ACC Championship: Clemson over Florida State

1. Clemson Tigers

Projected Record: 11-2

Wins: Duke, Charleston Southern, Florida Atlantic, Florida State, Syracuse, Wake Forest, NC State, Notre Dame, Georgia Tech, South Carolina, Florida State (ACC Championship)

Losses: Miami, North Carolina

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.

2. Florida State Seminoles

Projected Record: 9-4

Wins: Southern Miss, Boston College, Virginia Tech, Syracuse, Duke, Wake Forest, Miami, North Alabama, Florida

Losses: LSU, Clemson, Pittsburgh, Clemson (ACC Championship)

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.

3. North Carolina Tar Heels

Projected Record: 8-4

Wins: Appalachian State, Minnesota, Syracuse, Virginia, Georgia Tech, Campbell, Duke, Clemson

Losses: South Carolina, Pittsburgh, Miami, NC State

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.

4. Miami Hurricanes

Projected Record: 8-4

Wins: Miami (Ohio), Bethune-Cookman, Temple, Georgia Tech, North Carolina, Clemson, Virginia, Louisville

Losses: Texas A&M, NC State, Florida State, Boston College

Miami will make a massive improvement mostly because they finally have some dudes on the offensive line (Matt Lee – UCF, Javion Cohen – Alabama, Francis Mauigoa – FIve Star Freshman). With Tyler Van Dyke improving after a rocky sophomore season and the defensive transfer additions, this team is going to go at least bowling.

5. Pittsburgh Panthers

Projected Record: 8-4

Wins: Wofford, Cincinnati, West Virginia, North Carolina, Virginia Tech, Louisville, Florida State, Boston College

Losses: Wake Forrest, Notre Dame, Syracuse, Duke

Expect your classic hard-nosed Pitt team. But also with some improvement since Phil Jurkovic takes over for Kedon Slovis at quarterback. Pitt will be a tough out in the ACC.

6. NC State Wolfpack

Projected Record: 8-4

Wins: UConn, Notre Dame, VMI, Virginia, Louisville, Marshall, Miami, North Carolina

Losses: Duke, Clemson, Wake Forest, Virginia Tech

Brennan Armstrong comes in to take over at quarterback with his former offensive coordinator Robert Anai. I also really like the defense as they have one of the best corner tandems in the nation. The Wolfpack need to figure out something at WR, but overall expect a solid season.

7. Louisville Cardinals

Projected Record: 7-5

Wins: Georgia Tech, Murray State, Indiana, Boston College, Duke, Virginia Tech, Virginia

Losses: NC State, Notre Dame, Pittsburgh, Miami, Kentucky

It is year one back at his alma matter for coach Brohm. He will get this offense going right a way. If the defense can also get rolling, and with their very easy ACC schedule… this team could have a decent amount of wins.

8. Wake Forest Demon Deacons

Projected Record: 7-5

Wins: Elon, Old Dominion, Georgia Tech, Virginia Tech, Pittsburgh, NC State, Syracuse

Losses: Vanderbilt, Clemson, Florida State, Duke, Notre Dame

Wake Forrest loses Sam Hartman, which is a huge loss, but I just expect Wake Forest to continue to make bowls especially in a weak ACC. The loss of wide receiver Donovan Greene does hurt quite a bit.

9. Duke Blue Devils

Projected Record: 7-5

Wins: Lafayette, Northwestern, UConn, NC State, Wake Forrest, Virginia, Pittsburgh

Losses: Clemson, Notre Dame, Florida State, Louisville, North Carolina

There is a lot to like about this Duke team especially with Riley Leonard and all of their receivers back. The Blue Devils will actually be better than they were last year… but their schedule is brutal. It will be tough for them to make a bowl, but I trust coach Mike Elko.

10. Syracuse Orange

Projected Record: 6-6

Wins: Colgate, Western Michigan, Army, Boston College, Pittsburgh, Georgia Tech

Losses: Purdue, Clemson, North Carolina, Florida State, Virginia Tech, Wake Forest

Syracuse lost some really good transfers to some major programs and also some key offensive linemen to the draft. But with Garrett Shrader back, they’ll be good enough to make a bowl game.

11. Boston College Eagles

Projected Record: 6-6

Wins: Northern Illinois, Holy Cross, Virginia, Army, UConn, Miami

Losses: Florida State, Louisville, Georgia Tech, Syracuse, Virginia Tech, Pittsburgh

Boston College was starting defensive players at offensive line last season after suffering several injuries. Expect the offense and defense to be improved and this team to fight for a bowl game.

