“I hate her. In fact, the day you broke up with her I marked that down on my calendar as a day of rejoicement. I’m going to celebrate it with a cake with her face on it, but instead of eating it, we smash it.”
– Stainer, “She’s Out of My League” (2010)
Oregon State Beavers running back Damien Martinez (6) carries the ball against the Washington State Cougars in the first half at Gesa Field at Martin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports
I was ready to believe that the conference realignment buzz was slowing down. I was under the impression that all that was left to determine was which school The American would add to replace SMU and the fate of Oregon State and Washington State.
However, the conference realignment buzz has cranked back up again, specifically in regards to Oregon State and Washington State.
The next hearing in the Oregon State/Washington State lawsuit against the Pac-12 is officially set for Nov 14. The hearing will be about who gets control of the Pac-12 while the parties prepare for trial. It could be pivotal for the fate of OSU/WSU.https://t.co/gxnZ4DDITN
A few weeks ago, those two schools filed a legal complaint against the Pac-12 and commissioner George Kliavkoff, seeking a temporary restraining order to protect the future of the conference. The basis for this decision comes because Oregon State and Washington State believe that the 10 members that are leaving won’t have the conference’s best interest at heart, even going so far as to believe that those members will vote to dissolve the Pac-12. Basically, Oregon State and Washington State want full control of the conference’s future. A hearing on the matter is slated for Nov. 14.
This puts those two schools in a precarious situation. As it stands, the Pac-12 champion is going to have a guaranteed spot in the 12-team College Football Playoff next year. The new format is going to have six guaranteed spots for conference champions (each of the Power 5 conference champions and the highest-ranked Group of 5 conference champion) and six wild cards. It’s important to know that the 6+6 format isn’t set after next season, and the the CFP management committee has yet to determine if the format will stay the same or change after the Pac-12 lost 10 of its members back in the summer. In fact, the committee punted on making a decision the issue recently.
Oregon State Beavers defensive back Jaden Robinson (4) breaks up a pass intended for Washington State Cougars wide receiver Josh Kelly (3) in the second half at Gesa Field at Martin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports
Oregon State and Washington State have a clear path to the CFP unless the format changes, even though they’re the only remaining members in the Pac-12. That will eventually change because the NCAA has a requirement that an FBS conference needs at least eight members, but there’s a two-year grace period. That means ESPN might have to pay about $320 million to Oregon State and Washington State, and potentially to schools like Boise State, Colorado State, San Diego State, UNLV, etc.
Things could obviously change, though. The committee could eventually determine that the Pac-12 will lose its guaranteed spot in the CFP. The problem with that is that there’s no precedent for it. Remember, the old Big East/The American lost its guaranteed spot only because the BCS was scrapped and the CFP was formed, and the powers that be determined there wouldn’t be guaranteed spots in the new postseason format.
There’s also no technical explanation of the differences between the Power 5 and Group of 5 entities, which is a big problem for the committee. It’s likely not going to be able to explain it without referencing the colloquial expression “I know it when I see it” from Supreme Court Justice Potter Stewart in 1964.
The main difference between the different levels of competition in the NCAA (FBS, FCS, Division II, Division III) is mostly the number of scholarships. However, Power 5 and Group of 5 schools have the same number of football scholarships (85). That’s why those schools are considered to be on the same level and are told that they’re competing for the same national championship, even though we all know that’s not true.
The College Football Playoff national championship trophy is displayed during Big Ten media days at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Goddin-USA TODAY Sports
This is a significant development. I don’t expect ESPN to willingly pay $320 million to Oregon State and Washington State if the CFP format doesn’t change, and especially if the Pac-12 ever merges with the Mountain West and/or The American.
Oregon State and Washington State are in a pretty strong position, which is why I expect them to use it as leverage for ESPN to pull strings to get them in a Power 5 conference. The most like destination is the Big 12. Oregon State and Washington State are much better fits in that conference than the ACC, Big Ten, or the SEC. The two schools would also be quality additions to the Big 12. Oregon State has a solid football program right now and its baseball team has made it to Omaha, Neb., for the College World Series six times since 2005. Washington State has had a respectable football program for the last 30 years, and has its cool College Gameday tradition.
I think it’s more likely than not that Oregon State and Washington State end up in the Big 12. It’ll be much cheaper for ESPN to broadcast their games in the conference at a reduced share (roughly $20 million per school) than it would be to give them a share of the CFP revenue. It would also benefit Oregon State and Washington State in the long-term future to join the Big 12, instead of potentially joining the American or Mountain West.
Another hurdle of a CFP format change: Washington St. & Oregon St. are exploring ways to operate as a 2-school league for 1-2 yrs via NCAA grace period.
CFP must answer: 1 Would their "champion" be eligible for an AQ? 2 Do they each get CFP P5 revenue?https://t.co/vbBNfqXbRy
I also wouldn’t be surprised if ESPN waited for the committee to come to a decision on the format for the expanded CFP. If the Pac-12 loses its guaranteed spot, it’ll cost ESPN even less money to broadcast Oregon State and Washington State games in either the Mountain West or The American. That could be problematic, though, because the committee won’t meet again for a while and the clock is ticking. Plus, in order to change the CFP format, there has to be a unanimous decision by the committee, and The American commissioner Mike Aresco has said he won’t vote to change the format. So, that might not be the best course of action.
There could be a lot more riding on this development than just which conference Oregon State and Washington State join. The committee has a huge decision to make these next few weeks when it comes to the CFP format. I don’t think anyone wants to see more substantial changes to the highest level of college football, but I can’t help but see the writing on the wall. It feels like this will be the first step in the Power 5 conferences separating from the Group of 5 conferences or vice versa, which will completely change the college football landscape forever.
There’s been so much tension between the two entities since the CFP was established. The Group of 5 schools only receive 20% of the revenue, and there have even been rumblings of them starting their own playoff format. Unless the committee decides to give more than one Group of 5 conference champion a guaranteed spot in the CFP, which I highly doubt will happen, I think there’s only going to be more division. Regardless of how the committee handles the Pac-12’s situation.
“Musn’t be afraid to dream a little bigger, darling.”
– Eames, “Inception” (2010)
Georgia Bulldogs head coach Kirby Smart holds the trophy after winning the CFP national championship game against the TCU Horned Frogs at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
I’m not sure I’d be prepared to make my college football season predictions if it wasn’t for the recent conference realignment news. Truthfully, this season has snuck up on me. The news of Oregon and Washington heading to the Big Ten, and Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado, and Utah going to the Big 12, got the juices flowing and made me eager for the start of the season. I’ve been hustling to get my research done for all Power 5 programs, and the top Group of 5 programs.
The wait is finally over, though, because Week 1 technically starts this weekend. Even though the matchups aren’t particularly intriguing (aside from Notre Dame facing Navy in Ireland and Ohio playing San Diego State), I wanted to get my predictions finalized before any games were played. I didn’t want any of the results from this weekend to impact my outlook.
My immediate impression for this season is that there are some excellent storylines: Georgia is trying to become the first program to win three-consecutive national championships since Minnesota did it between 1934-36; the Pac-12 is arguably the most compelling Power 5 conference in the wake of its demise; Texas could really be back; Ohio State is trying to get back to being the top dog in the Big Ten; and many others. There’s also a lot of uncertainty at the top of college football, with several programs breaking in new starting quarterbacks.
Remember, we’ve also had plenty of conference realignment beginning this year at both the Power 5 and Group of 5 levels: BYU, Cincinnati, Houston, and UCF are now in the Big 12; Charlotte, FAU, North Texas, Rice, UAB, and UTSA joined the American; and Liberty, Jacksonville State, New Mexico State, and Sam Houston State joined the Conference USA. I don’t think we’re done with conference realignment either because we still haven’t seen the ramifications of the Pac-12’s demise trickle down to the Group of 5 level.
There shouldn’t be any shortage of entertainment this season.
Southern California Trojans quarterback Caleb Williams (13) throws the ball against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in the first half at United Airlines Field at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Major award winners
Award
Winner
Heisman (most outstanding player)
QB Caleb Williams, USC
Maxwell (best player)
Caleb Williams, USC
Davey O’Brien (best quarterback)
Caleb Williams, USC
Doak Walker (best running back)
Blake Corum, Michigan
Fred Biletnikoff (best wide receiver)
Marvin Harrison Jr., Ohio State
Bronko Nagurski (defensive player of the year)
Edge Jared Verse, Florida State
Outland (best lineman)
T Olumuyiwa Fashanu, Penn State
Butkus (best linebacker)
Jeremiah Trotter, Clemson
Jim Thorpe (best defensive back)
CB Kool-Aid McKinstry, Alabama
Lou Groza (best kicker)
Ryan Coe, North Carolina
Price’s predicted major award winners
I know, I know, no player has won the Heisman Trophy twice since Archie Griffin won it in 1974 and 1975. My readers know that I hate picking chalk, but I think Williams is due to make history this season. Every quarterback in Lincoln Riley’s system has either put up better numbers each year in the system or the best numbers of their college careers. Williams is entering his third year in Riley’s system, dating back to their time at Oklahoma. The last quarterback we saw do that was Baker Mayfield, who won the Heisman in that third year. Williams is also a heavy favorite to win the award.
Michigan has relied heavily on its run game the last two seasons, with its top two rushers accounting for a combined 801 carries. I expect the same to happen this season. Remember, Corum rushed for almost 1,500 yards and 18 touchdowns last season. The only way he might not win the Doak Walker Award is if Michigan manages his workload and gives his backup the same amount of carries. There might be a new quarterback at Ohio State, but I don’t think that’s going to prevent Harrison Jr. from winning the Biletnikoff Award. He’s regarded as the best wide receiver prospect in the 2024 NFL Draft and I think the Ohio State coaching staff is going to find ways to get him the ball.
I had a difficult time giving the Outland Trophy to anyone but Fashanu. Not only is he expected to be the best offensive lineman in the country, but he’s going to pave the way for what should be an excellent rushing attack for Penn State. I struggled with the Lou Groza Award, but I eventually landed on Coe. North Carolina ought to have one of the best offenses in the country and should move the ball with ease, so Coe should see plenty of kicking opportunities.
As for the Nagurski Trophy, I think Verse should be considered the favorite. He’s arguably the best pass rusher in college football after accumulating nine sacks and 17 tackles for loss last season. I couldn’t think of any linebackers with a better chance of winning the Butkus Award than Trotter. He showed a lot of promise last year and I expect him to improve. The best defensive back in the country is arguably McKinstry, so he had to be my pick to win the Jim Thorpe Award. When it comes to defensive backs, I have a lot of trust in Nick Saban to develop them.
Clemson Tigers quarterback Cade Klubnik (2) throws a pass during the first half of the 2022 Orange Bowl against the Tennessee Volunteers at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
It actually wasn’t as easy to pick Clemson to win the ACC this season as opposed to previous seasons. There’s a lot of uncertainty facing the Tigers. Mainly, how much will Cade Klubnik improve as a quarterback and whether he’ll mesh with new offensive coordinator Garrett Riley. However, Clemson should still have the most talented team in the conference. The Tigers also benefit from playing Florida State, North Carolina, and Notre Dame at home. I’m not convinced Clemson can make the College Football Playoff, but a trip to the Orange Bowl is a reasonable expectation.
If any team is going to beat out Clemson to win the ACC, I think it’s Florida State. The Seminoles are returning a lot of talent from a team that won 10 games last year. However, I’m not ready to believe that head coach Mike Norvell has the program ready to take the next step. North Carolina is certainly talented enough to win the conference, but I have reservations about its defense, which allowed 31.3 points per game last year against FBS competition. Having Drake Maye at quarterback will put the Tar Heels in a good spot to win a lot of games, though.
I’m going out on a limb and picking Duke to improve from last year, even though its schedule is going to be incredibly difficult. I think head coach Mike Elko has the Blue Devils heading in the right direction. We’re going to find out just how good of a coach Mario Cristobal is, but there’s too much talent on Miami’s roster for the team to be as bad as it was last year. Even though I’m high on Jeff Brohm as a head coach, I think Louisville’s quarterback situation could hold the team back. I’m not convinced that Syracuse is going to improve much after sneaking up on the ACC last year.
