The College Football Playoff was a major success last season, with the Ohio State Buckeyes erupting on an improbable but dominant run to win the National Title. It is extremely difficult to win back to back titles, as a veteran Florida State team found out last season falling to Oregon in the playoff after winning 29 consecutive games. However, the Buckeyes are stacked with top talent and bring back honors candidates at seemingly every critical spot. The schedule is not challenging, although with Jim Harbaugh coming home to take over at Michigan, this storied rivalry will be placed back on high heat. Additionally, new coaches at Wisconsin, Florida and Nebraska also add to the intrigue of the new season. An old fashioned border war between North Carolina and South Carolina in Charlotte will kick things off on September 3.
After being the
most successful of all the major prognostications in 2013 in the accuracy of the Preseason Top 25, last year, we fell short and congratulate Phil Steele, who, unlike the others, saw TCU as a top contender. We bought in to Nebraska, North Carolina, Florida and Iowa, which cost us. A new day dawns, and with that we proudly present The Color & Pageantry Preseason Top 25.
THE COLOR & PAGEANTRY PRESEASON TOP 25
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| 1. Ohio State |
Ohio State was left for dead a year ago after getting pounded at home by Virginia Tech 35-21, and rightfully so. The Buckeyes responded by soundly defeating marginal opponents, as expected, while Va. Tech fell off sharply having their worst season in decades. Ohio State escaped at Penn State in two overtimes, leaving them undefeated and lacking respect when they traveled to Michigan State and won. The Buckeyes followed with marginal wins over Minnesota and rival Michigan, but absolutely destroyed Wisconsin 59-0 the B1G title game. Ohio State decisively dumped Alabama 42-35 in the playoff then muscled Oregon around 42-20 to win the National Title, with their third string quarterback leading the way. It was one for the ages to be sure. With these events fresh in the mind, and with a veteran team returning which includes three proven winners at quarterback, Ohio State is a stronger favorite to win back to back titles than Florida State was a season ago. The Buckeyes look to be 14 point or more favorites in all of their games for 2015, which does include an opener on the road against Virginia Tech in Blacksburg. Given the difficulty in repeating, it is hard to pick a team to do it, but settling in on another team given the talent level at Ohio State would simply be a hedge against the house. It is noted the Buckeyes looked like anything but a title contender for three quarters of the season a year ago, but they found their groove, and ran over everybody in their way. The three way battle at signal caller looks to be working itself out. In the last few days, former QB Braxton Miller announced a position change to wide receiver, which is a good move for him and his chances in the NFL. Miller is very elusive, and can take it the house, so playing H-back will benefit the Buckeyes measurably. It would seem, that if completely healthy, JT Barrett will be the first string quarterback, with Cardale Jones the backup. Either way, the position is one if immense strength. The offensive line returns four starters, led by Taylor Decker and Pat Elfein, and is very deep. Ezekiel Elliott ran wild as in the stretch run in '14, and returns as perhaps the top odds leader for the Heisman Trophy. Jalen Marshall and Micheal Thomas are All B1G candidates at receiver. No weaknesses will be found with the Buckeye stop troops. A wealth of riches up front is lead by DE Joey Bosa, 13.5 sacks, who looks unblockable at times. Adolphus Washington anchors the interior. Darrion Lee is an All America player at outside linebacker, and on the inside, Raekwon McMillan, a former 5* recruit, is a rising superstar. Vonn Bell leads a secondary which returns three starters. And, of course, both kicking specialists return, as well as return man Dontre Wilson. Virginia Tech will have the full attention of the Buckeyes as they travel to Blacksburg to open the season. Ohio State will then cruise to 10-0 before Michigan State comes to Columbus, and should win that. The Buckeyes travel to meet rival Michigan and new coach Jim Harbaugh to close the regular season, but Michigan is years away from competing at this level. They have to play the games, and on any given Saturday; well, you know. Ohio State looks like a dominant team with an easy schedule, as much of a lock for the playoff as you can dream up. Hide the women and children.
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| 2. Texas Christian |
After missing the final four in 2014, TCU throttled a strong Ole Miss team 42-3 in the Peach Bowl to send a message for 2015. Texas Christian entered 2014 coming off a 4-8 season, where little went right, and with new co-offensive coordinators coming in, few thought the Horned Frogs would be a factor for the Big XII, much less the nation. Now, you must tip your cap to analyst Phil Steele, who did pick TCU 12th in preseason poll, but he was looking at turnover differential, the note that TCU lost several very close games and defensive prowess. A few eyes were opened in a 30-7 romp over Minnesota but the Frogs took out #4 OU at home 37-33, with the Sooners having no answer for the offense Sonny Cumbie and Doug Meacham put together with the amazing Trevone Boykin at the helm. Boykin lit fire under the new system, throwing for 3901 yards and 30 touchdowns, adding another some 700 on the ground. Boykin returns, and the sky is the limit for him, including a Heisman Trophy. Aaron Green, who transferred in from Nebraska, really came into his own last fall and will challenge for conference honors this fall. Four starters return up front, led by center Joey Hunt. Josh Doctson leads a strong receiving core, which returns all starters. The Frogs offense looks lethal. Only five starters return defensively, but this has always been TCU's calling card. The unit will be full of promising youth. Davion Person, with 31 career starts, anchors the line. Aaron Curry, a Nebraska transfer, will emerge as a star at tackle, with an explosive move to ball. Terrell Lathan and James McFarland return at DE. Both linebackers in the 4-2-5 system TCU runs will be new; however, coaches are intrigued at the prospects of Mike Freeze among others. The secondary returns two solid performers in Derrick Kindred (4INT) and Ranthony Texada. Top recruit Deshawn Raymond will get a chance to find a spot as well. Cameron Ecois-Luper is the top Big XII kick returner back for 2015. This fall, with the TCU offense firing on all cylinders, the defense will have plenty of time to find their usual footing. Both specialist return as well. The Frog open at Minnesota, which although the Gophers are better than most think, will be no problem. Texas visits Fort Worth, followed by a trip to K-State, who is well coached but not the caliber of the Frogs. A trip to Stillwater to face what may be an undefeated Okie State may be troublesome, and OU will be lying in wait two weeks later at Norman. Then, Baylor comes to town, in what should be the quasi Big XII title game. The Horned Frogs appear to have too much offense for everyone but perhaps Baylor, and get the Bears at home. So, odds favor the Horned Frogs to finish undefeated and grab a spot in the final four, which they, appropriately in our view, missed a year ago.
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| 3. Auburn |
After playing FSU for the 2013 title, Auburn took a step back last year, primarily due to the lack of performance by the defensive unit. Only against Georgia did the Tigers look outclassed. Offensively, although it seems to be otherwise, Auburn is a very physical football team, with the establishment of the run the integral part of the offense. Alex Cozan leads the offensive line, which lost three starters. Shon Coleman and Avery Young are also experienced players which will help solidify things. Jeremy Johnson takes over at quarterback, and believe it or not, many think this an upgrade from the stellar Nick Marshall. Johnson has the attention of many, which validates his standing. Duke Williams is a national honors candidate at wideout, and fleet footed Ricardo Lewis returns as well. Chandler Cox of Orlando Apopka is a talented frosh set to help at H-back or tight end. Javon Robinson is the favorite to step up at running back, a spot with little returning production. Former Gator coach Will Muschamp comes over to take over the defensive unit, and he can flat coach the stop troops. Up front, starters return in end Davonte Lambert and tackle Montravius Adams, but it is the return of Carl Lawson, who was lost last year to injury, that has the Tiger faithful excited. If healthy, Lawson is at a minimum an all conference player. Cassanova McKinzy, a national honors candidate, returns at linebacker, as does Kris Frost. Expect superstar 5* recruit Byron Cowart to get in the mix as well. Cornerback Jonathan Jones, who has NFL scouts drooling, returns to lead an experienced secondary. Fellow corner Joshua Holsey will team with safeties Jonathan Ford and Georgia transfer Trey Matthews. The kicking game will not be an area of concern. Auburn opens with Louisville, but catches the Cards, who suffered some significant losses, at a good time. In game three, the Tigers travel to LSU, who is expected to be improved, for a classic tilt which will figure prominently in the SEC West race. Miss. State then visits Auburn, a game which the Tigers should win. Then comes a four game stretch that is simply brutal. After traveling to improving Kentucky after a bye, Auburn goes to equally physical Arkansas, comes home to face Ole Miss, travels to A&M and then hosts Georgia. OUCH! Of course, the Tigers close with Alabama, at home. It seems unlikely the SEC West champ will be undefeated, which favors Auburn given this taxing slate. However, if the Tigers can get by on the road at LSU, other than the trip to Arkansas, whom the Tigers match up well with, most of the toughest games are on the plain. Given that, we project Auburn 11-1 after grabbing the late season win at home over Alabama.
