College Football Playoffs Big Six Bowl Projections

By

Stephen Patrick

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November 29, 2023

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college-football-playoff-new-years-six-2021 — Photo Cred: FBSchedules

Cotton Bowl (December 29): Oklahoma and Alabama

Peach Bowl (December 30): Penn State vs. Tulane

Orange Bowl (December 30): Ohio State vs. Missouri

Fiesta Bowl (January 1): Texas vs. Oregon

Photo Cred: Sports ETA

The winner of Oregon vs. Washington may punch a ticket to the playoffs. The loser will drop to the New Year’s Six.

If Georgia beats Alabama, the Crimson Tide remain a strong contender for the second SEC slot.

Missouri and the Penn State Nittany Lions will finish in the top 12 and secure an at-large bid.

Photo Cred: FBSchedules.com

The Group of Five will down to Tulane or SMU. SMU has a bigger name in the sport. The Green Wave look like they’ll win the AAC Championship Game. SMU quarterback Preston Stone’s is not cleared to play yet.

Texas Longhorns, win and you’re in, but they’ll need some help to make the playoffs.

The Oklahoma Sooners get the last Big Six bid if Louisville loses. Louisville’s loss to Kentucky opened up the lane for the Sooners.

Photo Cred: Trojans Wire – USA Today

Will Aaron Rodgers Return?

By

Stephen Patrick

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November 29, 2023

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aaron-rodgers-jets-8-jersey-swap — Photo Cred: SI

The New York Jets marked a significant stride towards a promising season by officially commencing the 21-day practice window for star quarterback Aaron Rodgers this Wednesday. This development has ignited hope among Jets fans, who are now contemplating the possibility of witnessing Rodgers’ comeback to the field just months after a devastating Achilles injury. Jets head coach Robert Saleh addressed the media and shed light on the decision to open Rodgers’ practice window.

Photo Cred: People

He emphasized that this move should not be interpreted as a definitive indication of Rodgers immediately returning to game day action. Saleh characterized it as a pivotal milestone in the quarterback’s rehabilitation process, a strategic progression aimed at gradually reintegrating him into the team’s activities. The coach provided details about Rodgers’ participation in practice, highlighting the resemblance between his training regimen and the on-field drills typically carried out during regular games.

He stressed that Rodgers, instead of performing solitary drills with staff members, is actively engaged in team activities, throwing passes to his teammates. Saleh reassured that this transition doesn’t pose an additional risk, as the quarterback has been systematically cleared for specific activities in alignment with the team’s rehabilitation plan. Expressing admiration for Rodgers’ unwavering determination, coach Saleh lauded the quarterback’s relentless drive and motivation to expedite his recovery.

Photo Cred: CNN

The coach acknowledged the quarterback’s strong desire to reunite with his teammates on the field, emphasizing the quarterback’s eagerness to contribute to the team’s success. As the Jets embark on this crucial phase with Rodgers, the entire organization, along with their devoted fan base, eagerly anticipates further updates on the quarterback’s progress. The potential return of Rodgers injects renewed energy into the team’s aspirations for a successful season, potentially reshaping the narrative of their campaign.

Syracuse Deals a Blow to Georgia with Coaching Hire

By

Chris Jordan

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November 28, 2023

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Syracuse University’s Director of Athletics, John Wildhack, made a significant announcement, unveiling Fran Brown as the upcoming head coach for the Orange Football program. Known nationally as a top-tier recruiter, he is also a key figure in Georgia’s coaching staff. Brown is poised to become the 31st head coach in the esteemed history of the Syracuse University Football team. In a statement expressing his pride and enthusiasm for leading Syracuse Football, Brown emphasized the university’s rich tradition of academic and athletic excellence.

He highlighted his steadfast commitment to the overall success of the players, emphasizing the crucial role of relationships both on and off the field. Additionally, he underscored the importance of assembling an exceptional coaching staff. Brown’s excitement for recruiting was evident, with a focus on creating a unique and memorable experience for the dedicated fan base.

His coaching journey led him to the University of Georgia in early 2022, where he played a pivotal role in the coaching staff that led the Bulldogs to victory in the 2022 College Football National Championship. Under Brown’s guidance, the Georgia defense achieved impressive rankings in various defensive categories throughout the season, resulting in the recognition of two first-team All-Americans and finalists for prestigious awards.

