Full College Football Preview 2025

Arch Manning, Texas

Top 25

1. Clemson Tigers -- Dabo's Tigers have taken a step back in the early 2020s, but 2025 has all the makings of a resurgent campaign. They have a veteran QB, Cade Klubnik, playing in his third year in the offense, elite talent at receiver, and superb play along the lines. The Tigers should slice through the ACC and position themselves for their first National Title since their blowout win in 2018.

2. Ohio State Buckeyes -- The Buckeyes boast the two best players in all of college football in wideout Jeremiah Smith and safety Caleb Downs. Now, it's up to the supporting cast to determine whether they can repeat as National Champions. QB Julian Sayin has all the upside in the world, but the X-Factor is likely on defense, as Matt Patricia takes over as coordinator.

3. Texas Longhorns -- It's finally Arch Manning time in Austin, so it's no surprise the Longhorns are a popular preseason National Title pick. Even so, growing pains may still happen, as they face down a brutal schedule as Arch acclimates to the starting role. Fortunately, an elite defense should ensure the 'Horns are still the team to beat in the loaded SEC.

4. Penn State Nittany Lions -- Several big-name Nittany Lions decided to wait on the NFL, including QB Drew Allar, backs Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen, and defensive linemen Dani Dennis-Sutton. Will that be enough to deliver a National Title? James Franklin is still out to prove he can win the big ones, and this may be the best team he's had to do just that.

5. Alabama Crimson Tide -- Kalen DeBoer's debut campaign didn't go exactly as planned, but the Tide are loaded with talent on both sides of the ball as they enter 2025. If long-awaited quarterback Ty Simpson can keep the offense moving and the defense plays up to their potential, Alabama will be right back in the Playoff after the one-year hiatus.

6. Georgia Bulldogs -- It does feel like the 'Dawgs are being a bit overlooked as we head into 2025. They're still loaded with talent, including one of my breakout stars, sophomore safety K.J. Bolden. Gunner Stockton should stabilize the quarterback position after Carson Beck's struggles last season, while Nate Frazier is a future star at tailback.

7. Oregon Ducks -- For most of the 2024 season, Oregon was perched No. 1 as the best team in the country. To do that and suffer a humiliating defeat to Ohio State in the Rose Bowl will serve as extra motivation for a team with no shortage of blue-chip recruits. Dan Lanning and staff strategically plugged further holes through the portal, meaning they'll be right back in the hunt this fall.

8. Notre Dame Fighting Irish -- Marcus Freeman silenced a lot of doubters last season. Now, what does he do for an encore? Returning the Doak Walker Award frontrunner, Jeremiyah Love, is a great starting point, and the Irish are always stout on defense. That means new starting QB C.J. Carr may end up determining just how far ND goes this year.

9. LSU Tigers -- Brian Kelly enters this season under a fair bit of pressure after an up-and-down three seasons in Baton Rouge. The Tigers have won plenty of games, but it has felt as though they've underachieved in many aspects, too. Heisman contender Garrett Nussmeier is back for 2025, but it's the defense that has been the problem over the last two seasons, and will determine their fate again this year.

10. Arizona State Sun Devils -- It doesn't feel like 2024 was some fluke from Kenny Dillingham and the Sun Devils. This program is built to become a true long-term contender in the Big 12, even with Cam Skattebo gone. Watch for QB Sam Leavitt and top receiver Jordyn Tyson to become the fuel of the offense this fall instead.

11. Miami Hurricanes -- Cam Ward is gone, but the Hurricanes are hopeful Carson Beck can regain his old form as he comes in as starting quarterback. He should keep the offense humming along, but the more important offseason addition was likely defensive coordinator Corey Hetherman, who will be tasked with rebuilding that side of the ball.

12. Kansas State Wildcats -- They may have come up short in Dublin in Week Zero, but I still believe the Wildcats have an incredibly high floor. It's a team with a clear identity, a veteran quarterback, and a capable supporting cast. If they can recover from the strange early-season schedule, they still have a shot to take the Big 12.

13. Illinois Fighting Illini -- How does Illinois handle being considered a Big Ten frontrunner after winning ten games in 2024? They return a lot on both sides of the ball, including steady quarterback Luke Altmyer under center. The receiver corps did take a hit, but it still feels like this Illini team is ready to compete for double-digit wins yet again.

14. Florida Gators -- On paper, I love this Florida team. D.J. Lagway had a promising freshman season and the sky appears to be the limit, Jadan Baugh could be special at tailback, and they are strong along both lines of scrimmage. But, a brutal schedule seems to cap their ceiling. Not only do they get LSU, Texas, Texas A&M, Ole Miss, and Tennessee inside the SEC, they travel to Miami and welcome Florida State. If not for that overwhelming slate, this ranking could end up being far too low.

15. Iowa State Cyclones -- This may be Iowa State's best shot at a conference title in over a century. They have a steady QB in Rocco Becht, a two-headed monster at running back, and plenty of pieces to like on defense. If they can travel the hangover from the Ireland travel, they have a very good shot to get into deep October or even November undefeated.

16. South Carolina Gamecocks -- LaNorris Sellers is one of the most exciting players in college football. Dylan Stewart has the chance to be an All-American at defensive end. But, how does Shane Beamer replace all the other production that left over the offseason? The Gamecocks have a chance to be dangerous, but this season will tell us a lot about just how well Beamer has built things here in Columbia.

17. Baylor Bears -- The Bears ended last season on fire, and I don't see the momentum stopping anytime soon. Sawyer Robertson heads an offense that also includes tailback Bryson Washington and Josh Cameron, plus a well-built O-Line. If the defense can hold up, Baylor will be firmly in the Big 12 Title hunt.

18. SMU Mustangs -- Was the 2024 season an aberration? The result of a soft first-time ACC schedule? Or, has Rhett Lashlee built a consistent contender here in Dallas? This season will tell us a lot, as the Mustangs return QB Kevin Jennings and a bunch of key pieces, but also face a much more difficult path back to the CFB Playoff than they did last fall. 

19. Michigan Wolverines -- Bryce Underwood is officially the guy in Ann Arbor. Can he get the Wolverines back into National Title contention? Perhaps, but 2025 is likely more of a transition year for the program as they adjust to Underwood and fix holes on defense. If they can improve on last season's 8-5 mark, a huge 2026 could be on the horizon.

20. Boise State Broncos -- The ever-steady Broncos aren't going to completely fall apart without Ashton Jeanty. They have become a running back factory, plus QB Maddux Madsen should be able to handle more of the load in 2025. If the defense can get even better, especially against the pass, the Broncos should play themselves back into the Playoff.