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| 4. Notre Dame |
With Everett Golson back at quarterback after sitting a season out due to suspension for plagiarism, along with plenty of emerging talent, Irish fans were hoping for a return to glory, having played for the national title in 2012. However, a brutal schedule seemed too daunting for this team, yet they went to Tallahassee 6-0 and had a game winning touchdown called back due to penalty, falling to FSU 31-27. The following week, in a hard fought victory over Navy, walk-on linebacker Joe Schmidt, the heart of the Irish defense, broke a leg. Although Nyles Morgan played very well as next man up, it was clear the leadership lost was an issue for the Irish stop troops, and the once promising season fell apart. The Irish finished 8-5, nipping a tough LSU 31-28 in the Music City Bowl. At quarterback, Golson's turnover problems continued, and were particularly painful at Arizona State, drawing the ire of Coach Brian Kelly. Kelly ultimately turned to Malik Zaire, who played well when given the opportunity. With Golson having left for Florida State, the team belongs to Zaire. The entire offensive line returns intact and will be among the nations best, led by left tackle Ronnie Staley. Tarean Folston returns at running back, with Greg Bryant backing up. Will Fuller is an All America candidate at wide receiver. While the Irish offense looks potent, the defensive unit is stout as well. Everyone returns up front, led by tackle Sheldon Day. Junior linebacker Jaylon Smith makes our All America team and leads a top notch group, with the aforementioned Joe Schmidt and Nyles Morgan back along with Jarrett Grace and James Onwuaku. The secondary is also a strength, with All America candidate Kelvarae Russell back at corner with each other starter returning. The kicking game may be an early issue, but you can't have everything. The schedule is again tough, as always with the Irish. An opener against Texas should be no problem for the experienced and talented Irish, but hosting Georgia Tech and their unique attack two weeks later may be. The Irish can certainly win at Clemson, but the tilt with a much improved Southern Cal may remind many of the good ole days. If they can get through those, a big if, the finale at Stanford is all that stops the Irish from a final four appearance. This is a very talented team that should not be taken lightly, as the Fighting Irish may well figure prominently at seasons end.
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5. Baylor
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Coming back from three touchdowns down to beat TCU looked to place Baylor into the final four, but a loss at West Virginia did them, and TCU, in. Both teams will try again this fall, and while Baylor has a proven winning system and some very nice pieces, the Bears will have a new signal caller this fall. Seth Russell, who threw for 800 yards as a backup last fall, has a strong arm and is the man. Russell will be primed to thrive, with plenty of talent to work with. Shock Linwood returns at running back, an elusive runner who will run between the tackles. Corey Coleman, KD Cannon and Jay Lee, each worthy of All Big XII consideration, return to give the Bears aerial assault excessive speed and length. All American Spencer Drango leads the offensive line, which returns in tact for 2015. There is no doubt it will be a bear to stop this Baylor team offensively. On the stop side, the Bears look stingy. Up front, returning tackle Beau Blackshear returns to anchor the line, flanked by All America DE Shawn Oakman, (6'6" 280, 11 sacks) and Jamal Palmer. Taylor Young returns at linebacker, and the entire secondary is back, led by S Orion Stewart and CB Xavien Howard (13PBU). Chris Callahan is back as kicker, but he is there to kick extra points, not field goals. With eighteen returning starters, including both lines, and two near consensus All Americans, the Bears look playoff bound. An 8-0 start seems almost a formality, before Oklahoma comes calling. The Bears should handle OU, but a trip to Stillwater to battle an Oklahoma State team better than most think will be tough, especially if riding the emotions after a big win over the Sooners. Immediately after, the Bears must travel to TCU, a team much their equal. With that contest on the road, we conclude Baylor will be the underdog, and it will take quite the effort for the Bears to get that win.
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| 6. Alabama |
Alabama is blessed with a slew of honors candidates, full of five star recruits with the top recruiting class each of the last five seasons, but like 2014, the 2015 squad does have some questions entering this season, beginning at quarterback. Last fall, Blake Sims did a stellar job coming in and directing the Crimson Tide, beating out FSU transfer Jake Coker. While Sims is gone, Coker returns and is the odds on favorite to win the job. Coker has a strong arm, and has been tutored well previously under FSU's Jimbo Fisher and now Bama OC Lane Kiffin.
I would consider it an issue if Coker fails to win the job. Gone to the NFL is Amari Cooper,one of the greatest receivers in Bama history. ArDarius Stewart and Chris Black have experience, but Robert Foster is expected to be the main man on the flank. TE O. J. Howard, who some think may breakout to be the best in the land, will provide plenty of assistance to Coker. Derrick Henry, blessed with size and speed, looks primed for an All America season. Cam Robinson leads the offensive line, and All SEC center Ryan Kelly returns, but overall the unit is full of talented youth. A'Shawn Robinson anchors the defensive line, and along with DE Jonathan Allen, the unit returns all starters and is a team strength. Reggie Ragland is an All America player at inside linebacker, and five star recruit Reuben Foster will win a spot along side him. Last fall, the secondary under performed, and with the loss to the NFL of S Landon Collins, the unit may be an issue. Eddie Jackson and Cyrus Jones return, and big things are expected from five star sophomore Tony Brown, but Saban is focused on this unit and improvement is expected. JK Scott is among the nations best punters, but improvement is needed at placekicker. Alabama faces a very tough slate, and it begins with a neutral site game against Wisconsin. Bama will win that one and they get Ole Miss at home in week three, a revenge game for the Tide. October brings a crucial stretch, starting with a trip to Athens to face powerful Georgia. Arkansas brings their physical game to Tuscaloosa the next week. Bama goes to A&M, then comes home to face emerging Tennessee and LSU at home before visiting Miss. State. Then, after a breather against Charleston Southern, Bama goes to the plains to face Auburn. This is not the most powerful Alabama team we have seen recently, and although they could win them all, we see two losses at least with this slate. Bama has not played well in their last two bowl games, and it does not look like a final four berth is forthcoming in 2015.
