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Tag: Ohio State

  • The Best and Worst Coaching Hires in College Football…..So Far.

    A collage of various college football team logos, featuring mascots and symbols from schools such as Michigan, Alabama, LSU, and UCLA.

    This 2025-26 college football season has not only been completely wonky on the field, but also, off the field.

    So many head coaches were fired during the season, that it was hard to keep track of who was coming and going.

    The upheaval of not just the program and players on the teams, but also the families of those assistant coaches.

    This “win now mentality” at programs and with the donors, is actually hurting the programs, not helping.

    These schools like to complain that they’re “operating at a loss”, then they go and fire a head coach, that has a $33 million dollar buyout clause (Michigan State with Jonathan Smith).

    They wonder why a significant number of fans have no loyalty or sympathy anymore, THAT’S WHY!!!

    All that aside, I’m going to tell you which hires were good. Which hires were bad. Which coaches out there, deserve a chance at being a head coach.

    LSU Tigers logo featuring a fierce tiger's head on a purple and gold background.

    LSU has hired Lane Kiffin away from fellow SEC rival Ole Miss. I see a lot of media pundits giving this an A to A+ grade. I DON’T SEE IT.

    While I don’t think this move is as bad as the Brian Kelly hire (which I despised from the nanosecond it was announced), for what LSU wants to do, it isn’t all that much better either.

    Kiffin has a career record of 13-25 against Top 25 teams.

    He’s going to give the Tigers much more credibility in the south with recruits again, and the offense will be better.

    This is a simple B hire.

    Virginia Tech logo in maroon and orange against a smoky black background.

    Virginia Tech went out and hired former Penn State head coach James Franklin.

    The Hokies have been mostly irrelevant since Frank Beamer retired.

    This is an A hire.

    Franklin is a program builder. He did it at Vanderbilt, which had been a joke for basically a half century, and turned them into a consistent winner and to bowl eligibility. He took over a Penn State program that was dead in the water after the sex abuse scandal and took them to the College Football National Championship Semi-Finals, just last season.

    He knows the Eastern Midwest and Mid-Atlantic recruiting scene very well. We’ve already seen recruits that decommitted from Penn State, follow and announce their intentions to play for the Hokies next season.

    I’m not saying he’s going to bring a Natty to Blacksburg, but Virginia Tech will be an ACC power player as early as next season, and beyond.

    GREAT MOVE by VT.

    UCLA Bruins logo featuring a bear mascot holding a football, with a blurred football crowd in the background.

    UCLA has hired Bob Chesney away from James Madison, to be their next head coach.

    From all accounts, and from JMU fans that I’ve spoken to, he’s a good guy.

    Chesney is known for being a “turnaround artist”. He turned around programs such as Salve Regina (D3), Assumption University (D2), and Holy Cross (FCS), before going 20-5 at JMU.

    He has a long history of coaching at programs that have rigourous academic standards.

    The biggest problem is that he has 0 recruiting ties to the west coast, and doesn’t have the name recognition, that will keep players. The Bruins don’t have the cache to recruit nationwide, so keeping California kids’ home is paramount to their success.

    I’m rooting for the guy, and hope he brings glory back to the gold and blue, but right now, this is a D hire.

    A football coach at Indiana University, wearing a black sweatshirt with 'Indiana Football' printed on it and a red cap, gestures while on the field.

    If you’ve been following me on Twitter/X (JoeAmerican6771); I’ve been SCREAMING this guy’s name.

    Bryant Haines.

    He’s the current defensive coordinator for the Indiana Hoosiers and had the same role at James Madison. He followed Curt Cignetti from the Dukes to the Hoosiers.

    Yes, he’s an assistant coach.

    Yes, he doesn’t have head coaching experience.

    He’s had staggering success at JMU and Indiana, where he turned poor defenses into top ranked defenses.

    I STRONGLY believe that the aforementioned James Madison, should bring him back home, and make him their new head coach.

    They’ve seen him succeed not just on the field, but off the field in recruiting the Carolinas’ and VA/DC area. Which is vital to a program like JMU, because they don’t have a nationwide network.

    I think whichever team gets him, is going to get a gem.

    Stanford University logo featuring a red background with a green tree inside a white 'S'.

    The worst hire so far of this cycle, is the Stanford Cardinal hiring Tavita Pritchard as their next head coach.