21. Iowa Hawkeyes -- We saw Iowa's offensive progress last season - but can they do without Kaleb Johnson? Bringing on a dual-threat in Mark Gronowski at QB makes this team much more interesting, and he has plenty of pieces around him to like. With the Hawkeyes almost sure to be stingy on defense once again, this feels like a team with a very high floor.

22. Ole Miss Rebels -- Jaxson Dart is off to the NFL, as are his top two receivers in Tre Harris and Jordan Watkins. Yet, Lane Kiffin seems confident Austin Simmons is the latest and greatest at quarterback, and the Rebels reloaded out wide. Add in a schedule that appears favorable compared to other top contenders in the SEC, Ole Miss could match or even exceed last year's 10 wins.

23. Louisville Cardinals -- Can Louisville push the top trio in the ACC in Clemson, Miami, and SMU? Bringing back star tailback Isaac Brown will certainly help, and the QB whisperer Jeff Brohm has his latest project in Miller Moss, coming over from USC.

24. Texas Tech Red Raiders -- Texas Tech spent big over the offseason to build a roster they believe will compete for a Big 12 Title and Playoff berth. How they handle those elevated expectations could determine their success. Perhaps more important, however, is the health of QB Behren Morton, who needs to stay healthy for this team to achieve their goals.

25. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets -- I love Georgia Tech as the ACC's dark horse team in 2025. Haynes King is a proven vet, Jamal Haynes is a hard-nosed tailback, and transfer Eric Rivers may be the best receiver you've never heard about. Add in a stout, physical defense, the Yellow Jackets should surprise some folks this fall.

Just Missed the Cut: Texas A&M Aggies; Tulane Green Wave; Utah Utes; BYU Cougars; UNLV Rebels; USC Trojans

College Football Playoff Field

First Round

5 Penn State Nittany Lions over 12 Boise State Broncos

6 Notre Dame Fighting Irish over 11 Miami Hurricanes

7 Oregon Ducks over 10 Arizona State Sun Devils

9 LSU Tigers over 8 Georgia Bulldogs

Byes: (1) Clemson Tigers, (2) Ohio State Buckeyes, (3) Texas Longhorns, (4) Alabama Crimson Tide

Second Round

1 Clemson Tigers over 9 LSU Tigers

2 Ohio State Buckeyes over 7 Oregon Ducks

3 Texas Longhorns over 6 Notre Dame Fighting Irish

5 Penn State Nittany Lions over 4 Alabama Crimson Tide

Semifinals

1 Clemson Tigers over 5 Penn State Nittany Lions

3 Texas Longhorns over 2 Ohio State Buckeyes

National Championship

1 Clemson Tigers over 3 Texas Longhorns

Conference Predictions

ACC: Clemson over SMU

American: Tulane over Memphis

Big Ten: Ohio State over Penn State

Big 12: Arizona State over Kansas State

C-USA: Liberty over Western Kentucky

MAC: Ohio over Toledo

Mountain West: Boise State over UNLV

SEC: Texas over Alabama

Sun Belt: Georgia Southern over Arkansas State

Awards

Heisman: Julian Sayin, QB, Ohio State (winner); Cade Klubnk. QB, Clemson (finalist); Sawyer Robertson, QB, Baylor (finalist); Jeremiah Smith, WR, Ohio State (finalist)

Doak Walker: Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame (winner); Nate Frazier, Georgia (finalist); Demond Claiborne, Wake Forest

Biletnikoff: Jeremiah Smith, Ohio State (winner); Cam Coleman, Auburn (finalist); Kenny Odom, UTEP (finalist)

Mackey: Eli Stowers, Vanderbilt (winner); Addison Ostrenga, Iowa (finalist); Justin Joly, NC State (finalist)

Butkus: Whit Weeks, LSU (winner); Sonny Styles, Ohio State (finalist); Jason Henderson, Old Dominion (finalist)

Thorpe: Caleb Downs, Ohio State (winner); K.J. Bolden, Georgia (finalist); Aveion Terrell, Clemson (finalist)

Coach of the Year: Dabo Swinney, Clemson (winner); Matt Campbell, Iowa State (finalist); Kalen DeBoer (finalist)

College Football Preview 2025: Big 12 Part 2

Jalon Daniels, Kansas

 Power Rankings

Teams 1-8 in Part 1

9. Colorado Buffaloes

A disappointing conclusion to the 2023 campaign had Deion Sanders and Colorado eager to prove they could live up to the hype last fall - and they did just that. Although there were the occasional hiccups, the Buffaloes went 9-4 overall and 7-2 in the Big 12, before a late-season loss to Kansas spoiled their conference title hopes. Add on the fact Colorado featured their first Heisman winner in three decades in two-way superstar Travis Hunter, it was about as impressive as a Year Two as could have been expected from "Coach Prime" and company.

As the Buffaloes prepare for 2025, both the team and Deion himself have undergone their fair share of adversity. The roster will be without Hunter and Shedeur Sanders, two cornerstones who played a major role in their success last fall. And just as importantly, Deion was fighting health battles, having a cancer removed from his bladder over the offseason.

With Shedeur gone, Deion will head into his first season without his son as quarterback since he took over as a college football head coach. In his place, Colorado will turn to Liberty transfer Kaidon Salter, a dual threat who totaled 44 total touchdowns for the Flames in 2024. He doesn't have Shedeur's arm, but he has years of experience and should be able to acclimate quickly to his new digs. And by chance he doesn't, Deion landed one of the top high school quarterbacks in the country in Julian Lewis, who has been pushing Salter throughout spring and into fall camp.

The rest of the offense has greater questions. The Buffs said goodbye to not just Hunter, but several other top receivers, and they absolutely need their ground game to improve to find any semblance of balance. Sophomore Dre'lon Miller, who can play receiver and running back, is a name I have circled as a future star, but who else will emerge? A healthy Omarion Miller, who missed most of last fall, could be another name to watch.

The offensive line has been a weak spot for Colorado through the first two years of the Deion era, but there's reason to believe it could be a strength in 2025. Left tackle Jordan Seaton is a future pro who has a chance to emerge as one of the best in the Big 12 this year, while veteran Phillip Houston patrols the other tackle spot. The rest of the line should rely heavily on transfers, including former Illinois blocker Zarian McGill at center.

