(12) Auburn Tigers (4-1)
Gus Malzahn came under fire after Auburn’s abysmal six-point effort against the Clemson Tigers in week two, but the Tigers have since silenced their critics after cruising to decisive wins over Missouri and Mississippi State in recent weeks. Prior to week one of the season, many believed that Auburn would be the kryptonite to the mighty Tide and they’re starting to look the part.
The Tigers’ quarterback, Jarrett Stidham, is beginning to play like the gem we all thought he could be, throwing for 482 yards and three touchdowns in his last two outings. With an offense that continues to click under Chip Lindsey and a stout defense to back the unit up, Auburn’s beginning to look like a formidable obstacle that is capable of preventing Alabama’s fourth straight SEC title.