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Week 2 Assessment
Posted on 9/8/25 at 11:13 am
Posted on 9/8/25 at 11:13 am
After some feedback as well as further thought, I’m going to do this a little differently. Because I had concerns about Auburn in Week 1, I unfairly put them lower than they should have been. It was a solid win last week and it looks even better as Baylor went to #17 SMU and won. I should have put them as a playoff contender after their performance against Baylor. The same can be said about South Carolina. I still have the concerns I expressed, but concerns will just be noted moving forward, won’t penalize a team, or put them in a different tier.
Moving forward, the tiers will be: Playoff Team, Playoff Contender, Middle of the Pack, Hall of Shame
I’ll go more in depth for one game a week and this week, that will be Texas.
Here We Go…
Playoff Team
#3 LSU (2-0, SEC 0-0)
Opponent: Louisiana Tech (G5)
Score: 23-7
Prior Status: Playoff Caliber Win (Playoff Team)
Weekly Status: G5 Win (Met Expectations)
I didn’t watch this game, but it feels unimpressive against a G5 team. Combined with the fact that the luster of their week 1 win over Clemson is not shining as bright this week (after a second half comeback over Troy). The Defense appears to be doing well. The offense may be holding this team back. It’s still early, but I would like to see them put up more points. I’ll give them the benefit of the doubt this week, but they need to improve.
Side note: LSU’s week one opponent that was considered a strong win is now a concern. Troy led Clemson 16-3 at the half. If these games had been reversed, I would not have LSU as a contender (yet), but I’m not ready to demote them at the moment. They played a top tier opponent week 1 and should be rewarded for that. Clemson played a strong second half and got the win, but that first half was ugly.
#7 Texas (1-1, SEC 0-0)
Opponent: San Jose State (G5)
Score: 38-7
Prior Week: Quality Loss (Playoff Team)
Weekly Status: G5 Win (Met Expectations with Concerns)
If you just looked at the score, it was a dominant performance, but if you watched the game, it didn’t feel that way. I walked away feeling less impressed on both sides of the ball as compared to week 1. I’m not saying the sky is falling, but a few cracks emerged that we will continue to watch.
Let’s start with the defense. The bad news is SJS eclipsed Ohio State’s yardage total towards the end of the 3rd quarter. The good news is SJS scored 7 fewer points for the game, so the defense allowed more yardage to a G5 opponent, but the defense did a better job in not letting them score. SJS seemed balanced and did fairly well but turned the ball over 4 times that definitely helped Texas. This week felt more bend but don’t break vs domination in week 1. Still good - just not as good as the prior week.
Now for the offense. 28 points were scored in roughly 5 minutes of the game starting at the end of the 1st and going into the second:
Started at the Texas 10, 3 plays, 90 yards
Started at the SJS 34, 5 plays, 34 yards
Started at the SJS 36, 1 play, 36 yards
Started at the SJS 1, 2 plays, 1 yard
4 consecutive drives totaling 11 plays accounted for 28 of their 38 points. Besides the first TD, the next 3 were all short field situations thanks to the defense. Texas scored 10 points in the other 55 minutes of the game, so for a majority of the game, the offense looked flat and couldn’t sustain drives.
I know Sark likes explosive plays, but if Texas can’t greatly improve on sustaining drives, this could be their downfall against top tier competition as they weren’t sustaining drives against a G5 team.
Give the Texas D credit for turning the ball over, and the offense credit for adding touchdowns. I’m just not sure you can rely on Texas generating 3 turnovers every game in enemy territory. I still think they have a good D, but the amount of turnovers every game is unrealistic as the season progresses. They have to figure out more ways to generate sustainable offense. In addition, the offense is unlikely to get the favorable starting position on a majority of drives like this game. Take it when you can get it, but don’t expect it.
I don’t think they need to do anything different on D beyond staying healthy and improving week to week. The offense needs to rely less on explosive plays, and focus more on sustaining drives. I think this will make a difference in the upper tier games (but I’m not sure Sark cares about this).
So I’ve tempered my expectations for Texas. They are still good (and likely will remain where they are until a loss), but they have work to do to improve. Everything is still in front of Texas and they control their destiny for now. There is plenty of time to progress
This will date me - that was the biggest rat tail I’ve ever seen. Haven’t seen one of those since the 80’s. A Texas defender is bringing it back.
Moving forward, the tiers will be: Playoff Team, Playoff Contender, Middle of the Pack, Hall of Shame
I’ll go more in depth for one game a week and this week, that will be Texas.
