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Tag: Oregon

  • 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.

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    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.

  • Top 3 Under the Radar, Non-Conference Games, You Need to Watch.

    The college football season is just around the corner.

    We get our gear out and make sure it’s washed, fresh, and ready.

    We plan our holidays and special events, around what time our favorite teams play and when the “big games” are on TV.

    It’s the time of year, where we lose our minds because our team threw an interception or fumbled the football. All the while, our wives sit on the couch thinking…..”I can’t believe I’m married to that man.” LOL.

    So, in honor of this glorious time of year, I’m here to help you get your calendar set and ready.

    Here are 3 “under the radar” non-conference games, you have to watch.

    FYI…..No, Ohio State vs Texas is not on the list, because we all know, it’s the best non-conference game this season.

    UNLV Rebels at Memphis Tigers
    Saturday, August 29th, at 10:00 PM (EST) on FOX.

    The winner of this game, COULD end up with the guaranteed college football spot, awarded to the highest ranked G6 school.

    UNLV and head coach Dan Mullen is coming off a 10-4 season and a second-place finish, in his first season at the helm. The Rebels went out and got former Oklahoma and Auburn quarterback, Jackson Arnold to come in and lead the offense. Senior running back Jai’den Thomas ran for 1,036 yards with 12 TDs last season. The offense will lean heavily on him, as they lost their top four wide receivers. The defense only returns three starters, and is looking for a lot of players to step up.

    Memphis has a new head coach in Charles Huff (my 3rd favorite hire in the offseason), and he’ll have his work cut out for himself. Starting with choosing a starting quarterback. It’s between former Ohio State and South Carolina backup Air Noland and D2 West Florida transfer Marcus Stokes, who had 30 passing and 10 rushing TDs last season. They only have 1 returning starter on offense. On defense, a lot of players followed Huff from Southern Miss, and they’ll lean on that familiarity.

    Prediction – Give me the Rebels to make a statement that last season wasn’t a fluke, with a big 35-17 win.

    Mississippi State Bulldogs at Minnesota Golden Gophers

    Saturday, September 12th at 3:30 PM (EST) on CBS.

    First, KUDOS to Mississippi State for having the “stones” to actually play a Big Ten school, in Big Ten country. The SEC has historically and still refuse, preferring “neutral site” games.

    Both teams have tough conference schedules, and need to win this game, for a chance at a .500 record and a bowl game at the end of the season.

    The Bulldog offense returns all three interior offensive linemen, and WR Anthony Edwards returns though (67 catches, 831 yards, 4 TDs). Sophomore quarterback Kamario Taylor played in 11 games, as a true freshman last season (629 yards, 5 TDs, 1 INT, with 82 carries, for 458 yards, with 8 TDs). He’s a serious dual-threat problem. On defense, they return 5 starters. The return of DE Will Whitson(injury) and Florida State transfer Amaree Williams should improve the pass rush. The speed and depth in the DB room is vastly improved, and should be a stength.

    The Golden Gophers return their starting QB, HB, LT, LG, and C, so plenty of experience on that side of the ball. Quarterback Drake Lindsay started as a true freshman last season, and finished with 3,382 yards, 18 TDs and 6 INTs. Running back Darius Taylor had 915 total yards last season, and he’ll need to stay healthy, after missing 3 games. On defense, they only gave up 23 points per game, and were good against the run (38th overall). They struggled against the pass (83rd). Returning DB starters John Nestor and Kerry Brown, will have to step up and be prepare to lead an inexperience room.

    Prediction – Gophers Head Coach P.J. Fleck struggles in big games, and this will be no different. I think the Bulldogs come in and get a tough 28-24 win.

    Arkansas Razorbacks at Utah Utes
    Saturday, September 12th, 10:15 PM (EST) on ESPN.

    Utah lost its long time head coach Kyle Whittingham (21 years), and Arkansas got a hot, new head coach. It’s a game of opposites, in this clash of P4 teams, that could possibly be heading in different directions with all the turnover.

    Arkansas finally lured Ryan Silverfield away from Memphis. He brings a high octane offensive mindset. The quarterback position is unsettled, but whether it’s sophomore KJ Jackson or freshman AJ Hill (who followed Silverfield from Memphis), they’ll have some quality depth at wide receiver with former 4-star Chris Marshall, CJ Brown, and Ismael Cisse. On defense, they only return 2 starters (DE Quincey Rhodes Jr and LB Bradley Shaw). They’ll rely heavily on former 4-star transfers, DT Hunter Osborne (Virginia), DT Xadavien Sims (Oregon), and NT Carlon Jones (USC), to fix a run defense that finished 114th against the run last season. The entire secondary is new, so that defensive line, really needs to step up.

