College Football Playoff Picks 2023-24: Rose Bowl, Sugar Bowl

Rome Odunze, Washington

Rose Bowl: (#4) Alabama Crimson Tide vs. (#1) Michigan Wolverines

Line: Michigan -1.5

O/U: 44.5

For as strange of an offseason as it has been off the field for Michigan, the Wolverines enter this year's College Football Playoff a perfect 13-0, fresh off their third consecutive Big Ten Title. The program has to feel as though they have something to prove after a pair of short-lived Playoff appearances, and now get an opportunity against Nick Saban and the mighty Alabama Crimson Tide. Alabama's controversial inclusion in the Playoff aside, the door is open for Saban to claim his seventh National Title with the Tide, this time as the "underdog" in the four-team field.

In a sport increasingly defined by elite quarterbacks and wide receivers, Michigan feels like a bit of a throwback to a different era in college football. That's not to take anything away from J.J. McCarthy, who has had an impressive year, but this Wolverine team is predicated on a power-run attack behind a physical offensive line, with an elite defense going the other way. Blake Corum is fully healthy this time around and will join up with Donovan Edwards to give Alabama's rush defense their toughest challenge of the 2023 campaign. On the outside, the Wolverines don't feature a superstar, but Roman Wilson and Cornelius Johnson provide plenty of explosiveness, while tight ends Colston Loveland and A.J. Barner operate underneath. They should be an interesting test for an Alabama secondary that has several future NFL pieces, most notably the likely first CB off the board this spring in Kool-Aid McKinstry, but has experienced plenty of ups-and-downs. The Tide defense does seem to be playing their best ball at the right time, and I expect them to come out aggressively - this game could end up coming down to the chess match at the line of scrimmage between the Alabama front and Michigan O-Line. The Wolverines have been great up front, but Dallas Turner and company will be fired up and ready to go. It feels like this Tide defense is going to see whether McCarthy has the tools to beat them, a guy who has something to prove himself after several key turnovers in last year's loss to TCU. McCarthy has played big at the most important moments of the 2023 season, but is he ready for this type of stage against this Tide defense? This is the type of game where a quarterback can step up and become a forever campus legend - just ask Stetson Bennett.

We've become accustomed to such dominant Alabama teams that this year's 12-1 finish and SEC Title doesn't feel altogether very special. But, the reality is that this is probably Saban's best coaching job since he's taken over in Tuscaloosa, keeping the Tide on track after a rough September and seemingly getting better each and every week. Quarterback Jalen Milroe has had a turbulent season, but the dual threat has been tremendous over the last two months of the season, and gives this Tide offense an element they haven't had in the past with his legs. Milroe is still prone to the turnover or mistake, which is a concern against an opportunistic Michigan defense, but he has the ability to open up games in a way this Wolverine defense hasn't seen much of on the year. What's even more amazing about Milroe is that he's kept the Tide offense firing even though his supporting cast has felt very un-Alabamaesque, with Jermaine Burton on the perimeter and Roydell Williams and Jase McClellan out of the backfield. Burton has evolved into the big-play threat this team needs, but I am curious if another Tide pass-catcher will step up - Isaiah Bond is the obvious candidate, but both face down a stifling Wolverine secondary. Much like the matchup the other way, the action at the line of scrimmage is also going to play an outsized role. The Tide offensive line has improved drastically after a rough start to the season, but they still face quite the challenge in this one. The Wolverines don't have just one elite pass rusher this season, but they're deep and experienced, the type of defensive front that is going to play well deep into this contest. It feels like whichever group comes out with more energy and an edge in the physicality contest is going to put their team in position to come out on top.

For all the frustration from Florida State fans over their team being left out of the four-team field, all of which I believe to be valid, what a semifinal matchup this one is going to turn out to be. Two of the sport's most recognizable brands, two elite head coaches, and two tremendous football teams set to battle it out in college football's best venue ... what more could you ask for? It should be a good game, too, with neither side having a clear advantage either direction. Michigan was my preseason National Title pick so it feels only right for me to stick with them to conquer the Tide and set the program up for their first in over two decades.

The Pick: Michigan, 31 Alabama, 28

Sugar Bowl: (#3) Texas Longhorns vs. (#2) Washington Huskies

Line: Texas -4

O/U: 64.5

Not since an unfortunate injury to Colt McCoy in the 2009 National Championship Game have we seen a Texas team this close to hoisting a National Title, but standing in their way is the undefeated Washington Huskies and Heisman winner Michael Penix. As opposed to the Rose Bowl, which has the looks of a physical, grind of a football game, the Sugar Bowl has all the makings of a fun, high-scoring affair between two programs looking to prove themselves on one of the sport's biggest stages.

The transfer portal has become somewhat of a boogeyman in the world of modern college football, but it's always a great story to see a situation where it worked out to perfection, as is the case with Penix and Washington. After several injury-plagued seasons at Indiana, Penix connected with his old play-caller Kalen DeBoer, now the head man at UW, and has put together a pair of record-setting seasons. That includes a 2023 campaign in which he has eclipsed 4,000 yards and 36 total touchdowns, while helping Washington to a perfect 13-0. It's not just the fact this Washington offense puts up gaudy stats, it's a genuinely fun team to watch every time they take the field. Penix has unlimited arm strength, and is flanked by arguably the nation's top receiver corps, including Rome Odunze, Ja'Lynn Polk, Jalen McMillan, and Germie Bernard. DeBoer and coordinator Ryan Grubb are masterminds at finding a way to get their playmakers open, and Penix has showed up each and every week. Then there's the unsung heroes of the offense, the O-Line and tailback Dillon Johnson, who provide just enough balance to keep defenses honest. Johnson quietly surpassed the 1,000-yard mark on the year and has been instrumental in Washington's success down the stretch, while the Husky offensive line won the Joe Moore Award as the nation's best. All in all, it's quite the challenge for a Texas defense that has been significantly improved all year, but still is prone to occasional lapses. Texas defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski did come from Washington and may have a few tricks up his sleeve, but what DeBoer and staff have been running is far different from what Kwiatkowski saw under Chris Petersen just a few years ago. The Huskies are going to attack down the field and if this Longhorn defense isn't ready, this one could quickly devolve into a shootout.

Even with several important injuries, the Texas offense keeps on rolling, coming off a Big 12 Championship Game in which they dropped 49 points. Quarterback Quinn Ewers missed several weeks but appears close to 100 percent and should be ready to go. He's still a bit streaky, but there are few quarterbacks in the nation as impressive as the redshirt sophomore when he's on his "A" game - simply go back and watch the tape from the Alabama win. Ewers has plenty of help as well, with Xavier Worthy and Adonai Mitchell on the outside and tight end Ja'Tavion Sanders creating matchup problems underneath. With that being said, I am curious whether the Longhorns will be able to maintain the offensive balance that this has defined this unit in 2023 as they prepare for another game without Jonathon Brooks. Brooks was having a dominant year before a torn ACL in early November and although the Longhorns have managed well without him, these are the types of games where he would make all the difference. C.J. Baxter and Jaydon Blue have been impressive in relief, but it still feels like this unit isn't at complete full strength, which is a problem when you consider who they're facing the other way. With that being said, they should be able to still move the ball against a Washington defense that has been leaky at times this season, although they are coming off a strong showing in the Pac-12 Championship Game. The Huskies did a great job disrupting the rhythm of Bo Nix in that one, and they should be able to draw up something creative to do the same against Ewers.

I've been skeptical about both of these teams at different points throughout the season and yet here they are, playing for a chance at a National Championship Game berth. Washington in particular has left quite the impression on me - they've had off weeks and tough matchups, yet have answered the call at every point on the year. Instead of slowing down, they seem to be getting even stronger at the right time, and I think this is the opportunity to show out against a fantastic Texas team. I like them to move on, setting up a National Championship Game featuring two future Big Ten foes for all the marbles.

The Pick: Washington, 41 Texas, 31

NFL Mock Draft 2024: Edition 2 (End-of-Year Edition)

Caleb Williams, USC

 1. Chicago Bears (from Carolina)

Caleb Williams, QB, USC

The Bears have a chance to be the NFL's ultimate wild card this offseason, with ample money to throw around and two selections likely to land in the Top 5 of the 2024 NFL Draft. Justin Fields has played better since his return from injury, but it still feels like the organization will have a difficult time passing up the allure of Caleb Williams, who would give them the game-changer they've lacked at the position for years.

2. Arizona Cardinals

Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State

Are Kyler Murray and Arizona in for a divorce this offseason? Neither this Arizona front office or head coach Jonathan Gannon were part of the group that originally drafted Murray, or signed him to a hefty extension, and they could be looking to start anew. But unless they find a creative way to manuaver out of his contract, it's likely they'll have to rock with him for at least one more season. So, why not give him a special talent to work with, like Marvin Harrison Jr.? The former Buckeye could be the Larry Fitzgerald of a new era in the desert.

3. New England Patriots

Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina

More and more, 2023 has the feeling of Bill Belichick's final run in New England, and it just feels right for the Patriots to begin a new direction by drafting a difference-maker under center. Drake Maye would be the clear top quarterback off the board in just about every other draft class, but offers tremendous value for the Pats down here at third overall.

4. Washington Commanders

Olu Fashanu, OT, Penn State

Is Sam Howell really the guy in the nation's capital? The jury is most definitely still out, particularly as the Commanders fall to the cellar of the NFC East, but it wouldn't shock me if Howell is the taking Day One snaps in 2024. Assuming that is the case, it makes sense for Washington to complement him by adding a stalwart at tackle in the form of Olu Fashanu, who will be reminding fans of Trent Williams in short order.

5. Chicago Bears

Joe Alt, OT, Notre Dame

Chicago hopes that Caleb Williams is the answer to their quarterback woes, but this second first-rounder is all about surrounding him with the right supporting cast. Receiver would be an obvious solution but with MHJ gone, it's hard to find a pass-catcher that wouldn't be a stretch at five. Instead, they stay in the Midwest and land a rapidly improving blocker in Joe Alt, who has been a contributor for the Irish since the moment he stepped on campus.

6. Los Angeles Chargers

Laiatu Latu, DE/LB, UCLA

The Chargers are going to be in for massive changes over the offseason, with ample changes throughout the coaching staff and front office. That makes mocking this selection particularly difficult, but it feels like adding a disruptive pass rusher never goes out of style. Laiatu Latu, who put together monster numbers over his UCLA career, has the skillset and scheme versatility to make an immediate impact on a needy defense.

