The college football world has been turned upside down this offseason, with defending national champion Ohio State tumbling from its throne after losing a wave of NFL talent and both coordinators. In this new reality, Penn State emerges as our No. 1 team nationally heading into 2025, while the SEC faces its most intriguing power shuffle in years.
The spring practice window has closed, the transfer portal has (mostly) quieted down, and SEC programs are settling into their summer workout routines before the August grind begins. While rosters could still see minor tweaks before fall camp, the foundation for the 2025 season has been laid across the conference.
This transitional period presents the ideal opportunity to evaluate the current standing of each SEC team following their spring showcase.
Texas enters as the conference’s new measuring stick following their breakout 2024 campaign, but questions remain about their rebuilt offensive line. Georgia continues operating like a well-oiled machine despite quarterback turnover, while LSU’s explosive offense still searches for defensive answers.
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the SEC’s post-spring landscape, including key roster updates, projected win-loss records, and which teams could challenge for conference supremacy.
SEC 2025 Post-Spring Power Rankings
1. Penn State Nittany Lions (Projected: 12-1, 9-0 Big Ten)
Key Players: QB Drew Allar, RB Duo Kaytron Allen & Nicholas Singleton, DE Dani Dennis-Sutton, S Zakee Wheatley,
Transfer Additions: WR Trebor Pena (Syracuse), WR Devonte Ross (Troy), DC Jim Knowles (from Ohio State)
Outlook: James Franklin’s Nittany Lions finally broke through in 2024, reaching the College Football Playoff before falling to Notre Dame in the semifinals. Now, with QB Drew Allar (3,327 yards, 24 TDs) returning alongside a loaded backfield of Kaytron Allen and Nicholas Singleton, Penn State’s offense looks more balanced than ever.
The biggest upgrades came via the transfer portal, where Franklin landed three impact receivers:
- Trebor Pena (Syracuse): 84 catches, 941 yards, 9 TDs
- Devonte Ross (Troy): 76 catches, 1,043 yards, 11 TDs
- Kyron Hudson (USC): A big-bodied deep threat
Defensively, the addition of DC Jim Knowles (formerly of Ohio State) cannot be overstated. Knowles, who helped guide the Buckeyes to a national title last season, inherits a unit that returns stars like DE Dani Dennis-Sutton and S Zakee Wheatley. His $3.1 million salary makes him the highest-paid coordinator in the country, and for good reason.
2. Clemson Tigers (Projected: 11-2, 8-0 ACC)
Key Players: QB Cade Klubnik, WR Antonio Williams (ACC’s top slot receiver), DL Peter Woods & T.J. Parker, LB Sammy Brown (former 5-star)
Transfer Additions: DE Will Heldt (Purdue), DC Tom Allen (from Penn State), RB Gideon Davidson (No. 3 RB recruit)
Outlook: Dabo Swinney’s Tigers are back in a big way. QB Cade Klubnik enters his third year as the starter, and he’ll have his best supporting cast yet, including WRs Antonio Williams and Bryant Wesco Jr. The offensive line returns intact, but the biggest question is at running back, where converted WR Adam Randall and freshman Gideon Davidson (No. 3 RB in 2025 class) will share carries.
Defensively, Clemson made two massive moves:
Hired DC Tom Allen (ex-Penn State) to fix a run defense that ranked last in the ACC (160.6 YPG allowed).
Added Purdue DE transfer Will Heldt (5 sacks in 2024) to a defensive line already featuring Peter Woods and T.J. Parker.
The season opener against LSU (in Atlanta) and rivalry finale at South Carolina bookend a manageable ACC slate. If Klubnik makes the expected leap, Clemson could return to the playoff after a two-year absence.
