SEC SEC
SEC 20 25 Preview COLUMNS
10
12
Letters to the Emperor is a monthly humor column from the self-proclaimed Emperor of Rome, GA. This month, Nero makes 22 bold predictions for the second-best conference in college football.
The annual Paper Doll Parade and Breast Cancer Awareness 5K brought to you by Harbin Clinic and Atrium Health Floyd, is both a triumphant run and an honor walk, an educational gathering and a competition, and an opportunity to dress up in pink.
14
32
There is a new world order in SEC Football. Year two in the new expanded college football is about to begin, and, in the division-less Southeastern Conference, that means the 16-teams within will battle it out to see who can make the field.
With a vibrant community and serene landscape, this Hardy Home, 14 Snead, is the ideal home for a family looking for their personal paradise.
Publisher's Note
OWNER & CEO Ian Griffin
Fall is undoubtedly my favorite time of year. Sure, it’s hectic, as our social calendars overflow with events we must attend for work, school, family and so much more. In just a few more weeks, the appetites of football fans will be filled with options from pee-wee to the NFL, delighting those with a hunger for it and getting a collective groan from those that don’t.
For the purposes of this edition of V3, we’ll cater to those that can’t wait. For the 15th straight year, we will dedicate our August edition of V3 to projecting the outcome for the now 16-team strong Southeastern Conference.
The times have changed in college football and the financial arms race we are watching unfold surrounding talent acquisition is something we must hope the sport gets a hold of sooner than later, but for now, I’m ok accepting the wild west landscape as long as the product on the field continues to deliver.
Last season, that was the case in my opinion, but some of that was luck. I, for one, want the conference championship games to continue and that is far from a certainty without a more refined selection/qualifying structure for the College Football Playoff. Every conference wants as many
OWNER & CEO
Ian Griffin
MANAGING PARTNER
Chris Forino
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Katelyn Roman
WRITERS
Ian Griffin, Grayson Atkins, Mark Suroviec, Nina Lovel, Lauren Bachman, Curry Teems
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Ivan Felipe, Andy Calvert
PUBLISHER V3 Publications, LLC
CONTACT
hello@v3collective.com
CREATOR
Neal Howard
There are so many reasons to love living at The Spires, a stunning lakeside senior living community immersed in the vibrant campus culture of Berry College. A 27,000-acre backyard full of walking paths, wildlife and breathtaking views. A state-of-the-art fitness center offering everything from cardio drumming to water fitness. A bustling music scene where you can sing, dance or jam to your heart’s content. And the peace of mind of a full continuum of care if further assistance is ever needed.
What our residents are saying:
“I’ve enjoyed making new friends and the staff is unbelievable from top to bottom.” — Dr. Woody Davis, Resident
“People here have been intensely supportive, and they mean it. It’s been a happy serendipity.” — Ann Marie Hollomon, Resident
“I think the best way I can describe the experience here is ‘community’ and I just give thanks. The opportunities are just endless for people to connect.” — Dr. Jennifer Barbieri, Daughter of Resident
“For social, emotional, mental and physical wellbeing — everything I need is here. It’s just been amazing the way our community loves each other.” — Julie Wahtola, Resident
Come see for yourself — we think you’ll love it here, too. Call 706-607-5322 or visit RetireAtBerry.com to schedule a personal tour.
HIGH
Nero Predicts Football Futures
Letters to the Emperor is a monthly humor column from the self-proclaimed Emperor of Rome, GA. Nero Romansky, the unqualified descendant of Julius Caesar, answers his letters from his less-than-loyal subjects. It’s like filling your college football schedule with cupcake schools, then complaining of indigestion after losing to St. John's Kindergarden Circus Academy.
First Question.
EMPEROR NERO,
“Instead of your usual column of faulty advice, would you share your predictions for SEC football this year?”
— Bubba McIntosh | University of Missouri, Class of 1994
BUBBA,
Ole Nero is all in on pigskin pontification. Let the SEC roast begin.
— Nero
ALABAMA
Prepare yourself for a disappointing season for Bama football. Due to budget cutbacks at FEMA, the Crimson Disaster Liquids slowly seep through a crack in the SEC basement instead of rolling.
Alabama’s starting running back inks a 6 million NIL deal with Tide detergent. But the levies burst against Vandy as the entire offensive line leaves the game early with food poisoning after mistaking the Tide Pods as a pregame snack.
Final Standings: 6 - 6
ARKANSAS
After several years of failing to keep up with their SEC rivals in recruiting efforts, the University of NotKansas sold the team's naming rights to a personal grooming company in Massachusetts. Watch the renovated squad take the field as the Gillette Fusion5 Razor Blades Sold Separately Cleanly
Shaven HogBeasts end the season as bottom feeders of the western division.
Final Standings: 3 - 9
AUBURN
2025 is a challenging year for Auburn. The NCAA threatens the University with devastating sanctions for “having two mascots, which everyone who didn’t go to Auburn thinks is stupid.” The fans in Toomer’s Right Angle are unable to comply with the NCAA ultimatum to choose between Pooh’s friend Tigger and the Department of Defense Eagle.
The ghost of Cam Newton breaks the deadlock with a brilliant, but unconventional decision. Auburn's new mascot will be the Attack Submarines specifically the U.S.S. Crimson Tide —as featured in the 1995 action movie directed by Tony Scott. The Auburn Subs take their new thematic character way too seriously surprise and flood Jordan-Rabbit Stadium with 20 million gallons of water. Auburn loses all twelve games by forfeit.
FLORIDA
The Florida “Hey, Remember Tim Tebow?” Football Squadron issues a public apology to fans after biology professor, Dr. Daniel Wuerffel, discovers the Gator Chomp celebration more closely resembles a crocodile.
Final Standings: 5 - 7
Mark Suroviec, M.Ed., is the Chief Ambassador of Fun at WorkPlay Solutions, the author of Forever Sisters, and the Vice President of the Children’s Museum of Rome. He hopes you pity laugh at his humor and satire stories, especially the ones that aren’t funny.
GEORGIA
The University of Georgia Boston Terrier Puppies set a new NCAA record for traffic violations. Coach Kirby, “the Best Character in Super Smash Brothers Video Game,” Smart replaces Vin Diesel in Fast and Furious 25: Athens Drift.
