Author: Carter Huff

Projected Starting Lineup

**=Returning Starter

Offense 
QB:*Will Rogers, Sophomore*
RB:*Jo’quavorious Marks, Sophomore*
WR1:*Jaden Walley, Sophomore*
WR2:*Austin Williams, Senior*
WR3:*Malik Heath, Senior*
WR4:Makai Polk, Junior
LT:*Charles Cross, Sophomore*
LG:LaQuinston Sharp, Senior
C:*Cole Smith, Junior*
RG:*Kwatrivious Johnson, Junior*
RT:Scott Lashley, Senior

Defense
DE:Randy Charlton, Junior
DT:Cameron Young, Junior
DE:*Jaden Crumedy, Junior*
OLB:*Tyrus Wheat, Senior*
MLB:Nathaniel Watson, Junior
LB:*Aaron Brule, Junior*
CB:*Martin Emerson, Junior*
CB:*Emmanuel Forbes, Sophomore*
SS:*Collin Duncan, Junior*
FS:Jalen Green, Senior

Special Teams
K:*Brandon Ruiz, Senior*
P:*Tucker Day, Senior*
KR:Lideatrick Griffin, Sophomore
PR:Lideatrick Griffin, Sophomore

Returning Production:
Mississippi State returns QB Will Rogers, running back Jo’quavorious Marks, multiple receivers, and most of their defense.

New Starters:
Mississippi State replaces their left guard and right tackle as well as their safety and most of their defensive line.

Schedule Preview

Louisiana Tech (9/4)
Louisiana Tech has been one of the better group of five teams in recent memory but the bulldogs should handle business at home. Projected Score: Mississippi State 38, Louisiana Tech 24

NC State (9/11)
NC State’s tough defense will make it hard for Mississippi State to sustain back to back scoring drives. This will be a tough game for both squads. Projected Score: NC State 24, Mississippi State 20

at.Memphis (9/18)
Another talented group of five team should give Mississippi State everything it can handle. Projected Score: Mississippi State 38, Memphis 31

LSU (9/25)
LSU will get revenge on Mississippi State following last year’s debacle where they became the first team in year’s to lose their opener following a national championship. Mississippi State will keep it competitive though. Projected Score: LSU 31, Mississippi State 17

Texas A&M (10/2)
Texas A&M, due to recruiting nearly as well as Alabama, Georgia, and LSU, has upped their talent level tremendously since joining the Big 12. Mississippi State will try to make it a trap game for the Aggies but they will fail doing so. Projected Score:Texas A&M 38, Mississippi State 27

Alabama (10/16)
Mississippi State will not be able to compete with Alabama’s talent, it will just be too much . Projected Score: Alabama 38, Mississippi State 13

at.Vanderbilt (10/23)
Vandy may be able to score, but they won’t be able to stop Mississippi State’s offense. Projected Score: Mississippi State 45, Vanderbilt 24

Kentucky (10/30)
Kentucky is going to be no joke this season. Can Mississippi State turn this into a trap game at home for the wildcats? We will have to wait and see. Projected Score: Kentucky 27, Mississippi State 24

at.Arkansas (11/6)
A year ago in this match up, Arkansas got its first SEC win in three years. This match up is perceived to be for the sixth and seventh spots in the SEC West but both fanbases and teams think they can do better. It’ll be a good one in Fayetteville. Projected Score: Arkansas 24, Mississippi State 21

at.Auburn (11/13)
Both Auburn and Mississippi State need wins here to even have a shot at a blow berth. Both teams need to make a statement. Auburn gets a blowout win. Projected Score: Auburn 49, Mississippi State 28

Tennessee State (11/20)
Easy win. Projected Score: Mississippi State 56, Tennessee State 14

Ole Miss (11/25)
The Egg Bowl is always a good one on Thanksgiving. Lane Kiffin versus Mike Leach number two. Projected Score: Mississippi State 49, Ole Miss 42

Projected Record: 5-7 (2-6) SEC

Incoming 2021 Recruits (per 247sports) 
133.Sawyer Robertson, QB, Lubbock,TX Cornado
244.John Lewis, LB, Madison,MS Germantown

Projected Starting Lineup

**= Returning Starter

Offense 
QB:*Matt Corral, Junior*
RB:*Jerrion Ealy, Junior*
WR1:Breylon Sanders, Senior
WR2:*Dontario Drummond, Senior*
WR3:*Jonathan Mingo, Junior*
TE:Casey Kelly, Sophomore
LT:Offense 
QB:*Matt Corrall, Junior*
RB:*Jerrion Ealy, Junior*
WR1:Breylon Sanders, Senior
WR2:*Dontario Drummond, Senior*
WR3:*Jonathan Mingo, Junior*
TE:Casey Kelly, Sophomore
LT:*Nick Broeker, Junior*
LG:*Caleb Warning, Sophomore*
C:*Ben Brown, Senior*
RG:Cedric Melton, Freshman
RT:*Jeremy James, Sophomore(

Defense
DE:Tariqious Tisdale, Senior
DT:Isaiah Iton, Sophomore
DT:Quinten Bivens, Junior
DE:Sam Williams, Senior
OLB:*Jacquez Jones, Senior
MLB:*Lakia Henry, Senior*
OLB:Otis Reese, Senior
CB:*Keidron Smith, Senior*
CB:Deane Leonard, Senior
SS:Jake Springer, Senior
FS:*AJ Finley, Junior*

Special Teams
K:Caden Costa, Freshman
P:*Mac Brown, Senior*
KR:*Jerrion Ealy, Junior*
PR:*Dontario Drummond, Junior*

Returning Production:
Ole Miss’ starting backfield of QB Matt Corral and RB Jerrion Ealy returns as well as most of the offensive line and linebacking core.