Photo Cred: AL.com

His ability in attracting top talent to Georgia, solidified his reputation as a recruiting master. With strong ties to his roots in New Jersey and the broader Northeast region, his imminent arrival is eagerly anticipated to bring immediate recruiting success to the Orange, heralding an exciting new era for Syracuse football. Brown is a home run hire!

Is Jalen Hurts the MVP?

By

Sam Kurker

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November 28, 2023

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8a7608c0876d687a7dc0913bc14e68cf — Photo Cred: Yahoo Sports

The Philadelphia Eagles, boasting a dominant 10-1 record, have solidified their status as the most successful team in the league. Leading this charge is dynamic quarterback Jalen Hurts, who is rapidly emerging as a top contender for the coveted MVP title. Hurts gives the Eagles staying power! The team is seeking to bounce back from their Super Bowl loss to the Chiefs.

Photo Cred: Yahoo Sports

Hurts’ performance has been extraordinary, with 18 passing touchdowns and 11 rushing touchdowns in just 11 games. Beyond the impressive statistics, he epitomizes leadership, guiding the defending NFC Champions with a contagious fire that keeps the team competitive in every matchup. This quality was prominently displayed in last year’s Super Bowl, highlighting his ability to deliver exceptional performances when it matters most.

As the Eagles prepare for a challenging stretch against formidable opponents such as the 49ers, Cowboys, and Seahawks in their next three games, Hurts faces a pivotal test. The outcome of these matchups will undoubtedly influence his MVP candidacy. If he can lead his team to a 2-1 record or emerge unscathed, while minimizing turnovers (13 so far this season), Hurts could strengthen his position as the frontrunner for the MVP title.

Photo Cred: FandSided

However, the journey to MVP glory is not without hurdles, particularly with a familiar rival in Kansas City. A quarterback well-acquainted with Hurts (Patrick Mahomes) poses a significant challenge, making it a formidable task to dethrone him as the league’s premier individual player. Currently, the MVP race is intense, with Hurts on the verge of greatness. However, Mahomes still stands as a substantial barrier to his aspirations. The upcoming games will undoubtedly be a defining chapter in Hurts’ quest for MVP honors, captivating football enthusiasts across the league who are eagerly watching to see how this narrative unfolds.

Analyzing College Football Playoff Contenders

By

Arnav Sarkar

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November 28, 2023

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2023 has been a remarkable season of college football! With rivalry week and the regular season now in the rearview mirror, let’s analyze the College Football Playoff picture before the upcoming conference championships next week. I am using the AP rankings from November 26th in this assessment before the latest CFP rankings are set to be released this evening.

#1 Georgia Bulldogs

Photo Cred: NCAA.com

The Georgia Bulldogs, two-time defending national champions, opted for Carson Beck as starting quarterback to replace Stetson Bennett. They lost many of their best players to the NFL this offseason, particularly on defense. That did not stop Georgia from completing an undefeated regular season, even with an injury to Brock Bowers and close calls in a few games. Next up for the Bulldogs is the SEC championship game against Nick Saban and #8 Alabama. It will be a crucial matchup that could impact their College Football Playoff (CFP) chances. They currently hold the #1 CFP ranking comfortably. However, a loss to Alabama might jeopardize the SEC’s playoff representation, especially if every other power conference champions remain undefeated.

#2 Michigan Wolverines

Photo Cred: ClickOnDetroit

The Michigan Wolverines have had to deal with a sign-stealing investigation and were without their head coach Jim Harbaugh for the past three games. Regardless, they achieved an undefeated season, securing a third straight victory over Ohio State. With a top-two seed, Michigan is well-positioned for the CFP after defeating the Buckeyes. They are heavily favored heading into the Big Ten championship matchup against #18 Iowa.

#3 Washington Huskies

Photo Cred: MyNorthwest.com

Washington completed a perfect 12-0 season of their own, featuring notable wins against ranked teams like USC, Oregon State, Utah, and (most notably) #5 Oregon. The Huskies seek to win the Pac-12 title before the conference faces significant realignment. Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. will have another rematch against Oregon during the championship. Washington has a great resume but likely needs a Pac-12 championship win to secure a playoff berth.

#4 Florida State Seminoles

Photo Cred: Chop Chat

Florida State rounds out the top four teams, as the Seminoles are undefeated at 12-0. They do face the challenge of losing star quarterback Jordan Travis to a season-ending injury. The selection committee would be hard-pressed to keep an undefeated conference champion out of the CFP. FSU aims to maintain their playoff destiny with backup quarterback Tate Rodemaker. Seminoles fans must hope that their team can defeat #10 Louisville in the ACC championship game.

