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March 4
2.Alabama at. 24.Texas A&M
12 PM ET, CBS
As Brandon Miller goes, Alabama goes. He led the Tide to an SEC regular season championship, its second in three seasons. Scoring 41, 24, and 17 in his last three games have led them to victories. If Brandon Miller is the Tide’s best player, Ohio transfer Mark Sears is the X-Factor for the Crimson Tide. Aggies guard Wade Taylor and big man Julius Marble have helped Texas A&M to a surprise second place finish in SEC play. To me, A&M can win this game at home if they limit the Tide in the first half like Arkansas did in the first half in last week’s game. The Aggies will need to come out and play well at the beginning of the second half if that is the case, as the Crimson Tide are a fantastic shooting team and can get points inside at a fast pace. Projected Score: Alabama 75, Texas A&M 70

3.Kansas at. 9.Texas
4 PM ET, ESPN
A win for the red-hot Jayhawks over Texas Tech on Tuesday has put them in great position to be the number one overall seed in the NCAA Tournament with the Big 12 regular season title all locked up. In their way will be a Texas team that plays much better at home than it does on the road. The Longhorns lost to TCU on Wednesday in Fort Worth. Texas must rely on the offense of guards Marcus Carr and Sir’Jabari Rice and the defense of Timmy Allen against a Kansas team that is going to be hard to stop. A win for the Longhorns puts them in play for second place in the Big 12 with losses by Baylor (hosts Iowa State) and Kansas State (goes to West Virginia) but a loss makes them the four seed in next week’s Big 12 tournament with potentially another chance against Kansas again in the semifinals. Projected Score: Kansas 78, Texas 77

25.Pittsburgh at. 16.Miami
6 PM ET, ACCN
An unlikely match-up (based off of projections at the beginning of the season) for one of the top three seeds in the ACC Tournament next week comes in Coral Gables. Miami is looking to return to the Elite 8 and go even further this season with leading scorer Isaiah Wong and leading rebounder Norchad Omier. However, Jeff Capel’s Pittsburgh team looks to lock up the ACC title with conference player of the year candidates Blake Hinson and Jamarius Burton. Projected Score: Pittsburgh 85, Miami 83

Duke at. North Carolina
6:30 PM ET, ESPN
North Carolina has gone on a three-game winning streak since a head-scratching loss to NC State in Raleigh where they had a lead for most of the game. In that streak, the Tar Heels got their first Quad 1 win of the season against Virginia. Star center Armando Bacot will have to score more than 1 point (like he did against Florida State on Monday) if the Tar Heels are going to beat Duke and even up the season series. The Blue Devils young roster has matured into a well-built machine, winning their last five games led by forward Kyle Filipowski, guard Tyrese Proctor, wing Dariq Whitehead, and big man Dereck Lively II. The Tar Heels must win this game to head to the NCAA Tournament but Duke will make it tough. Projected Score: Duke 81, North Carolina 76

8.Arizona at. 4.UCLA
10 PM ET, ESPN
Having already locked up a Pac-12 title, UCLA looks to get their third quality win this season to make its case for a one seed. Bruins forward Jaquez leads UCLA in both points and assists. Arizona three games back in conference and guard Tyger Campbell’s leadership have proven huge in an 8-0 February. In recent losses, star Arizona forward Azuolas Tubelis has not shown up and as a result offense will be needed from guards Courtney Ramey and Kerr Kriisa as well as big man Omar Ballo. Arizona could use this win to move back up to a firm two line team while hurting their conference rival’s resúmé. Projected Score: UCLA 72, Arizona 67

March 5
1.Houston at. Memphis
12 PM ET, CBS
Likely one seed Houston has one Quad 1 opportunity left in the season and it happens to be on the final day of the regular season at the FedEx Forum against Memphis. Tigers guard Kendric Davis and Cougars guard Marcus Sasser, clear options for the American Player of the Year, match up as they look to prove why they are worthy of the award. In a preview of what could be next weekend’s AAC Tournament Championship, the game will come down to how well Memphis plays outside of Davis to beat such a talented Houston roster. Projected Score: Houston 76, Memphis 69

Illinois at. 5.Purdue
12:30 PM ET, FOX
Purdue has to continue to bounce back this weekend against Illinois, in a battle of two teams that have locked up their tournament spots already. Boilermaker center Zach Edey has been terrific even in their struggles, scoring 26 points and 16 rebounds in a second loss to Indiana on Saturday. Purdue will have to continue to rely on freshmen guards Braden Smith and Fletcher Loyer as they look to improve from their tough stretch. Sharpshooter Matthew Mayer and star wing Terrance Shannon can lead the Illini to a win in Mackey Arena but the Boilermakers rarely lose back to back in their home arena. Projected Score: Purdue 72, Illinois 64

Image Courtesy: The Slipper Still Fits

In just thirty short minutes, the NCAA Men’s College Basketball Selection Committee will let us know their top sixteen seeds currently in the NCAA Tournament field on CBS just three weeks ahead of Selection Sunday, March 12.

Here are my predictions for who those sixteen teams will be:

South Region (Louisville)
1.Alabama
Despite their first loss in SEC play to Tennessee on Wednesday, they jumped back up to the top overall seed spot due to Purdue’s loss a night earlier.
2.Baylor
Baylor’s recent success (only loss to Texas in last few weeks) has them in prime position to challenge for a one seed in a historically good Big 12.
3.Marquette
Marquette has arguably been the best team in a Big East and no bad losses that is better than a lot of people think.
4.Iowa State
Iowa State’s wins over Kansas and Kansas State are helping them out a lot especially with a loss to ninth place Texas Tech in the Big 12.

West Region (Las Vegas)
1.Houston
Houston may play in a weak American Athletic Conference, but they have the quality of players like Jamal Shead and Marcus Sasser to compete at their one seed level.
2.UCLA
UCLA’s only win against a team that will likely be in the tournament is against Maryland but if the Bruins win the Pac-12 they will be in play for a one seed down the line.
3.Gonzaga
Despite losing to Saint Mary’s and their stranglehold on the West Coast Conference, the Zags have bounced back with recent wins over San Francisco, BYU, and Loyola Marymount.
4.Miami
The Hurricane’s Monday win in Chapel Hill over North Carolina and 6 Quad 1 wins ascended them to the sixteenth overall seed and last team in the reveal.

