The College Football Playoff continues to be a major success, with Alabama coming in from the back door to grab an incredible victory fellow SEC giant Georgia to claim the National Championship. The level of continuous excellence exhibited by Nick Saban and his Crimson Tide is already legendary, surpassing runs in decades past by Notre Dame, Oklahoma and Nebraska.
How dominating is it? As reported in the fine Lindy's 2018 National Preview, during the Saban era, Alabama has had 30 consensus All America players. Oklahoma is second with 14, with Florida State and Texas tied with 12. "Alabama has had as many consensus All Americans aw Michigan (6), Notre Dame (6), USC (5), Georgia (4), Auburn (4) UCLA (3) and Nebraska (2) combined." Wow!
And Bama's run of excellence ain't over yet!
After being the most successful of all the major prognostications in 2013 in the accuracy of the Preseason Top 25, we have fallen short the last few seasons, although not by much. Among the teams that got us were in 2017 were Florida State, Southern Cal, Oklahoma State, LSU, Florida and Nebraska. And while we knew UCF would be dangerous, we had no idea they would achieve the level of success of an undefeated season capped off with a New Years Six bowl win.
In 2018, we note many of the same teams are at the top, but one interesting item is that few teams truly find themselves in a spiral of decline without hope shining brightly.
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ABC Broadcast Team
Frank Broyles and Keith Jackson |
Our game will be played this year in remembrance of the great Keith Jackson, who many of us grew up listening to as he brought us the call of the game we love so much. Additionally, we also mourn Frank Broyles, who was legend at Arkansas but also was the color commentator for Keith Jackson for so many of those years at ABC. These were great men, and their influence on the game will never be forgotten.
It seems every summer our anticipation of the upcoming season expands, and boy howdy we can't wait to kick things off. As we wait impatiently, we proudly present The 2018 Color & Pageantry Preseason Top 25!
THE COLOR & PAGEANTRY PRESEASON TOP 25
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| 1. Clemson |
Clemson has been riding on a historical run for the program under
Dabo Swinney, reaching previously unseen heights rolling off
an unbelievable 61-9 record, winning the 2016 National Championship
and playing for a another. The Tigers are getting done on every inch of the
gridiron, and on the recruiting trail. Swinney has really got it rolling. If
one were to conjure up a piece of negativity, it would be that Clemson, while
no longer affectionately Clemsoning, continues to have inexplicable losses. 2017
was no exception, as the Tiger got "handled" in the dome at Syracuse
and were embarrassed by Alabama 24-6 in the playoff semifinal.
There is too much talent around for those goings on. In 2018, perhaps another
National Championship is in the offing, as Clemson returns a solid nucleus on
both sides of the football, welcoming back 15 starters. Of the
most intrigue, with apologies to the NFL defensive line of the Tigers, is
the quarterback position. Kelly Bryant returns as the starter, but while connecting
on 65% of his passes, his touchdown to interception ratio of 13:8 was
pedestrian. It is noted Bryant netted about 700 yards on the ground, but his
passing efficiency is required to improve if Clemson is to again
become the kings of college football. Bryant may not be under center when
Clemson kicks off the season hosting Furman, as 5* early enrollee Terevor
Lawrence, who dazzled in the spring, may win the job in fall camp.
Bryan has the experience, but Lawrence is gifted wit exception skills and
will be the Tigers signal caller sooner than later, much sooner we suspect.
Tackle Mitch Hyatt, an All America candidate, anchors an offensive line which
returns three starters, including conference honors candidate Justin
Falcinelli, who man the center position. RG John Pollard is the other returning
starter, with John Simpson at G and Treymane Anhcrum at T becoming starters.
Hunter Renfrow, who led the team in receptions last year, is the main man back
in the receiving core, and anybody who is old school is a big fan of
his game. WR Tee Higgins has star potential, as does Amari Rodgers,
so while lacking experience, the talent is there. Milan Richard (17c) is back
at tight end.The best running back the country has never heard of is the Tigers
Travis Etienne, a breakway threat any time he touches the pigskin. Tavien
Feaster has power between the tackles, giving the Tigers a powerful duo.
Clemson should approach 40ppg (33ppg in '17) with this unit barring injury. One
reason for optimism offensively is due to the salty defense Brett Venables and
Clemson will field in 2018. It starts up front, where Clemson will field
perhaps the best defensive line of all time on the collegiate level, which I am
aware is saying a lot. Three will garner All America consideration. Defensive End
Clelin Ferrell (9.5 sacks) and Defensive Tackle Christian Wilkins (4.5 sacks)
are sure fire All Americans. Austin Bryant mans the other end position in the
4/3, and he is worthy of conference honors. Dexter Lawrence, at 6'4" 340,
is considered a top fifteen NFL draft pick lines up at the tackle spot opposite
Wilkins. This collective group will devastate opposing offensive lines. Outside
linebacker Kendall Joseph (10QBH) is back to clean up anything that gets wide
past the line of scrimmage. Big ole Tre Lamar is back inside, with Isaiah
Simmons expected to jump in on the strong side with Jalen Williams also
returning. The secondary is also talented. FS Tanner Muse is the second
leading tackler returning. Travon Mullen has a corner spot, with Mark Fields
expected to grab the other corner, perhaps challenged by AJ Terrell with true
frosh Mario Goodrich looking for a spot. K'Von Wallace should jump in at strong
safety. The secondary is not deep, and will need to stay healthy, but given the
expected pass rush, they may be just fine. Both specialists return for the
Tigers. Etienne may still return kickoffs, but a new punt returner must be
located. The schedule is not overwhelming. Clemson travels to Texas A&M
in week two, but the Aggies are under new leadership and it would some kind of
upset if Jimbo Fisher and the Aggies could pull that off, even at Aggieland. A
revenge home game with Syracuse is sandwiched between road trips to Georgia
Tech and Wake Forest. Clemson gets a bye week before hosting NC State, who they
often struggle with. Even so, Clemson is 7-0 traveling to Tallahassee. The
Seminoles were driving for the lead in the fourth quarter at Death Valley a
year ago before melting, so with FSU improved, this game is quite dangerous.
But, it is worth noting FSU is weakest on the offensive line, where Clemson is
all world. Louisville follows FSU, and then Clemson must travel to Boston
College, who makes their living with a punishing rushing attack, which will be
eaten up by Clemson. Duke is a quality team , but the Blue Devils are given
zero chance at Death Valley. South Carolina comes in to close the season, and
the Gamecocks are a good team we expect most will learn about over the season,
but an undefeated Clemson should be up to the task of holding off their state
rival at home. That places Clemson undefeated entering the ACC Championship
game, presumably against Miami, who the Tigers dominated a year ago. Of concern
is the sleepwalking loss, and there is a bad taste from Alabama smothering the
Tigers in the playoff, which could serve as motivation. We project Clemson as a
playoff participant, with the talent and motivation to win the National
Championship.
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2. Alabama
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For a moment, some folks around the nation thought Alabama may
have been knocked from the pedestal after Auburn controlled the Tide
26-14 in the Iron Bowl , but Alabama found their way into the College Football
Playoff, reasserting themselves as king of the land by throttling Clemson and
coming from behind to dump Georgia to win the National Championship. The run
Alabama has been on is historic, eclipsing the giants of days gone by.
The run ain't over. But for Alabama to repeat as champion, several things
need to bounce their way. Seven starters return on offense. As usual, the
offensive line is a strength, with two potential All America players in C Ross
Pierschbacher and LT Jonas Williams. RT Matt Womack and LG Lester Cotton are
also returning starters. The Tide figure new starter at guard Jedrick Willis
will fit right in, all 6'5 312 of him. Damien Harris, a national honors
candidate, returns at running back, with the talented Najee Harris backing up. While the Crimson Tide loses their top pass catcher from 2017, exciting
wideouts Jerry Jeudy (14c) and Henry Ruggs (12C, 6 TD) are back. DeVonata
Smith, who scored the game winner in OT vs. the Dawgs to win the title, also
returns, as does Josh Jacobs. Their is youth, but an abundance of talent at the
position. Speaking of an abundance of talent, it appears
we actually have a quarterback controversy for Coach Saban
to figure out. Jalen Hurts has started approximately 28 straight games, gave
way in the National Title game after a sluggish performance to the uber
talented Tua Tagovailoa, who directed the Tide to victory excelling in the
passing game. Most figure Tafovailoa has stolen the positions from Hurts, but
as Lee Corso would say, "Not so fast my friends!" There is no doubt
of the talent possessed by Tafovailoa, and in the long run he may in fact
be the answer, but Jalen Hurts is a winner who excels at one thing Saban
cherishes, and that is protecting the football. So, we think Hurts starts
things off, but probably will give way as the season progresses.
Either way, Alabama is strong at quarterback, and even stronger collectively on
offense. This team will be able to dictate when in control of the ball, and
will be very hard to slow down, much less stop. Defensively, while there is
excessive talent, only three starters return and there is questions. The
strength of the unit, a 3-4 attacking defense, is up front. DE
Isiah Buggs, who got 7 QBH at his stately 6'5" 287, returns but it is
fellow DE Raekwon Davis that keeps fellow offensive coordinators up all night.
While Buggs shoots for All SEC honors, Davis challenges for All America honors.
Johnny Dwight sits in on the nose. ILB Mack Wilson, who had 12 stops in the
National Championship game, is back, as is fellow inside backer Dylan Roses.
Christian Miller will play strong side, while stud Anfernee Jennings, who is
coming off a knee injury take the weak side. Terrell Suggs is also coming off
an injury, expected to return to wreak havoc. Dionte Thompson is the main
returnee in the secondary, with two starts at SS. Trevon Diggs and Saivion
Smith will be the corners, while Xavier McKinney grabs free safety. Heralded
freshman Patrick Surtain Jr. may get time wherever needed, although he is
projected as a corner. Shyheim Carter will emerge as a rover. Both kicking
specialists will need to be replaced, and the Tide will miss P JK Scott
especially. Skyler Delong jumps in at P, and Austin Jones will handle the
placekicking. Ruggs will return kickoffs, while Xavier Marks and Trevon Diggs
share punt return duties. Although it is an SEC schedule, Alabama does not have
a tough schedule. An exciting matchup to kickoff the season is on the slate as
Alabama faces Louisville in Orlando, but Louisville's Heisman winning
quarterback Lamar Jackson went pro, which means Louisville is in for a
whipping. A much better than you think Arkansas State has nothing for a visit
to Tuscaloosa, but then the Tide travel to Ole Miss. Alabama annihilated
the Rebels 69-3 at home last year, and even in Oxford, we give the Rebels no
chance to upset the Crimson Tide. The Texas Aggies and new coach Jimbo Fisher
come calling, but we can't see the Aggies hanging close. Games against Louisiana, at Arkansas and Missouri figure to barely
test the Tide, nor does contests with Tennessee and at LSU, who may be coach
searching on the Alabama sideline by the time this game takes place.
Mississippi State almost beat Alabama last season, and has an outstanding team,
but it would be a huge upset if the Bulldogs could win at Alabama. After tuning up
with the Citadel (watch those ankles), Auburn visits for the Iron Bowl. Auburn
has the talent to win, but the Tigers will be underdogs. We have Alabama
undefeated at 12-0, facing Georgia in Atlanta for the SEC title and spot (or
two?) in the College Football Playoff.