3. Texas Longhorns (Projected: 10-2, 6-2 SEC)
Key Players: QB Arch Manning, RB Quintrevion Wisner, LB Anthony Hill Jr., DE Colin Simmons
Transfer Additions: WR Emmett Mosley V (Stanford), DL Maraad Watson (Syracuse), DL Travis Shaw (UNC)
Outlook: The Longhorns enter 2025 as SEC favorites thanks to their combination of elite defensive talent and the much-anticipated debut of Arch Manning at quarterback. While Texas must replace four starting offensive linemen and their top three receivers from last season, Manning showed promising flashes in limited 2024 action with his poise and accuracy. The defense returns stars like linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. and defensive end Colin Simmons, who anchored one of the nation’s best units last season. However, that rebuilt offensive line gets tested immediately against Georgia’s formidable front, making early season performance crucial for their playoff hopes.
4. Georgia Bulldogs (Projected: 11-1, 7-1 SEC)
Key Players: QB Gunner Stockton, RB Nate Frazier, WR Zachariah Branch, LB CJ Allen
Transfer Additions: WR Noah Thomas (Texas A&M), LB Elo Modozie (Army), S Jaden Harris (Miami)
Outlook: Georgia continues their model of reloading rather than rebuilding, even after
quarterback Carson Beck’s departure. Gunner Stockton takes over after showing promise in relief duty during last year’s SEC championship game, and he’ll have weapons like running back Nate Frazier and USC transfer receiver Zachariah Branch at his disposal. The Bulldogs defense returns seven starters from a unit that was among the SEC’s best last season. Stockton’s development will be key, especially with an early road test at Texas that could make or break their playoff chances.
5. LSU Tigers (Projected: 10-2, 6-2 SEC)
Key Players: QB Garrett Nussmeier, RB Caden Durham, WR Barion Brown, LB Harold Perkins Jr.
Transfer Additions: WR Nic Anderson (Oklahoma), DE Patrick Payton (FSU), CB Mansoor Delane (Virginia Tech)
Outlook: Brian Kelly’s Tigers boast what might be the SEC’s most explosive offense behind quarterback Garrett Nussmeier and dynamic transfer additions at receiver. While the offense should light up scoreboards, LSU’s season hinges on whether new defensive coordinator Blake Baker can fix a unit that struggled mightily last year. The secondary was particularly vulnerable, allowing the second-most passing yards per game in the conference. If transfers like cornerback Mansoor Delane can shore up the defense, LSU has the offensive firepower to challenge for the SEC title.
6. Alabama Crimson Tide (Projected: 9-3, 5-3 SEC)
Key Players: QB Ty Simpson, WR Ryan Williams, LB Deontae Lawson, CB Domani Jackson
Transfer Additions: WR Isaiah Horton (Miami), G Kam Dewberry (Texas A&M), CB Cameron Calhoun (Utah)
Outlook: The Tide enter a new era under Kalen DeBoer with plenty of questions but no shortage of talent. Ty Simpson takes over at quarterback after waiting patiently behind Jalen Milroe, inheriting an offense featuring superstar receiver Ryan Williams. While the defense returns key pieces like linebacker Deontae Lawson and cornerback Domani Jackson, the road schedule presents major challenges with trips to LSU and Georgia. Alabama’s ability to reload along both lines will determine whether they can maintain their usual dominance or take a slight step back in the post-Saban transition.
7. Ole Miss Rebels (Projected: 9-3, 5-3 SEC)
Key Players: QB Austin Simmons, RB Logan Diggs, LB Suntarine Perkins, DT Zxavian Harris
Transfer Additions: WR De’Zhaun Stribling (Oklahoma State), DE Princewill Umanmielen (Nebraska), S Sage Ryan (LSU)
Outlook: Lane Kiffin’s Rebels continue their upward trajectory with another strong roster bolstered by key portal additions. Quarterback Austin Simmons steps in for NFL-bound Jaxson Dart, bringing a similar dual-threat skillset to an offense that ranked among the SEC’s most explosive last season. The schedule sets up favorably with both Georgia and Texas absent from the slate, giving Ole Miss a legitimate shot at double-digit wins. The defense, led by linebacker Suntarine Perkins and bolstered by Nebraska transfer Princewill Umanmielen, must improve against elite competition after struggling in big games last season.