I don’t know how good NC State or Virginia Tech are going to be, but both teams have manageable non-conference schedules. I think that’ll propel them to bowl eligibility. This could be a long season for Pitt. The Panthers have a brutal non-conference schedule and are losing a lot of production from last year. I think Pat Narduzzi deserves the benefit of the doubt, though. Dave Clawson and Wake Forest will likely have a difficult time getting to an eighth-straight bowl game without quarterback Sam Hartman.
Texas Longhorns quarterback Quinn Ewers (3) throws a pass during the first half against the Kansas Jayhawks at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports
Big 12
Team
Record
1
Texas*
11-2 (8-1)
2
Texas Tech
9-4 (7-2)
3
Kansas State
9-3 (6-3)
4
Oklahoma
9-3 (6-3)
5
TCU
8-4 (5-4)
6
UCF
7-5 (5-4)
7
Baylor
7-5 (5-4)
8
Oklahoma State
8-4 (5-4)
9
Kansas
7-5 (4-5)
10
West Virginia
6-6 (4-5)
11
BYU
5-7 (3-6)
12
Houston
4-8 (2-7)
13
Cincinnati
4-8 (2-7)
14
Iowa State
3-9 (1-8)
Price’s Big 12 projections (* conference championship winner)
I realize that college football fans are fatigued with Texas. Time and time again the Longhorns have entered the season with so much hype only to fall on their faces by the end. However, I think this team is different. Steve Sarkisian has done an excellent job assembling talent. I think Texas has the right pieces both on the perimeter and in the trenches to make a run at the Big 12 championship. I also like the options the Longhorns have at quarterback in Quinn Ewers or Arch Manning. If either of them play at a high level, Texas has a chance to make the Playoff.
I’ve been talking myself into Texas Tech recently. The Red Raiders are returning a lot of production from last year. They also benefit from playing Kansas State and TCU at home. This will likely be Texas Tech’s best chance to win the Big 12 since the Mike Leach era. I expect Kansas State to be near the top of the conference despite the departure of running back Deuce Vaughn. The Wildcats might have the best offensive line and defensive line combination in the Big 12, besides Texas. Quarterback Will Howard improved a lot last year, too. Kansas State has a good chance to defend the conference title.
I expect Oklahoma to show improvement in Brent Venables’ second season. The Sooners have too much talent to finish below .500 again. TCU likely takes a step back (maybe even further than I think) after so much going its way last year and losing a lot of production from that team. UCF will have its growing pains in Year 1 in the Big 12. The Knights are a talented team and Gus Malzahn is a proven head coach, though. I wouldn’t be surprised if Baylor finishes lower than seventh, but I’m banking on Dave Aranda to turn things around. I’m very uncertain about Oklahoma State, but its non-conference schedule is manageable. Mike Gundy also seems to surprise everyone when expectations are low.
Kansas won’t be able to surprise anyone this year. However, I doubt the Jayhawks regress much. Jalon Daniels is a very underrated quarterback and Kansas is returning a lot of production from last year. I’m more optimistic about West Virginia than I should be, even though I have no trust in Neal Brown and his staff. The Mountaineers are returning several key players in the trenches and have a good backfield. I feel like that should be enough to get WVU to bowl eligibility. After the recent news out of the program, I’ll be very surprised if Iowa State doesn’t finish near the bottom of the Big 12.
Michigan Wolverines running back Blake Corum (2) stiff arms Nebraska Cornhuskers defensive back Malcolm Hartzog (13) in the first half at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Big Ten
East Division
Record
West Division
Record
1
Michigan*
12-1 (8-1)
Wisconsin
10-3 (7-2)
2
Ohio State
11-1 (8-1)
Iowa
9-3 (6-3)
3
Penn State
10-2 (7-2)
Minnesota
7-5 (5-4)
4
Maryland
8-4 (5-4)
Illinois
6-6 (4-5)
5
Michigan State
6-6 (4-5)
Nebraska
6-6 (4-5)
6
Indiana
3-9 (1-8)
Purdue
5-7 (3-6)
7
Rutgers
3-9 (1-8)
Northwestern
2-10 (0-9)
Price’s Big Ten projections (* conference championship winner)
Michigan has proven the last two seasons that it runs the Big Ten. I see no reason to think otherwise this season. The Wolverines are returning a lot of production on both sides of the ball, including starting quarterback J.J. McCarthy and leading rusher Corum. They also have the right pieces in the trenches on both sides of the ball. Michigan benefits from playing Ohio State at home, too. I’m not convinced that the Wolverines will finish the regular season undefeated like last year, but I expect them to win the Big Ten and be in the Playoff conversation for a third-straight season.
Ohio State has what it takes to win the Big Ten from a talent standpoint. I’m not sure I trust Ryan Day to do it, though. The Buckeyes have been passed over by Michigan recently. Plus, Ohio State is breaking in a new quarterback and I don’t know what to expect. The next team that I think can win the Big Ten is Penn State. This could be the best collection of talent the Nittany Lions have had in recent years. Penn State is in great shape in the trenches, backfield, and secondary. My concern with the Nittany Lions is their uncertainty at the quarterback and wide receiver positions.
I’m expecting Luke Fickell to have a smooth transition in his first year at Wisconsin. There will be growing pains, but Fickell brought in a nice haul of players from the transfer portal. The Badgers also benefit from being in the West division. Maryland actually has some talent on its roster, but it’s in one of the most difficult divisions in college football. The Terrapins should consider it a success if they get to eight wins. I’m not sure how good Iowa or Minnesota will be this season, but their schedules are manageable.
I’m tired of Bret Bielema proving me wrong every year, which is why I have Illinois getting to bowl eligibility. I’m very curious to see how much success Matt Rhule has in his first year at Nebraska. I think he’s inheriting some talent and he brought in a good transfer portal class. Mel Tucker likely has to get Michigan State to bowl eligibility to have a chance to keep his job. That’s not out of the question since the Spartans face Washington, Maryland, Michigan, Nebraska, and Penn State all at home. I expect Purdue to struggle in Ryan Walters’ first season as head coach.
USC Trojans head coach Lincoln Riley reacts to a touchdown against the Utah Utes in the first quarter at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-USA TODAY Sports
It’s a shame that in the last year of the Pac-12 (as we know it) the conference is at its most interesting. I had a difficult time picking against USC to win the Pac-12 this season. The Trojans are returning the Heisman Trophy winner from last year in Williams. They also return a lot of production and brought in a strong transfer portal class. My only reservation is USC’s defense, which struggled at times a season ago. At the end of the day, the Trojans are going to be a talented team. I also trust Riley, who’s never won fewer than 10 games in a full season as a head coach.
The top of the Pac-12 is loaded with quality teams in Washington, Utah, and Oregon. Each of those teams are returning great quarterbacks and have enough talent to win a lot of games. Each of those teams also play each other, too, including USC. It’s going to be a gauntlet for the teams at the top of the conference. I give the slight edge to the Huskies as the team that’s going to be in the Pac-12 Championship because they get Oregon and Utah at home. However, if either the Utes or Ducks are in the conference championship, I wouldn’t be the least bit surprised.
I also wouldn’t sleep on Oregon State as a team that could win the Pac-12. Jonathan Smith has done an excellent job building up the Beavers, and they made an upgrade at quarterback by grabbing D.J. Uiagalelei from the transfer portal. I expect UCLA to regress a little bit, but Chip Kelly has that program in a good spot. I think the Bruins will be fine. Arizona and Washington State have what it takes to finish higher in the Pac-12 standings. Both teams are going to be scrappy, but I’m not convinced they have the horses on their roster to hang with the top teams in the conference.
With the exception of Stanford, I think the bottom of the Pac-12 is somewhat strong. Cal and Arizona State have enough talent to get to bowl eligibility, but I need to see it happen. Everyone is going to be interested in watching Deion Sanders in his first year as Colorado’s head coach. The Buffaloes have some talent after hauling in the No. 1 transfer portal class. I just have a hard time seeing Sanders turning things around there in a single offseason after the program went 1-11 last year.
Alabama Crimson Tide running back Jase McClellan (2) runs the ball against Kansas State Wildcats Kansas State Wildcats safety VJ Payne (19) during the second half in the 2022 Sugar Bowl at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Wevers-USA TODAY Sports
I went back and forth on which team to pick to win the SEC. I eventually landed on Alabama. Contrary to what some people think, I don’t believe the Nick Saban dynasty is over. The Crimson Tide had some bad luck last year — losing two games by a total of four points. This Alabama team will likely have a formidable rushing attack, which shouldn’t be overlooked. The best Saban-coached teams had run-heavy offenses. I also think Saban revamping his coaching staff by hiring Tommy Rees and Kevin Steele as his coordinators could rejuvenate the Crimson Tide.
I might not have Georgia winning the SEC, but I’m still very high on the Bulldogs. They have a roster loaded with talent. I have no doubt that Kirby Smart will just reload after losing so many players to the NFL last year. I think the pundits are a little too high on LSU entering this season. The Tigers were eight points away from being a 7-5 team last year. I expect LSU to progress under Brian Kelly, but I think the program is at least another year from potentially being a national championship contender.
I’m going to bet on Jimbo Fisher to get Texas A&M back on track this season. He’s too good of a head coach and the Aggies have too much talent to have another disastrous season like they did last year. I don’t anticipate Tennessee to drop off too much despite losing some highly-regarded players to the NFL. Josh Heupel has the Volunteers in a good spot right now, and I think Joe Milton will be a solid quarterback. Ole Miss has a chance to finish higher in the West. The Rebels lost some close games last year and return a lot of production from that team. I also wouldn’t doubt Lane Kiffin.
Arkansas, Florida, and South Carolina are all in the same boat. They’re teams with enough talent to win a lot of games, but have incredibly difficult schedules. I wanted to give each of those teams more wins, but struggled to find them. Getting quarterback Devin Leary out of the transfer portal is going to help Kentucky a lot this season. He’s a solid player that should help the Wildcats be competitive. I expect both Mississippi State and Auburn to have growing pains this season since they both have first-year head coaches.
Notre Dame Fighting Irish head coach Marcus Freeman sings the Notre Dame Alma Mater with his players after the Notre Dame Fighting Irish defeated the UNLV Rebels at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports
Notre Dame
Projected record: 9-3
I don’t think Notre Dame has received enough credit for how it finished last season. Remember, the Fighting Irish started 0-2, with losses to Ohio State and Marshall, and it felt like they were in for a long season. However, they rebounded and won nine of their last 11 games. Notre Dame is returning a lot of production from last year, and also made a big splash in the transfer portal by landing Hartman. The Fighting Irish have a good chance of making an appearance in a New Year’s Six bowl game, but they have a difficult schedule. They have road games at NC State, Duke, Louisville, and Clemson, along with home games against Ohio State and USC. I think this could be a scenario where Notre Dame is a better team than it was last season, but it doesn’t show up in the win column.
UTSA Roadrunners quarterback Frank Harris (0) celebrates a touchdown in the first half against the North Texas Mean Green at the Alamodome. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Dunn-USA TODAY Sports
Group of 5 representative in the New Year’s Six
Pick: UTSA Projected record: 11-2
Everyone is going to pick Tulane to be the Group of 5 representative in a New Year’s Six bowl game this season. I wanted to go against the grain and pick UTSA, though. Jeff Traylor has done an excellent job building up the Roadrunners – winning 30 games the last three seasons. UTSA also returns a lot of experience and production on both sides of the ball. The Roadrunners might also have the best quarterback at the Group of 5 level in Frank Harris, who’s thrown for 71 touchdowns and ran for over 1,600 yards the last three years. Another reason why I like UTSA’s chances of making it to a New Year’s Six bowl game is its move to the American, which will garner more respect from the playoff committee. Seven times in the last nine years has the Group of 5 representative been from the American.
