Tim Kalinowski's Team-by-Team College Football Preview
Snapback's own Timmy Kalinowski knows how busy summer can get. I mean, the guy went to the South of France as soon as he started a new job. Lucky for you, Tim was the only man on the beach grinding through college football previews. That's why he was able to compile his complete breakdown of everything you need to know to be ready for the college football season, ranking all 70 Power Five schools into tiers. Take a look below for the Snapback Sports crash course in 2024 college football.
TIER ONE
Georgia Bulldogs | SEC | Win Total: 10.5
Head Coach: Kirby Smart | Just 2 losses in 3 years, needs players to stop speeding
Quarterback: Carson Beck | He answered every question last year and is now a Heisman contender
Offense: The Oline gets 4 starters back and should be the best in CFB. There's slight concern with notable WR losses, but another classic Georgia reload.
Defense: They lose just 4 starters (all to the NFL of course) and are replaced by 4/5 stars. After allowing just 15 ppg last year, they'll be disgusting again.
Schedule: Quite difficult, notably at Bama, at Texas, & Clemson OOC
Verdict: Pretty much everyone's #1 for good reason. They lost fewer players than usual but face a tougher schedule in the new divisionless SEC.
Ohio State Buckeyes | BIG10 | Win Total: 10.5
Head Coach: Ryan Day | No more BIG10 divisions, and no more Harbaugh. If not now, when?
Quarterback: Will Howard | Very capable veteran, but don't forget he was losing the job at KState
Offense: Just an embarrassment of riches at every position. They also added new OC Chip Kelly who gets the best RB duo in CFB with Henderson & Judkins.
Defense: One of the best defenses in CFB last year gets 9 starters back. The rich get richer with All-American safety Caleb Downs transferring in from Bama.
Schedule: There's 3 real tests: at Oregon, at Penn St, Michigan
Verdict: This is potentially one of the most loaded rosters in Ohio State history. It's National Championship or bust for Day's Buckeyes.
Oregon Ducks | BIG10 | Win Total: 10.5
Head Coach: Danny Lanning | Entering his third year at Oregon, his team is Natty-level talented
Quarterback: Dillon Gabriel | One Heisman contender leaves and another immediately follows
Offense: They somehow lose their QB, their top RB & WR and are still stacked. Lanning's elite portal work gives them one of the best Olines & WRs rooms in CFB.
Defense: An improved defense last year returns 9 starters & more top portal snags. The best news is not having to face all the elite QBs from last year's PAC12.
Schedule: It will come down to two games: Ohio State & at Michigan
Verdict: Once again, the Ducks are absolutely loaded, and unless Michael Penix comes back for another year, they're a shoe-in for the CFP.
Texas Longhorns | SEC | Win Total: 10.5
Head Coach: Steve Sarkisian | Entering year 4, his team is SEC and National Championship ready
Quarterback: Quinn Ewers | The veteran is a Heisman hopeful that still has another gear in him
Offense: The Oline will be one of CFB's best with 4 starters back. Despite losing their top 4 WRs, they snatched three different teams' #1 WR in the portal.
Defense: They lost their two best players from the Dline but get 7 starters back. Their pass defense needs to improve, but another portal haul is in to help.
Schedule: Welcome to the SEC? Just 3 true SEC road games, plus at Mich OOC
Verdict: Not only has Sark recruited an SEC-ready roster, but he also gets the 2nd easiest SEC schedule. There's no excuse to not be in the CFP.
TIER TWO
Alabama Crimson Tide | SEC | Win Total: 9.5
Head Coach: Kalen Deboer | 104-12 as college HC, new to "SEC recruiting," but so was Nick Saban
Quarterback: Jalen Milroe | Improved throughout last year, behind an awful pass-blocking Oline
Offense: Milroe could take another step under Deboer, with an improved Oline. Some tough losses at RB and WR, but plenty of talent behind them.
Defense: Some massive losses to both the NFL & the portal, and now a new scheme. There's still enough 5-stars to be elite, but obvious questions post-Saban.
Schedule: Top 10 hardest in CFB, notably at Tenn, at LSU, vs UGA + at Wisco OOC
Verdict: Deboer has won everywhere he's been, and reloads shouldn't be new to Bama. The relative concern is the schedule.
Clemson Tigers | ACC | Win Total: 9
Head Coach: Dabo Swinney | Only coach in America to not bring in a single transfer
Quarterback: Cade Klubnik | Former 5-star has not lived up to the hype, far too many turnovers
Offense: Desperately need a 2nd year boost from Klubnik and OC Garrett Riley. The bulk of a mediocre Oline is back, but still waiting for an elite WR to emerge.
Defense: The defense has not been the issue; Clemson has survived multiple reloads & they'll need to do so again. Plenty of young talent, especially at Dline.
Schedule: Standard ACC schedule, at FSU, at VT, with Georgia Week 1
Verdict: With Dabo's defiance to use the portal, the fate of the program hangs on the hopes that Klubnik can improve in his second year.
Florida State Seminoles | ACC | Win Total: 9.5
Head Coach: Mike Norvell | Over 4 years, Norvell has steadily built FSU back to a national power
Quarterback: DJ Uiagalelei | A supreme talent that has largely been a disappointment
Offense: Norvell has to replace everything and is going to try and do it through the portal. Oline is the most stable unit with returners & transfer adds.
Defense: Similar to the offense, there's major losses on D replaced by new transfers. They rotated a ton of bodies last year, which will yield a strong Dline.
Schedule: A top-heavy draw with Clemson, at Miami, at ND & Florida OCC
Verdict: Last year, Norvell showed the benefits of using the portal; he'll be counting on it even more this year, especially with DJ at QB.
Iowa Hawkeyes | BIG10 | Win Total: 8.5
Head Coach: Kirk Ferentz | Finally fired his son as the OC, the happiest people are his defense
Quarterback: Cade McNamara | Injured most of last year, his health alone is an upgrade this year
Offense: New OC Tim Lester from Western Mich gets 10 starters back. The Oline has the potential to be great, making scoring points a real possibility.
Defense: Once again, Iowa had one of the best defenses in America last year. They return 8 starters and might actually get a breather this year.
Schedule: Incredibly good draw, at Ohio St is the toughest game by far
Verdict: Set your clock to another great defense, and if they get just a pulse of an offense, they could be back in the BIG10 title game.
Kansas State Wildcats | BIG12 | Win Total: 9.5
Head Coach: Chris Klieman | Has K-State as a constant BIG12 contender
Quarterback: Avery Johnson | He's flatout nasty, and many say he's why Will Howard transferred
Offense: Big losses on the Oline and WR give slight concern. However, Johnson is an absolutely electric dual-threat & was stealing the starting job last year.