    Utah enters a new era with Morgan Scalley at the helm. They’ll have starting quarterback Devon Dampier (2,490 yards passing, 835 yards rushing, 24 passing TDs, 10 rushing TDs, and only 5 INTs) returning. The entire offensive line is new, as last season’s OTs Fano (Browns) and Lomu (Patriots) were 1st round picks in the NFL Draft. On defense, Utah is always a tough, hard-nosed defense. They were 17th in PPG allowed (18.9) and passing yards allowed (177.8). Returning starters, LB Johnathan Hall, NB Jackson Bennee, and CB Elijah Davis, will lead with all new starters along the defensive line, and new starters in the defensive back seven.

    Prediction – I think this will be a great, high scoring first half, before Utah pulls away in the second, for a 42-28 win.

    What game this season, do you think is flying under the radar?

    – by Sean McKenzie

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

    Pictures courtesy of…..wallpapercave and ESPN.

  • The REAL Top 3 Pre-Season Heisman Trophy Candidates.

    There are only 62, long days until the first college football game of the 2026-27 starts, when the North Carolina Tar Heels take on the Texas Christian Horned Frogs, on Saturday August 29th, in Dublin, Ireland, at 12:00 PM Noon, on ESPN.

    Until then, we have to anxiously wait, and overanalyze everything there is to analyze about college football. We read all the magazines, listen to podcasts, and try not to let ESPN brainwash us with their bias drivel (they own SEC Network and hold exclusive rights to all conference games).

    For those of us who watch the games, we know that Texas Longhorns QB Arch Manning isn’t worthy of being Top 5, let alone being the “front runner” as ESPN, Lindy’s, and so many others have him.

    So, without further ado, here are the REAL Top 5 Heisman Trophy Pre-season front runners. (in no particular order)

    Julian Sayin, QB, Ohio State Buckeyes.

    Sayin was a Heisman Trophy finalist last season, after completing an incredible 77% of his passes (3rd most in FBS history), for 3,610 yards, with 32 TDs to only 8 INTs. Yes, he has WR Jeremiah Smith to throw to, but he lost WR Carnell Tate in the draft (Tennessee Titans), and TE Max Klare (Rams) to the NFL. He will be asked to shoulder more of the load this season,

    He’ll have plenty of BIG games this season, as the Buckeyes play at Texas (Sept 12th), at Indiana (Oct 17th), at USC (Oct 31st), home against Oregon (Nov 7th), and against Michigan (Nov 28th).

    Darian Menseh, QB, Miami Hurricanes.

    He led the Duke Blue Devils to an ACC Championship, throwing for 3,973 yards, with 34 TDs to only 6 INTs. He transferred to Miami, and will have far better on the field talent, throwing to WR Malachi Toney. He’ll have to dominate, which he’s shown he can do, because the Hurricanes schedule is weak. The game in South Bend, IN against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, on Nov 7th, is his biggest test.

    Dante Moore, QB, Oregon.

    Moore threw for 3,565 yards, with 30 TDs and 10 INTs. He lost his top two pass catchers from last season, so he’s going to be asked to carry a much heavier load this season. He showed an ability to use his feet last season, and that will help his game this season. He would’ve been the second quarterback takin in this past draft, had he decided to leave, but he returned to make one last run at a National Championship.

    Games at USC (Sept 28th), and at Ohio State (Nov 7th) will be his biggest chances to show out to the Heisman committee.

    Honorable Mention:

    CJ Carr, QB, Notre Dame

    Jeremiah Smith, WR, Ohio State

    Trinidad Chambliss, QB, Ole Miss

    – by Sean McKenzie

    Stats courtesy of…..ESPN and NCAA.

    Pictures courtesy of…..foxsports, clutchpoints, canesinsight, and SI.

  • Winners and Losers from Day 3 of the NFL Scouting Combine.

    Logo for the NFL Scouting Combine featuring a football and star design in blue and white.

    Day 3 of the NFL Scouting Combine is officially in the books. The theme of S-P-E-E-D speed, continued!!! Absolutely nobody thought that this particular draft class, would be breaking all-time speed records.

    The first group of Day 3 was the Running Backs. As anyone who knows me, knows that I LOVE me some running backs. I’m a run-first guy.

    Notre Dame RB Jeremiyah Love only solidified his position as the #1 RB in this class. We all knew that he was fast, and he ran a 4.36 in the 40, with a 1.55 10 yd split. He showed his smooth footwork and ability to get skinny, during the on the field portion of the drills.

