Oklahoma is under-appreciated, and while Texas is knocking on the door, I see them as a year away from contending. This will be a great game with a whole lot on the line.
This is Southern Cal’s last chance (v. Arizona) to raise its defensive play — a few notches will be needed — before it faces off next weekend v. Notre Dame. There is urgency to win now, b/c they lose their generational QB at the end of the season. This will be a fun one to watch.
I look for Alabama to beat TAMU convincingly on the road, and to begin finally (though too late for the CFP) coming together.
Georgia is beatable, though likely not by a decent Kentucky team. Its cream puff schedule has some possibility for a knock off during the regular season.
Beyond Oklahoma, I don’t see much potential this weekend for outright upsets. But I do think this is an important weekend for teams either to step up a full notch or two or to settle in with the weaknesses they each have.
Perhaps because of the NIL, though I also think relentless year-over-year improvement in the coaching and recruiting ranks, there is more parity in CF than in any prior year.
Just my take.
Agreed. The transfer portal plays a role too.
I also think thr NIL has improved college football. Outstanding players who don’t get a chance or are beat out by another player on one team can have great success at another.
Poster child for this is Jalen Hurts, who went to Oklahoma. He is off to a great start in his NFL career. There are many others. The QBs at Oregon and Washington are two more great examples.