New Year’s Six projections
Bowl game
Team
Team
Sugar (College Football Playoff semifinal)
No. 4 Ohio State
No. 1 Alabama
Rose (College Football Playoff semifinal)
No. 3 Georgia
No. 2 Michigan
Cotton (at-large vs at-large)
Oregon
Texas
Orange (ACC vs. Big Ten/Notre Dame/SEC
LSU
Clemson
Fiesta (at-large vs at-large)
Penn State
USC
Peach (at-large vs at-large)
UTSA
Florida State
Price’s projections for the New Year’s Six bowl games
College Football Playoff National Championship
No. 2 Michigan vs. No. 1 Alabama
Since not many teams at the top of college football are returning quality starting quarterbacks, I think that means that the teams that run the ball effectively will be in a better position to win. The two teams that I think will be the best in that department are Alabama and Michigan. They’re two of the most complete teams heading into the season. The Crimson Tide and the Wolverines should have imposing rushing attacks, solid defenses, and plenty of talent elsewhere on their rosters. I’m also not going to shortchange either team at the quarterback position. McCarthy performed well for Michigan last year as a sophomore. Alabama has yet to name a starter, but I think it’ll be fine wither either Jalen Milroe or Tyler Buchner. Both players were highly recruited out of high school.
Alabama Crimson Tide head coach Nick Saban looks on against the LSU Tigers during the first half at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports
Let me take you back to late Sept. 2015. Alabama hadn’t won a national championship in two years and sustained a loss to Ole Miss at home in Week 3. Everyone thought the Saban dynasty was over at the time. The Crimson Tide then won 12 games in a row, including the national championship. This year feels similar to 2015. Alabama hasn’t won a national championship in two years and everyone, again, thinks the Saban dynasty is over. I, obviously, don’t share that opinion.
I think the pundits are putting too much stock in the Crimson Tide’s quarterback battle. They’re not the only team at the top of college football breaking in a new starter. Plus, Alabama has won national championships in the Saban era despite not having a great quarterback. Those teams ran the ball effectively, controlled the time of possession, prevented opponents from scoring too many points, and had a quarterback that limited turnovers. I expect the Crimson Tide to return to their roots and play that way this season, which is why I’m picking them to win it all.
“I’m not following you, I’m looking for you. There’s a big difference.”
– Martin Stett, “The Conversation” (1974)
Tulane Green Wave quarterback Michael Pratt (7) throws a pass against the Cincinnati Bearcats in the first half at Nippert Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-USA TODAY Sports
We’ve had a tumultuous last few weeks in regards to conference realignment, leading to the demise of the Pac-12. That’s where everyone’s attention, including myself, has been recently. It’s to the point that I think people have forgotten that college football games will be played a little over a week from now. It’s hard to believe, right?
I wanted to start previewing the season by writing a blog post about which Group of 5 teams have a legitimate chance to make a New Year’s Six bowl game this season.
This topic might not draw a lot of interest, but Group of 5 teams have actually had success in the New Year’s Six since getting a guaranteed spot in 2014. Boise State beat Arizona in the Fiesta Bowl in 2014, Houston beat Florida State in the Peach Bowl in 2015, UCF beat Auburn in the Peach Bowl in 2017, and Tulane beat USC in the Cotton Bowl last year. Cincinnati even snuck into the College Football Playoff in 2021, and almost beat Georgia in the Sugar Bowl in 2020.
So, which Group of 5 teams could find themselves in the New Year’s Six? I did my best to narrow it down to nine teams (of 64) Remember, BYU, Cincinnati, Houston, and UCF are now Power 5 schools, but Jacksonville State and Sam Houston State are making the jump from FCS to Group of 5.
American Athletic Conference
Florida Atlantic Owls wide receiver LaJohntay Wester (1) celebrates a touchdown with wide receiver Tony Johnson (16) during the second quarter against the Purdue Boilermakers at Ross-Ade Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marc Lebryk-USA TODAY Sports
Florida Atlantic Owls 2022 record: 5-7 Returning production: 83% (68% offensively, 99% defensively) Average rating per recruit in last four recruiting classes: 83 Transfer portal rank: No. 79 Vegas projected win total: 7.5
Say what you want about Tom Herman as a head coach, but he had a lot of success when he was previously at the Group of 5 level at Houston. Florida Atlantic also ranks in the top five in all of college football in returning production, which includes its top two rushers, four of its top five pass catchers, and a stout offensive line. One question mark is the quarterback position, but the Owls picked up two Power 5 quarterbacks in the transfer portal in Michael Johnson (Penn State) and Casey Thompson (Nebraska and Texas). FAU has also recruited well in recent years, so Herman should have a talented roster. The Owls have a difficult schedule, featuring non-conference road games against Clemson and Illinois, but I think their conference slate is manageable. I wouldn’t count this team out.
Memphis Tigers tight end Caden Prieskorn (86) and wide receiver Eddie Lewis (18) react after a touchdown during the first half against the North Alabama Lions at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports
Memphis Tigers 2022 record: 7-6 Returning production: 63% (67% offensively, 59% defensively) Average rating per recruit in last four recruiting classes: 84.52 Transfer portal rank: No. 73 Vegas projected win total: 8.5
Memphis has fallen off since Mike Norvell’s departure since 2020 – posting a record of 21-15 the last three seasons. I’m not ready to start doubting the Tigers, who’ve ranked near the top of The American almost every season since the conference was formed in 2013. One of the main reasons why I like Memphis’ chances to be competitive is because it’s one of 17 teams at the Group of 5 level that returns its head coach, both coordinators, and starting quarterback. Not other team in The American can say that. I think that’s significant because the Tigers also return a good amount of production on both sides of the ball. Memphis has a winnable game against Missouri at a neutral site in Week 4, and get Tulane at home a few weeks later. Those two games will likely determine the Tigers’ season.
Southern Methodist Mustangs tight end RJ Maryland (82) celebrates a touchdown against the Tulane Green Wave during the first half at Yulman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Wevers-USA TODAY Sports
SMU Mustangs 2022 record: 7-6 Returning production: 52% (56% offensively, 48% defensively) Average rating per recruit in last four recruiting classes: 85.32 Transfer portal rank: No. 15 Vegas projected win total: 8.5
I think SMU was much better last season than its record would indicate. The Mustangs lost four games by a combined 18 points despite averaging 37.2 points per game. SMU lost a bit of production, including quarterback Tanner Mordecai, but it also brought in one of the top transfer portal classes. There’s a lot riding on presumed starting quarterback Preston Stone, but he ought to have a good supporting class around him. The Mustangs return their top three rushers and five of their top seven pass catchers. They also bolstered their offensive line by bringing in four transfers from the Power 5 level. SMU’s schedule won’t make things easy, though. The Mustangs have road games against Oklahoma, TCU, and Memphis. This team still has enough talent to make some noise, though.
Tulane Green Wave head coach Willie Fritz during the first quarter against the Tulsa Golden Hurricane at Skelly Field at H.A. Chapman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports
Tulane Mean Green 2022 record: 12-2 Returning production: 71% (73% offensively, 68% defensively) Average rating per recruit in last four recruiting classes: 83.93 Transfer portal rank: No. 83 Vegas projected win total: 9.5
With Cincinnati, Houston, and UCF now in the Big 12, I think Tulane is prepared to take the mantle as the team to beat in The American. We actually saw it happen last year. The Green Wave finished 12-2, won The American, and even defeated USC in the Cotton Bowl. They lost their leading rusher, top two wide receivers, and tackler from last year’s team, but they still have a lot of production returning, including quarterback Michael Pratt and four starters on the offensive line. I also think Tulane’s schedule is manageable. The Green Wave get Ole Miss, UAB, and UTSA at home, and the only road game they won’t have a talent advantage will likely be against Memphis. If they can beat Ole Miss in Week 2, they’re going to be in a good spot to return to a New Year’s Six bowl game.
UTSA Roadrunners wide receiver Zakhari Franklin (4) runs for a touchdown in the second half against the North Texas Mean Green at the Alamodome. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Dunn-USA TODAY Sports
UTSA Roadrunners 2022 record: 11-3 Returning production: 52% (56% offensively, 48% defensively) Average rating per recruit in last four recruiting classes: 83.82 Transfer portal rank: No. 93 Vegas projected win total: 7.5
UTSA might not return much overall production, but there’s a strong argument to be made that this team has the best quarterback/head coach combination in The American. Jeff Traylor has a record of 30-10 in three seasons with the Roadrunners, including winning at least 11 games each of the last two years. Three-year starting quarterback Frank Harris has also completed 67% of his passes, averaged 7.9 yards per pass attempt, and thrown 71 touchdowns in his career. That’s not even counting leading rusher Kevorian Barnes and three of the team’s top four receivers also return. UTSA has a brutal schedule, though, with road games at Houston, Tennessee, FAU, and Tulane. As long as the Roadrunners have Traylor and Harris, they’re going to have a chance to win a lot of games.
MAC
Toledo Rockets quarterback Dequan Finn (7) throws a pass against the San Diego State Aztecs during the first half at Snapdragon Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports
Toledo Rockets 2022 record: 9-5 Returning production: 77% (82% offensively, 72% defensively) Average rating per recruit in last four recruiting classes: 82.99 Transfer portal rank: No. 108 (tied) Vegas projected win total: 8.5
I’d keep an eye on Toledo this season. The Rockets finished last season on a high note – winning seven of their last 10 games – and averaged 31.1 points per game during that stretch. Toledo ranks No. 11 in the country in returning production, including its starting quarterback Dequan Finn, top four leading rushers, top two pass catchers, four starters along the offensive line, and good players from a solid defense. Head coach Jason Candle has also had continuity on his staff, with all of his coordinators entering their fourth season. I also think the Rockets have a manageable schedule. They get Buffalo, Eastern Michigan, and Northern Illinois at home, and have a winnable road game against Illinois in Week 1. It feels like this is going to be Candle’s best team since he took over at Toledo.
Mountain West
Boise State Broncos quarterback Taylen Green (10) hands off to running back George Holani (24) during the first half against the Utah State Aggies at Albertsons Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Losness-USA TODAY Sports
Boise State Broncos 2022 record: 10-4 Returning production: 67% (78% offensively, 55% defensively) Average rating per recruit in last four recruiting classes: 84.36 Transfer portal rank: No. 85 Vegas projected win total: 7.5
I don’t care how long it’s been since Boise State was on the national stage. I’m always going to include the Broncos on this list. Boise State actually had a very quiet 10-win season last year, with wins over San Diego State, Fresno State, and Air Force, before losing to Fresno State in a rematch in the Mountain West championship. The Broncos also return a good amount of production, including starting quarterback Taylen Green, their top three rushers, four of their top five receivers, and three starters on the offensive line. Head coach Andy Avalos has also proven that he can field a solid defense. The problem for Boise State is its schedule, which features road trips to Washington, San Diego State, and Memphis, and a home game against UCF just in the first half of the season.
Sun Belt
South Alabama Jaguars quarterback Carter Bradley (2) sets to pass in the first half against the UCLA Bruins at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
South Alabama Jaguars 2022 record: 10-3 Returning production: 77% (71% offensively, 82% defensively) Average rating per recruit in last four recruiting classes: 82.48 Transfer portal rank: No. 78 Vegas projected win total: 7.5
South Alabama has a chance to have a special season in head coach Kane Wommack’s third year with the program. The Jaguars rank No. 13 in returning production from a team that won 10 games last year. That includes their starting quarterback, top three leading rushers, five of their top seven pass catchers, and six of their best defensive players. South Alabama is going to have one of the tougher schedules in college football, though. The Jaguars have road games at Tulane, Oklahoma State, James Madison, and Troy, and then get Louisiana and Marshall at home. It’s going to be difficult for South Alabama to repeat its success from last season, but it’s going to have opportunities to impress the College Football Playoff Selection Committee with that schedule. That shouldn’t be overlooked.