Defense: Despite some key losses, 8 starters are back with tons of depth behind them. They allowed too many explosive plays last year, but expect improvement.
Schedule: Great BIG12 draw, avoid most of the big dogs, get Zona, Kansas, at ISU
Verdict: A physical, veteran defense, a Heisman-level QB, and a fortuitous schedule give KState a recipe to be major BIG12 contenders.
LSU Tigers | SEC | Win Total: 9
Head Coach: Brian Kelly | B2B 10-win seasons at LSU, Kelly had great 3rd years at previous stops
Quarterback: Garrett Nussmeier | Many predicted him to beat out Daniels last year, showed out in Bowl
Offense: Despite the obvious departures, LSU always has elite WRs and the QB is expected to be great. Fortunately, a bulk of the Oline is back to steady things.
Defense: After an atrocious year, new DC Blake Baker comes in from Mizzou and gets 6 starters back. The secondary should be improved but can't get much worse.
Schedule: Avoid Texas & Georgia + get Ole Miss & Bama at home, with USC OOC
Verdict: Kelly's previous teams took massive jumps in his 3rd year. He'll need that from his D while the O expects only a slight regression.
Miami Hurricanes | ACC | Win Total: 9
Head Coach: Mario Cristobal | Stocked with talent via recruiting & portal, but now it's time to win
Quarterback: Cam Ward | The Wazzu transfer is a blue chip portal add and a major upgrade
Offense: Miami upgraded big time at QB & RB with Cam Ward & Oregon State's Damien Martinez. They join an experienced Oline & more portal adds at WR.
Defense: A vastly improved D last year could be even better. The Dline is loaded, while the secondary is rebuilt with promising youngsters & transfers.
Schedule: Tricky opening with Florida, otherwise very winnable. FSU & VT at home
Verdict: Many think this is the year for Cristobal's Canes to break out. Entering year 3 at Miami, there's no question the talent is there.
Michigan Wolverines | BIG10 | Win Total: 9
Head Coach: Sherrone Moore | OC last two years, and had HC experience as the interim last year
Quarterback: Alex Orji | Saw time last year largely as a runner, plenty of talent behind him
Offense: RB Donovan Edwards is just 1 of 2 returning starters. It's a lot to replace, but it's not a complete talent drain & continuity with Moore should help.
Defense: New DC Wink Martindale from the Ravens gets 5 returning starters. There's enough talent for a relative reload, but there's still a lot of questions.
Schedule: Manageable until you add Texas Week 2, plus Oregon and at OSU
Verdict: It's nearly impossible to replace 17 starters & the HC, but there's still enough there for them to drop just below Oregon & OhioSt.
Mizzou Tigers | SEC | Win Total: 9.5
Head Coach: Eli Drinkwitz | Entered '23 on the hot seat, then won 11 games & SEC Coach of the Year
Quarterback: Brady Cook | Understood the assignment last year: throw it deep to Luther Burden
Offense: Count 9 returning starters including a veteran Oline that was boosted by the portal. And most importantly, the electric duo of Cook & Burden is back.
Defense: They lose 5 draft picks & their star DC to LSU (he got the bag). A dip is expected, but their depth is solid with P5 transfers in to stop the bleeding.
Schedule: Cleary the easiest SEC schedule, at TxA&M and at Bama are the biggies
Verdict: Mizzou improved because Drinkwitz is recruiting very well. Their returning pieces on offense & schedule make them a real contender.
Notre Dame Fighting Irish | IND | Win Total: 10
Head Coach: Marcus Freeman | Doing a solid job & possibly benefits the most from the expanded CFP
Quarterback: Riley Leonard | Was fantastic at Duke despite battling injuries last year
Offense: The OC left for Troy, but they made a huge hire in Mike Denbrock from LSU. There's tons of turnover, but plenty of talent & the Oline is always good.
Defense: A top 10 defense in CFB last year will be nasty once again with 9 starters back. Both the Dline and secondary are loaded and should lead the way.
Schedule: Not as tough as usual but still go at TexA&M, FSU, at USC
Verdict: Freeman has recruited elite talent & nailed another top QB transfer; best yet, they don't have to be perfect with the expanded CFP.
Oklahoma Sooners | SEC | Win Total: 7.5
Head Coach: Brent Venables | 10 wins last year after tough 1st season, recruiting at a top 10 level
Quarterback: Jackson Arnold | Was the #1 HS QB in the '23 class, flashed in 2 starts last year
Offense: All 5 Oline starters are gone & OC Jeff Lebby left as well. With a 5-star QB & stacked WRs, they'll need their portal adds at Oline to come through.
Defense: The defense took a big step forward last year in Venables' 2nd season. He gets 9 starters back with the potential to be a top 10 defense in CFB.
Schedule: Big schedule losers, just 3 SEC home games & really only avoid UGA
Verdict: After an ugly year 1, Venables had an elite offense & an improved defense. They're stocked with talent; the issue is the schedule.
Oklahoma State Cowboys | BIG12 | Win Total: 8.5
Head Coach: Mike Gundy | Now in year 20, says he's driven after a few beers 1,000 times
Quarterback: Alan Bowman | Entering his 7th year, improved throughout the season last year
Offense: Heisman hopeful Ollie Gordon is one of 9 starters back. If Bowman cuts down the turnovers, the sky is the limit for this talented & experienced unit.
Defense: Last year, the defense was young and atrocious. However, now they get 9 starters back, headlined by a linebacking group that should lead a big improvement.
Schedule: One of the easiest BIG12 draws, really just Utah and at KState
Verdict: Gundy has the perfect formula for a huge year: no more Texas & Oklahoma, tons of returning starters, and a tremendous BIG12 schedule.
Ole Miss Rebels | SEC | Win Total: 9.5
Head Coach: Lane Kiffin | The "portal king" has signed a top 2 transfer class the last 3 seasons
Quarterback: Jaxson Dart | Dynamic dual-threat, 31 total TDs last year, early Heisman contender
Offense: The offense is absolutely loaded. Including portal additions, there's 14 players with starting experience. The only improvement needs to be on Oline.
Defense: There's 5 starters back & 5 more from other teams. If they can gel under 2nd year DC Pete Golding, they should be an improved unit.
Schedule: Big time SEC schedule winners, at LSU & vs Georgia will be the biggies
Verdict: Kiffin has masterfully used the portal to bring in top-level talent. This is his best team with a good schedule & an expanded CFP.
