2022 Bowl Preview and Picks

 

THE COLOR & PAGEANTRY TOP 25

THE COLOR & PAGEANTRY TOP 25 

1.      Georgia, 13-0, 1 

2.      Michigan, 13-0, 3 

3.      Texas Christian, 12-1, 3 

4.      Ohio State, 11-1, 5 

5.      Alabama, 10-2, 6 

6.      Tennessee, 10-2, 7  

7.      Utah, 10-3, 12 

8.      Kansas State, 10-3, 11 

9.      Penn State, 10-2, 8 

10.    Southern Cal, 10-2, 4 

11.    Clemson, 11-2, 10 

12.    Washington, 10-2, 9 

13.    Florida State, 9-3, 13 

14.    Oregon State, 9-3, 15 

15.    Louisiana State, 9-4, 14 

16.    Oregon, 9-3, 16 

17.    UCLA, 9-3, 17 

18.    Tulane, 11-2, 21 

19.    Notre Dame, 8-4, 18 

20.    Texas, 8-4, 19 

21.    South Carolina, 8-4, 20 

22.    Mississippi State, 8-4, 22 

23.    Ole Miss, 8-4, 23 

24.    North Carolina State, 8-4, 24 

25.    Troy, 11-2, NR 

OUT: North Carolina (25). 

NEXT: Purdue, Illinois, Cincinnati, UTSA, North Carolina, Pittsburgh, Duke, Boise State, Wake Forest, Baylor, Texas Tech, Minnesota, Fresno State, Kentucky, Florida, Washington State, UCF, Maryland, and South Alabama.

THE COLOR & PAGEANTRY TOP 25

THE COLOR & PAGEANTRY TOP 25 

1.      Georgia, 12-0, 1 

2.      Michigan, 12-0, 3 

3.      Texas Christian, 12-0, 4 

4.      Southern Cal, 11-1, 6 

5.      Ohio State, 11-1, 2 

6.      Alabama, 10-2, 7 

7.      Tennessee, 10-2, 10 

8.      Penn State, 10-2, 11 

9.      Washington, 10-2, 12 

10.    Clemson, 10-2, 8 

11.    Kansas State, 9-3, 14 

12.    Utah, 9-3, 16 

13.    Florida State, 9-3, 13 

14.    Louisiana State, 9-3, 6 

15.    Oregon State, 9-3, 20 

16.    Oregon, 9-3, 9 

17.    UCLA, 9-3, 17 

18.    Notre Dame, 8-4, 15 

19.    Texas, 8-4, 21 

20.    South Carolina, 8-4, NR 

21.    Tulane, 10-2, 22 

22.    Mississippi State, 8-4, NR 

23.    Ole Miss, 8-4, 19 

24.    North Carolina State, 8-4, NR 

25.    North Carolina, 9-3, 18 

OUT: Coastal Carolina (23), Cincinnati (24) and Iowa (25). 

NEXT: Purdue, Illinois, Cincinnati, UTSA, UCF, Pittsburgh, Duke, Boise State, Wake Forest, Baylor, Texas Tech, Minnesota, Fresno State, Kentucky, Florida, Washington State and Maryland.

THE COLOR & PAGEANTRY TOP 25

THE COLOR & PAGEANTRY TOP 25 

1.        Georgia, 11-0, 1 

2.        Ohio State, 11-0, 2 

3.        Michigan, 11-0, 3 

4.        Texas Christian, 11-0, 4 

5.        Southern Cal, 10-1, 

6.        Louisiana State, 9-2, 8 

7.        Alabama, 9-2, 9 

8.        Clemson, 10-1, 10 

9.        Oregon, 9-2, 16 

10.      Tennessee, 9-2, 5 

11.       Penn State, 9-2, 11 

12.      Washington, 9-2, 14 

13.      Florida State, 8-3, 17 

14.      Kansas State, 8-3, 18 

15.      Notre Dame, 8-3, 19 

16.      Utah, 8-3, 9 

17.      UCLA, 8-3, 16 

18.      North Carolina, 9-2, 13 

19.      Ole Miss, 8-3, 12 

20.      Oregon State, 8-3, 23 

21.      Texas, 7-4, NR 

22.      Tulane, 9-2 21 

23.      Coastal Carolina, 9-1, 25 

24.      Cincinnati, 9-2, NR 

25.      Iowa, 7-4, NR 

OUT: UCF (20), Duke (22) and Oklahoma State (24). 

NEXT: Washington State, South Carolina, Mississippi State, Illinois, UTSA, Louisville, Purdue, Arkansas, UCF, Pittsburgh, Duke, Boise State, Wake Forest, North Carolina State, Baylor, and Minnesota.

THE COLOR & PAGEANTRY TOP 25

THE COLOR & PAGEANTRY TOP 25 

1.       Georgia, 10-0, 1 

2.       Ohio State, 10-0, 2 

3.       Michigan, 10-0, 3 

4.       Texas Christian, 10-0, 4 

5.       Tennessee, 9-1, 5 

6.       Southern Cal, 9-1, 7 

7.       Louisiana State, 8-2, 8 

8.       Alabama, 8-2, 9 

9.       Utah, 8-2, 11 

10.     Clemson, 9-1, 13 

11.     Penn State, 8-2, 15 

12.     Ole Miss, 8-2, 12 

13.     North Carolina, 9-1, 15 

14.     Washington, 8-2, 21 

15.     UCLA, 8-2, 10 

16.     Oregon, 8-2, 6 

17.     Florida State, 7-3 19 

18.     Kansas State, 7-3, 22 

19.     Notre Dame, 7-3, 24 

20.     UCF, 8-2, 25 

21.     Tulane, 8-2, 20 

22.     Duke, 7-3 NR 

23.     Oregon State, 7-3, NR 

24.     Oklahoma State, 7-3, NR 

25.     Coastal Carolina, 9-1, NR 

OUT: North Carolina State (16), Texas (17), Liberty (18), Kentucky (24). 

NEXT: Florida, Kansas, Texas, Minnesota, Mississippi State, Illinois, Cincinnati, Washington State, Iowa, North Carolina State, Liberty, Kentucky, Louisville, Wake Forest and Arkansas.

Praying for the UVA Community

Political Side of Parking

 

THE COLOR & PAGEANTRY TOP 25

THE COLOR & PAGEANTRY TOP 25 

1.    Georgia, 9-0, 1 

2.    Ohio State, 9-0, 3 

3.    Michigan, 9-0, 6 

4.    Texas Christian, 9-0, 7 

5.    Tennessee, 8-1, 2 

6.    Oregon, 8-1, 8 

7.    Southern Cal, 8-1, 9 

8.    Louisiana State, 7-2, 16 

9.    Alabama, 7-2, 5 

10.  UCLA, 8-1, 10 

11.  Utah, 7-2, 11 

12.  Ole Miss, 8-1, 12 

13.  Clemson, 8-1, 4 

14.  North Carolina, 8-1, 15 

15.  Penn State, 7-2, 17 

16.  North Carolina State, 7-2, 18 

17.  Texas, 6-3, 22 

18.  Liberty, 8-1, 23 

19.  Florida State, 6-3, 24 

20.  Tulane, 8-1, NR 

21.  Washington, 7-2, NR 

22.  Kansas State, 6-3, 14 

23.  Notre Dame, 6-3, NR 

24.  Kentucky, 6-3, NR 

25.  UCF, 6-3, NR 

OUT: Illinois (13), Wake Forest (19), Syracuse (20), Oklahoma State (21) and Oregon State (25). 

NEXT: Illinois, Baylor, Kansas, Wake Forest, Mississippi State, Syracuse, Minnesota, Washington State, Louisville, Coastal Carolina, Arkansas, Oklahoma State, Oregon State, Cincinnati, and Duke.