Defensively, Robert Livingston did a superb job on this side of the ball in 2024. The Buffaloes still had some issues defending the run, but they finished allowing 23.1 PPG (43th nationally) and just under 352 yards per game, which was 50th in the country. Considering how porous this unit was before he arrived, Livingston deserves a lot of credit.

As they head into this season, Colorado will be leaning on plenty of new faces, especially up front. Junior end Samuel Okunlola flashed last fall and should now be considered a leader, while transfers like Jaheim Oatis from Alabama and Arden Walker from Missouri, will be counted on to play significant snaps.

There's turnover in the secondary, too, but this feels like an area that could be a strength, even with Hunter gone. Junior corner D.J. McKinney looks ready to step into a leadership role, as will fellow veteran nickel Preston Hodge.

Bottom Line: Losing so much star power is never going to make things easy at a place like Colorado, but I actually think the Buffs could be slightly underrated heading into 2025. This roster still has a lot of talent, and Deion's work in high school recruiting and through the portal is beginning to show. Replicating nine wins will be awfully tough, but Colorado still looks like a bowl team, with the potential to be even more in the ever-wacky Big 12.

10. Kansas Jayhawks

College Football Preview 2025: Big 12 Part 1

Sam Leavitt, Arizona State

Power Rankings

1. Arizona State Sun Devils

There may not have been a better story in all of college football last fall than the Arizona State Sun Devils. The Sun Devils were fresh off a 3-9 season in Kenny Dillingham's debut campaign, and were picked last by the media in the preseason poll.

It quickly became apparent the preseason prognosticators had been dead wrong about the Sun Devils, who ripped off ten wins in the regular season and then pounded Iowa State in the Big 12 Championship Game. But, their success wasn't merely a product of a weak Big 12 - they gave Texas all they could handle in a double overtime loss in the Peach Bowl in one of the games of the year.

Now, the key for Dillingham and company will be about keeping the momentum going, and they'll have to do so without star tailback Cam Skattebo. Skattebo broke the school's single-season rushing record after going for 1,711 yards and 24 total touchdowns, and he was the heart-and-soul of the team. Fortunately, the cupboard is not bare on offense, as QB Sam Leavitt and top wide out Jordyn Tyson both return.

Leavitt, a former transfer from Michigan State, was a revelation in his first season in Tempe. He not only threw for 2,885 yards and 24 touchdowns, he looked in complete command of the offense and limited turnovers. It will be interesting to see how he handles being the star of the offense with Skattebo gone, but having a reliable weapon like Tyson will help significantly.

Returnees Kyson Brown and Raleek Brown are expected to split time in Skattebo's absence in the backfield, although Army transfer Kanye Udoh should also be in the rotation. The entire trio will benefit from running behind one of the strongest offensive lines in the Big 12, a group that returns four starters.

Don't be surprised if defense carries the way for Arizona State in 2025, as they return nine starters on this side of the ball. It all starts up front, where defensive tackle C.J. Fite is flanked by relentless edge rushers Prince Dorbah and Clayton Smith. Behind that group, linebackers Keyshaun Elliott and Jordan Crook have played a lot of football in their collegiate days.

The pass defense was an issue at times last fall, surrendering nearly 227 yards per game, which ranked 81st in the country. Fortunately, where the only significant loss, albeit a notable one, is nickelback Shamari Simmons. The group of Keith Abney II, Javan Robinson, Xavion Alford, and Myles Rowser should turn this from a question mark into a real strength for the Sun Devils.

Bottom Line: As impressive as the 2024 season was, it didn't feel like a fluke. Dillingham, an Arizona State alum himself, feels like the perfect fit in Tempe, and this program has always had limitless potential. Leavitt, Tyson, and a veteran offensive line will ensure the offense is able to overcome any early speed bumps, and the defense has the chance to be among the best in the league. Add in the fact the other top contenders in the Big 12 have questions of their own to answer, Arizona State feels like the clear favorite in the league as we inch towards the 2025 regular season.

2. Kansas State Wildcats

College Football Preview 2025: Big Ten Part 2

Darius Taylor, Minnesota

 Power Rankings

Teams 1-9 in Part 1

10. Washington Huskies

There were understandable growing pains in Year One of the Jedd Fisch era in Seattle. The Huskies started off a respectable 3-1 but faded down the stretch, before a heartbreaking loss in the Sun Bowl dropped them to 6-7 on the year.

Despite the frustrations of the second half, an important development did occur: the emergence of quarterback Demond Williams. Williams finished the regular season strong, then went for five total touchdowns in the eventual Sun Bowl defeat, a sign of what Washington hopes is to come. Williams earned rave reviews over the offseason and now enters his sophomore season as a popular breakout candidate.

Williams will benefit from a quality supporting cast, as veteran tailback Jonah Coleman joins him in the backfield, and Denzel Boston is set to reprise his role as top option at wide out. Coleman has proven to be a reliable workhorse, while Boston has caught the eye of NFL scouts with a strong frame and staggering catch radius at 6'4", 207 pounds. Add in Penn State transfer Omari Evans at receiver, this could be a fun passing attack.

The offensive line was a problem area in 2024 and despite additions in the portal, the group appears to still have questions entering this fall. There has been significant turnover in this unit over the last couple years, so simply finding stability should be a goal this season.

The defense was an interesting one last season, struggling against the run but boasting the second-best pass defense numbers anywhere in the country. Now, Ryan Walters takes over as coordinator after being booted as Purdue head coach after only two seasons.

Walters will try to instill an edge to a front seven that simply didn't have much bite last fall. There are a host of transfers likely to man important roles, including Jacob Manu, a former Arizona Wildcat under Fisch who should be a key leader.

There is a chance we could still a slight drop in the numbers in the secondary, but this still figures to be a strength for the Huskies. Ephesians Prysock teams back up with his former Arizona Wildcat teammate Tacario Davis, who said no to the NFL Draft to reunite with Fisch and staff. With those two, Washington has a pair of accomplished, reliable veterans who have played a lot of football with each other.

Bottom Line: It was almost a Year Zero for Fisch in 2024 considering just how much turnover there was on this roster last offseason. He's still in the early stages of developing and building this roster, but 2025 looks like it could be a season of progress. There's some interesting talent offensively and if the front seven can find something, the defense has a chance to be quite strong. A soft non-conference slate is promising, but things look brutal inside the league this year, which means 7-8 wins feels like the ceiling for the Huskies.

