Virginia Tech at Florida State
The Hokies and Seminoles will meet for the 37th time this Monday night. Florida State leads the all-time series 23-12-1.
Florida State has won 5 of the last 7 meetings against Virginia Tech, with the last meeting happening in 2012, a Florida State 28-22 win on the road.
The series began in 1955, and saw Virginia Tech win the first 2 games. From 1955 through 1980, the Seminoles and Hokies would play every year but two, and Florida State would lead 14-10 during that period. From 1976 through 2005, Florida State ran off 12 straight wins against the Hokies.
The two sides ended their yearly agreement after 1980, and would not meet again until 1988, when they embarked on a 4 year home and home deal. Florida State would win each of the 4 games during that series. After playing in 1991, they would not meet again until 2000. Florida State has a 5-2 record between 2000-2012 in the series.
Friday, August 31, 2018
Miami vs. LSU Match History
Miami vs. LSU
This will mark the 13th all-time meeting between Miami and LSU on Sunday night in Dallas. LSU holds an all-time lead of 9-3 in the series.
This will be the first time the sides have met up since 2005, when LSU drubbed the Hurricanes 40-3 in Atlanta. That was the first meeting since 1988, when Miami handed LSU a 44-3 defeat in Baton Rouge.
Prior to the 1988 meeting, the two had not met since 1969. The series began in 1946, when LSU defeated Miami 20-7 in Miami under head coach Ben H. Moore. The sides would meet up again in 1958 and 1959, which LSU won both of by a combined score of 68-3.
LSU ran off a 7-0 run against Miami from 1946-66, and Miami would not win their first in the series until a 17-15 win in 1967. Miami would win again the following year 30-0 in Miami, but would not see another win over LSU again until 1988. LSU won in 1969 20-0.
The history of this series is rife with blowouts, as 5 of the 12 meetings have ended with a differential of 20 or more points when all was said and done.
This will mark the 13th all-time meeting between Miami and LSU on Sunday night in Dallas. LSU holds an all-time lead of 9-3 in the series.
This will be the first time the sides have met up since 2005, when LSU drubbed the Hurricanes 40-3 in Atlanta. That was the first meeting since 1988, when Miami handed LSU a 44-3 defeat in Baton Rouge.
Prior to the 1988 meeting, the two had not met since 1969. The series began in 1946, when LSU defeated Miami 20-7 in Miami under head coach Ben H. Moore. The sides would meet up again in 1958 and 1959, which LSU won both of by a combined score of 68-3.
LSU ran off a 7-0 run against Miami from 1946-66, and Miami would not win their first in the series until a 17-15 win in 1967. Miami would win again the following year 30-0 in Miami, but would not see another win over LSU again until 1988. LSU won in 1969 20-0.
The history of this series is rife with blowouts, as 5 of the 12 meetings have ended with a differential of 20 or more points when all was said and done.
BYU vs. Arizona Match History
BYU at Arizona
This will mark the 24th all-time meeting between former WAC conference mates Arizona and BYU this Saturday night. Arizona leads the all-time series 12-10-1.
This will be the first meeting between the Cougars and Wildcats since they met in Glendale, AZ in 2016, a game that BYU would win in a defensive battle, 18-16. Over the last 4 meetings, dating back to 2006, the schools have evenly split, 2-2.
BYU and Arizona started their series in 1936, when Arizona would beat the Cougars 32-6. They would not meet again until 1957, which resulted in the only tie in the series at 14-14. BYU would get their first win in the series in 1959, an 18-14 Cougar win in Tucson.
Between 1962 and 1977, the two sides played fairly regularly, with Arizona going 9-7 during that time against the Cougars. Arizona would leave the WAC after the 1978 season to take the PAC-8 to being the PAC-10, along with Arizona State. It would be 28 years before the sides would meet again in 2006, and the teams are 2-2 against each other since that date.
This will mark the 24th all-time meeting between former WAC conference mates Arizona and BYU this Saturday night. Arizona leads the all-time series 12-10-1.
This will be the first meeting between the Cougars and Wildcats since they met in Glendale, AZ in 2016, a game that BYU would win in a defensive battle, 18-16. Over the last 4 meetings, dating back to 2006, the schools have evenly split, 2-2.
BYU and Arizona started their series in 1936, when Arizona would beat the Cougars 32-6. They would not meet again until 1957, which resulted in the only tie in the series at 14-14. BYU would get their first win in the series in 1959, an 18-14 Cougar win in Tucson.
Between 1962 and 1977, the two sides played fairly regularly, with Arizona going 9-7 during that time against the Cougars. Arizona would leave the WAC after the 1978 season to take the PAC-8 to being the PAC-10, along with Arizona State. It would be 28 years before the sides would meet again in 2006, and the teams are 2-2 against each other since that date.
SMU vs. North Texas Match History
SMU at North Texas
This will be the 38th all-time meeting between North Texas and SMU, with the Mustangs leading 31-5-1. This will be the 4th consecutive season that the two sides have met, with SMU winning the previous three contests, including last season, 54-32 in Dallas.
SMU is averaging 38.33 points per game in the last 3 meetings, while UNT is averaging 22 points per game in the last 3 meetings. The average margin of victory for SMU in the last 3 meetings has been 17.67 points per game.
North Texas last beat SMU in 2014, a 43-6 thumping in Denton.
This series dates back to 1922, when SMU won the first 9 games between 1922 and 1932. North Texas won for the first time in the series in 1933, a 7-0 win. SMU would go on to run off another 9 straight wins against North Texas between 1934 and 1942.
After the 1942 Mustang win, the teams would not meet again until 1974, when SMU began a 9-2 run over the Eagles between 1974 and 1992. They would not meet again until 2006. In that current part of the series (2006-17), SMU is 4-2 against UNT.
This will be the 38th all-time meeting between North Texas and SMU, with the Mustangs leading 31-5-1. This will be the 4th consecutive season that the two sides have met, with SMU winning the previous three contests, including last season, 54-32 in Dallas.
SMU is averaging 38.33 points per game in the last 3 meetings, while UNT is averaging 22 points per game in the last 3 meetings. The average margin of victory for SMU in the last 3 meetings has been 17.67 points per game.
North Texas last beat SMU in 2014, a 43-6 thumping in Denton.
This series dates back to 1922, when SMU won the first 9 games between 1922 and 1932. North Texas won for the first time in the series in 1933, a 7-0 win. SMU would go on to run off another 9 straight wins against North Texas between 1934 and 1942.
After the 1942 Mustang win, the teams would not meet again until 1974, when SMU began a 9-2 run over the Eagles between 1974 and 1992. They would not meet again until 2006. In that current part of the series (2006-17), SMU is 4-2 against UNT.
Middle Tennessee vs. Vanderbilt Match History
Middle Tennessee at Vanderbilt
The Blue Raiders and Commodores meet for the 19th time Saturday, with Vanderbilt holding a 15-3 all-time lead in the series.
This will be the 4th consecutive season that the teams have met, with Vandy on a 3 game winning streak in the current run. Vanderbilt won last season, 28-6, in 2016, 47-24, and in 2015 17-13.
Prior to the current 3 game win streak for the Commodores, Middle Tennessee had been on a 3 game win streak of their own in the series, as they won games in 2001, 2002, and 2005. Those were the only 3 Blue Raiders wins against Vanderbilt all-time.
The series dates back to 1915, a 51-0 Vanderbilt win that started a streak of 12 straight wins from 1915 through 1956. The sides would not meet after 1956 until they restarted the series in 2001.
The Blue Raiders and Commodores meet for the 19th time Saturday, with Vanderbilt holding a 15-3 all-time lead in the series.
This will be the 4th consecutive season that the teams have met, with Vandy on a 3 game winning streak in the current run. Vanderbilt won last season, 28-6, in 2016, 47-24, and in 2015 17-13.
Prior to the current 3 game win streak for the Commodores, Middle Tennessee had been on a 3 game win streak of their own in the series, as they won games in 2001, 2002, and 2005. Those were the only 3 Blue Raiders wins against Vanderbilt all-time.
The series dates back to 1915, a 51-0 Vanderbilt win that started a streak of 12 straight wins from 1915 through 1956. The sides would not meet after 1956 until they restarted the series in 2001.
Michigan vs. Notre Dame Match History
Michigan at Notre Dame
Michigan and Notre Dame renew their rivalry Saturday, meeting for the first time since 2014. Michigan leads the all-time series 24-16-1, with Michigan winning 6 of the last 9 meetings. Notre Dame has won 2 of the last 3 meetings, however, and won the 2014 battle 31-0 in South bend.
This is one of the oldest series in college football history, with the first meeting taking place in 1887, which started a streak of 8 straight wins for the Wolverines over the Fighting Irish that went from 1887 through 1908. Notre Dame won their first game in the series in 1909, an 11-3 win.
The teams did not play again after that Notre Dame win until 1942, when Michigan won 32-30, before Notre Dame won in 1943, 35-12.
That sparked another hiatus in this series, as the two sides did not play again until 1979, a 28-14 Michigan victory. There was never again a hiatus in the series of more than 3 years, until the current 4 year hiatus that was ended in a phone call between Jim Harbaugh and Brian Kelly to fire it up once again.
Michigan's longest win streak was the one that started it all, an 8 game run. Notre Dame's longest win streak in the series was a 4 game streak from 1987-90.
Michigan and Notre Dame renew their rivalry Saturday, meeting for the first time since 2014. Michigan leads the all-time series 24-16-1, with Michigan winning 6 of the last 9 meetings. Notre Dame has won 2 of the last 3 meetings, however, and won the 2014 battle 31-0 in South bend.
This is one of the oldest series in college football history, with the first meeting taking place in 1887, which started a streak of 8 straight wins for the Wolverines over the Fighting Irish that went from 1887 through 1908. Notre Dame won their first game in the series in 1909, an 11-3 win.
The teams did not play again after that Notre Dame win until 1942, when Michigan won 32-30, before Notre Dame won in 1943, 35-12.
That sparked another hiatus in this series, as the two sides did not play again until 1979, a 28-14 Michigan victory. There was never again a hiatus in the series of more than 3 years, until the current 4 year hiatus that was ended in a phone call between Jim Harbaugh and Brian Kelly to fire it up once again.
Michigan's longest win streak was the one that started it all, an 8 game run. Notre Dame's longest win streak in the series was a 4 game streak from 1987-90.
UNLV vs. USC Match History
UNLV at USC
This will be just the second all-time meeting between UNLV and USC. The teams last met in 1997, a 35-21 Trojan win at the Coliseum in Los Angeles. That win was the 100th of John Robinson's career at USC. USC trailed 21-14 in the game before running off 3 late scores for the win.
USC is currently on a 16 game home winning streak. Clay Helton has never lost a home game as head coach of the Trojans.
USC is 32-1-1 all-time against Mountain West opponents, with 2 of those wins having been vacated by NCAA penalty. They have not lost to a Mountain West opponent since 1992, a loss to Fresno State.
USC is 92-24-8 in openers all-time, and is 64-16-7 all-time in home openers. They have 36 shut out wins in openers all-time.
UNLV is just 23-27 all-time in season openers, 5-18 on the road. This will be the first ranked opponent UNLV ha splayed in an opener since 2011, a loss to Wisconsin. UNLV is just 4-15 all-time vs. the PAC-12.
This will be just the second all-time meeting between UNLV and USC. The teams last met in 1997, a 35-21 Trojan win at the Coliseum in Los Angeles. That win was the 100th of John Robinson's career at USC. USC trailed 21-14 in the game before running off 3 late scores for the win.
USC is currently on a 16 game home winning streak. Clay Helton has never lost a home game as head coach of the Trojans.
USC is 32-1-1 all-time against Mountain West opponents, with 2 of those wins having been vacated by NCAA penalty. They have not lost to a Mountain West opponent since 1992, a loss to Fresno State.
USC is 92-24-8 in openers all-time, and is 64-16-7 all-time in home openers. They have 36 shut out wins in openers all-time.
UNLV is just 23-27 all-time in season openers, 5-18 on the road. This will be the first ranked opponent UNLV ha splayed in an opener since 2011, a loss to Wisconsin. UNLV is just 4-15 all-time vs. the PAC-12.
Wyoming vs. Washington State Match History
Wyoming at Washington State
Washington State leads the all-time series against Wyoming 4-2, with the last meeting coming in 2015, when the Cougars beat the Cowboys 31-14. The previous meeting had occurred in 1990, a 34-13 win by Wyoming. The teams met for the first time in 1962, when WSU defeated the Cowboys 21-15. The teams also met in 1964, 1987, and 1989. Wyoming won in 1964, with the Cougars taking the meetings in 87 and 89.
This will be the first time that the Cougars will have traveled to Laramie since 1989. WSU has dropped their last 7 season openers on the road, and have not won a season road opener since 2004, which was a 21-17 win over New Mexico. Washington State is 70-59-5 all-time in season openers.
Wyoming is coming off of a defensive domination on the road last Saturday in a 29-7 win over New Mexico State in Las Cruces, and this will be their home opener. New Mexico State did not score until the game was within the final 2 minutes of the contest. Nico Evans rushed for 190 yards on the night.
Wyoming is 13-2 in their last 15 home openers.
Washington State leads the all-time series against Wyoming 4-2, with the last meeting coming in 2015, when the Cougars beat the Cowboys 31-14. The previous meeting had occurred in 1990, a 34-13 win by Wyoming. The teams met for the first time in 1962, when WSU defeated the Cowboys 21-15. The teams also met in 1964, 1987, and 1989. Wyoming won in 1964, with the Cougars taking the meetings in 87 and 89.
This will be the first time that the Cougars will have traveled to Laramie since 1989. WSU has dropped their last 7 season openers on the road, and have not won a season road opener since 2004, which was a 21-17 win over New Mexico. Washington State is 70-59-5 all-time in season openers.
Wyoming is coming off of a defensive domination on the road last Saturday in a 29-7 win over New Mexico State in Las Cruces, and this will be their home opener. New Mexico State did not score until the game was within the final 2 minutes of the contest. Nico Evans rushed for 190 yards on the night.
Wyoming is 13-2 in their last 15 home openers.
Northern Illinois vs. Iowa Match History
Northern Illinois at Iowa
This will be the first time that NIU and Iowa have met up since 2013, when the Huskies upset the Hawkeyes in Iowa City 30-27. That was the only time that the Huskies have ever beaten Iowa, as the Hawkeyes lead the all-time series 8-1.
This series dates back to 1985, which started Iowa's 8 game winning streak against NIU. Iowa and NIU have met twice on a neutral field (Chicago), but have never met in DeKalb, Illinois. The 6 other meetings have all occurred in Iowa City.
When Iowa wins in this series, the margin of victory on average is 25.63 points per game, but the series has tightened up in recent years, as the last 4 meetings have been decided by 6.75 points per game on average.The last two meetings have been decided by 3 points or less.
Northern Illinois head coach Rod Carey is 4-1 as a head coach against current Big 10 teams.
Kirk Ferentz is 16-3 as Iowa head coach in season openers. Iowa is 95-32-2 all-time in season openers.
This will be the first time that NIU and Iowa have met up since 2013, when the Huskies upset the Hawkeyes in Iowa City 30-27. That was the only time that the Huskies have ever beaten Iowa, as the Hawkeyes lead the all-time series 8-1.
This series dates back to 1985, which started Iowa's 8 game winning streak against NIU. Iowa and NIU have met twice on a neutral field (Chicago), but have never met in DeKalb, Illinois. The 6 other meetings have all occurred in Iowa City.
When Iowa wins in this series, the margin of victory on average is 25.63 points per game, but the series has tightened up in recent years, as the last 4 meetings have been decided by 6.75 points per game on average.The last two meetings have been decided by 3 points or less.
Northern Illinois head coach Rod Carey is 4-1 as a head coach against current Big 10 teams.
Kirk Ferentz is 16-3 as Iowa head coach in season openers. Iowa is 95-32-2 all-time in season openers.
Central Michigan vs. Kentucky
Central Michigan at Kentucky
This will be the first meeting between the Chippewas and Wildcats since 2011, a game that Kentucky won 27-13. Kentucky has won all 6 meetings against Central Michigan in their histories.
CMU and UK first met in 1983, as Kentucky won 31-14. Other meeting include 1988, 1990, 1992, and 2006. Kentucky's average margin of victory has been 10.17 points per game, while they are averaging 28.67 points per game. The Chippewas are averaging 16.83 points per game historically against Kentucky in this series.
CMU last opened the season with a road win in 1996, and has not one a season opening road game with a win since, going 0-7.
Kentucky is 3-2 in season openers under Mark Stoops, and is 86-36-5 all-time in season openers.
This will be the first meeting between the Chippewas and Wildcats since 2011, a game that Kentucky won 27-13. Kentucky has won all 6 meetings against Central Michigan in their histories.
CMU and UK first met in 1983, as Kentucky won 31-14. Other meeting include 1988, 1990, 1992, and 2006. Kentucky's average margin of victory has been 10.17 points per game, while they are averaging 28.67 points per game. The Chippewas are averaging 16.83 points per game historically against Kentucky in this series.
CMU last opened the season with a road win in 1996, and has not one a season opening road game with a win since, going 0-7.
Kentucky is 3-2 in season openers under Mark Stoops, and is 86-36-5 all-time in season openers.
Marshall vs. Miami (Ohio) Match History
Marshall at Miami (Ohio)
One woul be surprised to learn that Miami leads this series 30-13-1. That would because recent history would suggest otherwise, as Marshall has won the last 4 games in the series dating back to 2004, including a 31-26 win by the Thundering Herd in 2017 in Huntington, WV. This series dates back to 1905, when Miami won 35-0.
Miami won the first 5 games in the series, until Marshall finally broke through in 1937, which started a 3 game winning streak for Marshall that saw the Herd outscore Miami 60-0 from 1937-39. It would seem that Miami never got over it, as they then ran off a 19 game winning streak over Marshall that covered 1948-75. Miami won 24 of 25 meetings in a span that covered the 19 game winning streak and continued on through 1980. Marshall's only win in the run came in 1979, a 21-16 win.
The teams did not meet again after 1980 until 1997, when Marshall started to turn their fortunes against Miami completely around. Since 1997, Marshall is 9-2 against the Red Hawks, which is the number that should be focused on when the teams meet again tomorrow. Marshall has not lost to Miami since 2003, and in the last two decades, the Thundering Herd has started to dominate the series.
The Marshall win last season was the season opener for both programs.
One woul be surprised to learn that Miami leads this series 30-13-1. That would because recent history would suggest otherwise, as Marshall has won the last 4 games in the series dating back to 2004, including a 31-26 win by the Thundering Herd in 2017 in Huntington, WV. This series dates back to 1905, when Miami won 35-0.
Miami won the first 5 games in the series, until Marshall finally broke through in 1937, which started a 3 game winning streak for Marshall that saw the Herd outscore Miami 60-0 from 1937-39. It would seem that Miami never got over it, as they then ran off a 19 game winning streak over Marshall that covered 1948-75. Miami won 24 of 25 meetings in a span that covered the 19 game winning streak and continued on through 1980. Marshall's only win in the run came in 1979, a 21-16 win.
The teams did not meet again after 1980 until 1997, when Marshall started to turn their fortunes against Miami completely around. Since 1997, Marshall is 9-2 against the Red Hawks, which is the number that should be focused on when the teams meet again tomorrow. Marshall has not lost to Miami since 2003, and in the last two decades, the Thundering Herd has started to dominate the series.
The Marshall win last season was the season opener for both programs.
Washington vs. Auburn Match History
Washington vs. Auburn
This game has serious playoff implications for later this season.If Washington loses, it can honestly be expected that the PAC-12 could get left out of the playoff once again, even if the Huskies win out. For Auburn, a loss is not as detrimental, but could be damaging.
This will be the first ever meeting of the schools, as they meet up in Atlanta this week. This will mark the second ever neutral site non conference (and non bowl) game for Washington, while Auburn will be playing in their 2nd straight non con or bowl game in Atlanta. Auburn is on a current 2 game losing streak in Atlanta dating back to last season. Auburn was beaten by Georgia in the SEC title game, and by UCF in the Peach Bowl. No other team in history has played 3 straight neutral site games in the same venue.