Georgia finishes 9 - 3 and loses the SEC championship game.
KENTUCKY
The Kentucky Animal Rescue Shelters choose to play all football games indoors, five on five, on a hardwood floor. With an oddly spherical pigskin. The Wildcats “football” team finishes an impressive run with 26 wins and eight losses, losing the March Madness tournament to Gonzaga.
LSU
The Leauxsiana State Cajun French persons have another winning season, relying on two Heisman candidate wide receivers who are definitely not clones of Ja’Maar Chase and Justin Jefferson. And those clones are definitely not manufactured in a secret laboratory in the bayou, run by scientists from Vanderbilt.
Final Standings: 10 - 2, also losing the SEC championship game.
MISSISSIPPI STATE
Emperor Nero forgot there are two Mississippis, but so did the rest of the SEC. Young Miss wins a few beauty pageants before finishing the season 4 - 8.
OLE MISS
After a successful 2024 campaign with Jaxxxon Dart at QB, Elderly Mississippi University heavily recruits dozens of players named after sharp pointy objects. Several of the prized recruits fail to show up to campus after a Google Maps update requires Mississippi to be spelled correctly before sharing driving directions.
Lane “No one wearing a visor has whined this much since Steve Spurrier,” Kiffin shows remarkable restraint, instructing players to only fake injuries on first, second, and third down of every possession.
Final Standings: 7 - 5
OKLAHOMA
An administrative mishap causes enrollment issues, and the 2025 Oklahoma Okies are anything but OK. Failing to catch the error in time, the Boomers are forced to field a team made up of Broadway cast members from the awardwinning musical. Oklahoma loses every game, except against Vanderbilt.
Final Standings: 1 - 11
SOUTH CAROLINA
The South Carolina Underground Poultry Fighters hires NFL legend and PETA activist Michael Vick as their new head coach. The former Falcon QB becomes the latest Deion Sanders, and the college football world rejoices. Coach Vick secures a lucrative NIL deal for free VapoRub cream. South Carolina finishes 8 - 4.
TENNESSEE
In the preseason, the marketing intern blurred out images of quarterbacks who threw interceptions on their Instagram page. Continuing the practice of blurring out mistakes, the team’s final media guide looks like 85 grainy photos of Bigfoot.
On a positive note, the updated lyrics to their iconic song, “One there was some crystal meth on Rocky Top,” rapidly gain popularity as fans seek a chemical escape from weekly blowouts.
The Tennessee Unphotogenic Sasquatches finish the season with two wins and ten losses.
TEXAS
Texas starts as the preseason AP number one, but immediately loses to the Ohio State Poisonous Nuts. The athletic director is fired and replaced by celebrity chef Buddy, “the Cake Boss” Valastro, ensuring the Longhorns never face a ranked non-conference opponent again.
Star quarterback Arch Manning is revealed to be his own grandfather, after Archie bought a customized Delorean in 1988.
TEXAS A&M
The emperor thinks this college must be a typo because no university worth attending would name itself after old-timey root beer.
VANDERBILT
Another year, another season of Vanderpump football players distracted by academics, time machines, and secret cloning labs.
The Could Have Been Admirals, But Instead Chose an Obscure Naval Rank Not Used Since the War of 1812, manage to pull off dramatic upsets over Alabama and Georgia because that will always be funny.
Final Standings: 2 - 10
COLLEGE FOOTBALL PLAYOFF
No SEC team makes it into the top 12 spots in an embarrassing year for the Southeastern Conference. In the championship game, Penn State topples Notre Dame to win its eighth national championship.*
If Nero belittled your alma mater this month, please send all hate mail to—it looks like we reached our word count.
Me Vexat Pede, — Nero
Disclaimer: Emperor Nero Romansky is a satirical character written and created by Mark Suroviec, M.Ed. All people and quotations are fictional, invented by the limited imagination of the author, and do not reflect the opinions of the author, editors, or V3 Magazine. *In addition to National Championships in 1982 and 1986, PSU went undefeated in 1912, 1968, 1969, 1973, and 1994 without being recognized as #1 by the AP.
PAPER DOLL PARADE EVENTS ARE A PINK PARTY WITH AN IMPORTANT MESSAGE
What fall event is both a triumphant run and an honor walk, an educational gathering and a competition, an opportunity to dress up or dress out in pink? In northwest Georgia, the answer is the annual Paper Doll Parade and Breast Cancer Awareness 5K.
Brought to you by Harbin Clinic and Atrium Health Floyd, the race and health walk is planned for Saturday, Sept. 27 at Ridge Ferry Park. It’s a rose-tinted road race, bringing awareness, celebrating survivors, walking alongside those who are on the journey and honoring the memory of those whose lives were taken by breast cancer.
One in eight women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer. They are wives, mothers, daughters, aunts and sisters. Sometimes, though rarely, husbands, fathers, sons, uncles and brothers also have breast cancer. The Paper Doll Parade is more than a race — it’s a way to garner attention for prevention. Mammograms can detect breast cancer up to three years before it can be felt through a physical exam. Early detection is powerful. Cancers found at an earlier stage are typically smaller, less likely to have spread and are more responsive to treatment, lowering the risk of mortality.
L-R: Terri Ainsworth, Dr. Paul Brock, Harbin Clinic Surgeon, Rhonda Wallace.
Organized by the Rome-Floyd Parks and Recreation Department, the bashful and blush Paper Doll Parade includes a costume contest for individuals and teams. Participants are encouraged to form teams, create fun names and wear either pink or custom paper doll costumes. Importantly, a dollar from every entry will go towards Floyd Healthcare Foundation’s scholarship fund to support women who can’t afford a mammogram. Donations are also collected online at https://www.floyd.org/foundation/Pages/Make-a-Donation. aspx.
The event is named for the iconic pink-and-teal “paper doll” silhouettes that have become a citywide staple each October. Race and walk participants are encouraged to break out their pink and get creative with the paper doll theme. The paper dolls seemingly bloom around town as a reminder to schedule a mammogram, to bring awareness to breast cancer and to highlight The Breast Center's Know in 24 promise that most Breast Center patients who receive a mammogram have their results within 24 hours.
