College Football Awards, Week 4 (2025) September 22, 2025
Posted by intellectualgridiron in Sports.Tags: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Army, Auburn, Bret Bielema, Clemson, college football, Curt Cignetti, Dabo Swinney, Florida State, Georgia, Hugh Freeze, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa State, Kent State, Kentucky, Kyle Whittingham, Lincoln Riley, Louisville, LSU, Maryland, Memphis, Miami (OH), Michigan, Mike Locksley, Navy, NCAA, Nebraska, North Texas, Northwestern, Notre Dame, Ohio State, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Ole Miss, Oregon, Oregon State, Penn State, Pittsburgh, Red Raiders, Rice, Ryan Silverfield, Sam Pittman, South Carolina, Steve Angeli, Syracuse, Texas Tech, Tulsa, UCLA, USC, Utah, Utes, Wisconsin
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COACHES
Wish I were him: Curt Cignetti, Indiana
Glad I’m not him: Hugh Freeze, Auburn
Lucky guy: Ryan Silverfield, Memphis
Poor guy: Sam Pittman, Arkansas
Desperately seeking a wake-up call: Kyle Whittingham, Utah
Desperately seeking a P.R. man: Mike Locksley, Maryland
Desperately seeking sunglasses and a fake beard: Bret Bielema, Illinois
Desperately seeking … anything: Dabo Swinney, Clemson
TEAMS
Thought you’d kick butt, you did: Florida State (defeated Kent State 66-10)
Thought you’d kick butt, you didn’t: North Texas (defeated Army 45-38)
Thought you’d get your butt kicked, you did: Oregon State (lost to No. 6 Oregon 41-7)
Thought you’d get your butt kicked, you didn’t: Army (lost to North Texas 45-38)
Thought you wouldn’t kick butt, you did: Indiana (defeated No. 9 Illinois 63-10)
Dang, they’re good: Oklahoma
Dang, they’re bad: Oklahoma State
Can’t Stand Prosperity: Illinois
Did the season start? Utah
Can the season end? Clemson
Can the season never end? Indiana
GAMES
Play this again: No. 11 Oklahoma 24, No. 22 Auburn 17
Play this again, too: No. 21 Michigan 30, Nebraska 27
Never play this again: No. 7 Florida State 63, Kent State 10
What? Maryland 27, Wisconsin 10
Huh? Memphis 32, Arkansas 31
Are you kidding me?? Tulsa 19, Oklahoma State 12
Oh – my – God: No. 19 Indiana 63, No. 9 Illinois 10
NEXT WEEK
rankings are current AP (week 5)
Ticket to die for: No. 6 Oregon @ No. 2 Penn State
Hon. mention: No. 4 LSU @ No. 13 Ole Miss
Best non-Power Four vs. Power Four matchup: N/A
Best non-Power Four matchup: Rice @ Navy
Upset alert: Arizona @ No. 12 Iowa State
Must win: Auburn @ No. 9 Texas A&M
Offensive explosion: (inconclusive)
Defensive struggle: Kentucky @ South Carolina
Great game no one is talking about: Louisville @ Pittsburgh
Intriguing coaching matchup: Bret Bielema of Illinois vs Lincoln Riley of USC
Who’s bringing the body bags? South Alabama @ North Texas
Why are they playing? UMass @ No. 23 Missouri
Plenty of good seats remaining: UCLA @ Northwestern
They Shoot Horses, Don’t They? Lindenwood @ Miami (OH)
Week 4 Thoughts:
The Texas Tech-Utah game reminded us fans that one can have a defensive struggle for a game, and still enjoy an exciting contest. That being said, the aforementioned defensive struggle lasted for three of the four quarters of the game. Then in the 4th quarter, things finally clicked offensively for the Red Raiders, they opened up the game, and the Utes had no answer, hence the lopsided score in the end.
A random observation: since the Utes elected to wear white helmets at home, how come Texas Tech could not wear their signature black helmets to further, and properly, differentiate themselves on the field? Furthermore, do not get me started on the irony of how I predicted this game to be an offensive explosion, only for it to materialize as a defensive struggle instead…for three quarters, at least.
That said, the best game of the week was definitely the showdown in Norman, Okla., between the Sooners and visiting Auburn. Both teams had good talent; both fought hard throughout the game. Underdog Auburn was certainly, and commendably, game for the fight, but in the end, did not quite have enough offense to overcome the favored home team. But what a game. This win should put the rest of the western half of the SEC on notice that the Sooners are not to be taken lightly.
Meanwhile, what was the “ticket to die for” on paper was at…Indiana University? That’s right. No. 9 Illinois came calling to play at No. 19 Indiana, on an NBC night game, no less. In what was perhaps the most electric atmosphere ever in Bloomington, Ind., the Hoosiers threw down the gauntlet early when drawing first blood at 9:35 in the 1st quarter, off a blocked punt, no less. While Illinois seemed to answer the challenge with their own score only 1:01 later, that answer proved anemic, as the Hoosiers then ripped off eight unanswered scores in what amounted to one of the biggest blowouts of the week. All the Illini could muster within IU’s eight-score stretch was a sad field goal right before halftime. Not exactly the expected performance of a No. 9-ranked team: concurrently, can we acknowledge the possibility that this year’s IU squad is even better than last year’s surprise playoff team?
Random Thoughts:
Syracuse triumphed over Clemson, in [the other] Death Valley, 34-21. A couple of weeks ago, this would be considered a massive upset. But going into this game, the Orange was 2-1, while the Tigers were unranked at 1-2. Given that context, is the Orange’s win even an upset? Not to put a bad spin on Syracuse’s big win, but it came at the cost of an injury (the crutches-and-protective-boot kind) to their starting QB, Steve Angeli, meaning that this victory could prove to be Pyrrhic.
Where was Arkansas’ defense in the second half? Their defense allowed for 18 answered points scored, in turn allowing for Memphis to pull off a stunning upset.
So, next week should be a monster one for the sport that we love. In addition to Auburn and Texas A&M; LSU and Ole Miss; Alabama and Georgia; plus Oregon and Penn State knocking heads, plenty other interesting matchups abound. TCU plays Arizona State; Notre Dame plays Arkansas; USC plays Illinois; Cincinnati plays Kansas; Louisville plays Pittsburgh; Indiana plays Iowa; Tennessee plays undefeated Mississippi State; Arizona plays Iowa State; Ohio State plays Washington; and BYU takes on Colorado. To express things another way, for once, there is a dearth of body bag games this week (potentially two, and that is it). Let us give thanks to the Lord our God, and buckle up, buckaroos.
