My SEC Power Poll Ballot, Week 9

With each passing week, it becomes more and more evident that the SEC isn't as deep this year as it has been in years past, particularly last year. The top 5 teams are pretty clear, but after that, it's a garbled mess of mediocrity. Here's how I see it.

1. Alabama
Tide finally played both halves and the result was a second straight year of Big Orange demolition.

2. Florida
In all honesty, the 63-5 score really doesn’t do the utter domination justice. It really wasn’t even that close. The Gators passed their final test before the SEC East Championship Game this weekend.

3. Georgia
Basically ended the game Saturday on the first play from scrimmage. While the defense gave up a lot of garbage yards and points late in the fourth, the offense was clicking on all cylinders. Should be one helluva game Saturday in Jacksonville.

4. LSU
The Tigers were shredded by the Beasts of the East, which may not bode well for next weekend’s Best of the West showdown with the Tide.

5. South Carolina
Had the weekend off, but solidified themselves as 5th best in the conference. Need to find a way to beat Tennessee this weekend, something they’ve done just once over the last decade and a half.

6. Ole Miss
Bounced back from a tough loss in Tuscaloosa to beat a fired up Arkansas team. Could this be the weekend they start a *gasp* winning streak in conference?

7. Vanderbilt
With a few more lackluster performances like the one Saturday, the ‘Dores could turn 5-0 into 5-7. Have a week off to right the ship, though a visit from the Gators will only make matters worse.

8. Auburn
If the Tigers would just stick to running the ball they’d be fine… or at least better. A loss Saturday to Ole Miss would jeopardize bowl chances and crank up the heat on Tuberville’s seat.

9. Tennessee
Same ol’ Vols against Bama: Another ugly game from the offense, another highlight reel play for Eric Berry.

10. Kentucky
Sure the ‘Cats lost by 58 points, but the punter averaged 50+ ypk and they only committed 3 penalties so all is not lost. Until a loss in Starkville this weekend drops them to #12.

11. Arkansas
Again played a more talented opponent close, but couldn’t seal the deal. This one hurts Hog fans more than the blowouts to Florida and Alabama.

12. Mississippi State
Used the same game plan against MTSU as they did Vandy – pound the ball with Dixon and don’t put it on the ground. Should work this weekend against Kentucky as well.