Author: Sean McKenzie

Top 3 College Football Games to Watch for Week 8. (Bonus Game).

Week 8 is absolutely stacked with incredible games, as conferences are in the middle of playing out their schedule.

We’ve already had a major upset, as the FIU Panthers (Florida International University) defeated the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers, 25-6. WKU was in the running to get that “G5 spot” in the college football playoffs.

I could drone on and on, about each game, including a big game in the UAC (FCS) as the West Georgia Wolves (5-1) coming off an embarrassing loss, is looking to go into Stephenville, Texas and upset the #2 ranked Tarleton State Texans (7-0).

So here we go, the Top 3 college football games you SHOULD watch, (including a bonus game).

I am 10-5, in my predictions so far this year.

1) #20 USC Trojans (5-1) at #13 Notre Dame Fighting Irish (4-2).
Game starts at 7:30 PM (EST) on NBC and Peacock.

In what could be the second to last game, this historic rivalry has serious repercussions for the college football playoffs.

USC is coming off a big win last week, where they showed off their physical toughness. They’re going to need that again, as they take on a stout ND defense. HBs Waymond Jordan, King Miller, and Eli Sanders, have a combined 1,150 yards and 10 TDs. They’ll need to continue that rotation. QB Jayden Maiava leads the nation in QBR (93.1) and has 13 TDs to only 2 INTs. Of course, having one of the best WRs in the country to throw to, doesn’t hurt. WR Makai Lemon has 44 catches, for 682 yards, and 6 TDs.

The Fighting Irish suffered a heavy blow, as starting C Ashton Craig is gone for the season with a knee injury. Notre Dame has a two headed monster at HB themselves, with Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price. They have a combined 952 yards and 15 TDs. Freshman QB CJ Carr has come in a given them a threatening passing game. He’s thrown for 1,622 yards, with 13 TDs to only 3 INTs. The Fighting Irish have one of the best secondaries in America, with 11 INTs.

Prediction – There’s not many things better than a night game at Notre Dame, and this is going to be the best game of the week. Both teams have so much to play for. The injury to Craig is a big deal. In the end, I think USC QB Maiava throws a late pick, in a close 31-28 victory for the Fighting Irish.

2) #5 Ole Miss Rebels (6-0) at #9 Georgia Bulldogs (5-1).
Game starts at 3:30 PM (EST) on ABC.

Ole Miss is looking to make it back-to-back to win over Georgia, and the Bulldogs need to win this game, or they’ll have 2 conference losses already.

This is a run heavy, ball control offense that the Rebels put out on the field. HB Kewan Lacy leads the team with 126 carries, for 587 yards, and 8 TDs. Dual threat QB Trinidad Chambliss has thrown for 1,286 yards, with 7 TDs and only 1 INT; but it’s his 61 carries, for 281 yards, and 3 TDs, that keeps defenses guessing.

Bulldogs QB Gunner Stockton, has thrown for 1,264 yards, with 6 TDs and only 1 INT. His scrambling ability keeps linebackers at bay with 220 yards and 6 rushing TDs. They have 2 HBs that split carries, in Chauncey Bowens and Nate Frazier. This is not the usual “Georgia defense”, as they only have 8 team sacks and only created 6 turnovers. They still remain fast and gap sound though.

Will the disgusting bias officiating in favor of Georgia (like we saw last week), show up again, or will they overcorrect in favor of Ole Miss???

Prediction – Georgia knows that a loss could very well mean they’re out of the conference title race. Ole Miss knows that this is probably their toughest game left this season. I’m expecting a defensive battle. My head is saying UGA. My heart is saying Ole Miss……I’m going to follow my heart and take the Rebels to win 17-13.

3) #11 Tennessee Volunteers (5-1) at #6 Alabama Crimson Tide (5-1).
Game starts at 7:30 PM (EST) on ABC.

It’s the “Third Saturday in October”. A big SEC rivalry game. This time, there are serious conference and CFP implications on the line.

Can Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel ACTUALLY win a “big game”?

This is a balanced offense. QB Joey Aguilar has thrown for 1,680 yards, with 14 TDs and 5 INTs. It’s the running game that wears down an opposing defense. HBs Desean Bishop, Star Thomas, and Peyton Lewis have a combined 1,009 yards and 14 TDs. This is a Volunteer defense that gets serious pressure on opposing QBs, with 26 team sacks, leading to 4 INTs, 11 forced fumbles, and 7 fumble recoveries.

