The line is Penn State +5 and the over under is set at 45.5 and I have absolutely zero plays on this game. The line is exactly how I see this game playing out. A close-low scoring game where I see home field coming to play here. Both offensive lines may struggle against the defensive lines causing each offense to struggle. First time I haven’t had a play on a TGIS game of the week, but I think the line is exactly right. If I had a lean it would be Penn State +5.
Prediction: Ohio State 24- Penn State 21
Top Picks of the Week (All Times Central)
James Madison -3.5 at Marshall – 6pm on Thursday
James Madison has won the last three games by at least 7 points including a 28 point victory against a very good Georgia Southern team last week. James Madison is a wagon we are hopping on.
SMU -20.5 at Temple – Friday 6pm
Temple just got beat by 31 by North Texas. SMU can do that too.
South Carolina +7.5 at #20 Missouri – 2:30pm
South Carolina moved the ball all over Florida before giving up a ten point lead in the 4th. These teams are way too close for the Cocks to be an over touchdown underdog. Give me South Carolina.
Minnesota +3.5 at Iowa – 2:30pm
Iowa can’t keep getting away with absolutely zero offense. Minnesota keeps it close and may win outright.
Texas Tech at BYU +4.5 – 6pm
I get BYU as an underdog in Provo against a third-string, freshman Texas Tech quarterback? Seems too good to be true.
Colorado State at UNLV -7.5 – 6pm
UNLV has beat their last three opponents by 17, 24, and 18. They are a very good Mountain West team that will continue to roll.
#14 Utah +7.5 at #18 USC– 6:30pm
USC’s offense looked like trash against Notre Dame. Now they have a tough Utah defense. Even though the Utes don’t have a great offense, I still think they can move it on USC. Give me the points.
Duke +14.5 at #4 Florida State– 6:30pm
I know Riley Leonard most likely won’t start for Duke, but I’m betting on the Duke defense to keep this under two touchdowns.
Clemson -3 at Miami – 7pm
I do not trust Miami at all right now and there really isn’t a home field advantage in Miami Gardens. Clemson has a defense to stop Miami. Clemson wins.
#25 UCLA at Stanford UNDER 55– 7pm
UCLA actually has a defense unlike Colorado who gave up almost 300 yards to Stanfor WR Ellic Ayomanor. Meanwhile UCLA’s offense has not looked great. Give me the under.
I know it is in Seattle, but I truly believe Oregon is the better team. The Washington secondary has not been tested yet, but will with Bo Nix. I’m trusting the Oregon defense over Washington’s. Oregon not only covers, but wins.
Prediction: Oregon 38 – Washington 31
Top Picks of the Week (All Times Central)
Georgia Southern +6 at James Madison – 11am
Too many points as the Georgia Southern passing game will have success against James Madison.
Iowa State +5.5 at Cincinnati – 11am
Too many points as we’ve been fading Cincinnati (profitably) all year.
Texas A&M at #19 Tennessee UNDER 55.5 – 2:30pm
An underrated piece of this Tennessee defense is the pressure they have been able to generate. A&M’s offensive line is below average and will have trouble. Meanwhile, the A&M defensive line will continue giving opposing teams trouble. Bet the under.
Florida at South Carolina -1.5 – 2:30pm
Florida is on the borderline of falling apart. On the other side, even with a poor offensive line, Spencer Rattler has been excellent. The Gamecocks win comfortably.
BYU +6 at TCU – 2:30pm
TCU’s backup quarterback Josh Hoover is starting and they are six point favorites? I expect a low-scoring close game… that BYU could definitely win.
Wisconsin at Iowa UNDER 35 – 3pm
We have 18mph winds and an Iowa backup quarterback that cannot throw at all… EASY UNDER.
#10 USC at #21 Notre Dame -2.5 – 6:30pm
What does USC not do well? stop the run. Notre Dame should be able to run all over USC and control this game. Fighting Irish end the sleep walking USC’s undefeated run.
#25 Miami at #12 North Carolina OVER 56.5 – 6:30pm
Drake Maye is going to take advantage of this Miami secondary. Miami will contribute and this will be a high scoring game.
#18 UCLA +3.5 at Oregon State – 7pm
Oregon State just played a 52-42 game. The Oregon State defense has taken a step back. Meanwhile UCLA may have one of the best defenses in the Pac-12. I like UCLA to keep it close and possibly win.
