SEC week four: Preview
The SEC will feature several high-profile conference match-ups this week, which should bring about major changes in the rankings for week five.
Preview
UAB vs. Tennessee
UAB have had a poor start to the season, sitting at 1-2. However, if they are able to find their form they have a chance at a major upset over a struggling Tennessee side.
Tennessee has had a tumultuous start to the season, suffering losses to Oregon and Florida. Unfortunately, the Volunteers' schedule does not get any easier and they will need to take advantage of week four’s engagement.
#1 Alabama vs. #10 Arkansas
Arkansas will get their first major challenge of the year against the nation’s top ranked side. The Razorbacks looked strong in their week three win over Georgia, but will have to take it to another level if they hope to compete at home on Saturday.
Alabama made no mistakes in the opening three weeks of their schedule, but will face a real test on the road against Arkansas. The Crimson Tide is favoured but will need to bring their best game if they hope to retain their number one ranking.
Kentucky vs. #9 Florida
Kentucky has managed a 3-0 record in the face of some fairly difficult opponents and should not be taken lightly heading into their game against Florida.
Florida has had a similar schedule and should be in fine form when Kentucky visits on Saturday. The Gators are also likely to have their week five engagement with Alabama on their mind.
Georgia vs. Mississippi State
Both Georgia and Mississippi State have not had easy early season opponents and will be keen on getting their seasons back on track when they meet in week four. Moreover, they both currently sit at 0-2 in conference play and will need to adjust their records
if they have any hope of finishing near the top of the standings.
Fresno State vs. Mississippi
Fresno comes over from the WAC with two impressive victories over Cincinnati and Utah State. The Bulldogs have a great chance of making noise in their conference this season if they are able to steal a win on the road against Mississippi.
Ole Miss will be keen on making up for two embarrassing losses to Jacksonville State and Vanderbilt. The Rebels have not looked strong this season and will have a tough time against a hard-nosed Fresno side.
#12 South Carolina vs. #17 Auburn
Auburn currently sits at 3-0, but only managed to sneak out of their last two games against unranked opponents. South Carolina will present a major obstacle for the Tigers, who have yet to face a real challenge.
South Carolina has cruised through the opening portion of their season, which featured a win over Georgia in week two. As the Gamecocks' schedule beings to get more difficult they will hope for a win against Auburn, which would boost them up the rankings.
#22 West Virginia vs. #15 LSU
LSU’s defence has been at the top of their game this season, currently sitting at 5th in the nation. However, they will face their first challenge against West Virginia this weekend.
Expect Saturday’s game to be incredibly defensive as West Virginia boasts the nation’s ninth best defence. Nevertheless, like LSU the Mountaineers have yet to face a strong opponent in 2010.
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