Here We Go…
Playoff Team
#3 LSU (2-0, SEC 0-0)
Opponent: Louisiana Tech (G5)
Score: 23-7
Prior Status: Playoff Caliber Win (Playoff Team)
Weekly Status: G5 Win (Met Expectations)
I didn’t watch this game, but it feels unimpressive against a G5 team. Combined with the fact that the luster of their week 1 win over Clemson is not shining as bright this week (after a second half comeback over Troy). The Defense appears to be doing well. The offense may be holding this team back. It’s still early, but I would like to see them put up more points. I’ll give them the benefit of the doubt this week, but they need to improve.
Side note: LSU’s week one opponent that was considered a strong win is now a concern. Troy led Clemson 16-3 at the half. If these games had been reversed, I would not have LSU as a contender (yet), but I’m not ready to demote them at the moment. They played a top tier opponent week 1 and should be rewarded for that. Clemson played a strong second half and got the win, but that first half was ugly.
#7 Texas (1-1, SEC 0-0)
Opponent: San Jose State (G5)
Score: 38-7
Prior Week: Quality Loss (Playoff Team)
Weekly Status: G5 Win (Met Expectations with Concerns)
If you just looked at the score, it was a dominant performance, but if you watched the game, it didn’t feel that way. I walked away feeling less impressed on both sides of the ball as compared to week 1. I’m not saying the sky is falling, but a few cracks emerged that we will continue to watch.
Let’s start with the defense. The bad news is SJS eclipsed Ohio State’s yardage total towards the end of the 3rd quarter. The good news is SJS scored 7 fewer points for the game, so the defense allowed more yardage to a G5 opponent, but the defense did a better job in not letting them score. SJS seemed balanced and did fairly well but turned the ball over 4 times that definitely helped Texas. This week felt more bend but don’t break vs domination in week 1. Still good - just not as good as the prior week.
Now for the offense. 28 points were scored in roughly 5 minutes of the game starting at the end of the 1st and going into the second:
Started at the Texas 10, 3 plays, 90 yards
Started at the SJS 34, 5 plays, 34 yards
Started at the SJS 36, 1 play, 36 yards
Started at the SJS 1, 2 plays, 1 yard
4 consecutive drives totaling 11 plays accounted for 28 of their 38 points. Besides the first TD, the next 3 were all short field situations thanks to the defense. Texas scored 10 points in the other 55 minutes of the game, so for a majority of the game, the offense looked flat and couldn’t sustain drives.
I know Sark likes explosive plays, but if Texas can’t greatly improve on sustaining drives, this could be their downfall against top tier competition as they weren’t sustaining drives against a G5 team.
Give the Texas D credit for turning the ball over, and the offense credit for adding touchdowns. I’m just not sure you can rely on Texas generating 3 turnovers every game in enemy territory. I still think they have a good D, but the amount of turnovers every game is unrealistic as the season progresses. They have to figure out more ways to generate sustainable offense. In addition, the offense is unlikely to get the favorable starting position on a majority of drives like this game. Take it when you can get it, but don’t expect it.
I don’t think they need to do anything different on D beyond staying healthy and improving week to week. The offense needs to rely less on explosive plays, and focus more on sustaining drives. I think this will make a difference in the upper tier games (but I’m not sure Sark cares about this).
So I’ve tempered my expectations for Texas. They are still good (and likely will remain where they are until a loss), but they have work to do to improve. Everything is still in front of Texas and they control their destiny for now. There is plenty of time to progress
This will date me - that was the biggest rat tail I’ve ever seen. Haven’t seen one of those since the 80’s. A Texas defender is bringing it back.
8
Posted on 9/8/25 at 11:14 am to DrKnievel
Playoff Contender
It’s getting stacked in here, but there will be an exodus once consistent SEC play gets going
Auburn (2-0, SEC 0-0)
Opponent: Ball State (G5)
Score: 42-3
Prior Week: P4 Win with Concerns (Failed to Meet Expectations)
Weekly Status: G5 Win (Met Expectations)
As stated earlier, I flubbed their classification week one. After updating the methodology, they are where they belong. I didn’t watch this game, but they performed admirably against a G5 team this week. In addition, Baylor, who they beat week1, went on the road and beat #17 SMU. I still have concerns from week one, so we shall see if those concerns are warranted as they play elevated competition in the coming weeks.
Tennessee (2-0, SEC 0-0)
Opponent: East Tennessee State (FCS)
Score: 72-17
Prior Week: P4 Win (Playoff Contender)
Weekly Status: FCS Beatdown
I didn’t watch this game, but Tennessee did what you should do to a directional school. I would have preferred you allowed less than 10 points, but let’s not split hairs here when you throw down 72.