Under 6 points? I am taking Texas as the much better team on the neutral field. If you doubt they have a better team, just look at the positional breakdown. Texas has better receivers, offensive line, running backs, quarterbacks and flat out a better defense.
Prediction: Texas 31-21
#11 Alabama +1 at Texas A&M
Obviously I’m taking Alabama with them as an underdog and A&M starting a backup QB. The Texas A&M defense will be tough on the line, but Alabama has improved from earlier this season.
Prediction: Alabama 24-21
Top Picks of the Week (All Times Central)
Maryland +20 at #4 Ohio State
Sure Maryland hasn’t played anyone. But the Terps can challenge this Ohio State secondary and keep this close.
UCF at Kansas +2
I’m taking the Jayhawks as a home underdog, especially after UCF’s collapse last week against Baylor
Colorado at Arizona State OVER 59.5
Deion won’t take his foot off the pedal and the Sun Devils will have success against Colorado’s defense.
Arkansas +11.5 at #16 Ole Miss
TOO MANY POINTS. Especially after a field storming and draining win against LSU.
Texas Tech -1 at Baylor
Baylor stinks and Tech showed last week against Houston that they have a pulse.
Arizona +23 at #9 USC
USC doesn’t play consistent defense for this spread to be 23 points.
#10 Utah at #19 Oregon State UNDER 45.5 – Friday 8:00pm
I project Utah will still not have Cam Rising back… which means Nate Johnson has to start another football game. The Utah defense will keep this a low-scoring, close game.
Prediction: Oregon State 20-17
Top Picks of the Week (All Times Central)
Cincinnati at BYU +2 – Friday 9:15pm
I know BYU has a few injuries, but I can’t pass up taking BYU as a home underdog, especially with Cincinnati trotting out Emory Jones at QB.
Clemson -6.5 at Syracuse – 11am
I think Clemson has something figured out offensively. Syracuse hasn’t played anyone yet… Clemson by double digits.
Texas A&M vs Arkansas UNDER 54.5 – 11am
Texas A&M is starting a backup QB. I also think the Aggie front is going to give the Arkansas offensive line fits. Give me the under 54.5
#8 USC -21.5 at Colorado – 11am
You saw the Colorado game against Oregon right? Everyone is going to come out and put it on the Buffs.
#1 Georgia -14 at Auburn – 2:30pm
You have seen Auburn try to throw the ball this year right?
Houston at Texas Tech UNDER 51.5 – 2:30pm
Texas Tech is forced to start their back-up QB. Meanwhile, Houston has looked underwhelming this year. Under, all day.
Kansas at #3 Texas -16 – 2:30pm
Texas continues to be undervalued as I think they will continue to roll through the Big 12 schedule. Blowout win.
#13 LSU -2.5 at #20 Ole Miss – 5pm
Under a Field Goal favorite against Ole Miss? The LSU defensive line is going to give Ole Miss problems. Tigers in a bounce back game.
Iowa State +21 at #14 Oklahoma – 6pm
We were on Oklahoma last week… but 21 points this week is too many. Iowa State covers.
#12 Alabama at Mississippi State UNDER 46.5 – 8pm
Alabama may have one of the top defense’s in the nation. It is their offense that doesn’t score. Under hits easily.
Washington at Arizona OVER 67.5 – 9pm
PAC-12 AFTER DARK!!! Washington’s secondary has not been tested, they will this week. Points, points and more points.
I have not been sold on Joe Milton and the Tennessee offense this year. Meanwhile, Florida struggles to have any offensive success. LOW scoring game.
Prediction: Tennessee 24 – Florida 20
Top Picks of the Week (All Times Central)
Georgia Southern +20 at Wisconsin – 11am
Georgia Southern QB and TGIS supporter Davis Brin finished last week 38-47 for 318 yards and 2 TDs as the Eagles offense put up 49 points. Meanwhile Tanner Mordecai and the Badgers offense have looked real average. Way too many points in what I think could be a close game. Might even sprinkle a little on the +700.
Colorado State at #18 Colorado OVER 60.5– 11am
I told you last week I did not believe in Colorado’s defense. While they could stop Nebraska (just like anybody), I still have my doubts. Meanwhile Deion is going to try to run up the score and stats for his QB and son Shaddeur Sanders.
Minnesota at #20 North Carolina -7 – 11am
The Golden Gophers secondary has not been challenged… that changes when Drake Maye plays against them. The Tar Heels will score points, while I see Minnesota to struggle much at all. Tar Heels big.