Washington is 87-35-2 in season openers all-time, while they are 17-11 in season openers since 1989. They are 10-1 at home, just 7-9 on the road, and 0-1 in their only other neutral site opener. The Huskies have opened against ranked opponents 12 times since 1994, and are just 5-7 in that run.
This will be Auburn's 3rd appearance in the Chik-Fil-A Kickoff. Auburn is 8-3 all-time vs. the PAC-12, and have a losing record only against USC (1-2). This will be their first contest against a PAC-12 opponent since 2013, a win over Washington State at home. The Tigers are 4-3 in season openers against the PAC-12, but is a perfect 5-0 against the conference in neutral site games.
Auburn is 96-27-2 all-time in conference openers, and have won 10 of their last 12. They are 4-1 in season openers under Gus Malzahn, with the only loss coming to Clemson, who eventually won the national title.
This game has serious playoff implications for later this season.If Washington loses, it can honestly be expected that the PAC-12 could get left out of the playoff once again, even if the Huskies win out. For Auburn, a loss is not as detrimental, but could be damaging.
This will be the first ever meeting of the schools, as they meet up in Atlanta this week. This will mark the second ever neutral site non conference (and non bowl) game for Washington, while Auburn will be playing in their 2nd straight non con or bowl game in Atlanta. Auburn is on a current 2 game losing streak in Atlanta dating back to last season. Auburn was beaten by Georgia in the SEC title game, and by UCF in the Peach Bowl. No other team in history has played 3 straight neutral site games in the same venue.
Washington is 87-35-2 in season openers all-time, while they are 17-11 in season openers since 1989. They are 10-1 at home, just 7-9 on the road, and 0-1 in their only other neutral site opener. The Huskies have opened against ranked opponents 12 times since 1994, and are just 5-7 in that run.
This will be Auburn's 3rd appearance in the Chik-Fil-A Kickoff. Auburn is 8-3 all-time vs. the PAC-12, and have a losing record only against USC (1-2). This will be their first contest against a PAC-12 opponent since 2013, a win over Washington State at home. The Tigers are 4-3 in season openers against the PAC-12, but is a perfect 5-0 against the conference in neutral site games.
Auburn is 96-27-2 all-time in conference openers, and have won 10 of their last 12. They are 4-1 in season openers under Gus Malzahn, with the only loss coming to Clemson, who eventually won the national title.
U Mass vs. Boston College Match History
U Mass vs. Boston College
This is the 27th meeting between the state "rivals", with BC leading the all-time series 21-5-1. U Mass has not beaten the Eagles since 1978, a 27-0 win in Amherst. BC currently has a 5 game winning streak against U Mass dating back to 2004, with the average margin of victory sitting at 22.4 points per game in favor of the Eagles.
This series dates back to 1899, when BC beat the Minutemen 18-0 in Amherst. U Mass has not won in the series since 1978.
U Mass is coming off a 63-15 week zero win over Duquesne last weekend. This is the season opener for Boston College. Legendary head coach Dick MacPherson coached U Mass to a win over Boston College in 1972.
This is the 27th meeting between the state "rivals", with BC leading the all-time series 21-5-1. U Mass has not beaten the Eagles since 1978, a 27-0 win in Amherst. BC currently has a 5 game winning streak against U Mass dating back to 2004, with the average margin of victory sitting at 22.4 points per game in favor of the Eagles.
This series dates back to 1899, when BC beat the Minutemen 18-0 in Amherst. U Mass has not won in the series since 1978.
U Mass is coming off a 63-15 week zero win over Duquesne last weekend. This is the season opener for Boston College. Legendary head coach Dick MacPherson coached U Mass to a win over Boston College in 1972.
Rice vs. Houston Match History
Rice vs. Houston
This is the 42 all-time meeting between the two Houston area schools, with Houston leading the series 30-11 overall. Houston has won 11 of the last 16 meetings, including the last 4. Houston beat Rice 38-3 last season, which was the first meeting between the 2 since 2013, a 31-26 Cougars win over the Owls. This series dates back to 1971, a Houston 23-21 win. They played every season from 1971-1993.
Houston longest winning streak all-time against Rice is 6 games, with a 64-0 win in 1989 coming as their largest margin of victory against the Owls.
Rice is already 1-0 in 2018 after beating Prairie View on a late FG last weekend, 31-28.
This is the 42 all-time meeting between the two Houston area schools, with Houston leading the series 30-11 overall. Houston has won 11 of the last 16 meetings, including the last 4. Houston beat Rice 38-3 last season, which was the first meeting between the 2 since 2013, a 31-26 Cougars win over the Owls. This series dates back to 1971, a Houston 23-21 win. They played every season from 1971-1993.
Houston longest winning streak all-time against Rice is 6 games, with a 64-0 win in 1989 coming as their largest margin of victory against the Owls.
Rice is already 1-0 in 2018 after beating Prairie View on a late FG last weekend, 31-28.
Ole Miss vs. Texas Tech Match History
Ole Miss vs. Texas Tech
Ole Miss currently holds a 3-2 lead in the all-time series, with the last meeting occurring in 2009, which ended in an Ole Miss win (47-34). Texas Tech won both meetings in 2002-03, and averaged 40.5 points per game in those wins.
Ole miss won an Independence Bowl over Texas Tech in 1998 (35-18), and won the first ever meeting between the schools in 1986, which was also an Independence Bowl win for the Rebels (20-17).
This will be the first neutral site game for Texas Tech since 1959, when Tech played in Dallas against Texas A&M. Texas Tech played Oklahoma State in 1958 in Oklahoma City.
Texas Tech has outscored their season opener opponents by 28.7 points per game dating back to 2000. This is the first season opener against the SEC for the Red Raiders since 1997, when they took on Tennessee. This is the first Power Five season opener for Tech since 2002.
Ole Miss is 18-3 in their last 21 openers, and has an overall record of 91-27-5 in season openers all-time. Ole Miss is 14-12 all-time against current Big 12 members.
Ole Miss currently holds a 3-2 lead in the all-time series, with the last meeting occurring in 2009, which ended in an Ole Miss win (47-34). Texas Tech won both meetings in 2002-03, and averaged 40.5 points per game in those wins.
Ole miss won an Independence Bowl over Texas Tech in 1998 (35-18), and won the first ever meeting between the schools in 1986, which was also an Independence Bowl win for the Rebels (20-17).
This will be the first neutral site game for Texas Tech since 1959, when Tech played in Dallas against Texas A&M. Texas Tech played Oklahoma State in 1958 in Oklahoma City.
Texas Tech has outscored their season opener opponents by 28.7 points per game dating back to 2000. This is the first season opener against the SEC for the Red Raiders since 1997, when they took on Tennessee. This is the first Power Five season opener for Tech since 2002.
Ole Miss is 18-3 in their last 21 openers, and has an overall record of 91-27-5 in season openers all-time. Ole Miss is 14-12 all-time against current Big 12 members.
Kent State vs. Illinois Match History
Kent State at Illinois
This will be the second ever meeting between Illinois and Kent State. Illinois won the only meeting 52-3 in 2015. Illinois is 90-33-5 all-time in season openers, and has won 20 straight season openers, one of the 5 best marks in the nation. Illinois is 58-27-4 all-time in home openers.
Illinois last lost a season opener in 2010 against Missouri, and have won 7 straight home openers. They are 25-5 when in August games.
Kent State is just 32-37-3 all-time in season openers, and is just 15-29-2 in season opening road trips. Kent State has not won a season opening game on the road since 2007, a 23-14 win over Iowa State. This will mark the 4th straight road opener for Kent State. Kent State is just 1-16 all-time against current Big 10 members.
This will be the second ever meeting between Illinois and Kent State. Illinois won the only meeting 52-3 in 2015. Illinois is 90-33-5 all-time in season openers, and has won 20 straight season openers, one of the 5 best marks in the nation. Illinois is 58-27-4 all-time in home openers.
Illinois last lost a season opener in 2010 against Missouri, and have won 7 straight home openers. They are 25-5 when in August games.
Kent State is just 32-37-3 all-time in season openers, and is just 15-29-2 in season opening road trips. Kent State has not won a season opening game on the road since 2007, a 23-14 win over Iowa State. This will mark the 4th straight road opener for Kent State. Kent State is just 1-16 all-time against current Big 10 members.
Maryland vs. Texas Match History
Maryland won their first game in this series in 2017, a 51-41 shocker in Austin, but they still trail Texas 3-1 in the overall series. 2017 was the first meeting in this series since a 1978 Sun Bowl, which ended in a 42-0 Texas win. That was also the last time that Texas has beaten Maryland. Texas won both ends of a home and home in 1959 and 1960.
Texas has never allowed a point when they have beaten the Terrapins. Texas' wins have come by 26-0, 34-0, and 42-0. Texas averages 35.75 points per game all-time vs. Maryland, while Maryland averages 12.75 points per game against Texas, despite putting up 51 on the Longhorns in 2017.
Texas wins against Maryland have a margin of victory averaging 37.33 points per win. Maryland won their lone victory by 10 last season.
Texas, like Ohio State, is 2 wins away from their 900th program win of all-time. Texas is 109-19-3 all-time in season openers. This will be just the 3rd time in 18 years that Texas opens away from Austin. Texas has only opened away from home 17 times in the last 50 years, and are just 9-8 in those road trips. This will be the first of 11 Power 5 opponents for Texas in 2018.
Maryland has won their last 8 season openers, and 12 of the last 13. Maryland has scored at least 50 points in the last 4 season openers, and have won those 12 season openers by an average of 21 points per game. Maryland, however, is just 1-7 when opening against ranked opponents, and Texas is ranked an average of 23rd nationally.
Maryland returns 97% of their total rushing output of last season.
Texas has never allowed a point when they have beaten the Terrapins. Texas' wins have come by 26-0, 34-0, and 42-0. Texas averages 35.75 points per game all-time vs. Maryland, while Maryland averages 12.75 points per game against Texas, despite putting up 51 on the Longhorns in 2017.
Texas wins against Maryland have a margin of victory averaging 37.33 points per win. Maryland won their lone victory by 10 last season.
Texas, like Ohio State, is 2 wins away from their 900th program win of all-time. Texas is 109-19-3 all-time in season openers. This will be just the 3rd time in 18 years that Texas opens away from Austin. Texas has only opened away from home 17 times in the last 50 years, and are just 9-8 in those road trips. This will be the first of 11 Power 5 opponents for Texas in 2018.
Maryland has won their last 8 season openers, and 12 of the last 13. Maryland has scored at least 50 points in the last 4 season openers, and have won those 12 season openers by an average of 21 points per game. Maryland, however, is just 1-7 when opening against ranked opponents, and Texas is ranked an average of 23rd nationally.
Maryland returns 97% of their total rushing output of last season.
FAU vs. Oklahoma Match History
Saturday will mark the first ever meeting between FAU and Oklahoma. FAU has never beaten a Power 5 opponent.
Oklahoma is 94-23-6 all-time in season openers, and are 76-15-4 all-time in home openers. The last time Oklahoma lost a home opener was in 2005, a 17-10 loss to TCU.
Oklahoma has a seven game win streak when ranked as the #7 team in the nation, their current ranking. They are 23-2 all-time when ranked 7th nationally. They have not lost as the 7th ranked team since 2007.
FAU is on a 10 game winning streak, the 2nd best win streak in the nation currently.
Oklahoma has cored 30 points or more in 23 of their last 24 games, and are 22-2 when doing so during that streak.
Oklahoma is 94-23-6 all-time in season openers, and are 76-15-4 all-time in home openers. The last time Oklahoma lost a home opener was in 2005, a 17-10 loss to TCU.
Oklahoma has a seven game win streak when ranked as the #7 team in the nation, their current ranking. They are 23-2 all-time when ranked 7th nationally. They have not lost as the 7th ranked team since 2007.
FAU is on a 10 game winning streak, the 2nd best win streak in the nation currently.
Oklahoma has cored 30 points or more in 23 of their last 24 games, and are 22-2 when doing so during that streak.
Oregon State vs. Ohio State Match History
Oregon State and Ohio State will meet for just the 3rd time ever this Saturday afternoon in Columbus. Ohio State holds a 2-0 lead in the series, and has never played in Corvallis, with both meeting occurring in Columbus. This is the first meeting of the programs since 1984, a 22-14 Buckeyes win. The first meeting occurred in 1974, a 51-10 Ohio State win.
Ohio State averages 36.5 points per game against Oregon State, while the Beavers average just 12 points per game against the Buckeyes. The average margin of victory has been 24.5 points per game over 2 games for Ohio State. They are 36 point favorites this weekend.
Ohio State will be coached by Ryan Day as this is the first of 3 games that Urban Meyer will have been suspended.
Ohio State is 2 games shy of their 900th program victory. They would become the second program in college football with 900 wins.
Ohio State has won every season opener since 2000, and has won 37 of the last 39 season openers. The Buckeyes average 49.6 points per game in season openers since 2012, and has scored 34 points or more in each of those games. Ohio State has won 31 consecutive season openers in Columbus.
Oregon State coach Jonathon Smith is in his first season as head coach with the Beavers. He finished 3-1 against Big 10 teams as OC at Washington.
This is the 16th time that Oregon State will open against a top 25 team.
Ohio State averages 36.5 points per game against Oregon State, while the Beavers average just 12 points per game against the Buckeyes. The average margin of victory has been 24.5 points per game over 2 games for Ohio State. They are 36 point favorites this weekend.
Ohio State will be coached by Ryan Day as this is the first of 3 games that Urban Meyer will have been suspended.
Ohio State is 2 games shy of their 900th program victory. They would become the second program in college football with 900 wins.
Ohio State has won every season opener since 2000, and has won 37 of the last 39 season openers. The Buckeyes average 49.6 points per game in season openers since 2012, and has scored 34 points or more in each of those games. Ohio State has won 31 consecutive season openers in Columbus.
Oregon State coach Jonathon Smith is in his first season as head coach with the Beavers. He finished 3-1 against Big 10 teams as OC at Washington.
This is the 16th time that Oregon State will open against a top 25 team.
Colorado vs. Colorado State Match History
Friday night marks the 90th meeting between Colorado and Colorado State, a tilt that will take place once again in Denver. Colorado leads the all-time series 65-22-2, with the Buffs winning the last 3 games in the series, including a 17-3 win in 2017.
The two sides did not meet between 1958 and 1982, did not meet in 1984, and had two other hiatus periods, but have played now every season since 1995. During the current run (1995-2017), Colorado has won 15 times, with CSU winning 9 times. CSU last won a game in the series in 2014, a 31-17 win for the Rams.
Colorado has won 11 of the 17 meetings between the schools at Mile High Stadium in Denver.
In 2020, the schools will go back to a home and home format, and will be playing these games in Boulder and Fort Collins.
Colorado is 3-3-1 in games played in August all-time. The series is tied at 2 in games played in August.
Colorado is just 19-21-1 all-time playing in NFL venues.
Colorado State is coming off a 43-34 loss to Hawaii in zero week, a game in which the Rams were favored to win by double digits. They were down 37-7 before starting a rally that fell well short.
This will be just the 2nd time in CSU history that the Rams will have played twice in August, the first time coming in 2002, when CSU defeated Virginia and Colorado. The Rams are 8-3 all-time in the month of August.
The two sides did not meet between 1958 and 1982, did not meet in 1984, and had two other hiatus periods, but have played now every season since 1995. During the current run (1995-2017), Colorado has won 15 times, with CSU winning 9 times. CSU last won a game in the series in 2014, a 31-17 win for the Rams.
Colorado has won 11 of the 17 meetings between the schools at Mile High Stadium in Denver.
In 2020, the schools will go back to a home and home format, and will be playing these games in Boulder and Fort Collins.
Colorado is 3-3-1 in games played in August all-time. The series is tied at 2 in games played in August.
Colorado is just 19-21-1 all-time playing in NFL venues.
Colorado State is coming off a 43-34 loss to Hawaii in zero week, a game in which the Rams were favored to win by double digits. They were down 37-7 before starting a rally that fell well short.
This will be just the 2nd time in CSU history that the Rams will have played twice in August, the first time coming in 2002, when CSU defeated Virginia and Colorado. The Rams are 8-3 all-time in the month of August.
Stanford vs. San Diego State Match History
Stanford leads the all-time series 3-2, but SDSU is coming off of their second win in the series in 2017, a 20-17 chippy contest in San Diego.
Rashaad Penny is gone for San Diego State at RB, but Juwan Washington should be the next in a line of great backs at SDSU, and is fully capable of having a huge game against the Cardinal.
Bryce Love is the player to watch for Stanford Friday night, as he begins what should be a Heisman campaign for the 2018 season as a senior.
Last season was the first meeting in this series since 1988, which capped off a 3 year run in the series that saw Stanford take 3 straight from the Aztecs under then head coach Jack Elway. San Diego State won the series opener in 1985, a 41-22 Aztec win.
Both football teams will try to establish run games early, and this will likely turn into a defensive dog fight. Stanford was burning after the loss to the Aztecs last season, and revenge is on the mind. Still, SDSU is highly capable of pulling the upset once again with a sound rushing attack and a defense that is severely underrated nationally.
Rashaad Penny is gone for San Diego State at RB, but Juwan Washington should be the next in a line of great backs at SDSU, and is fully capable of having a huge game against the Cardinal.
Bryce Love is the player to watch for Stanford Friday night, as he begins what should be a Heisman campaign for the 2018 season as a senior.
Last season was the first meeting in this series since 1988, which capped off a 3 year run in the series that saw Stanford take 3 straight from the Aztecs under then head coach Jack Elway. San Diego State won the series opener in 1985, a 41-22 Aztec win.
Both football teams will try to establish run games early, and this will likely turn into a defensive dog fight. Stanford was burning after the loss to the Aztecs last season, and revenge is on the mind. Still, SDSU is highly capable of pulling the upset once again with a sound rushing attack and a defense that is severely underrated nationally.
Wisconsin vs. Western Kentucky Match History
There is not a lot of information in this series, as the teams met only one time, a Wisconsin 24-6 win in 2001, when Barry Alvarez and Jack Harbaugh were still coaching these respective programs.
Wisconsin is a legitimate Big 10 title contender, and has a real shot of making the college football playoff if they can win out in 2018. Western Kentucky is not nearly in as fortunate a position, as the needle is trending down on the WKU program under Mike Sanford, who scrapped the highly successful spread offense for a more traditional approach, and that has slowed down production at WKU immensely.
Wisconsin likely rolls at home Friday night, as this should not be much of a battle.
Wisconsin is a legitimate Big 10 title contender, and has a real shot of making the college football playoff if they can win out in 2018. Western Kentucky is not nearly in as fortunate a position, as the needle is trending down on the WKU program under Mike Sanford, who scrapped the highly successful spread offense for a more traditional approach, and that has slowed down production at WKU immensely.
Wisconsin likely rolls at home Friday night, as this should not be much of a battle.
Army vs. Duke Match History
Army and Duke meet for the 26th time on Friday night, with Duke leading the series 13-11-1.
This is the 4th straight year that Army and Duke will face off, with Duke winning 2 of the 3 meetings in the current run. Army won last season, 21-16 in West Point, with Duke winning 3 of the prior 4 meetings. The series dates back to 1944, when Army won 27-7. The Black Knights won the first 6 games in this series from 1944 through 1959. The lone tie in the series occurred in 1979.
Duke is averaging just 24.33 points per game in the current 3 game series, while Army is averaging just 10 points per game against Duke over the same time frame.
Duke is 9-3 over the last 12 meetings against Army.
Army is coming off of their first 10 win season since 1995, while Duke won just 5 games a year ago.
This is the 4th straight year that Army and Duke will face off, with Duke winning 2 of the 3 meetings in the current run. Army won last season, 21-16 in West Point, with Duke winning 3 of the prior 4 meetings. The series dates back to 1944, when Army won 27-7. The Black Knights won the first 6 games in this series from 1944 through 1959. The lone tie in the series occurred in 1979.
