SEC Game Projections For 10/29/11

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Yesterday’s expansion/realignment news and two-and-a-half hours of radio shows bogged down the schedule of your truly.  Our usual Friday Game Projections became a casualty.

But we are posting them this morning, prior to kickoffs across the league.  This week’s installment will be of the one-line variety however.  Below are the lines, the times (Eastern), the TV listings and the projections:


Arkansas at Vanderbilt
12:21pm on SEC Network

Why It Matters:  Because Arkansas still has a shot at a second-straight BCS bowl game.

What Vegas Says:  Arkansas by 9 (opened at -10.5)

What We Say:  To pull an upset this big James Franklin’s squad will need a lot of Arkansas turnovers.

Prediction:  Arkansas 31, Vanderbilt 13


Florida at Georgia
3:30pm on CBS

Why It Matters:  It will be very difficult for Mark Richt to keep his job if the Dawgs lose.

What Vegas Says:  Georgia by 3 (opened at -3)

What We Say:  This one could be all about personnel as John Brantley is expected to play for the Gators and Malcolm Mitchell is expected to be out for the Bulldogs.

Prediction:  Florida 24, Georgia 21


Ole Miss at Auburn
7:00pm on ESPNU

Why It Matters:  If Gus Malzahn can get his offense fixed down the stretch, he could be on the short list to replace Houston Nutt (who will have a hard time surviving after losing 10 SEC games in a row).

What Vegas Says:  Auburn by 13 (opened at -10.5)

What We Say:  Auburn is 4th in the SEC in rushing (183 yards per game) while Ole Miss is deal last in rushing defense (222 yards allowed per game).

Prediction:  Auburn 35, Ole Miss 20


Mississippi State at Kentucky
7:00pm on FSN

Why It Matters:  The winner can keep hope alive for a late-season turnaround and bowl bid.

What Vegas Says:  MSU by 10 (opened at -10)

What We Say:  MSU has a better offense, a better defense, and it’s +5 in turnover margin while UK is -6.

Prediction:  Mississippi State 21, Kentucky 14


South Carolina at Tennessee
7:15pm on ESPN2

Why It Matters:  Carolina still leads the SEC East and Tennessee is still fighting for a bowl bid.

What Vegas Says:  South Carolina by 3.5 (opened at -5)

What We Say:  An offensive showcase featuring Stephen Garcia and Marcus Lattimore versus Tyler Bray and Justin Hunter… wait… what… oh.

Prediction:  South Carolina 23, Tennessee 13