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| 7. Michigan State |
Michigan State has won 10 games or more 4 of the last five seasons, establishing themselves as an annual title contender in the B1G. 2015 will be no different, as the Spartans return a veteran team capable of reaching the final four. Connor Cook, who threw 24 touchdowns versus only 8 interceptions, is back at quarterback for his senior season. The receiving core loses standout Tony Lippett, but Macgarrett Kings, Jr. and Aaron Burbridge appear ready to step up, and tight end Josia Price is a favorite target of Cook. With the departure of Jeremy Langford, the Spartans are looking for someone to step up at running back. Madre London looks the front runner, but may be challenged by incoming frosh LJ Scott. The line is among the nations best, with two potential All Americans leading the way in tackle Jack Conklin and center Jack Allen. These guys will give the skill spots time to settle in. All America DE Shilique Calhoun leads the always stout defensive unit. Lawrence Thomas moves from tackle to end, and Joel Heath returns at tackle, but the excitement up front surrounds emerging DT Malik McDowell, who has the makings of a future first round pick. Linebacker starters Ed Davis, a sleeping star, and Darrien Harris return, as does Riley Bullough, another in the line of the famous MSU family. The secondary only returns one starter in free safety RJ Williamson. Montae Nicholson will play strong safety, but there are holes at each cornerback spot and youth will be served at a spot the Spartans have had NFL guys at for years. The kicking game was not as strong last year as Mark Dantonio would like, so there is work to do in that area. Oregon visits East Lansing in week two, and that clash of titans will set the national stage early. The Spartans travel to rival Michigan, Nebraska in the B1G cross over game and Ohio State late before closing at home against an improving Penn State. Defeating Oregon would be huge for Sparty. If Michigan State wins it, winning in Lincoln could set the stage for a real big one in Columbus. Michigan State is a very good team, but it seems the losses at the skill spots on offense and the inexperience at corner are just enough to keep the Spartans just below the level of national title contender.
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| 8. Oregon |
With everyone on board after defeating Michigan State, Oregon stubbed their toe at home against Arizona. The Ducks then blasted everyone the rest of the way, including highly ranked UCLA and nemesis Stanford before soundly avenging the earlier loss by taking Arizona behind the woodshed in the PAC-12 Championship game. Oregon backed that up by running wild over Florida State, but got whipped again in physical fashion (so did Alabama) by Ohio State. Once again, the Ducks are a very powerful squad capable of reaching the final four. Of immediate note is the loss of Heisman Trophy winner Marcus Mariota at quarterback. The new transfer rules really benefit Oregon, as record setting FBS QB Vernon Adams has transferred in from Eastern Washington to play his senior season. Ironically, Oregon opens the season hosting Eastern Washington. Adams flat got it done for EWU, but he will see a different game at Oregon, where he could continue to record strong total offense statistics. Royce Freeman, an All American contender, is back at running back, and so is Thomas Tyner. Byron Marshall and Dwayne Stanford lead a very good receiving core. Two offensive line starters have departed to the NFL, but two starters return along with tackle Tyler Johnstone, who had been injured and is All PAC 12. While there are a few offensive holes, the defense looks stout. Two of three starters return up front, with Alex Balducci an anchor in the middle and DeForest Buckner (13TFL) at DE set to challenge for All America honors. Rodney Hardrick and Christian French (6S) lead a deep and athletic linebacking core, which includes Tyson Coleman and Joe Walker. Free safety Reggie Daniels, the only returning secondary starter, is All PAC 12, and young Chris Seisay if full of potential, but this unit looks weaker than years past. Good thing the front seven is so strong. Both specialists return, and Charles Nelson, who had two punt returns for touchdowns in '14, is back. After the aforementioned opener with Eastern Washington, Oregon goes to East Lansing. Adams had better be as advertised for the Ducks to win that one. Pesky Utah is at home and a trip to Washington is not as troublesome as it looks with the Huskies in rebuilding mode. On October 28, the Ducks visit Arizona State, a very fine football team to be sure. Cal is coming, especially on offense, but is in Eugene. Oregon then hits the farm to tangle with Stanford before hosting USC, which has the look of a big time contest. For Oregon to go undefeated, a lot would have to break right. Although the Ducks miss UCLA and Arizona, they do face three top 15 teams, two on the road, and Stanford, so odds favor about two losses.
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| 9. Southern Cal |
For the first time in many seasons, Southern Cal may be at close to full strength, no longer stricken with NCAA sanctions. With a roster full of blue chippers, and coming off a 9-4 season which showed much promise, it appears the Trojans are on the brink of making some real national noise. It does not hurt that USC has perhaps the best throwing quarterback in the country in Cody Kessler. Just a few seasons ago, Kessler did not look up to the job, but he has blossomed into a top NFL prospect. Kessler threw for 39 touchdowns last fall against only 5 interceptions for 3825 yards. Expect more of the same this fall. JuJu Smith will be Kessler's top target, with Steven Mitchell in the slot. JUCO Issac Whitney is expected to be a strong contributor, as is Adoree Jackson, the brilliant electric corner who, in addition to his defensive responsibilities, is a star kick returner and big play receiver. Maybe Jackson can play tailback as well, as the Tailback U lacks a designated starter at the position. Tre Madden and Justin Smith should split carries, and Oklahoma State transfer Ronald Jones may emerge. The line is a strength with all five starters returning, led by All America center Max Tuerk and guard Viane Talamaivao. That should help the running game, and give Kessler all day to firebomb opposing secondaries. Although there were issues last season (Nebraska threw up 42 points in losing the Holiday Bowl to USC), the defense is stacked with talent and looks to be much improved. The Trojans lose DE Leonard Williams to the NFL, leaving the line somewhat vulnerable, although Antwaun Woods and Delvin Simmons return inside. Su'a Cravens, blessed with exception speed, had 12 TFL a year ago and leads the linebacking core, which also returns Anthony Sarao and Lamar Dawson, who is back from injury. Adoree Jackson is a superstar corner, but Kevin Seymour (13PBU) is also a very good player. Leon McQuay also is back at safety. Iman Marshall, a consensus top five recruit, will also factor in the secondary. Punter Kris Albarado returns, but the placekicking spot is up fro grabs, Adoree Jackson will be a highlight reel in the return game. In week three, Stanford comes calling, followed by a pivotal trip to Arizona State, which will be a tough one. Then USC goes to Washington, which will be down a bit this season before hosting Notre Dame, which, if USC gets by ASU, should have the Trojans 5-0 at kickoff. From there, the schedule continues to offer challenging opponents. Utah comes to SC, followed by at trip to Cal, who can throw it with the best of them. Arizona, no slouch by any stretch, then visits the Coliseum. SC must close on the road at Oregon before coming home to host UCLA. While USC is a very talented football team capable of beating anyone, odds favor this murderous schedule deals up a pair of losses. However, if one loss is to Notre Dame and the Trojans can win the PAC 12, they would likely be in the playoff. That appears to be too optimistic
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10. Florida State
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With a veteran team coming back of an undefeated national championship season, the Florida State Seminoles were seeking to win back to back national championships, a very difficult feat to achieve. Although Heisman Trophy winning quarterback Jameis Winston returned, the Seminoles never seemed to find the correct level of chemistry and consistency on either side of the ball. FSU could never really deliver a knockout punch to any of their opponents, winning many close contests in come from behind fashion. Even still, FSU went undefeated on a 29 game winning streak into the playoff where they were clobbered by Oregon. With Winston, four offensive lineman and one the best Seminole receivers ever, not to mention several other key contributors off to the NFL, 2015 looks to be a rebuilding year for the Seminoles. However, it should be strongly noted this is a very young and talented football team that figures to challenge for yet another playoff spot. Sean Maguire appeared to be ready to step in for Winston, which he did in directing a victory over Clemson last fall, but Maguire has not made the projected next step in progression the coaches had hoped for. Everett Golson has transferred in from Notre Dame and most expect him to win the job over the junior Maguire. RB Dalvin Cook, who had a brilliant freshman season, was expected to challenge for All America honors, but he has been indefinitely suspended due to a domestic violence charge. True freshman Jacques