New Starters:
Breylon Sanders walks into Elijah Moore’s crucial receiver one role. But the bigger weakness for Ole Miss is its defense. Its entire defensive line and part of its secondary are inexperienced.

Louisville (Atlanta) (9/6)
In the annual primetime ESPN/ABC game on Labor Day, Ole Miss should win a close one. Projected Score: Ole Miss 49, Louisville 35

Austin Peay (9/11)
Easy one for the Rebels. Projected Score: Ole Miss 63, Austin Peay 14

Tulane (9/18)
Tulane is a better team than many people think but Ole Miss shouldn’t have too much trouble. Projected Score: Ole Miss 56, Tulane 21

at.Alabama (10/2)
Alabama gave up the most yards in their history when they went to Oxford a season ago. They will definitely have a chip on their shoulder when they host Ole Miss on my birthday. Projected Score: Alabama 56, Ole Miss 42

Arkansas (10/9)
Arkansas picked off Matt Corral six times a season ago. Ole Miss will look to get revenge at home.
Projected Score: Ole Miss 55, Arkansas 42

at.Tennessee (10/16)
With Tennessee hiring yet another new coach, Ole Miss shouldn’t have many problems here. Projected Score: Ole Miss 38, Tennessee 17

LSU (10/23)
The big question in this game is if LSU can score with Ole Miss. If they can, this game will be very interesting.
Projected Score: Ole Miss 49, LSU 38

at.Auburn (10/30)
Even if Auburn has a new head coach in Bryan Harsin, they will be competitive. This game should set up as a trap game for Ole Miss, but if they control the game with their offense, they should have nothing to worry about.
Projected Score: Ole Miss 27, Auburn 21

Liberty (11/6)
Ole Miss hosts former head coach Hugh Freeze and Liberty. It will be two high-powered offenses facing off in this one. Projected Score: Ole Miss 45, Liberty 35

Texas A&M (11/13)
Texas A&M should be Alabama’s biggest challenger in the SEC West. The way A&M head coach Jimbo Fisher has recruited it should be that way. Projected Score: Texas A&M 38, Ole Miss 28

Vanderbilt (11/20)
Ole Miss should crush Vanderbilt. Projected Score: Ole Miss 59, Vanderbilt 28

at.Mississippi State (11/25)
Mike Leach versus Lane Kiffin part two. Popcorn. The Egg Bowl is always so close. I expect this one to be no different. Projected Score: Mississippi State 49, Ole Miss 42

Projected Record: 9-3 (5-3) SEC

Incoming 2021 Recruits (per 247sports) 
62.Tywone Malone, DT, Oradell,NJ Bergen Catholic
117.Bralon Brown, WR, Fort Lauderdale,FL St. Thomas Aquinas
192.Luke Altmyer, QB, Starkville,MS Starkville
219.Hudson Wolfe, TE, Hardin County Savannah,TN

Projected Starting Lineup

**=Returning Starter

Offense 
QB: Max Johnson, Sophomore
RB: *John Emery Jr., Junior*
WR1: *Kayshon Boutte, Sophomore*
WR2: Koy Moore, Sophomore
WR3: Trey Palmer, Junior
TE: Kole Taylor, Sophomore
LT: *Dare Rosenthal, RS Junior*
LG: *Ed Ingram, Senior*
C: Liam Shanahan, Senior
RG: *Chasen Hines, Senior*
RT: Austin Deculus, Senior

Defense
DE: Ali Gaye, Senior
DT: *Neil Farrell Jr., Senior*
DT: *Glen Logan, Senior*
DE: Andre Anthony, Senior
OLB: *Micah Baskerville, Senior*
MLB: Noventeque Strong, Sophomore
OLB: Mike Jones Jr., Sophomore
CB: *Derek Stingley Jr., Junior*
CB: *Eli Ricks, Sophomore*
SS: *Todd Harris Jr., RS Senior*
FS: *Jay Ward, Junior*

Special Teams
K: *Cade York, Junior*
P: Peyton Todd, Freshman
KR: *Trey Palmer, Junior*
PR: *Derek Stingley Jr., Junior*

Returning Production:
Running back John Emery and receiver Kayshon Boutte will be the two best players on the tiger offense next season. The defensive backfield, though, might be the most talented of any part of the team. Likely top three pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, cornerback Derek Stingley, is the best defensive back in the country and maybe the best overall player in the country. LSU also returns Farrell and Logan, to starting defensive tackles.

New Starters:
A season ago, everyone expected Myles Brennan to be the successor to Joe Burrow at the QB spot. But, Brennan got hurt. Now, it is Max Johnson, the to be sophomore’s job to lose. Brennan still has a shot at the job, but expect it to be Johnson come opening day. LSU adds transfer linebackers Strong and Jones to the mix.