This Crimson Tide team is all about QB Ty Simpson. He’s stepped right into the fire, and thrown for 1,678 yards, with 16 TDs to only 1 INT. The defense doesn’t get many sacks (9 total), but they force the opposing team into mistakes, with 6 INTs, 6 forced fumbles, and 5 fumble recoveries.

Prediction – You CAN NOT ignore Heupel’s tendency to choke in big games. Alabama has been playing great since their opening season loss to FSU. As much as I truly want to pick TEN, I simply can’t. Give me the Crimson Tide to win 35-28.

BONUS GAME

#23 Utah Utes (5-1) at #15 BYU Cougars (6-0).
Game starts at 8:00 PM (EST) on FOX.

The Holy War.

A long-standing rivalry and a long history of these two teams completely destroying each other’s hopes and bowl season dreams.

The Utah offense lives and dies with QB Devon Dampier. He’s completing 71.5% of his passes, for 1,131 yards, with 11 TDs and 3 INTs. His 65 carries, for 378 yards with 5 TDs leads this Utes offense. It goes as he goes. This defense is led by one of the best pass rushers in the nation. DE John Henry Daley leads the team in tackles (30) and sacks (8), and he’s forced 2 fumbles.

BYU also has a dual-threat QB in freshman Bear Bachmeier. He’s thrown for 1,220 yards, with 8 TDs and 3 INTs. He has 71 carries, for 295 yards and 7 TDs. HB LJ Martin has 101 carries, for 652 yards, with 4 TDs. The Cougar defense has 8 INTs this season,

Prediction – This is one of those rivalry games, that’s completely whack-a-doo. Nothing ever goes as you think it will. This is a massive game, in an always wide-open Big 12. I’m taking the Utah Utes to win a close game 27-21.

– by Sean McKenzie

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Stats and information courtesy of…..NCAA.

Pictures courtesy of…..wallpapercave, clutchpoints, ESPN, KUTV.

October 16, 2025
College Football Mid-Season Awards.

We are halfway through the 2025-26 college football season, and what an absolutely WILD ride it has been.

Big name head coaches have already been fired this season. James Franklin (Penn State), Mike Gundy (Oklahoma State), Trent Dilfer (UAB), Sam Pittman (Arkansas), Brent Fry (Virginia Tech), and a few others.

Teams that a lot of “media pundits” thought would be in the national title picture are fighting just to stay at .500, like Penn State, Texas, and Clemson.

There have been teams that have “overachieved”, so far this season, like Indiana, Georgia Tech, USF, and Virginia.

Heisman “front runners” like Arch Manning, Drew Allar, and Cade Klubnik, have not lived up to the hype.

For the best coffee and lattes in Van Wert County, stop in at The Rebel Bean. Check out their Facebook page for hours and drink menu.

The race for the college football playoff spot in the “Group of 5” is ABSOLUTELY LIT!!!

Navy, Memphis, USF, Tulane, Western Kentucky, UNLV, San Diego State, and James Madison, are all either undefeated or only have 1 loss. As much we all love the “Power 4” conference games, the “G5” school games are just as fun to watch. I highly recommend everyone watch these games, as the race for that spot, is going to be so much fun.

I could go on and out, but, without further ado, HERE are your mid-season awards.

Heisman Trophy – Diego Pavia, QB, Vanderbilt Commodores.

The Heisman Trophy is an INDIVDUAL award, not a team award.

Without Diego Pavia, the Vanderbilt Commodores are probably 0-6, instead of 5-1.

He’s the best dual quarterback in the country right now.

He’s thrown for 1,409 yards, with 14 TDs to 4 INTs, as well as running for 60 carries, for 352 yards, with 2 TDs.

Pavia IS Commodore football.

Runner-up – Sawyer Robertson, QB, Baylor Bears.

Coach of the Year – Curt Cignetti, Indiana Hoosiers.

Nobody, and I mean, nobody, including myself, thought that the Indiana Hoosiers, would be a Top 3 football team in the country.

He won the award last season, and is the front runner this season, as they are currently undefeated (6-0) and ranked #3 in America. He has this team playing hard, playing fast, and most importantly, playing smart. Only 19 penalties in 6 games.

Runner-up – Brent Key, Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets.

Bronco Nagurski Award – Bryun Parham, EDGE/LB, UConn.

Boo Hoo Hoo, he doesn’t play for a “Power 5” school.

Go watch the film, and tell me another player that is playing as consistently, and demanding the double and even triple teams, that Parham is?

I’ll wait…….

He has 47 tackles, 6.5 sacks, 1 forced fumble, and 3 fumble recoveries.

He’s ALWAYS around the football and making plays.

Runner-up – Aamaris Brown, DB, UNLV.