Mississippi State (2-0, SEC 0-0)
Opponent: #12 Arizona State (P4)
Score: 24-20
Prior Week: G5 Win (Met Expectations)
Weekly Status: Top 25 Win (Exceeded Expectations)
Probably my favorite game of the week. Can I get a HELL YEAH for State? I was underwhelmed by State week one. What the hell do I know?
I liked the fire y’all brought out of the gate against #12 Arizona State. After last year, I had low expectations for State. State is clearly better than I thought. Shame on me. They came out and punched Arizona State in the face!
State dominated the first half and only gave up 3 points on the last play (17-3). Arizona State came alive in the second half, made a game of it, and took the lead late, but the next series, State threw a huge bomb for the game winning touchdown.
I always felt the offense would come around and it did well today. I didn’t anticipate the defense would be as good as it was. To me, the defense stepped up against an explosive and dangerous Arizona State, and that was the difference in the game.
I don’t know if they will stay a contender, but if you beat the #12 team in the country and have no losses, how can you not be a contender?
Missouri (2-0, SEC 0-0)
Opponent: Kansas (P4)
Score: 42-31
Prior Week: FCS Win (Met Expectations)
Weekly Status: P4 Rivalry Win (Met Expectations)
This was a fun, rivalry game. Back and forth throughout the game and evenly matched. Each team had their moments. The 1st quarter was rough after that 21 point implosion, the 2nd quarter was redemption, the 3rd quarter saw the lead swap multiple times, and the 4th quarter made them quit! That 4th and 7 was damn aggressive (too aggressive for my tastes near the 50), but it worked and led to a touchdown. Missouri never looked back after that. Solid win. Hell of a game. You have graduated to contender.
Vanderbilt (2-0, SEC 0-0)
Opponent: Virginia Tech (P4)
Score: 44-20
Prior Week: FCS Win (Met Expectations)
Weekly Status: P4 Win (Exceeded Expectations)
I do enjoy watching Pavia play. It’s sometimes dangerous, it’s sometimes frustrating, but it is always fun! And I regret we didn’t figure out Stowers is a fantastic tight end.
I thought Vanderbilt looked a bit overmatched in the first half, but they kept fighting and hung around (10-20 at the half). The second half, Virginia Tech was overmatched and couldn’t hang around. They got whipped on both sides of the ball. Halftime adjustments were solid. 34 unanswered points by Vandy.
I don’t know how well Vandy will be this season, but they are a dangerous team. Keep on keepin on
#18 Oklahoma (2-0, SEC 0-0)
Opponent: #15 Michigan (P4)
Score: 24-13
Prior Week: FCS Win with Concerns (Failed to Meet Expectations)
Weekly Status: Top 25 Win (Met Expectations)
How many teams do you know that went 6-7 last year, basically recruited a new offense, tell everyone they have fixed their issues, and actually do it? It appears Oklahoma has. I realize it has been 2 games, but they do look greatly improved on offense. A night and day difference. And the defense continues to be stingy too.
I enjoyed their style of play on both sides of the ball. Balanced on offense and kept Michigan guessing. On defense, they were often good and sometimes just ferocious and tough. I thought the offense and defense both looked gritty, played hard, and fought all game.
I was a bit of a skeptic after their week 1 FCS win, but that was alleviated after this win. They came out fighting and kicked Michigan’s arse most of the game. Michigan got 10 of their points from 1 explosive play (long run for TD) and a special teams blunder by Oklahoma (field goal).
I don’t know how high your ceiling will be this year, but you definitely elevated your floor.
Ole Miss (2-0, SEC 1-0)
Opponent: Kentucky (P4)
Score: 30-23
Prior Week: G5 Win (Met Expectations)
Weekly Status: P4 Win (Met Expectations)
This is two years straight you got the best Kentucky had. Is this an emerging rivalry? What is going on here?
The two pics in the 1st half directly lead to the 0-10 deficit. Ole Miss fought back to lead 17-13 at the half. The offense looks pretty good when they don’t turn it over, but turnovers are keeping Kentucky in the game. Ole Miss pulled out the win, but it felt like it was much harder than it needed to be. 6 three and outs is a concern as we move forward.
My gut says Ole Miss is closer to middle of the pack, but we can’t have the SEC leader not be a contender. Show me my gut feeling is wrong.