12. Virginia Tech Hokies

Projected Record: 5-7

Wins: Old Dominion, Marshall, Syracuse, NC State, Virginia

Losses: Purdue, Rutgers, Pittsburgh, Florida State, Wake Forrest, Louisville, Boston College

The transfer quarterback could not beat incumbent starter Grant Wells. That is not a good sign. Overall, expect the Hokies to be led by their defense in a struggle for a bowl game.

13. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets

Projected Record: 4-8

Wins: South Carolina State, Bowling Green, Boston College, Virginia

Losses: Louisville, Ole Miss, Wake Forrest, Miami, North Carolina, Clemson, Syracuse, Georgia

Haynes King takes over as the starting quarterback after transfering from A&M. While the offensive line is experienced and the receiver room should be improved, defensively they lost too much. With a tough schedule it will be tough for the Yellow Jackets to make a bowl game.

14. Virginia Cavaliers

Projected Record: 2-10

Wins: James Madison, William & Mary

Losses: Tennessee, Maryland, NC State, Boston College, North Carolina, Miami, Georgia Tech, Louisville, Duke, Virginia Tech

This team is really bad and Tony Elliott’s offense offers no upside.

TEAM THAT PLAYS AN ACC SCHEDULE BUT REFUSES TO JOIN THE CONFERENCE

Notre Dame Fighting Irish

Projected Record: 9-3

Wins: Navy, Tennessee State, Central Michigan, Duke, Louisville, USC, Pittsburgh, Wake Forrest, Stanford

Losses: NC State, Ohio State, Clemson

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.

SEC Championship: Georgia over Alabama

SEC East

1. Georgia Bulldogs

Projected Record: 13-0

Wins: UT Martin, Ball State, South Carolina, UAB, Auburn, Kentucky, Vanderbilt, Florida, Mizzou, Ole Miss, Tennessee, Georgia Tech, Alabama (SEC Championship)

Losses: None

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. Tennessee Volunteers

Projected Record: 10-2

Wins: Virginia, Austin Peay, Florida, UTSA, South Carolina, Texas A&M, Kentucky, UConn, Missouri, Vanderbilt

Losses: Alabama, Georgia

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.

3. Kentucky Wildcats

Projected Record: 7-5

Wins: Ball State, Eastern Kentucky, Akron, Vanderbilt, Florida, South Carolina, Louisville

Losses: Georgia, Missouri, Tennessee, Mississippi State, Alabama

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.

4. Florida Gators

Projected Record: 6-6

Wins: McNeese State, Charlotte, Vanderbilt, Arkansas, LSU, Missouri

Losses: Utah, Tennessee, Kentucky, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida State

It is year 2 of Billy Napier and I have zero faith in the offensive passing with their current wide receiving group and Wisconsin transfer Graham Mertz. This will be a run heavy offense as their three running backs are actually pretty good (Montrell Johnson Jr, Trevor Etienne, and Cam Carroll). The defense is another story where they are excellent on all three levels. Especially on the defensive line where the Gators return Princely Umanmielen and hit on transfers Caleb Banks (Louisville) and CamRon Jackson (Memphis). I have confidence the defense leads this team to a bowl game. Bet the over 5.5 wins.

5. South Carolina Gamecocks

Projected Record: 6-6

Wins: North Carolina, Furman, Mississippi State, Florida, Jacksonville State, Vanderbilt

Losses: Georgia, Tennessee, Missouri, Texas A&M, Kentucky, Clemson

If you look at this team from a 30-foot view, things don’t seem bad at all. (1) Shane Beamer is on season three coming off two seasons in a row of winning 7 or more games. (2) Quarterback Spencer Rattler and star WR Juice Wells are coming back for a final year. (3) South Carolina has had back to back top 25 recruiting classes. But when you really dive in… I’m worried. The offensive line is heavily inexperienced and the defense lost some of their best players to the NFL draft and the transfer portal. This includes six of their top eight snap count players in 2022. Overall, expect a little step back especially with a difficult schedule.