Describing the impact of this event each year, Dr. Paul Brock said, “We’ve all but eliminated the agonizingly long wait times to get mammography results. Genetic testing is available. Treatment options are improving. This event celebrates those victories while also honoring survivors, supporters and patients who are still being treated. It’s important for them and for us as their caregivers to celebrate them while also having a little fun.”
Atrium Health Floyd and Harbin Clinic, now one team, are proud to be the region’s largest and longest-serving cancer care provider, bringing years of expertise, experience and collaboration to every patient’s care. Their advanced imaging resources can detect cancer at its earliest stages while the comprehensive oncology support program ensures that every patient has greater comfort and support throughout their journey.
Want to Join in on the Fun?
Register for the Paper Doll Parade and Breast Cancer Awareness 5K now through Sept. 21 at rfpra.com/breastcancerawareness5k. Here are more details:
• Pre-race costume contest start: 8:45 a.m.
• 5K start: 9 a.m.
• Health walk start: 9:15 a.m.
• Survivor recognition: after the race.
• Early registration: Now through Sept. 21, $31 (5K) and $26 (health walk).
• In-person registration: $41 (5K and health walk).
• Groups registration: $16 per participant for the walk and $21 per participant for the run until Friday, September 12.
TEXT: IAN GRIFFIN, GRAYSON ATKINS
Year two in the new expanded college football is about to begin, and, in the division-less Southeastern Conference, that means the 16-teams within will battle it out to see who can make the field. Two of those teams will have the opportunity to square off for the conference championship on the first weekend of December in Atlanta.
With the new format, conference championship games have been under the microscope, since it doesn’t always benefit the team's chances of making the playoff to take part. Last year, both Texas and Georgia were able to advance after a close game, but the scenario in which the loser could be eliminated is very real. In this writer's opinion, there is a simple solution, make them part of the expanded playoff and the loser goes home. I think that could be done, even if it means “expanding” the field further. To me its the only way to keep an important part of the college game around for the long term, but I’m writing this column and not a part of the committee that makes these decisions. To be fair, it isn’t as if there aren’t a slew of other problems in the sport that need fixing to preserve what many believe has already been lost, but thats a topic for another day.
Agree or disagree with the direction of the sport, the season is almost here and I’m excited as excited as I’ve ever been to watch it play out. Can Gunner Stockton be the man in Athens, Will Arch Manning live up to the Manning-Mania hype surrounding him at Texas, Can DJ Lagway stay on the field and prove his greatness in Gainesville? That and so many more questions are burning through the minds of fans in anticipation of toe meeting leather.
To have a little fun, Grayson Atkins and I threw all 16 SEC schools in a jar and split it down the middle since we no longer have divisions. Below are our opinions on how things will shake out when the dust settles.
Overview:
It’s year two under Kalen Deboer. I think it’s safe to say that last year was a massive disappointment. Fast forward to this year; it seems that the roster is more locked in, and less distracted. A competitive schedule with a lot of tests is upon the horizon, and with one of the most loaded rosters in the country, it’s essentially playoff or bust for the Crimson Tide this upcoming season.
Offense:
DeBoer gets his OC back in Ryan Grubb. Let's start with the fact that Jalen Milroe is gone, and the staff gets a better thrower of the ball in Ty Simpson. Freshman phenom Ryan Williams will be back, with Germie Bernard to his side for a nasty wideout combo. Kadyn Proctor and Parker Brailsford headline a talented offensive line. Jam Miller and Richard
Young bring some experience to a rather overlooked backfield. Overall, the strengths of this group are the receivers and offensive line, as the backfield isn’t otherworldly talented and a first year starter coming in at QB.
Defense:
This is where Alabama will shine. Kane Wommack has so much talent and experience. LT Overton and Tim Keenan lead the defensive line, and Deontae Lawson and Qua Russaw take on higher roles at linebacker. The secondary is ridiculously loaded and is pretty much a no fly zone, with guys like Zabien Brown, Domani Jackson, and Bray Hubbard and Keon Sabb to take unprecedented strides. This is the main strength of Alabama next year, and there aren't really that many holes in the depth chart.
2024 RECORD: 9-4,
ALABAMA CRIMSON TIDE
OKLAHOMA
EASTERN ILLINOIS @ AUBURN
Special Teams:
Blake Doud takes over at punter, and after sitting behind two legendary kickers, Conor Talty should have a shot at kicker. Ryan Williams is at punt returner once again, and Cole Adams is the kickoff returner.
Final Thoughts:
There’s not much margin for error. Deboer has one of the most talented squads in America, and other than playing in Jordan-Hare, almost all of their tough games are at home. With that being said, while expectations are almost as high as they’ve ever been, Alabama has what it takes to get another national title.
KALEN DEBOER DEONTAE LAWSON
RYAN WILLIAMS TY SIMPSON
Text: Grayson Atkins
ARKANSAS RAZORBACKS
Overview:
I may just not be the biggest Hog fan, but it feels to me they are one of the most silent 3-5 teams in the SEC. Not that good, but not a laughingstock. They could certainly come up with a bowl game, but that game against Notre Dame I feel like holds them back. Sam Pittman has a lot of holes to fill, and I think they take just a slight step back this year.
Offense:
Taylen Green is coming back, who is extremely polarizing but shows flashes. After losing Isaac TesLaa, The Razorbacks have added several talented transfer receivers to fill the void, including O'Mega Blake, Ismael Cisse, Raylen Sharpe, and Kam Shanks. Experienced players like Fernando Carmona and Corey Robinson are providing leadership and some NFL talent to anchor. Mike Washington Jr. has been turning up all summer at h-back. It is a solid room with some transfers and experience.
Defense:
The linebacker corps is considered a potential strength, featuring key players like Xavian Sorey Jr. The Razorbacks face challenges on the
defensive line, losing key contributors like Landon Jackson and Eric Gregory. Tackle Cameron Ball is a returning leader, but significant inexperience and the need for new transfers like Justus Boone, Phillip Lee, David Oke, and Ken Talley to step up are notable. Jaheim Singletary and Selman Bridges are some key returners at defensive back.
Special Teams:
Devin Bale is reliable at punter, and Scott Starzyk is a new freshman kicker. Kam Shanks will return punts while Rodney Hill returns kicks.