Schedule Preview

at.UCLA (9/4)
Chip Kelly has UCLA improving but this LSU team is talented enough to make it back to the College Football Playoff. Projected Score: LSU 35, UCLA 21

McNeese (9/11)
LSU dominates. Projected Score: LSU 56, McNeese 7

Central Michigan (9/18)
LSU dominates again. Projected Score: LSU 49, Central Michigan 17

at.Mississippi State (9/25)
Coming off of a national championship entering last season, LSU lost to Mississippi State in each team’s first game of the season. This time, LSU handles Mississippi State. Projected Score: LSU 31, Mississippi State 17

Auburn (10/2)
Auburn could potentially start TJ Finley at QB next season, who started at LSU last season. Thus, a revenge game could come into place. Either way, I see the result of this game being pretty obvious. Projected Score: LSU 38, Auburn 14

at.Kentucky (10/9)
Two teams that will be very good in 2021. Projected Score: LSU 38, Kentucky 28

Florida (10/16)
LSU took Florida’s CFP chances away. Florida may remember that, but at this point in the season, LSU doesn’t want their chances taken away. Projected Score: LSU 31, Florida 10

at.Ole Miss (10/23)
Can LSU score with Ole Miss? We will have to see. Projected Score: Ole Miss 49, LSU 38

at.Alabama (11/6)
LSU will not come into Tuscaloosa and beat them at Bryant Denny back to back times. Nick Saban and the Tide will definitely not let that happen. Projected Score: Alabama 45, LSU 20

Arkansas (11/13)
An old rivalry is renewed. Hogs. Tigers. LSU will be much better in 2021 compared to where they were in 2020, only beating Arkansas by 3. Projected Score: LSU 34, Arkansas 24

ULM (11/20)
LSU dominates. Projected Score: LSU 56, ULM 13

Texas A&M (11/27)
This game should be for second place in the SEC West assuming Alabama continues its dominance. If Texas A&M can figure out their QB spot, they will be a tough challenge. Both programs have recruited stride for stride. It will definitely be a good one. Projected Score: Texas A&M 35, LSU 31

Projected Score: 9-3 (6-3) SEC

Incoming 2021 Recruits (per 247sports) 
19.Maason Smith, DT, Houma,LA (Terrebone)
29.Sage Ryan, S, Lafayette,LA (Lafayette Christian)
64.Derrick Davis Jr., S, Monroeville,PA (Gateway)
69.Deion Smith, WR, Jackson,MS (Jackson Academy)
78.Chris Hilton, WR, Zachary,LA (Zachary)
83.Garrett Nussmeir, QB, Flower Mound,TX (Marcus)
88.Brian Thomas Jr., WR, Walker,LA (Walker)
90.Garrett Dellinger, OT, Clarkston,MI (Clarkston)
94.Armoni Goodwin, RB, Trussville,AL (Hewitt-Trussville)
124.Landon Jackson, DE, Texarkana,TX (Pleasant Grove)
158.Bryce Langston, DE/DT, Ocala,FL (Vanguard)
161.Saivion Jones, DE, Saint James,LA (Saint James)
187.Damarius McGhee, CB, Pensacola,FL (Pensacola Catholic)
212.Greg Penn III, LB, Hyattsville,MD (DeMatha Catholic)
214.Xavier Carter, LB, Atlanta,GA (Hapeville Charter)
258.Malik Nabers, WR, Youngsville,LA (Southside)

Indiana and Notre Dame will meet up for the first time on the football gridiron since 1991, with scheduled match ups in 2030 and 2031. The two will open up the 2030 season at Notre Dame Stadium on August 31 and then head to Bloomington on September 27, 2031. Despite the fact that the two are in the same state, they have never played in the same conference. Unless Notre Dame’s seemingly stagnant contract ends with the ACC, it seems unlikely the Irish will go back to their roots, join instate foes Indiana and Purdue, and play regionally in the Big Ten anytime soon.

Former Michigan QB Joe Milton, who had been in the transfer portal since February, has committed to transferring to Tennessee. Once he graduates in May, he will be eligible for the Vols in the 2021 season. Despite being the starter in Ann Arbor in 2020 and throwing for 1,077 yards in five games including four touchdowns and four interceptions, Milton opted to transfer. He will join Tennessee with three years after an aforementioned graduation and will begin his studies in Knoxville with the summer semester.

You can find everything about the 2021 NCAA Transfer Portal for football here.

Projected Starting Lineup

**=Returning Starter

Offense 
QB:Joey Gatewood, Junior
RB:*Chris Roudriguez, Sophomore*
WR1:Wandale Robinson, Junior
WR2:*Josh Ali, Senior*
WR3:*Isaiah Epps, Senior*
TE:*Justin Rigg, Senior*
LT:*Darian Kinnard, Senior*
LG:*Luke Fortner, RS Senior*
C:*Quintin Wilson, RS Junior*
RG:*Austin Dotson, RS Senior*
RT:Jeremy Flax, Sophomore

Defense
DE:Isaiah Gibson, RS Sophomore
NT:*Marquan McCall, Senior*
DT:*Josh Pascal, RS Senior*
DE:*Jordan Wright, RS Senior*
OLB:*DeAndre Square, Senior*
MLB:Marquez Bembry, Junior
OLB:JJ Weaver, Sophomore
CB:Carrington Valentine, Sophomore
CB:*Cedric Dort Jr., RS Senior*
SS:*Tyrell Aijan, RS Senior*
FS:*Yusuf Corker, RS Senior*

Special Teams
K:*Matt Ruffolo, RS Senior*
P:Berry Wilson, Freshman
KR: *Zach Johnson, RS Senior*
PR: *Josh Ali, RS Senior*

Returning Production:
The Wildcats are loaded with returning talent on the offensive line, front seven, and special teams. That should be the groundwork for a team that finishes high in the SEC.

