CFB Focus Fiesta Bowl Preview

Many analysts and fans believe that the Fiesta Bowl is the de facto national championship game, as both Ohio State and Clemson have been atop nearly every efficiency metric/analytic measurement all season.

Whether or not either is the best remains to be seen. What isn't up for debate is that these two are the most well-rounded teams in the playoff. Both the Buckeyes and Tigers are top 10 in nearly every important category, on both sides of the line of scrimmage, and each has immense talent at the quarterback position -- Justin Fields for OSU and Trevor Lawrence for Clemson. They grew up 50 miles apart in Georgia and were the top two prizes of the 2016 recruiting season, and each can make plays.

Like the other semifinal, the quarterbacks may get the most attention, but the game will come down to which teams shuts down the run game the best. Both JK Dobbins for OSU and Travis Etienne are among the top backs in the country, and whichever has the bigger night will likely be helping his team move on to the championship game.

FIESTA BOWL
(2) Ohio State (13-0) vs. (3) Clemson (13-0)
BETTING NUMBERS: Clemson -2, TOTAL 63

OHIO STATE BUCKEYES
BOWL RECORD: 24-25
BOWL RECORD vs Clemson: 0-3
RECORD vs Clemson: 0-3
AP/BCS/CFP NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS: 5 (1942/1954/1968/2002/2014)
JEFF SAGARIN SOS: 14
RUSHING OFFENSE: 5.67 YPC (6TH)
PASSING OFFENSE: 9.34 YPA (9TH)
TOTAL OFFENSE: 7.02 YPP (5TH)
SCORING OFFENSE: 48.7 (1ST)
POINTS PER PLAY: 0.643 (3RD)
POINTS PER POSSESSION: 3.981 (1ST)
THIRD DOWN CONVERSIONS: 56.97 (1ST)
RED ZONE TD PERCENTAGE: 81.94 (3RD)
PLAYS OF 20+ YARDS: 91 (5TH)
TIMES SACKED PER ATTEMPT: 0.079 (T-94TH)
RUSHING DEFENSE: 2,82 YPC (6TH)
PASSING DEFENSE: 5.35 YPA (2ND)
TOTAL DEFENSE: 3.93 YPP (2ND)
SCORING DEFENSE: 12.5 (T-2ND)
POINTS ALLOWED PER PLAY: 0.199 (3RD)
POINTS ALLOWED PER POSSESSION: 0.976 (2ND)
OPP THIRD DOWN CONVERSIONS: 28.65 (4TH)
OPP RED ZONE TD PERCENTAGE: 39.29 (4TH)
PLAYS OF 20+ YARDS ALLOWED: 38 (T-7TH)
SACKS PER ATTEMPT: 0.122 (1ST)
TURNOVER MARGIN: +11 (T-9TH)

WHAT TO WATCH FOR ON OFFENSE
Justin Fields gets all the headlines, but JK Dobbins is the guy who truly makes this offense go. The junior has run like a man on a mission all season, showing equal parts power and elusiveness. His ability to get skinny in the hole and jump cut in space will challenge Clemson's athletic but sometimes overaggressive front seven, and he has the ability to take it to the house. Fields hasn't seen a defense this good all season, especially on the back end. He may need to run the ball more than he wants to, and it's unknown how effective he'll be as he's worked in practice with a brace on his left knee. He said in press conferences that he was around 85 percent, but teammates claim he has looked close to full speed. A mobile Fields will put much more pressure on Clemson to get home. Look for the Buckeyes to employ more underneath passing as its unlikely to find much open downfield against Clemson's sticky coverage. The Buckeyes offensive line has been a force in the run game, but has also shown a susceptibility to blitzes -- and that's what Clemson DC Brent Venables loves. He brings heat from all angles, and has involved the linebackers more this year than in previous seasons. If the Buckeyes can't hold up in the trenches it could be a very long night, another reason it might be a good idea to play a lot of 10 personnel and use the quick passing game. 
WHAT TO WATCH FOR ON DEFENSE
It's fair to say Ohio State's offense hasn't seen defensive skill like it will see in Clemson, but the same is true for Clemson's offense -- there isn't a group in the ACC that has the athletes to hold up against the Tigers, but the Buckeyes have them at every level. DC Jeff Hafley has been a miracle worker repairing Ohio State's defense, which was top five in most important categories. Chase Young grabs the headlines, and with good reason. He led the nation in sacks despite missing two games, and has played his best on the biggest stage. If Clemson decides to be brave and block him with just a single lineman, Young should shine. The rest of the line has been good, too, staying true to its gap control principles. That's a big reason why Ohio State has been so much better against the run -- it's scheme and principles allow guys to get upfield. The Buckeyes linebacking corps is good but not great, but has shown more physicality than recent groups. They can all hit, but Clemson's speed will present problems. It's the back end where the most fascinating battles will take place. Jeff Okudah has the size and skill to shut down any of Clemson's receivers, and Damon Arnette on the other side isn't far behind. The X-factor is Shaun Wade, who has been great covering slot guys and has unusual instincts for the football. A healthy Wade means the Buckeyes can move their sets up front and be selective in their blitzes. The Buckeyes have employed a single-high safety look for most of the season, and its paid off as few teams have been able to hit big plays. Simple has been better this year, so don't look for the Buckeyes to change very much at this stage. 
OUTLOOK
Conventional wisdom said the Buckeyes would take a step back after Urban Meyer walked away from the coaching profession. The man was ridiculously successful in his time in Columbus, and cast a large shadow over anyone who followed. That's what makes Ryan Day's inaugural season as OSU coach all the more amazing -- the Buckeyes have looked more focused, less panicked and more well-rounded than any team Meyer had, and that's in no small part to Day. He appears to have the credentials to keep Ohio State among the nation's elite for the foreseeable future, but he's worried most about the immediate future. Namely facing Clemson. Day knows how difficult it will be to take down the champs, but it isn't as if the Buckeyes are lacking in talent. They have the best defensive player in FBS in DE Chase Young, who will either harass Trevor Lawrence or will be double teamed routinely, allowing a teammate to wreak havoc. The Buckeyes have strength on the back end, and will need to jam Clemson's giant receivers off the line. If they allow the hands guys to run free it's over. Justin Fields has been extremely resourceful with the football, throwing just one interception all season. He'll be pressured like never before by Clemson DC Brent Venables, so Day will need to have his screen and short passing plays dialed up. Hit a few of those and the pressure stops, which could open up rushing lanes for JK Dobbins. If Ohio State's sometimes shaky offensive line can hold up against Clemson's blitz packages it will have success. But that may be easier said than done.

