SEC Rivalry Week is here, and in the Southeastern Conference, it truly means more! After an exhilarating Week 13 of SEC football, the stakes are still high as we gear up for the final full week of regular-season action. Let’s dive into the matchups that are sure to deliver excitement and drama!
Egg Bowl: Ole Miss vs. Mississippi State
The Egg Bowl is always a spectacle, and this year is no exception. Ole Miss (8-3) is set to face off against Mississippi State (2-9). While this game may not have playoff implications, it promises to be a thrilling contest. Jaxson Dart and the Rebels are looking to rebound and play a cleaner game, particularly in avoiding turnovers. The Bulldogs have shown heart but have struggled to convert that effort into victories. Historically, Ole Miss has dominated this rivalry, winning six of the last ten meetings.
Prediction: Ole Miss 40 – Mississippi State 17
Clean Old-Fashioned Hate: Georgia vs. Georgia Tech
Next up, we have the Clean Old-Fashioned Hate rivalry featuring Georgia (9-2) against Georgia Tech (7-4). This matchup shouldn’t be underestimated. Georgia Tech has been a pesky opponent all season and has the potential to play spoiler. Just ask Miami! If the Bulldogs can’t find their rhythm on offense, the Brent Key-led Yellow Jackets could make things interesting. Georgia has won nine of the last ten encounters, but this one could be closer than expected.
Prediction: Georgia 31 – Georgia Tech 23
Iron Bowl: Alabama vs. Auburn
The Iron Bowl is one of the most anticipated games of the year as Alabama (8-3) takes on Auburn (5-6). Auburn is riding high after a thrilling four-overtime victory against Texas A&M, while Alabama is still reeling from what many consider their worst loss since 2007. The Tigers could easily have a better record, and the Crimson Tide could be facing a much tougher situation. This game will likely hinge on turnovers—who can capitalize and who can keep it clean? Although Auburn is motivated, I believe Alabama will emerge victorious in Tuscaloosa.
Prediction: Alabama 34 – Auburn 17 (If I were to pick Auburn, my prediction would be 31-30 Tigers)
Palmetto Bowl: Clemson vs. South Carolina
In the Palmetto Bowl, we have Clemson (9-2) squaring off against South Carolina (8-3). This game comes with an upset alert! Dabo Swinney’s Tigers are fighting to stay in the playoff race, while the Gamecocks have been the biggest “what-if” team of the season. They narrowly missed out on a better record, with close calls against Ole Miss and Alabama. Historically, Clemson has had the upper hand, winning eight of the last ten, but I’m predicting a South Carolina victory this time around.
Prediction: South Carolina 27 – Clemson 24
Governor’s Cup: Kentucky vs. Louisville
The Governor’s Cup features Kentucky (4-7) taking on Louisville (7-4). Both teams have faced challenges this season, falling short of expectations. Kentucky’s offense has struggled, plagued by inconsistencies at quarterback and injuries at running back. Meanwhile, Louisville’s Tyler Shough has been impressive, throwing for over 3,000 yards with 23 touchdowns and just seven interceptions. Despite Kentucky’s historical success in this rivalry, I’m leaning towards Louisville in this matchup.
Prediction: Louisville 24 – Kentucky 13
Battle Line Rivalry: Missouri vs. Arkansas
The Battle Line Rivalry features Missouri (8-3) against Arkansas (6-5). Missouri has had a peculiar season; despite a solid record, they’ve looked vulnerable since their game against Texas A&M. Arkansas has been inconsistent but can surprise. If Missouri can keep quarterback Brady Cook healthy, they should secure the win. They’ve won eight of the last ten against the Razorbacks, and I expect that trend to continue.
Prediction: Missouri 21 – Arkansas 13
Sunshine Showdown: Florida State vs. Florida
In the Sunshine Showdown, Florida State (2-9) faces Florida (6-5). At the start of the season, this matchup seemed to heavily favor Florida State, but how the tables have turned! Florida State has struggled mightily, going from playoff contenders to one of the worst teams in the Power Five. On the other hand, Florida has rallied behind DJ Lagway, who has proven to be a game-changer at quarterback. Florida State has won six of the last ten, but I believe the Gators will take this one decisively.
Prediction: Florida 45 – Florida State 10
LSU vs. Oklahoma
When LSU (7-4) takes on Oklahoma (6-5), it’s a game with significant implications. LSU has managed to avoid a disastrous season with key victories, but a loss here could lead to serious consequences for head coach Brian Kelly. Oklahoma has struggled offensively, ranking as the worst in the SEC, but their defense is solid. I expect LSU to come out on top, but the pressure on Kelly will remain high.
Prediction: LSU 38 – Oklahoma 21
Lone Star Showdown: Texas A&M vs. Texas
Finally, we have the highly anticipated Lone Star Showdown as Texas A&M (8-3) faces Texas (10-1). This rivalry has been on hold since A&M joined the SEC in 2012, making this matchup even more exciting. The Aggies boast an explosive offense led by Marcel Reed, while Texas has a formidable defense. If Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers can connect with his receivers for big plays, they should emerge victorious. Texas has a 7-3 advantage in the last ten matchups.
Prediction: Texas 24 – Texas A&M 23
As we gear up for this thrilling week of SEC football, fans can expect nothing less than intense rivalries and unforgettable moments. Who will rise to the occasion, and who will falter? Only time will tell!