It’s getting stacked in here, but there will be an exodus once consistent SEC play gets going
Auburn (2-0, SEC 0-0)
Opponent: Ball State (G5)
Score: 42-3
Prior Week: P4 Win with Concerns (Failed to Meet Expectations)
Weekly Status: G5 Win (Met Expectations)
As stated earlier, I flubbed their classification week one. After updating the methodology, they are where they belong. I didn’t watch this game, but they performed admirably against a G5 team this week. In addition, Baylor, who they beat week1, went on the road and beat #17 SMU. I still have concerns from week one, so we shall see if those concerns are warranted as they play elevated competition in the coming weeks.
Tennessee (2-0, SEC 0-0)
Opponent: East Tennessee State (FCS)
Score: 72-17
Prior Week: P4 Win (Playoff Contender)
Weekly Status: FCS Beatdown
I didn’t watch this game, but Tennessee did what you should do to a directional school. I would have preferred you allowed less than 10 points, but let’s not split hairs here when you throw down 72.
Mississippi State (2-0, SEC 0-0)
Opponent: #12 Arizona State (P4)
Score: 24-20
Prior Week: G5 Win (Met Expectations)
Weekly Status: Top 25 Win (Exceeded Expectations)
Probably my favorite game of the week. Can I get a HELL YEAH for State? I was underwhelmed by State week one. What the hell do I know?
I liked the fire y’all brought out of the gate against #12 Arizona State. After last year, I had low expectations for State. State is clearly better than I thought. Shame on me. They came out and punched Arizona State in the face!
State dominated the first half and only gave up 3 points on the last play (17-3). Arizona State came alive in the second half, made a game of it, and took the lead late, but the next series, State threw a huge bomb for the game winning touchdown.
I always felt the offense would come around and it did well today. I didn’t anticipate the defense would be as good as it was. To me, the defense stepped up against an explosive and dangerous Arizona State, and that was the difference in the game.
I don’t know if they will stay a contender, but if you beat the #12 team in the country and have no losses, how can you not be a contender?
Missouri (2-0, SEC 0-0)
Opponent: Kansas (P4)
Score: 42-31
Prior Week: FCS Win (Met Expectations)
Weekly Status: P4 Rivalry Win (Met Expectations)
This was a fun, rivalry game. Back and forth throughout the game and evenly matched. Each team had their moments. The 1st quarter was rough after that 21 point implosion, the 2nd quarter was redemption, the 3rd quarter saw the lead swap multiple times, and the 4th quarter made them quit! That 4th and 7 was damn aggressive (too aggressive for my tastes near the 50), but it worked and led to a touchdown. Missouri never looked back after that. Solid win. Hell of a game. You have graduated to contender.
Vanderbilt (2-0, SEC 0-0)
Opponent: Virginia Tech (P4)
Score: 44-20
Prior Week: FCS Win (Met Expectations)
Weekly Status: P4 Win (Exceeded Expectations)
I do enjoy watching Pavia play. It’s sometimes dangerous, it’s sometimes frustrating, but it is always fun! And I regret we didn’t figure out Stowers is a fantastic tight end.
I thought Vanderbilt looked a bit overmatched in the first half, but they kept fighting and hung around (10-20 at the half). The second half, Virginia Tech was overmatched and couldn’t hang around. They got whipped on both sides of the ball. Halftime adjustments were solid. 34 unanswered points by Vandy.
I don’t know how well Vandy will be this season, but they are a dangerous team. Keep on keepin on
#18 Oklahoma (2-0, SEC 0-0)
Opponent: #15 Michigan (P4)
Score: 24-13
Prior Week: FCS Win with Concerns (Failed to Meet Expectations)
Weekly Status: Top 25 Win (Met Expectations)
How many teams do you know that went 6-7 last year, basically recruited a new offense, tell everyone they have fixed their issues, and actually do it? It appears Oklahoma has. I realize it has been 2 games, but they do look greatly improved on offense. A night and day difference. And the defense continues to be stingy too.
I enjoyed their style of play on both sides of the ball. Balanced on offense and kept Michigan guessing. On defense, they were often good and sometimes just ferocious and tough. I thought the offense and defense both looked gritty, played hard, and fought all game.
I was a bit of a skeptic after their week 1 FCS win, but that was alleviated after this win. They came out fighting and kicked Michigan’s arse most of the game. Michigan got 10 of their points from 1 explosive play (long run for TD) and a special teams blunder by Oklahoma (field goal).
I don’t know how high your ceiling will be this year, but you definitely elevated your floor.