Final Thoughts:
Much like other rosters, this is a group riddled with experience. It’s just that the SEC is too deep. I hope I’m wrong about Arkansas, because they’re actually pretty fun to watch and relatively likeable and respected. It is what it is though; I don’t think they will turn too many heads this season. It is a hard schedule, and they also have Notre Dame which is penciled in a loss for me. Maybe they can pick up some upsets and make a bowl game.
SAM PITTMAN
CAMERON BALL
Text: Grayson Atkins
Overview:
Things are looking… okay this offseason. Apparently Hugh Freeze is more concerned about playing golf. This roster is actually really talented, probably one of the more talented ones the Tigers have seen the past few years. It’s just.. It’s Auburn. You could throw me a random record and I could probably see it going 1000 different ways. They have the talent to pull off some upsets, including their toughest tests at home.
Offense:
Jackson Arnold replaces Payton Thorne. At wideout, if he can’t throw to Cam Coleman, Eric Singleton Jr., or Perry Thompson, I don’t know what to say. The backfield has some major shoes to fill after losing Jarquez Hunter, having Damari Alston replace him. Offensive line wise, Dillon Wade and Connor Lew head up a line that has some transfer experience. All that has to happen is the line protects, and Jackson Arnold can find one of his All American wide receivers to pick up some yardage.
Defense:
The defensive line is the strength. Keldrick Faulk was amazing in his freshman campaign, and Bobby Jamison-Travis will help anchor the
group. Demarcus Riddick is a promising young buck, and Kayin Lee and James Crawford will help the secondary. Adding the MAC defensive back of the year in Raion Strader will help as well. There is some youth and experience that should make a formidable defense.
Special Teams:
Hudson Kaak should be the punter, with Alex Mcpherson kicking. Jeremiah Cobb will return kicks, and Eric Singleton Jr., who was amazing at Georgia Tech, is a dangerous punt returner.
Final Thoughts:
Final Thoughts: With the way the Tigers have been playing, the fanbase might turnover if they don’t make it through the first few weeks. Jordan Hare is cursed, according to Nick Saban. He had to learn it the hard way. I think that this group is so odd, because someone could give me any record and I could believe it. Regardless, I think there is a lot of pressure, but they should at least make a Bowl Game. If not, the program might melt down.
Text: Grayson Atkins
AUBURN TIGERS
2025 SCHEDULE
HUGH FREEZE
CAM COLEMAN
FLORIDA
Overview:
After week 3 last season, it looked as if the Billy Napier era at Florida was going to end before it could really get started. Embarrassing home losses to Miami and Texas A&M rightfully had his seat blazing as the Gators looked like a team that didn’t lack talent, but more so the edge needed to win.
Enter DJ Lagway.
After the Gators lost Graham Mertz for the season, Lagway took the helm and went 6-1 in the games he finished at quarterback in 2024. Napier has the talent on both sides of the ball to be a contender, but the injury prone Lagway must stay on the field to reach that potential.
Offense:
As mentioned above, the offense will go as far as Lagway can take them. Depth is an issue at the quarterback position so he must stay on the field for the Gators to make a playoff run. The talent and depth is there to support him with 3 starters back on the offensive line. Explosive running backs like Jadan Baugh and Ja’Kobi Jackson will help in the running game and a healthy Eugene Wilson III, will be joined by transfer J. Michael Sturdivant and incoming five-star freshmen Dallas Wilson and legacy commit Vernell Brown III to make up a potentially explosive receiving corp. If Lagway stays upright and progresses as expected, this could be a call back to the Spurrier days at Florida offensively.
Defense:
After an extremely shaky start against Miami and Texas A&M, the gators defense found themselves and other than a breakdown at Texas, played lights out the rest of the season. DE Tyreak Sapp has his eyes on breaking Alex Brown’s single season sack record, while tackles Caleb Banks and LJ McCray have the potential to wreak havoc on what should be a deep defensive line. Myles Graham and Grayson “Pup” Howard lead an experienced linebacker corp and the secondary has the experience to shut down opponents passing attacks.
Special Teams:
A pair of seniors return as kicking specialist in PK Trey Smack and P Tommy Doman will handle those duties. Smack was 18-21 on field goal attempts last season. The return game will feature several explosive players, led by Eugene Wilson III on punt returns. Those gamechangers could make a huge impact in 2025.
Final Thoughts:
The Gators have the talent and open with a pair of winnable games. After that its an absolute gauntlet that includeds back-to-back road games at LSU and Miami sandwiched with a visit from Texas at the Swamp and then on to College Station to face Texas A&M. It doesn’t get much easier after that. To succeed, Lagway has to be healthy, period. Those who chomp certainly hope that ends up being the case.
DJ LAGWAY
BILLY NAPIER
EUGENE WILSON III
JADAN BAUGH
TYREAK SAPP
Text: Ian Grifffin
GEORGIA BULLDOGS
Overview:
Georgia has been quiet this offseason; that means big things are to come. While they won the SEC, Georgia’s numbers were extremely down last year, and teams were able to expose them in ways we have not seen the past few years. Even Glenn Schumann said it, there was no consistency. On top of that, losing 13 players with the majority being pass rush and offensive line to the draft is a big killer. However, one thing is certain; a Kirby Smart lead team with a chip on their shoulder is going to be out for some much needed revenge.
Offense:
After taking over QB duties in the postseason, Gunner Stockton looks to be the dude in the Classic City. After some extreme lows at receiver, Georgia brought in some playmakers, such as Zachariah Branch and Noah Thomas to get the ball. Georgia lost the majority of their line to the draft, so expect guys like Drew Bobo and Earnest Greene to take a big step. Nate Frazier may just be the next big tailback to come from Georgia, and Oscar Delp and Lawson Luckie will be major receiving threats at TE. We will see how Mike Bobo manages a new look at QB and some talented skill guys at his disposal.
Defense:
The secondary will highlight this younger group. Daylen Everette, who improved extremely over the course of the year, and KJ Bolden headline the room. Some promising young guys like Daniel Harris and Ellis Robinson IV should see some quality reps. The defensive line is young, but names like Elijah Griffin and Christen Miller
will be class. CJ Allen and Raylen Wilson showcase possibly one of the deepest linebacker cores in the country. Kirby Smart will have these guys ready, but he will have to play some younger guys, something he has never had to do.