Duke is averaging just 24.33 points per game in the current 3 game series, while Army is averaging just 10 points per game against Duke over the same time frame.
Duke is 9-3 over the last 12 meetings against Army.
Army is coming off of their first 10 win season since 1995, while Duke won just 5 games a year ago.
Utah State vs. Michigan State Match History
This will be the first ever meeting between Utah State and Michigan State on Friday night.
For the Aggies, this will be their 7th road opener in the last 10 seasons, and will be the 61st road opener in school history. It will be the second straight Big 10 road opener for the Aggies, as they lost to Wisconsin in Madison last season after possessing a 10-0 lead at one point.
Utah State returns 18 total starters this season, but Michigan State returns 19 starters of their own. USU returns 26 players who have starting experience overall. USU finished 6th in the nation with 29 forced fumbles last season, and finished second nationally with 16 fumble recoveries.
Michigan State is 10-1 in season openers under Mark Dantonio, and have won 19 straight home openers, and they are 100-21 all-time in season openers.
The Spartans are trying for their 6th double digit win total season in 8 years.
For the Aggies, this will be their 7th road opener in the last 10 seasons, and will be the 61st road opener in school history. It will be the second straight Big 10 road opener for the Aggies, as they lost to Wisconsin in Madison last season after possessing a 10-0 lead at one point.
Utah State returns 18 total starters this season, but Michigan State returns 19 starters of their own. USU returns 26 players who have starting experience overall. USU finished 6th in the nation with 29 forced fumbles last season, and finished second nationally with 16 fumble recoveries.
Michigan State is 10-1 in season openers under Mark Dantonio, and have won 19 straight home openers, and they are 100-21 all-time in season openers.
The Spartans are trying for their 6th double digit win total season in 8 years.
Syracuse vs. Western Michigan Match History
This will be the first ever meeting between Syracuse and Western Michigan on Friday night. This will be the first game of a home and home, with WMU heading to Syracuse in 2019.
Syracuse has won 4 straight season openers dating to 2014, and they are 82-42-4 in season openers all-time. The current win streak has included all home games for the Orange, and all 4 wins came against FCS opponents.
Syracuse's last season opening defeat came away from the Carrier Dome, a 2013 loss to Penn State on a neutral field. Syracuse has not played a true road opener since 2010, a win over Akron. Syracuse is 6-4 in their last 10 season openers, but have won 6 of their last 8.
This is the 7th time since 2000 that Syracuse will have played in the month of August, and the Orange have performed poorly in that stretch, going just 1-5.
Syracuse has won their last 4 season openers against MAC opponents, and are 4-2 in season openers against the MAC all-time, with losses to Bowling Green in 1973 and 1976.
Syracuse is 11-21 all-time in true road openers, and 12-24 in total road openers.
Western Michigan has opened against a Power 5 school every season since 2005, and this is the second time in 4 years the Broncos will have hosted a P5 team in their opener. They last hosted Michigan State in 2015.
Despite a rough start, WMU won 4 of their final 6 games last season to finish 6-6.
The Broncos are just 1-6 all-time against ACC schools, beating Virginia in their lone win against the conference in 2006.
Jon Wassink returns at QB after a knee injury ended a promising season early in 2017. Tim Lester will be calling his own plays this season.
Syracuse has won 4 straight season openers dating to 2014, and they are 82-42-4 in season openers all-time. The current win streak has included all home games for the Orange, and all 4 wins came against FCS opponents.
Syracuse's last season opening defeat came away from the Carrier Dome, a 2013 loss to Penn State on a neutral field. Syracuse has not played a true road opener since 2010, a win over Akron. Syracuse is 6-4 in their last 10 season openers, but have won 6 of their last 8.
This is the 7th time since 2000 that Syracuse will have played in the month of August, and the Orange have performed poorly in that stretch, going just 1-5.
Syracuse has won their last 4 season openers against MAC opponents, and are 4-2 in season openers against the MAC all-time, with losses to Bowling Green in 1973 and 1976.
Syracuse is 11-21 all-time in true road openers, and 12-24 in total road openers.
Western Michigan has opened against a Power 5 school every season since 2005, and this is the second time in 4 years the Broncos will have hosted a P5 team in their opener. They last hosted Michigan State in 2015.
Despite a rough start, WMU won 4 of their final 6 games last season to finish 6-6.
The Broncos are just 1-6 all-time against ACC schools, beating Virginia in their lone win against the conference in 2006.
Jon Wassink returns at QB after a knee injury ended a promising season early in 2017. Tim Lester will be calling his own plays this season.
Friday, August 17, 2018
Atlanta Falcons Roster Projections
Here are my projections for what the final 53 man roster will look like for the Falcons once camp breaks in the coming weeks:
QB: Matt Ryan, Matt Schaub, Kurt Benkert
RB: Devonta Freeman, Tevin Coleman, Ito Smith, Luke McNitt
WR: Julio Jones, Calvin Ridley, Mohamed Sanu, Justin Hardy, Marvin Hall, Russell Gage, Terrence Magee
TE: Austin Hooper, Logan Paulson, Eric Saubert, Alex Gray
OT: Jake Matthews, Ryan Schraeder, Austin Pasztor
OG: Andy Levitre, Brandon Fusco, Ben Garland, Wes Schweitzer
C: Alex Mack, Sean Harlow
PK: Matt Bryant
LS: Josh Harris
DE: Brooks Reed, Vic Beasley, Takkarist McKinley, Derrick Shelby
DT: Grady Jarrett, Jack Crawford, Garrison Smith, Deadrin Senat
LB: Duke Riley, Deion Jones, De'Vondre Campbell, Foyesade Oluokun, Emmanuel Ellerbe
CB: Robert Alford, Desmond Trufant, Brian Poole, Blidi Wreh-Wilson, Isaiah Oliver, Leon McFadden, Justin Bethel
S: Ricardo Allen, Keanu Neal, Damontae Kazee, Kemal Ishmael
P: Matt Bosher
This projection sits at 54 men on a 53 man roster. Injuries could clear this issue up, but there is really no room for anyone outside of this group to compete for a spot, and as of now, one would have to go. I would say that Alex Gray would probably be the man to go, based on his value solely being as a backup at Punt Returner. That is a luxury item to have, and there is no room for luxury items left, based on this projection.
QB: Matt Ryan, Matt Schaub, Kurt Benkert
RB: Devonta Freeman, Tevin Coleman, Ito Smith, Luke McNitt
WR: Julio Jones, Calvin Ridley, Mohamed Sanu, Justin Hardy, Marvin Hall, Russell Gage, Terrence Magee
TE: Austin Hooper, Logan Paulson, Eric Saubert, Alex Gray
OT: Jake Matthews, Ryan Schraeder, Austin Pasztor
OG: Andy Levitre, Brandon Fusco, Ben Garland, Wes Schweitzer
C: Alex Mack, Sean Harlow
PK: Matt Bryant
LS: Josh Harris
DE: Brooks Reed, Vic Beasley, Takkarist McKinley, Derrick Shelby
DT: Grady Jarrett, Jack Crawford, Garrison Smith, Deadrin Senat
LB: Duke Riley, Deion Jones, De'Vondre Campbell, Foyesade Oluokun, Emmanuel Ellerbe
CB: Robert Alford, Desmond Trufant, Brian Poole, Blidi Wreh-Wilson, Isaiah Oliver, Leon McFadden, Justin Bethel
S: Ricardo Allen, Keanu Neal, Damontae Kazee, Kemal Ishmael
P: Matt Bosher
This projection sits at 54 men on a 53 man roster. Injuries could clear this issue up, but there is really no room for anyone outside of this group to compete for a spot, and as of now, one would have to go. I would say that Alex Gray would probably be the man to go, based on his value solely being as a backup at Punt Returner. That is a luxury item to have, and there is no room for luxury items left, based on this projection.
Minnesota Vikings Roster Projection
Here is our 53 man roster projection for the Vikings for the 2018 season as we sit in the middle of week 2 of the NFL Pre-Season schedule:
QB: Kirk Cousins, Trevor Simien
RB: Dalvin Cook, Latavius Murray, CJ Ham
WR: Adam Thielen, Stefon Diggs, Kendall Wright, Laquan Treadwell, Korey Robinson
TE: Kyle Rudolph, David Morgan, Tyler Conklin
OT: Riley Reiff, Mike Remmers, Rashod Hill, Aviante Collins
OG: Josh Andrews, Tom Compton, Danny Isidora
C: Pat Elflein, Nick Easton
PK: Daniel Carlson
LS: Ryan McDermott
DE: Danielle Hunter, Everson Griffin, Brian Robison, Stephen Weatherly, Ade Aruna, Jaylin Holmes
DT: Sheldon Richardson, Linval Joseph, Jaleel Johnson
LB: Anthony Barr, Eric Kendricks, Ben Gedeon, Eric Wilson, Kentrell Brothers, Antwione Williams
CB: Trae Waynes, Xavier Rhodes, Mike Hughes, Mackenzie Alexander, Terence Newman, Marcus Sherels
S: Andrew Sendejo, Harrison Smith, Jayron Kearse, Anthony Harris,
P: Ryan Quigley
The above projection leaves 3 roster spots to play for as we wrap up camp. Here are players that I feel will be competing for those spots in the coming weeks:
RB/FB Roc Thomas
WR Jeff Badet
WR Chad Beebe
WR Jake Weineke
TE Blake Bell
C Cornelius Edison
DT David Parry
Of the 3 spots we project to be available, I would focus on Thomas, and the trio of receivers first. Depth is not great at RB, and Thomas fills that need. Edison has some experience on the line, and that could save him in the end. Bell could fit, but the Vikings don't need 4 TEs and one that serves at LS as well. Parry could fill some depth need in the middle on defense, but Robison provides inside outside help already, and with young talent coming in with Aruna and Holmes, he could be expendable.
QB: Kirk Cousins, Trevor Simien
RB: Dalvin Cook, Latavius Murray, CJ Ham
WR: Adam Thielen, Stefon Diggs, Kendall Wright, Laquan Treadwell, Korey Robinson
TE: Kyle Rudolph, David Morgan, Tyler Conklin
OT: Riley Reiff, Mike Remmers, Rashod Hill, Aviante Collins
OG: Josh Andrews, Tom Compton, Danny Isidora
C: Pat Elflein, Nick Easton
PK: Daniel Carlson
LS: Ryan McDermott
DE: Danielle Hunter, Everson Griffin, Brian Robison, Stephen Weatherly, Ade Aruna, Jaylin Holmes
DT: Sheldon Richardson, Linval Joseph, Jaleel Johnson
LB: Anthony Barr, Eric Kendricks, Ben Gedeon, Eric Wilson, Kentrell Brothers, Antwione Williams
CB: Trae Waynes, Xavier Rhodes, Mike Hughes, Mackenzie Alexander, Terence Newman, Marcus Sherels
S: Andrew Sendejo, Harrison Smith, Jayron Kearse, Anthony Harris,
P: Ryan Quigley
The above projection leaves 3 roster spots to play for as we wrap up camp. Here are players that I feel will be competing for those spots in the coming weeks:
RB/FB Roc Thomas
WR Jeff Badet
WR Chad Beebe
WR Jake Weineke
TE Blake Bell
C Cornelius Edison
DT David Parry
Of the 3 spots we project to be available, I would focus on Thomas, and the trio of receivers first. Depth is not great at RB, and Thomas fills that need. Edison has some experience on the line, and that could save him in the end. Bell could fit, but the Vikings don't need 4 TEs and one that serves at LS as well. Parry could fill some depth need in the middle on defense, but Robison provides inside outside help already, and with young talent coming in with Aruna and Holmes, he could be expendable.
Thursday, August 16, 2018
Coaches on the Hot Seat: 2018 Pre-Season Edition
With college football just over one week away, it's time to deliver the assessment on which college football coaches find themselves on the hot seat entering the 2018 season. Some should have been fired last season, some are under current scrutiny, and others are in a show me state of mind to save their jobs. Here is the list as we enter the 2018 season:
Scottie Montgomery, East Carolina
I still do not entirely understand why Ruffin McNeil was fired, and Montgomery was chosen as his successor. Montgomery has not done anything to show that he was the right choice for the job, and really had never done enough for me to understand why he was hired as an FBS head coach so early into his career. I would say, at this point, that there is little chance he is retained, and even less a chance that we see him as a head coach in major college football again after this showing.
Phillip Montgomery, Tulsa
Times at Tulsa have either been really good under Montgomery, or abysmally bad. A 2-10 finish last season may be followed up by exactly that once again. The only saving grace here is that Montgomery, just weeks ago, took a pay cut, along with his boss, to balance the athletic department budget, and there probably will not be enough money to get rid of him if they wanted to do so. It would seem that Tulsa's economic issues are a theme among non power five universities and colleges these days, and will be a theme recurring on this list.
Steve Addazio, Boston College
Sure, he finally turned the corner and got the Eagles flying into a bowl game on the back of freshman RB AJ Dillon, who is back this season. That said, I am not alone among folks in the media who can see a real possibility that Addazio and the Eagles step backwards again in 2018, and if that happens, grumbling that had been ongoing before the end of last season returns anew.
Paul Johnson, Georgia Tech
I understand that expectations are just lower at places like Georgia Tech, but I would have let Johnson go long ago myself. His up one year, and down the next routine has gotten difficult to swallow, and it is hard to see how a coach with such an inconsistent showing has stayed on for as long as he has in one of the 3 most competitive leagues in the nation.
Larry Fedora, North Carolina
I have never been shy of vocalizing how little a fan of Fedora I am. I don't care for his crazy rhetoric with the press. His track record of program building, frankly, is trash, and I think people are catching on. He also has 13 players on his current team facing suspension for off-field shenanigans this season, so his program oversight is worse than trash. He doesn't last much longer, and this should be his last go as a head coach.
Pat Narduzzi, Pittsburgh
Pitt is in the ACC is a bad fit in both football and basketball. They really overshot their own level of self importance by joining the league in the first place, and now Narduzzi likely struggles because Pitt is a bottom floor player in a skyscraper league. He is saddled with an apathetic fan base that was never overly supportive before the league change, and the recruiting pool, which should be rich, is siphoned off by Penn State and the Big 10 before they get to take their first visit. That said, Pitt just needs to get to bowling regularly, because if you can't get to a bowl in an everybody gets a bowl bid era, where does that leave you?
Dino Babers, Syracuse
Much like Narduzzi at Pitt, Syracuse is so far behind the 8 ball in the ACC, that they will never see the light of day. Babers was highly successful at Bowling Green and Eastern Illinois, but he had half a shot at those locales. He does not have that at Syracuse, and his record suffers because an apathy around the program, and a lack of decent recruiting pools. He does not survive this.
David Beaty, Kansas
I am not sure how much more we need to see of this guy to tell us what I told you the day he was hired. He is way in over his head, and there is no getting out. The new AD has likely figured this out, and has put his expectations public. It's win, or go home. He is going home.
Kliff Kingsbury, Texas Tech
The GQ coach thing was funny early on, but it only stays funny if he wins, and he is simply not winning. With an 8th place expectation and a conference record of way under .500 during his tenure, Kingsbury is likely out the door after this season. Mike Leach won in Lubbock, so could another coach, like Neal Brown or Seth Littrell...just saying...
Dana Holgorsen, West Virginia
He is, once again, in a position with talent to compete for a Big 12 title. I predict that, once again, he falls well short of those expectations. He has had more than enough time to turn the corner in the Big 12 and has not done so to date. It's win now, or else.
Lovie Smith, Illinois
This was destined to never work, and it hasn't, and won't. Smith has, at times, according to sources close to him, been uncomfortable in the college game, and has never gotten his bearing with how to run a college program. Illinois has Big 10 money, which is huge, but it would seem as if they are hesitant to invest said money back into the program right now. Smith leaves, and that money flows again. Mark my words.
DJ Durkin, Maryland
As I type this, it saddens me that his name makes this list because a player died under his watch because of abuses executed by members of his staff, most likely coming from his own demands. JOrdan McNair died because of absolute failures by Durkin. Blame anyone else you want, but he goes down with the ship on this, and likely never serves as a head coach again, as he should not.
Urban Meyer, Ohio State
Another clueless asshole of a human being. When you protect an abuser, you should lose your job and suffer the consequences. Meyer has been dirty his entire career, and now it's time to pay the price.
Brad Lambert, Charlotte
Lambert should be applauded for the thankless job of getting a program out of infancy and off the ground. Lambert has done that in a solid way. That said, it appears time that he steps aside and let's another guide this program to the next phase, because it has become obvious that he probably isn't the guy to do that.
Kalani Sitake, BYU
I know that his blood is blue through and through, but maybe it is time that BYU ditches this outdated refusal to hire anyone from outside the LDS tree, and hires themselves a football coach who knows what he is doing on the field. Sitake is a BYU guy, but he is not a qualified head coach. He was in over his head from day one.
Brian Kelly, Notre Dame
Kelly's name is permanent in this report, because he is simply a guy who always seems to have one foot out the door by his own design, or by the design of an administration that he always seems on the other side of. Notre Dame could win 8 or 9 games this season, and it may not be enough.
Terry Bowden, Akron
The Zips finally went bowling last season, but got blown out of the building by FAU. Bowden may be able to afford a slip this season, and that is likely to happen, but if he slides, and hits rock bottom with this team, it may not be enough to save him. He has hardly been the savior that people envisioned when he was hired.
Mike Neu, Ball State
The former Cardinal QB returned home with some fanfare, but the Cardinals really tanked last season, and have yet to show any indication that they are close to to turning a corner under Neu. He may be completely over matched here, and this program has had success in the recent past under other coaches. It can be done, but can it be done under his guidance? The answer, thus far, is no.
Mike Jinks, Bowling Green
In what could be a high turnover year in the MAC, Jinks should absolutely be headed out. I said, from day of his hire, that he was the wrong guy for this job, and had the lowest qualifications for it of anyone that was hired in his class. The record shows that I was right, and it won't get better soon. It's time to rectify this mistake.
Chuck Martin, Miami (Ohio)
Martin is now a full year removed from the last bowl game that he took this team to. If he goes another year without returning to a bowl, and continues to point the ship in the wrong direction pertaining to win totals, as he did last season, he is likely on his way out, and could be yet another MAC casualty.
Troy Calhoun, Air Force
This job does not get a lot of attention, but the program seems stagnant under Calhoun these days, and there is really no indication that it's getting any better soon. I think that any more lost time really affects the future of the program in negative ways, as stagnation kills. It may be getting on time for a change here.
Bob Davie, New Mexico
There is only one reason why he is still coach. Money, and UNM has none of it. The very state of the program is in flux financially, and again, we see a recurring theme in programs in the Group of Five and below. Financlial times are tough for these schools, and New Mexico cannot even fire a guy they suspended for an investigation into player abuses.
Tony Sanchez, UNLV
Sanchez brought a lot of donations with him when he was hired, and the program desperately needed that cash infusion, and they have invested that money well. The problem here is that we have seen almost zero translation of that investment into the on field product, and the very real fact is that Sanchez has to win, and win now. There is no more time to spend.
Matt Wells, Utah State
Wells can remove himself off the chopping block by getting the Aggies back to another bowl this season. It will really not take much. If the Aggies start back into the slide that preceded last season's New Mexico Bowl loss, he is right back on the block, and his seat starts getting white hot.
Gus Malzahn, Auburn
We are talking about a program that fired Gene Chizek not long after winning a national title, so stop with your shocked responses. Malzahn was very much on the same hot seat entering last season. The late season flop (lost to Georgia in SEC title game, UCF in Peach Bowl), has left some bitter folks free to roam about The Plains, and let me tell you, anything short of expectations this season, and we won't be shocked to see some movement here.
Mark Stoops, Kentucky
Stoops will gladly tell you about his tenuous job status in Lexington. He's not shy about it. He knows that he has to keep the Wildcats in bowl games, or else he will be headed out the door, and he won't wait for the word. I appreciate him for that.