    Yes, I understand that he played QB there.

    Yes, I understand that like Chesney above, he gets the difficulty of an academic power.

    The truth, and fact of the matter is that he was never going to get a head coaching gig other than Stanford. This was Cardinal GM Andrew Luck keeping this cheap and in house.

    To me, this is a F.

    BYU logo featuring a mountain lion with the letters 'BYU' below it, set against a navy blue background.

    Head coach Kalani Sitake will remain at BYU, after agreeing to a long-term extension on Tuesday.

    He had very heavy interest from the Penn State to make him their next head coach.

    Since taking over as the head coach of the Cougars in 2016, he has an 83-44 overall record at BYU.

    He has previous coaching stops at Oregon State, Utah, Southern Utah, and Eastern Arizona.

    All these stops in the Mountain and Western time zones, has allowed him to build a very solid recruiting base and pipeline.

    This is a solid A move by BYU.

    A hand holding a cup of iced coffee from The Rebel Bean, with frosty trees in the background.

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

    Question – With Penn State getting rebuffed, who do you think the Nittany Lions will end up hiring as their next head coach?

    – by Sean McKenzie

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

    Pictures courtesy of…..wallpapercave and SI.

  • 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.

  • Top 3 College Football Games to Watch for Week 13.

    A collage of various college football team logos displayed in circular designs against a black background.

    As the college football regular season starts to wind down, the conference title and college football pictures are starting to clear up a bit.

    But don’t start counting your chickens quite yet.

    There’s a reason that the games are played on the field, and not on paper.

    Ignore games like #10 Alabama playing Eastern Illinois, and #3 Texas A&M playing Samford.

    So, without further ado, here are the 3 must watch games.

    1) #15 USC Trojans (8-2) at #7 Oregon Ducks (9-1).
    Game starts at 3:30 PM (EST) on CBS.

    The logos of the USC Trojans and Oregon Ducks displayed side by side on a split background.

    PERSONALLY, I think the Ducks are overrated. Here is the chance to prove not just me, but a lot of voters wrong.

    The Trojans want to finally be taken seriously, not just in the Big Ten, but nationally. Here’s their chance to really make a statement.

    All the talk is about the quarterbacks of these two teams. Dante Moore (Oregon) and Jayden Maiava (USC), and they both deserve their flowers, BUT, this game is going to come down to the trenches and run game.

    USC has a nice tandem of backs in the King Miller and Waymond Jordan. Oregon answers with Noah Whittington, Jordan Davison, and Dierre Hill Jr.

    The Ducks defense have 7 less sacks (24-17) and force less turnovers than the Trojans, which is hasn’t been the case in recent years.

    The game is at Autzen Stadium, and that plays a big part as well.

    Prediction – I so badly want to pick USC, but even Ohio State couldn’t beat Oregon at home. Give me the Ducks to win a very close game, 38-35.

    2) BYU Cougars (9-1) at Cincinnati Bearcats (7-3).
    Game starts at 8:00 PM (EST) on FOX.

    Logo split between BYU Cougars and Cincinnati Bearcats, with BYU's blue and white logo on the left and Cincinnati's black and red bear paw logo on the right.

    The Bearcats are coming off of back-to-back losses.

    The Cougars MUST win this game to stay in the Big-12 conference title hunt.

    Bearcats QB Brendan Sorsby wasn’t happy with his performance last week (15-28, 154 yards, 1 TD and 2 INTs), and told me himself, that he’s out to prove a point. For the season, he’s thrown for 2,218 yards, with 22 TDs to only 4 INTs. He also has 483 yards and 9 TDs on the ground.

    The Cougars want to run the football, then hit you over the top on play action. Freshman QB Bear Bachmeier has 2,177 yards with 13 TDs to only 4 INTs, but like Sorsby, his legs will keep any play alive, with 479 yards and 10 TDs.

    Prediction – This is a hard game to pick. West coast teams struggle coming east, especially in “primetime games”. That said, the Cougars defense will step up. BYU gets the 28-21 win.

    3) Louisville Cardinals (7-3) at SMU Mustangs (7-3).
    Game starts at 12:00 (Noon) on ESPN2.

    Logos of Louisville Cardinals and SMU Mustangs on a blue background.