Patrick of Orlando Timber Creek looks like he may see plenty of time, along with Mario Pender, who has shown flashes but is often injured. Roderick Johnson, who earned a starting line spot in mid-season last year, looks All ACC at tackle, but the rest of the line is new and will have to rise up quickly. Gone is top TE Nick O'Leary, so a consistent and dangerous outlet appears greatly diminished for 2015. Young receivers are not a good mixture as a new QB is groomed, but while very talented with bright futures ahead, the group is very green. Sophomore Travis Rudolph looks the leader, with Jesus Wilson and with Ermon Lane and Ja'Vonn Harrison back for sophomore seasons. True Freshman George Campbell has the look of a guy who could help early and often, a future star to be sure. The defense, with a bunch of young guys, might just be nasty, Nile Lawrence-Stample returns up front, along with Derrick Mitchell, with Derrick Nnadi and Demarcus Christmas adding depth. Chris Casher has not lived up to promise at DE, where it looks like DeMarcus Walker, Jacob Pugh, Lorenzo Featherston start and newcomers Rick Leonard and Josh Sweat join Casher to add depth. Terrance Smith is an All America candidate at linebacker, and Reggie Northrup, who is coming off an ACL, forms a top duo. Roderick Hoskins and Lorenzo Phillips look to rotate in. The secondary may be the nations best, led by All American Jalen Ramsey. Ramsey can play everywhere, but looks to have settled at corner. Marquez White appears set to work opposite Ramsey. Nate Andrews is a top safety, and although fellow safety LaMarcus Brutus is back, freshman S Derwin James is ready for immediate action and will be on the field. Trey Marshall and Tyler Hunter also return, any of which would be starting at most anywhere else. Opposing aerial assaults will be locked down, and provided the Seminoles get any kind of pass rush, the unit will be stout. Top kicker Roberto Aquayo returns, as does P Cason Beaty. Kermit Whitfield will work returns. The Seminoles, although suffering significant losses, are very dangerous and will get better and better as time goes by. An early trip to Boston College may be tasking for this young team, but we suspect they pass that test. Miami is in Tallahassee, which the Seminoles should win along with Louisville the following week. A trip to Georgia Tech, a team FSU has had little success in stopping, could be a problem. Two weeks later, FSU travels to Clemson, which figures to be for the ACC Atlantic. After that, NC State is in Tallahassee and the Seminoles then travel to Florida, which is always dangerous although the Gators are in a massive rebuild. While FSU could win them all, no joke, the team seems likely to drop one somewhere, perhaps in Atlanta. Get FSU now, because the more experience they get, the better they will become. They will be really nasty in 2016.
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| 11. UCLA |
Things were in place last fall for UCLA to make the jump to national title contender with a veteran team. But, the Bruins started slow but destroyed Arizona State and looked to be the team many had as top five, but then were upset at home by Utah ahead of being dumped by Oregon. UCLA slowly got it going again, beating USC, but then were stomped by Stanford. A win over K-State in the Alamo Bowl sets the stage for 2015, where UCLA will again field a veteran team, returning eighteen starters. The Bruins are loaded, except at the most important position on the field, quarterback, with Brett Hundley jumping to the NFL. Heralded Elite 11 5* QB Josh Rosen, who enrolled early and impressed in the spring, looks to be the guy. The true freshman will have plenty of talent to work with. All five starters return up front, led by Jake Brendel at guard. Paul Perkins, who quietly ran for 1575 yards a year ago, is the running back while senior wideout Jordan Payton is primed for big things. On the stop side, a nasty pair of tackles in Kenny Clark Eddie Vanderdoes will anchor the interior line. Outstanding and versatile linebacker Myles Jack returns, but will move inside. Deon Hollins will play outside, with 9 sacks a year ago. Ishmael Adams and Fabian Mooreau are likely the top cornerback tandem in the nation. Each of the specialists return, but the Bruins are seeking better production. The PAC 12 South is brutal, and, while they have had signature moments, the Bruins have yet to show they can weather the storm. The task become much more daunting with a freshman signal caller. UCLA misses Oregon, but hosts Arizona State first week of October a week after playing at Arizona. The Bruins travel to Stanford, a team they struggle with historically, and close on the road with pesky Utah and Southern Cal. While there is top talent at every level on the field for the Bruins, with a rough schedule and a freshman signal caller, it is hard to see UCLA winning the PAC 12.
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| 12. Georgia |
The Dawgs are stacked and would appear in position to win the SEC and join the final four. However, and this is big, the only area the Bulldogs lack experience is "right up the gut" as Coach Mark Richt appropriately put it. The main issue is at quarterback, and it is anybody's guess who will win the job. No matter who jumps in under center, the position, at a minimum initially, is a downgrade from a year ago and light years from Aaron Murray and Matt Stafford. It will not be helpful that an altered system under new offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer will be implemented. Snapping the ball to whoever emerges as signal caller will be new, and that job has not been completely settled either with Hunter Long and Isaiah Wynn in a battle. The rest of the big uglies are stout, led by guard Greg Pyke and Tackle John Theus. The stable of running backs is the envy of the nation. Nick Chubb is a preseason All American choice, backed by the elusive Sony Michel and a rugged back in AJ Turman of Orlando Boone. Keith Marshall, who looked very special before injuries, appears ready to go and, if healthy, will be a big factor. We are pulling for him. Malcolm Mitchell is the leader among the receiving core. On the stop side, Georgia has the making of a stingy and disruptive unit. One the outside, DE Jordan Jenkins anchors a line that should continue to emerge as a team strength. Trent Thompson, a 5* DT, may figure in the mix. Leonard Floyd will be lead Dawg of the junkyard among the linebacking core along with emerging Lorenzo Carter, and the secondary returns four starters. PK Marshall Morgan is back, and Isaiah McKenzie is the SEC's highest ranked punt returner back for 2015. The schedule is tough, with a home matchup with Alabama early and a road tilt at Auburn late. Florida is always a wild card game in Jacksonville, and Tennessee, who superior Dawg teams have struggled with, is on the upswing and much improved, so expect the game in Rocky Top to be a tough one. Missouri visits Athens, and the Dawgs close at Ga. Tech. There is too much apparent talent to let the SEC East slip away, but the chances of this team being strong enough overall to win the SEC altogether appears remote given the quarterback situation.
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| 13. Louisiana State |
It has now been a couple of season since LSU has been relevant in national title conversations, and last year's 8-5 season did nothing to advance the Tigers standing. Sure, the pipeline to the NFL remains, but the Tiger faithful are not going to accept 8-5 campaigns, given the talent assembled down on the bayou. LSU appears to be ascending, but perhaps the main issue prohibiting the Tigers from once again being a national player has been less than adequate quarterback play. Although Brandon Harris remains to push for the job, and he failed to distinguish himself in the spring, Anthony Jennings looks to still be the guy. Jennings play must improve from 2014 (49% completion rate) for LSU to have a chance. After all, the Tigers scored 7 at Auburn, 10 versus Ole Miss in a win and were shut out at Arkansas. So, to even contend for the SEC West, much less join others on the national title stage, the offense must move into the asset category. That bring us to Leonard Fournette, the running back who made a big splash as a freshman a year ago. Fournette is the real deal, but cannot do it by himself. Talvin Dural, and another promising youngster, Malachi Dupree, give the Tigers aerial threats. Three starters are back up front led by tackle Vadal Alexander. The Tiger defensive unit has pieces in place to be a dynamic unit. Up front, Christian LaCouture and Davon Godchaux are back. Kendell Beckwith leads the linebacking core, flanked by Lamar Lewis. Jamal Adams and Jalen Mills lead the secondary, a top unit, with Tre'Davious White and frosh Kevin Tolliver joining the fun. The kicking game is solid. The schedule is tough. Although Miss. State, who beat LSU a year ago, returns a top signal caller (LSU would be top five if they had him), State lost a lot, so the Tigers catch them at a good time in week two. Auburn comes to Baton Rouge the following week in a revenge game (LSU got thumped 41-7 a year ago). While South Carolina and once proud Florida are not gimmies, they are manageable in the mid-season. Four games to close will determine the year for LSU. The Tigers are at Alabama, get rival Arkansas at home, travel to Oxford versus Ole Miss and then close with Texas A&M on the bayou. In the absence of top flite quarterback performance, all four games could be lost. Although we think LSU will be better than recent years, the schedule has what appears to be at least three losses.