Vanderbilt -4.5 at UNLV – 11am
Vanderbilt less than a TD favorite seems disrespectful. Vandy still has talent, especially at WR, to make UNLV pay. Vandy by double digits.
#14 LSU at Mississippi State +9.5 – 11am
Too many points in Starkville. The Bulldogs are going to bring LSU down into the mud with them in a close game that I see LSU ending up with the win.
#10 Alabama -32 at South Florida – 2:30pm
Alabama still has a QB competition that is not settled. Expect Bama to work all three during the game and be aggressive to see which one is the guy. That means lots of points.
#8 Washington -16 at Michigan State – 4pm
The Spartans are a mess and the Huskies are blowing out everyone. Don’t overthink it.
BYU +8 at Arkansas – 6:30pm
I liked it better when BYU was a 10 point favorite, but 8 points will do. BYU won the game outright last year. In a low scoring battle, give me the points.
Bowling Green at #2 Michigan UNDER 53 – 6:30pm
Michigan has been playing at a super slow pace in its first two games, treating them like scrimmages against inferior teams. That happens again, under 53 points all day. I see the final score something like… 38-3.
TCU -7 at Houston – 7pm
Houston just lost to Rice (or as College Football Analyst Josh Pate calls “food”). TCU is going to want to show up after losing on the national stage against Colorado. TCU by double digits.
Jalen Milroe answered all my questions in Week 1. And with Alabama’s defense probably the best it has been in the past five years… Bama is ready for Texas.
Prediction: Alabama 34 – Texas 24
Top Picks of the Week (All Times Central)
Friday
Illinois at Kansas -3 – 11:00am
It is never good when you barely escape with a 2 point win against a MAC Opponent in Week 1. That is exactly what Illinois experienced in their game against Toledo. Going into Week 2, Kansas has Jalon Daniels at QB coming back from injury. Kansas runs away with this one.
Saturday
#14 Utah -6 at Baylor UNDER 51 – 11am
I grabbed this one at six points as soon as it came out. Utah dominated Florida and Baylor lost to Texas State… this Baylor team has the makings of a team falling apart. Utah wins big. Also, with Baylor’s Blake Shappen injured after the Texas State game… Baylor will struggle to put up points. Take the Under as well.
Nebraska at Colorado OVER 58.5 – 11am
I’m sticking with Colorado overs. The Buffs can put up points, but I don’t trust them to stop anyone. Even Nebraska who only scored 10 points against Minnesota (But averaged 5.3 yards per play)
Ole Miss -6 at Tulane – 2:30pm
Michael Pratt played phenomenal against South Alabama in Week 1 going 14/15 for 294 yards and 4 TDs. But he won’t be able to keep up with Ole Miss’ offense. The Rebs by double digits.
Iowa -4 at Iowa State – 2:30pm
Iowa State will not be able to score in this game. Cade McNamara just needs to score a few touchdowns for Iowa and I am confident in this. At least the players will also (probably) not be betting on the game this year… give me the -4.
Texas State +13 at UTSA – 2:30pm
The Vegas rankings have not properly power rated Texas State with all of their transfers. We get double digit points after they just pulled the upset against Baylor? Yep, we are taking them.
SMU at Oklahoma UNDER 70 – 5:00pm
I have a theory that Brent Venables constructed a decent defense this year at Oklahoma. If that is the case, 70 points is way too high. We like the under.
Arizona at Mississippi State –8 – 6:30pm
Zero faith the Wildcats will know how to handle Starkville. Grab this line early.
Oklahoma State -3 at Arizona State – 9:30pm
I know the Cowboys are on the road, but this is Arizona State’s true Freshman Jaden Rashada’s first test against an actual defense (not Southern Utah). Trust Gundy.
Auburn -6.5 at Cal – 9:30pm
I know… it is a tough travel game on the west coast. I don’t care, this Auburn defense is nothing like Cal’s last opponent North Texas. Plus Cal’s starting QB, Sam Jackson might be out. Under a touchdown is an easy bet.
The Florida State hype has become a little out of control. To trust them to take on LSU as under a three point underdog with all the players LSU has coming back? That is a no for me. LSU wins this one in Orlando.
Prediction: LSU 34- Florida State 28
Top Picks of the Week
Thursday
NC State -14 at UConn 6:30pm
NC State brought in quarterback Brennan Armstrong and his old offensive coordinator, Robert Anai, from Virginia. Under Anai, Virginia put up 35 points per game. Expect the same with NC State who will be able to exploit a poor UConn defense. Line is only 14? We are taking NC State.