Midwest Region (Kansas City)
1.Kansas
The Jayhawks’ 12 Quad 1 wins lead the country and their exciting offensive play gets them to the one seed line.
2.Tennessee
Tennessee lost twice on buzzer-beaters a week ago but rebounded with a win over number one Alabama in Knoxville which secures a two-seed for them in my opinion as well as wins over Kansas and Baylor, two of the top three teams in the Big 12.
3.Arizona
Arizona has been in consideration for a one seed as of late with wins over two of my current two seeds, Tennessee and UCLA, but bad losses to Stanford and Utah keep them just outside of the two seed line as my number nine overall seed.
4.Kansas State
Kansas State’s win over Kansas had them up to the two-seed line a few weeks ago but recent losses to Iowa State and Texas Tech helped them fall down a bit.

East Region (New York)
1.Purdue
Purdue has lost three of its last four games after beginning the season 22-1 start to the season. If the Boilermakers win out, they will be a one seed in March.
2.Texas
Despite a loss to Texas Tech earlier in the week, Texas is still in play for a one seed on Selection Sunday with a two seed likely on Saturday morning.
3.Virginia
Virginia has been the best team in the metrics in a weak ACC and four Quad I wins including over Baylor on a neutral court.
4.Connecticut
With wins over Alabama and Iowa State included in their 6 Quad I wins, Connecticut helps itself out very well with an 8-7 Big East record.

Image Courtesy: 247Sports

Projected Opening Day Starters:
Catcher: Hudson Polk, Junior
Pitcher: Hagen Smith, Sophomore (Game 1), Will McEntire, RS Junior (Game 2), Hunter Hollan, Junior (Game 3)
1B: Brady Slavens, Senior
2B: Peyton Stovall, Sophomore
SS: John Bolton, Junior
3B: Caleb Cali, RS Junior
RF: Jace Bohfren, Junior
CF:Tavian Josenberger,
LF: Jared Wegner, Grad. Senior
DH: Kendall Diggs, Sophomore

2/17 Texas (Arlington; College Baseball Showdown)
2/18 TCU (Arlington; College Baseball Showdown)
2/19 Oklahoma State (Arlington; College Baseball Showdown)
Hogs will go 2-1 in Arlington as they have a rematch of last season’s phenomenal regional final against Oklahoma State in their final game in Arlington.
Projected Record: 2-1
2/21 Grambling State
Projected Record: 4-2
2/24-26 Eastern Illinois
Projected Record: 7-2
3/1 Illinois State
Projected Record: 8-3
3/3-5 Wright State
Projected Record: 10-4
3/7 Army
Projected Record: 11-4
3/10-12 Louisiana Tech
After defeating La Tech in Ruston 2-1 in a series in 2021, the hogs should take care of the bulldogs again.
Projected Record: 13-5
3/14-15 UNLV
Projected Record: 15-6
3/17-19 Auburn
To open SEC play, Arkansas will host Auburn. After a fun, high-scoring series with Auburn a season ago “On the Plains”, Arkansas will look to continue their success at Baum-Walker Stadium.
Projected Record: 17-7 (2-1)
3/21 Southeast Missouri State
Projected Record: 18-7 (2-1)
3/24-26 at.LSU
In what could be one of the top series all year, Arkansas will be tested in Baton Rouge against an extremely talented team, with their former pitching coach, Wes Johnson.
Projected Record: 19-10 (3-3)
3/28 Omaha
Projected Record: 20-10 (3-3)
3/31-4/2 Alabama
Alabama took 2 out of 3 from Arkansas in Tuscaloosa a season ago in the Razorbacks’ SEC struggles to end last regular season, the hogs will be out for revenge against the Crimson Tide.
Projected Record: 23-10 (6-3)
4/4 Arkansas State
Projected Record: 24-10 (6-3)
4/6-8 Ole Miss
Arkansas will look to get revenge on the Rebels, who they lost to in a 2-0 decision in the College World Series Semifinals in June.
Projected Record: 25-12 (7-5)
4/11-12 Little Rock
Projected Record: 27-12 (7-5)
4/14-16 Tennessee
In what could be another national series of the year, Dave Van Horn’s Diamond Hogs battle with former assistant coach Tony Vitello and his Volunteers in a potential top ten match up.
Projected Record: 29-13 (9-6)
4/18 Central Arkansas
Projected Record: 30-13 (9-6)
4/20-22 at.Georgia
With positive pitching talent high between both squads, it will be a battle in Athens.
Projected Record: 32-14 (11-7)
4/25 at.Missouri State
Projected Record: 33-14 (11-7)
4/28-30 Texas A&M
Arkansas faces a talented Aggies team at home that also made it to the CWS Semifinals a season ago.
Projected Record: 35-15 (13-8)
5/2 Lipscomb (Little Rock)
Arkansas returns to central Arkansas to face an out of state opponent in Lipscomb. Arkansas overlooked a game in Little Rock in a 2-1 win a season ago against Central Arkansas so they will have to be more focused in that one.
Projected Record: 36-15 (13-8)
5/5-7 at.Mississippi State
Arkansas has won its last six games at Dudy Noble Stadium in Starkville, against a Mississippi State team that won a championship just 2 years ago. They look to do the same in 2023.
Projected Record: 37-17 (14-10)
5/12-14 South Carolina
It would be great for Arkansas to get a series win at home against a South Carolina team expected to be in the bottom half of the SEC East standings.
Projected Record: 39-18 (16-11)
5/18-20 at.Vanderbilt
Arkansas makes one of the toughest road trips in the SEC to Nashville to face Vanderbilt, a team being vastly underrated in pre-season rankings.
Projected Record: 40-20 (17-13)
5/23-28 SEC Tournament (Hoover)
I expect Arkansas to go 2-2 in Hoover and appear in the NCAA Tournament as a top 16 seed. The hogs should be in good position to make Omaha and the College World Series with their standing in the tournament.
Projected Record: 42-22 (17-13)
6/2-6/5 NCAA Regionals
6/9-6/12 NCAA Super Regionals
6/16-6/26 NCAA College World Series