Penn State Nittany Lions | BIG10 | Win Total: 10
Head Coach: James Franklin | Should be thanking God every night that they expanded the CFP
Quarterback: Drew Allar | Still waiting for the former 5-star to reach his full potential
Offense: New OC Andy Kotelnicki comes in from Kansas. He gets 6 starters back with a boatload of highly touted prospects to fill the remaining spots.
Defense: Star DC Manny Diaz left for Duke, replaced by Tom Allen from Indiana. One of the best defenses in CFB last year returns a ton, including a nasty Dline.
Schedule: Huge winners with no more BIG10 divisions, just Ohio St & at USC
Verdict: The stars are all aligning. The roster is stacked with talented players, there's no more BIG10 East, and the playoff is finally expanded.
Tennessee Volunteers | SEC | Win Total: 9
Head Coach: Josh Heupel | Despite an obvious step back last season, they still won 9 games
Quarterback: Nico Iamaleava | A top prospect out of HS and led a 35-0 Bowl win over Iowa
Offense: Nico should be an immediate upgrade at QB. They get 6 starters back, the Oline should be top notch & health alone at WR will be massive.
Defense: A much improved defense last year loses its entire back 7. However, the Dline is loaded with experience and can carry the load to start.
Schedule: One of the easiest SEC draws but at Georgia, vs Bama, & NCSt OOC
Verdict: Nico should ignite the offense, while the D settles in. The best news is the schedule sets up nicely for a potential CFP berth.
Texas A&M Aggies | SEC | Win Total: 8.5
Head Coach: Mike Elko | Known for his defense, went an impressive 16-9 in two seasons at Duke
Quarterback: Conner Weigman | The offense was way better with him, but just 4 starts before injury
Offense: There's 9 starters back counting transfers. The Oline should be their best unit, and a healthy Weigman is beyond capable; biggest question is at WR.
Defense: Elko is a tremendous defensive coach and shockingly got plenty of starters to stay. There's turnover in the secondary, but portal adds should stabilize.
Schedule: A manageable draw gives them Mizzou, LSU, Texas all at home & ND OOC
Verdict: Most new coaches inherit a barren roster, but A&M was stocked with talent & many stayed. Elko works quick & their SEC draw is great.
Utah Utes | BIG12 | Win Total: 9.5
Head Coach: Kyle Whittingham | One of the best coaches in CFB, immediately has the BIG12's best team
Quarterback: Cam Rising | A massive upgrade after being injured all of last year
Offense: The entire offense sputtered last year without Rising. Just 6 starters back sounds underwhelming, but Rising's return improves every position.
Defense: The Utes had an excellent defense last year in a PAC12 that was stacked with elite QBs. They get 9 starters back and should be the same or better.
Schedule: Far easier than last year's PAC12 schedule; at OkSt is the big one
Verdict: Utah is clearly the BIG12's best team. The only concern is whether they could still make the CFP without winning the BIG12.
Virginia Tech Hokies | ACC | Win Total: 8.5
Head Coach: Brent Pry | After just 3 wins in year one, Pry finally has VT back on the map
Quarterback: Kyron Drones | Led a drastically improved offense last year as a dynamic dual-threat
Offense: An offense that averaged 43 ppg over the last 3 games last year returns everyone. Meanwhile, Drones' emergence has taken the offense to another level.
Defense: Nearly the entire defensive unit is back, boosted by a few quality transfers. Pry is a defensive coach & his group has the makings to take another step.
Schedule: A very manageable ACC draw, mainly just Clemson and at Miami
Verdict: Watch out for VT as they've been quietly improving and now are a legit ACC contender. Most importantly, they've finally found a QB.
TIER THREE
Arizona Wildcats | BIG12 | Win Total: 7.5
Head Coach: Brent Brennan | Somehow got San Jose State to 3 Bowl games
Quarterback: Noah Fifita | Possibly the Oct/Nov Heisman last year, 7-0 down the stretch
Offense: Most importantly, the QB/WR duo of Fifita & McMillan is back. Surprisingly, many others stayed and portal adds should keep the offense potent.
Defense: Seven returning starters had to face many elite PAC12 QBs last year. Unfortunately, they had some key losses in the portal, but not a full panic.
Schedule: Tough BIG12 road games like at Utah & UCF, otherwise manageable
Verdict: Zona finished last year as the hottest team in CFB. Losing Fisch stings, but the offense alone makes them a player in the BIG12.
Auburn Tigers | SEC | Win Total: 7.5
Head Coach: Hugh Freeze | He can recruit and he's bringing elite talent back to Auburn
Quarterback: Payton Thorne | Struggled early last season in QB battle, improved in final 6 games
Offense: The offense improved during the 2nd half of last season when Freeze took over the play calling. Stacked with WR talent, solid Oline & should take next step.
Defense: After an inconsistent year, Freeze hired new DC DJ Durkin from TexA&M. Five guys went to the NFL; portal adds should help, but still questions.
Schedule: Manageable, especially OCC, still at UGA, at Mizzou, at Bama
Verdict: Freeze has recruited tremendously, specifically at WR. The offense is intriguing, but they're still ways away from the SEC elites.
Florida Gators | SEC | Win Total: 4.5
Head Coach: Billy Napier | Enters year 3 firmly on the hot seat, simply hasn't gotten it done
Quarterback: Graham Mertz | Was a bust at Wisco, but threw for 20 TDs with just 3 picks last year
Offense: Mertz gets a lot of hate, but the pass game was one of the few bright spots last year. Great WR group, while a dreadful Oline hopes transfers help.
Defense: After a horrendous year, Napier fired most of the D staff but kept the DC. They added transfers at all 3 levels & their massive Dline leads the way.
Schedule: Possibly the hardest schedule in college football history, look it up
Verdict: In a crucial year, Napier gets dealt the nation's hardest schedule. There's plenty of talent here, but the task is extremely tall.
Iowa State Cyclones | BIG12 | Win Total: 7.5
Head Coach: Matt Campbell | After a team gambling scandal last year, still got to a Bowl game
Quarterback: Rocco Becht | Quietly was BIG12 Freshman of the Year last year
Offense: Last year, Becht broke Brock Purdy's freshman TD record. Now, he gets the entire offense back. And despite the OC leaving for the NFL, watch out.
Defense: An above-average defense last year gets nearly everyone back, including depth. DC Jon Heacock runs a unique scheme that always causes fits.