Special Teams:
Peyton Woodring should be both the place and regular kicker, while Brett Thorson will be back at punter. Zachariah Branch, who was a first team All American returner at USC, will be a dangerous specialist for punts and kickoffs.
Final Thoughts:
It’s a rough schedule once again. They get the majority in Sanford Stadium, where they have the longest home win streak in America. Regardless of a daunting course, one thing is for certain; the Dawgs will be ready to take on any test to make it back to the mountaintop, and Kirby will somehow convince his guys in the red and black they’re going 7-5 to get a fire lit underneath them.
Text: Grayson Atkins
KIRBY
GUNNER STOCKTON
KENTUCKY WILDCATS
Offense:
Brock Vandagriff retired, so they had to go get Zach Calzada who has plenty of experience. Maybe not good experience, but experience nontheless. Troy Stellato and Kendrick Law should be really good. Jamarion Wilcox was pretty good in his time last year, and this offensive line is mostly transfers other than Jager Burton. There is plenty of experience, but I don’t know how well they will be during conference play.
Overview:
I miss the days when Kentucky was okay, which was only like two years ago. Now, it’s a dumpster fire. How was their only SEC win Ole Miss? I feel like all I heard from Wildcat fans was the game against Georgia and how they should have won that game. Regardless, it’s a new season, but I still think it actually gets worse for Kentucky. A rigorous schedule with the fanbase out of it is the last thing that Kentucky has going for them.
Defense:
With the loss of Deone Walker and Maxwell Hairston, a lot of names are going to have to step up. JQ Hardaway and DJ Waller Jr. are anticipated to be the key players at the cornerback position for Kentucky in the 2025 season. Both bring a combination of experience and potential that could make this group a strength for the Wildcats' defense. Jaden Williams at nose and Kahlil Sanders should be really good, as Kentucky has produced
some good interior guys. Much like the offense, it is loaded with transfers, and we will see how this corps performs during conference play.
Special Teams:
Wilson Berry is the punter, with Jacob Kauwe taking field goals and PATs. Ja’Mori Maclin should be a reliable punt and kick return man.
Final Thoughts:
Yeah, there’s experience, but I don’t think there is enough talent. Experience can get you places, but talent takes you over the edge. Plus, it’s a rough schedule where they play both of the SEC favorites and other tough tests. It’s not the Year of the Cats just yet, and there may never be.
Text: Grayson Atkins
ZACH CALZADA
MARK STOOPS
JORDAN LOVETT
Overview:
LSU was polarizing last year, to say the least. Quite an odd year. Now, there is no reason as to why they shouldn’t be successful. LSU brought in a lot of skill and defensive guys, and you still have your Heisman hopeful in Garrett Nussmeier. There aren’t that many holes in the depth chart and Brian Kelly has said that his team is talented enough. Take it as coach talk or bulletin board material, but this team certainly has the roster and staff to do it.
Offense:
This offense is nothing short of a cheat code. Obviously Garrett Nussmeier will be the signal caller, and after losing two NFL tackles, Tyree Adams and David Weston will replace some big shoes. LSU is WRU, so having Aaron Anderson, and transfers Nic Anderson, Barion Brown really help them. Treydez Green is a talented receiver at TE, and Caden Durham and Kaleb Jackson should be a running back tandem by committee. While it’s definitely not 2019 LSU by any means, it’s an offense that for sure has national title expectations.
Defense:
The defense was probably the only reason they weren’t successful the past few years. Now, it is a much improved unit. Florida transfer (Ian might not be happy about this) Jack Pyburn and FSU transfer Patrick Payton should see good time off the edge. Harold Perkins Jr. and Whit Weeks might be the best duo of linebackers in America. Ashton Stamps, AJ Haulcy, and a
talented freshman in DJ Pickett are some names to watch for in the secondary. There’s depth, and there's talent; something LSU hasn’t seen in two or three years, so be excited to watch this core.
Special Teams:
Damian Ramos will once again be the kicker, Grant Chadwick will punt, and Zavion Thomas, an excellent return man, will take back punts and kickoffs.
Final Thoughts:
There’s no excuse now. It has to be a playoff team, or at this point, national title or bust. This roster is just too talented to whiff on a spot to play for a championship. Now is the time, and I know that it is extremely hard today, but there is no denying that fact that LSU had underachieved.
Grayson Atkins
LSU TIGERS
HAROLD PERKINS JR.
BRIAN KELLY
GARRETT NUSSMEIER
Text:
MISSISSIPPI STATE BULLDOGS
Overview:
2024 wasn't a banner year in Starkville and the Bulldogs hopes lie on Blake Shapen’s ability at the quarterback position if 2025 is going to be an improvement. Shapen was sharp before he got injured and missed the last eight games of the season in 2024. He is the perfect fit for Jeff Lebby’s system and proved it on the field early last year, but there are a lot of new faces that will neeed to gel quickly if the these dogs are going to compete in the SEC this season.
Offense:
A deep backfield led by Davon Booth could help bolster the offense, but an unproven offensive line and lack of depth at receiver will be some of the biggest challenges that face the Bulldogs in 2025. There is talent at receiver, but giving Shapen the time to find them in space will be paramount to the success of this unit. So, the new faces on the offensive line will need to exceed expectations if the Bulldogs want to light up the scoreboard this season.
Defense:
Sometimes the best defense is a good offense and if State can sustain drives it would certainly
help a defense that ranked last in the SEC in 2024, giving up an average of 456.4 yards per game. They hit the transfer portal to bring in Red Hibbler from NC State and Jalen Smith from Tennessee to shore up the defense, but also return their leading tackler in Isaac Smith who tallied 127 tackles last season, so there is hope for improvement. This unit only got to the quarterback 10 times last season, so that number will need to improve drastically if they want to become bowl eligible.
Special Teams:
Davon Booth will be a good option in the return game and both kicking specialists return from 2024 with placekicker Kyle Ferrie and punter Ethan Pulliam to provide stability in the third phase of the game.
Final Thoughts:
Lebby has a good system but was given the keys to a lemon. There are good parts, but its going to take one hell of a mechanic to get the engine running at maximum capacity in Starkville this season. Making a bowl will be hard.
