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Tag: Ducks

  • College Football Recap and Helmet Stickers for Week 8.

    A collage of various college football team logos, featuring prominent teams such as UCLA Bruins, Michigan Wolverines, and Texas Longhorns, arranged in a grid format.

    What an incredible week of college football we had on Saturday.

    We had MAJOR Top 10 upsets!!!

    It all started on Friday night, when the Louisville Cardinals upset (then #2) ranked Miami Hurricanes, 24-21. DO NOT look deep into this one, as it took QB Carson Beck throwing 4 INTs for it to happen.

    The Arizona State Sun Devils knocked off the (then #7) Texas Tech Red Raiders, 26-22, in game that came down to the wire.

    The UAB Blazers upset the (then #22) Memphis Tigers, 31-24, in a game that nobody saw coming.

    As I said in my Top 3 Games to Watch article, the best game of week, was between (then #13 and #20) Notre Dame and USC. The Trojans had no answer at all for the Fighting Irish’s running game, as ND won 34-24.

    Ohio State, Indiana, Texas A&M, Georgia, Alabama, and Oregon, all took care of business, and got wins, to stay in the Top 10.

    Of course, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that the Florida Gators have fired Billy Napier. Billy Gonzales has been named the interim head coach.

    So, without further ado, here are your Week 8 College Football Helmet Stickers.

    (Team) UCLA Bruins.

    Logo of the UCLA Bruins featuring a bear mascot and the team name.

    After starting the season 0-4 and firing their (now former) head coach Deshaun Foster, the Bruins have won 3 straight games. Not just any games either, they’re conference games. The UCLA Bruins are currently 3rd in the Big Ten, as they defeated Maryland 20-17.

    They needed something to jump start this program, and it’s working out quite well so far in the month of October, as interim head coach Tim Skipper, has this team playing hard and rolling.

    (Offense) Jeremiyah Love, HB, Notre Dame Fighting Irish.

    A Notre Dame player, wearing a purple jersey with the number 4, celebrates while running on the football field, holding a ball in one hand, with fans in the background.

    Jeremiyah Love was my #1 rated HB coming into the season, and he showed again, exactly why.

    The Trojan defense had no answer for him at all. He ran through them, around them, and any other adjective you can think of.

    He had 24 carries, for 228 yards, with a touchdown. He added 5 catches for 37 yards as well.

    (Defense) Treylin Payne, LB, Texas State Bobcats.

    Headshot of a smiling young male athlete with curly hair, wearing a red jersey.

    The Bobcat senior had an incredible 24 total tackles, in a 37-40, double overtime loss to Marshall.

    Who would you give a helmet sticker to?

    – by Sean McKenzie

    Stats courtesy of…..NCAA.

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

  • The Real College Football Top 10 Teams After Week 8.

    A collage of various college sports team logos, including the Seminoles, Wolverines, and Buckeyes, arranged in a grid pattern against a black background.

    The Associated Press Poll, better known as the AP Poll will be out on Sunday.

    As we all know, the AP voters are out of their minds. With AP Poll voters like Haley Sawyer, admitting that they don’t watch the games, nobody takes it seriously anymore.

    The ESPN Poll is completely bias, as they own the SEC Network and don’t even hide it.

    I’m here to give you the unbiased, real Top Ten college football teams, after Week 8.

    1) Ohio State Buckeyes – 7-0 – defeated Wisconsin 34-0.

    2) Indiana Hoosiers – 7-0 – defeated Michigan State 38-13.

    3) Alabama Crimson Tide – 6-1 – defeated #11 Tennessee 37-20.

    4) Texas A&M Aggies – 7-0 – defeated Arkansas 45-42.

    5) Georgia Bulldogs – 6-1 – defeated #5 Ole Miss 43-35.

    6) Miami Hurricanes – 5-1 – lost to Louisville 24-21.
    It took QB Carson Beck throwing 4 INTs for them to lose.
    Don’t overthink this, they’re still a top team in the nation.

