SEC Power Poll: How Does Tebow's Injury Affect Gators Ranking?

1. Florida

Gators are still No. 1 in my book unless Tebow is ruled to be out for the next game or two. 

2. Alabama

The Alabama defense made Ryan Mallett look a whole lot more like a first year SEC starter this week. I thought Greg McElroy would not be better than John Parker Wilson—so far I am being proven wrong.

3. LSU

The Tigers flight to Starkville got delayed on Friday, but I bet they could not wait to get out of there on Saturday. I am not sure survived or escaped is even the right word for LSU’s win over Miss State.

4. Georgia

One week it’s fire defensive coordinator Willie Martinez; next week it’s fire offensive coordinator Mike Bobo. If Georgia stops the turnovers I think they are fine, but four games in and they have not yet.

5. South Carolina

Is the Chicken Curse broken with a win over a top-five team? I thought ESPN’s Craig James’ comment about the energy Spurrier had this year was very revealing. Maybe the Gamecocks can make a run this year and avoid the last season swoon.

6. Ole Miss

Rebels come back to Earth after loss to South Carolina. Their offensive line looks nowhere near last year and honestly, the defensive line has not been superior this year like some thought.

7. Auburn

Gus Malzhan’s offense just keeps rolling with a healthy Chris Todd at QB. One more win for Chizik and he has doubled career win total. The first real test awaits in Knoxville this weekend.

8. Miss State

I thought it was very important how the Bulldogs dealt with success after last week. Now, lets see how they deal with bitter disappointment. I would be optimistic they will do well again this week.

9. Tennessee

Vols run defense looked really good again, but the pass defense struggled against an inferior opponent. Not a good sign with Auburn coming to town this week.

10. Kentucky

Kentucky’s early season schedule is great for season ticket holders, but not for Rich Brooks. Last week they got to see Florida and this week it's Alabama!

11. Arkansas

Ryan Mallett performed much different when he had pressure on him, but most QBs do.

12. Vanderbilt

Vandy took it to Rice by running the ball and playing SEC football. Good out-of-conference win for the ‘Dores.

Now breaking the conference up into groups of "like" teams...

Tier I
Florida, Alabama

Tier II
LSU, Georgia, South Carolina, Ole Miss

Tier III
Auburn

Tier IV
Miss State, Tennessee, Kentucky, Arkansas, Vanderbilt