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Tag: Michigan Wolverines

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

    Grid of college sports team logos featuring various universities in the United States.

    As Week 3 of the college football season, typically has the non-conference games being wrapped up, unless you’re SEC, it’s hard to determine which games are worth your time.

    I’m an Ohio State Buckeyes fan, but the truth is, that I’m not going to be watching a lot of their against Kent State (Noon on FOX) on my 4-way split screen TV.

    I’m not picking #7 LSU Tigers at #8 Ole Miss Rebels, (7:00 PM (EST) on ABC), because it’s too easy, and we all, already know it’s a big game.

    You gotta get through the muck, of the schedule, and that’s what I’m here for.

    Here are the Top 3 games that I’ll be paying attention to the most.

    1) #22 Houston Cougars 2-0 at Texas Tech Red Raiders (2-0).

    Logos of the University of Houston (UH) and Texas Tech University (TTU) displayed side by side on a split background.

    Gametime is Friday Night, at 8:00 PM (EST) on FOX.

    The Cougars are led by 5th year Senior QB Casey Weigman. He likes to spread the ball around, with 3 WRs already over 100 yards receiving. Against Texas Tech, they’ll need HBs Makhi Hughes and Re’Shaun Sanford to keep averaging over 5 YPC, to alleviate the pressure. On defense, they have active DBs, that get involved in pass rush, as DB Javion White leads the team with 2 sacks. That has to change. That front four needs to start getting pressure.

    The Red Raiders are led by QB Will Hammond. He’s a pure pocket passer, completing 76% of his passes. He’s also taken 4 sacks. Junior HB J’Koby Williams leads the team in rushing with 187 yards and 2 TD, and receptions, with 10 catches. Texas Tech always has smart linebackers, and that continues. Senior Jamond Mathis leads the team with 2.5 sacks. LBs Ben Roberts (15) and Austin Romaine (12) are tackling machines.

    Prediction – Everytime I picked against the Cougars last season, they won. I’d like to say that I learned my lesson, but NOPE!!! Give me Texas Tech at home 34-30.

    2) #16 SMU Mustangs (2-0) at #23 Louisville Cardinals (1-1).

    Image featuring the logos of Southern Methodist University (SMU) with a red mustang on a blue background and the University of Louisville with an angry cardinal on a red background, split diagonally.

    Gametime is Saturday afternoon at 3:30 PM (EST) on ESPN2.

    The Mustangs are led by one of the best and most fun QBs in college football in Senior Kevin Jennings. He is must see TV. Jennings is completing over 76% of his passes, for 767 yards, with 8 TDs and 2 INTs. The entire offense runs through him. On defense, they’re led by Senior S Jimmy Wyrick. He leads the team in tackles (11) and sacks (2).

    The Cardinals are led by Ohio State transfer Junior QB Lincoln Kienholz. He’s completely 68% of his passes for 639 yards, with 4 TDs and 0 INTs. He also leads the team in rushing with 20 carries for 111 yards, and 3 TDs. Can he keep this pace up for an entire season? On defense, their top 3 tacklers are all DBs, in Koen Entringer, Kaleb Beasley, and DJ Waller Jr. They only have 1 sack through 2 games. That’s not good enough.

    Prediction – It’s always hard to count out Louisville. They’re a scrappy team. Kevin Jennings is the better QB and they have the better defense. Mustangs win 42-27.

    3) Virginia Tech Hokies (2-0) at Maryland Terrapins (2-0).

    Logos of Virginia Tech (VT) and the University of Maryland (M) displayed side by side on a maroon and white background.

    Gametime is Saturday night at 7:30 PM (EST) on FS1.

    Hokies QB Ethan Grunkmeyer followed head coach James Franklin to the Hokies, from Penn State. He’s completing 77% of his passes for 551 yards, with 4 TDs and 0 INTs. HBs Jeffrey Overton and Marcellous Hawkins Jr, have rushed for over 263 yards and 6 TDs, through 2 games. On defense, they have 12 sacks through 2 games, led by DL Mylachi Williams and Cortez Harris, with 3 each. Both are also tied for the team lead in tackles (7).

