SEC Power Rankings after Week 1 of 2019: Yes, Vols are tanking
Just like the Georgia Bulldogs, Florida Gators and Auburn Tigers, the Alabama Crimson Tide beat a Power Five team that went to a bowl game last year. And we already thought Nick Saban’s team was the best, so they’re at the top of our SEC Power Rankings.
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Alabama’s opponent actually had the second best record of the four last year, and despite losing its quarterback, returns everybody else in addition to David Cutcliffe being there. The Duke Blue Devils should actually be a really good team when you take that into account. They may even be better this year even with Daniel Jones gone.
So beating them 42-3 is by far the most impressive thing any team did this week. What’s even more impressive is they did it despite a hideous start that included a fumble and a missed field goal on two of their first three drives and a scoreless first quarter. That’s how quickly this team can get on a role.
Tua Tagovailoa still completed 26-of-31 passes for 336 yards, four touchdowns and no interceptions. The team had over 500 yards of total offense. And they held Duke to 204 yards. So yes, they’re still the best team in the league.
Next. Vols 10 worst upset losses in school history. dark
Up next for Bama is an easy road against New Mexico State, South Carolina, Southern Miss and Ole Miss. They won’t really be tested until they face the Texas A&M Aggies on the road in the middle of October. Until then, they probably won’t drop from this top spot in our SEC Power Rankings. This team is simply loaded once again.