6. Missouri Tigers

Projected Record: 6-6

Wins: South Dakota, Middle Tennessee, Kansas State, Memphis, Kentucky, South Carolina

Losses: Vanderbilt, LSU, Georgia, Tennessee, Florida, Arkansas

With Mizzou, I actually believe in the defense, It is the offense I have an issue with when you consider QB Brady Cook is still starting and their offensive line is no better than OK (even after stealing 40% of Houston’s OL starters) I’ll say one nice thing about the Tigers offense: they have a very good, underrated receiving group. But this is an average team who won’t score very many points and play low scoring games. THEY ARE MID.

7. Vanderbilt Commodores

Projected Record: 5-7

Wins: Hawaii, Alabama A&M, Wake Forest, UNLV, Missouri

Losses: Kentucky, Florida, Georgia, Ole Miss, Auburn, South Carolina, Tennessee

In the last few years, the Vanderbilt preview was straight doom and gloom. I actually think Vandy is competent this year and starting to build off their improved recruiting. AJ Swann at quarterback isn’t terrible and the offensive line returns almost everyone. Defense won’t be great, but they’ll be feisty. Things are looking up around Vandy…. but they’ll still finish last in the SEC East.

SEC West

1. Alabama Crimson Tide

Projected Record: 11-2

Wins: Utah State, Texas, Louisiana-Monroe, Vanderbilt, Arkansas, Texas A&M, Tennessee, Mississippi State, LSU, Ole Miss, Austin Peay, Auburn, Georgia (SEC Championship)

Losses: Texas A&M, Georgia (SEC Championship)

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.

2. LSU Tigers

Projected Record: 10-2

Wins: Florida State, Grambling State, Mississippi State, Arkansas, Ole Miss, Missouri, Auburn, Army, Georgia State, Texas A&M

Losses: Alabama, Florida

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.

3. Texas A&M Aggies

Projected Record: 9-3

Wins: New Mexico, Miami, Loisiana-Monroe, Auburn, Arkansas, Alabama, South Carolina, Mississippi State

Losses: Tennessee, Ole Miss, LSU

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.

4. Ole Miss Rebels

Projected Record: 8-4

Wins: Mercer, Tulane, Georgia Tech, Arkansas, Auburn, Vanderbilt, Texas A&M, Louisiana Monroe

Losses: Alabama, LSU, Georgia, Mississippi State

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.

5. Auburn Tigers

Projected Record: 7-5

Wins: UMass, Cal, Samford, Mississippi State, Vanderbilt, Arkansas, New Mexico State

Losses: Texas A&M, Georgia, LSU, Ole Miss, Alabama

Auburn and Hugh Freeze announced mediocre starter Payton Thorne will start, but they did revamp their entire offensive line and receiving group with transfers. On defense, they need someone to step up at edge rusher. However, Auburn keeps the strength of the defense by returning almost the entire secondary. This could be a sneaky good Auburn team in Hugh Freeze’s first season.

6. Mississippi State Bulldogs

Projected Record: 6-6

Wins: Southeast Louisiana, Arizona, Western Michigan, Kentucky, Southern Miss, Ole Miss

Losses: LSU, South Carolina, Alabama, Arkansas, Auburn, Texas A&M

Will Rogers returns for another season as the SEC’s all-time completions leader. This will be a very different offense going from Mike Leach’s air raid to new offensive coordinator Kevin Barbay’s run-heavy offense coming from Appalachian State. The offense will go behind the Bulldog offensive line that returns every starter from last year. Look for leading rusher Jo’Quavious Marks and Penn State transfer Keyvone Lee to be the key running backs. The receiver room is OK with a few returning starters and Freddie Roberson who had 792 receiving yards at Eastern Washington last year.

Defensively, they have to replace their three starting safeties and NFL first round pick and Emmanuel Forbes. Decamerion Richardson will lead the secondary as a starting corner in this 3-3-5 defense. Jett Johnson and Nathaniel Watson returning at linebacker certainly helps with each player having over 100 tackles last year. The defensive line has two solid starters with Nathan Pickering and Jaden Crumedy, but they will need someone else to step up.

It is going to be an interesting year for first time head coach Zach Arnett. With all of the departures in the secondary it will be tough for them to compete at the top of the SEC West. However, this is a veteran team that will be a tough out in the middle of the SEC.

7. Arkansas Razorbacks

Projected Record: 6-6

Wins: Western Carolina, Kent State, BYU, Mississippi State, FIU, Mizzou

Losses: LSU, Texas A&M, Ole Miss, Alabama, Florida, Auburn

Yes, I like QB KJ Jefferson and RB Rocket Sanders, but I have no idea what the Razorbacks are going to get from the wide receiver transfers they took from FCS and D2 schools. The defense is surprisingly still pretty good as they are really deep at defensive line and are decent in the secondary with Dwight McGothern leading the charge. I know I have them last in the SEC West… but someone has to be last. Arkansas is a quality team that is in the same tier as Mississippi State and Auburn.

