College Football: 2023-24 National Championship Odds

Georgia (+220)

The Bulldogs come into this season losing 10 players to the NFL Draft and will bring in a new offensive coordinator, so why are they heavy favorites to three-peat? One answer, 2022. Last season, Georgia was forced to replace 15 players that went into the NFL draft as well as having to find a new defensive coordinator yet they dominated everyone to the tune of a 15-0 record while dismantling TCU in the big game. Kirby Smart has been in this position before yet we’ve seen him pluck talent and build even stronger than before and it’s believed he can do the same again this year.

It’s believed quarterback Carson Beck will be slated as the starter to go along with a deep receiving core, including tight end Brock Bowers, and a great offensive line that is projected to shine yet again this season. While they’ve lost talent on defense, the Bulldogs have talent from front to back end with one of the best linebacker groups around. While they still have positions to sort out, it’s not believed to hamper this team by any means. If Georgia won the title, it would be the first team to three-peat since Minnesota from 1934-36.

Alabama (+600)

An 11-2 record would get you praise for an unbelievable season but not for Alabama. In 2022, that record was deemed a big disappointment and their worst season since 2013, failing to miss the playoffs. I guess that’s what you get when a school like Alabama has more standards than just about any team in history. That being said, they have the second-best odds to win the National Championship and there’s a reason for that.

While the Crimson Tide will have to replace a Heisman Trophy finalist in Bryce Young under center, they have plenty of options in the quarterback room who could step in. There still being a battle at that position might be the reason people aren’t talking about this team AS much, but that’s when they’ll strike and show everyone not to doubt them again. But this all comes down to one man, head coach Nick Saban. I mean, he does know a thing or two about winning and scooting around “question marks” surrounding the team. Alabama has pilled up multiple pieces around multiple key positions for 2023 so pushing them aside might be a big mistake.

Ohio State (+700)

Like Georgia and Alabama, Ohio State will come into 2023 with a new man under center after C.J. Stroud moved into the next level. Also like the two schools ahead of them, they’re still trying to figure out who that will be, whether it’s Kyle McCord (likely starter) or Devin Brown. Either way, one of those two will be flanked by yet another deep and talented receiving at Ohio State, led by Marvin Harrison Jr. and Emeka Egubuka.

The Buckeyes also sport great talent on the other side of the ball, having a deep defensive line filled with pro talent. They also bring back All-American linebacker Tommy Eichenberg in addition to more pieces at the position and at cornerback. Let’s not forget that last year, Ryan Day had Ohio State one point away from dethroning Georgia in the College Football Playoff and advancing to the National Championship Game. This program has multiple chips on their shoulder and they do so coming in with still one of the best overall rosters in the nation.

Michigan (+850)

Michigan is the first team on this list not to have to replace their starting quarterback for 2023. J.J. McCarthy returns as the signal-caller alongside the great backfield duo of Blake Corum and Donovan Edwards. Having those three return to the fray after going 13-0 last year and making the College Football Playoff could already give them a leg up in the competition. They also boast an offensive line loaded with talent all around.

While the defensive side of the ball is still trying to be figured out with a couple of big pieces leaving, there’s plenty of talent around to have confidence in that group. Also, we’re talking about Michigan, a team known for their defense above anything else with coach Jim Harbaugh. The Wolverines also have a chip on their shoulder after getting upset by TCU in the playoff last year and it could actually help them take the next step in 2023.

Next Best Odds:

LSU (+1100)
USC (+1400)
Clemson (+1800)
Florida State (+1800)
Texas (+2200)
Penn State (+2500)
Notre Dame (+3000)
Tennessee (+3500)
Oregon (+3500)

Main Image: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Source

Here’s How The College Football Playoff Will Pan out

6. Tennessee Volunteers (10-2)

It’s the next-man-up mentality for the Volunteers. Luckily for the Vols, they will return their top three rushers, as well as Bru McCoy and Joe Milton. Three consecutive matchups against Texas A&M, Alabama, and Kentucky will test the heart of this football team. Last season the offense was the recipe for success, but they’ll need the defense to improve. They ranked 127th in pass defense but have the opportunity to put together an impressive season.

Losses: South Carolina, Georgia

5. Florida State Seminoles (12-1)

FSU finished last season with the number one offense and defense in the ACC. They will return 16 starters and pick up where they left off. Mike Norvell and Jordan Travis will lead the Noles to their first ACC title since 2014. Despite one loss, the strength of the schedule won’t play in their favor. Their resume won’t be enough to secure a CFP spot, but they will get a birth in a New Year’s Six Bowl, most likely the Capital One Orange Bowl. Their first NY6 bowl apperance since 2016.

Losses: LSU

4. Texas Longhorns (12-1)

Texas is back but for real this time! There are Texas-size expectations around Quinn Ewers and the Longhorns and there will be a huge leap in year three under Steve Sarkisian. Longhorns wideout Xavier Worthy is poised for a big year and will be the top target for Ewers. In week two they will travel to Tuscaloosa and lose a close one, which will set the tone for the season. They will secure their first Big 12 title since 2009 but are set to join the SEC in 2024.

Losses: Alabama

3. USC Trojans (13-0)

The Trojans season ended roughly, losing consecutive games while leading by double digits. This year the circumstances will be different. Caleb Williams and the offense have already put the world on notice, but their defense will be the X Factor. They will face four of College Football’s best quarterbacks. Michael Penix Jr. (Washington), Sam Hartman (Notre Dame), Bo Nix (Oregon), and Cameron Rising (Utah). If the USC defense can secure victories against all four they’ll be in a great position to win the Pac-12 and secure a College Football Playoff berth.