    The Terrapins are led by Sophomore Malik Washington. He’s completing 73% of his passes, for 533 yards, with 3 TDs and 0 INTs. On defense, LBs Trey Reddick (12) and Carlton Smith (10) lead the team in tackles. Overall, they have 10 sacks and 3 INTs.

    The underwriting storyline of this game, is that Virginia Tech, paid Maryland $600,000 to cancel games in 2027 and 2028. This originally was supposed to be a 4 game home and home series, to renew a regional rivalry game. They will play this game, and the final game will be played in 2029.

    Prediction – Both of these defenses are off to hot starts. It simply comes down to which HC I trust more…..James Franklin or Mike Locksley??? I’ll take Franklin and Virginia Tech 21-14, in a defensive game.

    What game are you excited to watch???
    Drop a comment.

    – by Sean McKenzie

    Stats courtesy of…..NCAA and ESPN.

    Pictures courtesy of…..wallpapercave and ESPN.

  • 2026-27 College Football Predictions.

    After what has seemed like a long, long, spring and summer, us college football fans, can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel.

    We are all still in a sense of disbelief, that the historically worst team in college football, the Indiana Hoosiers, won the College Football National Championship.

    While “recruiting battles” and keeping up with the all the coaching changes kept our appetites wet, there is nothing like seeing them clash on the field.

    I could hem and haw about all the new changes in the offseason, but, I’m going to get right to the meat of the matter (go back and read my articles).

    So, without further ado, here are my college football season predictions.

    1) Who will win the ACC, B12, B10 and SEC?

    NIL (name, image, and likeness), has stopped the SEC from cheating (which a lot of former players openly admit now) and has now leveled the playing field. Hence, we have Indiana winning the Natty.

    It makes the conferences deeper than ever before. We no longer just have Alabama and Georgia in the SEC. Ohio State and Michigan and the B10.

    I’ll start with the ACC, and let’s be honest here. It’s the Miami Hurricanes. They avoid the other Top 2 contenders (SMU and Louisville) in the regular season. Unless something catastrophic happens, I expect them to finish conference play undefeated.

    The most fun conference to watch every season, is by far the Big-12. Why you ask? Because they’ve had 5 different conference champions in the last 5 season. You never know who is going to win, and that makes it fun.

    Daily Dose in Convoy, has you covered for all your Protein Breakfast Bowls, Protein Snacks, and Special Tea needs. On the corner of US-49 and Tully Street. Check out their Facebook page for morning and afternoon hours.

    All the “experts” on ESPN, or as us fans call them, E(SEC)PN, are picking the Texas Tech Red Raiders to win back-to-back conference titles. While it’s possible, it’s certainly NOT a given. They do miss out on having to play BYU, and they do get Houston at home (Sept 18th at 8:00 PM (EST) on FOX). They lost a lot of production at quarterback and on defense. Projected QB starter Will Hammond is coming off an ACL, that he suffered in October last year.

    The BYU Cougars and Houston Cougars, are returning their starting QBs, in Bear Bachmeier and Conner Weigman. Both the Cougar teams are returning the majority of their defensive starters from last season as well.

    Ultimately, I think Texas Tech makes it back-to-back, but I wouldn’t be shocked if they don’t.

    It’s an absolute crapshoot in the Big-10. Almost everyone is picking the Ohio State Buckeyes, Oregon Ducks, or the Indiana Hoosiers. However, do not count out the USC Trojans.

    They return starting QB Jordan Maiava, HB King Miller, and all five starters along their offensive line. Five players return on defense as well. They schedule did them no favors though. They have Oregon (Sept 28th) and Ohio State (Oct 31st) at home, and travel to Indiana (Nov 14th). Do not be shocked if USC wins 2 of these games and make it to Indianapolis.

    At the end of it all, I think it’ll come down to the Buckeyes and Ducks. I think Ohio State beats Oregon on November 7th in Columbus, but the Ducks clip them in the Big-10 Championship Game, to win conference title.