11. Minnesota Golden Gophers

College Football Preview 2025: Big Ten Part 1

Jeremiah Smith, Ohio State

Power Rankings

1. Ohio State Buckeyes

It was a Hollywood ending for Ohio State to conclude the 2024 season. There was the humbling defeat to rival Michigan that firmly put a microscope on the Buckeyes entering the 12-team College Football Playoff, but it was the response from Ryan Day's crew that ended up defining their season. They ripped off four straight victories, including getting their revenge against Oregon in the Rose Bowl, to win their first National Title in a decade. But now that they've climbed the mountaintop, what do they do for an encore?

There are plenty of new faces on both sides of the ball for the Buckeyes, including a new quarterback at the controls of the offense. Former Alabama transfer Julian Sayin is considered the frontrunner, especially after several other Buckeyes transferred out over the offseason. While untested, Sayin was a blue-chip recruit coming out of high school who will have the luxury of throwing to the best receiver corps in the country.

Jeremiah Smith is the headliner on the perimeter outside, especially after what he did during the National Title run, but Ohio State also boasts juniors Carnell Tate and Brandon Inniss, the latter of which has waited his turn here in Columbus. Tight end is also now a strength, as the staff went out and snagged Max Klare from Purdue, who caught 51 passes for 685 yards in 2024.

The offensive line appears to be in good shape in front of Sayin, even with some turnover, but the running back position appears to be the question mark for this Buckeye offense. West Virginia transfer C.J. Donaldson is a veteran, but sophomore James Peoples seems to be the favorite to become the team's feature back. Either way, this backfield will have a difficult time matching the production of TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins, both of whom are playing on Sundays.

On defense, the Buckeyes saw coordinator Jim Knowles receive a handsome raise to take the same role at Penn State a year after he led the nation's best overall defense. Matt Patricia was brought on as a replacement, an interesting hire considering he hasn't coached college ball in two decades. Fortunately, Patricia has no shortage of talent to work with here.

The back seven should be a real strength for Ohio State, as safety Caleb Downs is perhaps the best player in America entering 2025 - regardless of position. He has a couple familiar faces surrounding him, including senior Davison Igbinosun and do-it-all linebacker Sonny Styles.

The defensive line was the position group the hardest hit by NFL defections, which should thrust some new defenders into the spotlight. Holdovers like Caden Curry and Kenyatta Jackson Jr. have waited for their moment, while transfers Beau Atkinson (North Carolina) and Logan George (Idaho State) bring new blood.

Bottom Line: It's never easy to defend a National Title, and Ohio State will have an especially difficult path in 2025. Not only do they have to deal with a loaded Big Ten but they open their season with the Texas Longhorns, who will be looking to avenge last year's Cotton Bowl defeat. Despite this, I find it hard to believe Ohio State is in store for any major step-back. There's far too much talent on this roster, including arguably the nation's two best players in Smith and Downs, and the program has proven it can withstand heavy losses. It wouldn't shock me if Ohio State is again playing in the National Championship Game when it's all said and done. 

2. Penn State Nittany Lions

College Football Preview 2025: ACC Part 2

Kyron Drones, Virginia Tech

Power Rankings

Teams 1-9 in Part 1 

10. Syracuse Orange

I don't think even the most optimistic of Syracuse fans expected what Fran Brown was able to do in Year One with the Orange. They were one of the best stories in college football last fall, winning ten games total, capped off with a bowl victory in the Holiday Bowl. Now, the challenge for Brown and staff evolves - can he maintain the momentum and turn this longtime basketball school into a legitimate football contender?

Syracuse will be without the quarterback who got them there last season, as Kyle McCord departs after a 2024 in which he racked up the accolades. He finished as the nation's leading passer, the program's first-ever 4,000-yard passer, and the highest Heisman finish for the Orange since Dwight Freeney in 2001. Needless to say, whoever steps into the starting role has big shoes to fill, whether it's Notre Dame transfer Steve Angeli or LSU transfer Rickie Collins. Angeli, who came in during the spring, seems to have the edge right now.

The new quarterback won't have McCord's favorite target back to throw to, after Trebor Pena hit the portal during the spring. Instead, Syracuse will lean on a host of talented, but inexperienced options, while hoping former Texas wide out Johntay Cook II finally fulfills his vast potential. There are lots of new faces on the offensive line, too, although former UNC transfer Zach Rice lays a strong foundation at center.

The defense took their lumps in 2024 and has to replace several important pieces. The front seven in particular was hit hard by attrition over the offseason, with linebacker Derek McDonald one of the few proven commodities still around up front. 

Things are in better shape on the back-end, as senior safety Duce Chestnut will play a leading role, as will veteran corner Devin Grant. There's also palpable excitement buzzing around true freshman Demetres Samuel Jr., who could start at cornerback and also play both sides depending on how the Orange choose to deploy him in 2025.

Bottom Line: Replicating the magic of last season will be difficult with so many losses on both sides of the ball, especially with the schedule getting trickier. Yet, Brown seems like the right guy for the job, to be able to handle the adversity and move forward. If he can keep the Orange from backtracking too far and still get to a bowl game, it could set the stage for greater things on the horizon in 2026.

11. Boston College Eagles

College Football Preview 2025: ACC Part 1

Cade Klubnik, Clemson

 Power Rankings

1. Clemson Tigers

A 31-point loss at the hands of Georgia to kick off the 2024 college football season seemed to spell doom for Clemson's hopes, but the Tigers found a way to reverse their fortunes over the course of the fall. There were still some frustrating moments, including a loss to Louisville and a heartbreaking defeat to South Carolina, but Clemson still found a way to outlast SMU to win an ACC Title - and gain entry to the first 12-team Playoff.

As the Tigers gear up for 2025, their offense could be among the most exciting not just in the ACC, but anywhere in the country. Garrett Riley is now in his third season as Clemson play-caller, has a veteran quarterback at the controls in Cade Klubnik, and has one of the best receiver corps anywhere in the nation. Sophomores Bryant Wesco Jr. and T.J. Moore seem on track to be the latest and greatest at wide out, and veteran Antonio Williams is a proven commodity, giving Klubnik an abundance of options through the air.

The offensive line returns four starters, including likely NFL Draftees Tristan Leigh and Blake Miller at the tackle spots. That should help the ground game figure things out early, as they replace Phil Mafah. Converted receiver Adam Randall is likely to get the first crack at tailback, but highly touted freshman Gideon Davidson could shine early with Jay Haynes recovering from a torn ACL.

On defense, Dabo Swinney went out and made a statement by bringing in Tom Allen from Penn State to run this unit. Allen will have the usual collection of future NFL talent to work with, especially across the front seven. T.J. Parker and Peter Woods are already established on the defensive line, and they're now joined by the rare transfer, Purdue's Will Heldt, who had 10 tackles for loss in West Lafayette in 2024.