CLEMSON TIGERS
BOWL RECORD: 24-20
BOWL RECORD vs Ohio State: 3-0
RECORD vs Ohio State: 3-0
AP/BCS/CFP NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS: 3 (1981/2016/2018)
JEFF SAGARIN SOS: 62
RUSHING OFFENSE: 6.08 YPC (1ST)
PASSING OFFENSE: 8.61 YPA (19TH)
TOTAL OFFENSE: 7.26 YPP (4TH)
SCORING OFFENSE: 46.5 (4TH)
POINTS PER PLAY: 0.618 (4TH)
POINTS PER POSSESSION: 3.461 (5TH)
THIRD DOWN CONVERSIONS: 47.44 (14TH)
RED ZONE TD PERCENTAGE: 75.00 (T-9TH)
PLAYS OF 20+ YARDS: 88 (7TH)
TIMES SACKED PER ATTEMPT: 0.031 (T-5TH)
RUSHING DEFENSE: 2.95 YPC (8TH)
PASSING DEFENSE: 5.13 YPA (1ST)
TOTAL DEFENSE: 3.91 YPP (1ST)
SCORING DEFENSE: 10.6 (1ST)
POINTS ALLOWED PER PLAY: 0.166 (1ST)
POINTS ALLOWED PER POSSESSION: 0.822 (1ST)
OPP THIRD DOWN CONVERSIONS: 30.81 (13TH)
OPP RED ZONE TD PERCENTAGE: 40.00 (T-5TH)
PLAYS OF 20+ YARDS ALLOWED: 28 (1ST)
SACKS PER ATTEMPT: 0.104 (6TH)
TURNOVER MARGIN: +14 (T-6TH)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR ON OFFENSE
Facing Clemson is truly a "pick your poison" scenario for defensive coordinators. Do you focus on stopping Trevor Lawrence and his absurdly accurate deep ball skill, which means Travis Etienne will have room to run? Or do you load up to stop Etienne and have Lawrence beat you over the top? These are questions that have likely kept OSU DC Jeff Hafley up nights, but considering how much Ohio State has improved its defense from 2018 it's quite possible he has a few surprises up his sleeve. Clemson loves to play fast and attack, and Etienne is as dangerous as they come in open space. He has great speed, but is also adept at forcing missed tackles. If he gets free he's gone. The Tigers wideouts are 6-4, 6-4 and 6-5 across the line, and have speed to go with their imposing size. Add in the return of TE Braden Galloway, who can stretch the middle of the field, and you see that Ohio State has its hands full. Clemson's offensive line has been very good, but offers a ray of hope for OSU -- Lawrence has struggled when a dominant defensive end has beaten his tackles, so you can bet the Tigers will be tracking Chase Young on every play. Look for OSU to employ Young in more different looks than at any time this season -- stand up end, inside to utilize his quickness advantage, with his hand down on both sides of the formation. If Clemson can handle him without help from a running back or tight end it will be sitting pretty, and the entire playbook will be open. Lawrence processes information like a veteran, so he's not going to be thrown when Ohio State switches from its base to nickel to dime.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR ON DEFENSE
The Tigers still create pressure, but not as effortlessly as they did last season with their all-world defensive front. Freshman DT Tyler Davis has been a revelation, though, and will battle with OSU All-America guard Wyatt Davis. There has been a lot more three-man fronts in 2019, which has allowed the linebacking corps to bring more heat. Last season they were more assistants, but this year they have been right in the middle of things. Isaiah Simmons is the man who makes the linebacking corps hum, being employed all over the field. He's physical enough to take on lineman as an edge rusher and fast enough to play coverage on receivers. His versatility is a huge part of why Clemson's defense is so good, but he's just one part. Brent Venables has employed more different packages this season, to best take advantage of his personnel. He'll blitz from all levels, and his players are seldom out of position because they understand their roles. They don't try to do too much because they know the guy next to them has his responsibility handled. The Tigers secondary has been more aggressive this season, which has resulted in more interceptions. AJ Terrell is the standout, but safeties K'Von Wallace and Tanner Muse won all-league honors and are equally adept against the run or the pass. The Tigers have relied mostly on their time-tested Cover 4, one reason they have given up the fewest explosive plays in FBS. The Clemson D is ridiculously athletic, so it will be a huge challenge for Ohio State to get it back on its heels. And when Clemson goes to its dime package, which puts Simmons in coverage, there is even more speed on the field. 
OUTLOOK
Heavy is the head that wears the crown -- except when you're Clemson. Dabo Swinney has been telling anyone who'll listen that his team is being disrespected -- never mind that the Tigers are favored despite being a lower seed. His "aw shucks" act is wearing pretty thin, but people know why he does it. He has to get his team engaged, especially after a season in which it played almost no one. On the way to the Fiesta Bowl the Tigers were uncommonly special, showing ferocity on offense and on defense. Trevor Lawrence had eight interceptions at the seasons' midway point, and still has eight interceptions. So he's been really good the last part of the season. Clemson has a warehouse full of tall, physical receivers and the nation's most explosive runner in Etienne. If Ohio State can't corral him it's going to be a long night. Despite the loss of its entire defensive front to the NFL, the Tigers may be better as whole than last year. Simmons is a real wild card, lining up as an edge rusher, as a conventional linebacker with speed and tracking ability and as a safety in coverage. He may be the most versatile defensive player in college football, and his play will determine whether or not Clemson can contain Ohio State's variety of weapons. Don't overlook the experience factor -- all of these guys have been here before, most multiple times. They won't be rattled by the bright lights, which means they should be firing on all cylinders. The Tigers have been the nation's best program for the past three years, and a repeat national title would put them into some rarefied air. They certainly have the ability to do it.

CFB Focus Peach Bowl Preview

People have been quick to crown LSU as national champions even before the College Football Playoff matchup with Oklahoma was announced, and while the Tigers have put up video game offensive numbers they aren't just going to waltz over an experienced Sooners squad looking for respect.

LSU coach Ed Orgeron has gone from the guy no one wanted to one of the most lovable and best coaches in the game, and Sooners coach Lincoln Riley has proven himself to be one of the most adept offensive minds in all of football. The Tigers have never been in the CFP, while Oklahoma is making its third appearance and looking for its first victory.

The Tigers should feel more at home in Atlanta, though Sooners quarterback Jalen Hurts is more than familiar with Atlanta from his time at Alabama. While most fans will be watching Hurts and his opposite, Heisman winner Joe Burrow, the game will be decided by defense and which team runs the ball better.

LSU wants to spread Oklahoma out and score quickly, while Sooners will want to use long, methodical, physical drives and keep the ball away from the Tigers shiny offense.

PEACH BOWL
(1) LSU (13-0) vs. (4) Oklahoma (12-1)
BETTING NUMBERS: LSU -13.5, TOTAL 76

LSU TIGERS
BOWL RECORD: 26-23-1
BOWL RECORD vs Oklahoma: 1-1
RECORD vs Oklahoma: 1-1
AP/BCS/CFP NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS:  3 (1958/2003/2007)
JEFF SAGARIN SOS: 15
RUSHING OFFENSE: 4.96 YPC (23RD)
PASSING OFFENSE: 10.25 YPA (6TH)
TOTAL OFFENSE: 7.70 YPP (T-2ND)
SCORING OFFENSE: 47.8 (3RD)
POINTS PER PLAY: 0.649 (2ND)
POINTS PER POSSESSION: 3.767 (3RD)
THIRD DOWN CONVERSIONS: 50.63 (6TH)
RED ZONE TD PERCENTAGE: 76.92 (8TH)
PLAYS OF 20+ YARDS: 93 (3RD)
TIMES SACKED PER ATTEMPT: 0.059 (T-61ST)
RUSHING DEFENSE: 3.70 YPC (30TH)
PASSING DEFENSE: 6.48 YPA (T-19TH)
TOTAL DEFENSE: 5.09 YPP (27TH)
SCORING DEFENSE: 21.2 (25TH)
POINTS ALLOWED PER PLAY: 0.319 (T-24TH)
POINTS ALLOWED PER POSSESSION: 1.633 (T-17TH)
OPP THIRD DOWN CONVERSIONS: 30.16 (10TH)
OPP RED ZONE TD PERCENTAGE: 58.82 (60TH)
PLAYS OF 20+ YARDS ALLOWED: 55 (T-52ND)
SACKS PER ATTEMPT: 0.073 (T-36TH)
TURNOVER MARGIN: +8 (T-15TH)

WHAT TO WATCH FOR ON OFFENSE
An aggressive, all-out attack on a Sooners defense that was improved but still pretty average, especially on the back end. Joe Burrow has shattered all existing passing records at LSU, and is deadly accurate with the football, even when pressured. He has a riverboat gambler attitude and is seemingly unflappable, so the Sooners are going to have to hope that he's a little too hyper and sails some passes early. Lead runner Clyde Edwards-Helaire has been banged up and may not be 100 percent, and he brings tenacity and burst to the Tigers ground attack. If he's limited or can't play then freshman Tyrion Davis-Price will be in the spotlight. The receiving corps is dazzling, led by All-America Ja'Marr Chase. He's blessed with outstanding speed and hands, but he's not alone. Justin Jefferson and Terrace Marshall each have double digit touchdowns, and tight end Thaddeus Moss has become a more utilized weapon late in the season. The addition of Joe Brady as passing game coordinator has done wonders for previously stodgy LSU. The Tigers don't get fancy with formations, they simply put the onus on the quarterback to make sound decisions and deliver the football. They also aren't afraid to take deep shots, leading the nation in pass plays of 20+ yards with 73. Whether against base or nickel, LSU has been nearly unstoppable, and there doesn't appear to be any indication of that changing here. If Oklahoma blitzes, Burrow will adjust and throw a slant or cross over the middle, and if the Sooners simply play zone on the back end Burrow will have too many weapons and open space to deal the football.
WHAT TO WATCH FOR ON DEFENSE
LSU hasn't had any true beasts up front, though Chaisson has been a force as an edge rusher. Aranda is aggressive with his front, and emphasizes getting into the backfield to create havoc. He has loosened the reins and is no longer afraid to stunt or loop up front. The linebackers are a strength, and have speed and power to spare. Patrick Queen and Jacob Phillips have been the difference-makers, and are among the Tigers leaders in tackles for loss. The LBs have taken to being more patient this year, where in previous seasons they would be the tone setters and be all over the place. There is something to being gap sound, and Aranda has gotten that group to buy in. It's helped that LSU has been able to stick with its favored Cover 1, thanks to the sticky man-to-man ability of Stingley Jr and Fulton. The former was only the best freshman defensive player in America, and the latter exhibited solid tackling as well as an ability to find the football (12 PBU). While Grant Delpit hasn't been as good as he was the last two seasons, fellow safety JaCoby Stevens has thrived in nickel and dime packages. Oklahoma's receivers will be a test for LSU, but the Tigers appear to have the personnel to hold up. 
OUTLOOK
For years it was a tough-as-nails defense that guided LSU, with an offense that often kept the Tigers from achieving loftier heights. This year it's reversed, though the defense isn't exactly bad -- it's just not up to Dave Aranda standards. There have been a lot of injuries, but LSU has gotten healthy late in the year which has really helped the back seven. Linebacker K'Lavon Chaisson has been a beast, and in Derek Stingley and Kristian Fulton LSU has a corner tandem that many feel is the best in the country. LSU has been had on the deep ball more often than usual, so it's possible that Oklahoma takes some shots down the deep middle. Offensively, LSU is a mismatch for the Sooners defense. Blitzing will be high because OU doesn't have the athletes to hang with LSU's myriad weapons. Burrow may get hit, but won't get rattled, and has the rare distinction of being the nation's top rated passer with both a clean pocket AND with pressure. You don't see that very often. The Tigers will let it all hang out, so unless they turn the ball over a ton -- and considering there were five games without a turnover that could be wishful thinking on the part of the Sooners. Brady has taken LSU from its traditional 21 personnel to an RPO scheme, with more 10 and 11 personnel -- which he isn't afraid to run out of.