Ed Orgeron, LSU
Come on people, we all know that the brass really did not want to hire him. They got strung along so long by the Tom Herman situation, that they were left with few other choices that made any sense. Let it be no shock that Orgeron has not improved the program as head man, and that he now has had to fire Matt Canada, and his QB core is ruffled and half of them want to leave. That is not a great way to enter a season. Ask Kevin Sumlin.
Derek Mason, Vanderbilt
Let's look at the situation from a pragmatic point of view. James Franklin was here. He won enough to make Vandy respectable and got them to bowls. That is all anyone expects. Mason has not followed him up well. It's a bowl game or bust this season for Mason.
Everett Withers, Texas State
I expected more from him. This is the guy that built the foundation for the current state of James Madison football before bolting for this wasteland job. His experience at Ohio State was enough to convince me that he would be what the Bobcats needed to make them relevant, but the program has never truly been relevant, even when they were an FCS program in the Southland conference, known then as Southwest Texas State. Withers bit off more than he could chew, and that will sink his career here.
Scottie Montgomery, East Carolina
I still do not entirely understand why Ruffin McNeil was fired, and Montgomery was chosen as his successor. Montgomery has not done anything to show that he was the right choice for the job, and really had never done enough for me to understand why he was hired as an FBS head coach so early into his career. I would say, at this point, that there is little chance he is retained, and even less a chance that we see him as a head coach in major college football again after this showing.
Phillip Montgomery, Tulsa
Times at Tulsa have either been really good under Montgomery, or abysmally bad. A 2-10 finish last season may be followed up by exactly that once again. The only saving grace here is that Montgomery, just weeks ago, took a pay cut, along with his boss, to balance the athletic department budget, and there probably will not be enough money to get rid of him if they wanted to do so. It would seem that Tulsa's economic issues are a theme among non power five universities and colleges these days, and will be a theme recurring on this list.
Steve Addazio, Boston College
Sure, he finally turned the corner and got the Eagles flying into a bowl game on the back of freshman RB AJ Dillon, who is back this season. That said, I am not alone among folks in the media who can see a real possibility that Addazio and the Eagles step backwards again in 2018, and if that happens, grumbling that had been ongoing before the end of last season returns anew.
Paul Johnson, Georgia Tech
I understand that expectations are just lower at places like Georgia Tech, but I would have let Johnson go long ago myself. His up one year, and down the next routine has gotten difficult to swallow, and it is hard to see how a coach with such an inconsistent showing has stayed on for as long as he has in one of the 3 most competitive leagues in the nation.
Larry Fedora, North Carolina
I have never been shy of vocalizing how little a fan of Fedora I am. I don't care for his crazy rhetoric with the press. His track record of program building, frankly, is trash, and I think people are catching on. He also has 13 players on his current team facing suspension for off-field shenanigans this season, so his program oversight is worse than trash. He doesn't last much longer, and this should be his last go as a head coach.
Pat Narduzzi, Pittsburgh
Pitt is in the ACC is a bad fit in both football and basketball. They really overshot their own level of self importance by joining the league in the first place, and now Narduzzi likely struggles because Pitt is a bottom floor player in a skyscraper league. He is saddled with an apathetic fan base that was never overly supportive before the league change, and the recruiting pool, which should be rich, is siphoned off by Penn State and the Big 10 before they get to take their first visit. That said, Pitt just needs to get to bowling regularly, because if you can't get to a bowl in an everybody gets a bowl bid era, where does that leave you?
Dino Babers, Syracuse
Much like Narduzzi at Pitt, Syracuse is so far behind the 8 ball in the ACC, that they will never see the light of day. Babers was highly successful at Bowling Green and Eastern Illinois, but he had half a shot at those locales. He does not have that at Syracuse, and his record suffers because an apathy around the program, and a lack of decent recruiting pools. He does not survive this.
David Beaty, Kansas
I am not sure how much more we need to see of this guy to tell us what I told you the day he was hired. He is way in over his head, and there is no getting out. The new AD has likely figured this out, and has put his expectations public. It's win, or go home. He is going home.
Kliff Kingsbury, Texas Tech
The GQ coach thing was funny early on, but it only stays funny if he wins, and he is simply not winning. With an 8th place expectation and a conference record of way under .500 during his tenure, Kingsbury is likely out the door after this season. Mike Leach won in Lubbock, so could another coach, like Neal Brown or Seth Littrell...just saying...
Dana Holgorsen, West Virginia
He is, once again, in a position with talent to compete for a Big 12 title. I predict that, once again, he falls well short of those expectations. He has had more than enough time to turn the corner in the Big 12 and has not done so to date. It's win now, or else.
Lovie Smith, Illinois
This was destined to never work, and it hasn't, and won't. Smith has, at times, according to sources close to him, been uncomfortable in the college game, and has never gotten his bearing with how to run a college program. Illinois has Big 10 money, which is huge, but it would seem as if they are hesitant to invest said money back into the program right now. Smith leaves, and that money flows again. Mark my words.
DJ Durkin, Maryland
As I type this, it saddens me that his name makes this list because a player died under his watch because of abuses executed by members of his staff, most likely coming from his own demands. JOrdan McNair died because of absolute failures by Durkin. Blame anyone else you want, but he goes down with the ship on this, and likely never serves as a head coach again, as he should not.
Urban Meyer, Ohio State
Another clueless asshole of a human being. When you protect an abuser, you should lose your job and suffer the consequences. Meyer has been dirty his entire career, and now it's time to pay the price.
Brad Lambert, Charlotte
Lambert should be applauded for the thankless job of getting a program out of infancy and off the ground. Lambert has done that in a solid way. That said, it appears time that he steps aside and let's another guide this program to the next phase, because it has become obvious that he probably isn't the guy to do that.
Kalani Sitake, BYU
I know that his blood is blue through and through, but maybe it is time that BYU ditches this outdated refusal to hire anyone from outside the LDS tree, and hires themselves a football coach who knows what he is doing on the field. Sitake is a BYU guy, but he is not a qualified head coach. He was in over his head from day one.
Brian Kelly, Notre Dame
Kelly's name is permanent in this report, because he is simply a guy who always seems to have one foot out the door by his own design, or by the design of an administration that he always seems on the other side of. Notre Dame could win 8 or 9 games this season, and it may not be enough.
Terry Bowden, Akron
The Zips finally went bowling last season, but got blown out of the building by FAU. Bowden may be able to afford a slip this season, and that is likely to happen, but if he slides, and hits rock bottom with this team, it may not be enough to save him. He has hardly been the savior that people envisioned when he was hired.
Mike Neu, Ball State
The former Cardinal QB returned home with some fanfare, but the Cardinals really tanked last season, and have yet to show any indication that they are close to to turning a corner under Neu. He may be completely over matched here, and this program has had success in the recent past under other coaches. It can be done, but can it be done under his guidance? The answer, thus far, is no.
Mike Jinks, Bowling Green
In what could be a high turnover year in the MAC, Jinks should absolutely be headed out. I said, from day of his hire, that he was the wrong guy for this job, and had the lowest qualifications for it of anyone that was hired in his class. The record shows that I was right, and it won't get better soon. It's time to rectify this mistake.
Chuck Martin, Miami (Ohio)
Martin is now a full year removed from the last bowl game that he took this team to. If he goes another year without returning to a bowl, and continues to point the ship in the wrong direction pertaining to win totals, as he did last season, he is likely on his way out, and could be yet another MAC casualty.
Troy Calhoun, Air Force
This job does not get a lot of attention, but the program seems stagnant under Calhoun these days, and there is really no indication that it's getting any better soon. I think that any more lost time really affects the future of the program in negative ways, as stagnation kills. It may be getting on time for a change here.
Bob Davie, New Mexico
There is only one reason why he is still coach. Money, and UNM has none of it. The very state of the program is in flux financially, and again, we see a recurring theme in programs in the Group of Five and below. Financlial times are tough for these schools, and New Mexico cannot even fire a guy they suspended for an investigation into player abuses.
Tony Sanchez, UNLV
Sanchez brought a lot of donations with him when he was hired, and the program desperately needed that cash infusion, and they have invested that money well. The problem here is that we have seen almost zero translation of that investment into the on field product, and the very real fact is that Sanchez has to win, and win now. There is no more time to spend.
Matt Wells, Utah State
Wells can remove himself off the chopping block by getting the Aggies back to another bowl this season. It will really not take much. If the Aggies start back into the slide that preceded last season's New Mexico Bowl loss, he is right back on the block, and his seat starts getting white hot.
Gus Malzahn, Auburn
We are talking about a program that fired Gene Chizek not long after winning a national title, so stop with your shocked responses. Malzahn was very much on the same hot seat entering last season. The late season flop (lost to Georgia in SEC title game, UCF in Peach Bowl), has left some bitter folks free to roam about The Plains, and let me tell you, anything short of expectations this season, and we won't be shocked to see some movement here.
Mark Stoops, Kentucky
Stoops will gladly tell you about his tenuous job status in Lexington. He's not shy about it. He knows that he has to keep the Wildcats in bowl games, or else he will be headed out the door, and he won't wait for the word. I appreciate him for that.
Ed Orgeron, LSU
Come on people, we all know that the brass really did not want to hire him. They got strung along so long by the Tom Herman situation, that they were left with few other choices that made any sense. Let it be no shock that Orgeron has not improved the program as head man, and that he now has had to fire Matt Canada, and his QB core is ruffled and half of them want to leave. That is not a great way to enter a season. Ask Kevin Sumlin.
Derek Mason, Vanderbilt
Let's look at the situation from a pragmatic point of view. James Franklin was here. He won enough to make Vandy respectable and got them to bowls. That is all anyone expects. Mason has not followed him up well. It's a bowl game or bust this season for Mason.
Everett Withers, Texas State
I expected more from him. This is the guy that built the foundation for the current state of James Madison football before bolting for this wasteland job. His experience at Ohio State was enough to convince me that he would be what the Bobcats needed to make them relevant, but the program has never truly been relevant, even when they were an FCS program in the Southland conference, known then as Southwest Texas State. Withers bit off more than he could chew, and that will sink his career here.
Tuesday, August 14, 2018
Top 10 Group of Five Receivers 2018
1. Anthony Johnson, Buffalo
He could potentially be a top 3 receiver in the 2019 NFL Draft. He caught 76 passes for 1356 yards last season and scored 14 times, while averaging 17.84 yards per catch. He is a beast who was smart to return to school for his senior season rather than compete in a crowded 2018 draft market.
2. Diontae Johnson, Toledo
Another gem from the MAC, Johnson was a star for QB Logan Woodside last season. He caught 74 passes for 1248 yards and 13 scores, while averaging over 17 yards per catch. He should be one of the best in the nation once again.
3. Penny Hart, Georgia State
Hart is a beast in his own right, and has not had top flight QBs to play with. He still managed 74 receptions for 1121 yards and 8 scores, while averaging over 15 yards per catch for the Panthers last season. He is a star.
4. Trevon Brown, East Carolina
The Pirates may be playing their worst overall football in decades, but Brown is a star hidden in the muck. He caught 60 passes last season for 1069 yards and averaged 17.82 yards per catch while scoring 7 times.
5. Andy Isabella, U Mass
Isabella has Andrew Ford at QB, and he benefits highly. He caught 65 passes for 1020 yards last fall and caught an outstanding 10 TD passes, all while averaging 15.69 yards per catch. HE should be a national breakout candidate this fall.
6. Ty Lee, Middle Tennessee
With injuries to both QB Brent Stockstill and WR Richie James last season, Lee stepped up big as a sophomore, catching 79 passes on the season. As the lead man in 2018, he should have a massive breakout performance.
7. Justin Hall, Ball State
He caught 79 passes as a freshman, mostly in the short to intermediate range, but still, that catch count is outstanding for such a young player on a bad team. He is just getting started.
8. KeeSean Johnson, Fresno State
Johnson is a big time receiver who got his shot at a breakout performance last season with a finally stabilized QB situation, and he stepped up and did his thing. Fresno State should be a top 25 candidate this season, and Johnson should be a huge part of that.
9. Teddy Veal, Louisiana Tech
Veal caught 74 passes last season, but came up just short of 1000 yards. With another year of stability at QB, look for Veal to have a huge year in 2018.
10. Tyre Brady, Marshall
Caught 64 passes from Chase Litton last season, and scored 8 times, and averaged over 15 yards per catch. Marshall will push FAU for the CUSA East title this fall, and Brady will be at the heart of that effort.
Honorable Mention
Michael Lawrence, North Texas
Kahlil Lewis, Cincinnati
Austin Conway, Wyoming
McLane Mannix, Nevada
Willie Wright, FAU
Marcus Green, UL-Monroe
Justin Hobbs, Tulsa
Andre Wilson, UAB
He could potentially be a top 3 receiver in the 2019 NFL Draft. He caught 76 passes for 1356 yards last season and scored 14 times, while averaging 17.84 yards per catch. He is a beast who was smart to return to school for his senior season rather than compete in a crowded 2018 draft market.
2. Diontae Johnson, Toledo
Another gem from the MAC, Johnson was a star for QB Logan Woodside last season. He caught 74 passes for 1248 yards and 13 scores, while averaging over 17 yards per catch. He should be one of the best in the nation once again.
3. Penny Hart, Georgia State
Hart is a beast in his own right, and has not had top flight QBs to play with. He still managed 74 receptions for 1121 yards and 8 scores, while averaging over 15 yards per catch for the Panthers last season. He is a star.
4. Trevon Brown, East Carolina
The Pirates may be playing their worst overall football in decades, but Brown is a star hidden in the muck. He caught 60 passes last season for 1069 yards and averaged 17.82 yards per catch while scoring 7 times.
5. Andy Isabella, U Mass
Isabella has Andrew Ford at QB, and he benefits highly. He caught 65 passes for 1020 yards last fall and caught an outstanding 10 TD passes, all while averaging 15.69 yards per catch. HE should be a national breakout candidate this fall.
6. Ty Lee, Middle Tennessee
With injuries to both QB Brent Stockstill and WR Richie James last season, Lee stepped up big as a sophomore, catching 79 passes on the season. As the lead man in 2018, he should have a massive breakout performance.
7. Justin Hall, Ball State
He caught 79 passes as a freshman, mostly in the short to intermediate range, but still, that catch count is outstanding for such a young player on a bad team. He is just getting started.
8. KeeSean Johnson, Fresno State
Johnson is a big time receiver who got his shot at a breakout performance last season with a finally stabilized QB situation, and he stepped up and did his thing. Fresno State should be a top 25 candidate this season, and Johnson should be a huge part of that.
9. Teddy Veal, Louisiana Tech
Veal caught 74 passes last season, but came up just short of 1000 yards. With another year of stability at QB, look for Veal to have a huge year in 2018.
10. Tyre Brady, Marshall
Caught 64 passes from Chase Litton last season, and scored 8 times, and averaged over 15 yards per catch. Marshall will push FAU for the CUSA East title this fall, and Brady will be at the heart of that effort.
Honorable Mention
Michael Lawrence, North Texas
Kahlil Lewis, Cincinnati
Austin Conway, Wyoming
McLane Mannix, Nevada
Willie Wright, FAU
Marcus Green, UL-Monroe
Justin Hobbs, Tulsa
Andre Wilson, UAB
Top Ten Power Five Receivers 2018
1A. AJ Brown, Ole Miss
He managed 75 catches for 1252 yards and 11 scores last season for a Rebels team in turmoil, while averaging 16.69 yards per catch. He is a consensus top 10 pick for the 2019 NFL Draft next spring, and should break some records along the way.
1B. Deebo Samuel, South Carolina
A major injury cut him down in the first month of last season, but when he was healthy, there was nothing like him as a receiver or a kick return specialist in the country. He was blazing through the season before the injury, and if he is healthy, he tops this list entirely, and soon.
2. N'Keal Harry, Arizona State
He is probably the most underrated receiver in the nation by a long shot as he enters the 2018 season. Herm Edwards had better be thanking his lucky stars that he has Harry and Manny Wilkins at QB this season, because that is all that will keep his head above water.
3. Marquis Brown, Oklahoma
The Sooners are loaded with weapons despite suffering some losses from last season. Lincoln Riley has simply reloaded. Brown will have a massive breakout season in 2018, and the Sooners will be back in the hunt for a national title.
4. Denzel Mims, Baylor
We can all agree that Baylor was awful in the fallout from the Art Briles situation. The new staff has a certified weapon in Mims, who may be the best receiver in the nation that you will hear the least about.
5. Kelvin Harmon, NC State
Harmon will likely be a big time breakout candidate this season as Ryan Finley sells himself hard as a first round prospect for the NFL Draft at QB next spring. He was rock solid in 2017, and should be even better in 2018.
6. Van Jefferson, Florida
He needs to show more on the field, but as far as potential goes, Jefferson could really unleash in Dan Mullen's offense at Florida, if he can find someone to throw the ball to him with any accuracy that is.
7. Stanley Morgan, Jr., Nebraska
Morgan caught 10 TD passes last fall, which is incredible when you realize how bad his QB was in Tanner Lee. Morgan is a pure star, and we all remember his Dad. In Scott Frost's system, Morgan has a real chance to shine in 2018.
8. David Sills IV, West Virgnia
His 18 TD receptions were astounding in 2017. He still finished under the 1000 yard mark, but that was probably attributed to the injury to Will Grier to finish the season. If Grier stays healthy in 2018, Sills breaks the 1000 yard mark, and may go for 20 scores.
9. Greg Dortch, Wake Forest
He caught 9 TD passes as a freshman in 2017, yet very few people even know who he is. He is going to be a major player for a new QB with the Demon Deacons this season as a sophomore, and will probably be the most important piece in their offense.
10. Emanuel Hall, Missouri
With Drew Lock chucking the football at the pace that he will go for, Hall becomes incredibly important. As a junior, he finished 2nd nationally in yards per catch at 24.76. With J'Mon Moore now gone, he will get a lot more than 33 receptions this fall.
Honorable Mention
Byron Pringle, Kansas State
Darius Slayton, Auburn
Tyler Johnson, Minnesota
Marcus Sims, West Virginia
TJ Vasher, Texas Tech
Vic Wharton, California
Kyle Williams, Arizona State
He managed 75 catches for 1252 yards and 11 scores last season for a Rebels team in turmoil, while averaging 16.69 yards per catch. He is a consensus top 10 pick for the 2019 NFL Draft next spring, and should break some records along the way.
1B. Deebo Samuel, South Carolina
A major injury cut him down in the first month of last season, but when he was healthy, there was nothing like him as a receiver or a kick return specialist in the country. He was blazing through the season before the injury, and if he is healthy, he tops this list entirely, and soon.
2. N'Keal Harry, Arizona State
He is probably the most underrated receiver in the nation by a long shot as he enters the 2018 season. Herm Edwards had better be thanking his lucky stars that he has Harry and Manny Wilkins at QB this season, because that is all that will keep his head above water.
3. Marquis Brown, Oklahoma
The Sooners are loaded with weapons despite suffering some losses from last season. Lincoln Riley has simply reloaded. Brown will have a massive breakout season in 2018, and the Sooners will be back in the hunt for a national title.
4. Denzel Mims, Baylor
We can all agree that Baylor was awful in the fallout from the Art Briles situation. The new staff has a certified weapon in Mims, who may be the best receiver in the nation that you will hear the least about.
5. Kelvin Harmon, NC State
Harmon will likely be a big time breakout candidate this season as Ryan Finley sells himself hard as a first round prospect for the NFL Draft at QB next spring. He was rock solid in 2017, and should be even better in 2018.
6. Van Jefferson, Florida
He needs to show more on the field, but as far as potential goes, Jefferson could really unleash in Dan Mullen's offense at Florida, if he can find someone to throw the ball to him with any accuracy that is.
7. Stanley Morgan, Jr., Nebraska
Morgan caught 10 TD passes last fall, which is incredible when you realize how bad his QB was in Tanner Lee. Morgan is a pure star, and we all remember his Dad. In Scott Frost's system, Morgan has a real chance to shine in 2018.
8. David Sills IV, West Virgnia
His 18 TD receptions were astounding in 2017. He still finished under the 1000 yard mark, but that was probably attributed to the injury to Will Grier to finish the season. If Grier stays healthy in 2018, Sills breaks the 1000 yard mark, and may go for 20 scores.
