6 yards a snap. Edge rusher James Pearce will be missed, but the line still has talent with Joshua Josephs and Bryson Eason returning. Three starters are back in the secondary, including all-purpose threat Boo Carter at safety. Cornerback (and preseason All-America candidate) Jermod McCoy suffered a torn ACL in December but is expected to return for the ‘25 season.
Related: SEC Coaches Talk Anonymously About Conference Opponents for 2025
11. Auburn
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Auburn wide receiver Cam Coleman Jake Crandall/ Advertiser / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Coach Hugh Freeze has improved Auburn’s talent level in the last three recruiting cycles. However, after back-to-back losing seasons, it’s time for the increased talent to deliver and help this team return to the top 25 and a winning record. After losing 22 turnovers in 2024, just doing a better job at the margins would significantly help the Tigers.
The receiving corps is the unquestioned strength of this team. Cam Coleman returns after a breakout freshman campaign in ‘24, with former Georgia Tech receiver Eric Singleton among the top transfers in college football. But can Auburn get consistent quarterback play from Oklahoma transfer Jackson Arnold? The Texas native doesn’t lack for talent and didn’t have much help around him in Norman last year. However, can Freeze help Arnold put it all together and realize his potential? The Tigers have a committee of backs slated to replace standout Jarquez Hunter, while the offensive line should rank among the best in the SEC.
With the offensive struggles last year, the play of Auburn’s defense was often overlooked. This unit held SEC teams to 4.96 yards a snap and 24.9 points a contest. Coordinator DJ Durkin returns only four starters, but there’s no shortage of talent or options ready to step into the lineup. End Keldric Faulk is one of the SEC’s top defensive lineman. A strong foundation returns in the secondary with cornerback Kayin Lee and safety Kaleb Harris.
Related: Ranking the SEC Coaches for 2025
12. Missouri
The Tigers are 21-5 over the last two seasons and enter 2025 as a dark horse team to make a run at a spot in the College Football Playoff. Coach Eli Drinkwitz’s roster has a few holes to fill, but there’s plenty of intriguing talent waiting to step up and a favorable schedule to push for double-digit victories.
Quarterback is the biggest question mark for Missouri this fall. Penn State transfer Beau Pribula showcased his mobility in limited action with the Nittany Lions but has to prove he can be a full-time quarterback and consistently execute in the passing game. If he struggles, junior Sam Horn is next up. ULM transfer Ahmad Hardy should be among the top running backs in the SEC after a standout freshman season in the Sun Belt. Restocking a line with three new starters is also high on the list of concerns for Drinkwitz. The arrival of Mississippi State transfer Kevin Coleman alleviates the loss of receivers Luther Burden III and Theo Wease.
Until the offense finds its footing, the Tigers should be able to lean on their defense. This unit returns seven starters and added help through the portal, including Georgia edge rusher Damon Wilson II, linebacker Josiah Trotter, and safety Jalen Catalon. Add the transfer pickups with a veteran core headlined by linebacker Triston Newson, tackle Chris McClellan, and nickel Daylan Carnell, and it’s easy to see why coordinator Corey Batoon’s group should rank among the best in the SEC.
13. Arkansas
Coming off a 4-8 record, coach Sam Pittman was squarely on the hot seat in ‘24. Despite that increasing pressure, Pittman rallied Arkansas back to a winning mark with a 7-6 finish and a bowl appearance (and win over Texas Tech). The temperature cooled a bit on Pittman’s seat with the seven-win campaign. However, a tough schedule and a significant roster overhaul provide a challenging path back to the postseason in ‘25.
For Arkansas to reach a bowl or exceed preseason expectations, a ton of pressure rests on quarterback Taylen Green. In his first year after transferring in from Boise State last fall, Green threw for 3,154 yards and 15 touchdowns and added 602 yards and eight scores on the ground. With another offseason to develop and work under coordinator Bobby Petrino, don’t be surprised if Green is even better in his second year. Pittman hit the transfer portal hard to restock a receiving corps losing its top six statistical receivers or tight ends from ‘24. The development of this group, along with a line undergoing some shuffling, is likely to determine just how far this offense can improve in ‘25. Sophomore running back Braylen Russell is primed for a breakout year.
The question marks about Pittman’s 2025 team extend to a defense returning three starters and is counting on contributions from the portal to reload up front and improve a struggling secondary. The departure of end Landon Jackson to the NFL is a huge loss for this unit. With Stephen Dix and Xavian Sorey back, the linebacker unit should be a strength for coordinator Travis Williams.