JEFF LEBBY
BLAKE SHAPEN
DAVON BOOTH
Text: Ian Griffin
MISSOURI TIGERS
Overview:
Eli Drinkwitz has put together some tough teams at Missouri, but this season he must replace three-year starter Brady Cook at quarterback along with most of his offensive line if he wants to keep the offense rolling. The transfer portal was kind to the Tiger's, bringing in key players on both sides of the ball that can hopefully help them maintain the momentum they have built up the last two season. The schedule is kind again, so 8-10 wins is certainly achievable in 2025, but I don’t see the Tigers making the playoffs unless something special happens.
Offense:
In the spring the battle to replace Brady Cook between Penn State transfer Beau Pribula and Sam Horn was neck-and-neck. Whoever emerges as the starter will have some talented receivers around them like Coleman Loyd, Marquis Johnson and Joshua Manning, but the offensive line will be the unit to watch if the passing game is going to be formidable. The first three games are cupcakes, so that will give them some time to get comfortable, which will be key as they head into conference play.
Defense:
The Tigers return 7 starters on this side of the ball from a unit that was top 20 in total defense last season. They bring in 6 players from the transfer portal that were starters across the FBS, so they could be even better this season. That bodes well for their chances to stay in tight games. Expect this to be another top-20 unit this season and if the offense can sustain drives that number could be higher.
Special Teams:
Both specialists return from a dependable if not awe-inspiring special teams' unit with Blake Craig handling the placekicking duties, and Connor Weselman at punter. The return game should be strong as well with Marquis Johnson handling kickoffs and Kevin Coleman Jr. returning punts.
Final Thoughts:
For the second straight season, the SEC scheduling gods have been kind to the Tigers. They get Alabama, South Carolina and Texas A&M at home so trips to Auburn, Oklahoma and Arkansas will be key if they want to overachieve in 2025.
Text: Ian Griffin
OKLAHOMA
Overview:
Boomer or Buster Sooners? The Brent Venables era is on the hot seat as Oklahoma starts its second season in the SEC. Can John Mateer be the savior? The Washington State transfer quarterback will be the key to a revival in Norman and that comes with a ton of pressure. The defense, which is Venables calling card, kept things manageable last season, but they will have to score points to get back on track in 2025.
Offense:
Mateer was a beast at WSU, and he has help arriving at running back in the form of Cal transfer Jaydn Ott, who is an explosive playmaker. The O-line needs some big time help after allowing 50 sacks last season and they tried to shore that up in the transfer portal, but it's going to be an uphill battle. If they can block for Ott and Mateer can find some playmakers at receiver, maybe bowling could be a possibility for the Sooners, but its going to be tough sledding.
Defense:
Venables is going to call the shots this season after laying those duties down in 2024. It’s what got him the job, so I certainly understand the move and he has some weapons at his disposal.
DE R Mason Thomas a problem off the edge and
the secondary is experienced so if they offense can stay on the field perhaps the Sooners will get back to their winning ways.
Special Teams:
A pair of transfers take over the kicking duties in Norman with Tate Sandell at placekicker and Jacob Ulrich handling punts. Isaiah Sategna will return kickoffs and punts.
Final Thoughts:
While the Lincoln Riley project hasn’t worked out in Southern California just yet, Venables is in a hot pot in Norman. Sooner fans expect wins and on paper it's hard to see Oklahoma besting last year's record. The matchup in Tennessee with Josh Heupel on the other sideline looms large. If you ask me, there will be a new head coach for the Sooners next year and Heupel will probably be the first one called.
Text: Ian Griffin
Overview:
The Lane train rolls on in Oxford after the Rebels achieved their third 10-win season in the last four years. Jaxson Dart is now a Giant, and the Austin Simmons era begins under center. Kiffin has been a great puppet master with his quarterbacks over the years, and Simmons has the raw tools that will have to be honed if they want to get back to the playoffs. They lose 14 starters from last year’s squad but have plenty of talent on the roster that will need to gel if they are going to break through and make the playoffs. The schedule allows some time to hit their stride, but it isn’t a cakewalk for anybody in the SEC so we will find out what the Rebels are really made of in October and November.
Offense:
Not only is Dart gone, but the receiver room will be full of new faces. The portal king managed to snag a few pieces that will fill in nicely in Penn State transfer Harrison Wallace and Oklahoma Statetransfer De’Zhaun Stribling. One returning piece, in Cayden Lee brings back a lot of productivity after racking up 874 receiving yards last season. Four starters must also be replaced on the offensive line, so the theme of needing new guys to step up to succeed rings true when the Rebs have the ball.
Defense:
While Dart got a lot of the headlines, it was the defense that won a lot of games for Ole Miss last season. The d-line was full of killers and set a school record with 52 sacks last season. Those starters expect Suntarine Perkins are all gone, but once
again, Lane has brought in the hired hands from the portal along with some elite talent through traditional recruiting. Perkins is a game-changer, but behind him there are questions as well, with both starting cornerbacks and safeties being fresh faces this season. Again, this unit will need to gel by late September if 10-wins is the goal in 2025.
Special Teams:
Both kicking specialists are new faces with placekicker Lucas Carneiro arriving in Oxford from Western Kentucky after being a Lou Groza award finalist in 2024. He connected on 18-19 field goals last season.
Final Thoughts:
Kiffin has done a great job raising the bar in Oxford and he is in a place where the fan base will be content with 8-10 wins each season. This squad should hit that mark and could overachieve if all the new faces gel quickly and most importantly Simmons finds his footing in the system. The schedule allows time to come together without any brutal stretches by SEC standards, but backto-back road trips to Georgia and Oklahoma in mid-October will be crucial to split if the playoffs are the goal. It’s safe to say the Rebels are a true wild card in the SEC this season.
OLE MISS
2025 SCHEDULE
Text: Ian Griffin
Offense:
SOUTH CAROLINA GAMECOCKS
2025 SCHEDULE
You must have a good quarterback to win in the SEC. Sellars is better than good. They have to replace a lot around him, so even the best quarterback can struggle if he doesnt have the support he needs. Getting the line and skill players up to speed quickly will be key for Carolina’s success this year and they don’t have any time to waste with a neutral site game against Virginia Tech to open the season.