    Down in the SEC, the most talented team is the Texas Longhorns. They avoid Georgia and Alabama in the regular season. They get Ole Miss at home (Oct 24th) and ARE going to get revenge, and just clobber Florida at home (Oct 17th). They do have to travel to Texas A&M to finish the regular season (Nov 27th). I think if they can avoid injuries, they’ll win the conference.

    However, you can never count out the Georgia Bulldogs, and do not sleep on Mike Elko and Texas A&M. The Aggies return starting QB Marcel Reed. If her can cut down on his 12 INTs, they’ll give Alabama (Oct 24th) and Texas (Nov 27th) a very serious scare.

    2) Notre Dame will finish inside the Top 4.

    Yes, I know that Notre Dame lost their top 2 running backs from last season in Jeremiyah Love (3rd overall pick) and Jadarian Price (32nd overall), but, CJ Carr returning at quarterback, after an impressive freshman season (2,741 yards, with 24 TDs and 6 INTs).

    The Irish went out and got former Ohio State WRs Quincy Porter and Myles Graham in the transfer portal to give him weapons on the perimeter and offset the loss of the running game. Three offensive lineman return, and Notre Dame always has good tight ends.

    They return 7 starters on defense, including quite possibly the best CB tandem in all of college football (Leonard Moore and Christian Gray), and All-American S Tae Johnson. It’s going to be a nightmare throw against them.

    They also used the portal to get better along the defensive line, pairing newcomers DE Keon Keeley (Alabama), DT Francis Brewu (Pitt), and DT Tione Gray (Oregon), with returning starters DE Boubacar Traore and DT Jason Onye.

    They two toughest games are at home, against the Miami Hurricanes (Now 7th) and SMU (Nov 21st). They do travel to play the always sneaky tough BYU (Oct 17th). Other than that, their schedule is easy.

    I fully expect them to be 11-1 or even 12-0 at the end of the season.

    3) Boise State will be the lone Group of 6 school in the College Football Playoffs.

    Last year the College Football Playoff Committee put 2 Group of Five schools in the playoff, and it went absolutely terrible with blowout losses, with Oregon beating James Madison 51-34, and Ole Miss beating Tulane 41-10.

    They’ve learned their lesson. It won’t happen again.

    Boise State is the best team in the newly reformed Pac-12 and all the Group of 6 schools (Pac-12, Mountain West, Conference USA, MAC, American Athletic, and Sun Belt).

    Starting quarterback Maddux Madsen returns after throwing for 2,334 yards with 18 TDs and 9 INTs. HB Duke Riley is also returning after turning down multiple offers from P4 teams. He ran for 1,125 yards and 10 TDs. They return 3 starters along the offensive line (C, RG, RT).

    They return 3 of 4 starters on the defensive line, for a defense that finished ranked 39th best overall in the country last season. They are going to rely heavily on them, as the “back 7” only returns 2 starters, in LB Boen Phelps and CB Jaden Mickey.

    The Broncos have an incredibly tough game to open the season, against the Oregon Ducks (Sept 9th, at 3:30 PM (EST) on CBS).

    Their toughest conference games, are all at home (Utah State on Oct 3rd, Texas State on Oct 31st, and San Diego State on Nov 21st) as well.

    4) The 1st Head Coach to be fired will be…..

    With all the off the field distractions going on with Head Coach Bill Belichicks’ personal life, now GM Mike Lombardi and DC Steve Belichick have been suspended, with an external investigations ongoing, he’s already on the hot seat.

    They open their schedule against 5 teams that made a bowl game appearance, in their first 6 games.

    I am predicting the Tar Heels only win will be against East Tennessee State (Sept 12th), and he’ll be fired before Oct 24th game at home against Syracuse.

    OC Bobby Petrino will take over and lead them to wins over Syracuse, UConn, and an upset win over Virigina.

    5) Who will make the College Football Playoffs.