The secondary remains a work-in progress for Allen and staff, but junior corner Avieon Terrell gives them a rising star with leadership pedigree. Along with Khalil Barnes, who is back for his third season as starter at free safety, the Tigers should be able to figure things out on the back-end.

Bottom Line: There's no question Clemson has slipped from their peak in the mid-to-late 2010s, but all the stars align for the Tigers to have a resurgent 2025 campaign. Klubnik should be a Heisman contender, they are strong along both lines of scrimmage, and they have the playmakers offensively that have been sorely lacking in recent years. Combine that with an ACC that still appears to be missing a consistent second threat, Clemson is the favorite in the league and a true National Title contender.

2. SMU Mustangs

NBA Mock Draft 2025: Edition 3 (Final Edition)

Tre Johnson, Texas

1. Dallas Mavericks

Cooper Flagg, F, Duke

Throughout the entirety of this past college basketball season and the pre-Draft process, there has been zero doubt who the Dallas Mavericks were taking with the No. 1 pick of the 2025 NBA Draft. Cooper Flagg stands head and shoulders above the rest of this draft class, the type of big built for the modern NBA. He will enter the NBA as one of the most hyped prospects in recent memory, joining a team that has a chance to quickly ascend the Western Conference pecking order.

2. San Antonio Spurs

Dylan Harper, PG, Rutgers

The Dylan Harper to San Antonio selection may not quite be as set in stone as Flagg to Dallas, but it would be a fairly shocking if the Spurs go any other direction than the Rutgers floor general. Harper will bring an advanced offensive game to San Antonio and forms an exciting young trio with Victor Wembanyama and Stephon Castle to begin the post-Gregg Popovich era.

3. Philadelphia 76ers

V.J. Edgecombe, G/F, Baylor

This is where the 2025 NBA Draft truly begins. With Ace Bailey likely to slide, Philadelphia becomes an interesting player near the top of this Draft. Best player available is still the most likely route and with Bailey a no-go, that has to be Baylor's V.J. Edgecombe. The uber-athletic wing will bring a highlight-reel player to The City of Brotherly Love, but it will be fascinating to see how he meshes with the likes of Joel Embiid, Paul George, and Tyrese Maxey.

4. Charlotte Hornets

Kon Knueppel, G/F, Duke

NBA Draft 2025: Top 30 Big Board

Cooper Flagg, Duke

1. Cooper Flagg, F, Duke

NBA Comparison / Ceiling: Kevin Garnett with better defense

Bust Potential: Low

The McGowanMania Take: Cooper Flagg has been a big name among basketball junkies going back years now, back to the high school days in Maine and his eventual move to Montverde Academy. Now he's a household name after a dominant one season at Duke, where he earned National Player of the Year honors and solidified himself as the no-doubt top selection in the 2025 NBA Draft. As an NBA prospect, he does seem to check just about all the boxes - an elite athlete with the versatility to fit in just about any system in the pros. But one thing that has always stood out to me is his competitive drive. He went out and gave it his all every second of every game at Duke, whether it was against North Carolina in a major rival game or an early-season tune-up at Cameron Indoor. Flagg has the right head on his shoulders to deal with the pressures of not just being a No. 1 pick, but one of the most hyped prospects of the modern era. Dallas lucked themselves into a franchise-altering pick and there's no question Flagg stands alone atop this big board.

2. Ace Bailey, G/F, Rutgers

NBA Comparison / Ceiling: Jimmy Butler

Bust Potential: Moderate

The McGowanMania Take: There's an interesting split among NBA folks on Rutgers wing Ace Bailey. It feels like people even love him, or hate him, with no in-between. I lean more in the love him camp, with a major caveat - he absolutely needs to clean up his shot selection. You see the physical gifts and offensive ability when he plays. He was listed at 6'10" at Rutgers but measured in closer to 6'8" at the NBA Draft Combine, but either way possesses the ideal frame to overpower defenders at the next level. Despite the size, he's deceptively quick with the ball in his hands and has a smooth jumper, even if he's inconsistent. If Bailey can land in the right spot and with an organization that is able to clean up the weaker parts of his game, he has the looks of a guy who is going to be a top-tier scorer and regular All-Star. But, more so than others near the top of this Draft, Bailey's success is very dependent on where he lands, which throws an interesting wrinkle into his future prospects.

3. Dylan Harper, PG, Rutgers

NBA Comparison / Ceiling: Jalen Brunson

Bust Potential: Low

The McGowanMania Take: The second part of the Rutgers pair set to both be off the board early come late June, Dylan Harper has been projected to San Antonio at No. 2 for some time now. You can imagine the fear from the Western Conference at the thought of Victor Wembanyma teaming up with a player like Harper, who has a surprisingly mature offensive game for his age. He can score at all three levels, but is a smart basketball player who looked the part as the lead guard for the Scarlet Knights, even during a lost 2024-25 campaign for the program. I'm not sure if Harper is going to be a player that goes out and wins a scoring title, but instead is a very effective floor general who does all the little things well. Obviously there's a lot of value in that, and I love the potential fit with the Spurs. If Chris Paul does stick around, which is completely up in the air at this point, it could be the perfect mentor opportunity for both as the future Hall-of-Famer wraps up his career.

4. Kon Knueppel, G/F, Duke

NBA Mock Draft 2025: Edition 2

Ace Bailey, Rutgers

 1. Dallas Mavericks

Cooper Flagg, F, Duke

No matter what happens over the coming weeks in the lead up to the 2025 NBA Draft, one thing is for certain: Cooper Flagg will still be the No. 1 overall selection. The Duke phenom is a basketball gift for Nico Harrison and the Mavericks, a two-way forward with the versatility in just about any offensive system. As Dallas figures out this roster in the post-Luka Doncic era, a building block like Flagg guarantees them as a serious factor out West.

2. San Antonio Spurs

Dylan Harper, PG, Rutgers

Things get interesting at pick No. 2 with the Spurs. Could this selection be used to swing a potential Giannis mega deal? Perhaps, but I also don't think San Antonio would mind sticking firm here at this spot and adding another young piece to this promising core. Dylan Harper is already an elite playmaker at his age, and could form a lethal pick-and-roll combo with Victor Wembanyama for years to come.

