Author: Carter Huff

Image Courtesy: SBNation.com

AP Top 6
1.Georgia 6-0 (3-0) SEC This week: @ Vanderbilt (2-5) (12 PM ET, CBS)
2.Michigan 6-0 (3-0) Big Ten This week: Indiana (2-3) (12 PM ET, FOX)
3.Ohio State 5-0 (2-0) Big Ten This week: @ Purdue (2-4) (12 PM ET, Peacock)
4.Florida State 5-0 (3-0) ACC This week: Syracuse (4-2) (12 PM ET, ABC)
5.Oklahoma 6-0 (3-0) Big 12 This week: Off
6.Penn State 5-0 (2-0) Big Ten This week: Massachusetts (1-6) (3:30 PM ET, BTN)

Biggest risers and fallers in the AP Top 25 this week:

Risers
5.Oklahoma 6-0 (3-0) Big 12 Week 6: #12 (Defeated 3.Texas, 34-30)
14.Louisville 6-0 (3-0) ACC Week 6: #25 (Defeated 10.Notre Dame, 33-20)

Fallers
9.Texas 5-1 (2-1) Big 12 Week 6: #3 (Lost to 12.Oklahoma, 34-30)
19.Washington State 4-1 (1-1) Pac-12 Week 6: #13 (Lost to UCLA 25-17)
21.Notre Dame 5-2 (0-0) Independents Week 6: #10 (Lost to 25.Louisville, 33-20)
24.Kentucky 5-1 (2-1) SEC Week 6: #20 (Lost to 1.Georgia, 51-13)
25.Miami 4-1 (0-1) ACC Week 6: #17 (Lost to Georgia Tech, 23-20)

Dropped Out
Missouri 5-1 (1-1) SEC Week 6: #21 (Lost to 23.LSU, 49-39)
Fresno State 5-1 (1-1) Mountain West Week 6: #24 (Lost to Wyoming, 24-19)

New
18.UCLA 4-1 (1-1) Pac-12 Week 6: NR (Defeated 13.Washington State, 25-17)
23.Kansas 5-1 (2-1) Big 12 Week 6: NR (Defeated Central Florida, 51-22)

Key games this weekend (Rankings based off of AP Poll)
Texas A&M (4-2) @ 19.Tennessee (4-1) (Saturday, 3:30 PM ET, CBS)
Can Texas A&M bounce back after a tough loss to Alabama last week? The Aggies offensive line was destroyed time and time again by the Alabama front seven. Max Johnson (675 yards and 7 TDs) tried to evade the Tide rush on multiple occasions but rarely could do so. Receivers and Anias Smith (431 yards) and Evan Stewart (403 yards and 4 TDs) must be good in this game if they want to go into Neyland Stadium and win over the Volunteers. The Aggies defense must get to the quarterback with linebacker Edgerrin Cooper (41 tackles and 6 sacks), Taurean York (32 tackles and 1 sack), and defensive lineman Walter Nolen (22 tackles and 4 sacks). That quarterback, Joe Milton, has used his strong arm to throw for nearly 1,200 yards and 9 TDs. In the running game, Jaylen Wright’s 435 yards and 1 TD paces them while Ramel Keyton (230 yards and 3 TDs) does the same for the receivers. Linebacker Aaron Beasley (33 tackles and 2 sacks) leads the Volunteers defensively. In what should be a very important game in the race to Atlanta for both teams, the line of scrimmage should determine it. Projected Score: Texas A&M 27, Tennessee 24

8.Oregon (5-0) @ 7.Washington (5-0) (Saturday, 3:30 PM ET, ABC)
Oregon and Washington look like the top two teams in the Pac-12’s final season as we know it. Can former Auburn transfer QB Bo Nix (1,459 yards and 15 TDs) lead the Ducks to a win on the road in a hostile Seattle environment. Helping him will be tailbacks Bucky Irving (393 yards and 4 TDs) and Jordan James (297 yards and 7 TDs). Receiver Troy Franklin, who has 535 receiving yards and 7 touchdowns, has been huge for the Ducks this season. Oregon’s defense has held both Colorado and Stanford to six points each in blowouts. A much more difficult challenge awaits in Heisman contender Michael Penix (1,999 yards and 16 TDs) and the high flying Washington offense. Receivers Rome Odunze (608 yards and 4 TDs), Ja’Lynn Polk (468 yards and 4 TDs), and Jalen McMillan (311 yards and 3 TDs). Defensive back Dominique Hampton (35 tackles and 1 interception) and linebacker Edefuan Ulfoshio (27 tackles and 1 sack) must get in the backfield and make Bo Nix earn everything on Saturday. Washington will need to play better after only beating Arizona by seven a week ago. In maybe the best Pac-12 we have seen in years and ESPN’s College GameDay on site, this Oregon-Washington game means so much to not only the conference race but a College Football Playoff berth. Projected Score: Washington 45, Oregon 38

Missouri (5-1) @ 24.Kentucky (5-1) (Saturday, 7:30 PM ET, SECN)
Missouri and Kentucky both took their first losses a week ago. Missouri’s defense failed them in a 49-39 shootout loss to LSU in a blacked out Faurot Field in Columbia last Saturday. Kentucky was blown out by Georgia, 51-13. The Wildcats must be better if they want to beat a Missouri team that looks vastly improved from a season ago. Kentucky needs to get their running game going with Ray Davis, who has already rushed for 653 yards and 8 TDs. They also have a few talented receivers in Tayvion Robinson, who has 317 yards and 3 TDs and Dane Key who has 261 yards and 2 TDs. Throwing them will be Devin Leary, who has thrown for almost 1,300 yards and 12 TDs. He must avoid turning the ball over as he already has thrown five interceptions. For Missouri, their offense was humming against LSU. Brady Cook continues to shine, throwing for 1,879 yards and 13 TDs so far this season. Cody Shrader continues to pund on the ground, running for 577 yards and 6 TDs while receiver Luther Burden has 793 yards and 5 TDs. Linebacker Ty’Ron Hopper (35 tackles and 1 sack) and defensive back Joseph Charleston (31 tackles) lead the Tigers defense. With Georgia still the favorite currently in the SEC East, Kentucky and Missouri must prove themselves while they still have a shot to make it to Atlanta for the SEC Championship. Projected Score: Missouri 35, Kentucky 24

25.Miami (4-1) @ 12.North Carolina (5-0) (Saturday, 7:30 PM ET, ABC)
Miami lost in the worst possible way when they could have ended their game against Georgia Tech last Saturday with a kneel but they ran the ball and fumbled and lost to the Yellow Jackets in the final seconds. Hurricanes signal caller Tyler Van Dyke has thrown for 1,330 yards and 12 TDs on the season while his tailback Henry Parrish Jr. has rushed for 379 yards and 4 TDs. Van Dyke needs to rely on his receivers against a question North Carolina pass defense, including Xavier Restrepo (478 yards and 2 TDs), Jacolby George (337 yards and 4 TDs), and Colbie Young (298 yards and 3 TDs). The Miami defense, including linebacker Francisco Maugoia (22 tackles and 1 interception) and defensive back Jaden Davis (19 tackles and 3 interceptions), will have to be great against a terrific North Carolina offense, led by quarterback Drake Maye (1,629 yards and 8 TDs). With Omarion Hampton (461 yards and 7 TDs) running the ball well and receiver Tez Walker (43 yards) finally back in the lineup after being ruled eligible ahead of last week’s win over Syracuse. Defensive backs Giovanni Biggers (22 tackles) and Alijah Huzzie (20 tackles and 3 interceptions) must stop the Hurricanes’ passing attack if they want to stay undefeated through six games. A huge ACC match up looms on Saturday in prime time. Projected Score: North Carolina 41, Miami 31

10.USC (6-0) @ 21.Notre Dame (5-2) (Saturday, 7:30 PM ET, NBC)
After Notre Dame’s second loss of the season in what has been a grueling stretch of games against AP top 25 teams versus Ohio State (loss), at Duke (win), and Louisville (loss) they face their fourth consecutive top 25 opponent in primetime. This time it will be against reigning Heisman Trophy winner, Caleb Williams (1,822 yards and 22 TDs). Notre Dame must get back to relying on their running game with tremendous running back Audric Estime, who has rushed for almost 700 yards and 7 TDs. His hard running will be crucial to opening the pass for signal caller Sam Hartman (1,712 yards and 16 TDs) against a questionable USC passing defense. Stopping a star like Caleb Williams and the up tempo Lincoln Riley offense is always difficult, but the Notre Dame defense will look to do so with leading tackler Howard Cross III (42 and 1 sack). The USC playmakers must be terrific against a great Notre Dame defense on the road. Trojan running back MarShawn Lloyd (519 yards and 4 TDs) and receivers Tahj Washington (456 yards and 5 TDs) and Brenden Rice (434 yards and 7 TDs) will look to help Williams win the rivalry game against the Fighting Irish. Similarly to the Notre Dame defense against Caleb Williams, the USC defense will have to be just as good against Sam Hartman. Trojan safeties Jaylin Smith (41 tackles) and Calen Bullock (30 tackles and 1 interception) will look to create turnovers with pressure on the Notre Dame quarterback. With the Fighting Irish out of College Football Playoff conversations, they can’t eliminate USC from the event yet but coming off a loss, Notre Dame still has a New Year’s Six Bowl game to play for. Projected Score: Notre Dame 45, USC 42

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AP Top 6
1.Georgia 5-0 (2-0) SEC This week: Kentucky (7 PM ET, ESPN)
2.Michigan 5-0 (2-0) Big Ten This week: @ Minnesota (7:30 PM ET, NBC)
3.Texas 5-0 (2-0) Big 12 This week: Oklahoma (Dallas) (12 PM ET, ABC)
4.Ohio State 4-0 (1-0) Big Ten This week: Maryland (12 PM ET, FOX)
5.Florida State 4-0 (2-0) ACC This week: Virginia Tech (3:30 PM ET, ABC)
6.Penn State 5-0 (2-0) Big Ten This week: Off

Biggest risers and fallers in the AP Top 25 this week:

Risers
13.Washington State 4-0 (1-0) Pac-12 Week 5: #15 (Off)
15.Oregon State 4-1 (1-1) Pac-12 Week 5: #19 (Defeated 10.Utah, 21-7)
16.Ole Miss 4-1 (1-1) SEC Week 5: #20 (Defeated 13.LSU, 55-49)

Fallers
18.Utah 4-1 (1-1) Pac-12 Week 5: #10 (Lost to 19.Oregon State, 21-7)
19.Duke 4-1 (1-0) ACC Week 5: #17 (Lost to 11.Notre Dame, 21-14)
23.LSU 3-2 (2-1) SEC Week 5: #13 (Lost to 20.Ole Miss, 55-49)

Dropped Out
Florida 3-2 (1-1) SEC Week 5: #22 (Lost to Kentucky, 33-14)
Kansas 4-1 (1-1) Big 12 Week 5: #24 (Lost to 3.Texas, 40-14)

New
20.Kentucky 5-0 (2-0) SEC Week 5: NR (Defeated 22.Florida, 33-14)
25.Louisville 5-0 (2-0) ACC Week 5: NR (Defeated NC State, 13-10)

Key games this weekend (Rankings based off of AP Poll)
23.LSU (3-2) @ 21.Missouri (5-0) (Saturday, 12 PM ET, ESPN)
Can LSU’s defense bounce back after giving up over 700 yards against Ole Miss? The Tiger defense crumbled as Rebels overcame a nine point deficit in the final minutes. Many talking heads do not think they should be ranked just because of that weak unit. On the other side of the ball, Jayden Daniels has been fantastic. In last Saturday’s shootout with Ole Miss, he threw for 414 yards and 4 TDs. His receiver Brian Thomas Jr. had eight receptions for 124 yards and 3 TDs. In addition, Logan Diggs rushed for 101 yards and 2 TDs. If the Tiger offense plays half as well as they did in Oxford, they should have a great shot at beating red hot Missouri in Columbia. Missouri QB Brady Cook (1,468 yards and 11 TDs) and has the record for number of passes thrown without an interception all time in the SEC. His running back Cody Schrader (463 yards and 3 TDs) and receivers Luther Burden (644 yards and 5 TDs) and Theo Wease Jr. (254 yards and 3 TDs) have been phenomenal as they have beaten Kansas State, Memphis, and Vanderbilt as they enter this big game. Missouri’s defense is led by linebacker Ty’Ron Hopper (27 tackles) and defensive back Joseph Charleston (26 tackles). LSU needs to bounce back in what should be a fantastic game in Columbia on Saturday afternoon. Projected Score: Missouri 35, LSU 31

12.Oklahoma (5-0) vs. 3.Texas (5-0) (Dallas) (Saturday, 12 PM ET, ABC)
Can Oklahoma defeat Texas after their first 5-0 start since 2009? The Sooners themselves are also undefeated entering the final Red River Showdown as Big 12 foes before they both head to the SEC. Both teams are undefeated entering the game for the first time since 2011. Brent Venables’ team already has as many wins (5) as they had all of last season. So, things are looking up. But, they run into what is a buzzsaw in Texas. Venables’ QB is Dillon Gabriel, who has thrown for 1,593 yards and 15 TDs, has been great up to this point. It will be up to the Sooners running backs to help Gabriel in the passing game, Marcus Major (199 yards and 1 TD) and Tawee Walker (193 yards and 2 TDs). Michigan transfer receiver Andrel Anthony must be good for the Sooners, as he has put up 387 yards and 1 TD through one third of the season so far. On the other side, Texas’ offense has been one of the best in the country. Longhorn running back Jonathan Brooks exploded for 218 yards and 2 TDs in their dominant win over Kansas last weekend. He will be a key to making things easier for signal-caller Quinn Ewers Quinn Ewers, who threw for over 300 yards and 1 TD in the victory. Ewers’ targets Adonai Mitchell and Xavier Mitchell will be crucial in determining the outcome between the Longhorns and Sooners. Looking to stop Gabriel and the Oklahoma offense will be Jaylan Ford (32 tackles and 2 interceptions) and the Texas defense. A huge one looms at the Cotton Bowl and the Texas State Fair. Projected Score: Texas 38, Oklahoma 31

13.Washington State (4-0) @ UCLA (3-1) (Saturday, 3 PM ET, P12N)
Can UCLA get a quality win in the Pac-12 and make itself a contender in what has been the best league in America this year? Freshman quarterback Dante Moore (849 yards and 8 TDs) must be efficient against a very good Washington State team if they want to do so. Tailbacks Carson Steele (272 yards and 2 TDs) and TJ Harden (264 yards and 2 TDs) must support Moore in this game as well. J. Michael Sturdivant has been fantastic for the Bruins, having 12 receptions for 279 yards and 2 TDs. The UCLA defense must stop an electric Wazzu offense, as the unit is led by linebackers Darius Muasuau (24 tackles, 1 interception and 3 sacks) and Kain Medrano (21 tackles and 2 sacks). The Cougar offense has been fantastic this season, led by QB Cameron Ward, who has thrown for almost 1,400 yards and 13 TDs. His receivers Lincoln Victor (342 yards and 3 TDs), Josh Kelly (336 yards and 5 TDs), and Kyle Williams (301 yards and 4 TDs) will be very hard for the Bruins defense to stop. Defensively for Washington State, defensive back Sam Lockett III leads them in tackles with 26 and 1 interception. A fun Pac-12 battle in Westwood looms on Saturday. Projected Score: Washington State 41, UCLA 31

11.Alabama (4-1) @ Texas A&M (4-1) (Saturday, 3:30 PM ET, CBS)
Alabama and Texas A&M will fight for first place in the SEC West at Kyle Field on Saturday afternoon. The Crimson Tide have not been as good as they normally are under Nick Saban because of worse than usual offensive line play but this is their chance to prove they are still national championship contenders. Both the Crimson Tide and Aggies defenses have been crucial to their 4-1 starts this season. Defensive back Caleb Downs (40 tackles and 1 interception), linebacker Trezmen Marshall (30 tackles 1.5 sacks), and defensive back Jaylen Key (29 tackles and 1 interception) have led the Tide. For the Aggies, linebackers Edgerrin Cooper (30 tackles and 3 sacks) and Tauren York (27 tackles and 1 sack), and defensive tackle Walter Nolen (20 tackles and 3 sacks) have been huge this season. Offensively for the Aggies, Max Johnson replaced Connor Weigman as the starting quarterback last Saturday when Weigman was injured in the Aggies win over Auburn two weeks ago. Johnson (436 yards and 6 TDs on the season) played fantastic against Arkansas in Arlington, leading them to a win in the Southwest Classic. A&M’s talented core of receivers also excelled last week; including Evan Stewart (357 yards and 4 TDs) and Anias Smith (343 yards). Offensively for the Crimson Tide, signal-caller Jalen Milroe (838 passing yards, 189 rushing yards, and 10 total TDs) and has been great since regaining his starting position against Ole Miss. Along with Milroe, Alabama’s other top rushers, Jase McClellan (326 yards and 3 TDs) and Roydell Williams (242 yards and 1 TD) must help Milroe open the deep passing game for the Crimson Tide, who struggle with that with no receivers over 200 yards on the season. Texas A&M will look to beat Alabama for the third time since entering the SEC. Projected Score: Texas A&M 28, Alabama 24

20.Kentucky (5-0) @ 1.Georgia (5-0) (Saturday, 7 PM ET, ESPN)
Kentucky finally looks like they may be able to beat Georgia in the Kirby Smart era with Georgia’s struggles against lesser competition. Devin Leary (1,129 yards and 10 touchdowns) has been solid for the Wildcats this season since transferring from North Carolina State. Leary must avoid throwing his sixth interception this season against the Georgia defense that is always good under Kirby Smart. Vanderbilt transfer running back Ray Davis has been tremendous for Kentucky, rushing for 594 yards and 8 TDs. Kentucky’s receiving corps have looked great as well, with Tayvion Robinson (308 yards and 3 TDs), Barion Brown (251 yards and 1 TD), and Dane Key (196 yards and 2 TDs). The Wildcats defense will have to stop new Georgia starting QB Carson Beck (1,497 yards and 7 TDs) and talented tight end Brock Bowers (413 yards and 3 TDs) if the Wildcats want to win this game. The Kentucky defense is led by defensive back Maxwell Hairston, who has 33 tackles and 3 interceptions. The Georgia offensive line must establish holes for their running game like they did in their win over Auburn if they want the same result against Kentucky. Daijun Edwards has been the focal point for the Bulldog rushing attack, with 260 yards and 5 TDs on the season. There are huge SEC East implications in this game. Projected Score: Georgia 27, Kentucky 24

