The sport’s influential figures want the College Football Playoff selection committee to give more weight to the strength of schedule in upcoming evaluations. Although the CFP has modified its methodology and will be implementing new metrics for its committee, discussions will persist regarding which teams and conferences face the toughest schedules in the nation.

The primary difficulty lies in the fact that computer-generated metrics can seem subjective, particularly when only a limited dataset is used (considering teams have just 12 regular-season games). Additionally, college football tends to be regional in nature, making inter-comparisons even more challenging.

Relying on a computer or data analyst to generate strength of schedule metrics typically lacks the necessary context. For instance, confronting Alabama in September and facing LSU in November is distinctly different from taking on Texas, Alabama, and Georgia within five weeks.

Variability is inherent in each team week by week. Coaches and players experience fatigue, face injuries, and are more likely to make errors as the season progresses, particularly in the latter stages. Furthermore, playing away games poses additional challenges.

“Strength” is a term that is context-dependent. Therefore, I utilized various data and projections, along with careful consideration of game timings and bye weeks, to evaluate which SEC team faces the hardest schedule. While the findings remain subjective, transparency about my process is crucial.

SEC 2025 Strength of Schedule

1. Vanderbilt

   • Road games against four top 15 teams, including Texas and Alabama. The Commodores may buckle under the weight of a rigorous slate.

2. Mississippi State

   • With a challenging lineup featuring four playoff teams from last season, the Bulldogs are set for a tough year.

3. Arkansas

   • The Razorbacks need at least six wins to secure bowl eligibility against a demanding schedule.

4. Oklahoma

   • Although manageable early on, the schedule becomes challenging as the season concludes with tough opponents.

5. Florida

   • Back-to-back matches against LSU and Miami could determine the season outcome.

6. Texas A&M

   • Aggies face difficult stretches, particularly with multiple away games against playoff teams from last year.

7. LSU

   • The Tigers are looking to return to their winning ways with several tough matchups lined up early in the season.

8. Texas

   • With a rocky start against Ohio State, the Longhorns must navigate a tough schedule throughout the SEC.

9. Kentucky

   • The Wildcats are burdened with a challenging season, hoping for strong performances against tough opponents.

10. Alabama

    • Facing off against several tough teams, this season is crucial for the Tide.

11. Auburn

    • With a roster full of talent, they aim for a strong performance against traditional rivals.

12. Ole Miss

    • A schedule with manageable stretches and difficult road games, providing a balancing act.

13. South Carolina

    • With a well-spaced schedule, the Gamecocks are poised to make a mark this season.

14. Georgia

    • Benefiting from a favorable schedule with matchups against lower-tier opponents mixed throughout.

15. Tennessee

    • The Volunteers must handle their own home games effectively to remain playoff contenders.

16. Missouri

    • With a manageable schedule, the Tigers hope to compete for double-digit wins.