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| 14. Clemson |
Since Clemson lost a hard fought battle to Nebraska in the Gator Bowl following the 2010 season, The Tigers have gone 41-11 with an ACC title. When last we saw the Tigers, they had opened a can on Oklahoma in the Champs Bowl in lovely downtown Orlando, whipping OU 40-6, and it wasn't that close. Now that Clemson has established program consistency at a top level, the Tiger faithful are hoping Clemson can take the next step, potentially not only winning the ACC, but the national title. Offensively, it is all about DeShawn Watson, who displayed flashes of brilliance as he emerged as the Tiger starting quarterback last fall. While Watson dazzled opponents, he was unable to stay healthy and missed several games. If he can stay under center, Watson is one of those special talents that can take the Tigers to the new places the program appears poised to go. Although there does not appear to be an All ACC back on the roster, Wayne Gallman does possess the combination of speed and power perfect for OC Chad Morris's schemes. The receiving core rivals anyone in the nation, and is getting more help. Mike Williams had over a thousand yards receiving last fall, and is a dangerous a deep threat as you will find in the south. Artavis Scott had a breakout freshman season and is ready to become a national sensation and don't sleep on Germaine Hooper. Top recruit Deon Cain arrives in the fall, and is expected to be heard from. Another top recruit, Ray Ray McCloud, is a great athlete who will probably play split end, but may also figure at running back. The offensive line only returns two starters, but both tackle Isaiah Battle and center Ryan Horton have a shot at All ACC honors. While Clemson figures to fire on all cylinders on offense, they may have to, as the defensive unit only returns two starters. Those two are really good. Shaq Lawson will assume the spot previously occupied by top NFL draft pick Vic Beasley and some newcomers up front will be forced to stand tall. Ben Boulware and BJ Goodson return at linebacker, but the loss of Stephone Anthony will be tough to overcome. Mackensie Alexander has the look of a top player in the conference at corner while safety Jaron Kearse is very good. The kicking game is solid and the aforementioned McCloud may be the return man. Clemson has an important two game stretch as October begins, hosting Notre Dame and Georgia Tech. If the Tigers can win both; lookout! They later go to Miami and host Florida State, which will likely determine the ACC Atlantic. Clemson also visits rival South Carolina. The defense does not appear up to the task for the Tigers to win both of those October contests, and it would be best to get Florida State early before their young squad gets rolling. We will call for two losses, if not three, but the Tigers are not to be taken lightly and they have are on solid footing with a very bright future.
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| 15. Ole Miss |
It seems like now is the time, as the key components of that stellar recruiting class of 2013 appear ready to bolt to the NFL after this fall, for Ole Miss to make that major step. The Rebels were ranked in the top three a year ago until the wheels came off, in part due to a gruesome injury that hit WR LaQuon Treadwell as he was about to hit paydirt versus Auburn. Not only was Treadwell lost for the year, but his fumble also lost the game for Ole Miss, and their season was never the same. Treadwell appears to be completely healed, and, if healthy, is a without question an All America wideout. Damore'ea Stringfellow, who was asked to leave Washington, arrived in Oxford with high potential but as a bit of a head case, but could emerge as a top target, along with proven Cody Core. Evan Engram, among the nations top tight ends, returns as well. Laremy Tunsill, who also wrecked a knee in the Peach Bowl, is also considered All America worthy if healthy and would anchor the offensive line, which is an area needing improvement. Jaylen Walton appears the front runner at running back but the big question is how effective the new signal caller, Chad Kelly, will be. Kelly was booted off Clemson, and has already had a run in with the law since arriving at Oxford. The talent is there, but Kelly would seem to have some maturing to do to lead Ole Miss to higher levels. Can he do it? On defense, the Rebels on paper are stout. Standout DT Robert Nkemdiche can be a dominating presence up front, flanked by end Marquis Haynes, where all starters return. CJ Johnson and Dernzell Nkemdiche, both national honors candidates, return at linebacker. Rover Tony Conner, who as we noted last year was playing at an excellent level and on path to stardom, leads an athletic and experienced secondary unit, with Rebel leading tackler Mike Hilton at strong safety. Both specialists return as well. If the Rebels stay healthy and get good play at quarterback, this team could be right in the thick of it. They go to Alabama week three, who is waiting in revenge for them. A trip to Florida should be victorious, as is a home contest with the Texas Aggies. Games to close prior to the Egg Bowl, at Auburn, and home contests against Arkansas and LSU, will tell the tale. As impressive as the win over Alabama was a year ago, 30-0 and 42-3 losses to Arkansas and Texas Christian respectively are more than concerning. This is a talented team, but it does not appear the mental aspects are such that could allow for a special season. Therefore, the Rebels will be a scary out for anyone, but will drop a few along the way.
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| 16. Oklahoma State |
After nearly upsetting Florida State in Dallas to kick off the season, the Cowboys moved to 5-1, but along the way suffered some significant injuries. Finally, their quarterback JW Walsh went down for the year, and wheels come off quickly, with OSU getting crushed at TCU 42-9. The Cowboys regrouped and managed to score a big upset (+21) to win at OU, primarily behind a brilliant punt return by speedy frosh returner Tyreek Hill, who has since been booted from the team. Building on a bowl victory over a stout Washington team, the Cowboys return 16 starters and are poised to make some real noise in the Big XII. Mason Rudolph, who burned a red-shirt late last year, is in command as signal caller. OSU is thin at running back, and may turn to true frosh Chris Carson, but is very strong on the perimeter, led by Brandon Sheperd and emerging talent James Washington. Three starters return up front, and the Pokes add former UAB starter Victor Salako. DE Emmanuel Ogbah (17TFL) anchors the defensive front, which will be stout. Ryan Simmons is an all conference player at linebacker and safety Jordan Stearns and corner Kevin Pearson help form a strong secondary. OSU returns its placekicker, beaming from the overtime kick to dump OU. An early trip to Texas could spell trouble, but OSU should be 8-0 before a home game with TCU. After a trip to Ames against Iowa State, home games with Baylor and Oklahoma close the season. It will be interesting to see how far this team, healthy, can go, but with the major games all late and in Stillwater, consider Oklahoma State a darkhorse team to keep a keen eye on.
