For the first week we only have six teams to rank, and not due to byes. LSU vs Auburn was canceled with tracing issues in Baton Rouge but we still have three strong meets to talk about. I was really impressed with jumps in the rankings this week, but with two competitive teams out it will be another shakeup come Monday. (All photos c/o the respective schools' Athletic Department)
1. Kentucky (L, 196.400-196.775 vs Alabama)
Finally a solid blue from Kentucky, and I loved it. Every team has worn classic ¾ sleeves so far, and UK changed it up with a half sleeve paired with elegant stoning. The back had open straps and a small Wildcat logo that I normally would not be a fan of (iykyk for Wildcat fans). These are the best so far from the Cats.
2. Florida (W, 197.850-194.800 vs Missouri)
ORANGE! Finally seeing all of Florida's colors represented for their pride meet and I loved it. The back mirrors the front and the flame designs are incorporated into the sleeves beautifully. With fewer people actually attending meets, it matters most how leotards translate onto TV, and these did the job.
3. Arkansas (W, 196.875-195.950 at Georgia)
I've said this about different teams this year, but if it ain't broke don't fix it. These are similar to previous weeks' leotards, but with unique differences like geometric designs and an ombre to charcoal on the sleeves. The ARKANSAS across the back is in a fairly neutral font and is shaped perfectly in the paneling. Consistency is key for the GymBacks on and off the mat.
4. Alabama (W, 196.775-196.400 at Kentucky)
Aside from a neckline I didn't care for, these are stunning from the front. Call me crazy, but the mesh cutout seems to resemble a certain trophy that just came home to Tuscaloosa. But from the back, the giant A is over the top. The mesh detailing is unique in promotional photos like the one above, but did NOT translate on TV. The Blake Lively is strong for this season, but I'm anxious to see the *seven* leotards they have remaining.
5. Georgia (L, 195.950-196.875 vs Arkansas)
First cause leotard from one of our teams and it's peenk! However, the design choice is a lot despite the cause and the shade they chose. From some angles I really liked them, like on vault, but head on they looked more like an elite club leo rather than a top collegiate program. I was excited to see the Dawgs with some liberty in their colors, but it missed the mark for me.
6. Missouri (L, 194.800-197.850 at Florida)
Still an improvement, these tiger stripes were fierce from Mizzou. I liked the yellow stoning and holographic reflection all along the striped detail that looked great in any light. They are definitely working with what the have and getting better each week. They're last on my rankings this week because of the giant logo across the chest and thick strap across the back that I've seen from several schools this week. The Tigers from CoMo should take a look at the simpler leotards from this season; a solid black with gold stoning could bring them up to Top 3.
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