OKLAHOMA SOONERS
BOWL RECORD: 26-23-1
BOWL RECORD vs LSU: 1-1
RECORD vs LSU: 1-1
AP/BCS/CFP NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS:  7 (1950/1955/1956/1974/1975/1985/2000)
JEFF SAGARIN SOS: 18
RUSHING OFFENSE: 5.94 YPC (4TH)
PASSING OFFENSE: 11.09 YPA (3RD)
TOTAL OFFENSE: 7.94 YPP (1ST)
SCORING OFFENSE: 43.2 (6TH)
POINTS PER PLAY: 0.604 (5TH)
POINTS PER POSSESSION: 3.612 (4TH)
THIRD DOWN CONVERSIONS: 50.70 (5TH)
RED ZONE TD PERCENTAGE: 69.57 (28TH)
PLAYS OF 20+ YARDS: 104 (1ST)
TIMES SACKED PER ATTEMPT: 0.059 (T-61ST)
RUSHING DEFENSE: 4.10 YPC (T-54TH)
PASSING DEFENSE: 6.67 YPA (29TH)
TOTAL DEFENSE: 5.29 YPP (35TH)
SCORING DEFENSE: 24.5 (T-4TH)
POINTS ALLOWED PER PLAY: 0.408 (T-66TH)
POINTS ALLOWED PER POSSESSION:2.158 (55TH)
OPP THIRD DOWN CONVERSIONS: 30.12 (9TH)
OPP RED ZONE TD PERCENTAGE: 62.79 (T-79TH)
PLAYS OF 20+ YARDS ALLOWED: 62 (T-87TH)
SACKS PER ATTEMPT: 0.087 (T-17TH)
TURNOVER MARGIN: -7 (T-109TH)

WHAT TO WATCH FOR ON OFFENSE
Lincoln Riley has shown himself to be a master offense technician, tweaking his offense to his personnel. This year the Sooners have become a more physical, downhill rush team, led by QB Jalen Hurts. He lacks the arm talent of predecessors Baker Mayfield and Kyler Murray, so Riley decided to lean more on the ground game this season. Hurts and Kennedy Brooks have been an outstanding 1-2 punch, and both could get more work than usual with backup Rhamondre Stevenson serving a suspension. The best defense for the Sooners could be a ground-heavy attack, which controls the clock and keeps Burrow and crew on the sideline. LSU is likely to blitz more than usual, so the Sooners may be able to hit some big plays, especially on counters and draws. When OU has to go to the air, it will be CeeDee Lamb who answers the call. One of the the best all-around talents in the game, Lamb is a proficient route runner, has strong hands and is deadly in the open field. His battle with Stingley is one to watch. The Sooners have a cadre of receivers who will need to step up if Lamb is neutralized, and the top candidate is Charleston Rambo. Hurts has more experience in big situations than any quarterback in the playoffs, and he has shown himself to be cool under fire. If any player can carry a team on his back, it's Hurts. 
WHAT TO WATCH FOR ON DEFENSE
The Sooners may not be great yet on defense, but they have definitely improved over last year. Gone are the read and react looks, in favor of a more aggressive mindset. Alex Grinch definitely shook up the unit in his first season as coordinator, favoring a one-gap approach that has the defense shooting through gaps into the backfield. It's important to play assignment football in this scheme, and the Sooners have for the most part done that. Neville Gallimore has been a big-time run stuffer inside, and LB Kenneth Murray has been much more disciplined this year while still leading the team in tackles. Last year he roamed free, this year he was asked to play more assignment football -- which included some coverage responsibilities. The hope is that the defense creates enough negative plays to offset the occasional home run play it allows. LSU uses a lot of 10 and 11 personnel on offense, so don't be surprised if the Sooners employ dime personnel in obvious passing situations. That means Murray and Nick Bonitto could be asked to drop into coverage or maybe rush the passer. Two-high safeties will attempt to minimize damage on vertical routes. Parnell Motley has been excellent in coverage this season and may be asked to shadow Chase. But that still leaves Jefferson and Marshall as tough matchups, ones that Oklahoma probably won't win very often. 
OUTLOOK
The Sooners are the biggest underdog in the playoff field, so they really have nothing to lose. Expect OU to come out loose, unintimidated and ready to play. There should be a steady diet of Hurts and Brooks, and if the ground game works early it will help set up some downfield shots to Lamb and his mates. If Oklahoma gets into a situation where it has to pass to win, things won't be pretty. Getting Lamb in space -- on jet sweeps, tunnel screens and slants -- is imperative as he is the X-factor for Oklahoma, a player LSU must account for on every down. A plan that limits deep throws and forces LSU to execute consistently could keep Oklahoma in the contest, and if the teams go into the fourth quarter in a tight contest, are you going to bet against Jalen Hurts?

CFB Focus Bowl Preview -- Dec. 28

Lost amid all of the hoopla for the College Football Playoff is the fact that there are two other games being played today. They may not have the same kind of implications as the semifinals, but they do have big names attempting to gain one more win and head into the offseason on a high note.

One personal aside -- while I enjoy the drama of the CFP, it's still a little disappointing that Cotton Bowl isn't part of New Year's Day. Growing up, I always enjoyed knowing that we had the big four games -- Cotton, Rose, Sugar and Orange, and if I was ever made college football czar I would go back to putting them all on New Year's Day, provided they weren't hosting CFP semifinals that year.

CAMPING WORLD BOWL (12 pm, Orlando)
Notre Dame (10-2) vs Iowa State (7-5)
WHY TO WATCH: Can Notre Dame end finish on the plus side of .500 in bowl games this decade? A win here would do it. Iowa State is 21 points from being unbeaten and has to feel that it can hang with the Irish, especially since it lost by one to Iowa and Oklahoma and by two to Baylor. This is the first-ever meeting between the teams, but the Irish are 3-1 in bowl games vs current Big 12 members. The Cyclones don't only play tight games in the regular season, as five of their last seven bowl appearances have been decided by four points or less. The Irish will be led by quarterback Ian Book, who didn't put up a ton of yards but was excellent at valuing the football (only six interceptions). Notre Dame has a little more margin for error should its offense not fire as the defense is top 15 nationally and fourth in turnover margin. So the Irish have been good at limited opponents possessions. The Cyclones are solid on D, but have given up their share of big plays. Brock Purdy is a standout at quarterback but will be challenged by a Notre Dame defense that has allowed just 13 touchdowns and ranks fifth in opponent passer rating. That may mean more work for freshman running back Breece Hall.
BOWL RECORDS: Notre Dame 18-19, Iowa State 4-10 
BETTING NUMBERS: Notre Dame -3.5, Total 54.5

COTTON BOWL (12 pm, Dallas) 
Memphis (12-1) vs Penn State (10-2)
WHY TO WATCH: The country's best G5 program tries to take down a traditional power from the Big Ten, and both sides have a ton of speed and playmakers. So it has the potential to be a score-fest. Memphis is 0-3 in bowl games against Power 5 programs, but has lost its last two by a combined four points. The Tigers offense is top 10 nationally and features Kenneth Gainwell in the backfield and Antonio Gibson and Damontie Coxie out wide. All three are difference makers, as is quarterback Brady White, who tossed 33 TDs while stretching the field to the tune of 9.6 YPA. Gibson is also one of the most dangerous return men in America, and could give the Tigers a field position advantage. The Nittany Lions weren't nearly as explosive on offense this season as in previous years, but do have home run threats in RB Journey Brown and WR/RS KJ Hamler. If Penn State's offense is to have success QB Sean Clifford must throw better than he has this season (59.5 completion percentage). PSU's D has been nails most of the season, ranking in the top 10 in total and scoring defense, but has allowed 39 pass plays of 20+ yards. Penn State has dropped five of its last seven bowl games but is unbeaten in three Cotton Bowl appearances (2-0-1). The Nittany Lions were humiliated in their lone bowl showdown against a G5 team, losing 30-14 to Houston in the 2012 Ticket City Bowl. 
BOWL RECORDS: Memphis 4-7, Penn State 29-18-2 
BETTING NUMBERS: Penn State -7, Total 60.5

CFB Focus Bowl Preview -- Dec. 27

Today is a tasty appetizer to tomorrow's main course, and there are quite a few big names involved in action.