College Football Awards, Week 14 (2024) December 3, 2024
Posted by intellectualgridiron in Sports.Tags: ACC, Aggies, Alabama, Arch Manning, Arizona State, Army, B1G, Big XII, Boise State, Buckeyes, Buffalo, CHip Kelly, Clemson, college football, Colorado, Dan Lanning, Florida State, football, Fran Brown, Gamecocks, Georgia, Georgia Tech, Indiana, Iowa, Iowa State, Jacksonville State, James Franklin, Kent State, Kirk Ferentz, Longhorns, Louisville, Mario Cristobal, Matt Rhule, Memphis, Miami (FL), Miami (OH), Michigan, Mike Elko, Mustangs, NCAA, Nebraska, Notre Dame, Ohio, Ohio State, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Oregon, Penn State, Purdue, Quinn Ewers, Ryan Day, Ryan Walters, Sherrone Moore, SMU, South Carolina, Steve Sarkesian, Syracuse, Texas, Texas A&M, Tigers, Tulane, UNLV, USC, Western Kentucky
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COACHES
Wish I were him: Steve Sarkesian, Texas
Honorable mention: Sherrone Moore, Michigan
Glad I’m not him: Mike Elko, Texas A&M
Lucky guy: Kirk Ferentz, Iowa
Poor guy: Matt Rhule, Nebraska
Desperately seeking a wake-up call: Mario Cristobal, Miami (FL)
Desperately seeking a P.R. man: Fran Brown, Syracuse
Desperately seeking sunglasses and a fake beard: Ryan Day, Ohio State
Desperately seeking … anything: Ryan Walters, Purdue
TEAMS
Thought you’d kick butt, you did: Indiana (defeated Purdue 66-0)
Thought you’d kick butt, you didn’t: Georgia (defeated Georgia Tech 44-42)
Thought you’d get your butt kicked, you did: Kent State (lost to Buffalo 43-7)
Thought you’d get your butt kicked, you didn’t: USC (lost to No. 5 Notre Dame 49-35)
Thought you wouldn’t kick butt, you did: Colorado (defeated Oklahoma State 59-0)
Dang, they’re good: Oregon
Dang, they’re bad: Purdue
Can’t Stand Prosperity: Ohio State
Did the season start? Miami (FL)
Can the season end? Florida State
Can the season never end? Indiana
GAMES
Play this again: Michigan 13, No. 2 Ohio State 10
Play this again, too (told you so): Iowa 13, Nebraska 10
Never play this again: Indiana 66, Purdue 0
What? Memphis 34, No. 17 Tulane 24
Huh? No. 15 South Carolina 17, No. 12 Clemson 14
Are you kidding me?? Syracuse 42, No. 6 Miami 35
Oh – my – God: Michigan 13, No. 2 Ohio State 10
NEXT WEEK
(rankings are current AP (week 15)
Ticket to die for: No. 2 Texas @ No. 5 Georgia in the SEC championship game
Honorable mention: No. 1 Oregon vs No. 4 Penn State in the B1G championship game
Best non-Power Four vs. Power Four matchup: (none)
Best non-Power Four matchup: No. 17 Tulane @ Army
Upset alert: No. 12 Clemson vs No. 9 SMU in the ACC Championship game
Must win: All championship games, but especially the No. 16 Arizona State vs No. 18 Iowa State in the Big XII championship game
Offensive explosion: No. 22 UNLV vs. No. 11 Boise State
Defensive struggle: Ohio vs Miami (OH)
Great game no one is talking about: Western Kentucky @ Jacksonville State
Intriguing coaching matchup: Dan Lanning of Oregon vs James Franklin of Penn State
Who’s bringing the body bags? N/A
Why are they playing? N/A
Plenty of good seats remaining: N/A
They Shoot Horses, Don’t They? N/A
Week 14 Thoughts:
Let us confront the 800-lb. gorilla in the room. It was all set for Ohio State. All they had to do was win the game. But the game turned out to be “The Game”, and in “The Game”, the Buckeyes choked massively. QB Will Howard failed to seek out his marquee weapons. The receivers dropped key passes.
While we can lay this massive failure at the feet of the offense, perhaps we should be more specific and lay the failure at the feet of Ryan Day and the offensive tactics he chose by wanting to prove how tough his team was by winning “tough”, that is, winning by battling out in the trenches running the ball between the tackles. That’s all well and good, but when your strengths are at the perimeters, not on the line (remember, Ohio State was working with a patchwork line-up on the o-line due to injuries), then the smart play is to play to those strengths.
This tactical failure on the part of Day is all the more stark when one considers that while Ohio State has an unbeatable receiving corps, Michigan was “patchwork” in the secondary. Such is the magnitude of the missed opportunity. My lingering question is, to what extent did Chip Kelly influence the offensive tactics for this game?
No more B1G championship berth for Ohio State: that now goes to Penn State instead. At least they have retained a No. 7 ranking in the polls, which should, in all likelihood, help them clinch a spot in the playoffs anyhow. But this loss will smart, especially since Ryan Day is now 1-4 against their hated rival, “that school up north”. One takeaway is that Day’s tenure in Columbus just became much more tenuous. He can consult John Cooper on the “why”.
Elsewhere, Miami (FL) had a golden opportunity to make it to the ACC championship and clinch a spot in the playoffs. All they had to do was beat Syracuse, but then they blew a three-TD lead to Syracuse in the second half. Now, not only are the Hurricanes out of the ACC championship, their potential bid for the playoffs is very much in doubt. Funny how one game can do that, but this reminds us that November is for everything.
One team that did rise to the occasion, barely, was Texas. The Longhorns and the Aggies renewed their rivalry on Saturday, playing for the first time since 2011. The Horns were ranked No. 3, but the Aggies were also ranked and No. 20. Sounds like advantage, Longhorns…except that the game was at nighttime in Kyle Field, a bona fide hostile place to play. Nevertheless, despite some hiccups on offense (Ewers threw a pick-six, for example), Texas still prevailed, 17-7. Were it not for the pick-six, the game could have ended 24-0 or better in Texas’ favor. Give the game ball to the Longhorns’ D for shutting down A&M’s offense. Meanwhile, Sark has work to do on offense when they take on Georgia in Atlanta for all the marbles in the conference. To that end, is Ewers dealing with a more serious injury than we are led on to believe? If so, Sark would be well-served to deploy Manning at the drop of a hat in Atlanta next week.
One interesting development is that South Carolina defeated in-state rival Clemson in Death Valley (no small feat), but since the Tigers’ loss was not in-conference, they still get to play SMU for the ACC championship. Looks like that loss to Louisville earlier in the season did not mortally wound their chances for the playoffs after all. But how might they fare against the Mustangs? The potentially lone ACC representative hangs in the balance of that game’s outcome.
Same goes for Iowa State playing Arizona State for the Big XII title, unless the playoff committee chooses Colorado to be within the bubble for a playoff bid. Speaking of the Buffaloes, they certainly make a strong case to be considered by crushing Oklahoma State 52-0.