7. New York Giants

Malik Nabers, WR, LSU

Tommy DeVito's magical run seemed to come to its inevitable conclusion on Christmas night, and the G-Men could very well be drafting in the Top 5 come next spring. Quarterback remains a real possibility, but my belief is that they'll trot out Daniel Jones for one more year, while adding a flashy piece on the perimeter to bolster the offense. Enter Malik Nabers, who finished as a Biletnikoff Award finalist after a dominant 2023 with LSU.

8. New York Jets

Brock Bowers, TE, Georgia

It's been a rough season for the Jets, but the hope is that an Aaron Rodgers' return will flip the narrative in New York. Adding another pass-catcher could be just as important, especially one as talented as Brock Bowers, who has put together three superb seasons in Athens. If not for an injury that cost him a big chunk of the year, I don't think it's a stretch at all to say that Bowers would have earned serious Heisman consideration this fall.

9. Tennessee Titans

Kool Aid McKinstry, CB, Alabama

There are several needs the Titans will look to address this offseason as they build around Will Levis for the foreseeable future. Both lines could use some reinforcements and it feels like Tennessee could always use another wide out, but I'm circling the defensive backfield if I'm the Titans. Quarterback play in the AFC South keeps on improving, and adding a shutdown corner like Kool Aid McKinstry feels like a necessity.

10. Atlanta Falcons

Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU

After a record-setting season with LSU, it's going to be fascinating to watch how NFL folks evaluate Jayden Daniels. Before this year, it never felt like he was much of a pro-ready quarterback, but now appears like he could rise into the Top 5. Atlanta is certainly in need of a quarterback and this feels like a nice spot to add a mature, well-rounded signal-caller.

11. New Orleans Saints

Keon Coleman, WR, Florida State

New Orleans has attempted to keep their championship window open by leaning on an aerial attack featuring Derek Carr and an underwhelming cast of characters, but the results have been less-than-stellar. It's time the organization invests in the pass offense and adds a talent like Keon Coleman, who has been a bit inconsistent throughout his collegiate career, but absolutely dominant when he's "on."

12. Green Bay Packers

J.C. Latham, OT, Alabama

Predicting which direction Green Bay goes in with this front office often feels like you're throwing darts at the wall, but there's an obvious need along the offensive line here and a prospect that slides in perfectly in J.C. Latham. The 6'6", 360-pounder is a freak of nature and Green Bay could arrange for a homecoming of sorts, as Latham hailing from Oak Creek, Wisconsin originally.

13. Las Vegas Raiders

Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson

Cornerback has been circled as an obvious need position for the Raiders, and something tells me they will be investing in the position early on this offseason. Clemson's Nate Wiggins may not have the ceiling of Kool-Aid McKinstry, but he's a lengthy, well-rounded corner with a proven pedigree, making him well worth this selection.

14. Denver Broncos

Rome Odunze, WR, Washington

It feels like we could we see a shuffling of Denver's receiver room this offseason, regardless of how they finish the regular season. Jerry Jeudy feels like he's gone and despite his production, Courtland Sutton could also be a casualty of the times as this team builds for the future. The Broncos would be just fine taking a dynamic weapon like Rome Odunze as a replacement, a deep threat they've been missing all season.

15. Minnesota Vikings

Jer'Zhan Newton, DL, Illinois

Another team that has some decisions to make this offseason, as Minnesota evaluates their quarterback situation. Fortunately, the rest of the roster is still built to compete and by plugging holes, this team could certainly be in the hunt in the NFC. Adding a disruptive force like Jer'Zhan Newton, who has unstoppable while at Illinois, feels like a no-brainer at this spot for the front office.

16. Cincinnati Bengals

Taliese Fuaga, OT, Oregon State

With Tee Higgins potentially set to walk in free agency and a clear need at tight end, we should be watching pass-catcher in the first round for the Bengals. Yet, with all the big names off the board at this point, Cincinnati goes in a different direction by upgrading along the O-Line. Taliese Fuaga, a behemoth out of Oregon State, is the type of prospect that should climb steadily up boards throughout the pre-Draft process.

17. Arizona Cardinals (from Houston)

Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama

The Cardinals added the flashy new offensive piece with their earlier first-rounder - this selection is all about addressing their top need, cornerback. Certainly they would love if Kool-Aid McKinstry were to drop deeper into the first, but his defensive backfield mate Terrion Arnold, is a fine consolation. Arnold can be inconsistent, but has all the physical gifts necessary to be a plus defender in the pros.

18. Pittsburgh Steelers

Dallas Turner, DE/LB, Alabama

Dallas Turner is likely to land much higher than this but based on the way things turn out, anybody can slide come draft night. Expect the Steelers to jump on this opportunity if it were to happen, adding a relentless pass rusher off the edge who can complement T.J. Watt for the long haul.

19. Indianapolis Colts

Chop Robinson, DE, Penn State

The Colts have been a pleasant surprise, even with Anthony Richardson sidelined most of the year, but if they want to be serious threats in the AFC they need to shore up the defense. All three levels could use reinforcements and although corner seems to be a more pressing need, I love the idea of Indy adding a ferocious pass rusher like Chop Robinson out of Penn State.

20. Los Angeles Rams

Cooper DeJean, CB, Iowa

It's been an up-and-down year in LA, but the Rams appear to still have a championship window open if they can fix a few of the holes that have persisted throughout this fall. That includes a secondary that has taken a notable step-back, and would benefit from adding a weapon like Iowa's Cooper DeJean. DeJean is the type of playmaker at the position you don't get every day, a ball hawk who can also make things happen on special teams.

21. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Jared Verse, DE, Florida State

Tampa has been a pleasant surprise under the leadership of Baker Mayfield, but you still have to be monitoring quarterback with their first-rounder this year. Both Michael Penix and Bo Nix should get a look here, and both could end up going higher than anticipated, but it feels like the Buccaneers may be content going best player available and waiting to find the right fit for their next franchise signal-caller.

22. Jacksonville Jaguars

Patrick Paul, OT, Houston

There are obvious holes on both lines of scrimmage for Jacksonville, with the defense underperforming at crucial points during the year and shaky protection in front of Trevor Lawrence. The defense will need work, but I suspect adding a young blocker will be at the top of the priority list, and the Jags get nice value here with Patrick Paul in the early 20s.

23. Seattle Seahawks

Bralen Trice, DE, Washington

Seattle's pass rush has been lifeless most of the season, and the organization needs to invest draft capital if they hope to flip the script in 2024. Fortunately, they may not have to go very far to do so, as they can stay in the city and snag Bralen Trice out of Washington. The polished end has been a force for the undefeated Huskies all season, and has the measurables that translate very well to the pro game.

24. Buffalo Bills

Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State

Regardless of how the season finishes in Buffalo, the Bills have things to figure out offensively, most notably at receiver. Gabe Davis has been a steady No. 2 but is set to hit free agency and will likely be looking for a pay day, meaning Buffalo could soon be looking for new blood alongside Stefon Diggs. Emeka Egbuka makes plenty of sense if that is indeed the case - although he played second fiddle to Harrison Jr. at Ohio State, the former Buckeye is a special talent.

25. Kansas City Chiefs

Adonai Mitchell, WR, Texas

Patrick Mahomes may be the most talented quarterback in the NFL, but it's become clear this year that he can't do it all alone. The Chiefs have not done a great job surrounding him with the right pieces at receiver, resulting in a staggering amount of drops that have fed an underlying sense of frustration around the team throughout the fall. Adonai Mitchell is an instant impact receiver who seemed to get better each and every week for Texas in 2023 after coming over from Georgia.

26. Dallas Cowboys

Graham Barton, OL, Duke

Don't be surprised if Graham Barton begins steadily climbing up draft boards as the pre-Draft process ramps up. The Duke product is a well-rounded, versatile blocker who is the type of prospect that could have a coming out party at the Senior Bowl in early February. For right now, he slides in comfortably to Dallas at 26, a team that should use further help along the O-Line.

27. Houston Texans (from Cleveland)

J.T. Tuimoloau, DL, Ohio State

With their third first-rounder, this feels like the perfect spot for Houston to snatch up a disruptive pass rusher, especially considering there's usually one or two that slide into the late first. In this case it's J.T. Tuimoloau, a physical freak who has quite the range he could end up going - anywhere from the mid-first round to late second feels in play at the moment.

28. Detroit Lions

Leonard Taylor, DL, Miami (FL)

Aidan Hutchinson may be a talented young pass rusher, but he's faced constant double teams all season long. It's clear Detroit needs to further bolster their defensive line this offseason, and Leonard Taylor could do just that. He's going to play on the inside in the pros, but can still get after the quarterback, and he feels like one of those prospects that projects better to the NFL than his college production suggests.

29. Miami Dolphins

Amarius Mims, OL, Georgia

The injury bug has struck in Miami but amazingly, Tua Tagovailoa has managed to stay healthy throughout the fall. Instead, it's been the O-Line that has been hit hard, exposing the lack of depth throughout the unit. The Dolphins can change that by taking a piece like Amarius Mims this next spring, a powerful blocker who can fill in at multiple spots.

30. Philadelphia Eagles

Kalen King, CB, Penn State

Cornerback was already considered a need for Philadelphia heading into 2023, and the events of the last month have made it clear that the Eagles need to invest in the position this upcoming offseason. Fortunately, this is a really solid corner draft, even if there isn't an elite No. 1, and they have a chance for a real value play here in Kalen King.

31. Baltimore Ravens

Kamari Lassiter, CB, Georgia

You can always count on Baltimore to find value wherever they're drafting, and Kamari Lassiter would be quite the get at the 31 spot. The former Georgia Bulldog has been overshadowed at times by all the NFL talent on that side of the ball, but he's a sturdy, refined cornerback who still has a high enough ceiling to imagine another leap in the pros.

32. San Francisco 49ers

Jordan Morgan, OT, Arizona

It's often said that just about any quarterback could run Kyle Shanahan's scheme, but San Francisco shouldn't be too eager to find out - they need to keep Brock Purdy healthy. Fortunately there are plenty of options to do so in the late first round, with Arizona's Jordan Morgan jumping out as a high upside guy with room to grow.

Transfer Portal 2023-24: Ranking the Top 10 Quarterbacks (So Far)

Cam Ward, Washington State

December has become the most crucial month on the college football calendar, not only because of the action on the field, but all the movement away from it. The transfer portal has been churning at a dizzying rate this offseason, with more players looking to move on than ever before - all of which will have a major impact on the National Title race next season, and beyond. Some big names have decided, plenty haven't, and more are likely to enter, but as we stand today these are the Top 10 signal-callers switching schools this winter.