A couple of young teams building for next year -- North Carolina and USC -- have a chance to impress, while a pair of G5 teams look to end the season on a high note by upsetting a Power 5 foe.

MILITARY BOWL (12 p.m., Annapolis, Md.)
North Carolina (6-6) vs Temple (8-4)
WHY TO WATCH: There wasn't a ton of expectation for UNC in Mack Brown's return to Chapel Hill, so getting to a bowl game was a big time accomplishment -- especially with one of the youngest teams in college football. Freshman QB Sam Howell flashed big time potential and looks to be a nice building block for the Tar Heels. Temple was solid under first year coach Rod Carey, playing physical on defense and showing some explosiveness on offense. This could be one of the more entertaining non-NY6/CFP contests. 
BOWL RECORDS: North Carolina 14-19, Temple 3-5
BETTING NUMBERS: North Carolina -5, Total 53.5

PINSTRIPE BOWL (3:20 p.m., New York City)
Michigan State (6-6) vs Wake Forest (8-4)
WHY TO WATCH: Nothing says bowl season like Yankee Stadium, right? It will be interesting to see how many fans show up to this one as the East Coast is largely the domain of pro sports. Michigan State was a disappointment this season, and you have to wonder if the time has come for MSU to move on from Mark Dantonio. Wake Forest has a top notch offense, led by QB Jamie Newman and WR Sage Surratt, but will be challenged by a Spartans D that was a top 15 unit for much of the 2019 season. Sparty has never beaten a current ACC in a bowl game, and has scored fewer than 7 points in two of their last three postseason appearances, while Wake has won five of its last six bowl games, scoring 34 or more in its last three. 
BOWL RECORDS: Michigan State 12-16, Wake Forest 9-4
BETTING NUMBERS: Michigan State -3.5, Total 49.5

TEXAS BOWL (6:45 p.m., Houston)
Oklahoma State (8-4) vs Texas A&M (7-5)
WHY TO WATCH: This one could be a lot of fun as two potentially explosive offenses tangle in Texas. The Cowboys will go as far as RB Chuba Hubbard can carry them, and that could be far since he was one of the top rushers in all of college football. The Aggies showed flashes this season but could not beat the best teams on its schedule. A number of Aggies have decided to declare for the NFL, so desire could be a question mark. OSU has won its last three bowl games, scoring at least 30 points in all of them. The Aggies are 5-1 in bowl games against the Big 12, but have won just once in their last four trips to the postseason. 
BOWL RECORDS: Oklahoma State 19-10, Texas A&M 18-22
BETTING NUMBERS: Texas A&M -7, Total 53.5
  
HOLIDAY BOWL (8 p.m., San Diego)
USC (8-4) vs Iowa (9-3)
WHY TO WATCH: Always among the more fun contests, this Big Ten/Pac 12 showdown will match USC's wide open offense against Iowa's stifling defense. The Trojans will be looking to make a statement toward 2020 and should be ready to go, while the Hawkeyes have a veteran team that lacks explosiveness on offense but can shut down the best offenses with difference-makers at each level on defense. USC has played in this game twice in the last five seasons, beating Nebraska in 2014 and losing narrowly to Wisconsin the following year. Iowa is just 2-5 in its last seven bowl games, and has gone just 2-7 vs the Pac-12 in the postseason. Iowa is 2-0-1 in three previous Holiday Bowl appearances.
BOWL RECORDS: USC 34-18, Iowa 16-15-1
BETTING NUMBERS: Iowa -2, Total 52.5

CHEEZ-IT BOWL (10:15 p.m., Phoenix)
Air Force (10-2) vs Washington State (6-6)
WHY TO WATCH: Fascinating showdown between offenses that are as different as two can be. Air Force wants to hold the football and grind opponents down with its triple option -- run ably by Donnie Hammond -- and play opportunistic defense. Wazzu is coached by Mike Leach, which means Anthony Gordon will be throwing the football all night long. There should be a lot of points here as both teams were top 25 nationally in scoring. Air Force has won two of its last three bowl games but is just 1-4 vs the Pac 12 in the postseason. Wazzu has dropped three of its last five bowl games, including a loss to Mountain West member Colorado State in the 2013 New Mexico Bowl. 
BOWL RECORDS: Air Force 12-13-1, Washington State 8-7
BETTING NUMBERS: Air Force -3, Total 68.5

CFB Focus Bowl Preview -- Dec. 26

The day after Christmas means a few things -- returning those horrible gifts you received but didn't want in the first place, taking advantage of sales with the numerous gift cards you were given, and bowl games resuming.

This is kind of the calm before the storm, games that won't really attract a ton of national attention but may yet prove to be intriguing.

INDEPENDENCE BOWL (4 p.m., Shreveport, La.)
Miami Fla (6-6) vs Louisiana Tech (9-3) 
WHY TO WATCH: To see if Miami is the least bit interested. The Hurricanes have had a history of not playing well in lower-tier bowl games, winning just twice in their last 10 postseason appearances -- none of the marquee variety. The Canes lost this bowl game to South Carolina in 2014, and it wouldn't be a shock to see them go through the motions here as focus and desire have been inconsistent all season. Tech is 2-1-1 all-time in the Independence Bowl, and has won five straight bowl games. Miami has a top 15 defense, but it could be challenged by a Tech offense that's top 40 nationally, including 27th in scoring (34 ppg). The Hurricanes have scored more than 24 points just twice in their last seven games, and if they can't mount some kind of offensive attack it will be another postseason disappointment. Tech should play hard as it would love to add a big time pelt to its wall. 
BOWL RECORDS: Miami 19-21, Louisiana Tech 7-3-1
BETTING NUMBERS: Miami -6, Total 49.5

QUICK LANE BOWL (8 p.m., Detroit, Mich.)
Pittsburgh (7-5) vs Eastern Michigan (6-6)
WHY TO WATCH: Pitt's classic unis, the best in college football, for one. Strength on strength for another, as Eastern Michigan loves to air it out and Pitt is lethal against the pass. It's whether the Panthers can score or not that will determine the outcome. Pitt scored 20 points or fewer in eight games this season, and every possession seems like a struggle. Eastern's defense hasn't been great so the Panthers may have more opportunities this time, but an explosion seems unlikely. Eagles QB Mike Glass III is one of the more unheralded passers in America, accounting for 29 total touchdowns and showing off a big-time arm. He's completed 80 percent of his passes the last three contests and could pose a challenge for Pitt's talented secondary. Paris Ford, Damar Hamlin and Dane Jackson all have at least one interception and nine passes defended, so accomplishing things through the air won't be easy. Pitt has lost six of its last seven bowl games, but the one win was against the MAC (Bowling Green 2013). Eastern Michigan is playing its third bowl in four seasons after appearing in just two prior to 2016, but has won just once, the 1987 California Bowl over San Jose State.
BOWL RECORDS: Pittsburgh 13-21, Eastern Michigan 1-2
BETTING NUMBERS: Pittsburgh -11, Total 49

CFB Focus Bowl Preview -- Dec. 24

Christmas is almost upon us, which means a temporary break from bowl games. But before everyone opens their gifts and starts thinking about how quickly they can return things, there's one more game to put you in the holiday spirit.

Hawaii plays a de facto home game against BYU in the Hawaii Bowl, so enjoy the coconut trees and the numerous shots of the ocean, Don Ho and volcanoes. The announcers will do their best to make you feel bad that you're having terrible weather while they are calling the game in shorts and Hawaiian shirts.