    7) Oregon Ducks – 6-1 – defeated Rutgers 56-10.

    8) Ole Miss Rebels – 6-1 – lost to #9 Georgia 43-35.
    They choked away a late lead.
    Still a top 10 team.

    9) Notre Dame Fighting Irish – 5-2 – defeated #20 USC 34-24.

    10) Texas Tech Red Raiders – 6-1 – lost to Arizona State 26-22.
    They didn’t have their starting QB Behren Morton (knee) and barely lost to a vastly under-rated Sun Devils team on the road.
    Like Miami, don’t overthink this.
    Texas Tech is better than Georgia Tech and Oklahoma, who many will rank above them now with the loss.

    – by Sean McKenzie

    Stats and scores courtesy of…..NCAA.

  • Week 7 College Football Recap and Helmet Stickers.

    Collage of various college sports team logos on a black background.

    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.

    Indiana Hoosiers logo featuring the word 'HOOSIERS' above the university initials 'IU' on a red background.

    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.

    A San Jose State Trojans player wearing a blue jersey with the number 10 runs with the ball, evading two defenders in a football game.

    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.

    Headshot of a young male athlete wearing a green sports polo shirt, with short curly hair and a neutral expression.

    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

    Please subscribe, follow, and like.

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

    Stats courtesy of…..NCAA.

  • The Top 3 College Football Games to Watch for Week 7.

    A collage of college football team logos, featuring various mascots and symbols representing teams from across the United States.

    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.

    Split image featuring the Indiana University Hoosiers logo on the left in crimson and the University of Oregon Ducks logo on the right in yellow against a green background.

    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.

    Logo of the University of Michigan (M) on a navy blue background overlaid with the logo of the University of Southern California (SC) on a cardinal red background.

    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.

    Logos of the University of South Florida Bulls and the University of North Texas Mean Green, set against a backdrop of football-related images.

    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.

  • The Real Top 10 College Football Rankings. Week 7.

    Collage of four college football players from different teams, featuring players from Ohio State, Oregon, Miami, and Alabama, set against a colorful background.

    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.

    An iced coffee with a logo from The Rebel Bean, held in front of a decorative fall wreath.

    For the best coffee in Van Wert County, stop into The Rebel Bean.
    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 inTennessee, Georgia Tech, LSU, Notre Dame, Illinois.

    – by Sean McKenzie.

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    Picture courtesy of…..on3.

    Stats and information courtesy of…..NCAA.

  • Week 5 College Football Recap and Helmet Stickers.

    A collage of various college football team logos arranged in rows, featuring logos from teams like Michigan, USC, LSU, and more against a black background.

    (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.

    Logo of the Illinois Fighting Illini on an orange background.

    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

    Georgia Tech quarterback Haynes King runs with the football during a game, wearing a yellow and white uniform.

    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.

    Portrait of a smiling male football player wearing a blue jersey, with short curly hair and earrings, against a white background.

    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.

    Don’t forget to subscribe, follow, and like.

    Stats courtesy of…..NCAA.

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

  • Top 3 College Football Games to Watch for Week 5.

    A collage of various college sports team logos set against a black background, featuring symbols from popular universities.

    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.

    Logos of the Oregon Ducks and the Penn State Nittany Lions on a blue background.

    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.

    Logo split of Alabama Crimson Tide and Georgia Bulldogs, showcasing their team symbols against contrasting backgrounds.

    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 logos of the Ohio State Buckeyes and Washington Huskies on a split background, with Ohio State's logo on red and Washington's logo on purple.

    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.

  • The Real College Football Power Rankings For Week 3.

    Graphic featuring 'College Football Top 10' with a football design and the Dr. Roto logo.

    Week 2 of the college football season has come and gone.

    We saw a big upset in USF over Florida.

    Oregon absolutely smoked Oklahoma State.