1. Dillon Gabriel

From: Oklahoma --> Oregon

There may be quarterbacks in the portal with more natural arm talent than Dillon Gabriel, or prettier touch with the football. But, there is not another signal-caller on the move this offseason who can come close to Gabriel's college production - through five seasons at both UCF and Oklahoma, he has totaled nearly 16,000 yards of total offense, 151 total touchdowns, and 49 starts. Assuming he can stay healthy this next fall, he's on pace to smash the record of career starts by a quarterback, which is now held by Bo Nix at 61. It just so happens Gabriel will be the one replacing Nix under center, as he travels northwest to Eugene to take over the Duck offense after a pair of stellar seasons with Oklahoma. It's an understandable match - the Ducks want a veteran QB to lead them into a new era of Big Ten football, while Gabriel is looking for a fresh start, with Jackson Arnold the new face of the program at OU. It will be an adjustment as Gabriel moves from the Sooner offense led by now Mississippi State head man Jeff Lebby to the unit currently run by Oregon's Will Stein, but he'll have no shortage of skill position talent around him, on a team with College Football Playoff aspirations. As long as Gabriel can stay healthy, it feels like we're in store for a grand finale from the longtime quarterback in 2024.

2. Riley Leonard

From: Duke --> Notre Dame

For the second straight offseason, Marcus Freeman and Notre Dame raided the ACC to snag an accomplished quarterback to run the show in South Bend. After a solid year from Sam Hartman, they're hoping for even more from Duke's Riley Leonard, who was putting together a special season before an unfortunate injury suffered against ... Notre Dame. Leonard should be back at full strength by the time things kick off in 2024, and he'll give this Irish offense something they've lacked for years - an explosive, dual-threat under center. Leonard ran for 1,224 yards in his Duke career, despite limited action in both 2021 and 2023, and proved that he was a threat to take it to the house every time he dropped back to throw. As a passer, he still has room to grow, and will be working with an Irish receiver corps that is going to completely flip over the offseason, but the tools are there for him to have a major impact in 2024. 

3. Cam Ward

From: Washington State --> TBD

There are few players in college football as entertaining as Cam Ward, who is looking for a new home after an impressive two-year run with Washington State. Ward has dazzling athletic gifts and a fearless mentality, creating plenty of highlight reel plays, as well as plenty of head-scratching moments. You never can be quite sure what you're getting from Ward play-to-play, drive-by-drive, or week-to-week - he is the type of ultimate wild card that makes this sport so engrossing. It's no surprise that he has plenty of suitors, fresh off a 2023 in which he finished with 3,735 passing yards and 33 total touchdowns, but it's unclear which uniform he will be repping in 2024. Ohio State seems to be on the inside track as things stand in mid-December, but it still feels like there could be some fireworks yet to come from Cam Ward this offseason. As with his play on the field, it's best to just sit back and enjoy the ride. 

4. Dante Moore

From: UCLA --> TBD

Contrary to the first three names on the list, who are accomplished college quarterbacks, Dante Moore's rank is all about his potential. The former five-star prospect was a huge get for Chip Kelly and UCLA, and the young quarterback saw a healthy dosage of action in Year One. But, the results were mixed - Moore would finish with 1,610 yards, an 11-9 TD-INT ratio, and a completion percentage of 54% on a Bruins team that slipped to 7-5 on the year. It's not surprising that a freshman quarterback had growing pains, but it also felt that the marriage between Moore and Kelly was always an awkward fit. In turn, it's no surprise that he has since entered the portal and likely has countless suitors lining up for his services. Even with his ups-and-downs, you still saw many of the tools that made Moore such an enticing quarterback prospect. He has a huge arm, moves incredibly well, and has the type of improvisation ability that you simply can't teach at this level. Whoever gets him is landing a talented youngster who has the best of both worlds:  experience, but also two years of eligibility remaining. Moore was previously committed to Oregon coming out of high school and while it doesn't feel like he will end up transferring there, it wouldn't be a shock to see him stay on the West Coast.

5. Will Howard

From: Kansas State --> TBD

After four seasons at Kansas State, Will Howard is officially on the market and looking for his next destination. Howard had a productive career with the Wildcats, breaking through last season in relief duty for the injured Adrian Martinez and finishing with 15 touchdowns. He built on that with a fine campaign this fall, in which he tossed for 2,643 yards and 24 touchdowns, even though K-State was unable to repeat as Big 12 Champs. But with the wise of talented youngster Avery Johnson, Howard saw the writing on the wall and looks to be a one-year rental for a contender come 2024. He's not necessarily a flashy quarterback, but it's not easy to find steady, experienced options like him to fill out a roster. In fact, I think a transfer may actually bring Howard's skill-set even more. It always felt like the Kansas State offense was a bit too ground-and-pound and conservative for him to truly shine. With USC and Miami being two schools rumored to be in the hunt for Howard, his next offensive scheme could look vastly different.

6. Tyler Van Dyke

From: Miami (FL) --> Wisconsin

Tyler Van Dyke was one of the best quarterbacks anywhere in college football in 2021 but after a pair of disappointing seasons in Coral Gables, he'll head north to take over the reigns of the offense in Madison. It's an interesting fit; Van Dyke clearly needed a change of scenery and Wisconsin's hiring of OC Phil Longo prior to 2023 seems to indicate a willingness to open up this offense. Yet, I remain skeptical that Luke Fickell is eager to move away from a style of football that has not only defined the Badgers for decades, but been his preferred play style throughout his coaching tenure. Yet, it feels worth the risk for both sides, as Van Dyke gets a fresh start at a program that desperately needed a quarterback, while Wisconsin gets a boom-or-bust option who could go either direction in 2024.

7. Will Rogers

From: Mississippi State --> TBD

Mike Leach's unfortunate and untimely passing was not only a turning point for Mississippi State football, but a massive change for the guy under center. Will Rogers had put up gaudy stats playing in Leach's Air Raid scheme, but the offense felt lifeless this season en route to a frustrating 5-7 campaign. Injuries played a role, but it was still startling to see Rogers, who had thrown the ball over 600 times each of the last two seasons, attempt just 237 passes in 2023. It's no surprise that he has since decided to move on and play his final year of college ball elsewhere, and plenty remain interested in a proven commodity with multiple years of SEC experience. Washington appears on the inside track as things stand today, as they look for a potential replacement for Michael Penix, but nothing is 100 percent certain at this point in the process. Rogers, who is originally from Mississippi, may have a tough time leaving the SEC, and South in general, behind.

8. Aidan Chiles

From: Oregon State --> Michigan State

It's no surprise that one of Jonathan Smith's first priorities when he got to Michigan State was bringing his highly touted young quarterback with him, and Aidan Chiles officially announced he would be coming along earlier in the week. Chiles may not have the experience of others on this list, as he threw just 35 passes during his lone season in Corvallis, but his physical gifts pop out at you. He's 6'3", 200 pounds with a wiry arm and the ability to make defenders miss with his legs. He seems like an obvious pick for a potential breakout 2024 campaign, although identifying new weapons for him in the passing game will be a chief goal for the Spartan staff over the offseason. It's likely they're going to raid the portal and try to patch something up for Smith's first team in East Lansing.

9. Maalik Murphy

From: Texas --> TBD

With Quinn Ewers potentially coming back for one more season and Arch Manning the guy of the future in Austin, there just wasn't enough space for Maalik Murphy at Texas. However, the redshirt freshman has an opportunity to start at various other Power Five schools in the nation and he now has experience, after stepping in for Ewers for two games this fall. Whoever lands Murphy will be getting a quarterback with three years of eligibility remaining, a guy who is a bit rough around the edges, but has all the tools necessary to be a star at this level. The Longhorn coaching staff clearly thought highly of Murphy and considering Steve Sarkisian's way with quarterbacks, that's quite the endorsement for the talented signal-caller.

10. Kyle McCord

From: Ohio State --> TBD

Kyle McCord's decision to hit the transfer portal was one of the more surprising moves of this year's transfer portal cycle, as he was coming off a season in which he threw for 3,170 yards and 24 touchdowns. Yet, it has become clear that Ohio State was looking for a new face to run the show, and McCord became somewhat of a casualty of the times in the new era of college football. But, the thing is, I think it's going to end up being a positive for his career. The pressure cooker in Columbus is wild, and the fans seemed to have turned on the young quarterback. The Buckeyes have been spoiled with quarterback play over the last decade-plus and McCord had a topsy-turvy lone season as starter, but he was a highly accomplished quarterback prospect who got a chance to learn from some of the best coaches in the sport over the last several seasons. It feels like he's going to kill it wherever he goes, which is now an open mystery after rumors that he was "moving on" with his transfer decision following a visit to Nebraska over the last week.

Just Missed

Grayson McCall, Coastal Carolina --> NC State: Grayson McCall had a legendary run with Coastal Carolina, but his style of play seemed a bit at odds with head coach Tim Beck after a down 2023. He's now making the jump to the Power Five level at NC State, which is a fascinating fit. He's completely different than the past quarterbacks OC Robert Anae has coached, but this could be one of those pairings that works out much better than expected.

D.J. Uiagalelei, Oregon State --> TBD: At this point, the ship has sailed on D.J. Uiagalelei every living up to his five-star billing coming out of high school. But, he has proven he can be a rock-solid, steady leader under center at multiple spots, and I think he was much better than people realize at Oregon State this past fall. There was some thought he may stay inside the state and join his brother at Oregon but with Dillon Gabriel in town, it's likely elsewhere on the West Coast for the older Uiagalelei.

Max Brosmer, New Hampshire --> Minnesota: After leading all FCS passers with 3,459 yards, Max Brosmer will make the jump all the way to the Power Five level at Minnesota. It's a risk for P.J. Fleck and company, but feels like a necessary one after a frustrating 5-7 season that featured a lifeless passing offense. Brosmer will have the advantage of having Minnesota's top target back in action, as Daniel Jackson looks to cement himself as one of the best in the Big Ten in 2024.

Brock Vandagriff, Georgia --> Kentucky: It's been an interesting ride for Brock Vandagriff, who hopes that he's found his home at Kentucky after spending the last several seasons at Georgia. Vandagriff was once pledged to Lincoln Riley and Oklahoma before de-committing (and the Sooners responded by landing some guy named Caleb Williams) and ending up in Athens. He was buried below Stetson Bennett on the depth chart and couldn't beat out Carson Beck prior to the season. With Beck putting up huge numbers, Vandagriff's future in Athens appeared bleak, so his move to Kentucky didn't come as a major shock. He certainly has talent, but it's been a mixed bag for Mark Stoops in taking quarterback transfers during his run in Lexington.

