Attempting to summarize the state of the SEC through poetical genius is an annual SDS tradition in early August. This 2014 rendition could not have been accomplished without the contributions of Christopher Smith, Ethan Levine, and Jordan Cox. Enjoy:

‘Twas a month before football, and all through the South,
Rabid fans everywhere were running their mouth.
The streak ended, but don’t worry or dread,
The SEC’s dynasty? Far from dead.

The BCS now is a thing of the past.
Just how long will the four-team playoff last?
Four semifinalists the committee will pick,
Will the SEC get two? What say ye, Spurrier and Nick?

Johnny Football and others migrated to Sundays,
So Todd Gurley and Mike Davis will have plenty of fun days.
It’s the year of the running back in 2014,
We all want to know: Is Leonard Fournette that mean?

Bielema and Saban want the pace slow.
Get to the line quickly. Hut-hut! Let’s go!
Do hurry-up offenses put players in trouble?
Don’t ask Gary Pinkel, he’ll rant on the double.

Mizzou won the East but dismissed DGB.
Without him can Pinkel and Mauk repeat?
Bob Stoops wasn’t deterred from signing the star wideout,
And one Alabama fan wants to knock the Sooners’ lights out.

Malzahn and Toomer’s Corner were magic last year,
No oak trees? No matter, there’s plenty to cheer.
Nick Marshall and the Tigers resemble the veer,
But of late, an SEC champion is a sitting deer.

‘Bama wobbled last season, then fell to Aubie.
The Iron Bowl sequel is must-see TV.
Will it determine the SEC West?
Or will it decide which team is the nation’s best?

Down on ‘ole Rocky Top uncle Mo has arrived,
And Tennessee fans feel good about competing for the prize.
James Franklin spurns Nashville for Happy Valley
Derek Mason’s gold business cards are sure to rally.

The Ol’ Ball Coach is at it once more,
Taking shots at Mark Richt sending players out the door.
Four more dismissals took place this offseason in Athens
How will the ‘Dawgs fare with their depth running thin?

The SEC Network launches with the backing of ESPN,
Other conferences can’t contend.
Musburger joins Tebow, Palmer, Finebaum and McElroy,
Giving SEC fans unlimited joy.

As the season approaches, all through the land,
Officials make sure Cousin Ty is banned.
Stephen Garcia is long hair and don’t care,
But mess with that duo? Better not dare.

Bring up the Rose Bowl and Auburn fans scoff,
While all SEC fans shout, “Bring The Playoff!”
Winning championships is what it’s about,
Here’s wishing every Saturday was a Saturday Down South.