THE COLOR & PAGEANTRY TOP 25

THE COLOR & PAGEANTRY TOP 25 

1.       Georgia, 8-0, 1 

2.       Tennessee, 8-0, 3 

3.       Ohio State, 8-0, 2 

4.       Clemson, 8-0, 4 

5.       Alabama, 7-1, 5 

6.       Michigan, 8-0, 6 

7.       Texas Christian, 8-0, 7 

8.       Oregon, 7-1, 8 

9.       Southern Cal, 7-1, 9 

10.     UCLA, 7-1, 12 

11.     Utah, 6-2, 13 

12.     Ole Miss, 8-1, 13 

13.     Illinois, 7-1, 16 

14.     Kansas State, 6-2, NR 

15.     North Carolina, 7-1, 19 

16.     Louisiana State, 6-2, 20 

17.     Penn State, 6-2, 18 

18.     North Carolina State, 6-2, 22 

19.     Wake Forest, 6-2, 11 

20.     Syracuse, 6-2, 14 

21.     Oklahoma State, 6-2, 10 

22.     Texas, 5-3, 21 

23.     Liberty, 7-1, 25 

24.     Florida State, 6-3, NR 

25.     Oregon State, 6-2, NR 

OUT: Kentucky (15), South Carolina (23) and Cincinnati (25). 

NEXT: Kentucky, Arkansas, UCF, Tulane, Purdue, Maryland, Washington, Baylor, Kansas, Mississippi State, Oklahoma, Minnesota, Washington State, Louisville, Cincinnati, and Duke.

THE COLOR & PAGEANTRY TOP 25

 

THE COLOR & PAGEANTRY TOP 25 

1.       Georgia, 7-0, 1 

2.       Ohio State, 7-0, 2 

3.       Tennessee, 7-0, 3 

4.       Clemson, 8-0, 4 

5.       Alabama, 7-1, 5 

6.       Michigan, 7-0, 6 

7.       Texas Christian, 7-0, 8 

8.       Oregon, 6-1, 1 

9.       Southern Cal, 6-1, 11 

10.     Oklahoma State, 6-1, 12 

11.     Wake Forest, 6-1, 13 

12.     UCLA, 6-1, 9 

13.     Utah, 5-2, 14 

14.     Syracuse, 6-1, 17 

15.     Kentucky, 5-2, 16 

16.     Illinois, 6-1, 19 

17.     Ole Miss, 7-1, 7 

18.     Penn State, 6-1, 20 

19.     North Carolina, 6-1, 22 

20.     Louisiana State, 5-2, NR 

21.     Texas 5-3, 18 

22.     North Carolina State, 5-2, 24 

23.     South Carolina, 5-2, NR 

24.     Cincinnati, 5-1, 21 

25.     Liberty, 6-1, NR 

OUT: Kansas State (15), Mississippi State (23) and Arkansas (25). 

NEXT: Kansas State, Florida State, Arkansas, Tulane, Oregon State, Maryland, Washington, Texas Tech, Florida, Baylor, Kansas, Mississippi State, Oklahoma and Duke.

THE COLOR & PAGEANTRY TOP 25

1.    Georgia, 7-0, 3 

2.    Ohio State, 6-0, 2 

3.    Tennessee, 6-0, 4 

4.    Clemson, 7-0, 7 

5.    Alabama, 6-1, 1 

6.    Michigan, 7-0, 5 

7.    Ole Miss, 7-0, 9 

8.    Texas Christian, 6-0, 15 

9.    UCLA, 6-0, 10 

10.  Oregon, 5-1, 12 

11.  Southern Cal, 6-1, 16 

12.  Oklahoma State, 5-1, 8 

13.  Wake Forest, 5-1, 14 

14.  Utah, 5-2, 21 

15.  Kansas State, 5-1, 18 

16.  Kentucky, 5-2, 19 

17.  Syracuse, 6-0, 20 

18.  Texas, 5-2, 22 

19.  Illinois, 6-1, 24 

20.  Penn State, 5-1, 11 

21.  Cincinnati, 5-1, NR 

22.  North Carolina, 6-1, 25 

23.  Mississippi State, 5-2, 16 

24.  North Carolina State, 5-2, 13 

25.  Arkansas, 4-3, NR 

OUT: Baylor (18) and Kansas (23). 

NEXT: Florida State, Kansas, Purdue, LSU, Oregon State, Maryland, Washington, South Alabama, Texas Tech, UCF, South Carolina, Texas A&M, Florida, Baylor and Tulane.

THE COLOR & PAGEANTRY TOP 25

THE COLOR & PAGEANTRY TOP 25 

1.    Alabama, 6-0, 1 

2.    Ohio State, 6-0, 2 

3.    Georgia, 6-0, 3 

4.    Tennessee, 5-0, 8 

5.    Michigan, 6-0, 4 

6.    Southern Cal, 6-0, 5 

7.    Clemson, 6-0, 6 

8.    Oklahoma State, 5-0, 7 

9.    Ole Miss, 6-0, 9 

10.  UCLA, 6-0, 20 

11.  Penn State, 5-0, 10 

12.  Oregon, 5-1, 11 

13.  North Carolina State, 5-1, 15 

14.  Wake Forest, 5-1, 15 

15.  Texas Christian, 5-0, 16 

16.  Mississippi State, 5-1, 25 

17.  Kansas State, 5-1, 18 

18.  Baylor, 3-2, 22 

19.  Kentucky, 4-2, 12 

20.  Syracuse, 5-0, NR 

21.  Utah, 4-2, 13 

22.  Texas, 4-2, NR 

23.  Kansas, 5-1, 17 

24.  Illinois, 5-1, NR 

25.  North Carolina, 5-1, NR

OUT: Brigham Young (19), Arkansas (22), Florida State (23) and LSU (24). 

NEXT: Arkansas, Florida, Florida State, Washington State, Brigham Young, Cincinnati, Coastal Carolina, Washington, Texas Tech, Notre Dame, Tulane, Texas A&M, Purdue, Minnesota, James Madison, LSU, North Carolina and Liberty.

THE COLOR & PAGEANTRY TOP 25

THE COLOR & PAGEANTRY TOP 25 

1.   Alabama, 5-0, 2 

2.   Oho State, 5-0, 3 

3.   Georgia, 5-0, 3 

4.   Michigan, 5-0, 4 

5.   Southern Cal, 5-0, 5 

6.   Clemson, 5-0, 7 

7.   Oklahoma State, 4-0, 9 

8.   Tennessee, 4-0, 10 

9.   Ole Miss, 5-0, 12 

10. Penn State, 5-0, 11 

11. Oregon, 4-1, 13 

12. Kentucky, 4-1, 18 

13. Utah, 4-1, 17 

14. North Carolina State, 4-1, 6 

15. Wake Forest, 4-1, 23 

16. Texas Christian, 4-0, NR 

17.  Kansas, 5-0, 22 

18.  Kansas State, 4-1, 24 

19.  Brigham Young, 4-1, 21 

20.  UCLA, 5-0, NR 

21.  Baylor, 3-2, 16 

22.  Arkansas, 3-2, 20 

23.  Florida State, 4-1, 18 

24.  LSU, 4-1, NR 

25.  Mississippi State, 4-1, NR 

OUT: Washington (14), Minnesota (15), Texas A&M (17) and Oklahoma (25). 

NEXT: Florida, Cincinnati, Syracuse, Washington State, Washington, Texas Tech, Texas, Maryland, Notre Dame, Tulane, Texas A&M, Purdue, Minnesota, Illinois, James Madison and Liberty. 