M.J. Morris, NC State --> Maryland: There are few quarterbacks in this year's portal class with the boom-or-bust potential of M.J. Morris. Morris is a former blue-chip prospect who impressed in 2022 when he filled in for the injured Devin Leary, as he threw for 648 yards and finished with a 7-1 TD-INT ratio. The encore wasn't quite what NC State was hoping for - he was beat out by Brennan Armstrong out of camp and when he did play, the results weren't quite as impressive. Even so, Maryland needs a quarterback with Taulia Tagovailoa exhausting his eligibility, and Morris has shown enough to potentially be just what they need in the expanded Big Ten next fall.

Big Ten Power Rankings 2023-24: Edition 1

Zach Edey, Purdue

1. Purdue Boilermakers (8-1 overall, 1-1 Big Ten)

Purdue may have opened up league play with a surprising loss at the hands of Northwestern, but the Boilermakers have already built a resume that has them on the inside track towards a No. 1 seed come Selection Sunday. Wins over Gonzaga, Tennessee, and Marquette demonstrate that Purdue will not only hang among the nation's elite, but that they can defeat opponents with a wide range of play styles. In fact, the Northwestern defeat could actually end up being a positive for the program, providing them the wakeup call they need to overcome a precarious slate before the meat of the Big Ten schedule arrives. That slate includes the nation's new No. 1, Arizona, who will come to Indianapolis to square off against Purdue in the 2023 Indy Classic.

2. Illinois Fighting Illini (7-1 overall, 1-0 Big Ten)

An 18-point victory on the road was a resounding statement from an Illinois team that has serious Big Ten Title aspirations, but even more impressive? The Fighting Illini's encore, when they crushed No. 11 Florida Atlantic in the Jimmy V Classic at Madison Square Garden, 98-89. It feels like both games are indicative of the type of product the Illini will put on the court in 2023-24 - they're going to score plenty of points, but it will be up to their defense to determine their ceiling this winter. If the Rutgers game was any indication, things are looking bright in Champaign - they only forced 10 Scarlet Knight turnovers, but held them to 33% shooting and 58 points.

3. Wisconsin Badgers (7-2 overall, 1-0 Big Ten)

Two losses in their first three games seemed to indicate the same old offensive woes would plague Wisconsin once again this season, but they've quickly turned things around and have been one of the hottest teams in the country over the last month. Beating in-state rival Marquette and then going on the road and handling Michigan State was quite the statement from Greg Gard's club, and the good news? They've done so with sophomore sharpshooter Connor Essegian playing far below 100 percent as he nurses a back injury he sustained in the Tennessee loss. After playing just seven minutes total in the Marquette and MSU wins, the Badgers will be eager to get the youngster back at full strength, as they need him when they travel to Tucson to face Arizona this upcoming weekend.

4. Northwestern Wildcats (6-1 overall, 1-0 Big Ten)

Chris Collins worked his way off the hot seat with an impressive 2022-23 campaign that saw the Wildcats finish tied for second in the league, and it's looking like he's preparing for a grand encore. After a quiet non-conference, the Wildcats opened up Big Ten action with a bang, shocking top-ranked Purdue in Evanston, 92-88. Northwestern did so even with Zach Edey still scoring 35 points, as Boo Buie responded with 31 points of his own, and the Wildcats gained a significant edge in the turnover battle, with just three compared to Purdue's 17. But, in order to prove that they can seriously challenge for league supremacy, Northwestern will have to do more than just pull out one huge victory, and the rest of the non-conference schedule isn't exactly loaded with heavyweights. But, perhaps that should provide this team further momentum before they jump back into Big Ten play with a road tilt against Illinois in early January.

5. Indiana Hoosiers (7-1 overall, 2-0 Big Ten)

Thanks to victories over Maryland and Michigan, it is the Indiana Hoosiers who currently sit atop the Big Ten standings at 2-0. Yet, there's still plenty of work to be done, and the Hoosiers still have plenty to prove in the month of December before league play resumes. But, I will say, this team has a really interesting feel to it, a real throwback in the context of modern college basketball. They're going to lean heavily on their post game, with Kel'el Ware and Malik Reneau as their top two scorers, while true freshman sensation Mackenzie Mgbako continues to acclimate himself to the collegiate game. Mike Woodson has an intriguing situation here, but whether that means the Hoosiers are ready to seriously challenge in the Big Ten remains to be seen.

6. Ohio State Buckeyes (8-1 overall, 1-0 Big Ten)

The disaster that was the 2022-23 campaign for Ohio State always felt like more of a one-off than the beginning of a trend for Chris Holtmann, and the program has responded in a big way so far this winter. They are 8-1 to begin the year and their lone defeat came at the hands of a quality Texas A&M team, albeit at home. A road tilt with Penn State gives them the opportunity to move to 2-0 early on in the Big Ten season, and they'll get a chance for two additional resume-boosting wins in the month of December with UCLA and West Virginia.

7. Michigan State Spartans (4-4 overall, 0-1 Big Ten)

There's no denying that Michigan State has been a massive disappointment up to this point in the year, but more and more this is starting to feel like a typical Tom Izzo season. The Spartans have struggled in the non-conference and lost their Big Ten opener to Wisconsin, but it hasn't been uncommon for the program to take lumps early on before they find their groove over the season's final months. And, the reality is that this team is still extremely talented - Tyson Walker and A.J. Hoggard remain an imposing 1-2 punch in the backcourt, a healthy Malik Hall is a true difference-maker, and the youngsters are going to put it all together eventually. Michigan State may be situated down here at seven at the moment, but it feels like only a matter of time before they quickly ascend these rankings.

8. Maryland Terrapins (5-4 overall, 1-1 Big Ten)

A pair of close, surprising losses to Davidson and UAB seemed to knock Maryland down the Big Ten pecking order, but the Terrapins have responded nicely over the last several weeks. They've taken care of business against the teams they should beat and after losing to Indiana to open up the conference schedule, they won a thriller over Penn State earlier in the week. The offense is clearly still working out some kinks beyond Jahmir Young, but this remains a deep and talented team, and it wouldn't be surprising if they're able to turn things around and get back on track towards making the NCAA Tournament. Plenty of resume-boosting opportunities abound, even if the rest of the non-conference slate remains awfully soft.

9. Iowa Hawkeyes (5-4 overall, 0-1 Big Ten)

Iowa will square off with Michigan over the weekend in a game that will tell us quite a bit about both teams, particularly after underwhelming starts to the 2023-24 campaign. The Hawkeyes have had a rough go of things in the non-conference, fresh off a 25-point loss to their Cy-Hawk rival Iowa State, and lost by 19 on the road to Purdue to open up Big Ten play. We know the Hawkeyes can still score, as they're averaging nearly 88 points per game, but it's a buttery soft defense that has created the 5-4 start. In fact, opponents have scored at least 87 points in three of Iowa's four losses up to this point in the year.

10. Rutgers Scarlet Knights (5-3 overall, 0-1 Big Ten)

Rutgers has celebrated some major wins on the recruiting trail recently, but the product on the court has been less than impressive. An 18-point loss to Illinois at home is at least somewhat understandable considering how hot the Illini have been, but losses to Princeton and Wake Forest seem to indicate this could be a rebuilding campaign in Piscataway. The offense has struggled mightily, and someone needs to emerge if this team has any chance of climbing their way out of the bottom of the Big Ten rankings.

11. Minnesota Golden Gophers (6-3 overall, 1-1 Big Ten)

In just two league games, Minnesota has nearly matched last year's conference win total (two), as they completed an impressive comeback against Nebraska earlier in the week. This team still has notable deficencies, but Dawson Garcia's growth into an All-Big Ten talent gives them a bonafide top scorer, and the depth on the roster has improved significantly. If the young guys, notably Braeden Carrington and Pharrel Payne, continue to grow, this Gopher team could be feisty and potentially open the door for something special in 2024-25.

12. Michigan Wolverines (4-5 overall, 0-1 Big Ten)

Juwan Howard's seat was at least warming prior to the 2023-24 campaign, and a rough start has turned up the temperature in Ann Arbor. The Wolverines have lost three straight entering the weekend, and have quite the stain on their postseason resume with a home defeat to Long Beach State. Perhaps they could turn things around - Howard has done it before - but it just feels like the roster is missing the necessary pieces to do so. Dug McDaniel and Olivier Nkamhoua have carried the offense so far, and it's hard to see if anyone else is going to emerge and turn the tide for the Wolverines.

13. Penn State Nittany Lions (4-5 overall, 0-1 Big Ten)

It wouldn't be surprising if Mike Rhoades' first team in Happy Valley suffers through an up-and-down campaign, although the Nittany Lions nearly went into College Park and pulled out a win against Maryland this week. Kanye Clary and Ace Baldwin Jr., who followed Rhoades from VCU, give this backcourt plenty of punch, but it's the development of the frontcourt that looks to be the X-factor on the season. Qudus Wahab is back in the Big Ten, but the Nittany Lions will need others to step up if they want to survive a league brimming with elite post talent.

14. Nebraska Cornhuskers (7-2 overall, 0-1 Big Ten)

Nebraska's 7-2 record looks a bit more impressive at face value than it actually is, considering they've beat up on a soft non-conference schedule before a pair of losses over the last week. The loss to Creighton at home doesn't feel like a big deal, but the 'Huskers had a chance to close out Minnesota on the road earlier in the week and squandered it. Clearly, Fred Hoiberg's team is still figuring things out, but this team could be dangerous if things come together, making this last-place ranking obsolete. At the very least, guard Keisei Tominaga, who has earned the nickname, "Japanese Steph Curry" gives fans reason to tune in each and every night. 

College Football Picks 2023: Week Fourteen (Championship Week)

Michael Penix, Washington 

Current Picks Record: 77-31

Upsets: 7-5

Superdogs: 7-5

Locks: 9-3

Pac-12 Championship Game: (#5) Oregon Ducks @ (#3) Washington Huskies

Line: Oregon -9.5

O/U: 65.5

For so long, the Pac-12 was the butt of the joke when it came to the Power Five conferences. It's TV network was a mess, they couldn't get a team in the College Football Playoff, and it became synonymous with late-night chaos. As we prepare for the final Pac-12 Championship Game ever, at least in its current state, things have changed in a big way. Oregon and Washington are playing in what is essentially a Playoff quarterfinal game, with a Heisman Trophy potentially on the line. How can you not be romantic about college football?