New Starters:
It will either be junior Joey Gatewood or freshman Beau Allen as the starter. I projected former Auburn transfer Joey Gatewood as the starter. Talented Nebraska transfer Wan’Dale Robinson joins Kentucky as one of the best receivers in the country. Kentucky should have one of the most underrated groups of skill position players in the league.

Schedule Preview

UL-Monroe (9/4)
Kentucky is definitely a team that can compete in the SEC East. Thus, this game should be close to a cakewalk for Kentucky. Projected Score: Kentucky 42, ULM 14

Missouri (9/11)
Many think this game’s winner will finish third in the SEC East. Kentucky’s defense leads them to a win. Projected Score: Kentucky 35, Missouri 31

UT-Chattanooga (9/18)
Kentucky easily wins this one. Projected Score: Kentucky 52, UT-Chattanooga 13

at.South Carolina (9/25)
Kentucky blows out South Carolina. Projected Score: Kentucky 35, South Carolina 10

Florida (10/2)
This game, hypothetically after Kentucky beats Missouri, would likely be for second place in the SEC East. And it will be a treat. Projected Score: Kentucky 31, Florida 24

LSU (10/9)
LSU will be much improved from 2020, thus this game will be a fun one to watch. Projected Score: LSU 38, Kentucky 28

at.Georgia (10/16)
Kentucky might finish second in the SEC East. That is how good Kentucky is especially on defense. However, they are not nearly as good as Georgia. Projected Score: Georgia 38, Kentucky 28

at.Mississippi State (10/30)
This game could present itself as a trap game for Kentucky even with a hypothetical 3-2 SEC record up until this point. Getting a win in “Stark Vegas” would be huge because it would break a two-game losing streak. Projected Score: Kentucky 27, Mississippi State 24

Tennessee (11/6)
Under first-year coach Josh Heupel, Kentucky might overlook Tennessee. Projected Score: Kentucky 28, Tennessee 17

at.Vanderbilt (11/13)
Easy win for Kentucky. Projected Score: Kentucky 49, Vanderbilt 17

New Mexico State (11/20)
Another easy one for the Wildcats. Projected Score: Kentucky 52, New Mexico State 7

at.Louisville (11/27)
After taking a year off from this game because of COVID-19, the bluegrass rivalry is set to return. This game should be very close as others programs move toward likely bowl games in the following weeks. Projected Score: Kentucky 31, Louisville 28

Projected Record: 10-2 (6-2) SEC

Incoming 2021 Recruits (per 247sports) 
137.Jager Burton, IOL, Lexington,KY (Frederick Douglass)

Projected Starting Lineup

**=Returning Starter

Offense 
QB: *JT Daniels, RS Junior*
RB: *Zamir White, RS Junior*
WR1: Arik Gilbert, Sophomore
WR2: Jermaine Burton, Sophomore
WR3: Kearis Jackson, RS Junior
TE: *Darnell Washington, Sophomore*
LT: Xavier Truss, RS Sophomore
LG: *Jamaree Salyer, Senior*
C: Warren Ericson, RS Junior*
RG: *Justin Shaffer, Senior*
RT: Warren McClendon, RS Sophomore

Defense
DE: *Travon Walker, Junior*
NT: *Jordan Davis, Senior*
DT: Devonte Wyatt, Senior
OLB: *Nolan Smith, Junior*
OLB: *Nakobe Dean, Junior*
MLB: *Quay Walker, Senior*
OLB: *Adam Anderson, Senior*
CB: Jalen Kimber, RS Freshman
CB: *Ameer Speed, RS Senior*
SS: *Christopher Smith, Senior*
FS: *Lewis Cine, Junior*

Special Teams
K: *Jake Camarda, Senior*
P: *Jack Podelsny, RS Junior*
KR: Kearis Jackson, RS Junior
PR: Kearis Jackson, RS Junior

Returning Production:
Former USC transfer JT Daniels returns for his first full season as the starter at QB. Running back Zamir White and tight end Darnell Washington are two of the best returning offensive players in the SEC. Georgia also returns one of the best defenses in the SEC, making it hard to imagine Georgia will not make it to at least the SEC championship.

New Starters:
LSU transfer tight end Arik Gilbert is the best high school tight end ever according to every recruiting site back in 2020. Gilbert improves an already talented but young receiving core.

Schedule Preview

Clemson (Charlotte) (9/4)
If Georgia is legit, they will prove it in Charlotte. This is the best regular season matchup in my opinion during the college football playoff era. Projected Score: Georgia 42, Clemson 38

UAB (9/11)
UAB is no joke but Georgia is too talented. Projected Score: Georgia 52, UAB 28

South Carolina (9/18)
South Carolina is in a new era with Shane Beamer as their new head coach. Thus, they are too far away from beating Georgia. Projected Score: Georgia 45, South Carolina 13

at.Vanderbilt (9/25)
Another easy win for Georgia. Projected Score: Georgia 59, Vanderbilt 17

Arkansas (10/2)
While Arkansas is not a pushover, Georgia should get their third easy win in a row. Projected Score: Georgia 38, Arkansas 21

at.Auburn (10/9)
Georgia should handle Auburn fairly easily but this one is on the plains so it could be a trap game. Projected Score: Georgia 34, Auburn 17