Big 12 Championship: Texas over Kansas State

1. Texas Longhorns

Projected Record: 11-2

Wins: Rice, Wyoming, Baylor, Kansas, Oklahoma, Houston, BYU, TCU, Iowa State, Texas Tech, Kansas State (Big 12 Championship)

Losses: Alabama, Kansas State

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.

2. Kansas State Wildcats

Projected Record: 9-4

Wins: Southeast Missouri, Troy, UCF, Oklahoma State, TCU, Houston, Texas, Baylor, Iowa State

Losses: Missouri, Texas Tech, Kansas, Texas (Big 12 CHampionship)

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.

3. Oklahoma Sooners

Projected Record: 9-3

Wins: Arkansas State, SMU, Tulsa, Cincinnati, Iowa State, UCF, Kansas, West Virginia, TCU

Losses: Texas, Oklahoma State, BYU

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.

4. TCU Horned Frogs

Projected Record: 8-4

Wins: Colorado, Nicholls State, Houston, SMU, West Virginia, BYU, Texas Tech, Baylor

Losses: Iowa State, Kansas State, Texas, Oklahoma

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.

5. Kansas Jayhawks

Projected Record: 7-5

Wins: Missouri State, Nevada, BYU, UCF, Texas Tech, Kansas State, Cincinnati

Losses: Illinois, Texas, Oklahoma State, Oklahoma, Iowa State

Call me a Lance Leipold believer after turning Kansas into a bowl team for the first time since Mark Mangino was the coach in 2008. As for 2023, the offense is a really solid unit that brings just about everyone back including star quarterback Jalon Daniels. It is the questionable defense holding them back after finishing in the bottom twenty in the nation last year. The Jayhawks took a bunch of transfers on the defensive line with the hopes of improvement, while they return the entire secondary. This team takes another step as long as the defense play is even just average.

6. Texas Tech Red Raiders

Projected Record: 7-5

Wins: Wyoming, Tarleton State, West Virginia, Houston, Baylor, Kansas State, UCF

Losses: Oregon, BYU, TCU, Kansas, Texas

Texas Tech enters year two of the Joey McGuire era as the nation’s pick to be the “Dark Horse in the Big 12”. While I am on board with McGuire’s recruiting and believe the Red Raiders have upside…. I’m not ready to project them to make the Big 12 championship. The offense is an experienced unit at quarterback with Tyler Shough (8-0 in games he was healthy in 2022) and also at receiver, especially Jerrand Bradley. The offensive line is the question mark to see if they improve after being highly inconsistent last year. Defensively, there are exciting players on the defensive line, especially with Syracuse transfer Steve Linton and 6’6 285 pound defensive lineman Myles Cole. Overall, this is a solid football team whose upside, if everything hits, is the Big 12 championship game.

7. Oklahoma State Cowboys

Projected Record: 7-5

Wins: Central Arkansas, Arizona State, South Alabama, Kansas, West Virginia, Cincinnati, BYU

Losses: Iowa State, Kansas State, Oklahoma, UCF, Houston

Oklahoma State had a mass exodus via the transfer portal. But the Cowboys still kept some of their best players and this is usually when Mike Gundy is at his best, as the underdog. The schedule also sets up extremely well. It is crazy to think about, but their starting quarterback is Alan Bowman who was starting games for Texas Tech from 2018-2020. His number one option will be returning leading receiver Brennan Presley. On defense, they transition to a 3-3-5 defense and believe they have a sleeper nose tackle with Utah Tech’s Justin Kirkland. But I still have questions in the secondary. Overall, Gundy will find a way to make a bowl game.

8. UCF Knights

Projected Record: 7-5

Wins: Kent State, Boise State, Villanova, Baylor, Cincinnati, Oklahoma State, Houston

Losses: Kansas State, Kansas, Oklahoma, West Virginia, Texas Tech

UCF is an intriguing new Big 12 team as their recruiting has taken a step up since joining the conference and the Knights already had decent talent on their roster. John Rhys Plumlee will lead the offense again with a solid duo of former Iron Bowl wide receivers Kobe Hudson and Javon Baker. The offensive line is also good enough to hold up in the Big 12. Along the same theme, the defensive line has some intriguing talent. It’s going to be the back seven that may not be up to Power 5 standards, but linebacker Rian Davis from Georgia should help. Overall, I see this as a team that will compete in the middle of the Big 12 in its first year.