8. Texas A&M Aggies (Projected: 9-3, 6-2 SEC)
Key Players: QB Marcel Reed, RB Le’Veon Moss, WR Kevin Concepcion, LB Taurean York
Transfer Additions: DL Tyler Onyedim (Iowa State), CB Jordan Shaw (Washington), WR Jonah Wilson (Houston)
Outlook: Mike Elko’s first year in College Station could produce immediate results thanks to a talented roster and favorable schedule. Quarterback Marcel Reed showed flashes last season and now has dynamic weapons like NC State transfer Kevin Concepcion at his disposal. The defense should take a step forward under Elko’s guidance, with linebacker Taurean York anchoring the unit. The season finale against Texas looms large as a potential program-defining moment for the Aggies, who could play spoiler in the SEC West race.
9. Tennessee Volunteers (Projected: 10-2, 6-2 SEC)
Key Players: QB Joey Aguilar (UCLA transfer), RB Dylan Sampson, LB Elijah Herring
Outlook: Josh Heupel’s squad faces a quarterback transition after Nico Iamaleava’s departure, but UCLA transfer Joey Aguilar brings experience and production to Knoxville. The Vols’ offense should remain potent behind running back Dylan Sampson and a typically strong offensive line. Tennessee’s defense returns several key pieces and could be among the SEC’s most improved units. Road trips to Georgia and Alabama will test their championship credentials, but the schedule otherwise sets up favorably for another strong season in Knoxville.
10. Florida Gators (Projected: 8-4, 4-4 SEC)
Key Players: QB DJ Lagway, WR Eugene Wilson III, S Jordan Castell
Outlook: All eyes will be on quarterback DJ Lagway as the former five-star recruit takes over full-time in Gainesville. Lagway’s dynamic playmaking ability gives Florida’s offense a higher ceiling, but his health will be paramount behind a suspect offensive line. The Gators face one of the nation’s toughest schedules, with games against Texas, Georgia, LSU and Ole Miss. Billy Napier’s seat could get warm if Florida can’t show significant progress in his third season, especially with several key defensive transfers needing to make immediate impacts.
11. South Carolina Gamecocks (Projected: 7-5, 4-4 SEC)
Key Players: QB LaNorris Sellers, WR Mazeo Bennett Jr., DE Dylan Stewart,
Transfer Additions: DT Gabriel Brownlow-Dindy,,LB Shawn Murphy, CB Brandon Cisse.
Outlook: The Gamecocks enter 2025 with rising star LaNorris Sellers at quarterback, coming off an impressive debut season where he accounted for 25 total touchdowns. Shane Beamer’s squad added significant defensive reinforcements through the portal, particularly up front with former five-star Brownlow-Dindy. However, South Carolina faces one of the SEC’s toughest schedules with crossover games against LSU, Texas A&M and Alabama. The development of sophomore pass rusher Dylan Stewart could determine whether this team exceeds expectations.
12. Oklahoma Sooners (Projected: 7-5, 3-5 SEC)
Key Players: QB John Mateer, RB Jaydn Ott, DE R Mason Thomas
Transfer Additions: WR Isaiah Sategna, LB Kevon Glenn
Outlook: Brent Venables enters a critical third season with new quarterback John Mateer, who brings proven production from Washington State. The Sooners’ transition to SEC life continues with another brutal schedule featuring Texas, Alabama and LSU. Oklahoma’s defense showed improvement last season but must take another step forward to compete in the conference’s upper tier. The addition of Cal transfer Jaydn Ott gives them a legitimate workhorse back to balance the offense.
13. Missouri Tigers (Projected: 6-6, 2-6 SEC)
Key Players: RB Ahmad Hardy, LB Triston Newson, CB Toriano Pride Jr.
Transfer Additions: QB Jake Garcia, DL Jahkai Lang
Outlook: Missouri faces significant regression after losing quarterback Brady Cook, receiver Luther Burden and most of their offensive line from last year’s breakthrough team. Sophomore running back Ahmad Hardy provides a bright spot after an impressive freshman campaign, but questions at quarterback loom large. The Tigers defense returns several key pieces but may be asked to carry too much weight early as the offense finds its footing. Eli Drinkwitz will need to work magic to reach bowl eligibility with this rebuilt roster.