9. Greg Dortch, Wake Forest
He caught 9 TD passes as a freshman in 2017, yet very few people even know who he is. He is going to be a major player for a new QB with the Demon Deacons this season as a sophomore, and will probably be the most important piece in their offense.
10. Emanuel Hall, Missouri
With Drew Lock chucking the football at the pace that he will go for, Hall becomes incredibly important. As a junior, he finished 2nd nationally in yards per catch at 24.76. With J'Mon Moore now gone, he will get a lot more than 33 receptions this fall.
Honorable Mention
Byron Pringle, Kansas State
Darius Slayton, Auburn
Tyler Johnson, Minnesota
Marcus Sims, West Virginia
TJ Vasher, Texas Tech
Vic Wharton, California
Kyle Williams, Arizona State
Monday, August 13, 2018
Ranking the 2018 NFL Starting QBs
1. Tom Brady, New England
AS much as I hate to admit it, Brady at 41 is still better than 90% of the QBs in the league on any given day, and is still at the top of his game. He cannot move the pocket like he used to, and takes too many hits, but until the wheels fall off, he still tops the rankings.
2. Carson Wentz/Nick Foles, Philadelphia
In Doug Pederson's offense, both can win a title, and they both exist on the same roster. Wentz is taking it easy in training camp while letting his knee come back from major injury, while Foles won a Super Bowl. This is a terrific predicament.
3. Matt Ryan, Atlanta
If not for a massive second half breakdown after the 2017 Super Bowl, Ryan would have a Super Bowl ring. He is probably the best QB in the league without one right now. Ryan is a major winner, and is in the prime of his career.
4. Drew Brees, New Orleans
This is not based on anything other than total value to the franchise, as we can only imagine where the Saints would be without him taking snaps. Brees is closer to the end of his career than the beginning, but none of the young guns in the league are good enough to push him, and the league is also full of bad QB play.
5. Ben Roethlisberger, Pittsburgh
He looks like he is ready to fall down just walking on the field sometimes, and one wonders how much more his body can take, but he still gets it done when healthy, and bad QB play across the league ensures that he stays high on the list.
6. Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay
He does not have a ton of talent around him anymore, but when healthy, and we all know he wasn't last season, he is still one of the more dangerous QBs in the game when it comes to finding ways to win games.
7. Phillip Rivers, Los Angeles Chargers
Simply put, if Rivers is not the QB with the Chargers, this franchise is barely better than the Browns right now. As is, they are getting love as a dark horse Super Bowl contender in 2018. That's all because of Rivers being under center.
8. Jimmy Garoppolo, San Francisco
I don't want to overvalue him here, but I don't want to underrate him either. What he did once traded to the 49ers was nothing short of special. He now has to do it over a full season. I believe.
9. Jared Goff, Los Angeles Rams
No young QB in the league has come as far as Goff has in such a short time, and against all odds at that. There were stories that he was flaky, and could not learn the offense. Sean McVay changed that perception in one season, and here we are. I expect him to rise on the list this season.
10. Russell Wilson, Seattle
I don't love Wilson, but I don't hate him. I just don't see him as others do, as one of the primary elite QBs in this league. I believe he is a solid game manager, but I don't see him as elite. In a league with better QB play, he would rank lower.
11. Derek Carr, Oakland
He has put up numbers, and has played tough. Can he play tough for a tougher than hell coach in Gruden? Gruden is going to ride him like a cheap toy, and word is that people doubt that Carr can perform under that stress. We shall see, but he has not won anything yet, and so we are still waiting on him to be the best he can be.
12. Dak Prescott, Dallas
I was not willing to get on the Dak train as a rookie, as I wanted to see what he could do as a sophomore in the league. This 3rd year will tell a story as to how good he can be. Still, if the Cowboys did not have him, they would have been abysmal last season.
13. Alex Smith, Washington
I think that Andy Reid was a fool for letting Smith go after Patrick Mahomes spent just one year on the bench. Of course, I have never been on the Andy Reid train, so there is that. Smith elevates Washington, but with no run game to speak of, he may have a tougher go in DC than in KC.
14. Matthew Stafford, Detroit
He can put up numbers. He can't win clutch football games. I am not as high on him as many are for that reason alone. In all his time in the league, he still lacks the credentials of an elite QB for me.
15. Kirk Cousins, Minnesota
Cousins, like Stafford, puts up solid numbers, but he does not win big football games. I probably would have kept Keenum under contract and rode that train.
16. Case Keenum, Denver
If Keenum can prove that he can do what he did in Minnesota when nobody was expecting him, He will rise quickly on the list. I just want to see back to back consistent years from him. Is that being too tough?
17. Cam Newton, Carolina
A lot of folks love Newton for his video game style of play, but in all, he hasn't done a damned thing to have earned that love. Last season was a wreck for him, and that 22/16 TD:INT ratio is garbage.
18. Ryan Tannehill, Miami
Tanehill is back after a wasted season being injured last season, but he has a fire in camp that few have seen from him before. He looks like he wants to win, and he looks like he wants to be a leader. All of that is great. Now let's see it when it matters.
19. Joe Flacco, Baltimore
Flacco has been a winner, but that seems to have been a while ago. Still, he is better than anyone else on the Ravens roster, and that includes the reclamation project that is RG3, or the rookie who looked largely lost at times in pre-season action in Lamar Jackson.
20. Andrew Luck, Indianapolis
I am not ready to toss him into the garbage heap just yet, but that shoulder has to hold for the Colts to have any shot at winning games this season. If he cannot stay healthy, or if he cannot shake the rust, he is on the way to being done for me.
21. Blake Bortles, Jacksonville
If Bortles can prove that last season was no fluke, and he can build on that, he rises swiftly on this list. Most people don't believe in him even now. I would not say that I do not believe, I just need to see more of what we saw last season.
22. Marcus Mariota, Tennessee
I don't like the injury history, and his pop gun arm sometimes sputters out. He needs to play a full 16 this season, and those numbers have to show promise. I was never a huge fan of his as a prospect, and he has to prove me wrong this fall.
23. Eli Manning, New York Giants
He is almost done, of that there is no doubt. Davis Webb is probably not going to be the guy, and Kyle Lauletta will need some work and development. In the meantime, sticking with Manning was probably the best idea, and the Giants worked to get bodies around him to improve in the meantime. I would not pin my hopes on him, but he is better than some other options.
24. DeShaun Watson, Houston
I am not entirely sold on a dual threat QB winning and succeeding in the NFL. The knee injury he took lessens my interest in Watson. If he loses mobility because of the injury, he becomes less as an overall prospect for me. I won't buy in until he stays healthy and wins.
25. Tyrod Taylor/Baker Mayfield, Cleveland
Despite Mayfield showing some promise in one pre-season game, Taylor is likely still the starter while Mayfield develops. Taylor is another game manager. If you don't ask too much of him, you may not be let down.
26. Andy Dalton, Cincinnati
I think we know by now that Dalton is never going to be a star in this league. The Bengals have to start thinking realistically about moving forward, and obviously, they did not believe that AJ McCarran would be the guy either, as they let him go.
27. Mitch Trubisky, Chicago
He gets a slight bump as the Bears have provided him with some weapons this off-season. He now has to prove what I don't believe, that he was worthy of the trade up to the number one pick in 2017 to land him.
28. Ryan Fitzpatrick/Jameis Winston, Tampa Bay
I would be comfortable if I were Tampa in benching Winston and starting Fitzpatrick all season. At least Fitzpatrick doesn't grope women (allegedly) or steal crab legs. Winston is a head case who will never be a true winner or leader in this game.
29. Patrick Mahomes, Kansas City
He gets an edge because he is the only guy left not competing for his job right now. It's his to handle, or lose. I am not on board with the decision to hand him the keys at this point, but I don't work for the Chiefs. This could end badly.
30. Sam Darnold, Josh McCown, Teddy Bridgewater, NY Jets
Darnold looked good in one pre-season game, but that is all we have of him so far. McCown and Bridgewater are both steady gap fillers, but one of them is likely to be dealt soon. In all, this group could elevate, because they have some promise as a unit.
31. Sam Bradford, Josh Rosen, Mike Glennon, Arizona
Bradford is an injury risk every season, Glennon has largely failed to live up to his over-hyped status, and Rosen looked bad at times, and barely avoided being picked off twice in his pre-season debut, one of which could have gone for a pick 6.
32. Nathan Peterman, AJ McCarran, Josh Allen, Buffalo
Peterman is an implosion waiting to happen most days, McCarran wasn't good enough to beat out Andy Dalton, and everyone goes gaga over Allen's big arm, but they fail to see enough of the bad habits and terrible traits. This is a unit destined for a train wreck this fall.
AS much as I hate to admit it, Brady at 41 is still better than 90% of the QBs in the league on any given day, and is still at the top of his game. He cannot move the pocket like he used to, and takes too many hits, but until the wheels fall off, he still tops the rankings.
2. Carson Wentz/Nick Foles, Philadelphia
In Doug Pederson's offense, both can win a title, and they both exist on the same roster. Wentz is taking it easy in training camp while letting his knee come back from major injury, while Foles won a Super Bowl. This is a terrific predicament.
3. Matt Ryan, Atlanta
If not for a massive second half breakdown after the 2017 Super Bowl, Ryan would have a Super Bowl ring. He is probably the best QB in the league without one right now. Ryan is a major winner, and is in the prime of his career.
4. Drew Brees, New Orleans
This is not based on anything other than total value to the franchise, as we can only imagine where the Saints would be without him taking snaps. Brees is closer to the end of his career than the beginning, but none of the young guns in the league are good enough to push him, and the league is also full of bad QB play.
5. Ben Roethlisberger, Pittsburgh
He looks like he is ready to fall down just walking on the field sometimes, and one wonders how much more his body can take, but he still gets it done when healthy, and bad QB play across the league ensures that he stays high on the list.
6. Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay
He does not have a ton of talent around him anymore, but when healthy, and we all know he wasn't last season, he is still one of the more dangerous QBs in the game when it comes to finding ways to win games.
7. Phillip Rivers, Los Angeles Chargers
Simply put, if Rivers is not the QB with the Chargers, this franchise is barely better than the Browns right now. As is, they are getting love as a dark horse Super Bowl contender in 2018. That's all because of Rivers being under center.
8. Jimmy Garoppolo, San Francisco
I don't want to overvalue him here, but I don't want to underrate him either. What he did once traded to the 49ers was nothing short of special. He now has to do it over a full season. I believe.
9. Jared Goff, Los Angeles Rams
No young QB in the league has come as far as Goff has in such a short time, and against all odds at that. There were stories that he was flaky, and could not learn the offense. Sean McVay changed that perception in one season, and here we are. I expect him to rise on the list this season.
10. Russell Wilson, Seattle
I don't love Wilson, but I don't hate him. I just don't see him as others do, as one of the primary elite QBs in this league. I believe he is a solid game manager, but I don't see him as elite. In a league with better QB play, he would rank lower.
11. Derek Carr, Oakland
He has put up numbers, and has played tough. Can he play tough for a tougher than hell coach in Gruden? Gruden is going to ride him like a cheap toy, and word is that people doubt that Carr can perform under that stress. We shall see, but he has not won anything yet, and so we are still waiting on him to be the best he can be.
12. Dak Prescott, Dallas
I was not willing to get on the Dak train as a rookie, as I wanted to see what he could do as a sophomore in the league. This 3rd year will tell a story as to how good he can be. Still, if the Cowboys did not have him, they would have been abysmal last season.
13. Alex Smith, Washington
I think that Andy Reid was a fool for letting Smith go after Patrick Mahomes spent just one year on the bench. Of course, I have never been on the Andy Reid train, so there is that. Smith elevates Washington, but with no run game to speak of, he may have a tougher go in DC than in KC.
14. Matthew Stafford, Detroit
He can put up numbers. He can't win clutch football games. I am not as high on him as many are for that reason alone. In all his time in the league, he still lacks the credentials of an elite QB for me.
15. Kirk Cousins, Minnesota
Cousins, like Stafford, puts up solid numbers, but he does not win big football games. I probably would have kept Keenum under contract and rode that train.
16. Case Keenum, Denver
If Keenum can prove that he can do what he did in Minnesota when nobody was expecting him, He will rise quickly on the list. I just want to see back to back consistent years from him. Is that being too tough?
17. Cam Newton, Carolina
A lot of folks love Newton for his video game style of play, but in all, he hasn't done a damned thing to have earned that love. Last season was a wreck for him, and that 22/16 TD:INT ratio is garbage.
18. Ryan Tannehill, Miami
Tanehill is back after a wasted season being injured last season, but he has a fire in camp that few have seen from him before. He looks like he wants to win, and he looks like he wants to be a leader. All of that is great. Now let's see it when it matters.
19. Joe Flacco, Baltimore
Flacco has been a winner, but that seems to have been a while ago. Still, he is better than anyone else on the Ravens roster, and that includes the reclamation project that is RG3, or the rookie who looked largely lost at times in pre-season action in Lamar Jackson.
20. Andrew Luck, Indianapolis
I am not ready to toss him into the garbage heap just yet, but that shoulder has to hold for the Colts to have any shot at winning games this season. If he cannot stay healthy, or if he cannot shake the rust, he is on the way to being done for me.
21. Blake Bortles, Jacksonville
If Bortles can prove that last season was no fluke, and he can build on that, he rises swiftly on this list. Most people don't believe in him even now. I would not say that I do not believe, I just need to see more of what we saw last season.
22. Marcus Mariota, Tennessee
I don't like the injury history, and his pop gun arm sometimes sputters out. He needs to play a full 16 this season, and those numbers have to show promise. I was never a huge fan of his as a prospect, and he has to prove me wrong this fall.
23. Eli Manning, New York Giants
He is almost done, of that there is no doubt. Davis Webb is probably not going to be the guy, and Kyle Lauletta will need some work and development. In the meantime, sticking with Manning was probably the best idea, and the Giants worked to get bodies around him to improve in the meantime. I would not pin my hopes on him, but he is better than some other options.
24. DeShaun Watson, Houston
I am not entirely sold on a dual threat QB winning and succeeding in the NFL. The knee injury he took lessens my interest in Watson. If he loses mobility because of the injury, he becomes less as an overall prospect for me. I won't buy in until he stays healthy and wins.
25. Tyrod Taylor/Baker Mayfield, Cleveland
Despite Mayfield showing some promise in one pre-season game, Taylor is likely still the starter while Mayfield develops. Taylor is another game manager. If you don't ask too much of him, you may not be let down.
26. Andy Dalton, Cincinnati
I think we know by now that Dalton is never going to be a star in this league. The Bengals have to start thinking realistically about moving forward, and obviously, they did not believe that AJ McCarran would be the guy either, as they let him go.
27. Mitch Trubisky, Chicago
He gets a slight bump as the Bears have provided him with some weapons this off-season. He now has to prove what I don't believe, that he was worthy of the trade up to the number one pick in 2017 to land him.
28. Ryan Fitzpatrick/Jameis Winston, Tampa Bay
I would be comfortable if I were Tampa in benching Winston and starting Fitzpatrick all season. At least Fitzpatrick doesn't grope women (allegedly) or steal crab legs. Winston is a head case who will never be a true winner or leader in this game.
29. Patrick Mahomes, Kansas City
He gets an edge because he is the only guy left not competing for his job right now. It's his to handle, or lose. I am not on board with the decision to hand him the keys at this point, but I don't work for the Chiefs. This could end badly.
30. Sam Darnold, Josh McCown, Teddy Bridgewater, NY Jets
Darnold looked good in one pre-season game, but that is all we have of him so far. McCown and Bridgewater are both steady gap fillers, but one of them is likely to be dealt soon. In all, this group could elevate, because they have some promise as a unit.
31. Sam Bradford, Josh Rosen, Mike Glennon, Arizona
Bradford is an injury risk every season, Glennon has largely failed to live up to his over-hyped status, and Rosen looked bad at times, and barely avoided being picked off twice in his pre-season debut, one of which could have gone for a pick 6.
32. Nathan Peterman, AJ McCarran, Josh Allen, Buffalo
Peterman is an implosion waiting to happen most days, McCarran wasn't good enough to beat out Andy Dalton, and everyone goes gaga over Allen's big arm, but they fail to see enough of the bad habits and terrible traits. This is a unit destined for a train wreck this fall.
Top Ten Group of Five Running Backs 2018
1. Devin Singletary, Florida Atlantic
He was our RB of the year last season after rushing for 32 TDs on 1920 yards rushing. He averaged 6.38 yards per carry, and should get some early exposure against Oklahoma this season. He should be one of the best G5 players in the nation, and is a top 5 back overall.
2. Lexington Thomas, UNLV
He is underrated, and you have not heard his name in most circles because of where he plays. If he were in the PAC-12, you'd know his name for certain. He rushed for 17 scores on a bad Rebels football team last season.
3. Darnell Woolfolk, Army
He does not pile up the yards in the triple option, but if he gets close to the end zone, he is going to find a way in. He scored 14 times last season in a resurgent year for the Black Knights.
4. Spencer Brown, UAB
Brown and the Blazers came out of nowhere in 2017 to win 8 games after not having played football as a program for a while. Brown rushed for 1329 yards and 10 scores, and is one of the better players in the nation that you don't hear much about.
5. Malcolm Perry, Navy
Perry takes the pressure off the QB position at Navy, and scored 11 times last fall. He really needs some numbers this fall to snap Navy out of a really bad last half of last season, as Navy needs a hot start, and strong finish in 2018.
6. Darrell Henderson, Memphis
He rushed for 9 scores last season, but with Riley Ferguson gone at QB, he may be even more important to the Tigers offense in 2018. Look for his numbers to increase across the board, and he already ran for 1154 yards last season.
7. Alexander Mattison, Boise State
Mattison may be the most important back at Boise State since Jay Ajayi. He rushed for 12 TDs last season, and piled up 1086 yards. More is expected and projected for him in 2018, as the offense is more balanced than it has been in a while.
8. Xavier Jones, SMU
Sonny Dykes would be silly to reduce the workload of Jones to up that of Ben Hicks at QB, as Jones rushed for 1075 yards and 9 scores last fall. He is a weapon that can do even more.
9. Jalin Moore, Appalachian State
Moore is simply one of the best backs in Group of 5 football, and has been for a while now. This is a rich group of backs, and some say this number is too low, but it's not. This group is just that good.
10. Jonathon Ward, Central Michigan
He rushed for over 1000 yards and 10 scores as a sophomore, and he may be tasked with more work this fall. He could be a first team All-MAC selection when all is said and done.
He was our RB of the year last season after rushing for 32 TDs on 1920 yards rushing. He averaged 6.38 yards per carry, and should get some early exposure against Oklahoma this season. He should be one of the best G5 players in the nation, and is a top 5 back overall.
2. Lexington Thomas, UNLV
He is underrated, and you have not heard his name in most circles because of where he plays. If he were in the PAC-12, you'd know his name for certain. He rushed for 17 scores on a bad Rebels football team last season.
3. Darnell Woolfolk, Army
He does not pile up the yards in the triple option, but if he gets close to the end zone, he is going to find a way in. He scored 14 times last season in a resurgent year for the Black Knights.
4. Spencer Brown, UAB
Brown and the Blazers came out of nowhere in 2017 to win 8 games after not having played football as a program for a while. Brown rushed for 1329 yards and 10 scores, and is one of the better players in the nation that you don't hear much about.
5. Malcolm Perry, Navy
Perry takes the pressure off the QB position at Navy, and scored 11 times last fall. He really needs some numbers this fall to snap Navy out of a really bad last half of last season, as Navy needs a hot start, and strong finish in 2018.
6. Darrell Henderson, Memphis
He rushed for 9 scores last season, but with Riley Ferguson gone at QB, he may be even more important to the Tigers offense in 2018. Look for his numbers to increase across the board, and he already ran for 1154 yards last season.