10.Notre Dame (5-1) @ 25.Louisville (5-0) (Saturday, 7:30 PM ET, ABC)
I feel like I preview a Notre Dame every week at this point. This and next week (the Irish face top ten USC on 10/14), I will also be previewing their game. Notre Dame, though, needs to take it one game at a time and be focused on the Louisville, who is undefeated in what is looking like a loaded ACC in 2023 with Florida State, North Carolina, and Duke also ranked in the AP Top 25. So, lets focus on the Cardinals. Under former Purdue coach Jeff Brohm, the Cardinals have rushed to their best start in a long time. Quarterback Jack Plummer has diced defenses up for over 1,400 yards and 11 touchdowns. Tailback Jawhar Jordan has ran all over defenses for 510 yards and 6 TDs while receiver Jamari Thrash (444 yards and 5 TD) has made opposing defenses pay with his big play ability. Defensively, the Cardinals had a good performance last time out, holding Brennan Armstrong and NC State to just 10 points. However, the Cardinals just put up 13 points. Louisville will have to be better on that side of the ball if they want to win this game. So, linebacker TJ Quinn (32 tackles) and defensive backs Cam’Ron Kelly (24 tackles and 2 interceptions) and Devin Neal (24 tackles and 1 interception) will be crucial in determining the outcome of this game. For Notre Dame, the terrific backfield of QB Sam Hartman and Audric Estime have been fantastic this season. If they want to avoid another close finish against an ACC foe (they escaped Durham with a 21-14 win over Duke last weekend), their defense will have to make timely stops like they did in their win over the Blue Devils. Defensive lineman Howard Cross III (35 tackles) and linebacker JD Bertrand (32 tackles) will need to be great if the Irish want to win this game. This showdown is Louisville’s chance to prove that the Jeff Brohm era can be a great one if they protect home field against the Fighting Irish. Projected Score: Notre Dame 35, Louisville 24

AP Top 6
1.Georgia 4-0 (1-0) SEC This week: @ Auburn (3:30 PM ET, CBS)
2.Michigan 4-0 (1-0) Big Ten This week: @ Nebraska (3:30 PM ET, FOX)
3.Texas 4-0 (1-0) Big 12 This week: 24.Kansas (3:30 PM ET, ABC)
4.Ohio State 4-0 (1-0) Big Ten This week: Off
5.Florida State 4-0 (2-0) ACC This week: Off
6.Penn State 4-0 (1-0) Big Ten This week: @ Northwestern (12 PM ET, BTN)

Biggest risers and fallers in the AP Top 25 this week:

Risers
4.Ohio State 4-0 (1-0) Big Ten Week 4: #6 (Defeated 9.Notre Dame, 17-14)
21.Florida 3-1 (1-0) SEC Week 4: #25 (Defeated Charlotte, 22-7)
16.Washington State 4-0 (1-0) Pac-12 Week 4: #21 (Defeated 14.Oregon State, 38-35)

Fallers
8.USC 4-0 (2-0) Pac-12 Week 4: #5 (Defeated Arizona State, 42-28)
11.Notre Dame 4-0 (0-0) Independents Week 4: #9 (Lost to 6.Ohio State, 17-14)
19.Oregon State 3-1 (0-1) Pac-12 Week 4: #14 (Lost to 21.Washington State, 38-35)
21.Ole Miss 3-1 (0-1) SEC Week 4: #15 (Lost to 13.Alabama, 24-10)

Dropped Out
Colorado 3-1 (0-1) Pac-12 Week 4: #19 (Lost to 10.Oregon, 42-6)
UCLA 3-1 (0-1) Pac-12 Week 4: #22 (Lost to 11.Utah, 14-7)
Iowa 3-1 (0-1) Big Ten Week 4: #24 (Lost to 7.Penn State, 31-0)

New
23.Missouri 4-0 (0-0) SEC Week 4: NR (Defeated Memphis, 34-27)
24.Kansas 4-0 (1-0) Big 12 Week 4: NR (Defeated BYU, 38-27)
25.Fresno State 4-0 (0-0) Mountain West Week 4: NR (Defeated Kent State, 53-10)

Key games this weekend (Rankings based off of AP Poll)
10.Utah (4-0) @ 19.Oregon State (3-1) (Friday, 9 PM ET, FS1)
Can Oregon State bounce back after a tough loss to Washington State last Saturday night? The Beavers defense must play better even if they are playing an Utah team that has not played with their starting quarterback, Cam Rising, due to a torn ACL, since the Rose Bowl in January. The Utes have managed to go undefeated through for four games with the help of reserve signal callers Nate Johnson (398 passing yards TDs, 150 rushing yards, and 5 overall TDs) and Bryson Barnes (230 passing yards and 1 TD). As the Utes wait the return of their star QB, they have relied on tailbacks Ja’Quinden Jackson (239 yards rushing) and Jaylon Glover (179 yards and 2 TDs) heavily. It will be up to them and their tremendous defense, who held UCLA to just seven points in week 4. For Oregon State, DJ Uiagalelei (828 passing yards, 99 rushing yards, and 12 overall TDs) must lead the Beavers to a win or they will be almost out of Pac-12 conference title contention with the league being so competitive this season. Uiagalelei has great options at receiver in Silas Bolden (235 yards and 1 TD) and Anthony Gould (217 yards and 2 TDs). If they can connect a few times and terrific linebacker Easton Mascarenas-Arnold (33 tackles) can lead his defense to a standout performance, this game will at least be a close one. Projected Score: Utah 27, Oregon State 20

22.Florida (3-1) @ Kentucky (4-0) (Saturday, 12 PM ET, ESPN)
Can Florida continue its quality play this season against undefeated Kentucky in Lexington? The Gators have lost their last two against the Wildcats after dominating the series previously. After losing to Utah to open the year in Salt Lake City, the Florida defense has played much better, being led by Shemar James (27 tackles and 1 sack) and Jordan Castell (24 tackles). The Gators offense relies heavily on a talented running back room including Trevor Etienne (329 yards and 2 TDs) and Montrell Johnson (211 yards and 3 TDs). The running game should help QB Graham Mertz (951 passing yards and 4 TDs) and receiver Ricky Pearsell (362 yards and 1 TD) open up the offense. This is the first time we will see Kentucky on the national stage. NC State transfer signal-caller Devin Leary (1,060 yards and 9 TDs) and Vanderbilt transfer running back Ray Davis (314 yards and 5 TDs) will pose great threats to the talented Gator defense. The talented Kentucky defense will look to stop the Florida offense using linebacker Trevin Wallace (25 tackles and 3.5 sacks) and defensive back Maxwell Hairston (23 tackles and 3 interceptions). Another important game in this SEC East series looms. Projected Score: Kentucky 28, Florida 27

8.USC (4-0) @ Colorado (3-1) (Saturday, 12 PM ET, FOX)
USC is 16-0 against Colorado all time. Colorado is coming into their Pac-12 home opener after getting blasted by Bo Nix and Oregon, 42-6. So, USC should control this game if Colorado’s defense does not play better than they did last week. Last season’s Heisman winner Caleb Williams has been great so far this season, throwing for 1,200 yards and 15 TDs. The likely number one pick in this April’s NFL Draft is joined by MarShawn Lloyd in the backfield, who has rushed for 349 yards and 2 TDs. Williams’ talented receivers include Tahj Washington (278 yards and 4 TDs) and Brenden Rice (257 yards and 5 TDs) have been huge for the Trojans as well. It will be up to the USC defense to stop talented Buffaloes QB Shedeur Sanders (1,410 yards and 11 TDs) and great receivers Xavier Weaver (461 yards and 2 TDs) and Jimmy Horn Jr. (243 yards and 2 TDs). The Bufs will be without star receiver and defensive back Travis Hunter yet again after his injury versus rival Colorado State. The Trojans’ Jaylin Smith leads the Trojans with 26 tackles. USC should dominate this game if Deion Sander’s offense cannot get going. Projected Score: USC 45, Colorado 20

24.Kansas (4-0) @ 3.Texas (4-0) (Saturday, 3:30 PM ET, ABC)
Can Kansas win in Austin for the second consecutive time? They definitely have the team to do it Jalon Daniels, who has thrown for 705 yards, rushed for 74 yards, and thrown for 5 TDs. Daniels’ running game is headed by Devin Neal who has rushed for 394 yards and 5 TDs and receiving game is led by Lawrence Arnold (246 yards). Defensively, the Jayhawks are lead by safety Kenny Logan Jr., who has 23 tackles and 1 interception and linebacker Rich Miller, who has 19 tackles. They will be challenged by what looks like the best Texas team in years. Signal caller Quinn Ewers has been fantastic for the Longhorns this season. Ewers has thrown for over 1,000 yards and 9 touchdowns while his running back Jonathan Brooks has run for 379 yards and 3 TDs. Longhorn tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders (268 yards and 1 TD) and receiver Xavier Worthy (252 yards and 3 TDs) lead the Texas receiving units. Their defense has been great this season, helping them to wins over Alabama in week 2 and Baylor in their Big 12 opener a week ago. Linebacker Jaylan Ford (25 tackles and 2 interceptions) has been fantastic for the Longhorns this season. With Texas facing Oklahoma next week at the Texas State Fair in Dallas, this game would be huge for the Jayhawks to win to move towards a spot in the Big 12 Championship Game. Projected Score: Kansas 42, Texas 38

13.LSU (3-1) @ 20.Ole Miss (3-1) (Saturday, 6 PM ET, ESPN)
LSU struggled in the first half but was able to beat Arkansas in another close Battle for the Boot game in Baton Rouge last Saturday night. Jayden Daniels (1,296 yards and 12 TDs) continues to impress with a talented group of tailbacks, namely Logan Diggs (253 yards and 1 TD). Receiver Malik Nabers (523 yards and 5 TDs) caught two touchdowns in last week’s win. He will be huge in a game on the road against an SEC rival like Ole Miss. The Tiger defense is led by safety Major Burns who has put up 27 tackles and 1 sack. QB Jaxson Dart (1,096 yards and and 7 TDs) struggled in a 24-10 loss to Alabama last week. Running back Quinshon Judkins has played okay this season compared to his pre-season expecations, rushing for 201 yards and 4 TDs. Jordan Watkins (347 yards and 1 TD) must catch some balls from Dart to open up the Rebel offense against the talented Tiger defense. Defensively for the Rebels, safety Trey Washington has had 25 tackles and a pick. I think the Ole Miss offense bounces back after a tough performance against an LSU defense that gave up multiple touchdowns in the second half to Arkansas a week ago. Projected Score: Ole Miss 31, LSU 28

South Carolina (2-2) @ 21.Tennessee (3-1) (Saturday, 7:30 PM ET, SECN)
Can Tennessee avenge their blowout loss last November to South Carolina? With the two teams not being guaranteed annual games with Texas and Oklahoma entering the SEC next season, this game should mean more than it ever has. Gamecock QB Spencer Rattler (1,242 yards and 7 TDs this season) lit the Volunteer defense in that game, continuing his great play at the end of last season. Receiver Xavier Leggette (556 yards and 3 TDs) has been phenomenal under new offensive coordinator Dowell Loggains in Columbia. The Gamecocks defense, led by linebacker Debo Williams (31 tackles) must look to stop the high tempo Tennessee offense, led by quarterback Joe Milton (925 yards and 8 TDs) and receivers Ramel Keyton (205 yards and 3 TDs) and Bru McCoy (196 yards and 1 TD). Milton must play better after struggling in a 29-16 loss to Florida two weeks ago in Gainesville. The Vol running game has been better this season with Jaylen Wright (312 yards) taking handoffs. The Tennessee defense must prevent Spencer Rattler from doing what he did last season when they were dominated last season. Notable names on the Volunteer defense include Aaron Beasley (29 tackles and 2 sacks) and defensive backs Tamarion McDonald and Kamal Hadden, who both have 1 interception. South Carolina needs this win bad as they look to avoid a third loss through five games this season. Projected Score: Tennessee 27, South Carolina 24

11.Notre Dame (4-1) @ 17.Duke (4-0) (Saturday, 7:30 PM ET, ABC)
As ESPN’s College GameDay heads to Durham for the first time ever, they also head to their second consecutive Notre Dame game. The Irish were stunned in the final seconds by Ohio State last Saturday, losing 17-14. Up to that game, the Irish offense played fantastic football. However, versus a much improved Buckeye defense, Sam Hartman (1,236 passing yards and 14 TDs) and Audric Estime (591 rushing yards and 5 TDs) faltered in what felt like a low scoring Big Ten defensive struggle. The Notre Dame defense only had ten players on the field for Ohio State’s walk-off touchdown, making them feel like they could have won the game if they had all of their players on the field. Linebacker Jack Kiser (28 tackles and 1 sack) and defensive lineman Javontae Jean-Baptiste (23 tackles) lead that unit for the Irish. Duke quarterback Riley Leonard has been fantastic in the Blue Devils resurgence over the last two seasons. Through four games this season, Leonard has boasted 778 passing yards, 238 rushing yards, and 6 total touchdowns. His tailback Jordan Waters has been incredible too, as he has rushed for seven touchdowns the first quarter of the season and receivers Jalon Calhoun (258 yards and 1 TD) and Jordan Moore (246 yards and 2 TD) have led the Blue Devils catching the ball. For the Duke defense, they have held opposing offenses to just 35 points overall. Chandler Rivers (25 tackles) and Jaylen Stinson (23 tackles) have been terrific in the secondary for the Blue Devils. Duke is for real and Notre Dame will want to avenge their loss last week so this should be a good one. Projected Score: Notre Dame 38, Duke 35

Image Courtesy: Ohio State Buckeyes

AP Top 6
1.Georgia 3-0 (1-0) SEC This week: UAB (7:30 PM ET, ESPN2)
2.Michigan 3-0 (0-0) Big Ten This week: Rutgers (12 PM ET, BTN)
3.Texas 3-0 (0-0) Big 12 This week: @ Baylor (7:30 PM ET, ABC)
4.Florida State 3-0 (1-0) ACC This week: @ Clemson (12 PM ET, ABC)
5.USC 3-0 (1-0) Pac-12 This week: @ Arizona State (9:30 PM ET, FOX)
6.Ohio State 3-0 (1-0) Big Ten This week: @ 9.Notre Dame (7:30 PM ET, ABC)

Biggest risers and fallers in the AP Top 25 this week:

Risers
10.Oregon 3-0 (0-0) Pac-12 Week 3: #13 (Defeated Hawaii, 55-10)
16.Oklahoma 3-0 (0-0) Big 12 Week 3: #19 (Defeated Tulsa, 66-17)
17.North Carolina 3-0 (0-0) ACC Week 3: #20 (Defeated Minnesota, 31-13)
18.Duke 3-0 (1-0) ACC Week 3: #21 (Defeated Northwestern, 38-14)

Fallers
13.Alabama 2-1 (0-0) SEC Week 3: #10 (Defeated South Florida, 17-3)
23.Tennessee 2-1 (0-1) SEC Week 3: #11 (Lost to Florida, 29-16)

Dropped Out
Kansas State 2-1 (0-0) Big 12 Week 3: #15 (Lost to Missouri, 30-27)

New
25.Florida 2-1 (1-0) SEC Week 3: NR (Defeated 11.Tennessee, 29-16)

Key games this weekend (Rankings based off of AP Poll)
4.Florida State (3-0) @ Clemson (2-1) (Saturday, 12 PM ET, ABC)
Originally expected to be the obvious site for College GameDay in week 4 and for the primetime ABC slot in week 4, Clemson laid an egg against what looks like a phenomenal Duke team. Since only scoring a single touchdown in Durham in week 1, Dabo Swinney’s team put up 66 and 48 points against Charleston Southern and Florida Atlantic respectively. Replacing DJ Uiagalelei at QB, Cade Klubnik did not look good like the rest of the Clemson roster to open the season. But, against lesser competition the last two weeks, Klubnik and the Clemson offense has been better. Klubnik has thrown for eight touchdowns and almost 700 yards while star tailback Will Shipley has yet to run for a touchdown but has rushed for 225 yards. To pick up Shipley’s slack, Phil Mafah has run for 3 TDs. Clemson’s always talented front seven is led by linebackers Jeremiah Trotter (17 tackles) and Barrett Carter (15 tackles). A much more difficult challenge looms for the Tigers against the fourth ranked Florida State Seminoles. Despite almost blowing their lead multiple times on the road in their ACC opener against Boston College, FSU QB Jordan Travis (729 pass yards and 8 TDs) has been one of the best players in the country. Seminole running back Trey Benson has been fantastic as well, scampering for 164 yards and 4 TDs on the season. More importantly for the Seminoles are there talented receiving options. Johnny Wilson (11 catches and 209 yards), Keon Coleman (12 catches, 170 yards, and 2 TDs), and Jaheim Bell (7 catches, 125 yards, and 2 TDs). Similar to Clemson, Florida State is led in tackles by tacklers: Tatum Bethune (17 tackles) and Kalen DeLoach (10 tackles). Something tells me Mike Norvell’s team will not make the same mistakes it did against Boston College and will defeat Clemson after what should be a close game in the first half. Projected Score: Florida State 35, Clemson 24

22.UCLA (3-0) @ 11.Utah (3-0) (Saturday, 3:30 PM ET, FOX)
In what has been an incredible ride in the Pac-12’s last dance, UCLA-Utah is one of three ranked versus ranked matchups on Saturday. The Bruins need a quality defensive performance to stop Utah’s QB Cam Rising, who is likely to return from a torn ACL he suffered in the Utes’ Rose Bowl loss to Penn State in January. Linebackers Darius Muasau (18 tackles), Oluwafemi Oladejo (12 tackles), and Kain Medrano (11 tackles) must play well to win this game in a tough road environment in Salt Lake City. In his first trip and only trip with both schools parting for different conferences in 2024, UCLA freshman signal-caller Dante Moore (615 passing yards and 7 TDs) has been terrific through three games. Going against a tough Utah defensive line, Bruin running backs Carson Steele (243 yards and 2 TDs), ˇJ Harden (233 yards and 2 TDs), and Anthony Adkins (122 yards and 1 TD) must perform if they want to be successful. In addition, receiver J. Michael Sturdivant (219 yards and 2 TDs) must be sure handed for a successful passing day for Moore. Utah’s fate in this game relies on the running game with dual threat QB Nate Johnson (148 yards and 3 TDs) and tailback Ja’Quinden Jackson (213 yards) with the injuries at the quarterback position and all over the field. Utah’s defense plays fantastic at home and they are led by leading tackler linebacker Levani Damuni (19), safety Cole Bishop (17 tackles), and linebackers Lander Barton (13 tackles), and cornerback Zemaiah Vaughn (11 tackles). The Utes’ defense should be the reason why they are 4-0 after Saturday afternoon. Projected Score: Utah 31, UCLA 21

15.Ole Miss (3-0) @ 13.Alabama (2-1) (Saturday, 3:30 PM ET, CBS)
Nick Saban’s Alabama teams do not look like they normally do. The Crimson Tide struggled to a 17-3 road win in Tampa over South Florida, normally a program that does not win very much even in the American Athletic Conference. Former Saban assistant Lane Kiffin brings his undefeated Ole Miss Rebels into Tuscaloosa as he looks to defeat his mentor for the first time. When will Kiffin be able to upend Alabama if it is not now? With the Crimson Tide’s offensive line problems, Jalen Milroe (449 passing yards and 5 TDs) will return to his starting quarterback role after Saban allowed back ups Tyler Buchner and Ty Simpson play against South Floria. Alabama running backs Roydell Williams (177 yards and 1 TD) and Jase McClellan (158 yards and 1 TD) will have to be good to beat a much better Ole Miss team than many expected. Ole Miss’ high flying offense will have to be stopped by talented defenders Deontae Lawson (25 tackles and 2 sacks) and Caleb Downs (22 tackles) led by improved Rebel signal caller Jaxson Dart. Dart (852 yards and 7 TDs), receiver Jordan Watkins (290 yards and 1 TD), receiver Dayton Wade (215 yards), and receiver Tre Harris (188 yards and 5 TDs) will make it difficult for the Crimson Tide’s defense to stop them and win this important SEC opener for both teams. Ole Miss defensive coordinator Pete Golding was in the same role in Tuscaloosa over the last few seasons will look to stop an offense he’s watched at practice in Tuscaloosa for years. So, safety Trey Washington (20 tackles) and linebacker Ashanti Cistrunk (15 tackles) will look to shoot the gaps in the offensive line to get tackles in the backfield and sack Milroe. The Alabama-Ole Miss games are always entertaining between Saban and Kiffin as Alabama looks to bounce back and Ole Miss continues to roll offensively. Projected Score: Alabama 28, Ole Miss 27