Some coaching news: 

Geoff Collins was let go at Georgia Tech, with assistant coach Brent Key taking over. Key, a former Tech player, took the Rambling Wreck to Pittsburgh and dumped the Panthers scoring a huge upset nobody saw coming.

Colorado fired Karl Dorrell. The Buffaloes have been horrific this season. Eric Bienemy, a former CU running back and current OC for the Kansas City Chiefs, seems to make a lot of sense.

We thought Wisconsin was descending but we did not see the Badgers staggering in this fashion. It is so bad, coach Paul Chryst was shown the door. The Badgers seem to be looking at assistant and former player Jim Leonhard, Kansas coach Lance Liepold who is a Wisconsin native or former assistant Dave Doren, now head coach at NC State. 

Pitt, Nebraska, Wisconsin, Texas A&M, Miami, Oklahoma, Texas and Notre Dame are all underperforming and in the dog house.

Who’s Hot: 

Kansas Rock Talk Jayhawk! Kansas defeated Iowa State to move to 5-0, and now, perhaps a week too late, ESPNs Gameday will visit Lawrence Kansas for the very first time. Deservedly so. The job Lance Liepold has done is without question something to admire, and due to his success, he may have many majors attempting to acquire his services, including Nebraska and Wisconsin, both of which he has ties to. Congrats to Kansas, but TCU this weekend will be quite telling. 

Shout out to The Frogs of TCU. They hung a half a hundred on Oklahoma. 

Who’s Not: 

Oklahoma. The Sooners have been blasted for two consecutive weekend, allowing a staggering amount of points in the process. New Sooner head man Brent Venebles is considered a defensive genius, so this has to be quite concerning. Could a season with four losses await OU? 

NC State. A special season for a veteran Wolfpack team, which returned seventeen starters, grounded to a halt at Clemson. The Tigers dominated in Death Valley, even though NC State has played Clemson well in many a season, winning in Raleigh last year. Might a deflated Wolfpack collapse? Is head Coach eyeing the newly opened job at Wisconsin, a placed he previously spent time at as an assistant? 

Minnesota. Looking impressive and crashing into the Top 25 last week, the Gophers melted in the spotlight and got punked at home by a depleted Purdue team. The Gophers could still win the B1G West, but that is nothing to brag about. 

The B1G West. Nicely stated, this division is quite competitive, but the reality is the division is a shit show. None of the teams are very good and two coached have already been fired; Scott Frost and Paul Chryst. 

Georgia barely escaped Missouri, so they must relinquish the top spot after two weeks of shaky play. Alabama takes over, and Ohio State is lurking. 

We would love to hear your thoughts on our rankings; drop us some comments. Please feel welcome to follow us on Facebook at the Color & Pageantry. We invite to like the video and subscribe to our page, but more importantly we want to thank you for watching. See you next week!

THE COLOR & PAGEANTRY TOP 25

THE COLOR & PAGEANTRY TOP 25 

1.     Georgia, 4-0, 1 

2.     Alabama, 4-0, 2 

3.    Ohio State, 4-0, 3 

4.    Michigan, 4-0, 4 

5.    Southern Cal, 4-0, 5 

6.    North Carolina State, 4-0, 7 

7.    Clemson, 4-0, 8 

8.    Kentucky, 4-0, 9 

9.    Oklahoma State, 4-0, 11 

10.  Tennessee, 4-0, 12 

11.  Penn State, 4-0, 14 

12.  Mississippi, 4-0, 13 

13.  Oregon, 3-1, 15 

14.  Washington, 4-0, 16 

15.  Minnesota, 4-0, 22 

16.  Baylor, 3-1, 20 

17.  Utah, 3-1, 18 

18.  Florida State, 4-0, 21 

19.  Texas A&M, 3-1, 24 

20.  Arkansas, 3-1, 10 

21.  Brigham Young, 3-1, 23 

22.  Kansas, 4-0, NR 

23.  Wake Forest, 3-1, 19 

24.  Kansas State, 3-1, NR 

25.  Oklahoma, 3-1, 6 

OUT: Texas (17) and Miami (25). 

NEXT: Florida, Washington State, Oregon State, Cincinnati, Pittsburgh, Syracuse, LSU, TCU, Mississippi State, Texas Tech. Texas, Maryland, Notre Dame and Tulane. 

Who’s Hot: Minnesota 

Minnesota crushed Michigan State running away. We are not quite sure just how good the Gophers are, but as we noted in our preseason Big Ten preview, which we will link in the comments section, the Gophers schedule is very favorable and they in great position amongst the wreckage in the B1G West. 

Who’s Not: Michigan State. 

Although we ranked Sparty in our preseason poll, we also noted we spotted some alarm bells, but had no idea it would unravel in this magnitude. The Spartans are getting whipped physically, and that is not a good recipe for the B1G schedule. Miami. The U is not back. Beaten soundly in each phase of the game by Middle Tennessee State in front of a sparse crowd in South Florida sounds a multitude of alarms. Hurricanes QB Tyler Van Dyke, thought to be quite good, has underperformed and got benched. The lines got pushed around and the secondary was inept. Cristobal has a ton of work to do, and he just lost some goodwill. With ACC schools seemingly wanting to impress for the next wave of conference alignment, this was not a good look. 

Shout out to Adrian Martinez, the embattled Nebraska transfer who had a breakout game for Kansas State in leading the Wildcats to another win over a highly ranked OU team. 

We would love to hear your thoughts on our rankings; drop us some comments. Please feel welcome to follow us on Facebook at the Color & Pageantry. We invite to like the video and subscribe to our page, but more importantly we want to thank you for watching. See you next week!

THE COLOR & PAGEANTRY TOP 25

THE COLOR & PAGEANTRY TOP 25 

1.   Georgia, 3-0, 1 

2.   Alabama, 3-0, 2 

3.   Ohio State, 3-0, 3 

4.   Michigan, 3-0, 4 

5.   Southern Cal, 3-0, 5 

6.   Oklahoma, 3-0, 10 

7.   North Carolina State, 3-0, 7 

8.   Clemson 3-0, 8

9.   Kentucky, 3-0, 20 

10. Arkansas, 3-0, 10 

11. Oklahoma State, 3-0, 14 

12. Tennessee, 3-0, 17 

13. Mississippi, 3-0, 18 

14. Penn State, 3-0, NR 

15. Oregon, 2-1, NR 

16. Washington, 3-0, NR 

17. Texas, 2-1, 18 

18. Utah, 2-1, 19 

19. Wake Forest, 3-0, 17 

20. Baylor, 2-1, 23 

21. Florida State, 3-0, 24 

22. Minnesota, 3-0, 21 

23. Brigham Young, 2-1, 13 

24. Texas A&M, 2-1, NR

25. Miami, 2-1, 11 

OUT: Michigan State (12), Kansas State (20), Mississippi State (22) and Florida (25). 

NEXT: Michigan State, Florida, Washington State, Oregon State, North Carolina, Iowa State, Cincinnati, Syracuse, Maryland, LSU, TCU, Appalachian State, Kansas, Mississippi State and Tulane. 

Who’s Hot: Penn State, Washington, Kansas and Deion Sanders. 

Although Auburn is struggling, Penn State put a thumping on the Tigers on their home field. After surviving a road opener at Purdue, the Lions are positioning themselves for a run. 

Washington showed great growth in the short time coach Kalen DeBoer has been at the helm by blasting visiting Michigan State. The Huskies have talent and are already exceeding expectations. 

Lance Leipold has Kansas undefeated, beating Athlon preseason Top 25 Houston soundly on the road. This is no small feat, and we expect Leipold, who has Nebraska connections, to hear from Trev Alberts and the Cornhuskers in short order. 

And folks, Prime Time is about to get paid in a coaching search near you. More on that later. 