    Georgia and Clemson struggled offensively against inferior opponents in Austin Peay and Troy.

    Arch Manning and Texas rebounded against San Jose State.

    As things start to settle in with teams, I’m here to give you the REAL Power Rankings. Not that bias crap that ESPN and the AP spits out there.

    1) Ohio State Buckeyes. (2-0).
    2) Oregon Ducks. (2-0),
    3) LSU Tigers. (2-0)
    4) Miami Hurricanes. (2-0).
    5) Penn State Nittany Lions. (2-0).
    6) Georgia Bulldogs. (2-0).
    7) Florida State Seminoles. (2-0).
    8) Tennessee Volunteers. (2-0).
    9) Illinois Fighting Illini. (2-0).
    10)South Florida Bulls. (2-0).

    A collage of various college sports team logos displayed in a grid format.

    Yes, I put the USF in the Top 10.

    They are the only team with two, Top 25 wins so far this season. If a Power 4 school had won at Boise State and at Florida, in back-to-back weeks, the mainstream sports media would be heaping praise on them.

    Since they weren’t “ranked” before the season started, they’re being ignored, and given a “courtesy ranking” by the clowns at ESPN and the AP.

    I omitted the Texas Longhorns, because their offense is struggling. Yes, Arch Manning threw for 4 TD’s, but 3 of those were on busted coverages and most of his passes, were under 4 yards.

    BOLO – Notre Dame Fighting Irish, Texas A&M Aggies, and Vanderbilt Commodores.

    – by Sean McKenzie

    Pictures courtesy of…..drroto and wallpapercave.

  • Top 10 Returning College Football Players (Non-QB).

    A collage of various college football team logos displayed in a grid format.

    With the 2025-26 college football season starting in just under 100 days; I thought we should look and talk about the best returning players in the sport.

    This list does not include quarterbacks. Yes, it’s the most important position. There will be a sperate list for that.

    Y’all know me, so let’s get right into it.

    1. Jeremiah Smith, WR, Ohio State.
      A college football player wearing a red jersey with the number 4 celebrates in the end zone, holding a football aloft, with a cheering crowd in the background.

      2024 stats – 76 receptions, for 1,315 yards, with 15 TDs.

      Smith broke multiple records at Ohio State in his freshman season with ease. He was the Big Ten Receiver of the Year, the Big Ten Freshman of the Year, and was a First-Team All-American.

      The crazy thing is that the 6’3″, 215 lbs sophomore, still has 2 years of college football to play. He was unguardable last season and will continue to improve under OC/WR coach Brian Hartline.

      Smith could walk into the NFL and be WR1 for most teams today. He has the size, speed, and hands to dominate the game for the next decade.

      2, Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State.

      Ohio State football player celebrating during a game, dressed in a red jersey with the number 2, while fans in the background cheer.

      2024 stats – 81 total tackles, .5 sacks, 2 INTs, 6 PDs, 1 Punt Return TD.

      The 6’0″, 205 lbs junior can do everything on defense. He can come down and play in the box. He’s an excellent blitzer, hitting the gaps with speed. He can deliver big hits. He can drop back and play the deep safety. He can come up and play in the slot. He does it all.

      He adds additional value in the return game, as evidenced by his punt return touchdown against Indiana.

      As a sophomore last season, he won Big Ten Defensive Back of the Year Award. He was a finalist for the Thorpe Award, and the Nagurski Award. He was also named a unanimous first team All-American.

      3. Anthony Hill Jr, LB, Texas

      A Texas Longhorns football player celebrates on the field, wearing a white jersey with 'TEXAS' across the front. The player appears to be in action during a game, surrounded by teammates and opponents in the background.

      2024 stats – 113 total tackles, 8 sacks, 4 forced fumbles, 1 fumble recovery, 1 INT, 1 PD.

      The 6’3″, 235 lbs junior was a second-team All-American last season. He has the speed and burst to beat the offensive tackle off the snap and is able to drop back in coverage. He goes for the football, evidenced by his 4 forced fumbles.