#5 Oregon Ducks

Photo Cred: UNISWAG

The Oregon Ducks are the highest-ranked one-loss team and currently hold the #5 spot, sitting right outside the playoff picture. Led by quarterback Bo Nix, their only loss was a close 36-33 defeat to Washington. Oregon will have their shot at revenge in the Pac-12 championship game this Friday night, and the winner of the game will have a strong case for a CFP spot.

#6 Ohio State Buckeyes

Photo Cred: Axios

The Ohio State Buckeyes suffered their lone loss of the season against the Michigan Wolverines, falling 30-24 in a hard-fought battle. They face an uncertain path to the CFP due to their third straight loss to UM, requiring help from other conference championships. The Buckeyes would have to hope for Louisville and Oklahoma State to upset FSU and Texas in their respective championship games. Additionally, Washington and Georgia would need to win their conference championships, which would prevent any other conference except for the Big Ten from sending two teams. Even with all of that, Ohio State would likely end up as the #4 seed. Missing out on the Big Ten championship game hinders their chances.

#7 Texas Longhorns

Photo Cred: texassports.com

The Texas Longhorns have had their best year in a long time, finishing with an impressive 11-1 record heading into the Big 12 championship game. Their non-conference win over Alabama strengthens their playoff case, coming in handy if the Crimson Tide upset Georgia in the SEC championship game. Assuming the Big Ten, ACC, and Pac-12 send their champions to the playoff undefeated, the Longhorns could end up with the final spot in the CFP. They could hold the SEC out entirely by virtue of their win over Alabama and Alabama’s hypothetical win over Georgia. Texas needs to win the Big 12 championship and hope for favorable results elsewhere.

#8 Alabama Crimson Tide

Photo Cred: Alabama Athletics

Despite an undefeated SEC season and an 11-1 overall record, the Alabama Crimson Tide faces long odds of any true contender for the CFP due to their 34-24 home loss to Texas. Even with an SEC championship win over Georgia, Alabama could be left out of the playoffs. Beating Georgia in the SEC championship will not be easy, especially after Bama needed a miracle finish to defeat the now 6-6 Auburn in the Iron Bowl. Michigan losing to Iowa and FSU losing to Louisville would seemingly open up a playoff spot. However, Texas’ head-to-head victory over the Tide makes it a hard case for Alabama to be picked over Texas if both teams finish as 12-1 conference champions. If Alabama does defeat Georgia, they must also hope for an Oklahoma State victory over Texas in the Big 12 championship game for their most realistic shot at making the College Football Playoff.

So there you have it. These are the top eight teams in college football, as per the AP rankings. They’re all vying for four coveted spots in the College Football Playoff to compete for a national championship. Stay tuned for the conference championship games this Friday and Saturday! There will be a selection show on Sunday to discover which teams make it to the CFP as well as the finalization of all of the other bowl game matchups.

Mike Elko Is off to Texas A&M

By

Stephen Patrick

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November 27, 2023

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elko-jpg-6564b96cd3169 — Photo Cred: Duke

In the realm of college football coaching, the appointment of Mike Elko as Texas A&M’s head coach has generated significant interest and discussion among fans and analysts. Elko’s deep-rooted familiarity with the program stems from his substantial four-season tenure as Jimbo Fisher’s defensive coordinator from 2018 to 2021. This extensive experience positions him not only as someone well-versed in the team’s intricacies but also as someone cognizant of the program’s expectations and standards.

Photo Cred: USA Today

When examining Elko’s coaching track record at Duke, his commendable 16-9 record stands out, serving as a testament to his ability to cultivate and develop players who can excel at a high level. However, the narrative takes an intriguing turn when considering Elko’s relatively limited experience in head coaching, amounting to just two years. This fact introduces an element of uncertainty to his role, particularly as he steps into a position that requires creating top-down unity in a program where various influential figures contribute to decision-making— a situation often likened to having “too many cooks in the kitchen.”

Some critics contend that, in hindsight, Mark Stoops might have been a more optimal choice for the position. Stoops’ coaching prowess and experience could potentially have facilitated a more seamless transition and immediate impact. Notably, it is observed that Elko’s evaluation might have been more favorable had negotiations with Stoops not encountered complications, which led to the collapse of the potential deal. The verdict on Mike Elko’s appointment as Texas A&M’s head coach remains suspended in a state of anticipation.

