In Week 10 of the college football season, there were more thrilling matchups in the SEC, leading to yet another shift in The Hustler’s power rankings. With the NFL season at its halfway point, it’s an ideal moment to explore some interesting comparisons: this week, The Hustler has matched each SEC team with its NFL equivalent in the rankings.
The Vanderbilt Hustler’s SEC Power Rankings for the 2024 season
1. Georgia (7-1, 5-1 SEC)
NFL Comparison: Kansas City Chiefs
After a bye week, Georgia continued its strong performance by defeating the Florida Gators 34-20, reinforcing its position at the top of the SEC. Carson Beck threw for over 300 yards and three touchdowns, despite having three interceptions. When Florida’s rookie quarterback DJ Lagway left the game due to injury, Georgia’s defense effectively shut down the Gators, limiting backup QB Aidan Warner to a mere 9.5 passer rating. While Beck may not match Patrick Mahomes in skill, his composed leadership and game management are reminiscent of the Chiefs’ MVP. With a talented roster, Georgia is poised to maintain its SEC dominance as they prepare to face Ole Miss on Saturday.
2. Texas (7-1, 3-1)
NFL Comparison: Detroit Lions
Texas climbed a spot in the rankings during their bye week, thanks to Texas A&M’s loss to South Carolina. After a narrow win over Vanderbilt before the break, the Longhorns are in a good position to gain momentum against a Florida team that may be without their starting quarterback. While fans are eager to see Arch Manning take over, Quinn Ewers had a solid outing in Nashville and is expected to perform well against Florida. Texas’s offense, similar to the Detroit Lions, can score heavily and excels in controlling the game on both sides. If they finish the regular season strong, the Longhorns could set up a rematch with Georgia at the SEC’s summit.
3. Tennessee (7-1, 4-1)
NFL Comparison: Philadelphia Eagles
Tennessee secured a comeback win over Kentucky 28-18, although it wasn’t pretty. The Volunteers struggled defensively against the run, giving up 168 rushing yards, but quarterback Nico Iamaleava performed well with 292 passing yards and no turnovers. Running back Dylan Sampson shone with 142 rushing yards and two touchdowns. Like the Eagles, Tennessee’s strongest offensive weapon has been its running back, and both teams still hold onto their ambitious pre-season goals. The Volunteers aim to keep their momentum going against Mississippi State on Saturday.
4. Texas A&M (7-2, 5-1)
NFL Comparison: Minnesota Vikings
Texas A&M faced its first loss since August, falling to South Carolina 44-20. The Aggies struggled against the Gamecocks’ ground game, allowing 286 rushing yards and three touchdowns. However, head coach Mike Elko has done an impressive job exceeding preseason expectations, much like Kevin O’Connell’s Vikings. Both teams dealt with quarterback competition leading into the season, though the Vikings had theirs affected by JJ McCarthy’s injury. The Aggies look to gain momentum with upcoming favorable matchups against New Mexico State and Auburn before a crucial game against Texas that could impact their College Football Playoff ambitions.
5. Alabama (6-2, 3-2)
NFL Comparison: Houston Texans
Following a dominant win against Missouri, Alabama used its bye week to prepare for a vital clash with LSU on Saturday. Though quarterback Jalen Milroe has shown inconsistencies, he has a raw talent reminiscent of Texans quarterback CJ Stroud’s potential. Alabama’s season has been confusing, with notable wins like Georgia, but surprising losses to teams like Vanderbilt and Tennessee. A victory over LSU could significantly enhance head coach Kalen Deboer’s squad’s playoff chances.
6. Ole Miss (7-2, 3-2)
NFL Comparison: Baltimore Ravens
Ole Miss finally showcased its explosive offense last Saturday by scoring 63 points against Arkansas. The Rebels generated an impressive 694 yards, driven by Jaxon Dart’s record-setting 515 passing yards and Jordan Watkins’ five touchdown receptions. To remain in the College Football Playoff picture, Ole Miss will likely need a win over Georgia this week. Similar to the Ravens, Ole Miss boasts a dynamic offense but must offset earlier disappointments with strong finishes and perhaps a few key upsets.
