What happened: Texas slipped to second during a bye week as Alabama claimed the top spot in Kanell's Top 12. Keelon Russell completed 16 of 22 passes for 285 yards and three touchdowns and added a rushing score in a 56-23 win at Mississippi State, with Alabama outscoring the Bulldogs 28-6 after halftime.

Why it matters: Both Alabama and Georgia enter Saturday undefeated in Tuscaloosa with early control of the SEC race at stake. A win over Georgia would give Alabama a second ranked victory and a stronger College Football Playoff resume heading into AP voting next week.

What to watch: Alabama hosts Georgia on Saturday night in Tuscaloosa. AP voters release the next Top 25 the following day.