19.Colorado (3-0) @ 10.Oregon (3-0) (Saturday, 3:30 PM ET, ABC)
Can Coach Prime and Colorado keep their undefeated record as they go into a tough environment in Eugene? The Buffaloes will be without star receiver and cornerback Travis Hunter due to injury for the next three weeks. So, quarterback Shedeur Sanders (1,251 yards and 10 TDs) will have to rely on his other receiving targets on Saturday afternoon in Xavier Weaver (386 yards and 2 TDs) and Jimmy Horn Jr. (247 yards and 2 TDs). Colorado’s up and down defense must stop star quarterback Bo Nix (893 yards and 8 TDs) and the Oregon offense led by linebacker Marvin Ham II (20 tackles and 1 interception) and safety Shilo Sanders (19 tackles). On the other side, Nix’s weapons include running back Bucky Irving (216 yards and 3 TDs) and receiver Troy Franklin (292 yards and 3 TDs). Oregon’s defense will be the X-factor in this game. Defensive back Tysheen Johnson (20 tackles) and linebacker Jeffrey Bassa (16 tackles) must rattle Shedeur Sanders if they want to protect their home field and get a head start on a Pac-12 title by the end of the season. The biggest test for Deion Sanders should be competitive but Oregon is a Pac-12 power and the Buffaloes will have to be ready. Projected Score: Oregon 35, Colorado 21

14.Oregon State (3-0) @ 21.Washington State (3-0) (Saturday, 7 PM ET, FOX)
Oregon State and Washington State are the only two Pac-12 members that have not found conference homes beyond this academic year. Despite that, the Beavers won 10 games and the Cougars won 8 games during the 2022 season. Both teams are undefeated and are sleepers to win the Pac-12 Championship in Las Vegas in early December. Wazzu QB Cameron Ward has been fantastic this season, throwing for almost 1,000 yards and 9 TDs as well as leading his team in rushing yards. Ward will need to find his favorite target Lincoln Victor (342 yards and 3 TDs) if the Cougars want to win this game. Defending against new Oregon State quarterback DJ Uiagalelei, who has had resurgent play in Salem since transferring from Clemson, will be difficult. So, count on Wazzu linebacker Devin Richardson (21 tackles) to make an impact. Through three games Uiagalelei has thrown for 630 yards, 6 TDs, and rushing for 4 TDs through three games. He will rely on a dynamic duo at running back, in Damien Martinez (351 yards and 1 TD) and Deshaun Fenwick (152 yards and 1) to help the Beavers win this game. Defensively, linebackers Easton Mascarenas-Arnold (23 tackles and 1 interception) and Calvin Hart Jr. (14 tackles) will look to stop the potent Washington State defense. This likely Pac-12 shootout should be a dandy on Saturday night. Projected Score: Washington State 38, Oregon State 35

24.Iowa (3-0) @ 7.Penn State (3-0) (Saturday, 7:30 PM ET, CBS)
Iowa heads to State College for the annual “White Out” game for Penn State. The Hawkeyes’ less than potent offense will be challenged by a talented Nittany Lion defense throughout the game. However, Penn State’s offense has only been up and down with new signal-caller Drew Allar (737 yards and 4 TDs). Allar must rely on his talented running backs Kaytron Allen (208 yards and 2 TDs) and Nick Singleton (154 yards and 5 TDs) against an Iowa defense that also knows its way around the field. The Penn State defensive unit is headed by safeties Jalen Reed and Zakee Wheatley, who both have 10 tackles on the season. The Hawkeye’s defense is led by linebacker Jay Higgins (32 tackles) and Nick Jackson (23 tackles). They will need to turn the Penn State offense over to help their offense, with Michigan transfer Cade McNamara at quarterback (417 yards and 4 TDs). Luke Lachey, McNamara’s tight end must continue his great play (131 receiving yards) if they want to beat the Nittany Lions in primetime. In what should be a classic Big Ten game full of defense. Projected Score: Penn State 21, Iowa 17

6.Ohio State (3-0) @ 9.Notre Dame (4-0) (Saturday, 7:30 PM ET, NBC)
In college football’s game of the week, a top ten battle looms between Notre Dame and Ohio State. All of the eyes will be on this one with College GameDay in town. The hometown team finally has found a quality QB in Wake Forest transfer Sam Hartman, who has thrown for 1,061 yards and 14 TDs and a tremendous running back in Audric Estime who has rushed for 521 yards and 5 TDs. Linebackers Jack Kiser (26 tackles) and Marist Liufau (17 tackles) will look to stop a talented core of Ohio State receivers Marvin Harrison Jr. (304 TDs and 3 TDs), Emeka Egbuka (167 yards and 3 TDs) and tight end Cade Stover (188 yards). Their quarterback Kyle McCord (815 yards and 6 TDs) and running back TreVeyon Henderson (191 yards and 4 TDs) must be good for the Buckeyes to win on the road. Ohio State’s defensive unit has been the best its been since 2019 as linebackers Tommy Eichenburg (20 tackles and 1 sack) and Steele Chambers (19 tackles) must stop Sam hartman and the Notre Dame offense to win an important game for the Buckeyes playoff hopes. This game should be a classic as both teams look to make deep runs this season. Projected Score: Notre Dame 34, Ohio State 31

Image Courtesy: Rock M Nation

AP Top 6
1.Georgia 2-0 (0-0) SEC This week: South Carolina (1-1) (3:30 PM ET, CBS)
2.Michigan 2-0 (0-0) Big Ten This week: Bowling Green (1-1) (7:30 PM ET, BTN)
3.Florida State 2-0 (0-0) ACC This week: @ Boston College (1-1) (12 PM ET, ABC)
4.Texas 2-0 (0-0) Big 12 This week: Wyoming (2-0) (8 PM ET, LHN)
5.USC 3-0 (1-0) Pac-12 This week: Off
6.Ohio State 2-0 (1-0) Big Ten This week: Western Kentucky (2-0) (4 PM ET, FOX)

Biggest risers and fallers in the AP Top 25 this week:

Risers
4.Texas 2-0 (0-0) Big 12 Week 2: #11 (Defeated 3.Alabama, 34-24)
17.Ole Miss 2-0 (0-0) SEC Week 2: #20 (Defeated 24.Tulane, 37-20)
18.Colorado 2-0 (0-0) Pac-12 Week 2: #22 (Defeated Nebraska, 36-14)

Fallers
10.Alabama 1-1 (0-0) SEC Week 2: #3 (Lost to 11.Texas, 34-24)
20.North Carolina 2-0 (0-0) ACC Week 2: #17 (Defeated Appalachian State, 40-34)

Dropped Out
Wisconsin 1-1 (0-0) Big Ten Week 2: #19 (Lost to Washington State, 31-22)
Texas A&M 1-1 (0-0) SEC Week 2: #23 (Lost to Miami, 48-33)
Tulane 1-1 (0-0) American Week 2: #24 (Lost to 20.Ole Miss, 37-20)
Clemson 1-1 (0-0) ACC Week 2: #25 (Defeated Charleston Southern, 66-17)

New
22.Miami 2-0 (0-0) ACC Week 2: NR (Defeated 23.Texas A&M, 48-33)
23.Washington State 2-0 (0-0) Pac-12 Week 2: NR (Defeated 19.Wisconsin, 31-22)
24.UCLA 2-0 (0-0) Pac-12 Week 2: NR (Defeated Coastal Carolina, 27-13)
25.Iowa 2-0 (0-0) Big Ten Week 2: NR (Defeated Iowa State, 20-13)

Key games this weekend (Rankings based off of AP Poll)
15.Kansas State (2-0) @ Missouri (2-0) (Saturday, 12 PM ET, SECN)
A huge match up for the Missouri Tigers and the SEC as the conference has yet to win a big time nonconference game this season (unless you want to include Auburn’s win over Cal in Berkeley last Saturday night). South Carolina’s loss to North Carolina, LSU’s loss to Florida State, and Alabama’s defeat at home against Texas are the three headliners that are not only usual wins for the SEC but dominations by the conference’s elite. Eliah Drinkwitz’s Missouri team looked primed for an eight or nine win season even with losing talented receiver Dominic Lovett to Georgia but struggled to get past Middle Tennessee last weekend. Wide receiver Luther Burden (15 receptions, 213 yards, and 1 TD through 2 games) must make the game comfortable for improving signal caller Brady Cook (376 passing yards and 3 TDs). The Tiger defense will look to stop Kansas State QB Will Howard (547 passing yards and 5 TDs) and the Kansas State offense using defensive lineman Darius Robinson (leads Tigers with 10 tackles) and defensive back Joseph Charleston (9 tackles). For KSU, without now Dallas Cowboys running back Deuce Vaughn in the backfield, they have had to rely more on the aforementioned Howard and the passing game. Howard has thrown two interceptions so he will need to make better decisions in an SEC environment in Columbia. Tailback DJ Giddens (27 carries and 180 yards) has been a solid replacement for Vaughn and should help his quarterback in this game. Howard has four receivers who have over 100 receiving yards including RJ Garcia II (150 yards and 1 TD) and Phillip Brooks (134 yards and 1 TD). Those two pass catchers will be huge if the Wildcats want to come home to Manhattan with a victory. Projected Score: Kansas State 34, Missouri 27

14.LSU (1-1) @ Mississippi State (2-0) (Saturday, 12 PM ET, ESPN)
LSU struggled in the second half against Florida State to open the season but bounced back well in a dominant victory over Grambling last Saturday. Tiger signal caller Jayden Daniels (615 passing yards and 6 TDs) needs to continue being the elite QB we have seen this past season and the current one if they want to go into Starkville and get a win. His running ability (93 yards on the season) and running back Logan Diggs’ (115 yards and 1 TD) will be crucial against a Mississippi State defense that is full of veterans. Brian Thomas Jr. (220 yards receiving and 3 TDs) and Malik Nabers (154 yards and 1 TD) must play big after not showing well against a quality Florida State team two years ago. On the other side, Mississippi State QB Will Rogers (389 passing yards and 5 TDs) may be the most underrated at his position in the SEC. The Bulldogs did not have a great running game over the last few seasons but with Jo’Quavious Marks (250 rushing yards and 3 TDs) next to Rogers in the backfield, they have a chance to compete with anyone in the SEC. Mississippi State’s high flying offense also includes talented receiver Lideatrick Griffin, who has put up 116 yards and 2 TDs in the first two games of the season. LSU cannot look to far ahead as they face Arkansas in Baton Rouge next season. If they do, Mississippi State could surprise them. Projected Score: Mississippi State 35, LSU 24

South Carolina (1-1) @ 1.Georgia (2-0) (Saturday, 3:30 PM ET, CBS)
Can South Carolina beat Georgia for the first time since the fall of 2019? The Gamecocks were shocked by North Carolina during Labor Day weekend in Charlotte. However, quarterback Spencer Rattler (698 yards and 3 TDs) has looked phenomenal even with the Gamecocks’ struggles, especially on the offensive line. The bad offensive line play has caused a lack of running game in Columbia with leading rusher Dakereon Joyner only rushing for 65 yards in two games. With star receiver Juice Wells out due to a lower body injury, Xavier Leggette has been great for the Gamecocks with 15 catches for 296 yards, and 1 TD. Defensive back Jalon Kilgore (18 tackles) and linebacker Debo Williams (18 tackles) must rattle new Georgia QB Carson Beck (577 passing yards and 3 TDs). The two time defending national champions boast maybe the best offensive playmaker in the country in tight end Brock Bowers. Bowers is slated to be an early first round pick in next April’s NFL Draft with great freshman and sophomore seasons over the last two years. What is more impressive for Kirby Smart’s offense is the depth in the receiver room. RaRa Thomas, the Mississippi State transfer, has been the best at the position for the Bulldogs so far this season. Thomas has caught three balls for 90 yards while Mekhi Mews has caught six balls for 102 yards and a touchdown. The two will look to help Georgia win another title. Defensive backs Malaki Starks (10 tackles and 1 interception) and Tykee Smith (9 tackles) must make it hard for Spencer Rattler and the Gamecock offense to get down the field and score the ball with ease. Georgia’s home environment should make South Carolina’s chances to win this game on their road to another potential playoff appearance and national championship. Projected Score: Georgia 35, South Carolina 17

11.Tennessee (2-0) @ Florida (1-1) (Saturday, 7 PM ET, ESPN)
Can Florida upset Tennessee at home in “The Swamp”? The Gators must stop a high tempo Tennessee offense led by the QB with the strongest arm in the country, Joe Milton. Milton, in two games against relatively bad defenses against Virginia and Austin Peay, has thrown for 429 yards and 4 touchdowns. Tennessee’s running game does look better this season with Jaylen Wright (233 yards), Jabari Smith (162 yards), and Dylan Sampson (60 yards and 3 TDs). Replacing great production from last season, receivers Ramel Keyton (118 yards and 1 TD), Squirrel White (75 yards), and Bru McCoy (72 yards) have been impressive against weak competition. The Vol defense had some question marks entering the season but needs to show they can really do it on the road in Gainesville. For Florida, Wisconsin QB transfer Graham Mertz (526 yards and 2 TDs) must be successful in this game if they want to beat a good Tennessee squad. Florida’s receivers must step up if they want to set up the running game for talented tailbacks Montrell Johnson (125 yards and 2 TDs) and Trevor Etienne (109 yards and 1 TD). As Joe Milton makes his first true road trip as a starting QB in the SEC, the home crowd in Gainesville should play a huge role in determining whether or not the Gators can pull the upset. Projected Score: Tennessee 27, Florida 20

Pittsburgh (1-1) @ West Virginia (1-1) (Saturday, 7:30 PM ET, ABC)
The “Backyard Brawl” rivalry game returned to Pittsburgh for the first time since the Panthers and the Mountaineers were both in the Big East back during Thanksgiving weekend of 2011. The Panthers won a 38-31 shootout at home a season ago. West Virginia coach Neal Brown is on the hot seat as his Mountaineers have not been successful since he has taken over. This home game should be an opporunity to turn things around against a rival. Brown must rely on QB Garrett Greene (402 yards and 4 TDs) and talented receivers Hudson Clement (117 yards and 3 TDs) to win this game against an always tough Pittsburgh team under coach Pat Narduzzi. Brown’s defense must be up for the challenge against the Panthers with linebacker Lee Kpogba (15 tackles). Pitt’s offense is led by Boston College transfer signal caller Phil Jurkovec (393 yards and 4 TDs), tailback Daniel Carter (90 yards and 1 TD), and tight end Gavin Bartholomew (118 yards and 1 TD). Getting the ball in the end zone could be a challenge in primetime for the Panthers against a rival if they turn the ball over, but Jurovec has not done so all season. Defensive back Phillip O’Brien Jr. (12 tackles) and linebacker Bangally Kamara (11 tackles and 1 sack) lead the Panthers defense. They will be a big part of what determines this edition of the “Backyard Brawl” on ABC. Projected Score: West Virginia 21, Pittsburgh 17

Image Courtesy: The San Diego Union-Tribune

AP Top 6
1.Georgia 1-0 (0-0) SEC This week: Ball State (0-1) (12 PM ET, SECN)
2.Michigan 1-0 (0-0) Big Ten This week: UNLV (1-0) (3:30 PM ET, CBS)
3.Alabama 1-0 (0-0) SEC This week: 11.Texas (1-0) (7 PM ET, ESPN)
4.Florida State 1-0 (0-0) ACC This week: Southern Miss (1-0) (8:30 PM ET, ACCN)
5.Ohio State 1-0 (1-0) Big Ten This week: Youngstown State (1-0) (12 PM ET, BTN)
6.USC 2-0 (0-0) Pac-12 This week: Stanford (1-0) (10:30 PM ET, FOX)

Biggest risers and fallers in the AP Top 25 this week:

Risers
4.Florida State 1-0 (0-0) ACC Week 1: #8 (Won over 5.LSU, 45-24)
17.North Carolina 1-0 (0-0) ACC Week 1: #21 (Won over South Carolina, 31-17)
21.Duke 1-0 (0-0) ACC Week 1: Unranked (Won over 9.Clemson, 28-7)
22.Colorado 1-0 (0-0) Pac-12 Week 1: Unranked (Won over 17.TCU, 45-42)

Fallers
5.Ohio State 1-0 (0-0) Big Ten Week 1: #3 (Won over Indiana, 23-3)
14.LSU 0-1 (0-0) SEC Week 1: #5 (Lost to 8.Florida State, 45-24)
25.Clemson 0-1 (0-0) ACC Week 1: #9 (Lost to Duke, 28-7)

Dropped Out
TCU 0-1 (0-0) Big 12 Week 1: #17 (Lost to Colorado, 45-42)
Iowa 1-0 (0-0) Big Ten Week 1: #25 (Beat Utah State, 24-14)

Key games this weekend (Rankings based off of AP Poll)
Nebraska (0-1) @ 22.Colorado (1-0) (Saturday, 12 PM ET, FOX)
Colorado proved everyone wrong after beating reigning national championship runner-up TCU, 45-42, in a thriller on Saturday. In the terrible Fort Worth heat, Deion Sanders’ team put on a great offensive display: Sanders’ son Shedeur put up a Colorado record 510 passing yards and tossed 4 TDs. Travis Hunter, the wide receiver and cornerback, also put his name in the early season Heisman conversation by picking off a Chandler Morris pass and catching 11 balls from Sanders for 119 yards. Along with Hunter, three other wideouts had over 100 receiving yards for the Buffaloes, Dylan Edwards (5 catches, 135 yards, 3 TDs), Xavier Weaver (6 catches and 119 yards), and Jimmy Horn Jr. (11 catches, 117 yards, 1 TD). While there were some problems in the win, Coach Prime’s team should be ready to get another win over an old rival in Nebraska. The Cornhuskers must bounce back from a gut-wrenching loss to Minnesota on a last second field goal. Nebraska QB Jeff Sims threw just one touchdown and three picks in the loss in week 1 while his defense helped him out, holding the Golden Gophers to thirteen points. Secondary members DeShon Singleton and Omar Brown both had seven tackles in the Cornhuskers’ week 1 effort. Colorado should win this one easily if they can eliminate mistakes they made on the road a week ago. Projected Score: Colorado 35, Nebraska 20

