Five Biggest Surprises from the Media’s SEC Predictions

Jul 15, 2015; Birmingham, AL, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks head coach Bret Bielema speaks to media during SEC media days at the Wynfrey Hotel. Mandatory Credit: Shanna Lockwood-USA TODAY Sports

5. Arkansas Picked to Finish No. 5, Ahead of Tennessee

Given the way they finished last season, it makes sense to have the Arkansas Razorbacks as an exciting pick for this upcoming season.

But finishing at No. 5? Really? That is astronomically high. After all, they finished with the same record as the Vols, 7-6, and they have not brought in the same recruiting classes as Tennessee. So why should they be ahead of Tennessee?

In fact, why should they even be ahead of Ole Miss? Yes, they dominated the Rebels last year, but that was an injury-ridden team that will be healthy this year, has also had better recruiting classes, and is simply more talented.

But back to it from Tennessee’s perspective, these are the obvious two dark-horse teams in their respective divisions.

It is just odd for Arkansas to be two spots ahead of Tennessee. Butch Jones has given fans every reason to be excited as Bret Bielema has.

That will obviously make the Oct. 3 showdown between the two schools at Neyland Stadium very intriguing. The winner of that game will appear more on the right track to having a great season than the other team. That’s for sure.

Next: #4: 36 First-Place Votes