    Louisville is coming off back-to-back losses, after cracking the Top 25. Both losses were by a combined 4 points though.

    The Cardinals live and die with QB Miller Moss, even more so after the injury to starting HB Isaac Brown. He HAS to stop turning the ball over (11 TDs and 7 INTs). He has 2,344 yards passing, but he’s made bad decisions in these losses.

    SMU only has 1 conference loss, and can make the ACC Championship Game for the second straight season.

    The Mustangs have one of the most fun QB’s to watch, in Kevin Jennings. He’s thrown for 2,810 yards, with 21 TDs and 9 INTs. They have a great defense, that gets pressure on the opposing QB (33 teams sacks) and forces turnovers (16 interceptions, 8 forced fumbles, 10 fumble recoveries).

    Prediction – Somehow, someway, the Cardinals have been keeping the games close. Not gonna happen this week. Give me the Mustangs to win in a blowout 35-17.

    – by Sean McKenzie.

    Stats courtesy of…..NCAA.

    Photos courtesy of…..wallpapercave, ESPN, and MSN.

  • The Top 3 College Football Games to Watch for Week 12.

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

    As the college football season works its way towards the end of the regular season, the games are becoming more meaningful.

    Conference standings, college football playoff spots, and of course, RIVALRIES.

    Week 12 is a great slate of games, and it was hard to choose only 3.

    So, without ado, HERE are the 3 games you should watch.

    1) #9 Notre Dame Fighting Irish (7-2) at #22 Pittsburgh Panthers (7-2).
    Game starts at 12:00 PM (Noon) (EST) on ABC.

    Logos of Notre Dame Fighting Irish and Pittsburgh Panthers on a split background.

    Who thought at the beginning of the season, that Pitt would be in 1st place in the ACC? The Panthers have a chance to make a real statement. A win here, will put them in the CFB Playoff, and completely eliminate Notre Dame.

    We all know about HBs Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price bring to the table, but it’s Fighting Irish QB CJ Carr, that has this team rolling. He’s thrown for 2,275 yards with 19 TDs to only 4 INTs. The Notre Dame defense has 25 team sacks, and the pressure they get has forced a whooping 16 INTs for this defense.

    When Pitt starting QB Eli Holstein went down for the season, fans thought they were done. Instead, freshman QB Mason Heintschel has come in and has won 6 straight games. He’s thrown for 1,547 yards, with 12 TDs and 5 INTs. This is your typical Pitt defense. Fundamentally sound, and hard-nosed. They don’t “wow” you with stats, just wear you down over the course of the game.

    Prediction – As much as I love seeing upsets, I can’t see it happening here. Give me the Fighting Irish, to pull away in the 2nd half for a 35-17 win.

    2) #10 Texas Longhorns (7-2) at #5 Georgia Bulldogs (8-1).
    Game starts at 7:30 PM (EST) on ABC.

    Logo of the Texas Longhorns alongside the NCAA logo and the Georgia Bulldogs logo on a blue background.

    I’d like to say that if Texas loses, they’re eliminated from the CFB playoffs, but we all know the SEC bias is ridiculous. It’d be their 3rd loss, as they already have losses to #1 Ohio State and unranked dumpster fire Florida.

    Longhorns QB Arch Manning has thrown for 2,123 yards, with 18 TDs and 6 INTs. They have no running game to speak of. It’s been their defense that have been winning these games. 34 team sacks, 9 INTs, 11 forced fumbles, and 6 fumble recoveries.

    Bulldogs QB Gunner Stockton has thrown for 2,040 yards, with 15 TDs to only 2 INTs. He’s also added 321 yards and 7 TDs on the ground. While the defense hasn’t been up to “Georgia standard” this season, they’re fast, fly to the football, and don’t miss tackles.

    Prediction – I trust Kirby Smart more than Steve Sarkisian. Give me the Bulldogs to win at home 24-21.

    3) North Carolina State Wolfpack (5-4) at #15 Miami Hurricanes (7-2).
    Game starts at 3:30 PM (EST) on ESPN.

    Logos of the NC State Wolfpack and Miami Hurricanes against contrasting backgrounds.

    The Wolfpack are coming off a massive upset over (then #8) Georgia Tech last week. They also have a win over #20 Virginia earlier this season. The Hurricanes started the season strong but have 2 loses (Louisville and SMU) in the last 4 games. If they lose again, they’re done.