20.Ole Miss (1-0) @ 24.Tulane (1-0) (Saturday, 3:30 PM ET, ESPN2)
A top 25 matchup looms in New Orleans between what looks like an improved SEC program in Ole Miss and former SEC member Tulane. The Green Wave beat Heisman-winning QB Caleb Williams and USC in the Cotton Bowl back in January. Jaxson Dart (334 yards passing and 4 TDs), Quinshon Judkins (60 rushing yards and 2 TDs) and the Ole Miss offense looked fantastic in a 73-7 drubbing of Mercer a week ago. Receivers Tre Harris and Jordan Watkins both put up over 100 yards in the offensive explosion while the defense looked better even against a lesser opponent with new defensive coordinator Pete Golding calling plays. Tulane looked good in their win over a respectable South Alabama team, 37-17. Linebacker Corey Platt looked awesome in the Green Wave’s opener with 15 tackles while defensive back Lance Robinson intercepted a ball. Offensively, QB Michael Pratt continues to shine, as he went 14-15 passing for 294 yards and 4 TDs. New freshman running back Makhi Hughes ran for 41 yards on eight carries while receiver Jha’Quan Jackson went for over 100 yards. Whoever gets the ball last should win this shootout. Projected Score: Ole Miss 45, Tulane 38

Iowa (1-0) @ Iowa State (1-0) (Saturday, 3:30 PM ET, FOX)
The Cy-Hawk Trophy will be up for grabs on Saturday afternoon. Iowa might finally have a sufficient passing offense with new offensive coordinator Brian Ferentz and former Michigan signal-caller Cade McNamara taking snaps and throwing touchdowns. McNamara got in the end zone twice while Kaleb Johnson rushed for a touchdown. Iowa is known for their tight ends and Luke Lachey looks like the next great one. Lachey went for seven catches and 73 yards. Iowa State QB Hunter Dekkers and a few of his teammates pleaded guilty to underage gambling recently. So, the Cyclones win over Northern Iowa 30-9 was huge as they welcome a tough Hawkeye team to town on Saturday. Cyclones QB Rocco Becht looked good in the win last Saturday but no receiver for Iowa State had over 36 yards. To win this rivalry game, more is going to be necessary to beat the Hawkeyes. Projected Score: Iowa 27, Iowa State 10

23.Texas A&M (1-0) @ Miami (1-0) (Saturday, 3:30 PM ET, ABC)
Texas A&M and Miami were expected to be nine, ten, or better win teams in 2022. However, when these two programs met almost a year ago in College Station, the Aggies protected home field in a low scoring win. Following this game, both teams faltered as Texas A&M and Miami won only five games each as Jimbo Fisher needed to realize his play calling was not working for the A&M offense and the Hurricanes couldn’t succeed even after bringing Mario Cristobal home from Oregon in his first season as head coach. Cristobal’s QB Tyler Van Dyke looked steady during the Hurricanes’ win over Miami (OH) with 201 passing yards and a TD after dealing with injuries and being benched in 2022. It will be up to Miami’s playmakers against a tough Texas A&M defense including tailback Henry Parrish Jr. (90 rushing yards and 1 TD), receiver Colbie Young (4 catches, 79 yards, 1 TD), and receiver Xavier Restrepo (5 catches and 68 yards) against the Red Hawks to win this game. With offensive mastermind Bobby Petrino calling plays for the Aggies and talented receivers Evan Stewart (8 catches, 115 yards, 2 TDs), Noah Thomas (6 catches, 74 yards, 3 TDs), and Ainias Smith (3 catches and 40 yards), they are poised to finally make some noise at the top of the SEC. New starting QB Connor Weigman was outstanding against New Mexico, throwing 5 TDs in a dominant win. A&M’s talented defense is led by defensive back Josh DeBerry (10 tackles and a sack) and Edgerrin Cooper (8 tackles). They should be ready for the Miami afternoon heat in what should be a competitive game for at least a half or three quarters. Projected Score: Texas A&M 31, Miami 21

11.Texas (1-0) @ 3.Alabama (1-0) (Saturday, 7 PM ET, ESPN)
As ESPN’s College GameDay, SEC Network’s SEC Nation, and every other media network heads to Tuscaloosa for the second installment of Alabama and Texas, the Longhorns will look to prove that they are SEC material with quarterback Quinn Ewers, running back Jaydon Blue, receiver Xavier Worthy, and linebacker Jaylan Ford leading the way. On the other side, Nick Saban’s Alabama team is looking to move back to their old ways of his dynasty. The Crimson Tide want to run the ball and play quality defense. Saban’s quarterback Jalen Milroe, running back Jase McClellan, and fellow running back Rhoydell Williams will look to prove the ground and pound method while defensive back Caleb Downs and linebacker Dallas Turner look to stop the Ewers’ led offense. Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian makes his return to Tuscaloosa after two stints as offensive coordinator including winning the Broyles Award for being the top assistant coach in the country during his last year in Tuscaloosa when he helped the Tide win a national championship in January of 2021. Can Sarkisian and his Longhorns prove that they can go into one of the top environments college football and win after getting crushed by Arkansas in Fayetteville the last time they went into an SEC environment just two years ago? We should find out almost immediately after kickoff in the most hyped up game of the college football season to this point. Projected Score: Alabama 28, Texas 24

19.Wisconsin (1-0) @ Washington State (1-0) (Saturday, 7:30 PM ET, ABC)
Wisconsin looked good in its opener in a win over Buffalo. With former Badger QB Graham Mertz now at Florida, Wisconsin must rely on SMU transfer Tanner Mordecai, who threw just one touchdown and two interceptions in a twenty one point win. Tailback Chez Mellusi must continue his quality play after rushing for 157 yards in the opener if the Badgers want to get a road win. New head coach Luke Fickell will need his receivers to be better after none of Will Pauling, Tucker Ashcraft, and Chimere Dike did not have more than 60 receiving yards. A much more challenging test awaits in Pullman for the Badgers. The Cougars went into Madison a season ago and beat Wisconsin, 17-14. Washington State will have to play in a very difficult Pac-12 this season but first they will have to deal with a much better Wisconsin team than they played a season ago. QB Cameron Ward passed for 451 yards and 3 TDs while receiver Lincoln Victor went for 168 yards receiving in their opener against Colorado State. The Wazzu defense has some great players, including linebackers Devin Richardson and Kyle Thornton. One or two plays should determine who wins this game in primetime in Pullman. Projected Score: Washington State 38, Wisconsin 31

Image Courtesy: Yahoo Sports

AP Top 6
1.Georgia 0-0 (0-0) SEC This week: UT-Martin (Saturday, 6 PM ET, ESPN+/SECN+)
2.Michigan 0-0 (0-0) Big Ten This week: East Carolina (Saturday, 12 PM ET, Peacock)
3.Ohio State 0-0 (0-0) SEC This week: @ Indiana (Saturday, 3:30 PM ET, CBS)
4.Alabama 0-0 (0-0) SEC This week: Middle Tennessee (Saturday, 7:30 PM ET, SECN)
5.LSU 0-0 (0-0) SEC This week: 8.Florida State (Orlando) (Sunday, 7:30 PM ET, ABC)
6.USC 1-0 (0-0) Pac-12 This week: Nevada (Saturday, 6:30 PM ET, PAC12)

Key games this weekend (Rankings based off of AP Poll)
Florida @ 14.Utah (Thursday, 8 PM ET, ESPN)
In what was a great season opener between the Gators and Utes in “The Swamp” last season, should be another good one in 2023. This year, the game was moved up to Thursday to open Week 1. According to Clutch Points, Utah star QB Cam Rising does plan on playing after tearing his ACL in the Utes’ Rose Bowl loss to Penn State in January. Rising will have to play this season without star tight end Dalton Kincaid and offensive tackle Braeden Daniels (Wednesday Update: Rising is not expected to play per multiple sources). If Rising is out, backup signal caller Bryson Barnes will lead the Utes on Thursday night. The Utes defense loses Clark Phillips. Anthony Richardson, Florida’s QB last fall, starred in a close opening over the Utes. Despite a rocky season after the big opening season win, was selected by the Indianapolis Colts early in the first round of the NFL Draft. To replace him, Gators coach Billy Napier brought in Wisconsin transfer Graham Mertz. Mertz is expected to start alongside a talented backfield that includes tailbacks Trevor Etienne, Montrell Johnson, and Tulane transfer Cam Caroll. The Gators’ front seven defensively is talented but a shaky secondary will have to stop Rising and Utah’s passing attack. Unlike last season, this game should not come down to the last play but it will be close for a half. Projected Score: Utah 24, Florida 17

Colorado @ 17.TCU (Saturday, 12 PM ET, FOX)
Colorado begins the Deion Sanders era against the reigning national runners up TCU Horned Frogs. In what seems like will happen in every future college football off-season, the Buffaloes added and lost many transfers during the spring and summer 2023 including adding Deion’s sons Shedeur Sanders (QB), Shilo Sanders (S), as well as the multi-talented Travis Hunter (WR, CB) who will be a game wrecker for them in the tough Pac-12. The Horned Frogs lost a lot from their Fiesta Bowl winning roster including quarterback Max Duggan, receiver Quentin Johnson, running back Kendre Miller, receiver and return specialist Derius Davis, cornerback Tre’Vius Hodges-Tomlinson, and linebacker Dee Winters to the NFL Draft. Most importantly, Garrett Riley left TCU’s offensive coordinator job to take the same job at Clemson. Former Arkansas offensive coordinator Kendal Briles should be a good fit with Chandler Morris taking over the reins as the signal-caller in Fort Worth. TCU should be a great challenge for Colorado, a team many think will only win a few games in year one under Coach Prime. Projected Score: TCU 35, Colorado 20

Virginia vs. 12.Tennessee (Nashville) (Saturday, 12 PM ET, ABC)
Can Josh Heupel lead Tennessee to a ten win or better season again in 2023? An instate trip to Nashville to face Virginia should not be a difficult one for the Volunteers but they trot out new starting QB Joe Milton against the Cavaliers. Losing quarterback Hendon Hooker and receivers Jalin Hyatt and Cedric Tillman will hurt the Vols’ offense but Heupel’s offensive mind should help. Tennessee’s mediocre defense will have to stop new Cavaliers Tony Muskett, the new signal-caller in Charlottesville who replaces Brennan Armstrong, the all-time leader in almost every passing category in school history. Virginia head coach Tony Elliott will need answers from his subpar defense in 2022 to stop a Vol offense that is full of talent outside of Milton including receiver Bru McCoy and running back Jamari Small. Projected Score: Tennessee 38, Virginia 13

West Virginia @ 7.Penn State (Saturday, 7:30 PM ET, NBC)
Penn State is primed to be among Michigan and Ohio State as favorites in the Big Ten with young QB Drew Allar primed to start for the first time at night against an underrated West Virginia team. James Franklin’s Nittany Lions isn’t young outside of their signal caller with a loaded running back room led by Nick Singleton, receivers Harrison Wallace, KeAndre Lambert-Smith, Liam Wallace. Penn State’s defense is full of veterans and should be able to stop West Virginia’s offense with new quarterback Garrett Greene should have some difficulties moving the ball in a hostile environment in State College even with a veteran filled offense. The Mountaineer defense will have to slow down Nick Singleton which will not be easy. Penn State should win easy in this one after a competitive first half. Projected Score: Penn State 34, West Virginia 17

South Carolina vs. 21.North Carolina (Charlotte; Duke’s Mayo Classic) (Saturday, 7:30 PM ET, ABC)
ESPN’s College GameDay heads to Charlotte for this old ACC rivalry between a South Carolina team that surged to end the year and a North Carolina squad that lost its last four games. The quarterback match up between Spencer Rattler (South Carolina) and Drake Maye (North Carolina) should be fantastic. Rattler will have to find talented receiver “Juice” Wells against a so-so Tar Heels defense while Maye will be without his top receiver from last year Josh Downs, who was drafted to to the NFL back in April. The Tar Heels await the NCAA’s decision on Tez Walker’s appeal to play this season. He would be a huge help to the Tar Heel offense, however, without a decision from the NCAA at least a week before the game, he is not expected to play. South Carolina’s defense should not be as bad as the Tar Heels’ last season but losing three players on that side of the ball to the NFL. With that being said, this game should be 50-50 with both offenses going back and forth. Projected Score: South Carolina 31, North Carolina 28

5.LSU vs. 8.Florida State (Orlando; Camping World Kickoff) (Sunday, 7:30 PM ET, ABC)
LSU will look to avenge a loss to Florida State last season in Orlando on Sunday night when the Seminoles blocked LSU’s extra point that would have tied the game. Then Notre Dame head coach Brian Kelly and his Fighting Irish opened the season on against Mike Norvell’s Seminoles in Tallahassee and came out with a close win in Tallahassee. Can Kelly do the same thing in a revenge spot with his star defensive end Maason Smith getting suspended due to getting paid signing autographs prior to the NIL agreement? Fellow LSU lineman Harold Perkins will have to pick up the slack on getting to FSU QB Jordan Travis to create havoc in the backfield. Travis gets to throw to talented transfer tight end Jaheim Bell while LSU will rely on pre-season All-SEC First Team QB Jayden Daniels tossing it to Malik Nabers. The Seminoles defense is full of talent just like LSU’s led by defensive end Jared Verse. Both of these teams are very talented and so the game should not disappoint. Projected Score: LSU 28, Florida State 24

9.Clemson @ Duke (Capital One Labor Day Kickoff) (Monday, 8 PM ET, ESPN)
Clemson will begin its season for a second consecutive season Monday in primetime against a fellow ACC opponent. Last season, Clemson cruised against a lowly Georgia Tech team. This season’s opener should be different against a Duke team that was great a season ago. Blue Devils QB Riley Leonard, RB Brandon Johnson, and receiver Jordan Moore will look to continue their success from last season. The Blue Devil defense is full of veterans and will go against what should be a much improved passing offense with former TCU coordinator Garrett Riley who led the Horned Frogs offense to a national championship runner up. In addition, the Tigers offense should be more stable with Cade Klubnik stepping into a more permanent role at quarterback and Will Shipley continuing to lead the unit at tail back. Clemson’s always talented front seven headed by four graduates on the line should be the difference in a close, season opening win. Projected Score: Clemson 24, Duke 21

Image Courtesy: FanSided

The 2023 college football season is just one week away! The last season of Texas and Oklahoma in the Big 12 before they head for the SEC, the final ride for the Pac-12 before the conference ends as we know it as they lost eight of their twelve members over the last year, and the final season of the four team College Football Playoff before it turns into a 12-team event. Enjoy my preview for the upcoming college football season.

*Click each conference’s link to check out my game by game predictions for each team*

2023-2024 Power 5 Projected Conference Standings:

ACC
1.Florida State 10-2 (7-1)
2.Clemson 10-2 (6-2)
3.Miami 9-3 (5-3)
4.North Carolina 8-4 (5-3)
4.Louisville 8-4 (5-3)
6.Duke 7-5 (3-5)
6.Wake Forest 7-5 (4-4)
6.NC State 7-5 (4-4)
6.Pittsburgh 7-5 (4-4)
10.Syracuse 7-5 (3-5)
11.Georgia Tech 5-7 (3-5)
12.Virginia Tech 5-7 (2-6)
13.Boston College 5-7 (1-7)
14.Virginia 3-9 (1-7)

Florida State and Clemson return as the league’s most talented teams in 2023. The biggest question is who if any will challenge the Seminoles or Tigers? Miami, North Carolina, Louisville, and Duke will look to uproot things on the east coast.

Best Non-Conference Games
1.LSU vs. Florida State (Orlando) (September 3)
One of the best games a season ago. Now, both teams are going to be in the pre-season top ten.
2.Notre Dame @ Clemson (November 4)
A huge game as the Fighting Irish and Tigers battle to get a potential CFP berth.
3.North Carolina vs. South Carolina (Charlotte) (September 2)
The second game between the Tar Heels and Gamecocks is in Charlotte this time.
4.Texas A&M @ Miami (September 9)
After battling last season, both A&M and Miami had terrible seasons for their standards. Both teams will look to bounce back this season.
5.Pittsburgh @ West Virginia (September 16)
The Backyard Brawl returns for the second consecutive season.

Best Conference Games
1.Florida State @ Clemson (September 23)
This will be the top ACC game of the season. Without divisions, FSU-Clemson will likely be a preview for the title game in the conference.
2.Miami @ Florida State (November 11)
Sunshine State residents only hope the rivalry between the Hurricanes and the Seminoles can return to a quality game.
3.Clemson @ Miami (October 21)
Clemson’s trip to Hard Rock Stadium will not be easy.
4.Clemson @ Duke (September 4)
Can Duke upset Clemson on Labor Day?
5.Duke @ North Carolina (November 18)
The Duke-North Carolina rivalry is normally known for its crazy basketball games. This could be a top 25 football game in November.

Awards
MVP: Jordan Travis, QB, Florida State
2022 Stats: 226-353, 3214 yards, 24 TDs, 5 INT
Offensive Player of the Year: Will Shipley, RB, Clemson
2022 Stats: 210 rushes, 1182 yards, 15 TDs
Defensive Player of the Year: Jared Verse, DE, Florida State
2022 Stats: 48 tackles, 17 TFL, 9 sacks
Newcomer of the Year: Jaheim Bell, TE, Florida State
2022 Stats: 25 receptions, 231 yards, 5 TDs, 73 rushes, 261 yards, 3 TDs (@ South Carolina)
Coach of the Year: Mike Norvell, Florida State

Conference Championship
Florida State (11-2) over Clemson (10-3)
FSU beats Clemson for the second time in a few months to win the ACC Title game.

Big 12
1.Kansas State 9-3 (7-2)
1.Texas 9-3 (7-2)
3.TCU 9-3 (6-3)
4.Kansas 8-4 (6-3)
5.Oklahoma 8-4 (5-4)
6.Texas Tech 7-5 (5-4)
7.Oklahoma State 7-5 (4-5)
8.Baylor 6-6 (4-5)
9.Central Florida 5-7 (3-6)
9.Iowa State 5-7 (3-6)
11.West Virginia 4-8 (3-6)
12.Cincinnati 4-8 (2-7)
12.Houston 4-8 (2-7)

Texas was picked to win the Big 12 by the media. But since 2009, the Longhorns have not won the conference. With Oklahoma and Texas out the door after this upcoming season, TCU looks to maintain the success it had last season and Kansas State will attempt to win the conference a second consecutive season.

Best Non-Conference Games
1.Texas @ Alabama (September 9)
Can Texas beat Alabama in 2023 after losing by just a point in 2022?
2.Oregon @ Texas Tech (September 9)
Texas Tech was improved in 2022 and will have a challenging match up against a good Oregon team.
3.Colorado @ TCU (September 2)
After appearing in the national championship in 2023, the Horned Frogs open against Coach Prime and Colorado.
4.Utah @ Baylor (September 9)
Both of these teams had high hopes in 2022. Utah won its second consecutive Pac-12 title while Baylor did not do much.
5.Pittsburgh @ West Virginia (September 16)
See Best ACC Non-Conference Games

Best Conference Games
1.Oklahoma vs. Texas (Dallas) (October 7)
The final Red River rivalry match up for the Sooners and the Longhorns should be full of storylines.
2.Kansas State @ Texas (November 4)
Reigning Big 12 champion Kansas State heads to Austin to face off against the media’s pre-season champion, Texas.
3.TCU @ Kansas State (October 21)
A rematch of the 2022 Big 12 title game should be a fun one between the Horned Frogs and Wildcats.
4.Texas @ TCU (November 11)
Texas meets TCU for the final time in the Big 12. Big 12 title hopes should be on the line.
5.Texas Tech @ Texas (November 24)
Texas and Texas Tech had much better seasons in 2022 compared to previous seasons. By November 24 we should know much better where each program is as the Longhorns play their final regular season game in the Big 12.