    His teammate Jadarian Price ran a 4.49 in the 40, with a slower than expected 1.61 10 yard split. His footwork isn’t as smooth as Love in the running drills, but he did EXCELLENT catching the ball during the on the field portion of the drills.

    My biggest winner was Alabama RB Jam Miller. He ran a 4.42 in the 40, with a 1.53 10 yard split. He was smooth with his footwork , kept his balancing cutting, and did a good job catching balls.

    Penn State RB Kaytron Allen did EXACTLY what I’ve been telling everyone he would during the on the field portion of the drills. Smooth footwork, quick feet, can catch the ball. I’ve always thought he was better than his Nittany Lions counterpart Nicholas Singleton.

    My biggest loser was Nebraska RB Emmett Johnson. He ran a 4.56 in the 40. He looked like a board, his feet looked sluggish, his reaction to the bags, on cut drills were slow.

    Outside of Love, there isn’t a first rounder here, but there is very quality depth, and varied abilities in this class.

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    QB Group 1 ran the 40, and the news was Arkansas QB Taylen Green ran a 4.36 in the 40. Georgia Tech QB Haynes King ran a 4.46 in the 40.

    When it came to throwing, the biggest winner overall was Penn State QB Drew Allar. He had the best deep ball, by far. He was accurate with his ball placement on almost every drill.

    Georgia Tech QB Haynes King did quite well. He was great on all the underneath throws, but his lack of arm strength showed on the deep balls.

    The biggest loser for on the field drills, was EASILY Teylan Green. He completely airmailed throws on all the outroutes, both short and deep. His ball placement was high and low on slant routes. He has great arm strength though.

    Next up, was WR Group #1. Oklahoma Deion Burks (4.30), Cincinnati Jeff Caldwell (4.31), Georgia Zachariah Branch (4.35), Oregon Malik Benson (4.37), Tennessee Chris Brazzell (4.37), and Texas Tech Caleb Douglas (4.39), all ran under 4.40 in the 40.

    The big winner was Zachariah Branch. He was so smooth and really crisp on his breaks. Just snapping them off. He caught everything, including some horrible throws by QB Fagnano and Green. It was so fun to watch him today. He made himself some money and climbed many draft boards.

    Biggest loser was WR Malachi Fields from Notre Dame. He ran a slow 4.61 in the 40, with a 1.63 10-yard split. He couldn’t keep his feet and hips under control on his breaks, and had 3 drops on The Gauntlet Drill. The film is better than his performance Saturday afternoon, but it did cost him some spots.

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    Only 2 players from QB Group 2 ran the 40. North Dakota State’s Cole Payton (4.56) and Baylor Sawyer Robertson (4.65).

    When it came to the on the field drills, Alabama’s Ty Simpson was the winner of the group. Good accuracy on the out breaking routes. He had great ball placement and timing on the medium and deep routes.

    Clemson’s Cade Klubnik was a close 2nd place though.

    The loser of the group was the aforementioned Cole Payton. His best 2 passes didn’t come until the 2nd to last drill, on deep balls. It was a terrible night for him, after the 40-yard dash.

    WR Group 2 saw the fastest 40-yard dash of the weekend. Brenen Thompson from Mississippi State ran a 4.26, with a 1.54 10-yard split. North Dakota State’s Bryce Lance ran a 4.34 in the 40, with a 1.49 10-yard split, and Ole Miss’s De’Zhaun Stribling ran a 4.36, with a 1.53 10-yard split.

    When it came to the on the field drills, the winner was actually 2 this time. Makai Lemon from USC and Colbie Young from Georgia. Both of them were catching absolutely everything thrown their way. With some of the bad balls, both of them showed great body control and the ability to adjust mid-air to catch the bad throws.

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    – by Sean McKenzie

    Picture courtesy of…..bleacherreport.

  • Winners and Losers from Day 2 of the NFL Scouting Combine.

    Logo for the NFL Scouting Combine featuring a football and the NFL shield.

    Day 2 of the NFL Scouting Combine is in the books. The speed from the first day, kept going here in Day 2.

    This is officially, the fastest overall class, in the history of the NFL Scouting Combine.

    It started with DBs Group 1, which was CB (cornerbacks).

    The big news was that San Diego State Aztec CB Chris Johnson answered the biggest question about himself, his speed. He ran a 4.40 in the 40. We knew that he’d do well in the on the field drills and he did.