Kentucky (10/16)
Kentucky might finish second in the SEC East. That is how good Kentucky is especially on defense. However, they are not nearly as good as Georgia. Projected Score: Georgia 38, Kentucky 28

Florida (Jacksonville) (10/30)
Georgia will win this game. Projected Score: Georgia 42, Florida 27

Missouri (11/6)
Missouri can score points but Georgia will score more. Projected Score: Georgia 49, Missouri 45

at.Tennessee (11/13)
Similar to the South Carolina game, Tennessee will be in their first year under new head coach Josh Heupel. This game could set up as a trap game but the amount of talent Georgia has will not let it happen. Projected Score: Georgia 38, Tennessee 10

Charleston Southern (11/20)
Georgia should destroy Charleston Southern. Projected Score: Georgia 42, Charleston Southern 17

at.Georgia Tech (11/27)
Georgia Tech is not nearly as talented as Georgia. Georgia wins easily. Projected Score: Georgia 38, Georgia Tech 14

Incoming 2021 Recruits (per 247sports) 
7.Amarius Mims, OT, Cochran,GA (Bleckley County)
16.Brock Vandagriff, QB, Bogart,GA (Prince Avenue Christian)
25.Xavian Corey, LB, Bradenton,FL (IMG Academy)
34.Smael Mondon, LB, Dallas,GA (Paulding County)
71.Nyland Green, CB, Covington,GA (Newton)
95.David Daniel, ATH, Woodstock,GA (Woodstock)
97.Dylan Fairchild, LG, Cumming,GA (West Forsyth)
104.Brock Bowers, TE, Napa,CA (Napa)
115.Lovasea Carroll, RB, Bradenton,FL (IMG Academy)
128.Jonathan Jefferson, DL, Douglasville,GA (Douglas County)
245.Kamari Lassiter, CB, Tuscaloosa,AL (American Christian)

Projected Starting Lineup

**=Returning Starter

Offense 
QB:Emory Jones, Junior
RB:*Dameon Pierce, Senior*
WR1: Jacob Copeland, RS Junior
WR2: Justin Shorter, Junior
WR3: Trent Whittemore, Sophomore
TE: Kemore Gamble, Senior
LT:*Richard Gouraige, Junior*
LG:Ethan White, Junior
C:*Stewart Reese, Senior*
RG:Joshua Braun, Sophomore
RT: *Jean Delance, Senior*

Defense
DE: *Zachary Carter, Senior*
DT: Daquan Newkirk, Senior*
NT: Antonio Shelton, Senior
DE: *Brenton Cox, Junior*
LB: *Ventrell Miller, Senior*
LB: *Mohamoud Diabate, Junior*
NLB: Tre’Vez Johnson, Sophomore
CB: Jaydon Hill, Junior
CB: *Kaiir Elam, Junior*
SS: Trey Dean, Senior
FS: Rashad Torrence II, Sophomore

Special Teams
K: Jace Christmann, Senior
P: Jeremy Crawshaw, Freshman
KR: Jacob Copeland, RS Junior
PR: Jacob Copeland, RS Junior

Returning Production:
The main reason for optimism in Gainesville is the returning of starters Zachary Carter,former Georgia transfer Brenton Cox on the defensive line as well as linebackers Ventrell Miller and Mohamoud Diabate that make up one of if not the best front sevens in the SEC.

New Starters:
Florida has to replace its entire receiving core but junior Jacob Copeland should give Florida fans lots of optimism. Emory Jones, a former high end four-star recruit, replaces Tampa Bay Buccaneers draft pick and Heisman finalist Kyle Trask at QB. Florida also has to replace three of the four players in its defensive backfield as its left guard position.

Schedule Preview

Florida Atlantic (9/4)
Florida does not open up with nobodies. Florida Atlantic and South Florida can pose challenges to this likely run-heavy Florida team. But Florida needs to win this one to get some confidence. Projected Score: Florida 27, Florida Atlantic 17

at.South Florida (9/11)
I expect this game to be very similar to the FAU game. Close but then Florida pulls away late. Projected Score: Florida 38, South Florida 27

Alabama (9/18)
Florida’s young offense needs to be ready to face not only Alabama’s defense but to match Alabama’s scoring as well. That will be hard to do. Projected Score: Alabama 38, Florida 21

Tennessee (9/25)
Tennessee might be the worst or second worst team in the SEC even with the the transfers they’ve added. Florida blows the Vols out. Projected Score: Florida 42, Tennessee 24

at.Kentucky (10/2)
Georgia is in its own tier in the SEC East in most of the media’s eyes. Florida, Kentucky, and Missouri are the three teams in the division fighting for that second place finish. This game will be a big factor in deciding that. Projected Score: Kentucky 31, Florida 24

Vanderbilt (10/9)
Florida blows the ‘Dores out. Projected Score: Florida 55, Vanderbilt 10

at.LSU (10/16)
This is the toughest game to pick on this schedule for me. Will QB Emory Jones have developed an at least decent passing game to beat a pretty impressive LSU defense coming back. I don’t think so. Projected Score: LSU 31, Florida 10

Georgia (10/30)
Georgia’s going to win this game. There’s not much else to say. Projected Score: Georgia 42, Florida 27

at.South Carolina (11/6)
Florida gets a pretty easy win over South Carolina. Projected Score: Florida 24, South Carolina 10