Awards
MVP: Jalon Daniels, QB, Kansas
2022 Stats: 152-230, 2,014 yards, 18 TDs, 4 INT
Offensive Player of the Year: Richard Reese, RB, Baylor
2022 Stats: 198 rushes, 972 yards, 14 TDs
Defensive Player of the Year: Jaylan Ford, LB, Texas
2022 Stats: 119 tackles, 10 TFL, 4 INT
Newcomer of the Year: Dasan McCullough, LB, Texas
2022 Stats: 49 tackles, 6.5 TFL (@ Indiana)
Coach of the Year: Chris Klieman, Kansas State

Conference Championship
Kansas State (10-3) over Texas (9-4)
Kansas State wins the Big 12 for the second consecutive season by ending the Longhorns run in the Big 12.

Big Ten
East
1.Michigan 11-1 (8-1)
1.Penn State 11-1 (8-1)
3.Ohio State 10-2 (8-1)
4.Maryland 6-6 (3-6)
5.Michigan State 5-7 (3-6)
6.Rutgers 3-9 (1-8)
7.Indiana 3-9 (1-8)

West
1.Wisconsin 9-3 (6-3)
2.Iowa 8-4 (5-4)
3.Minnesota 7-5 (5-4)
3.Illinois 7-5 (5-4)
5.Nebraska 6-6 (3-6)
6.Purdue 5-7 (3-6)
7.Northwestern 3-9 (1-8)

While Michigan, Ohio State, and Penn State are returning as the top teams in the east division while the west is wide open with Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin all being contenders to win the division. With it being the last season of divisions in the conference, these west division teams need to take advantage of their last opportunity to get into the Big Ten Championship and win it with the amount of talent Michigan, Ohio State, and Penn State have every season.

Best Non-Conference Games
1.Ohio State @ Notre Dame (September 23)
Notre Dame needs to take advantage of playing both Ohio State and Clemson at home this season to make the CFP for the first time since 2020.
2.Iowa @ Iowa State (September 9)
The battle for the state of Iowa should be a good one in Ames.
3.Washington @ Michigan State (September 16)
After Washington won 11 games in 2022 and Michigan State won 5 games after 11 in 2021, both programs will be poised to get to that mark again in 2023.
4.West Virginia @ Penn State (September 2)
West Virginia will look to avoid getting blown out against what should be a fantastic Penn State team.
5.Nebraska @ Colorado (September 9)
In this former Big 12 rivalry, Nebraska’s Matt Rhule and Colorado’s Deion Sanders will look to give their new teams a win early in the season.

Best Conference Games
1.Ohio State @ Michigan (November 25)
Maybe the fiercest rivalry on the college football gridiron, “The Game” resumes on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. The Buckeyes will look to beat the Wolverines for the first time in three seasons.
2.Michigan @ Penn State (November 11)
Many believe this is Michigan’s best chance to lose before their duel with Ohio State.
3.Penn State @ Ohio State (October 21)
Ohio State has not lost to Penn State since the Nittany Lions blocked the Buckeyes’ attempt at a game-winning field goal and returned it to win in 2016. It will be tough for the Nittany Lions to go into Columbus and win against one of the nation’s top offenses.
4.Ohio State @ Wisconsin (October 28)
Outside of the Big Ten East, this will likely be Ohio State’s toughest test in conference, against the Badgers and former Buckeye alum and player Luke Fickell.
5.Iowa @ Wisconsin (October 14)
This mid-October battle will likely determine who has the inside track win the west and to get to the Big Ten Championship in the last season of divisions in the conference.

Awards
MVP: Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State
2022 Stats: 77 catches, 1263 yards, 14 TDs, 2 rushes, 32 yards
Offensive Player of the Year: Blake Corum, RB, Michigan
2022 Stats: 247 rushes, 1463 yards, 18 TDs, 11 catches, 80 yards, 1 TD
Defensive Player of the Year: Denzel Burke, DB, Ohio State
2022 Stats: 34 tackles, 3 TFL
Newcomer of the Year: Cade McNamara, QB, Iowa
2022 Stats: 14-25, 180 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT (@ Michigan)
Coach of the Year: Jim Harbaugh, Michigan

Conference Championship
Michigan (12-1) over Wisconsin (9-4)
Michigan would dominate new Wisconsin coach Luke Fickell for a third consecutive Big Ten Championship.

Independents
1.Notre Dame 10-2
2.Connecticut 6-6
3.Army 4-8
4.Massachusetts 3-9

Best Games
1.USC @ Notre Dame (October 14)
A phenomenal QB match-up between reigning Heisman winner Caleb Williams and Wake Forest transfer Sam Hartman should be electric in a battle of CFP hopefuls.
2.Ohio State @ Notre Dame (September 11)
See Best Big Ten Non-Conference Games
3.Notre Dame @ Clemson (November 4)
See Best ACC Non-Conference Games
4.Army vs. Navy (Foxborough) (December 9)
Eyes are always on the Army-Navy game with it being a stand alone game following conference championship weekend.
5.Notre Dame @ Louisville (October 7)
With Jeff Brohm now on as head coach, Louisville is set up to win they have on the roster. A tough Notre Dame team comes to town, led by head coach Marcus Freeman.

Awards
MVP: Sam Hartman, QB, Notre Dame
2022 Stats: 270-428, 3701 yards, 38 TDs, 12 INT
Offensive Player of the Year: Sam Hartman, QB, Notre Dame
2022 Stats: See Above
Defensive Player of the Year: Benjamin Morrison, DB, Notre Dame
2022 Stats: 33 tackles, 1 TFL, 6 INT
Newcomer of the Year: Sam Hartman, QB, Notre Dame
2022 Stats: See Above
Coach of the Year: Marcus Freeman, Notre Dame

Conference Championship
N/A

Pac-12
1.USC 10-2 (8-1)
2.Oregon 10-2 (7-2)
3.Washington 9-3 (6-3)
3.Utah 9-3 (6-3)
5.UCLA 8-4 (5-4)
5.Oregon State 8-4 (5-4)
7.Arizona 7-5 (5-4)
8.Washington State 5-7 (3-6)
9.Colorado 4-8 (3-6)
10.Stanford 4-8 (2-7)
10.California 4-8 (2-7)
12.Arizona State 3-9 (1-8)

The Pac-12 is expected to be the best it has been in many years as a football conference. Reigning champ Utah, USC, Oregon, UCLA, and Oregon State all have a chance to lift the conference championship trophy this December in Las Vegas.

Best Non-Conference Games
1.USC @ Notre Dame (October 14)
See Best Independents Non-Conference Games
2.Florida @ Utah (August 31)
Utah will look to avenge last season’s loss to Florida in “The Swamp”, led by QB Cam Rising.
3.Colorado @ TCU (September 2)
See Best Big 12 Non-Conference Games
4.Utah @ Baylor (September 9)
See Best Big 12 Non-Conference Games
5.Washington @ Michigan State (September 16)
See Best Big Ten Non-Conference Games

Best Conference Games
1.Utah @ USC (October 21)
A rematch of last season’s Pac-12 championship game should have massive conference implications again this season.
2.USC @ Oregon (November 11)
Oregon and USC, two longtime Pac-12 members and favorites every season to make it into the post-season meet for the final time in Autzen Stadium before the Trojans head to the Big Ten.
3.Washington @ USC (November 4)
Two 11 win teams in 2022 meet in LA. A lot should be on the line in this early November match up.
4.Oregon @ Utah (October 28)
The 2021 Pac-12 title rematch in Salt Lake City should be a good one as both teams look to make it back to Las Vegas.
5.Oregon State @ Oregon (November 24)
After losing a multiple touchdown lead late in Salem last season, Oregon will have to be ready to protect home field against what should be a good Oregon State team again in 2023.

Awards
MVP: Caleb Williams, QB, USC
2022 Stats: 333-500, 1912 yards, 42 TDs, 5 INT
Offensive Player of the Year: Michael Penix, QB, Washington
2022 Stats: 362-554, 4641 yards, 31 TDs, 8 INT
Defensive Player of the Year: Laiatu Latu, DE, UCLA
2022 Stats: 36 tackles, 12.5 TFL, 10.5 sacks,
Newcomer of the Year: Patrick McMorris, DB, California
2022 Stats: 61 tackles, 2.5 TFL, 1 INT (@ San Diego State)
Coach of the Year: Dan Lanning, Oregon

Conference Championship
Oregon (11-2) over USC (10-3)
In the first Pac-12 Championship game without Utah in three seasons, Oregon denies USC its second Pac-12 title in as many years.

SEC
East
1.Georgia 12-0 (8-0)
2.Tennessee 9-3 (5-3)
3.Missouri 8-4 (4-4)
4.Kentucky 8-4 (4-4)
5.South Carolina 7-5 (4-4)
6.Florida 5-7 (2-6)
7.Vanderbilt 3-9 (0-8)

West
1.LSU 11-1 (7-1)
2.Alabama 10-2 (6-2)
3.Ole Miss 9-3 (6-2)
4.Texas A&M 9-3 (5-3)
5.Arkansas 7-5 (4-4)
6.Mississippi State 6-6 (2-6)
7.Auburn 6-6 (2-6)

Georgia looks to win a third consecutive national championship while LSU will attempt to make it back to the SEC Championship for a second consecutive season. Alabama’s QB issues in the spring will determine whether the Tide will be able to make a post-season run. Tennessee, Ole Miss, and Texas A&M all look to be contenders as well.

Best Non-Conference Games
1.LSU vs. Florida State (Orlando) (September 3)
See Best ACC Non-Conference Games
2.Texas @ Alabama (September 9)
See Best Big 12 Non-Conference Games
3.South Carolina vs. North Carolina (Charlotte) (September 2)
See Best ACC Non-Conference Games
4.Florida @ Utah (August 31)
See Best Pac-12 Non-Conference Games
5.Tennessee vs. Virginia (Nashville) (September 2)
See Best ACC Non-Conference Games

Best Conference Games
1.LSU @ Alabama (November 4)
Alabama will look to beat LSU after losing on a two-point conversion by the Tigers in Death Valley last season and regain control of the SEC West as the conference ends its era with divisions.
2.Georgia @ Tennessee (November 18)
The only true bump on the road for what should be another loaded team for Kirby Smart and Georgia will be a trip to Knoxville and their game against Josh Heupel and the Vols.
3.Tennessee @ Alabama (October 21)
Alabama will not only host and look to avenge its loss against LSU, it will attempt to do the same thing against Tennessee, who they lost to in the final seconds at Neyland Stadium for the first time in 16 opportunities last season.
4.Alabama @ Texas A&M (October 7)
Alabama has only lost against Texas A&M in College Station twice since the Aggies joined the SEC (2012 & 2021). With Bobby Petrino calling the offense for the Aggies and the Tide’s normal lapses against Jimbo Fisher’s team, an upset could be on the horizon in 2023.
5.Texas A&M @ LSU (November 25)
LSU did win the SEC West in Brian Kelly’s first season as head coach. But, a puzzling loss to a 5-7 Texas A&M in College Station last Thanksgiving kept the Tigers out of the playoff. LSU should be focused this season against the Aggies after a puzzling let down to end the 2022 campaign.

Awards
MVP: Harold Perkins, DE, LSU
2022 Stats: 72 tackles, 13 TFL, 1 INT, 4 FF
Offensive Player of the Year: Quinshon Judkins, RB, Ole Miss
2022 Stats: 274 rushes, 1,567 yards, 16 TDs, 15 catches, 132 yards, 1 TD
Defensive Player of the Year: Harold Perkins, DE, LSU
2022 Stats: See Above
Newcomer of the Year: Omar Speights, LB, LSU
2022 Stats: 83 tackles, 8 TFL (@ Oregon State)
Coach of the Year: Kirby Smart, Georgia

Conference Championship
LSU (12-1) over Georgia (12-1)
LSU will avenge last season’s SEC Title game loss to the Bulldogs.

National Preview:

Top 5 Non-Conference Games
1.LSU vs. Florida State (Orlando) (September 3)
2.Texas @ Alabama (September 9)
3.Ohio State @ Notre Dame (September 23)
4.Notre Dame @ Clemson (November 4)
5.South Carolina vs. North Carolina (Charlotte) (September 2)

Top 5 Conference Games
1.Ohio State @ Michigan (November 25)
2.LSU @ Alabama (November 4)
3.Florida State @ Clemson (September 23)
4.Georgia @ Tennessee (November 18)
5.Tennessee @ Alabama (October 21)

CFP and New Year’s 6 Projections

December 29
Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic (Arlington)
Clemson (11-3) over Kansas State (10-4)
Clemson beats Big 12 champ KSU.

December 30
Chick-Fil-A Peach Bowl (Atlanta)
Alabama (11-2) over Notre Dame (10-3)
Alabama goes to Atlanta and dominates Notre Dame again.

Capital One Orange Bowl (Miami Gardens)
Ohio State (11-2) over Florida State (11-3)
Ohio State wins the Orange Bowl after failing to make the Big Ten Championship Game.

January 1
VRBO Fiesta Bowl (Phoenix)
USC (11-3) over UTSA (13-1)
USC beats the best Group of Five Team, UTSA, after falling to Tulane in the Cotton Bowl last season.

CFP Semifinal at the Rose Bowl Game (Pasadena)
1.Michigan (13-1) over 4.Penn State (11-2)
Michigan avenges a regular season loss to Penn State in the Rose Bowl.

CFP Semifinal at the Allstate Sugar Bowl (New Orleans)
3.Georgia (13-1) over 2.LSU (12-2)
Georgia avenges its SEC Championship game loss against LSU in the Tigers’ backyard this time.

January 8
CFP Championship Game (Houston)
1.Michigan (14-1) over 3.Georgia (13-2)
Michigan beats Georgia, keeping them from winning a third consecutive title and winning Jim Harbaugh’s first collegiate championship ever.

Heisman Winner: Blake Corum, RB, Michigan

Check out the top 25+ incoming recruits to college football in 2023 (per 247sports composite).

Image Courtesy: WholeHogSports

The three major Arkansas athletic teams, Arkansas football, basketball, and baseball have a combined two national championships all time. On the gridiron, the Razorbacks won it all in 1964 following a Cotton Bowl win over vaunted Nebraska, 10-7. Thirty years later, in the Charlotte Coliseum, Arkansas guard Scotty Thurman hit the most famous shot in Razorback basketball history over Antonio Lang to secure the program’s first ever national championship. On the diamond, Razorback baseball coaches Norm DeBriyn and Dave Van Horn have made the final series but have never won it. Will Arkansas baseball win its first title before Razorback football or basketball win another one? It would seem that way but let’s take a deep dive into which it would be.

Arkansas football would have the most difficult time doing so in the upcoming season with the current format in place. A four-team playoff that only allows up to two teams from the same conference most of the time does not serve the Razorbacks well. However, as the field moves to twelve and if Sam Pittman’s roster depth improves, Arkansas can definitely make it as a three loss team. With that being said, playing in a league with football powers and brands like Georgia, Alabama, LSU, Florida, Tennessee, and Texas and Oklahoma coming in the conference, I doubt Sam Pittman will be next to lift a trophy in Fayetteville.

Eric Musselman has Arkansas basketball rolling. Not to the extent that maybe Coach K at Duke or Roy Williams at North Carolina but the way Musselman recruits and brings popularity to the program through social media. His recruitment in the transfer portal combined with recent five star additions make the Razorback basketball program in great shape with three consecutive trips to the Sweet 16 and two Elite 8 appearances in March of 2021 and 2022. However, the Razorbacks have yet to reach college basketball’s final weekend, the Final Four. With the way Musselman’s tenure in Fayetteville is going, he has put himself and his teams in a great spot to make the national championship.

Arkansas baseball fans do not have to hear it again. They are the “Gonzaga” or “Notre Dame” of college baseball just because they have yet to win it all in Omaha. Arkansas made it to the final series in Omaha back in 2018 and were just an out away from winning it all. But, a dropped foul pop up allowed Oregon State to come back and win the whole thing the next day. Razorback baseball coach Dave Van Horn continues to bring in and develop top talent and send it to the MLB. The Razorbacks have made it to Omaha two more times since the foul ball drop but have not been able to make it back to the last series. Arkansas baseball fans have nitpicked many things about why they have not won a title, lack of base hits, pitching depth, and many other things. So, can Arkansas baseball win a national championship? Of course they can, but it must include a little bit of luck.

Because of how difficult it is to get to the College World Series and win it, Arkansas basketball is the closest to winning a national championships. Razorback basketball’s success in the tournament, selling tickets out every season, and notoriety of Coach Musselman gives them the best shot to win a title next.

Image Courtesy: With the First Pick

Can anybody stop Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs train this upcoming season? Kansas City has made five consecutive AFC Championship games even having to play Cincinnati, Buffalo, and Baltimore every season deep into the playoffs. The Philadelphia Eagles, San Francisco 49ers, and Dallas Cowboys are expected to be at the top of the NFC yet again. The Eagles look like they can return to the Super Bowl again with QB Jalen Hurts, talented receivers AJ Brown and De’Vonta Smith, and an awesome defense. Here’s how I expect the NFL to look during the 2023-2024 season:

Here are my projected division standings for the 2023-2024 NFL season:

AFC

East
Miami Dolphins (11-6)
Buffalo Bills (10-7)
New York Jets (10-7)
New England Patriots (7-10)

Can the Dolphins upend the Bills and take control of the AFC East? It seems possible with the talent Miami has on the outside with Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle even with questions about signal-caller Tua Tagovailoa’s health. The Jets are also a team that the Dolphins have to worry about after they added future Hall of Fame QB Aaron Rodgers and extended the contract of star defensive end Quinnen Williams. All three of the Dolphins, Bills, and Jets are real playoff threats while questions loom large in Foxborough. Can Bill O’Brien help Patriots QB Mac Jones out of his sophomore slump for a bounce back third season? That will be big if New England wants to compete in one of the toughest divisions in football.

Top Divisional Games
1.Bills vs. Dolphins (10/1, 1/7)
A 2023 AFC Wild Card rematch could determine the winner of the division during the final weekend of the regular season.
2.Bills vs. Jets (9/11, 11/19)
Two Josh Allen-Aaron Rodgers duels this upcoming season should be fantastic in helping determine the pecking order in the AFC East.
3.Dolphins vs. Jets (11/24, 12/17)
The Jets defense and Miami defense have some of the best defensive backs in the game. New York’s Sauce Gardner and Miami’s Jalen Ramsey and Xavien Howard will look to stop the opposing offenses, both of which can make long pass plays down the field.
4.Bills vs. Patriots (10/22, 12/31)
The Bills must avoid potential upsets against Bill Belichick’s team, who could wreck the Bills’ dreams of a potential Wild Card off weekend and having the AFC run through Highmark Stadium.
5.Dolphins vs. Patriots (9/17, 10/29)
Tua Tagovailoa and the Dolphins did not lose to the Patriots last season. But heading to Foxborough is never an easy task so Mike McDaniels’ team has to be careful with the football.