3. Philadelphia 76ers

Ace Bailey, G/F, Rutgers

Spring Football 2025: Ten Players Ready for the Big Sophomore Leap

Demond Williams Jr., Washington

One of my favorite things about college football is seeing fresh players rise into the spotlight, and have their respective "breakout" moments. Whether it's the former blue-chip, high-profile prospect or the lightly recruited underdog who finally gets a chance, these types of stories add to the unpredictable nature of college football. That's why my annual, "Ten Players Ready for the Big Sophomore Leap" article is one of my favorites every year. I mean, what better way to pass the time as we inch towards the fall, than wild speculation? This will now be my seventh (!) straight year making this list and every year I add to my many hits and frankly many misses. In that spirit, it's time to unveil my 2025 list, with 10 players ready for their breakthroughs in their sophomore seasons. 

(* Note - list includes redshirt freshman, true sophomores, and redshirt sophomores)

1. K.J. Bolden, S, Georgia

(2024 Stats: 59 tackles, 2 TFL, 1 interception)

NBA Mock Draft 2025: Edition 1 (Lottery Edition)

Cooper Flagg, Duke

 1. Dallas Mavericks

Cooper Flagg, F, Duke

Mere months removed from one of the most shocking trades in NBA history, the Dallas Mavericks have a chance to replace Luka Doncic with a transcendent young star in Cooper Flagg. Conspiracy theories aside, pairing Flagg with a healthy Anthony Davis and Kyrie Irving immediately makes the Mavericks a real threat coming out of the West. With Flagg's two-way ability and versatility, he should be able to fit perfectly into this current roster, an ideal landing spot for his future.

2. San Antonio Spurs

V.J. Edgecombe, G/F, Baylor

The Spurs have their choice of the best of the rest with Cooper Flagg set to go No. 1 overall. Conventional wisdom would say they choose one of the Rutgers prospects here, either Dylan Harper or Ace Bailey, but they already have an established backcourt with De'Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle. Instead, they take a swing on wing V.J. Edgecombe, an elite athlete with potential to mold into an ideal "three-an-D" player in the pros.

3. Philadelphia 76ers

Dylan Harper, G, Rutgers

NFL Mock Draft 2026: Edition 1 (Way-Too-Early Edition)

Garrett Nussmeier, LSU

1. Cleveland Browns

Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State

You always see quarterbacks mocked No. 1 overall in these way-too-early mock drafts, but I'm calling it now - Caleb Downs will be the best available defender next spring. Now, that's not too bold of a take considering what Downs has done over the course of two seasons with a pair of high-profile programs in Alabama and Ohio State, but this fall feels like the year Downs becomes a true household name. He's the type of do-it-all defender who can line up anywhere and make an impact, and he'll be difficult to pass up on at the top of the 2026 NFL Draft.

2. New York Giants

Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama

The Giants hope they found their new franchise signal-caller in Jaxson Dart, but now it's about surrounding him with the right talent. They have talent on the perimeter, but the O-Line remains a perennial need for the organization. As inconsistent as Kadyn Proctor has been at times, he still projects as the top tackle available next spring.

3. New Orleans Saints

Garrett Nussmeier, QB, LSU

NFL Mock Draft 2025: Edition 5 (Final Edition)

Ashton Jeanty, Boise State to Las Vegas

1. Tennessee Titans

Cam Ward, QB, Miami (FL)

Cam Ward has been perched near the top of the boards throughout this entire pre-Draft process and heading into Thursday night, there's little question that he will be the first pick off the board for the Tennessee Titans. Ward took a winding road through the college ranks at three different schools, but one thing never changed: his elite playmaking ability. He will jolt a Titan offense that floundered last fall en route to a 3-14 campaign.

Previous Selection: Cam Ward, QB, Miami (FL)

Other Possibility: Abdul Carter, DE/LB, Penn State

2. Cleveland Browns

Travis Hunter, WR/CB, Colorado

The 2025 NFL Draft really begins at pick No. 2, but even here there doesn't appear to be much mystery with the way things have shook out in recent weeks. The Browns have been projected to go just about everywhere throughout the pre-Draft process, but it appears as though Travis Hunter is a near lock at this spot. The reigning Heisman winner's future fit in the NFL still remains a mystery, but a special athlete like him is going to find some way to impact football games for Cleveland, who could upgrade two positions for the price of one.

Previous Selection: Abdul Carter, DE/LB, Penn State

Other Possibility: Abdul Carter, DE/LB, Penn State

3. New York Giants

Abdul Carter, DE/LB, Penn State

Spring Football 2025: Breaking Down the 10 Most Important Quarterback Competitions in College Football

Bryce Underwood, Michigan

Spring is here across the United States and for college football fans, that means the first taste of action in preparation of the 2025 campaign. It also means it's one of the first times for quarterbacks entrenched in position battles to prove themselves against something resembling game action, which can make all the difference over the course of a long offseason. With that in mind, here are the ten quarterback competitions I'm watching over the coming spring and summer months, all of which became much more fluid and intriguing with the re-opening of the transfer portal earlier this week through April 25th.

Alabama Crimson Tide

Competitors: Austin Mack (RSo.), Ty Simpson (RJr.), Keelon Russell (Fr.)

It's an incredibly tall order to replace a legend like Nick Saban, but there's no denying it was a disappointing debut season for Kalen DeBoer in Tuscaloosa in 2024. That has put the Crimson Tide under a microscope this spring into summer, as they decide on a new figurehead of the offense with Jalen Milroe off to the NFL. It's a three-man race at the moment, but the veterans in the room, redshirt junior Ty Simpson and redshirt sophomore Austin Mack, have to be considered the early frontrunners as we look ahead to the fall. Simpson is the only one with any significant game experience to speak of, as he played in six games in 2023 under Saban and six last year for DeBoer. The veteran is a former blue-chip recruit who has certainly waited his turn here at Alabama, and he's received rave reviews from the coaching staff this spring. In fact, new offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb, who is reunited with DeBoer after a one-year stint with the Seattle Seahawks, has been quite open about the fact that Simpson is the current favorite for the starting job. However, don't count out Mack just yet. DeBoer did bring him with him from Washington after Mack redshirted in 2023, and he's grown up in this system. Mack is more of the wild card, an unproven but supremely talented signal-caller whose athleticism and 6'6" stature jumps out at you. He'll certainly be in the hunt throughout the remainder of the offseason and into fall camp as he joins back up with Grubb, and should give Simpson enough of a push to make this worth monitoring as we inch towards the Tide's opener with Florida State on August 30. Whoever does win this job will have the luxury of throwing to one of the country's premier receiver corps, highlighted by superstar sophomore Ryan Williams.