HAWAII BOWL (8 pm, Honolulu, HI)
Hawaii (9-5) vs. Brigham Young (7-5)
WHY TO WATCH: Duh -- it's Hawaii on Christmas Eve. There will be numerous shots of coconuts, palm trees and the ocean, which should help you relax after a big afternoon of wrapping presents. The football is almost secondary, though it should be a good show from two teams who love to throw it all over the place. BYU is better and stingier on defense, but Hawaii provides a challenge to everyone it faces -- provided it gets the good version of Cole McDonald at quarterback.
BOWL RECORDS: Hawaii 6-6, BYU 15-20-1
BETTING NUMBERS: BYU -2, Total 64 

CFB Focus Bowl Preview -- Dec. 23

Just one game today, as the powers that be realize that people spend more time on last minute shopping and wrapping presents than they do watching a bowl game this close to Christmas. They are more likely to be checking out "Elf" for the 95th time.

Still, this game has a few interesting storylines.

GASPARILLA BOWL (2:30 pm, Tampa, Fla.)
UCF (9-3) vs. Marshall (8-4)
WHY TO WATCH: To see if the Herd can continue its amazing postseason success. Marshall has won a dozen bowl games in 14 trips, but playing UCF in the Sunshine State will be a daunting task. UCF is always entertaining, though it hasn't been quite as physical this year as in past seasons. Tune in just to see the Gabriels -- QB Dillon Gabriel and WR Gabriel Davis -- put on a show. But don't sleep on Marshall RB Brenden Knox, as he could prove to be a sneaky game changer.
BOWL RECORDS:  UCF 4-6, Marshall 12-2 
BETTING NUMBERS: UCF -17.5, Total 61.5

CFB Focus Bowl Preview -- Dec. 21

Want to win a bowl trivia contest? Ask people which date has the most bowl games. They'll probably answer New Years Day, which is fairly logical. But they would be wrong. It's today, Dec. 21st -- seven bowl games on tap, all of varying important and fun.

There's an FCS tilt to lead it off, which means a great band show, a tasty P5 v G5 in Sin City and a host of G5 teams facing off for conference pride.

Here is rundown of all of today's games. Try to keep up.

CELEBRATION BOWL (12 pm, Atlanta)
Alcorn State (9-3) vs. North Carolina A&T (8-3)
WHY TO WATCH: It's the first game of a huge day of bowls, and the halftime show will be the best of any game on this year's slate. Oh, the game should be pretty competitive if you want to watch for that reason. Two very good defensive teams (both top 20 FCS in scoring D) will do battle, and the one who can make a big play here and there will win.
BETTING NUMBERS: North Carolina A&T -3, Total 51.5

NEW MEXICO BOWL (2:20 pm, Albuquerque)
San Diego State (9-3) vs Central Michigan (8-5)
WHY TO WATCH: Stellar defense vs big play offense. There's also the matter of motivation -- the Aztecs KNOW they can't play offense, and were pretty much an afterthought in the MWC despite having a veteran team. CMU made the league title game in year one under Jim McElwain and feels it still has something to prove. America will get a chance to see Aztecs defenders Kyahva Tezino and Luq Barcoo, and Chippewas RB Jonathan Ward.
BOWL RECORDS: San Diego State 5-9, Central Michigan 3-8
BETTING NUMBERS: San Diego State -3.5, Total 41

CURE BOWL (2:30 pm, Orlando)
Georgia Southern (7-5) vs Liberty (7-5)
WHY TO WATCH: Who among us doesn't love disparate offenses on display? The Eagles live by the triple option while Liberty loves to fling it all over the place. Fans who like downfield passing should love the matchup of Flames WR Antonio Gandy-Golden going against Eagles DBs Kindle Vildor and Monquavion Brinson, each of whom has an an NFL future. There's also that Hugh Freeze guy patrolling the Liberty sideline, and taking the Flames to a bowl game in year one of his image makeover.
BOWL RECORDS: Georgia Southern 2-0, Liberty first bowl appearance
BETTING NUMBERS: Georgia Southern -5, Total 58.5

BOCA RATON BOWL (3:30 pm, Boca Raton, FL)
SMU (10-2) vs FAU (10-3)
WHY TO WATCH: There should be plenty of points, which is reason enough to tune in. This would be must-watch TV if Lane Kiffin was still at FAU, but he has moved on to Ole Miss so the drama factor will be almost nil. Both teams sport high-powered offenses, so it could be as simple as the last one who has the ball, wins.
BOWL RECORDS: SMU 7-8-1, FAU 3-0
BETTING NUMBERS: SMU -3, Total 71

CAMELLIA BOWL (5:30 pm, Montgomery, AL)
FIU (6-6) vs Arkansas State (7-5)
WHY TO WATCH: Butch Davis is always entertaining, and the Red Wolves have receiver Omar Bayless, who does a little bit of everything despite the fact the opposition knows he's getting his.
BOWL RECORDS: FIU 2-2, Arkansas State 3-6
BETTING NUMBERS: Arkansas State -2.5, Total 63

LAS VEGAS BOWL (7:30 pm, Las Vegas)
Washington (7-5) vs Boise State (12-1)
WHY TO WATCH: The final game as coach for Chris Petersen, and it's safe to assume his Huskies will want to send him out on a high note against the program he helped elevate. UW had a disappointing campaign and will want to build for next season. Boise State is the G5 that keeps on chugging, and has the electric John Hightower on offense. Look for Bryan Harsin to find multiple ways to get him the football. Also, Vegas, baby!
BOWL RECORDS: Washington 17-20-1, Boise State 12-6
BETTING NUMBERS: Washington -3.5, Total 50

NEW ORLEANS BOWL (9 pm, the Crescent City)
Appalachian State (12-1) vs UAB (9-4)
WHY TO WATCH: How will the Mountaineers react to Eli Drinkwitz being a one and done coach? He took over at Missouri, which means OL coach Shawn Clark will do the heavy lifting for this one and the foreseeable future, as he got the gig permanently. The Blazers may not be pretty on offense, but man can they play some D?! Bill Clark is the next G5 coaching name to watch as someone needs to take a chance on the guy. App State's offense was one of the best in America all season, and has a lot of big play weapons. The chess match between coaches should be fun.
BOWL RECORDS: App State 4-0, UAB 1-2
BETTING NUMBERS: App State -16, Total 48

CFB Focus Bowl Preview -- Dec. 20

The holiday season brings gifts, and few things are as much fun to unwrap as college bowl games.

Yeah, there are too many of them, a majority are poorly attended and there isn't always the highest level of urgency from the combatants. But many of them turn out to be a lot of fun, and they are an opportunity for players to experience the postseason and for coaches to see their troops for another 15 practices. They can sometimes serve as a jumping off point for the next season, especially with very young teams.

The early part of the bowl schedule doesn't have a lot of meat, but have at least something to check out.

BAHAMAS BOWL (2 pm, Nassau, Bahamas)
Buffalo (7-5) vs Charlotte (7-5)
WHY TO WATCH: It's the first bowl game of the season, which is reason enough. Seeing the sun and sand in the Bahamas will be great escapism, especially for those of us stuck in colder climates. Both teams average over 31 ppg and like to lean on the ground game, but the Bulls have a big edge in defense, which could ultimately tip the scales in their favor. Charlotte DE Alex Highsmith is one of the best yet unheralded game wreckers, getting to the quarterback with stunning regularity. Buffalo's 1-2 ground game punch of Jarret Patterson and Kevin Marks will attempt to keep him honest.
BOWL RECORDS: Buffalo 0-3, Charlotte first appearance 
BETTING NUMBERS: Buffalo -6.5, Total 55.5

FRISCO BOWL (7:30 pm, Frisco, Texas)
Utah State (7-5) vs. Kent State (6-6)
WHY TO WATCH: Utah State will look toward 2020 without LB David Woodward,  its best defensive player, but will have QB Jordan Love playing his final game as he has declared for the NFL. Kent State is in its first bowl game since 2012, when it went 11-3 under Darrell Hazell.Utah State has a talent edge, but the Flashes should be sky high and ready for battle considering that none of these players has tasted real success or the postseason. Kent coach Sean Lewis is the youngest FBS coach in America, at just 33 years old.
BOWL RECORDS: Utah State 5-7, Kent State 0-3
BETTING NUMBERS: Utah State -7, Total 67

College Football Whiparound Week 14

Ohio State ventures to the Big House for a high stakes showdown with rival Michigan on Saturday (Tim Fuller/USAToday)

While Thanksgiving itself is great, the days that follow are even better -- and not just because you can get a TV for $300 or gorge on leftovers all weekend. No, it's because there is a copious amount of football, including games on Friday that will make people put down their Black Friday lists and pay attention.