Troy Trojans linebacker K.J. Robertson (7) runs after the interception against UTSA Roadrunners in the third quarter at Exploria Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Reper-USA TODAY Sports
Troy Trojans 2022 record: 12-2 Returning production: 60% (64% offensively, 55% defensively) Average rating per recruit in last four recruiting classes: 82.27 Transfer portal rank: No. 82 Vegas projected win total: 8.5
Troy is considered the favorite to win the Sun Belt and rightfully so. The Trojans won 12 games last year in Jon Sumrall’s first season as head coach, and hung tough against Ole Miss and Appalachian State. They could’ve finished with an even better record. Troy also returns a lot of production on both sides of the ball, including starting quarterback Gunnar Watson and two of its top three rushers. The main reason why I think the Trojans have a chance to get to a New Year’s Six bowl game is their schedule. They have two tough road games at Kansas State and Army in non-conference play, but they get James Madison, South Alabama, and Louisiana at home. Those last three games will likely decide the Sun Belt championship, which is played at the home stadium of the top team in the conference.
“What about my prime, Mick? At least you had a prime! I had no prime, I had nothin’!”
– Rocky Balboa, “Rocky” (1976)
Georgia Bulldogs head coach Kirby Smart holds the National Championship trophy after defeating the Alabama Crimson Tide in the 2022 CFP college football national championship game at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
It’s been in the works for a little over a year, but it’s now official that the College Football Playoff will expand to 12 teams starting in 2024.
Under the new format, the first round of the Playoff will be held at either the home field of the higher-seeded team or at another site designated by the higher-seeded team. The quarterfinal and semifinal games will be played in bowls (Cotton Bowl, Fiesta Bowl, Orange Bowl, Peach Bowl, Rose Bowl, and Sugar Bowl) on a rotating basis. Cities around the country will continue to bid to host the national championship.
The top four seeds, and the teams that will get first-round bye weeks, will be determined by the highest ranked conference champions in the selection committee’s rankings. The other eight spots will be determined by the next highest ranked teams, including a guaranteed spot for a Group of 5 representative.
The College Football Playoff will include 12 teams , starting with the 2024 season. https://t.co/scVp5MyLOH
No. 9 Kansas State (10-3) at No. 8 Tennessee (10-2) No. 12 Tulane (11-2) at No. 5 TCU (12-1) No. 11 Penn State (10-2) at No. 6 Ohio State (11-1) No. 10 USC (11-2) at No. 7 Alabama (10-2)
College football fans have been pounding the table for changes to the postseason for decades. It started with a simple structured format, which is how we got the BCS. Then, we wanted more of the pro model, which is how we got the Playoff. Unlike most college football fans, though, I haven’t been one to argue for an expanded playoff. It’s not because I don’t want the chance to watch more football (I do), nor that I’m worried that it might lessen the regular season (I’m not convinced that it will), nor that I’m against making money (I’m a capitalist).
So, what’s my issue with an expanded postseason? It comes down to the lack of parity in college football.
College Football Playoff executive director Bill Hancock during a CFP press conference at Banc of California Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
We’ve had a four-team playoff since 2014. During that time, we’ve had only 14 schools make an appearance. For context, there are currently 131 schools at the FBS level, which includes the Power 5 and Group of 5 conferences, and 65 of those schools (including Notre Dame) are members of Power 5 conferences. Thirteen of the 14 schools that have appeared in the Playoff have come from the Power 5 conferences and one from a Group of 5 conference (until next year).
That’s a mere 20% of Power 5 schools and 10.6% of FBS schools have made an appearance in the Playoff, which obviously isn’t a high percentage. Plus, five of those 13 Power 5 schools have made at least three appearances in nine years. So, close to 40% of the teams that have made the Playoff have been there more than once.
I realize that having a four-team playoff means fewer teams getting opportunities. However, when you factor in that five schools have used up 25 of the 36 playoff spots, the list of schools actually competing to win the national championship is very exclusive.
On top of that, the Playoff games haven’t been that competitive. The winning teams in the semifinal games have outscored the losing teams 617-280. Only three of the 16 semifinal games have been decided by one possession. The losing team in nine of those 16 games has been held to 20 or fewer points.
Yes, you’re reading those numbers right. Just take a look:
Year
Winner
Points
Loser
Points
2014
No. 2 Oregon
59
No. 3 Florida State
20
No. 4 Ohio State
42
No. 1 Alabama
35
2015
No. 1 Clemson
37
No. 4 Oklahoma
17
No. 2 Alabama
38
No. 3 Michigan State
0
2016
No. 1 Alabama
24
No. 4 Washington
7
No. 2 Clemson
31
No. 3 Ohio State
0
2017
No. 3 Georgia
54 (OT)
No. 2 Oklahoma
48 (OT)
No. 4 Alabama
24
No. 1 Clemson
6
2018
No. 1 Alabama
45
No. 4 Oklahoma
34
No. 2 Clemson
30
No. 3 Notre Dame
3
2019
No. 1 LSU
63
No. 4 Oklahoma
28
No. 3 Clemson
29
No. 2 Ohio State
23
2020
No. 1 Alabama
31
No. 4 Notre Dame
14
No. 3 Ohio State
49
No. 2 Clemson
28
2021
No. 1 Alabama
27
No. 4 Cincinnati
6
No. 3 Georgia
34
No. 2 Michigan
11
Point total
617
280
The outcomes of each of the College Football Playoff semifinal games since 2014
The national championships haven’t been that competitive either:
Year
Winner
Points
Loser
Points
2014
No. 4 Ohio State
42
No. 2 Oregon
20
2015
No. 2 Alabama
45
No. 1 Clemson
40
2016
No. 2 Clemson
35
No. 1 Alabama
31
2017
No. 4 Alabama
26 (OT)
No. 3 Georgia
23 (OT)
2018
No. 2 Clemson
44
No. 1 Alabama
16
2019
No. 1 LSU
42
No. 3 Clemson
25
2020
No. 1 Alabama
52
No. 3 Ohio State
24
2021
No. 3 Georgia
33
No. 1 Alabama
18
Point total
319
197
The outcomes of each of the College Football Playoff national championships since 2014
Remember back in the days of the BCS when we thought there were plenty of teams good enough to win the national championship? That’s why the four-team playoff was created, so that the schools that we thought weren’t getting a fair shake from the computer would get an opportunity. The four-team playoff format was designed to include the best of the best teams in college football on a yearly basis. However, I think the four-team playoff format has demonstrated is that there is a clear gap between the top programs with the rest of the country. That’s why only six of the 24 semifinal games/national championships that have been played have been decided by one possession.
Is the selection committee to blame for the lopsided results in the Playoff and national championships? Is it not getting the right four teams on a yearly basis? Possibly. I’ve had my issues with the committee over the years, but I actually think it’s been right more times than it’s been wrong when it comes to choosing the top four teams. My criticism of the committee has usually come from how it’s ranked teams outside of the top four spots.
Now, I want to be clear that I think some good can come from expanding the Playoff to 12 teams:
More opportunities for schools: As a lifelong fan and alumnus of a Tier 2 school, I’d be lying if I said I didn’t want to see it have a better chance to compete in the Playoff every season.
It should all but guarantee that the committee will get the teams right on a yearly basis: The argument every year is if the committee got the top four teams right and if the fifth- or sixth-best team in the rankings were snubbed. With 12 teams now getting in, that argument should be put to rest. However, there will still be the argument if the teams outside the top 10 were snubbed.
No more punishing teams for playing in a conference championship: One of the dumbest customs that we’ve accepted over the years is to punish schools for losing a conference championship. One of the best examples of this came in 2017. That year, Auburn beat Alabama in the Iron Bowl, rose to No. 2 in the committee’s rankings, and represented the SEC West division in the conference championship. Auburn went on to lose to Georgia – a team it beat in the regular season – in the SEC Championship. The committee dropped Auburn five spots the following week and put Alabama in the Playoff. Auburn then had to compete in the Peach Bowl and watch Alabama go on to win the national championship. I’ve always hated that custom because it makes zero sense. A team shouldn’t be punished for playing in a 13th game, and another team shouldn’t be rewarded because it didn’t have to play a 13th game. With the committee keeping TCU in the Playoff this year despite losing its conference championship, I think we might be seeing the end to that custom. That’s especially going to be true with an expanded playoff.
The College Football Playoff National Championship trophy on display during a 2023 CFP National Championship Kickoff press conference at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
I’ll wrap this post up by saying that there isn’t enough talent spread out to justify expanding the Playoff. There’s a parity problem in college football right now. The lopsided results of the semifinal games/national championships prove that. Do you think the lower seeded teams have a realistic chance of knocking off the No. 1 or No. 2 team in the quarterfinal round on a yearly basis? The evidence shows that the answer to that question is no.
With college football being so top heavy, why would the powers that be choose to expand the Playoff? We all know the answer to that is money. Adding more schools means more games, which means more money lining everyone’s pockets.
Yes, an expanded playoff will lead to more opportunities for the Tier 2 and Tier 3 schools to crack the Playoff. However, it’s also going to lead to more opportunities for the Tier 1 schools that haven’t been able to crack the four-team playoff so far. Let’s not kid ourselves, those are the schools that have the most to gain from this decision. The committee is much more likely to choose Tier 1 schools with large alumni bases that can move the needle, which will lead to even more money, over the Tier 2 or Tier 3 that don’t have the same amount of resources.
My thought process has always been that, if you want to expand the Playoff, add two more teams and give bye weeks to the two highest-ranked teams. Instead, we’re diving headfirst into the deep end by adding eight schools. I’m not convinced that that’s necessary and will only lead to more lopsided results.
Like everyone else, though, I’ll still tune in to watch.
Coastal Carolina Chanticleers quarterback Bryce Carpenter (12) celebrates a touchdown run with offensive linemen Trey Carter (63) and offensive linemen Antwine Loper (72) during the second half against the Arkansas State Red Wolves at Centennial Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports
No. 14 Coastal Carolina (6-0) at Appalachian State (4-2)
Kidd Brewer Stadium
Boone, N.C.
Line: CC -5
O/U: 61.5
I realize that Coastal Carolina hasn’t really played anyone this season. The FBS teams that the Chanticleers have played have a combined record of 9-22. That makes picking Appalachian State very tempting, especially with the game in Boone, but I actually think Coastal Carolina is legit. The Chanticleers have outscored teams by a combined score of 241-76, and Jamey Chadwell is establishing himself as one of the better Group of 5 head coaches. The Mountaineers’ defense has been pretty vulnerable – allowing 23.5 points and 139.2 rushing yards per game. I think Appalachian State is going to have a tough time slowing down Coastal Carolina’s offense, which averages 263.5 yards per game on the ground.
Prediction: Coastal Carolina 31, Appalachian State 24
Saturday:
Michigan Wolverines quarterback Cade McNamara (12) hands off the ball to running back Hassan Haskins (25) during the first quarter against the Nebraska Cornhuskers at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dylan Widger-USA TODAY Sports
Northwestern (3-3) at No. 6 Michigan (6-0)
Michigan Stadium
Ann Arbor, Mich.
Line: MICH -23.5
O/U: 51
This might be a long game for Northwestern. Usually, the Wildcats have a pretty good defense, but not so much this season. They’re allowing 32.7 points per game against Power 5 competition, and are giving up an average of 205.7 rushing yards per game and 5.4 yards per attempt. Michigan has the best rushing offense in the Big Ten – averaging 246.5 yards per game and 5.5 yards per attempt. Even if Northwestern can find a way to slow down the Wolverines’ rushing attack, I still expect Cade McNamara to be able to make plays in the passing game.
Prediction: Michigan 38, Northwestern 14
Wake Forest Demon Deacons defensive back Ja’Sir Taylor (6) celebrates his fumble recovery with teammates against the Syracuse Orange during the second half at the Carrier Dome. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports
No. 16 Wake Forest (6-0) at Army (4-2)
Michie Stadium
West Point, N.Y.