7. Alexander Mattison, Boise State
Mattison may be the most important back at Boise State since Jay Ajayi. He rushed for 12 TDs last season, and piled up 1086 yards. More is expected and projected for him in 2018, as the offense is more balanced than it has been in a while.
8. Xavier Jones, SMU
Sonny Dykes would be silly to reduce the workload of Jones to up that of Ben Hicks at QB, as Jones rushed for 1075 yards and 9 scores last fall. He is a weapon that can do even more.
9. Jalin Moore, Appalachian State
Moore is simply one of the best backs in Group of 5 football, and has been for a while now. This is a rich group of backs, and some say this number is too low, but it's not. This group is just that good.
10. Jonathon Ward, Central Michigan
He rushed for over 1000 yards and 10 scores as a sophomore, and he may be tasked with more work this fall. He could be a first team All-MAC selection when all is said and done.
Top Ten Power 5 Running Backs 2018
1. Bryce Love, Stanford
Statistically, there are zero reasons to believe that Love should not be the favorite for the Heisman in 2018. I am predicting that he will not win it, not for his output, but because of anti-west coast bias that still exists in college football. Playing mostly night games will not help him with voters.
2. Jonathon Taylor, Wisconsin
Taylor was phenomenal as a freshman at Wisconsin last season, rushing for 1977 yards and 13 scores, while averaging 6.61 yards per carry. Taylor is actually my favorite to win the Heisman in 2018, and Wisconsin may make a national title run on his legs.
3. AJ Dillon, Boston College
Dillon was yet another freshman phenom that brought our focus back to the running backs in the game in the age of the pass happy spread. Dillon may be the first BC Eagle since Doug Flutie to have a very real shot at winning a Heisman in 2018.
4. Justice Hill, Oklahoma State
Hill may be the best RB that the Cowboys have had since Barry Sanders. With a new QB at the helm, his running ability may be as important as anyone in the game this season.
5. Myles Gaskin, Washington
In any other season, he would be tops on the list, but this may be the deepest RB pool that college football has seen in many years. Gaskin is a scoring machine who makes Jake Browning look good. He is the true star player in the Husky offense.
6. Benny Snell, Kentucky
Snell is a guy that nobody talks about, because really, how much Kentucky football is anyone watching? He scored 19 TDs on the ground last season, and will need to get the job done in a big way for Mark Stoops to keep his job.
7. Patrick Laird, California
As the Golden Bears offense evens out under the eye of head coach Justin Wilcox, Laird becomes more important to a program that once lived and died by the pass. That will not be happening anymore, and Laird gets a bigger role in that.
8. JK Dobbins, Ohio State
Dobbins came out of nowhere last season in the season opener, as an injury to Mike Weber opened the door for him, and he never let it close. He should be one of the premier backs in the nation this fall, in a deep pool of like-minded backs.
9. Zack Moss, Utah
He flies under the radar, but the Utes will let him pound the rock this fall as they take a crack at winning their first PAC-12 South title. He is one of those names you had better get used to hearing now, rather than later when he is beating you.
10. Rodney Anderson, Oklahoma
Anderson is another in a large group of young backs that are taking over the game. Oklahoma may not throw as much this season, although I will really believe that when I see it, but when they run, Anderson is a premier back who can handle the load, and he should be the best in the Big 12 this fall.
Statistically, there are zero reasons to believe that Love should not be the favorite for the Heisman in 2018. I am predicting that he will not win it, not for his output, but because of anti-west coast bias that still exists in college football. Playing mostly night games will not help him with voters.
2. Jonathon Taylor, Wisconsin
Taylor was phenomenal as a freshman at Wisconsin last season, rushing for 1977 yards and 13 scores, while averaging 6.61 yards per carry. Taylor is actually my favorite to win the Heisman in 2018, and Wisconsin may make a national title run on his legs.
3. AJ Dillon, Boston College
Dillon was yet another freshman phenom that brought our focus back to the running backs in the game in the age of the pass happy spread. Dillon may be the first BC Eagle since Doug Flutie to have a very real shot at winning a Heisman in 2018.
4. Justice Hill, Oklahoma State
Hill may be the best RB that the Cowboys have had since Barry Sanders. With a new QB at the helm, his running ability may be as important as anyone in the game this season.
5. Myles Gaskin, Washington
In any other season, he would be tops on the list, but this may be the deepest RB pool that college football has seen in many years. Gaskin is a scoring machine who makes Jake Browning look good. He is the true star player in the Husky offense.
6. Benny Snell, Kentucky
Snell is a guy that nobody talks about, because really, how much Kentucky football is anyone watching? He scored 19 TDs on the ground last season, and will need to get the job done in a big way for Mark Stoops to keep his job.
7. Patrick Laird, California
As the Golden Bears offense evens out under the eye of head coach Justin Wilcox, Laird becomes more important to a program that once lived and died by the pass. That will not be happening anymore, and Laird gets a bigger role in that.
8. JK Dobbins, Ohio State
Dobbins came out of nowhere last season in the season opener, as an injury to Mike Weber opened the door for him, and he never let it close. He should be one of the premier backs in the nation this fall, in a deep pool of like-minded backs.
9. Zack Moss, Utah
He flies under the radar, but the Utes will let him pound the rock this fall as they take a crack at winning their first PAC-12 South title. He is one of those names you had better get used to hearing now, rather than later when he is beating you.
10. Rodney Anderson, Oklahoma
Anderson is another in a large group of young backs that are taking over the game. Oklahoma may not throw as much this season, although I will really believe that when I see it, but when they run, Anderson is a premier back who can handle the load, and he should be the best in the Big 12 this fall.
Top Ten Group of Five Quarterbacks 2018
I continue with my pre-season watch lists by giving you the top ten QBs in the Group of 5 schools:
1. Justice Hanson, Arkansas State
In the radio shows I do weekly, I get the most questions about Hanson, more so than any other QB in college football. Hanson is the best of the lot in G5 football, and he is a complete game changer. He is not, however, in this spot by a long distance over the next guy.
2. McKenzie Milton, UCF
Milton is a better QB than half of the guys on my Power 5 list, but so is Hanson. Milton is an undersized spark plug that changes the flow of every game that he plays in. He should be in the Heisman conversation, but he won't be because of Power 5 bias.
3. Mason Fine, North Texas
This kid has developed like a beast under Seth Litrell at UNT, and he is only getting better. Fine is a shredder who passed for 4052 yards and 31 scores last season. The only knock is that he has to drop the INT count from 15. Still, one of the better QBs you should take a look at this fall.
4. Ben Hicks, SMU
If you liked what you saw of him under Chad Morris, what he will do under Sonny Dykes will make it look like he was wearing a short leash last season. Get a longer stat sheet, because he is about to go to work.
5. Ty Gangi, Nevada
How I wish he was playing for a better program than Nevada. He would be a household name by now. Even on a really bad squad last fall, he tossed 25 TDs to 11 INTs. Look for bigger numbers in 2018.
6. Andrew Ford, U Mass
Ford is another name that should be bigger in college football circles. He tossed 22 TDs to just 4 INTs last season for the Minutemen, and my be the most underrated QB in the nation based on where he plays.
7. Gus Ragland, Miami (Ohio)
Everyone agrees that if Ragland stays healthy in 2018, Miami gets something done. The problem is that he has been unable to stay on his feet for a whole season, and that has many of us worried about Chuck Martin's job status this season. It's all on the health of Ragland.
8. Caleb Evans, UL-Monroe
ULM showed some signs of life last fall, and should show more this season, and that all rides on a riser named Caleb Evans. His numbers were not earth moving last fall, but showed what he has the potential for. If he lives up to that potential, look out.
9. Armani Rodgers, UNLV
The job status of Tony Sanchez likely rides on the arm of Rodgers this fall, and if he fails, Sanchez could be gone. Rodgers has the arm strength and mobility to get it done, and his stock is pointing up, especially with rock star RB Lex Thomas behind him in the backfield.
10. Brett Rypien, Boise State
Rypien had a strange season last year as he was sharing some of his reps with Montell Cozart in a move that made zero sense to anyone outside of Bryan Harsin. Rypien has Cozart out of his way now, and should be back to normal, which means he should climb this list, if his confidence was not shot.
1. Justice Hanson, Arkansas State
In the radio shows I do weekly, I get the most questions about Hanson, more so than any other QB in college football. Hanson is the best of the lot in G5 football, and he is a complete game changer. He is not, however, in this spot by a long distance over the next guy.
2. McKenzie Milton, UCF
Milton is a better QB than half of the guys on my Power 5 list, but so is Hanson. Milton is an undersized spark plug that changes the flow of every game that he plays in. He should be in the Heisman conversation, but he won't be because of Power 5 bias.
3. Mason Fine, North Texas
This kid has developed like a beast under Seth Litrell at UNT, and he is only getting better. Fine is a shredder who passed for 4052 yards and 31 scores last season. The only knock is that he has to drop the INT count from 15. Still, one of the better QBs you should take a look at this fall.
4. Ben Hicks, SMU
If you liked what you saw of him under Chad Morris, what he will do under Sonny Dykes will make it look like he was wearing a short leash last season. Get a longer stat sheet, because he is about to go to work.
5. Ty Gangi, Nevada
How I wish he was playing for a better program than Nevada. He would be a household name by now. Even on a really bad squad last fall, he tossed 25 TDs to 11 INTs. Look for bigger numbers in 2018.
6. Andrew Ford, U Mass
Ford is another name that should be bigger in college football circles. He tossed 22 TDs to just 4 INTs last season for the Minutemen, and my be the most underrated QB in the nation based on where he plays.
7. Gus Ragland, Miami (Ohio)
Everyone agrees that if Ragland stays healthy in 2018, Miami gets something done. The problem is that he has been unable to stay on his feet for a whole season, and that has many of us worried about Chuck Martin's job status this season. It's all on the health of Ragland.
8. Caleb Evans, UL-Monroe
ULM showed some signs of life last fall, and should show more this season, and that all rides on a riser named Caleb Evans. His numbers were not earth moving last fall, but showed what he has the potential for. If he lives up to that potential, look out.
9. Armani Rodgers, UNLV
The job status of Tony Sanchez likely rides on the arm of Rodgers this fall, and if he fails, Sanchez could be gone. Rodgers has the arm strength and mobility to get it done, and his stock is pointing up, especially with rock star RB Lex Thomas behind him in the backfield.
10. Brett Rypien, Boise State
Rypien had a strange season last year as he was sharing some of his reps with Montell Cozart in a move that made zero sense to anyone outside of Bryan Harsin. Rypien has Cozart out of his way now, and should be back to normal, which means he should climb this list, if his confidence was not shot.
10 Best Power 5 Quarterbacks of 2018
With college football season still just under 2 weeks away (with a fairly crappy list of zero week games), here is the first of our superfluous list of pre-season best of candidates, because this is what we do sometimes to fill the time! Here are my top ten Power 5 QBs returning for 2018 based on output of last season:
1. Will Grier, West Virginia
Grier averaged 317 yards passing per game in Dana Holgorsen's offense in 2017, but the only issue I have with him is whether or not he can stay on the field. His injury and suspension history is well documented, and he has not shaken the bug as of yet.
2. Drew Lock, Missouri
Lock can put up numbers with the best of them, but can he raise his profile while Missouri rises as a program in the SEC East? Being a great QB on an average to bad football team helps no one, and his draft stock could end up too high based on inflated stats in a pass happy system.
3. Eric Dungey, Syracuse
Dungey has the same issue as Grier...staying healthy and on the field. He can pump up some numbers, but like Lock, he plays on a fairly bad football team overall, and the losing hurts his overall profile.
4. Jalen Hurts, Alabama
Hurts has won a lot of football games at Alabama, but may not even return as his team's starter in 2018, as Tua Tagovailoa replaced him to win the national title game. He is a rock solid game manager, but his passing skills are suspect. Still, he wins too much to ignore.
5. Trace McSorley, Penn State
McSorley got drowned out in the noise that surrounded Saquon Barkley last season, but this is McSorley's team alone right now. He may be one of the most underrated QBs on this list, and he projects to have a big year, despite missing some targets from the offense that he had last season.
6. Ryan Finley, NC State
Finley gets ignored because he plays on a mid-tier ACC program with an 8 or 9 win ceiling every season, but he is a guy who should be looked at as a sleeper in the NFL draft next spring. If NC State does not have him at QB, they are not competing for a bowl this season.
7. Kyle Shurmer, Vanderbilt
We know how bad Vanderbilt is in the SEC East. Imagine how much worse it would be without Shurmer putting up the numbers that he does. Imagine if he was playing somewhere with weapons around him.
8. Nate Stanley, Iowa
Stanley is one of those game managers we talk about, where he might not do anything special, but he certainly gets it done, and his team would be light years worse without him under center. Stanley tossed 26 TDs to just 6 INTs last season on a run first team.
9. Jake Fromm, Georgia
This young man impressed me at every turn last season, and he never gave the job back when Jacob Eason got healthy. He is just a sophomore this season, and is being pushed in camp. Next year, he rises on this list if he can keep the wolves at bay.
10. Trevor Lawrence, Clemson
While we have not seen him play, I believe that he is the starter at Clemson before you know it, and that he makes us all forget about Kelly Bryant in short order. I believe that Lawrence is light years ahead of Bryant in future potential, and that plays for something.
1. Will Grier, West Virginia
Grier averaged 317 yards passing per game in Dana Holgorsen's offense in 2017, but the only issue I have with him is whether or not he can stay on the field. His injury and suspension history is well documented, and he has not shaken the bug as of yet.
2. Drew Lock, Missouri
Lock can put up numbers with the best of them, but can he raise his profile while Missouri rises as a program in the SEC East? Being a great QB on an average to bad football team helps no one, and his draft stock could end up too high based on inflated stats in a pass happy system.
3. Eric Dungey, Syracuse
Dungey has the same issue as Grier...staying healthy and on the field. He can pump up some numbers, but like Lock, he plays on a fairly bad football team overall, and the losing hurts his overall profile.
4. Jalen Hurts, Alabama
Hurts has won a lot of football games at Alabama, but may not even return as his team's starter in 2018, as Tua Tagovailoa replaced him to win the national title game. He is a rock solid game manager, but his passing skills are suspect. Still, he wins too much to ignore.
5. Trace McSorley, Penn State
McSorley got drowned out in the noise that surrounded Saquon Barkley last season, but this is McSorley's team alone right now. He may be one of the most underrated QBs on this list, and he projects to have a big year, despite missing some targets from the offense that he had last season.
6. Ryan Finley, NC State
Finley gets ignored because he plays on a mid-tier ACC program with an 8 or 9 win ceiling every season, but he is a guy who should be looked at as a sleeper in the NFL draft next spring. If NC State does not have him at QB, they are not competing for a bowl this season.
7. Kyle Shurmer, Vanderbilt
We know how bad Vanderbilt is in the SEC East. Imagine how much worse it would be without Shurmer putting up the numbers that he does. Imagine if he was playing somewhere with weapons around him.
8. Nate Stanley, Iowa
Stanley is one of those game managers we talk about, where he might not do anything special, but he certainly gets it done, and his team would be light years worse without him under center. Stanley tossed 26 TDs to just 6 INTs last season on a run first team.
9. Jake Fromm, Georgia
This young man impressed me at every turn last season, and he never gave the job back when Jacob Eason got healthy. He is just a sophomore this season, and is being pushed in camp. Next year, he rises on this list if he can keep the wolves at bay.
10. Trevor Lawrence, Clemson
While we have not seen him play, I believe that he is the starter at Clemson before you know it, and that he makes us all forget about Kelly Bryant in short order. I believe that Lawrence is light years ahead of Bryant in future potential, and that plays for something.
Friday, August 10, 2018
Power Rated Football Podcast: Episode 3
In this episode, we welcome Matt Hetzler from arenafanatic.com, as we discuss the best players in the Power 5 and Group of 5, the best games and biggest upset chances of week one, and much more!
https://archive.org/details/201808101233001
https://archive.org/details/201808101233001
2018 FCS Conference Projections
The 2018 College Football season is officially 15 days away, with games kicking off in zero week on August 25th! With that in mind, here are my 2018 FCS conference projections:
Big Sky
1. Weber State
2. Eastern Washington
3. Southern Utah
4. Idaho
5. Montana
6. Northern Arizona
7. Sacramento State
8. Montana State
9. UC Davis
10. Northern Colorado
11. Cal Poly
12. Idaho State
13. Portland State
Big South
1. Kennesaw State
2. Monmouth
3. Charleston Southern
4. Campbell
5. Gardner-Webb
6. Presbyterian
7. Hampton* (Ineligible For Conference Title)
8. North Alabama* (Ineligible For Conference Title)
Colonial Athletic Association
1. James Madison
2. Villanova
3. New Hampshire
4. Richmond
5. William & Mary
6. Delaware
7. Maine
8. Stony Brook
9. Elon
10. Towson
11. Albany
12. Rhode Island
Ivy League
1. Penn
2. Harvard
3. Yale
4. Princeton
5. Dartmouth
6. Columbia
7. Brown
8. Cornell
MEAC
1. North Carolina A&T
2. North Carolina Central
3. Bethune-Cookman
4. Howard
5. South Carolina State
6. Florida A&M
7. Norfolk State
8. Morgan State
9. Savannah State
10. Delaware State
Missouri Valley Conference
1. North Dakota State
2. South Dakota State
3. Northern Iowa
4. Youngstown State
5. Western Illinois
6. Illinois State
7. South Dakota
8. Southern Illinois
9. Missouri State
10. Indiana State
11. North Dakota* (Ineligible for conference title)
Northeast Conference
1. Central Connecticut State
2. Duquesne
3. St. Francis
4. Bryant
5. Sacred Heart
6. Wagner
7. Robert Morris
Ohio Valley Conference
1. Jacksonville State
2. Eastern Illinois
3. Austin Peay
4. Eastern Kentucky
5. Murray State
6. UT-Martin
7. SE Missouri State
8. Tennessee State
9. Tennessee Tech
Patriot League
1. Colgate
2. Lehigh
3. Holy Cross
4. Fordham
5. Lafayette
6. Bucknell
7. Georgetown
Pioneer League
1. San Diego
2. Jacksonville
3. Butler
4. Drake
5. Valporaiso
6. Dayton
7. Morehead State
8. Marist
9. Stetson
10. Davidson
Southern Conference
1. Samford
2. Furman
3. Wofford
4. Western Carolina
5. Mercer
6. Citadel
7. Chattanooga
8. East Tennessee State
9. VMI
Southland Conference
1. Sam Houston State
2. Central Arkansas
3. McNeese State
4. SE Louisiana
5. Nicholls State
6. SE Louisiana
7. Northwestern State
8. Lamar
9. Abilene Christian
10. Incarnate Word
11. Houston Baptist
SWAC East
1. Alcorn State
2. Alabama State
3. Alabama A&M
4. Jackson State
5. Mississippi Valley State
SWAC West
1. Grambling
2. Southern
3. Prairie View
4. Texas Southern
5. Arkansas-Pine Bluff
Big Sky
1. Weber State
2. Eastern Washington
3. Southern Utah
4. Idaho
5. Montana
6. Northern Arizona
7. Sacramento State
8. Montana State
9. UC Davis
10. Northern Colorado
11. Cal Poly
12. Idaho State
13. Portland State
Big South
1. Kennesaw State
2. Monmouth
3. Charleston Southern
4. Campbell
5. Gardner-Webb
6. Presbyterian
7. Hampton* (Ineligible For Conference Title)
8. North Alabama* (Ineligible For Conference Title)
Colonial Athletic Association
1. James Madison
2. Villanova
3. New Hampshire
4. Richmond
5. William & Mary
6. Delaware
7. Maine
8. Stony Brook
9. Elon
10. Towson
11. Albany
12. Rhode Island
Ivy League
1. Penn
2. Harvard
3. Yale
4. Princeton
5. Dartmouth
6. Columbia
7. Brown
8. Cornell
MEAC
1. North Carolina A&T
2. North Carolina Central
3. Bethune-Cookman
4. Howard
5. South Carolina State
6. Florida A&M
7. Norfolk State
8. Morgan State
9. Savannah State
10. Delaware State
Missouri Valley Conference
1. North Dakota State
2. South Dakota State
3. Northern Iowa
4. Youngstown State
5. Western Illinois
6. Illinois State
7. South Dakota
8. Southern Illinois
9. Missouri State
10. Indiana State
11. North Dakota* (Ineligible for conference title)
Northeast Conference
1. Central Connecticut State
2. Duquesne
3. St. Francis
4. Bryant
5. Sacred Heart
6. Wagner
7. Robert Morris
Ohio Valley Conference
1. Jacksonville State
2. Eastern Illinois
3. Austin Peay
4. Eastern Kentucky
5. Murray State
6. UT-Martin
7. SE Missouri State
8. Tennessee State
9. Tennessee Tech
Patriot League
1. Colgate
2. Lehigh
3. Holy Cross
4. Fordham
5. Lafayette
6. Bucknell
7. Georgetown
Pioneer League
1. San Diego
2. Jacksonville
3. Butler
4. Drake
5. Valporaiso
6. Dayton
7. Morehead State
8. Marist
9. Stetson
10. Davidson
Southern Conference
1. Samford
2. Furman
3. Wofford
4. Western Carolina
5. Mercer
6. Citadel
7. Chattanooga
8. East Tennessee State
9. VMI
Southland Conference
1. Sam Houston State
2. Central Arkansas
3. McNeese State
4. SE Louisiana
5. Nicholls State
6. SE Louisiana
7. Northwestern State
8. Lamar
9. Abilene Christian
10. Incarnate Word
11. Houston Baptist
SWAC East
1. Alcorn State
2. Alabama State
3. Alabama A&M
4. Jackson State
5. Mississippi Valley State
SWAC West
1. Grambling
2. Southern
3. Prairie View
4. Texas Southern
5. Arkansas-Pine Bluff
Thursday, August 9, 2018
My Antonio Callaway Breakdown
With the recent arrest of Antonio Callaway of the Cleveland Browns on drug and weapons violations, I found it appropriate to release my Antonio Callaway breakdown from my book "The 2018 NFL Draft Prospectus" that was released in April. I removed him from consideration as a top 20 prospect at WR, although many publications still listed him as a potential first or second round prospect. I completely downgraded him because the behavior he has shown in recent days is the behavior that he has always displayed. Here is what I wrote after grading him, personally, as barely being worth anyone's time as a UDFA in the April draft:
Antonio Calloway, Florida
Callaway was an off-field disaster at Florida, and was a suspension regular for the Gators. He was arrested for felony fraud for wiring money from a stolen credit card, and has had multiple failed drug tests, and is known for surrounding himself with bad elements. Talent be damned, this guy is not worth anyone’s time, but still earned a third day grade overall. I would not touch him with someone else’s money.
