The SEC East race is Florida’s to win, while Alabama takes on the other remaining unbeaten team, Mississippi State, in the SEC West showdown.
My picks record for the season is 60-9.
Mississippi State (7-0) @ Alabama (7-0)
Mississippi State has a lot to be proud of this season and it is setting itself up for a nice bowl game at the end of the year. Unfortunately, the team runs into a wall this week in the form of Alabama. The Crimson Tide’s defense is outstanding and that’s no surprise as it is a hallmark of Nick Saban’s teams. It’s the balance on offense with nearly identical numbers rushing and passing that is impressive and should concern the Bulldogs. If Mississippi State loads up to stop the run, Alabama can get yards and scores throwing the ball. If the Bulldogs play back in coverage, get ready to watch the Crimson Tide’s backs chew up the ground in big numbers.
Mississippi State is a quality team, but Alabama has dominated in every game so far and there’s nothing in this one that convinces me the outcome is going to be any different. Alabama is one of the top teams in the country and this week is the first of three straight ranked opponents where the Crimson Tide will be on showcase.
Alabama 31, Mississippi State 10
Florida (7-0) vs. Georgia (6-1)
Florida’s defense plays fast, loose, and downright mean at times making it very difficult for opposing teams to move the ball with consistency. The Gators offense isn’t all that impressive but it takes advantage of opportunities to score particularly when it gets the short field on a turnover or special teams play.
Georgia’s offense is its footprint. Built for speed and big plays, the Bulldogs can score from a variety of positions. The one weakness is pocket protection and it is key to success if the team hopes to upend the Gators this weekend.
I expect the Bulldogs to come out fast and furious, but Florida’s defense is too good for me to think it can be had for more than a few plays early in the game. The Gators’ pounding running game will wear on Georgia’s defense like the oppressive heat of south Florida in July and propel Florida to the SEC East top by the end of the weekend.
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