Two teams that quietly get things done: Notre Dame and Boise State. We can debate about strength of schedule for these two teams, especially that of the latter, but in the beauty contest that is college football, the pollsters and the playoff committee alike seem to like what the Broncos are selling. Perhaps we will all need a dose of truth serum should Boise State make the playoffs and get embarrassed in the first round. Tuesday’s latest round of revised rankings will give us a better idea of where these teams stand regardless.
Both Alabama and South Carolina are on the bubble for a playoff berth. Should the Gamecocks be favored over the Tide? It’s a fair question when one considers that Alabama laid an egg to a sub-par Oklahoma team, while South Carolina beat their ranked, hated rival on said rival’s home turf, no less. Clearly the better momentum is with the ‘Cocks. Will the playoff committee consider these as they release their updated rankings come Dec. 3?
College Football Awards, Week 8 (2024) October 21, 2024
Posted by intellectualgridiron in Sports.Tags: Alabama, Arizona State, Auburn, Ball State, Bill O'Brien, Boise State, Boston College, Bret Bielema, Bulldogs, BYU, California, Cardinals, Charlotte, college football, Colorado State, Dan Lanning, Florida State, football, Georgia, Hurricanes, Illinois, Indiana, James Madison, Jeff Brohm, Josh Heupel, Kalani Sitake, Kalen DeBoer, Kennesaw State, Kenny Dillingham, Kentucky, Kirby Smart, liberty, Lincoln Riley, Longhorns, Louisville, LSU, Maryland, Miami (Fla.), Mike Gundy, Mike Norvell, Navy, NCAA, NCAA football, Nebraska, New Mexico, Nico Iamaleava, Notre Dame, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Oregon, Oregon State, Pittsburgh, Purdue, Red Grange, Rice, Riddell, Rutgers, Shane Beamer, South Caroina, Southern Miss, Steve Sarkesian, Syracuse, Tennessee, Texas, Texas A&M, Tulane, UCLA, UNLV, USC, Utah State, Vanderbilt, Wyoming
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COACHES
Wish I were him: Kirby Smart, Georgia
Honorable mention: Josh Heupel, Tennessee
Glad I’m not him: Steve Sarkesian, Texas
Ditto: Kalen DeBoer, Alabama
Lucky guy: Kalani Sitake, BYU
Poor guy: Mike Gundy, Oklahoma State
Desperately seeking a wake-up call: Kenny Dillingham, Arizona State
Desperately seeking a P.R. man: Shane Beamer, South Carolina
Desperately seeking sunglasses and a fake beard: Lincoln Riley, USC
Desperately seeking … anything: Mike Norvell, Florida State
TEAMS
Thought you’d kick butt, you did: Oregon (defeated Purdue 35-0)
Thought you’d kick butt, you didn’t: Vanderbilt (defeated Ball State 24-14)
Thought you’d get your butt kicked, you did: Charlotte (lost to No. 25 Navy 51-17)
Thought you’d get your butt kicked, you didn’t: Rice (lost to Tulane 24-10)
Thought you wouldn’t kick butt, you did: Indiana (defeated Nebraska 56-7)
Dang, they’re good: Georgia
Dang, they’re bad: Kennesaw State
Can’t Stand Prosperity: Texas
Did the season start? Nebraska
Can the season end? Auburn
Can the season never end? Indiana
GAMES
Play this again: No. 5 Georgia 30, No. 1 Texas 15
Play these again, too: No. 11 Tennessee 24, No. 7 Alabama 17
Never play this again: No. 16 Indiana 56, Nebraska 7
What? UCLA 35, Rutgers 32
Huh? No. 11 Tennessee 24, No. 7 Alabama 17
Are you kidding me?? Maryland 29, USC 28
Oh – my – God: No. 5 Georgia 30, No. 1 Texas 15
NEXT WEEK
rankings are current AP (week 9)
Ticket to die for: No. 8 LSU @ No. 14 Texas A&M
Best non-Power Four vs. Power Four matchup: Oregon State @ California
Best non-Power Four matchup: No. 17 Boise State @ UNLV
Upset alert: No. 24 Navy @ No. 12 Notre Dame
Must win: No. 5 Texas @ No. 25 Vanderbilt
Offensive explosion: New Mexico @ Colorado State
Defensive struggle: Auburn @ Kentucky
Great game no one is talking about: Syracuse @ No. 19 Pittsburgh
Intriguing coaching matchup: Dan Lanning of Oregon vs Bret Bielema of Illinois
Honorable mention: Jeff Brohm of Louisville vs Bill O’Brien of Boston College
Who’s bringing the body bags? Florida State @ No. 6 Miami (Fla.)
Why are they playing? Liberty @ Kennesaw State
Plenty of good seats remaining: Utah State @ Wyoming
They Shoot Horses, Don’t They? Southern Miss @ James Madison
Week 8 Thoughts:
Last week was a tough act to follow. This week nevertheless delivered some good ones.
Let us address the 900-pound gorilla in the room by taking a look at the Georgia-Texas game. The Longhorns are still good, but the Bulldogs bested them last night anyhow. One takeaway is that neither team was able to handle its opponents’ front seven in the second half. The problem was, Texas was also unable to handle Georgia’s in the first half. Both teams have work to do to improve, with Georgia still probably having the bigger problem to deal with in terms of limitations of their own quarterback. Nevertheless, it was a good game.
Perhaps more of a thriller was Tennessee defeating Alabama at home. Nico Iamaleava seems to have marginally improved from the previous couple of games (he completed a monster pass with 1:33 left in the first half, for example, and made a clutch TD pass with 5:52 left in the game), but the real salvation for Tennessee came in their running game. The tradition of the fans of the winning team lighting cigars materialized in such a way to see a smokey haze ascend out of Neyland Stadium upon the conclusion of the game. As an aside, Alabama is 0-2 against teams from Tennessee this year. That cannot sit well among the Crimson-clad faithful in the Yellowhammer State.
Don’t look now, but Indiana University is now 7-0 after dusting Nebraska 56-7. At this rate, a projected record of 11-1 is not an unreasonable prognostication for the Hoosiers.
In other news, seeing Illinois don their 1920s-era throwback uniforms in honor of the 100th anniversary of Red Grange’s senior season there was a sheer delight to see. Yes, before the Galloping Ghost become the first superstar in the NFL, he was tearing it up on the gridiron for Illinois. Further props to Illinois for being able to recreate the vintage leather helmet graphic pattern on their modern-day Riddells.
Forget the last week’s prognostications: the actual offensive explosion this week turned out to be Miami at Louisville. The No. 6 Hurricanes triumphed in the end, 52-45. Imagine if the Cardinals had a slightly better defense. Not only would the outcome of the game likely been different, but their current record of 4-3 would likely be better as well.