It would seem that nothing has changed, and that Callaway is an absolute train wreck of a human being. If the Browns give him any kind of pass on this arrest, that is on them, but it will not be the last time we see his name attached to a police report.
Antonio Calloway, Florida
Callaway was an off-field disaster at Florida, and was a suspension regular for the Gators. He was arrested for felony fraud for wiring money from a stolen credit card, and has had multiple failed drug tests, and is known for surrounding himself with bad elements. Talent be damned, this guy is not worth anyone’s time, but still earned a third day grade overall. I would not touch him with someone else’s money.
It would seem that nothing has changed, and that Callaway is an absolute train wreck of a human being. If the Browns give him any kind of pass on this arrest, that is on them, but it will not be the last time we see his name attached to a police report.
Wednesday, August 8, 2018
Power Rated Football Podcast: Episode 2
Power Rated Football Podcast: Episode 2 of 2018 features my interview with Mike Wachsman of mikewachsman51.blogspot.com, as he discusses his model on how to realign FBS football, and we also discuss the Urban Meyer situation at Ohio State. Listen in for another terrific (almost) hour of the podcast! You can find Mike on Twitter @cffmwachsman!
https://archive.org/details/201808081332231
https://archive.org/details/201808081332231
Tuesday, August 7, 2018
Power Rated Football Podcast Episode One Parts 1 & 2
The Power Rated Podcast is back, and Episode one can be found in 2 parts! In part one, I speak with former first round draft choice and college national champ Mike Pritchard of 104.3 Sports Radio in Denver! We discuss all things Denver Broncos camp, Colorado Buffaloes 2018 projections, and a bit about Josh Allen in Buffalo!
In part 2, I speak on coaches who are finding themselves on the hot seat in FBS football for 2018, and which schools may suffer a down season this fall in college football! HIt the links below to hear both parts of the Power Rated Podcast Episode One for 2018!
https://archive.org/details/201808071417451_201808
https://archive.org/details/201808071417451/2018_08_07_14_41_26%5B1%5D.mp3
In part 2, I speak on coaches who are finding themselves on the hot seat in FBS football for 2018, and which schools may suffer a down season this fall in college football! HIt the links below to hear both parts of the Power Rated Podcast Episode One for 2018!
https://archive.org/details/201808071417451_201808
https://archive.org/details/201808071417451/2018_08_07_14_41_26%5B1%5D.mp3
Green Bay Packers 2018 Preview
Green Bay Packers 2018 Preview
Opening Statement: Things did not go as hoped in Green Bay last season, and Aaron Rodgers missed a huge chunk of the season to injury. He played in just 7 games last season, and the Packers largely struggled to get anything done without him and finished with just 7 wins. A rebound to full health and ability will be a very good thing for Rodgers and the team, but here is another factually troubling matter...Rodgers is just 5-6 in postseason starts since winning the Super Bowl. Is he winding down entering his 14th season in the league?
Breakdown Quarterback
The hot seat of head coach Mike McCarthy has to be directly tied to the performance of Rodgers at QB this season, as both need to have a huge rebound from last season to retain an image (for Rodgers) and a job (for McCarthy). If Rodgers continues heading in the wrong direction, things could become very interesting next off-season in Green Bay.
The backup spots are not set in stone, as Brett Hundley, largely believed by some to be the eventual heir apparent to the job, fell flat when he had his opportunity to replace Rodgers last season. He tossed just 9 TD passes to 12 INTs last season, and his pseudo star is diminishing quickly, which is why the Packers traded to acquire DeShone Kizer from the Browns, who did not exactly light the world on fire in his own right. The only other QB in camp is UDFA Tim Boyle from Eastern Kentucky, at least for now.
Breakdown Running Back
The run game was nothing short of a mess last season. Some can be attributed to bad line play, and the rest can be attributed to the QB situation with Rodgers out, which allowed opposing defenses to tee off on the Packers run game. In any event, the backs on the roster did not pan out last season, and improvement must come in 2018.
Ty Montgomery is back, but got beat up and ended the season on IR for the former WR. Aaron Jones is back, and averaged 5.5 yards per carry, but has been suspended 2 games by the league for violating the substance abuse policy. Jamal Williams also returns, but averaged just 3.6 yards per carry last season, and finished with just 556 yards in 16 games, which included 7 starts. Devante Mays is back as well, but fumbled on both of his first 2 career carries in the league.
Aaron Ripkowski is the starting FB, but is more of a bonus on special teams. Joe Kerridge is the backup, but won't see much action, if he makes the cut.
Breakdown Receivers
Davante Adams is developing into the rising star of this offense, and led the team with 74 receptions for 885 yards last season. He could break the 1000 yard mark if Rodgers stays upright this season. Randall Cobb returns for his 8th season with the Packers, and is starting to slow down some, but is still one of the better SLOT receivers in the league.
Geronimo Allison is expected to back up Adams, but is coming off a down year, and has to show what he still has in the tank in camp. Trevor Davis is the backup to Cobb, but has just 8 receptions over 2 seasons.
The Packers hit this position heavy in the draft, which is for good reason. Equanimeous St. Brown was drafted at a heavy value position as a 6th rounder, but has day 2 talent and size. He should surprise some people in camp, and start working his way into the rotation. J'Mon Moore probably had some inflated numbers at Missouri due to system of play, and has some issues with drops. If he can be coached out of that issue, he could see some time as well. Marquez Valdes-Scantling was drafted in the 5th round, and while a solid prospect, he may need more developmental time than the other 2 rookies.
Michael Clark is a former basketball player out of Marshall, and has some intangibles, but is still in a developmental state.
Breakdown Tight End
Jimmy Graham comes over from Seattle, and should be a premier weapon in this offense, especially on 3rd downs and near the goal line. Rodgers should look at Graham as one of his new best friends on the field. Marcedes Lewis is closer to the end of his career than the beginning, but has long been one of the best in the game, and he has enough left in the tank to make an impact here.
Veteran Lance Kendricks is back, but had a down year in 2017, and needs to show he still has something left. Emmanuel Byrd probably does not make the roster cut.
Kevin Rader and Ryan Smith look like camp bodies that won't make the cut, as does Robert Tonyan, who is in his second camp.
Breakdown Offensive Line
David Bakhtari is back at LT after allowing just one sack last season. The RT spot should be interesting in camp. Kyle Murphy was showing some serious development last season, but ended on IR. Brian Bulaga tore his ACL for the 2nd time last season, and also ended up on IR. BOth are in the mix at RT. Jason Spriggs is the backup, but really is in a show me situation this camp. If he does not have a strong performance in August, he is gone in September.
Justin McCray is back to start at RG, but nobody knows for sure if he has found his permanent home, as he played 4 spots last season, mostly to mixed reviews. Lane Taylor has evolved into a fixture at LG, and continues to develop every season. Lucas Patrick can play at both Center or OG, and may push for the RG job in camp to start. Kofi Amichia is entering camp as the backup at RG, but could end up on the practice squad, or end up being cut, when all is said and done.
The Packers also drafted Cole Madison from Washington State, and he has impressed in early workouts. Look for him to have his name in the hat for the starting RG job as well. Adam Pankey was inactive most of last season, and looks to be a camp cut.
If there was one member of the team that could be depended upon to stay on the field last season, it was Corey Linsley, who played every snap as the starting Center. He is the leader of the line, and is getting better with time. Dillon Day has never played a down since entering the NFL in 2015, but is listed as the backup at C. He may not make the cut.
Breakdown Defensive Line
Muhammed Wilkerson has moved on from the Jets after that relationship soured, and he has to prove that he still has some gas left to play on, but will start from day one at DE in the 3-4 defense. Dean Lowry started 11 games at DE last season, and will back up Wilkerson to start the season.
The Packers have a riser in the middle of the line at NT in Kenny Clark, who is a massive disruption in the middle against both run and pass. He just keeps getting better as time moves along. Mike Daniels will be the starting DT next to Clark, and his motor cannot be matched inside.
James Looney was drafted late out of Cal, and looks to be a developmental prospect that the staff really likes. Montravius Adams hurt himself early last season, and once healthy, he never got off the bus. He has to show what he has in camp, or be on his way out.
Breakdown Linebacker
The Packers have some questions at OLB, as both Clay Matthews and Nick Perry are both severe injury risks. Both missed significant time last season, and Matthews, at 32, is not who he once was. Vince Biegel was banged up as a rookie last season as well, and has to show he can stay on the field. Kyler Fackrell is listed as the backup to Perry, but has not shown anything to date and could get pushed out.
Reggie Gilbert will be a player to watch in camp, as he made some gains in a short time after being promoted from the practice squad late last season. Kendall Donnerson is a developmental prospect as a rookie, and is probably the fastest LB on the team. Chris Odom struggled trying to transition from DE to OLB, and could be at the end of his run with Green Bay.
The inside LB spot got some bad news last week, when Jake Ryan was lost with an ACL tear in his knee, and was lost for the season. That means that rookie Oren Burks will have to step up big time and get on an accelerated learning curve. Blake Martinez is now the best LB on the team after leading all tacklers with 158 last season.
Ahmad Thomas is in just his 2nd camp, and may be in the mix to replace Ryan, along with Burks.
Breakdown Secondary
Tramon Williams returns to Green Bay as a free agent signing from the Cardinals. He enters his 12th season, and is going to be more of a coach on the field this season. Kevin King showed promise as a rookie, and should start opposite Williams, but he finished the season with a bad shoulder injury, and has to show that the injury will not effect play moving forward.
Jaire Alexander backs up Williams, for now, and was drafted in round one last spring. He will be an eventual starter, and could be the primary Nickel Corner out of camp. Josh Jackson was a ball hawk at Iowa last season with 8 picks. He lacks overall speed, so he may be more of a zone corner option.
Davon House and Lenzy Pipkins are both veterans who could be kept around for insurance, but short of injuries happening, I don't see both sticking.
Donatello Brown played in 4 games last season, but spent most of the year on the practice squad. Demetri Goodson Has not played a ton of reps over the last 4 years, and may be on his way out. Josh Hawkins has experience, but just cannot cover in the red zone. Quentin Rollins had an achilles injury last season, and was on the fringe to begin with. Herb Waters has to put injuries behind him, and show that he has something. All of these players named in this paragraph could likely end up as being cut.
Ha Ha Clinton-Dix regressed terribly at Safety last season, and enters a contract year in 2018. He could be on his way out the door if he has another year like 2017. Josh Jones had a terrible rookie season, but is still in the mix for the starting job at SS.
Jermaine Whitehead was the Dime Safety last season, but has to have a big camp to stick this one out. Kentrell Bryce has a shot to move into the 3rd Safety spot this season, but has to stay healthy to do it. Marwin Evans is a special teams ace who will make the cut because of that, but is looking to get into the Safety rotation as well.
Breakdown Special Teams
Mason Crosby returns at PK after a down year, but most of the issues can be attributed to bad holds and snaps last season. He needs some up grades around him to succeed fully.
JK Scott was one of the best Punters in college football at Alabama, and will likely be the starter at Punter from day one.
Trevor Davis and Aaron Jones will handle kickoffs, but Jones will be missing for the first 2 weeks. Davis also returns punts.
JK Scott will take over on holds for Crosby, while Zach Triner will handle long snaps. Triner enters his 2nd camp.
Final Analysis: The Packers have more answers than questions as they come off a 7-9 season in 2017. Can Rodgers return to form? Can the run game get off the ground? Can the line find a way to mesh? Can the receiving corps improve with new blood added? These are all primary concerns, meaning that there is a concern in every phase of the offensive game.
Defensively, the Packers have issues as well. Are they getting the Wilkerson of old at DE? Are they deep enough in the middle and on the end? Can the LBs stay healthy? Does Clinton-Dix return to rookie form, or are the Packers shopping that position?
With so many questions, and not enough stable answers, the Packers could be on the fringe again in 2018, and that could be enough to cost McCarthy his job.
Opening Statement: Things did not go as hoped in Green Bay last season, and Aaron Rodgers missed a huge chunk of the season to injury. He played in just 7 games last season, and the Packers largely struggled to get anything done without him and finished with just 7 wins. A rebound to full health and ability will be a very good thing for Rodgers and the team, but here is another factually troubling matter...Rodgers is just 5-6 in postseason starts since winning the Super Bowl. Is he winding down entering his 14th season in the league?
Breakdown Quarterback
The hot seat of head coach Mike McCarthy has to be directly tied to the performance of Rodgers at QB this season, as both need to have a huge rebound from last season to retain an image (for Rodgers) and a job (for McCarthy). If Rodgers continues heading in the wrong direction, things could become very interesting next off-season in Green Bay.
The backup spots are not set in stone, as Brett Hundley, largely believed by some to be the eventual heir apparent to the job, fell flat when he had his opportunity to replace Rodgers last season. He tossed just 9 TD passes to 12 INTs last season, and his pseudo star is diminishing quickly, which is why the Packers traded to acquire DeShone Kizer from the Browns, who did not exactly light the world on fire in his own right. The only other QB in camp is UDFA Tim Boyle from Eastern Kentucky, at least for now.
Breakdown Running Back
The run game was nothing short of a mess last season. Some can be attributed to bad line play, and the rest can be attributed to the QB situation with Rodgers out, which allowed opposing defenses to tee off on the Packers run game. In any event, the backs on the roster did not pan out last season, and improvement must come in 2018.
Ty Montgomery is back, but got beat up and ended the season on IR for the former WR. Aaron Jones is back, and averaged 5.5 yards per carry, but has been suspended 2 games by the league for violating the substance abuse policy. Jamal Williams also returns, but averaged just 3.6 yards per carry last season, and finished with just 556 yards in 16 games, which included 7 starts. Devante Mays is back as well, but fumbled on both of his first 2 career carries in the league.
Aaron Ripkowski is the starting FB, but is more of a bonus on special teams. Joe Kerridge is the backup, but won't see much action, if he makes the cut.
Breakdown Receivers
Davante Adams is developing into the rising star of this offense, and led the team with 74 receptions for 885 yards last season. He could break the 1000 yard mark if Rodgers stays upright this season. Randall Cobb returns for his 8th season with the Packers, and is starting to slow down some, but is still one of the better SLOT receivers in the league.
Geronimo Allison is expected to back up Adams, but is coming off a down year, and has to show what he still has in the tank in camp. Trevor Davis is the backup to Cobb, but has just 8 receptions over 2 seasons.
The Packers hit this position heavy in the draft, which is for good reason. Equanimeous St. Brown was drafted at a heavy value position as a 6th rounder, but has day 2 talent and size. He should surprise some people in camp, and start working his way into the rotation. J'Mon Moore probably had some inflated numbers at Missouri due to system of play, and has some issues with drops. If he can be coached out of that issue, he could see some time as well. Marquez Valdes-Scantling was drafted in the 5th round, and while a solid prospect, he may need more developmental time than the other 2 rookies.
Michael Clark is a former basketball player out of Marshall, and has some intangibles, but is still in a developmental state.
Breakdown Tight End
Jimmy Graham comes over from Seattle, and should be a premier weapon in this offense, especially on 3rd downs and near the goal line. Rodgers should look at Graham as one of his new best friends on the field. Marcedes Lewis is closer to the end of his career than the beginning, but has long been one of the best in the game, and he has enough left in the tank to make an impact here.
Veteran Lance Kendricks is back, but had a down year in 2017, and needs to show he still has something left. Emmanuel Byrd probably does not make the roster cut.
Kevin Rader and Ryan Smith look like camp bodies that won't make the cut, as does Robert Tonyan, who is in his second camp.
Breakdown Offensive Line
David Bakhtari is back at LT after allowing just one sack last season. The RT spot should be interesting in camp. Kyle Murphy was showing some serious development last season, but ended on IR. Brian Bulaga tore his ACL for the 2nd time last season, and also ended up on IR. BOth are in the mix at RT. Jason Spriggs is the backup, but really is in a show me situation this camp. If he does not have a strong performance in August, he is gone in September.
Justin McCray is back to start at RG, but nobody knows for sure if he has found his permanent home, as he played 4 spots last season, mostly to mixed reviews. Lane Taylor has evolved into a fixture at LG, and continues to develop every season. Lucas Patrick can play at both Center or OG, and may push for the RG job in camp to start. Kofi Amichia is entering camp as the backup at RG, but could end up on the practice squad, or end up being cut, when all is said and done.
The Packers also drafted Cole Madison from Washington State, and he has impressed in early workouts. Look for him to have his name in the hat for the starting RG job as well. Adam Pankey was inactive most of last season, and looks to be a camp cut.
If there was one member of the team that could be depended upon to stay on the field last season, it was Corey Linsley, who played every snap as the starting Center. He is the leader of the line, and is getting better with time. Dillon Day has never played a down since entering the NFL in 2015, but is listed as the backup at C. He may not make the cut.
Breakdown Defensive Line
Muhammed Wilkerson has moved on from the Jets after that relationship soured, and he has to prove that he still has some gas left to play on, but will start from day one at DE in the 3-4 defense. Dean Lowry started 11 games at DE last season, and will back up Wilkerson to start the season.
The Packers have a riser in the middle of the line at NT in Kenny Clark, who is a massive disruption in the middle against both run and pass. He just keeps getting better as time moves along. Mike Daniels will be the starting DT next to Clark, and his motor cannot be matched inside.
James Looney was drafted late out of Cal, and looks to be a developmental prospect that the staff really likes. Montravius Adams hurt himself early last season, and once healthy, he never got off the bus. He has to show what he has in camp, or be on his way out.