The weekend is highlighted by the top rivalry in all of college football -- Ohio State-Michigan -- as well as other great traditional games. There's the Iron Bowl, Bedlam, Apple Cup, Palmetto Bowl ... all kinds of intriguing contests. Some are for bragging rights only, but many will have a hand in shaping the playoff picture and the New Years Day bowl landscape.

Enjoy the games, and save me a piece of pumpkin pie.

SPOTLIGHT GAME
(1) Ohio State at (13) Michigan: The similarities to 1969 are eerie -- an Ohio State team ranked No. 1, a team that has cruised all season and looked unstoppable ventures to Ann Arbor to face a UM squad that's an afterthought in the league race. Buckeyes fans remember what happened in 1969, as first-year coach Bo Schembechler sprung one of the greatest upsets in the series history, winning 24-12 and denying Ohio State its second straight national title. Flash forward to 2019, and OSU is sitting at the top of the mountain, ready to take on a Wolverines team that has been inconsistent but which has also played its best football of the season the last month or so. Don Brown's defense has finally found itself, and if the offense can generate any kind of running attack the home team can win the game. Since 2000, the team that has won the rushing battle has won the game. Both teams are top 15 in rushing D, but the Buckeyes are fourth in rushing offense while Michigan is 76th. 
RANKED AND FILE
(5) Alabama at (15) Auburn: This latest Iron Bowl has some interesting storylines -- can Mac Jones stand up to a really good Auburn defense? Can the Crimson Tide win impressively enough to make a statement to the CFP committee? Can Auburn actually beat a very good SEC team? The Tigers lost by three to LSU and by a touchdown to Georgia, and even an 11-point loss to Florida was close until the final minutes. So if Derrick Brown and the Auburn D can keep it close, maybe Bo Nix can make a play in the closing moments that gives Auburn a win for the third time in the last four times at home against the Tide. 
(12) Wisconsin at (8) Minnesota: The most played rivalry in FBS -- this is the 129th meeting -- gets a rare moment in the spotlight as the winner wins the Big Ten West and clinches a berth in the league championship game. The series is as close as one can get -- 60-60-8 -- but the Gophers haven't won at home since 2003, and have won just once overall in that span (last year's 37-15 blowout in Madison). Tanner Morgan and his standout receiving crew will try to get the jump on Jonathan Taylor and the Badgers muscle, and fans may for once be treated to a close game. Not since 2009's 31-28 Badgers win has this game been decided by less than 10 points.
(7) Oklahoma at (21) Oklahoma State: The Sooners have had the upper hand lately, winning four straight and 14 of the last 16 contests, including seven of the last eight in Stillwater. This is usually an explosive affair, as the winner has scored more than 35 points five years in a row. The Cowboys are at a disadvantage without freshman quarterback Spencer Sanders, who went out for the season a couple of weeks ago with injury, but Oklahoma hasn't exactly been playing inspiring football the last month. The Sooners lost to Kansas State, then beat Iowa State, Baylor and TCU by a combined eight points, and have already clinched a spot in the Big 12 title game. 
(19) Cincinnati at (18) Memphis (Friday): The Group of Five automatic berth to the New Years Six will likely be decided here, and this could be a preview of the American title game if form holds. Memphis has won three straight over the Bearcats, but Cincinnati has taken three of the last five in the series as the visitor. Both teams have horses in the backfield -- Michael Warren for Cincinnati, Kenneth Gainwell for Memphis -- but the Tigers ability to throw the ball, as well as its elite special teams, could tip the scales to their favor. Cincinnati has been a good road team this season, going 4-1, the lone loss coming at Ohio State, while Memphis can count Ole Miss, Navy and SMU among the foes it has vanquished at home.
OTHER RANKED GAMES
Texas A&M at (2) LSU: Who among us will ever forget last year's classic seven-OT thriller, won 74-72 by the Aggies? This year is a different story, as A&M has struggled to gain footing while LSU has blitzed nearly every opposing defense it has faced. TAMU is facing a No. 1 team for the third time this season, which sets a record -- unfortunately the result of the first two is probably the same as this one is going to be. 
(3) Clemson at South Carolina: The Palmetto Bowl is the final step for Clemson in its quest to finish with an unblemished regular season, while the Gamecocks would love nothing more than to upset the Tigers dreams, much as they did Georgia's. Clemson has won five in a row, and just once in that span (2015) was the game within a touchdown. 
(4) Georgia at Georgia Tech: Another edition of Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate, in which Tech hasn't won at home since 1999, and only four times overall in that span. The Bulldogs stifling defense will look to shut down a Tech offense that has been inconsistent and turnover plagued (19 lost). Georgia is aiming for a berth in the College Football Playoff and knows it will need to win the SEC title game to get in, but that will be a moot point if it can't knock off the Yellow Jackets.
Colorado at (6) Utah: The Utes may not have any signature victories, but they have been demolishing foes the way a superior team should, and are giving the CFP committee something to really think about. Quarterback Tyler Huntley and running back Zack Moss are two of the best at their position in FBS and should be able to keep the Buffs D back on its heels, and the Utes defense has NFL talent at every level and should prove to be as ornery as usual. Win here and it's on to the Pac-12 title game against Oregon, a chance for Utah to make a true statement.
(9) Baylor at Kansas: Baylor has won eight in a row over the Jayhawks, and four straight in Lawrence. With an outside shot at a CFP still in play, it's a good bet the Bears won't overlook Kansas, which has been all right on offense but horrendous on defense (101st nationally). Running back Pooka Williams has been at his best against the best teams, going for over 100 yards against Iowa State, Oklahoma and Texas. He will be the Jayhawks best hope of breaking off explosive plays. Charlie Brewer doesn't get a ton of pub for Baylor, but has been one of the better passers in FBS (19 TDs, nearly 67 percent completions). Denzel Mims has been a scoring machine at receiver (11 TDs) and could cause major problems for a Kansas defense that has allowed 21 scores through the air.
Rutgers at (10) Penn State: The less said about this one the better. The Nittany Lions are coming off a road loss at Ohio State, a game where they played opportunistic football but couldn't move the ball consistently. That will change against a Scarlet Knights team that's among the worst in America. While championships are out of the question, double digit wins are still in play for Penn State. 