Top Interdivisional Games
1.Dolphins @ Chiefs (11/5)
Miami will be tested like they have not been before at Arrowhead Stadium when they face Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs. Tua must be able to find former Chiefs receiver Tyreek Hill early and often if they want to keep up with Kansas City and win this game.
2.Bills @ Chiefs (12/10)
The match-ups between the Bills and Chiefs in the post-season the past two years have been nothing short of incredible. Josh Allen and Patrick Mahomes dueling in Kansas City again should determine who will have home field advantage early on in the playoffs
3.Dolphins @ Eagles (10/22)
Former Alabama QBs Tua Tagovailoa and Jalen Hurts battle as they look to position their teams atop their conferences. The talented Dolphins offense against the terrific Eagles defense should be a great battle.
4.Bills @ Eagles (11/26)
Buffalo should have their hands full in Philadelphia when they play the Eagles after Thanksgiving. Jalen Hurts and Josh Allen will duel for playoff placement in their respective conferences as December would loom.
5.Jets @ Cowboys (9/17)
Aaron Rodgers never lost to the Cowboys as a Packer. Will he be able to keep up his phenomenal play against America’s team as a New York Jet? We will find out early in the season when Dallas hosts New York.

Awards
MVP: Tyreek Hill, WR, Miami Dolphins
2022 Stats: 119 catches, 1710 yards, 7 TDs
Offensive Player of the Year: Tyreek Hill, WR, Miami Dolphins
2022 Stats: See Above
Defensive Player of the Year: Quinnen Williams, DE, New York Jets
2022 Stats: 35 tackles, 12 sacks, 2 FF
Coach of the Year: Mike McDaniel, Miami Dolphins

North
Baltimore Ravens (11-6)
Cincinnati Bengals (10-7)
Cleveland Browns (9-8)
Pittsburgh Steelers (7-10)

Cincinnati, Baltimore, Cleveland, and Pittsburgh are all capable of winning the AFC North in 2023. They all play so often that the top team in the division could lose half or more of its games against divisional opponents. The toughness of all four of these defenses makes points a premium in these games. With Joe Burrow out at the beginning of the season, this could be the opportunity for the Ravens, Browns, or Steelers to take over this division.

Top Divisional Games
1.Bengals vs. Ravens (9/17, 11/16)
In a division full of great rivalries, the Bengals and Ravens look again to gain control of the AFC North and a chance at a Super Bowl. Lamar Jackson and Joe Burrow have had some great battles and they should have some this upcoming this season. Trevor Sim
2.Bengals vs. Browns (9/10, 1/7)
The Browns will look to defeat good Bengals teams on the first and last Sundays of the regular season. Cleveland’s defense has been able to get to Cincinnati QB Joe Burrow so they should look to continue to do the same thing this season. The Bengals should have to start back up Trevor Siemian with Burrow’s injury so it may be easier for star Browns defensive end Myles Garrett to get to the quarterback with his inexperience.
3.Ravens vs. Browns (10/1, 11/12)
The Ravens and Browns defenses will look to stop the other team’s dynamic quarterbacks in Lamar Jackson and Deshaun Watson on the first Sunday in October and the second in November. These games will prove very critical in not only the divisional race but the AFC race overall.
4.Ravens vs. Steelers (10/8, 1/7)
Maybe the best rivalry in the AFC, the Steelers and Ravens always have fierce, competitive battles. TJ Watt and the Steelers must win at least one of these games to stay in the playoff hunt.
5.Browns vs. Steelers (9/18, 11/19)
With the two teams expected to finish at the bottom of the division, the Browns and Steelers battle for necessary wins to in the division and stay the playoff hunt.

Top Interdivisional Games
1.Bengals @ Chiefs (12/31)
In a rematch of the last two AFC Championship game, the winner of the New Year’s Eve duel between Kansas City and Cincinnati could have the advantage entering the final weekend of the regular season to have the Wild Card bye week in the conference.
2.Bills @ Bengals (11/5)
A rematch of the shortened Damar Hamlin tragedy and 2022 AFC Divisional round game should have a lot of implications at the top of the AFC at the beginning of the November as Joe Burrow and Josh Allen match up.
3.Ravens @ 49ers (12/25)
A Super Bowl 57 match up pits two talented defenses against each other in northern California. Lamar Jackson, Odell Beckham Jr., and the Ravens offense will look to get up early against second year signal-caller Brock Purdy and the niners.
4.Dolphins @ Ravens (12/31)
A Lamar Jackson-Tua Tagovailoa QB battle in Baltimore on New Year’s Eve. If each of these teams don’t turn the ball over we could see a great game.
5.49ers @ Steelers (9/10)
Pittsburgh must protect home field advantage and get out to a fast start against a great 49ers team in week one of the NFL season.

Awards
MVP: Ja’Marr Chase, WR, Cincinnati Bengals
2022 Stats: 87 catches, 1046 yards, 9 TDs
Offensive Player of the Year: Ja’Marr Chase, WR, Cincinnati Bengals
2022 Stats: See Above
Defensive Player of the Year: TJ Watt, OLB, Pittsburgh Steelers
2022 Stats: 27 tackles, 5.5 sacks, 1 FF
Coach of the Year: John Harbaugh, Baltimore Ravens

South
Jacksonville Jaguars (10-7)
Tennessee Titans (8-9)
Indianapolis Colts (8-9)
Houston Texans (4-13)

Trevor Lawrence and the Jaguars are the favorites coming into the 2023 season in the AFC South. Having his college teammate Travis Etienne, tight end Evan Engram, and receiver Calvin Ridley to make plays offensively proves they can make a deep run in the playoffs without injuries. Can the Jags prove it with the Titans and Colts breathing down their necks as hard nosed football teams? Doug Pederson has done a phenomenal job as the head coach, play-caller, and mentor to Lawrence after Urban Meyer led the Lawrence and the Jags to a terrible beginning of the season in 2021.

Top Divisional Games
1.Jaguars vs. Titans (11/19, 1/7)
The battle for the top of the AFC South could come down to the final day of the regular season when the Jags and Titans face off.
2.Colts vs. Jaguars (9/10, 10/15)
The Colts must prove they are a formidable team again when they play the Jaguars early and in the middle of the season.
3.Colts vs. Titans (10/8, 12/3)
The Colts and Titans must prove that they are capable of competing with the Jaguars as they face off in October and December.
4.Jaguars vs. Texans (9/24, 11/26)
Texans top three picks in this year’s NFL Draft CJ Stroud (QB) and Will Anderson (OLB) will look to do the difficult task of upending the division favorite Jaguars.
5.Texans vs. Titans (12/17, 12/31)
Texans-Titans battles in the AFC South are always close games and will go a long way in determining the winner of the division.

Top Interdivisional Games
1.Chiefs @ Jaguars (9/17)
The Jaguars will see their first true test of the season when they face the Super Bowl winning Kansas City Chiefs led by Patrick Mahomes. If they can win that game, they can begin competing for the top seed in the conference.
2.Bills vs. Jaguars (London) (10/8)
On the second Sunday in October, all eyes will be on Bills-Jaguars for placing atop the AFC.
3.Colts @ Bengals (12/10)
The Colts will look to go into Cincinnati and beat the Bengals in one of the top environments in the NFL.
4.Titans @ Dolphins (12/11)
Former Dolphins QB Ryan Tannehill comes back to town as a Titan in an important out of division game in the AFC.
5.Bengals @ Titans (10/1)
The Bengals come to Nashville to open October in a game the Titans can’t overlook or they will get dominated by Joe Burrow and his offense.

Awards
MVP: Trevor Lawrence, QB, Jacksonville Jaguars
2022 Stats: 387-584, 4113 yards, 25 TDs, 8 INT, 62 rushes, 291 yards, 5 TDs
Offensive Player of the Year: Jonathan Taylor, RB, Indianapolis Colts
2022 Stats: 192 rushes, 861 yards, 4 TDs, 28 catches, 143 yards
Defensive Player of the Year: Shaquille Leonard, DE, Indianapolis Colts
2022 Stats: 8 tackles (injured for most of 2022 season)
Coach of the Year: Doug Pederson, Jacksonville Jaguars

West
Kansas City Chiefs (14-3)
Denver Broncos (9-8)
Los Angeles Chargers (7-10)
Las Vegas Raiders (5-12)

The Kansas City Chiefs have won seven consecutive AFC West division titles. There is no reason why they should not be the favorite to win this division and the Super Bowl in 2024. The Chargers paid their QB Justin Herbert with a new long-term contract. With new offensive coordinator Kellen Moore and receivers Keenan Allen and Mike Williams, the Chargers could challenge Kansas City. Offensive mastermind Sean Payton takes over a Denver Broncos team that struggled with their new QB Russell Wilson. A rejuvenated Wilson with receivers Jerry Jeudy and Courtney Davis should improve in 2023. The Raiders do not seem like threats with second year coach Josh McDaniels parting ways with former QB Derek Carr. Vegas will be looking for a new identity and they will struggle in this tough division this upcoming season.

Top Divisional Games
1.Chargers vs. Chiefs (10/22, 1/7)
The top two QBs in the AFC West match up in Patrick Mahomes and Justin Herbert. The winners of these games will have a great chance at winning the division and a long playoff run.
2.Chiefs vs. Raiders (11/26, 12/25)
The Raiders’ defensive line, led by Maxx Crosby, got into Chiefs backfield a lot last season. They will look to get to Patrick Mahomes more in their match ups this season and win at least one of these match ups against the great Kansas City Chiefs.
3.Broncos vs. Chargers (12/10, 12/31)
The winner of these two games, between the Broncos and Chargers, will propel that team into second in the AFC West, likely behind the Chiefs. The winner could surprise in the playoffs in Kansas City’s shadow.
4.Chargers vs. Raiders (10/1, 12/14)
The Raiders will look to beat the Chargers with a new quarterback as they move on from Derek Carr. Both of these games should be very close but playing with a new quarterback will hurt Las Vegas just a little bit.
5.Broncos vs. Raiders (9/10, 1/7)
Russell Wilson and the Broncos will look to avenge two losses to the Raiders in 2023. With the Raiders’ young coaching staff, the Broncos should be able to at least split with Vegas this upcoming season.

Top Interdivisional Games
1.Eagles @ Chiefs (11/20)
The Super Bowl rematch will be in Kansas City on the Monday before Thanksgiving with everyone watching. Seeing Patrick Mahomes and Jalen Hurts duel again should be a fantastic game.
2.Bengals @ Chiefs (12/31)
See in Top AFC North Interdivisional Games
3.Dolphins @ Chiefs (11/5)
See in Top AFC East Interdivisional Games
4.Bills @ Chiefs (12/10)
See in Top AFC East Interdivisional Games
5.Dolphins @ Chargers (9/10)
The Dolphins’ Tua Tagovailoa (pick 5 in the 2020 NFL Draft) and the Chargers’ Justin Herbert (pick 6 in 2020 NFL Draft) battle in week 1 of the NFL season. This will be a huge game in not only determining the pecking order of signal callers in the league but who can get a head start on placement in the AFC for the playoffs.

Awards
MVP: Patrick Mahomes, QB, Kansas City Chiefs
2022 Stats: 435-648, 5250 yards, 41 TDs, 12 INT, 61 rushes, 358 yards, 4 TDs
Offensive Player of the Year: Patrick Mahomes, QB, Kansas City Chiefs
2022 Stats: See Above
Defensive Player of the Year: Derwin James, S, Los Angeles Chargers
2022 Stats: 64 tackles, 2 interceptions, 4 sacks, 2 FF
Coach of the Year: Andy Reid, Kansas City Chiefs

Top AFC Games
1.Bengals @ Chiefs (12/31)
2.Dolphins @ Chiefs (11/5)
3.Bills @ Chiefs (12/10)
4.Bills vs. Dolphins (10/1, 1/7)
5.Bengals vs. Ravens (9/17, 11/16)
6.Bills @ Bengals (11/5)
7.Bills vs. Jets (9/11, 11/19)
8.Dolphins vs. Jets (11/24, 12/17)
9.Chiefs @ Jaguars (9/17)
10.Chargers vs. Chiefs (10/22, 1/7)

NFC

East
Philadelphia Eagles (12-5)
Dallas Cowboys (11-6)
New York Giants (8-9)
Washington Commanders (6-11)

The Eagles will look to return to the Super Bowl with a similar roster while the Cowboys will look to return to the game for the first time since 1996. Philadelphia’s offense is scary with QB Jalen Hurts, receiver De’Vonta Smith, and receiver AJ Brown with an even scarier defense. The Giants improved their abysmal receiving core with the draft pick of Tennessee Volunteer Jalin Hyatt and free agent Paris Campbell. That should make New York a competitive team again this upcoming season. The Commanders should be vastly improved with second year signalcaller Sam Howell and Dan Snyder out of ownership in Landover.

Top Divisional Games
1.Cowboys vs. Eagles (11/5, 12/10)
After getting destroyed in Philadelphia early last season, the Cowboys turned their Christmas Eve win over the Eagles into a shootout where they forced a few turnovers which helped them lock up a second consecutive playoff spot. Now, Dallas must use the games against a vaunted Eagles team to prepare them for games deep in the playoffs. The Eagles should be able to handle the Cowboys at home if they stay focused but on their trip to Arlington they will be looking for revenge.
2.Eagles vs. Giants (12/25, 1/7)
After sweeping the Giants last season, the Eagles will look to do the same in 2023-2024. For both squads, playing each other two times in the last three weeks of the seasons brings some unique feelings to the games. Some playoff spots will already be locked up but some definitely won’t. So, these two games will definitely have some meaning at the end of the regular season.
3.Cowboys vs. Giants (9/10, 11/12)
Known for being a Sunday night “snoozfest” with the lack of wins deep in the playoffs for both franchise, the Cowboys-Giants series brought two Dallas wins in 2022. However, both teams only got better so the Giants opportunity will be on opening Sunday night in East Rutherford to protect their home field and get a head start in making a playoff push. Dallas QB Dak Prescott has an incredible 10-2 record against New York so it will be a challenge, but Brian Daboll and the Giants will sure have something to say in 2023 when they face their division rivals.
4.Cowboys vs. Commanders (11/23, 1/7)
The Commanders were sold by long time owner Dan Snyder. With the toxicity out of the building for the first time in many years, fans are believing that the Commanders could make a playoff push this season. The two division rivals split the match ups last season and with new Commanders QB Sam Howell looking good, the Cowboys should be aware of this improved squad in 2023.
5.Commanders vs. Giants (10/22, 11/19)
With what I mentioned about the Commanders above, they should definitely look at the Giants games on the schedules as games they can win. The Giants won one meeting and the two tied in the other meeting. Giants QB Daniel Jones needs to have a big year to prove his worth in the NFL while RB Saquon Barkley plays on a one-year contract with all tailbacks’ pay down in 2023. terry McLaurin and the Commanders The Commanders-Giants games should be good ones this years.

Top Interdivisional Games
1.Eagles @ Chiefs (11/20)
See Top AFC West Interdivisional Games
2.49ers @ Eagles (12/3)
Last season’s NFC Championship rematch was in Philadelphia in January and will be at Lincoln Financial Field again in 2023. The 49ers offense, led by second year QB Brock Purdy, receiver Deebo Samuel, and tailback Christian McCaffrey will have to score against a tough Eagles defense again on the road, which should prove to be a difficult task. On the other side, Jalen Hurts and the Eagles offense will face off against another difficult defense in Nick Bosa and the niners. So, to me, the better offense wins this game.
3.Cowboys @ 49ers (10/8)
The NFC Divisional Round rematch between the Cowboys and 49ers will again be played in San Francisco. If the Cowboys could not win it in January, what tells us they can do it now? The 49ers’ steady offense and pummeling defense will have it out for Dak Prescott and what should be an improved aerial attack in Dallas. This Sunday Night game should be fun.
4.Dolphins @ Eagles (10/22)
See Top AFC East Interdivisional Games
5.Jets @ Cowboys (9/17)
See Top AFC East Interdivisional Games

Awards
MVP: Jalen Hurts, QB, Philadelphia Eagles
2022 Stats: 306-460, 3701 yards, 22 TDs, 6 INT, 165 carries, 760 yards, 13 TDs
Offensive Player of the Year: Jalen Hurts, QB, Philadelphia Eagles
2022 Stats: See Above
Defensive Player of the Year: Micah Parsons, DE, Dallas Cowboys
2022 Stats: 42 tackles, 13.5 sacks, 3 FF
Coach of the Year: Nick Sirianni, Philadelphia Eagles

North
Detroit Lions (9-8)
Minnesota Vikings (8-9)
Green Bay Packers (7-10)
Chicago Bears (6-11)

The Detroit Lions and Minnesota Vikings will look to stake their claim atop the NFC North with Aaron Rodgers out in Green Bay and in New York. The Vikings won the division last season and with star receiver Justin Jefferson looking as great as ever and Kirk Cousins’ consistent play behind center, they should be the favorites. But Dan Campbell’s Lions have the roster to win the division as well: Amon-Ra St. Brown has had a fantastic young career while former Rams QB Jared Goff has looked like a player that can play in Detroit long term. Chicago’s offense must improve a ton in year three with QB Justin Fields if they want to even think about another NFC North title to their trophy case. The Packers could still be a player in the NFC race even without their Hall of Fame gunslinger. Jordan Love has a lot to prove as the new Green Bay QB but if he proves he can be a quality starter, the Packers can contend in this division.

Top Divisional Games
1.Lions vs. Vikings (12/24, 1/7)
With Aaron Rodgers now out of the division, the battles between Detroit and Minnesota should be for the division this season. In addition, the two rivals will face off in two of the last three weeks of the season making these games that much more important. The teams’ QBs Kirk Cousins and Jared Goff are two veteran in this league and their play will definitely be a big factor in determining games against the opposite teams, both of two have decent defense.
2.Packers vs. Vikings (10/29, 12/31)
If the Lions do not step up and win the NFC North during the upcoming season, the division could be won the Packers yet again. New Green Bay QB Jordan Love’s NFL experience is very small but his upside is big. The Love to receiver Christian Watson connection will be important in beating a Vikings team that won the NFC North fairly easily in 2022. Kirk Cousins and Justin Jefferson are a scary offensive duo and they will not be easy to stop against a Green Bay defense that is not as good as it was just a few seasons ago.
3.Lions vs. Packers (9/28, 11/23)
With the Packers and Lions facing off at the end of September and on Thanksgiving, the two teams will have to focus on winning one or both of these games to make the playoffs.
4.Bears vs. Packers (9/10, 1/7)
With Aaron Rodgers out in Green Bay, the Bears finally have an opportunity to beat the Packers again. Justin Fields can prove himself in this rivalry without a Hall of Fame QB as his opposition. The Packers should win this game still but the games should definitely be closer.
5.Bears vs. Lions (11/19, 12/10)
The Bears and Lions are used to battling for third in the NFC North. Both teams will look to prove that they are quality teams in this league by winning these games against a team in their own division.