Line: WAKE -3
O/U: 52.5
We should know by now to not overlook Army. Jeff Monken has done an excellent job building up the Black Knights into a respectable Group of 5 program. This won’t be an easy game for Wake Forest. I actually think Army matches up very well with the Demon Deacons. The Black Knights have one of the best rushing attacks in the country – averaging 295 yards per game and 4.7 yards per attempt. Wake Forest has a hard time defending the run – allowing 173 yards per game. Army very well could dominate the time of possession and limit the number of times the Demon Deacons have the ball. However, I will go with Wake Forest to win. The Demon Deacons have more talent and a very explosive offense, which averages 38.6 points per game, to make up for the potential lack of possessions.
Prediction: Wake Forest 24, Army 21
Wisconsin Badgers wide receiver Danny Davis III (7) celebrates with fullback John Chenal (44) after catching a pass against the Army Black Knights during the second quarter at Camp Randall Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Wisconsin (3-3) at No. 25 Purdue (4-2)
Ross-Ade Stadium
West Lafayette, Ind.
Line: WIS -3
O/U: 40
Purdue doesn’t run the ball well at all – ranking dead last in the Big Ten, with just 88.8 rushing yards per game and 2.8 yards per rush. Wisconsin’s defense is one of the best in the country at stopping the run, and does a good job against the pass. I feel so compelled to pick the Badgers to win this game, but I can’t bring myself to do it. I’ve been burned too many times by them this season. The winner of this game is probably going to be which team can do a better job airing it out, and I give that advantage to Purdue. Despite Wisconsin winning two games in a row, Graham Mertz hasn’t played well in those games. The Boilermakers are coming off a big win over Iowa and I think Jeff Brohm will have his team ready for a home game against the battered Badgers.
Prediction: Purdue 20, Wisconsin 13
UCLA Bruins running back Zach Charbonnet (24) rushes against the Washington Huskies during the fourth quarter at Alaska Airlines Field at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
No. 10 Oregon (5-1) at UCLA (5-2)
Rose Bowl
Pasadena, Calif.
Line: UCLA -1.5
O/U: 59.5
I was originally going to go with Oregon to win this game, but I changed my mind and decided to pick UCLA. The Ducks have a very good rushing attack, but the Bruins’ defense is actually very good against the run – allowing just 91 yards per game 3.0 yards per attempt. If Oregon can’t get the run game going, I highly doubt quarterback Anthony Brown, who has been inconsistent, is good enough to lead the Ducks to a win through the air. Oregon also just hasn’t looked the same since its win over Ohio State. I think UCLA has the head coaching advantage with Chip Kelly and he should have his team ready to make a statement this week.
Prediction: UCLA 27, Oregon 24
Mississippi Rebels head coach Lane Kiffin looks on during the first half against the Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bryan Lynn-USA TODAY Sports
LSU (4-3) at No. 12 Ole Miss (5-1)
Vaught-Hemingway Stadium
Oxford, Miss.
Line: MISS -9.5
O/U: 76
How does LSU respond after the news that Ed Orgeron won’t return as head coach after this season? I doubt the Tigers are just going to mail it in. Orgeron is a players’ coach and I think LSU is going to try to send him off on a high note. This is going to be a tough game to win, though. The Tigers haven’t been very good on the road – they’ve been outscored 105-76 in three games. Also, I think the injuries that LSU has sustained recently are going to be a problem at some point. That feels like it’s going to be this week. I doubt the Tigers are going to be able to slow down Ole Miss’ offense, which is averaging 55.6 points per game at home.
Prediction: Ole Miss 42, LSU 38
Pittsburgh Panthers quarterback Kenny Pickett (8) drops to throw a pass during the first quarter against the Virginia Tech Hokies at Lane Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports
Clemson (4-2) at No. 23 Pitt (5-1)
Heinz Field
Pittsburgh
Line: PITT -3.5
O/U: 48
As a West Virginia fan, I hate to do it, but I’m going to go with Pitt to win this game. I just have zero trust in Clemson’s offense right now, which is averaging 322.3 total yards per game, 20.5 points per game, and 4.5 yards per play. That’s not going to be good enough to outscore Kenny Pickett and the Panthers’ explosive offense, which averages 533.5 total yards and 48.3 points per game. I expect the Tigers to be able to get a few stops, but I don’t think their offense is good enough to capitalize on opportunities to outscore Pitt.
Prediction: Pitt 28, Clemson 21
Minnesota Golden Gophers running back Bryce Williams (21) runs for a 56-yard touchdown against the Nebraska Cornhuskers during the fourth quarter at Huntington Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nick Wosika-USA TODAY Sports
Maryland (4-2) at Minnesota (4-2)
TCF Bank Stadium
Minneapolis
Line: MINN -5
O/U: 54.5
If this game was in College Park, Md., I’d probably go with Maryland. The Terrapins have an extra week to prepare and Minnesota struggles at times to defend the pass. The strength of Maryland’s team is its passing game. I still think the Terrapins might be able to exploit the Golden Gophers through the air. However, Maryland’s offense hasn’t been very good on the road – averaging just 18.5 points and committing four turnovers in two games. Minnesota has home-field advantage and the better head coach. This feels like a game the Golden Gophers are going to win.
Prediction: Minnesota 33, Maryland 23
Alabama Crimson Tide head coach Nick Saban reacts after a play against the Mississippi State Bulldogs during the second quarter at Davis Wade Stadium at Scott Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Bush-USA TODAY Sports
Tennessee (4-3) at No. 4 Alabama (6-1)
Bryant-Denny Stadium
Tuscaloosa, Ala.
Line: ALA -25
O/U: 67
In order to beat Alabama, you have to have a good enough defense to prevent the Crimson Tide from scoring too many points. I’m not sure Tennessee has what it takes to do that. The Volunteers are about middle of the pack in the SEC in scoring defense – allowing 22.9 points per game. Alabama’s offense is one of the best in college football. I expect the Crimson Tide to move the ball at will on Tennessee, especially with the game in Tuscaloosa. The Volunteers might be able to score on Alabama’s defense, but it won’t be enough to win the game.
Prediction: Alabama 45, Tennessee 24
Air Force Falcons quarterback Haaziq Daniels (4) scores a touchdown during the first half of play against the Boise State Broncos at Albertsons Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Losness-USA TODAY Sports
No. 22 San Diego State (6-0) at Air Force (6-1)
Falcon Stadium
USAF Academy, Colo.
Line: AF -3.5
O/U: 40
I have no idea what to make of San Diego State. I see the number before its name, but I doubt the Aztecs are that good. The FBS teams they’ve played have a combined record of 10-23, and two of those wins came in overtime. I feel really compelled to pick Air Force, but I’ll take San Diego State. Like Army, you have to be really good against the run to beat Air Force, and the Aztecs have one of the best rush defenses in college football – allowing just 61.2 yards per game and 2.1 yards per attempt. I think the Falcons are going to have a difficult time moving the chains against San Diego State.
Prediction: San Diego State 20, Air Force 17
Utah Utes quarterback Cameron Rising (7) drops back to pass in the first quarter against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-USA TODAY Sports
Utah (4-2) at Oregon State (4-2)
Reser Stadium
Corvallis, Ore.
Line: UTAH -3
O/U: 56
I’m kind of tempted to pick Oregon State. I guess because I didn’t have high expectations for the Beavers going into this season and they’re off to a strong start, and they’re home underdogs this week. I think they’re going to be ready to play to send a message to the rest of the country that they’re for real. I’m just not sure I see it happening, though. Oregon State’s best wins have come against USC and Washington – two teams that have significantly underperformed. Utah has been playing very well in its last three games – outscoring teams 101-60 – and has the better head coach. I won’t overthink this. The Utes feel like the better team and should get the win.
Prediction: Utah 31, Oregon State 27
Game of the week:
Iowa State Cyclones quarterback Brock Purdy (15) rolls out against the Kansas State Wildcats during the second quarter at Bill Snyder Family Football Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Sewell-USA TODAY Sports
No. 8 Oklahoma State (6-0) at Iowa State (4-2)
Jack Trice Stadium
Ames, Iowa
Line: ISU -7
O/U: 47
I hate picking against Oklahoma State again, but I don’t think the Cowboys match up very well in this game. Oklahoma State’s rushing attack is very misleading. The Cowboys are averaging 169.3 rushing yards per game, but only 3.6 yards per attempt. They might run the ball a lot, but they’re not very effective at it. Iowa State’s defense is one of the best in the country at stopping the run – allowing 97.7 yards per game and 2.8 yards per attempt. Oklahoma State is probably going to have to rely on quarterback Spencer Sanders, who has been very inconsistent, to get the win. The Cowboys have a pretty good defense, but I have more trust in Brock Purdy, Breece Hall, and the rest of the Cyclones’ offense.
Prediction: Iowa State 27, Oklahoma State 20
Thanks for reading
Shane Price
Follow me on Twitter – @priceisright53
Georgia Bulldogs running back Kenny McIntosh (6) rushes against the South Carolina Gamecocks during the third quarter at Williams-Brice Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-USA TODAY
No. 9 Georgia (6-2) at No. 25 Missouri (5-3)
Memorial Stadium
Columbia, Mo.
Line: UGA -13
O/U: 53.5
Georgia ought to be able to win this game comfortably. The Bulldogs have the better head coach and more talent on their roster than Missouri. I also can’t put much trust in the Tigers, who have struggled at times this season under first-year head coach Eli Drinkwitz. Missouri’s defense has also been very inconsistent this season – allowing 27.8 points per game. Georgia’s offense has had a resurgence since J.T. Daniels became the starting quarterback. I have to go with the Bulldogs.
Prediction: Georgia 34, Missouri 20
Colorado Buffaloes wide receiver Dimitri Stanley (14) runs alongside blockers after making a catch against the Arizona Wildcats during the second half at Arizona Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Utah (1-2) at No. 21 Colorado (4-0)
Folsom Field
Boulder, Colo.
Line: COLO -2
O/U: 47.5
I’ll take Colorado to win this game. The Buffaloes have been one of the biggest surprises of this season. I certainly didn’t expect them to be this good after losing head coach Mel Tucker in the offseason. I just don’t think Utah is good enough to win this week. The Utes have struggled after losing so much production from last year’s team. They’ve been outscored 91-68 in their three games. I think Karl Dorrell has done a great job in his first year at Colorado and I think the Buffaloes keep it going.
Prediction: Colorado 27, Utah 20
Coastal Carolina Chanticleers defensive tackle C.J. Brewer (38) celebrates with tight end Isaiah Likely (4) after scoring a touchdown against the Kansas Jayhawks during the first half at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports
No. 13 Coastal Carolina (10-0) at Troy (5-5)
Veterans Memorial Stadium
Troy, Ala.
Line: CC -13.5
O/U: 51.5
Coastal Carolina has been one of the better teams at the Group of 5 level, and in all of college football, this season. The Chanticleers have outscored opponents 370-168. They’re also coming off arguably their biggest win in program history. There’s a decent chance that Coastal Carolina comes out a little flat this week. However, I think Jamey Chadwell is a good head coach and he’ll have his team ready to play. Troy’s defense has struggled at times, too – allowing 24.1 points per game. I can’t put a ton of trust in the Trojans to pull off the upset.
Prediction: Coastal Carolina 31, Troy 21
Army Black Knights head coach Jeff Monken rallies his player against the Georgia Southern Eagles during the second half at Michie Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Danny Wild-USA TODAY Sports
Navy (3-6) at Army (7-2)
Michie Stadium
West Point, N.Y.
Line: ARMY -7
O/U: 38
As always, this ought to be a very competitive and fairly low-scoring game. I have to pick Army, though. The Black Knights have been the better team this season. Meanwhile, Navy has significantly struggled. The Midshipmen have lost four games in a row and have been outscored 117-71 during that stretch. With both of these teams running triple-option offenses, the winner of this game will be whichever team can stop the run better. Navy has struggled to do that this season – allowing 212.6 yards per game. The Black Knights ought to win this rivalry game for the fourth time in five years.