9. BYU Cougars

Projected Record: 6-6

Wins: Sam Houston, Southern Utah, Cincinnati, Texas Tech, Iowa State

Losses: Arkansas, Kansas, TCU, Texas, West Virginia, Oklahoma State

BYU is a team I am higher on than others. The offense is sneaky good with transfers QB Kedon Slovis (Pitt) and running back Aidan Robbins (UNLV). The offensive line will be decent with the depth added in the transfer portal and returning starters including LT Kingsley Suatamala. While the defense will not be great, I project there will be improvement as they rely heavy on transfers (including players from new DC, Jay Hill, last coaching job Weber State). Playing in Provo isn’t easy and BYU is ready to play spoiler.

10. Baylor Bears

Projected Record: 5-7

Wins: Texas State, Long Island, Cincinnati, Houston, West Virginia

Losses: Utah, Texas, UCF, Texas Tech, Iowa State, Kansas State, TCU

Year 3 of head coach Dave Aranda and we absolutely nailed the prediction last year. The AP poll had this team as a 2022 preseason top 10 team and TGIS told you that was nuts (Baylor ended up finishing 6-7). Question number one is how much does QB Blake Shappen develop after beating out Mississippi State transfer Sawyer Robertson in camp? This team has a good running back with Oklahoma St. Dominic Richardson, but there are quite a bit of new starters up at the offensive line and an average receiving group. The offense is average! Defensively, the secondary is incredibly young after losing a few starters to Arkansas and there is a weakness on the defensive line as I do not see them being able to replace Siaka Ika. Sorry Waco… I’m not in love with this Baylor team.

11. Iowa State Cyclones

Projected Record: 5-7

Wins: Northern Iowa, Ohio, TCU, Baylor, Kansas

Losses: Iowa, Oklahoma State, Oklahoma, Cincinnati, BYU, Texas, Kansas State

It turns out both me and the Iowa State players were betting on games last year. Iowa State already announced a few suspensions of players for gambling, including (now former) starting quarterback Hunter Dekkers. Expect more players suspended as we get closer to their first game. I still expect Matt Campbell’s underdog Cyclone team to pull out some surprising wins.

12. West Virginia Mountaineers

Projected Record: 4-8

Wins: Duquesne, UCF, BYU, Cincinnati

Losses: Penn State, Pittsburgh, Texas Tech, TCU, Houston, Oklahoma State, Oklahoma, Baylor

This is it. This will be head coach Neal Brown’s last season. Other than the five starters returning on the offensive line and Devin Carter as the top wide receiver, the offense is filled with below average starters. Defensively, the Mountaineers lost a large number of players and must rely heavily on transfers, especially in the secondary. This is a bottom of the conference team where the rebuilding seems to be never ending.

13. Cincinnati Bearcats

Projected Record: 4-8

Wins: Eastern Kentucky, Miami (Ohio), Iowa State, Houston

Losses: Pittsburgh, Oklahoma, BYU, Baylor, Oklahoma State, UCF, West Virginia, Kansas

The Cincinnati offensive line is going to be highly questionable following all the departures. Add in a shaky starter in Emory Jones and a new receiving group… this won’t be one of the top units in the Big 12. The defense will also take a step back after losing some key guys including Ivan Pace, although they still have his brother Deshawn at nickel. The corner transfer from Florida, Jordan Young, made an immediate impact this spring and will be CB1. This defensive unit is unpredictable as they are transfer-reliant. Below average offense and average defense projects to a rough start for the Bearcats in the new Big 12.

14. Houston Cougars

Projected Record: 4-8

Wins: UTSA, Rice, Sam Houston, West Virginia

Losses: TCU, Texas Tech, Texas, Kansas State, Baylor, Cincinnati, Oklahoma State, UCF

Texas Tech former starting quarterback Donovan Smith steps in after showing promise with tools, but not production. The offense suffered huge hits in the portal after losing several offensive line projected starters and their playmaker RB Alton McCaskill, I don’t see Houston having a scary offense anymore. Defense is also a wildcard as they are transfer-led. This might be a rough first year for the Cougars as they enter Big 12 play.

