ESPN College GameDay: Picks for Conference Championship Weekend, SEC title game

ESPN brought College GameDay to Atlanta for Conference Championship Weekend. They’re in town ahead of Alabama and Georgia facing off for the SEC Championship inside of Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

This isn’t the first time these two familiar foes have faced off in 2025. Earlier this season, the Crimson Tide went to Athens and defeated the Bulldogs on their home field. Now, Kirby Smart and company have a shot at revenge, and a chance to lock up a first-round bye for the College Football Playoff.

Whether that rings true with his team or not remains to be seen. Kirk Herbstreit, Desmond Howard, Nick Saban, Pat McAfee and Celebrity Guest Picker Ernie Johnson are ready to lock in their predictions. Check them out in full below, and see if you agree with their commentary for Saturday’s top showdowns.

ESPN College GameDay Picks for Conference Championship Weekend:

SEC Championship — Alabama vs. Georgia: No pick from Herbstreit, as he’s on the call for the SEC title game. Only Saban would go against the Bulldogs, as McAfee, Howard and Johnson are riding with Georgia to defeat the Crimson Tide.

Big Ten Championship — Indiana vs. Ohio State: The top two teams in the country will face off in Indianapolis. Howard and McAfee have the Hoosiers, while Saban, Johnson and Herbstreit locked in the Buckeyes.

Big 12 Championship — BYU vs. Texas Tech: The whole crew is rocking with Jacob Rodriguez and the Red Raiders. Nobody thinks the Cougars can get some revenge in Arlington.

ACC Championship — Duke vs. Virginia: Howard, Saban, Johnson and Herbstreit have the Cavaliers getting to the College Football Playoff with a dub in Charlotte. McAfee thinks chaos reigns supreme, with the Blue Devils winning.

MAC Championship — Miami (OH) vs. Western Michigan: The RedHawks have Howard’s support. However, the rest of the crew believe in the Broncos.

Dec. 13 — Army vs. Navy: The whole crew predicted next week’s Army-Navy Game before getting into Championship Weekend. They’re all riding with the Midshipmen to get the win over the Black Knights.

Full analyst picks for Conference Championship Weekend:

Desmond Howard: Georgia, Indiana, Texas Tech, Virginia, Miami (OH), Navy

Nick Saban: Alabama, Ohio State, Texas Tech, Virginia, Western Michigan, Navy

Pat McAfee: Georgia, Indiana, Texas Tech, Duke, Western Michigan, Navy

Celebrity Guest Picker — Ernie Johnson: Georgia, Ohio State, Texas Tech, Virginia, Western Michigan, Navy

Kirki Herbstreit: No pick for Alabama-Georgia, Ohio State, Texas Tech, Virginia, Western Michigan, Navy

DISCLAIMER: This site is 100% for entertainment purposes only and does not involve real money betting.

The content provided in this article is intended for entertainment purposes only. All views and opinions expressed are the authors and reflect their individual perspectives on sports, betting, and related topics. This content should not be considered professional betting advice or the official views of On3. Please gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know is experiencing issues related to gambling, seek help from a licensed health professional. This blog is not liable for any losses, damages, or consequences resulting from betting activities.

Bets and betting odds data are powered by BetMGM. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (available in the US), Call 1-800-327-5050 (MA), 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ), 1-800-522-4700 (KS), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-270-7117 (MI), Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Must be 21+. Visit BetMGM.com for terms and conditions. First Bet Offer for new customers only (if applicable). Subject to eligibility requirements.