Schedule: Challenging but manageable draw, at Utah, KState & Iowa OOC
Verdict: With the gambling scandal behind them, ISU is now a popular dark horse for good reason. One of the most experienced teams in CFB.
Kansas Jayhawks | BIG12 | Win Total: 8
Head Coach: Lance Leipold | What he's done at Kansas is truly remarkable and it's not over yet
Quarterback: Jalon Daniels | Heisman-level QB when healthy, missed most of last season
Offense: Star OC Andy Kotelnicki left for Penn St, and without an experienced backup, Daniels needs to stay healthy. The WRs are great, but Oline is a concern.
Defense: Six starters return to a Kansas D that was its best in years. Strength is the secondary, while veteran transfer additions hope to fill out the rest.
Schedule: Manageable but 4 home games at Arrowhead (stadium renovation)
Verdict: Kansas isn't going back to the basement just yet. This is a solid team; however, they will go as far as Daniels' health will let them.
Kentucky Wildcats | SEC | Win Total: 6.5
Head Coach: Mark Stoops | Has recruited and used the portal well enough to keep UK on the SEC map
Quarterback: Brock Vandagriff | Junior transfer from Georgia, was a former 5-star out of HS
Offense: Headlined by an experienced Oline & WR group, 8 starters return. Losing their OC to the NFL stings, but Vandagriff's potential makes the ceiling high.
Defense: A great rush D last year that struggled vs the pass gets 10 starters back. The front 7 will be the strength & should lead to an overall improved unit.
Schedule: Relatively decent SEC draw, still UGA, at Ole Miss, at Tenn, at Texas
Verdict: Last year, Stoops whiffed on QB Devin Leary, but this time his transfer QB gets a veteran team that's capable of making some noise.
Louisville Cardinals | ACC | Win Total: 8.5
Head Coach: Jeff Brohm | Fresh off an ACC title game appearance in year one
Quarterback: Tyler Shough | Formerly at TTU and Oregon, is an upgrade if he stays healthy
Offense: Like last year, Brohm is using the portal to rebuild the offense. The most exciting additions are at WR complemented by an Oline that returns depth.
Defense: The strength of their team last year, returns plenty of starters & promising new transfers. Led by a veteran Dline, this is a very solid unit.
Schedule: More challenging than last year, at ND, at Clem, Miami & at Kent OOC
Verdict: Last year's magical season was aided by a fortuitous schedule. While their roster is promising, the path will be tougher this year.
NC State Wolfpack | ACC | Win Total: 8.5
Head Coach: Dave Doeren | Always either underrated or about to be fired
Quarterback: Grayson McCall | Transfer from Coastal Carolina, hopes to provide veteran stability
Offense: Tons of production returns, headlined by star WR Conception. Behind a veteran Oline, McCall will have to prove he can make the jump to P4 competition.
Defense: Just 5 starters return to a Tony Gibson D that is consistently strong. Led by a stingy secondary, there's enough talent & portal adds for a reload.
Schedule: Avoid most of the ACC's best teams, but Tennessee OOC
Verdict: Sunk by poor QB play last year, they will need McCall to rise to the occasion in order to take advantage of an easy ACC schedule.
Nebraska Cornhuskers | BIG10 | Win Total: 7.5
Head Coach: Matt Rhule | Forget the NFL, Rhule has laid the foundation for a possible big step
Quarterback: Dylan Raiola | The #1 QB in the '24 class, flipped from Georgia at the last minute
Offense: Landing Raiola is a program-changing signing. He'll be behind an elite veteran Oline, complemented by huge portal additions at WR + RB.
Defense: In his first year at Nebraska, DC Tony White had a top 25 defense. He gets 8 starters back, most notably, his D-line returns as one of the best in CFB.
Schedule: Massive schedule winners: at Ohio St, at USC, at Iowa are the toughest
Verdict: Rhule had the pieces in place for Nebraska to take the next step, and then Dylan Raiola committed and put things into overdrive.
North Carolina Tar Heels | ACC | Win Total: 7.5
Head Coach: Mack Brown | The oldest coach in CFB continues to recruit extremely well
Quarterback: Max Johnson | Formerly TexA&M and LSU, throws a good ball, but sometimes sucks
Offense: The WR room is stacked on paper, but they lose 4 starters on the Oline. They addressed the need via the portal and need much better pass protection.
Defense: After another horrendous year, Brown fired DC Gene Chizik. Geoff Collins will install a new scheme with 7 returning starters including a solid Dline.
Schedule: Huge ACC schedule winners, really just at FSU & NCSt
Verdict: Brown continues to bring in top 25 recruiting classes, but they need to coach better in order to take advantage of a great ACC draw.
Rutgers Scarlet Knights | BIG10 | Win Total: 6.5
Head Coach: Greg Schiano | The Schiano man might have his best squad in a long time
Quarterback: Athan Kaliakmanis | The "Greek Riffle" comes in from Minnesota where he was underwhelming
Offense: All-BIG10 RB Kyle Monangai returns along with 7 other starters. The O-line will be a force, hopefully paving the way for stable QB play.
Defense: Almost all of last year's top 40 defense returns. After missing all of last year, linebacker Tyreen Powell is back to solidify a fantastic defense.
Schedule: By far the greatest BIG10 schedule winners, they avoid the top 5 teams
Verdict: Between their returning production and fortuitous schedule, this is perhaps the most slept-on team in the country.
SMU Mustangs | ACC | Win Total: 8.5
Head Coach: Rhett Lashlee | 11-3 last year, has his team more than ready for the ACC jump
Quarterback: Preston Stone | The dual-threat veteran comes off a fantastic season
Offense: A highly potent offense last year returns 8 starters. With Preston at the helm, the only concern is the Oline, which was helped through the portal.
Defense: This isn't the SMU defense you might think it is. They took a huge jump last year, get 7 starters back & added a surplus of P5 transfers at Dline.
Schedule: One of the easiest in the ACC, mainly just FSU and at Louisville
Verdict: The timing is perfect for SMU's jump to the ACC. This is a veteran team that went 11-3 last year and got dealt a fantastic schedule.
TCU Horned Frogs | BIG12 | Win Total: 7.5
Head Coach: Sonny Dykes | Still recruiting very well, after a massive rebuild last year
Quarterback: Josh Hoover | Started six games last year but threw too many timely picks
Offense: The Oline is patched up by transfers and could take some time. Meanwhile, Hoover gets a full summer to prepare as the starter with a strong WR room.
Defense: The defense was dreadfully passive last year, but should get a boost with new DC Andy Avalos. His 9 starters back make things even more encouraging.