Image Courtesy: Table 215

Philadelphia Eagles vs. Kansas City Chiefs
February 13, 6:30 PM ET, FOX
State Farm Stadium (Glendale)

The top seeds in both the AFC and NFC appear in the Super Bowl this season. The NFC Championship winners, the Philadelphia Eagles’ Super Bowl run was fueled by QB Jalen Hurts (275 passing yards, 73 rushing yards, 4 overall TDs in playoffs), receivers AJ Brown and Devonta Smith, and an experienced defense filled with improving young players. The Eagles will need to continue their quality offensive line play to establish a running game with tail backs Miles Sanders and Kenneth Gainwell. The Eagles defense will have to easy task when they face with two-time NFL MVP Patrick Mahomes (521 passing yards, 4 passing TDs in playoffs), a talented room of running backs Isaiah Pacheo, Clyde Edwards-Helaire, and Jerick McKinnon, and extremely talented tight end Travis Kelce (176 receiving yards, 3 TDs). Without any injuries in the receiving room, Mahomes will get to spread the ball out between Marquez Valdes-Scantling, who had a phenomenal AFC Championship game against Cincinnati, Kadarius Toney, and JuJu Smith-Schuster. Linebacker Nick Bolton and defensive end Chris Jones will have to rattle QB Jalen Hurts to throw off the Eagles offense to finish the season with a Super Bowl win. Projected Score: Eagles 38, Chiefs 35

Image Courtesy: Sports Illustrated

Early Thursday evening The Athletic reported that Oklahoma and Texas reached an agreement with the Big 12 to exit the conference one year early (previously expected to leave the conference in 2025) and join the SEC in 2024 for the 2024-2025 academic year and athletic season.

The two schools will pay the Big 12 $100 million to leave the conference as new Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark voiced his excitement for being able to move to a 12-team league after the Sooners and Longhorns make their move. The Sooners and Longhorns will now join the SEC when the conference’s new TV deal with ABC and ESPN begins.

Oklahoma and Texas will play in a fourteen-team Big 12 with expansion members BYU, Central Florida, Cincinnati, Houston in 2023-2024. It will be interesting to see how the SEC schedule looks in all sports and who Oklahoma and Texas’ main opponents will be in the conference a year from now.

Image Courtesy: North Carolina Athletics

February 4
8.Kansas at. 13.Iowa State
12 PM ET, ESPN
Jalen Wilson (2o points and 8 rebounds) led the Kansas Jayhawks to a second consecutive win on Tuesday against Kansas State to even the season series with the Wildcats. Guard Gradey Dick did not impact the game as well as he wanted to but the Jayhawks still took care of business. Next for the Jayhawks is a trip to Ames to face a struggling Iowa State team, losers two straight since beating Kansas State over a week ago. Cyclone guards Jaren Holmes and Gabe Kalsheur will have to play huge to get a home upset of the Jayhawks. Projected Score: Kansas 77, Iowa State 72

25.Auburn at. 2.Tennessee
2 PM ET, ESPN
Auburn has been good but not great in the SEC this season. Replacing Jabari Smith and Walker Kessler has not been easy with John Broome (8.5 rebounds per game) and Jaylin Williams (5.2 rebounds per game). But guard Wendell Green has been the veteran leader that Auburn fans have come to expect. Tennessee has been tremendous this season, led by guards Zakai Ziegler and Santiago Vescovi who have been a top ten quality team all season, despite a loss to Florida on Wednesday night in Gainesville. Projected Score: Tennessee 84, Auburn 76

10.Texas at. 7.Kansas State
4 PM ET, ESPN2
Texas and Kansas State are two teams near or at the top of the loaded Big 12. Texas comes off of a win at home against Baylor while Kansas State fell in their rematch to Kansas in Lawrence. Kansas State needs to protect home court to stay in the race for the Big 12 regular season championship and a one seed in Kansas City at the Big 12 Tournament. Wildcat forward Keyontae Johnson and guard Markquis Nowellwill make sure that happens while Texas’ dynamic guards Marcus Carr and Sir’Jabari Rice will look for a second consecutive win against a top eleven team in the country. Projected Score: Kansas State 82, Texas 78

1.Purdue at. 21.Indiana
4 PM ET, ESPN
Purdue has no doubt been the best team in the country. Big man Zach Edey has been the best player in the country while freshman guards Fletcher Loyer and Braden Smith have paced the team well as freshman guards. Indiana big man Trayce Jackson-Davis has been almost as good as Edey while guard Jalen Hood-Schifino will look to add on to Jackson-Davis’ effort. The Boilermakers have only a single loss on the season while the Hoosier’s were on a five-game winning streak before a loss on Tuesday in College Park against Maryland. Indiana has to be able to make shots consistently to beat Purdue, something that will be hard to do even at home in the friendly confines of Assembly Hall. Projected Score: Purdue 75, Indiana 70

North Carolina at. Duke
6:30 PM ET, ESPN
North Carolina has won 10 out of their last 13 games but did not give the ball enough to star big man Armando Bacot in a tough one-point loss to Pittsburgh in Chapel Hill. Now, the Tar Heels will need Bacot and guards Caleb Love and RJ Davis to play consistently in Durham for a second consecutive year against a Duke team that has won three of its last four games. Duke freshman forward Kyle Filipowski has been the Blue Devils best player this season while they will need point guard Jeremy Roach (21 points) to play like he did in their recent win against Wake Forest. Duke freshman big man Dereck Lively has to be terrific defensively against Armando Bacot, who has not been as good this season as many people thought while freshman forward Dariq Whitehead continues to go through the injury bug. Projected Score: North Carolina 79, Duke 78