      4. Ryan Williams, WR, Alabama.

      Wide receiver from Alabama making a catch in a football game, defended by an opposing player.

      2024 stats – 48 receptions, for 865 yards, with 8 TDs.

      The 6’0″, 185 lbs Williams started his freshman season very strong, scoring a touchdown in his first five games. The first thing that comes to mind when talking about him is SPEEEEEEDDDD.

      Williams is very fast, and if you don’t get hands on him at the line of scrimmage, you’re eating dust and seeing his numbers.

      He faded in the second half of last season. Teams figured out that he can be bullied on the LOS and be taken out of the play because of his small size.

      I think that changes this season, and he’ll be better using his hands of the snap. He was first-team All-SEC and Freshman All-American.

      5. Jeremiyah Love, HB, Notre Dame.

      A Notre Dame football player in a navy blue jersey and gold pants runs with the ball during a game. There's a crowd in the background, and team members are visible on the sidelines.

      2024 stats – 163 carries, for 1,125 yards, with 17 TDs. 28 receptions for 237 yards, with 2 TDs.

      The 6’0″, 212 lbs junior is the best running back in the country, especially when he’s healthy. All those numbers you see above and the highlights on YouTube, he did all that while battling a number of injuries.

      He has the speed to score from anywhere on the field. The power to break tackles and run between the lines. He has the hands to catch the ball out of the backfield. He’s improved his pass blocking and blitz pickup as he’s progressed in his time in South Bend.

      Fighting Irish OC Mike Denbrock even said that he was going to “deploy Love in the slot this season”, showing the he can be a playmaker anywhere.

      6. T.J. Parker, DE, Clemson.

      A Clemson football coach speaks to a player wearing an orange jersey with the number 12 during a practice or game. In the background, additional teammates are visible in orange uniforms.

      2024 stats – 57 total tackles, 11 sacks, 6 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries, 1 PD.

      The 6’3″, 265 lbs junior set a new school record for forced fumbles and had the most sacks in a season for Clemson, since 2018. He has good burst at the snap, and he’s always looking for the football.

      Even if the offensive tackle gets his hands inside on him, Parker still has the strength to force him into the pocket and force the quarterback to get out of his rhythm.

      Parker was the only FBS player in 2024 to finish in the Top 10 nationally in sacks, tackles for loss, and forced fumbles.

      7. Jacob Rodriguez, LB, Texas Tech.

      A college football player wearing a red uniform with 'Red Raiders' on the chest, running on the field with a focused expression.

      2024 stats – 127 total tackles, 5 sacks, 3 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries, 1 INT, 4 PD, 1 Defensive TD.

      The 6’1″, 230 lbs senior is a tackling machine. He has the speed to play sideline-to-sideline. He has the strength to take on DT (see Iowa State game), and the toughness to take on the strongest of HBs at the LOS (see the hit on Arizona State HB Cam Skattebo).

      He has great hand usage, to get off of blockers and make the tackle. He wraps up and doesn’t let go.

      He was named Captain as a junior and has the complete trust of his teammates and coaches.

      8. Dani Dennis-Sutton, DE, Penn State.

      A football player wearing a blue and white uniform with the number 33, running on the field during a game at Penn State, showcasing his athleticism and readiness for action.

      2024 stats – 42 total tackles, 8.5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, 1 fumble recovery, 1 INT, 3 PD.

      The 6’5″, 265 lbs, senior has ideal size and length at the position. He has the burst to win off the edge and strength to bull rush through the offensive tackles body.

      He more than held his own, playing opposite of #3 draft pick Abdul Carter last season.

      He played his best football in the college football playoffs, getting 4.5 sacks, 1 forced fumble, and an INT in those 3 games.

      With new DC Jim Knowles now running the defense, he’ll have even more opportunities to make his mark this upcoming season.