Florida State at (11) Florida: Some call this the Sunshine Showdown, but most will call it a mismatch as the Gators aim for a 10th victory while the Seminoles merely aim for respectability. Florida State has won four in a row in Gainesville, which brings hope to an otherwise forgettable season -- one that saw second year head coach Willie Taggart jettisoned. Dan Mullen has the Gators set up for the long haul, and they should vie for the SEC East crown for the foreseeable future, and this game would be a great state bookend to the season-opening victory over Miami. Florida State is already bowl eligible but should put a ton of effort into this one, as many players would love interim coach Odell Haggins to retain the job. 
Oregon State at (14) Oregon: This could be an especially spirited edition of the Civil War, as much is on the line for both teams. For the Beavers, a win means bowl eligibility, while the Ducks could still be in line for a Rose Bowl berth. OSU has won only once since 2007, and most of the games haven't been competitive. Jake Luton and a gifted bunch of Oregon State receivers will go up against one of the best secondaries in the nation, led by Jevon Holland. 
(16) Notre Dame at Stanford: The Irish have played some of their best football since losing big at Michigan, and on paper this would appear to be an easy game. But Stanford has won five in a row against ND at home, and could provide a stiffer than expected challenge to the visitors. If it's going to happen Stanford will need to score more than the 18 points it's averaged in the last three contests -- all losses. Davis Mills has shown a live arm but has a tendency to take chances, and against a Notre Dame defense that ranks top 20 nationally and is tied for third in takeaways, that could be a recipe for disaster. 
(17) Iowa at Nebraska (Friday): The Hawkeyes have won four straight in the series and have taken the last three in Lincoln, but are just 2-2 on the road in 2019, averaging just over 15 points per game away from Kinnick Stadium. Nebraska ended a four game losing skid with a big win over Maryland last weekend, and should be jacked for a game that could provide bowl eligibility. Dedrick Mills has averaged nearly 8 yards per carry the last two games and will be a big part of any Cornhuskers success.
(20) Boise State at Colorado State (Friday): The Broncos are down to their third string quarterback, but have yet to truly miss a beat. Boise has wrapped up the Mountain West Mountain division but are still in contention for the Group of Five automatic NY6 bid. Colorado State has lost all eight meetings, only two of which have been by a single score. There has been talk of Mike Bobo losing his job as head coach, so you have to wonder what the mindset will be for the Rams. Wideout Warren Jackson has been one of the few bright spots in Fort Collins, scoring seven TDs and amassing over 1,000 yards. 
(23) Iowa State at Kansas State: The Cyclones haven't won in Manhattan since 2004, and have lost 10 of the last 11 in the series. Brock Purdy and Breece Hall have been the offensive stars in the last month for ISU, so if Kansas State can't stop them it will be a long day at the office. KSU is third in the country in opponents third down percentage, not by doing anything fancy but by staying sound in its responsibilities. The Wildcats are a good tackling team, so Iowa State will need to hit some downfield stuff if it wants to win back-to-back contests against KSU for the first time since 2004-05. 
(24) Virginia Tech at Virginia (Friday): Cavaliers fans have to wonder if their side is ever again hold the Commonwealth Cup -- losing 15 straight in a series will do that. There have been a handful of close calls (five games decided by four points or fewer), but the Hokies are now inside UVA's head. It doesn't hurt that Tech has won six of its last seven, and the only loss was a 21-20 setback against Notre Dame. Virginia's pedestrian offense will need to find some big plays against a solid Tech D if it wants to end the long string of misery.
(25) Appalachian State at Troy (Friday): The Mountaineers would love to close out the season with 11 victories in Eli Drinkwitz's first season as head coach, and with Troy being just average at stopping the run that 11th win could be well within reach. Zac Thomas has run the offense with precision and Darrynton Evans has been an under the radar star in the backfield. Troy is playing for bowl eligibility but has dropped three of its last five home finales. If Kaleb Barker can't put some pressure on App State throwing the ball the Trojans have no shot to win
TAKE FIVE (Games Featuring Unranked Teams)
Washington State at Washington (Friday): The mortal enemies vie once again for the Apple Cup, with the winner feeling a little bit better despite a disappointing season. The Cougars weren't expected to be players in the Pac-12 championship race, so a seventh win would be looked at as success. The Huskies were thought to be the league's best shot at a playoff berth, but has limped to a 6-5 mark -- so a win here would salve a lot of hurt. Washington has won six in a row, and hasn't lost in Seattle since 2007. 
Georgia State at Georgia Southern: What is it with Georgians and their love of hate? UGA and Tech have Clean Old Fashioned Hate, and this one has been dubbed Modern Day Hate -- and it's only been played five times! Can't we all just get along? The Panthers have won both meetings in Statesboro, so you can bet that the Eagles want to change that trend. Georgia Southern. Both teams are among the top 11 nationally in rushing, but the Eagles have been much better at stopping the run. So Panthers quarterback Dan Ellington may need to hit a couple of shots through the air.
Indiana at Purdue: Another edition of the Old Oaken Bucket, which has been dominated by Purdue since 2000. The Boilermakers have won 12 of the 18 meetings this century, and seven of the last nine in West Lafayette. The Hoosiers have won seven games for the first time since 2007 and would love nothing more than to cap off the year with a win over their hated rival. Purdue is just .500 at home this season and has been maddeningly inconsistent, as well as ravaged by injuries -- including a nearly season-long one to electric receiver Rondale Moore. Purdue did find another threat in freshman wideout David Bell, whose matchup with freshman corner Tiawan Mullen should be a real doozy. 
Middle Tennessee at Western Kentucky: Yet another hate game -- 100 Miles of Hate in this case -- and this one has been one of the more dramatic rivalries in recent years. Six of the last eight have been decided by a single score, including victories of 1, 3 and 5 points in Bowling Green since 2010. WKU is coming off of consecutive road wins over Arkansas and Southern Miss, while MTSU has dropped two of its last three contests. This is a chance for America to see two underrated stars, Middle Tennessee QB Asher O'Hara (914 yards rushing, 2315 passing, 63.6 completion pct) and WKU pass rush terror DeAngelo Malone (10.5 sacks, 20 TFL, 15 QBH).
USF at UCF: The War on I-4 has been won the last two years by the Knights, but the Bulls won in Orlando as recently at 2015. UCF is unbeaten at  home this season and has scored at least 41 points in all five contests and welcomes in a USF squad that has dropped three straight and four of its last five games. USF averages just 22 points per game in 2019, and that's not nearly enough to hang with the high-octane Knights. Dillon Gabriel hasn't always been on point with his accuracy, but he's shown great proficiency at the deep ball and isn't afraid to take shots down the field. 