Losses: None

2. Georgia Bulldogs (13-0)

As a back-to-back national champion, there’s a bullseye on the back of this program. Carson Beck is next under center for the Georgia Bulldogs and the nation’s top tight end, Brock Bowers also returns for another season. UGA saw a lot of their defensive threats drafted in the spring but are still expected to be the number one defense. A matchup in Knoxville against the Volunteers could be a trap game, but their schedule is fairly favorable. The Bulldogs have taken the top spot in the SEC and look to maintain it.

Losses: None

1. Ohio State Buckeyes (13-0)

A field goal kept the Buckeyes out of the National Championship last season. The quarterback position is a question mark but their skill positions are loaded. Ohio State may be WRU, Marvin Harrison Jr. and Emeka Egbuka are next to show why. The defense will have to limit the big plays to secure another title. Last year they gave up five 70+ yard plays from scrimmage which ranked 128th, four of those in the final two games. They have road games at Notre Dame, Wisconsin, and Michigan to strengthen their resume. After running the table they will show why they’re a powerhouse.

Losses: None

Allstate Sugar Bowl

Caesars Superdome – New Orleans, LA

4. Texas (12-1) vs. 1. Ohio State (13-0)

The 2009 Fiesta Bowl was the last time these two met. Quinn Ewers, an Ohio State transfer plays an old friend. Both of these teams will come in with two potent offenses. Led by the Buckeyes one-two punch, Harrison Jr and Egbuka will be too much to handle. Texas will keep the game close but the Buckeyes playmakers will get the best of the Longhorns defense.

OSU 52 UT 45

Rose Bowl Game

Rose Bowl Stadium – Pasadena, CA

3. USC (13-0) vs 2. Georgia (13-0)

If history plays a role it won’t be favorable for the Bulldogs. USC is one of the four teams that Georgia has never beaten (0-3), their last matchup being in 1960. This time around the Bulldogs might be a little too much. This game will feature two of college football’s best offenses. The UGA defense will be the difference maker, getting stops when it matters the most.

UGA 44 USC 38.

CFP National Championship

NRG Stadium – Houston, TX

1. Ohio State (14-0) vs. 2. Georgia (14-0)

Winner: Ohio State

The two met in the playoff semifinals last season. Ohio State led by 14 but UGA would rally back in the fourth quarter and win after the Buckeyes missed a 50-yard field goal. Georgia will be playing for their third consecutive National Championship but as Lee Corso would say, not so fast, my friends! Similar to the majority of the season, the Buckeyes wideouts will be a matchup nightmare. Georgia will continue to strike back and keep the game within arm’s reach but Ohio State’s offense will secure the win. They will win their ninth championship title with a score of 45-41.

Main Image:  Barbara J. Perenic/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK

Source

Players to Watch from the ACC

Cade Klubnik

With former quarterback DJ Uiagaelei transferring to Oregon State, Cade Klubnik will take the reins for the Clemson Tigers this season. He is faced with high expectations following in the footsteps of National Championship-winning quarterbacks Deshaun Watson and Trevor Lawrence.

Klubnik has been praised for his accuracy and pocket awareness. In high school, Klubnik threw for 86 touchdowns and just seven interceptions, winning three state championships in the process. He saw limited action last season and showed flashes of his potential, completing 61% of his passes (100 attempts) and throwing for two touchdowns.

Not only does he impress as a passer but he also plays well on the ground. He added two touchdowns on the ground and even had a 19 yard reception for good measure. He will look to give Clemson their 13th consecutive double-digit win season and get them back to National Championship contention in 2023.

Fentrell Cypress II

Cypress is one of the top transfers to watch in 2023. He joins the Florida State defensive backs room after a four-year career at Virginia. Last season, he led the ACC with 14 pass breakups and was named to the Second Team All-ACC team for his efforts. Cypress’ abilities extend beyond pass coverage, as he also showcased his strong tackling skills, accumulating a career-high 39 tackles in just nine games including eight in the season opener against Richmond.

Cypress will create a dynamic duo in the secondary with Greedy Vance who had three picks and five pass deflections in 2022. Look for teams to gameplan around these two young studs on the defensive side of the football.

Christian Mahogany

After missing the 2022 season with a torn ACL, Christian Mahogany will look to build on what has been a stellar collegiate career thus far. The 6’3 335-pound offensive guard has been the anchor of the Boston College offensive line since he entered the starting lineup in 2020.

Prior to last season, he was ranked by Mel Kiper as the number two guard prospect in the 2023 NFL Draft. Because of the injury, he decided to stay another year to prove himself and “leave no doubt on his college career”. His return will bolster a Boston College team that finished just 3-9 in his absence after two straight winning seasons. With another strong campaign, Mahogany will reclaim his status as one of the top guards in the draft and could provide NFL teams with a strong, athletic player on the interior offensive line starting in 2024.

Drake Maye

With Sam Howell leaving for the NFL prior to the 2022 season, Drake Maye and Jacolby Criswell engaged in a competitive quarterback battle to replace him. Maye won the competition and it proved to be the right choice for the Tar Heels. He had a breakout season, throwing for 38 touchdowns and adding 698 yards and seven touchdowns on the ground.

