Every Friday I run through five things I’m looking forward to finding out as we head into another weekend of college football.
This week’s topics include my game of the week, Dan Mullen’s decision at QB, and an unusual recommendation if you’re looking for a fun but likely close game to watch this weekend.
What’s on record this week?
I’ve got a few games set to record this week – UCF v Louisville on Friday night, Michigan State @ Miami, Georgia Tech @ Clemson, and one that looks like being a great game between Auburn and Penn State.
But I’m probably most excited to scout the Purdue @ Notre Dame game. Everyone’s raving about Notre Dame’s Kyle Hamilton’s performances through the first two weeks of the season while Purdue edge rusher George Karlaftis also features in a number of round one conversations.
The Gators QB situation
Dan Mullen has a huge decision to make as Florida take on the Alabama Crimson Tide at home in a huge early season battle in the SEC. To stick with the ineffective Emory Jones, or to twist and throw in redshirt freshman Anthony Richardson?
I strongly suspect Jones starts, but the real question will be how long he stays in the game, and how much of an impact can Richardson have when he takes to the field? And will it be enough?
The battle to stay ranked
Arizona State travel to BYU with both sides sitting just inside the top 25. The home side are 13-1 across the last two seasons whilst Arizona State on a decent winning streak of their own.
One of these teams will fall out of the rankings next week – and whoever plays the best football on Saturday will be the one who keeps their place.
Tulane to finally shock?
A close 40-35 defeat to Oklahoma was followed up by a resounding victory over the Morgan State Bears in week 2. This week the Green Wave go to Ole Miss who are riding their own wave behind quarterback Matt Corral.
Lane Kiffin’s squad are going to have to bring their A-game if the Rebels want to win this game and continue climbing the rankings – this is not going to be a walkover win by any stretch of the imagination.
And finally…
Looking for an outside bet for game of the week? Try UAB at North Texas.
These are two evenly matched squads with two very good head coaches in Bill Clark and Seth Littrell – both guys who have built their reputations around finding diamonds in the rough and getting the most out of every player who plays for them.