6. Auburn (2-1) 60 points
Last week’s ranking: No. 7
Oh look, Auburn won a close game in Jordan-Hare off the back of questionable officiating. Next.
5. Tennessee (2-1) 68 points
Last week’s ranking: No. 4
Tennessee looked like a markedly improved team for a half against Georgia on Saturday and then Georgia did what they do. The Vols’ defense is very much what you’d expect a defense under Jeremy Pruitt to look like. They’re tough and talented, but until they can recruit at the level of the Dawgs and Alabama, it’s going to be three impressive quarters and the dam finally bursting. And you can’t even really blame Jarrett Guarantano or the offense. When you run into a wall, there’s no way to fall other than on your butt.
4. Florida (2-1) 73 points
Last week’s ranking: No. 3
One had a feeling that as spotty as UF’s defense had been through two weeks, something was about to give. And gave it did in the appearance of a Jimbo Fisher-coached Texas A&M offense. The Gators’ passing game is still strong with QB Kyle Trask passing for 312 yards and four touchdowns, but it was the lack of a solid run game against the Aggies which made it difficult for UF to put the game away. The Gators are still very much in control of their own destiny, but with Georgia looming, bridesmaid of the East may be their only option.
3. Texas A&M (2-1) 83 points
Last week’s ranking: No. 8
Texas A&M got its biggest win not only of the Jimbo Fisher era but since 2002 when they knocked off the No. 4 Florida Gators in College Station. Senior QB Kellen Mond was brilliant, throwing for 312 yards and four touchdowns. Tight end Caleb Chapman had a career day catching nine passes for 151 yards and two touchdowns. It’s hard to tell what the ceiling of this Aggies team is, but if the defense can settle into a groove, then it’s hard not seeing them finishing worse than second in the West.