12.Gonzaga at. 18.Saint Mary’s
10:30 PM ET, ESPN
Throughout the years, Gonzaga and Saint Mary’s have clearly been the two best teams in the West Coast Conference. Just 11 months ago, Saint Mary’s took down the number one ranked Bulldogs on a historic day in college basketball where six top ten teams lost and will look to do so again at home in Moraga. Guard Aidan Mahaney (15 points, 2 rebounds, and 2 assists per game) and center Mitchell Saxen (13 points and 8 rebounds per game) have been crucial in Saint Mary’s 8-0 start in conference play. The Gaels will again have to deal with talented veteran forward Drew Timme (21.4 points and 7.5 rebounds per game), a much improved wing Julian Strawther (14.7 points and 7 rebounds per game), and point guard Rasir Bolton (10.5 points and 2.6 assists per game). This is a crucial game for both squads’ NCAA Tournament resumé and it will be a game that goes down to the wire. But, it is won by the Zags on the road. Projected Score: Gonzaga 87, Saint Mary’s 82

Image Courtesy: Alabama Athletics

January 28
12.Iowa State at. Missouri (Big 12/SEC Challenge)
2 PM ET, ESPN2
New Missouri head coach Dennis Gates has been a terrific hire for the tigers based off of almost the first three months of his regular season tenure. But, they will have to face Iowa State, a team near the top of the Big 12 standings coming off of a win over top five Kansas State. Missouri was blitzed by Kansas in Columbia and will look for a better performance at home against the Cyclones. Projected Score: Iowa State 75, Missouri 70

2.Alabama at. Oklahoma (Big 12/SEC Challenge)
2 PM ET, ESPN
I don’t know if there has been a better team in the country in Alabama (18-2, 8-0 SEC) or player Brandon Miller (Almost 20 points per game). While Oklahoma has not been bad in a tremendous Big 12, it is going to be a tough one at home as having to deal with Miller, Mark Sears (14 points per game), and Charles Bediako (6 rebounds, 2 blocks per game) inside. Sooners guard Grant Sherfield has been one of the best offensive players in the country while averaging almost 17 points a game. Veteran forwards Tanner and Jacob Groves will have to step up if they want to beat the Tide after their worst performance of the season against Mississippi State on Wednesday. Projected Score: Alabama 82, Oklahoma 74

Arkansas at. 17.Baylor (Big 12/SEC Challenge)
4 PM ET, ESPN
Baylor comes in after a huge win at home against Kansas in Waco on Monday night. They raced out to a big early lead and withstood every Kansas attempt to even the game with quality three point looks. Star freshman Keyonte George leads the Bears in scoring with almost 17 points a game, while point guard Adam Flagler leads them in assists at 5. Arkansas comes into Waco as winners of two straight. Despite offensive struggles the past few games, Ricky Council (17 points per game) has paced the hogs this season on that side of the ball. Devo Davis has been huge for the hogs the last week and a half. The hog veteran has been incredible shooting from the three-point line after a tough start from deep to start the season and on defense against the opposing team’s best player. If Arkansas survives the opening minutes, this game should be close. Projected Score: Baylor 82, Arkansas 79

10.Texas at. 4.Tennessee (Big 12/SEC Challenge)
6 PM ET, ESPN
ESPN’s College GameDay makes its first campus trip this season to Knoxville for a huge top ten battle in Knoxville. Tennessee head coach Rick Barnes faces the Longhorns for the second time in two seasons after getting fired in Austin following the 2014-2015 season. Tennessee’s guards Zakai Ziegler (11 points and 5 assists per game) and Santiago Vescovi (12 points per game) make the Vols go while Texas’ Marcus Carr (18 points and 4 assists per game) has kept the ‘Horns afloat since the firing of Chris Beard. This game has potential to be the game of the year in college basketball, and I cannot wait. Projected Score: Tennessee 77, Texas 73

9.Kansas at. Kentucky (Big 12/SEC Challenge)
8 PM ET, ESPN
Despite being a top ten team, former AP number one ranked Kansas has lost three consecutive games in a tough Big 12. Kentucky, after opening the season in the AP top five, struggled up until the last few weeks. Since the Wildcats have gone on a four game win streak and have beaten top ten Tennessee, Georgia, Texas A&M, and Vanderbilt. If Kentucky wins this game, they will send a message that they, are a team that can compete for a national championship again. Projected Score: Kentucky 81, Kansas 78

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Capital One Orange Bowl
6.Tennessee vs. 7.Clemson
December 30, 8 PM ET, ESPN/ESPN App
Opt-Outs: Tennessee – Hendon Hooker (QB), Jalin Hyatt (WR), Cedric Tillman (WR), Lyn J Dixon (RB), Nick Evers (QB), Jimmy Calloway (WR) Clemson – Myles Murphy (DE), DJ Uiagalelei (QB), Decari Collins (WR), Sergio Allen (LB), Fred Davis II (DB), EJ Williams (WR)
Can Tennessee defeat Clemson without signal-caller Hendon Hooker, receiver Jalin Hyatt, and receiver Cedric Tillman? Joe Milton, a former Michigan transfer is definitely good enough to get them a win but without playmakers like Hyatt and Tillman offensively the Vols will have to use running back Jaylen Wright, who’s rushed for 10 TDs. Tennessee’s secondary has been a weakness and Cade Klubnik, who has replaced DJ Uiagalelei (who has since entered the transfer portal) as the permanent starter, will look to get the ball to leading receiver Antonio Williams and in the running ame with Will Shipley. Projected Score: Tennessee 24, Clemson 21

Allstate Sugar Bowl
5.Alabama vs. 9.Kansas State
December 31, 12 PM ET, ESPN/ESPN App
Opt-Outs: Alabama – Aaron Anderson (WR), Traeshon Holden (WR), Christian Leary (WR), JoJo Earle (WR), etc. Kansas State – N/A
With Bryce Young and Will Anderson not opting out of the Sugar Bowl, Alabama is bolstered on both sides of the ball. Even without receivers and other playmakers Alabama usually has, Young has been terrific at the quarterback position and he will look to continue to prove his skill without four receivers who have entered the transfer portal. Without any opt-outs, Kansas State is looking great for their match-up with Alabama after their Big 12 title game win. QB Will Howard (15 passing TDs) has been terrific since taking over for Adrian Martinez and with the help of tail back Deuce Vaughn (1,425 yards rushing). The wildcats will be a tough opponent for the Crimson Tide but after another “tough” 10-2 season for Nick Saban and Alabama, I think Bryce Young wills his team to a win. Projected Score: Alabama 31, Kansas State 28

