The 2025 college football season is almost here, and fans are excited to see how teams will perform in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). The SEC is one of the strongest conferences in college football, with powerhouse teams competing for championships every year. With the latest USA TODAY Sports Network 2025 Preseason All-SEC predictions, we take a closer look at which players and teams are expected to shine. Most importantly, we examine where Texas A&M and Texas fall in the rankings.
Understanding the SEC in 2025
The SEC has always been home to some of the best teams in college football. In 2025, the competition is fiercer than ever. Traditional powerhouses like Alabama, Georgia, and LSU remain dominant, while newer programs like Texas and Oklahoma, who officially joined the SEC in 2024, are looking to make their mark.
Texas and Texas A&M in the SEC
Texas A&M has been in the SEC since 2012, and they have had some strong seasons. However, they have struggled to consistently compete for the conference championship. On the other hand, Texas, which joined in 2024, is still adjusting to the level of play in the SEC. Many experts are wondering how these two Texas schools will perform in 2025, and whether they will be able to challenge the conference’s best teams.
USA TODAY Sports Network’s All-SEC Team Predictions
Every year, USA TODAY Sports Network releases its preseason All-SEC team predictions. These predictions highlight the best players at each position and give fans an idea of which teams have the most talent heading into the season. Here’s a breakdown of the predictions for 2025 and where Texas A&M and Texas players rank among the best.
Quarterbacks
The quarterback position is always one of the most important in college football. For 2025, the top quarterbacks expected to lead the SEC include:
- Jalen Milroe (Alabama) – A dynamic playmaker who helped lead Alabama to the College Football Playoff last season.
- Carson Beck (Georgia) – A smart and efficient passer who controls the offense well.
- Arch Manning (Texas) – The highly recruited star is now the full-time starter for Texas, and expectations are high.
Texas A&M’s quarterback, Connor Weigman, has shown flashes of brilliance, but he was not included in the first-team selections. However, he is considered one of the top contenders for an honorable mention and could have a breakout season.
Running Backs
The SEC is known for producing elite running backs, and 2025 is no different. The top running backs in the preseason rankings include:
- Raheim Sanders (Arkansas) – A powerful runner with great speed.
- Quinshon Judkins (Ole Miss) – A dynamic player who can change the game.
- Rueben Owens (Texas A&M) – The young Aggies running back is one of the most talented in the conference and made the second-team All-SEC list.
Texas running back Cedric Baxter Jr. is also a strong contender for recognition and could make an impact in 2025.
Wide Receivers
Several standout wide receivers made the All-SEC list, including:
- Luther Burden III (Missouri) – A top receiver with great hands and route-running skills.
- Evan Stewart (Texas A&M) – One of the best wide receivers in the SEC, making the first-team All-SEC list.
- Xavier Worthy (Texas) – A speedster who has the potential to dominate in 2025.
Both Texas and Texas A&M have talented wide receivers, and their passing games should be strong this season.
Offensive Line
Strong offensive line play is crucial for success in the SEC. The top linemen for 2025 include:
- JC Latham (Alabama) – A dominant left tackle protecting the quarterback.
- Amarius Mims (Georgia) – Another key lineman who helps anchor Georgia’s offensive attack.
- Cam Williams (Texas) – A strong and physical lineman who made the second-team All-SEC list.
Texas A&M and Texas both have solid offensive lines, which will help their quarterbacks and running backs perform well in 2025.
Defensive Players
Defense wins championships, and the SEC is full of talented defenders. The top defensive players in 2025 include:
- Dallas Turner (Alabama, LB) – A future NFL talent who dominates opposing offenses.
- Harold Perkins Jr. (LSU, LB) – A fast and aggressive linebacker.
- Walter Nolen (Texas A&M, DL) – A rising star who made the first-team All-SEC list.
Texas A&M’s Walter Nolen is one of the best defensive players in the SEC, and Texas linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. is also a name to watch.
Special Teams
Special teams play a big role in close games. The best kickers, punters, and return specialists for 2025 include:
- Will Reichard (Alabama, K) – One of the most reliable kickers in the country.
- Isaiah Bond (Georgia, KR/PR) – A dangerous return specialist.
Texas A&M and Texas will need strong special teams performances to compete with the top SEC teams in 2025.
Where Do Texas A&M and Texas Fall in the SEC Rankings?
Based on the USA TODAY Sports Network preseason predictions, Texas A&M and Texas have talented rosters, but they are not yet at the level of Alabama and Georgia. Here’s a look at where they stand:
Texas A&M’s 2025 Outlook
- Strengths: Strong wide receivers, an improving quarterback, and a talented defensive line.
- Weaknesses: Offensive consistency and depth at key positions.
- Projected SEC Finish: 3rd or 4th in the SEC West.
Texas’s 2025 Outlook
- Strengths: A talented quarterback in Arch Manning, fast wide receivers, and a solid offensive line.
- Weaknesses: Defense still needs improvement, and depth could be an issue.
- Projected SEC Finish: 2nd or 3rd in the SEC East.
Both teams have the potential to compete for a New Year’s Six bowl game if they can stay healthy and perform well in big games.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 USA TODAY Sports Network preseason All-SEC predictions show that Texas A&M and Texas have talented players, but they still have work to do to reach the level of Alabama and Georgia. With Arch Manning leading Texas and Walter Nolen starring for Texas A&M, both teams have key players who could make a big difference this season.
As the 2025 season approaches, fans of Texas and Texas A&M will be eager to see if their teams can exceed expectations and compete for the SEC Championship. With exciting matchups ahead, the SEC is set to deliver another thrilling college football season!