Florida +7 at #14 Utah UNDER 46 – 7:00pm
Cam Rising playing in this game is no sure thing as he is still limited in his recovery from the ACL tear from the Rose Bowl. Meanwhile, Florida’s defense is extremely strong and going against them is going to be no easy task for a backup quarterback. Utah’s defense is also strong so don’t expect many points, especially with the new running clock on first down limiting the amount of plays.. Finally, Florida getting 7 seven points is also way too many. Utah wins a low scoring 21-17 game.
Nebraska +7.5 at Minnesota UNDER 44 7:00pm
Over a touchdown is too many points for a questionable Minnesota offense. Especially with how many returning starters are coming back in Nebraska’s secondary. A low scoring, close game should be expected.
Saturday
Colorado at #17 TCU OVER 59.5 – 11:00am
The Colorado defense is full of transfers and not great depth. TCU should be able to take advantage. But Colorado still has the potential to put points up with QB Shaddeur Sanders, solid skill position players and no huddle offensive coordinator Sean Lewis.
Fresno State at Purdue -3.5 – 11:00am
So Fresno State lost star QB Jake Haener, four of their top wide receivers, and most of their defensive secondary. I am supposed to trust them going into Purdue and keeping it close against transfer QB Hudson Card? Give me Purdue.
Virginia at #12 Tennessee -27.5 – 11:00am
Virginia can’t score and is terrible, meanwhile Tennessee will let Joe Milton loose. Any questions?
Boise State at #10 Washington OVER 58 2:30pm
Both of these teams bring experienced offenses back from last year… especially Washington. On Washington’s defense I question the secondary. Points, points and more points.
Texas State +27.5 at Baylor – 6:00pm
I don’t trust Baylor to win by over four touchdowns. Texas State is also underrated after the transfers they brought in. Give me Texas State.
#21 North Carolina vs. South Carolina +3 – 6:30pm
The one part of South Carolina I don’t trust is the offensive line. But I also don’t trust North Carolina to take advantage. Give me the points, Spencer Rattler will get after the North Carolina secondary.
Sunday
Northwestern at Rutgers UNDER 40 – 11:00am
Do I need to even go into depth on this one? Rutgers has a sneaky good offense and a terrible offense. Northwestern is just bad across the board. Under all day.
#18 Oregon State at San Jose State +17 – 2:30pm
San Jose State looked good against USC as they found a solid QB with Chevan Cordeiro. At home against a run heavy Oregon State team? Ya, Spartans are covering.
I mean what can I say… this defense returns almost everybody and is going to be insanely good again. Sure you can nitpick and question edge rusher and the second cornerback spot, but the Bulldogs are still elite. On offense, Carson Beck will step in for Stetson Bennett. While they aren’t unbeatable and have a few question marks, the Bulldogs have way less questions than other teams in the nation.
2. Penn State Nittany Lions
Projected Record: 12-1
I am buying the hype as this is Coach James Franklin’s most talented team. On offense, I trust this offensive line to open up holes for one of the most talented running back duos in the country, Nic Singleton and Kaytron Allen. Quarterback Drew Allar ceiling is off the charts and where this team’s ceiling is dependent on him. Defensively, they are loaded with athleticism with 4 players making Bruce Feldman’s “Freak List”. One of those players who didn’t make the list is cornerback Kalen King… a potential first round pick. I put Penn State up there with Ohio State and Michigan even if the betting market doesn’t. Go ahead and sprinkle a little on Penn State +550 to win the Big Ten.
3. Michigan Wolverines
Projected Record: 10-2
Michigan made it to the playoff the last two years, but have fell flat when they get there. The offense will be good again, but it depends on if quarterback JJ McCarthy can take a step forward or if his ceiling is capped. The defense is where this group shines as they were a top ten unit last year and should be even better. this year The Wolverines are led by Kris Jenkins up front and Will Johnson as one of the best young corners in the secondary. Michigan is a legitimate contender for a playoff spot again.
4. Alabama Crimson Tide
Projected Record: 11-2
This is another talented Alabama team, but it has the biggest quarterback question since the start of the 2016 season where Jalen Hurts, Blake Barnett, and Cooper Bateman battled it out. What doesn’t add to the optimism is Alabama adding Notre Dame’s Tyler Buchner to the mix after both Jalen Milroe and Ty Simpson failed to win the job. I still believe the starter will be Milroe or Simpson. The rest of the offense is stellar with a really good offensive line, talented running back room and deep receiving group.