Who’s Not: Georgia Tech. Originally, we liked what we saw from Geoff Collins in Atlanta. But the trend has turned negative, and after a blowout loss to Clemson and being shut out at home by Ole Miss, look for the Jackets to enter the Deion Sanders race soon. Prime could do damage in the ATL! 

Well, Auburn might have a word in that. The Tigers got bombed at home by Penn State, the largest home loss since Nebraska (remember those guys) bombed Auburn in 1982. Harsin has limited time on the plains. 

So might Arizona State. The Devils lost a home game to Eastern Washington, and the embarrassing loss turned out to be the nail in the coffin for embattled coach Herm Edwards, who has been dismissed. Along with Missouri, I have long considered Arizona State a sleeping giant. 

We would love to hear your thoughts on our rankings; drop us some comments. Please feel welcome to follow us on Facebook at the Color & Pageantry.

THE COLOR & PAGEANTRY TOP 25

 

1.    Georgia, 2-0, 2 

2.    Alabama, 2-0, 1 

3.    Ohio State, 2-0, 3 

4.    Michigan, 2-0, 4 

5.    Southern Cal, 2-0, 9 

6.    North Carolina State, 2-0, 7 

7.    Clemson 2-0, 8 

8.    Kentucky, 2-0, 20 

9.    Oklahoma, 2-0, 11 

10.  Arkansas, 2-0, 15 

11.  Miami, 2-0, 112 

12.  Michigan State, 2-0, 16 

13.  Brigham Young, 2-0, 25 

14.  Oklahoma State, 2-0, 17 

15.  Tennessee, 2-0, 18 

16.  Mississippi, 2-0, 19 

17.  Wake Forest, 2-0, 21 

18.  Texas, 1-1, 23 

19.  Utah, 1-1, 14 

20.  Kansas State, 2-0, NR 

21.  Minnesota, 2-0, NR 

22.  Mississippi State, 2-0, NR 

23.  Baylor, 1-1 10 

24.  Florida State, 2-0, NR 

25.  Florida, 1-1, 13 

OUT: Texas A&M (5), Notre Dame (6), Pittsburgh (22) and Wisconsin (24). 

NEXT: Penn State, Washington State, Texas A&M, Pittsburgh, Marshall, Oregon, Purdue, Iowa State, Cincinnati, Notre Dame, Syracuse, South Carolina, Auburn, Air Force, Texas Tech, Washington, Maryland, UCLA, LSU, TCU, Fresno State, North Carolina, and Appalachian State. 

Who’s Hot: Washington State and the Sun Belt. 

Did you see the Cougars win at Wisconsin? Man, they were playing hard, flying around the football on defense and running hard on offense. When you couple a great game plan with some players who hustled with heart, you got a buy in which can produce some big wins. Congrats to the Cougs! 

Kentucky is in fact a strong program under Mark Stoops, and that was a really big win for the Cats at The Swamp. We thought it might be too tall an order. But Kentucky held in and made some key defensive plays and scored this eye opening win. 

The Sub Belt, OMG! The Herd was thundering. Florida State transfer Kahlan Laborn ran for 163 leading Marshall as they rolled into South Bend controlling the game in upsetting Notre Dame. Huge win! Appalachian State, fresh off a heartbreaking overtime loss to North Carolina, wins at Aggieland placing heat on Jimbo Fisher. And the night culminated with Georgia Southern, who ran and threw all over a guessing Nebraska defense all night scoring a late touchdown to win at Lincoln, which appropriately resulted in the termination of Husker head man Scott Frost. 

Speaking of Frost, I thought this was nothing short of a home run hire, and I am, astonished how badly this went. Accountability and poor recruiting (Huskers interior defense is short on dudes) seem to be the main culprits in this going sideways. But Frost, who cares about the Big Red as much as any Husker fan, know losing to Georgia Southern in year five after a 309 campaign is not going to get it done. We all wish him the very best. 

Who’s Not: The Big Ten West comes to mind, with Iowa and Wisconsin suffering home losses as solid favorites, but it has to be Texas A&M. 

The Aggies knew, or should have known, that App State was coming to play. Still, the talent laden Aggies labored around and failed to produce the offense needed to get the job done. Some folks had the Aggies as playoff team. 

We would love to hear your thoughts on our rankings; drop us some comments. Please feel welcome to follow us on Facebook at the Color & Pageantry.  See you next week!

THE COLOR & PAGEANTRY TOP 25

 

NEVER FORGET!

 

The Color & Pageantry Top 25

College Football

The Color & Pageantry Top 25

1.    Alabama, 1-0, 1 

2.    Georgia, 1-0, 3 

3.    Ohio State, 1-0, 2 

4.    Michigan, 1-0, 5 

5.    Texas A&M, 1-0, 6 

6.    Notre Dame, 0-1, 9 

7.    North Carolina State, 1-0, 7 

8.    Clemson, 1-0, 8 

9.    Southern Cal, 1-0, 10 

10.  Baylor, 1-0, 11 

11.  Oklahoma, 1-0, 12 

12.  Miami, 1-0, 13 

13.  Florida, 1-0, NR 

14.  Utah, 0-1, 4 

15.  Arkansas, 1-0, 16 

16.  Michigan State, 1-0, 17 

17.  Oklahoma State, 1-0, 14 

18.  Tennessee, 1-0, 18 

19.  Ole Miss, 1-0, 19 

20.  Kentucky, 1-0, 20 

21.  Wake Forest, 1-0, 21 

22.  Pittsburgh, 1-0, 22 

23.  Texas, 1-0, 24 

24.  Wisconsin, 1-0, 25 

25.  Brigham Young, 1-0, NR 

OUT: Oregon (15) and Nebraska (23). 

NEXT: Florida State, Penn State, Kansas State, Minnesota, Mississippi State, UCF, Oregon, Iowa, Oregon State, Purdue, Iowa State, Cincinnati, Houston, West Virginia, Fresno State, Syracuse, South Carolina, Auburn, and Air Force. 

Who’s Hot: Florida 

Who’s Not: Louisville, Utah and Nebraska

2022 PAC 12 Predicted Finish and Preview

 

2022 ACC Predicted Finish and Preview

 

2022 SEC Predicted Finish and Preview

 

2022 B1G Predicted Finish and Preview

 

Florida State Seminoles 2022 Preview

Mike Norvell
FSU Head Coach
Photo/On3

Simply stated, it is a pivotal season for Florida State head coach Mike Norvell. While it is certainly noted that Norvell inherited a mess, as he begins his third season, there is no question Norvell has excelled in several significant areas; however, the most important area on the ledger, wins, remains elusive. And while Florida State closed nicely, the Seminoles fell short of reaching a bowl game after a concerning 0-4 start. That start, although including an overtime home opening loss to Notre Dame, was seared as negative with a mind boggling home loss to Jacksonville State, an FCS team from Alabama not to be confused with those Jaguars down the road. There is no doubt that that loss cost Norvell measurable goodwill with much of the fan base. But, there is a high degree of optimism heading into the 2022 season.  The items Norvell has performed strongly in, many being little things that make the difference in success, are bearing fruit.  Among these areas are strength and nutrition, mental buy in and discipline by the players with most if not all of the problem children off to less challenging pastures. Perhaps more notably, Norvell now has a team with players who can execute in line with his coaching philosophies. The Seminoles seem improved at each level offensively, defensively and on special teams. Perhaps most importantly is the maturation of the offensive line, which obviously is critical for the success of an offense. Norvell has recruited well, and he has once again really made gains in the transfer portal, bringing in several key players set for immediate impact.  So for 2022, the schedule is remains tough for the Seminoles, but less challenging than the one faced last season. There seems little doubt, provided FSU remains healthy, the Seminoles will be a much better football team this season expected to reach a bowl game. So, let’s take a look at this talented and improved football team.