Schedule: Difficult BIG12 draw with UCF, at Utah, OkSt, Zona & at SMU OOC
Verdict: Coming off their playoff run, last year was a full rebuild. They'll be improved this year, but a tough BIG12 draw really stings.
UCF Knights | BIG12 | Win Total: 7.5
Head Coach: Gus Malzahn | With Texas and Oklahoma gone, UCF is a major BIG12 player
Quarterback: KJ Jefferson | Arkansas transfer, appears to be a perfect fit for the Malzahn offense
Offense: An explosive offense last year returns their RB & 2 of their top 3 WRs. There's turnover at Oline, but the Jefferson-Malzahn combo is quite enticing.
Defense: After getting gashed by the run last year, new DC Ted Roof was hired from Oklahoma. He should improve a unit with 8 starters back plus 7 big transfers.
Schedule: Favorable BIG10 draw, they get Utah at home and go at Florida OOC
Verdict: There's talent up & down the roster and a very manageable schedule. Everyone is waiting to see what Malzahn can do with Jefferson.
USC Trojans | BIG10 | Win Total: 7.5
Head Coach: Lincoln Riley | Year 3 and there's already hot seat rumblings
Quarterback: Miller Moss Jr | Threw 6 TDs in Bowl game after Malachi Nelson's surprising transfer
Offense: Caleb Williams and the rest of the skill players are gone, leaving 5 returning starters. There's top recruits next in line, including a better Oline.
Defense: Riley made a huge hire at DC with D'Anton Lynn from UCLA. There should be improvement with plenty of returners along with a top transfer class.
Schedule: LSU & ND OOC make for one of the toughest schedules in CFB
Verdict: This is a huge year for Lincoln Riley, and though his defense should be better, it might be spoiled by a very treacherous schedule.
Wisconsin Badgers | BIG10 | Win Total: 6.5
Head Coach: Luke Fickell | Enters year 2 still trying to build a pass-first offense in Madison
Quarterback: Tyler Van Dyke | The Miami transfer is still searching for his 2021 self
Offense: Fickell is going to give the up-tempo passing offense another shot. This time, with TVD at QB, much of the O-line back & a bunch of Power 5 WR transfers.
Defense: Last year, the defense was average at best by Wisconsin standards. But with 8 starters back, they should be one of the better defenses in the BIG10.
Schedule: Tough BIG10 draw with at USC, PennSt, at Iowa, Oregon & Bama OOC
Verdict: This year's success and ultimately Fickell's future is dependent on the offense improving. The schedule makes it an uphill battle.
TIER FOUR
Baylor Bears | BIG12 | Win Total: 5.5
Head Coach: Dave Aranda | Won BIG12 Championship in '21 and now on the hot seat
Quarterback: Dequan Finn | Still a QB battle, but Finn was MAC MVP at Toledo last year
Offense: A super young offense that struggled last year returns nearly everyone. New OC Jake Spavital brings a fresh start with an uptempo passing scheme.
Defense: Their two best players depart, but they still have 9 starters back. Aranda is taking over the play-calling duties after a dreadful defensive season.
Schedule: Very favorable BIG12 draw, at Utah, but avoid the other big bigs
Verdict: Baylor started the most freshmen in the BIG12 last year. This year, they have experience, a new OC, and a favorable schedule.
California Golden Bears | ACC | Win Total: 6
Head Coach: Justin Wilcox | Now in his 8th season at Cal, emphasizes a tough D and running the rock
Quarterback: Fernando Mendoza | 6'5 freshman last year, offense improved when he took over 6 games in
Offense: Strong run game returns with star RB Jayden Ott back & experienced Oline. Pass game was better when Mendoza took over & now gets new WRs from the portal.
Defense: Wilcox had an uncharacteristically bad D last year, partly due to injuries. They return plenty of starters & upgraded the secondary in the portal.
Schedule: Moderately difficult ACC draw, including at FSU, Miami, & Auburn OOC
Verdict: Cal plays a physical brand of ball, which should make them a plucky out and keep them out of the ACC basement.
Cincinnati Bearcats | BIG12 | Win Total: 5.5
Head Coach: Scott Satterfield | Enters year 2, dealt with a depleted roster & BIG12 jump last year
Quarterback: Brendan Sorsby | Transfer from Indiana, had mixed success on a bad team but capable
Offense: One of the better ground attacks in CFB last year returns their entire Oline. Sorsby should be an upgrade at QB as portal adds boost the WR depth.
Defense: Star DT Dontay Corleone, the "Godfather," returns with a bunch of new transfers. A dreadful D last year can only improve under new DC from Iowa St staff.
Schedule: Huge BIG12 schedule winners, avoid almost all the top dogs
Verdict: With the roster turnover last year, Cinci didn't stand a chance. This year, they have enough returners and a much easier schedule.
Colorado Buffaloes | BIG12 | Win Total: 5.5
Head Coach: Deion Sanders | 45 of last year's 72 new transfers are gone and replaced by more
Quarterback: Shedeur Sanders | Polarizing to say the least, but still one of the best QBs in CFB
Offense: Almost the entire starting Oline is gone & replaced by experienced transfers. The whole RB room was also replaced, but the WRs are still elite.
Defense: Count 23 new transfers in at D, headlined by big adds at Dline. Some rare stability at LB & secondary, but still need a massive improvement.
Schedule: #1 toughest BIG12 draw + at Neb OOC, & they're "everyone's Super Bowl"
Verdict: Major roster overhaul makes for an unconventional 2nd year. The new guys are good, but the schedule makes for possible disaster.
Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets | ACC | Win Total: 5
Head Coach: Brent Key | After figuring out the offense in year one, now he needs a defense
Quarterback: Haynes King | Every play is boom or bust, has that Josh Allen fun to him
Offense: One of the most improved offenses in CFB last year returns 9 starters. With King back behind a veteran Oline, the offense will keep them in games.
Defense: A dreadful D last year, welcomes in new DC Tyler Santucci from Duke. Almost the entire D needs to be replaced, but maybe that's a good thing.
Schedule: Terribly difficult with FSU, ND, at VT, Miami, UGA
Verdict: Despite a rebuilding defense and a grueling schedule, the offense is deadly and exciting enough to put opponents on upset alert.
Illinois Fighting Illini | BIG10 | Win Total: 5.5
Head Coach: Bret Bielema | Enters year 4 at Illinois with just one winning season
Quarterback: Luke Altmyer | Former Ole Miss transfer was hurt most of last year at Illinois
Offense: Altmyer is back healthy & has plenty of potential. The experienced Oline is their best unit, while there are still many unknowns at the skill spots.