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| 3. Georgia |
There were many on the national landscape
the recognized the Georgia Bulldogs were a fast rising national
power, but few had Kirby Smart's Jumkyard Dawgs having powerhouse Alabama down
20-7 late in the second quarter of the 2017 National Championship Game. While
Georgia could not hang on, the Dawgs served notice on not only the SEC, but the
nation that there is a new player for the National Title, and they are here to
stay. While Georgia lost a lot of folks off last years talented team, most
notably running backs Sony Michel and Nick Chubb and All America linebacker
Roquan Smith, the Dawgs have been stockpiling talent and are poised to strike
back applying lessons so painfully learned. Eight starters return from a
prolific offense that averaged 35 points per game
while rummaging through an SEC slate, where a throat
grabbing loss to Auburn was avenged in the SEC Title Game before the Dawgs fell
in Atlanta to Bama. After an injury to Jacob Eason, who has since moved on from
the program, Jake Fromm took over at quarterback to
lead Georgia, completing 62% of his throws for 2600 yard with a strong 24/7
TD/INT ration, scoring a QB Rating of 160! Fromm will look to take
Georgia higher by improving on his numbers, and he may have to, with 5* true
freshman Justin Fields arriving on campus. Fields was a consensus top five
player, and he did not come to Athens to sit, lovely as it is between the
hedges. Yes, Georgia has these problems! Michel and Chubb were
noting short of outstanding and both will live in Georgia lore, but SO D'Andre
Swift is back, with good size and blazing speed, sure to be a challenger for
conference if not national honors. Swift is spelled by Elijah Holyfield, with
true freshman James Cook and Zamir White looking for time. Georgia is as strong
as effort in the receiving core, led by Terry Godwin. Riley Ridley is an
emerging star and Mecole Hardman (25c) is all conference caliber. TE Issac
Nuata may also reach new heights, and all conference candidate as well. Georgia
always seems to be strong up front, and with three starters back, the line
might even be better than is was a year ago. C Lamont Gilliard leads the way,
joined by LT Andrew Thomas. Kendal Baker is back at LG. Ben Cleveland is ready
to step in at RG with Isiah Wilson at RT. True freshman Jamaree Salyer may
figure in as well. G Soloman Kindley T DeMarcus Hayes are hoping for an
opportunity. The Bulldogs have wonderful balance on offense, lighting up the
scoreboard or playing ball control. 40ppg is not unexpected. Defensively, there
is some work to do, with only five returning starters. But the Dawgs have key
experience at each level, with talented backups claiming starting spots. Up
front, Georgia has two strong pieces. DE Jonathan Ledbetter (9QBH) and DT
Tyler Clark for the nucleus. Devonte Wyatt, Julian Rochester and Notre Dame
transfer Jay Hayes provide depth. Natrez Patrick missed
the Championship activities due to a suspension, and the Dawgs hope
has put these types of issues in the rear view mirror as Patrick is a key piece
for Georgia defensively in 2018. ILB D'Andre Walker is and All SEC player
inside for the Dawgs, with 5.5 sacks, 8TFL and 12 QBH in 2017. Monte Rice and
Tae Crowder help inside, while Walter Grant sits outside. The secondary
is the strength of the stop troops. All America corner Deandre Baker is set to
close off a rear quadrant of the field at field corner. SS JR Reid is also an
All SEC player. CB Tyrique McGhee is ready to reach a new level, with Marc Webb
and Tyson Campbell backing up. Richard Lecounte and Trey Bishop look to step in
at FS. Georgia only gave up an average of 16ppg last fall, so even if the Dawgs
fall off a bit, keeping it under 20ppg seems quite reasonable.
Excellent placekicker Rodrgio Blankenship returns, but Georgia will employ a new
punter. Landon Stratton looks to be that man. Mecole Hardman returns for punt
and kickoff returns. Georgia has a favorable schedule. After a home opener
against overmatched Austin Peay, the Dawgs travel to Columbia for a rival game
against South Carolina. This is a dangerous game, as Georgia looks for the
defense to gel against a salty and experienced Gamecock squad hoping for
a signature win. We think Georgia escapes. A trip to Missouri might
present issues for the defense, but likely not, and Georgia may lay
the wood on Tennessee between the hedges. A trip to LSU may be easier than
thought, as the Tigers may have collapsed by then, and the Dawgs get an off
week before meting the Gators in Jacksonville. Auburn comes to Athens, as does
Georgia Tech. Only South Carolina and Auburn appear to have a chance to nip
Georgia, and both will fail to do so. Georgia runs the table to face Alabama in
the SEC Championship for a spot in the playoff.
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4. Washington
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The
Huskies have had high expectations before, but although they made a playoff
appearance in 2016 and have been among the most powerful in the PAC 12
winning 22 games the past two seasons, the expectations of national
prominence have seemingly been unmet. Chris Petersen knows this, and with 17
starters returning, Washington is in prime position to make another challenge
to play among the nation's elite and reach the College Football Playoff.
offensively, Jake Browning returns for his third year in directing the
Husky attack (39 starts), finishing a somewhat disappointing third in the PAC
12 in pass efficiency. But while Browning completed 69% of his throws,
his production dropped considerably with a 19/5 TD/INT ratio and 2719 yards. In
his sophomore campaign, Browning threw 43 TD's. Tailback Myles Gaskin, who is
considered among the nations top running backs, returns to close his
historic Husky career. Gaskin ran for 1380 yards in '17, scoring 21 TDs
averaging 6.2 yards a carry, and excels catching the ball out of the backfield
as well (19c). Salvon Ahmed looked great backing Gaskin. Two of the top
receivers return; TE Hunter Bryant (22c) and WR Aaron Fuller (26c), but
Bryant injured a knee and had surgery. Coach Peterson said Bryant would not be
ready for the start of the season and may have to redshirt. Chico
McClatcher will start at wideout opposite Fuller. Ty Jones, Andre Baccellia and
Quientin Pounds are vying for positions, and true frosh Marquis Spiker is
expected to get extensive playing time. Up front, as usual, is
a strength for the Huskies. Tackles Trey Adams and Kaleb McGary
(33 starts), both honors candidates, return. C Nick Harris, who will challenge
for conference honors, leads the unit. Luke Wattenberg, Jesse Sosebee and Matt
James are battling for the open guard spots. If Washington remains healthy,
this unit is a 40+ppg offense, and that alone will win most of the games on the
Huskies schedule. But the defensive unit, which returns nine starters, will
also be very strong. The secondary is the strength of the unit, with All
America FS Taylor Rapp the way. Fellow S JoJo McIntosh and NB Myles
Bryant ( 8PBU) also return to just smother the middle backfield of
the defense. Corners Bryan Murphy, Jordan Miller and Austin Joyner are
excellent as well. 2017 leading tackler Ben Burr-Kirven (84 stops) is set to
anchor the unit from his inside spot. Tevis Bartlett (8TFL) also returns. Greg
Gaines anchors inside on the line at nose, while SO BUCK Ryan Bowman (5.5 sacks
and 4 TFL) roams side to side. DE Benning Potoa'e and Jaylan Johnson join the
aggressive line activity. Simply stated, this is a salty unit, looking to force
action rather than defend it. The Huskies led the PAC 12 in defense last year
and are set to do it again. In a very intriguing inter-sectional kickoff classic game, Washington
travels to Atlanta to play Auburn, which for those unfamiliar to the area, will
essentially be a home game for the Tigers. This is really big, as Auburn (who
has lost their last two consecutive games in the Georgia Dome (Georgia and
UCF), is smarting and ready to serve notice. But if the Huskies cannot
win this with the veteran team they got, one wonders when they might. We got
Petersen and Huskies, but as Lee Corso says, close. From there, hosting
North Dakota and a trip to Utah, dangerous as the Utes are very strong,
should result in wins before the Dawgs host Arizona St and BYU. A road
stretch figure tough, but while UCLA is still not there, Oregon may be on many
levels, so the trip to Eugene may be uneasy. Still, we got Washington
undefeated after more wins hosting Colorado and on the road at Cal before a
well coached and presumably nationally ranked Stanford team visits. But the
Cardinal do not appear powerful enough to win at Seattle. Oregon State
has no chance, leaving only Mike Leach and Wazzu as the only remaining threat
to ruin an undefeated campaign for the Huskies. Won't happen. So, we got
Washington at 11-0, likely to see USC in the PAC12 Championship game,
which we see them winning. Therefore, we are projecting Washington as undefeated,
12-0 and heading to the College Football Playoff.
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5. Michigan
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It
is seemingly on the tip of everyone's tongue, at least nationally
anyway. Jim Harbaugh enters his fourth season at Michigan without a
conference title, much less a national playoff appearance. The Wolverines were
close in '16, but close does not get it. Michigan has had strength almost
across the board, but an area where they have not been elite is at
the quarterback position. Thanks to Ole Miss transfer Shea Patterson,
that seems poised to change. Patterson was injured in his last season with the
Rebels, but was granted release to transfer due to the NCAA violations that
encompassed the Mississippi program. In Patterson, Harbaugh thinks he now
has an elite signal caller, and we agree. Patterson has a big time arm, and
plenty of poise, so we expect big things from him, including a run at
conference if not national honors. Brandon Peters, before being injured in '17,
had some moments, so don't expect him to shy away from the competition from
Patterson. Offensive line has been a recent issue as well. Guard Ben Bredeson
leads the group up front. C Cesar Ruiz and G Mike Onwenu return, but
improvement is needed for Michigan to take the next step. Jon Runyan II, a
legacy performer, will likely get a tackle spot. Grant Newsome returns after
being lost to injury in '17. Juwann Bushell Beaty will man a tackle spot.
Leading rusher Karan Higdon returns, but he only netted 996 yards but averaged
6.1 per carry. Chris Evans (744yrds) back up. Patterson will have some
serious weaponry downfield. Sean McKeon and Zach Gentry form a top duo at tight
end. Grant Perry, the leading catcher from '17, returns, along with the
explosive Donovan Peoples-Jones. Tarik Black and Kekoa Crawford also return. If
Michigan solidifies up front, the offense has a chance to be very good. Defensively,
Michigan is among the best in the nation. Top NFL prospect Rashard Gary anchors
the defensive front, a large man at 6'5" 281 who possesses very
good footwork. Chance Winovich,had 8 sacks and 10 TFL a year ago
from his end position. Both are national honors candidates. Watch big SO
NT Aubrey Soloman, an emerging star. Devin Bush, leading '16 tackler (100
stops) is an All America player at linebacker, and his counterpart OLB Kahleke
Hudson Jr (82 stops, 9.5TFL) is certainly All B1G. Both players can run and are
very active. The entire secondary returns, including CB Lavert Hill, who is an
national honors candidate. Fellow corner David Long (6PBU) is also an
outstanding player, but he got injured in the spring causing some fear he may
be ready out of the gate. Safeties Tyree Kinnel and Josh Metellus look to take
their play to the next level. Both specialist return, expected to
improve. Donovan Peoples-Jones will handle the punt return game, and he is
quite dangerous. Kakoa Crawford and Ambry Thomas handled kickoffs quite well in
'17, both back with experience. Michigan is a very good football team, and with
the addition of a healthy Shea Patterson, have the feel of a team primed for a
playoff berth. But, there is the schedule; tough early, late and often.
The Wolverines travel right out of the gate Labor Day weekend to Notre
Dame, who will be very good in 2018, for a huge and telling contest. Will the
Wolverine be ready offensively? While Nebraska figures improved, Michigan takes
that at home and travels to Wisconsin at worst 5-1. In the trenches,
a strength for Michigan, Wisconsin may be better. The game may land
on the quarterback and the passing game, favoring Michigan. But Wiscy
is tough in Madison, and they have a mighty powerful running
game. A trip to East Lansing followed by Penn State coming to Ann Arbor after
an off week are tough. Then, Michigan must travel to Columbus. Four of the
five toughest games on the slate are on the road, starting with the Irish and
ending with the Buckeyes. It just does not seem possible Michigan will not drop
at least two of these contests, but, we are a believer in Patterson, and it
will be exciting to see if he can take them further. We think he can, and have
Michigan at 11-1.