He was named the ACC Player of the Year and finished tenth in the Heisman Trophy voting. Standing at 6’5 with a weight of 220 pounds, Maye has great size for a quarterback. His size combined with his mobility and big play ability has impressed scouts, with some even giving him a top-10 pick projection. With another offseason of reps under his belt, look for Maye to build on his performance from last season and have the Tar Heels in contention for another marquee bowl game in 2023.

Will Shipley

Clemson running back Will Shipley was one of just three players in the ACC in 2022 to amass over 1,000 rushing yards. (Sean Tucker and Israel Abanikanda) He was a bright spot for the Tigers in what was another excellent season for the program. With quarterback struggles plaguing the team, Shipley carried the load out of the backfield and ran for 1,182 yards and 15 touchdowns. He showcased a big play ability, averaging 5.6 yards per carry and 6.4 yards per reception. Look for Shipley and quarterback Cade Klubnik to create an intriguing one-two punch in the backfield for Clemson this season.

As the college football offseason unfolds, fans can eagerly anticipate the performances of these standout athletes and the overall excitement that the SEC consistently delivers.

Main Image: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports

Source

SEC Players to Watch in 2023

Carson Beck

With Stetson Bennett heading to the NFL, Carson Beck is expected to take the reins under center for the Georgia Bulldogs this season.

At 6 ‘4, 215 pounds, Beck has great size for a quarterback that will transition well to the NFL if given the opportunity. Beck has shown solid mechanics in the pocket and is not afraid to scramble for yards when needed. In limited action in 2022, Beck threw for 310 yards and four touchdowns with no interceptions and averaged six yards per carry running the football.

He will be under a lot of pressure as Georgia looks to become the first team since Michigan (1934-1936) to win three straight National Championships.

MORE: Georgia’s football culture needs addressing

Chris Braswell

It will be difficult to replace the production lost from key contributors such as Will Anderson, Brian Branch, and Byron Young on the Alabama defense. The Crimson Tide will rely on several players to take over on defense including linebacker Chris Braswell.

The senior linebacker had 20 tackles last season and showed an innate ability to rush the quarterback with two and a half sacks and six hurries on the campaign. At 220 lbs, Braswell is light for an edge rusher but he makes up for it with his aggressiveness and speed. Look for Braswell to be a major contributor for the contending Crimson Tide.

Ja’Corey Brooks

Amari Cooper, DeVonta Smith, Calvin Ridley, and Julio Jones. These are just a couple of playmaking Alabama wide receivers that have made the jump to the NFL. Ja’Corey Brooks has the chance to be the next big-name wide receiver from Alabama.

Brooks thrived last season with 866 yards and eight touchdowns. His 22.5 yards per reception would have ranked him first in the NFL. At 6’3, Brooks has a physique that college coaches love for a wide receiver. His size combined with his athleticism and big play ability makes him a dangerous weapon for the Alabama offense.

If Brooks can put it all together in 2023, look for him to be a first-round pick next season in the NFL.

MORE: The SEC dissolving divisions is the right decision

Jarquez Hunter

Jarquez Hunter will be the primary running back for the Auburn Tigers this season. As the backup to Tank Bigsby, Hunter has impressed over the last two seasons with 1,269 yards and 10 touchdowns on just 193 carries.

Hunter possesses blazing speed with a 4.4 second 40 yard dash time. At 5’10, 192 pounds, Hunter’s size is comparable to Alvin Kamara of the New Orleans Saints. Just like Kamara, Hunter is also a threat as a receiver, posting 224 receiving yards and two touchdowns in 2022.

As the team’s starting running back, Hunter will look to give a spark to an Auburn team that hasn’t won more than six games since 2019.

Maason Smith

After missing the 2022 season with a torn ACL, Maason Smith returns to the LSU Tigers, where he is expected to be the anchor of the defensive line.

In limited action in 2021, Smith was named to the Freshman All-American team for his performance. Smith has had trouble staying healthy over his first two collegiate seasons but when he is on the field he is a force on the defensive side of the football. His talent level is through the roof and his physicality and strength create nightmares for opposing offenses.

With a tough schedule against the likes of Alabama, Auburn, Florida, Texas A&M, and Florida State, LSU will rely on Smith to be a major contributor as they look to return to the National Championship for the first time since 2019.

As the college football season unfolds, fans can eagerly anticipate the performances of these standout athletes and the overall excitement that the SEC consistently delivers.

Main Image: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports

Source

2023 College World Series Odds

Wake Forest (+450)

Coming into the NCAA Tournament, Wake Forest holds the best odds to win the 2023 College World Series. They enter the regionals as the top overall national seed after finishing the year 47-10. The main factor for their success is the dominant starting rotation, headlined by Rhett Lowder and Josh Hartle. Both have combined for a 21-1 record and over 100 strikeouts, with Lowder posting a 1.58 ERA in 15 starts while Hartle posted a 2.35 ERA in 14 starts. It goes beyond the rotation as they also have closer Camden Minacci, who’s recorded 13 saves while allowing only a .219 batting average against.

The Demon Deacons clearly have the pitching to carry them but they have some pop on offense that can help them go all the way. Brock Wilken has hit 27 home runs with 74 RBI, leading the team in both categories. He also has an OPS of 1.346. The first-baseman has a pretty good tandem going with Nick Kurtz, who has hit 23 home runs with 63 RBI while leading the team in batting average (.379), OBP (.545), SLG (.857), and OPS (1.402). These stats for both pitching and hitting tell you why they are the favorites to win it all.