OFFENSE

Jordan Travis
Quarterback
Florida State 
Photo/Tallahassee Democrat

After clearly winning the quarterback job, Jordan Travis continued to elevate his game playing outstanding ball down the stretch last season. Now, this team is unquestionably his. Now while Travis was quite effective with the use of his legs, he threw for 15 touchdowns versus 6 interceptions, which is obviously not great. Often running for his life, Travis was prone to being banged up, missing time periodically, so it is imperative Travis play smart and remain healthy. But, Travis has worked hard to improve in the offseason, adding strength, extending his command of the offensive philosophy and improving his passing skills, which has been quite noticeable for fall camp observers. We think Travis could be a player who surprises nationally, throwing for around 2500 yards and 25 touchdowns while adding another 500 yards rushing with some timely advances. Tate Rodemacher and AJ Duffy have improved, and are quality backups.

An improved offensive line will certainly help, so we expect to see significantly improved numbers from Travis. As we mentioned, the offensive line has been poor for years, however, the unit this year is without question improved under stellar position coach Alex Atkins. At center, Florida State would like to play Maurice Smith, a top player who gas put on some weight after playing, and getting injured, undersized. Kayden Lyles transferred in from Wisconsin and was expected to at a minimum compete here, but an injury in fall camp has him lost for 2022. Others are working at this important position to provide stability are Bryson Estes and Thomas Schrader. Dylan Gibbons is solid at one guard and Darrius Washington may be the other. Top backups here appear to be Thomas Schrader and Zane Herring. The versatile Washington seems a fit at tackle opposite Robert Scott, but Lamar transfer Bless Harris seems destined to play frequent snaps. Charlotte transfer D'Mitri Emmanuel could play tackle, along with South Carolina transfer Jazston Turnetine. Freshman Julian Armella and Kenyata Charlton are ready if needed, but this unit has much more quality depth and although not among the tops in the conference, is much improved.

While Norvell teams in the past have had strong passing attacks, but that success is predicated on the run. Although this team is not complete as far as the makeup Norvell ultimately seeks, the Seminoles do have a very strong compliment of backs. This group includes Trey Benson, who transferred in from Oregon. Benson is coming off an injury, but he has looked tremendous since his arrival and will figure prominently.  Treshaun Ward, a shifty who makes would be tacklers miss, will get a high number of carries. Lawrence Toafili is a home threat rushing and receiving out of the backfield, so he will without question get snaps. For depth purposes, WR Joshua Burrell has gotten some work at running back, but look for true freshman Rodney Hill, who may be the fastest player on the team, to establish himself.

The receiving core has sadly been a deficiency for the Seminoles, who have really not had a top level player seemingly since Rashaad Greene. Ontaria Wilson, who has led the team in catches two seasons in a row returns, but he may be fighting for catches. Oregon transfer Mycah Pittman seems the consistent performer the Seminoles have been seeking, so we expect him to start. Arizona State transfer Johnny Wilson, beyond being a strong blocker, is a big target giving the Seminoles heighted opportunities in short yardage and the red zone. Winston Wirght transferred in from West Virginia  after leading the Mounties in 2021 with 63 catches, but he was injured in an off-season car accident. Although he is working his way back, nobody seems sure when he might be available. Illinois transfer Deuce Spann has been quite a pleasant surprise, a rare combination of size and speed. Looks like Spann will get plenty of snaps.  Malike McLain at 6'4" is a big target, but he has been a bit slow to develop. The time is now. Experienced contributor Keyshawn Helton, Darion Williamson, Kentron Pointier and Joshua Burrell are all working to take their games to a new level, although Burrell has put in work as in the running back room in fall camp.  Ja'khi Douglass, who has made some game changing big plays, continues to be ready out of the slot to make house calls at a moment's notice.  Overall, this group seems in prime position to very much improved, and everyone is counting on it.

Camren McDonald, a leader in the locker room, returns at tight end. as does Wyatt Rector, a former quarterback who has deceptive skills at this position. Markeston Douglas is turning some heads in fall camp, and expectations are high for youngsters Brian Courtney and Jerale Powers. Nut make no mistake, FSU coaches are looking for more, much more, from this position.

Now, it all has to come together, but with an improved offensive line, a key element of an offense's success, a group of wide receivers poised to reach new heights and a very impressive group of talented running backs, with Jordan Travis directing a more structured and wide open attack, the Seminoles have a chance to be somewhat potent. We expect in the neighborhood of 500 yards and 33 points per game, and if so, that alone should send the hungry Seminoles bowling.  

DEFENSE

Last year the Seminoles hit a home run with edge rusher Jermaine Johnson, who transferred in from Georgia and won All America honors becoming a first round draft pick. Can they do it again? Odds are against it, but FSU did bring in an edge rusher who could play at a very high level. Highly sought after Albany transfer Jared Verse is ready at 6'5" 250.  Derrick McLendon is another quality player at the position, while the Seminoles are stacked inside. Defensive tackles Fabian Lovett and Robert Cooper are potential All ACC players, and on the edge is Dennis Briggs is primed for a big year coming of injury. Patrick Payton is a good looking young edge prospect, but tackle Joshua Farmer has the look of a future star, while Malcolm Ray and Jarrett Jackson continue their development. Not surprisingly, the defensive front under coach Odell Haggins might be the team's top strength.

The linebacking core is pretty good. Amari Gainer is a high level athlete, a lock for the all bus team, but as we have previously stated he continues to be a tweener and coaches are working to find the best spot for him, but make no mistake he needs to be on the field. Stephen Dix has talent and continues to develop but is also undersized. One starting linebacker spot will go to Tatum Bethune, who transferred in after leading UCF is tackles in 2021.  Bethune is all over the field and could well challenge for conference honors. On the weakside, Kalen DeLoach really raised his game last year and he is primed for another big year. DJ Lundy is another quality player here, and freshman Omar Graham may figure in. Watch for converted safety Brendan Gant, who can make plays, to figure in. 

JAMMIE ROBINSON
SAFETY
PHOTO/TWITTER

 I am really excited about the potential of this secondary! Now, the Seminoles know what they have in safety Jammie Robinson, who led the team in tackles in 2021. But with the Seminoles visualizing linebacker Tatum Bethune gathering a large portion of those tackles, Robinson can be even more effective in 2022, Five star recruit Akeem Dent, who is an excellent athlete, should have a strong season at strong safety. Sidney Williams, Jarques McClellion and Shyheim Brown are talented backups who can be counted on. Sophomore corner Omarion Cooper showed top level skills on occasion last year, and he could play himself into consideration for honors. Kevin Knowles also shined, so there is a high level of confidence in this pair. Renardo Green and Jarrian Jones will be active as well. Greedy Vance, Travis Jay and transfer Malik Feaster are the reserves. Now, a pair of true freshman corners seemed destined for stardom; Azareye'h Thomas and Sam McCall are much too talented to keep of the field, so expect them to gain playing time as the season progresses. Between the growth and the addition of quality transfers, the defense has built some quality depth and established a rising level of talent at each level of the unit.  In 2021, once things got settled, the defensive unit actually performed fairly well.  We expect the 2022 unit to be menacing, and capable to some extent of controlling a game, particularly if we see the continued growth we expect. This group will be fun to watch, and they could really surprise us.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Ryan Fitzgerald returns at placekicker, but he has not been stellar, so consider it a work in progress.  Alex Mastromanno will continue to handle punts, but although there was some consistency last year, improvement is needed there as well. Returning kicks has been a long time issue for the Seminoles, surrendering a hideous amount of hidden yardage. The return game seems low hanging fruit on the path to improvement for the Seminoles, and perhaps that has been address with two transfer players; Mycah Pittman on punt returns after averaging 10 yards per return last year at Oregon and Deuce Spann on kickoff after some success at Illinois last year. There are plenty of other players with high levels of speed and elusiveness as long as this area of the game is given priority.