Top Interdivisional Games
1.Lions @ Chiefs (9/7)
The Lions will look to defeat the defending Super Bowl Champion Chiefs in Kansas City in the debut game of the NFL season. Dan Campbell’s defense will have to stop reigning MVP Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and the awesome Kansas City offense in this one.
2.Vikings @ Eagles (9/17)
After a dominant performance by Philadelphia over Minnesota last season, the Vikings will look to avenge the loss in 2023 with a good offensive performance led by QB Kirk Cousins and receiver Justin Jefferson.
3.49ers @ Vikings (10/23)
After facing last season’s NFC champion team back in September on the road, the Vikings host the NFC championship runner-up in October. The VIkings again will have to rely on their offense against a vaunted 49ers defensive unit.
4.Chiefs @ Packers (12/3)
The Packers host the Chiefs for the first time without Aaron Rodgers. New Green Bay QB Jordan Love will look to out-duel Patrick Mahomes and upset Kansas City.
5.Lions @ Cowboys (12/30)
The Lions and Cowboys had some playoff history at the beginning of the 2010s and with the Lions finally a better team now under Dan Campbell, this New Year’s Eve Eve battle should be a game that has playoff implications with just a week left in the regular season left.

Awards
MVP: Justin Jefferson, WR, Minnesota Vikings
2022 Stats: 128 catches, 1809 yards, 8 TDs, 4 rushes, 24 yards, 1 TD
Offensive Player of the Year: Justin Jefferson, WR, Minnesota Vikings
2022 Stats: See Above
Defensive Player of the Year: Aidan Hutchinson, DE, Detroit Lions
2022 Stats: 34 tackles, 9.5 sacks, 3 INT
Coach of the Year: Dan Campbell, Detroit Lions

South
New Orleans Saints (10-7)
Atlanta Falcons (8-9)
Carolina Panthers (6-11)
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-13)

The NFC South is wide open with Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski retired and out in Tampa. The Buccaneers may be the worst team in the division with veteran Baker Mayfield or Kyle Trask and QB with a defense that is not as good as the one that shut down Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs in the Super Bowl. New Orleans added Derek Carr to replace Jameis Winston at QB and they will have to trust that Chris Olave continues to be great at receiver and Alvin Kamara keeps working as their running back one. Carolina and Atlanta built up through the draft this year with the Panthers adding terrific Alabama QB Bryce Young and the Falcons adding star running back Bijan Robinson within the first ten picks.

Top Divisional Games
1.Falcons vs. Saints (11/26, 1/7)
In one of the top rivalries in the NFL, the Saints and Falcons play this year as the expected top two teams in the division. Both defenses will have to stop new stars on the offensive side of the ball in Saints QB Derek Carr and Falcons RB Bijan Robinson.
2.Panthers vs. Saints (9/18, 12/10)
Bryce Young and the Panthers will look to defeat a Saints team that is primed to win the division after having to deal with Tom Brady and the Bucs for the last two seasons.
3.Falcons vs. Panthers (9/10, 12/17)
Young stars Bijan Robinson (Falcons) and Bryce Young (Panthers) look to help their teams battle for placing in the playoffs as they begin their seasons against each other and then three weeks from the end of the year.
4.Buccaneers vs. Saints (10/1, 12/31)
The Saints were able to beat Tom Brady and the Buccaneers multiple times when he was in Tampa Bay. New Orleans will look to continue that streak as they face a new signal caller for the Bucs with their veteran defense.
5.Buccaneers vs. Falcons (10/22, 12/10)
The Falcons must win both of these games if they want a shot to win the NFC South and make a deep run in the playoffs against. ayoung Buccaneers team.

Top Interdivisional Games
1.Saints @ Rams (12/21)
In a rematch of the 2019 NFC Championship Game, the Saints face a Rams team that struggled after winning the Super Bowl in 2022.
2.Jaguars @ Saints (10/19)
New Orleans hosts a Jaguars team that has one of the best young offenses in the league. So, this will be a tough challenge for a Saints team with a new QB and an inexperienced head coach.
3.Falcons @ Jaguars (10/1)
Like the Saints, the Falcons facing off with the Jaguars will not be an easy game. Trevor Lawrence and his receivers will not back down against a Falcons defense that has been up and down.
4.Falcons @ Lions (9/24)
A tough Lions team will not back down against the Falcons, with a very young roster. Veteran QB Jared Goff and receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown will be a difficult duo to stop for Atlanta on the road.
5.Panthers @ Jaguars (12/31)
In a match-up of number one picks, Carolina’s Bryce Young will look to prove himself against Trevor Lawrence and the Jaguars. This game might be one of the more underrated games of the upcoming season.

Awards
MVP: Derek Carr, QB, New Orleans Saints
2022 Stats: 305-502, 3522 yards, 24 TDs, 14 INT, 24 rushes, 104 yards
Offensive Player of the Year: Bijan Robinson, RB, Atlanta Falcons
2022 Stats: 258 rushes, 1580 yards, 18 TDs, 19 catches, 314 yards, 2 TD (@ Texas)
Defensive Player of the Year: Brian Burns, DE, Carolina Panthers
2022 Stats: 34 tackles, 12.5 sacks, 1 FF
Coach of the Year: Frank Reich, Carolina Panthers

West
San Francisco 49ers (12-5)
Los Angeles Rams (10-7)
Seattle Seahawks (8-9)
Arizona Cardinals (3-14)

Will the Rams bounce back after not making the playoffs following a Super Bowl 56 win? The 49ers are poised to remain at the top of the division with offensive playmakers Deebo Samuel and Christian McCaffrey aboard. It will be up to the play of second year QB Brock Purdy after his injury in the NFC Championship game about whether they can return to the Super Bowl. The Seahawks paid QB Geno Smith after a successful season with him in 2022 while the Cardinals look like one of the worst teams in the NFL with new head coach Jonathan Gannon.

Top Divisional Games
1.49ers vs. Rams (9/17, 1/7)
The top game in the NFC West over the last few seasons should see two phenomenal match ups this upcoming season. The 49ers all-around talent will be tough to deal with but the Rams offense will be looking for a bounce back season with star receiver Cooper Kupp back from injury.
2.49ers vs. Seahawks (11/23, 12/10)
Last season’s top two finishers in the NFC West will battle on Thanksgiving and just over two weeks later in December. The Seahawks less than potent offense will have to rely on receivers DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett to win these games against a terrific 49ers defense.
3.Rams vs. Seahawks (9/10, 11/19)
The likely battle for second place in the division will be between the Rams and Seahawks. If the Rams defense is able to stop the Seahawks offense, their high powered offense can win these games.
4.49ers vs. Cardinals (10/1, 12/17)
The Cardinals will have to rely on star QB Kyler Murray if they want to beat the talented 49ers. The lack of talented skill players for Arizona will surely lead to two San Francisco wins.
5.Rams vs. Cardinals (10/15, 11/26)
Arizona should hope for at least a single win over the Rams with LA’s inconsistencies last season. Their defense needs to be able to stop an LA offense that will be hard to stop deep into the season.

Top Interdivisional Games
1.49ers @ Eagles (12/3)
Top NFC East Interdivisional Games
2.Bengals @ 49ers (1o/29)
One of the 49ers toughest home tests is against Joe Burrow and the Bengals. San Francisco’s secondary will be tested against great receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins while Cincinnati’s defense will have to stop the running game of Christian McCaffrey.
3.Eagles @ Rams (10/8)
The Rams will be tested when the reigning NFC champion Eagles come to town. It will be up to LA’s defense to stop the high powered Philadelphia offense, led by Jalen Hurts, DeVonta Smith, and AJ Brown.
4.Rams @ Bengals (9/24)
An early road trip for the Rams to Cincinnati should be a difficult one for LA to handle. The Rams defensive line will test the unproven Bengals offensive line when they face off in a cross conference match up.
5.Seahawks @ Ravens (11/5)
A huge road game for Seattle in the middle of the season pits them against Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens. The Seahawks offense must be good if they want to go into Baltimore and win this one.

Awards
MVP: Christian McCaffrey, RB, San Franciso 49ers
2022 Stats: 244 rushes, 1139 yards, 8 TDs, 85 catches, 741 yards, 5 TDs
Offensive Player of the Year: Cooper Kupp, WR, Los Angeles Rams
2022 Stats: 75 catches, 812 yards, 6 TDs
Defensive Player of the Year: Nick Bosa, DE, San Francisco 49ers
2022 Stats: 41 tackles, 18.5 sacks, 2 FF
Coach of the Year: Kyle Shanahan, San Francisco 49ers

Top NFC Games
1.49ers @ Eagles (12/3)
2.Cowboys @ 49ers (10/1)
3.Cowboys vs. Eagles (11/5, 12/10)
4.49ers vs. Rams (9/17, 1/7)
5.49ers vs. Seahawks (11/23, 12/10)
6.Lions vs. Vikings (12/24, 1/7)
7.Vikings @ Eagles (9/17)
8.49ers @ Vikings (10/23)
9.Rams vs. Seahawks (9/10, 11/19)
10.Eagles vs. Giants (12/25, 1/7)

My Projected Playoff Bracket (Based off of my projected standings):

AFC
1.Kansas City Chiefs (14-3)
2.Baltimore Ravens (11-6)
3.Miami Dolphins (11-6)
4.Jacksonville Jaguars (10-7)
5.Cincinnati Bengals (10-7)
6.Buffalo Bills (10-7)
7.New York Jets (10-7)

The AFC runs through Kansas City until further notice. With the Chiefs appearing in the in last five AFC Championship games and winning two of the last four Super Bowls. Cincinnati, Buffalo, and Baltimore have been the toughest competition since the Chiefs won their first in the Patrick Mahomes era in 2020 but the Miami Dolphins and Jacksonville Jaguars have emerged with talent of their own as well.

NFC
1.Philadelphia Eagles (12-5)
2.San Francisco 49ers (12-5)
3.New Orleans Saints (10-7)
4.Detroit Lions (9-8)
5.Dallas Cowboys (11-6)
6.Los Angeles Rams (10-7)
7.Minnesota Vikings (8-9)

The Eagles are the overwhelming favorite to make it back to the Super Bowl in 2024 with QB Jalen Hurts, receivers AJ Brown and DeVonta Smith, and a terrific defense filled with veteran and young talent. I project the 49ers to tie the Eagles with their regular season record if they find the right QB between Trey Lance, Brock Purdy, or someone else. If not, New Orleans, who I have improving a ton with new QB Derek Carr in a terrible NFC South and Cowboys, Rams, Lions, and Vikings can compete for the 2024 NFC title and another Super Bowl appearance.

Playoff Projections

Wild Card Round (January 13-15)

AFC
2.Baltimore Ravens over 7.New York Jets
The Ravens will avoid a Wild Card upset in a win over the Jets instead of getting upset like they did as the one seed in the AFC in the winter of 2019.
3.Miami Dolphins over 6.Buffalo Bills
The Dolphins avenge a divisional round loss a year ago against division rival Buffalo.
5.Cincinnati Bengals over 4.Jacksonville Jaguars
With Joe Burrow likely back to full health, he would lead his offense to a field day over the Jaguars and a mini upset in Jacksonville.

NFC
2.San Francisco 49ers over 7.Minnesota Vikings
San Francisco knocks Minnesota out of the playoffs in the Wild Card round for the second consecutive season.
6.Los Angeles Rams over 3.New Orleans Saints
The play of Cooper Kupp and Aaron Donald will lead the Rams to upset the Saints.
5.Dallas Cowboys over 4.Detroit Lions
The Cowboys continue their success over the Lions with what would be their third consecutive Wuld Card victory.

Divisional Round (January 20-21)

AFC
1.Kansas City Chiefs over 5.Cincinnati Bengals
In a rematch of the last two season’s AFC Championship games, Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs would beat the Bengals and return to the AFC Championship game for the sixth consecutive time.
3.Miami Dolphins over 2.Baltimore Ravens
Miami upsets Baltimore with the help of their QB Tua Tagovailoa and their great defensive backfield led by Xavien Howard and Jalen Ramsey.

NFC
1.Philadelphia Eagles over 6.Los Angeles Rams
Philadelphia returns to the NFC Championship game with a dominant win over the Rams.
5.Dallas Cowboys over 2.San Francisco 49ers
The Cowboys upset the 49ers in a divisional round matchup from last season and return to the NFC Championship for the first time since 1996.

Conference Championship Round (January 28)

AFC
1.Kansas City Chiefs over 3.Miami Dolphins
Kansas City uses their terrific offense to upend their former star receiver Tyreek Hill and the upstart Dolphins.

NFC
1.Philadelphia Eagles over 5.Dallas Cowboys
In a huge NFC East rivalry, Philadelphia keeps the Cowboys from ending their Super Bowl drought with a great performance by QB Jalen Hurts and the Eagles’ terrific defensive front and secondary.

Super Bowl 58 (February 11)
1.Kansas City Chiefs vs. 1.Philadelphia Eagles
In a rematch of Super Bowl 57, Philadelphia finds a way to beat Kansas City and would keep them from winning a third Super Bowl in five opportunities.
Winner: 1.Philadelphia Eagles

Awards:
MVP: Jalen Hurts, QB, Philadelphia Eagles
2022 Stats: 306-460, 3701 yards, 22 TDs, 6 INT, 165 carries, 760 yards, 13 TDs
Offensive Player of the Year: Cooper Kupp, WR, Los Angeles Rams
2022 Stats: 75 catches, 812 yards, 6 TDs
Defensive Player of the Year: Nick Bosa, DE, 49ers
2022 Stats: 41 tackles, 18.5 sacks, 2 FF
Offensive Rookie of the Year: Bijan Robinson, RB, Atlanta Falcons
2022 Stats: 258 rushes, 1580 yards, 18 TDs, 19 catches, 314 yards, 2 TD (@ Texas)
Defensive Rookie of the Year: Will Anderson, OLB, Houston Texans
2022 Stats: 51 tackles, 17 TFL, 10 sacks (@ Alabama)
Comeback Player of the Year: Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Miami Dolphins
2022 Stats: 259-400, 3,548 yards, 25 TD, 8 INT, 24 carries, 70 yards
Coach of the Year: Andy Reed, Kansas City Chiefs

*All posts go live at 5 PM CT unless otherwise noted*

August 13
2023-2024 cbhsports NFL Preview (2 PM CT)

August 15
Will Arkansas football, basketball, or baseball win a(nother) national championship first? (2 PM CT)

August 19
2023-2024 cbhsports College Football Preview (2 PM CT)

August 31
2023-2024 cbhsports College Football 8/31-9/4 Preview

September 8
2023-2024 cbhsports College Football 9/9 Preview

September 15
2023-2024 cbhsports College Football 9/16 Preview

September 22
2023-2024 cbhsports College Football 9/23 Preview

September 29
2023-2024 cbhsports College Football 9/30 Preview

October 6
2023-2024 cbhsports College Football 10/7 Preview

October 13
2023-2024 cbhsports College Football 10/14 Preview

October 15
2023-2024 cbhsports NBA Preview (2 PM CT)

October 20
2023-2024 cbhsports College Football 10/21 Preview

October 27
2023-2024 cbhsports College Football 10/28 Preview

October 29
2023-2024 cbhsports College Basketball Preview (2 PM CT)

November 3
2023-2024 cbhsports College Football 11/4 Preview

November 5
2023-2024 cbhsports Arkansas basketball preview

November 9
2023 cbhsports Champions Classic Preview (and other top early season games)

November 10
2023-2024 cbhsports College Football 11/11 Preview

November 17
2023-2024 cbhsports College Football 11/18 Preview

November 19
2023 Feast Week Preview (2 PM CT)

November 22
2023-2024 cbhsports College Football 11/23-11/25 Preview (2 PM CT)

November 28
Arkansas/Duke headlines inaugural ACC/SEC Challenge

November 30
Kansas, Connecticut square off in match up of last two college basketball champs

December 1
2023-2024 cbhsports College Football Conference Championship Weekend Preview

December 3
Who will make the final four team CFP? (11 AM CT)

December 15
Previewing holiday play in college hoops (2 PM CT)

December 24
What a 12-team playoff would look like in college football in 2023-2024 (2 PM CT)

December 28
2023-2024 cbhsports College Football Playoff, New Year’s Six Preview (2 PM CT)

TBD
*Arkansas Bowl Preview* (2 PM CT)

*Every planned winter, spring, or summer blog post is tentative*

January 15
Big week coming in college hoops (2 PM CT)

February 2
Duke/UNC, Kansas/Houston headline weekend of hoops

February 9
Kentucky, Gonzaga square off in rare nonconference game in February

February 10
2024 cbhsports Super Bowl 58 Preview (5:30 PM CT)

February 15
2024 cbhsports Arkansas Baseball Preview 

February 17
2024 NCAA Bracket Preview Predictions (11 AM CT)

March 1
Huge first weekend of March looms in college basketball

March 8
Previewing the final weekend of the college hoops regular season 

March 11
2024 cbhsports College Basketball Conference Tournaments Preview (3/11-3/17)

March 18 or 19
2024 cbhsports men’s NCAA College Basketball Tournament East, Midwest, South, West, Region Preview Predictions (2 & 5 PM CT)

April 5
2024 cbhsports men’s NCAA College Basketball Tournament Final 4 Preview 

April 13
2024 cbhsports NBA Playoffs Preview (11 AM CT)

April 24
2024 cbhsports NFL Mock Draft

May 7
How the “Pac-2” will live on with Oregon State and Washington State

May 29
2024 NBA Finals Preview (2 PM CT)

May 30
2024 cbhsports NCAA College Baseball Regionals Predictions (2 PM CT)

May 31
2024 cbhsports Fayetteville Regional Preview (11 AM CT) *Only if Razorbacks host regional* (If they make the field I will preview the regional they are in)

June 6
2024 cbhsports NCAA College Baseball Super Regionals Predictions (2 PM CT)

June 7
2024 cbhsports Fayetteville Super Regional Preview (11 AM CT) *Only if Razorbacks host super regional* (If they make the supers, I will preview the super regional they are in)

June 13
2024 cbhsports NCAA College Baseball World Series Predictions (2 PM CT)

June 15
2024-2025 cbhsports Arkansas Football Preview (2 PM CT)

June 19
2024 cbhsports NBA Mock Draft (2 PM CT)

June 22
2024-2025 cbhsports Arkansas Football Preview: Nonconference slate (2 PM CT)

June 29
2024-2025 cbhsports Arkansas Football Preview: TBD, Texas A&M (2 PM CT)

July 1-July 31
2024 NBA Free Agency Posts

July 13
2024-2025 cbhsports Arkansas Football Preview: TBD (2 PM CT)

July 20
2024-2025 cbhsports Arkansas Football Preview: TBD (2 PM CT)

August 10
2024-2025 cbhsports post schedule *TENTATIVE* (2 PM CT)

August 11
2024-2025 cbhsports NFL Preview (2 PM CT)

Image Courtesy: Sporting News

After years of consideration, NBA commissioner Adam Silver has finally decided to bring an in-season tournament the league. Will this tournament be important enough to contending teams to win games?Based on the format below, there are pros and cons to that answer. Here is what the NBA’s announcement stated on their Instagram page: All 30 teams are divided into six groups of five teams. The groups were determined by draw based on each team’s 2022-2023 regular season record. “Tournament nights” will occur every Tuesday and Friday from November 3-28 (with the exception of November 7, Election Day, when no games will be played). Each team will play the four teams in its group once (two home games and two away games). All tournament games will count toward the regular season standings, except the championship round. The quarterfinals will take place on December 4-5 at the home city of the higher seed. The final four of the tournament is set for December 7 and December 9 in Las Vegas. Statistics will count for the league’s regular season except for the championship game of the event. Teams will be competing for the NBA Cup. The NBA will name the most valuable player of the in-season tournament and the all-tournament team. A prize pool will be allocated to the players on the teams that participate in the knockout rounds.

