SEC Faces Roster Shifts Amid Playoff Uncertainty

The College Football Playoff format for the 2026 season is still under debate, with major conferences discussing whether to prioritize automatic bids or increase at-large selections, and a resolution expected by December. In the SEC, preseason projections name Georgia, Texas, LSU, and Alabama as top contenders, with new quarterbacks and active transfer markets reshaping rosters. South Carolina is anticipated to have a breakout year under returning quarterback LaNorris Sellers and benefits from one of the conference's most daunting home stadiums. Vanderbilt's tight end Eli Stowers is recognized as a preseason All-American after his standout 2024 season. Several SEC programs, including Arkansas, Auburn, Oklahoma, and Florida, are dealing with coaching changes, roster overhauls, and new offensive coordinators. The 2025 season is set to bring high competition and significant transitions across the conference.