Ken Ruinard / staff, The Greenville News via Imagn Content Services, LLC

Paul Finebaum Didn't Hesitate Naming the Best Team in the SEC

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jaron Spor | Last updated Jul 1, 2025 10:00 PM ET

The SEC is one of the top conferences in college football. For nearly two decades, it was widely regarded as the best in the sport. However, the Big Ten has claimed the last two national championships, sparking a debate about which conference holds that title now.

This year, all eyes will be on which team can win the conference and secure an automatic spot in the College Football Playoff. Last season, the Texas Longhorns, Georgia Bulldogs and Tennessee Volunteers represented the SEC in the playoff.

The Alabama Crimson Tide narrowly missed making the playoff and are looking to bounce back this season. Additionally, there is significant excitement surrounding the LSU Tigers due to their strong returning roster.

On "The Paul Finebaum Show," the SEC Network analyst revealed that there is one team that stands out above the rest.

"Texas will be the preseason pick to win the SEC," Finebaum said. "Then you will get a lot of Alabama. You're going to get a lot of LSU, and Georgia is in there somewhere. I don't think Tennessee is going to be in that top tier."

The Longhorns face a significant roster turnover heading into the season, having lost a considerable amount of production from last year. Texas ranks No. 103 in returning production, with only 29 percent of its offense back, placing it at No. 126 in the nation.

Three-year starting quarterback Quinn Ewers moved on to the NFL. Additionally, the Longhorns have lost four of their top six receivers, the second-leading rusher and four of their five starting offensive linemen. However, Texas has excelled in recruiting, finishing with the top class in the nation for 2025, according to 247Sports.

The team is transitioning to quarterback Arch Manning, who was the No. 1 overall player in the 2023 recruiting class. As the grandson of legendary college quarterback Archie Manning and the nephew of NFL stars Peyton and Eli Manning, Arch has thrown for 969 yards, nine touchdowns and two interceptions in limited playing time over his first two years.

Manning's first start of the 2025 season will be significant, as it will take place on the road against the defending national champion Ohio State Buckeyes. This matchup will be a rematch of the College Football Playoff semifinal and is scheduled for Aug. 30 at noon ET.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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