The countdown has begun. We are now under two weeks away from the start of College Football season. Generally most of the big name power conference schools start the season with weaker mid major opponents for an easy win. That remains the same this season with only a handful of top schools facing actual competition. There are only five big games I’m truly interested by in week one, with minor intrigue in the return of Jim Harbaugh to his Alma Mater as well.
#5) Ohio State v. Virginia Tech:
Reigning National Champion Ohio State opens up their title defense against the only team that beat them last season. Virginia Tech got extremely lucky last year and have found some luck again as four Buckeyes, including defensive captain Joey Bosa, have been suspended for the game. Be that as it may, Ohio State is still heavily favored and I expect Cardale Jones and Zeke Elliott to run all over the Hokies.
#4) Louisville at Auburn:
Both teams lost big time playmakers during the offseason in Davonte Parker and Sammie Coates, respectively. Auburn is also handing the reins to a new quarterback following the graduation of last years starter Nick Marshall. Still, they are heavy favorites to represent the SEC West after returning nearly all of their starting defense. The addition of new defensive coordinator Will Muschamp makes this young Tigers defense very formidable.
#3) Wisconsin v. Alabama:
The marquee matchup of the opening weekend pits two perennial powerhouses against each other on the national stage from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Both teams suffered major losses in the offseason as their two top players were first round draft picks. Wisconsin loses All American running back Melvin Gordon, who had one of the most prolific seasons I’ve ever witnessed, as he rushed for over 2500 yards a season ago. However, it’s the loss of Amari Cooper for Alabama that is the biggest loss from the offseason. Cooper has been far and away the most dynamic, explosive receiver in college sports in recent memory. His size, speed and God given talent coupled with extreme hard work and dedication have made him the most promising talent since Randy Moss. He managed to carry his team to the playoffs with a below average supporting cast and a very poor quarterback. This season, both teams look to find a new workhorse, and this clash of titans will be one of the grittiest hard nose played games this year.
#2) Arizona State v Texas A&M:
Despite losing some key contributors from last seasons surprising top 10 team, ASU brings back tons of experience that has me thinking last season was no fluke. Texas A&M on the other hand is a very young team, especially on the offensive line. If the Devils can consistently pressure the young Aggies quarterback, it will be a long day for A&M fans.
#1) Texas at Notre Dame:
Notre Dame returns most of its defense including projected first rounders Sheldon Day and Jaylon Smith. On offense they lost their starting quarterback, Everett Golson, who transferred to Florida State. But using the next man up mentality, they slide in his replacement Malik Zaire with great confidence. They also have preseason award watch lister’s Will Fuller and Tarean Folston at wide receiver and running back, respectively. Running behind the projected #1 offensive lineman Ronnie Stanley, this could be a huge season for the preseason 11th ranked Fighting Irish.
In his first season as Texas coach, Charlie Strong failed to meet lofty expectations as they finished the season with a 6-7 record. They also lost All American defensive tackle Malcolm Brown to the New England Patriots. With a pair of struggling quarterbacks and one of college football’s worst offenses last season, I anticipate Notre Dame winning handily.
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