Defense:
This unit ranked 4th overall defensively in the SEC last season, but they must replace six starters from that squad in 2025. The linebacker room will be filled with new faces and that is the biggest concern for the Gamecocks on defense entering the season. Dylan Stewart returns and hopes to build on an excellent 2024 campaign, while Jalon Kilgore will anchor the secondary at the safety position.
Special Teams:
home against Bama and Oklahome and then on the road against Texas A&M and Ole Miss...that stretch will decide the fate of South Carolina, and if Sellers is under center you can expect them to be in all of those games.
The Cocks will get a chance to prove themselves this season and an early win at Death Valley against LSU would certainly bolster their playoff chances. They follow that game with a four game stretch at Overview:
Shane Beamer has proven to be the right man for the job so far in Columbia. While the Gamecocks didn’t back up their playoff gripes by losing to Illinois in the bowl game, they were in the conversation and Lanoris Sellers is an absolute beat at quarterback. They lose a lot on defense and will need to find playmakers around Sellers on offense, but Beamer has proven to do more with less during his tenure, which suggests he and his staff know how to develop talent.
Be Beamer puts an emphasis on special teams, but it will be a unit full of new faces as he replaces all of the regulars from 2024. That battle has spilled over to the fall, but something tells me whoever he trots out there, they will have tricks up their sleeves.
Final Thoughts:
NYCK HARBOR
DYLAN STEWART
SHANE BEAMER
Text: Ian Griffin
Final Thoughts:
Overview:
Josh Heupel and his squad made the inaugural 12 team playoff before getting thrashed by The Ohio State Buckeyes. After a lot of offseason drama thus far with the whole Nico Iamaleava holdout and departure, and having to bring in a new quarterback at the last second, things look uncertain. On the bright side, the defense is stacked, and Tennessee has a scrappy identity that should be able to translate a decent amount of success in 25-26.
Defense:
This was a much improved group last year. We were used to seeing the high flying offense, but the defense stepped up tremendously. The interior has names like Tyre West, who apparently is a freak athlete with speed, and Joshua Josephs on the outside, who is one of the top edge rushers in the nation. Arion Carter and Jeremiah Telander look to be some head hunters, while guys like Boo Carter and Rickey Gibson will hold it down in the secondary. Jermod McCoy will be sidelined possibly the majority of the season after tearing his ACL.
I may be a little harsh on the Vols. This offseason hasn’t necessarily been a dumpster fire, but enough to raise some concerns. They haven’t beat Georgia since Obama was president, have to go to Alabama and Florida, and Oklahoma should be much improved. Maybe I’m crazy, but I just don’t see it happening this year.
Text: Grayson Atkins
Joey Aguilar has had a handful of production, and so far, looks to be the starter. Desean Bishop will take over after Dylan Sampson went to the draft. Guys like Lance Heard, David Sanders, and Notre Dame transfer Sam Pendleton will snap the ball. Mike Matthews and Chriz Brazzell will most likely lead
Special Teams:
Jackson Ross will punt, and Max Gilbert will head kicking duties. Boo Carter is going to see some numbers at punt returner, and Desean Bishop is the kickoff return man.
the Volunteers, with a guy that showed some flash at tailback in Desean Bishop.
MILES KITSELMAN
JOSH HEUPEL
JERMOD MCCOY
JOEY AGUILAR
Overview:
Manning Madness is upon us. The name, the look, the number, it gets people talking and Arch has waited patiently to be the man in Austin. The Horns have been close to greatness with two straight CFP appearances and while they replace 14 starters from last year's squad, they have recruited elite talent to reload instead of rebuilding. They open the season at the Horseshoe in a marquee matchup against defending champion, Ohio State, so we won’t have to wait long to see what they are made of. Is Arch going to live up to the hype? It's time to find out.
Offense:
Manning is the starter after two years of studying behind Quinn Ewers. His skill set is more in tune with his grandfather, Archie, than his uncles, Peyton and Eli, as he is a legit dual-threat quarterback that can run the RPO system Steve Sarkisian implements for this Longhorns attack. He has established a repour with his offensive line and running backs and the receiver room is stacked with talent, so Manning will have what he needs to make this team special in 2025.
Defense:
Anthony Hill JR. May be the best linebacker in the country, and he will lead this defense into battle against the SEC’s finest. The secondary is strong with depth at corner and safety , while the pass rush will be bolstered by edge rusher Colin Simmons, so the Horns will aim to be a wrecking crew again on this side of the ball.
Special Teams:
There isn’t much to note on special teams, but the portal provides, and Texas will trot out former Utah punter Jack Bouwmeester and UTSA placekicker Mason Shipley to handle the kicking duties in 2025.
Final Thoughts:
If Arch is as advertised, lookout for the Horns in 2025. We won’t have to wait long to find out thanks to the showdown with Texas week 1, but trips to Gainesville and Athens should keep things interesting too. I will say it's hard to imagine a 12-team playoff that doesn’t include Texas.
Text: Ian Griffin
STEVE SARKISIAN DEANDRE MOORE
ARCH MANNING
TEXAS A&M
Overview:
The Aggies certainly had their highs and lows under Mike Elko in year one. Up until South Carolina, it was smooth sailing. Then Auburn pulled off an upset, and played horrendous at home against Texas for a shot at Atlanta. Seems like every year we have this conversation that A&M is gonna go 10-2, and I think they lose just one shy. They may not make Atlanta, but they may just have a shot at the playoff. Either I turn out to be really stupid like the majority, or this is the one year where I’m right.
Offense:
Marcel Reed, a true dual threat, returns for his sophomore campaign. Leveon Moss and Rueben Owens are a really solid 1-2 backfield punch, and Terry Bussey and KC Concepcion are some major threats outside. An experienced offensive line has guys like Trey Zuhn and Mark Nabou, including Ar’maj Reed-Adams, a big time NFL prospect. Amari Niblack is a guy that could see some more production this year round. Overall, a talented and experienced group. Not anything super duper insane, but it’s proven experience brings you a long way.
Defense:
Once again, it is a fairly experienced group. TJ Searcy and Cashius Howell will be massive on the edge, with Albert Regis and Tyler Onyedim
inside. Tauren York and Scooby Williams are a stable linebacker core, and the secondary has names like Dezz Ricks, Julian Humphrey, Bryce Anderson, and Will Lee. The secondary may be slightly younger than upfront, but there is still promise and live reps that should pay some dividends as the season goes on.