College Football Awards, Week 5 (2024) September 30, 2024
Posted by intellectualgridiron in Sports.Tags: Air Force, Akron, Alabama, Army, Auburn, Ball State, Boise State, Bowling Green, Brent Pry, Buffalo, Cincinnati, Clemson, college football, Crimson Tide, Florida State, football, Georgia, Greg Schiano, Jalen Milroe, James Madison, Kalen DeBoer, Kansas, Kansas State, Kentucky, Kirby Smart, Lance Leipold, Lane Kiffin, Louisville, LSU, Mario Cristobal, Matt Rhule, Miami (Fla.), Navy, Nebraska, Ohio State, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Ole Miss, Rutgers, Ryan Williams, SEC, Sooners, Temple, Texas, Texas Tech, Tigers, UConn, Utah State, Virginia Tech, War Eagle
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COACHES
Wish I were him: Kalen DeBoer, Alabama
Glad I’m not him: Kirby Smart, Georgia
Lucky guy: Mario Cristobal, Miami (Fla.)
Poor guy: Brent Pry, Virginia Tech
Desperately seeking a wake-up call: (inconclusive)
Desperately seeking a P.R. man: Greg Schiano, Rutgers
Desperately seeking sunglasses and a fake beard: Lane Kiffin, Ole Miss
Desperately seeking … anything: Lance Leipold, Kansas
TEAMS
Thought you’d kick butt, you did: James Madison (defeated Ball State 63-7)
Thought you’d kick butt, you didn’t: Oklahoma (defeated Auburn 27-21)
Thought you’d get your butt kicked, you did: Temple (lost to Army 42-14)
Thought you’d get your butt kicked, you didn’t: Virginia Tech (lost to No. 7 Miami, Fla. 38-34)
Thought you wouldn’t kick butt, you did: Kansas State (defeated No. 20 Oklahoma State 42-20)
Dang, they’re good: Ohio State
Dang, they’re bad: Buffalo
Can’t Stand Prosperity: Auburn
Did the season start? Ole Miss
Can the season end? Florida State
Can the season never end? Alabama
GAMES
Play this again: No. 4 Alabama 41, No. 2 Georgia 34
Play this again, too: Texas Tech 44, Cincinnati 41
Never play this again: James Madison 63, Ball State 0
What? N/A
Huh? Arizona 23, No. 10 Utah 10
Are you kidding me?? No. 4 Alabama 41, No. 2 Georgia 34
Oh – my – God: Kentucky 20, No. 6 Ole Miss 17
NEXT WEEK
rankings are current AP (week 6)
Best game of the week: No. 9 Missouri @ Texas A&M
Best non-Power Four vs. Power Four matchup: Syracuse @ No. 25 UNLV
Best non-Power Four matchup: Colorado State @ Oregon State
Upset alert: SMU @ No. 22 Louisville
Must win: No. 12 Ole Miss @ South Carolina
Offensive explosion: Utah State @ Boise State
Defensive struggle: Navy @ Air Force
Great game no one is talking about: Rutgers @ Nebraska
Intriguing coaching matchup: Greg Schiano of Rutgers vs Matt Rhule of Nebraska
Who’s bringing the body bags? No. 15 Clemson @ Florida State
Why are they playing? N/A
Plenty of good seats remaining: Bowling Green @ Akron
They Shoot Horses, Don’t They? Temple @ UConn
Week 5 Thoughts:
Oklahoma @ Auburn
There are two types of teams that “can’t stand prosperity”. The typical type is one that is on a win streak but then inexplicably loses a winnable game. The atypical type is where a team that has been having a lousy season but then, in one game, is leading as an underdog for most of the 60 minutes, only to blow the lead in the last minutes of regulation.
Clearly Auburn fell into the latter category. Going into the game against Oklahoma at 2-2, they already lost some games that many perceived to be winnable, namely Cal and Arkansas. That losing prompted some in the press to speculate that Auburn football had lost its way.
Yet things seemed to turn around against Oklahoma. The Tigers led most of the game until the Sooners scored at 8:34 in the 4th quarter, made the two point conversion, then broadened their lead to 27-21 when they kicked a field goal with 58 seconds left in the game. Though Auburn got the ball back, that amount of time was not enough for them to go the length of the field.
So, has the War Eagle still “lost its way”? Perhaps, but then again, this is the SEC, which is brutal top to bottom. A potentially more plausible explanation is that Auburn is down in talent during a season when its surrounding competition is especially “up”, from LSU to Georgia, from Alabama to Tennessee. Ole Miss was considered a top ten team prior to their upset loss at home to Kentucky, who in turn got spanked by South Carolina earlier this month.
Can they still turn things around and salvage the season? Anything is possible. The current problem for Auburn is, they have no time to lick their wounds, as the go on the road to Georgia next week. Speaking of…
Georgia @ Alabama
Despite being down 28-0 early in the 2nd quarter to Alabama, Georgia gradually roared back and even briefly led with 2:42 left in the game. Then Jalen Milroe’s 75-yard touchdown pass to Ryan Williams, along with a two-pointer, put the Crimson Tide back on top for good at 41-34.
Does this mean that Georgia’s playoff hopes are dashed on the rocks? Hardly, but they also have one of the toughest schedules of any team in the FBS this year (they still have yet to play Ole Miss, Texas, and Tennessee), and losing to Bama put them in the hole from the outset.
Nevertheless, should they make the playoffs, perhaps next time they’ll know better than to spot a top-ranked team four touchdowns before they decide to start playing football.
College Football Awards, Week 4 (2024) September 23, 2024
Posted by intellectualgridiron in Sports.Tags: Air Force, Akron, Alabama, Appalachian State, Bowling Green, Buffalo, BYU, Chris Klieman, Cincinnati, Clark Lea, college football, Eliah Drinkwitz, Georgia, Houston, Illinois, James Madison, Josh Heupel, Kalen DeBoer, Kansas, Kansas State, Kent State, Kirby Smart, Lincoln Riley, Louisville, LSU, Mack Brown, Major Applewhite, Matt Rhule, Miami (Fla.), Michigan, Mizzou, NC State, North Carolina, Northern Illinois, Notre Dame, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Penn State, South Alabama, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Texas A&M, UCLA, USC, Vanderbilt, Wyoming
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COACHES
Wish I were him: Josh Heupel, Tennessee
Glad I’m not him: Lincoln Riley, USC
Lucky guy: Eliah Drinkwitz, Mizzou
Poor guy: Clark Lea, Vanderbilt
Desperately seeking a wake-up call: Chris Klieman, Kansas State
Desperately seeking a P.R. man: Major Applewhite, South Alabama
Desperately seeking sunglasses and a fake beard: Matt Rhule, Nebraska
Desperately seeking … anything: Mack Brown, North Carolina
TEAMS
Thought you’d kick butt, you did: Penn State (defeated Kent State 56-0)
Thought you’d kick butt, you didn’t: Texas A&M (defeated Bowling Green 26-20)
Thought you’d get your butt kicked, you did: Akron (lost to South Carolina 50-7)
Thought you’d get your butt kicked, you didn’t: UCLA (lost to LSU 34-17)
Thought you wouldn’t kick butt, you did: Cincinnati (defeated Houston 34-0)
Dang, they’re good: Miami (Fla.)