    First Round Byes

    Oregon Ducks
    Texas Longhorns
    Miami Hurricanes
    Norte Dame Fighting Irish

    First Round Games

    #12 Boise State at #5 Ohio State.
    #11 Indiana at #6 Texas Tech.
    #10 Ole Miss at #7 Georgia.
    #9 USC at #8 Texas A&M.

    Quarter-final Games

    #5 Ohio State vs #4 Notre Dame.
    #9 USC vs #1 Oregon.
    #11 Indiana vs #3 Miami.
    #7 Georgia vs #2 Texas.

    Semi-Final Games

    #5 Ohio State vs #1 Oregon.
    #3 Miami vs #2 Texas.

    National Championship Game

    #5 Ohio State vs #2 Texas.

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    National Champion

    Ohio State wins their 2nd national championship in 3 years, when they go on a similar run, as they did in 2024.

    What are your predictions for the upcoming college football season?

    – by Sean McKenzie

    Stats and information courtesy of….. ESPN, NCAA, and Lindy’s.

    Pictures courtesy of…..wallpapercave and SI.

  • Michigan Fires Football Head Coach Sherrone Moore and Currently in Jail.

    The University of Michigan has fired their football head coach Sherrone Moore, for cause, last night.

    The university says, “the cause” is for having an “inappropriate relationship with a staff member”.

    Moore, who is 39, was initially detained by law enforcement in Saline, Michigan on Wednesday night.

    He was then turned over to law enforcement in Pittsfield County, Michigan “for potential charges”.

    He is currently being held under protective custody at the Washtenaw County Jail.

    Those potential charges are assault and could possibly be as serious as kidnapping.

    After being fired from his position as head coach, Moore got into an argument with his wife and threatened to commit suicide. He left, then proceeded to break into the home of the assistant that he had an affair with.

    He then held a knife to his own throat, and threatened to kill both himself and the staffer.

    He then left her home, and was apprehended at a church, after his wife provided law enforcement his phone location.

    It has been confirmed by two sources to me, that Moore was known to be “leery, creepy, and invade the personal space of female staffers and students at team facilities”.

    Those same two sources also said that he had been “warned multiple times” by fellow football staff members, as well as staff members from other university sports teams.

    Biff Poggi has been named Interim Head Coach for the Wolverines, in their upcoming against the Texas Longhorns, in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl on December 31st, at 3:00 PM (EST) on ABC.

    – by Sean McKenzie

    Pictures courtesy of….wallpapercave, on3, and mynews13.

  • College Football Week 14 Predictions.

    A collage of college sports team logos including Florida State, Michigan, Kentucky, Ohio State, and more, displayed on a black background.

    It’s Rivalry Week!!!

    I could go on and on and on, about each and every game.

    Quite simply, I don’t have the time and energy.

    I’m still recovering from my mini-stroke, and my heart monitor keeps wanting to fall off.

    So, I’m going to give you my predictions on these biggest games of the week.

    It all begins and ends with the Greatest Rivalry in College Sports.

    “The Game” is Satruday at Noon on Fox.

    The #1 ranked Ohio State Buckeyes are traveling to take on #15 Michigan Wolverines.

    The forecast is calling for cold temperatures, snow on the ground, and the wind to be a blowing.

    It’s Big Ten Football.

    Will the weather impact the Buckeyes passing game? It’s certainly shaping up to favor the Wolverines, as they have the superior running game. Can the Buckeyes defense continue to dominate?

    Prediction – Ohio State beats TTUN for the first time since 2019. I’m taking the Buckeyes 28-21.

    Logo of Alabama Crimson Tide on a red background, alongside logo of Auburn Tigers on a navy blue background, representing the upcoming Iron Bowl football match.

    “The Iron Bowl”. Game starts at 7:30 PM on ABC.

    The #10 Alabama Crimson Tide travel to take on the unranked Auburn Tigers.

    He’s the kicker for this game. Tigers freshman QB Duece Knight had 6 total touchdowns in his start against Mercer. His dual threat ability gives them hope.