    NC State sophomore QB CJ Bailey has thrown for 2,411 yards, with 19 TDs and 7 INTs. HB Hollywood Smothers is averaging 6.9 yards per carry. He has 825 yards, with 6 TDs. Their defense is hit and miss. With this team, it’s simply a matter of which one shows up. The good (GT and VA) or the bad (ND, Pitt, Duke).

    For Miami, it’s simple. QB Carson Beck has to play better than he has. He’s thrown for 2,194 yards, with 15 TDs, but he’s thrown 9 INTs. The defense has played well. 24 sacks, 9 INTs, 8 forced fumbles, and 7 fumble recoveries.

    Prediction – The Wolfpack are coming off a high. There’s typically a letdown after an upset win. I see that happening here. Give me the Hurricanes to get the much need victory 28-17.

    – by Sean McKenzie

    Stats courtesy of…..NCAA.

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

  • NFL 2025-26 Midseason Awards.

    A collage of NFL team helmets arranged around a central NFL logo with a colorful background.

    We are just over halfway done with the 2025-26 NFL Season.

    Anybody saying they knew that the New England Patriots and Indianapolis Colts would be 8-2 is a liar.

    Nobody thought the Carolina Panthers would be 2nd in the NFC South (5-5).

    Who really thought that the Denver Broncos (8-2) AND Los Angelos Chargers (7-3), would be ahead of the 3rd place Kansas City Chiefs 5-4) in the AFC West?

    Of course, we all knew that my Cleveland Browns were going to just stiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiink, but even I didn’t think we’d be this terrible on offense.

    Two coffee cups from The Rebel Bean, one hot and one iced, placed on a wooden table alongside small pumpkins and gourds, with a festive autumn-themed backdrop.

    For the best coffee and lattes in all of Van Wert County, Ohio; stop into The Rebel Bean today. Check out their Facebook page for hours and drink menu. You can also find them on the Joe.coffee app as well.

    All of this just adds more questions than answers.

    Is Colts QB Daniel Jones’ starting to look like he was in New York?

    Can Colts running back Jonathan Taylor win the NFL MVP Award (almost always a QB Award anymore)?

    How many more head coaches will be fired during the season (New York Giants fired Brain Daboll on Monday)? I predicted this would happen in my NFL Season Preview Article.

    It has been an absolutely topsy-turvy, crazy season so far, and I am 100% for all of it.

    So, without further ado, I give you the REAL NFL 25-26 mid-season awards.

    Most Valuable Player – Drake Maye, QB, New England Patriots.

    New England Patriots quarterback in action, looking for an open receiver while holding the football.

    The 2nd year quarterback has thrown for 2,555 yards, with 19 TDs to 5 INTs. He has a QBR of 72.9 and is completing 71.7% of his throws.

    He’s led the Patriots to 1st place in the AFC East, over the much favored and talked about Buffalo Bills.

    He’s even added 283 yards on the ground with 2 TDs.

    He’s not making the mistakes he did as a rookie, and he’s been dominating so far this season.

    Runner up – Jonathan Taylor, HB, Indianapolis Colts.

    Offensive Player of the Year – Jonathan Taylor, HB, Indianapolis Colts.

    Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor running with the football during a game.

    No running back has had a start to the season like this, since Adrian Peterson did in 2012.

    Jonathan Taylor has been an absolute animal this season.

    Unstoppable, even with 9 guys in the box.

    He has 189 carries, for 1,139 yards, with 15 TDs, and most importantly, 0 fumbles.

    He’s averaging 113.9 yards per game and 6 yards per carry.

    He is the engine that is carrying this surprising Colts team.

    Runner up – Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Seattle Seahawks.

    Defensive Player of the Year – Myles Garrett, DE, Cleveland Browns.

    Cleveland Browns player Myles Garrett holding his helmet while looking serious on the sideline during a game.

    NFL head coaches openly admit that they have an entire play sheet for when Myles Garrett is either on or off the field.

    He completely changes the way a head coach coaches the game.

    Garrett is tied for the league lead in sacks with 11.

    He also leads the NFL in TFLs (tackles for loss) with 15.

    This is his 8th consecutive season with double-digit sacks.

    He has 34 total tackles, and 1 forced fumble.

    Runner up – Brian Burns, LB, New York Giants.