LSU (+700)

To begin the season, LSU was number one in the D1Baseball rankings and was favored to win the College World Series for the majority of the season. They slipped to number seven to end the season but still hold strong odds to win it all. One of the reasons for that is that they have a dominant ace with Paul Skenes. In 15 starts, he posted a record of 10-2 with a 1.89 ERA and 167 strikeouts, averaging a whopping 16.6 K/9.

To go along with a dominant ace is an offense that provides two of the best bats in the nation. One of those is Dylan Crews, who batted .420 on the season with 15 home runs and 59 RBI. The second half of the dangerous duo is Tommy White, who was rated the number-one transfer heading into the season after coming over from NC State. He picked up right where he left off as he slashed .392/.451/.778 with 20 home runs with an outstanding 91 RBI. They also have a lot of great talent spread throughout both the infield and outfield that have played major factors in this team’s success. This lineup will be dangerous for any team to face.

Florida (+800)

While others have the pitching and offense as well, Florida might be the most complete team in the country. Starting with the pitching, the Gators have a pair of starters with 100+ strikeouts in Brandon Sprout (7-3; 4.71 ERA) and Hurston Waldrep (5-3; 4.83 ERA). They also have Jac Caglianone, who is 6-3 with a 4.14 ERA and 74 strikeouts in 63 innings. For the pitching, it goes beyond the starters, as Florida has a lot of good depth in the bullpen, having four relievers with an ERA under 4.00.

As impressive as their pitching is, the Gators’ offense has production up and down the lineup that has catapulted them to one of the best units in college baseball. They have six players with 11 or more home runs, with one of them being Caglianone, who tallied 28 home runs with 76 RBI and also, as mentioned, has been one of their best pitchers. The team finished with 119 home runs, the third-most in the country. Florida has the pitching and overall power with the bats to do a lot of damage in this tournament.

Arkansas (+1000)

Wake Forest, LSU, and Florida might’ve distanced themselves from other contenders but Arkansas isn’t a team to be taken lightly as a 2023 College World Series favorite. Like the teams ahead of them, the Razorbacks bring good starting pitching to the tournament. They have Hagen Smith, who’s 8-1 with a 2.69 ERA and 102 strikeouts in 10 starts. If they can get back ace Brady Tygart (2-1; 3.20 ERA and 26 Ks in 19.2 innings), who’s missed time with injury, Arkansas have a great 1-2 combo and staff that will be a tough task to get past.

To go along with their pitching is one of the best defenses in the country. With those two areas being the strongest of the team, opponents are going to have to try and figure out a plan to attack. While their offense doesn’t show flashy numbers like the others, they know how to get the job done. They have three players with over 10 home runs and 48 or more RBI. With their overall depth and experience, the Razorbacks are a team to watch out for.

Next Best Odds

Vanderbilt (+1500)
Virginia (+1500)
Stanford (+1600)
Tennessee (+1800)
South Carolina (+2000)
Clemson (+2000)
Oklahoma State (+3000)

Source

Top College World Series Dark Horses

5. Campbell (44-13), 2 seed

Campbell has had a phenomenal season and most people believed that the Camels were in a great position to host, however, the selection committee did not agree. The Camels won the Big South Conference regular season and tournament championship, along with some impressive non-conference wins. The Camels’ non-conference wins include a sweep over East Carolina, along with wins over Coastal Carolina, and North Carolina. 

Campbell is a No. 2 seed in the Columbia regional, which includes No. 1 seed South Carolina, No. 3 seed NC State, and No. 4 seed Central Connecticut State. 

A year ago, the Camels put up a fight against the No. 1 overall seed Tennessee and put the College Baseball world on notice. This season Campbell is hungrier than ever and I believe that they got a great draw, even though they are not a host. Campbell is a veteran team that always plays with a chip on their shoulder and I would watch out for the Camels.

4. Indiana (41-18), 3 seed

Indiana is a bit of a wild card. The Hoosiers are 30th in the RPI and finished second in the Big 10. Indiana’s only problem is they do not have that many ranked wins. Indiana has looked very good at times this season, but they have not played the toughest schedule either. 

Indiana is the No. 3 seed in the Lexington regional, which includes No. 1 seed Kentucky, No. 2 seed West Virginia, and No. 4 seed Ball State.

I like the matchups for the Hoosiers in the Lexington regional. Indiana has a very tough first game against West Virginia, however, the Mountaineers are not playing their best ball right now. I also like that Indiana has already played Kentucky this season so there is some familiarity between the two. Since Kentucky basically dominated Indiana the first go around it will be interesting to see how the Hoosiers respond if they play again. 

3. Southern Miss (41-19), 2 seed

Southern Miss was another one of those teams that had a good enough resume to host, but unfortunately did not end up being a host site. If there was a regional Southern Miss would like to go to, it would be Auburn. I believe the Golden Eagles have the best pitching in the Auburn Regional and that could play a big part in Southern Miss advancing.

Southern Miss is the No. 2 seed in Auburn regional, which includes No. 1 seed Auburn, No. 3 seed Samford, and No. 4 seed Penn.

