Last week threw the TNJN SEC Pick'n Panel for a loop. While panelists unanimously (and correctly) picked favorites Kentucky, South Carolina and Florida to be victorious, a few games became a toss up.  Less than half of the pickers predicted Ole Miss' win over Arkansas. Also, LSU's victory over Auburn and Tennessee's 12-10 nail-biting loss to Alabama gave some members of the panel a mark in the loss column.

Alas, however, this week's picks are almost identical, with Mississippi State and Kentucky being the only teams the panelists are torn between. As the season nears an end, the Pick'n Panel is keeping a close eye on the standings.

Chris White still leads the Senior Circuit at 37-6. With a perfect week eight, however, Assistant Sports Editor Amber Harding has edged out Sports Editor Grant Ramey for second place. Andrew Aaron moved to the top of the Rookie Division, and a two-way tie exists for second place.

This week, the panel focuses on Halloween night for the big match-up between Tennessee and No. 21 South Carolina (7:45 p.m., ESPN). Tennessee will try to earn its second SEC victory of the season, and the Gamecocks will attempt to prove that they deserve a spot in the top 25. The Pick'n Panel unanimously chose the Vols to come out on top.

Game of the Week - Expert Analysis

• Clay Seal: "With Jonathan Crompton finally rising out of his string of pathetic play, this Vols team can now compete in the SEC. Look for Tennessee to use Montario Hardesty a lot in a defensive battle against a USC squad that only has one result to earn their top 25 ranking."
• Andrew Aaron: "Last time Monte Kiffin faced Steve Spurrier, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers beat the Washington Redskins 35-13. The Bucs' defense allowed only 275 yards of offense."
• Paul Fortenberry: "The Vols aren't playing like their 3-4 record and would love to have a few games back (UCLA), but the fact remains they still only have one SEC win. That will change Saturday night when the Gamecocks travel to Knoxville. Both teams are in the top 15 in the nation in total defense, so don't expect the game to get in the high 20s. South Carolina beat Kentucky and Vanderbilt by a combined six points... at home. Vols by 8."
• Chris White: "As always, South Carolina will bring its 'A-game' to Neyland Stadium and battle Tennessee to the bitter end. Tennessee needs this one badly, and I think the Vols are owed one following an inspired performance against Alabama. 24-14, Tennessee."
• Jeffrey Riddle: "The Tennessee Vols are going to make Spurrier and the Gamecocks wish they hadn't taken the weekend off from the full-service gas stations."