Samford (11/13)
Florida’s easiest game of the season here. Projected Score: Florida 48, Samford 7

at.Missouri (11/20)
This game will not be easy for either team. But I can’t not trust Dan Mullen and his play-calling ability. Florida picks up a much needed win going into Florida State week. Projected Score: Florida 42, Missouri 38

Florida State (11/27)
In Mike Norvell’s second season in Tallahassee, expect things to be much better. I expect both teams to come in with similar records so it should be a great game. Projected Score: Florida State 28, Florida 21

Projected Record: 7-5 (4-4)

Incoming 2021 Recruits (per 247sports) 
28.Jason Marshall, CB, Miami,FL (Miami Palmetto)
73.Jeremiah Williams, DE, Birmingham,AL (Ramsay)
105.Corey Collier, S, Miami,FL (Miami Palmetto)
147.Carlos Del Rio-Wilson, QB, Cartersville,GA (Cartersville)
182.Carlos Burke, WR, Jacksonville,FL (Trinity Christian Academy)
202.Donovan McMillion, S, Canonsburg,PA (Peters Township)

Today I predict where ESPN’s College Gameday show will go for their weekly preview show on Saturday mornings.

August 28
Nebraska at. Illinois
The only game between Power 5 teams in week 0 should be the easy choice here. The Huskers and the Fighting Illini square off in Champagne.

September 4
Clemson vs. Georgia (Charlotte)
While I could see GameDay heading to Atlanta for Alabama-Miami in Atlanta, Clemson and Georgia will be top five teams in the country when the two meet to open their seasons on September 4. The QB matchup between Clemson’s DJ Uiagalelei and Georgia’s JT Daniels will prove to be the difference in this one.

September 11
Oregon at. Ohio State
This game should be the easy pick in week 2. Two relatively young signal callers will meet in a game that could help each team’s respective College Football Playoff chances.

September 18
Alabama at. Florida
In what should be one of the better SEC games this season, the SEC Championship rematch should be yet another easy pick for the crew. Todd Grantham’s defense will do everything it can to rattle new Alabama signal caller Bryce Young and the relatively young Alabama offense.

September 25
Wisconsin vs. Notre Dame (Chicago)
Because the game is at Soldier Field, the choice is obvious. Two classic teams playing in a game that feels like one that is in conference. But obviously, due to 2010’s realignment Notre Dame wants to maintain its pride and football independence. This game should be a fun one.

October 2
Oregon at. Stanford
While I could see GameDay head to Boulder for another Pac-12 match up, I doubt anyone would miss seeing the potential number one pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, Defensive End Kayvon Thibodeaux, hard-hitting linebacker Justin Flowe, and the talented Oregon defense for a second time on college football’s premier pregame show. Stanford should be much improved in 2021, making this a roadblock to another Pac-12 Championship for the Ducks.

October 9
Texas vs. Oklahoma (Dallas)
New Texas Head Coach Steve Sarkisian will bring a new flavor to Austin not seen in past decades. Oklahoma has dominated the Big 12 in the last decade. Those are all reasons why ESPN should go to the Texas State Fair again in 2021.

October 16
Central Florida at. Cincinnati
You know GameDay always heads to a Group of 5 match up sometimes. The “Gus Bus” will definitely attract Lee Corso, Kirk Herbstreit, and Desmond Howard as they head to Cincinnati for the game.

October 23
USC at. Notre Dame
The classic rivalry has not hosted College GameDay in quite sometime. And with the programs both set to be in the top 25 this season, it seems obvious for a return to South Bend for this match up.

October 30
Florida State at. Clemson
College GameDay has headed to Clemson the past few years for games and rightfully so. In my projections Notre Dame has already hosted it once, so they cannot head to South Bend again this week for North Carolina-Notre Dame. So, they head to Clemson for a match up with rival Florida State.

November 6
Auburn at. Texas A&M
The crew has not been to many SEC schools per my projections so they will change that when they preview Texas A&M battling Auburn.

November 13
Michigan at. Penn State
Both college football blue bloods had down seasons in 2020. The winner of this game will (hopefully) be able to challenge dominant Ohio State for the 2021 Big Ten crown.

November 20
Iowa State at. Oklahoma
The two split their match ups last year, with the Sooners winning the one that counted in the Big 12 championship. Oklahoma and Iowa State’s offenses both return their starting QBs (Iowa State’s Brock Purdy and Oklahoma’s Spencer Rattler) and lots of offensive weapons. This will be a fun one to go to Norman to preview this one.

November 27
Texas A&M at. LSU
While I could go with the obvious (The Iron Bowl or The Game), GameDay should head to College Station.Texas A&M is considered the second best team in the SEC West and could still have a chance at the College Football Playoff with a win. After a down season for LSU in 2020, they could be in the same sentence as Texas A&M and Alabama; in the mix for playoff conversation.

Before I sign off, I wanted to say I will probably make an updated version of this before the season starts.