Favorite: Simpson

Colorado Buffaloes

NFL Mock Draft 2025: Edition 4

Travis Hunter, Colorado to New York Giants

1. Tennessee Titans 

Cam Ward, QB, Miami (FL) 

Between a strong pre-Draft process and the fact the Titans have not signed another quarterback on their roster, it seems a near certainty Cam Ward will be the first player off the board in Green Bay in a matter of weeks. The talented signal-caller will need more support around him if he is to succeed in Tennessee, but his playmaking prowess immediately upgrades a Titan offense that has been lethargic in recent years. 

Previous Selection: Abdul Carter, DE/LB

Other Possibility: Abdul Carter, DE/LB

2. Cleveland Browns 

Abdul Carter, DE/LB, Penn State 

It’s a question that seems to present itself every NFL Draft to teams drafting near the top of the board: Do they go with the potential franchise quarterback, or the best player available? The Browns certainly need an upgrade at QB, but I just can’t imagine them passing on Abdul Carter at this spot. With Carter and Myles Garrett, no other pass rush in the NFL will even so much as sniff as the Browns.  

Previous Selection: Cam Ward, QB, Miami (FL)

Other Possibility: Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado 

3. New York Giants 

Travis Hunter, WR/CB, Colorado 

Final Four Picks 2025

Johni Broome, Auburn

(1) Florida Gators vs. (1) Auburn Tigers

It will be a battle of SEC foes to get things started in San Antonio on Saturday night, as the Florida Gators and Auburn Tigers collide. Auburn entered the NCAA Tournament as the top overall seed, but instead it's the Gators who enter this game as the slight favorite, according to Vegas. That could serve as a nice motivator for Bruce Pearl's club, who will need every advantage they can muster against a Gator team who seems to be playing with magic after several close, come-from-behind wins this March Madness. 

This is not Bruce Pearl's first Final Four team since arriving at Auburn, but this group is much more complete top-to-bottom than the group that nearly played for a National Title in 2019. Leading the charge is veteran forward Johni Broome, who is likely to lose out on the National Player of the Year race to Cooper Flagg, but may just end up winning the consolation prize of a National Title. Broome is the focal point of this offense, a reliable inside-out big man who has turned it up at the most pivotal moments for the Tigers. He's made a major difference in the Tigers surviving against the Michigan schools in consecutive games, as he went for 22 points and 16 rebounds against Michigan and 25 points and 14 boards against Michigan State. Alongside Broome in the post is the defensive anchor, Dylan Cardwell, while Pearl unsurprisingly has his usual collection of guards, including Tahaan Pettiford, Chad Baker-Mazara, and Denver Jones. Pettiford has had his coming out party this NCAA Tournament, including a huge game against Michigan in the Sweet 16, but it feels like Baker-Mazara and Jones are the X-factors for this Auburn team in this one. For as controversial as he is, Baker-Mazara's two-way ability has always been huge and this offense is at its best when he's playing well. The same can be said for Jones, who is the best three-point shooter on the team. The fact of the matter is that Auburn isn't going to be able to keep up with Florida for the entire 40 minutes by bullying in the post with Broome, no matter how good he is. They're going to need to hit threes, and Jones and Baker-Mazara will play an outsized role on that front. In the same vein, as I mentioned in my bracket analysis of Auburn prior to the NCAA Tournament, I think Dylan Cardwell is the unsung hero of this Tigers team. His presence defensively is so crucial to what this team is able to do, and he's going to have his hands full battling these Gator bigs down low for rebounds. If he, and this entire team, can continue to play the high-energy defense they've played during this March run, they're going to find themselves in a good spot. This is the SEC's best three-point defense after all, and they're going to need it to limit Florida's opportunities in this game.

There are teams out there this college basketball season that may be more statistically or analytically impressive offensively than the Florida Gators, but I'm not sure there's another that can score in a hurry the way they can. The Texas Tech game was the prime example of what makes this team so tough to stop - they had their share of shooting woes early on, but then Walter Clayton Jr. decided it was his time to take over. A 12-2 run in the final minutes, punctuated by a huge three from Clayton brought the Gators to the Final Four. Now, Clayton and the rest of this Gators offense will look to carry that momentum against an Auburn team that will give them a battle. To continue their run, Florida will certainly look to Clayton early and often with what he has been able to do this season, but the entire offense must also be on their "A" game. That includes Clayton's backcourt mates, Alijah Martin and Will Richard, as well as big men Alex Condon, Thomas Haugh, and Rueben Chinelyu. Clayton's passing ability is the most underrated part of his game, and this offense becomes downright terrifying when it opens up. Yet, you do wonder if head coach Todd Golden may look to shift Florida's strategy in this game and instead look to pound the rock inside more than usual. Sure, Florida sunk Auburn with the three-ball the last time these two met, but this Auburn team does boast a stellar perimeter defense. The Gators may be able to take advantage of their size down low with Condon and Haugh and in the process, potentially get Broome in foul trouble as he has been in several moments during this NCAA Tournament. That's not to say the Gators are going to become some throwback basketball team throwing the ball down to the block on every possession, but as good as Clayton is, I'm not sure how sustainable it is for the offense to continue resting squarely on his shoulders.

It only feels right for the two best teams from the best conference in college basketball this year to be matching up in the Final Four. And, this should be a really fun game between two superb basketball teams. The Gators are understandably the favorites after they've overcome UConn and Texas Tech on this run, but I actually like the Tigers to move on when it's all said and done. I'd argue they are the most complete basketball team, with a coach and roster that has been to this stage before. If they can continue their impressive defensive play, I think they squeak out a hard-fought victory.

Auburn by four

(1) Houston Cougars vs. (1) Duke Blue Devils

Nearly exactly one year ago, Duke and Houston met for the first time in each program's history, with the Blue Devils coming out on top in a hard-fought Sweet 16 clash. Now, the two are set to match up once again, but with even higher stakes this time around. Duke has been perched near the top of the polls all season long and look to be on a journey to their first National Title in a decade. Meanwhile, Kelvin Sampson has the Cougars back in the Final Four for the second time, and is looking to bring home Houston to their first National Championship Game since the mid-1980s.

