For years, the SEC has been college football’s gold standard, but recent seasons have shown cracks in its dominance. The conference failed to produce a national champion for the second straight season, and yet, in USA TODAY’s way-too-early 2025 rankings, SEC teams still flood the top 10. While some teams like Texas and LSU seem poised for success, others—namely Tennessee, Alabama, and Georgia—could be riding reputation more than reality.
Each of these programs faces major challenges heading into 2025, including roster turnover, unproven quarterbacks, and depth concerns. Here’s why they may be among the SEC’s most overrated teams next season.
Alabama (No. 3) – Post-Saban Growing Pains Loom Large
Alabama is ranked No. 3 in the early polls, but that placement feels more like wishful thinking than a realistic assessment. The post-Nick Saban era officially begins under Kalen DeBoer, and while he had success at Washington, stepping into the Alabama spotlight is an entirely different challenge.
Quarterback remains a massive question mark. The Tide could turn to Ty Simpson or Julian Sayin, but neither has proven they can lead a team through an SEC schedule. Alabama also faces a brutal slate, including matchups against Georgia, LSU, Tennessee, and Oklahoma.
Beyond the quarterback uncertainty, Alabama’s defense loses key starters, and the offensive line must be rebuilt. Given the level of transition, a top-three ranking seems premature.
Georgia (No. 5) – A Reset Year in Athens?
Georgia’s run of dominance under Kirby Smart has been built on elite recruiting and physicality, but 2025 could be a reset year rather than another title run.
The Bulldogs will likely start Gunner Stockton at quarterback, and while he’s a talented prospect, replacing Carson Beck’s consistency won’t be easy. Even more concerning is the offensive line, which loses several starters and will be tasked with protecting an inexperienced quarterback.
Defensively, Georgia faces its biggest turnover in years, with multiple key pieces departing for the NFL. While Smart has recruited well, losing that much talent in one offseason raises questions about whether Georgia can maintain its elite defensive standard. The Bulldogs will still be a top-tier SEC team, but a No. 5 ranking may be too generous.
Tennessee (No. 9) – Not Enough Help for Iamaleava?
Tennessee is riding high on the potential of quarterback Nico Iamaleava, but potential alone doesn’t guarantee success.
The Vols must replace several offensive playmakers, including their top running back, leading receivers, and key offensive linemen. While Iamaleava is a five-star talent, he’ll be working with a supporting cast that lacks proven production.
Defensively, Tennessee has made strides, but depth remains an issue, and a top-10 ranking feels premature for a team with this many moving pieces. If the Vols struggle early, especially with their offensive identity in flux, they could fall out of the top 15 quickly.
Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee are all SEC powerhouses, but their 2025 outlooks come with major concerns. While they have the recruiting and pedigree to compete, their lofty rankings may be more about past success than present reality.
With Texas on the rise and LSU building momentum, the balance of power in the SEC could shift. If Alabama’s quarterback play falters, Georgia’s defense takes a step back, or Tennessee’s offense doesn’t click, these teams could be among the biggest disappointments of the season.
The SEC has been the sport’s most dominant conference for years, but in 2025, hype may be outpacing reality for some of its biggest names.