Defense: A brutal defense last year hopes to bounce back with 7 returning starters. The LB group & secondary should be a strength, but Dline is a question mark.
Schedule: Nothing will be easy with at Penn St, Michigan, at Oregon & Kansas OOC
Verdict: Bielema's physical brand makes them a tough out. They'll have to take care of business at home if they want to be back in a bowl.
Indiana Hoosiers | BIG10 | Win Total: 5.5
Head Coach: Curt Cignetti | Went 52-9 at James Madison and is a great get for Indiana
Quarterback: Kurtis Rourke | Transfer from Ohio, was MAC Player of the Year in 2022
Offense: When you count experienced transfer additions, there's 10 starters back. Surprisingly talented at the skill positions, especially the WR group.
Defense: Cignetti brought his ace DC Bryant Haines with him from JMU. Similar to the offense, there are tons of new transfers who saw time at the P5 & G5 level.
Schedule: Extremely favorable BIG10 draw and OCC schedule
Verdict: Last year, Louisville had a new coach, new transfers, & a soft schedule. Indiana has those same cards & could be a pleasant surprise.
Maryland Terrapins | BIG10 | Win Total: 6.5
Head Coach: Mike Locksley | Extremely underrated, almost upset OSU & Mich last year
Quarterback: MJ Morris | Transfer from NCSt, was their best QB in 4 games played
Offense: Star QB Taulia Tagovailoa departs along with almost the entire Oline. Locksley is a great offensive coach & they're still well stocked at WR & RB.
Defense: They return 8 starters, most notably a strong & experienced Dline. The secondary took a hit, but some portal adds could make for a really strong unit.
Schedule: Easy early, tough later on with at Oregon, Iowa, at Penn St
Verdict: The defense is more solidified than the offense, but Locksley can coach up the offense & steer the ship to a 4th straight Bowl.
Michigan State Spartans | BIG10 | Win Total: 5
Head Coach: Jonathan Smith | Made Oregon St a respected program through toughness and physicality
Quarterback: Aidan Chiles | Former top HS prospect, followed Smith from Oregon St
Offense: Smith inherits 5 starters and a dreadful running game. It's a project, but so was Oregon St until Smith constructed a tough, dominant rushing attack.
Defense: A porous defense last year should immediately improve. There's a solid foundation here with 10 starters back and experienced transfer adds.
Schedule: Brutal BIG10 draw getting Ohio St, at Oregon, Iowa, at Michigan
Verdict: Smith did a masterful job rebuilding Oregon St, but his next act will take time, and unfortunately, the schedule did them no favors.
Minnesota Golden Gophers | BIG10 | Win Total: 5.5
Head Coach: PJ Fleck | Coming off a down year, but a consistent winner at Minnesota
Quarterback: Max Brosmer | Transfer from UNH, three-year starter there and FCS Heisman candidate
Offense: Coming from the FCS ranks, Brosmer is a total wild card. At least he'll have an experienced Oline & a WR group that endures losses with huge portal adds.
Defense: The defense fell off last year and then DC Joe Rossi left for Mich State. Luckily, they return 9 starters and have plenty of depth for a bounce back.
Schedule: Very few easy BIG10 wins: Iowa, at Mich, USC, Penn St + UNC OOC
Verdict: Fleck has a spirited veteran squad, but it's poor timing in the new divisionless BIG10. They'll need some upsets to be Bowl-bound.
South Carolina Gamecocks | SEC | Win Total: 5.5
Head Coach: Shane Beamer | Needs a bounceback in year 4 after just going 5-7 last year
Quarterback: LaNorris Sellers | The redshirt freshman is a 6-3, 245-pound dual-threat
Offense: Last year, the Oline was injured and a mess. Most of them return as they'll rely on the run game with new RB Rocket Sanders in from Arkansas.
Defense: The defense ascended during the final 5 games last year. That momentum should continue with 8 starters back paired with some experienced portal adds.
Schedule: Awful SEC draw including LSU, at Ole Miss, at Bama & at Clemson OCC
Verdict: They can blame much of last year on injuries, but now even with a healthy, veteran squad, the schedule might be too much to handle.
Syracuse Orange | ACC | Win Total: 7
Head Coach: Fran Brown | Rated #1 Recruiter in the Nation last year on Georgia's staff
Quarterback: Kyle McCord | Transfer from Ohio State, former 5-star is talented, but more to prove
Offense: Due to an excellent portal class, 9 guys on the Oline have starting experience. In addition to McCord, their skill players actually have legit talent.
Defense: Texas A&M transfer Fadil Diggs headlines a group of talented transfers. That gives Cuse 8 returning starters that will undergo a scheme change.
Schedule: Favorable ACC draw, but still VT, Miami and at NCSt, cupcake OOC
Verdict: Brown has already brought in more talent than Cuse has seen in a while; however, both of his coordinators have never called plays.
Texas Tech Red Raiders | BIG12 | Win Total: 7.5
Head Coach: Joey McGuire | Enters year 3 recruiting well, but has yet to have a healthy QB
Quarterback: Behren Morton | The former 4-star, started last year while battling injury
Offense: Star RB Tahj Brooks returns, with tons of portal turnover. Almost the entire Oline & WR group are replaced by transfers. Biggest need is healthy QB.
Defense: Just 5 starters back after losing most of their best players. DC Tim DeRuyter led them to a big improvement last year, and he'll need to do it again.
Schedule: Manageable BIG12 draw with at Zona, at ISU, at OkSt being the toughest
Verdict: McGuire has improved TT's recruiting, but has yet to have a stable QB. It's a measuring stick year with many coinflip games.
UCLA Bruins | BIG10 | Win Total: 4.5
Head Coach: DeShaun Foster | Promoted from being the RBs coach, not good at press conferences
Quarterback: Ethan Garbers | His solid consistency edged out stud freshman Dante Moore last year
Offense: New OC Eric Bieniemy from the Chiefs gets 7 starters back, including an Oline that was brutal last year. Garbers provides stability & has talent at WR.
Defense: A top 25 defense last year loses their DC and a chunk of starters. They actually did very well in the portal, but there's still a lot of questions here.
Schedule: LSU OOC gives them the 2nd hardest schedule in CFB
Verdict: After Chip Kelly's departure, the damage to the roster actually isn't that bad. The problem is that the schedule is a nightmare.