If you love points, this is the game for you, as they will be coming early and often on Friday night. Oregon boasts their own Heisman frontrunner, quarterback Bo Nix, who engineers a balanced, efficient group that can attack defenses in a variety of ways. Nix isn't afraid to take shots deep, but his ability to extend plays with his legs requires defenses to often use a spy to slow him down. That leaves more space for the other skill position players to factor in, including wide outs Troy Franklin and Tez Johnson. Both have been dominant all season long, and should have a field day against a Washington secondary that has not only struggled most of the year, but had difficulties containing this offense in their previous matchup. If that wasn't enough, Oregon is able to hit you with the two-headed monster of Bucky Irving and Jordan James out of the backfield, running behind an experienced, ferocious offensive line. Irving and James are excellent complements to each other - Irving's shiftiness and big play ability is a joy to watch, while James brings the thunder. The Huskies are a better rush defense than pass, but finding a way to contain those two, along with Nix, is going to be a tough challenge.

Washington will counter with their own Heisman frontrunner, Michael Penix, who out-dueled Bo Nix in this game earlier in the fall. Penix has slowed down slightly in the season's second half, but still boasts a rocket arm and is helped out by an impressive receiver corps. Biletnikoff finalist Rome Odunze is the headliner, but Jalen McMillan, Ja'Lynn Polk, and Germie Bernard can all get in on the action. Washington will look to take plenty of shots with the nation's second best passing offense, especially as they go up against a Duck secondary that has been susceptible through the air, but Dillon Johnson's contributions on the ground should not be overlooked. The former Mississippi State transfer gives this offense some semblance of balance, forcing defenses to give this ground game a second thought, which should not be overlooked. He hit the century mark against Oregon earlier in the year and should give this Duck defense reason to still load the box, especially as they battle against a quality Washington offensive line.

Washington and Oregon's battle earlier in the fall was one of the best games of the season so far, and I think the encore has a chance to be even better. The stakes are higher, the game's in Las Vegas, and both teams are playing tremendous football. I picked the Ducks earlier on and was proven incorrect, but I'm going back and rolling with them again to take home the Pac-12 crown. I'd argue they outplayed Washington in the first matchup and I believe top-to-bottom this is one of the best teams in college football - they'll get the job done Friday night and make their second Playoff berth in school history.

The Pick: Oregon, 38 Washington, 30

SEC Championship Game: (#1) Georgia Bulldogs @ (#8) Alabama Crimson Tide

Line: Georgia -5.5

O/U: 49.5

Georgia's quest for a three-point remains in focus, but standing in their way is a familiar foe: the Alabama Crimson Tide. After a shaky start to the season, Nick Saban has his team playing greta football, and looking to sneak into the College Football Playoff with an upset win in Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Georgia's offensive makeover has been one of the most intriguing storylines of the 2023 season. An offense that was known for it's ground-and-pound nature has leaned heavily on a vertical passing attack, with Carson Beck putting together an impressive campaign as first-year starter. The junior has nearly 3,500 yards of passing and leads the nation's eighth-best pass offense, a remarkable feat when you consider tight end Brock Bowers has missed a big chunk of the regular season. Bowers appears to be working his way back to 100 percent at the right time, while others in the Bulldog passing game have stepped up, most notably Ladd McConkey, although he's a bit beaten up himself heading into the home stretch. This trio will look to be aggressive against an Alabama secondary that features a star corner, Kool-Aid McKinstry, and rising star safety in Caleb Downs, but has still been frightfully inconsistent. The secondary does seem to have found its footing after a rough start, much like the rest of this roster, but it's fair to have concerns about how they'll look against a dynamic passing attack. And then, the Bulldogs can still hit you underneath with a power run game, led by Daijun Edwards and Kendall Milton. Yet, the matchup I'm most curious about has to be the battle in the trenches, featuring a whole list of future NFL contributors. The Georgia O-Line doesn't quite have as much talent as we've seen in year's past, but remains a fearsome group - how will they fare against the combo of Dallas Turner and Chris Braswell off the edge?

Life after Bryce Young has been turbulent at times for the Alabama offense, but they've certainly found their stride at this point in the year. Quarterback Jalen Milroe has seemingly gotten better each and every week, and enters the Championship Game playing some of his best football yet. He's always a threat to run, and his huge arm gives this Tide offense real bite, but they still have to live with some of the questionable decisions that come along with it. It hasn't been as much of a problem as of late, but facing a Georgia secondary loaded with talent? You do wonder if it's a major turnover that ends up swinging the tide - no pun intended - in the favor of the Georgia Bulldogs. The rest of the Alabama supporting cast isn't quite as dynamic as what we've come to know under Saban, but there are enough quality pieces to get the job done. Roydell Williams and Jase McClellan provide a nice punch at running back, while the receiver corps adds enough explosiveness to complement Milroe and company. But much like Georgia's offense, it's the blockers I'm watching here. The Tide have shown tremendous growth up front, but things remain a work in progress, and they face a relentless Bulldog defensive front.

Georgia has found a way to outclass Alabama in their last two meetings, and they're the better team this fall. But, you can never be too sure with Saban and the Crimson Tide - they're going to test Kirby Smart for the entire four quarters, and it wouldn't shock me if they found a way to squeak this one out. I'm still rolling with the Bulldogs, but this one feels like it could be in coin flip territory.

The Pick: Georgia, 31 Alabama, 27

Big Ten Championship Game: (#2) Michigan Wolverines @ (#16) Iowa Hawkeyes

Line: Michigan -22

O/U: 34.5

With USC, UCLA, Oregon, and Washington all set to join the Big Ten next fall, it's officially the final year of the East-West Championship Game format. And, what a way to go out - with Michigan battling Iowa in a game where they very well could be more defensive points scored than offensive. The Wolverines are hoping for their third straight Big Ten Title and another trip to the CFB Playoff, while Kirk Ferentz and the Hawkeyes are just fine playing spoilers on Saturday night.

Michigan's offense doesn't jump out at you statistically, but this has been a remarkably consistent and efficient group throughout the entire fall. Quarterback J.J. McCarthy provides a stabilizing force under center, an efficient signal-caller who can create plays with his legs as necessary. He's joined by the combination of Donovan Edwards and Blake Corum out of the backfield, the nation's premier backfield duo, as well as a solid, reliable receiver corps. Edwards and Corum have been the focal point of the Wolverine offense all season, but it will be interesting to see if they choose to attack down the field more consistently in this one. I thought that may be the case against Ohio State, but that didn't turn out to be the case - against Iowa, things may be different. The Hawkeyes feature an elite defensive front, one that has its usual collection of future NFL players. They are still strong on the back-end, but the season-ending injury to Cooper DeJean robs them of their chief playmaker. 

Years from now, we are going to look back at this Iowa offense and marvel that this football team ended up winning ten regular season football games. This unit has set new records for just how inept it has been and yet, the Hawkeyes have still found a way to come out on top most Saturdays. Will that be the case in this one? They are going to need something, anything, from quarterback Deacon Hill, who replaced an injured Cade McNamara mid-season. Hill's numbers are hideous - a 48% completion rate and 5-6 TD-INT ratio - but the Hawkeyes don't exactly ask for much from their quarterback. As long as he's able to take care of the ball and make the occasional play downfield, Iowa still has a chance to pull off the upset. The ground game will be the main source of offense once again, but even here, there's a lack of explosiveness. Leshun Williams finished as their leading rusher, with 779 yards, but with defenses stacking the box at every opportunity, he struggled to create big plays. That's just a reality of the Iowa offense this season - they are going to have to find a way to manufacture yards. Unfortunately, that's not exactly an easy task against a Michigan defense that has been shutdown all year, ranking first in the nation with 10.3 points allowed per game.

Few things would be quite as hilarious as watching this particular Iowa somehow find a way to win a Big Ten Title, but I just don't see it happening. Even if their defense and special teams provides a boost, the offense is so inept that it will be hard to match whatever Michigan does. As long as the Wolverines do just enough, they should ride into the College Football Playoff with a perfect record.

The Pick: Michigan, 17 Iowa, 7

Other Picks

Conference USA Championship: New Mexico State Aggies @ (#24) Liberty Flames -- What a story New Mexico State has been this fall, but the undefeated Flames are just a better football team top-to-bottom.

The Pick: Liberty, 28 New Mexico State, 21

Big 12 Championship: (#18) Oklahoma State Cowboys @ (#7) Texas Longhorns -- Texas still has Playoff hopes that are very much alive, and they could actually be helped out in a big way by an Alabama upset. But first, they much finish business themselves - which seems likely against an inconsistent Cowboy team.

The Pick: Texas, 34 Oklahoma State, 21

MAC Championship: Miami (Ohio) Redhawks @ Toledo Rockets -- Toledo head coach Jason Candle has flirted with several Power Five openings, but has stayed put. Perhaps that should ensure his team is focused for Ford Field this Saturday.

The Pick: Toledo, 27 Miami, 24

Mountain West Championship: Boise State Broncos @ UNLV Rebels -- If you haven't gotten a chance to tune into UNLV this fall, this is your chance. They run a thrilling offense, and are on the cusp of their first 10-win season in program history.

The Pick: UNLV, 37 Boise State, 24

American Athletic Championship: SMU Mustangs @ (#22) Tulane Green Wave -- Before the season-ending injury to quarterback Preston Stone, I was leaning towards picking SMU in this one. But without their star quarterback, the Mustangs come up short against Tulane, who is likely to clinch a New Year's Six Bowl berth.

The Pick: Tulane, 35 SMU, 31

Sun Belt Championship: Appalachian State Mountaineers @ Troy Trojans -- After a 1-2 start, the Troy Trojans have quietly ripped off nine straight victories - their defense should ensure it's ten this Saturday.

The Pick: Troy, 24 Appalachian State, 17

ACC Championship: (#14) Louisville Cardinals @ (#4) Florida State Seminoles -- The Jordan Travis injury has thrown a wrench into Florida State's National Title hopes, but this is the far more talented team. They should find a way to still come out on top against the upstart Cardinals.

The Pick: Florida State, 28 Louisville, 21

College Football Picks 2023: Week Thirteen

J.J. McCarthy, Michigan

Current Picks Record: 69-30

Upsets: 7-4

Superdogs: 6-5

Locks: 8-3

(#2) Ohio State Buckeyes @ (#3) Michigan Wolverines

Line: Michigan -3

O/U: 46.5

It all comes down to this. Michigan and Ohio State have been on a collision course all season long, and now both teams are set to square off. It looks like the biggest game we've seen of 2023 - two teams with perfect records, a Big Ten East Title on the line, and likely College Football Playoff hopes hanging in the balance. Who will leave Saturday with their undefeated mark still intact?