Photo Cred: ABC News

Only time will reveal the effectiveness of this strategic move. Drawing parallels between Elko and Stoops, there appear to be shared coaching characteristics suggesting a potential alignment in their approaches to the game. As we await the unfolding of the seasons ahead, the success of this coaching decision will be measured against the backdrop of the challenges inherent in unifying a program with diverse voices and expectations. Ultimately, the trajectory of Elko’s coaching career at Duke is a narrative that will unfold gradually, with the chapters yet to be written on the field of play.

Who Will Win the ACC?

By

Stephen Patrick

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November 27, 2023

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florida-state-vs-louisville-week-3-college-football-prediction — Photo Cred: Watch Stadium

In Charlotte, the long-awaited showdown unfolds as the undefeated Florida State Seminoles take the field, encountering an unexpected hurdle with a backup quarterback leading their offensive charge. Conversely, the Louisville Cardinals find themselves in a contrasting tale, having lost their season’s momentum in a bitter defeat to the Kentucky Wildcats in their regular-season finale. This setback not only dampened their spirits but also significantly diminished their chances of securing a coveted spot in a New Year’s Six bowl.

How to Watch Florida State vs. Florida Online Today: Free Live Stream

Photo Cred: Rolling Stone

The stakes are undeniably high for Florida State on this Saturday night, as they urgently require a victory to solidify their position in the College Football Playoff. As the sole team with significant postseason implications, the Seminoles are gearing up for a do-or-die clash against the Cardinals. Louisville, now assuming the role of a potential spoiler, has an opportunity to salvage their season with an upset that could thrust them into contention for a New Year’s Six bowl, albeit with reduced odds following their loss to Kentucky. Despite their 10-2 record, the Cardinals suffered a blow in the 38-31 defeat, characterized by crucial turnovers despite outgaining their opponents.

This loss marks one of two pivotal disappointments for the Cardinals this season, the other being a defeat to the Pittsburgh Panthers just one week after an uplifting upset against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. As they enter the ACC Championship Game, Louisville must deliver a resilient performance against Florida State to reignite their hopes for a late push into the New Year’s Six bowls.

Football - University of Louisville Athletics

Photo Cred: UofL

Nevertheless, the challenge is formidable, especially if the Florida State defense continues its impressive streak of holding opponents to 20 points or fewer in each of their last eight games. With Jack Plummer and the Louisville offense seeking redemption, the ACC Championship Game promises to be a test of resilience and determination for both teams. The outcome will not only shape the immediate postseason destiny of these programs but also contribute another chapter to the unpredictable and thrilling saga of college football.

Michigan State Has Their Man!

By

Stephen Patrick

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November 27, 2023

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Oregon St Smith Football — Photo Cred: AP Photo/Amanda Loman, File

Jonathan Smith, fresh off wrapping up an 8-4 regular season with the Beavers to conclude a successful three-year stretch, is set to leave Oregon State. Taking over in 2018, he successfully rebuilt the Pac-12 squad. Despite their lone season together, DJ Uiagalelei, the previous starting quarterback for the Clemson Tigers, has been under Smith’s tutelage. The duo’s future together is uncertain, and whether Uiagalelei remains in town is yet to be determined. Nevertheless, their singular season was a success.

Photo Cred: SI

Smith, over six seasons at Oregon State, holds a commendable record of 34-35. The record is highlighted by the remarkable 10-3 season in 2022 that culminated in a triumphant victory at the prestigious Las Vegas Bowl. However, his success hasn’t shielded him from coaching speculation, particularly after Oregon State’s loss to Oregon. Rumors linked him to the vacant coaching position at Michigan State.

In response to inquiries about potential interviews, Coach Smith maintained a measured stance, stating, “No decisions have been made. I’ve urged the team to maintain a locked-in approach for four months, especially given the uncertainty surrounding the Pac-12. I’ve adopted the same mindset, and we’ll proceed from there.”

Photo Cred: CBS Sports

Emphasizing the need to stay focused amidst external chatter, Smith reiterated his guidance to the team about distractions. “Throughout the year, we’ve addressed external noise, discussing recent rumors with the team just a few days ago and emphasizing the need to stay focused,” he explained.

When pressed about recent interactions with Athletic Director Scott Barnes, Smith acknowledged their regular meetings but chose not to delve into specifics. “Scott and the administration have been proactive in navigating unprecedented challenges. We’ve had weekly discussions not only about football but also regarding the overall approach to athletics, scheduling, and more,” Smith commented, shedding light on the broader scope of their ongoing collaboration in steering the program through uncharted waters.