    Tennessee Volunteers CB Colton Hood ran a 4.44, and the one of the biggest surprises for me, and quite a few people that I talked to, was Ohio State CB Davison Igbinosun running a 4.45. His tape does not reflect that type of speed, so that was a big boost for him. Both Hood and Igbinosun did very well during the on the field drills as well.

    The biggest overall surprise to me and others, was Georgia CB Daylen Everette. He’s 6’3″ and not only ran a 4.38 in the 40, but he was quite fluid flipping his hips, changing directions and did well on the Gauntlet Drill.

    Biggest loser was CB Julian Neal from Arkansas. He looked absolutely terrible in all the drills. Could he move to safety? Sure. It was a bad day for him.

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    DB Group 2 was the safeties, and HOLY HOLY MOLY!!! It was the fastest safety class in the history of the NFL Scouting Combine.

    It started with Ohio State safety Lorenzo Styles Jr running a 4.27 and a 4.28 in the 40. 3 other safeties, Robert Spears-Jennings, Treydan Stukes, and Dillon Thieneman ran under 4.40 seconds in the 40.

    By far, Styles Jr had the best day, as he not only ran fast, but he also dominated the on the field drills. He kept his feet under him, he was able to keep his balance on breaks, and he was catching everything his way. There’s no way, he should be a late Day 3 pick. I think he might have worked himself into Day 2 (rounds 2 and 3).

    Toledo safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren MIGHT have solidified himself as a first-round pick. Previously mentioned Dillon Thieneman from Oregon absolutely solidified his position in the second round.

    Unfortunately, one of my favorite “sleeper picks” Bishop Fitzgerald was the biggest loser of the night. He ran much slower than anyone thought 4.55 in the 40. He looked stiff and couldn’t keep his balance when he had to cut on his back foot. Hopefully, he’ll do better at his pro day.

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    The final Group of the day, saw the tight ends open it up for the offensive players.

    What did they do??? Then went out and ran the fastest collective group in NFL Scouting Combine history. See a theme here folks.

    Oregon TE Kenyon Sadiq set a new NFL Combine record for TEs, running a 4.39 in the 40. He also did very well in the measurables and testing.

    Vanderbilt TE Eli Stowers ran a 4.51 in the 40, and he set a new NFL Combine record as well. His was in the vertical jump, jumping a whooping 45.50″ inches.

    To me, the biggest winner was Wyoming TE John Michael-Gyllenborg. He ran a solid 4.60 in the 40, and looked so smooth and fluid in the on the field drills.

    The biggest loser was Tennessee Volunteer TE Miles Kitselman. He ran a 4.90 in the 40, looked very rigid, and absolutely couldn’t even move Fred the Sled on the blocking drill. It was a bad day for him.

    My surprise was TE Bauer Sharp from LSU. Ran a nice 4.63 in the 40. Was the best in the blocking drill, and caught everything that went his way.

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    Day 3 of the NFL Scouting Combine starts at 1:00 PM (EST) on NFL Network, with Quarterbacks, Running Backs, and Wide Receivers, testing and taking the field.

    – by Sean McKenzie

    Picture courtesy of…..USAToday.

  • 2025-26 College Football Playoff Bracket is Set.

    A collage of various college sports team logos on a black background, featuring schools from different conferences.

    Conference Championship Weekend is over and done with.

    Congratulations to Indiana (B10), Georgia (SEC), Duke (ACC, yes you read that right), Texas Tech (B12), Tulane (AAC), James Madison (Sun Belt), Kennesaw State (C-USA), Boise State (MWC), and Western Michigan (MAC), for winning their conference titles.

    It’s the main goal of these teams when they start the season, and through hard work, dedication, and a bit of luck, they all achieved it.

    On Sunday, the College Football Playoff Committee released their official bracket.

    There is a LOT WRONG with it as well.

    Official College Football Playoff bracket showcasing the matchups and seeded teams for the playoffs.

    First of all, I’m happy that the Dukes and Green Wave won their conferences, but in no way, shape, or form, should they BOTH be in the CFP. Personally, I don’t think ANY of the “G5 schools” deserved to be in the playoffs this season. However, if one team did deserve it, it was James Madison, not Tulane.

    It’s especially hard on JMU as they have to fly all the way across the country (2,806 miles) and play the Oregon Ducks, at Autzen Stadium.

    It’s a bit easier for Tulane, as they only have a 346-mile bus ride up I-55 to play the Ole Miss Rebels in Oxford.

    The fact that Notre Dame was left out of the playoffs is a disgrace. They started the season 0-2 with both those loses to CFP teams Miami and Texas A&M, being by a combined 4 points.

    They’ve won 10 straight games, and outside of Indiana, is probably playing the best football of any team in the country.