– by Sean McKenzie

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Stats and information courtesy of…..NCAA and ESPN.

Pictures courtesy of…..wallpapercave, MSN, clutchpoints, and courant.

October 13, 2025
Week 7 College Football Recap and Helmet Stickers.

What a Week 7 it was!!!

I went 2-1 on my picks.

We have rivalry game upsets, as the unranked Texas Longhorns, beat (then ranked) #6 Oklahoma Sooners 23-6, in the Red River Shootout (I’ll never call it “Red River Rivalry”).

The Bowling Green Falcons came back from a 21-point deficit, to beat the Toledo Rockets 28-23, in the “Battle of I-75”.

In a not so surprising outcome of a rivalry game, the #1 ranked Ohio State Buckeyes beat (then ranked) #17 Illinois Fighting Illini, 34-16.

In my correctly picked Upset Special, the unranked USC Trojans beat (then ranked) #15 Michigan Wolverines 31-13.

I am ABSOLUTELY LOVING seeing these football teams, that typically suck, have great years so far. Example, #13 Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets are 6-0, after beating Virginia Tech 35-20; and the #7 Indiana Hoosiers went into Autzen Stadium and got a MONSTER win against (then ranked) #3 Oregon Ducks 30-20. Speaking of Indiana…..

(Team) #7 (for now) Indiana Hoosiers.

What a statement win by this team. A lot of people (including me) picked them to lose this game. Winning at Oregon is not easy at all. In fact, it’s so not easy, that even the mighty Ohio State Buckeyes, couldn’t do it last season.

Indiana football is not just ranked, but they’re a threat in the College Football Playoff. They’re undefeated at 6-0, and don’t look like they’re slowing down anytime soon.

(Offense) Danny Scudero, WR, San Jose State Trojans.

The sophomore from San Jose, CA had a big game in a loss against the Wyoming Cowboys, as he had 10 catches, for 180 yards, and 4 TDs. He also leads the country in receiving yards with 845.

(Defense) Owen Long, LB, Colorado State.

Another sophomore showing out this week.

Long had a whooping 17 tackles, to go along with 1 sack, and a pass deflection, as the Colorado State Rams beat the Frenso State Bulldogs 49-21.

He also leads the nation in total tackles with 85 so far this season.

Who would you give a helmet sticker to?

– by Sean McKenzie

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Pictures courtesy of…..wallpapercave, mercurynews, and ESPN.

Stats courtesy of…..NCAA.

October 12, 2025
The Top 3 College Football Games to Watch for Week 7.

What a slate of college football games there is to choose from here in Week 7.

The week started last night, with Missouri State beating Middle Tennessee State 22-20, and Liberty beating UTEP 19-8.

We have big time ranked matchups in the Big Ten and SEC.

We have the annual Red River Shootout (I refuse to call it Red River Rivalry, PC can kiss my butt), between #6 Oklahoma Sooners (5-0) taking on the Texas Longhorns (3-2) at 3:30 PM on ABC. As history has shown, records mean nothing in this heated rivalry.

With so many games to choose from, here are the Top 3 games, that you SHOULD watch this weekend.

I am 10-5 in my predictions so far this season.

1) #7 Indiana Hoosiers (5-0) at #3 Oregon Ducks (5-0).
Game starts at 3:30 PM (EST) on CBS.

Yes, the Indiana Hoosiers are not just highly ranked, they’re a good FOOTBALL team. For those of us who are older, it’s been a long time since we could say that, and let’s be honest….it does feel good.

Curt Cignetti has come in and turned this program around. The Hoosiers are led by QB Fernando Mendoza, who’s completing 73% of his throws, for 1,208 yards with 16 TDs, to only 1 INT. He hasn’t made many mistakes, and goes through his progressions well. On defense, they get pressure off the line and are fairly gap sound. With 16 team sacks, they’ve forced 7 INTs this year.

Oregon head coach Dan Lanning continues to chug along and win ball games. The Ducks are led by QB Dante Moore. He’s completing 74.6% of his passes, for 1,210 yards, with 14 TDs to only 1 INT. He’s shown great poise and decision making as only a sophomore. This is a fast and fundamentally sound defense. They stay in their lanes don’t give up many YACs in the run or pass.

Prediction – We’re going to find out if Indiana is “for real – real”. I think they’re going to hang tough, but it’s hard for opponents to win in Autzen Stadium. Give me the Ducks to pull away late and win 42- 31.

2) #15 Michigan Wolverines (4-1) at USC Trojans (4-1).
Game starts at 7:30 PM (EST) on NBC.

