College Football Predictions Week 5: Conference Clashes Will Shape SEC

The Top 25 is littered with promising SEC teams and Week 5 is going to present them with an opportunity to separate themselves from the rest of the pack.

Every week presents a challenge and, with competition heating up, this week's conference clashes are going to shape the way the SEC shakes out this season.

There are three matchups between SEC opponents this week and all will be telling as to how teams in the SEC stack up against each other.

Auburn vs. South Carolina

Pick: South Carolina

If Auburn wants to prove once and for all that they aren't a shadow of the team they were in 2010, they are going to need to dismantle a talented SEC team like South Carolina. This is the perfect opportunity for them to prove their worth by knocking down another ranked SEC foe. 

South Carolina is undefeated thus far and the talent on both sides of the ball makes them a dark horse in the conference. A win on Saturday would only heighten their expectations.

Marcus Lattimore will be the difference maker in this one. Auburn's defense faces a serious challenge in stopping one of the most talented backs in the country and it's hard to see them shutting down his production.

Alabama vs. Florida

Pick: Alabama

You could argue that Alabama is the best team in the nation. With their ridiculous defense and tremendous production from Trent Richardson, The Crimson Tide are slowly but surely making their case one game at a time.

Undefeated Florida is making their way into the picture as well. Regardless of which team wins, they'll be making a huge statement. Florida can dismantle the SEC hierarchy with a win, while Alabama can legitimize themselves as the team to beat in the SEC and nation in general.

Florida is going to find it hard to move the ball. This could easily become a classic SEC defensive struggle and Alabama has the upper hand against anyone in the nation in that scenario.

Mississippi State vs. Georgia

Pick: Georgia

Both Mississippi State and Georgia have disappointed after having high expectations coming into the season. Even so, all is not lost for either one of these teams and a win will breathe new life into both of them. 

They may not have a shot at winning the SEC, but they could easily become promising teams that nobody wants to face. Dangerous teams, like Mississippi State and Georgia, with nothing to lose will continue to turn the SEC upside down as the season progresses.

When Vick Ballard is at his best, Mississippi State is one of the toughest teams in the conference. Even so, their narrow win over Louisiana Tech at home is a huge red flag. Aaron Murray and the Bulldogs are coming home after winning back-to-back games and should be able to continue their streak.