7. LSU (6-2, 3-1)
NFL Comparison: Seattle Seahawks
LSU’s bye in Week 10 was well-timed, giving them two weeks to prepare for a must-win game against Alabama to keep their playoff hopes alive. Historically, LSU has struggled against the Crimson Tide, but this matchup is different. Head coach Brian Kelly aims to leverage this opportunity against Alabama, which is no longer under Nick Saban’s leadership. Like the Seahawks, LSU’s offensive struggles in the run game have been a concern, ranking last in the SEC for rushing yards per game. Finding a functional rushing attack will be essential if they wish to secure a victory, similar to Vanderbilt’s strategy in their recent win over Alabama.
8. Vanderbilt (6-3, 3-2)
NFL Comparison: Washington Commanders
Vanderbilt, an underdog, pulled off a 17-7 upset against Auburn last weekend. Despite only scoring 17 points, their strong defensive and special teams efforts clinched the win. By winning the field position battle, Vanderbilt outscored the Tigers while allowing 100 more yards. This season, Vanderbilt resembles the Washington Commanders, having exceeded expectations and energized by strong performances from their quarterback. They will face a crucial challenge with the surging South Carolina Gamecocks this week.
9. South Carolina (5-3, 3-3)
NFL Comparison: Los Angeles Rams
Despite its 3-3 conference record, South Carolina is currently one of the most formidable teams in the SEC. Last week, they convincingly defeated former No. 10 Texas A&M 44-20, showcasing dominance on both offense and defense. Had they not faced a couple of late-game collapses, they would be celebrated as a one-loss team with an impressive resume. The combination of Sellers and Sanders in the backfield echoes that of the Ravens, while their underdog status is more akin to the Rams, who also rebounded after a slow start.
10. Missouri (6-2, 2-2)
NFL Comparison: New York Jets
Missouri has become the most disappointing team in their conference, mirroring the struggles of the New York Jets. After a promising previous season, this year has seen them regress despite returning key players like quarterback Brady Cook and star receiver Luther Burden III. Cook’s performance has dipped sharply, plummeting from a top-six passing offense to eleventh. Burden III has also dealt with injuries and inconsistencies. Following a bye week, Missouri has favorable matchups ahead, facing four unranked teams.
11. Florida (4-4, 2-3)
NFL Comparison: Denver Broncos
The Florida Gators are fighting hard despite their challenges. Initially expected to struggle in the SEC, they surprised many with a close game against Georgia, losing 34-20. Injuries have plagued the team, with two starting quarterbacks sidelined. Head coach Billy Napier has exceeded expectations, similar to Sean Payton’s efforts with the Broncos.
12. Arkansas (5-4, 3-3)
NFL Comparison: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Arkansas has performed better than anticipated, highlighted by a signature win against then-No. 7 Tennessee. However, they have recently struggled against higher-ranked SEC opponents, suffering a heavy loss to Ole Miss. The Razorbacks share a narrative with the Buccaneers, possessing talent but facing uncertainty in their standings.
13. Oklahoma (5-4, 1-4)
NFL Comparison: New York Giants
Oklahoma’s transition to the SEC has been rocky, starting strong in nonconference play but stumbling to a 1-4 record. After a significant loss, the offensive struggles led to the dismissal of their offensive coordinator. This season’s performance has mirrored the New York Giants’ frustrations, with Oklahoma searching for a stable offense.
14. Auburn (3-6, 1-5)
NFL Comparison: Indianapolis Colts
The Auburn Tigers have struggled to find their rhythm, managing only one SEC victory. Their recent loss to Vanderbilt showcased an inability to move the ball, despite having a standout running back. Similar to the Colts, Auburn is reviewing its strategy heading into the next season in light of their performance.
15. Kentucky (3-6, 1-6)
NFL Comparison: Las Vegas Raiders
Kentucky’s disappointing season is surprising, given their previous success. Having reached eight consecutive bowl games, they now face a possible end to that streak. Weak performances in the SEC amplify the surprise of their early wins against ranked opponents. Their struggles mirror those of the Raiders, with disappointing results highlighted by a struggling defense.
16. Mississippi State (2-7, 0-5)
NFL Comparison: Carolina Panthers
Mississippi State is facing a rebuilding year under first-year coach Jeff Lebby, currently holding the unfortunate distinction of being the only SEC team without a conference win. Despite some offensive bright spots, their defense ranks at the bottom of the conference, leading to a tough season overall. With defensive challenges persisting, winning games is a struggle for the Bulldogs.
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