CFP Semifinal at the PlayStation Fiesta Bowl
2.Michigan vs. 3.TCU
December 31, 4 PM ET, ESPN/ESPN App
Opt-Outs: TCU – N/A Michigan – Cade McNamara (QB), Erick All (TE), Blake Corum (RB)
Michigan QB JJ McCarthy was huge for the Wolverines in their wins over Ohio State and in the Big Ten title game against Purdue. Donavan Edwards (872 yards, 7 TDs), who backs up injured star running back Blake Corum, has also proven to be more than capable of replacing him in his role for Michigan. Ronnie Bell (3 TDs) and Cornelius Johnson (6 TDs) lead the Wolverines in receiving. TCU’s QB Max Duggan has been tremendous this season, throwing for 3,321 yards and 30 touchdowns. Tail back Kendre Miller has rushed for an incredible 17 touchdowns this season. Linebacker Johnny Hodges, who leads the Horned Frogs in tackles, will have to step up after him and the rest of the defense gave up a lot of yards in the loss to Kansas State in Arlington at the Big 12 Championship. Without any opt-outs, the Horned Frogs are going to be tough to deal with for the Wolverines. Projected Score: Michigan 34, TCU 28

CFP Semifinal at the Chick-Fil-A Peach Bowl
1.Georgia vs. 4.Ohio State
December 31, 8 PM ET, ESPN/ESPN App
Opt-Outs: Georgia – N/A Ohio State – TreVeyon Henderson (RB), Teradja Mitchell (LB), Jaxon Smith-Njigba (WR)
Without star receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba for much of the season, Ohio State QB CJ Stroud (37 passing TDs and 3,340 yards passing) has been fine. Unlike last season after their loss to Michigan, they have an opportunity to win the national championship. Marvin Harrison Jr. (1,157 yards and 12 receiving TDs) has developed into the target Stroud needs and he and fellow receivers Julian Fleming (6 TDs) and Emeka Egbuka (9 TDs) will play a crucial role in helping the Buckeyes beat Georgia. Tail back TreVeyon Henderson has opted out but the Buckeye’s other running back Miyan Williams has been even better than Henderson (817 rushing yards and 13 TDs). Ohio State’s defense has improved somewhat since the hiring of new defensive coordinator Jim Knowles but will have to be ready for Georgia’s offense led by former walk-on QB Stetson Bennett, who has passed for almost 3,500 yards and 20 passing touchdowns, and tight end Brock Bowers, who leads the Bulldogs in receiving. The reigning national champions also rely on their running game, led by starter Kenny McIntosh (10 TDs, 709 rushing yards). The Bulldogs’ terrific defense was just as good or better than their historic 2021 unit, led by defensive back Kelee Ringo and defensive lineman Jalen Carter. Ohio State wants a rematch with Michigan in the championship but Georgia’s defense should be the toughest one Ryan Day’s team has seen this season and the Bulldogs should return with a chance to go back to back on January 9 in SoFi Stadium. Projected Score: Georgia 42, Ohio State 31

Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic
10.USC vs. 16.Tulane
January 2, 1 PM ET, ESPN/ESPN App
Opt-Outs: Tulane – Dea Dea McDougle (WR) USC – Jordan Addison (WR), Ralen Goforth (LB)
USC had a successful last three weeks of the season (wins over ranked UCLA and Notre Dame) before getting handled by Utah when Heisman-winning QB Caleb Williams (37 passing TDs) got hurt. Williams will be tough to defend for a Tulane team that will play its first New Year’s Six Bowl game ever. Williams’ star receiver Jordan Addison, who has caught balls from Williams this season more than 1,000 yards and has 8 TDs, has opted out of the bowl game. The Trojan’s defense will be the side of the ball that determines the outcome of the game. They unraveled against Cam Rising and Utah in the second half of the Pac-12 Championship Game and will have to deal with QB Michael Pratt (25 TDs and 2,776 passing yards) and running back Tyjae Spears (15 TD and 1,376 rushing yards). Tulane’s defense has played well and are led by linebackers Dorian Williams (72 tackles) and Nick Anderson (59 tackles). I have to pick an upset and this is the one. Projected Score: Tulane 35, USC 31

Rose Bowl Game
8.Utah vs. 11.Penn State
January 2, 5 PM ET, ESPN/ESPN App
Opt-Outs: Penn State – Parker Washington (WR), Joey Porter Jr. (CB), Caziah Holmes (RB), Ken Talley (DL), Christian Veilleux (QB), Rodney McGraw (DL) Utah – Dalton Kincaid (TE), Tavion Thomas (RB), Malone Mataele (DB)
After losing to Florida to open the season, Utes QB Cam Rising has been terrific, beating USC twice. The Utes will be without top pass catcher Dalton Kincaid (9 TDs and almost 900 receiving yards)and top running back Tavion Thomas (7 TDs and 687 rushing yards). Their defense will only be without defensive back Malone Mataele so the talented defense should be able to help an offense without their top two weapons. Penn State’s only losses are to Michigan and Ohio State, who are both in the College Football Playoff. Nittany Lion QB Sean Clifford, who has been with the program forever, passed for over 2,500 yards 22 touchdowns. Nick Singleton has paced the running game for Penn State, rushing for close to a 1,000 yards and 10 TDs. The Nittany Lions defense is always talented and is led by safety Ji’Ayir Brown in tackles with 50 tackles. Without many of Utah’s offensive playmakers, this a game Penn State should win. Projected Score: Penn State 24, Utah 21

Image Courtesy: Arkansas Razorbacks Athletics

AutoZone Liberty Bowl
Arkansas vs. Kansas
December 28, 5:30 PM ET, ESPN/ESPN App
Opt-Outs: Arkansas – Jadon Haselwood (WR), Bumper Pool (LB), Drew Sanders (LB), Ricky Stromberg (C), etc.
Kansas – Steven McBride (WR), Shaad Dabney (DB), Edwin White-Schultz (DB), Gavin Potter (LB), Kevin Orange (DE), etc.