Legendary coach Scott Berry announced that he is retiring after this season. Coach Berry has won a ton of games and made the postseason eight times, and even made a super regional a year ago. However, Coach Berry has never been able to take the Golden Eagles to Omaha. Southern Miss players have a lot more to play for this offseason, and I believe that the Golden Eagles will make a serious run.

2. Texas A&M (36-25), 2 seed

Texas A&M has had an interesting last couple of weeks. Heading into the SEC tournament, the Aggies were barely even in the NCAA tournament and headed into Hoover as a No. 10 seed. Texas A&M then went on to win four games and make the SEC championship game. The Aggies defeated Tennessee, South Carolina, LSU, and Arkansas to help strengthen their resume heading into the postseason. 

Texas A&M is the No. 2 seed in the Stanford regional, which includes No. 1 seed Stanford, No. 3 seed Cal State Fullerton, and No. 4 seed San Jose State. 

The Aggies have had their ups and downs this season, but this team is coming to form at the perfect time. Texas A&M is one of the hottest teams in the country and they get to travel to Stanford, which is a very questionable team. I expect the Aggies to make it out of the Stanford regional pretty easily and make another run at Omaha.

1. Tennessee (38-19), 2 seed

Everybody knows how dominant that Tennessee team was a year ago, but this year’s Tennessee team is very different. The Vols were basically left for dead in mid-April, but since then they turned things around going 11-4 in the last 15 SEC games. Tennessee lost in the first round of the SEC tournament which hurt, but history shows that an early exit in the conference tournaments benefits teams later on. 

Tennessee is the No. 2 seed in the Clemson regional, which includes No. 1 seed Clemson, No. 3 seed Charlotte, and No. 4 seed Lipscomb.

Obviously, this was a terrible draw for Tennessee but an even worse draw for Clemson. Clemson is on a sixteen-game winning streak and the Tigers have been dominant since late March. However, the Vols still have one of the best pitching staffs in the entire country. I also think that the Vols getting upset a year ago will benefit them in this year’s postseason and cause them to play with a sense of urgency. I truly believe that if Tennessee can keep the bats hot along with their dominant pitching, the Vols have a great chance to go on a run and get back to Omaha.

Main Image: Caitie McMekin/News Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK

Source

The Big 10 East has multiple games with both Big 10 and College Football Playoff aspirations on the line. Between Ohio State, Michigan, and Penn State, all three have enough talent to win the Big 10 and/or make the College Football Playoff. And, even better, they all three play each other.

The SEC is a battle every single week, but some games have more on the line than others. There is so much parity in college football right now that there are so many good games week after week.

Here are the Top 10 most important games of the 2023 season:

The Most Important Games in the 2023 College Football Season

10. South Carolina vs North Carolina (In Charlotte)

There has been so much hype surrounding South Carolina this offseason and it is very important for the Gamecocks to start off the season on the right foot. North Carolina, on the other hand, has one of the best quarterbacks in all of college football and the Tar Heels will be no picnic.

These two teams met in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl just two years ago when the Gamecocks took down UNC, 38-21. This game could be one to keep an eye on because there is still some bad blood between these two even though they are not in the same conference anymore.

9. Tennessee at Alabama

The “Third Saturday in October” was a forgotten rivalry to most, but after last season’s instant classic, this rivalry is as amped-up as it’s ever been. This game means so much to so many people in both states and the college football world got a taste of what this rivalry means to people a year ago in Knoxville.

The Vols finally ended the long losing streak to Alabama in 2022 and are looking to win in back-to-back years for the first time since 2003-2004 seasons. With Alabama having a question mark at quarterback — and Tennessee continuing to get better under Josh Heupel — can the Vols beat Nick Saban in back-to-back seasons for the first time ever? The question is, who will be smoking cigars on the Third Saturday in October this season?

8. LSU at Alabama

LSU was not given much of a chance last season when they took down the Crimson Tide and ultimately took control of the SEC West and went on to play in the SEC Championship Game. This year’s game between LSU and Alabama will be much of the same with a lot more on the line.

The winner will definitely control their own destiny in the SEC West, but also in the College Football Playoff race as well. Both Alabama and LSU have National Championship aspirations and this game could make or break one another’s season.

7. USC at Oregon

The Pac-12 is as deep as it has been a long time with both Oregon and USC being at the top of the league. There is a ton of star power in this game with the main focus being the quarterback battle. Both Caleb Williams and Bo Nix are near the front in the 2023 Heisman race, and the two will be going head to head for the inside track at the Pac-12 Championship game and for both teams’ College Football Playoff hopes.

6. Penn State at Ohio State

With all due respect, this game could very well be a second-place game in the Big 10 East. Michigan is still the top dog of the Big 10 until dethroned. However, both of these teams could beat the Wolverines, so this game is very important.

The winner of this game still has hope of a Big 10 Championship berth and maybe even College Football Playoff berth, but the loser of this game will put themselves in a big hole for the rest of the season. Of course, do not rule out the obvious that all three teams (Ohio State, Michigan, and Penn State) could all beat each other.

5. Florida State at Clemson

In my opinion, this is by far the best ACC game of the 2023 season. Clemson will be good as always. However, the Tigers have not played to their standard over the past couple years and we will see if Dabo Swinney can get them back on track.

If Clemson wins this game, they could very easily be on their way to another College Football Playoff berth. Florida State, on the other hand, is on the come-up and very quickly progressing under Mike Norvell. This would be a huge win for the Seminoles who have struggled mightily with Clemson for years now. Clemson is still the standard in the ACC, but Florida State is looking to make a run at the ACC Championship.