Prediction: Army 21, Navy 16
Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Spencer Petras (7) throws the ball against the Illinois Fighting Illini during the second half at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-USA TODAY Sports
Wisconsin (2-2) at No. 16 Iowa (5-2)
Kinnick Stadium
Iowa City, Iowa
Line: Even
O/U: 42
Wisconsin has dominated this rivalry since the 1990s. The Badgers have won 13 of the last 21 meetings between these teams. However, I think Iowa is going to get its first win against Wisconsin since 2015. The Hawkeyes have been excellent since starting the season 0-2. They’ve won five games in a row and have outscored opponents 186-76 during that stretch. I think Iowa is the better team right now. Wisconsin has struggled in its last two games – averaging just 6.5 points offensively. I have a feeling Paul Chryst will have the Badgers ready to play, but I have more trust in the Hawkeyes.
Prediction: Iowa 24, Wisconsin 20
Nov 14, 2020; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Cougars defensive lineman Derek Parish (31) and linebacker Grant Stuard (0) react after a play during the second quarter against the South Florida Bulls at TDECU Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Houston (3-3) at Memphis (6-3)
Liberty Bowl
Memphis, Tenn.
Line: HOU -5
O/U: 63
I genuinely don’t know which of these teams to pick. I haven’t really been impressed with either of them. Memphis hasn’t played very well the last two weeks. However, Houston hasn’t played in almost a month. I’m very surprised that the Cougars are favored to win this game. I think they’re going to be out of sync. Factoring that and since this game is in Memphis, I have to pick the Tigers to win. I don’t trust Houston’s defense, which has allowed an average of 33 points per game this season.
Prediction: Memphis 35, Houston 31
Florida Gators wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) runs with the ball against the Tennessee Volunteers during the first half at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports
LSU (3-5) at No. 6 Florida (8-1)
Ben Hill Griffin Stadium
Gainesville, Fla.
Line: FLA -23.5
O/U: 67.5
I’m having a very difficult time seeing LSU winning this game. I actually think Tigers fans are dying for this season to be over, especially considering the team won’t play in a bowl game amid the recent NCAA probe. I like Florida to win this game comfortably. LSU’s defense, which allows 33.3 points per game this season, isn’t good enough to slow down Kyle Trask and Florida’s offense. The Gators are averaging 42 points per game and Trask is considered the favorite to win the Heisman. I just don’t see a way that the Tigers will make this game competitive unless Florida lays an egg.
Prediction: Florida 48, LSU 21
USC Trojans wide receiver Tyler Vaughns (21) celebrates with running back Markese Stepp (30) after scoring a touchdown in the first half of the game against the Washington State Cougars at United Airlines Field at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
No. 15 USC (4-0) at UCLA (3-2)
Rose Bowl
Pasadena, Calif.
Line: USC -2.5
O/U: 62
I’m not afraid, I’ll go with the upset in this game. Don’t look now, but in hindsight, UCLA has actually played pretty well this season. The Bruins have dropped two games by a combined nine points to pretty good teams in Colorado and Oregon. After a few years, it appears Chip Kelly finally has UCLA heading in the right direction. I haven’t been impressed with I’ve seen from USC so far. I’ve actually been looking for a reason to pick against the Trojans, but their schedule hasn’t been very tough so far. I think USC gets its first loss of the season this week.
Prediction: UCLA 30, USC 27
Virginia Tech Hokies quarterback Hendon Hooker (2) rushes the ball as tight end James Mitchell (82) blocks against the Pittsburgh Panthers during the third quarter at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Virginia (5-4) at Virginia Tech (4-6)
Lane Stadium
Blacksburg, Va.
Line: VT -2.5
O/U: 63
These teams couldn’t be any more opposite right now. Virginia is trending upward while Virginia Tech is trending downward – the Cavaliers have won four games in a row and the Hokies have dropped six of their last eight games. I have to go with Virginia because of that. Bronco Mendenhall is the better head coach than Justin Fuente. I don’t think Virginia Tech’s defense is good enough to win this game, either – allowing an average of 38 points and 477.8 yards in its last five games. The Cavaliers’ offense has played well during its win streak – averaging 43.2 points and 463.2 yards per game.
Prediction: Virginia 37, Virginia Tech 31
Brigham Young Cougars players celebrate a third quarter touchdown against the Idaho State Bengals at LaVell Edwards Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Swinger-USA TODAY Sports
San Diego State (4-3) at No. 18 BYU (9-1)
LaVell Edwards Stadium
Provo, Utah
Line: BYU -16.5
O/U: 48.5
Neither of these defenses are that bad, so I think this game is going to come down to which team has the better offense. In that case, BYU has the clear advantage. Zach Wilson is one of the top quarterbacks in the country, and the Cougars’ offense is averaging 44.5 points per game this season because of him. San Diego State’s offense, which averages just 26.1 points per game, will have a very difficult time trying to outscore BYU’s offense. I don’t think the Aztecs will be able to keep up.
Prediction: BYU 44, San Diego State 24
Game of the week:
Miami Hurricanes head coach Manny Diaz (right) congratulates quarterback D’Eriq King (1) after a touchdown pass against the Duke Blue Devils in the first quarter at Wallace Wade Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nell Redmond-USA TODAY Sports
No. 17 North Carolina (7-3) at No. 10 Miami (8-1)
Hard Rock Stadium
Miami
Line: MIA -3
O/U: 67.5
I’ve never bought Miami as a top 10 team this season, so I’ll go ahead and take the upset. First of all, I think Miami’s defense is a tad overrated. The Hurricanes have allowed 30 points or more three times this season. I think Sam Howell and North Carolina’s offense will be able to move the ball. The Tar Heels have been excellent offensively this season and averaged 45 points in their last six games. I think Manny Diaz is the better head coach in this matchup, but I’m not sure his team is capable of winning a game like this, which is going to have a ton of points scored. I’ll go with North Carolina to get the minor upset, and if I were a betting man I’d take the over.
Prediction: North Carolina 38, Miami 35
Thanks for reading
Shane Price
Follow me on Twitter – @priceisright53
Oklahoma quarterback Spencer Rattler (7) hands off to Seth McGowan (1) who takes the ball in for a touchdown in the first half of an NCAA college football game against Missouri State Saturday, Sept. 12, 2020, in Norman, Okla.. Mandatory credit: Sue Ogrocki/Pool Photo via USA TODAY Sports
Kansas State (0-1) at No. 3 Oklahoma (1-0)
Memorial Stadium
Norman, Okla.
Line: OKLA -28
O/U: 61
Since becoming head coach at Oklahoma in 2017, Lincoln Riley has lost just three Big 12 games to three different teams – Iowa State, Texas, and Kansas State. The next time Oklahoma played Iowa State and Texas under Lincoln after those losses, the Sooners won by a combined 22 points. I think we can expect something about the same – or worse – in this game. I just don’t think the Wildcats match up well with Oklahoma. They’re still breaking in some new faces on both sides of the ball. Oklahoma has better players and is in a better position as a program right now. This also feels like a game that Riley and the Sooners have had circled since last year.
Prediction: Oklahoma 48, Kansas State 21
Florida Gators head coach Dan Mullen reacts during the second quarter at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
No. 5 Florida at Ole Miss
Vaught-Hemingway Stadium
Oxford, Miss.
Line: FLA -13.5
O/U: 57
I’m actually a little excited for this game. I want to see how Ole Miss looks under Lane Kiffin. I think he’ll be able to get the job done at Ole Miss, but I don’t think it’s going to happen in his first season as head coach. This is going to be a very tough opening game for Kiffin. Florida is loaded with talent across the board. The Gators also have a quarterback and coaching advantage with Kyle Trask and Dan Mullen. It’s hard to pick against them. I think the Rebels keep it fairly close, but Florida should emerge victorious.
Prediction: Florida 29, Ole Miss 17
Pittsburgh Panthers defensive lineman Rashad Weaver (17) against the Syracuse Orange during the fourth quarter at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
No. 24 Louisville (1-1) at No. 21 Pitt (2-0)
Heinz Field
Pittsburgh
Line: PITT -3
O/U: 55.5
I actually wasn’t that impressed with Pitt last week against a lesser Syracuse team. Defensively, the Panthers looked pretty good, but their offense needs work. Pitt turned the ball over twice and mustered just 342 yards offensively against Syracuse. Louisville is averaging 34.5 points and 501.5 yards offensively through its first two games. I have a feeling this game will likely be somewhat of a shootout. If that’s the case, I have more faith in Scott Satterfield and the Cardinals (Vegas doesn’t seem to have much faith in Pitt, either).
Prediction: Louisville 30, Pitt 27
Iowa State Cyclones quarterback Brock Purdy (15) hands the ball to Iowa State Cyclones running back Breece Hall (28) during their game with the Louisiana-Lafayette Ragin Cajuns at Jack Trice Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Reese Strickland-USA TODAY Sports
Iowa State (0-1) at TCU
Amon G. Carter Stadium
Fort Worth, Texas
Line: ISU -2.5
O/U: 44.5
I’m actually going to agree with Vegas here and take Iowa State to win. I know that the Cyclones struggled against Louisiana a few weeks ago, but I still think they’re a better team than what they showed in that game. Iowa State also has the quarterback advantage this week, and Matt Campbell has extra time to prepare. I respect Gary Patterson as a coach, but I don’t have a ton of faith in TCU anymore – which has posted a record of 29-23 and averaged 29.6 points per game offensively since 2016. I expect this to be a close game, but I like Iowa State to win.
Prediction: Iowa State 28, TCU 24
LSU Tigers head coach Ed Orgeron reacts to a play against Arkansas Razorbacks during the second half at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports
Mississippi State at No. 6 LSU
Tiger Stadium
Baton Rouge, La.
Line: LSU -16.5
O/U: 57
I’m really not a huge fan of LSU this season. The Tigers lost so much talent from last year’s national championship team, and even talented wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase opted out of this season. If it were another team, I’d likely pick an upset. However, I don’t have much faith in Mississippi State, either. The Bulldogs don’t have as much talent LSU and are breaking in a first-year head coach. With this game in Baton Rouge, I have to give the edge to the Tigers. I think this game will be ugly and fairly low-scoring, though.
Prediction: LSU 27, Mississippi State 17
Texas Longhorns quarterback Sam Ehlinger (11) keeps the ball for a run in the first half against the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-USA TODAY Sports
No. 8 Texas (1-0) at Texas Tech
Jones AT&T Stadium
Lubbock, Texas
Line: TEX -17.5
O/U: 70.5
Did anyone else notice that Texas Tech barely defeated Houston Baptist – a program that has posted a record of 13-43 the last five years – a few weeks ago? I’m willing to chalk that performance up as the Red Raiders were looking ahead to this game – we all know how the other Texas schools feel about the Longhorns. So, I’ll go ahead and say that I think Texas Tech is going to give Texas its best shot. However, the Longhorns are too talented, and they have the quarterback and head coach advantage in this game. I’m expecting a lot of points and for Texas to get the win.
Prediction: Texas 48, Texas Tech 31
Cincinnati Bearcats head coach Luke Fickell reacts against the Virginia Tech Hokies during the first half at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Taetsch-USA TODAY Sports
No. 22 Army (2-0) at No. 14 Cincinnati (1-0)
Nippert Stadium
Cincinnati
Line: CIN -13.5
O/U: 45
I actually think this might be one of the more underrated games of the weekend. Even though these are two Group of 5 programs, I have a lot of respect for them. Army is such a tricky team because of its triple-option offense. However, I think Cincinnati is going to be a difficult matchup for the Black Knights. The Bearcats have ranked in the top 50 in run defense the last two years under head coach Luke Fickell – allowing an average of 122.9 rushing yards per game and 3.4 yards per rush. With Fickell being a defensive-minded coach, and Cincinnati returning a lot of defensive production from last year, I think that gives the Bearcats a solid advantage.
Prediction: Cincinnati 24, Army 17
Oklahoma State Cowboys quarterback Spencer Sanders (3) hands off to running back Chuba Hubbard (30) against the Tulsa Golden Hurricane during the first half at Boone Pickens Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Ferguson-USA TODAY Sports
West Virginia (1-0) at No. 15 Oklahoma State (1-0)
Boone Pickens Stadium
Stillwater, Okla.