Pirates Struggle over Thanksgiving Break

By

Sam Cohen

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November 26, 2023

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usa_today_17927355 — Photo Cred: USA Today

During the course of the holiday break, the Seton Hall Pirates found themselves facing substantial challenges. They were unable to capitalize on either opportunity to advance their standing. The potential for significant gains in the AP rankings loomed over them as they went head-to-head against two formidable opponents.

The initial challenge came on Thanksgiving Day, when they clashed with the 23rd-ranked USC Trojans. Unfortunately, the Pirates fell short, succumbing to a 63-71 defeat. Their struggles in containing senior guard Boogie Ellis, who notched an impressive 22 points for the Trojans, was coupled with a 15-point contribution from top prospect Isaiah Collier. These opposition performances highlighted the defensive gaps in the Pirates’ game.

Photo Cred: NBC15

Despite the setback, Kadary Richmond emerged as a standout performer for Seton Hall, leading the team with 18 points and 6 rebounds. However, his 6-of-15 shooting from the field and six turnovers underscored the challenges the Pirates faced. Notably, freshman guard Isiah Coleman, who had previously showcased his prowess against Albany, had a subdued game with a mere two points on three shots.

In their second Thanksgiving week matchup, Seton Hall squared off against Iowa, resulting in an 85-72 defeat. The Pirates valiantly kept the game competitive into the second half. However, the dominating performance of junior forward Payton Sandfort, who scored 22 points on 7-of-14 shooting and secured 9 rebounds for the Hawkeyes, proved insurmountable. Despite their efforts, Iowa pulled away, sealing a convincing victory.

Photo Cred: Asbury Park Press

Looking ahead, the Pirates are gearing up to face Northeastern University at the Prudential Center on Wednesday. With their current season record standing at 3-4, Seton Hall finds itself in a challenging position early in the season. The upcoming game against Northeastern holds significant importance, as a victory is crucial for the Pirates to stay competitive. All eyes will be on the response and adjustments made by Coach Holloway in the aftermath of the two losses, with the hope that Seton Hall can rebound and regain momentum in the weeks to come.

With Struggles This Season, There’s Growing Tension in the Giants Coaching Staff

By

Sam Cohen

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November 26, 2023

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Lions Giants Football — Photo Cred: AP Photo/Adam Hunger

The New York Giants, once lauded for their impressive turnaround in the previous season, have unfortunately found themselves on a disheartening trajectory in the current campaign. Guided by head coach Brian Daboll, the Giants celebrated a commendable ten victories in the past season, marked by a stunning defensive overhaul orchestrated by the strategic genius of defensive coordinator Don “Wink” Martindale. However, the defensive unit is now grappling with challenges stemming the tide against formidable opponents.

Photo Cred: SI

A series of recent developments within the Giants organization has brought to light a growing discord between coach Daboll and defensive maestro Martindale. Speculations about an impending parting of ways at the end of the season have gained traction, with Jay Glazer of Fox Sports shedding light on the precarious situation. Glazer, having conversations with insiders within the Giants organization, reported a palpable tension in discussions revolving around the relationship dynamics between Daboll and Martindale.

In their most recent matchup, the Giants emerged victorious against the New England Patriots with a narrow scoreline of 10-7. The triumph was sealed with a missed field goal attempt by Patriots rookie kicker Chad Ryland from 35 yards. Martindale’s defensive prowess shone through as his unit showcased dominance against the struggling Patriots offense, securing three interceptions against quarterbacks Mac Jones and Bailey Zappe.

Photo Cred: CBS Sports

Despite this win, the Giants’ overall record now stands at 4-8, effectively removing them from contention for top quarterback prospects in the upcoming draft, such as USC’s Caleb Williams or UNC’s Drake Maye. With the quarterback landscape potentially out of reach, the Giants are shifting their focus toward alternative candidates to bolster their roster. The Giants must move on from Daniel Jones.

Names like Oregon’s Bo Nix, LSU’s Jayden Daniels, and Washington’s Michael Penix Jr. are now under consideration as the team navigates the complexities of rebuilding and charting a course for future success. As the season progresses, the tension between the coaching staff intensifies. The Giants find themselves at a critical juncture, with decisions made in the coming weeks likely to shape the team’s trajectory for the future.

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