    If Alabama wins, they clinch a spot in the SEC Conference Championship Game. If they lose, it’ll take some help. They have no room for error.

    Prediction – The Tigers will keep in close in the first half, before the Crimson Tide pull away for the 35-21 win.

    Logo of Vanderbilt Commodores on the left, logo of Tennessee Volunteers on the right, set against a split background of black and gray.

    How great is it to see this game as a ranked matchup!?!?!?

    The #14 Vanderbilt Commodores travel to Knoxville to take on #19 Tennessee Volunteers.

    QB Diego Pavia has the chance to put a stamp on his chance to be a Heisman Finalist with a win for the first time since 2018. Let’s be honest, Pavia IS Commodore football. They go as he goes.

    A Volunteer win completely eliminates Vandy from the College Football Playoffs. Can the Tennessee defense step up and help the offense out?

    Prediction – It’s been a fun ride for Vandy these last two seasons, but that Tennessee offense is gonna dunk on the Commodores. Volunteers win big 42-21.

    Logo of Texas A&M University on a dark maroon background, alongside the white Longhorn logo of the University of Texas on an orange background, symbolizing their rivalry.

    “The Lonestar Showdown” is a Friday Night game, at 7:30 PM on ABC.

    The Aggies last won in Austin, way back in 2015. They have a real chance to do it this year. They’re a complete team. Head coach Mike Elko has come in and done what “big name” coaches like Jimbo Fisher failed to do.

    If Arch Manning plays well, then the Longhorns have a shot. Their run game has been a colossal disappointment this season. Their defense has played great, and they’ll need to do it again on Friday Night.

    Prediction – Part of me wants to say this will be close, but I’m really feeling like the Aggies gonna smack the Longhorns around. Give me Texas A&M to win 49-24.

    A close-up of a seasonal drink from The Rebel Bean, topped with foam and caramel, set against a backdrop of orange pumpkins and gourds, creating a cozy autumn atmosphere.

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

    – by Sean McKenzie

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

  • College Football Week 9 Recap and Helmet Stickers.

    A collage of various college sports team logos displayed on a black background.

    I’d be remiss if I didn’t start this article, without mentioning that LSU fired head football coach Brian Kelly, late Sunday night, after their 49-25 loss at home, to #3 Texas A&M. Kelly had a 34-14 record over his four seasons at LSU.


    Personal opinion – It was a bad hire from the start. I said so at the time, and caught a lot of crap for it. I think that LSU thinks it’s a better job than it really is. IF I were Interim President Matt Lee, I would immediately go get Memphis Tigers head coach Ryan Silverfield.

    Onto other business, it was a solid week of college football. We had 3 Top 25 upsets.

    Aforementioned Memphis Tigers defeated #18 USF 34-31, in a banger of a game. The Washington Huskies beat #23 Illinois, 42-25, and the Houston Cougars defeated #24 Arizona State 24-16, in one of the worst officiated games, that I’ve even seen. Absolutely disgraceful by that Big-12 crew.

    We had some close calls, as well. #4 Alabama squeaked by South Carolina 29-22. #6 Oregon eked out a 21-7 win over Wisconsin. #16 Virginia survived a scare from North Carolina, 17-16 in OT, and #22 Texas held off Mississippi State 45-38 in overtime.

    A clear cup of iced coffee topped with frothy cream, drizzled with syrup, in front of bright orange pumpkins and smaller decorative gourds against a rustic background.

    For the best coffee and lattes in Van Wert County, stop into The Rebel Bean in Convoy. Check out their Facebook page for hours and special drink menu. The friendly staff always makes you feel welcome.

    Indiana, Georgia Tech, Ole Miss, Miami, Vanderbilt, BYU, Texas Tech, Tennessee, Louisville, Cincinnati, and Michigan, all held serve as Top 25 teams and got the win.

    Time for your favorite part, it’s Helmet Sticker time. I thank you readers for the messages, telling me that you like this segment.

    (Team) North Dakota State Bison.

    North Dakota State University football helmet logo with a green and gold design, set against a stadium backdrop.