INTANGIBLES

Seminoles

Norvell has done a great job in cleaning house, emptying the locker room of the troublemakers. In fact, this team appears close and ready to fight for one another. We saw some of that last year; the team never gave up and fought hard to the end.  It is this type of journey that makes these experiences all that more rewarding.  So, we are excited at the prospects of this team. A trip to New Orleans to face LSU gives the Seminoles a delicious early opportunity to defeating an SEC team in hostile territory as a prelude to a successful season.  For once, the intangibles are trending in favor of FSU.

HONORS CANDIDATES

Nobody on this team is a lock for honors. The individual getting the most preseason recognition is safety Jammie Robinson, and that is well deserved. Tatum Bethune has a shot to be sure, as he is a tackling machine.  Among others that seem to have opportunities are offensive guard Dillan Gibbons and defensive tackle Fabian Lovett. Defensive backs Azareye'h Tomas and Sam McCall. Both could be freshman All America team members. Other players are primed to emerge, and we actually expect many to do just that.

NEW ARRIVALS

MYCAH PITTMAN
WR/KR 
PHOTO/24/7 SPORTS

Again, Mike Norvell continues to work magic in the portal. Transfer wide receivers Mycah Pittman from Oregon, Deuce Spann from Illinois, Johny Wilson from Arizona State and Winston Wright from West Virgina are slated as prime contributors.  On the offensive line, several players figure prominently. Lamar transfer Bless Harris, Charlotte transfer D'Mitri Emmanuel, South Carolina transfer Jazston Turnetine. Wisconsin transfer Kayden Lyles was lost in fall camp for the season. Freshman Julian Armella and Kenyata Charlton have the look of future national honors candidates. Running back Trey Benson figures to play an extensive role in the backfield for the Seminoles. Defensively, Edge rusher Jared Verse is expected to be a force harassing opposing signal callers. UCF transfer Tatum Bethune is a threat for an All ACC spot. In the defensive backfield, transfers Greedy Vance and Malik Feaster are looking for opportunities, but it is a pair of true freshman that appear ready for stardom in Azareye'h Tomas and Sam McCall. Both could be freshman All America team members. With high numbers like this, cohesion is often a concern, but early indications are extremely positive.

FINAL ANALYSIS

Folks, we can't dodge what is obviously very apparent to Nole Nation; this is nothing short of a critical season for Florida State, and more specifically head coach Mike Norvell.  A losing season is simply unacceptable, and Florida State MUST make a bowl game.  In fact, most acknowledge that Norvel has performed significantly well in every area, other than wins. The time for the wins to occur is now.  While there is no question FSU will miss DE Jermaine Johnson, who not only dominated on the field but was a centerpiece in the locker room, the Seminoles appear improved at each and every level of play.  Three areas of deficiency that with expected improvements could raise the overall level of play for the Seminoles are the offensive line, the wide receivers and the special teams.  Norvell has done a great job in working to improve these areas. Now, the schedule is challenging. After a week zero tune up, a huge opportunity exists as FSU travels to New Orleans to face LSU, who is in transition under new coach Brian Kelly.  After a bye comes some significant contests that could determine the order of finish in the Atlantic division.  FSU travels to face a dangerous Louisville team and then returns home to host Boston College and Wake Forest. Each of these are winnable games, and after these games are played we should have a good read on the Noles. Anything worse than 3-2 here would be disappointing. Then come a pair of contests where Florida State will be underdogs, at a much improved and veteran NC State team and a home game with nationally ranked Clemson. After another bye week, FSU closes hosting Georgia Tech, road games at rival Miami and Syracuse, home to Louisiana and the rival Florida Gators.  FSU seems an underdog to both Miami and Florida but could win both. So, following the odds, the Seminoles will come in at 6-6.  We think FSU beats LSU and/or Louisville and holds serve at home early. FSU could be gaining strength as the season progresses, and it would be great to upset Miami or Florida. The Seminoles could be 9-3, but we are placing stake at 7-5. This gets FSU to a bowl game and allows Mike Norvell to continue has head coach. We can't wait for kickoff! Go NOLES!

GAMEDAY GALLERY

Nebraska Cornhuskers 2022 Preview

  

The current state of the program notes Nebraska has now missed a bowl game for five consecutive seasons, something unthought of for half a century, and make no mistake, this is absolutely unacceptable. When the powers that be brought in as head coach Scott Frost, the golden haired former Husker National Championship quarterback, a greater majority thought, including me, that he would turn around the Big Red woes in short order. That has failed to happen, and although few if any in Husker Nation are not cheering Frost to have success for the Big Red, there is little doubt he is on thin ice.  Although the Huskers played close in 2021, the season was a failure, with Nebraska going 3-9. Another former Husker All America player, Trev Alberts, was brought in at Athletic Director, and after evaluation, Alberts retained Frost but with conditions to include an overhaul of many parts of the coaching staff with an emphasis on the offensive side of the ball. The changes were significant and were overwhelmingly received as positive. First, highly thought of offensive coordinator Mark Whipple, who most recently had notable success at Pittsburgh, was hired. Whipple has extensive experience and success as a play caller, and most notably the development of quarterbacks. Now, longtime Husker quarterback Adrian Martinez transferred out of the program, which allows Whipple to mold candidates at the position. The receiver position has failed to meet expectations for years, so another former Husker player, Mickey Joseph, has come home to join the staff. Joseph comes from LSU, where he has coached many superstar players, several of whom are now household NFL names.  Additionally, Joseph is a top level recruiter, another area Nebraska has not performed at an acceptable level.  The offensive line is another area that has underachieved, and this no doubt hits a nerve in Husker Nation. Donovan Raiola is now on board, and early indications show a higher level of performance among the talented group, which is mandatory for Nebraska to get back to winning ball games. Remember, successful teams can't just run the ball when they want to, they can run it effectively when they need to. Last, but certainly not least, Nebraska has brought back former assistant coach Bill Busch, and he will primarily be responsible for shoring up the special teams. Special teams play has been nothing short of horrendous for years, but last year, it appeared to single handedly cost Nebraska two key football games; Michigan State and Iowa. Busch has a great reputation, and improvement seems guaranteed, but even a small level of investment here would pay big dividends. Frost and the coaches have really done a great job of working the transfer portal, and there are several key additions that appear ready to be all conference candidate players this fall. So, with talent on hand, and an easier slate, the Cornhuskers seem poised to be one of the most improved teams in the nation this season. The ability for all the new pieces to mesh together without transitional issues will dictate the level of the anticipated success. There is plenty of goodwill behind Alberts, Frost and the new staff, so everyone is hoping for a successful season. Failure to reach a bowl game would place everyone in Husker Nation in a position nobody wants to be in, and a change would necessarily be strongly considered. So how do we see the Big Red performing in 2022? Let's have a look! 

OFFENSE


Casey Thompson 
Quarterback

As previously mentioned, longtime quarterback Adrian Martinez has transferred out of the program, and while Martinez, who often flashed spectacular abilities, was a great player and a tremendous young man, deficiencies in game management and turnovers hampered his progress. It appears that new scenery is the best option here, and all of Husker Nation wishes Martinez well. Logan Smothers returns for the Big Red, and he is a capable quarterback, a smart player with superb running ability. He does lack the arm strength that Whipple will be seeking, so we expect the starting job to be won by one of two transfers; Casey Thompson from Texas and Chubba Purdy from Florida State. Both of these players demonstrate sound running ability, but Whipple wants to throw.  Thompson has a much higher level of experience and success in his background, including three games where he threw five touchdowns in the game, last year in throwing for over 2100 yards and 24 touchdowns for the Longhorns. Now while we like Purdy, and are confident with him for 2022 along with being very excited at his future, we think Thompson will win the job.  We expect if Thompson can remain healthy, he will have a big season with approximately 2500 and 25 touchdowns. Henrich Haarberg will continue to work on his game no doubt benefitting from the tutelage from Whipple. 