Dang, they’re bad: Appalachian State
Can’t Stand Prosperity: Kansas State
Did the season start? Kansas
Can the season end? North Carolina
Can the season never end? Tennessee
GAMES
Play this again: No. 18 Michigan 27, No. 11 USC 24
Play this again, too: Utah 22, Oklahoma State 19
Never play this again: No. 9 Penn State 56, Kent State 0
What? No. 24 Illinois 31, No. 22 Nebraska 24
Huh? Buffalo 23, No. 23 Northern Illinois 20
Double-Huh? No. 18 Michigan 27, No. 11 USC 24
Are you kidding me?? James Madison 70, North Carolina 50
Oh – my – God: BYU 38, Kansas State 9
NEXT WEEK
rankings are current AP (week 5)
Ticket to die for: No. 2 Georgia @ No. 4 Alabama
Best non-Power Four vs. Power Four matchup: Northern Illinois @ NC State
Best non-Power Four matchup: Fresno State @ UNLV
Upset alert: No. 19 Illinois @ No. 9 Penn State
Must win: No. 15 Louisville @ No. 16 Notre Dame
Offensive explosion: South Alabama @ No. 14 LSU
Defensive struggle: Air Force @ Wyoming
Great game no one is talking about: No. 20 Oklahoma State @ No. 23 Kansas State
Intriguing coaching matchup: Kalen DeBoer of Alabama vs Kirby Smart of Georgia
Who’s bringing the body bags? Mississippi State @ No. 1 Texas
Why are they playing? Holy Cross @ Syracuse
Plenty of good seats remaining: New Mexico @ New Mexico State
They Shoot Horses, Don’t They? Wagner @ Florida Atlantic
Week 4 Thoughts:
Offensive explosions are usually the hardest game to predict. No matter how one formulates the prediction, it has the least likelihood of coming true. The reason I bring this up is because this past week did not give us only one, or two, but several. Perhaps the most prominent – and inexplicable — was where James Madison beat North Carolina, 70-50, an outcome so embarrassing on the latter’s part that Mack Brown even suggested resigning after sustaining such a loss. But the day had offensive explosions elsewhere, too, if not quite as egregious. Clemson beat NC State, 59-35; Navy defeated Memphis 56-44; Monmouth upset Florida International, 45-42. Finally, out on the west coast, Washington State held on in two overtimes to defeat San Jose State, 54-52. Has there ever been such a horrible day to be a defensive coordinator?
USC @ Michigan
Typically when these two teams have played each other, it is in the Rose Bowl, and not just the stadium, but the actual “Granddaddy of Them All”. This time, the Trojans ventured into Ann Arbor, Mich, to take on the Wolverines. Such amazing new matchups in hitherto atypical settings are now a hallmarks of the newly expanded Big Ten. USC caused everyone to take notice during their win over LSU at the beginning of the season. The game lived up to its hype in every way, with Michigan pulling off the upset win.
Three takeaways from this game: Michigan, despite rebuilding, still has a strong defense. Granted, Texas made mincemeat of them a couple of weeks earlier, but now they are starting to play to form.
Second, Michigan might be rebuilding to an extent. Jim Harbaugh is no longer there. But they have been wise to emulate Harbaugh’s winning business model of a run-oriented offense and gritty, disciplined defense. Thus, they are in a position to continue to be a force in the conference foreseeably. Also, USC’s season is far from over. They can still climb their way back into playoff contention, with a partly favorable schedule paired with enough very good teams at home (Penn State and Notre Dame) to appear credible in the eyes of the football pollsters.
Georgia Tech @ Louisville
The Yellowjackets proved they are a dangerous team with some of their previous wins this season. That is why Louisville demonstrated – for now – that they deserve their current ranking of No. 15, despite a few unforced errors throughout the game. But while their win over Georgia Tech was a nice one, they must work extra-hard to prevent such unforced errors this week, as they play Notre Dame in what could be one of the best games of Week 5.
Tennessee @ Oklahoma
The Volunteers proved that they are the real deal. Not only did they win on the road in a hostile environment, but their winning score of 25-15 understates the way they gradually dominated as the game progressed. The most decisive factor of the game was Tennessee’s dominant front seven, which shut down the Sooners’ running game (OU managed only 33 total yards on the ground). While Tennessee’s rushing attack only added up to 59 yards, that is still better for one. But for another, that left both teams to rely more on the pass, wherein the Vols proved to be more adept.
Key takeaways: the fact that OU held Tennessee to only 25 points speaks well to their defensive talent and valiant efforts, and other teams in the conference should take notice, including Texas three weeks hence.
Also, the Volunteers passed a key test, but arguably tougher tests remain, as they are scheduled to play both Alabama and Georgia later in the year, giving us more memorable games to which to look forward. But the potential is nevertheless there to be one of the greatest Volunteer teams ever, should they live up to it.
Looking ahead:
No. 20 Oklahoma State @ No. 23 Kansas State
Two good teams coming off losses now go head-to-head. Nothing like two good teams butting heads who are hungry to avenge the previous week’s losses: this could be a good one.
No. 15 Louisville @ No. 16 Notre Dame
Ironically, this could be Notre Dame’s biggest test yet, as Texas A&M proved to be a bit overrated as the season began.
No. 2 Georgia @ No. 4 Alabama
Let’s be honest: we live for matchups like these. Adding additional intrigue is Georgia likely keen to avenge their loss to the Tide in the playoffs last year.
2023-2024 Bowl Games Preview December 18, 2023
Posted by intellectualgridiron in Sports.Tags: ACC, Alabama, Alamo, Arizona, B1G, Big XII, Brent Musburger, Brian Kelly, Clemson, college, Crimson Tide, Fiesta, football, Georgia, Huskies, Iowa, James Franklin, Jeff Brohm, Jim Harbaugh, Kansas, Kentucky, Lane Kiffin, liberty, Lincoln Riley, Longhorns, Louisville, LSU, Luke Fickell, Michael Penix Jr., Michigan, Missouri, NCAA, Nick Saban, North Carolina, Northwestern, Notre Dame, Ohio State, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Ole Miss, Orange, Oregon, Oregon State, Pac-12, Penn State, Rose, SEC, Sugar, Tennessee, Texas, Texas A&M, Toledo, UNLV, USC, Utah, Washingon, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wolverines, Wyoming
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Bowl game season is now upon us again. While the bulk of the first day of games are not exactly eyeball-grabbing, there are a couple of potential interest, and many more that will keep us glued to the screen over the next couple of weeks. So, without further ado, let us sort out the good, the really good, the so-so, and the downright ugly. Note that the times of games are given in Eastern Standard Time. Note also that not all bowl game are listed below: some are so boring or pointless, it’s a waste to mention them.