14. Auburn Tigers (Projected: 6-6, 3-5 SEC)
Key Players: QB Jackson Arnold, WR Cam Coleman, LB Austin Keys.
Transfer Additions: OT Percy Lewis, CB DJ James
Outlook: Hugh Freeze’s Tigers enter year three with Oklahoma transfer Jackson Arnold taking over at quarterback. The offense should take a step forward with blue-chip receiver Cam Coleman poised for a breakout season. Auburn’s defense showed improvement last year but must replace several key front-seven contributors. The Tigers’ season likely hinges on how quickly Arnold adapts to Freeze’s system and whether the rebuilt offensive line can protect him. A challenging SEC West slate makes bowl eligibility no guarantee.
15. . Arkansas Razorbacks (Projected: 5-7, 2-6 SEC)
Key Players: QB Taylen Green, RB Braylen Russell, LB Jaheim Thomas
Transfer Additions: WR Ja’Quinden Jackson (Utah), DL Anthony Booker Jr. (Maryland)
Outlook: Sam Pittman’s squad faces an uphill battle in 2025 with one of the SEC’s toughest schedules. While Taylen Green brings exciting dual-threat capabilities at quarterback, the Razorbacks must improve an offensive line that allowed 40 sacks last season. The defense returns several key contributors but will be tested early and often against high-powered SEC offenses. Arkansas needs to pull at least one major upset to reach bowl eligibility.
16. Kentucky Wildcats
Key Players: QB Zach Calzada (Incarnate Word transfer), RB Chip Trayanum, LB D’Eryk Jackson
Transfer Additions: WR Ja’Corey Brooks (Alabama), CB Jardin Gilbert (Texas A&M)
Outlook: Mark Stoops enters a transitional year with new offensive coordinator Bush Hamdan and quarterback Zach Calzada, who put up video game numbers at the FCS level. Kentucky’s traditionally strong defense returns just four starters and must rebuild its secondary. The Wildcats’ path to bowl eligibility likely requires sweeping their non-conference slate and finding two SEC wins against a manageable East division schedule.
17. Vanderbilt Commodores (Projected: 4-8, 1-7 SEC)
Key Players: QB Diego Pavia, WR Quincy Skinner Jr., LB Langston Patterson
Transfer Additions: WR Elijah Spencer (Charlotte), DL Tyler Baron (Tennessee)
Outlook: Clark Lea’s Commodores showed progress last season but face a brutal 2025 slate. Quarterback Diego Pavia brings toughness and leadership, but Vanderbilt must replace several key defensive pieces. The addition of Tennessee transfer Tyler Baron should help a pass rush that managed just 18 sacks last season. Vanderbilt’s best chance for SEC wins comes against Kentucky and Mississippi State.
18. Mississippi State Bulldogs (Projected: 3-9, 0-8 SEC)
Key Players: QB Blake Shapen (Baylor transfer), WR Kelly Akharaiyi, LB Donterry Russell
Transfer Additions: WR Elijah Badger (Arizona State), DL De’Monte Russell (Jackson State)
Outlook: Jeff Lebby’s Air Raid offense makes its Starkville debut with Baylor transfer Blake Shapen at quarterback. While the Bulldogs should score more points, their defense remains a major concern after allowing 34+ points per game last season. Mississippi State’s best chances for SEC wins come at home against Vanderbilt and Arkansas, but this looks like another rebuilding year in Starkville.
18. Auburn Tigers (Projected: 6-6, 3-5 SEC)
Key Players: QB Jackson Arnold (Oklahoma transfer), WR Cam Coleman, LB Austin Keys
Transfer Additions: OT Percy Lewis (Ole Miss), CB DJ James (Oregon)
Outlook: Hugh Freeze enters Year 3 with his most talented roster yet, headlined by former 5-star QB Jackson Arnold. The Tigers’ ceiling hinges on two factors:
- Arnold’s adaptation to Freeze’s system after inconsistent play at Oklahoma
- An offensive line that allowed 39 sacks last season (3rd-worst in SEC)
The defense returns seven starters but must replace its entire secondary. Auburn’s season likely comes down to three swing games: vs. Texas A&M, at Kentucky, and vs. Oklahoma. A bowl game is the bare minimum expectation.