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| 6. Ohio State |
As usual, Ohio State looks like the prohibitive favorite to win the Big Ten and advance to the College Football Playoff. This has been the case seemingly since Urban Meyer arrived as head coach. All the five star recruits! Heck, even the coaching staff is filled with former head coaches (Greg Schiano and Kevin Wilson) and some who are among the next in line to be hired as head coaches, most notably Alex Grinch. It should be clear sailing for the Buckeyes, but only one National Championship had been recorded. Will the Buckeyes win it in 2018? They are stacked, but we do not think so. Part of this issue is the position of quarterback, where sophomore Dwayne Haskins takes over. Haskins has all the tools, and seemingly beat out his top competition for the job in Joe Burrow, who left for LSU post spring as a graduate transfer. Haskins has all the tools, but we think Ohio State will miss J. T. Barrett, and wonder if they will be as productive offensively. Haskins can always hand the ball off, or toss a couple screen passes to some real weaponry. The backfield is very strong, led by JK Dobbins, who is fantastic, leading the team in rushing in '17 with 1400 yards averaging a whopping 7.2 yards per carry. Mike Weber, who is quite talented as well, will help the Buckeyes provided a tremendous one-two punch. Paris Campbell, possessing light switch speed, will primarily be a flanker, but can confuse defenses from many spots. Both Campbell and Dobbins are All America candidates. Beyond Campbell, experience abounds at wide receiver. Austin Mack and KJ Hill lead the way, but Terry McLaurin, Benjimim Victor and Johnnie Dixon also return, each of whom had six or more scores in 2017. Deshaun White may also be heard from. Ohio State suffered some losses up front, but OG Michael Jordan returns as an All America candidate. OT Isaiah Prince also returns, but three new starters will step in. Thayer Munford will likely grab the spot at OT, while Brady Taylor will jump in at center. The Buckeyes have the skill players to light up the scoreboard, but how Haskins will determine how strong they actually are. DE Nick Bosa, a consensus All America player, anchors the defensive line. Bosa, 8.5 sacks in '17 , is unblockable off the edge, while Chase Young operates quite effectively on the other side. Dre'Mont Jones is an honors candidate at defensive tackle. Tuf Borland is the only returning starter at linebacker, but he was injured and may not be full speed to start the season. Malik Harrison has star potential, and folks are high on Baron Browning, but this is the most inexperienced position on the team, and a might important one. Jordan Fuller, second on the team in stops in '17, is back at safety. Kendall Sheffield (9PBU) is the top corner. Shaun Wade, Jeffery Okudah and Damon Arnette will get playing time, with one earning the start opposite Sheffield. Isaiah Pryor will jump in at FS. From a specialist perspective, the Buckeyes are among the nations best. Drue Chrisman is an All B1G punter at a minimum, while Sean Neurnberger returns at placekicker. Paris Campbell and KJ Hill will be very elusive on kick and punt returns. The schedule is favorable. Ohio State has a pair of warmups before facing TCU in Arlington. Haskins better be ready, because the Horned Frog play outstanding defense, and if TCU can get any offense going, this game could be dangerous. The Buckeyes travel to Penn State, a team they cannot push around with a strong signal caller. At worst, we see Ohio State 8-1 traveling to Michigan State, where a stern contests awaits. Sandwiched before hosting Michigan is a trip to Maryland, who when healthy is a dangerous team. Ohio State has beaten Michgain 13 of the last 14 times, winning six straight. But Michigan almost won the last time they were in Columbus, and the Wolverines have the defense to get it done. Will they? Ohio State has really performed well in even years for some odd reason, but Urban Meyer has sort of burned out about this time of a tenure at his past coaching stops. Ohio State is set up to play for it all, but we think they fall off just a bit at quarterback and have some issues in the back end of the defense, causing them to drop a game or two along the way. However, even with two losses, particularly if one comes to TCU, the Buckeyes can still make Indy and perhaps the playoff. It will be interesting to see how this team comes together.
*EDITORS NOTE: On August 1, 2018,
Ohio State head football coach Urban Meyer was placed on paid administrative
leave. The issue stems from a series of domestic violence cases of former OSU
assistant Coach Zach Smith, who was fired days before Big Ten Media days.
A story by famed college football writer Brett McMurphy presented text messages
between the victim and Sherry Meyer, wife of Urban and an employee of the
University, which seem to make comments Meyer made at Big Ten Media days
regarding the issue inaccurate. An investigation has ensued. No matter the
outcome, we will leave Ohio State at our original position, which was sixth.
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7. Wisconsin |
One of the data points we often look for in identifying teams who
will be improved from the prior season is to look at the returning starters on
the offensive line as it indicates a measure of stability. According to
the great Phil Steele, Wisconsin leads the nation in this area with 150 career
starts returning up front. With freshman phenom Jonathan Taylor returning at
running back, this spells trouble for the B1G. At least four of the big uglies
up front are contenders for national honors, led by OG Beau Benzschawel.
Rising SO Tyler Biadasz comes off being named a Freshman All America in
2017. JR OT David Edwards has made some pre-season All America teams and four
year starter Micheal Dieter returns at guard. This is the most powerful
offensive line we have seen perhaps since the unit Nebraska fielded in the mid
1990's. Alex Hornibrook returns at QB, and while he is not textbook as a runner
or passer, he has certainly been an effective field general. Hornibrook threw
25 TD's versus 15 INT's but completed 62% of his passes. The Badgers will
certainly miss outstanding tight end Troy Fumagalli, but return the top four
wide receivers from a year ago, led by Quintez Cephus. Danny Davis, AJ Taylor
and Kendric Pryor give the Badgers quality depth at the position, primed for
opportunity given the anticipated rushing yards All American SO RB Jonathan
Taylor is expected to gain. Taylor exploded on the scene as a freshman in '17,
rushing for 2000 yards at 6.6 per carry, hitting paydirt 13 times. Look out!
The talented Badgers are experienced, balanced and ready to run roughshod over
opponents. As good as the Badgers are set to be offensively, there are
questions on the stop side. While Wisconsin has sometimes in the past done some
sleepwalking through games, that may not be a luxury in 2018. Only four
starters return, but three will challenge for All America honors. Linebacker TJ
Edwards and Ryan Connelly, the two top tacklers in '17, are stout inside
linebackers ready to blow up opposing run games. Up front, NY Olive Sgagapolu
returns, while Garrett Rand and Isaiahh Loudermilk will man the ends. DT Bryson
Williams is a youngster turning heads. Andrew Van Ginkel and Zach Buan step up
at outside linebackers. The secondary is inexperienced, but does return SS
D'Cota Dixon. Dontye Carriere-Williams had five starts at corner, and got 6
PBU, but he is the veteran. There is talent, including SO CB Madison Cone and
FS Scott Nelson, and and he schedule allows time to come up to speed, but this
defensive unit it not up to par when compared to recent Badger stop troops. The
kicking game is solid, with Anthony Lotti back at punter and Rafael Galianone
back at Placekicker. The schedule is tough, but could be worse. With a
down BYU visiting Madison week 3, the non conference games appear to present no
issues for the Badgers. Wisconsin then travels to Iowa, who has sleighed many
top ranked opponents at Kinnick Stadium, but the Hawks lost a lot on defense,
and stopping the Badgers run game appears too tall an order. Nebraska is
coming, but not quick enough to upend the Badgers in Madison, so Wisconsin
should be 5-0 when they travel to Ann Arbor. This game is huge for both teams,
and Michigan is one of the few teams that could adequately defend the Badgers
powerful offensive line. Wisconsin will win the next three before traveling to
Penn State. While we see the Badgers coming up short at Michigan, we think they
take this one. Closing out with wins at Purdue and at home versus Minnesota
will put the Badgers at 11-1 and into the B1G Championship Game, where anything
can happen.
 |
| 8. Miami |
For decades, we have wondered when the Hurricanes would be back. Over
the years, there have been plenty of head fakes, but for the first time since
entering the ACC, Miami, after racing off to a 10-0 start which included a nail
biting victory at Florida State and a smothering home victory over Notre Dame,
Miami reached the ACC Championship game. It should be noted the Hurricanes
dropped the season finale at Pitt before getting clobbered by Clemson in the
ACC title game. Miami went on to lose to a stout Wisconsin team in the Orange
Bowl, finishing 10-3, but the foundation appears set by coach Mark Richt to
have the once dominant Hurricanes as an annual contender for the conference
championship. With plenty of top level talent returning, the Hurricanes are the
overwhelming favorite to repeat as Coastal Division Champions. Fourteen
starters return; seven on both sides of the ball. Miami made the past fortunes
on defense, and the 2018 Hurricanes have the opportunity to follow that plan.
Up front, defensive ends Joe Jackson, an All ACC candidate, and Demetrius
Jackson (who missed the end of the year in 2017 due to injury) return. Jonathan
Ford, Gator transfer Gerald Willis and Pat Bethel will rotate at the tackle
spots. The Hurricane linebacking core is stout. Micheal Pickney and Shaquille
Quaterman for a dynamic duo, both All ACC. Zach Mcleod also returns. SS Jaquan
Johnson is preseason All America after leading the Canes in stops in 2017.
Shedrick Redwine is back at free safety. The corners are smothering as well,
led by Michael Jackson. Javonte Dean joins Jackson. Seven of the top nine
tacklers from 2017 are back, inducing the top four, so expect the Hurricane
defensive unit to be among the nations best. Offensively, the Canes have some
work to do to match the defensive prowess. The top two pass catchers are gone,
but talent remains. Ahmmon Richards, who dealt with injury in '17, is back and
talented enough to challenge for national honors. Jeff Thomas (17c) is also
back (watch h im) as is Lawrence Cager and TE Michael Irvin Jr. RB Travis
Homer, a conference honors candidate, returns at running back, but proven depth
behind him is lacking. Therefore, we expect 5* RB recruit Lorenzo Lingard to
get in the mix. Up front, the Canes are hoping for improvement. The tackles,
Navaughn Donaldson and Tyree St. Louis, are decent. Tyler Gauthier returns at
center, where Hayden Mahoney and Jahiar Jones jump in at the guard spots. At
quarterback, Malik Rosier had some big moments (26TD's), but there were issues
as well, as Rosier only completed 54% of his passes and tossed 14
interceptions. For Miami to reach higher ground, gains on the offensive side of
the ball are required. Redshirt freshman N'Kosi Perry was the hope of many Cane
supporters to unseat Rosier over spring, but that did not happen. Some fans are
hoping true freshman Jarren Williams can do it, but that is not going to happen
in our view. Legacy Zach Feagles returns at punter, but the Canes will break in
a new placekicker. Jeff Thomas, the kickoff returner, will likely handle punt
returns as well, taking over for Braxton Berrios, who will be sorely missed.
The schedule is favorable. At Arlington, Miami kicks the season off against an
LSU team searching for credibility, which is dangerous. The Canes have been
known to lay an egg in these games, but we see them winning this time. North
Carolina has been a problem in years past, but the Canes get this one before
Florida State invades South Florida. Obviously, this is a huge game, but with
the game in Miami, the Canes are favored to win it. A visit to Boston College,
who drips physicality and houses a powerful running attack, could spell trouble.
Duke visits before the Canes head to Atlanta to face Georgia Tech, which seems
a perfect place for the Canes to stumble, if they are going to. After that, the
Canes to Virginia Tech, which will be tough. Pitt visits to close out the
season, a revenge game for the Canes. It is difficult to imagine the Canes
going undefeated, but this schedule is manageable. We do have Miami losing one
somewhere, but winning the Coastal Division. They Canes are clearly inferior to
Clemson, but on any given day. We got Miami 11-1.
 |
| 9. Oklahoma |
With eventual Heisman winner Baker Mayfield leading
the way, Oklahoma started strong, crushing Ohio State at Columbus, serving
notice they were playoff contenders. But even with Mayfield working his magic,
the defense began cracking, surrendering 41 at Baylor before Iowa State got 36
in a stunning upset in Norman. OU gave up 27ppg, and while the offenses are
hard to corral in the Big XII, that is too many points for a team
aspiring to win championships. Six starters return on the stop side, non of
which seem poised to challenge for national honors. WLB Kenneth Murray is the
top dog, the leading returning tackler who netted 78 stops and 5 TFL in '17.
SLB Caleb Kelly joins Murray to provide a solid defensive center. Addison
Gumbs, Jon-Michael Terry and Levi Draper. Up front, the Sooners
will feel the loss of DE Ogbonnia Okoronkwo (8.5s). Amani Bledsoe is
strong at tackle along with Marquise Overton is anchored at nose tackle, backed
by Neville Gallimore and Dillon Fammatua. Kenneth Mann and true freshman Ronnie
Perkins fight for an end spot along while Mark Jackson and Jalan Redmond take
the other side. Parnell Motley (9PBU) and Tre Norwood return at the corners.
Jordan Parker, lost to injury in '17, is back and if healthy, will aim to grab
a starting spot. Senior Khalil Haughton (29t) is at free safety Robert Barnes
and Chanse Sylvie aim to take strong safety. Although he can play anywhere in
the secondary, the Sooner defensive staff will find a spot for early enrollee
sensation Brendan Radly-Hiles (Bookie), likely at strong safety. Now, while
the defense aims to improve, the offense takes a hit in losing the heralded
Mayfield, along with All America OT Orlando Brown and standout tight end Mark
Andrews. Kyler Murray appears to be the man to take over for Mayfield, Murray,
a transfer from Texas A&M, where the former 5* recruit started some
games, was drafted in the top ten in the MLB Draft, although he says he will
play one year at OU before hitting the diamond for the Oakland A's. Murray has
skills, but he is not Mayfield, who carried the Sooners on many occasion in
'17. In fact, there are those who are clamoring for SO Austin Kendall to win
the QB job, but it will be Murray. The talented Rodney Anderson, a potential
All America candidate at running back, returns to give Murray a stable and
lethal weapon to bank on. Talented Trey Sermon backs Anderson. Marquise Brown,
another All America candidate, returns at wide receiver. CeeDee Lamb, who had
46 cataches in '17, is also back, along with Mykel Jones. LG Ben Powers anchors
the offensive line, where he and OT Bobby Evans are the only two returning
starters. Three players with starting experience will jump in various line
spots. Dru Samia will jump in at RG, Jonathan Alverez at C and Cody Ford at OT.