This game isn’t getting talked about enough, by the “national pundits” This is a MUST WIN for the Trojans, after a tough road loss last week, and next week’s game is a very tough game.

The hype around Michigan freshman QB Bryce Underwood was extremely high. His performance on the field, thus far, has been extremely disappointing. The REAL leader of this offense is HB Justice Haynes. He has 85 carries, for 654 yards, with 8 TDs. He’s averaging 7.7 yards per carry. It’s a Wink Martindale defense, which means pressure and forcing turnovers. With 15 team sacks and 7 INTs, it’s the same old, same old. Fast, tough, and sound. I love defenses like this.

USC QB Jordan Maiava has come in and done better than almost everyone thought he would. He’s completing 70.5% of his passes, for 1,587 yards, with 11 TDs to only 1 INT. HB Waymond Jordan takes the pressure off with his ability vision and ability to hit the hole FAST. He has 537 yards, on 77 carries, with 5 TDs, and averaging 7.0 yards per carry. The defense has been MUCH improved. They have 17 team sacks, 6 INTs, and have forced 6 fumbles. Senior LB Eric Gentry is the guy to watch, as he has 30 tackles, 3 sacks, and 3 forced fumbles.

Prediction – As stated above, this is a must win for USC. It’s a home game, sandwiched between two tough road games. I’M CALLING THE UPSET HERE!!! The Trojans get it done in a close game 28-24.

3) #24 University of South Florida Bulls (4-1) at University of North Texas Mean Green (5-0).
Game is Friday Night, at 7:30 PM (EST) on ESPN 2.

The winner of this of this big time American Athletic Conference game, could very well end up getting the “G5 at large” spot in the College Football Playoffs.

The South Florida Bulls are battle tested, with wins over Boise State and Florida. They’re lone loss is to MY #1 team in the country, Miami Hurricanes. They’re led by dual-threat QB Byrum Brown. He’s thrown for 1,194 yards, with 10 TDs to 4 INTs. He’s also ran for 282 yards, on 64 carries, with 3 TDs. LB Mac Harris has been incredible so far this season. He has 42 tackles, 4 sacks, 3 forced fumbles, and 1 INT.

Freshman QB Drew Mestemaker has come in and shown great poise and decision making, so young. He’s thrown for 1,247 yards, with 11 TDs and 0 INTs. The Mean Green LBs are just dominate. Thier starting 3 have 119 of the 359 team tackles (33%). They also have 3 of the teams 6 INTs. The DL holds up well, so that these guys can fly all over and make plays.

Prediction – The Mean Green defense is for real. The Bulls are for real. It’s going to be a great, close, low scoring game. The big game experience that South Florida has this season, will be the difference. I’m taking the Bulls to win 24-17.

– by Sean McKenzie

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Pictures courtesy of…..wallpapercave, CBSSports, ESPN, and NYTimes.

Stats courtesy of…..NCAA.

October 9, 2025
Week 6 College Football Recap and Helmet Stickers.

WOW!!!

That’s the only word that can describe Week 6 of the college football season.

Then ranked #7 Penn State got beat 42-37, by a UCLA Bruins team, that hadn’t won a game all season.

Then #9 Texas lost to unranked Florida 29-21, in the swamp.

FYI, the final scores of those games do not indicate the true picture of how bad PSU and UT actually looked on the field.

Then #14 Iowa State could not overcome losing BOTH their starting CBs for the season, during the week, and lost to unranked Cincinnati 38-30.

The #3 Hurricanes and then ranked #18 Seminoles gave us a great game, as Miami won 28-22.

#10 Alabama got revenge on then ranked #16 Vanderbilt 30-14. In a game that was closer than the final score as well.

Then ranked #24 Virigina beat Louisville, in overtime, 30-27. The ACC has been completely whack-a-doo so far this season.

With so many performances to choose from, HERE are the Week 6 college football Helmet Stickers Awards.

(Team) UCLA Bruins.

The Bruins hadn’t won a game all season AND already fired their head coach. EVERYONE had written them off for this season, but they reminded the whole college football world to, NEVER POKE A BEAR.

Congratulations to all the players and staff.

(Offense) Blake Horvath, QB, Navy Midshipmen.

When you hear “Navy football”, you think Option and Wing-T offense. However, in the 1st leg of the Commander-in-Chiefs Trophy, Horvath set a school record with 469 total yards. He went 20 of 26 passing, for 339 yards, with 3 TDs and 0 INTs, as well as having 17 carries, for 130 yards, and 1 TD, in a 34-31 win over Air Force.

(Defense) Nathan Voorhis, DE, Ball State.