    Offensive Rookie of the Year – Emeka Egbuka, WR, Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

    Tampa Bay Buccaneers player wearing a white jersey with the number 2, standing on the field with a serious expression.

    The rookie wide receiver out of Ohio State leads the team in receptions (40), yards (677) and TDs (6).

    He’s had to step into that #1 receiver role with injuries to Mike Evans and Chris Godwin Jr.

    He’s become QB Baker Mayfield’s “go to guy” in the biggest situations.

    Runner up – Tyler Warren, TE, Indianapolis Colts.

    Defensive Rookie of the Year – Carson Schwesinger, LB, Cleveland Browns.

    Cleveland Browns player wearing a white uniform with the number 49, smiling during a game, with teammates in the background.

    The rookie out of UCLA, leads all rookies with 74 tackles.

    He wears the “green dot” for Browns hard-nosed defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz.

    He’s all over the field.

    He can cover TEs and slot WRs, as well as fill the gaps on blitzs.

    He also has 1.5 sacks and 1 INT.

    Runner up – Xavier Watts, S, Atlanta Falcons.

    Head Coach of the Year – Mike Vrabel, New England Patriots.

    A press conference setting featuring a man in a suit and tie, smiling while speaking into a microphone, with a backdrop displaying the New England Patriots logo and branding.

    Vrabel has taken a struggling quarterback, and turned him into an MVP candidate.

    He has this team playing hard, tough, and fundamentally sound on both offense and defense.

    As I said earlier in this article, NOBODY foresaw the Patriots being 8-2, and that all starts with head coach Mike Vrabel.

    Runner up – Shane Steichen, Indianapolis Colts.

    Who are you’re midseason award winners?

    – by Sean McKenzie

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

    Pictures courtesy of…..wallpapercave, SI, clutchpoints, brownsnation, sportingnews, and totalprosports.

  • College Football Week 11 Recap and Helmet Stickers.

    A collage of college football team logos arranged in a grid pattern, featuring various helmets and mascots.

    WHAT A WEEK OF COLLEGE FOOTBALL!!!

    When we all looked at the Week 11 schedule, we thought it’d be a “chalk” week.

    We were W-R-O-N-G.

    The ACC had 2 of their top 3 teams upset, as #14 Virginia lost to Wake Forest 16-9. Congratulations Demon Deacons on their first win against at Top 15 team since 2003. #15 Louisville lost to Cal 29-26 in overtime.

    Keeping on the Top 25 upset train; unranked Wisconsin Badges trip up the #23 Washington Huskies 13-10. In my College Football Preview Article, I predicted that WISC HC Luke Fickell would be fired by now. Instead, they announced they’re going to give him 1 more season.

    There was a BANGER of a game in the SEC, as the Auburn Tigers gave #16 Vanderbilt all they could handle and more. The Commodores behind an incredible game by QB Diego Pavia get the win in OT, 45-38.

    In the Big Ten, we had the front runner for Catch/Play of the Year, by WR Omar Cooper Jr, as the #2 Indiana Hoosiers scored a touchdown with 36 seconds left, to win 27-24.

    #9 Oregon Ducks hit a game winning field goal with 3 seconds left, to escape Kinnick Stadium, and beat the Iowa Hawkeyes, 18-16.

    In the Big-12, the #8 Texas Tech Red Raiders handled the #7 BYU Cougars 29-7.

    Ranked teams #1 Ohio State, #3 Texas A&M, #4 Alabama, #5 Georgia, and #10 Notre Dame, all got wins on Saturday, and kept their College Football Playoff Chances intact.

    Ladies and gentlemen, the James Madison Dukes now have the BEST ODDS to get the G5 spot in the CFP (35%) with a 35-23 win over Marshall Thundering Herd. They are now 8-1 on the season.

    Now without further ado, it’s time for the popular Helmet Stickers.

    (Team) Sam Houston Bearkats

    Logo of Sam Houston Bearkats featuring the letters 'S' and 'H' with a bear paw print, set against an orange background.

    The Bearkats FINALLY get their 1st win of the season with 21-17 win over the Oregon State Beavers.

    (Offense) Diego Pavia, QB, Vanderbilt.

    A football player in a black jersey evades two defenders in white uniforms during a college football game.