      9. Matayo Uiagalelei, OLB/EDGE, Oregon.

      An Oregon football player in a green uniform tackles an opposing player in a yellow uniform during a game.

      2024 stats – 38 total tackles, 10.5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, 1 INT, 1 PD.

      The 6’5″, 270 lbs junior led the Big Ten in sacks last season. He had at least one sack in nine straight games. He’s a straight pass rushing LB.

      He’s not going to go out there and keep up with TEs on verts and crosses.

      He’s going to give you strength, effort, a relentless motor, and more often than not, he wins his matchups.

      10. Peter Woods, DT, Clemson.

      Clemson football player wearing an orange jersey with the number 11, standing on the field during a game.

      2024 stats – 26 total tackles, 3 sacks, 1 forced fumble, 5 QB hurries.

      The 6’3″, 315 lbs junior is the best DT in America, and possibly the best overall defensive lineman in college football.

      That’s right, I said it.

      Woods has the strength and speed inside, to demand double teams on every play. You absolutely cannot have him one on one. What makes him even better, is that he can kick out and not only play DE but play it well.

      He can play in either a 4-3 or a 3-4, and be just as productive in both schemes.

      He plays his best games, against the best teams (see Georgia and Texas games) last season.

      Putting my “fan cap” on, I’d LOVE to see him in my Cleveland Browns Orange next season.

      A close-up of the College Football Playoff National Championship trophy on the football field, with empty stadium seats in the background under clear blue skies.

      There you go, the 10 best non-QB returning players for the upcoming college football season.

      Do you agree or disagree?

      Who would put in or take out?

      Let me know.

      – by Sean McKenzie

      Follow me on X (Twitter) at JoeAmerican6771 and allsportsfancom.

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

      Pictures courtesy of…..wallpapercave, athlonsports, on3, 247sports, clutchpoints, tigernet,texasfootball, clemsontigers, cnn.

    1. #1 Seed Eliminated, Superstar Player Has Surgery, NFL Schedule Releases, Coach Involved in Sexual Assault Scandal Hired, and so much more.

      A graphic illustrating the NBA playoffs bracket, showing the teams and matchups, including the Cleveland Cavaliers and Indiana Pacers.

      NBA FINALS PLAYOFFS AND NEWS.

      My #1 seeded Cleveland Cavaliers have officially been eliminated from the NBA Finals Playoffs, losing to the #4 seeded Indiana Pacers 4-1, with a 114-105 loss last night.

      The injury bug finally got his teeth into the Cavaliers at the worst possible time. Superstar SG Donovan Mitchell with an ankle injury, PF Evan Mobley, SF De’Andre Hunter, all missed time in this series.

      The shots just weren’t falling for the Cavaliers in this series. The momentum that came from winning 60+ games in the regular season and sweeping the Miami Heat, just didn’t follow them into the 2nd round.

      The Pacers budding stars played their best this series. PG Tyrese Haliburton and PF Pascal Siakam stepped up when it was needed throughout this series. Full game highlights below.

      PG Tyrese Haliburton led the team with 31 points and 8 assists, while SF Aaron Nesmith brought in 13 rebounds.

      The Pacers await the winner between the #2 seeded Boston Celtics and the #3 seeded New York Knicks.

      The Knicks lead that series 3-1.

      The #1 seeded Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the #4 seeded Denver Nuggets 112-105 last night, to take a 3-2 lead in the series.

      PG Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 31 points and 7 assists. F Jalen Williams led the team with 8 rebounds.

      Nuggets C Nikola Jokic had a big night in a losing effort, scoring 44 points, bringing in 15 rebounds, and 5 assists. Full game highlights below.

      Game 6 is Thursday night, in Denver, at 8:30 PM (EST) on ESPN.

      Boston Celtics superstar SF Jayson Tatum had surgery to repair a torn left Achilles tendon yesterday.