Washington Huskies | BIG10 | Win Total: 6.5
Head Coach: Jedd Fisch | Did a tremendous job rebuilding Arizona, where he went 10-3 last year
Quarterback: Will Rogers | The MissSt transfer was at his best running the Mike Leach offense
Offense: With all 11 starters gone, they'll rely on Will Rogers & a bunch of other transfers. It's a complete overhaul, but Fisch built strong offenses at Zona.
Defense: It's a total renovation on defense as well with just two starters back. A couple starters from Arizona join in with Steve Belichick as the new DC.
Schedule: Hardest BIG10 draw including Michigan, at Iowa, at PennSt, at Oregon
Verdict: Fisch is a great rebound after DeBoer left, but with a new roster & the toughest BIG10 draw, they'll be frisky at best in year one.
West Virginia Mountaineers | BIG12 | Win Total: 6.5
Head Coach: Neal Brown | Started on the hot seat last year, then went 9-4 with a Bowl win
Quarterback: Garrett Greene | Had a breakout season last year, especially as a dynamic runner
Offense: Their powerful run game returns all the key contributors. Their elite Oline and backfield will carry the load, while the WRs should be improved.
Defense: A few of their top defenders transferred out, leaving just 5 returning starters. The front 7 should still be strong and make up for the losses.
Schedule: One of the toughest in CFB, most of the BIG12's best & Penn State OOC
Verdict: Their vicious run game is tough to handle, but the departures on D and a brutal schedule unfortunately make their ceiling lower.
TIER FIVE
Arizona State Sun Devils | BIG12 | Win Total: 4.5
Head Coach: Kenny Dillingham | Former Oregon OC, enters year 2 and knows this is a major project
Quarterback: Sam Leavitt | Michigan St transfer, anything is an upgrade from last year's QBs
Offense: Destroyed by injuries last year at Oline & QB. Oline should be better with health & portal adds. Swiss Army RB Skattebo is back, still many questions.
Defense: The defense struggled in a tough PAC12 last year & only gets 4 starters back. The Dline added five P5 transfers while the strength is in the secondary.
Schedule: One of the hardest BIG12 draws gets worse with sneaky tough OOC games
Verdict: The rebuild was interrupted by injuries last year, and now this year's schedule is brutal. Cam Skattebo will still be must-watch.
Arkansas Razorbacks | BIG12 | Win Total: 4.5
Head Coach: Sam Pittman | After a great 2-year run, he could be in big trouble
Quarterback: Taylen Green | Great freshman year but was horrid last year at Boise St
Offense: Yes, the new OC is Bobby Petrino. The offense was a disgrace last year, but transfers should improve Oline. WRs are solid, & Petrino likes the QB.
Defense: The defense was actually improved last year, but far from a finished product. The Dline should be the strength, while transfers make up the back 7.
Schedule: Nothing they aren't used to, but at Okla St OOC adds to difficulty
Verdict: There's a lot of questions, the biggest being can Petrino revive the offense? If so, they can pull a few upsets and make a Bowl.
Boston College Eagles | ACC | Win Total: 4.5
Head Coach: Bill O'Brien | Not an overnight fix, but a homerun hire by BC standards
Quarterback: Thomas Castellanos | Human highlight reel, plays like it's NCAA 25, including the turnovers
Offense: Return plenty of starters & made some sneaky WR additions. The Oline should be improved & if the QB is more consistent, they'll have some juice.
Defense: Counting experienced transfers, they have 8 starters back, but implementing a new scheme should take time. Desperately need more sacks and TFL.
Schedule: Just not nearly enough easy wins, tough year to have at Mizzou OOC
Verdict: Landing BOB has the makings of a perfect hire for BC. Unfortunately, this is a project and their schedule is not very welcoming.
BYU Cougars | BIG12 | Win Total: 4.5
Head Coach: Kalani Sitake | Last year, the BIG12 jump led to his first losing season since '17
Quarterback: Gerry Bohanon | Formerly USF & Baylor. Simply cannot stay healthy & still in a battle
Offense: The offense struggled last year with poor QB & Oline play. The WRs are solid and most of the Oline returns. Desperately need a QB to emerge.
Defense: A solid secondary headlines their 6 returning starters. Need the Dline to improve in order to compete at the Power 4 level.
Schedule: BIG12 schedule will be difficult again, + Wyoming & SMU OOC
Verdict: BYU struggled with the BIG12 jump mostly because the offense was a mess. They won't be a factor until they improve in the trenches.
Duke Blue Devils | ACC | Win Total: 5
Head Coach: Manny Diaz | Deserved another HC shot after a great job as DC at Penn St
Quarterback: Malik Murphy | At 6-5, 240 pounds, the Texas transfer is a massive get for Duke
Offense: Diaz wants his offense to chuck the rock, which will be difficult with a full Oline rebuild. However, there is plenty of returning production at WR.
Defense: Elko built a tremendous defense at Duke, but Diaz will have to basically start from scratch. Luckily, Diaz has a great track record as a DC.
Schedule: One of the toughest ACC draws including FSU, SMU, at Miami, VT
Verdict: Another casualty of a coach exiting, Elko left & so did most of the roster. The expectations in year one should not be very high.
Houston Cougars | BIG12 | Win Total: 3.5
Head Coach: Willie Fritz | The ultimate program rebuilder, most recently at Tulane
Quarterback: Donovan Smith | Last year's starter, was inconsistent in a pass-heavy offense
Offense: Fritz wants far more balance compared to Holgorsen's pass-first scheme. It's a full rebuild, but portal additions on the Oline could expedite things.
Defense: There is a massive mess to clean up on defense. With basically everyone gone, Fritz hopes some experienced portal adds can buoy them for now.
Schedule: One of the hardest BIG12 schedules includes at Okla OOC
Verdict: It's a full demolition for Fritz, but he's done it at nearly every level, and Houston has the resources to contend in the future.
Mississippi State Bulldogs | SEC | Win Total: 4
Head Coach: Jeff Lebby | First year HC after being a stud OC at UCF, Ole Miss & Oklahoma
Quarterback: Blake Shapen | Flashed in '21 BIG10 title game at Baylor, injured/inconsistent since
Offense: Lebby scores points wherever he goes, but he inherits zero returning starters. He was able to snag some portal adds for at least a slight jumpstart.
Defense: Like the offense, the defense has to endure a mass exodus and a scheme change. The defense will likely get worse before it gets better.
Schedule: Second toughest SEC draw including at UGA, at Texas, at Ole Miss
Verdict: Lebby starts a much-needed reset (RIP Mike Leach). The offense should have some juice, but not enough talent for a quick fix.