Mickey Joseph
Asst. Coach/WR
PHOTO/OWH

Working with Thompson will be a receiving room we expect a much improved level of performance for 2022 under Mickey Joseph. Top on the list is LSU transfer Trey Palmer, an emerging star who started five games with 30 catches and 3 touchdowns for the Tigers in 2021. Palmer is expected to be the lead dog in the room.  Additionally, Marcus Washington, who played with Thompson at Texas last year with 18 catches and 2 touchdowns, transfers in and is expected to significantly contribute. There are several returning Nebraska players who will get a new lease on life. Omar Manning (26c), who has the look of an NFL All Pro, has yet to play at a consistent level, but he is a guy with a skill set that could catapult him to an honors candidate performer. Throw him the ball!  Oliver Martin has flashed some skills but has battled the injury bug. Alante Brown is a guy with a world of talent who could become a valuable consistent contributor. Brody Belt makes plays when given the opportunity, and Kamonte Grimes and Wyatt Liewer look poised to be heard from. Another player who figures in is transfer Isaiah Garcia-Castenada, who transferred in from New Mexico State. He could resemble Samarie Toure in his level of contribution, so keep an eye on him. DeColdest Crawford and Janiran Bonner are a pair of freshman who could see some time. Returning from injury is Travis Vokolek at tight end, who when healthy has been outstanding. Watch out for him as he is primed for a big year! Chris Hickman, Chancellor Brewington (he has made some plays) and AJ Rollins are all ready to step into the fray. Former four star recruit Thomas Fidone has vast potential at the position, but he has been sidelined with injury since arriving at Nebraska. The coaches remain unsure of his availability for 2022. 

Gabe Ervin, Jr.
Running Back
PHOTO/Saturday Tradition

At Nebraska, under new assistant Bryan Applewhite, the running back room is stacked, an embarrassment of riches. Gabe Ervin Jr. was the first freshman to ever begin the season as the starter and was performing well until a knee injury versus Oklahoma ended his season. Early impressions in fall camp indicated Ervin is back better than ever.  Rahmir Johnson is a real talent, a versatile mature player with endless skills. In the system Whipple will seek to employ, Johnson could excel from somewhat of an old wingback position, which I find very exciting.  Jacquez Yant is a physical freak, a bigger back, fast and powerful, who also through fall camp indications appears to have raised the level of his game. Transferring into the program from JUCO is former Florida State running back Anthony Grant.  A complete back with power, speed and top notch pass catching ability, Grant is a guy who seems set for extensive playing time. Keep your eye on Grant! True freshman Ajay Allen has been turning heads since his arrival, but he has significant competition to overcome.  

Donovan Raiola has the offensive line hungry, ready to operate from a position of attack, which matches the historical mindset of the program. The best player on the line is left tackle Teddy Prochazka, who is coming off a season ending injury. Prochazka is an NFL player, and he is expected to be at 100% when the season kicks. Turner Corcoran, also coming off injury, is expected to the opposite tackle, but he may move to left guard with incoming transfer Keith Williams, seemingly a guard, perhaps operating at right tackle. Bryce Benhart has started at tackle in the past and has great potential, so if he wins right tackle William seems a lock for a guard spot.  Ethan Piper has experience at guard, but redshirt freshman Henry Lutovsky looks ready to significantly contribute. Brock Bando has experience at tackle but can play guard while versatile player Trent Hixon appears set at center. Oklahoma State transfer Hunter Anthony may find a spot. Under Raiola, we expect this unit to be improved, and improvement up front will really benefit the Big Red. Whipple has had tremendous success with his offenses, so we expect Nebraska to average well over 30 points per game. For this to happen, Nebraska will have to move on from the items of discipline they have failed to exhibit in recent seasons. First, and most important, is protecting the football. It is essential to success. Additionally, eliminating idiotic penalties, especially those which negate big plays, is critical. Attention to detail in this regard will hopefully be a byproduct of the installation of the new offensive staff. We think it will.

DEFENSE

Garrett Nelson
Outside Linebacker
Photo/Scottsbluff Star Herald

Nebraska was quite impressive on defense last season, and while there are significant personnel losses, this group under Erik Chinander has a chance to be improved. Much of the optimism centers around a strong pair of rush ends in Garrett Nelson and TCU Ochaun Mathis. Both are expected be among the best in the conference. Caleb Tannor really stepped up his game last fall, this season he will figure prominently once again and I am excited to see how his talents are best utilized. DT Ty Robinson is a mountain of a man, a guy with pass rushing skills that will anchor the interior.  Alabama transfer Stephon Wynn and Texas Tech transfer Devin Drew are new faces brought in to plug up the middle. Nash Hutmacher returns, and he is a stout, strong guy who refuses to get pushed around, reminding some of us old timers of ole nose guard Danny Noonan, so consider Hutmacher my kind of guy! but he needs to step up. Colton Fiest has shined in fall camp, while Blaise Gunnerson, Javin Wright and Jimari Butler are solid reserve players. 

The linebacking core has transformed from somewhat of a liability to a team strength. Nebraska will be in a 4-3 on most occasion to keep three top players on the field. Returning linebackers Nick Henrich and Luke Reimer, who topped the team in tackles last season, are set for stellar seasons. Isaac Gifford, who has excellent speed, is ready to assume the nickel spot, although expect Chris Kolarevic to get some situational snaps. Garrett Snodgrass, a Nebraska native, is emerging and will back this group up. Senior Eteva Mauga-Clements can play a couple spots and is a solid inside player. But freshman linebacker Ernest Hausmann from Columbus is going to be a great one; too stout to keep off the field. 

The secondary is loaded with safeties. At strong safety, Myles Farmer brings a big stick and he is poised to challenge for conference honors. Deshon Singleton is ready to rock, so look for him to find a spot on the field. Marques Buford will get his time to shine at free safety, but the time is now Noa Pola-Gates to reach his potential. Transfer Omar Brown is also on hand. Arizona State transfer Tommi Hill and Braxton Clark will both play at boundary corner, with Quentin Newsome all set at field corner. With another year with Chinander's system and what is expected to be a much improved pass rush, we expect Nebraska to field one of the top defenses within the conference. The linebacking core is strong, and the secondary could emerge as top notch. As was the case last fall, employing a strong defense has the opportunity to keep Nebraska close in every game on their schedule.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Abysmal. That is the adjective that comes to mind when describing the Nebraska special teams in recent seasons. In fact, last year, at least two games were seemingly lost by mind boggling special team breakdowns.  Additionally, the kicking game, both placekicking and punting, were significant liabilities. And that is being kind.  Blow it up, with no job safe. Former well respected assistant Bill Busch, who has extensive experience coaching special teams has arrived to fix them. We are quite confident he will. At kicker, Timothy Bleekrode has transferred in from Furman where he was 15/18. Montana transfer Brian Buschini, awarded the top punter in the country for the FCS division, should dramatically improve that portion of the game.  Nowhere to go but up.  Shockingly, Nebraska was among the nation's worst in the return game. Incoming wideout Trey Palmer returned a kickoff for a touchdown for LSU last year and appears set to return kickoffs, perhaps with Anthony Grant, who did that at Florida State, and Brody Belt. Punt returns could also include Palmer, but in fall practice corner Tommi Hill, an Arizona State transfer, appears a front runner here. Maybe Janiran Bonner will get a look here. Under Busch, who we have high confidence in, this portion of the team we feel will be significantly improved, and that will be huge in field position, hidden yardage and confidence.