Ole Miss (2-0, SEC 1-0)
Opponent: Kentucky (P4)
Score: 30-23
Prior Week: G5 Win (Met Expectations)
Weekly Status: P4 Win (Met Expectations)
This is two years straight you got the best Kentucky had. Is this an emerging rivalry? What is going on here?
The two pics in the 1st half directly lead to the 0-10 deficit. Ole Miss fought back to lead 17-13 at the half. The offense looks pretty good when they don’t turn it over, but turnovers are keeping Kentucky in the game. Ole Miss pulled out the win, but it felt like it was much harder than it needed to be. 6 three and outs is a concern as we move forward.
My gut says Ole Miss is closer to middle of the pack, but we can’t have the SEC leader not be a contender. Show me my gut feeling is wrong.
Posted on 9/8/25 at 11:14 am to DrKnievel
Middle of the Pack
Alabama (1-1, SEC 0-0)
Opponent: UL Monroe (G5)
Score: 73-0
Prior Week: Bad P4 Loss (Grave Concerns)
Weekly Status: G5 Win (Met Expectations)
The redemption tour has begun. I didn’t watch the game, but Bama beat a G5 team like they were an FCS team. Nice work
Arkansas (2-0, SEC 0-0)
Opponent: Arkansas State (G5)
Score: 56-14
Prior Week: FCS Win (Met Expectations)
Weekly Status: G5 Win (Met Expectations)
Back to back FCS and G5 wins get you nothing from me. Arkansas did what was expected in their first 2 wins. Now let’s see how they measure up against some real competition, Ole Miss.
Kentucky (1-1, SEC 0-1)
Opponent: Ole Miss (P4)
Score: 23-30
Prior Week: Bad G5 Win (Grave Concerns)
Weekly Status: Top 25 Loss (Exceeded Expectations)
Has Kiffin developed an allergy to Stoop’s defense? This is two years running that Ole Miss has found trouble against Kentucky, and Kentucky has fought its arse off. They came up short this year, but the fight and effort was there.
And why does it seem like Ole Miss brings the best out of Kentucky? It was a sloppy half on both sides but Kentucky is in this thing going into the second half (13-17). Tied it in the 3rd, but Ole Miss raced forward with 10 more, and Kentucky just couldn’t generate enough offense to keep up.
The upset was there for the taking, but Kentucky just couldn’t finish the job. I liked the effort and the fire.
#19 Texas A&M (2-0, SEC 0-0)
Opponent: Utah State (G5)
Score: 44-22
Prior Week: G5 Win with Concerns (Failed to Meet Expectations)
Weekly Status: G5 Win (Met Expectations)
A&M did fine this week, had some impressive moments, but still fairly bland for the first two weeks of the season. Played our second consecutive G5 opponent, so we haven’t had an opportunity to break out of the Pack.
The offense was more balanced this week but still leaned towards the passing game. Running game was leveraged more and looked much better. Put up big numbers on the stat sheet. I’m ready to see how we do against better competition.
The defense did well only giving up 6 points in the first half. They gave up 16 in the second, which feels like way too much, but half of that was during garbage time in the 4th when the backups were in. While they looked improved, they don’t appear to be elite at the moment, but the 3 sacks on 3 consecutive plays by Howell was impressive.
Maybe I’m unimpressed because we played 2 straight G5 games to start the year. It’s been fairly vanilla so far, and I haven’t seen dominating, consistent play I would like to see over lesser competition. Next week will be our first test with Notre Dame. This should be a good indicator for where we are. Are we pretty average again like last year or are we going to fight to get to that next level. That is what I feel is on the line this coming week.
Hall of Shame
At the end the year, this will be the worst 3-4 teams. For now, it will be for public shaming
#4 Georgia (2-0, SEC 0-0)
Opponent: Austin Peay (FCS)
Score: 28-6
Prior Week: G5 Win (Playoff Contender)
Weekly Status: Bad FCS Win (Failed to Meet Expectations)
Didn’t watch this game, but that score concerns me against FCS competition.
Every team is afforded an off week as long as you win. While I won’t hold this against you long term, I will publicly shame you for a week. But remember, you used your wildcard.
Georgia hasn’t done anything wrong, but I was wrong for rating them on reputation instead of merit. We are merit based around here. G5 and FCS wins don’t make you a contender. You are Middle of the Pack until you prove yourself against P4 competition.