    There were a lot of choices to choose from, but it has to go to the Vanderbilt QB. Pavia had 489 total yards and 4 total TDs.

    He went 25 of 33, for 377 yards, and 3 TDs passing, and added 18 carries, for 112 yards, and 1 TD on the ground.

    (Defense) Jacob Rodriguez, LB, Texas Tech.

    A Texas Tech Red Raiders football player walks off the field after a game, wearing a red jersey with the number 10 and holding a football helmet.

    I had Rodriguez in my Top 10 College Football Players article before the season started, and he continues to show the country why I had him there.

    He had 14 total tackles, 1 fumble recovery, and an interception, to help the Red Raiders take sole possession of 1st place in the Big-12 Conference.

    – by Sean McKenzie

    Subscribe, follow, like, and drop a comment.

    Stats courtesy of…..NCAA.

    Pictures courtesy of…..wallpapercave, sportslogo.net, yahoosports, and collegefootballnetwork.

  • Crestview Boys Cross Country Team Wins Schools First State Championship.

    Crestview Knights cross country team celebrating their victory on the podium at the OHSAA State Championships, with the championship banner displayed.

    In the small town of Obetz, Ohio; the best cross country teams and runners in the state, were locked in and ready to go, on a cold 46 degree Saturday morning.

    The young student athletes, family and friends, who all made the trip, were buzzing with excitement.

    In Division 4, there was a team looking to finish some unsettled business from a season ago.

    The Crestview Knights finished state runner-up last season. It was something that they carried with them through offseason training, and throughout the regular season, as they ran.

    A Crestview runner in a black uniform with blue lettering, wearing bib number 7006, focused and determined while competing in the 2025 OHSAA Cross Country State Championship.

    These boys were running with determination and purpose.

    These boys were running for a title.

    These boys were running for history.

    Senior Lincoln Smith led the Knights, finishing in 17th place and earning 1st Team All-Ohio Honors.

    As runners crossed the finish line, and the results were posted, the boys were beginning to realize that they were indeed Division 4 State Champions.

    Celebrating Crestview Knights cross country team members sharing a joyful moment after winning the state championship.

    The Crestview Knights beat their biggest cross country rival, the Columbus Grove Bulldogs, and that made it all the sweeter.

    The Knights ended up tallying 86 points, while the Bulldogs finished as the runner-up with 99 points.

    In cross country, the lower the score, the better.

    A young male athlete celebrating while lifting the state championship trophy for Division IV Boys Cross Country in 2025, wearing a medal and showing excitement.

    Crestview Knights lone senior Lincoln Smith lifting the state championship trophy high.

    In the typical small-town fashion, that I’ve come to know and love, the tiny town of just over 1,000 people, welcomed the team home as champions, with lights, sirens, silly string and confetti.

    A celebratory parade scene with the Crestview Knights cross country team on a float, surrounded by confetti and a cheering crowd.

    As well as toilet papering the fall foliage, in the front of the school on the main road.

    A festive scene in a park featuring trees decorated with toilet paper streamers, surrounded by a group of people celebrating.

    At the pep assembly inside the gymnasium, head coach Randy Grandstaff was emotional at the microphone.

    He pointed out Knights runners 1 through 5, all finished within 46 seconds of each other.

    Talking about how much hard work the boys put in over the summer.

    The determination they ran with over the entire season.

    Head coach Randy Grandstaff speaking at a podium in a gymnasium during a pep assembly, with various trophies and awards visible in the foreground.

    After the assembly, I spoke to championship winning head coach Randy Grandstaff.

    My first question was how does it feel to hear those words state champions?

    “It’s a pretty good thing to hear. It still hasn’t really set it yet. I’m so proud of these boys, and everything they accomplished.”

    In their individual speeches, a lot of the boys thanked Senior Lincoln Smith for his leadership and friendship. They spoke about how much they appreciate him and how much they’ll miss him. I asked Coach Grandstaff, what it means to have that type of runner and leader on the team?

    “Yeah, when you have that type of runner and leader, all the others follow. It makes my job just a touch easier when you have that type of person. I’m thankful for everything Lincoln has done his entire career here with us.”

    Members of the Crestview Knights cross country team seated in a gymnasium, wearing their medals and team attire, reflecting on their recent state championship victory.