Line: OKST -6.5
O/U: 51.5
I wouldn’t sleep on this game, especially after the way Oklahoma State played last week. I know I’m a West Virginia fan, but I actually think WVU matches up well with the Cowboys. First, excluding his seasons at both Troy and WVU, Neal Brown has a record of 7-2 when having extra time to prepare. Second, the Cowboys’ offensive line was an absolute mess against Tulsa – allowing six sacks and struggling to get push in the run game. The Mountaineers have a very underrated defensive line, which features the brothers Darius and Dante Stills. There’s also a question of if Oklahoma State starting quarterback Spencer Sanders is going to play. A lot of things are going against the Cowboys heading into this game, but I’m going to take them to win anyway. WVU still has a fairly new coaching staff, and some uncertainty on the offensive side of the ball. I also think Mike Gundy is going to have Oklahoma State extra motivated this week.
Prediction: Oklahoma State 27, West Virginia 20
Miami Hurricanes head coach Manny Diaz reacts on the sidelines against the Pittsburgh Panthers during the second quarter at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Florida State (0-1) at No. 12 Miami (2-0)
Hard Rock Stadium
Miami
Line: MIA -11
O/U: 53.5
I’m having a hard time picking Florida State this week. The Seminoles weren’t impressive – outside of maybe the first drive of the game – a few weeks ago against Georgia Tech. Florida State still has a bunch of work to do as a program, and Mike Norvell won’t be on the sidelines this week after contracting COVID-19. I think that puts the Seminoles at a huge disadvantage against a Miami team that has looked pretty good so far this season. I also think D’Eriq King is going to be a difference maker in this game.
Prediction: Miami 34, Florida State 17
Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Jarrett Guarantano (2) runs the ball against the Georgia State Panthers during the first quarter at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports
No. 16 Tennessee at South Carolina
Williams-Brice Stadium
Columbia, S.C.
Line: TEN -3.5
O/U: 43.5
Against my better judgement, I’m actually a little high on Tennessee this season. The Volunteers are returning a decent amount of production from a team that won seven of its last eight games last year. I do believe that Jeremy Pruitt has this program trending in the right direction, and I think Jarrett Guarantano is a fairly underrated quarterback. I also have no idea what to expect from South Carolina. I don’t think Will Muschamp is much of a head coach, and the Gamecocks have trended in the wrong direction – in terms of wins and losses – since 2017. This is a rivalry game, so I’m expecting it to be competitive, but I have to give the advantage to Tennessee.
Prediction: Tennessee 24, South Carolina 20
Virginia Tech Hokies head coach Justin Fuente on the sideline against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets in the second quarter at Bobby Dodd Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
N.C. State (1-0) at No. 20 Virginia Tech
Lane Stadium
Blacksburg, Va.
Line: VT -6.5
O/U: 56.5
I’m not sure N.C. State is good enough to win this game. The Wolfpack struggled against a Wake Forest team last week that I don’t think is any good. Granted, it was just the first game. On paper, Virginia Tech looks like it’s going to be a much better team, though. The Hokies are returning A LOT of production from last year – not having Caleb Farley hurts, though. I just think Virginia Tech is in a better spot as a program right now, and Justin Fuente is the better coach than Dave Doeren.
Prediction: Virginia Tech 34, N.C. State 24
Game of the week:
Auburn Tigers quarterback Bo Nix (10) throws a pass against the Mississippi State Bulldogs during the third quarter at Jordan-Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Reed-USA TODAY Sports
No. 23 Kentucky at No. 8 Auburn
Jordan-Hare Stadium
Auburn, Ala.
Line: AUB -7.5
O/U: 49.5
I think this is going to be a very difficult game for Auburn. The Tigers are returning just one starting offensive lineman from a unit last year that was very up and down. Kentucky is returning a lot of defensive production from last year, too. Bo Nix could be running for his life in this game. I also think having a real quarterback under center in Terry Wilson – who was the starter last year before getting hurt – will be a huge benefit for the Wildcats. Keep in mind, Kentucky still managed to win eight games last year despite its mess at the quarterback position. I think Mark Stoops is a better head coach than people give him credit. It took a few weeks, but I’m taking my first real upset of the college football season.
Prediction: Kentucky 27, Auburn 24
Thanks for reading
Shane Price
Follow me on Twitter – @priceisright53
Missouri Tigers quarterback Kelly Bryant (7) throws against the Wyoming Cowboys during the fourth quarter at Jonah Field War Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Babbitt-USA TODAY Sports
West Virginia (0-1) at Missouri (1-0)
Faurot Field
Columbia, Mo.
Line: MIZ -13.5
O/U: 63
Neither of these teams were impressive in their season openers last week. With the game in Columbia, I’m going to give the advantage to Missouri. The Tigers probably have better players than West Virginia and will be looking to bounce back after a tough loss to Wyoming in Week 1. I do think the Mountaineers keep it close in a sloppy game.
Prediction: Missouri 33, West Virginia 23
Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback Justin Fields (1) runs a first quarter touchdown against the Florida Atlantic Owls at Ohio Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports
Cincinnati (1-0) at No. 5 Ohio State (1-0)
Ohio Stadium
Columbus, Ohio
Line: OSU -16
O/U: 53
I really want to say that Cincinnati will make this a game, maybe even have Ohio State on the ropes at some point. I think Justin Fields is too good, though. He was awesome in debut for the Buckeyes last week. Ohio State has more talent and should be able to win this game. I think Luke Fickell will keep the Bearcats in it, but Ohio State will emerge victorious.
Prediction: Ohio State 34, Cincinnati 20
Michigan Wolverines quarterback Shea Patterson (2) drops back to pass during the second quarter against the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports
Army (1-0) at No. 7 Michigan (1-0)
Michigan Stadium
Ann Arbor, Mich.
Line: MICH -22
O/U: 47.5
I think Vegas is way too high on Michigan in this game – which struggled against Middle Tennessee last week. Army is no slouch. If Michigan doesn’t show up, Army is good enough to pull off the upset – just look at what the Black Knights did to Oklahoma last year. I’m going to take the Wolverines to win, but Army should keep it within the spread.
Prediction: Michigan 27, Army 17
Syracuse Orange head coach Dino Babers (left) talks with an official during the second half against the West Virginia Mountaineers in the 2018 Camping World Bowl at Camping World Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports
No. 21 Syracuse (1-0) at Maryland (1-0)
Maryland Stadium
College Park, Md.
Line: MD -2
O/U: 57.5
I guess Maryland was impressive last week in a 79-0 rout against Howard, but it’s Howard. I still don’t think this team is very good. Syracuse is in a better spot as a program right now and has the better coach in Dino Babers. I’m going to go with the Orange in a close one.
Prediction: Syracuse 31, Maryland 24
Clemson Tigers running back Lyn-J Dixon (23) celebrates with Clemson defensive end Justin Mascoll (7) after scoring a touchdown during the third quarter of the game against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets at Clemson Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports
No. 12 Texas A&M (1-0) at No. 1 Clemson (1-0)
Memorial Stadium
Clemson, S.C.
Line: CLEM -16.5
O/U: 63.5
Texas A&M has been talking a lot of smack this week about how it’s going to beat Clemson. I think that’s a bold move, Cotton. If anything, I think that’s going to have the Tigers ready to play. They struggled with the Aggies last year and know they need to bring their A-game. With the game in Clemson and Trevor Lawrence playing this time around, I’ll take Clemson to win fairly comfortably.
Prediction: Clemson 34, Texas A&M 23
Nebraska Cornhuskers quarterback Adrian Martinez (2) runs against the South Alabama Jaguars in the first half at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Thorson-USA TODAY Sports
No. 25 Nebraska (1-0) at Colorado (1-0)
Folsom Field
Boulder, Colo.
Line: NEB -4
O/U: 64.5
If Colorado was in a better spot as a program, I could probably talk myself into taking the Buffaloes. Nebraska wasn’t very impressive last week against South Alabama. Something tells me Scott Frost will tune up the Cornhuskers’ offense this week and the unit will have a better showing. I don’t know what to expect from Mel Tucker and Colorado, either.
Prediction: Nebraska 31, Colorado 24
Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Jarrett Guarantano (2) runs the ball against the Georgia State Panthers during the first quarter at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports
Tennessee had an embarrassing performance in last week’s loss to Georgia State. I have a feeling the Volunteers are going to be a completely different team in this game. BYU has always struggled offensively under coach Kalani Sitake. I think Jeremy Pruitt will dial up a good defensive game plan and Tennessee will get the win.
Prediction: Tennessee 24, BYU 13
Mississippi Rebels quarterback Matt Corral (2) passes against Memphis Tigers linebacker Tim Hart (350 during the second half at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-USA TODAY Sports
Arkansas (1-0) at Ole Miss (0-1)
Vaught-Hemingway Stadium
Oxford, Miss.
Line: MISS -5.5
O/U: 50
After Ole Miss’ performance last week against Memphis, I’m sort of tempted to take Arkansas in this game. The problem is that the Razorbacks aren’t very good at all – beating Portland State last week by just one possession. Arkansas doesn’t have what it takes to win this game. I think the Rebels are the better team and should be motivated after a bad loss last week.
Prediction: Ole Miss 21, Arkansas 13
Miami Hurricanes quarterback Jarren Williams (15) attempts a pass against the Florida Gators during the second half at Camping World Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
Miami (0-1) at North Carolina (1-0)
Kenan Stadium
Chapel Hill, N.C.
Line: MIA -4.5
O/U: 47.5
North Carolina surprised me last week after defeating South Carolina. I’m still not sold on the Tar Heels, though. Miami had a good showing in a loss against Florida in Week 0. It appears Manny Diaz has changed the culture in Miami. The Hurricanes also have had extra time to prepare for this game. I like Miami to get a key conference road win.
Prediction: Miami 24, North Carolina 21
Washington Huskies quarterback Jacob Eason (10) rolls out of the pocket against the Eastern Washington Eagles during the second quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports
Cal (1-0) at No. 14 Washington (1-0)
Husky Stadium
Seattle
Line: WASH -13.5
O/U: 43.5
Cal is no slouch. The Golden Bears have a pretty good coach in Justin Wilcox and have a recent history of being tough defensively. I don’t think Cal has a good enough offense to pull off the upset this week, though. Washington has lost just one game at home the last three seasons. The Huskies are the better team with a better coach. I have to pick them to win.
Prediction: Washington 31, Cal 19
Southern California Trojans quarterback Kedon Slovis (9) throws a pass under pressure from Fresno State Bulldogs linebacker Arron Mosby (15) in the second half at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
No. 23 Stanford (1-0) at USC (1-0)
Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
Los Angeles
Line: USC -2.5
O/U: 44
Both of these teams will likely be starting backup quarterbacks in this game. I realize USC is at home, but I have to go with Stanford. I think the Trojans are a mess right now and I don’t trust Clay Helton to have his team ready to play. The Cardinal have the better coach and I think that will go a long way in determining the outcome.
Prediction: Stanford 17, USC 13
Game of the week:
Texas Longhorns quarterback Sam Ehlinger (11) keeps the ball for a run in the first half against the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-USA TODAY Sports
No. 6 LSU (1-0) at No. 9 Texas (1-0)
Royal Texas Memorial Stadium
Austin, Texas
Line: LSU -6.5
O/U: 57
I’m honestly surprised LSU is such a heavy favorite in this game. I think Texas’ defense is going to have a hard time stopping LSU’s run game, but I can’t bring myself to pick Joe Burrow over Sam Ehlinger. He’s the better quarterback and I have more trust in him. Plus, Tom Herman is a very good coach when he’s an underdog. I’ll take the Longhorns in a shootout.