4. Michigan at Penn State

Michigan is usually worried about playing bitter rival Ohio State, but I believe Penn State is the Wolverines’ toughest test in 2023.

Penn State is a serious threat to Michigan to win the Big 10 East. The winner of this game will definitely have the inside track at the Big 10 Championship, but obviously, both teams have to play Ohio State as well.

3. LSU vs Florida State (In Orlando)

The hype around both of these teams this offseason makes this game even more meaningful than it already is. Both fanbases believe they can win a national championship and it starts in Week 1. This was one of the most entertaining games of the year a season ago and hopefully, it will be another classic this season.

2. Ohio State at Michigan

All eyes will be on “The Game” yet again in 2023. Both teams are coming off of College Football Playoff appearances. This rivalry was always bitter, but Ohio State always had the last laugh, until recently. As of late, the Wolverines have not just beat, but dominated the Buckeyes.

Michigan is looking like they will be right back in the National Championship discussion with a ton of talent returning. Meanwhile, Ohio State has some things to figure out including the quarterback position. This game is always insanely intense, but when National Championships are on the line, this rivalry gets even better.

Can the Buckeyes get the bad taste out of their mouth and beat the Wolverines in the Big House?

1. Georgia at Tennessee

Georgia has won back-to-back National Championships, but many Georgia fans believe that the 2023 version of the Bulldogs could be the best yet. With a pretty manageable schedule for Georgia, I believe that this will be the one game that can give them problems.

Tennessee will be very good again this season and, with the game being played in Neyland Stadium, anything can happen. This game was underwhelming a year ago when No.3 Georgia took down No. 1 Tennessee 27-13, and Tennessee is looking to get revenge on their home field. I think if Georgia were to lose a game in 2023, it would be to Tennessee.

Main Image: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Source

Regardless, the best principle in drafting would always be picking all-pro caliber talent over fit. Most NFL franchises know how they can juggle the growth of their new picks and maintain proper roles. If they do pick based on name recall and star potential, the best options are at the quarterback position.

Here are the quarterbacks that have the best upside in this year’s NFL Draft.

NFL Draft 2023: Cream of the Crop From a Quarterback-heavy class

1. Bryce Young, Alabama Crimson Tide

Alabama has a huge hole to fill with Bryce Young declaring for the draft but that is for good reason. He broke multiple statistical records with the Roll Tide. These include the team’s single-season passing yards record (4,872 yards), single-season passing touchdowns (47 TDs), and career five touchdown games (5 games).

His accolades also do not fall short. Young is a Heisman Trophy winner in 2021, Sugar Bowl MVP in 2022, Manning Awardee in 2021, and a College Football Player of the Year Awardee. Arguably one of the most decorated players to make the transition to the professional leagues, Bryce is going to be either one of the top two picks.

Alabama’s QB1 is also not just good on paper — his game sense is the difference maker. His game characteristics involve swift defensive processing which makes him one of the more impressive playmakers. His body control is also something else given that he has minimal unnecessary movements in the pocket which makes him less prone to non-contact injuries. Overall, the Carolina Panthers or Houston Texans would surely be lucky to have him in their rotation.

2. C.J. Stroud, Ohio State Buckeyes

The debate for who goes first between C.J. Stroud and Bryce Young will only be settled once April 27 hits the calendar. However, a lot of draft experts project that Stroud will not translate well to the NFL. His accolades and statistics would disagree with those claims. He is Big Ten’s Graham-George Offensive Player of the Year in 2022, Griese-Brees Quarterback of the Year during the same year, and is a Heisman Trophy finalist.

The Buckeyes’ offensive mastermind has also broken almost every record for his alma mater and the Big Ten conference. Some of those include the single-season passing yards in Big Ten games (3,193 yds), single-season passing touchdowns in Big Ten games (34 TDs), Big Ten career passing efficiency (182.39),  Ohio State single-game passing yards (573 yds), Ohio State single-game passing touchdowns (6 TDs), and the Ohio State single-season completion percentage (71.9 PCT).

A mean man with a cannon for an arm, Stroud cannot go lower than being the 2nd pick in this draft. It will be the Texans’ loss if they do not take a chance on him.

3. Anthony Richardson, Florida Gators

The Florida Gators’ athletic quarterback set the team record for the longest rushing touchdown by a Florida when he rushed for 81 yards. That statistic alone should speak for what he can bring to an NFL roster. An elite passer out of the blitz that can bail out broken plays through his rushing game, Anthony Richardson is a physical specimen.

Totals of 1,116 rushing yards, 12 rushing touchdowns, 3,105 passing yards, and 24 passing touchdowns prove why he is the most versatile quarterback in this draft. Physically, he has the strength to overcome most pass rushers in the league. Mentally, he has great field awareness which allows him to find the open receiver swiftly or find a route for a quick first down.

Letting him slip past the lower top ten picks in the draft will be a regrettable choice given his massive upside.

Will Levis from Kentucky, Hendon Hooker out of Tennessee, Houston’s Clayton Tune, and even Jake Haener from Fresno State are also solid picks that are coming out of this draft. If there is anything this draft will be known for, it is the amount of talent that is prominent at quarterback.