The defensive talent is undeniable. Dallas Turner and Chris Braswell will lead the pressure off the edge with 5-star true freshman Keon Keeley waiting right behind him. One of the best players on the defense will be another 5-star freshman, safety Caleb Downs and also the best corner in the country Kool-Aid McKinstry. Overall, the quarterback question keeps them out of the elite group (Georgia)… but if Saban has a quarterback emerge from medicority, the Tide are a National title contender.
5. LSU Tigers
Projected Record: 10-2
LSU’s offense will be solid as they return most of their offensive line and have a top 5 receiving group in the country. While I think Jayden Daniels has a ceiling, he proved last year to be an efficient player. The defensive line is the strength with Mekhi Wingo and Maason Smith. Add in Harold Perkins and Oregon State transfer, Omar Speights, the Tigers will be fine in the front seven. However, people are glancing over the depth at corner behind transfer starters Duce Chesnut (Syracuse) and Zy Alexander (Southern). LSU could win the SEC West again.
6. Ohio State Buckeyes
Projected Record: 10-2
Ohio State can’t lose three times in a row to Michigan right? There are legitimate questions with this team though: (1) They haven’t named a starter at quarterback between Kyle McCord and Devin Brown. (2) The offensive tackles were not impressive in the spring and the Buckeyes were forced to go to the transfer portal to pick up Josh Simmons from San Diego State to start. (3) They lost 4 of their top 6 defensive backs from last year and had to replace those guys via the portal. However, outside of those three questions this team has the best receiving group in the country and some real difference makers on defense. I just see those questions leading to 1-2 losses this year.
7. Texas Longhorns
Projected Record: 11-2
I know. I know. “You can’t trust Texas.” But I can’t find a football reason not to trust this team. Offensively, I like Quinn Ewers’ potential, the running back room is fine, they bring back everyone back to what will be the best offensive line in the Big 12, and the wide receiver room is legitimately a top 3 unit in the nation with Xavier Worthy, Adonai Mitchell (Georgia transfer), Isaiah Neyor, Jordan Whittington, and Five-Star Freshman Johntay Cook. On defense, the Longhorns return many of their key starters that finished 1st in the Big 12 in points per game. Texas is by far the favorite to win the Big 12… which would be their first since 2009.
8. USC Trojans
Projected Record: 11-2
There is no secret USC is led by their offense. It will even be better in 2023 with Caleb Williams getting South Carolina’s top running back, Marshawn Lloyd, and Arizona’s top wide receiver, Dorian Singer. The defense remains the question. It should be slightly improved after continuing to add via the transfer portal with potential breakout defensive linemen Bear Alexander and Anthony Lucas. This is a team with College Football Playoff potential because of their offense, but it all will be determined how much their defense holds them back.
9. Clemson Tigers
Projected Record: 11-2
Clemson is revamping their offense with new offensive coordinator Garrett Riley. Cade Klubnik takes over at quarterback and if they find a wide receiver to step up, this offense should be much improved. On defense, there will be also improvement with Tyler Davis and Peter Woods on the interior defensive line and returning the entire secondary. Clemson is the team to beat in the ACC, not Florida State.
10. Florida State Seminoles
Projected Record: 9-4
Florida State hit the transfer portal hard and strengthened their wide receiving room (Keon Coleman -MSU), tight end room and defensive line. Add in expereinced players Jordan Travis, Trey Benson, and Jared Verse… this is a very good team ready to make the jump. Now is that a jump to ACC champs remains the question.
11. Tennessee Volunteers
Projected Record: 10-2
Out goes Hendon Hooker, in comes Joe Milton at quarterback. The offense is set up for success with the skill position players, Josh Heupel’s offense, and new left transfer left tackle John Campbell Jr. The defense returns almost everyone, but are there any standouts? Can the Vols get a pass rush? I’d expect a slight improvement to the defense and another solid season for Tennessee.
12. Washington Huskies
Projected Record: 10-3
Overall, Washington finished 11-2 last year and had a top 15 offense. Expect them to be really good again with all three talented wide receivers back, two very good offensive tackles, and a solid quarterback – Michael Penix Jr. Defensively, I expect them to also be a strong unit after bringing back their entire defensive line and adding Oklahoma State transfer corner Jabbar Muhammad. This is a dark horse candidate to win the entire Pac-12.