The defensive end had 8 total tackles, and 3.5 sacks on the day, as his timely defensive plays, helped lead the Ball State Cardinals to a 20-14, come from behind win, over the defending MAC champion Ohio Bobcats.

Who would you give a helmet sticker to???

– by Sean McKenzie

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Pictures courtesy of…..wallpapercave, yardbarker, and thestarpress.

Stats courtesy of…..NCAA.

October 7, 2025
The Real Top 10 College Football Rankings. Week 7.

Week 6 of the 2025-26 college football season is in the books.

We all know that the AP and ESPN are completely full of doo-doo and bias as all heck.

You can make a legitimate argument for ANY order of my top 3 teams.

Even for me personally, it was difficult to come up with an order.

So, without further ado, here is the REAL Top 10 teams.

1) Miami Hurricanes. 5-0. – They have 3 wins against ranked opponents. On the field results matter, and they have the best resume so far this season.

2) Ohio State Buckeyes. 5-0. – They’re cruising, and it doesn’t even look like they’re trying that hard yet. Wins over ranked Texas, as well as quality wins over Washington and Minnesota.

3) Oregon Ducks. 5-0. – New QB Dante Moore has this team rolling over everybody.

4) Texas A&M Aggies. 5-0. – That win over Norte Dame is looking better and better as the season goes on. Quality win over Mississippi State.

5) Ole Miss Rebels. 5-0. – Quality wins over LSU and G5 power Tulane, gave them the edge over the next team.

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Check out their Facebook Page for hours and special fall drinks.

6) Texas Tech Red Raiders. 5-0. – Quality wins over ranked Utah Utes and G5 power Houston. As they should, they’ve blown out the lesser competition.

7) Alabama Crimson Tide. 4-1. – Ever since they laid an egg in Week 1 against FSU, they have 2 wins against ranked teams (UGA and Vanderbilt).

8) Indiana Hoosiers. 5-0. – They mud stomped their only ranked matchup (Illinois) and grinded it out against an always game Iowa. They can run, pass, and play defense.

9) Georgia Bulldogs. 4-1. – Their lone loss against Alabama (see above) and they have a quality ranked win, at Tennessee.

10) Oklahoma Sooners. 5-0. – They have 2 wins against ranked team, but the unfortunate injury to starting QB John Mateer must count against them.

Just outside looking in – Tennessee, Georgia Tech, LSU, Notre Dame, Illinois.

– by Sean McKenzie.

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Picture courtesy of…..on3.

Stats and information courtesy of…..NCAA.

October 5, 2025
The Top 3 College Football Games to Watch for Week 6.

Week 6 of the college football season starts tonight, with the Sam Houston State Bearkats (0-4) traveling to take on the New Mexico State Aggies (2-2) at 9:00 PM (EST) on CBSSN.

That is NOT one of my Top 3, by the way.

This is going to be a Saturday of chalk. Teams you think are going to win, ARE going to win. I don’t foresee a bunch of upsets or anything.

So, without further ado, here you go.

1) #3 Miami Hurricanes (4-0) at #18 Florida State Seminoles (3-1).
Game starts at 7:30 PM (EST) on ABC.

If you are a fan of college football, then you know just how awesome it is, to see this bitter rivalry game be meaningful again. I am so excited for this game.

Transfer QB Carson Beck has this offense humming along. He’s recovered nicely from offseason elbow surgery and back to his old form. He’s completing 73.2% of his passes, with 8 TDs to only 3 INTs. Their running game is solid with HBs Mark Fletcher Jr and Charmar Brown combining for 9 TD runs. The defense has been solid. Getting sacks and pressures from all 3 levels. They don’t get out of position often.

QB Tommy Castellanos has come in and given this offense a spark, with his dual threat ability. His feet have done the most damage running for 217 yards and 4 TDs, not all on designed runs. HIs scrambling ability gives opposing defenses nightmares. The Seminole’s running game is top notch, as they’ve run for a combined 1,345 yards and 20 TDs already this season. The defensive backs are fast and fly all over the field, as Earl Little Jr leads the team in tackles (28), and Ashlynd Barker leads the team in sacks (2).

Prediction – Florida State is embarrassed by the upset last week and will come out swinging at home. This is a rivalry game, so it’d be close. I think Miami pulls it out on a Carson Beck TD late. Hurricanes win 28-24.

#16 Vanderbilt Commadores (5-0) at #10 Alabama Crimson Tide (3-1).
Game starts at 3:30 PM (EST) on ABC.

That’s right, your read that correctly. Vanderbilt is ranked and undefeated. This isn’t your grandpappy’s “cakewalk” Commadores team.