Any conversation about Duke has to start with Cooper Flagg, the unquestioned No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming 2025 NBA Draft. Flagg has been the most dominant player in college basketball this season, and he's elevated his play in March, including a 30-point outburst against Arizona in the Sweet 16. What makes the true freshman so impressive is in just how many ways he impacts the game - his scoring and rim-rattling dunks get all the attention, but he's an elite defender, active rebounder, and sound rim protector. Just him alone could make this Blue Devils team a challenge to beat, but head coach Jon Scheyer has built a superb roster around him. Kon Knueppel an excellent complement as a No. 2 who score in a variety of ways, guards Tyrese Proctor and Sion James run the backcourt, and up front, Khaman Maluach brings much-needed size. There's just so many different ways this Duke team can hurt you over the course of 40 minutes, and it's a group that plays so well together. There have been past Duke teams that simply mashed together elite high school recruits and McDonald's All-Americans and even with all that talent, they weren't able to live up to their potential. This team is different - they just have the feel of a team that's been playing together for years, and every player can step up and provide if one or two are struggling. Taking away Flagg isn't going to completely change the game, because Knueppel and others can provide more than enough support. The best hope for Houston is to turn this into the grinding rock fight that has become a staple during the Sampson years. And fortunately, they have the roster and personnel makeup to do just that.

There's really anything flashy about Sampson and the Cougar, but no program in college basketball has as clear of an identity as Houston. They're a tough, defensive-minded team that look to bully you for an entire 40 minutes. Their goal is to turn games into low-scoring affairs, and then do just enough to come out victorious. Now, with that being said, this 2024-25 team is a bit different than past Houston teams, and that's a major reason they are in the Final Four. This Houston team has some legit sharpshooters this year in L.J. Cryer, Milos Uzan, and Emmanuel Sharp, a trio that shoots over 40% from three on the season. That has given them some real offensive punch that has been missing in the past, and may be enough to keep them in pace with the Blue Devils the other end. Uzan in particular feels like the X-Factor to me for this Cougars team. Cryer and Sharp are going to find ways to score regardless, but Uzan is very reliant on whether his shot is falling, and he's coming off an underwhelming showing against Tennessee. If he can find his stroke, it opens up this entire offense, and stretches the Duke defense across the floor. If Houston can make Duke work on the defensive end, truly work, it slows this game down enough to put them in a great position. If not and the Blue Devils have the energy they need to get things rolling offensively, the Cougars may not stand a chance. The role of J'Wan Roberts, who is Houston's resident big man at 6'8", can't be understated, either. He's probably going to have to be matched up against Maluach and Flagg most of the game, so will have to stay out of foul trouble. His presence on the glass will also be huge because if there is a way to beat the Blue Devils, it's beating them on the boards. Their lone ACC loss of the season against Clemson, they were out-rebounded 36-23.

Houston was my pick heading into the NCAA Tournament because they just have a tendency to shut teams down. But Duke at this point just feels like an entirely different animal, one that is on a mission. The Cougars are going to need to play their best all-around game of the season to not just contain the Blue Devils, but also put together a strong enough offensive performance. I think they can certainly make this one tough on Duke and a close one deep into the second half, but it feels foolish to pick against Flagg and the Blue Devils at this point in time.

Duke by seven

2025 NCAA Tournament Bracket Analysis: East Region

Cooper Flagg, Duke

The Top Seed: Duke Blue Devils

It may have been a down year for the ACC in basketball this winter, but that was certainly not the case for the league's flagship program. The Duke Blue Devils went out and won 31 games total, including 19 in the conference, and now enter the NCAA Tournament as a National Title favorite. It's clear this is Jon Scheyer's best team since taking over for the legendary Coach K, as the Blue Devil roster is flush with talent. There's the generational star leading the way in Cooper Flagg, tremendous complementary pieces in Kon Knueppel and Sion James, and the steady veterans like Tyrese Proctor. If there is a concern as the Blue Devils reach their most important part of the season, it could be a pair of unfortunately timed injuries. Cooper Flagg's startling sprained ankle in the ACC quarterfinals threatened to derail Duke's season, and he proceed to miss the remainder of the ACC Tournament. It sounds like he'll back for the NCAA Tournament, but it's still worth monitoring, as he's likely not 100 percent. Arguably more important than the Flagg injury just based on the severity of the injury was the loss of forward Maliq Brown, who dislocated his shoulder in the same game. It could be a more important loss than the average person may realize, robbing the Blue Devils of one of their best interior defenders. And yet, you almost wonder if the injury questions could be spun into a positive in a way for Duke as they enter the Big Dance. Not the Brown injury, but the Flagg one, as it gave the rest of the roster a chance to shine in an ACC Title run. Knueppel in particular elevated his play, and now enters the NCAA Tournament playing his best basketball of the season. The same goes for Tyrese Proctor, who just goes out and hits big shots for this team every single game. I mean, would it not be the most Duke thing ever for an injury to the likely National Player of the Year somehow end up being a good thing? This feels like a Duke team on a journey, and another reason to believe? They have the easiest and most straightforward path to the Final Four of any of the No. 1 seeds. This is, without a doubt, a team equipped to win it all this time around, which would be the first National Title brought back to Durham since Jahlil Okafor and Tyus Jones did it in 2015.

Exercise Caution: Arizona Wildcats

The Arizona Wildcats had a fine introduction year to the Big 12 this winter, recovering from a bumpy non-conference to go 14-6 inside the league. It was good enough to earn a No. 4 seed and set themselves up with a date in the first round against the 13-seed Akron Zips. Arizona head coach Tommy Lloyd keeps on churning out victories since taking over in Tucson, but I still have an uneasy feeling about these Wildcats as they prep for the NCAA Tournament. For one, despite Lloyd's success in the regular season, it still feels like he's awaiting his March breakthrough. He's been to the Sweet 16 twice in three seasons, but considering the Wildcats have earned two No. 2 seeds and one No. 1 seed, that feels a bit underwhelming, especially with a shocking first round loss to Princeton sandwiched in there. Even more worrying for me than Lloyd's March struggles, is the fact that point guard Caleb Love is by far and away the most confusing and volatile player in the country. The former UNC transfer can take over games when he's playing well, and it wasn't too long ago he was the heart and soul of the Tar Heels team that played for a National Title in 2022. At the same time, no player can shoot his team out of games quite like Love, and he's had poor numbers across the board this winter for the Wildcats. He's shot 38% from the field and 32% from three-point territory, while shooting at a remarkably high volume - he attempts nearly eight per game. I simply can't put my trust in a team that is led by a player like Caleb Love, the maddening inconsistency just is not worth dealing with. With that in mind, perhaps Love goes out and proves myself and all the detractors wrong with a signature run. He's just that type of player that you have no idea what you're getting on any given night, and that scares me away from Arizona in general.

Don't Forget About: Wisconsin Badgers