Projected Starting Lineup

**=Returning Starter

Offense 
QB: *Bo Nix, Junior*
RB: *Tank Bigsby, Sophomore*
WR1: *Ze’Vian Capers, Sophomore*
WR2: *Shedrick Jackson, Senior*
WR3: *Caylin Newton, Senior*
TE: *Grant Calcaterra, Senior*
LT: *Austin Troxwell, RS Senior*
LG: *Brandon Council, Senior*
C: *Nick Brahms, Senior*
RG: *Keiondre Jones, RS Sophomore*
RT: *Brodarius Hamm, RS Senior*

Defense
DE: *Colby Wooden, Sophomore*
DT: *Tyrone Truesedll, Senior*
DT: Marquis Burks, Senior
LB: *Derick Hall, Junior*
LB: Caleb Johnson, Junior
LB: *Owen Pappoe, Junior*
LB: *Zakoby McClain, Senior*
CB: *Roger McCreary, Senior*
CB: Jaylin Simpson, Sophomore
SS: Ladarius Tennison, Sophomore
FS: *Smoke Monday, Senior*

Special Teams
K: *Anders Carlson, Senior*
P: Aidan Marshall, Senior
KR: *Shaun Rivers, Senior*
PR: *Ja’Varrius Johnson, RS Sophomore*

Returning Production:
Returning starter Bo Nix does have some competition for the QB1 role as LSU transfer TJ Finley heads to the plains. Running back Tank Bigsby is expected to be one of if not the best running back in the SEC. Experience is all over the offense headlined by a receiving core led by sophomore Ze’Vian Capers.

New Starters:
The only glaring new starers are safety Ladarius Tennison and cornerback Jaylin Simpson. If those two players are able to step up, this veteran group of Auburn players can have a better season than many are expecting in the first year of the Bryan Harsin era.

Schedule Preview

Akron (9/4)
This game is to get the kinks out for Auburn’s new offensive system. I expect Auburn’s mostly veteran team to get through this game and to see both expected starter Bo Nix and LSU transfer TJ Finley at the QB position. Projected Score: Auburn 45, Akron 13

Alabama State (9/11)
All Auburn in this one. Projected Score: Auburn 56, Alabama State 10

at.Penn State (9/18)
Both powerhouse programs disappointed after promising 2020 campaigns, but expect this game to be a close one. The winner of the Nittany Lions and Tigers could go on to have an awesome season. The Penn State faithful is going to be loud as always. Projected Score: Penn State 21, Auburn 20

Georgia State (9/25)
Georgia State, in my opinion, is going to give Auburn the biggest challenge out of any of the group of five non conference games they play. Projected Score: Auburn 28, Georgia State 20

at.LSU (10/2)
If TJ Finley ends up becoming the starter for Auburn, this could become a revenge game for him. LSU is going to be much improved from last season’s national championship hangover season, good enough to give Auburn their first real kick in the butt of the season. Projected Score: LSU 38, Auburn 14

Georgia (10/9)
Well, what do you know, Auburn does not have to play Georgia in November anymore and have to play the bulldogs and Alabama back to back. Georgia will still handily win this one, though. Projected Score: Georgia 34, Auburn 17

at.Arkansas (10/16)
The Arkansas faithful is going to be out for revenge of sorts when Auburn comes to visit two Saturdays before Halloween. The entire country agreed that the refs in the 2020 Arkansas-Auburn game blew a call which was when QB Bo Nix spiked the ball to the side of him which is a fumble, but it was not called as such and Auburn went on to hitting the game-winning field go just seconds later. It may be the most hostile environment in Fayetteville since before the pandemic and of the season. Projected Score: Arkansas 21, Auburn 13

Ole Miss (10/30)
Auburn will get some much needed rest in a bye week before hosting Ole Miss. Other than a six-interceptions thrown showing by Ole Miss QB Matt Corall against Arkansas a season ago, his 2020 season was almost perfect. Auburn’s defense is going to be challenged mightily in this one and I think it is going to be closer than one might think. Projected Score: Ole Miss 27, Auburn 21

at.Texas A&M (11/6)
Texas A&M and LSU have been labeled as Alabama’s biggest competitors in 2021 and I don’t see Auburn going to College Station and beating the Aggies. Projected Score: Texas A&M 35, Auburn 20

Mississippi State (11/13)
Auburn begins a fairly easy two-game stretch before the Iron Bowl by hosting Mississippi State. Auburn picks up a much needed win on the plains. Projected Score: Auburn 49, Mississippi State 28

at.South Carolina (11/20)
New head coach Shane Beamer will get South Carolina back to the mountain top hopefully at some point but this will not be their year. Auburn wins easily. Projected Score: Auburn 42, South Carolina 21

Alabama (11/27)
Until we see new head coach Bryan Harsin beat the Crimson Tide, Auburn is not going to win the Iron Bowl. Projected Score: Alabama 27, Auburn 14

Projected Record: 5-7 (2-6) SEC

Incoming 2021 Recruits (per 247sports) (top 247)
80.Lee Hunter, DL, Eight Mile,AL Blount
211.Ahmari Hardy, S, Tallahassee,FL FSU School
219.Dematrius Davis, QB, Houston,TX North Shore

Projected Starting Lineup

**=Returning Starter

Offense 
QB:DJ Uit
RB:
WR1:
WR2:
WR3:
TE:
LT:
LG:
C:
RG:
RT:

Defense
DE:
DT:
DT:
DE:
OLB:
MLB:
OLB:
CB:
CB:
SS:
FS:

Special Teams
K:
P:
KR:
PR:

Returning Production:

New Starters:

Schedule Preview

Incoming 2021 Recruits (per 247sports) 