Prediction: Texas 35, LSU 31
Thanks for reading
Shane Price
Follow me on Twitter – @priceisright53
Clemson Tigers head coach Dabo Swinney celebrates with the College Football Playoff National Championship trophy on the podium after defeating the Alabama Crimson Tide in the 2019 College Football Playoff Championship game at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
I know, I know. I’m a few days late to post this since the season technically “started” Saturday. I assure you, though, that the results of Saturday’s game between Florida and Miami didn’t impact my predictions for the upcoming season whatsoever. Plus, I believe that the season truly begins this week since it’s titled Week 1 (feel free to try to change my mind). However, that’s a debate for another time. The most wonderful time of the year is finally upon us, friends, so it’s time for some predictions.
Clemson Tigers quarterback Trevor Lawrence (16) throws a pass during the fourth quarter against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the 2019 College Football Playoff Championship game at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
Clemson Tigers running back Travis Etienne (9) runs for a touchdown during the first quarter against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the 2019 College Football Playoff Championship game at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
ACC – Clemson Tigers (over Virginia Tech in the ACC championship)
2018 record: 15-0
Head coach: Dabo Swinney – 12th overall season at Clemson (116-30 overall record)
Returning starters: 12 (8 offense, 4 defense)
Key players: QB Trevor Lawrence, WR Tee Higgins, LB Isaiah Simmons
2019 recruiting class: No. 9 (Rivals), No. 10 (247 Sports)
Schedule: Georgia Tech (Aug. 29), Texas A&M (Sept. 7), at Syracuse (Sept. 14), Charlotte (Sept. 21), at North Carolina (Sept. 28), Florida State (Oct. 12), at Louisville (Oct. 19), Boston College (Oct. 26), Wofford (Nov. 2), at NC State (Nov. 9), Wake Forest (Nov. 16), at South Carolina (Nov. 23)
Las Vegas projected win total: 11.5
Clemson arguably had one of the most dominant teams in college football history last season – winning all 15 games by an average margin of victory of 31 points. The Tigers return a lot of production from last season’s team, too, including quarterback Trevor Lawrence, running back Travis Etienne, and wide receivers Tee Higgins and Justyn Ross. Not to mention the team’s fourth leading rusher and third and fifth leading wide receivers, along with three starters up front. Defensively, there are some holes to fill up front and in the secondary after losing some good players to the draft, but defensive coordinator Brent Venables has proven himself to be one of the best defensive minds in college football. Plus, Clemson recruits very well and should have guys that are able to step up in those areas. The Tigers are also bringing in one of the nation’s top recruiting classes yet again. Also, the schedule is favorable for Clemson. The Tigers will face just three teams on the road that made a bowl game last season. Key games against Texas A&M, Florida State, and Boston College will be in Death Valley. Clemson has established itself as the team to beat in the ACC the last four years and I think the gap is continuing to widen.
Prediction: 13-0
Texas Longhorns quarterback Sam Ehlinger (11) throws against the Georgia Bulldogs during the third quarter in the 2019 Sugar Bowl at Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
Big 12 – Texas Longhorns (over Oklahoma in the Big 12 championship)
2018 record: 10-4
Head coach: Tom Herman – Third overall season at Texas (39-14)
Returning starters: 8 (5 offense, 3 defense)
Key players: QB Sam Ehlinger, WR Collin Johnson, S Brandon Jones
2019 recruiting class: No. 4 (Rivals), No. 3 (247 Sports)
Schedule: Louisiana Tech (Aug. 31), LSU (Sept. 7), at Rice (Sept. 14), Oklahoma State (Sept. 21), at West Virginia (Oct. 5), vs. Oklahoma (Oct. 12; in Dallas), Kansas (Oct. 19), at TCU (Oct. 26), Kansas State (Nov. 9), at Iowa State (Nov. 16), at Baylor (Nov. 23), Texas Tech (Nov. 29)
Las Vegas projected win total: 9.5
The Big 12 title is almost certainly going to come down to Oklahoma or Texas this season, and I feel like the Sooners’ run will end. There are too many variables for Oklahoma heading into this year. I think Texas is poised to have a breakout season this year because of that. The Longhorns don’t necessarily return a lot of starters, but they do return quarterback Sam Ehlinger, wide receiver Collin Johnson, safety Brandon Jones, and safety Caden Sterns. There are some key role players from last season also returning like running back Keontay Ingram, Devin Duvernay, defensive end Malcolm Roach, and defensive back B.J. Foster. The offensive line should be stable, too, with Samuel Cosmi and Zach Shackelford coming back. Texas is also bringing in a top-4 recruiting class, according to Rivals and 247 Sports – which should help the coaching staff replace some of the production that it lost from last season. The schedule is pretty favorable, too. The toughest true road games for the Longhorns don’t come until November when the team travels to Iowa State and and Baylor in back-to-back weeks. Herman should have all the holes filled and the team playing well by that point. Defensive coordinator Todd Orlando has had success in the past at putting together quality defenses, which is why I’m giving Texas the edge this year in the Big 12. I don’t think the Longhorns will be good enough to make the playoff, but I do think they should be considered the favorites in the Big 12.
Prediction: 11-2
Michigan Wolverines head coach Jim Harbaugh talks to quarterback Shea Patterson (2) on the sideline in the first half against the Southern Methodist Mustangs at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Big Ten – Michigan Wolverines (over Minnesota in the Big Ten championship)
2018 record: 10-3
Head coach: Jim Harbaugh – Fifth overall season at Michigan (96-41)
Returning starters: 13 (8 offense, 5 defense)
Key players: QB Shea Patterson, WR Donovan Peoples-Jones, LB Josh Ross
2019 recruiting class: No. 10 (Rivals), No. 8 (247 Sports)
Schedule: Middle Tennessee (Aug. 31), Army (Sept. 7), at Wisconsin (Sept. 21), Rutgers (Sept. 28), Iowa (Oct. 5), at Illinois (Oct. 12), at Penn State (Oct. 19), Notre Dame (Oct. 26), at Maryland (Nov. 2), Michigan State (Nov. 16), at Indiana (Nov. 23), Ohio State (Nov. 30)
Las Vegas projected win total: 9.5
I don’t feel good about this one at all, but I’ll take Michigan to win the Big Ten. There’s some uncertainty surrounding the rest of the conference, though. Urban Meyer isn’t leading Ohio State anymore and I don’t think Penn State, Wisconsin, and Michigan State made up enough ground in the offseason to make a run. The Wolverines return a lot of production offensively including quarterback Shea Patterson, wide receivers Nico Collins and Donavan Peoples-Jones, and four starters along the offensive line. The run game is a bit of a question mark going into the season, but Tru Wilson, Christian Turner, and Zach Charbonnet should make a solid rotation. The biggest thing offensively for Michigan, though, is the switch to more of a spread scheme – which is much more of a fit for Patterson’s skillset. Defensively, Michigan does have to find a way to replace some key players. The Wolverines and defensive coordinator Don Brown have found ways to do that in previous seasons, so I doubt that’ll be much of an issue. The schedule is also pretty favorable for Michigan, too. The toughest road game is likely Penn State, which is still a winnable game this season. Then key games against Notre Dame, Michigan State, and Ohio State will be in Ann Arbor. Bottom line, given the way the rest of the Big Ten looks, I feel like the stars are aligning for the Wolverines to make a run at the playoff this season.
Prediction: 12-1
Utah Utes head coach Kyle Whittingham before the game against the Washington Huskies at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Pac-12 – Utah Utes (over Washington in the Pac-12 championship)
2018 record: 9-5
Head coach: Kyle Whittingham – 15th overall season at Utah (120-61)
Returning starters: 14 (7 offense, 7 defense)
Key players: RB Zack Moss, DL Leki Fotu, DL Bradlee Anae
2019 recruiting class: No. 46 (Rivals), No. 42 (247 Sports)
Schedule: at BYU (Aug. 29), Northern Illinois (Sept. 7), Idaho State (Sept. 14), at USC (Sept. 20), Washington State (Sept. 28), at Oregon State (Oct. 12), Arizona State (Oct. 19), Cal (Oct. 26), at Washington (Nov. 2), UCLA (Nov. 16), at Arizona (Nov. 23), Colorado (Nov. 30)
Las Vegas projected win total: 9.5
This one might surprise some people because I’ve usually penciled in Washington to win the Pac-12 the last few seasons. However, I feel like Utah is in a better spot as a program heading into this season. The Utes might have the best backfield combination in the conference with quarterback Tyler Huntley and running back Zack Moss. They also return their top four leading receivers and some depth along the offensive line. Defensively, Utah should be very deep on the defensive front and return a lot of production from a unit that ranked in the top 25 nationally in scoring and total defense. Schedule wise, the Utes have it pretty easy. The rest of the Pac-12 South division is a bit of a mess with arguably five teams in rebuild mode. The toughest road games for Utah will be BYU, USC, and Washington. Whittingham is one of the most underrated coaches in the country, too, so I think he should be able to devise a good enough game plan to steal one or two of those tough road games. I think Utah is easily the team to beat in the Pac-12 South division and will definitely be good enough to knock off Washington as the conference champion. I don’t see the Utes doing much else, though.
Prediction: 10-3
Alabama Crimson Tide head coach Nick Saban before the 2019 College Football Playoff Championship game against the Clemson Tigers at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
SEC – Alabama Crimson Tide (over Georgia in the SEC championship)
2018 record: 14-1
Head coach: Nick Saban – 13th overall season at Alabama (232-63-1)
Returning starters: 12 (6 offense, 6 defense)
Key players: QB Tua Tagovailoa, WR Jerry Jeudy, LB Dylan Moses
2019 recruiting class: No. 2 (Rivals), No. 1 (247 Sports)
Schedule: vs. Duke (Aug. 31; in Atlanta), New Mexico State (Sept. 7), at South Carolina (Sept. 14), Southern Miss (Sept. 21), Ole Miss (Sept. 28), at Texas A&M (Oct. 12), Tennessee (Oct. 19), Arkansas (Oct. 26), LSU (Nov. 9), at Mississippi State (Nov. 16), Western Carolina (Nov. 23), at Auburn (Nov. 30)
Las Vegas projected win total: 11
Like Clemson, Alabama was one of the most dominant teams in college football history last season – winning by an average margin of victory of 31 points. The Crimson Tide also return a lot of production from that team, particularly offensively. Tua Tagovailoa is one of the best quarterbacks in college football and he’s surrounded by plenty of weapons including Jerry Jeudy, Henry Ruggs III, Jaylen Waddle, DeVonta Smith, Najee Harris, and Brian Robinson Jr. If there’s a weakness in Alabama’s offense, it might be the offensive line, but that’s a position that Saban has always recruited very well. Defensively, the Crimson Tide should be really good once again. They have at least six players that could end up being first round draft picks. Alabama also once again brings in one of the nation’s top recruiting classes. The toughest road games will be Texas A&M and Auburn for the Crimson Tide, but they’re still the better program at the moment so I expect them to win those road games. Once again, Alabama should be the top team in the SEC. I just don’t see a team in the conference that could potentially slow down the Crimson Tide’s offense.
Prediction: 13-0
New Year’s Six bowl projections:
Fiesta (College Football Playoff semifinal): No. 3 Michigan vs. No. 2 Alabama
Peach (College Football Playoff semifinal): No. 4 Georgia vs. No. 1 Clemson
Rose: Utah vs. Ohio State
Cotton: Army vs. Oklahoma
Sugar: LSU vs. Texas
Orange: Syracuse vs. Notre Dame
National championship:
No. 2 Alabama vs. No. 1 Clemson
Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (13) rolls out of the pocket against the Clemson Tigers during the 2019 College Football Playoff Championship game at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
National champion:
No. 2 Alabama
I honestly think this might be Saban’s most talented Alabama team. The Crimson Tide are once again loaded with talent, with at least eight potential first round picks on roster. They’re bringing in yet another very good recruiting class, and they return a Heisman-caliber quarterback in Tagovailoa, a lot of speed on the perimeter, and they should be very good up front on both sides of the ball. After getting blown out in the national championship back in January, I fully expect Saban to have this team determined to go out on top this season.
Thanks for reading
Shane Price
Follow me on Twitter – @priceisright53
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