Northwestern Wildcats | BIG10 | Win Total: 4.5
Head Coach: David Braun | Miraculously won 8 games last year including a Bowl
Quarterback: Mike Wright | Post-spring transfer from Vandy/Miss St, is a talented runner
Offense: New OC Zach Lujan brings in a new scheme from S.Dak St where he won 2 FCS Nattys. They get 7 starters back, but had the worst Oline in CFB last year.
Defense: The defense was their strength last year and they get 8 starters back. The secondary is a concern, but the Dline is tough and loaded with experience.
Schedule: Tough BIG10 draw, will need a couple upsets for a Bowl
Verdict: Braun did an outstanding job last year. They should be feisty again, but the new offense might take time, and the schedule is tough.
Oregon State Beavers | BIG12 | Win Total: 7.5
Head Coach: Trent Bray | Was their DC last year, and has a tall task on his hands
Quarterback: Gevani McCoy | The transfer from Idaho was an FCS Heisman candidate last year
Offense: Sadly, their head coach is off to Michigan St and just one lone starter returns. The Oline could still be a bright spot with a couple P5 portal adds.
Defense: Same as the offense, there's only one starter left. The good news is that Bray is a great defensive coach and got a few pieces in the portal.
Schedule: Outside of playing Oregon, mostly a Mountain West schedule
Verdict: It's unfortunate to see OSU left in the dust; however, with 7 Mountain West games on the schedule, a Bowl is certainly attainable.
Pittsburgh Panthers | ACC | Win Total: 5.5
Head Coach: Pat Narduzzi | Entering year 10, major fall off since the Kenny Pickett days
Quarterback: Nate Yarnell | Proved to be their best option at QB during his 2 starts last year
Offense: New OC Kade Bell comes in with a completely new offense. While a healthy Oline will be a boost, an up-tempo scheme at Pitt leaves a lot of questions.
Defense: An exhausted defense last year returns very few starters. Even worse, their Dline coach left for the NFL. Like the offense, lots of uncertainty.
Schedule: A manageable ACC draw means a Bowl is on the table
Verdict: Narduzzi's teams always have a tough, physical DNA, but that could change with the new offensive system. Desperate times...
Purdue Boilermakers | BIG10 | Win Total: 4.5
Head Coach: Ryan Walters | Enters year 2, still trying to fill Jeff Brohm's big shoes
Quarterback: Hudson Card | Former Texas transfer, played through injury last year, simply solid
Offense: They have 8 starters back counting experienced portal players in and out. A healthy Hudson Card and a revamped Oline alone are huge positives.
Defense: Walters is a defensive mind, and though they struggled last year, they should improve. They traded a bunch of transfers in/out, which leaves question marks.
Schedule: One of the toughest in the country, including at Ohio State and ND OOC
Verdict: Walters has the luxury of a veteran QB on offense while he develops the defense. However, the next step is halted by the schedule.
Stanford Cardinal | ACC | Win Total: 3.5
Head Coach: Troy Taylor | Entering year 2 at Stanford, known for going 30-8 at Sacramento St
Quarterback: Ashton Daniels | Was in a battle all last year and is expected to be in one again
Offense: Off an expectedly ugly year, they return 10 starters including a strong Oline. There's also two 4-star freshmen that could factor into the QB battle.
Defense: An absent defense last year gets 8 starters back. As bad as they were, the PAC12 was loaded last year and this unit should be much improved.
Schedule: Laughably difficult: at Clemson, VT, at ND, at NCSt
Verdict: Slowly but surely, Taylor is rebuilding Stanford's talent pool. But it might only be a baby step this year because of the schedule.
Vanderbilt Commodores | SEC | Win Total: 3
Head Coach: Clark Lea | Probably the hardest job in CFB, 9-27 through 3 seasons
Quarterback: Diego Pavia | The New Mexico St transfer is a hilariously fun, electric dual-threat
Offense: New OC Tim Beck from New Mexico St brought both his QBs with him. The WRs were a strength, but they all left, leaving Oline as the most experienced group.
Defense: Lea will take over the DC duties after a horrendous year. While 5 impactful starters depart, enough clever portal work was done for a potential spark.
Schedule: Every SEC schedule is hard for Vandy, and add in VT Week 1
Verdict: Lea won't quit: he's taking over as DC, using the portal, & brought in a new OC who helped turnaround NMSt; 4 wins would be huge.
Virginia Cavaliers | ACC | Win Total: 4
Head Coach: Tony Elliott | On the hot seat & likely needs Bowl eligibility to keep his job
Quarterback: Tony Muskett | Battled with Anthony Colandrea all last season and will do so again
Offense: They return 8 starters on offense, plus some exciting new transfers. Despite another tough season, this should be the best offense Elliott's had.
Defense: After a great 2022, injuries & transfers caused the defense to falter last year. They still return a ton of production along with a few transfers adds.
Schedule: Tough ACC lineup, including Clemson, SMU, UNC, ND, VT, & Louisville
Verdict: Off an abysmal 2024 recruiting class, Elliott still has an abundance of returning production that he needs to take advantage of.
Wake Forest Demon Deacons | ACC | Win Total: 5
Head Coach: Dave Clawson | His 7-year bowl streak ended last year with no Sam Hartman
Quarterback: Hank Bachmeier | The veteran transfer from Boise State will battle 6th year Michal Kern
Offense: The offense was dreadful last year after Sam Hartman's departure. The Oline should be healthy and improved, but everything is dependent on the QB.
Defense: The defense struggled immensely last year, but should at least be more experienced. The entire Dline is back, while the secondary has questions.
Schedule: The margin for error is slim with Clemson, at Miami & Ole Miss OOC
Verdict: Wake is never stacked with elite HS talent, but Clawson finds a way to be pesky. His roster still desperately needs a QB to emerge.
Washington State Cougars | BIG12 | Win Total: 7.5
Head Coach: Jake Dickert | Enters year 4 after going 5-7 last year and should've upset Washington
Quarterback: Zevi Eckhaus | An FCS Heisman finalist last year from Bryant will be in a QB battle
Offense: The Cougs lose star QB Cam Ward & the surrounding skill players. However, much of the Oline returns, which should improve their poor run game.
Defense: The defense takes a huge hit with their entire Dline & secondary both gone. To make matters worse, their transfer moves weren't very inspiring either.
Schedule: Easier than last year with 8 Mountain West teams plus Washington OOC
Verdict: It's sad to see Wazzu get left out of the P4, but for now, their schedule will be a lot easier despite a major falloff in talent.