Grant Calcaterra will effort to get production at tight end in the wake
of the uber talented and departed Andrews. While OU should still be efficient
and somewhat explosive on offense, they do not appear to have the game breaking
capabilities they possessed with Mayfield directing the attack. OU returns everyone
associated in special teams. Austin Siebert doubles as the placekicker and
punter, poised to challenge for All Big XII at kicker. CeeDee Lamb and
Marcellas Sutton returns as the kick and punt returners. The schedule is
difficult. Oklahoma had better have the helmet strapped for their opener, as
Lane Kiffin brings his high flying Florida Atlantic Owls, owners of
the nations longest winning streak, to Norman. This game could well spell
trouble for the Sooners, and getting a win here would give a boost to
the young team. UCLA then visits, and although they are rebuilding,
Chip Kelly is top notch and you just never know. OU then travels to Iowa State,
who beat OU in Norman last season. If OU were 3-0 here, Sooner nation should be
stoked! OU then hosts Army, no walkover, and Baylor, who gave them fits a year
ago. Then comes the Red River Rivalry at the Texas State Fair against the
Longhorns, who appear to finally be emerging under Tom Herman. We will think OU
is at best 6-1 here, either losing to FAU or Texas. After a week off, the
Sooners travel to TCU, who can play some defense. This was the Big XII
Championship game a year ago, and may be again. A home game vs. Kansas State
and a trip to Lubbock for a battle with pass happy Texas Tech are attention
getters. Bedlam is in Norman, but if Oklahoma State could not knock out OU last
year with a veteran squad, we don't see it happening this year. The Sooners
host outmatched Kansas before the season finale road trip to
West Virginia, who could be a top ten team by then. Until Oklahoma gets
knocked from the perch, the Sooners remain the class of the Big XII. But the
Sooners have holes, and the schedule does them no favors. We think
the Sooners end up 11-2 after winning the Big XII (title and championship
game), but this team is not close to the Playoff team of a year ago.
 |
| 10. Notre Dame |
It has been an interesting run since Notre Dame was clocked by Alabama
in the National Championship game in 2012. Although two of the last three
seasons have seen Notre Dame win 10 games, a 4-8 season in 2016 give Irish
faithful a serious case of uneasiness. Many called for
coach Brian Kelly to be terminated. But Kelly withstood the pressure, and now
the Irish enter the 2018 campaign with a high degree of optimism. Fifteen
starters return, and that includes the nucleus of the '17 team which defeated LSU
in the Citrus Bowl. Six of the starters returning are on offense, led by
quarterback Brando Wimbush. Although WImbush only completed just shy of 50% of
his pass attempts, a number which must improve for the Irish to solidify a top
ten ranking, he did toss 16 scores versus only 6 interceptions for 1870 yards,
On top of that, Winbush ran for over 800 yards, giving the Irish a true dual
threat at signal caller. Ian Book is there to apply competition. Dexter
Williams looks to start at running back with Tony Jones backing
up, but both need to become more complete players. The receiving core
is talented, but only starter Chase Claypool (29c) returns. LSU is still having
nightmares in thinking of the performance Miles Boykin displayed in the Citrus
Bowl last year. Although recording only 12 catches last fall, Boykin has star
potential and should triple his catch count. Michael Young, Chris Finke
and Javon McKinley are fighting for time. Alize Mack has the look of an honors
candidate at tight end, and backup Cole Kmet is also talented. The Irish lost
some serious star quality up front but do return three starters, led by
potential All America C Sam Mustipher. Alex Bars, also a national honors
candidate, and Tommy Kraemer are back but now are the guards. Robert Hainsey
will take over at RT, with Liam Eichenberg stepping in at LT. Josh Lugg is a
versatile player among the group. Nine starters are back on what should be a
salty defensive unit, which gave up 21ppg in '17, the best effort since the
2012 unit. DT Jerry Tillery was very disruptive a year ago, (4.5s, 4.5 TFL and
11QBH), and leads the way up front. Jonathan Bonner and Daelin Hayes return on
the line and Khalid Kareem steps in at DE. Tevon Coney, who racked up 166
stops with 10 TFL in '17 at inside linebacker and Drue Tranquill (9 TFL)
at outside linebacker are All America candidates. Asmir Bilal is the new Rover,
but all traditional defensive backs return to form a very strong secondary.
Cornerback Julian Love makes our preseason All America team, recording a mind
boggling 20 PBU in 2017. Troy Pride is at corner, while SS Jalen Elliott and
FS Nick Coleman return. Alohi GIlman, an Navy grad transfer, is la
playmaker looking to bring some aggressiveness to the unit. CB's Shaun Crawford
and Donte Vaughn, and 4* true freshman S Houston Griffith, will get playing
time. Both specialist return for the Fighting Irish. Tyler Newsome was strong a
punter, and Justin Yoon was perfect inside the 40 but 5-9 40 yards plus. Chris
Finke looks to be the return guy, but improvement here could gain Notre Dame
some much needed hidden yardage. As always, Notre Dame plays a very tough
schedule, and 2018 is no exception. The Irish open hosting Michigan, who is
stacked defensively and could surprise on offense with Ole Miss transfer QB
Shea Patterson. This will be a bruising contest, with the winner taking a step
toward the playoff and the loser potentially moving their coach to a warm seat.
Michigan may win it. While Wake Forest is much better than most think, we got
Notre Dame 3-1 before hosting Stanford. The Cardinal are strong on offense and
growing on defense, playing into the Irish's hands. A visit to Virginia Tech is
next, a very tough place for a road team to get a with, but the Hokies have
some big personnel losses to overcome, and the Irish have the defense
to get this done. Pitt is quite sound but lacking in the playmakers to upend
Notre Dame, so before the bye week, we have the Irish at 6-1. Navy awaits,
another tough but winnable contest. Usually, he week after Navy causes teams issues, so the
trip to Northwestern has a dangerous feel to it. Florida State then visits
South Bend, where we think the speed of the Seminoles gives the Irish their
second loss. Notre Dame closes with a decent Syracuse before traveling to USC,
a rivalry where anything can happen. We got Notre Dame 10-2, with losses to
Michigan, Florida State. There is potentially another loss out there, but the
2018 Fighting Irish are a very good football team. A win over Michigan could
lay the groundwork for a special season. With that and a win over the
Seminoles, look out!
 |
| 11. Auburn |
Given the end result, a loss to Georgia in the SEC Championship game, followed
by a defeat at the hands of Scott Frost and UCF in the Peach Bowl (both games
at the Georgia Dome), it is hard to recall Auburn beat Georgia and Alabama and
was on the verge of becoming the first two loss playoff team. Have no doubt,
the Tigers will be formidable again. For Gus Malzahn, who has a nice new
contract, the Tigers have an elite player at quarterback in Jarrett
Stidham. The numbers in '17 were quite good; 3156 yards with an 18/6
TD/INT ratio, and are expected to grow this fall. The top five pass
catchers from 2017 all return. led by Ryan Davis ('17 leader in receptions and
a real playmaker) and Darius Slayton, both who should compete for conference honors.
However, while Nate Craig Meyers is ready, Will Hastings and Eli Stove went
down in spring with significant knee injuries, potentially eliminating their
participation in 2018. Kam Martin, who was first team post spring, will start
at running back. JaTarvious Whitlow and freshman Mr. Alabama Asa Martin will
compete as well. Versatile Chandler Cox also returns. If there is an area of
mediocrity on the 2018 Tigers, it is up front. LT Prince Tega Wanogho is the
leader. Mike Horton returns at RG, while Kaleb Kim figures as the center. UMass
transfer Jack Driscoll could grab the tackle spot opposite big Prince. Pieces
must be placed up front, and while there is young talent, this is in fact an
area of concern. Defensive, the Tigers will have a ferocious bite. Up
front, they are big, quick and powerful. DT's Derrick Brown and Dontavious
Russell are the top inside duo in the conference. DE Marlon Davidson has All
America potential, while TJ Moultry, the BUCK, and Nick Coe are also strong
players. Inside linebacker Deshaun Davis led the team in tackles last fall,
returning with Darrell Williams to give the Tigers a front seven to rival
anyone. Although Auburn lost some key secondary components, the backfield looks
strong. Corners Jamel Dean and Javaris Davis all conference honors candidates,
with Jeremiah Dinson, who has battled some injuries, settled at a safety
spot. A group of true freshman may get looks, including Smokey Monday,
Christian Truitt and Jamien Sherwood, who will give free safety a go. The kicking
game is above average. Noah Igbinoghene will again handle kickoffs, with the
elusive Davis fielding punts. Auburn has made some improvements to Jordan-Hare, so the Tigers are ready to roar. The schedule is
difficult, with Auburn facing three top ten teams away from the
plains. It begins in Atlanta, where the Tigers have played, and lost, their
last two games. The powerful Washington Huskies visit for big time intersectional
kickoff classic. With the issues up front on the OL, this could be a loss for
the Tigers, but Stidham can throw it and that defense has teeth. A
"home" crowd should help. LSU, who has their backs against the wall,
and Arkansas visit the plain before the Tigers travel to Mississippi State,
where a very talented Bulldog team awaits. A road trip to Ole Miss is
sandwiched between home games with Tennessee and Texas A&M before
Auburn travels to Georgia. Good heavens! Then, it is off to Alabama for the
Iron Bowl. Make no mistake, the Tigers are a very good football team, who could
be anyone (they beat Alabama an Georgia within a three week span a year ago).
While the middle of the secondary should be fine, the issues up front may not
be. Can Stidham and the offense click anyhow? Maybe so. We think Auburn loses
to Washington, loses one they shouldn't and upsets somebody. Even still, it
looks like three loses. If they beat Washington, look out, because the early
issues may be mended by late in the year. 10-3.
 |
| 12. Penn State |
In the aftermath of the horrendous scandal at Penn
State, the rise back to prominence by the Nittany Lions has been remarkable,
culminating in runs at the playoff the last two seasons under James Franklin.
Until losing a heartbreaker at Ohio State last year, the Lions were right in
the thick of it. The Lions will unquestionably miss standout running back
Saquon Barklely, a top five NFL draft pick, and underrated offensive
coordinator Joe Moorhead, who is now head coach at Mississippi State, but
signal caller Trace McSorely does return. McSorely, a dual threat QB, threw for
3570 yards with 28/10 TD/INT ratio, also put up some 650 gross yards on the
ground. McSorely is outstanding, and he will keep Penn State humming
offensively. Miles Sanders will step into Barkley's shoes. Top wideout Juwan
Johnson (54pc) is back, as is DeAndre Thompkins and Brandon Polk. RFR KJ Hamler
is turning heads and may emerge, and true freshman Justin
Shorter will play. It is noted the Penn State receiving core has really
been strong over the last several years, even as players come and go. Up front
for the Lions, Ryan Bates leads the way at tackle. Juniors C Connor McGovern
and LG Steven Gonzalez return as starters, as does sophomore OT Will Fries, who
played well last year as a freshman and senior Chasz Wright. Des Holmes, Michal
Menet and Mike Miranda are top backups for a very deep position. Johnathan
Holland will try to fill the enormous shoes of Mike Gesicki at tight end. Only
three starters return on the defensive side of the ball, with the Lions losing
their top five tacklers from 2017. Up front, DE Shariff Miller (6TFL) returns,
with Ryan Buchholtz on opposite side. The tackles will be new, with Keith
Givens and Robert Windsor attempting to seize the opportunity. Linebacker U can
rely on outstanding play from OLB Koa Farmer, the Lions top returning
tackler, but are inexperienced elsewhere. Expect true freshman Micah Parsons,
our defensive newcomer of the year, to dominate at on the strong side
linebacker. Parsons is a man, and the Lions won big securing his commitment.