13. Utah Utes
Projected Record: 10-2
Utah is a tough team that is led by their players on the line of scrimmage. While they don’t have the playmakers at the skill position of a Oregon or USC, the Utes have a solid overall team and one of the best home-field advantages in college football. Add in a good veteran quarterback with Cam Rising… they will have another solid year.
14. Oregon Ducks
Projected Record: 10-2
I really like Oregon’s skill guys and Bo Nix is a very good Pac-12 quarterback. Losing four starting offensive lineman hurts though. The Ducks are also faced with improving their secondary which wasn’t very good last year. But it just might happen with the transfers the Ducks brought in. Oregon will be a tough out for many in the Pac-12.
15. Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Projected Record: 9-3
This is a very strong team that will rely on a solid defense and experienced offensive line. Oh and transfer quarterback Sam Hartman helps. The Fighting Irish will make a massive jump from last year’s offensive performance and be a top 15 team in the country.
16. Texas A&M Aggies
Projected Record: 9-3
Connor Weigman enters season two and he showed some glimpses of being a pretty good quarterback. Plenty of help is in the wide receiver room with upcoming star Evan Stewart, Noah Thomas, and seniors Moose Muhammad II and Ainias Smith. The offensive line was just alright last year, but they return almost everyone. Defensively, A&M will take a step forward with so many returning starters. McKinley Jackson and Walter Nolen will lead the interior defensive line, but they will need an edge rusher to step up. Overall, this is a very good team with a high ceiling and a low floor, like we saw in last year’s 5-7 season. The floor will end the Jimbo train quicker than a motorcycle accident, if the offense doesn’t get it together under Bobby Petrino.
17. Iowa Hawkeyes
Projected Record: 10-3
Iowa finished 120th in offense and in the top five on defense. This led to OC Brian Ferenz’s contract restructuring where if Iowa does not score 25 points per game this year, he will be fired. Let the chase to 300 begin (12 games x 25 points = 300 total points). This should be easy with new quarterback Cade McNamara and four returning starters at offensive line. The defense will also be just as good. This should absolutely be Iowa’s year to win the west.
18. Wisconsin Badgers
Projected Record: 10-2
The Luke Fickell era starts in Madison. Add in Phil Longo’s new “Dairy Raid” offense and this should be fun. The Badgers’ offense will be fast pace and led by running back Braelon Allen. But I’m not sure they have the playmakers on the outside to be one of the top scoring teams in the Big Ten. Luckily, the defense can lead this team as the unit remains solid with plenty of returning starters. Expect a big year for the Badgers in year one of Fickell.
19. Kansas State Wildcats
Projected Record: 9-4
Kansas State’s offense could be better than last year with the entire offensive line back and returning quarterback Will Howard. I say that even with losing their best player, Deuce Vaughn. Defensively, I think the front is strong, but they lack some size on the interior of the defensive line. If they get the FCS transfer corners to step up (big question) this will be a dangerous team in the Big 12.
20. Oklahoma Sooners
Projected Record: 9-3
2022 was more than disappointing for Oklahoma, finishing with a losing record and 3-6 in conference play. However, the offense was pretty good when Dillon Gabriel was healthy. He returns, and even though I have no idea who will step up in their receiving room and take over the #1 position left by Marvin Mims, the offense will be fine with OC Jeff Lebby. The offensive line also lost a few starters, but I see them being set at the tackle position with Tyler Guyton at Right Tackle and the Stanford transfer Walter Rouse at Left Tackle. Defense is the unit that needs to improve if the Sooners want to finish in the top of the Big 12. With the amount of talent Oklahoma has returning, the transfers they acquired in the portal, and Venables defensive mind… I trust there will be a jump. Overall, I project the Sooners to finish in the top quarter of the division, but making the Big 12 championship? I don’t know if I am buying it. The easy schedule gets them to 9 wins.