I was honestly pretty worried about the state of the Arkansas football program this week. But in his early signing period press conference, coach Sam Pittman said that “he feels good” about where he thinks his program is at this point. Arkansas will be without two starting receivers, their starting center, both of their starting linebackers, and other players due to the draft and transfer portal. The point being that if it weren’t for QB KJ Jefferson and tailback Rocket Sanders, there is no way I could see Arkansas winning this game. Kansas is appearing in their first bowl game in a long time and will face an Arkansas team that did the same thing just a year ago. The Arkansas defense will have to deal with dual threat Jayhawks QB Jalon Daniels, who has thrown for almost 1500 yards, 13 passing touchdowns and 6 rushing touchdowns. Running back Devin Neal led Kansas in rushing this season rushing for over a thousand yards and 9 touchdowns while Lawrence Arnold led the Jayhawks in receiving with almost 500 yards and 4 touchdowns this season. Star safety Kenny Logan Jr. has 96 tackles and 3 interceptions this season. The Razorbacks counter with KJ Jefferson, who has thrown for 26 TDs while throwing for 2,361 yards and rushed for 510 yards and 7 TDs. Arkansas has truly played through Rocket Sanders this year, as he finished second in the SEC in rushing with 1,426 yards and 10 TDs. Matt Landers came on for the hogs at receivers with 3 TDs in the final two games of the regular season and helped him get 7 TDs for the season. Pittman’s team will be without Drew Sanders and Bumper Pool, who lead the team in tackles but Chris “Pooh” Paul has proven to be a good replacement. Paul has managed 50 tackles this season in a back-up role but he will be starting in place of Sanders and Pool. To me, this game stays close for two or three quarters, but Jalon Daniels outduels KJ Jefferson with more starters on the roster for the game. Projected Score: Kansas 42, Arkansas 35

Image Courtesy: Fox News

With the College Football Playoff moving to a 12-team format in 2024, let’s take a look at what it would look like this season:

The format includes the top four conference champions, followed by six at-large bids and the two highest ranking conference champions. It guarantees the top “Group of 5” champion will participate. That also hurts the chances of an independent squad ever being in the top four of the rankings. The rankings will be based on the final College Football Playoff rankings of the season.

The opening round will consist of seeds 5-8 hosting seeds 9-12 at their home stadiums while seeds 1-4 get byes for the weekend. In the quarterfinals, the number one seeded team will get to choose first which bowl they play at followed by the second, third, and fourth seeds. The highest ranked team remaining will do the same by picking their bowl destination in the semifinals just like in the quarters. The Championship will always be played at a neutral site.

Here is the bracket

1st Round
Salt Lake City
8.Utah
9.Kansas State

Tuscaloosa
5.Alabama
12.Washington

Knoxville
6.Tennessee
11.Penn State

Clemson
7.Clemson
10.USC

Quarterfinals

TBD Bowl Game
1.Georgia
8.Utah/9.Kansas State

TBD Bowl Game
4.Ohio State
5.Alabama/12.Washington

TBD Bowl Game
3.TCU
6.Tennessee/11.Penn State

TBD Bowl Game
2.Michigan
7.Clemson/10.USC

December 17
14.Indiana at. 8.Kansas
12 PM ET, ESPN2
Kansas had a terrific showing against then undefeated Missouri in Columbia but face a much tougher test at home against the Hoosiers on Saturday afternoon. The Jayhawks have been playing mostly fantastic basketball with wing Jalen Wilson and guard Gradey Dick as their man scorers. The Jayhawks will be countered by none other than Trayce Jackson-Davis, one of the top bigs in the country. With how well Kansas is playing and Indiana coming off a recent loss to top ten Arizona, it will be a tough game for the Hoosiers to win. Projected Score: Kansas 78, Indiana 70

4.Alabama vs. 15.Gonzaga (Birmingham; C.M. Newton Classic)
1 PM ET, CBS
Alabama has been great this season with wins over Michigan State, then number one ranked North Carolina, last Saturday against then number one ranked Houston at their place, and most recently back home in Coleman Coliseum against a tough Memphis team. Brandon Miller, their freshman forward, has been a star but will him, Charles Bediako, Jahvon Quinerly, and others be enough to beat a veteran-led Gonzaga team for a second consecutive season just short of an hour away from the Tide’s campus? Projected Score: Alabama 87, Gonzaga 77

5.Houston at. 2.Virginia
2 PM ET, ESPN2
If Alabama had not gone into the Fertitta Center and knocked off Houston, college basketball would have gotten a number one versus number two ranked game, which don’t come often in nonconference play let alone the regular season at all. Point guard Jamal Shead was terrific for the cougars in that tough loss but if pre-season All American Marcus Sasser had scored more than nine points, maybe the outcome would have been different. Virginia has been playing terrific defense this season like they always do under Tony Bennett but have found a nice offensive game even if it is pretty balanced with the likes of veteran point guard Kihei Clark, who averages almost twelve points a game. Virginia will have to “muck it up” like Alabama did on the defensive side of the basketball to get a home win that will be very valuable come March when Selection Sunday comes around. Projected Score: Virginia 68, Houston 62

North Carolina vs. 23.Ohio State (New York City; CBS Sports Classic)
3 PM ET, CBS
Since a recent four-game losing skid and falling all the way out of the AP Top 25 after being ranked number one in the polls to start the season, North Carolina got their first ACC win against Georgia Tech and continued their winning ways against the Citadel on Tuesday with a 100-67 victory. While those may not be the most impressive wins by any stretch, the Tar Heels have begun to play together again and seem to be an ACC threat as they already have two games in the league down. Veteran forward Zed Key has been tremendous for the Buckeyes this season, averaging more than 14 points and almost 9 rebounds a game. He and fellow forward Brice Sensabaugh (14 points per game) will be tasked with dealing with a good Tar Heel front court with All-American Armando Bacot (16 points and 11 rebounds per game) and Northwestern transfer Pete Nance (13 points and 6 rebounds per game). To me, though this game is won by the guards. If UNC’s RJ Davis and Caleb Love are passing it around well and making beneficial decisions, this is Carolina’s game to lose. Projected Score: North Carolina 72, Ohio State 71