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| 17. Nebraska |
It is hard to make a change when your head football coach is among only two other active coaches to win at least nine games over the past six seasons, but appropriately, the Bo Pelini era at Nebraska came to an end. Pundits can point to a number of reasons, which include his abrasive demeanor, losing four games each of his seasons as coach, failing to grab victories as an underdog and failing to recruit top talent to Lincoln. I think much had to do with the inability of the 'Husker defense, Pelini's calling card, to execute, tackle and ultimately stop people. Mike Riley, a well respected coach and individual, came over from Oregon State to lead the Nebraska program. Building off a Gator Bowl victory over Georgia, Pelini had a veteran team in 2014 and expectations were high, but the season washed away with a horrendous defensive effort in a blowout at Wisconsin. The team Riley inherits has some big holes. It begins at tailback, where all everything Ameer Abdullah has moved to the NFL. Terrell Newby is slated to take over, but he has yet to assert himself as the main man. Adam Taylor, who impressed in practice prior to breaking a foot in camp last August, will compete for carries, as will Imani Cross, a stable veteran who is a between the tackles runner. Redshirt frosh Mikale Wilbon has the skill set of backs Riley used prominently at Oregon State. Frosh Jordan Stevenson, a 4* from Dallas, has the look of a guy who will find his way on the field. The abilities and leadership of WR Kenny Bell will be missed at wide receiver, but there is talent on hand. Jordan Westerkamp is a human highlight reel, deceptively stout and a quality player to be sure. Alonzo Moore and Brandon Reilly are decent, and frosh Stanley Morgan will see some quality playing time. Meanwhile, DeMornay Pierson-El is a special player on the outside, who will excel in the jet sweep and is a threat to hit paydirt at anytime. Up front, losses were suffered, but there is talent returning and the line, if it remains healthy, will be just fine. Left tackle Alex Lewis lead the way, with veterans Ryne Reeves, Dylan Utter and Zach Sterup leading a large group of potential contributors. Cethan Carter, an under utilized tight end, could thrive under Riley's scheme if he can remain healthy. Tommie Armstrong returns at quarterback, and although he needs improvement in his completion percentage and prohibiting turnovers, Armstrong is a confident player who commands the respect of the players and coaches, just the kind of on and off field leadership required to succeed in a change of coaching staffs. If Armstrong is able to elevate his game, big things could be in store for him and the Big Red offense. Few teams have a better pair of starting defensive tackles than Nebraska. Maliek Collins could challenge for All America honors, with Vincent Valentine not far behind. Kevin Williams and Kevin Maurice provide depth. Greg McMullen has been steady at end, and may be ready to breakout. Jack Gangwish returns as well, but the position has little depth. Linebacker is also an issue due to depth. Josh Banderas will set in the middle. Michael Rose Ivey returns after sitting out in '14 due to knee. Marcus Newby and frosh Dedrick Young will get plenty of snaps to showcase their talents, with new linebacker coach Trent Bray reducing the constraints of Pelini's detailed system. There is little depth here, so a serious injury at this position could really cost the 'Huskers. The secondary is a bright spot. Safety Nate Gerry is a national honors candidate, while Daniel Davie is a proven corner. Nickel back Byerson Cockrell and corner Joshua Kalu are young and talented. Jonathan Rose and a trio of very young players, Keiron Williams, Chris Jones and Trai Mosley will contribute while Charles Jackson returns from missing '14, and has shown flashes of brilliance. Both specialist return, led by P Sam Foltz, and DeMornay Pierson-El may be the nations to return man. As is customary with a young team dealing with a coaching change and the changes a new system brings, the going may be rough early on. With BYU as an opener at home, and a trip to Miami two weeks later, there is no time for the learning curve. Although there are holes, and the two deeps are littered with youth, with the experience of coach Mike Riley and behind Tommy Armstrong and his 21 starts, the 'Huskers may survive September. In early October Wisconsin comes to Lincoln, which is a key divisional game and a winnable game. Other than a game at East Lansing vs. Michigan State, Nebraska should be favored in all the rest. So beat Wisconsin, win the division. Survive September, beat Wisconsin and the game with Sparty will be big. Everything will have to break right for the 'Huskers, but running the table is not out of the question. That said, the youth and lack of depth is bound to rear its head, so two losses seem likely. The Big Red is no doubt a darkhorse, and the future seems to be heading in the right direction in more ways than one after the hiring of Mike Riley.
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| 18. Tennessee |
A sign of things to come took place in the Gator Bowl as Tennessee walloped Iowa. Of course, many around the SEC, and the country, knew that with the top-flite recruiting classes Butch Jones was putting together, the Vols would quickly return to prominence. For 2015, the offense is loaded, where 10 starters return. Josh Dobbs returns under center, and his play has risen sharply over time with the hope he pushes it to challenge for All-SEC. The line returns plenty of experience, although this was not a strength in '14. Guard Jashon Robertson was stout as a freshman a year ago, and the hope is the unit will improve dramatically for 2015. Marquez North and Pig Howard lead a fleet cast of wideouts. Jalen Hurd, who ran for @900 in '14, returns but may share carries with Alabama transfer Alvin Kamera, who dazzled in the spring. Derek Barnett, who had 10.5 sacks and 20.5 TFL as a freshman in '14, returns, along with Curt Maggitt team to give the Vols a strong pair of bookends to harass opposing QB's. Danny O'Brien is also back at DT. Jalen Reeves-Maybin leads the linebacking core while the veteran secondary is a team strength. CB Cameron Sutton had 13PBU's in '14 and LaDerrell McNeil got the outside blanketed, and safety Brian Randolph is among the leagues top returning tacklers. Cam Sutton and Evan Berry were among the league leaders in punt and kickoff returns respectively, and the placekicker is very solid. Eighteen players with starting experience return for the Vols, and while they may actually still be a year away, they could challenge for the SEC East this fall. Tennessee opens with Bowling Green, who is quite solid, and with the Vols looking forward to a visit from OU the following week, look out. But Tennessee could win them both, and win at rebuilding Florida to open 4-0. Back to back home contests against Arkansas and Georgia are winnable, but then the Vols visit Alabama. Only a trip to Mizzou looks troublesome the rest of the way, so Tennessee looks like about two or three losses without an upset either way. The earlier the better to play the Vols, as I expect them to gain strength along the way. Although not out of the question, if they beat OU, and somehow beat Georgia and Alabama, Tennessee could finish undefeated. That is much too much to ask, but if they beat Georgia, they will likely represent the SEC East in the SEC Championship game, which with a victory could get Tennessee a playoff spot. Big ifs; still probably a year away.
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19. Arizona State
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It looks like, after bouncing around seemingly on an annual basis, Todd Graham has found a home with Arizona State, and has quietly posted back to back ten win campaigns, which is surely saying something in the rugged PAC 12. ASU was feeling pretty good a year ago until UCLA sandblasted them, but the Sun Devils responded with an impressive string of wins, including dumping USC, Stanford and Notre Dame, before being upset at Oregon State. Offensively, Arizona State will be strong, Mike Bercovici takes over at quarterback, and he played well in relief for oft injured Taylor Kelly a year ago. While WR Jalen Strong has moved on the NFL, DJ Foster moves over from tailback to jump in the slot and will lead a young core of targets for Bercovici to hit. It will be running back by committee, led by Demario Richard. The interior line returns intact, led by guard Christian Westerman, but although the tackles will be new, Graham likes the depth and experience of the group. The Sun Devils return nine starters defensively and expect to be attacking and stingy. While Tashon Smallwood, only a sophomore, leads the gang up front; it is the back of the defense that is the strength. Antonio Longino and Viliami Moeakiola, both potential All PAC 12, anchor the linebacking core, while All PAC 12 S Jordan Simone leads the secondary. Lloyd Carrington could also challenge for conference honors. The kicking game returns as well. The Devils have a tough opener with Texas A&M, and do play USC and at UCLA back to back early. ASU gets a bye week before Oregon visits Tempe and closes at an improving Cal, but the Devils look to have at worst 4 losses, but if they can pull an upset or two, they could be a top ten team.