21. TCU Horned Frogs
Projected Record: 8-4
Sonny Dykes returns for season number two after a dream season where TCU beat Michigan in the Fiesta Bowl and nothing else happened after that. While the Horned Frogs did lose quite a few players to the NFL draft, they lessened the impact with transfers. Chandler Morris will also be starting at QB after winning the QB battle for the second year in a row (Max Duggan took over due to injury). I’m still not in love with the running back room with Emani Bailey at starter and Trey Sanders taking 2nd team reps. But the receiver room is deep/intriguing with transfers John Paul-Richardson, Jojo Earle Jack Bech, Jaylon Robinson, and Dylan Wright. Savion Williams also returns to this receiving room. Damonic Williams is the star at the defensive line at nose tackle, but as for the other defensive line starters?? Huge concern. The strength of this TCU defense will be on the back end with solid starting corners Josh Newton and Avery Helm and returning safeties Bud Clark and Mark Perry. Overall, I expect more of a regression to the mean with a solid 8-4 season.
22. North Carolina Tar Heels
Projected Record: 8-4
North Carolina can be summed up as having a very good offense (would be better if Tez Walker received a transfer clearance) and below average defense. However, the defense should improve with everyone in the front seven that played 200 snaps being back. Drake Maye can carry this team to eight wins.
23. Ole Miss Rebels
Projected Record: 8-4
I could go in depth on every transfer Lane Kiffin took and every single one that left. But I know for a fact you would not sit here and read all that. So we will keep it simple: I like Jaxson Dart and I trust the direction of this offense with Quinshon Judkins at running back. But the defense is a total question mark with transfers all over the place (watch out for Five-Star freshman LB Suntarine Perkins though). Just like Lane, the defense makes this team a total wildcard. I’m going on the positive side with an 8-4 prediction, which tracks with history as Lane Kiffin hasn’t won less than 8 games in a full season during his time with the Rebels.
24. Oregon State Beavers
Projected Record: 8-4
What an incredible job Johnathan Smith has done turning around this Oregon State program. The question going into 2023 is their quarterback situation. Will DJ Uiagalelei play to his recruiting ranking or like he did in his last season at Clemson? While Oregon State is confident in their wide receivers, I’m a little hesitant. This is all sounding negative, but I expect Oregon State to be really good again because of their offensive line and defense. However, there is a dam on how high the Beavers can climb.
25. Kentucky Wildcats
Projected Record: 7-5
Last year’s offense was absolutely atrocious. This is a new season though where there is a lot to believe in offensively: Liam Cohen coming back at OC, Devin Leary coming in at QB, RB Ray Davis transferring from Vandy, a dangerous, young receiving tandem, and a retooled offensive line with a legit LT in Marques Cox. Defensively the Cats were fantastic last year, but expect a step back. Especially with the corners being transfer dependent (JQ Hardaway and Jantzen Dunn). The offensive improvement will be enough to get this team to 7 wins.
Wins: San Jose State, Nevada, Stanford, Arizona State, Colorado, Arizona, Utah, Cal, Washington, UCLA, Washington (Pac-12 Championship)
Losses: Notre Dame, Oregon
There is no secret USC is led by their offense. It will even be better in 2023 with Caleb Williams getting South Carolina’s top running back, Marshawn Lloyd, and Arizona’s top wide receiver, Dorian Singer. The defense remains the question. It should be slightly improved after continuing to add via the transfer portal with potential breakout defensive linemen Bear Alexander and Anthony Lucas. This is a team with College Football Playoff potential because of their offense, but it all will be determined how much their defense holds them back.
Overall, Washington finished 11-2 last year and had a top 15 offense. Expect them to be really good again with all three talented wide receivers back, two very good offensive tackles, and a solid quarterback – Michael Penix Jr. Defensively, I expect them to also be a strong unit after bringing back their entire defensive line and adding Oklahoma State transfer corner Jabbar Muhammad. This is a dark horse candidate to win the entire Pac-12.
Utah is a tough team that is led by their players on the line of scrimmage. While they don’t have the playmakers at the skill position of a Oregon or USC, the Utes have a solid overall team and one of the best home-field advantages in college football. Add in a good veteran quarterback with Cam Rising… they will have another solid year.
4. Oregon Ducks
Projected Record: 10-2
Wins: Portland State, Texas Tech, Hawaii, Colorado, Stanford, Washington State, Cal, USC, Arizona State, Oregon State
Losses: Washington, Utah
I really like Oregon’s skill guys and Bo Nix is a very good Pac-12 quarterback. Losing four starting offensive lineman hurts though. The Ducks are also faced with improving their secondary which wasn’t very good last year. But it just might happen with the transfers the Ducks brought in. Oregon will be a tough out for many in the Pac-12.