Big Ten Championship: Penn State over Iowa

Big Ten East

1. Penn State Nittany Lions

Projected Record: 12-1

Wins: West Virginia, Delaware, Illinois, Iowa, Northwestern, UMass, Ohio State, Indiana, Maryland, Rutgers, Michigan State, Iowa (Big Ten Championship)

Losses: Michigan

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.

2. Ohio State Buckeyes

Projected Record: 10-2

Wins: Indiana, Youngstown State, Western Kentucky, Notre Dame, Maryland, Purdue, Rutgers, Michigan State, Minnesota, Michigan

Losses: Penn State, Wisconsin

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.

3. Michigan Wolverines

Projected Record: 10-2

Wins: East Carolina, UNLV, Bowling Green, Rutgers, Nebraska, Minnesota, Indiana, Michigan State, Purdue, Penn State

Losses: Maryland, Ohio State

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. Maryland Terrapins

Projected Record: 7-5

Wins: Towson, Charlotte, Virginia, Michigan State, Indiana, Northwestern, Michigan, Rutgers

Losses: Ohio State, Illinois, Penn State, Nebraska

Mike Locksley has really turned Maryland from a doormat in the Big Ten to a legitimate team. This season the offensive and defensive line are questionable. But outside of that, the Terps are talented with Taulia Tagovailoa at quarterback and several young upcoming stars on the defensive side. Maryland is not a team that you will look forward to play.

5. Michigan State Spartans

Projected Record: 6-6

Wins: Central Michigan, Richmond, Maryland, Rutgers, Nebraska, Indiana

Losses: Washington, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio State, Penn State

The Spartans were over ranked going into last year (TGIS called it). But look for them to bounce back and make a bowl game. Replacing Payton Thorne isn’t a monumental challenge, but replacing receivers Jayden Reed and Keon Coleman will be near impossible. Still with a group that returned almost their entire offensive line and getting back healthy on defense will do wonders. Especially with the transfers Michigan State added like TexasA&M’s Tunmise Adeleye. Overall, Sparty should be bowl bound.

6. Rutgers Scarlet Knights

Projected Record: 5-7

Wins: Northwestern, Temple, Virginia Tech, Wagner, Indiana

Losses: Michigan, Wisconsin, Michigan State, Ohio State, Iowa, Penn State, Maryland

The offense was terrible last year and there is a real question on whether quarterback Gavin Wimsatt can play at this level. But the defense is sneaky good. It is just whether Rutgers can improve from “eyes-bleeding” bad offense to just “makes you a little sick” offense. Don’t think Rutgers makes a bowl… the Scarlett Knights will be home for Christmas.

7. Indiana Hoosiers

Projected Record: 2-10

Wins: Indiana State, Akron

Losses: Ohio State, Louisville, Maryland, Michigan, Rutgers, Penn State, Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan State, Purdue

I’m not going to waste your time…. Indiana is a bad football going into 2023. Keep it moving with the rest of the Big Ten preview.

Big Ten West

1. Iowa Hawkeyes

Projected Record: 10-3

Wins: Utah State, Iowa State, Western Michigan, Michigan State, Purdue, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Northwestern, Rutgers, Illinois

Losses: Penn State, Nebraska, Penn State (Big Ten Championship)

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.

2. Wisconsin Badgers

Projected Record: 10-2

Wins: Buffalo, Washington State, Georgia Southern, Purdue, Rutgers, Ohio State, Indiana, Northwestern, Nebraska, Minnesota

Losses: Iowa, Illinois

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.

3. Illinois Fighting Illini

Projected Record: 8-4

Wins: Toledo, Kansas, Florida Atlantic, Nebraska, Maryland, Wisconsin, Indiana, Northwestern

Losses: Penn State, Purdue, Minnesota, Iowa

Welcome to being a Big Ten West contender Illinois! Last year their defense was fantastic and now they return the entire front seven. The defensive line is up there with Ohio State and Michigan for top defensive lines. The unit is led by potential first round pick Johnny Newton. If Illinois wants to win the West they must improve on their offense which ranked 100th last year in the nation. Quarterback Luke Altmyer steps in after transferring from Ole Miss. Expect Illinois to have another solid season under Brett Bielema.