Ellis Brooks, Jan Johnson and Cam Brown look to fill the void inside. New starters
are also needed in the secondary. Amani Oruwariye will grab a corner and challenge
for conference honors.Jon Reid,who missed '17 with an Achilles, is back
and seemingly healthy. Tariq Castro-Fields will back-up at boundary corner.
Lamont Wade and Zech McpHerson are backup corners.Ayron Monroe slots in at
strong safety, while Nick Scott roams from his free saftey spot. Garrett Taylor
backs at SS. Punter Blake Gillikin returns, but the Lions need a new placekicker,
where freshman Jake Pinegar will get a look. Reid will try to return as
the Lions primary kick returner, but DeAndre Thompkins may remain the guy.
The Lions have a favorable schedule, where a green defense can find some legs.
Assuming the Lions win a state rival game at pesky Pittsburgh, they will roll
into Columbus at 4-0. We do not think Penn State has enough defense to get this
done. After a week off, the Lions host Michigan State. Although the Spartans
can certainly win at State College, we see the Lions at 5-1. After a trap game
at Indiana, Iowa comes calling, but we got the Lions 7-1. A trip to Ann Arbor
is too much for McSorely to save, and the defense does not appear strong enough
to hold Wisconsin, who comes to State College. But the Lions may outscore the
Badgers. Penn State looks 10-2 if not 9-3, depending on the defense. The
resurgence in State College is real, but it would seem a
B1G Championship in 2018 is out of reach.
 |
13. Florida State
|
Last year's highly anticipated season kickoff matchup
between Florida State and Alabama ended badly for the Seminoles. Not only did
Alabama pull away in the second half to win 24-7, Florida State quarterback
Deondre Francois was injured and lost for the season. With Francois out, and without
a properly developed back up, the Seminoles were forced to play freshman 3* quarterback
James Blackman, who was not ready for primetime. While Blackmann performed admirably,
showing much progress throughout the season, the loss of Francois really hurt. The Seminoles
struggled to move the ball, and when couple with some inexplicable defensive breakdowns,
Florida State found themselves 2-4 before hitting rock bottom in a blowout beat down by
Boston College. From Orange Bowl champs to Chestnut Hill chumps. As bad it that was,
Jimbo Fisher was plotting his departure from the Seminoles. The situation was toxic,
and it showed on the field. Fisher is now at Texas A&M, and Willie Taggart was hired as
Seminoles head coach. Taggart came to FSU after only one season at Oregon, but Taggart,
who previously was head coach at South Florida, is a Floridian, and fits in perfectly for the
Seminoles. Taggart has not missed a beat since his hiring, embracing the traditions of Florida
State and rebuilding the relationships with those who helped build the foundation
Florida State sits on. Most notably, this includes former Florida State coach
Bobby Bowden. While there is plenty of talent on hand, Taggart does have some
work to do to get the Seminoles back in the College Football Playoff
debate. First, Taggart much identify his starting quarterback. Blackman would
seem to better fit the new offensive scheme Taggart is set to employ, but he is
still a work in progress. Francois appears to be healthy, and seems to have a
superior skill set. However, Francois has had some off the
field issues, and we are not sure if Taggart completely trusts him. Bailey
Hockman has some skills, and looked good in spring, and may have an outside
shot given the new system. But odds favor, that if healthy and with
the proper attitude, it will be Francois, who has proven he can get the job
done. At running back, the Seminoles are loaded. Cam Akers should explode in
the new system, having a season to contend for national honors. Backing Akers
is Jacques Patrick, a powerful back who may have a big NFL future, Amir Rasul
and Khalan Laborn. Jonathan Vickers is skilled as a utility back. The receiving
core has a mix of experience and youth, but is poised to be among the
top units in the south. Nyquan Murray did not have the season he expected in '17,
but is very talented and should enjoy a strong senior campaign. Keith Gavin
(27c) is also experienced. However, there are some relatively inexperienced players
that have the coaches very excited. DJ Matthews only had six catchesin '17, but he speedster
looks poised to challenge for conference honors. Another player creating a lot
of buzz is Tamorrion Terry, who at 6'4", may be the go to guy. Former
5* George Campbell is hoping to put the injury bug behind him, and
along with freshman Warren Thompson and Tre'Shaun Harrison, the Seminoles have
a group that will be a team strength. Tre McKity will jump in at tight end and
is expected to be a difference maker. Up front, the Seminoles have been
mediocre for some time. Landon Dickerson, considered the Seminoles top lineman,
will move from guard to tackle. Sophomore Jauan Williams will take
the ohter tackle spot. Alec Eberle is sound at center. Derrick Kelly could be
All ACC and Cole Minshew are the guards. Depth is a concern. Defensively, it is
a mixed bag. The secondary did not perform well last season, but there is new
life. Levonta Taylor will man the field corner spot, expected to challenge for
national honors. Kyle Meyers plays opposite Taylor, with true freshman
Anthony Lytton and Asante Samuel turning heads and expected to play. Legacy
Stanford Samuels looks real promising after a move to safety, with Hamsah
Nasirildeen strong at field safety. AJ Westbrook and Cyrus Fagan back up. The
linebacker spot are of some question. Dontavious Jackson seems set in the
middle. Adonis Thomas will be on the weak side. Emmett Rice and Josh Brown
back up. Florida State's STAR position is well stocked, as it appears
Legacy DeCalon Brooks and true freshman Jaiden Woodbey, a big time talent. Up
front, DE Brian Burns (9TFL), the teams top returning tackler, is a
potential All America player. Janarius Robinson will start opposite Burns. SO
Joshua Kaindoh, who missed the spring, is an emerging star who will be
interchangeable with the starters, and Wally Aime has made plays when given reps.
Freshman Xavier Peters may emerge a a decent backup in 2018. Demarcus Christmas
is an anchor inside, an honors candidate to be sure. Heralded SO Marvin Wilson
is set to take a tackle spot. Frederick Jones is quite capable at the position as well.
There is a ton of talent on this side of the ball for the Seminoles, but much is inexperienced
and the unit lacks depth. Both specialists return in P Logan Tyler and K Ricky
Aguayo. Amir Rasul and Keith Gavin are back to return kicks, and DJ Matthews will
field punts. Keyshaun Helton may help. Florida State has a difficult slate.
Virginia Tech comes to Tallahassee to kickoff the season in what is really a
pivotal game. FSU will win it a DOAK. A trip to Syracuse, where it is always
interesting in the dome, could be trouble is FSU is out sync, but we think they
escape and defeat a decent Northern Illinois team at home. Louisville no longer
has Lamar Jackson, so FSU should win up there and be 5-0 traveling to Miami. On
the road, this look tough. Wake Forest is sound, but with the game in
Tallahassee, we got FSU 6-1 before hosting Clemson. FSU could win this one, but
Clemson is a national title contender. Back to back roadies at NC State, where
FSU does not play well, and Notre Dame may find a loss. Boston College visits
in a revenge game and the Seminoles close out with Florida at home. FSU could
go 11-1 if everything clicks, but 9-3 seems about right. It will be really
interesting to see Taggart's "Lethal Simplicity" for the Garnet and Gold.
 |
| 14. Misissippi State |
As expected after the 2017 season,
the big dollars waived in front of Dan Mullen to return to the University of
Florida, where he was OC under Urban Meyer, and Mullen left Starkville for
Gainesville. Mississippi State wasted little time in finding a replacement, but
went a seemingly odd direction in hiring Penn State offensive coordinator Joe
Moorhead. While Moorhead is a northerner, he did operate an offense similar to
the one the Bulldogs employed under Mullen, and boy howdy does he have some
nice pieces on offense to work with, with nine returning starters including the
return of fabulous quarterback Nick Fitzgerald. Not only that, the defensive
unit Moorhead inherits returns eight starters. Suffice to say, the Bulldogs are
set up for a sensational season. Fitzgerald suffered a gruesome leg injury late
in 2017, but word is he is at 100% and ready to go for 2018. Always a dangerous
runner (964yds/14TDs), improvement in the passing game is an area Fitzgerald
and Moorhead aim to achieve. Wideouts Keith Mixon and Jesse Jackson, who led
State in catches in '17, both return. JC recruit Stephen Guidry, and 4*
recruits Devonta Jason and Malik Dear. Due to an arrest, Reggie Todd is out for
2018, but Dedrick Thomas may find time and Ferron Green returns at TE. RB Aeris
Williams, who led the team in rushing in 2017, is back. Many think Kylin
Hill will get heavy in the mix as well. Four offensive lineman return for the
Bulldogs. Elgton Jenkins and Stewart Reese are two who will contend for
conference honors. Defensively, the Bulldogs will move from a 3-4 to
essentially a 4-2-5 under new DC Bob Shoop, considered
an opportunity to capitalize on the strong interior line and
the speed of the backfield. Up front, All America candidate Jeffery
Simmons anchors at DT, flanked by another honors candidate in Montez
Sweat, who collected 10.5 sacks in '17. Emerging 4* DE Gerri Green and DT
Braxton Hoyett also return. The linebacking core is green, but talent abounds.
Enroll Thompson had 46 stops a year ago, Willie Gay and Leo Lewis are expected
rise their game. SS Mark McLaurin, who nabbed 6 picks, was also the teams
leading tackler in '17, and the national honors candidate is primed for the big
time. Free safety Jonathan Abram is also back, an honors candidate as well, who
was second in stops for MSU in '17. Brian Cole takes over at nickel back. If
there is a weakness, it is at corner where Chris Rayford, Jamal Peters and
Cameron Danzler will patrol, each quite talented. The Bulldogs are set a
placekicker, but welcome a new punter. Dedrick Thomas may handle all kicks,
taking over the kickoff returns from the aforementioned disciplined WR Todd.
Mississippi State is a very dangerous team, but there is a question on how they
respond to the new coaching staff. We think the approach of Moorhead exudes
confidence, and project the Bulldogs to make a run that will fire up the
faithful in StarkVegas. An early contest at Kansas State, another well coached
and experienced team is not a spot to stumble if the Bulldogs seek high
achievement. Fitzgerald and the Dogs up front on defense will help
State get out of Manhattan. A road trip to Kentucky is also dangerous, but
Mississippi State should be 4-0 before Florida visits. That offer an
opportunity for a statement game, but a very good Auburn team visits the
following week. If State is undefeated after that, look out. A trip to face a
rabid LSU team and a homer against Jimbo Fisher and Texas A&M are also
tough games. MSU travels to Alabama, almost certain to house a loss or two, but
have another opportunity to shake the foundation of the SEC. A ton of success
could unwind in the Egg Bowl against a better than most think Ole Miss team in
Oxford. The schedule is tough, but opportunities exist. State is
experienced and powerful on both lines of scrimmage, the talent and speed at
the skill spots offensively, house an outstanding dual threat signal caller and
solid defensive backfield. Perhaps not quite a playoff dark horse, the Bulldogs
could record 10 wins and make life very difficult for the entire SEC.
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| 15. Michigan State |
Michigan State surprised the entire nation in 2017,
pulling themselves off the mat following a dreadful 3-9 season to go
10-3 winning at Iowa and Michigan and upending Penn State before
clobbering a good Washington State team in the Holiday Bowl. Even if the big
2017 season was an anomaly, the Spartan return veteran team, with 19
starters back to power the Michigan State towards a potential B1G Championship.
Hardly anybody ever heard of QB Bryan Lewerke before '17 kicked off, but
he was fantastic,completing 59% of his throws for 2800 yards, with a
strong 20/7 TD/INT ratio. Michigan State has historically been at
their best when they have a seasoned quarterback, and the Spartans have one in
Lewerke, who also ran for 559 yards last fall. Michigan State returns their top three
pass catchers, led by Felton Davis. Darrell Stewart and Cory White accounted for 85
aerials between them in '17. LJ Scott, the Spartans leading rusher, returns after 898 yards
last year. Connor Heyward, backup, possessing some elusiveness but the Spartans
could use a back with breakaway speed. Weston Bridges may be that guy. TE Matt
Sokol has 22 receptions in 2017. LG David Beedle anchors the line of
scrimmage, with Kevin Jarvis at RG. Luke Campbell and Cole Chewins are the
tackles, while C Matthew Allen is the new lone offensive starter at center.