Source

NCAA Tournament: Preview of the Final Four Teams

Florida Atlantic (9 Seed)

Out of the Final Four teams, nine-seeded Florida Atlantic is by far the most surprising to be left standing. In fact, they weren’t even expected to make it out of the first round but here we are. They went through eight-seed Memphis in the Round of 64, sixteen-seed Fairleigh Dickinson in the Round of 32, four-seed Tennessee in the Sweet 16, and their latest victory against three-seed Kansas State in the Elite Eight. These weren’t cakewalk wins, they were against pretty tough opponents, and that includes Fairleigh Dickinson who knocked off the one-seed Purdue.

Florida Atlantic has had a handful of great performances throughout this tournament but Johnell Davis has probably been the best of them all. He’s had a 12-point performance, a 13-point performance, a 15-point performance, and above all a masterful 29-point performance against Fairleigh Dickinson that also saw him gather 12 rebounds with five assists and five steals. The Owls also got great games from the likes of Alijah Martin and Bryan Greenlee leading up to the Final Four.

This team has good depth and can put on pressure on both sides of the court. If Florida Atlantic can push its own pace, they have a real chance to be the first-ever nine-seed or worse to advance to the National Championship Game.

San Diego State (5 Seed)

In 2020, we saw a 30-2 San Diego State team and a likely number two seed get their unbelievable season cut short due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Fast forward three years later and the Aztecs have a chance to do what they didn’t get a chance to do in 2020 and that’s fight for a National Championship.

They are a game away from reaching the big game after defeating the likes the Charleston, Furman, Alabama, and Creighton to get to the Final Four. San Diego State has a few options to lean on, one of them being Darrion Trammell. He not only is probably their best player on the court but he’s come up big when needed, including scoring 21 huge points against Alabama to go along with five rebounds and two steals. Along with Trammell, San Diego State can look to Lamont Butler, who put together a couple of huge games in this tournament. Both of them together carried this team to a one-point win over Creighton in the Elite Eight.

San Diego State came into the NCAA Tournament with a distinct identity, defense. They’re not only great of that side of the ball but they’re elite and they’ve shown it. The Aztecs have held their opponents to average just 56.6 points per game since postseason play, including the Mountain West Tournament. A huge reason for this is their three-point defense, holding their four opponents in this tournament to just 17 percent shooting from behind the arc, and that’s with the opponents known for either shooting a lot of threes or making a lot of threes. The saying “defense wins championships” might very well still be a thing if San Diego State can keep up the stellar play.

Miami (5 Seed)

Out of the teams in the Final Four field, Miami has had the toughest test to get to this point. They beat 12-seed Drake in the first round, who many possibly saw as an upset, then four-seed Indiana, number one seed Houston, and number two Texas. Miami has had impressive performances out of many of their players throughout the NCAA Tournament. You can try to pick out their best player, but every game there’s a new contender for that honor.

Jordan Miller had by far the most impressive performance across the four games for Miami, scoring 27 points on 7 for 7 shooting and an impressive 13 for 13 at the free-throw line in the Elite Eight against Texas. He also scored 19 points in the round of 32 against Indiana. Miller wasn’t the only one putting up impressive numbers as throughout this tournament, Isiaah Wong also put up a 27-point performance in the Sweet 16 vs Indiana and also had a 20-point performance in the Elite Eight against Houston. His 20-point performance also was accompanied by a 26-point performance from Nijel Pack in the same game.

That’s not all, as the Hurricanes also have Wooga Poplar and Norchard Omier that are capable of taking over a game. This offense has been lethal and has shown why it’s been one of the best in the country, scoring 85 or more points over the last three games. The defensive end might be a liability and where they struggle the most, but their impressive offensive attack alone might be good enough to mask it the rest of the way. Miami will have another tough test in four-seed UCONN before they can think about a National Championship.

UCONN (4 Seed)

UCONN had dominated every team that has stepped in their way through the first four games, beating Iona, St. Mary’s, Arkansas, and Gonzaga by an average of 22.5 points per game. A big reason for that is Adama Sanogo, who has been the best player on the court for the Huskies. He’s scored 28 points, 24 points, 18 points, and 10 points in the four games played in this tournament. That combined for 80 points, the most of any player in the Final Four, while also shooting 66% from the field. Not only can he score but he makes an impact on the boards, averaging almost 10 rebounds a game.

There’s also Jordan Hawkins, who had a 24-point game and a 20-point game against Arkansas and Gonzaga. UCONN has the ability up and down this lineup and all around the court from playmaking, rebounding, defense, and more that makes this team the most complete of the Final Four teams. UCONN is by far the most experienced team left, making the Final Four for the sixth time in school history and winning four National Championships while the three other schools have never been to the Final Four before this year. They are the favorites to cut down the nets for the fifth time in program history but it will not be easy against Miami on Saturday.

Main Image- Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

Source

College Baseball Rankings: 2023 D1Baseball Top Five

5. Texas A&M (2022 Preseason Rank: Not Ranked)

Texas A&M went into the 2022 season not ranked and showed that was a mistake by year’s end. They went 44-20, including 19-11 in the SEC, and road that wave until they were one of four teams remaining in the College World Series. Unfortunately for them, that’s where it all ended but it was a very impressive run that earned them the number three spot in the final rankings to end the season. This was all done with their first-year head coach Jim Schlossnagle, who came in and immediately turned the culture around.

After all the success last season, Texas A&M is at number five in the college baseball rankings for D1Baseball to start 2023. This is in large part due to four of their top five hitters returning from last season, including their best hitter Jack Moss, who hit .380 with six home runs and 18 doubles.