INTANGIBLES

Mark Whipple
Offensive Coordinator
PHOTO/CBS Sports

As we noted in last season's preview, "the Frost era has been a debacle; across the board." Sadly, this is not exaggerating! Many national pundits noted Nebraska was the best 3-9 team of all time last season, and we don't find that analysis far off from reality. Frost, seemingly under the direction of new AD Trev Alberts, overhauled much of the offensive staff and added pieces elsewhere, most notably Mike Dawson and Bill Busch.  We think these are very impressive hires; all. Given these changes, with the talent level on hand and a slew of very impressive transfers via the portal, we think the opportunity to be seized is large. Tops on our list would be the overhaul of the special teams, which has nowhere to go but up. Installation of a level of discipline, which includes the all important aspect of protecting the football, is next. Last, we think a winning mentality has been missing, with the 'Huskers seemingly expecting to lose without knowing how to win.  We think this changes. For once, we anticipate the intangibles going in Nebraska's favor.

HONORS CANDIDATES

As far as a player receiving All America honors, it would seem a stretch at this point to forecast anyone from Nebraska, although if punter Brian Buschini can replicate his FCS success, it could happen. As far as all conference honors in the B1G, there are several candidates. Offensively, we expect Casey Tompson to have a big season, but Ohio State QB CJ Stroud is a Heisman favorite. Consider Trey Palmer a wild card as he could be in position to have a breakout season. We love the running back room, but there does not seem to be enough carries for one back to be recognized. TE Travis Vokolek has a chance, as does OL Teddy Prochazka. Defensively, there are several candidates. Both rush ends, Garrett Nelson and Ochaun Mathis could be in the mix, as will linebackers Luke Reimer and Nick Henrich. Quentin Newsome may get some consideration from his corner spot. It should be noted that the lack of national honors candidates does not indicate the Big Red will be a poor team; quite contrary. There is a slew of rising quality players on the precipice of making their mark.

NEW ARRIVALS

Trey Palmer
WR/KR
PHOTO/Twitter

Good heavens! Where do we start?  At quarterback, transfers Casey Thompson from Texas and Chubb Purdy from Florida State, both quite capable, are set to compete for the starting job, expected to be won by Thompson primarily due to experience.  WR/KR Trey Plamer is expected to play a huge role for Nebraska, a potential game breaker at two positions. WR Marcus Williams, a former teammate of Thompson at Texas, should get serious snaps along with New Mexico State transfer Isaiah Garcia-Castenada. Running back Anthny Grant, who comes from JUCO via Florida State, is a special talent who we expect to make some real noise.  Don't discount him on kickoff returns! On the OL, Keith Williams will no doubt find a spot. Defensively, it likely starts with DE Ochaun Mathis, who was a two time second team All Big XII performer. Up front, Alabama transfer Stephon Wynn and Texas Tech transfer Devin Drew both are set to be strong contributors. Among the true freshman, three players come to mind. LB Ernest Hausmann is really turning heads; no redshirt for him. WR Janiran Bonner is making the fall camp highlight reel, so keep your eyes out for him. RB Ajay Allen is catching eyes, but he faces an avalanche of competition. A pair of safeties should also see action; transfer Omar Brown from Northern Iowa and JUCO transfer Deshon Singleton. Additionally, Arizona State transfer Tommi Hill is a potential starter at cornerback. Add Alabama transfer Kaine Williams to the mix at safety. And last, but certainly not least, placekicker Timothy Bleekrode, who transferred in from Furman, may be the most important of them all.

FINAL ANALYSIS

Yes, I am drunk on Kool-Aid!  Odds appear to favor a Big Red turnaround this fall. There is just too much talent available, and with the additions of the transfers and the changes made to the coaching staff, if the team can come together, Nebraska should easily return to bowl game eligibility. Although the schedule Nebraska will face in 2022 is considerably easier than the one faced last year, it will still be a grind for the Huskers to reach their goals. Provided Nebraska wins game one, which we consider as it stands to be the most important game in the tenure of Scott Frost as head coach, a new era may commence. Lose it, and odds favor a coaching search appropriately begins. So, Nebraska simply must defeat Northwestern in Ireland. If that fails to occur, all bets are off and jobs are necessarily in great jeopardy. We think Nebraska wins this by a couple of touchdowns, but before they have chance to celebrate, practice gets underway as FCS foes North Dakota comes the Lincoln the following Saturday. Now, although North Dakota will not be a pushover, even with the short week, the 'Huskers should win comfortably.  Georgia Southern then comes to Lincoln, and this should also be a win.  Now Georgia Southern is dangerous, and they have previously slayed some power five teams in the past, they are in the midst of transition as Clay Helton from USC comes in expected to move the offense from the run oriented operation we are accustomed to with the Eagles to a pass happy outfit.  Once again, Nebraska wins by a couple of touchdowns. So, although at this point Nebraska has not turned any heads, they should be 3-0 before welcoming in old arch rival Oklahoma.  The Sooners are also in transition with a new coaching staff on board, but OU has plenty to top talent on hand. This game presents a huge opportunity for Nebraska, who played well at Norman last year. The 'Huskers can win this, but we will go with Oklahoma in a close one.  An of week awaits, and then Nebraska rolls off a dangerous stretch. It starts with two teams Nebraska should defeat, starting with a home game against Indiana, followed by a Friday night road game at Rutgers. We got Nebraska winning both, but they will be closer than experts think. Then, Nebraska goes to Purdue, who won at Lincoln last year. Purdue lost their two best players, but they have some nice pieces and are well coached. With this on the road, expect this game to be a toss up.  What is the state of mind of the Big Red heading into the contest? A confident Big Red would probably get this done, but with past history being a strong indicator, we may have to give this Purdue. So, at this point, we got Nebraska at 5-2. After another bye week, Nebraska host Illinois in a revenge game.  But we can see the 'Huskers flat here, and Bielema can coach, so this game could be close, but we think at home Nebraska wins it.  By now, we should know who the Huskers are and if they are not in position to win the west here, consider that a problem and a poor indicator of improvement within the program. Minnesota, who is talented and has an easy schedule, could come into Lincoln ranked, but Nebraska must win this game and we think they will. Nebraska then travels to Ann Arbor to face Michigan. The Big Red, even potentially at 8-1, would be underdogs of at least a touchdown. Getting a win here would be big time, but even though Nebraska could have easily beat Michigan last year, do not expect a victory in this one.  Here comes the measuring stick. Against Wisconsin (1-9) and Iowa (3-8), Nebraska has been horrendous, often times simply giving games away.  For Nebraska to re-establish themselves as relevant on the national stage, this has got to change. Wisconsin is down, and with the game being in Lincoln and jobs perhaps on the line, Nebraska must find a way to win this and we think they do. If Nebraska is 10-1 here, Iowa should look out, but winning at Iowa for a team not accustomed to doing so is a very tall order, so we think Nebraska once again fall just short. Now, Nebraska could win them all; however, they could also lose to the same old rivals. As we noted last year, the Huskers are so overdue for success it is almost sound money to think a turnaround is looming! Assuming strong quarterback play and cohesion with the new coaching staff and offensive philosophy, we could say Nebraska goes 9-3, but likely they are banged up and drop one we count as a win, so we will say 8-4 or perhaps 7-5, which would seem a more realistic record for Nebraska. Needless to say, this is perhaps the most important year of gridiron action for the Big Red in a few decades.  Trev Alberts rolled the dice on Scott Frost, and I taking that bet! GBR! 

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