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| 20. Wisconsin |
Gary Anderson, who was hired as head coach when Brett Bielma bolted for Arkansas, left for Oregon State after Mike Riley took the Nebraska job. Enter Paul Cryst, a former Wisconsin assistant who was head coach at Pitt. Chryst is familiar with the program, and should be exactly what Badger nation seeks in their head man. Offensively, Chryst will no doubt benefit returning quarterback Joel Stave , who was on the wrong side of the touchdown to interception ratio a year ago. While the Badgers did lose running back Melvin Gordon, a Heisman finalist, Corey Clement is back to take over and presents a shorter, heavier presence than Gordon, which fits the Badgers historically. Only two starters return up front, a unit that has always been a team strength, with center Dan Voltz and tackle Tyler Martz, both of whom should challenge for conference honors. Alex Erickson returns at wideout. Defensively, the secondary is experienced and returns all starters given Tanner McEvoy returning after a stint at quarterback, led by safety Michael Caputo. Vince Beigel and Joe Schobert are a quality pair of big and strong linebackers. Both starters return to keep the kicking game solid. Wisconsin will meet Alabama to start the season, and the Badgers do not have a veteran team thought capable of winning that one. They get Iowa and home before traveling to Nebraska at a presumed 4-1. The Badgers have had little issues recently with the 'Huskers, but the game is in Lincoln with both teams having coaching changes. The game figures to settle the west. The Badgers will be favored the rest of the way. This is not the strongest Wisconsin team of recent seasons, but the schedule is conducive to a most successful season.
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21. Georgia Tech
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Georgia Tech busted out of mediocrity to win the ACC Coastal and face Florida State in the ACC Championship Game, losing a close 37-35 game. Tech went on The Orange Bowl where, as six point dogs, they clobbered Mississippi State 49-34, a team that spent several weeks during the year as the AP #1. In the past, Tech has had issues building off a decent season, usually falling back to mediocrity previously cited. The Yellow Jackets appear poised to snap that streak and make another serious run at an ACC title. It starts at quarterback, where Justin Thomas and his wizardry return. Thomas ran for over 1000 yards while brilliantly running the flexbone offense, but also threw for over 1700 yards and 18 touchdowns. Thomas is the key, and his performance strikes fear in opposing defensive coordinators. Tackle Bryan Chamberlain returns to lead an experienced line, which also returns guard Trey Braun, center Freddie Burden and tackle Errin Joe. The line will need to be strong as Tech will break in a new group at running back. Marcus Allen, (no, not THAT Marcus Allen) is expected to be featured, with freshman Quaide Weimerskirch expected to earn a spot. The Jackets run, run, run but can be lethal through the air on occasion where WR Michael Summers returns to lead the receiving core. Tackle Adam Gotsis and end Keshaun Freeman are back up front defensively, with both set to challenge for conference honors. PJ Davis is back at linebacker, welcoming some fellow stingers to help out. Safety Jamal Golden is an All ACC performer, as may be CB D.J. White, with the entire secondary returning. The kicking specialists will be new. Simply stated, Tech has a rough schedule. After two cupcakes, the Jackets enter a rough stretch. They travel to South Bend to face the Fighting Irish and then go to Duke before coming home to face North Carolina, who got Tech last year. Tech then travels to Clemson, before coming home to host Pitt. Then, Florida State comes to town. The Jackets close hosting a much improved Va. Tech, at Miami and home for Georgia. While our thought is Georgia Tech will be a very good football team in 2015, this murderous slate looks like three losses, if not more. Notre Dame, Clemson, FSU and Georgia are all borderline top ten teams, and two of these are on the road.
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| 22. Arkansas |
If there is a team out there everyone hopes they do not run into in 2015, it may be Arkansas. Brett Bielma has been assembling a host of Hogs that are not hospitable for opponents. Ask LSU and Ole Miss, who Arkansas shut out on consecutive weeks late last fall, or Texas, who the Hogs hammered 31-7 in the Texas Bowl. Ascending would not be sufficient to describe these Hogs. The premise is simple; employ a devastating running game and play tough nosed defense. The Hogs up front are nothing but physical; a big, experienced and overpowering line, which returns four starters led by tackle Dan Skipper. Alex Collins and Jonathan Williams could play for anyone at running back, and both figure to gain 1000 and then some. At quarterback, Brandon Allen returns to direct to the attack, while Keon Hatcher leads the wideouts and Hunter Henry, an All America candidate, returns at tight end. Pound and ground. The Razorbacks stepped it up several levels a year ago, with the 21 gave up to Mizzou the most anybody scored in the second half of the season. The defensive unit suffered some losses from a year ago, but the unit plays as a team more than reliance upon top individual performers. The Hogs hope for big things up front from end JaMichael Winston. Brooke Ellis leads the linebacking core while Jared Collins was among the SEC leaders in passes broken up a year ago. The Hogs think they are above sound in the kicking game, and will welcome a high level recruit in the fall to punt. Arkansas, like most in the SEC, will have to earn it. A neutral game with A&M precedes back to back road trips to emerging Tennessee and Alabama before a home game with Auburn. Ouch! Additional road trips to Ole Miss and LSU are tough before returning home to close with Miss. State and and Missouri. The Hogs are in ascension and will be a fight for anybody, but this schedule is beyond brutal and has the look of about three losses with the ball bouncing right. The game at Rocky Top, with both teams on the rise, could be the key.
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| 23. Oklahoma |
After a resounding victory over Alabama in the Sugar Bowl, Oklahoma entered 2014 high on the hog, ranked #4 in the preseason and ready to claim a spot in the playoff. After a big win over emerging Tennessee, OU labored to win over West Virginia and then went to TCU, where they seemingly lost the season on top of the game. OU responded to beat Texas, but lost at Kansas State, won at Iowa State and then got blasted by Baylor in Norman. Oklahoma had Bedlam won, but kicked to speedster Tyreek Hill who ran for paydirt and led Okie State to an upset victory. OU showed in Orlando for the Russell Athletic Bowl against Clemson, and before the coaching staff established sideline communications, Clemson has scored twice en route to bombing the Sooners 40-6. Big game Bob appropriately began to feel the heat, and has made changes in his staff. OU looks to employ more of a spread offense this year, which appears to have Baker Mayfield, a Texas Tech transfer, at signal caller, with Sugar Bowl wonderchild Trevor Knight as backup. Both starters return at receiver, including Sterling Shepard. Samaje Perine, who ran for 427 against KU and 1713 last fall, returns at running back but is recovering from injury. Backups Joe Mixon and Alex Ross are ready for prime time. Up front, only center Ty Darlington from Orlando Apopka returns, so there is some work to do. Defensively, rush end Charlie Tapper is the only returning starter, with the interior lacking experience. Eric Striker (17TFL), Jordan Evans and Dominique Alexander return at linebacker, as does Frank Shannon, a gifted player who was suspended last fall; the unit is a team strength. The secondary, led by Zach Sanchez, is green and is an area coaches are seeking improvement from. OU is also replacing both kicking specialists. This is a pivotal season for OU, as the close to the season in 2014 did not sit well with the Sooner roughnecks. An early contest at Tennessee, who returns 18 starters, looks to be an issue. West Virginia is no walkover at home a week before the Red River Shootout. A road trip to K-State is never a gimmie, but the tale of the tape, even if OU is somehow undefeated at this point ( we say 8-1), a trip to Baylor followed by TCU visiting Norman looks too formidable. After that, a trip to Stillwater to play Okie State (who themselves have a shot at being undefeated) appears much too much for this Sooner squad. It looks like four losses for OU, which will be acceptable for the faithful provided the Sooners play well in the bowl, unlike last years debacle.