13.Kentucky vs. 16.UCLA (New York City; CBS Sports Classic)
5:15 PM ET, CBS
In the other game in Madison Square Garden, an experienced UCLA team faces an inexperienced Kentucky one, outside of reigning national player of the year Oscar Tshiebwe. If Tshiebwe can be an anchor in the middle for the wildcats, they will be tough to beat. UCLA point guard Tyger Campbell (13 points and 5 assists per game) and wing Jaime Jaquez (17 points and 6 rebounds per game) make this team go. Kentucky freshmen Cason Wallace and Chris Livingston need to be big for Kentucky if they want to win this game, especially after a tough outing at home against Yale. Projected Score: UCLA 85, Kentucky 77

6.Tennessee at. 9.Arizona
10:30 PM ET, ESPN2
Both Tennessee and Arizona have had great start to the seasons. The Volunteers have wins over Kansas (in the Bahamas) and Maryland while the wildcats have grabbed wins over San Diego State, Creighton (both in Maui), and Indiana. It will be up to Arizona to stop veteran shooter Santiago Vescovi (11 points a game) and Julian Phillips (also averages 11 points per game). The Vols will be coming into a hostile Tucson environment and Arizona is led by Azulous Tubelis who averages more than 20 points per game and guard Kerr Kriisa, who shoots it well at 52% from the field. Projected Score: Arizona 76, Tennessee 72

December 20
Oklahoma vs. Florida (Charlotte; Jumpman Invitational)
7 PM ET, ESPN
In the first annual Jumpman Invitational and a future SEC match-up two teams that have some improvement to do face off. Oklahoma played top ten Arkansas tough in the first half and lost a the game to the Razorbacks but have dynamite scorer Grant Sherfield to use, who scored more than 20 points in their loss in Tulsa. Despite coach Mike White leaving to take the Georgia job, big man Colin Castelton stuck it out and again leads the Gators in points (15.2) and rebounds (7.5) a game. Oklahoma can get going shooting the basketball and I think they do in this one. Projected Score: Oklahoma 81, Florida 72

December 21
North Carolina vs. Michigan (Charlotte; Jumpman Invitational)
7 PM ET, ESPN
North Carolina was discussed in their game preview versus Ohio State so let’s talk about the Buckeyes’ rival in this one a little more. The Wolverines boast Hunter Dickinson, a trash-talking big man, that averages almost 20 points a game and almost 9 rebounds a game as well. Guard Jett Howard helps Dickinson out with scoring at just over 15 points a game while fellow guard Kobe Bufkin leads Michigan in assists. Whichever teams’ guards play better, like it was mentioned in the North Carolina-Ohio State preview, they win the game. The Tar Heels get what would be a fourth consecutive win this one. Projected Score: North Carolina 83, Michigan 74

Image Courtesy: Touchdown Wire — USA Today

CFP Top 6
1.Georgia 12-0 (8-0) This week: 14.LSU (Atlanta)
2.Michigan 12-0 (8-0) This week: Purdue (Indianapolis)
3.TCU 12-0 (8-0) This week: 10.Kansas State (Arlington)
4.USC 11-1 (8-1) This week: 11.Utah (Las Vegas)
5.Ohio State 11-1 (7-1) This week: N/A
6.Alabama 10-2 (6-2) This week: N/A

Key games this weekend (Rankings based off of CFP Poll)
Pac-12 Championship
11.Utah vs. 4.USC (Las Vegas) (Friday, 8 PM ET, FOX)
Utah beat USC by a single point back on October 15th. The Trojans, led by Heisman favorite Caleb Williams, will look to solidify their case for a spot in the College Football Playoff with a third consecutive win over a top twenty-five team. Utah QB Cam Rising and RB Tavion Thomas will look to defeat Southern Cal for a second time this season and create chaos at this Sunday’s Selection Show. Projected Score: USC 38, Utah 24

Big 12 Championship
10.Kansas State vs. 3.TCU (Arlington) (Saturday, 12 PM ET, ABC)
Kansas State had a double-digit lead at multiple points in their regular season game against TCU but like many of the Horned Frogs’ other games, they came back and won that game. The Horned Frogs’ QB Max Duggan has been spectacular this season even after getting replaced in spring ball. He replaced the injured Chandler Morris and never looked back. Duggan will lead TCU’s offense to another big win. Projected Score: TCU 42, Kansas State 31

SEC Championship
14.LSU vs. 1.Georgia (Atlanta) (Saturday, 4 PM ET, CBS)
Despite losing many players to the 2022 NFL Draft in April following a national championship win, Georgia coach Kirby Smart has led the Bulldogs to another perfect regular season. Without a surprising loss in their backyard of Atlanta on Saturday, they will be in the College Football Playoff as the top seed, playing on New Year’s Eve. On the opposite sideline, Brian Kelly led LSU to Atlanta in his first season as head coach. The tigers were upset last week by a previously struggling Texas A&M team and fell to 9-3. Thinking that LSU would be at the SEC Championship game following their season-opening loss to Florida State in their backyard of New Orleans is crazy to think and with a record that is now out of contention of making the CFP. Projected Score: Georgia 27, LSU 17

ACC Championship
23.North Carolina vs. 9.Clemson (Charlotte) (Saturday, 8 PM ET, ABC)
With a win last Saturday, Clemson would have been in good shape when it comes to their chances for this year’s College Football Playoff. But, they fell to instate rival South Carolina for the first time since 2013 and will face a North Carolina team that has lost its last two games. Tar Heel QB Drake Maye has not carried his team the entire year but a disappointing year for the Carolina defense has made it seem clear this team was not good enough to make a run at the CFP. This game, to me, comes down to who can make timely stops, and Clemson’s defense is one of the best in the country. Projected Score: Clemson 35, North Carolina 28