      He suffered the injury late in the 4th quarter of the Celtics Game 4 loss to the Knicks on Monday.

      No timetable has been given for his return.

      NFL NEWS.

      The NFL released the schedule for their international games this upcoming season.

      NFL International Games 2025 schedule overview with matchups and locations including São Paulo, Dublin, London, Berlin, and Madrid.

      The Minnesota Vikings have 2 games overseas this upcoming season, including one against my Cleveland Browns on October 5th.

      My fellow LabRoomFam and close friend Nick, might have to put another wager on that game. I won the last bet on 10/3/21, when the Browns beat the Vikings 14-7 in Minnesota.

      Games will be played in England, Ireland, Spain, Germany, and Brazil.

      The full schedule release will be tonight at 8:00 PM (EST) on NFL Network.

      NHL STANLEY CUP PLAYOFFS AND NEWS.

      NHL playoff bracket showing matchups and team rankings for the tournament.

      The C2 Dallas Stars defeated the C1 Winnipeg Jets last night 3-1, to take a big 3-1 lead in the series.

      Stars C Mikael Granlund got his first career playoff hat trick, scoring goals in all 3 periods, including 2 of them on the powerplay.

      Stars goalie Jake Gettinger stopped 31 of the 32 shots he faced.

      See all 3 goals below.

      Game 5 is Thursday night, in Winnipeg, at 9:30 PM (EST) on TNT, truTV, and Max.

      The Anaheim Ducks have hired Joel Quenneville as their new head coach.

      The 66-year-old is 2nd in NHL history with a record of 969-572-150, in stints with the St. Louis Blues, Colorado Avalanche, Chicago Blackhawks, and Florida Panthers.

      He’s been out of the league since October 27th, 2021, when he was fired by Florida Panthers, after he covered up evidence, of sexual assault on former Blackhawks player Kyle Beach, by then video coach Brad Aldrich in 2010.

      A man with a white mustache stands speaking to reporters, surrounded by microphones and smartphones, with a sports team logo in the background.

      My personal opinion is that this is a disgusting move. Quenneville deserves to be banned from coaching at any level, in any league, anywhere in the world.

      It’s a disgrace to victims of sexual assault of both sexes everywhere. He knowingly covered up evidence and misled law enforcement and NHL investigators.

      I’m ashamed of the NHL for even allowing this to happen. It puts a dark pall on what has been a very exciting Stanley Cup Playoffs this season.

      MLB SCORES AND NEWS.

      MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred removed all-time hits leader Pete Rose, “Shoeless” Joe Jackson, and others from the leagues permanently ineligible list.

      They had all been banned from anything MLB related for admitting to gambling and in Jacksons’ case “fixing” the 1919 World Series.

      They will now all be eligible for the MLB Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, NY.

      A baseball player wearing a red cap and jacket, looking serious while glancing over his shoulder against a blurred background.

      In my personal opinion, lifting the ban on Pete Rose in long overdue. He never lost games on purpose. Lifting the ban on “Shoeless” Joe Jackson is a disgrace to the game of baseball and all sports. He and others intentially rigged the 1919 World Series. There should never, ever be a place of forgiveness in any sport, for that.

      Guardians beat the Brewers 2-0.

      The Detroit Tigers continue to surprise everyone, as they beat the Boston Red Sox 10-9.

      The Mariners beat the Yankees 2-1, in extra innings (11).

      The Dodgers get smoked by the Athletics 11-1.

      A Seattle Mariners player celebrating joyfully on the field, wearing a Mariners uniform and a teal headband, with fans cheering in the background.

      Question of the day – Do agree that Pete Rose and “Shoeless” Joe Jackson’s bans deserve to be lifted???

      Drop a comment telling me why or why not.

      – by Sean McKenzie

      Stats and information courtesy of…..NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, ESPN, bleacherreport, MSN.

      Pictures and videos courtesy of…..NFL, SI, MLB, MSN, bleacherreport, and YouTube.