As certain as colleges compensating players next fall, the day is approaching when the SEC could send five competitors into an enlarged College Football Playoff.

However, that won’t occur until 2026, pending potential expansion to 14 teams and the Big Ten and SEC’s push for four automatic spots. For now, the criteria from the inaugural 12-team playoff hold, forcing the SEC to depend on its participants impressing the selection panel. Do victories prevail over strength of schedule? This concern looms over the SEC, known for its competitive games that leave numerous championship hopefuls with three losses.

Last year, the league nearly secured a quartet of teams but the selection committee wisely ranked SMU ahead of the three-loss Alabama and South Carolina. Ultimately, only one of the SEC’s three participants made it to the semifinals.

Which teams will vie for the national title this fall? Traditional powerhouses are still in the picture, but there’s another team that’s been a source of disappointment recently. While we limit our list to five teams, an argument could easily be made for seven.

Alabama: Kalen DeBoer must avoid playoff exclusion in Year 2. After an unimpressive 9-4 record, the pressure is on to steer the Tide into the 12-team CFP this season amidst significant roster changes. They rank No. 2 in the initial SP+ ratings. The leading candidate to replace Jalen Milroe at quarterback is Ty Simpson, who receives frequent praise from DeBoer, but keep an eye on Austin Mack and five-star recruit Keelon Russell as new offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb reshapes the offense.

Georgia: Kirby Smart’s reign isn’t waning. A CFP spot is normally a cause for celebration, yet Georgia’s elite standards mean a quarterfinal loss to Notre Dame stings. With 15 starters gone, including key defensive players, Smart aggressively sought impactful transfers. Fortunately, the Bulldogs maintain five top 10 tacklers and return many top receivers, demonstrating promising resilience amidst lineup changes.

LSU: Brian Kelly’s determination is evident; his proactive use of the transfer portal has yielded a powerful incoming class. Despite losing crucial players, the potential for offensive success rests on Garrett Nussmeier, the SEC’s top returning passer, benefitting from strong offensive line protection.

Ole Miss: Lane Kiffin’s approach has raised expectations, with a home-heavy early schedule. Though they must navigate significant roster changes, the return of key players and newcomers from the portal could maintain competitive output.

Texas: Arch Manning’s performance in crucial matchups will be vital for the Longhorns amidst an arduous schedule. They will rely on an experienced coaching staff and returning overall strength, although navigating a new offensive line and replacing several top pass-catchers presents challenges. Watch trips to Florida and Georgia closely as they may prove pivotal in separating legitimate contenders from pretenders.