Tickets to Die For:
No. 1 Michigan (13-0) vs No. 4 Alabama (12-1) in the Rose Bowl, Jan 1, 5:00 PM ESPN
Let us address the elephant in the room (see what I did there)? This game is going to be epic. Jim Harbaugh leads a Michigan team that is even stronger than the last Wolverine squad that won the national championship (1997). In the opposing corner is Nick Saban’s Alabama team, which has grown stronger and more formidable with each passing week. This game obviously doubles as an intriguing coaching matchup. No, it is not the first time that these coaching legends have faced off, either. The 2020 Citrus Bowl pitted the two together, with the Crimson Tide pounding the Wolverines 35-16. But that was then, this is now. Bama is not quite the juggernaut it was then, but could potentially return to that level. Conversely, the Wolverines are considerably stronger since then, leading to an irresistible force meeting an immovable object. Grab your snack food of choice and leave your belts behind, folks. This one could be a ‘dandy’ to remember in the Granddaddy of Them All! Also, can we please bring Brent Musburger out of retirement for this one?
No. 2 Washington (13-0) vs No. 3 Texas (12-1) in the Sugar Bowl, 8:45 PM ESPN
Let us not overlook this other matchup for the playoffs. In contrast to the above listed playoff game, this one is likely to be high-octane on both sides of the ball. Michael Penix Jr. leads an incredibly potent offense (they took down an incredibly strong Oregon squad not once, but twice with it). Meanwhile, Texas is no offensive slouch, either, with playmakers in their receiving corps that an also light up the scoreboard. Is there a potential mismatch? Sadly, yes, what with the Longhorns’ secondary being a potential gap in their otherwise strong defensive armor. Yet the Horns are bigger up front, on both sides of the ball. That potential for their front seven to make sufficient pass rushes to contain Penix might explain why Texas is favored by four points. Regardless, this matchup has the third-highest over-under of any bowl game this season at 63, and is an obvious double for an offensive explosion.
No. 5 Georgia (12-1) vs No. 6 Florida State (13-0) in the Orange Bowl, Dec. 30, 4:00 ESPN
Perhaps we are to call this the Consolation Bowl? How about the Spurned Contestants Bowl? Both teams had reasonable claims to be in the playoffs, if not the best claims compared to other teams. At any rate, on paper this matchup is very juicy. In reality, things are more complicated (aren’t they always)? The reason why the Seminoles got left out of the playoffs was not due to their record, but rather due to their recent performances. Yes, the reason behind that is a tragic one: their star QB, Jordan Travis, had a season-ending injury, in another illustration of the potential cruelty of November in the college game. Since then, their offensive output has plummeted. This leads me to predict, with a giant asterisk, that the Bulldogs could crush the Seminoles. The asterisk comes in the form of a mitigating factor: how motivated is Georgia to play up to their potential? This is more than a valid concern for college football postseason games in recent years, what with sit-outs (departing seniors not wanting to risk injury and thus risk NFL draft capital), players entering the transfer portal, etc. Perhaps those mitigating factors might even the odds after all.
Best Power Five vs. Non-Power Five Matchup
No. 8 Oregon (11-2) vs No. 23 Liberty (13-0) in the Fiesta Bowl, Jan. 1, 1:00 ESPN
This designation/categorization could not be more obvious. Too bad that the Ducks’ level of competition is orders of magnitude greater than that of the Flames. So, on paper, Oregon might crush Liberty, but it nevertheless could provide a nice laboratory experiment of what happens when a playoff-potential team pits itself against a stronger-than-normal mid-major team. Oh, and with an over-under of 65.5, this clearly doubles as an offensive explosion, too.
Best non-Power Five Matchup:
Toledo (11-2) vs Wyoming (8-4) in the Arizona Bowl, Dec. 30, 4:30 PM ESPN
The MAC champ butts heads with the Mountain West champ. Speaking of lab experiments, this one is interesting, too.
Upset Alerts:
No. 7 Ohio State (11-1) vs No. 9 Missouri (10-2) in the Cotton Bowl, Dec. 29, 8:00 PM ESPN
On paper, the respective rankings alone should make for a good game. But the sit-outs and transfers on Ohio State’s part leaves the game in Mizzou’s favor, but only by 2.5 points. On the other hand, many fans remain skeptical about the Tigers’ actual strength, since many their 10 wins came against under-performers in the SEC East. Can the remaining personnel for the Buckeyes overcome that narrow margin?
No. 22 Clemson (8-4) vs Kentucky (7-5) in the Gator Bowl, Dec. 29, 12:00 PM ESPN
Sure, Clemson has a decent record, but the ACC proved weak this year. Yes, Kentucky took its fair share of lumps, but they did so in the SEC. Do not be surprised if the Wildcats overcome the Tiger’s 5.5 point favoring margin.
No. 16 Notre Dame (9-3) vs No. 19 Oregon State (8-4) in the Sun Bowl, Dec. 29, 2:00 PM CBS
In a rematch of the 2000-’01 Fiesta Bowl (another intriguing coaching matchup that pitted Bob Davie against Dennis Erickson), this time a blowout in Oregon State’s favor is not likely, as Notre Dame is favored by 6.5 points. But this game also pits Marcus Freeman, who has led the Irish to a respectable 9-3 year, against Trent Bray, whose team has performed brilliantly by Oregon State standards. Not only does this double as an intriguing coaching matchup, but one where the strength of the Pac-12 could be a bigger factor than the oddsmakers have initially considered.
Offensive Explosions:
No. 12 Oklahoma (10-2) vs No. 14 Arizona (9-3) in the Alamo Bowl, Dec. 28, 9:15 ESPN
When was the last time we saw a boring Alamo Bowl? Surely this one is likely to be anything but that. Oddsmakers give the over-under for this game at 62.5. On one side of the ball, this is Arizona squad is the strongest it has been since they beat Nebraska in the Holiday Bowl 25 years ago. On the other side is the only team that [barely] took down a tough Texas team. Then again, the Sooners also lost twice to weaker competition. Regardless, their ceiling is/was sky-high. But perhaps not anymore, since their QB, Dillon Gabriel, is now transferring to Oregon. Perhaps that accounts for the Wildcats being favored by three points. After, they have more than held their own in the Pac-12, which in turn has been at its strongest in recent memory.
Kansas (8-4) vs UNLV (9-4) in the Guaranteed Rate Bowl, Dec. 26, 9:00 PM ESPN
Yes, UNLV has played light years better this season than their typical annual performance. But Kansas has likewise played far more strongly then their respective typical performance, and against stiffer competition. Thus, the Jayhawks are favored by 12.5 points. One of two things could happen; either Kansas barely covers the spread, or, their superior line play truly takes over in the second half, leading to a gradual blowout. The over-under is 64.5, one of the highest of the bowl season, so expect some fireworks.