Also coming back are notable starters Nathan Dettmer and Ryan Prager along with reliever Will Johnston, who had 4 saves with an ERA of 3.25. Not only do the Aggies have power coming back to the lineup, but more experience on the pitching side. That is a recipe for success when it comes to trying to accomplish what they did last year and maybe even more.

4. Ole Miss (2022 Preseason Rank: 5)

The Rebels enter the season at number four in D1Baseball’s top 25 college baseball rankings for 2023 after winning their first National Championship in program history. Although it’s no easy task, Ole Miss is looking to reclaim their thrown and that’s not out of the realm of possibility. The defending champs lost quite a few pieces from last year but they still have some key returns to be excited for.

Despite losing Tim Elko‘s power and leadership, Ole Miss might have a couple of returning players to fill that void. It starts with Jacob Gonzalez, who was second on the team in both home runs (18) and RBI (52) last season. That along with his good defensive ability will make him a top MLB draft prospect in the future. Mix that with designated hitter Kemp Alderman and Peyton Chatagnier, who both hit 11 home runs in 2022, and this Rebels offense has the pieces on offense to make another run.

Ole Miss feels like they have not only the pieces on offense but also the pitching side of things. They did lose an ace in Dylan DeLucia for the upcoming year but bring back Hunter Elliott, who is primed to be an elite arm to anchor this rotation. As a freshman last season, Elliott started in 12 games with a record of 5-3 and a 2.70 ERA to go along with 34 strikeouts and two shutouts.

The Rebels might have some question marks in the rotation but if what Elliott showed last season was real, he could propel the rest of the pitching and Ole Miss could find themselves competing in Omaha yet again.

3. Stanford (2022 Preseason Rank: 6)

Coming into 2023, Stanford has another year of high expectations to make a deep run. The Cardinals have made back-to-back College World Series appearances but haven’t gotten over the hump. They hope three times the charm as they enter the season at number three in the college baseball rankings as the only non-SEC team in the top five.

Stanford will be missing a mix of important hitters and pitchers from the 2022 team but they also bring back some key pieces. On the offensive side, the Cardinals will bring back three of their five top homerun hitters, including Carter Graham, who might be the focal point of this offense.

With departures came more players, who have filled out the depth around the diamond and made it one of the strongest areas of the team. With that, the return of several key pitchers will make this team even more dangerous, with four of their top five leaders in wins (along being atop of the leaderboard in ERA and strikeouts) returning.

Among them is senior Quinn Mathews (2022 team leader in wins and strikeouts), who should take on a starting role in 2023 after working a good amount of innings out of the bullpen last season. Stanford’s leadership and experience give them a high chance to make another deep run.

2. Tennessee (2022 Preseason Rank: 19)

2022 was very kind to Tennessee, winning the SEC regular season and tournament championship. They had a dominant record of 57-9, going 25-5 in conference play and that earned them a number one national seed in the NCAA Tournament. Unfortunately, the Volunteers’ stellar season didn’t even end in a trip to Omaha, as they lost in the Knoxville Super Regional.

It’s going to be hard to repeat their success from last season. Tennessee lost seven of their nine position starters while also losing key bullpen pieces, leaving several holes in that department.

The good thing is Tennessee still has one of the if not the best rotation in the country, being led by the three-headed trio of Chase Dollander (2022 SEC Pitcher of the Year), Chase Burns (2022 National Freshman of the Year), and Drew Beam (2022 SEC Freshman of the Year).

Although the offense is missing some big players from last season, Tennessee was able to bring in some well-experienced transfers to boost this lineup that includes Maui Ahuna and Colby Backus. There will be some questions throughout the team but from top to bottom, they should be able to carry their own weight and try to finish what they started last season.

1. LSU (2022 Preseason Rank: 8)

The LSU Tigers might have the biggest expectations of any team heading into the 2023 season as they enter as the number one team in the college baseball rankings. The collection of talent in Baton Rouge is special, landing four players who find themselves on D1Baseball’s top 100 impact transfers list. One of them is NC State transfer slugger Tommy White, hitting .362 with 27 home runs and 74 RBI in 2022, who finds himself number one on that list. The other three are pitchers Paul Skenes (2), Thatcher Hurd (7), and Christian Little (29).

Not only did LSU bring in star talent but they also retained star talent like outfielder Dylan Crews and first baseman Tre’ Morgan, who along with White and Skenes, were named Preseason All-Americans by many.

The offensive talent doesn’t stop there as they also have multiple other returning talents that were atop the leaderboard in 2022. Top to bottom, this lineup is the best in all of college baseball.

To go along with a dominant offense is a very exciting pitching staff that also has a lot of talent. As mentioned, the Tigers brought in three big impact transfers but also have developed some of their own talent on the mound. On paper, the all-around talent on display is like no other and now we’ll get to see if they can transfer that from paper to the field and make a run at the National Championship.

D1Baseball Top 25 College Baseball Rankings (6-25)

6. Wake Forest
7. Florida
8. Arkansas
9. Oklahoma State
10. Vanderbilt
11. East Carolina
12. North Carolina
13. Maryland
14. Virginia Tech
15. TCU
16. Louisville
17. UCLA
18. Southern Miss
19. Virginia
20. Alabama
21. NC State
22. Miami
23. South Carolina
24. Texas Tech
25. Oregon

Main Photo:

Embed from Getty Images

Source