Spartan Co-DC Harlon Barnett left for Florida State, leaving Mike Tressell to
coordinate a defense where nine starters are back from a unit that gave up 20.0
ppg, including the top four tacklers. DE Kenny Williekes, who recorded 7.5
tackles for loss in '17, lead the front four. Raequan Williams and Mike Panasiuk
are the tackles. MLB Joe Bachie, a junior who led the Spartan in tackles in
'17, leads the linebacking core, who houses Antjuan Simmons. CB Josiah
Scott (10PBU) and S David Dowell (5INT) anchor a veteran secondary, both
expected to challenge for conference honors. SS Khari Willis, STAR Andrew
Dowell and CB Justin Layne will make opponents aerial attacks stay grounded..
P Jake Hartbarger (42.0) and K Matt Coghlin both return as well. Laress
Nelson and Connor Heyward, who really did well, are back to handle the return
duties. The schedule is not overwhelming. A road trip to Arizona State might be
dangerous, but maybe not. After handling Northwestern in East Lansing, the
season really begins as Michigan State travels to State College, where the
winner looks in position to challenge the big two. Michigan, smarting from last
seasons lost, has revenge on the mind to travel to East Lansing, and the
defense to win. Ohio State visits, providing the Spartans with a big time
opportunity, but the Buckeyes blasted the Spartans a year ago, exposing every
weakness as they are prone to sometimes do. Following that predicted loss,
a very dangerous game at Nebraska, who may well be finding themselves
by this point and where the Spartans have been upended before, spells trouble.
We see Michigan State at 9-3, presuming they lose to Michigan, Ohio State and
at either Penn State or Nebraska, They could lose or win both. The game at Penn
State is the big one, really determining who can challenge to win the Eastern
Division. It is noted there is some residual turmoil at the University and
Athletic Department from a significant sexual abuse scandal involving primarily
an athletic physician. While the abuses were not known to involve the football
program by any meaningful measure if any at all, the ramifications surrounding
the impact on the football program are unknown.
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| 16. Stanford |
We have often thought Stanford presented the perfect prototype for a program looking for successful and stable schemes offensively and defensively, efficiently presented and strongly coached under David Shaw. Stanford has won 10+ 3 of the last five seasons, but as expected, Stanford had some issues out of the gate last year, but responded to finish up 9-5, losing a tough shootout to TCU in the Alamo Bowl. While not considered a factor in CFP discussions, or even the PAC 12 North, Stanford is not going anywhere. Usually more stout and leading via defensive prowess, Stanford is set to reach a new gear offensively in 2018 with none starters returning, led by Heisman Trophy candidate Bryce Love, who ran for 2118 yards in 2017. If Love can remain healthy, he is projected to be an All America player rushing for over 2000 yards once again, giving the Cardinal, behind a stout collection of big uglies, a very powerful rushing attack. On the left side, OT Walker Little and OG Nate Herbig, both national honors candidates, figure to give Love some huge holes to rush through. RT AT Hall and C Jesse Burkett, are also conference honors candidates. New OG Brandon Fanaika joins a very talented group. The Cardinal always utilize their tight ends, and they got an outstanding one in Kaden Smith. KJ Costello, who took over for Kellen Chryst (off to Tennessee), is back at quarterback and figures to have a strong season. The top four pass catchers also return, led by JJ Arcega Whiteside (48c, 9 TD) and Trenton Irwin. Connor Wedington and Osiris St. Brown also return. Stanford is well equipped offensively to average 40+ppg, and that has opposing stop troops concerned. Only four starters return defensively. Senior inside linebacker Bobby Okereke (94 stops) leads the way. Junior Sean Barton steps in opposite Okereke. The outside backers, Gabe Reid, Casey Toohill and Joey Alfieri, are new. DE Dylan Jackson is the lone returning starter up front. DT Dalyn Wade-Perry will look to pick up from NFL DT Harrison Phillips. Micheal Williams and Jovann Swann will play plenty of snaps. Alijah Holder leads the secondary from his CB position. Safety Frank Buncom is back. CB Malik Antoine, S Ben Edwards, S Brandon Simmons, CB Paulson Abebo and CB Alameen Murphy are all fighting for open spots. P Jake Bailey and PK Jet Toner both return. Jay Tyler and Trenton Irwin are back for put returns while Cameron Scarlett is back for kickoff returns. A revenge game on the Farm against San Diego State kicks off the season, and the Aztecs are no slouch. But, they will get the Cardinal ready for a visit week two by USC. After UC Davis, in back to back road weekends the Cardinal visit Oregon and Notre Dame. If the defense is unsettled, Stanford could have 3 losses before October! We doubt that, but maybe USC at home looks most promising. The schedule does get much easier, as Stanford hosts a stout Utah after the rival Fighting Irish game. A bye week comes before projected wins at Arizona State and home versus Wazzu before the Cardinal travel to Seattle, where a top notch Washington team awaits. If still healthy, Stanford should win out against Oregon State, at Cal and at UCLA. While we could see as many as seven losses, that is highly unlikely. But Stanford must find a way to get to the bye week still in contention for the conference division. We think 9-3 is about the best we can envision.
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| 17. Southern Cal |
After posting back to back 10 win seasons and flirting with a playoff appearance, given the Trojans lose a vast amount of offensive experience and production, USC is expected to slide a bit in 2018. The slide may leave USC from having a legitimate shot at the playoff, the Trojans are well equipped to remain the class of the PAC 12 South. Quarterback Sam Darnold, a top 10 NFL pick, RB Ronald Jones and WR Deontay Burnett, each of whom led the team in their respective areas of expertise, are gone. Replacing Darnold is the biggest concern, where true freshman JT Daniels, USA Gatorade National Player of the Year, is expected to win the job. It is never easy for a true freshman quarterback, particularly in the early going, but we have seen some recent success stories. Stephen Carr is set to takeover for Jones, but although he shakes tackles, he lacks the dynamic playmaking ability and has durability (missed spring) questions. Vavae Malepeai and Aca' Cedric Ware will see plenty of action. There are talented receivers for Daniles to work with, most notably Tyler Vaughns, who is primed for conference honors. Michael Pittman (170 yds receiving in '17 PAC 12 Championship Game) is outstanding, a big target at 6'4", 215. Velus Jones and Trevon Sidney are fighting for a spot, but true freshman teammate to Daniles, Amon Ra-St. Brown figures to make an immediate impact. Four interior lineman return, as does TE Tyler Petitie, who had 23 catches a year ago. C Toa Lobendhan is top notch, with the left side, LG Chris Brown and RT Chuma Edoga, both All PAC 12. RG Andrew Vorhees and LT Austin Jackson, who saw extensive action in 2017 also return. Although this is a talented group, it may be w while before things get going, and averaging over 30ppg may be asking a bit much. Up front defensively, DE Christian Rector returns, but the Trojans are replacing everyone else. Rector had 7.5 sacks, is an honors candidate, who along with Porter Gustin can attack opposing quarterbacks. Brandon Pili steps in at the nose. All America player Cameron Smith, who led the Trojans with 112 stops, mans the middle. ILB John Houston, 4th in stops in '17, is also back, as is Jordan Iosefa. The secondary is a strength, led by CB Iman Marshall (10PBU) and FS Marvell Tell, who was 2nd in stops in '17. CB Isaiah Langley and NB Ajene Harris also are back to patrol the field,. The return game is dangerous, with Pittman and Harris returning punts and Velus Jones handling kickoffs. P Reid Budrovich and K Chase McGrath are very solid. After opening hosting UNLV, the Trojans inexperience will be tested early, with road games at Stanford, Texas and dangerous Arizona among a home test against Wazzu in the first five weeks of the season. It is possible three losses are tagged on USC before the early October bye week. Winnable home games with Colorado, Arizona State and California are sandwiched between a stern road test at Utah and a breezy homer with lowly Oregon State. USC finishes at UCLA (dangerous to be sure as Chip Kelly begins to get things going in Westwood) and vs. Notre Dame. Given the difficult slate and inexperience, particularity at the offensive skill positions, an 8-4 record seems reasonable. Even so, USC could still win the PAC 12 South, and with the inexperience turned into experienced, USC can make noise. USC really needs to avoid losing three games before the October bye week.
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| 18. South Carolina |
Many scoffed, us included, at the late hiring of Will Muschamp a few years back after he was shown the door at Florida after a lousy tenure. But don't look know, Muschamp has the Gamecocks in position to do some real damage in the SEC East, possibly even winning the division if they can pull off a home upset of rival Georgia in week two. Surprisingly, it starts on offense with South Carolina, the opposite of what you would expect given Muschamp's history. Jake Bentley returns under center, and while there have some periods of questionable play, there have also been times where Bentley has Mel Kiper drooling. In 2017, Bentley threw for 2800 yards and 18 TD's, but also tossed 12 INT's. However, Bentley is expected to expand on those numbers in 2018. Deebo Samuel returns healthy at wide receiver, giving Bentley a go to player who can ring a door bell at anytime.Bryan Edwards, who had 64 catches in '17, also returns. OrTre Smith and Shi Smith are quality players giving the Gamecocks one of the best receiving cores in the SEC, and that is saying something. The running game was not a strength in '17, perhaps hindered by poor line play, Rico Dowdle appears to be next man up at running back, but coaches will also look at AJ Turner and Ty'Son Williams. Zach Bailey leads the line, which after some shuffling returns three starters. Even so, for the Gamecocks to exceed expectations, notable improvement is needed up front. Bailey has All-SEC potential. There is quite a bit of experience returning on defense, but star quality is lacking. Both tackles return up front, led by Javon Kinlaw. DJ Wonnun (13 TFL) man an end spot. Leading tackler Skai Moore in gone, with LB TJ Brunson becoming the main man in the middle. Coaches are eager to see how Sherrod Green emerges. The long run of potential All America defensive backs at South Carolina is over, but Rashaad Fenton has some skills, and he will be expected to anchor a secondary lacking experience, a huge issue in the SEC. Steven Montac, Jaymest Williams and J.T Ibe will get every opportunity to find playing time. The kicking game for right now is an issue, but could be adequate as the season gets going. Ole Deebo Samuel will be the kick returner, and he is quite a dangerous one at that. The Cocks get Georgia at home week two, and if they can somehow pull that off, look out. Even with a loss there, the schedule is quite favorable. South Carolina should be at worst 4-1 before a three game home stand tells the tale. Mizzou can throw, so consider them dangerous. The Texas Aggies will be tough, followed by Tennessee who will be looking for a big win. With SC presumably 6-2, trips to Ole Miss and Florida, both winnable, follow. The Gamecocks travel to Clemson, which seems far out of reach. The Gamecocks are probably looking at 8-4, but 10-2 is not far fetched, and stranger things have happened. If they somehow beat Georgia, the win could well put them in Atlanta.
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| 19. Boise State |
Boise State has been absent from the national landscape in recent seasons. We remember the Broncos as the first real slayer of non Power 5 schools to wreak havoc among the hierarchy. Who can forget them taking out Oklahoma in the Fiesta Bowl a decade or so ago? The Broncos were decent last season, winning the Mountain West and closing with a controlling victory over Oregon in the Las Vegas Bowl. The Bronco faithful are very excited about 2018, and rightfully so. Eighteen starters return, giving Boise State experience and balance, and a special opportunity. Offensively, it starts at quarterback where Brett Rypien, son of NFL standout Mark Rypien, returns. Rypien threw for 2877 yards, and while he only tossed 18 TD's, he is the active leader in FBS passing yards. Expect a banner season for the senior. AJ Richardson is the go to guy, but Octavious Evans emerged as a dynamic player in spring. Sean Modster is back after 32 catches in '17. The running game could be stronger, and will need to be if Boise State is to crash The New Years Six. Alexander Mattison is back, having run for over 1000 yards a year ago. but more is expected. Improvement up front would help, and there is an expectation the Broncos will be better. Sophomore Ezra Cleveland started every game a year ago as a freshman, and he will anchor the unit from his left tackle spot. Center Garrett Larson, flanked by guards John Molchon and Eric Quevedo, also return. On the stop side, ten of the top eleven tacklers return, led by super soph Curtis Weaver at DE, where he recorded 11 sacks in a brilliant freshman campaign. he Broncos were stout up front in '17 and should be again in '18. DE Jabril Frazier and both tackles are All MWC candidates. If the defense has a weakness it is in the linebacking core. Riley Whimpey is a player to watch, but the Broncos will be fine on the second level. CB Tyler Horton (11PBU) and SS Kekoa Nawahine anchor a very experienced and strong secondary. Both specialists return, but this is an area where improvement gains can be achieved. CB Avery Williams is very dangerous in the return game for Boise State, giving the Broncos additional weaponry. There is every reason to believe Boise State will be right in the thick of it to re-emerge as the non Power 5 representative. The Broncos travel to Stillwater to face Oklahoma State, who is replacing a veteran quarterback, in week two. For Boise to make real noise, a win on the road here is critical. A trip to Laramie against Wyoming follows, and could be troublesome, but realistically the Broncos could be favored in every game. How good they really are is the question.