Related: SEC Coaches Talk Anonymously About Conference Opponents for 2025
14. Vanderbilt
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Vanderbilt QB Diego Pavia© Stephanie Amador / The Tennessean / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
After a 2-10 record and a winless mark (0-8) in conference play in 2023, coach Clark Lea made a couple of major changes in an effort to get Vanderbilt on track in the rugged SEC. Hiring Tim Beck as offensive coordinator and long-time head coach Jerry Kill as an off-field assistant headlined the changes and both paid big-time dividends in ‘24 with the Commodores finishing 7-6.
In addition to the coaching changes, the arrival of quarterback Diego Pavia also had a major impact on the program. Pavia is not only the statistical leader of the offense, but as the upset over Alabama showed last season, his leadership and impact on the rest of the team was noticeable. Pavia needs more help in ‘25, as Vanderbilt generated only eight plays of 40-plus yards last season. Additionally, a revamped offensive line with four new starters is a major concern. Running back Sedrick Alexander, tight end Eli Stowers, and receiver Junior Sherrill form a standout trio of playmakers, but the Commodores could use a few more difference makers to emerge.
Lea took over the defensive play-calling duties last season and guided Vanderbilt to significant improvement. After allowing 36.2 points a game in ‘23, the Commodores limited opponents to 23.4 last year. Lea handed play-calling duties to assistant Steve Gregory for ‘25 but don’t expect many changes on a unit that returns seven starters. Safety Randon Fontenette is one of the best in the SEC, and linebacker Langston Patterson is back to anchor the front.
15. Kentucky
The 2025 season feels like an important point in coach Mark Stoops’ tenure in Lexington. Last year’s disappointing 4-8 overall mark and 1-7 record in SEC play has caused plenty of unease about the overall direction and health of the program. Those fears only grew larger when assistant Vince Marrow left the team in June to work in an off-field role at rival Louisville.
With a depth chart decimated by losses and a need to improve right away, Stoops turned to the transfer portal for several acquisitions that are counted upon to play immediately. Former Texas A&M/Auburn/Incarnate Word quarterback Zach Calzada should get the nod under center, with portal additions arriving to restock at receiver and rebuild a line losing three starters. The strength of this unit is at running back with Dante Dowdell, Jamarion Wilcox, and Seth McGowan fighting for carries.
Kentucky’s usually solid defense slipped last season, allowing nearly six yards a play in SEC contests and finishing 15th in the conference against the run. Similar to the offense, Stoops hit the portal hard for help. Expect linemen David Gusta (Washington State) and Mi’Quise Humphrey-Grace (FCS South Dakota) and edge rushers Kam Olds (Kent State) and Sam Greene (USC) to factor prominently into the rebuild up front. With three starters back, the secondary should be the early strength of this team in ‘25.
16. Mississippi State
With a major roster overhaul and shift in scheme, all signs pointed to coach Jeff Lebby’s debut in ‘24 being more of a Year Zero setup. That’s certainly the way it played out on the field, as the Bulldogs went 2-10 and finished winless in the SEC for the first time since 2002. The program is in better shape going into ‘25, but a tough schedule will prevent major improvement in the win column.
From stints as a coordinator at UCF, Oklahoma, and Ole Miss Lebby has a track record of assembling high-powered offenses. With another offseason to develop this unit, the Bulldogs should show progress on the scoreboard. Quarterback Blake Shapen is back after missing most of ‘24 due to injury, and the backfield is loaded with intriguing options, including South Alabama transfer Fluff Bothwell. After a shaky performance last season, the offensive line needs to show marked improvement to help this unit reach its potential.
After allowing 38.9 points a game and 7.1 yards per snap in SEC contests last year, Mississippi State’s defense can only go one way in 2025. Coordinator Coleman Hutzler is under pressure to show this unit is on track after a disastrous debut. The second-year coordinator should benefit from a hefty transfer haul that includes several additions to bolster a lackluster pass rush and run defense. Major improvement seems unlikely. But if the Bulldogs are better across the board on defense, Lebby’s team can steal a victory or two in SEC play.
Related: College Football Rankings: Projecting the Top 25 Teams for 2025
Related: Ranking the SEC's College Football Coaches for 2025
Related: SEC Coaches Talk Anonymously About Conference Foes for 2025
Related: Ranking the SEC's College Football Coaches for 2025
Related: SEC Coaches Talk Anonymously About Conference Foes for 2025
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 16, 2025, where it first appeared.
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