Breakdown Linebacker
The Packers have some questions at OLB, as both Clay Matthews and Nick Perry are both severe injury risks. Both missed significant time last season, and Matthews, at 32, is not who he once was. Vince Biegel was banged up as a rookie last season as well, and has to show he can stay on the field. Kyler Fackrell is listed as the backup to Perry, but has not shown anything to date and could get pushed out.
Reggie Gilbert will be a player to watch in camp, as he made some gains in a short time after being promoted from the practice squad late last season. Kendall Donnerson is a developmental prospect as a rookie, and is probably the fastest LB on the team. Chris Odom struggled trying to transition from DE to OLB, and could be at the end of his run with Green Bay.
The inside LB spot got some bad news last week, when Jake Ryan was lost with an ACL tear in his knee, and was lost for the season. That means that rookie Oren Burks will have to step up big time and get on an accelerated learning curve. Blake Martinez is now the best LB on the team after leading all tacklers with 158 last season.
Ahmad Thomas is in just his 2nd camp, and may be in the mix to replace Ryan, along with Burks.
Breakdown Secondary
Tramon Williams returns to Green Bay as a free agent signing from the Cardinals. He enters his 12th season, and is going to be more of a coach on the field this season. Kevin King showed promise as a rookie, and should start opposite Williams, but he finished the season with a bad shoulder injury, and has to show that the injury will not effect play moving forward.
Jaire Alexander backs up Williams, for now, and was drafted in round one last spring. He will be an eventual starter, and could be the primary Nickel Corner out of camp. Josh Jackson was a ball hawk at Iowa last season with 8 picks. He lacks overall speed, so he may be more of a zone corner option.
Davon House and Lenzy Pipkins are both veterans who could be kept around for insurance, but short of injuries happening, I don't see both sticking.
Donatello Brown played in 4 games last season, but spent most of the year on the practice squad. Demetri Goodson Has not played a ton of reps over the last 4 years, and may be on his way out. Josh Hawkins has experience, but just cannot cover in the red zone. Quentin Rollins had an achilles injury last season, and was on the fringe to begin with. Herb Waters has to put injuries behind him, and show that he has something. All of these players named in this paragraph could likely end up as being cut.
Ha Ha Clinton-Dix regressed terribly at Safety last season, and enters a contract year in 2018. He could be on his way out the door if he has another year like 2017. Josh Jones had a terrible rookie season, but is still in the mix for the starting job at SS.
Jermaine Whitehead was the Dime Safety last season, but has to have a big camp to stick this one out. Kentrell Bryce has a shot to move into the 3rd Safety spot this season, but has to stay healthy to do it. Marwin Evans is a special teams ace who will make the cut because of that, but is looking to get into the Safety rotation as well.
Breakdown Special Teams
Mason Crosby returns at PK after a down year, but most of the issues can be attributed to bad holds and snaps last season. He needs some up grades around him to succeed fully.
JK Scott was one of the best Punters in college football at Alabama, and will likely be the starter at Punter from day one.
Trevor Davis and Aaron Jones will handle kickoffs, but Jones will be missing for the first 2 weeks. Davis also returns punts.
JK Scott will take over on holds for Crosby, while Zach Triner will handle long snaps. Triner enters his 2nd camp.
Final Analysis: The Packers have more answers than questions as they come off a 7-9 season in 2017. Can Rodgers return to form? Can the run game get off the ground? Can the line find a way to mesh? Can the receiving corps improve with new blood added? These are all primary concerns, meaning that there is a concern in every phase of the offensive game.
Defensively, the Packers have issues as well. Are they getting the Wilkerson of old at DE? Are they deep enough in the middle and on the end? Can the LBs stay healthy? Does Clinton-Dix return to rookie form, or are the Packers shopping that position?
With so many questions, and not enough stable answers, the Packers could be on the fringe again in 2018, and that could be enough to cost McCarthy his job.
Monday, August 6, 2018
Detroit Lions 2018 Preview
Detroit Lions 2018 Preview
Opening Statement: The Lions made a strong move after last season's playoff miss by firing Jim Caldwell and hiring Matt Patricia away from New England to replace him. The one problem there, if it is a problem, is that New England assistants have rarely done well away from Foxborough. This will be an interesting transition, as Patricia is a defensive minded coach tasked with moving forward a team that has to find some answers on the offensive side of the football, especially where it pertains to the run game. Patricia is also yet another young coaching hire with no experience anywhere as a head coach, and at 43, will barely be older than some of his veterans.
Breakdown Quarterback
Matthew Stafford keeps on climbing up the charts as they pertain to career passing yardage, but where he is not climbing the charts is in career wins, and playoff appearances. Another lost season under Stafford occurred last season, and as he continues to build on career stats, he is not moving this franchise further in any other regard. He still takes too many sacks, even if his other numbers trend upwards, and he is an injury risk as long as that remains so. He also happens to fumble a lot, as he lost 7 of them last season.
Jake Rudock is back, but he could be pushed in camp by veteran backup Matt Cassel, who was brought in to handle that very job. The early assumption is that Cassel should emerge from camp with that #2 job in hand, with Rudock being the 3rd QB. No other QBs are in camp in an official capacity.
Breakdown Running Back
Ameer Abdullah has fallen to the lower depths of the dog house, and his production has really fallen off in a major way. LeGarrette Blount was signed as a free agent to handle the job of finally pushing Abdullah out of the starting job, but neither option is a long term one at this point.
Kerryon Johnson was drafted out of Auburn in the 2nd round, and he could emerge from camp with the starting job in hand himself. He is a power runner that lays out some punishment, and may be the most complete back available.
Theo Riddick is back, and could end up as the 3rd back, if Abdullah gets cut along the way, which is a possibility. He is a solid pass catching option on passing downs.
The staff is running low on patience with Dwayne Washington, and Zach Zenner is in camp specifically because of special teams value, because he has little at this point as an actual back.
Nick Bawden was drafted out of San Diego State as a FB, but has become injured in camp, and is lost for the year. That opens the door for veteran FB Nick Bellore.
Breakdown Receiver
The top 4 receivers are rock solid for the Lions. Golden Tate led the league in yards after the catch, while Marvin Jones led the league in yards per catch. Kenny Golloday was one of the best rookie receivers in the league, and gives the Lions a massive deep threat target, and TJ Jones may be the best 4th receiver in the NFL. This group should provide plenty of opportunities for Stafford to continue to pad his career stats.
Jace Billingsley, Andy Jones, and Bradley Marquez are all fighting for reps as a 5th option, and Billingsley holds the edge there because of special teams abilities.
Breakdown Tight End
Eric Ebron was cut during the off-season to save some cash. Michael Roberts has a ton of talent, and could become the starter in year 2, despite catching just 4 balls last season. Luke Wilson was signed away from Seattle to compete for the job as well, and the staff is high on him.
Levine Toilolo was signed to provide depth as the 3rd TE, but expect Hakeem Valles, who spent last season on the practice squad, to battle it out for that 3rd TE spot.
Breakdown Offensive Line
The most intriguing starter on the unit is Frank Ragnow, who was drafted in the 1st round to start at Center for the Lions. It was hardly a popular pick with most, but Ragnow never allowed a snap in 2600 reps at Arkansas at C or OG. He starts from day one at C in most cases.If he does not start at C, he moves to LG and starts there. Graham Glasgow will start where Ragnow does not. TJ Lang is rock solid at RG, but only if he can stay on the field. He missed half of last season.
Wesley Johnson should be the primary backup at Center, and should see time at OG as well. Joe Dahl needs to have a big camp, or else risk getting cut. Kenny Wiggins was brought over from the Chargers, where he started every game last season. Here, he may be a long shot, but he sould win a backup spot at OG. John Montelus could be in line for a spot as well, but could end up on the practice squad. Dan Skipper played in just one game last season, and also looks like a practice squad option in his second season in the league.
Taylor Decker is back at LT, but has to stay healthy, which he had a hard time doing last season. Rick Wagner got paid in the off-season, and is now the highest paid RT in the NFL. He needs to show he was worth it.
Tyrell Crosby was drafted in the 5th round, and should develop as the backup at both OT spots in 2018. He has a starting future down the line. Corey Robinson is another option as a reserve at Tackle, but he has also had injury issues that has stunted his development. It's now or never. Brian Mihalik is another reserve option, but his time may be running out here.
Breakdown Defensive Line
Ezekiel Ansah is back to start at RDE this season, and is the highest paid DE in the game based on average salary. The issue there is that he has not played that way entirely, and his injury history is catching up with him. The clock is ticking for him to give the Lions what they need for their dollar. The opposite spot is an open door right now. Kerry Hyder missed all of last season with an achilles injury, while Anthony Zettel really developed well last season. Zettel could emerge with the job at LDE. Look for rookie Da'Shawn Hand to make some waves in camp as well, and he could see work at DT as well. Cornelius Washington is another solid body on hand, but his future is hazy with Hand on the roster.
Alex Barrett is a flexible player who could see many uses on both sides of the football, and could emerge as the favorite from the outcast group to make the cut. Cam Johnson and Jeremiah Valoaga are seriously on the bubble, and could both be camp cuts.
A'Shawn Robinson and Jeremiah Ledbetter are expected to start at the DT spots. Robinson will be a gap plugger in the middle, while Ledbetter will battle with Sylvester Williams, who could end up at NT in the 3-4 set. Ledbetter is more likely to rotate in and out at times. Christian Ringo will likely have to battle it out to make the cut at NT.
Breakdown Linebacker
Christian Jones and Devon Kennard are slated to win the OLB jobs in camp. Kennard is a developing pass rusher and rising star, while Jones comes over from Chicago to address a need for someone with experience in the 3-4 defense. Jarrad Davis starts in the middle, and led all rookies in tackles last season. The Lions need help at the other ILB spot, and that could come from Freddie Bishop.
Jalen Reeves-Maybin and Steve Longa will both be the backups outside. Longa is a proven special teams ace, and will have a serious role. Reeves-Maybin is looking to bulk up to better suit the 3-4 defense. Jonathon Freeney was signed from New Orleans to add depth outside.
Breakdown Secondary
Darius Slay was named first team all-pro last season, and returns at CB for the Lions, and should be one of the best in the league. Nevin Lawson is back, but could be lining up as the Nickel Corner in the new defense, as Teez Tabor pushes for a starting role outside. DeShawn Shead was brough over from Seattle, and will likely add depth at both CB and Safety. Jamal Agnew makes the roster not necessarily at CB, but on Punt Returns, where he was named as an all-pro last season as a rookie.
Quandre Diggs was solid at Nickel last season, but played very well at Safety when given the shot. He will battle it out at SS with Tavon Wilson, who is rock solid against the run. Glover Quin is the most dependable FS in the NFL, with 132 straight starts made. Charles Washington could be his backup, but will have to make a mark on special teams to make the cut.
Tracy Walker is a developmental Safety who the staff really likes. He will see some reps, but will also be working in a developmental role all season. Miles Killibrew and Rolan Milligan are both long shots to make the active roster out of camp at this point.
Breakdown Special Teams
Matt Prater has one of the biggest legs in the game, and is a huge long range threat at PK.
Sam Martin has been noting but great through most of his career, but an off-field injury really effected him last season. The Lions hope for a return to form.
Abdullah and Agnew will likely work in camp on KR duty, but if Abdullah is cut, that second job opens.
Agnew is the PR man, and is developing into one of the best in the league.
Final Analysis: The Lions are always that team that look like they have enough talent to make a playoff run, but always fall short. Matt Patricia was hired away from New England to fix that issue, but this team looks like it could go either way once again in 2018. There are considerable question while switching over to a 3-4 look on defense, because on the surface, the roster is not fitted with the kind of players it takes to run that look.
Offensively, Stafford has his numbers and all, but he is simply not winning enough, and the turnovers on fumbles are killing the offense. The run game should be better, but how much better can it be? The line, while having made a change or two, still looks like it could go either way.
I see a team, that if everything comes together, could push for a wild card, but they have a long way to go to beat out Minnesota for the NFC North title.
Opening Statement: The Lions made a strong move after last season's playoff miss by firing Jim Caldwell and hiring Matt Patricia away from New England to replace him. The one problem there, if it is a problem, is that New England assistants have rarely done well away from Foxborough. This will be an interesting transition, as Patricia is a defensive minded coach tasked with moving forward a team that has to find some answers on the offensive side of the football, especially where it pertains to the run game. Patricia is also yet another young coaching hire with no experience anywhere as a head coach, and at 43, will barely be older than some of his veterans.
Breakdown Quarterback
Matthew Stafford keeps on climbing up the charts as they pertain to career passing yardage, but where he is not climbing the charts is in career wins, and playoff appearances. Another lost season under Stafford occurred last season, and as he continues to build on career stats, he is not moving this franchise further in any other regard. He still takes too many sacks, even if his other numbers trend upwards, and he is an injury risk as long as that remains so. He also happens to fumble a lot, as he lost 7 of them last season.
Jake Rudock is back, but he could be pushed in camp by veteran backup Matt Cassel, who was brought in to handle that very job. The early assumption is that Cassel should emerge from camp with that #2 job in hand, with Rudock being the 3rd QB. No other QBs are in camp in an official capacity.
Breakdown Running Back
Ameer Abdullah has fallen to the lower depths of the dog house, and his production has really fallen off in a major way. LeGarrette Blount was signed as a free agent to handle the job of finally pushing Abdullah out of the starting job, but neither option is a long term one at this point.
Kerryon Johnson was drafted out of Auburn in the 2nd round, and he could emerge from camp with the starting job in hand himself. He is a power runner that lays out some punishment, and may be the most complete back available.
Theo Riddick is back, and could end up as the 3rd back, if Abdullah gets cut along the way, which is a possibility. He is a solid pass catching option on passing downs.
The staff is running low on patience with Dwayne Washington, and Zach Zenner is in camp specifically because of special teams value, because he has little at this point as an actual back.
Nick Bawden was drafted out of San Diego State as a FB, but has become injured in camp, and is lost for the year. That opens the door for veteran FB Nick Bellore.
Breakdown Receiver
The top 4 receivers are rock solid for the Lions. Golden Tate led the league in yards after the catch, while Marvin Jones led the league in yards per catch. Kenny Golloday was one of the best rookie receivers in the league, and gives the Lions a massive deep threat target, and TJ Jones may be the best 4th receiver in the NFL. This group should provide plenty of opportunities for Stafford to continue to pad his career stats.
Jace Billingsley, Andy Jones, and Bradley Marquez are all fighting for reps as a 5th option, and Billingsley holds the edge there because of special teams abilities.
Breakdown Tight End
Eric Ebron was cut during the off-season to save some cash. Michael Roberts has a ton of talent, and could become the starter in year 2, despite catching just 4 balls last season. Luke Wilson was signed away from Seattle to compete for the job as well, and the staff is high on him.
Levine Toilolo was signed to provide depth as the 3rd TE, but expect Hakeem Valles, who spent last season on the practice squad, to battle it out for that 3rd TE spot.
Breakdown Offensive Line
The most intriguing starter on the unit is Frank Ragnow, who was drafted in the 1st round to start at Center for the Lions. It was hardly a popular pick with most, but Ragnow never allowed a snap in 2600 reps at Arkansas at C or OG. He starts from day one at C in most cases.If he does not start at C, he moves to LG and starts there. Graham Glasgow will start where Ragnow does not. TJ Lang is rock solid at RG, but only if he can stay on the field. He missed half of last season.
Wesley Johnson should be the primary backup at Center, and should see time at OG as well. Joe Dahl needs to have a big camp, or else risk getting cut. Kenny Wiggins was brought over from the Chargers, where he started every game last season. Here, he may be a long shot, but he sould win a backup spot at OG. John Montelus could be in line for a spot as well, but could end up on the practice squad. Dan Skipper played in just one game last season, and also looks like a practice squad option in his second season in the league.
Taylor Decker is back at LT, but has to stay healthy, which he had a hard time doing last season. Rick Wagner got paid in the off-season, and is now the highest paid RT in the NFL. He needs to show he was worth it.
Tyrell Crosby was drafted in the 5th round, and should develop as the backup at both OT spots in 2018. He has a starting future down the line. Corey Robinson is another option as a reserve at Tackle, but he has also had injury issues that has stunted his development. It's now or never. Brian Mihalik is another reserve option, but his time may be running out here.
Breakdown Defensive Line
Ezekiel Ansah is back to start at RDE this season, and is the highest paid DE in the game based on average salary. The issue there is that he has not played that way entirely, and his injury history is catching up with him. The clock is ticking for him to give the Lions what they need for their dollar. The opposite spot is an open door right now. Kerry Hyder missed all of last season with an achilles injury, while Anthony Zettel really developed well last season. Zettel could emerge with the job at LDE. Look for rookie Da'Shawn Hand to make some waves in camp as well, and he could see work at DT as well. Cornelius Washington is another solid body on hand, but his future is hazy with Hand on the roster.
Alex Barrett is a flexible player who could see many uses on both sides of the football, and could emerge as the favorite from the outcast group to make the cut. Cam Johnson and Jeremiah Valoaga are seriously on the bubble, and could both be camp cuts.
A'Shawn Robinson and Jeremiah Ledbetter are expected to start at the DT spots. Robinson will be a gap plugger in the middle, while Ledbetter will battle with Sylvester Williams, who could end up at NT in the 3-4 set. Ledbetter is more likely to rotate in and out at times. Christian Ringo will likely have to battle it out to make the cut at NT.
Breakdown Linebacker
Christian Jones and Devon Kennard are slated to win the OLB jobs in camp. Kennard is a developing pass rusher and rising star, while Jones comes over from Chicago to address a need for someone with experience in the 3-4 defense. Jarrad Davis starts in the middle, and led all rookies in tackles last season. The Lions need help at the other ILB spot, and that could come from Freddie Bishop.
Jalen Reeves-Maybin and Steve Longa will both be the backups outside. Longa is a proven special teams ace, and will have a serious role. Reeves-Maybin is looking to bulk up to better suit the 3-4 defense. Jonathon Freeney was signed from New Orleans to add depth outside.
Breakdown Secondary
Darius Slay was named first team all-pro last season, and returns at CB for the Lions, and should be one of the best in the league. Nevin Lawson is back, but could be lining up as the Nickel Corner in the new defense, as Teez Tabor pushes for a starting role outside. DeShawn Shead was brough over from Seattle, and will likely add depth at both CB and Safety. Jamal Agnew makes the roster not necessarily at CB, but on Punt Returns, where he was named as an all-pro last season as a rookie.
Quandre Diggs was solid at Nickel last season, but played very well at Safety when given the shot. He will battle it out at SS with Tavon Wilson, who is rock solid against the run. Glover Quin is the most dependable FS in the NFL, with 132 straight starts made. Charles Washington could be his backup, but will have to make a mark on special teams to make the cut.
Tracy Walker is a developmental Safety who the staff really likes. He will see some reps, but will also be working in a developmental role all season. Miles Killibrew and Rolan Milligan are both long shots to make the active roster out of camp at this point.
Breakdown Special Teams
Matt Prater has one of the biggest legs in the game, and is a huge long range threat at PK.
Sam Martin has been noting but great through most of his career, but an off-field injury really effected him last season. The Lions hope for a return to form.
Abdullah and Agnew will likely work in camp on KR duty, but if Abdullah is cut, that second job opens.
Agnew is the PR man, and is developing into one of the best in the league.
Final Analysis: The Lions are always that team that look like they have enough talent to make a playoff run, but always fall short. Matt Patricia was hired away from New England to fix that issue, but this team looks like it could go either way once again in 2018. There are considerable question while switching over to a 3-4 look on defense, because on the surface, the roster is not fitted with the kind of players it takes to run that look.
Offensively, Stafford has his numbers and all, but he is simply not winning enough, and the turnovers on fumbles are killing the offense. The run game should be better, but how much better can it be? The line, while having made a change or two, still looks like it could go either way.
I see a team, that if everything comes together, could push for a wild card, but they have a long way to go to beat out Minnesota for the NFC North title.
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