    It came down to Knights runners 4 and 5, as they finished ahead of the Bulldogs runners. They really brought it home. I asked Coach what it was like seeing those guys run their best race, when it mattered most.

    “Yeah, that’s the great thing about cross country. When one or two guys aren’t having a good day, others step up to the plate and help the team out, and honestly, that’s exactly what happened today. We had people step up, and now we are state champions.”

    Lincoln is the only senior on the team. The Knights have a lot of talent coming back next season. I asked if he had any expectations for next season?

    “Yeah, it would be nice if we could repeat. It’s going to be a challenge. An even bigger challenge than going from second place in Division 3 to being state champions of Division 4.”

    I congratulated Coach Grandstaff, and the team on their historical achievement.

    A display of trophies and awards celebrating the Crestview Knights' achievements in cross country, with the state championship trophy prominently featured on a table in a gymnasium.

    All the hardware from an incredible 2025 season, with the State Championship Trophy, right up front.

    – by Sean McKenzie

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    Some photos courtesy of…..Wyatt Richardson of Richardson Photography.

  • Crestview Knights Cross Country Runners State Championship Sendoff.

    A group of students from Crestview High School's cross country team, wearing matching t-shirts, stand in front of a yellow school bus, preparing to depart for the state championships.

    It was a cool, crisp 46-degrees in Convoy, Ohio on this lovely Halloween morning.

    Leaves covering the ground, still wet with the morning dew,

    Halloween inflatables and lights, lining the streets, giving out a nice warm glow, on the still dark morning, as I went to get my coffee.

    At the coffee shop (The Rebel Bean), and at the post office, the talk was about Crestview Athletics.

    Once again, the school was being well represented, and in the hunt for a state title.

    Inside the school, the school fight song echoed throughout the hallways.

    Students in a school hallway participating in a music performance, with band members playing drums and other instruments, creating a festive atmosphere.

    The Crestview Knights boys’ cross country team, as well as 2 girls’ left the small town this morning, to clapping students, staff and parents.

    They’re on the way Obetz, Ohio to compete for the state championship.

    Police escort and all.

    A police escort vehicle with flashing lights is positioned in front of a yellow school bus, while a crowd of people gathers on the sidewalk, set against a backdrop of trees with autumn foliage.

    The trip for the boys is pure business. The boys team finished as state runners-up last season.

    It’ll be a tough task.

    The Knights were Regional Champs by only 5 points over the Columbus Grove Bulldogs.

    Coach Randy Grandstaff has faith that the boys can get it down this season.

    “It’ll be tough, but these boys know what it takes, and are determined to bring it home on Saturday.” he told me last weekend, when I spoke to him.

    Crestview Knights boys' cross country team walking through the school hallway, wearing matching black shirts with a state championship logo.

    It’s not all about the boys though.

    Lady Knight senior Anna Gardner, and Lady Knight freshman Emily Heth are looking to make some noise of their own at state.

    Students walking in the school hallway, wearing matching shirts for the state cross country competition.

    Good luck to the boys and girls Crestview Knights Cross Country Teams at the Ohio State Championships tomorrow morning.

    Girls run at 10:00 AM (EST).

    Boys run at 10:40 AM (EST).

    I’d like to thank Crestview Athletic Director Austin Fleming, for all his help in my 1st year covering Knights sporting events.

    – by Sean McKenzie

  • Top 3 College Football Games to Watch for Week 10.

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

    After a solid Week 9 of college football, that had 3 Top 25 upsets, we come to Week 10.

    There is no “marquee game” this week.

    Cry me a river #5 Georgia Bulldogs and Florida Gator fans, your rivalry game is NOT a marquee matchup. It’s not even in the Top 5 rivalries in all of college football. Heck, maybe not even Top 10.

    Overall, it’s a nice B.

    So, without further ado, here are the Top 3 Games to watch and my predictions, on Saturday.

    I went 1-2 last week.

    Making me 13-9 for the season.

    1) #17 Cincinnati Bearcats (7-1) at #24 Utah Utes (6-2).
    Game starts at 10:15 PM (EST) on ESPN.

    Graphic representing a college football matchup between the Cincinnati Bearcats and the Utah Utes, with team logos displayed against a digital background.

    The Big-12 might be my favorite conference to watch, year in and year out.

    Because you have absolutely no clue, who is going to be in this conference title race.