5. Oregon State Beavers
Projected Record: 8-4
Wins: San Jose State, UC Davis, San Diego State, Cal, UCLA, Colorado, Stanford, Washington
Losses: Washington State, Utah, Arizona, Oregon
What an incredible job Johnathan Smith has done turning around this Oregon State program. The question going into 2023 is their quarterback situation. Will DJ Uiagalelei play to his recruiting ranking or like he did in his last season at Clemson? While Oregon State is confident in their wide receivers, I’m a little hesitant. This is all sounding negative, but I expect Oregon State to be really good again because of their offensive line and defense. However, there is a dam on how high the Beavers can climb.
6. UCLA Bruins
Projected Record: 7-5
Wins: Coastal Carolina, San Diego State, North Carolina Central, Washington State, Colorado, Arizona State, Cal
UCLA will have a high floor quarterback whether that be Moore, Garbers, or Schlee. The skill position players should be solid also. But offensive line? Total wildcard after all of the transfers they took in. Add in a poor defense from last year and there is some room for pessimism. But with plenty of returning starters expect a slight improvement. UCLA is a team that is just slightly below the upper tier of the Pac-12.
7. California Golden Bears
Projected Record: 7-5
Wins: North Texas, Idaho, Arizona State, Oregon State, Washington State, Stanford
Cal was a 4-8 team last year that returns a ton of experience. However, both the defense and offense were both below average units. TCU transfer Sam Jackson will start and he offers some explosiveness this offense is missing. They also have a few transfers on both side of the ball that will help improve the team including Florida linebacker David Reese and San Diego State transfer cornerback Patrick McMorris. This could be a sneaky alright team in 2023 if their transfers hit and their returning starters take a step forward.
Losses: Wisconsin, UCLA, Oregon, Arizona State, Cal, Washington
Washington State is a team who was led by their defense all last year. After losing key starting linebackers, I’m expecting a step back. Quarterback Cam Ward also needs to play better and they have a new offensive coordinator that will help him. I like this team’s defensive line, but outside of that the other position groups are underwhelming. A bowl game would be a good finish for Jake Dickert’s squad.
9. Arizona Wildcats
Projected Record: 5-7
Wins: Northern Arizona, UTEP, Stanford, Oregon State, Arizona State
Losses: Mississippi State, Washington, USC, Washington State, UCLA, Colorado, Utah
Even after losing one of Arizona’s best offensive weapons in Dorian Singer, this offense should be good again. Jayden De Lauria is a talented quarterback, but will have to focus on limiting turnovers. He will have three talented wide receivers (Jacob Cowing, Tetairoa McMillan, and Montana Lemonious-Craig) to assist reaching his potential. Star left tackle Jordan Morgan helps too. But the defense was disgustingly bad last year and after losing their top defensive linemen to graduation and the transfer portal… I wouldn’t expect a huge improvement. Making a bowl game would be a good season for them.
The Buffaloes’ offense should be good even with a below average offensive line. Shadeur Sanders is a solid quarterback and Deion Sanders brought in standout skill transfers including wide receivers Xavier Weaver and Jimmy Horn Jr. from USF, Travis Hunter, and running backs Alton McCaskill from Houston and Kavosiey Smoke from Kentucky. Defense is another story, where Colorado took 13 defensive line transfers, 4 linebacker transfers and 11 defensive back transfers. There are some standouts on the defense who could breakout like: Travis Hunter and freshman Cormani McClain at cornerback, former five star linebacker Savell Smalls from Washington, defensive linemen Shane Coaks from Dartmouth, Derrick McClendon from Florida State, and Leonard Payne from Fresno State, and finally linebackers Demouy Kennedy and Vonta Bentley from Alabama and Clemson. But overall, the defensive talent and depth isn’t up to par right now. Making a bowl game would be phenomenal in Deion Sanders’ first season.
11. Arizona State Sun Devils
Projected Record: 3-9
Wins: Southern Utah, Fresno State, Washington State
The college football media made a huge uproar on how much Colorado is using the portal… Arizona State is the second highest transfer portal team with over 50 new scholarship players. The Sun Devils had one of the worst defenses last year and the defense this year will be pieced together by transfers. Arizona State is a rebuilding team with a few nice skill position pieces, but this is going to be a multi-year rebuild. Especially since they are starting a true freshman, Jaden Rashada, at quarterback.
Overall, I really like new coach Troy Taylor as he wins everywhere he goes and brings an exciting offense. But with only five returning starters and the football program not able to fully utilize the transfer portal, Stanford is one of the worst power five teams out there.
Thank God It's Saturday 