Week 5 SEC Predictions

LSU at Tulane

The Tigers have the best Defense in the nation. Each game, allowing only 161.5 yards and 5.8 points. Tulane has scored 17, 10, and 35 against Mississippi St., Houston, and SE Louisiana. That comes out to 20.7 points per game-don’t expect The Green Wave to top 10 against LSU. Expect a great offensive performance from LSU in the first half and an amazing defensive hold-out to close the game.

Prediction: LSU 52, Tulane 10

Mississippi State at South Carolina

There is a rift between “experts” concerning this match up. One side argues that Spurrier’s ‘Cocks will pour it on Croom’s Dogs, racking up points to build confidence after last week’s loss to LSU. The other side recognizes the Bulldog’s steadily improving offense and stable defense and state that the Gamecocks and Spurrier are still adjusting to Spurrier’s new coaching style.

Expect a South Carolina victory, but do not expect a high-scoring game.

Prediction: South Carolina 27, Mississippi State 14

Florida Atlantic at Kentucky

The Owls have allowed 288.8 passing yards per game against less-impressive teams, the best being Oklahoma St. Kentucky’s Andre Woodson is one of the Heisman favorites and holds the record for the most consecutive pass attempts without an interception, a record that continues to climb.

But this game could prove the end of the streak. Florida Atlantic cornerback Tavious Polo leads the country with six interceptions. Polo could be what breaks Woodson’s streak. Regardless of rather his streak comes to a halt, Woodson will play a great game and lead the Cats to a win over the Owls.

Prediction: Kentucky 49, Florida Atlantic 3

Ole Miss at Georgia

Despite losing last week, the Rebels played a great game. UGA head coach Mark Richt admit tingly said, “they’re not very far away from a big win,” when asked about the Rebel’s performance against Florida last week.

Could an Ole Miss Victory at Athens be that big win? There is a possible upset while the Rebels posses a good QB, Seth Adams, and WR Mike Wallace, who leads the SEC in yards per catch (25)  and is second in total receiving yards.

Despite the upset-possibility, I am going to predict a solid UGA win. With a great backfield duo and a good passing attack, expect  the Bulldogs to put some points on the board. As for Ole Miss’s star receiver, expect a good secondary to hold the Rebel’s air attack at under 200 yards.

Prediction: Georgia 31, Ole Miss 17


Alabama at Florida State

The FSU scandal affects many teachers and athletes, but only those of spring sports. Nevertheless, there is certainly a large amount of confusion and banter being tossed around on the FSU campus. Will this affect Coach Bowden? No. The only thing concerning Coach Bowden is Alabama‘s coming to town.

In this Saturday’s game at Jacksonville, the Tide and Seminoles will knock heads together for the first time in over 30 years. As they prepare for battle, one can’t help but notice their similarities.

Both teams have one loss to then-and-currently-still-top ranked teams: Alabama’ loss to Georgia, and FSU’s loss to Clemson (#22 and #25 respectively, at the time). Both teams trying to regain a foothold in the nation’s elite. Alabama led by the new $4 million coach and FSU, by the current winningest coach in college ball.

The Tide posses one of the nation’s most efficient ground games while the Seminoles are one the most efficient at stopping the run. The difference will occur in the air. Expect J.P. Wilson to pick up at least 250 yards and lead his team to a Bama victory. But expect it to be a very close game.

Prediction: Alabama 24, Florida State 17

North Texas at Arkansas

Arkansas will need to put up some big numbers if they expect to be considered among the nation’s top 25. The Razorbacks are currently 1-2, 0-2 in conference play, and need a big win to build up momentum. North Texas can provide that win.

The Mean Green hasn’t proved to be mean this year. The Mean Green have won no games and are the uncontested, worst FBS defense in the nation. Allowing 51.3 points and 536 yards per game.

Expect a blowout from Arkansas with McFadden leading the ground effort and regaining Heisman hype.

Prediction: Arkansas 52, North Texas 10

Eastern Michigan at Vanderbilt

Vanderbilt is not getting much attention this year. In the SEC East Vandy is overshadowed by top 25 teams: Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Kentucky. The Commodores have put together a decent squad on both sides of the ball.

This week, they will face the Eastern Michigan Eagles whose toughest opponent has been Ball St. Despite an easy schedule against D-IAA teams, the Eagles have given up 398.5 yards per contest this season.

Expect a strong Vandy victory with a second quarter used for developmental purposes.

Prediction: Vanderbilt 31, Eastern Michigan 10

Auburn at Florida

After last week’s struggle with Mississippi, it’s time for the Gators to pull out the fireworks if they expect to remain in the running for “top dog” status. Tim Tebow gets better with every game and is slowly adjusting his style.

While Superman learns to play conservative, he still has the ability to make explosive plays. If he can stay healthy, he should pick up close to 200 yards in the air against Auburn’s secondary. Expect one interception from Tebow, but fans will soon forget about it when Superman turns on the jets.

Despite this season’s less-than-stellar performances on both sides of the ball from Auburn, don’t count the Tigers out. The Cox/Burns rotation is starting to kick off and will face-off against Florida’s young defense. Auburn is not expected to score 20 points-I’m willing to bet they’ll top 30.

Odds makers are calling for a Florida victory by 3 TDs. I expect an early Florida lead with a long 3rd quarter struggle. Ultimately, the Gators will win this one by a TD and a couple Field Goals.

Predictions: Gators 51, Auburn 38