    NOBODY expected the Cincinnati Bearcats to be leading the conference in Week 10, but we all expected Utah to be right up near the top.

    QB Brendan Sorsby is quietly having an All-American type of season. He’s thrown for 1,843 yards, with 20 TDs to only 1 INT. He’s also added 69 carries, for 425 yards, and 7 TDs in the running game. LB Jake Golday leads the team in total tackles (67) and sacks (3.5). There kicker is a perfect 11 of 11 so far, and 4-4 from 40+.

    Utah QB Devon Dampier needs to be smarter with the football. He’s thrown his 4 INTs in the last 4 games that he’s played. He should get the start, after missing last weeks game. I haven’t heard otherwise. He’s thrown for 13 TDs, and has added 442 yards, with 5 TDs on the ground. Utah has one of, if not the best, DE in the country, with John Henry Booty. He has 36 total tackles, and he’s 4th in the country with 9.5 sacks.

    Prediction – This is a must win game for Utah to stay in the Big-12 title picture. Cincinnati is looking to get a statement win, against a perennial power team. My heart wants to go Cincinnati, but my head is saying Utah. I’m going with my head. I’m taking the Utes in a close game at home 35-31.

    2) Navy Midshipmen (7-0) at North Texas Mean Green (7-1).
    Game starts at 12:00 PM (EST) or Noon, on ESPN.

    Split design featuring the Navy Midshipmen logo on a dark blue background with a gold star and the North Texas Mean Green logo on a green background.

    Who would’ve ever thought we’d see this coming. Undefeated Navy and in 1st place, vs a once beaten Mean Green in 3rd place.

    The Midshipmen play an option offense, and it all runs through QB Blake Horvath. He leads the team with 1,063 yards passing, 7 TDs and 3 INTs. He leads the team in rushing with 814 yards, and 12 TDs. Senior DT Landon Robinson has 5.5 sacks and gets pressure up the middle right into the face of opposing quarterbacks.

    The Mean Green are led by freshman QB Drew Mestemaker, who’s coming off a 608-yard performance. He’s thrown for 2,468 yards, with 21 TDs to only 4 INTs. I’ve watched him 3 times this season, he’s a gunslinger. He’s going to be HIGHLY sought after by P4 schools. They have fast linebackers that force mistakes. 7 INTs, 9 forced fumbles, and 10 fumble recoveries.

    Prediction – I love my Middies. Makes me so happy to see them doing good. Unfortunately, I don’t think this game goes well for Navy. I’m taking the Mean Green to win big 42-28.

    3) #9 Vanderbilt Commodores (7-1) at #20 Texas Longhorns (6-2).
    Game starts at 12:00 PM (EST) or Noon on ABC.

    Graphic showing matchup between Texas Longhorns and Vanderbilt Commodores, featuring team logos and NCAA branding, set against a football stadium background.

    The big news here is that we don’t know yet, if Longhorns starting QB Arch Manning is going to play or not.

    We all know that the Commodores want to control the clock on offense. That starts with MY Heisman frontrunner, QB Diego Pavia. He’s thrown for 1,698 yards, with 15 TDs and 5 INTs. He also has 458 yards rushing with TDs. On defense, they’re gap sound and run to the ball. The DL has 17 of the teams 21 sacks. They make plays when they need them.

    The Longhorns offense, for good or for ill, revolves around QB Arch Manning. If he can’t play, then senior QB Matthew Caldwell will step in. No matter who’s at QB, they have to get WR Ryan Wingo involved. The defense is led by LB Anthony Hill Jr. He leads the team in total tackles (60) and forced fumbles (3). LB Colin Simmons leads the team in sacks (7).

    Prediction – I have thought about this all week long. I just have this gut feeling that Texas is going to get a favorable call late, and pull this one out at home. I’m going Longhorns to win a very close 28-27 game.

    For the best coffee and lattes in Van Wert County, stop into The Rebel Bean. Check out their Facebook (Meta) page for hours and drinks menu.

    I’m a simple black coffee man myself, but their Sugar Shake latte is excellent.

    – by Sean McKenzie

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    Like my articles and drop a comment, in the comment section.

    Stats courtesy of…..NCAA.

    Pictures courtesy of……wallpapercave, capperspicks, espn, and clutchpoints.

  • 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

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    Stats courtesy of…..NCAA.

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