#10 South Carolina (2-0, SEC 0-0)
Opponent: South Carolina State (FCS)
Score: 38-10
Prior Week: P4 Win with Concerns (Failed to Meet Expectations)
Weekly Status: Bad FCS Win (Failed to Meet Expectations)
I’ll be honest. I expected more points against FCS competition. Then I saw the highlights and two of the scores were special teams. When your offense only puts up 17 against FCS competition, this leads me to believe the offense hasn’t found it’s footing and may continue to sputter, especially against the better defenses. You will remain a contender for the moment but I have my eye on you after this less than stellar performance. Public shaming incoming
#13 Florida (1-1, SEC 0-0)
Opponent: South Florida (G5)
Score: 16-18
Prior Week: FCS Win (Met Expectations)
Weekly Status: Bad G5 Loss (Failed to meet expectations)
Florida, Florida, Florida…
Florida started very slow. 3-0 after the 1st isn’t a good look. 2 penalties taking TDs off the board (in hindsight, either would have won the game). 3 field goals in the 1st half is disappointing for the #13 ranked team. If they continue to not finish drives with touchdowns, it’s just keeping South Florida around, and that is exactly what happened. The D played well most of the game but gave up some points in the second half ultimately resulting in the upset. The offense just never seemed to get going consistently.
Let’s give South Florida credit. They now have back to back top 25 wins after beating Boise State last week, but any way you slice this, it just doesn’t indicate future success at Florida as they have another difficult schedule ahead of them.
To all the fire Napier people, it looks like you were right. It will be difficult to recover from this loss at home to a non-P4 team in year 4. Shame, Shame, Shame
Let’s check in with one of our Hall of Shame correspondents, Hatin’ arse Spurrier, and get his thoughts on week 2…
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‘Georgia, if you desire Mark Richt results, he is available at a much more affordable price’
‘Tennessee, Karma is making it rain like R Kelly on the entirety of the UCLA football program (0-2)’
‘South Carolina State should be renamed the kidnappers because after that game, I started getting Amber Alerts for the South Carolina offense’
‘Florida blows more leads than leaked videos of Kim Kardashian or Pamela Anderson’
Alabama (1-1, SEC 0-0)
Opponent: UL Monroe (G5)
Score: 73-0
Prior Week: Bad P4 Loss (Grave Concerns)
Weekly Status: G5 Win (Met Expectations)
The redemption tour has begun. I didn’t watch the game, but Bama beat a G5 team like they were an FCS team. Nice work
Arkansas (2-0, SEC 0-0)
Opponent: Arkansas State (G5)
Score: 56-14
Prior Week: FCS Win (Met Expectations)
Weekly Status: G5 Win (Met Expectations)
Back to back FCS and G5 wins get you nothing from me. Arkansas did what was expected in their first 2 wins. Now let’s see how they measure up against some real competition, Ole Miss.
Kentucky (1-1, SEC 0-1)
Opponent: Ole Miss (P4)
Score: 23-30
Prior Week: Bad G5 Win (Grave Concerns)
Weekly Status: Top 25 Loss (Exceeded Expectations)
Has Kiffin developed an allergy to Stoop’s defense? This is two years running that Ole Miss has found trouble against Kentucky, and Kentucky has fought its arse off. They came up short this year, but the fight and effort was there.
And why does it seem like Ole Miss brings the best out of Kentucky? It was a sloppy half on both sides but Kentucky is in this thing going into the second half (13-17). Tied it in the 3rd, but Ole Miss raced forward with 10 more, and Kentucky just couldn’t generate enough offense to keep up.
The upset was there for the taking, but Kentucky just couldn’t finish the job. I liked the effort and the fire.
#19 Texas A&M (2-0, SEC 0-0)
Opponent: Utah State (G5)
Score: 44-22
Prior Week: G5 Win with Concerns (Failed to Meet Expectations)
Weekly Status: G5 Win (Met Expectations)
A&M did fine this week, had some impressive moments, but still fairly bland for the first two weeks of the season. Played our second consecutive G5 opponent, so we haven’t had an opportunity to break out of the Pack.
The offense was more balanced this week but still leaned towards the passing game. Running game was leveraged more and looked much better. Put up big numbers on the stat sheet. I’m ready to see how we do against better competition.
The defense did well only giving up 6 points in the first half. They gave up 16 in the second, which feels like way too much, but half of that was during garbage time in the 4th when the backups were in. While they looked improved, they don’t appear to be elite at the moment, but the 3 sacks on 3 consecutive plays by Howell was impressive.
Maybe I’m unimpressed because we played 2 straight G5 games to start the year. It’s been fairly vanilla so far, and I haven’t seen dominating, consistent play I would like to see over lesser competition. Next week will be our first test with Notre Dame. This should be a good indicator for where we are. Are we pretty average again like last year or are we going to fight to get to that next level. That is what I feel is on the line this coming week.