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| 20. UCF |
It was a truly remarkable season for UCF in 2017, a
season which saw the Knights record an undefeated season and a Peach Bowl
victory over SEC power Auburn, declaring themselves National
Champions. Hey, Auburn beat both participants in the CFP championship game, so
why not? Under coach Scott Frost, who went home to Nebraska with his entire
coaching staff, the Knights quickly became a power, not by accident mind you,
building a talented team of speed and skill. Former OU player and assistant
coach Josh Heupel, by way of an OC spot at Mizzou, comes in take over for
Frost. Heulpel will tinker the offense, shifting the Knights to extreme up
tempo, and he has just the signal caller to direct it in returning quarterback
McKenzie Milton. In 2017, Milton was phenomenal, throwing 37 touchdowns while
covering 4037 yards. Milton may really take off this year, and that is quite
scary for opposing stop troops. The top rushers return, including Otis Anderson
and Adrian Killens, who is electric and can house call at a moments notice.
Milton himself ran for 675 yards. Two of the top receiving threats from 2017
are NFL bound, but the Knights return Dedrick Snelson, who collected 8 scores
and Gabriel Davis. Tre Nixon, an Ole Miss transfer, wil find time. Up front, C
Jordan Johnson, an All AAC selection in '17 anchors the line, which returns two
additional starters, including OT Wyatt Miller. Texas A&M transfer Trevor
Elbert seems destined to find a spot. The Knights utilized the TE spot with
great success in '17, where Wisconsin transfer Jake Hescock steps in. The
offense should be very potent. Defensively, the Knights lost three to the NFL.
There is some work to do up front, with DT Tristen Hill the only returnee, with
DE Brendon Hayes emerging. Pat Jasinski (104 stops) and Titus Davis form a
solid linebacking duo, and Bama transfer Shawn Burgess-Becker is intriguing,
but the strength of the unit is in the secondary. Kyle Gibson was All AAC in
'17, back to lay the wood from his Free safety spot, flanked by strong safety
Tre Neal. CB Brandon Moore is an honors candidate, and Alabama transfer Aaron
Robinson figures in as well. A strong sill set has the UCF coached excited at
the prospect of Nevelle Clarke, who will start at CB opposite Moore. While
solid, the kicking game could improve, and a new returner to replace Mike
Hughes will be needed, but there is plenty of speed to work with. UCF is
loaded, and the team knows how to win; until it doesn't. Then, we will find out
the true abilities of Josh Heupel, the head coach. An early stretch may
not be the for sure wins everyone has penciled in. A trip to Chapel Hill will
find a much improved North Carolina team with much to prove. That is followed by
a home game with Lane Kiffin and his formidable Florida Atlantic squad, which
will be great fun. If questions have arisen at this point, the next game
against Pitt may not be as easy as anticipated. The Knights get Navy and home,
but travel to Memphis and USF. Given the coaching change, it is hard to think
the Knights won't stumble a time or two. If they get by UNC and FAU, behind the
offensive firepower Milton is directing, UCF could run the table again. We will
go with one loss somewhere, hoping it does not turn into another, and we may
see the Knights back in the New Years Six.
*Editors note: On July 20, 2018, SS Tre Neal announced, as a graduate transfer,
he will leave the UCF program and follow former UCF coach Scott Frost to
Nebraska and play his senior season with the Cornhuskers.
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| 21. Texas |
When the Longhorns went all in for Tom Herman, the
outstanding young coach who had directed an impressive rise to prominence at
Houston that everyone wanted, folks thought Texas would immediately be Texas
once again. However, while signs of progress were visible, it is clear the
Horns got more work to do. Injuries were a major issue for the Horns,
eliminating consistency at a variety of positions, including quarterback.
Herman now has a pair of experienced signal callers, sophomore Sam Ehlinger and
and junior Steve Buechele. It appeared early Buechele was the man, winning the
job to start the season, but injuries took him out allowing Ehlinger to get
rolling, until he got hammered with a concussion. Buechele took back over.
Statistic throwing the ball from 2017 were relatively even, but Ehlinger
appeared the better runner. Nobody separated themselves in the spring, but
given the running ability most expect Ehlinger to ultimately win the job. The
two top receivers from '17 in Lil 'Jordan Humphrey and Collin Johnson Jr.
return, giving whoever does emerge at quarterback some weapons.
Historically, the Longhorns have always had a back of significance, but
Herman is waiting for someone to step up. True freshman Keaontay Ingram, a
4*, may emerge, with Daniel Young, Cal transfer Tre Watson and Tonell Carter
competing. The Horns will benefit greatly from the arrival of very highly
regarded Rice graduate transfer Calvin Johnson, who figures to anchor the line,
which returns over 100 starts, from his left tackle position. Two starters
return, C Zach Shackleford and and G Patrick Vahe, give the Horns stability.
Defensively, Texas will run a 3-4 scheme, welcoming back some key players at
the very important positions up front. Chris Nelson will man the nose, while
Charles Omenihu returns at end. Legacy defender Brecklyn Hager will spot the
other end position, giving the Horns a position of strength up front. LB Garry
Johnson, certainly an honors candidate, will roam from his weakside linebacker
spot. Anthony Wheeler mans the inside, while Malcom Roach will line up on the
outside. The secondary is strong, led by Nickel back SS Brandon Jones and CB
Kris Boyd. Devante Davis (26 stops in '17) will start at corner opposite Boyd.
Safety John Bonney, a pair of true freshman, Anthony Cook and BJ Foster provide
depth. The Horns have some work to do in the kicking game, but Boyd provides
opportunities in the return game. Texas lost a lot of close games a year ago,
and on paper at least, they look to be a more complete team in 2018. The schedule
may not show it. Last season, the Horns were bum-rushed by an upstart Maryland
team (The Terrapins later collapsed due to major injuries, most notably at QB),
and get Maryland again to start the season in a revenge game at Landover. Tough
game to be sure, but if Texas is back, the find a way to win it. At USC last
year, the Longhorns let an upset slip, losing in double overtime to the
Trojans, who come to Austin providing a big opportunity for Herman and the
Horns. Next up is TCU and a game at K-State, so at best we see Texas 4-1 before
the Red River Rivalry vs. OU. Nothing is easy after that, with trips to Okie
State and Texas Tech with home tilts against improving Baylor, nationally
ranked West Virginia and emerging Iowa State. The slate seems to indicate 8-4
for Texas, but noticeable improvement from 2017 should be noticeable.
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| 22. West Virginia |
Folks are very excited up in Mountaineer country, where offensive firepower
burning up the country roads figures to give West Virginia
a punchers chance in every game. The optimism begins under
center, where Will Grier returns to direct
the Mountaineers. Grier threw for 34 touchdowns in 2017 before
suffering a season ending injury to his finger. All America wideout David Sills
V also returns, giving West Virginia a dangerous duo for opponents to corral.
Sills hauled in a mind boggling 18 TD's in '17, so mark it down that he gets
open. Gary Jennings, who had 1000 yards receiving, joins Marcus Simms to form
perhaps the nations strongest and most experienced receiving core. Alabama
transfer TJ Simmons may get in the mix as well. Jovani Haskins, a Miami
tranfer, my look large at H-Back. Kennedy McKoy and Martell Pettaway give
West Virginia experience in the backfield, while redshirt freshman
Alec Sinkfield is emerging and looking for playing time. Up front, the
Mountaineers return three starters, each of whom are All Big XII honors
candidates. OT Yodny Cajuste is perhaps the most decorated, and Colton McKivitz
form a stout bookend pair. Center Matt Jones may have a battle with SO Jacob
Buccigrossi, which is a heck of nice problem to have. SO Josh Sills returns at
one guard spot with SR Isaiah Hardy, a big boy at 6'6" 335, jumps in on
the opposite side. Needless to say, this group of big uglies is team strength.
While West Virginia looks quite potent offensively, set to put up 40ppg, there
are concerns on the stop side. Only a handful of starters return, led without
question by linebacker David Long, who will compete for national honors. But he
may be real busy. There were departures up front that leave the Mountaineers
green. Darius Sills will grab a tackle spot, while Reese Donahue will anchor
one DE spot, while Sills brother Dante, a 4* True frosh, may get time with
Ezekiel Rose. Offseason injuries have decimated the linebacker spot, where
coach Holgorsen may look to JUCO Charlie Benton to jump in. Dylan Tonkery, who
had 43 stops in '17, returns as well. The secondary is strong, led by Dravon
Askew Henry. Kenny Robinson looks great at free safety, and Toyus Avery will
take over the bandit spot, but both corners need replaced. Hakeem Bailey and
Keith Washington appear to start out manning the corners. There is room for
improvement in the kicking game, but West Virginia will focus on scoring
touchdowns. Marcus Simms will handle returns. West Virginia has a lot to prove,
and expectations, with the potent offense they possess, are quite high. The
Mountaineers get Tennessee in a kickoff game, and while Tennessee is down after
a full fledged dumpster fire in 2017, they have talent and a defensive wizard
as new head coach. Therefore, this game is not a gimmie. A trip to NC State
could spell trouble also, with a home tilt against well coached Kansas State
next. Heck the Mounties could be 1-3 heading to Lubbock. But they could also be
4-0, and if they get out of Lubbock unscathed, they could be on their way. The
rest of the way are three tough roadies; at Iowa State, Texas and Oklahoma
State. Home games versus TCU and Oklahoma are huge. We think West Virginia will
field among the best offenses in the nation, and that will win them one or two
of these swing games. Maybe three. But it would some kind of feat for Holgorsen
and his crew to not get knocked up a couple times. We like offense, so give
us 9-3.
Oregon, who had been challenging for national
championships under Chip Kelly, parted company with Kelly assistant Mark
Helfrich when things started spiraling downhill. The Ducks went cross country
to hire away from South Florida Willie Taggart, a turn around artist considered
ready for prime time. Taggart made waves on the recruiting trail and had
the Ducks flying until quarterback Justin Herbert, who is a signal caller among
the nations elite than perhaps you have never heard off, got injured. The Ducks
could not get off the ground without Herbert, who returned at seasons end to
salvage a 7-6 campaign which did include a bowl game loss to Boise State.
Florida State came calling for Taggart, offering him an opportunity to head
back home and coach the team he grew up rooting for, so his stay in Eugene was
a short one. Taggart assistant Mario Cristobal, the former Hurricane lineman
who had previous head coaching experience at Florida International, takes over
the head job. Players were vocal about wanting Cristobal, and with the Ducks
short on time prior to the new recruiting timetable, the decision was made.
Oregon was also able to ink DC Jim Leavitt to stick around, and this is
significant, because Leavitt is very well respected on the stop side. Under
Leavitt, Oregon figures to continue the defensive improvement is started
showing in late '17. The unit will be led by junior linebacker Troy Dye, who
has led the team in tackles for two years running and will challenge for All
America honors. Up front, Jalen Jelks (15TFL) is stout at DE, flanked by Justin
Hollins at OLB. Sophomores Thomas Graham and Deommodore Lenboir have skills at
corner, and Ugochukwu Amadi moves to safety from corner, a spot he is better
suited for and should excel at. Herbert will return to ignite the offense,
which could be very strong. Herbert can make all the throws, is strong in the
pocket and can dissect opposing stop troops with the best of them. Herbert, who
if he remains healthy is on his way to being a top ten NFL pick, can carry the
Ducks far even though experience around him is thinner than hoped. Standout
back Royce Freeman is gone, and the running back spot is wide open. Senior Tony
Brooks-James is considered the favorite. Dillon Mitchell, a potential All PAC
12 candidate, leads the receiving core, with speedy Brenden Schooler and Johnny
Johnson looking to benefit from the aerial attack Herbert is set to unleash.
Jacob Breeland can haul in some balls from his tight spot, and Herbert
know how to find him. The line, an area of expertise for Cristobal,
returns three of five, led by OT Calvin Throckmorton, and will be a team
strength. C Jake Hanson is a stud, returning form injury. Schooler doubles in
the return game, giving the Ducks another weapon in the arsenal. Adam Stack
will handle the entire kicking game, giving the unit stability. Oregon has
talent scattered about, and Herbert can flat make things happen in a hurry.