    The defending FCS National Champions and #1 ranked Bison, absolutely MOLLYWHOPPED their rival (then ranked #2) South Dakota State Jackrabbits 38-7 on Saturday. HB Cole Payton had 4 rushing touchdowns.

    (Offense) Drew Mestemaker, QB, North Texas Mean Green.

    A football player wearing a North Texas Mean Green jersey adjusts his helmet on the field during a game.

    This was the easiest choice so far this season.

    The freshman QB went 37 of 49, for a massive 608 yards, and 4 TDs, as he led the Mean Green to a 54-20 win over Charlotte. North Texas is 7-1 on the season, and still in the hunt, for that G5 college football playoff spot.

    (Defense) Cade Uluave, LB, California Golden Bears.

    A California Golden Bears linebacker celebrates a play on the field, wearing a dark blue jersey with the number 0, with teammates visible in the background.

    Cal is #0.

    The junior linebacker was all over the field, and causing havoc, as he did everything, he could in a double overtime loss to Virginia Tech.

    Cal finished the game 19 total tackles and 2 sacks.

    Who would you give a helmet sticker to?

    – by Sean McKenzie

    Subscribe, follow, like, and drop a comment below.

    Stats courtesy of…..NCAA.

    Pictures courtesy of…..wallpapercave, meangreensports, and SI.

  • 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.

  • Week 2 College Football Helmet Stickers.

    A collage of college football team logos, featuring various mascots and designs from well-known universities.

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

    While it was chalk for most of the games, there were a few good games and some upsets.

    The University of Findlay Oilers (Division 3) upset #17 University of Indianapolis Greyhounds, 38-35. (Fan hat on) Congratulations to Head Coach Kory Allen and the Oilers. Go Oilers!!! (Fan hat off)

    #18 Oklahoma beat #15 Michigan 24-13.

    #11 Illinois woke up in the 2nd half to be Duke 45-19.

    #8 Clemson didn’t even get off the bus until halftime. They were down 16-0 at halftime, before coming back to win 27-16.

    The CyHawk Trophy game down to a 50+ yard field goal for the 2nd straight year; and again, it was the #16 Iowa State Cyclones coming away with the victory, 16-13 over the Iowa Hawkeyes.

    Without further ado, here are your Week 2 college football helmet stickers.

    1) University of South Florida Bulls.

    Logo of the University of South Florida Bulls, featuring a stylized bull with the initials USF against a green and black background.

    Coming off a big win against (then ranked #25) Boise State, for the 2nd straight week, the Bulls were on the road in a hostile environment. AND once again, they pull off the upset. Beating the #13 Florida Gators, in Gainsville, 18-16.

    QB Byrum Browns went 23 of 36, for 263 yards, and 1 TD, but it was the kicking game that showed out for the win.

    Kicker Nico Gramatica hit FG’s of 38, 25, and the game winner of 20 yards, with no time left on the clock.

    2) Julin Sayin, Quarterback, Ohio State.

    Ohio State quarterback throwing a pass during a college football game, wearing a red jersey with white stripes and a grey helmet.

    After outplaying the overhyped Arch Manning in Week 1, the sophomore followed it up going 18 of 19, for 306 yards, with 4 TDs and 1 INT.

    He showed off his accuracy, ball placement, ability to adjust presnap, and ability to scan and read the defense.

    He’s stepping in and showing that the spotlight and expectations are not too much for him.

    3) Jadon Pearson, Linebacker, Fresno State.

    Headshot of a smiling male athlete with long dreadlocks, wearing a red sports polo shirt.

    I watched quite a bit of this game on the CW Network, and Pearson was absolutely everywhere. In the backfield, getting sideline to sideline in a flash, making tackles downfield, filling the gap on blitz packages, he did it all against Oregon State.

    Finishing the game with a big 16 tackles, many on third downs to get the Beaver offense off the field.

    Who would you give a helmet sticker to? Drop a comment.

    – by Sean McKenzie

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    Stats courtesy of…..NCAA.