Hall of Shame
At the end the year, this will be the worst 3-4 teams. For now, it will be for public shaming
#4 Georgia (2-0, SEC 0-0)
Opponent: Austin Peay (FCS)
Score: 28-6
Prior Week: G5 Win (Playoff Contender)
Weekly Status: Bad FCS Win (Failed to Meet Expectations)
Didn’t watch this game, but that score concerns me against FCS competition.
Every team is afforded an off week as long as you win. While I won’t hold this against you long term, I will publicly shame you for a week. But remember, you used your wildcard.
Georgia hasn’t done anything wrong, but I was wrong for rating them on reputation instead of merit. We are merit based around here. G5 and FCS wins don’t make you a contender. You are Middle of the Pack until you prove yourself against P4 competition.
#10 South Carolina (2-0, SEC 0-0)
Opponent: South Carolina State (FCS)
Score: 38-10
Prior Week: P4 Win with Concerns (Failed to Meet Expectations)
Weekly Status: Bad FCS Win (Failed to Meet Expectations)
I’ll be honest. I expected more points against FCS competition. Then I saw the highlights and two of the scores were special teams. When your offense only puts up 17 against FCS competition, this leads me to believe the offense hasn’t found it’s footing and may continue to sputter, especially against the better defenses. You will remain a contender for the moment but I have my eye on you after this less than stellar performance. Public shaming incoming
#13 Florida (1-1, SEC 0-0)
Opponent: South Florida (G5)
Score: 16-18
Prior Week: FCS Win (Met Expectations)
Weekly Status: Bad G5 Loss (Failed to meet expectations)
Florida, Florida, Florida…
Florida started very slow. 3-0 after the 1st isn’t a good look. 2 penalties taking TDs off the board (in hindsight, either would have won the game). 3 field goals in the 1st half is disappointing for the #13 ranked team. If they continue to not finish drives with touchdowns, it’s just keeping South Florida around, and that is exactly what happened. The D played well most of the game but gave up some points in the second half ultimately resulting in the upset. The offense just never seemed to get going consistently.
Let’s give South Florida credit. They now have back to back top 25 wins after beating Boise State last week, but any way you slice this, it just doesn’t indicate future success at Florida as they have another difficult schedule ahead of them.
To all the fire Napier people, it looks like you were right. It will be difficult to recover from this loss at home to a non-P4 team in year 4. Shame, Shame, Shame
Let’s check in with one of our Hall of Shame correspondents, Hatin’ arse Spurrier, and get his thoughts on week 2…
‘Georgia, if you desire Mark Richt results, he is available at a much more affordable price’
‘Tennessee, Karma is making it rain like R Kelly on the entirety of the UCLA football program (0-2)’
‘South Carolina State should be renamed the kidnappers because after that game, I started getting Amber Alerts for the South Carolina offense’
‘Florida blows more leads than leaked videos of Kim Kardashian or Pamela Anderson’
This post was edited on 9/8/25 at 11:53 am
Posted on 9/8/25 at 11:19 am to DrKnievel
Holy mother of essays.
Posted on 9/8/25 at 11:28 am to DrKnievel
SOUTH CAROLINA
Opponent: SC STATE
Score 38-10
Offense was outscored by defensive players. Swain with 2 punt return TD's, and the defense with a scoop and score. I think right now we as gamecock fans are on edge. We know how good Lanorris can be, but we also feel like we have some egg on our faces because he just hasnt been. Blame it mostly on his offensive line who has been putrid. It starts there, plain and simple. That said because they have been awful the RB's, WR's have looked average, and Sellers has at times looked rushed.
Defensively we look solid, though the injuries are starting to be a concern. A plague that for several years hampered us, we thought we had rid it...but its back. When healthy this defense is top 5 in the country imo.
The positive is that if the Oline can figure it out (like it did last year), we have a playoff football team....easily. If they continue on, we have a 7 win team. I think Shane was feeling the heat, and pressure so hopefully this week is the wake up call.
Opponent: SC STATE
Score 38-10
Offense was outscored by defensive players. Swain with 2 punt return TD's, and the defense with a scoop and score. I think right now we as gamecock fans are on edge. We know how good Lanorris can be, but we also feel like we have some egg on our faces because he just hasnt been. Blame it mostly on his offensive line who has been putrid. It starts there, plain and simple. That said because they have been awful the RB's, WR's have looked average, and Sellers has at times looked rushed.
Defensively we look solid, though the injuries are starting to be a concern. A plague that for several years hampered us, we thought we had rid it...but its back. When healthy this defense is top 5 in the country imo.