Special Teams:
Tyler White will punt, and Randy Bond will be the kicker. Izaiah Williams will return punts, and Rueben Owens should be the kickoff specialist.
Final Thoughts:
You know, I feel like 6-2 is fair, and it is a testament to just how deep the SEC is. They will probably end up losing to Notre Dame, LSU, and Texas. That’s rough. In any other conference, they would have a higher chance to make the conference title game, but not down south. It is a gauntlet. The Aggies have experience, but everyone else is just better.
Text: Grayson Atkins
TAUREN YORK
MARCEL REED
MIKE ELKO
What Clark Lea achieved at Vanderbilt last season is impressive. Knocking off Alabama and winning a bowl game is special for the Commodores, and they bring back Diego Pavia as quarterback, who will spearhead the attack in 2025. They won’t sneak up on anyone this year, but the gritty Dores will come to play and have the depth on defense to hang tough in the brutal SEC.
Offense:
Pavia won his legal battle with the NCAA, giving him another year of eligibility for the Dores at the quarterback position. He has his favorite target to throw to in Tight End Eli Stowers, who is coming back after withdrawing from the NFL Draft. Vandy hit the portal for help up front, using their NIL money to shore up the O-line with the 4 new starters arriving in Nashville to push the defense back and keep the ship moving forward. The receivers are new, but talented, expect a unit that fights for each yard when they bring their anchors ashore.
Defense:
Lea has promoted Steve Gregory to defensive coordinator, but the system won’t change much. Depth up front will allow Vandy to rotate on the front seven so they can scheme up blitz packages to dial up pressure with their linebackers and the secondary is stocked with experience as well, so the Dores will be stingy in 2025.
Special Teams:
Vandy’s special teams are, special. Placekicker Brock Taylor was 18-21 last season on field goal attempts and can hit it from 60 yards in, while Washington State transfer Nick Haberer will handle the punting duties. Martel Hight is also someone to watch in the return game.
Final Thoughts:
Lea has gutted it out and carved a place for himself in Vandy, reaching heights they haven’t seen since James Franklin left town. They will need that tenacity to survive the SEC and reach another bowl game, but nobody should take these Commodores lightly.
1. TEXAS
2.GEORGIA
3.BAMA 4.LSU
5.FLORIDA
6.SOUTH CAROLINA
IAN’S PICK:
GRAYSON'S PROJECTED FINISH:
1.GEORGIA (7-1)
2.TEXAS (7-1)
3.ALABAMA (7-1)
4.LSU (6-2)
5.FLORIDA (6-2)
6.SOUTH CAROLINA (5-3)
7.TEXAS A&M (5-3)
8.OLE MISS (5-3)
9.OKLAHOMA (5-3)
10.TENNESSEE (4-4)
11.MISSOURI (4-4)
12.VANDERBILT (3-5)
13.AUBURN (3-5)
14.ARKANSAS (3-5)
15.KENTUCKY (0-8)
16.MISSISSIPPI STATE (0-8)
SEC CHAMPIONSHIP GAME PREDICTION: [GEORGIA VS. TEXAS]
GRAYSON'S PICK: GEORGIA
CLARK LEA
DIEGO PAVIA
Text: Ian Griffin
LScenic Sanctuary in Stonebridge
Finding the right community for your family is just as important as finding the home itself, and 14 Snead offers the best of both. The deeply connected community of Stonebridge allows this house to feel like a home.
text LAUREN BACHMAN | photo ANDY EDWARDS
ocated in the Fairways subdivision in the Stonebridge community, 14 Snead offers the best of refuge and community in one scenic sanctuary. Parents make the most of the natural landscape relaxing on their porches and taking drives around the neighborhood. The nearby forest harbors a safe “getaway” where the kids like to play. And when sundown comes, everybody can head back inside for a cozy night in—or in some families’ cases, preparations for their next get-together. Whether hosting for friends and loved ones or spending quality time together, 14 Snead is the dream home for any family.
Composed of caramel and coffee colored cedar shake and lined with lush greenery, 14 Snead is a personal paradise. Its bright, autumnal exterior is paired with a sprawling 1.5 acre property, one of the only two of its
scale in the Stonebridge neighborhood. It comes with 5 bedrooms and 4.5 baths, along with a variety of rooms suited to both entertaining and relaxing, a perfect fit for a family that enjoys hosting. The separate, three-car garage also allows owners extra space for company or for storage, with easy access to the house and the backyard.
The home is surrounded by nature, lending to its air of peacefulness and privacy. The natural landscape is best enjoyed in the backyard pool and the custom-built hot tub deck. Overlooking the pool is a fully-furnished outdoor kitchen with a stone island and furnace, all of which were built in the last six years. This backyard oasis allows for year-round relaxation from sun-soaked water fights in the pool to chilly winter races from the hot tub.
Inside is an open, inviting modern design with classic detailing and decor, custom built by Jack Pearson Construction in 2004. Everything about the home exudes elegance and comfort, from the stone walkways and porches to the top of the line appliances and cabinetry. Large windows allow light to flood throughout the house; paired with the rustic wooden decor and plush furnishing, it gives the space a comfortable airiness that allows owners to fully relax into it.
This house is designed to be a home, and one that meets its family’s every need. Different rooms are fit to accommodate family nights, gatherings, and even cotillions, all shaped to the needs of the owner. Between the hustle-andbustle of day-to-day life, though, it still ensures that its family will have a sense of closeness.
The master bedroom is in the same hall as the two bedrooms on the first floor, which gives kids easy access to their parents and a fun space to run around between the rooms. The bedrooms downstairs and upstairs are also connected, the ones on the lower floor by an adjoining bathroom and the ones upstairs by a small walkway that connects the two balconies, allowing siblings a sense of closeness even when they need their own space.
With a loving community and peaceful retreat, this scenic sanctuary is waiting to welcome its next family.
For more information, contact Lindsay Hoyt Hunt at lindsayhoythunt@hardyrealty.com, or call at 706266-1335 (Cell) or 706-291-4321 (Office). To learn more about this property, visit Hardy Realty’s listing at H ardyrealty.com/listing/GA/Rome/14-SneadAvenue-30165/204347786
O r watch their video tour of the home at https://vimeo.com/1108440659?share=copy#t=0