The Commadores are led by “super senior” QB Diego Pavia. Arguably, the best dual-threat QB in the entire country. He’s completing 74.6% of his passes, for 1,211 yards with 13 TDs to only 3 INTs. He’s also ran for 294 yards with 2 TDs. He always keeps his eyes downfield when scrambling, and doesn’t make stupid mistakes. The defense gets pressure fast. They have 14 team sacks on the young season, led by EDGE Miles Capers with (3.5). They also create turnovers, with 7 forced fumbles, and have recovered 6 of them.

The loss to FSU in Week 1 has flipped something in the Crimson Tide. Their focus and play has been much more sound since then. Junior QB Ty Simpson has thrown for 1,138 yards with 11 TDs and 0 INTs. He’s taking care of the football and keeping the offense on the field. While the defense isn’t putting up the sack and turnover numbers from years past; they’re fast and haven’t been overpursing like last season and in Week 1. They’ve gone back to fundamentals, and it’s showing up on film.

Prediction – Vanderbilt isn’t sneaking up on Bama this time, like last season. The Commadores are a serious team. I so badly want to pick them, but something is telling me that the Crimson Tide will get it done at home. I’m taking Alabama in a close game 34-31.

#11 Texas Tech Red Raiders (4-0) at Houston Cougars (4-0).
Game starts at 7:00 PM (EST) on ESPN.

Yes, you read that right. I’m saying the University of Houston football is a must watch. At least it is this week. They are scrapy and undefeated with 2 wins over “Power 4” schools already.

This is the biggest game for Houston since joining the Big-12 conference.

The Red Raiders offense has been balanced and efficient. QB Behren Morton has thrown for 1,065 yards with 11 TDs to only 3 INTs. The running game has 818 yards and 10 TDs on the season. The defense is led by one of the best LBs in the country (1 of my Top 10 players in all of America) Jacob Rodriguez, with 28 tackles, 2 forced fumbles, and 1 INT.

The Cougars got QB Conner Weigman from Texas A&M in the transfer portal. He’s the game manager that they need. He’s thrown for 839 yards, with 6 TDs to only 1 INT. The team has won through opportunistic defense. They’ve got 5 INTs and 7 forced fumbles, to along with 9 sacks.

Prediction – The Cougars will keep it close for a half, before the Red Raiders pull away. Texas Tech wins 42- 24.

– by Sean McKenzie

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Stats courtesy of…..NCAA.

Pictures courtesy of…..wallpapercave, USAToday, and ESPN.

October 2, 2025
Week 5 College Football Recap and Helmet Stickers.

(all rankings are current)

What a banger of a college football weekend it was!!!

We had instant classics, as the #2 Oregon Ducks, went into Happy Valley, during a whiteout game, and beat the #7 Penn State Nittany Lions 30-24 in double overtime.

The #10 ranked Alabama Crimson Tide went in “Between the Hedges” and ended the nation’s longest home winning streak, as they beat the #12 ranked Georgia Bulldogs 24-21.

The Virigina Cavaliers pulled a major upset in double overtime, beating the (then #8), #18 Florida State Seminoles 46-38. Then followed that by having the fastest storming of the field, that I’ve ever seen. LOL. (see final play and students storm the field in video below.)

The #1 ranked Ohio State Buckeyes went into Husky Stadium and ended the nation’s 2nd longest home winning streak, beating the Washington Huskies, 24-6, in a very workman like performance.

It also took overtime for #15 ranked Tennessee and #16 ranked Georgia Tech to get wins over Mississippi State and Wake Forest (41-34 and 30-29).

Unfortunately, we had another head coach lose their job, as Arkansas fired Sam Pittman (really dumb move in my personal opinion) after getting their butt whooped by #22 ranked Notre Dame Fighting Irish 56-13, at home. Bobby Petrino has been named interim head coach.

With so many performances to choose from, HERE are the Week 5 College Football Helmet Stickers.

(Team) #22 Illinois Fighting Illini.

After getting absolutely molly-whopped last week, the Fighting Illini, showed some fight. They went toe-to-toe with (then ranked#21) USC Trojans and won the game, 34-32, on a 41-yard field goal as time expired. This was a great game, that showcased the best of both teams. Illinois showed the country, that they are going to get up and fight, after being knocked down. Statement win.

(Offense) Haynes King, QB, Georgia Tech

The senior quarterback did everything, and then some, as he led the Yellow Jackets to a hard fought victory.

King went 28 of 42, for 243 yards, with 1 TD and 0 INTs. He also had 21 carries, for 106 yards, with 2 TDs.

