Week 2 of the college football season is about to begin in the SEC, with one of the most anticipated matchups being the game between No. 3 Alabama and No. 11 Texas. Texas will be seeking revenge after losing a close game to Alabama last season. This game has the potential to be another thrilling encounter, although it may cause some anxiety for fans of both teams considering last year’s game was decided with 10 seconds left on the clock.
Another interesting game to watch is the one between No. 23 Texas A&M and Miami. Texas A&M is coming off an impressive win in its first game and will be looking to continue its winning streak against Miami.
Let’s take a closer look at the key matchups in the SEC this week.
Appetizer: Texas A&M looking for momentum
Last season, Texas A&M defeated Miami in a low-scoring game. This year, both teams have shown improvements on the offensive side, which could make the game more exciting. However, making it to the College Football Playoff may be a difficult task for both teams.
Main course: Airing it out in Tuscaloosa
The Alabama-Texas game will largely depend on the performance of the quarterbacks. Alabama’s Jalen Milroe had a great game in his second career start, but Texas has a strong offense led by quarterback Quinn Ewers. The game could become a high-scoring shootout, and Alabama’s offensive coordinator may choose to play conservatively early on.
Dessert: Ole Miss defense to be tested
Ole Miss will face a challenging game against Tulane, which has a strong offense led by quarterback Michael Pratt. Ole Miss will need a strong defensive performance to secure a win and stay competitive in the SEC West.
Picks
Straight up: 14-0 | Against the spread: 5-4
Ball State at No. 1 Georgia
Georgia’s defense was impressive in their last game, and they are expected to dominate again. However, Ball State may be able to keep the game close enough to cover the spread.
No. 11 Texas at No. 3 Alabama
This game is expected to be a close battle. Texas has a talented quarterback in Quinn Ewers, who could lead the team to victory. Taking Texas to cover the spread and win the game outright seems like a good choice.
No. 20 Ole Miss at No. 24 Tulane
Ole Miss has a strong defense that could help them secure a comfortable win against Tulane. Expect Ole Miss to cover the spread.
No. 23 Texas A&M at Miami
The outcome of this game may heavily depend on the performance of the defenses. Miami has a chance to win at home by forcing Texas A&M into mistakes. Taking Miami to cover the spread seems like a reasonable pick.
Vanderbilt at Wake Forest
Wake Forest has a solid offense that could overpower Vanderbilt’s defense. The Demon Deacons are favored to win and cover the spread.
Kent State at Arkansas
Arkansas had a strong start to the season and is expected to continue their dominating performance against Kent State. They are favored to cover the spread.
Middle Tennessee at Missouri
Missouri’s defense will likely be the key to winning this game. They have the ability to control the game and cover the spread.
Arizona at Mississippi State
Mississippi State is favored to win this game due to their strong rushing attack. They are expected to cover the spread against Arizona.
Auburn at California
Auburn showed promise in their last game, and they are favored to win and cover the spread against California.
SEC teams vs. FCS opponents
No lines have been published for these matchups yet.