Big Ten Championship
Purdue vs. 2.Michigan (Indianapolis) (Saturday, 8 PM ET, FOX)
Michigan ran their way to 242 rushing yards in the second half in a dominant win over Ohio State, 45-23. With a win over Purdue, the Wolverines will be back in the College Football Playoff for a second consecutive season. Purdue will have to pose a threat to the dominant Michigan offensive line if they want to stop the Wolverine ground game and pull the upset. Aidan O’Connel, the Boilermaker QB, will also have to pace his offense well as opposing signal-caller JJ McCarthy threw three long passing touchdowns in Michigan’s win over Ohio State last Saturday, which means the Wolverines can score in a hurry. Projected Score: Michigan State 42, Purdue 24

Image Courtesy: Deadline.com

December 2
6.Baylor vs. 14.Gonzaga (Sioux Falls)
8 PM ET, Peacock
In a rematch of the 2021 National Championship game, I expect Baylor to play great defense on Gonzaga star Drew Timme and for the Bears to avoid a second loss of their season. Projected Score: Baylor 77, Gonzaga 65

December 4
19.Kentucky vs. Michigan (London; Hall of Fame London Showcase)
1 PM ET, ABC
Kentucky has not been good outside of their star center Oscar Tshiebwe this season. In London, Kentucky needs to play through everybody on their roster as much as possible to defeat Michigan. Projected Score: Kentucky 79, Michigan 73

December 6
2.Texas vs. 16.Illinois (New York City; Jimmy V Classic)
7 PM ET, ESPN
Texas might be the best team in the country with star guards Tyrese Hunter and Marcus Carr. Illinois is also talented and has been playing better than many thought this season. The Longhorns defense is tremendous and their offense is electric when the team is clicking. This game will be good in the first half but Texas should run away with this one. Projected Score: Texas 84, Illinois 71

17.Duke vs. Iowa (New York City; Jimmy V Classic)
9:30 PM ET, ESPN
Iowa’s Kris Murray will pose threats that Duke will definitely have to deal with. The Blue Devils have suffered two losses already this season and will have to let leader and point guard Jeremy Roach will lead them to a win in New York City on Tuesday. Projected Score: Duke 74, Iowa 70

Image Courtesy: The New York Times

CFP Top 6
1.Georgia 11-0 (8-0) This week: Georgia Tech
2.Ohio State 11-0 (8-0) This week: 3.Michigan
3.Michigan 11-0 (8-0) This week: at.2.Ohio State
4.TCU 11-0 (8-0) This week: Iowa State
5.LSU 9-2 (6-1) This week: at.Texas A&M
6.USC 10-1 (8-1) This week: 15.Notre Dame

Key games this weekend (Rankings based off of CFP Poll)
Mississippi State at. 20.Ole Miss (Thursday, 7 PM ET, ESPN)
Even if Ole Miss will be ultra-focused following their terrible loss to Arkansas last Saturday, they still play with Lane Kiffin, their head coach, potentially on the way out to Auburn. This game will be close but Mississippi State QB Will Rogers will lead the Bulldogs to a win and hand the Rebels a third consecutive loss and get their first win in the rivalry in a long time. Projected Score: Mississippi State 35, Ole Miss 28

South Carolina at. 8.Clemson (Saturday, 12 PM ET, ABC)
Clemson has “struggled” to a 10-1 record and will play in the ACC Championship next Saturday no matter what the game result is in “Death Valley” on Saturday. The tigers have to face a red hot South Carolina team who just eliminated Tennessee from the College Football Playoff picture by scoring 63 points on them, led by QB Spencer Rattler’s 6 TDs in the game. Clemson should have the want to get to the Playoff because if TCU loses and they win out, they could very well be in contention for that fourth spot, most likely taking on Georgia if they get there. Projected Score: Clemson 27, South Carolina 17

3.Michigan at. 2.Ohio State (Saturday, 12 PM ET, FOX)
Ohio State’s players and coaches have been thinking about their game with Michigan last season the entirety of last year. They fell to their arch rival, the Wolverines, for the first time in sixteen years. Something tells me Ohio State will take some time to get going and then get a big lead and cruise in this game, claiming their spot in the Big Ten title game and putting themselves one step closer to another College Football Playoff bid. With the way Michigan played against Illinois last week (it was not very good) and needing a game-winning field goal to beat the Illini, the Buckeyes should win this game. Projected Score: Ohio State 45, Michigan 31

9.Oregon at. 21.Oregon State (Saturday, 3:30 PM ET, ABC)
Will Oregon State upset Oregon’s chances at another Pac-12 championship game appearance? The Beavers have had an incredible season but Bo Nix should lead the Ducks to a win and a chance at ending USC’s College Football Playoff chances. Projected Score: Oregon 31, Oregon State 17

Auburn at. 8.Alabama (Saturday, 3:30 PM ET, CBS)
Auburn has looked better and more inspired as a team with “Cadillac” Williams as their interim coach. But Alabama has used wins over Ole Miss and Austin Peay to get back on their feet. Alabama needs Bryce Young to get them going and lead them to a win in the Iron Bowl. Projected Score: Alabama 38, Auburn 20

5.LSU at. Texas A&M (Saturday, 7 PM ET, ESPN)
With a win, LSU will still have a shot at the College Football Playoff. Playing an Aggie team with not much to play for is dangerous as they will want to end LSU’s chances at the postseason. No matter what, LSU will be in Atlanta next weekend for the SEC Championship and they should be fine in College Station on Saturday. Projected Score: LSU 34, Texas A&M 17

15.Notre Dame at. 6.USC (Saturday, 7:30 PM ET, ABC)
With a Pac-12 Championship Game appearance already locked up, USC will need a win over Notre Dame to jump LSU in the rankings and help themselves before they face one of Oregon, Utah, or Washington in their conference championship game. Notre Dame has also played better since their terrible start to the season and will pose a great challenge for Caleb Williams and the Trojans. Projected Score: USC 38, Notre Dame 27