Kyle McCord was tasked with the unenviable job of taking over for one of the most decorated passers in Ohio State history and naturally, there have been growing pains. But, the junior seems to be playing his best football as of late, albeit against some of the weaker defenses on the Buckeye schedule. It isn't surprising that McCord has needed time to adjust to his new starting job, particularly with the Buckeyes also breaking in a first-year offensive coordinator in Brian Hartline, but this weekend will tell us a lot about the young quarterback. At times, he's seen hesitant and a bit overwhelmed by the big stage - well, it doesn't get much bigger than "The Game" between two Top 5 teams. It would help if the Ohio State ground game could take a bit of pressure off McCord, but that just hasn't consistently been the case this year. TreVeyon Henderson and Miyan Williams have both battled injuries all year long and although they appear to be on the mend, they face a physical Michigan defensive front, a group that has held OSU in check the last two seasons. On the perimeter, the Ohio State offense is also looking for more consistency beyond Marvin Harrison Jr. Harrison Jr. has been as good as any Buckeye fan could have hoped, but the injury bug hitting Emeka Egbuka has negatively impacted this group. Egbuka does appear to be good to go, and tight end Cade Stover has stepped up in a major way as needed, but this isn't the best group of Ohio State pass-catchers we've seen in recent years. They're in for a battle against these Wolverine defensive backs, a chess match that could very well decide this one.

It's been fascinating to watch Ohio State's transition into a defense-first team this fall. Coordinator Jim Knowles has truly done a tremendous job in his two seasons running this defense, and the group is allowing just over nine points per game on the year, one of the best marks in the entire country. But, now comes the ultimate test - a meeting with J.J. McCarthy and the Michigan offense. McCarthy has remained a fixture in the Heisman conversation all season despite rather pedestrian numbers, at least in comparison to many of the other top quarterbacks in the race. Instead, McCarthy has gained national respect for his crisp control running this offense, making smart decisions, and moving the chains. He should be eager to show what he can do on the big stage after a pair of quiet weeks, in which he totaled just 201 passing yards total. Those numbers have mainly been a result of Michigan's elite ground attack, which has removed the need for McCarthy to throw down the field very often. But, this Buckeye defense is going to give them a test, and he's going to need to do more than hand the ball off 40-plus times to the likes of Blake Corum and Donovan Edwards. That also puts pressure on a Wolverine receiver corps that doesn't have a Harrison Jr., but instead has leaned on steady play from the likes of Roman Wilson and Cornelius Johnson. Perhaps ultra-versatile Semaj Morgan could provide the additional spark this Wolverine offense could need to get over the top. 

This may be a matchup of Top 5 teams, but it's likely not going to be a pretty one. The forecast indicates it's going to be a cold, and potentially wet one, and the game will feature two good, but not great, offenses going up against a pair of elite defenses. I think that type of environment favors Michigan, especially when you consider the game will be in Ann Arbor. This has looked like the more complete team top-to-bottom, and even without Jim Harbaugh on the sidelines, I'm picking them to win their third straight in the series.

The Pick: Michigan, 27 Ohio State, 21

(#16) Oregon State Beavers @ (#6) Oregon Ducks

Line: Oregon -14

O/U: 62.5

It's the final installment of the rivalry once known as The Civil War, at least with the two programs in the same conference. But if that wasn't enough to pique your interest, consider that this is a rivalry game with significant implications. Oregon's College Football Playoff hopes are still very much alive, while the Beavers are not only trying to play spoiler, but also still has a chance to reach the ten-win plateau for the second straight season.

D.J. Uiagalelei has given the Beaver offense a passing threat that they didn't have far too often in 2022, as the former Clemson transfer has notched 2,418 yards and 20 touchdowns on the year. Yet, it's still all about the ground game when it comes to the Oregon State offense, with superstar tailback Damien Martinez leading the charge. The sophomore has not only eclipsed the 1,000 yard mark, he's averaging over six yards per carry, a remarkable number when you consider how much usage he gets. He's helped by veteran Deshaun Fenwick, a change-of-pace that gives the Beavers much-needed explosiveness out of the backfield. Those two will be featured heavily, but it does feel like Oregon State may alter their game-plan slightly, considering the opponent. The Ducks retain a clear advantage in the trenches and up front, but we've seen the secondary struggle at times this fall. That doesn't mean Uiagalelei is going to step back and throw 50 times, but don't be surprised if the Beavers are a bit more aggressive than we've seen them in the past, even on the road.

The Oregon State defense poses an interesting challenge for Bo Nix and company as they look ahead to the Pac-12 Championship Game. The Beavers aren't the most talented team in the Pac-12 on this side of the ball, but are well-coached and fundamentally sound. They're also physical at all three levels, and should mix and match packages in an effort to slow down Nix and the Oregon supporting cast. That's easier said than done, however, as Nix has been on fire all season long and has plenty of weapons to help him. Bucky Irving and Jordan James are a two-headed monster out of the backfield, both with varying strengths, while Troy Franklin is a Biletnikoff Award contender, reeling in 68 catches for 1,221 yards on the year. There's also Tez Johnson, Nix's half-brother, a dynamic option on the perimeter that can line up just about anywhere. I don't doubt this group is going to be able to move the ball, but I'm particularly curious about the offensive line. It's been tremendous throughout the fall, but Oregon State is a challenge, and if the Ducks can reach the Playoff, this is unit that decides just how far they go.

This is one of those rivalries where you can truly throw out the records - any team can win at any time. That's particularly true this season as we look at two teams ranked in the Top 16 nationally, both with goals of their own. I've been impressed with Oregon State all season, but it's going to be a tough ask to go into Eugene and come away with a victory. I also wonder about the Jonathan Smith factor, after rumors surfaced this week about potential mutual interest between him and Michigan State. It could be more smoke than fire, but you never know how that's going to impact a game this late in the season.

The Pick: Oregon, 38 Oregon State, 28

(#8) Alabama Crimson Tide @ Auburn Tigers

Line: Alabama -10.5

O/U: 48.5

For all the narratives that the Alabama dynasty was crumbling over the first month of 2023, the Tide have rolled into the final week of the regular season in pretty good position to get back to the College Football Playoff. They have one of the best losses anywhere in the country in Texas, have built a solid resume with Tennessee, LSU, and Ole Miss, and have a chance to add to it by beating Georgia in the SEC Championship Game. But first, they must get past Auburn in the Iron Bowl, a 6-5 team looking to play spoiler in their final game of the regular season.

Jalen Milroe's growth as Alabama quarterback has been one of the most fascinating aspects of the 2023 college football season. The sophomore has went through growing pains, but seems to be getting more confident each and every week and in turn, the Tide offense continues to improve. That doesn't mean Milroe is perfect - he'll mix in a few wild throws every once in awhile, but his legs give this Alabama offense an element they've missed at times during the Nick Saban era. The supporting cast also appears to be hitting its stride, with Roydell Williams and Jase McClellan providing a solid 1-2 punch out of the backfield, and Jermaine Burton and Isaiah Bond out wide. It's certainly not the most imposing group of skill position players Saban and staff have put out on the field, but it's been able to get the job done, and should match up nicely against this Auburn defense. With that being said, the X-factor remains the offensive line, which has been very un-Alabama like in 2023. The group appears to be playing better, but Auburn has enough athletes to throw at you to make things interesting. If anything, it will be an important game for the Tide offensive line to develop confidence and get into a rhythm before the real test, which is Georgia.

Part of the reason Hugh Freeze was brought in as head coach by Auburn is because of the explosive offenses he helped engineer during his stint at Liberty. Unfortunately, those explosive offenses haven't quite shown up in Year One on The Plains, as the Tigers 27.5 PPG total is 69th in the country. Although if there has been a bright spot, it's been an effective rushing attack that is Top 25 nationally, headlined by Jarquez Hunter. The Tigers will certainly look to establish the run game early on, but this is a bad matchup for them. Their offensive line, whose bad play effectively sunk the Bryan Harsin tenure (among other things), remains among the worst in the SEC, and they face an Alabama front loaded with future NFLers. The reality is that the Tigers are going to need something from their passing game if they are to spring an upset, a worrying need from an aerial attack that is among the worst in FBS ball. Payton Thorne's regression over the last two years has been a baffling watch after he tossed for 3,240 yards and 27 touchdowns in 2021 at Michigan State. Sure, Thorne was always a boom-or-bust passer, prone to the turnover as often as the big play, but there has been something missing this year at Auburn. That might be the lack of a true alpha on the perimeter, with tight end Rivaldo Fairweather as the team's top pass-catcher. Alabama's secondary certainly is not invincible, as we saw in the Texas defeat, but the script to beat them isn't easy, either. I'm not entirely sure this is an offense that can take advantage, even if there's some Iron Bowl magic thrown into the mix here.

You never know with these types of rivalry games, but it's difficult to find a reason to pick Auburn in an upset. This program may always be a thorn in the side of Nick Saban, but Freeze's first team doesn't look up to snuff, fresh off a shocking loss to New Mexico State. Even if they are able to hang with Alabama deep into the second half, I think the mighty Tide will keep on rolling into the SEC Championship Game.

The Pick: Alabama, 35 Auburn, 17

Other Picks

(#5) Florida State Seminoles @ Florida Gators -- This game got a lot more interesting due to unfortunate injuries to both starting quarterbacks. Yet, even with Tate Rodemaker under center, the Seminoles are still the better team top-to-bottom.

The Pick: Florida State, 24 Florida, 17

(#24) Clemson Tigers @ South Carolina Gamecocks -- It's been a less-than-ideal fall at Clemson, but the Tigers appear to have turned a corner. Their elite defensive front should terrorize a South Carolina O-Line that has been atrocious the entire year.

The Pick: Clemson, 31 South Carolina, 20

Wisconsin Badgers @ Minnesota Golden Gophers -- It hasn't been a banner year for either of these programs, but there's still plenty to play for in this ever-important rivalry. As much as I'd like to pick my Gophers, the continued absence of Darius Taylor and a surprisingly porous defense makes the Badgers the right pick.

The Pick: Wisconsin, 20 Minnesota, 14

Upset: (#17) Iowa Hawkeyes @ Nebraska Cornhuskers -- With the Hawkeyes officially in the Big Ten Championship Game, it wouldn't be shocking if they get caught looking ahead. Matt Rhule has had a strong debut campaign, and this would be the icing on the cake.

The Pick: Nebraska, 21 Iowa, 13

Superdog (covers > 21 point spread): Colorado Buffaloes (+21.5) @ Utah Utes -- Things have gone south for Deion Sanders and the Buffaloes, but Utah hasn't been playing at full strength all season and could struggle to defend a vertical Colorado passing game. 

