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Mathematically alive, yes, but we’re calling this a two-team race out West with two-loss contenders Auburn and Ole Miss falling back in recent weeks. Saturday’s showdown in Tuscaloosa separates the top two, but there’s rivalry finales that will play a factor in the division championship as well:
RELATED: Road to Atlanta — East Guide
MISSISSIPPI STATE (9-0, 6-0)
CHANCES AT WINNING THE WEST: High
REMAINING SEC GAMES: at Alabama, Saturday; vs. Vanderbilt, Nov. 22; at Ole Miss, Nov. 29
VERDICT: It doesn’t seem fathomable that the Bulldogs still lack respect, but three wins over previously-ranked Top 10 teams hasn’t been enough for oddsmakers coming into Mississippi State’s most important contest in program history this weekend. One of only three unbeatens left in the FBS ranks, Dan Mullen’s team is looking to snap a six-game skid against Alabama, one of two remaining hurdles over the final three games.
ALABAMA (8-1, 5-1)
CHANCES AT WINNING THE WEST: High
REMAINING SEC GAMES: vs. Mississippi State, Saturday; vs. Western Carolina, Nov. 22; vs. Auburn, Nov. 29
VERDICT: The Crimson Tide’s in very good position to win the SEC and reach the College Football Playoff despite an early-season loss to Ole Miss since they’ll be favored in their two toughest games remaining — both at home. Nick Saban’s 3-1 in his last four games against top-ranked teams, the current challenge facing Alabama this weekend. Mississippi State’s an 8.5-point underdog and no longer controls its own Playoff destiny with a loss. Alabama is the SEC’s toughest against the run and that’s what the Bulldogs do best.