While we know Cristobal is a good coordinator, but the jury is out on his head
coaching prowess. Leavitt will whip that defensive unit into shape, no doubt,
and if Oregon continues with a similar offensive philosophy they have been
operating under, provided Herbert is healthy, this team is very dangerous. The
schedule provides the Ducks with a high value opportunity. Three cupcake
non-cons give the Ducks time to erase all the glitches before a talented and
discipline Stanford team comes to Eugene. This is a huge game. Win or lose,
there is no time to lick wounds, as a trip to improving California can bite
before returning home for the top ten Huskies. Road trips to Arizona and Utah
are troublesome, but UCLA visits. The two toughest games, the divisional
contests, are at home, but the Ducks are dogs in both. At worst, we see Oregon
8-4, If they can split Stanford and Washington, and escape the trap game at Cal
and a visit to Utah, Oregon would be residing in the top ten. We will go 9-3,
but with Herbert, they can do some damage.
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| 24. Florida |
Ever since Tim Tebow left Urban Meyer, the Florida Gators have been in search
of an elite signal caller, and a pair of coaches have lost their job in part
because they could not find one. As we noted annually, the Gators have
always played stellar defense, (although they finally did seems to lose that
distinction last season), so any decent quarterback could have led the Gators
to much bigger things. Enter Dan Mullen, former offensive coordinator for Urban
Meyer at Florida who has been doing a stellar job coaching Mississippi State,
as new head coach in Gainesville. Mullen was not the first choice for the Gator
search committee, but he should have been. We considered Mullen the best candidate
for the Gators. Mullen has the well deserved reputation as a QB guru, and he
should finally get the Gators an elite player at signal caller. Does he
currently have one on campus? We don't think so. But, he will be able to
generate improvement for whoever ends up taking first team snaps. Our call is
Felipe Franks will win the job, and Mullen can help Franks with his confidence
and accuracy moving forward. Franks has the size and arm strength, but has yet
to put it all together. Kyle Trask has caught the eye of the coaches, but a
serious challenge may come from freshman Emory Jones, who seems better suited
to be the dual threat signal caller for the system Mullen has been running in
recent seasons. The transition as the new offense takes hold could be
problematic. Florida has some speedy receivers for Mullen to target, led by
Tyrie Cleveland. Ole Miss transfer Van Jefferson will be an important addition,
as might Ohio State transfer Trevon Grimes. Kadarius Toney (15c) also returns
and has the making of a very dangerous weapon for the Gators under Dan Mullen's
system. TE C'Yonati Lewis figures to emerge under Mullen's system. Jordan
Scarlett, a quick scatback with pass catching skills, is back after suspension.
2017 leading rusher Lamical Perine and Malik Davis also return. Martez Ivey, a
5* OT starting to show the skills which made him a top recruit, returns to
anchor the OL, which is an area of weakness for the Gators. All five starters
return, but other than Ivey, is anybody's job safe? OL coach John Hevesy will
look to find a competitive unit. C TJ McCoy is a team leader, and Jawaan Taylor
looks the part at OT. Texas transfer Jean DeLance may find a spot. Defensively,
although the Gators lost their bite as 2017 closed out, Florida has the talent
to once again be stout. Everyone keeps wondering when DE Cece Jefferson (9TFL)
will become the dominant player he can be on every down. It is now or never.
Khairi Clark returns on the nose, while Tederral Slanton looms large at DT.
Jabari Zuniga has shown real flashes when healthy. At inside backer, David
Reese collect over 100 stops in '17, returning as an SEC honors candidate.
Rayshad Jackson was pushing Vosean Joseph for the other spot. Ventrell Miller
may also find time. The secondary is strong. Corners CJ Henderson and Marco
Wilson (10PBU) were quite good in '17 and should vie for conference honors.
Chauncey Gardner-Johnson was second in tackles in'17, and will continue to
patrol the middle. Brad Stewart is among may youthful players looking to find a
spot. The kicking specialists are new, but this is not expected to be an area
of concern. The Gators have not settled on a kick returner, but there is a
plenty of speed to choose from. Incoming freshman Justin Wilkins is getting
some mention. The schedule is favorable. Florida will be 3-0 before heading to
Tennessee. While change seems promising in Rocky Top, they do not appear to
have enough to take out the Gators. However, the Gators then travel to
StarkVegas to face the Bulldogs, who are a very experienced team. Then, LSU
comes to Gainesville. Florida could be undefeated, but 6-1 arriving in
Jacksonville for annual cocktail party is not out of the question. Georgia
seems too much. Missouri, a high flying offense with an NFL QB, and a good
South Carolina team then come to Gainesville. The Gators close out at Florida
State. We will go with 8-4 for Florida, which considering the state of the
program off a 4-7 season and the growing pains expected to occur, is not half
bad.
 |
| 25. Arizona |
After a rather ugly and odd series of event which led
to the dismissal of Rich Rodriguez as head coach, in the aftermath
of being ousted from Aggieland, Kevin Sumlin has landed on his feet at
Arizona. When Sumlin takes a look at this talented young roster, he is no doubt
giddy at what he has inherited. After dropping an early game vs. Houston,
behind QB Khalil Tate, Arizona unleashed some offense and started turning some
heads, with victories over UCLA and Washington State. Folks started catching on
late, and it appears there was some turmoil behind the scenes. But in 2018,
there is much to build from, with 16 starters returning, centering around
junior quarterback Khalil Tate. The dual threat Tate only
threw for 1591 yards, with a pedestrian 14/9 TD/INT ration, but he also
ran 153 times for 1400 yards, averaging a whopping 9.2 yards per carry. Tate is
electric in making the Cats offense purr, and Sumlin has a history of
maximizing quarterback play. Only two starters return up front, led by LT Layth
Friekh. C Nathan Eldridge also returns, and Thiyo Lukusa, a Michigan State
transfer, assumes a spot. The Cats are a quick strike offense, so no
worries here. Four of the top four receiver return, led by Shun Brown (43c).
Tony Ellison (37c) and Shawn Poindexter, a 6'5" target, and TE
Bryce Wolma also return. Sophomore JJ Taylor, a potential conference honors
candidate who got loose for 850yards and 5.8 per carry, returns at running
back. Arizona will score plenty of points, the question is the will the Cats be
ferocious on the defensive side. Nine starters return from a unit that
surrendered an alarming 35 points per game. This has been the case for three
seasons, and for Arizona to mount a challenge in the PAC 12 South, this must
change. The Cats can start with a stout trio of sophomore linebackers.
Tony Fields recorded over 100 stops while Colin Schooler made another 95, with
9.5 TFL and two interceptions, one an end zone pick which sealed a Cat victory.
Kylan Wilborn, the man in the middle, had 7.5 sacks. These guys flat did
work. Up front NT Derek Boles and DE Justin Belknap are back, with DT PJ
Johnson and Finton Connelly ready for work. SO CB Lorenzo Burns
collected 81 stops, with 7 PBU's, anchoring a secondary which returns all
starters. SS Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles had 81 stops and 3 INT's. Safety
Scottie Young (suspended for spring) and CB Jace Whittaker fill out the
backfield. Tristan Cooper will also see time at safety. Arizona needed
immediate help at punter and secured Cal grad transfer Dylan Klumph, who is
very good. Josh Pollack returns at placekicker. While USC remains the kingpin
in the PAC 12 South, the Trojans figure to be down a shade in 2018, opening the
door for someone to snatch the division from them. Arizona will be tested early
with a home game vs. BYU followed by a trip to Houston. The Cats get USC at
home in late September and would seem at worst 3-2 before hosting Cal and and a very tough road game at Utah. Even if the Cats are 3-3 here, they
miss Washington and Stanford and face Oregon and Colorado at home. Trips to
UCLA and Washington State before closing hosting Arizona State make the
schedule. At the very worst the Cats roll 7-5, but we think odds favor 8-4.
However, if the Cats are undefeated before facing USC and get that game, they
could run the table. Even so, consider the Wildcats a player in the PAC 12
South.
THE SLEEPER SIX
Texas Christian
-Frogs seem poised to strike in the Big XII; good collection of young skill position talent and always stout defense.
Florida Atlantic
-A trip to OU and a bout with UCF; the potent Owls win the rest but without upset will have trouble gaining credibility.
Virginia Tech
-We originally had Hokies 24th; summer losses of CB Alexander (grades) and SS Reynolds (discipline) decimate D.
Iowa
-Could the Hawkeyes crash the B1G Title game? You bet! Good O-line and QB, new RB's and back 7, but easy slate
LSU
-Tough defense as usual, but only 35 starts return up front and where are the playmakers? Addition of QB Burrow helps.
Nebraska
-If a quarterback emerges, after bumps, 'Huskers could win one or two late and finish 8-4 or even 9-3; dangerous in '19.
POTENTIAL BREAKTHROUGHS:
Texas A&M, Utah, Memphis, Oklahoma State, Northwestern, Boston College, Mississippi, Arkansas State, Maryland*, Iowa State, Fresno State, Missouri, Louisville, Duke, North Carolina, Houston, South Florida, Kansas State, Wake Forest,
N. C. State and San Diego State.
ASCENDING: Maryland, Nebraska, Wake Forest, Boston College, South Carolina, UCLA, Florida and Arizona.
DESCENDING: Arizona State, Illinois, Brigham Young, South Florida, Vanderbilt, Washington State and LSU.
COACHING HOT SEAT: Lovie Smith, Illinois, Ed Orgeron, LSU, Kalani Sitake, Brigham Young, Bob Davie, New Mexico, Mike MacIntyre, Colorado and Scottie Montgomery, East Carolina.
2018 Preseason All America Team
OFFENSE
 |
OFFENSIVE PLAYER OR THE YEAR
Bryce Love
Running Back
STANFORD |
ALL AMERICA OFFENSE
WR AJ Brown, Ole Miss
WR David Sills V, West Virginia
WR N'Keal Harry, Arizona State
WR Marquise Brown, Oklahoma
TE Noah Fant, Iowa
OT Micah Hyatt, Clemson
OL Dalton Riser, Kansas State
OL Beau Benzschawel, Wisconsin
OL Sam Mustipher, Notre Dame
OL Greg Little, Ole Miss
OT Jonah Williams, Alabama
QB McKenzie Milton, UCF
RB Bryce Love, Stanford
RB Jonathan Taylor, Wisconsin
RB AJ Dillon, Boston College
RB Cam Akers, Florida State
 |
DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Ed Oliver
Defensive Tackle
HOUSTON |
ALL AMERICA DEFENSE
DE Nick Bosa, Ohio State
DL Ed Oliver, Houston
DT Jeffrey Simmons, Mississippi State
DL Christian Wilkins, Clemson
DE RaeKwon Davis, Alabama
OLB Devin White, LSU
ILB TJ Edwards, Wisconsin
ILB Cameron Smith, USC
ILB Devin Bush, Michigan
OLB Joe Giles-Harris, Duke
CB Greedy Williams, LSU
DB Julian Love, Notre Dame
S Taylor Rapp, Washington
S Andrew Wingard, Wyoming
DB Mark Gilbert, Duke
CB DeAndre Baker, Georgia
SPECIALISTS
K Matt Guy, Utah
P Mitch Wishnowski, Utah
KR Tony Pollard, Memphis
PR KaVontae Turpin, Texas Christian
AP Deebo Samuel, South Carolina
NEWCOMERS
ONC Trevor Lawrence, Clemson
DNC Micah Parsons, Penn State
*EDITORS NOTE:
On June 13, 2018, a Maryland player, Jordan McNair, passed away several days later after falling ill during a workout. In the aftermath of his sad and untimely death, allegations of mistreatment of players has surfaced at the University of Maryland, and a full investigation has ensued. Many athletic staff members have resigned, including strength coach Rick Court, and head football coach D.J. Durkin has been placed on administrative leave. It would appear Durkin's tenure as head coach at Maryland will be terminating soon. We had considered the Terps an up and coming team; however, given the turmoil engulfing the program after this very sad event, we conclude this will have a negative effect on the prospects for Maryland on the gridiron. That is ok. The Terrapin program has some soul searching to do prior to establishing a foundation from which to launch anew, no doubt with the memory of Jordan McNair never to be forgotten.