The positive is that if the Oline can figure it out (like it did last year), we have a playoff football team....easily. If they continue on, we have a 7 win team. I think Shane was feeling the heat, and pressure so hopefully this week is the wake up call.
Posted on 9/8/25 at 11:38 am to DrKnievel
quote:
Arkansas State (FCS)
quote:
Back to back FCS wins get you nothing from me.
Arkansas State isn’t FCS dumbass.
And if A&M had out scored anyone 108-21 to start the year this board would be unbearable.
Posted on 9/8/25 at 11:42 am to PorkSammich
Texas A&M should know Arkansas State isn't FCS since Arkansas State beat them the last time they played.
Posted on 9/8/25 at 11:43 am to DrKnievel
Posted on 9/8/25 at 11:48 am to PorkSammich
Fixed it. Thanks for the correction
Posted on 9/8/25 at 11:53 am to GamecockUltimate
Appreciate the feedback as well as the info on the scoop and score. I’ll update the score s well. Not sure how I missed that score
Posted on 9/8/25 at 12:07 pm to PorkSammich
quote:
And if A&M had out scored anyone 108-21 to start the year this board would be unbearable
False. It wasn’t unbearable last year after we kicked Missouri’s and LSU’s teeth in, were ranked in the top ten, and had sole lead of the SEC, was it? That’s significantly more brag-worthy than running up the score on two bad teams.
This post was edited on 9/8/25 at 12:08 pm
Posted on 9/8/25 at 12:21 pm to DrKnievel
quote:
Appreciate the feedback as well as the info on the scoop and score. I’ll update the score s well. Not sure how I missed that score
all good. I dont think your assessment was far off.
I think after week 1, we excused some things to it being week 1 and playing an FCS team. After this week, we are all kind of like the rest of the rant, just wait and see. I think we have more optimism than the rant does about our team, but it's wait and see if it happens.
Posted on 9/8/25 at 1:32 pm to DrKnievel
quote:
Weekly Status: G5 Win (Met Expectations)
No offense, but if LSU’s 16 point win against LA Tech was “meeting expectations” then the expectations must not be very high, but you also have them as the SEC’s top playoff prospect.
Is the implication that the SEC is absolute dog shite this year?
Posted on 9/8/25 at 1:38 pm to skrayper
quote:
No offense, but if LSU’s 16 point win against LA Tech was “meeting expectations” then the expectations must not be very high, but you also have them as the SEC’s top playoff prospect.
Is the implication that the SEC is absolute dog shite this year?
Can’t say I disagree. I should probably have changed that, but I wasn’t ready to move them off playoff team because they won. Lazy take on my part. I could have kept them there and still chastised them a bit more.
Posted on 9/8/25 at 1:43 pm to FootballFrenzy
Please say this is AI
Posted on 9/8/25 at 1:46 pm to skrayper
quote:
Is the implication that the SEC is absolute dog shite this year?
Nah. Just Bama.
Posted on 9/8/25 at 2:34 pm to DrKnievel
quote:
I didn’t watch this game
stopped reading right there
Posted on 9/8/25 at 2:47 pm to DrKnievel
quote:The one thing I would caution on this, and it's not a troll:
Alabama (1-1, SEC 0-0)
Opponent: UL Monroe (G5)
Score: 73-0
Prior Week: Bad P4 Loss (Grave Concerns)
Weekly Status: G5 Win (Met Expectations)
The redemption tour has begun. I didn’t watch the game, but Bama beat a G5 team like they were an FCS team. Nice work
ULM is a G5 team in name only. They have the smallest budget in the FCS, and their AD stepped down (wasn't fired, he chose to leave) in August, in large part because they just can't compete at the level they're currently at. They might be middle of the pack... in the Southland Conference.
Posted on 9/8/25 at 2:51 pm to DrKnievel
quote:
Shame on me.
Naw, dude. No shame; after being 2-10, they have a lot to prove. They now get two tune-up games in Alcorn St and Northern Illinois then host Tennessee, go to TAMU, then go to Florida. I want to see how they hold up on that stretch then it gets tougher.
Posted on 9/8/25 at 2:55 pm to DrKnievel
quote:
I know Sark likes explosive plays, but if Texas can’t greatly improve on sustaining drives, this could be their downfall against top tier competition as they weren’t sustaining drives against a G5 team.
That’s a fair analysis and something that bothers me too. This is where penalties are killers. The next two weeks we need to learn to just work the ball downfield without drive killing penalties.
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