4. Nebraska Cornhuskers

Projected Record: 7-5

Wins: Colorado, Northern Illinois, Louisiana Tech, Northwestern, Purdue, Maryland, Iowa

Losses: Minnesota, Michigan, Illinois, Michigan State, Wisconsin

History says to bet on new head coach Matt Rhule in season 2 rather than season 1. History may be right as the team isn’t great up front on either side of the ball and the Cornhuskers will have to rely on inexperienced wide receivers. But with the top 6 of the 7 guys back in the secondary and experienced transfer QB Jeff Sims… I sense a little upside. Look for Nebraska to go bowling.

5. Purdue Boilermakers

Projected Record: 7-5

Wins: Fresno State, Virginia Tech, Syracuse, Illinois, Minnesota, Northwestern, Indiana

Losses: Wisconsin, Iowa, Ohio State, Nebraska, Michigan

New coach Ryan Walters brings his defensive mind to the Boilermakers, but he has some work to do relying mostly on transfers. The offense received a huge boost with transfer Texas QB Hudson Card. While the offensive line is sketchy also, Card can get them to 7 wins in the Big Ten West.

6. Minnesota Golden Gophers

Projected Record: 6-6

Wins: Nebraska, Eastern Michigan, Northwestern, Louisiana-Lafayette, Michigan State, Illinois

Losses: North Carolina, Michigan, Iowa, Purdue, Ohio State, Wisconsin

I just can’t trust this team in 2023. While the starting Quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis is nicknamed “The Greek Rifle”, his play has not lived up to the awesome name. Add in a regressing offensive line leads to a lack of faith in the Golden Gophers offense. This team will be led by their defense again, but there are questions on that side of the ball after losing three of their four top corners from last year. The boat most likely coasts this year rather than rowing with Minnesota not competing at the top of the Big Ten West.

7. Northwestern Wildcats

Projected Record: 2-10

Wins: UTEP, Howard

Losses: Rutgers, Duke, Minnesota, Penn State, Nebraska, Maryland, Iowa, Wisconsin, Purdue, Illinois

Yeah…. there is a lot going on with this program. The Wildcats are going to get bullied in the Big Ten this season.

What an absolutely ugly finish to the season we have had. We finished with a 2-8 record last week where everything went sideways… But we are moving on for Championship Week. LETS GET TO THE PICKS:

Top Picks of the Week

#11 Utah vs. #4 USC Over 65.5 – 7:00pm

The last game finished Utah 43-42. Both quarterbacks threw for over 380 yards and moved the ball with ease. Expect the same thing with both offenses putting up plenty of points. We’re taking the over.

#10 Kansas State vs. #3 TCU Over 60.5 – 11:00am

Another game where I expect to see plenty of points. Kansas State was averaging 12.5 yards per play against TCU before their starting quarterbacks went down. But that TCU offense also put it on, scoring 21 second half points. We are taking the over.

Coastal Carolina +9 at Troy – 2:30pm

I know Coastal lost to James Madison 47-7. But Coastal Carolina was resting players preparing for this game right here. They keep it close against Troy in the Sun Belt Championsip.

#22 UCF at #18 Tulane -2.5 – 3:00pm

This is me trusting Willie Fritz. Tulane will play tough defense against UCF. I know UCF beat Tulane a few weeks ago, but UCF has struggled against two bad teams since then (South Florida and Navy). Give me Tulane and laying the points.

#9 Clemson vs. #23 North Carolina +8 – 7:00pm

I trust Drake Maye to be able to keep it close with Clemson. Especially since the weakness of Clemson is their secondary. This one will be a close one.

Purdue vs. #2 Michigan -16.5 – 7:00pm

Remember Michigan against Iowa in the Big Ten Championship last year? Expect the same this year with Michigan treating it as a playoff warm up and blowing out Purdue.

By: Nick Radivoj

A sad tear drops from my eye as we look towards Championship weekend to close out what was an exciting regular season for College Football. Plenty of Top 10 upsets occurred throughout the year which is exactly why us fans watch the sport. It seems for the first time in a while there has been plenty of parody to look forward to in the College Football atmosphere and I can’t wait to do it all over again next College Football regular season. The final regular season week brought us an unfortunate wash as we end up going 5-5 bringing our season total to 69-59-2 (54%) on the year. We still have some great Championship matchups to look forward to so let’s not dwell on what’s gone but be happy with what’s still in front of us!