19. Missouri Tigers (Projected: 6-6, 2-6 SEC)
Key Players: RB Ahmad Hardy, LB Triston Newson, CB Toriano Pride Jr.
Transfer Additions: QB Jake Garcia (Miami), DL Jahkai Lang (App State)
Outlook: The Tigers face a classic “prove it” season after losing:
- QB Brady Cook (3,400+ total yds, 28 TDs)
- WR Luther Burden (1,200+ rec yds)
- 3 starting O-linemen
Hardy provides a legitimate bellcow back, but Miami transfer Jake Garcia must stabilize the QB position. The defense, particularly a secondary that allowed just 58% completion rate in 2024, gives Mizzou a fighting chance in most games.
20. Oklahoma Sooners (Projected: 7-5, 3-5 SEC)
2024 Record: 6-7 (2-6 SEC)
Key Players: QB John Mateer (Washington State transfer), RB Jaydn Ott, DE R Mason Thomas
Transfer Additions: WR Isaiah Sategna (Arkansas), LB Kevon Glenn (Ole Miss)
Outlook: Brent Venables’ squad faces another brutal SEC initiation:
- 3 top-10 opponents (Texas, Alabama, LSU)
- 5 road games vs. 2024 bowl teams
Mateer brings efficiency (29:7 TD:INT ratio) but must adjust to SEC speed. The defense showed flashes last year (held 5 opponents under 21 points) but collapsed against elite competition (allowed 38+ PPG to Texas/Bama/Georgia).
Critical Stretch: October games vs. Texas (neutral), Ole Miss, and LSU will define their season.
SEC Win-Loss Predictions Post-Spring
| Team | Projected Record | Key Games |
| Georgia | 11-1 (7-1) | vs. Texas, at Alabama |
| Texas | 10-2 (6-2) | vs. Georgia, at Texas A&M |
| LSU | 10-2 (6-2) | at Ole Miss, vs. Texas A&M |
| Alabama | 9-3 (5-3) | at LSU, vs. Georgia |
| Ole Miss | 9-3 (5-3) | vs. LSU, at South Carolina |
| Texas A&M | 9-3 (6-2) | vs. Texas, at Florida |
| Tennessee | 10-2 (6-2) | at Georgia, vs. Alabama |
| Florida | 8-4 (4-4) | vs. Texas, at Tennessee |
| South Carolina | 10-2 (6-2) | vs. LSU, at Texas A&M |
| Oklahoma | 7-5 (3-5) | vs. Michigan, at Auburn |
| Auburn | 7-5 (3-5) | vs. Texas A&M, at Alabama |
| Missouri | 6-6 (2-6) | vs. Oklahoma, at Arkansas |
| Arkansas | 7-5 (3-5) | vs. Texas A&M, at LSU |
| Kentucky | 4-8 (0-8) | vs. South Carolina, at Tennessee |
| Vanderbilt | 6-6 (2-6) | vs. LSU, at Alabama |
| Mississippi St. | 4-8 (1-7) | vs. Arkansas, at Ole Miss |
Final Thoughts
Penn State and Clemson have taken advantage of Ohio State’s offseason exodus, emerging as the nation’s top two teams. The Nittany Lions boast the most complete roster, while the Tigers have the experience and defensive upgrades to make a title run.
The SEC remains the nation’s toughest conference, with Georgia, Texas, and LSU leading the way. The emergence of Arch Manning, Garrett Nussmeier, and Gunner Stockton will shape the playoff race, while teams like Ole Miss and Texas A&M lurk as potential dark horses.
Keywords: SEC football 2025, SEC predictions, Georgia football, Texas football, Arch Manning, Garrett Nussmeier, SEC win-loss projections, college football rankings, SEC spring outlook, SEC transfer portal