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| 24. Texas A&M |
When Texas A&M blasted South Carolina in Columbia to kickoff the 2014 season, we thought the A&M resurgence arrived much quicker than anticipated. QB Kenny Hill threw darts at the Gamecocks defense as A&M threw up half a hundred. Hill faltered down the stretch, and heralded five star recruit Kyle Allen took over the reigns. The job belongs to Allen, unless top dual threat recruit Kyler Murray can beat him out. The receiving core is a strength, with Ricky Seals-Jones, Speedy Noil and Josh Reynolds forming perhaps the nations strongest fleet. Three lineman return, led by center Mike Matthews and tackle Germain Ifedi. Former Wyoming coach Dave Christiansen, whom we think highly of, has been brought in as the offensive line coach and coordinator of the run game. Brandon Williams is the main man at running back, with Tre Carson filling in. The Aggies, although talented, were a mess on defense in '14, so much so Kevin Sumlin has brought in famed defensive coordinator John Chavis to shore up the unit; and he will do just that. DE Myles Garrett, only a sophomore, is an All America player. Both tackles return, although Julien Obioha has moved to DE, perhaps allowing five star recruit Daylon Mack to earn a spot at DT. The linebacking core is an issue, and will look to Chavis for assistance. Otero Alaka should man the weakside, with Shaan Washington also outside, and Josh Walker inside. JUCO Claude George looked good in spring and should factor in heavily. DeVante Harris is a big play corner, JUCO Justin Evans has stepped in at strong safety and true soph Armani Watts looks to gain leaps and bounds under Chavis at free safety. Punter Drew Kaiser is among the nations best, and the placekicking is competitive. Speedy Noil can flat get loose in the return game. The Aggies face Arizona State in a kickoff game, a task too tall to start. A&M gets Arkansas at Jerry's World then Mississippi State and Alabama at home. It would be a surprise if there are not two losses at least at this point. From here, a trip to Ole Miss spells trouble, but then South Carolina, with a chip on the shoulder, comes to Aggieland, followed by powerful and physical Auburn. The Aggies finish at LSU. Post two more potential losses, and it looks like A&M ends up 8-4, but will be building for a stellar 2016 after losing only about six starters.
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| 25. Missouri |
Missouri came over from the Big XII to play in the mighty SEC, and as expected, went 5-7 in year one in the conference. But it is Missouri, who rarely challenged for Big XII, or even Big 8 titles, who has won the SEC East in back to back seasons. While Tennessee and Florida have been down, Georgia has been strong, blasting Mizzou 34-0 in Columbia last fall. However, it is the Tigers who have put forth the cumulative seasons necessary to win the back to back division titles. Behind quarterback Maty Mauk, among the most veteran signal callers returning in the SEC in 2015, the Tigers have a good chance to continue their success, which has seen them post a 23-5 record during the title runs. Mauk threw for 25 touchdowns last season, and the hope is the Tiger offense can kick it up a notch this fall. The offensive line had some struggles early in '14, but returns four starters on a solid and cohesive unit, led by center Evan Boehm. Russell Hansbrough is a 1000 yard rusher returning at running back, so the Tigers are in good shape there, but the receiving core is very green, with very limited experience returning. Mauk is a crafty thrower, and he will need to be as the Tigers find people who can assume the spots. J'Mon Moore is a player the coaches think has big time potential. Kentrel Brothers, an All SEC caliber player, returns at linebacker to lead the defensive unit, which is a strength. Up front, Harold Brantley returns, with Charles Harris and Marcus Loud at the end spots. Mizzou beat FSU for highly touted DL recruit Terry Beckner, Jr., and he figures to make a quick impact for the Tigers. Micheal Scherer, another potential All SEC player, returns to join Brothers at linebacker. The secondary will be ready to stifle oncoming aerial assaults, led by corner Kenya Davis. Aariaon Penton (3INT) returns at the opposite corner, and Ian Simon is back at free safety. Gary Pinkel is confident in his kicking game. Missouri will be 6-0 when they travel to Georgia. The Dawgs laid a smack down on Mizzou in Columbia last year, so we think this may be a matchup issue rather than an anomaly. After that, they host Miss. State and get BYU at Arrowhead, so we can sure see 8-1. Then, the Tigers have critical games to close with Tennessee at home and a road tilt at that physical bunch in Arkansas. It is doubtful the Tigers lose more than three games, and if they can pull an upset, or two, they look to find themselves in Atlanta once again, ending up on the short end of the SEC Championship game.
THE NEXT FIVE
Virginia Tech
---Top notch defensive unit, but there is still work to do on offense
Stanford
---Kevin Hogan leads efficient offense, but holes on defense and tough slate
Arizona
---Seven offensive starters back and an All America LB; tough slate; looks 9-3
Boise State
---Seventeen starters return, project to finish unbeaten, but not a great team
North Carolina
---Seventeen starters back, including QB Marquise Williams; could go 10-2
POTENTIAL BREAKTHROUGHS: Mississippi State, Miami, Penn State, Louisville, Utah, Brigham Young, Michigan, Cincinnati, Texas, Duke, South Carolina, Minnesota, Kansas State, UCF and Pittsburgh.
ASCENDING: Notre Dame, California, Arkansas, Tennessee,
DESCENDING: Florida, Vanderbilt and Kansas State
COACHING HOT SEAT: Mike London, Virginia, Al Golden, Miami, Tim Beckman, Illinois, Willie Taggart, USF and Norm Chow, Hawaii.
2015 Preseason All America Team
OFFENSE
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Offensive Player of the Year
Trevone Boykin,QB, Texas Christian
Photo NBCSports.com |
ALL AMERICA OFFENSE
WR Rashard Higgins, Colorado State
WR LaQuon Treadwell, Ole Miss
WR Tyler Boyd, Pittsburgh
WR Pharoh Cooper, South Carolina
TE Evan Engram, Ole Miss
OT Spencer Drango, Baylor
OL Jack Allen, Michigan State
OL Max Tuerk, USC
OL Taylor Decker, Ohio State
OL Joshua Garrett, Stanford
OL Ronnie Stanley, Notre Dame
OT Laremy Tunsill, Ole Miss
QB Trevone Boykin, Texas Christian
RB Ezekiel Elliott, Ohio State
RB Nick Chubb, Georgia
RB James Conner, Pittsburgh
RB Derrick Henry, Alabama
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Defensive Player of the Year
Joey Bosa, DE, Ohio State
Photo/247Sports.com |
ALL AMERICA DEFENSE
DE Shilique Calhoun, Michigan State
DL Emmanuel Ogbah, Oklahoma State
DT Aldolphus, Washington, Ohio State
DL Shaun Oakman, Baylor
DL Joey Bosa, Ohio State
DE Derek Barnett, Tennessee
OLB Myles Garrett, Texas A&M
ILB Myles Jack, UCLA
ILB Jaylon Smith, Notre Dame
ILB Scooby Wright, Arizona
OLB Erik Striker, Okahoma
DB Jeremy Cash, Duke
DB Kendall Fuller, Virginia Tech
DB Tony Conner, Ole Miss
DB Jalen Ramsey, Florida State
DB Will Redmond, Mississippi State
DB Vernon Hargreaves III, Florida
SPECIALISTS
K Roberto Ahuayo, Florida State
P JK Scott, Alabama
KR Adorre' Jackson, Southern Cal
PR Demornay Pierson-El, Nebraska
NEWCOMERS
ONC Josh Rosen, UCLA
DNC Derwin James, Florida State
***EDITORS NOTE: The Color & Pageantry Pre-Season Top 25 was previously prepared for release and presentation on this date. Potentially, injuries and suspensions from inception of fall camp was not considered. Among the teams which potentially would have been impacted in poll placement are Florida State, who lost an honors candidate in RB Dalvin Cook, to suspension, Ohio State, which suspended four integral players for the opener at Va. Tech and Michigan State, who has lost All B1G LB Ed Davis to season ending injury.