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    Unlike a lot of my fellow sports writers, I’m 100% OK with Alabama making the CFP.

    I understand they lost to a horrible Florida State team, but that was in Week 1. Their two other losses were to CFP Oklahoma by 2 points, and they did lose to Georgia in the SEC Championship Game by 21, but remember, they beat the Bulldogs in the regular season matchup. Ranked wins over Missouri, Vanderbilt, and Tennessee, is a fine resume, and deserving of a spot.

    I wouldn’t have put them at #9 though. That’s too high for a 3 loss team. #11 or #12 would’ve been better.

    Looking at the bracket, there’s some nice campus matchups. The Alabama-Oklahoma rematch is going to be another great game. Remember, that game was in Tuscaloosa and the Sooners went in to get a close 23-21 victory. You KNOW that Boomer Sooner crowd is going to be rocking in Norman for that game.

    The aforementioned Tulane-Ole Miss game is a game to keep an eye on. The Rebels are in the middle of a coaching change, and they’re having a lot of movement with the staff. The fact of the matter is that we do not know how new head coach Pete Golding is going to do, with his first ever game being a playoff game.

    Meanwhile, with Tulane promoting Will Hall to be the head coach, they’re in a much better spot. Hall has been the man in charge before (Southern Miss) and worked at Tulane (19-20) before returning. He understands the culture and has the big game coaching experience.

    A clear bowl filled with a dessert topped with whipped cream, caramel syrup, pecans, and chocolate chips, placed on a wooden table.

    The Daily Dose in Convoy, has a delicious Banana Nut Protein Oatmeal Bowl. Check out their Facebook page for hours, special drinks, and menu.

    I’m not saying the Green Wave is going to shock the world and beat the Rebels, I’m just saying………………it’s not out of the realm of possibility.

    I’ll make my College Football Playoff Predictions, as well as ALL the Bowl Game predictions in a later article.

    – by Sean McKenzie

    Pictures courtesy of…..wallpapercave 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • The Real Top 10 College Football Teams, after Week 9.

    A grid display featuring various college sports team logos, including the Florida State Seminoles, Michigan Wolverines, and Texas Longhorns.

    We all know some of the AP voters, don’t even watch the games, or even highlights (Haley Sawyer).

    We all know that ESPN doesn’t even hide their SEC bias at all. You can’t be unbiased when you literally own the SEC Network (so much for real journalism and reporting).

    At any time on Saturday’s, I’m watching up to 6 games at the same time. Then I spend Sunday morning watching games on my laptop.

    So, without further ado, here are the REAL Top 10 teams, after Week 9.

    1) Indiana Hoosiers – 8-0 – defeated UCLA 56-6.
    No team in America, is playing better than Indiana on both sides of the football.

    2) Ohio State Buckeyes – 7-0 – Bye.
    What’s scary is that their offense isn’t even hitting on all cylinders yet, and they still have the #1 defense in the country.

    3) Texas A & M Aggies – 8-0 – defeated #20 LSU 49-25.
    QB Marcel Reed has this offense playing at a high level and the defense is finally getting to the quarterback this season.

    4) Alabama Crimson Tide – 7-1 – defeated South Carolina 29-22.
    Since their Week 1 loss to FSU, QB Ty Simpson is playing at a Heisman Trophy level clip.

    5) Georgia Bulldogs – 6- 1 – Bye.
    All the “breaks” are falling in their favor right now…..with a lot of help from their officiating friends (see the SEC official suspension article on ESPN).

    For the best coffee and lattes in Van Wert County, go to The Rebel Bean. Delicious drinks and a friendly staff. Check out their Facebook page for hours and drink menu.

    6) Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets – 8-0 – defeated Syracuse 41-16.
    QB Haynes King is a beast, and doesn’t make mistakes.

    7) Vanderbilt Commodores – 7-1 – defeated #15 Missouri 17-10.
    QB Diego Pavia is my Heisman front-runner, and is carrying this team on his back.

    8) Ole Miss Rebels – 7-1 – defeated #13 Oklahoma 34-26.
    QB Chambliss and HB Lacy just control the clock and beat you down.

    9) Oregon Ducks – 7-1 – defeated Wisconsin 21-7.
    QB Dante Moore slings it all over the field.

    10) BYU Cougars – 8-0 – defeated Iowa State 41-27.
    They run it, they pass it, and play great pressure defense.

    Next 4 teams – Notre Dame, Texas Tech, Virigina, Tennessee.

    – by Sean McKenzie

    Stats courtesy of…..NCAA.