The 2023 SEC schedule will be released on Tuesday night on the SEC Network. But, first, the Week 0 and Week 1 schedules were released on “The Paul Finebaum Show.”

You can find the full Week 1 schedule here, but for now, let’s rank the top 5 games on the early slate for next year.

Here are the 5 games we can’t wait to see:

5. Ball State at Kentucky

For whatever reason, MAC teams always seem to keep things close against Kentucky for 2-3 quarters in season openers. The Wildcats got off to a slow start against Miami (OH) this year before pulling away late for a 37-13 victory. Ball State is a solid MAC team, too, so don’t be shocked if the Cardinals give the Wildcats a good game.

4. South Carolina vs. North Carolina (in Charlotte)

The Gamecocks and Tar Heels most recently faced off in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl following the 2021 season, so they’re familiar with each other and with playing in Charlotte. That was an interesting game and since this is a Power 5 matchup, it should be better than most of the other games on the Week 1 schedule for next year. We’ll see if Shane Beamer can get another win over the Tar Heels. This time, a mayo bath hopefully wouldn’t follow.

3. Tennessee vs. Virginia (in Nashville)

Virginia is a bit of a mess this year, but Tony Elliott is a good coach and should have things in a better spot by this time next year. Meanwhile, the Vols will likely be replacing not only QB Hendon Hooker, but also star WR Cedric Tillman. We’ll see if Josh Heupel can rebuild on the fly or if the Vols take a step back. 5-star QB Nico Iamaleava will be a name to watch in this one, as he could see action in his first game.

2. LSU vs. Florida State (in Orlando)

This was a heck of a game in New Orleans this year. Obviously, LSU lost on a blocked extra point after scoring a touchdown on the game’s final play. Florida State may have turned a corner with Mike Norvell this year and LSU is quickly improving under first-year coach Brian Kelly. Both of these teams should have plenty of talent when they meet in Orlando. We’ll see if LSU can shore up its special teams by Week 1 of next year!

1. Florida at Utah

This is an obvious No. 1 choice. First, Florida is the only SEC team that will play a true road game in Week 1. Second, the game in The Swamp in Week 1 of this season was incredible. Anthony Richardson was great and the Florida defense made a big play when it was needed most. Utah likely won’t be talked about as a Playoff contender entering Week 1 of next year, but a win in Salt Lake City would be huge for either of these squads.