Georgia Tech (6-6) vs UCF (6-6) in the Gasparilla Bowl, Dec. 22, 6:30 PM ESPN
This game has the highest over-under of them all at 66.5, with UCF favored by 4.5 points. This is another example of two mediocre teams, when pitted against each other, giving fans a good game.
Defensive Struggles:
No. 17 Iowa (10-3) vs No. 21 Tennessee (21) in the Citrus Bowl, Jan. 1, 1:00 ABC
Once again Tennessee plays in their winter home (according to Steve Spurrier), this time against Iowa. The latter has made a name for itself with a stringy defense with hardly any offense. Perhaps this accounts for one of the lowest over-unders of this bowl season at only 36.5. The intriguing question becomes, can a mediocre SEC offense overcome what is considered a strong defense by B1G standards? Conversely, how much of mismatch occurs between a mediocre SEC defense and a pitiful B1G offense? That latter point likely accounts for why the Vols are favored by 8.5 points. That said, a nice bonus is the intriguing coaching matchup between Josh Heupel and Kirk Ferentz.
Great Games no one is Talking About:
California (6-6) vs Texas Tech (6-6) in the Independence Bowl, Dec. 16, 9:15 ESPN
The Independence Bowl is one of those reliable bowls that almost always delivers with a good bowl game. While traditionally a late December bowl game, this time they moved it up to nine days before Christmas. Regardless, when two mediocre teams get together, sometimes a great game happens. The Red Raiders are favored by only 3.5 points, so on paper, this game might deliver, too.
Georgia State (6-6) vs Utah State (6-6) in the Idaho Potato Bowl, Dec. 23, 3:30 PM ESPN
Speaking of close games going either way, the Panthers will certainly be out of their element playing in Boise, Idaho in late December, but Aggies should feel right at home in those Nordic climes. The latter factor might account for Utah State’s slight favoring by 1.5, but with an over-under at 62.5, hello potential offensive explosion despite the cold!
Miami (FL) (7-5) vs Rutgers (6-6) in the Pinstripe Bowl, Dec. 28, 2:15 PM ESPN
Perhaps the only reason that the Hurricanes are favored by only 1.5 points is because they are not used to playing in chilly NYC winter weather.
Utah (8-4) vs Northwestern (7-5) in the Las Vegas Bowl, Dec. 23, 7:30 PM ABC
In what looks like a bargain-basement Rose Bowl (Pac-12 vs B1G), this game could deliver good value nonetheless, if only for the wrong reasons. Utah started off strongly but weakened with injuries, while all of us gave up Northwestern for dead earlier this year, only to see the Wildcats surge down the stretch. That Utah is favored by slightly less than a touchdown is a testament to how much Northwestern has improved throughout the season.
No. 18 NC State (9-3) vs No. 25 Kansas State (8-4) in the Pop-Tarts Bowl, Dec. 28, 5:45 PM ESPN
Yes, like the 68 Ventures Bowl, the Pop-Tarts Bowl is actually a thing (played in Orlando, Fla., FYI). The oddsmakers favor Kansas State by three points, implying a close game throughout. The tenacity of both squads assures the reader that it will be hard-fought throughout as well.
Think There is Enough Red and Black?
Arkansas State (6-6) vs Northern Illinois (6-6) in the Camellia Bowl, Dec. 23, 12:00 PM ESPN
The Red Wolves are favored by only 1, with an over-under of 53.5. This is a game that could go either way, and stay close throughout regulation.
Intriguing Coaching Matchups:
James Franklin of No. 10 Penn State (10-2) vs Lane Kiffin of No. 11 Ole Miss (10-2) in the Peach Bowl
Dec. 30, 12:00 PM ESPN
The contrasting styles of these respective coaches notwithstanding, what adds to the intrigue is that Franklin himself used to coach in the SEC, leading Vanderbilt to successes undreamed of in the modern era of college football. On the other side of the ball, Kiffin has led Ole Miss to a solid season, albeit one with an inexplicable loss to Texas Tech early in the season. Perhaps it is Penn State’s consistency that has led the oddsmakers to favor the Nittany Lions in this matchup by 3.5 points.
Jeff Brohm of No. 15 Louisville (10-3) vs Lincoln Riley of USC (7-5) in the Holiday Bowl
Dec. 27, 8:00 PM FOX
Jeff Brohm has certainly made a smash debut in his first year at his alma mater, leading the Cardinals to their first ACC championship game. He faces off against Lincoln Riley, an offensive mastermind who nevertheless has not properly addressed his issues on defense. Oddly enough, even with an underperforming offense, Louisville is still favored by 7.5 points, which leads us to another question: is USC’s defense truly that bad?
Jerry Kill of New Mexico State (10-4) vs Jeff Tedford of Fresno State (8-4) in the New Mexico Bowl
Dec. 16, 6:00 PM ESPN
Jerry Kill has led the Aggies to some amazing, memorable wins this season, and to a rare (for the program) bowl game, one where they are practically on home turf. Meanwhile, Jeff Tedford has brought his unique offensive philosophy into Fresno to help revitalize the Bulldogs. This could likewise be a great game no one is talking about.
Luke Fickell of Wisconsin (7-5) vs Brian Kelly of No. 13 LSU (9-3) in the ReliaQuest Bowl
Jan. 1, 12:00 PM ESPN
It’s a good thing this is an intriguing coaching matchup, because, despite both teams underperforming this year (within the context of their respective capacities, that is), on paper, this game is mismatch. Yes, the last time these two met up was on Sept. 3 of 2016, and the Badgers won that one, 16-14. But these teams are different now. Whereas the Badgers are not as strong as there were then, the Tigers, under Kelly, could be, in time, poised for another championship run. These current trajectories add up to the logic behind LSU being favored by 8.5 points. That aside, what is even more intriguing than the coaching matchup is the pitting of the fan bases. Both sets of fans are the most obnoxious in their respective conferences, so it’s always fun to see them bounce off each other in a game like this!
What Could Have Been
Texas A&M (7-5) vs No. 20 Oklahoma State (9-4) in the Texas Bowl, Dec. 27, 5:30 PM ESPN
If the powers that be at Texas A&M did ax Jimbo Fisher so soon, we could have had one of the most intriguing, entertaining coaching matchups of the season, what with Mike Gundy on the other side of the ball. As things now stand, the Aggies are still favored by two points, which also makes it a great game no one is talking about.
North Carolina (8-4) vs West Virginia (8-4) in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl, Dec. 27, 5:30 PM ESPN
Speaking of what could have been, remember when North Carolina started out as a top-ten team? Seems like the might have sadly fallen. Now they have to settle to play in their own backyard, and yet, West Virginia is still favored by 6.5 points.
Why Are They Playing?
South Alabama (6-6) vs Eastern Michigan (6-6) in the 68 Ventures Bowl (no, really)
Dec. 23, 7:00 PM ESPN
Looks like a rather even matchup on the surface…until you find out that South Alabama is favored by 15.5.