Because of him, Georgia Tech is not only highly ranked, but undefeated at 5-0.

(Defense) Noah Avinger, CB, Utah State.

The 6’0 senior cornerback, was all over the field on Saturday afternoon, as he helped the Utah State Aggies, give the #18 ranked Vanderbilt Commodores, all they could handle, in a 55-35 loss.

He had 12 tackles, and an interception.

Who would you give a helmet sticker to?

– by Sean McKenzie.

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Stats courtesy of…..NCAA.

Pictures courtesy of…..wallpapercave, on3, and kslsports.

September 30, 2025
Knights Defense Pitches a Shutout, in Conference Win.

It was Military Appreciation Night in Convoy, Ohio, on a warm, early fall evening.

The Crestview Knights took the field, donning special uniforms, after pregame ceremonies thanking local community members, for their service to our great country.

The Delphos Jefferson Wildcats made the short trip west on US-30, looking to pick up their first conference win of the season.

On the first snap of the game, the Wildcats fumbled the football but managed to recover. After picking up a first down, they would get nothing. Jefferson converted a fake punt, but a delay of game penalty and another fumble for an eighteen-yard loss, would stall their opening drive.

The Knights would not convert their own 4th and 4, on their first possession of the game. Knights TE/DE Liam Putman would get his 1st of 7 sacks (new school record) on second down, forcing the Wildcats into a 3rd and 16.

Putman would have 3rd down catches of 11 and 8 yards on the ensuing possession for the Knights.

Crestview would finally get on the board, with a 59-yard touchdown run by quarterback Huxley Grose, at the 1:17 mark of the game of the first quarter. That would be it for the quarter as well.

The Wildcats would once again struggle with the snap. This time on a 4th and 3 punt. The high snap would force the punter into an incomplete pass, giving the Knights the football at the 27-yard line. Crestview wouldn’t do anything with the ball on this drive, and ended up missing a 45 yard field goal attempt.

Another bad snap on 2nd down, making it a 3rd and 9. The Wildcats would convert on a big 48-yard pass, all the way down to the 38-yard line. After a false start penalty, Jefferson would call a timeout, with 8:12 left in the half.

The theme continued, as the 2nd bad snap of the drive, made it 3rd and 35 for Jefferson. Pressure by the Knights defense forced a bad pass, and #0 Hayden Perrott would pick it off, and take the interception back 50 yards for a touchdown. Made it a 14-0 game with 7:00 minutes left.

A Jefferson false start penalty on 2nd down and Crestview would get a sack by #66 OT/DE Will Sheets would end the drive.

Knights #15 WR/DB Braxtyn Couts would get their 2nd interception of the game.

#4 QB Huxley Grose would connect with #15 Braxtyn Couts for a 25-yard touchdown pass. PAT was good, and that would end the scoring for the first half, with the Knights leading 21-0.

Special shoutout to Crestview Knights #13 WR/DB Bowen Ayers, who returned my 50/50 tickets, that fell out of my pocket.

The Knights would lose a yard on the first play of the half, then a holding call would push the ball back to the 17-yard line. They would be forced to punt from deep in their territory.

The Knights would recover a fumble.

#2 HB/DB Braxton Leeth would finally get his first good run of the game, going 13 yards. A Crestview false start would make it 1st and 15 on the 35.

Leeth would pop off back-to-back 18 yard runs and score his first touchdown of the game. PAT good making it 28-0 with 7:55 left in the 3rd.

DEs Liam Putman and Will Sheets would get a big 3rd down sack.

HB Braxton Leeth would run for 9 yards on first down.

QB Huxley Grose would lose 2 yards, making it 3rd and 3 from the 36.

Leeth would run for 37 yards and his 2nd touchdown of the game.

The PAT was good, making it a 35-0 Crestview lead.

That would be the final scoring play of the game.

QB Huxley Grose finished the game 12 of 21, for 102 yards, and 1 TD.

HB Braxton Leeth had 17 carries, for 117 yards, with 2 TDs.

TE Liam Putman had 4 catches, for 32 yards.

Putman also led the team in tackles and sacks with 7, to become the 1st ever allsportsfan.com Player of the Game.

I spoke to Crestview Knights Head Coach Cole Harting on the sideline after the game.

I asked him what were the positives in another conference win?

“I thought our defense played lights out. Liam Putman had five, six, or seven sacks, and that was huge for us. Our defense has struggled at times this season, and to come out and with this type of dominate performance was just amazing to watch. We struggled on offense tonight and our defense picked us up.

I asked him about Liam Putmans’ dominate game, especially his catches on 3rd down. If that was something they worked on in practice this week.