#11 Utah (9-3) at #4 USC (11-1)

When: 8 PM on 12/2

Line: USC -3

O/U: 67

An exciting rematch for the Pac 12 Championship as USC looks for redemption from a loss to Utah earlier in the season. I expect more of the same as the last time these 2 played with offensive explosion as USC won’t be able to stop Utah and USC will do what they’ve been doing all year on the offensive side of the ball. I expect this game to come down to the wire and maybe even the last second as this game will most likely determine if USC makes the College Football Playoff or not. Utah brings a certain type of toughness to Pac 12 football which USC isn’t as accustomed to but should still find their way on offense as this goes over the total as we start Championship weekend 1-0.

The Play: Over 67

#10 Kansas State (9-3) at #3 TCU )12-0)

When: 12 PM on 12/3

Line: TCU -2.5

O/U: 62

Another title game and another redemption story as Kansas State is looking to take down undefeated TCU. In their first contest, Kansas State was up 28-10 before allowing a 28-0 run to occur as TCU ended up winning 38-28 in that game. What the average fan may not know is that Kansas State was without their starting QB in this game after he helped them build up a 28-10 lead. After he went down the Wildcat offense turned stagnant and unable to move the ball like they had earlier in the game. I see Kansas State getting their redemption in this game health permitting. Kansas State has found explosion on offense as of late and bolster a tough defensive line which should make it hard for Max Duggan and company to make explosive plays over the course of the afternoon. Kansas State upsets TCU as they are left waiting to see if they will make it into the College Football Playoff.

The Play: Kansas State +2.5

#14 LSU (9-3) at #1 Georgia (12-0)

When: 4 PM on 12/3

Line: Georgia -17.5

O/U: 51

Georgia ends up winning this game and adding another SEC Championship trophy to their collection here as they have their eyes still set on the biggest prize of them all. They win this game but don’t end up covering as LSU will keep this one within 17. Several times throughout the 2022 campaign Georgia has looked rather lost on offense and LSU will be able to contain them for a good part of this game. Georgia will have their explosive plays with Brock Bowers but the key is to keep those explosive plays to a minimum. With a loss last weekend, LSU may have found themselves on the outside looking in on the College Football playoff but still have a lot to play for in Brian Kelly’s first year as HC of the LSU Tigers.

The Play: LSU +17.5

#22 UCF (9-3) at #18 Tulane (10-2)

When: 4 PM on 12/3

Line: Tulane -3.5

O/U: 56.5

Another title game and another rematch from the regular season. As we look back into the first matchup we see that UCF took down Tulane by a score of 38-31. That’s a total of 69 points here which would soar over the current over under which makes me think this total is something to stay away from as Oddsmakers seem to know something more than we currently do about this match up. Another thing I like it while preparing for rematch games is who won the first match up as it is incredibly difficult to beat a good team twice. UCF won the first matchup by 7 but also won the turnover battle recovering 2 of Tulane’s 3 fumbles. I expect Tulane to have a better grip on the ball and their offense here as I ride with the numbers and lay the points here with Tulane as they take home the AAC title.

The Play: Tulane -3.5

Purdue (8-4) at #2 Michigan (12-0)

When: 8 PM on 12/3

Line: Michigan -16.5

O/U: 51.5

Michigan comes into the Big 10 Championship game with their biggest win of the season taking down Ohio State on the road by 3 scores. Regardless of how this game turns out, Michigan has stamped their ticket into the College Football Playoff with their resume built throughout the season. I expect them to win this game comfortably and do what they have over a majority of the season and go under the total. Michigan’s defense will keep the Boilermakers in check and for Michigan’s offense to show less explosion than they did against Ohio State. Michigan will sail close to 30 points and unless this is a nail biter late we will be standing with an under ticket in our hand with no signs of sweating.

The Play: Under 51.5

#9 Clemson (10-2) at#23 North Carolina (9-3)

When: 8 PM on 12/3

Line: Clemson -7.5

O/U: 63.5

As I look at this game I think of the Wake Forest game against Clemson earlier in the season. Wake was able to stretch Clemson’s defense deep either creating explosive plays or drawing pass interference penalties to create scoring opportunities. I expect this game to look similar to that one as North Carolina QB Drake Maye will be able to pick on Clemson’s secondary as opposed to running into a brick wall being Clemson’s defensive line. Meanwhile, Clemson’s offense should have a field day of their own as North Carolina brings to table one of the worst defenses in the ACC. Unfortunately, Clemson will be on the outside looking in of the playoffs this year as they were upset by South Carolina last week but will still have a lot to play for to add another ACC Championship trophy to their mantle.