    Pictures courtesy of…..wallpapercave, 24/7sports, gobulldogs.com

  • The 3 College Football Games to Watch for Week 2.

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

    Week 2 of the college football season is here. While we all know that most of the games this week are “money games”, there are still a few games, that have serious meaning for not just the upcoming season, but potentially, for the college football playoff picture.

    So here are the 3 most important games to watch this weekend.

    1) #11 Illinois Fighting Illini at Duke Blue Devils.
    Game starts at Noon (EST) on ESPN.

    Collage of college football players and coaches featuring Illinois' quarterback Luke Altmeyer, Duke's quarterback Darian Mensah, and coach Bret Bielema.

    The Fighting Illini are highly ranked and return their best players in starting quarterback Luke Altmeyer, and linebacker Gabe Jacas. Both performed well in their Week 1 win over WIU.

    They need junior running back Aidan Laughery to have another 100-yard game, and keep the Duke offense, off the field.

    Illinois is a popular “sleeper team” in the Big Ten. They must win games these non-conference games, as their conference schedule starts off tough.

    Blue Devils starting quarterback Darian Mensah transferred in from Tulane and made a big impact in Week 1. The sophomore went 27 of 34, for 389 yards, with 3 TDs and 0 INTs. He’ll need to keep that momentum going, because the run game is lacking.

    Prediction – Illinois wins 35-28.

    2) #15 Michigan Wolverines at #18 Oklahoma Sooners.
    Games starts at 7:30 PM (EST) on ABC.

    Collage featuring college football coaches and players, with two footballs in the foreground.

    This is only the 2nd time these two rich and storied programs have ever met.

    This game is all about the tale of two different quarterbacks.

    Michigan is starting a true freshman in Bryce Underwood in his first “true road test”. He looked OK, in his first start last week, going 21 of 31, for 251 yards, with 1 TD.

    Oklahoma is trotting out a veteran transfer in junior John Mateer. He looked great in his Sooner debut, going 30 of 37, for 392 yards, with 3 TDs and 1 INT.

    Both teams need this win, to break the absolute stink of last season off their skins.

    I think homefield and crowd noise is going to play a big part early in this game. It’s hard to play on the road in college football, and Norman is going to be rocking.

    Prediction – Oklahoma wins 28-17.

    3) Iowa Hawkeyes at #16 Iowa State Cyclones.
    Game starts at Noon (EST) on FOX.

    A composite image featuring three individuals: a quarterback in a red Iowa State jersey, a quarterback in a black Iowa Hawkeyes jersey holding a football, and a coach smiling in a black cap, representing the rivalry between Iowa State and Iowa.

    Nothing like an early season rivalry game to get the juices flowing.

    The Cy-Hawk Trophy Game was started in 1977 by fans, after these two football teams didn’t play for 43 years.

    It is one of my favorite rivalry games and trophies.

    We all know that the Iowa Hawkeyes seem to be allergic to the passing game. They really on defense and running the football. They ran for 310 total yards in their Week 1 victory, and will absolutely need to do the same thing again. Their defense is always gap sound, and they don’t miss tackles. Senior kicker Drew Stevens nailed a 55-yarder last week, and that’s a great weapon to have.

    Iowa State is led by redshirt junior Rocco Becht. He’s a three-year starter for the Cyclones. He’s a gritty and tough quarterback, who has proven he knows how to win big games. Through two games this season, he’s gone 33 of 48, for 461 yards, and 5 TDs and 0 INTs.

    Iowa leads the series 47-24, but Iowa State won the trophy last year in a gritty 20-19 game. The Cyclones have won 2 of the last 3 games.

    Prediction – Cyclones make it 2 straight wins with a 27-24 victory.

    A close-up of a trophy featuring a football player statue on top, labeled 'The Cy-Hawk Trophy', held by hands in a cheering crowd.

    – by Sean McKenzie

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

    Pictures courtesy of…..wallpapercave, profootballnetwork, clutchpoints, and sportsgrid.