“We always work on third downs, and we really work on our plays, and we really run and focus on those plays. We executed very well tonight on those plays.

The Knights were unstoppable off the edge in the game. Getting pressure on Jefferson all game long and forcing scrambles and not letting him get comfortable. I asked him about the defensive performance off the edge.

“Our guys up front played phenomenal tonight. They made it tough for their quarterback. We didn’t give him time and that led to a couple of interceptions which is pretty awesome.”

The Knights are now 5-1 overall, and 3-0 in the Northwest Conference. They travel to Bluffton next Friday Night to play the Pirates. Game starts at 7:00 PM (EST).

– by Sean McKenzie

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Stats courtesy of…..Chris Lutz.

September 27, 2025
Top 3 College Football Games to Watch for Week 5.

Week 5 of the college football season starts tonight, with the Army Black Knights (1-2) at East Carolina Pirates (2-2), at 7:30 PM (EST) on ESPN.

With conference play underway, the games start to have serious meaning towards season goals, and ultimately, the college football playoffs.

With so many great games available to watch, I’m here to give you the 3 games that you should.

1) #6 Oregon Ducks (4-0) at #3 Penn State Nittany Lions (3-0).
Game starts at 7:30 PM (EST) on NBC and Peacock.

The highflying Ducks offense is traveling across the country to take on the Nittany Lions, in Penn State’s “White out game”.

Sophomore QB Dante Moore has thrown for 962 yards with 11 TDs to only 1 INT. He’s completing 74.7% of his throws so, and the offense just hums along with quick strikes. The defense plays fast and downhill, making it difficult for opposing offenses to get anything started.

The Penn State offense has been anemic to say the least. Has head coach James Franklin been holding back so far?

The Nittany Lions have arguably the best running back tandem in the country with Kaytron Allen and Nicholas Singleton. They have a combined 8 TDs so far. QB Drew Allar was some people’s “QB1”, and he’s only thrown 4 TDs through 3 games. Their defense as always is tough and gets pressure on the quarterback. DC Jim Knowles will scheme something up for this big matchup.

Prediction – Penn State is 13-8 in “White out games”, make it 13-9, as Oregon wins this game 31-27.

2) #17 Alabama Crimson Tide (2-1) at #5 Georgia Bulldogs (3-0).
Game starts at 7:30 PM (EST) on ABC.

Where is the running game? They’ve only rushed for a combined 371 yards and 4 TDs, through 3 games. Where is the defense? They only have 4 sacks total. Can junior QB Ty Simpson carry this team? He’s thrown for 862 yards, with 9 TDs and 0 INTs so far. He just might have to find some magic.

The Bulldogs have found their running game. They have 3 HBs already over 100 yards each, and as a team, have run for 627 yards and 10 TDs. That means that junior QB Gunnar Stockton just need to not make mistakes, and he’s done that so far, throwing for 722 yards, with 4 TDs and 0 INTs. It’s Georgia, which means fast and active linebackers and safeties flying all over the field making tackles.

Prediction – I think this game is going to be ugly for Alabama. Give me Georgia to win 42-21.

3) #1 Ohio State Buckeyes (3-0) at Washington Huskies (3-0).
Game starts at 3:30 PM (EST) on CBS and Paramount+.

The Buckeyes have arguably the best WR tandem in America, with WRs Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate. That means sophomore QB Julian Sayin has a big edge. He’s thrown for 779 yards, with 8 TDs and 3 INTs. Projected starting HBs James Peoples and CJ Donaldson have been disappointing, but freshman HB Bo Jackson has done great in his brief appearances. On defense, S Caleb Downs is a playmaker that every team avoids, so LBs Arvell Reese and Sonny Styles, are free to fly all over and wreak havoc.

The Huskies offensive gameplan is simple; get the ball to senior HB Jonah Coleman, as much as possible. He has 51 carries, for 347 yards, and 9 TDs. Sophomore QB Demond Williams Jr, is a dual threat as well. He’s thrown for 778 yards, with 6 TDs and 0 INTs, but he’s also ran the ball 34 times, for 220 yards, with 2 TDs.

KEY STAT: Washington has won 22 straight games at home.

TRAP GAME ALERT!!!

Prediction – The Huskies are going to give the Buckeyes, all they can handle. I won’t be shocked if they pull off the massive upset. However, I’m going with Ohio State to win a close game 42-38.

– by Sean McKenzie.

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Pictures courtesy of…..wallpapercave, USAToday, ESPN, and CBSSports.

Stats courtesy of…..NCAA.

September 25, 2025