Projected Starting Lineup

**=Returning Starter

Offense
QB: KJ Jefferson, RS Sophomore
RB: Trelon Smith, RS Junior
WR1: *Treylon Burks, Junior*
WR2: Trey Knox, Junior
WR3: De’Vion Warren, Senior
TE: *Hudson Henry, RS Sophomore*
LT: *Myron Cunningham, RS Senior*
LG: Brady Latham, RS Sophomore
C: *Ricky Stromberg, Junior*
RG: *Ty Clary, RS Senior*
RT: Dalton Wagner, RS Senior

Defense
DE: Eric Gregory, RS Sophomore
DT: Jaelen Williams, Junior
DT: Isaiah Nichols, RS Junior
DE: Nicholas Fulwider, RS Junior
OLB: Dorian Gerald, RS Senior
MLB: *Grant Morgan, RS Senior*
OLB: *Bumper Pool, Senior*
CB: LaDarrius Bishop, RS Junior
CB: Trent Gordon, RS Junior
SS: *Jalen Catalon, RS Sophomore*
FS: *Joe Foucha, RS Senior*

Special Teams
K: Cameron Little, Freshman
P: Sam Loy, RS Senior
KR: De’Vion Warren, Senior
PR: Treylon Burks, Junior

Returning Production:
On offense, the return of all starting receivers Treylon Burks, Mike Woods, and De’Vion Warren is huge (Note: Mike Woods has since transferred to Oklahoma). Linebackers Grant Morgan and Bumper Pool are the heart soul of a defense that should be fun to watch again in 2021. Talented safety Jalen Catalon returns as well.

New Starters:
KJ Jefferson replaces former Florida grad transfer Feleipe Franks. Jefferson was phenomenal in the Missouri game when Franks was hurt. Trelon Smith paces the running game after getting starting minutes a season ago with Rakeem Boyd’s lack of minutes due to injury. A young defensive line and defensive backfield are reasons to be concerned in 2021 in Fayetteville.

Schedule Preview

Rice (9/4)
Arkansas needs an easy win to open their season. They should get one. Projected Score: Arkansas 42, Rice 20

Texas (9/11)
With new head coach Steve Sarkisian and lots of returning talent, the Texas faithful should expect a pretty good season from their team. Arkansas will challenge Texas and if they can get their offense going, it should be a great game. Projected Score: Texas 20, Arkansas 17

Georgia Southern (9/18)
While I can see people thinking Arkansas will overlook these non conference teams, Sam Pittman will not let this team overlook opponents. Hogs win big. Projected Score: Arkansas 38, Georgia Southern 17

vs.Texas A&M (Arlington) (9/25)
Texas A&M is Alabama’s biggest challenge in the SEC West. But, historically Arkansas has played A&M well despite losing every contest to the Aggies since they joined the SEC. Projected Score: Texas A&M 28, Arkansas 20

at.Georgia (10/2)
Sam Pittman and the hogs heads to face-off against his last old team. Arkansas played Georgia close in 2020 but with Georgia finding QB JT Daniels, it will be tough for a young Arkansas defense to counter. Projected Score: Georgia 38, Arkansas 21

at.Ole Miss (10/9)
Arkansas turned Ole Miss over seven times in 2020. Ole Miss should and probably will have a chip on their shoulder to come out and win this game. Arkansas’ offense will have to be clicking on all cylinders in Oxford to match scores on every possession by Ole Miss’ awesome offense. Projected Score: Ole Miss 55, Arkansas 42

Auburn (10/16)
Similar to Ole Miss, Arkansas should be hungry to host Auburn who got away with a call late in their win over Arkansas in 2020. Auburn’s new head coach Bryan Harsin should bring in a fun offense for the Tigers but Arkansas should have a good chance to win this game. Projected Score: Arkansas 21, Auburn 13

UAPB (Little Rock) (10/23)
Arkansas’ first game versus an instate team in awhile is going to be played in the state’s capital. Hogs get tested early but get a win before returning home to face Mississippi State. Projected Score: Arkansas 45, UAPB 13

Mississippi State (11/6)
Mississippi State upset LSU in week 1 last season before running into Arkansas in week 2. The hogs got their first SEC win in 17 chances with a W in Starkville. Projected Score: Arkansas 24, Mississippi State 21

at.LSU (11/13)
Arkansas played LSU close in their game last season but LSU will be much better than their 5-5 finish a season ago. Plus, they get to host this one in Death Valley. Projected Score: LSU 34, Arkansas 24

at.Alabama (11/20)
Alabama will not be stopped in this game. Projected Score: Alabama 42, Arkansas 27

Missouri (11/26)
Missouri made a comeback to beat Arkansas to continue a long winning streak in the series. But, I see KJ Jefferson and the wide receiving core of the hogs winning another high-scoring battle. Projected Score: Arkansas 45, Missouri 42

Projected Record: 6-6 (3-5) SEC

Incoming 2021 Recruits (per 247sports)
163.Ketron Jackson, WR, Royse City,TX Royse City
185.AJ Green, RB, Tulsa,OK Union
285.Raheim Sanders, ATH, Rockledge,FL Rockledge
398.Terry Wells, OT, Wynne,AR Wynne
493.Javion Hunt, RB, Oklahoma City,OK Carl Albert
494.Cameron Ball, OT, Atlanta,GA Tri-Cities
12.Jalen Williams, DT, Jones College Ellisville,MS
526.Keuan Parker, CB, Booker T. Washington Tulsa,OK
721.Lucas Coley, QB, San Antonio,TX Cornerstone Christian
NA.Landon Rogers, QB, Little Rock,AR Parkview Magnet