UTSA (8-4) vs Marshall (6-6) in the Frisco Bowl, Dec. 19 9:00 PM ESPN
The Roadrunners are favored by 12 in this matchup. It might take a monumental effort on Marshall’s part, should UTSA show up in this game staged in the fourth-largest city within the fourth-largest metropolitan area in the country.
Ohio (10-2) vs Georgia Southern (6-6) in the Myrtle Beach Bowl, Dec. 16, 11:00 AM ESPN
This game simply has mismatch (in the Bobcats’ favor) written all over it.
They Shoot Horses, Don’t They?
Tulane (11-2) vs Virginia Tech (6-6) in the Military Bowl, Dec. 27, 2:00 PM ESPN
So let us get this straight: Tulane has an 11-2 season, and has a team almost as strong as the one that went undefeated in 1998, and yet: Virginia Tech, who was lucky to even qualify for a bowl game this year, is still favored by 7.5 points? To add insult to injury, let us not forget that the ACC is particularly weak with year. Is the American Athletic Conference that much weaker still?
No. 24 SMU (11-2) vs Boston College (6-6) in the Fenway Bowl, Dec. 28, 11:00 AM ESPN
In another head-scratcher, SMU (also in the AAC), who is ranked, plays BC (also in the AAC), in what is the latter’s home turf, in chilly New England winter weather, and yet the Mustangs are still favored by 11 points.
Bowling Green (7-5) vs Minnesota (5-7) in the Quick Lane Bowl, Dec. 26, 2:00 PM ESPN
To quote the great Yogi Berra, “It’s déjà vu all over again”. These same two teams, with the same respective records, played each other in this very same bowl game eight years ago. I can hear FOX Sports’ Colin Cowherd mock this matchup and laugh at the irony of it all at the same time.
College Football Awards, Week 13 (2023) November 30, 2023
Posted by intellectualgridiron in Sports.Tags: ACC, Alabama, Arizona, Arizona State, Auburn, B1G, Big XII, BYU, C-USA, Cal, CHip Kelly, Coastal Carolina, Colorado, David Braun, Deion Sanders, Drake Maye, Georgia, Hugh Freeze, Iowa, James Madison, Jim Harbaugh, Kirby Smart, Louisville, MAC, Mack Brown, Miami (OH), Michigan, Mike Gundy, Nevada, Nick Saban, North Carolina, Northwestern, Ohio State, Oklahoma State, Pac-12, Ryan Day, SEC, Steve Sarkesian, Texas, Toledo, UCLA, Virginia, Virginia Tech, Wolverines, Wyoming, Zak Zinter
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COACHES
Wish I were him: Jim Harbaugh, Michigan
Glad I’m not him: Ryan Day, Ohio State
Lucky guy: Nick Saban, Alabama
Poor guy: Hugh Freeze, Auburn
Desperately seeking a wake-up call: Mack Brown, North Carolina
Desperately seeking a P.R. man: David Braun, Northwestern
Desperately seeking sunglasses and a fake beard: Chip Kelly, UCLA
Desperately seeking … anything: Deion Sanders, Colorado
TEAMS
Thought you’d kick butt, you did: Arizona (defeated Arizona State 59-23)
Thought you’d kick butt, you didn’t: Alabama (defeated Auburn 27-24)
Thought you’d get your butt kicked, you did: Nevada (lost to Wyoming 42-6)
Thought you’d get your butt kicked, you didn’t: BYU (lost to Oklahoma State 40-34)
Thought you wouldn’t kick butt, you did: James Madison (defeated Coastal Carolina 56-14)
Dang, they’re good: Michigan
Dang, they’re bad: Nevada
Can’t Stand Prosperity: Louisville
Did the season start? North Carolina
Can the season end? Colorado
Can the season never end? Texas
GAMES
Play this again: No. 3 Michigan 30, No. 2 Ohio State 24
Play this again, too: No. 8 Alabama 27, Auburn 24
Never play this again: Virginia Tech 55, Virginia 17
Huh? Cal 24, No. 24 UCLA 7
Are you kidding me?? Kentucky 38, No. 10 Louisville 31
Oh – my – God: No. 3 Michigan 30, No. 2 Ohio State 24
NEXT WEEK
rankings are current (week 14)
Ticket to die for: No. 1 Georgia vs. No. 8 Alabama in the SEC championship game
Best non-Power Five matchup: New Mexico State vs No. 24 Liberty in the C-USA champ. game
Upset alert: No. 14 Louisville vs. No. 4 Florida State in the ACC championship game
Must win: No. 18 Oklahoma State vs. No. 7 Texas in the Big XII championship game
Offensive explosion: No. 5 Oregon vs No. 3 Washington in the Pac-12 championship game
Defensive struggle: No. 2 Michigan vs No. 16 Iowa in the B1G championship game
Great game no one is talking about: Miami (OH) vs Toledo in the MAC championship game
Intriguing coaching matchup: Steve Sarkesian of Texas vs Mike Gundy of Oklahoma State
Also: Kirby Smart of Georgia vs Nick Saban of Alabama
Week 13 Thoughts:
This rivalry week yielded so many great, close, nail-biting games. So many near-upsets that did not quite materialize, that no doubt tantalized many fanbases who were hoping that a key loss here and there would have bolstered the case for their team making it to the playoffs. Some random thoughts:
Michigan vindicated themselves against Ohio State. The Game itself was one that lived up the hype, as both worthy teams fought hard. At many moments, the game could have gone in different directions, but in the end, Michigan had to rally past a devastating injury of one of their own, Zak Zinter. Such a disaster clearly demoralized every Wolverine faithful in the Big House. What was amazing was that the team itself dragged itself up off the canvas, and once play resumed, on the very next play, they scored a touchdown. Rarely does even a talented team such as Michigan show such resilience. Should they win the upcoming B1G championship game in Indianapolis (now with Jim Harbaugh back on the sidelines), few teams shall have demonstrated that they belong in the playoffs as this Wolverine squad has.
North Carolina ended on a very low note. A team that started off so strongly and with such promise ended up sputtering at the end, losing to an in-state (practically cross-town) rival in NC State. Surely Mack Brown, let alone senior QB Drake Maye, did not envision losing the last four of six games this regular season.
Auburn had a golden opportunity to upset hated Alabama, at home. They had nothing to lose, and played like it for most of the game. They only lost the game in the end on a 4th-and-goal at the 31 yard line (no, really). Clearly Auburn squandered this incredible opportunity to shut down the Tide when they rushed only two defenders, and kept a third as a “spy”. In end, we saw example no. 236 of how the only thing that the “prevent defense” prevents is the implementer from winning the game. Translation: Auburn should have rushed at least a couple more men, obviously. Looks like Hugh Freeze’s defensive coordinator might be desperately seeking sunglasses and a fake beard along with UCLA’s Chip Kelly this week.
On to the Championship Week, and afterwards, let the endless playoff debates continue to a greater degree than they have already.
intellectualgridiron 