SEC Tourney First Round Preview...

Did you know that tomorrow, the SEC tournament tips off with four first round games? Of course you did, and if you're like me, you're eager to see the teams get after it. Even though Kentucky will not play until Friday (how refreshing, right?), we're going to go ahead and do a little preview of tomorrow's match-ups...

Game 1: South Carolina vs. Alabama, 12 PM CST
This game is the one we should be most interested in since the Cats will be facing the winner on Friday. Still, with that said, its hard to get too excited about this game. I have to give an edge to Downey and company, but wouldn't be shocked if Alabama pulled it off either. Let's say Cocks by 5, but I admit, that's just a guess.

Game 2: Tennessee vs. LSU, 2:30 CST
Tennessee just couldn't find a way to beat Vandy this year, so they'll have to play a day early because of it. However, I'm not sure that's a bad thing. LSU is beyond bad, so tomorrow's game shouldn't be anything more than a practice session for the Vols. If what I think will happen actually happens, the starters can rest most of the second half while the reserves get some valuable playing time in a tournament setting. Of course, I could be wrong, and it could be a closer contest. Sure, stranger things have happened, but I certainly wouldn't count on it. Tennessee by 24.

Game 3: Florida vs. Auburn, 6:00 CST
The evening session has the potential to be more enjoyable, but not by much. Florida should be able to handle the fighting "whatever-they're-calling-themselves-these-days" of Auburn, but again, this is March, so anything can happen. If Florida were to lose, there's a good chance their NCAA bubble would burst, so that should be a little extra incentive for the Gators. Florida by 11.

Game 4: Arkansas vs. Georgia, 8:30 CST
Okay, I'll go on the record and say this will be the most entertaining game of day one. If you follow this site much at all, you know that I'm a big John Pelphrey homer (if you're a true blue fan, you should be too) so I'll be pulling for the Hawgs. And honestly, I think they'll pull it out in what should be a back and forth, down to the wire, barn burner. I'm going to say Arkansas wins by 3.

So, there ya have it... Day one of the 2010 SEC tourney. Stick around for our complete coverage of the tourney, including on the scene reports from JLee, Toondog and Austin.