Groups:

Eastern Conference

A
Atlanta Hawks
Cleveland Cavaliers
Detroit Pistons
Indiana Pacers
Philadelphia 76ers

B
Charlotte Hornets
Miami Heat
Milwaukee Bucks
New York Knicks
Washignton Wizards

C
Boston Celtics
Brooklyn Nets
Chicago Cubs
Orlando Magic
Toronto Raptors

Western Conference

A
Los Angeles Lakers
Memphis Grizzlies
Phoenix Suns
Portland Trail Blazers
Utah Jazz

B
Dallas Mavericks
Denver Nuggets
Houston Rockets
Los Angeles Clippers
New Orleans Pelicans

C
Golden State Warriors
Minnesota Timberwolves
Oklahoma City Thunder
Sacramento Kings
San Antonio Spurs

The Final Four of the tournament is set for December 7 and December 9 in Las Vegas. Statistics will count for the league’s regular season except for the championship game of the event.

Image Courtesy: Arizona Sports

Following Colorado’s exit from the Pac-12 to return to the Big 12 last Thursday, many anticipated Arizona to follow suit. The Wildcats sure did make their move to the Big 12 a week later. But, they were also joined by instate rival Arizona State and Pac-12 foe Utah. In addition, the Big Ten finally gave offers to Oregon and Washington to join UCLA and USC as travel mates. So, the Pac-12 is down to just California, Oregon State, Stanford, and Washington State.

California and Stanford can hope for Big Ten invites only because of their terrific academics but Oregon State and Washington State can only wish for Mountain West membership or some sort of it. If not, the Bears and Cardinal will likely go independent in football and find different conference homes in other sports. Or, the two could deemphasize athletics, which seems likelier than it did before the mass exodus this past week. Oregon State’s baseball program has and will continue to be fantastic but that does not matter to school presidents because it does not bring the same amount of revenue as football or even basketball. Washington State has not been great in many sports athletically since former football coach Mike Leach left the program a few years ago.

Oregon and Washington are huge additions for the Big Ten because of their football brands. Adding Nike’s premiere school in Oregon and Seattle with Washington are big moves for the conference going forward in its pursuit to continue competing with the SEC to be the top league in the country. Like I mentioned, bringing the two programs alongside UCLA and USC now helps the four not have to play every away game 3,000 miles away. However, regional rivalries are completely gone following this move. Despite Oregon and Washington saying they want to continue their instate rivalries with Oregon State and Washington State, those programs will not want to face them annually when they are Mountain West or Mountain West equivalent programs.

The Big Ten and Pac-12’s premiere Rose Bowl Game is completely gone with the Pac-12 turned into the Pac-4. The Big Ten and Big 12 completely swallowed up every valuable property in the conference. So, what’s next? Does another Power 5 conference send a representative to the game? What about the new 12-team College Football Playoff with automatic bids to the top six conference champions. However, with a weakened Pac-4, it makes no sense to give them out in the next College Football Playoff contract that is signed.

The Big 12, Big Ten, and SEC are poised to take over college sports with Florida State, Clemson, and others wanting out of the ACC with the conference being $30 million behind in revenue per school.

Image Courtesy: SBNation

At the 2023 SEC Spring Meetings, the league decided to stay at eight conference games for the 2024 football season and create a one-year schedule model similar to the one the conference had in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. If the league were to make the next logical step and play nine conference games every season and from the 2025-2026 athletic season and beyond, here are Sports Illustrated’s projections for who those three permanent foes would be for every team in the conference:

Projected Permanent Opponents (according to me)
Alabama – Auburn, LSU, Tennessee
Alabama head coach Nick Saban is one of the proponents of why the league has remained at eight conference games for the 2024 season because he does not want these three top tier opponents, Auburn, LSU, and Tennessee, as mainstays on his schedule. But, he plays them every season anyway in the conference’s current format.

Arkansas – Missouri, Ole Miss, Texas
Arkansas makes sense with any of LSU, Missouri, Texas A&M, or new members Texas and Oklahoma. Missouri is the new rivalry the conference has assigned the Razorbacks when the Tigers entered the league over a decade ago and the Arkansas-Ole Miss games of late have been great. The Razorbacks drawing Texas is an obvious choice with the history between the two programs.

Auburn – Alabama, Georgia, Vanderbilt
Auburn should get Vanderbilt if they also draw top rivals Alabama and Georgia. With the improvement of the Vanderbilt program under Clark Lea, that may not be a free win every season anymore.

Florida – Georgia, Kentucky, Oklahoma
The only game Florida does not get from their historical rivalries is Tennessee. Georgia is an obvious choice to remain on the schedule annually while a potential rivalry with Oklahoma could be created with the both programs’ successes historically. The game the SEC could save annually for the Gators has to be LSU, which has been one of the league’s top cross-divisional games recently.

Georgia – Auburn, Florida, Kentucky
With Georgia’s success, they should have no problems with these three opponents. Auburn, Florida, and Kentucky have all had history with Georgia so they make sense playing every other season Athens but I could see South Carolina being another option for the Bulldogs year in and yer out.

Kentucky – Georgia, Mississippi State, South Carolina
Kentucky’s cross-divisional match up with Mississippi State survives into the division-less SEC while also maintaining SEC East rivals Georgia and South Carolina.

LSU – Alabama, Ole Miss, Texas A&M
The only game LSU truly wants on their calendar every season is Alabama. The Tigers also keep other SEC rivals Ole Miss and Texas A&M in this potential format. Arkansas, Florida, and Oklahoma also make sense as potential annual opponents for LSU.

Mississippi (Ole Miss) – Arkansas, LSU, Mississippi State
The Egg Bowl has to stick around on Thanksgiving while annual games between SEC rivals Arkansas and LSU will stick on the schedule. Vanderbilt also makes sense as an annual opponent for the Rebels.

Mississippi State – Kentucky, Ole Miss, Texas A&M
Ole Miss is a must keep on the schedule for the Bulldogs but outside of the Rebels it is uncertain who their other two permanent foes would be. Annual SEC East division foe Kentucky and SEC West foe Texas A&M are the suggested by Sports Illustrated but I could see any number of opponents making it to Starkville every other season.

Missouri – Arkansas, Oklahoma, Vanderbilt
Missouri keeps “The Battle Line Rivalry” with Arkansas, reignites an old Big 12 tilt with Oklahoma, and an SEC East battle with Vanderbilt. This is a favorable three for Missouri to go forward with in the new look SEC.

Oklahoma – Florida, Missouri, Texas
The Sooners keep their annual date with Texas in Dallas the first weekend of October at the Texas State Fair while getting back old Big 12 game against Missouri but a new match up with Florida. Texas A&M makes sense as a permanent foe with the Sooners and Aggies’ histories in the Big 12. Arkansas makes sense for Oklahoma as well with the two schools being separated by just over 192 miles.

South Carolina – Florida, Kentucky, Tennessee
Florida, Kentucky, and Tennessee all stay on South Carolina’s schedule in this projected format as they avoid a tough match up with Georgia every season. The Bulldogs could sneak their way onto South Carolina’s schedule permanently though.

Tennessee – Alabama, South Carolina, Vanderbilt
The third Saturday of October rivalry with Alabama should be kept on the schedule annually as well as the annual Thanksgiving rivalry with Vanderbilt and the regional match up with South Carolina.

Texas – Arkansas, Oklahoma, Texas A&M
The Longhorns perfect three are these three opponents. The “Lone Star Showdown” resumes presumably during Thanksgiving weekend joining Oklahoma across the state in Dallas annually. Texas will want to avenge a 40-21 drubbing at the hands of Arkansas in 2021 when they head to Fayetteville in 2024 and potentially host them again in 2025 under a nine game model.

Texas A&M – LSU, Mississippi State, Texas
Most notably, the “Lone Star Showdown” returns as two programs look to each capture their first SEC football titles, with coaches that still have a lot to prove, including the Aggies’ Jimbo Fisher and the Longhorns’ Steve Sarkisian. The LSU rivalry has seen some great games the last decade since the Aggies joined the league and Mississippi State remains on the schedule as well.

Vanderbilt – Auburn, Tennessee, Missouri
Tennessee is the only obvious mainstay on the Commodores’ schedule. Auburn and Missouri join the Volunteers. The SEC could go a lot of ways with Vanderbilt’s two other permanent opponents.

Annual foes in basketball may not get as much chatter as the football ones but with the league’s improvement in the sport with Alabama, Arkansas, and Tennessee each making tournament runs over the last three seasons make them interesting. In the new format on the hardwood, each season a team will play two permanent opponents home and away, one rotating opponent home and away, plus the 12 remaining teams in single contests either home or away, for a total of 18 conference games. Here are my projections for each SEC team’s future permanent basketball conference foes:

Alabama – Auburn, LSU
Alabama has a lot of history with Auburn as their main rival with the Tide being ranked number one in the AP Poll for some of last season and Auburn during the 2021-2022 campaign. The Tide also have had great battles with LSU, especially deep into the SEC Tournament in the springs of 2021 and 2022.

Arkansas – Missouri, Oklahoma
Arkansas’ recent series with Oklahoma in Tulsa makes me think the SEC will pit the two against each other in a home and home annually. The Arkansas-Missouri series has been fantastic of late between the Razorbacks’ Eric Musselman and the Tigers’ Cuonzo Martin and now Dennis Gates.

Auburn – Alabama, Georgia
Auburn’s historic rivalries with Alabama and Georgia will remain permanently on the Tigers’ schedule. Alabama and Auburn’s programs have been fantastic of late and so have their games against each other while Auburn has handled Georgia of late as their program is rebuilt under upcoming second year head coach Mike White.

Florida – Georgia, Kentucky
Florida’s rivalry with Kentucky is one of the top match ups in the SEC every season and competitiveness between Todd Golden’s team and John Calipari’s team should continue to improve as the Gators get better under their new head coach. The Florida-Georgia series should always stay on the schedule with the long history between the two programs.

Georgia – Auburn, Florida
Georgia’s natural rivalries with Auburn and Florida make sense for Mike White’s team in the new SEC. Their two permanent rivals do look like they are currently better programs than the Bulldogs but things do look better under the younger coaching staff.

Kentucky – Florida, Tennessee
John Calipari’s team gets four tough match ups a year with Florida and Tennessee coming to Rupp and the Wildcats having to travel to Gainesville and Knoxville, two of the SEC’s toughest places to play.

LSU – Alabama, Texas A&M
LSU will have to improve under Matt McMahon with four difficult games a year against Alabama and Texas A&M, who are both trending up as programs.

Mississippi (Ole Miss) – Mississippi State, Missouri
Keeping cross state rival Mississippi State on the schedule is obvious for Rebels. Missouri was one of Ole Miss’ permanent foes in the current format so we could potentially see many Chris Beard-Dennis Gates battles twice a year in the future.

Mississippi State – Missouri, South Carolina
The Bulldogs keep their Egg Bowl rivalry with Ole Miss on the hardwood. They also get South Carolina, who was a permanent foe for the Bulldogs under the format introduced before the 2015-16 season.

Missouri – Arkansas, Mississippi State
The Tigers hate Arkansas so keeping Eric Musselman and the Razorbacks on the schedule is obvious. Future coaching battles between Dennis Gates and Chris Jans will be phenomenal, too.

Oklahoma – Arkansas, Texas
Oklahoma must keep their annual games with Texas on the schedule annually. They also get to face Arkansas every season, as their campuses are under 200 miles apart.

South Carolina – Mississippi State, Vanderbilt
The Gamecocks’ coach Lamont Paris gets regional rival Vanderbilt and a hard nosed Mississippi State team to build the program back up every season. The Commodores are two games South Carolina can win every season while the match ups with the Bulldogs might be more difficult.

Tennessee – Kentucky, Vanderbilt
Tennessee gets its instate rivalry with Vanderbilt in addition to facing off with Kentucky every season in Rupp and at home in Thompson-Boiling Arena. Both of those rivalries are hostile and will continue to grow in the SEC.

Texas – Oklahoma, Texas A&M
The Longhorns and Aggies must return to the hardwood annually with the two back in the same conference. Oklahoma must stay on the schedule as well as both programs transition into the SEC.

Texas A&M – LSU, Texas
Texas A&M’s decade of playing LSU as conference opponents keep it on the schedule. The Lone Star Showdown will return to College Station in 2025 as well.

Vanderbilt – South Carolina, Tennessee
A continuing home and home with Tennessee will be difficult every season but South Carolina should be manageable to at least get a win over the Gamecocks in two opportunities annually.

Baseball permanent opponents were in the rearview mirror when it came to the media and the fans thinking about it compared to football and basketball. Some teams in the SEC have different rivalries than they do in football, basketball, and other sports while others maintain the same ones. The conference’s baseball Starting in the spring of 2025, the SEC baseball schedule will include two permanent opponents for two series a year and eight more rotating series. Here are my projections for each SEC team’s future permanent baseball conference foes:

Alabama – Auburn, Ole Miss
Alabama will always keep Auburn on the schedule annually. However, the next permanent opponent on the Crimson Tide’s schedule is questionable. I picked Ole Miss but it could be any of LSU, Ole Miss, Tennessee with baseball history between all of those four.

Arkansas – LSU, Texas A&M
One could argue Arkansas’ biggest baseball rival is LSU, Ole Miss, or Mississippi State. I picked LSU as Arkansas’ main baseball and had to make some changes to my projections and ended up with Texas A&M as the other one. Arkansas head coach Dave Van Horn and A&M head coach Jim Schlossnagle have a lot of history not only meeting as SEC opponents since Schloss took over A&M ahead of the 2021 season but also during his time at TCU when the Razorbacks and Horned Frogs met in the 2019 Fayetteville Regional.

Auburn – Alabama, Georgia
Butch Thompson has Auburn consistently hosting regionals now in the SEC. The obvious rivalry pairing for Auburn throughout this post has been Alabama and Georgia for the Tigers. Recently, Auburn has been the better baseball program than the Crimson Tide and Bulldogs, something they do not currently hold in football over those two schools.

Florida – Georgia, South Carolina
Battles between Florida head coach Kevin O’Sullivan, Georgia head coach Wes Johnson, and South Carolina head coach Mark Kingston should be fantastic between the rivals. O’Sullivan, Johnson, and Kingston have a lot of history in the SEC so Florida is set when it comes to their baseball rivals.

Georgia – Auburn, Florida
Georgia’s rivarlies with Auburn and Florida were obvious picks to remain on their schedule for me with Wes Johnson coming in as their new head coach.

Kentucky – Missouri, Tennessee
Kentucky will get a tough series with Tony Vitello’s Tennessee club but should handle Missouri annually. The Wildcats hosted a regional in this year’s NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2017.

LSU – Arkansas, Mississippi State
With the history between LSU and Arkansas and Mississippi State, they were obvious picks to remain on the Tigers’ schedule. However, the familiarity between LSU and Ole Miss’ programs as natural rivals makes me think the Rebels could be in play for the “Bayou Bengals” as well.

Mississippi (Ole Miss) – Alabama, Mississippi State
Ole Miss will get a series with Mississippi State every year. However, Alabama is not a natural baseball rivalry for them. Mike Bianco, the head coach of the Rebels, attended LSU. The games between the Rebels and Tigers should stay on the schedule.

Mississippi State – LSU, Ole Miss
The Egg Bowl in baseball will stay put with Ole Miss for the Bulldogs as well as LSU in my projection. Arkansas is another program that has competed well with Mississippi State so they could be an option as well.

Missouri – Kentucky, Oklahoma
Missouri baseball has not been great as of late. They rarely appear in the NCAA Tournament. The Oklahoma series should return from the old Big 12 for the Tigers. Kentucky is another competitive team that could be on their schedule annually as well.

Oklahoma – Missouri, Texas
The Sooners will keep their rivalry with Texas going as they move into the SEC as well as renewing an old conference match up with Missouri in the Big 12. Oklahoma will look to return to the College World Series in 2024 after making it all the way to the finals in 2022.

South Carolina – Florida, Vanderbilt
Mark Kingston’s club gets two difficult series wins in Florida and Vanderbilt every season. The Gators and Commodores have two of the best programs in the country so the SEC may slide them an easier opponent that is not of those two.

Tennessee – Kentucky, Vanderbilt
Tennessee’s annual series with Vanderbilt is always a dandy with how good the two programs have been over the past few seasons. Kentucky is an up and coming team that Tennessee will likely have to deal with as well.

Texas – Oklahoma, Texas A&M
Texas and Texas A&M have played a few times in nonconference play over the last few seasons. But it will not be the same as when the two lock up again deep into SEC play, beginning in 2025. Oklahoma should also stay on the Longhorns schedule annually as well.

Texas A&M – Arkansas, Texas
The Aggies will get the Texas series back every season in addition to Arkansas. LSU also makes sense here with the games between those programs being very good.

Vanderbilt – South Carolina, Tennessee
Series between Tim Corbin’s Commodores and Tony Vitello’s Volunteers always have meaning for the postseason in the SEC and nationally. Vanderbilt keeping South Carolina on the schedule every year also makes sense with the great history between those two programs.

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The Colorado athletic department officially announced they were headed back to the Big 12 for the 2024-2025 academic year and athletic season late Thursday afternoon. The Buffaloes’ board of regents met on Wednesday night and unanimously approved the move to return to the conference they called home from 1996-2011. The move comes after fellow Pac-12 members UCLA and USC announcing their move to the Big Ten for 2024-2025 and Pac-12 commissioner George Kliavkoff’s inability to find a new partner for the conference’s next media rights deal. The conference’s current deal with ESPN is set to end as the 2023-2024 athletic season wraps up. Kliavkoff refused to discuss the conference’s plans about the deal at last Friday’s Pac-12 football media day which was likely the last straw for the Buffaloes.

The Buffaloes departed from the same Big 12 twelve years ago because of the power Oklahoma, Texas, and Texas A&M had in the conference in addition to the thought that the three could leave the conference, which happened in the following years. Colorado brings a football program that moves the needle with a superstar roster manager in Deion Sanders and an improving men’s basketball program. That leaves the question, who is next to join the Big 12? The conference won’t stay at 13 members so it is a valuable question to ask. It has been reported that Arizona and Connecticut have been in contact with the conference. The Wildcats and Huskies are likely the top two options for the conference as commissioner Brett Yormark look to dominate the sport of basketball. If Arizona exits for the Big 12, there is not much Kliavkoff can do to save themselves from collapse even with the brands of Oregon and Washington still in the conference.

It will be interesting to see what happens in the coming days, weeks, and months in this new era of college conference realignment.