The Pick: Utah, 34 Colorado, 20

Lock of the Week: Kansas Jayhawks (-7) @ Cincinnati Bearcats -- Two straight losses has knocked Kansas down a peg, but this is still a good football team, and Cincinnati is one of the worst Power Five teams in the nation.

The Pick: Kansas, 35 Cincinnati, 21

CFB Coaching Carousel 2023: Evaluating Candidates to Replace Jimbo Fisher

Dan Lanning, Oregon

As compared to the last several years, the 2023 college football coaching carousel has been a quiet one, but the potential of a Jimbo Fisher firing seemed to loom over the entire cycle. This weekend that possibility turned into reality, with Texas A&M swallowing $75 million in buyout money to rid themselves of the sixth-year head coach. Jimbo will take that money and enjoy a vacation somewhere, but for A&M, the move seems to ramp up the pressure on the program. Since moving to the SEC, Texas A&M has been routinely "good" but is there a coach out there that can take them to elite status? I evaluate ten possible options to usher in a new era on the gridiron in College Station.

The Short List

There will be an abundance of names tossed around for such a high-profile, but these names are the ones I consider most likely. Not only do I think A&M would want them, but I believe the interest would likely be mutual.

Dan Lanning, Oregon Head Coach

The last three years of Dan Lanning's career should make every football coach in America jealous. He was the architect of one of the best defenses in college football history back in 2021 for the National Champion Georgia Bulldogs, and has followed it up with a pair of impressive seasons as head coach at Oregon. After a 10-3 debut, he has the Ducks firmly entrenched in the College Football Playoff mix, a feat Oregon has not achieved since 2014. At 37 years of age with a 19-4 career record and reputation an elite recruiter, it seems the sky is the limit for Lanning - and he should absolutely be on A&M's short list. Now, he doesn't have any obvious ties to the Aggies, but there are still powerful enough incentives for him to consider a move. For one, he'll get a chance to get back in the SEC and work in one of the best recruiting bases in the United States, but even more alluring? Lanning would reel in a staggering amount of money from A&M, likely quite a bit more than the $7 million he current makes with Oregon. It's hard to dismiss that amount of life-saving money, no matter Lanning's long-term priorities in Eugene.

Mike Elko, Duke Head Coach

Mike Elko's coaching stock has taken a bit of a hit due to the unfortunate injury to star QB Riley Leonard, but the Duke head man should still be an attractive name to suitors this winter. After a long and successful run as a defensive coordinator, including a four-year run as the A&M defensive coordinator, he's impressed in two seasons in charge at Duke. Elko has gone 15-8 with the Blue Devils up to this point, which becomes much more impressive when you consider the program had won a total of just 10 games the three years prior to his arrival. It's clear that Elko knows how to come in and turn things around in a hurry, and his familiarity with the program is a major selling point. He understands the culture here and knows what it takes to be successful on at least one side of the ball - that shouldn't be overlooked. He's not as flashy as others I'll mention, but I believe he'd be a strong hire.

Jeff Traylor, UTSA Head Coach

If Texas A&M brass wants to stay inside the state and land a coach with deep Texas ties, they couldn't do a ton better than Jeff Traylor. The UTSA head man was born in the state and has spent nearly his entire career in Texas, with the lone exception being two-year stint with Arkansas. After taking over at UTSA, Traylor has gone 37-13, and is looking for his third straight season with double-digit victories. It hasn't been just beating up on lowly opponents, either. Traylor has taken the program from the C-USA to the American Athletic and retained their competitive edge, including an undefeated mark in the league up to this point in the fall. Certainly going from UTSA to Texas A&M would be a major leap, but it feels like it's only a matter of time before Traylor makes the jump to the Power Five. If not at A&M, two other Texas schools likely looking for new head coaches this offseason, Baylor and Houston, would likely be in the mix. 

The Long Shots

Sometimes, coaching short lists are based more in fantasy than reality. There are plenty of names out there that likely would never take this job but hey, what's college football without some wild speculation?

Urban Meyer, former Florida & Ohio State Head Coach

It's now been a half-decade since Urban Meyer was last coaching on a college football sideline, but we just can't quit with the idea of his eventual return to the collegiate ranks. Now that he's 59 years of age it's feeling even less likely, but is there any part of him that wants to scratch the itch? I'd venture to guess college football coaching is becoming even less attractive to him with the NIL and roster management changes of the last several years, but you just never know with a guy like Urban.

Mike Norvell, Florida State Head Coach

Could Texas A&M really go back into Tallahassee and steal away their head coach once again? Likely not - for a variety of reasons. While Jimbo Fisher seemed eager to move on from Florida State, Mike Norvell seems to throughly enjoy his current situation in Tallahassee, and he's fully supported by the university. Just as important, Norvell's Florida State program seems to be on the rise, while Jimbo's was starting to feel stale when he left, several years removed from a National Title and the heights of the Jameis Winston era. SEC money may be enticing, but I'm not sure it's enough to swing Norvell to take this job based on where he's at in his career.

Dan Campbell, Detroit Lions Head Coach

We're past the days of successful NFL coaches returning to the collegiate ranks, but could the possibility of turning around his alma mater be enough to sway Dan Campbell? The former A&M tight end is 18-23 overall with the Lions, but has them shaping up to be an NFC Title contender this year. Campbell has become a fan favorite, both in Detroit and around the NFL, and if he did ever want to coach in college, he would likely kill it. But, the timing doesn't feel right with this one and even a notable name like Campbell likely wouldn't satisfy A&M brass considering his lack of college coaching experience.

The True "Home Run" Hires - But Unlikely

Kalen DeBoer, Washington Head Coach

What a job Kalen DeBoer has done in Seattle. DeBoer took over a program that had suffered through a horrendous stretch under Jimmy Lake and within two seasons, he has them competing for a College Football Playoff berth. It's not just the on-field success that makes him appealing to potential suitors, but also the way Washington plays. This is one of the most fun and exciting offenses anywhere in college football, enough to pack the stands anywhere in America. That's never an issue at Texas A&M, but for a program that dealt with years of Jimbo's frustrating offenses, this type of wide-open scheme would be a welcome change. But with Washington leaving for the Big Ten, it's likely Husky brass will pull out the red carpet to ensure their prized head man doesn't take off this winter.

Lance Leipold, Kansas Head Coach

No matter at what level or where in America, Lance Leipold does one thing: win. After six National Titles at his alma mater, Wisconsin-Whitewater, Leipold jumped to the FBS ranks and quickly turned around Buffalo, leading them to three straight bowls over his final three years there. Leipold again made the jump, this time to Kansas, and he has completely flipped the script at one of Power Five football's toughest locations. The Jayhawks have gone from 2-10, to 6-7, and are 7-3 and ranked in the Top 25, even after an upset loss to Texas Tech this past weekend. Much like Washington, Kansas decision-makers are going to do whatever they can to ensure Leipold is back for 2024 but the Texas A&M job just doesn't seem like the right for him, in my opinion. Leipold seems like the type of coach who would be fine staying in the Midwest at a job with less pressure, whether at Kansas long-term or somewhere else.

Jonathan Smith, Oregon State Head Coach

He's still not super well-known outside the Pacific Northwest, but Jonathan Smith is one of the best college football coaches in the country, full stop. The one-time Oregon State quarterback has done a wonderful job with his alma mater, leading the Beavers to their third consecutive winning season this fall, including an 18-5 mark in his last 23 games. It's going to be hard to peel him away from a school that he clearly adores, but Oregon State does have an uncertain football future and with a $2.4 million salary, plenty could offer Smith more money. But again, the fit here feels strange to me and I just can't wrap my head around it, even though I believe the credentials here are more than worthy.

Other Names to Watch

It feels like there's an endless list of options for this particular job. So in that spirit, here are even more to consider!

Glenn Schumann, Georgia Defensive Coordinator

Dan Lanning has gone from Georgia defensive coordinator to a winning head football coach - could Glenn Schumann be next? Schumann is a Kirby Smart disciple, the first coach Smart lured away from Alabama when he took over in Athens. That relationship alone would make it hard for him to move on, but Schumann's success on the defensive side of the ball speaks for itself. 

Jedd Fisch, Arizona Head Coach

Jedd Fisch has steadily progressed at Arizona, and has the Wildcats in the Top 25 in Year Three. It's been an impressive run for a coach that had begun to develop a reputation as a journeyman, and with how young Arizona's roster is, the future is incredibly bright. My bet is that Fisch, who has no obvious ties to A&M, would rather stay put here and cash in on that future than take his chances in College Station.

Brian Hartline, Ohio State Offensive Coordinator

One of the top recruiters in college football right now, Brian Hartline was recently promoted from his perch as Ohio State WR coach to the school's offensive coordinator. It's likely he'll keep on moving up the ranks, but it's hard to imagine what that next path would look like if he stays put in Columbus.

Lane Kiffin, Ole Miss Head Coach

Lane Kiffin is always a wild card, and it doesn't feel like Ole Miss is the end goal for the 48-year old head coach. For all the chaos and controversy that seems to follow Lane, there's no denying his success on the field, and a place like A&M would offer him nearly unlimited resources to build the roster of his choosing.

Deion Sanders, Colorado Head Coach

Deion may be in the midst of a four-game losing streak, but it feels like only a matter of time before a big-name program takes a swing at him. Despite sitting under .500 with the Buffaloes as things stand today, he's still accomplished a pretty impressive turnaround in one offseason, and the attention he brings with him is a selling point for many. 

College Football Picks 2023: Week Eleven

J.J. McCarthy, Michigan

Current Picks Record: 61-29

Upsets: 6-4

Superdogs: 6-4

Locks: 7-3

(#3) Michigan Wolverines @ (#10) Penn State Nittany Lions

Line: Michigan -4.5

O/U: 44.5

For all the controversy surrounding Michigan off-the-field, Jim Harbaugh's team remains in the driver's seat in the Big Ten. Sure, Ohio State may hold the top spot in the CFB Playoff rankings, but the Wolverines have looked like the better team, albeit against a much softer schedule. That changes this weekend, as Michigan faces what is truly their first significant test of the fall: a road trip to Happy Valley. At 8-1, Penn State has proven they are so much more than a third wheel to OSU and Michigan in the East, but can James Franklin finally topple a top team on the national stage?

Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy might not have the gaudy stats of the West Coast quarterbacks, but remains in the thick of the Heisman race, coming in fourth on the current odds at this point in the season. It's a testament to how in control the signal-caller has been, leading an efficient and consistent Wolverine offense. Of course, it helps that he's supported by an elite offensive line, and one of the nation's top running back duos to take some pressure off him, in Blake Corum and Donovan Edwards. But, the Penn State defense offers a different test than these Wolverines have seen so far this fall. This is one of the best defensive fronts anywhere in the county, a group stocked to the brim with NFL talent. Not only are rushing lanes going to be hard to come by, Manny Diaz is going to be drawing up relentless pressure. Does that mean we will see McCarthy take more shots down the field in an effort to open things up? So far, the Michigan passing game has lived and died by the underneath stuff, primarily because it hasn't been necessary to do anything more. I suspect that won't be the case in this one, but even trying to throw agains the Nittany Lions is easier said than done; corner Kalen King leads one of the top secondaries in college football.

Speaking of elite running back duos, Penn State features their own in Kaytron Allen and Nicholas Singleton. The pair has essentially split feature back duties right down the middle (Allen with 119 carries, Singleton with 121) and although the big plays haven't quite been there this year as they were in 2022, they've been awfully productive. There's little doubt Penn State will look to establish the run early and often, but that wasn't the issue in the Ohio State loss, it was the complete ineptitude of their passing attack. Sophomore QB Drew Allar is still experiencing growing pains and despite plenty of bright spots, this is going to be a tough matchup for him. Michigan is the type of physical, disciplined defense that makes offenses fight for every yard, and they excel on third down. That's bad news for an offense that went a staggering 1-16 on third downs against the Buckeyes last month. I'll be interested if there's any change in strategy from James Franklin and OC Mike Yurcich. Do they look to incorporate more gadget or screen plays in an effort to manufacture yardage? To be fair to Allar, it's not just his fault either that the passing game has lagged at times. This may be the worst receiver group of Franklin's entire tenure - beyond KeAndre Lambert-Smith, there's nobody that can get consistently open, and even Lambert-Smith is an iffy No. 1 option. That's a real concern and the past few weeks haven't seemingly alleviated those concerns, even if this group dropped 51 against Maryland.

A November game in the that will be in the 30s, featured two of the best defenses in the country? Yeah, this is going to be a Big Ten football game, alright. It's probably not going to be very pretty, a game where field position is at a premium and a turnover or special teams play could make all the difference. I still believe Michigan is the better football team but how do they respond to this level of test? The sign-stealing controversy makes them such a wild card to me - will it provide even more motivation or be the distraction that derails an otherwise special 2023? This Saturday will tell us quite a bit.

The Pick: Michigan, 24 Penn State, 17

(#9) Ole Miss Rebels @ (#2) Georgia Bulldogs

Line: Georgia -10.5

O/U: 58.5

Following Alabama's win over LSU last weekend, it's looking more and more like we will see another battle between the Tide and mighty Georgia Bulldogs in the SEC Championship Game. But, the 8-1 Ole Miss Rebels might have something to say about that, as they remain firmly in the SEC West mix, although the Tide do own the tiebreaker over them. Going into Sanford Stadium and pulling off the upset for the No. 2 Georgia Bulldogs would be the ultimate statement from Lane Kiffin and company, and the Rebels have nothing to lose this Saturday.

Kiffin-coached teams have typically been known for their offense, but this year's Rebels team brings much more balance to the equation. They can still light up the scoreboard when necessary, but this is also one of the most improved defenses in the nation under coordinator Pete Golding. That will be crucial in any hopes of an upset bid, as they face a Georgia offense that has been surprisingly explosive all season. Quarterback Carson Beck has impressed in his first season as starter and he doesn't appear to be slowing down anytime soon. Missouri did an excellent job keeping him in check for most of the game last Saturday, but he still finished with 254 yards and two touchdowns, but that's not even the most important part - he simply doesn't turn the ball over. That's going to be important against an opportunistic Rebels defense that is going to play with reckless abandon in this one. Beck may be without his top target in tight end Brock Bowers, but the Bulldogs continue to find new weapons to emerge on the perimeter and the ground game seems to be getting better each and every week. Daijun Edwards and Kendall Milton may not be the most fearsome tailback combo Kirby Smart and company have trotted out in recent years, but they have been effective enough to provide this team balance. With Beck making things happen through the air, even a serviceable ground attack has made this offense consistently excellent.

There's been good balance on the Rebel offense all season long, too, which hasn't always been the case for Lane Kiffin in Oxford. Quinshon Judkins looked well on his way to becoming one of the best running backs anywhere in the country, but he's instead been outshined by quarterback Jaxson Dart and a superb passing game. Dart has nearly 3,000 yards of total offense and 23 total touchdowns, while limiting turnovers and playing confident football. It has felt like a statement campaign for Dart, who watched Ole Miss add two notable QB transfers over the offseason in Spencer Sanders and Walker Howard, but beat them both out to hold on to his starting job. The emergence of a strong wide receiver trio in Tre Harris, Jordan Watkins, and Dayton Wade has also been a pleasant surprise. Harris, a former Louisiana Tech transfer, has been the big-play threat, while it's Watkins and Wade that can open things up horizontally and soften up defenses. I'm sure Lane will be eager to draw up something new and tricky for the challenge Georgia possesses, and I do think this offense is up for the challenge. The main concern I have? Dart, and this entire unit, have a real knack for struggling in big games like this. The Alabama game is a perfect example, with the Rebels managing just 301 yards and ten points in a losing effort. Is going on the road to face a stifling Bulldog defense going to flip the script?

I've picked against Ole Miss multiple times this season, but the Rebels just keep on winning, with the chance to vault themselves into the Playoff discussion with an upset. But, I remain skeptical that this is the team that is going to go into Sanford Stadium and break Georgia's 26-game win steak. It would take some extra Lane Kiffin magic and even that doesn't seem to always show up in these types of games.

The Pick: Georgia, 35 Ole Miss, 21

(#18) Utah Utes @ (#5) Washington Huskies

Line: Washington -9.5

O/U: 49.5

Sitting at 9-0 and with the Heisman frontrunner under center, Washington is in position to become the first Pac-12 to make the College Football Playoff since they achieved the feat all the way back in 2016. But, standing in their is a brutal end to their regular season, with Utah, Oregon State, and Washington State remaining on their schedule. First up is the Utes, who will travel to Seattle fresh off a 55-3 dismantling of Arizona State.

If you haven't had a chance to watch the Washington offense this fall, you're missing out. Penix is the figurehead, but he's far from the only playmaker, as the Huskies feature arguably the nation's top receiver corps and an underrated tailback in Dillon Johnson. With the unlimited arm strength of Penix, the Huskies haven't been afraid to take shots down the field, and play-caller Ryan Grubb is creative in how he opens up gaping holes in the defense. No unit has been able to slow them down this season, with the lone exception being an Arizona State team that got them the week after the exhausting Oregon victory. But, Utah does present an interesting challenge for Penix and company. This is one of the most consistent defenses you'll find anywhere in the country and the physicality they play with is just a grind. There are more talented defenses, sure, but the way the Utes play just has a way of grinding you down. They're particularly strong up front and should give the Washington offensive line a battle, although it's the back-end I'm curious about. Despite having Clark Phillips III, the Utes struggled to defend the pass a season ago, but have seen improvements this year. If they can hold Penix in check and potentially force a few turnovers, this game could get very interesting very fast.

To say that Utah plays a different brand of offense than Washington is an understatement. As compared to the Huskies, who boast the nation's top passing offense, the Utes rank 123rd and are led by backup signal-caller Bryson Barnes. Barnes has been solid, but it's the ground game that really makes the Utes go, spearheaded by the duo of Ja'Quinden Jackson and Jaylon Glover. Jackson is a key difference-maker; when he's on, Utah has been able to find a rhythm early and feed the passing game. But, the Oregon game was the perfect example of how the offense can struggle when he's taken out of the game. On the perimeter, Mikey Matthews and DeVaughn Vele have been effective and should give a mediocre Husky secondary difficulties. Then, there's the ultimate wild card of the offense: two-way weapon Sione Vaki, if we do indeed say him play both ways this week. Vaki looked like the next sensation during a monster two-week stretch in mid-November, but hasn't been deployed offensively in the last two weeks. It feels like the Ute offense may need an extra boost, and he Vaki is the type of weapon that can provide just that.

It's going to be a month of tests for Washington as they finish off November, but they still maintain a clear advantage in this matchup. Kyle Whittingham and staff have whipped up a magical season considering the circumstances, but going on the road to face an explosive Huskies team is a lot to ask this deep into the season. If Penix continues rolling and the Huskies contain Jackson and the Ute ground game, they should be able to reach the double-digit win mark.

The Pick: Washington, 38 Utah, 27

Other Picks

USC Trojans @ (#6) Oregon Ducks -- Alex Grinch may be gone, but I'm not convinced that will fix USC's defensive woes. Unless they completely transform within the span of a week, Bo Nix, Bucky Irving, and Troy Franklin are going to have a field day.

The Pick: Oregon, 48 USC, 31

(#13) Tennessee Volunteers @ (#14) Missouri Tigers -- In what essentially acts as the SEC East second place game, Tennessee goes on the road to face a Missouri team that gave Georgia a game last week. I remain extremely high on these Tigers, and they should come out on top in a game with significant shootout potential.

The Pick: Missouri, 42 Tennessee, 34

Miami Hurricanes @ (#4) Florida State Seminoles -- You never know in these types of rivalry games, but Florida State has answered the call each and every week of the season, and get the Hurricanes in Doak Campbell.

The Pick: Florida State, 31 Miami, 21

Upset: Texas Tech Red Raiders @ (#16) Kansas Jayhawks -- It's been a dream season for Lance Leipold and company, but the upset-minded Red Raiders have the capabilities to match them blow-by-blow in a classic Big 12 duel.

The Pick: Texas Tech, 38 Kansas, 35

Superdog (covers > 21 point spread): Baylor Bears (+21.5) @ Kansas State Wildcats -- Kansas State has played themselves into prime position in the Big 12 race, but this is rarely the type of offense to play away from folks early. The Bears could hang along long to cover this spread.

The Pick: Kansas State, 31 Baylor, 14

Lock of the Week: Alabama Crimson Tide (-11) @ Kentucky Wildcats -- Alabama seems to be getting better each week, and seems to be evolving into the monster that we've come to know them under Nick Saban. Going to Lexington will be an intriguing test, but a stifling Alabama defense shouldn't have too much trouble with a Kentcuky offense that has struggled to find a rhythm all year.

The Pick: Alabama, 34 Kentucky, 17