College Football Whiparound Week 13

JT Barrett throws a pass in Ohio State's thrilling 39-38 victory over Penn State in 2017, the last time the teams hooked up in Columbus (Joe Maiorana/USAToday)

SPOTLIGHT GAME
(8) Penn State at (2) Ohio State: Supremacy in the Big Ten East is on the line, as is a potential spot in the College Football Playoff. Penn State started the season like a house afire, but it's gotten tougher of late with three of the last four games decided by a touchdown or less. Included is the lone loss of the season, on the road against Minnesota, a game in which the Nittany Lions secondary was exposed. Penn State is top-notch defensively, led by linebacker Micah Parsons, and will have to be if it is to slow down the Buckeyes juggernaut. OSU leads the nation in scoring margin (over 40 points per game) and is top five in both offense and defense. Justin Fields and crew will have to work a bit harder for points against Penn State, but the real challenge for the Nittany Lions will come on offense. OSU has a lethal pass rush -- which gets Chase Young back -- and corners who can lock down receivers, so it may be up to emerging tight end Pat Freiermuth to make some big plays. If he is kept under control then it's likely going to be a long day for the visitors, who may have trouble scoring. OSU has won six of the last seven, including the last three at home. The last three contests have been decided by five total points, and twice in the last three games the number two team has gone down to defeat.
RANKED AND FILE
Arkansas at (1) LSU: A longstanding rivalry game, this one is played for the Golden Boot -- and it's the Tigers who will do most of the kicking. The Razorbacks fired coach Chad Morris so it's hard to know what we'll get on Saturday. We do know that it won't be good enough to knock off LSU, which is on a collision course with Georgia for the SEC Championship. Joe Burrow has the Heisman tucked safely in his back pocket, so the object here is to get out of the game without an injury, and maybe to give confidence to a defense that has been very little like LSU editions of the recent past. Arkansas running back Rakeem Boyd has eclipsed 1,000 yards on the season and is one of the few bright spots for the Hogs. 
Texas A&M at (4) Georgia: At least the Bulldogs aren't scheduling a big check this weekend. The Aggies haven't been great this year, but have shown flashes of brilliance at times. There isn't enough firepower on offense to light up the scoreboard, especially against a Georgia D that's one of the best in the nation. Auburn's rushing touchdown last weekend was the first allowed this season by Georgia, and the Dawgs would love nothing better than to get up by a couple of touchdowns and smother the Aggies with their opportunistic, speed-laden stop unit.
Western Carolina at (5) Alabama: The Crimson Tide suffered a huge blow to their postseason hopes last weekend when Tua Tagovailoa suffered a season-ending hip injury against Mississippi State, so now Mac Jones takes over. He's been effective in spot play this season, but it really doesn't matter who is under center -- or in the backfield, or at receiver, or on defense -- because Alabama is playing FCS Western Carolina. In late November. Before the Iron Bowl. 
(6) Oregon at Arizona State: Recent games have been barnburners, with Oregon taking a pair of two point victories and a six point overtime win since 2015. The Ducks know that if they win out they are likely in the College Football Playoff, and they are unbeaten in true road games this season. If not for the last second loss in the opener against Auburn Oregon would be even more highly thought of. Justin Herbert has gone 11-2 TD-INT in the last four games, completing over 70 percent of his passes. After a fast start ASU has dropped four in a row, including the last two by a total of six points. The Sun Devils are still looking to become bowl eligible so should be ready to go. The question is whether they can stop Herbert and Oregon's air attack -- ASU has allowed 19 touchdown passes and picked off just four in 2019. 
(7) Utah at Arizona: The Wildcats have been respectable over the years against Utah but have dropped the last three by an average of 17 ppg. The Utes are still very much in the running for a berth in the College Football Playoff, which means a top effort here. Arizona is 111th in total defense, good news for a Utah team that ranks in the top 10 on offense (and defense). The Utes have held four of their last five foes to seven points or less, and could do the same to a less-than-potent UA attack.
TCU at (9) Oklahoma: The Horned Frogs have been known over the years for a swarming defense, but it hasn't impacted the Sooners much at all. Oklahoma has scored at least 30 points in each of the last five matchups, and has lost just once to TCU as Big 12 foes. You can bet the Sooners will want to jump out early after nearly falling against Baylor last week, and having Ceedee Lamb back at receiver will go a long way in making that happen. A win clinches a spot in the Big 12 title game for Oklahoma.
(10) Minnesota at Northwestern: The Gophers need to pick themselves up off the canvas and get back to their winning ways, and couldn't have picked a better foe than the offensively-challenged Wildcats. Northwestern has scored 10 points or fewer in six games this year, and have been near the bottom of most offensive stats all season. Minnesota could be without quarterback Tanner Morgan, who is in concussion protocol after taking a hit late in last weekend's Iowa game, but should have enough to nab a road victory. The Gophers need to win out to clinch a berth in the Big Ten title game. 
Purdue at (12) Wisconsin: The Boilers have won three of their last five games -- against the league's lesser lights -- but are 0-3 against ranked foes this season. Purdue has been pretty bad stopping the run this season, which means Jonathan Taylor should have little trouble gaining the 20 yards he needs to pass Herschel Walker for the most yards amassed through a junior season. Wisconsin still has a path to the Big Ten West crown -- win out and it's theirs as next weekend's finale is against Minnesota.
(13) Michigan at Indiana: The Hoosiers are having one of the best seasons in recent memory, winning seven games for the first time since 2007, and continue their quest for respect by hosting resurgent Michigan. Each of the last four meetings have been decided by 11 points or less, all going to the Wolverines. Indiana is 5-1 at home and has only one truly bad loss this season (51-10 to Ohio State in September). Indiana hasn't beaten a ranked opponent since 2016 and will have its hands full against a Michigan team that has scored at least 38 points in four of its last five contests. The defense has finally gotten back to Michigan standards, though you have to wonder whether there will be a little look ahead to next weekend's rivalry game with Ohio State.
Texas at (14) Baylor: As great as their story was, the Bears always seemed like they were living on borrowed time. Six of their nine wins were by one score, and three were by three points or fewer. Now we'll see if they can rebound from the gut punch of blowing a 25-point lead and losing to Oklahoma, and it won't be easy vs a Longhorns team against which they've lost four in a row. Texas has been something of a disappointment, alternating losses and wins dating back to the Oklahoma game. Whoever plays better between Sam Ehlinger and Charlie Brewer, their team most likely comes away with the victory. 
Samford at (15) Auburn: Coming off a hard-fought loss to Georgia, the Tigers should get healthy against FCS Samford. It's late November. Before the Iron Bowl. But still, it just means more, right? 
Boston College at (16) Notre Dame: The Irish have really put things together after the road beatdown against Michigan, averaging over 33 points per contest and limiting foes to just 13. Chase Claypool has burst onto the national scene at receiver, catching 20 passes with five TDs in the last three games. BC is 123rd in pass defense, which means he could have another big day. If the Eagles have any hope of slowing the Irish down it will be on the legs of AJ Dillon. The junior has seven 100-yard games this season and has been a workhorse for BC, averaging 27 carries per contest. BC has lost six straight in the series, though ND squeaked out a 16-14 win the last time the teams met in South Bend.
Illinois at (17) Iowa: The Hawkeyes ended Minnesota's unbeaten season last weekend, so could be a tad complacent against an Illini team that has been the second biggest surprise of the Big 10. Lovie Smith seems to be perpetually on the hot seat but has guided Illinois to six wins, including three road victories. Brandon Peters hasn't been terribly accurate under center, but has valued the football, which is big against an Iowa squad that has picked off a pass in four straight contests. Iowa has won five straight in the series and is 15 points from being unbeaten. You can bet Kirk Ferentz wants a strong finish as the Hawkeyes still have a mathematical shot at taking the West Division crown. 
(18) Memphis at USF: Memphis would love to be a road warrior and come out of this one victorious, as it would keep the Tigers in the driver's seat for the G5 New Year's Six bid. The host has lost five of the last meetings, and Memphis has scored 42 or more points in four straight games. USF's defense has allowed 20 or less in three straight, but it's worth wondering whether the Bulls offense can generate enough points to steal this one. 
Temple at (19) Cincinnati: The Owls have been very streaky this season, never winning more than three nor losing more than two straight. Temple has beaten Cincinnati four straight times, scoring more than 30 points in three of the meetings. Cincinnati has been excellent at home this season, winning by an average of 18 points per contest, and will definitely be focused for this one as next week is a huge showdown with Memphis. The Bearcats eight game winning streak is fifth best in FBS, and they've won 12 in a row at Nippert Stadium. 
(20) Boise State at Utah State: The Broncos have won 13 of the last 14 meetings, though the loss was in Logan in 2015, by a 52-26 count. A Boise State victory puts the Broncos into the Mountain West title game, while a Utah State upset jumbles things at the top of the Mountain Division. Utah State has rebounded from consecutive losses to win two in a row, but the defense, which was expected to be a strong point, has been far too inconsistent. It's a good bet that senior QB Jaylon Henderson gets the start for Boise State after tossing three touchdowns in last week's 42-9 win over New Mexico. 
(21) Oklahoma State at West Virginia: The Mountaineers are fresh off an upset of Kansas State, and could do the same to the Cowboys with word that Spencer Sanders is out for the final games due to a hand injury. That would leave signal-calling duties to senior Dru Brown, who has been solid in limited action but isn't the running threat Sanders is. Since taking over at quarterback for WVU, Jarret Doege has thrown four touchdowns and zero picks and hasn't been afraid to take shots down the field. WVU has lost four in a row in the series. 
Kansas at (22) Iowa State: The Cyclones haven't allowed a touchdown to Kansas in 10 quarters, and have won eight of the last nine. Kansas has allowed 31 or more points in six straight games, which means that maybe Les Miles isn't quite as genius at defense as some believe. Iowa State is 11 points from being unbeaten, and six games have been within one score at the end. Brock Purdy has really stepped up his play in recent weeks, tossing multiple touchdowns in three of ISU's last four games. Purdy has been able to do his thing because freshman running back Breece Hall has finally taken off. Hall has four 100-yard games in the last five contests, scoring all seven of his touchdowns in that span.
UCLA at (23) USC: The battle for the Victory Bowl, the Crosstown Showdown, whatever you want to call it -- it's a celebration of two teams with the best uniform schemes in college football. Both get to wear their home duds, and it is beyond grand. Even if the game stinks -- and this one could -- it's lovely to look at. The Trojans are playing for an eighth victory, something that seemed impossible midway through the season and something that could save Clay Helton's job. The Bruins had won three straight before being blasted by Utah, and still have a shot at bowl eligibility with a win here and next weekend against Cal. The home team has won six of the last eight, and USC has taken 15 of the last 20 meetings. 
Texas State at (24) Appalachian State: You have to think that the Mountaineers are still wondering what happened on Halloween night at home against Georgia Southern -- the only blemish on the App State ledger. Since then ASU has reeled off road wins against South Carolina and Georgia State, and appears once again to be the team many forecast to nab the New Year's Six bid. Texas State has never beaten App State in three meetings as Sun Belt foes, losing by an average of 21 ppg, and averages just 18.7 ppg this season -- though it has managed 57 points in its last two games. An App State win coupled with a Georgia Southern loss clinches the East Division crown.
(25) SMU at Navy: A crucial battle to remain in first place in the AAC West, between two teams that couldn't be more different. The Mustangs play fast, spread you out and love big plays, while the Middies want to control the clock, grind it out and frustrate the hell out your defense. Navy has won eight of the last nine, and the last two meetings have been decided by a total of four points. 
TAKE FIVE (Games Featuring Unranked Teams)
Louisiana Tech at UAB: Legion Field is where visiting teams go to die, as the Blazers have won 17 in a row at home, and have won the last two contests against the Bulldogs. Louisiana Tech is top 35 nationally in Yards Per Play while the Blazers are sixth in that category defensively. La Tech is tied for first in the CUSA West with Southern Miss, and UAB is just a game behind. So there is a lot on the line.
Pittsburgh at Virginia Tech: Both teams are still very much in the Coastal Division race, which means the winner will have a leg up on being Clemson's sacrificial lamb. The Panthers have won six of their last seven, including three straight away, though they haven't done it easily -- the average margin of victory in the wins is just over five points. The Hokies have become an offensive machine, scoring 34 or more in five of their last six contests. After tabbing dynamic but inconsistent freshmen Quincy Patterson for a few games, Tech went back to Hendon Hooker to run the show, and he's responded with a 67 percent completion average and 11.4 YPA in the last two games. The home team has taken six of the last eight, and seven of the last 11 tilts have been decided by seven points or less. 
Tennessee at Missouri: Don't look now, but a win here makes the Vols bowl eligible. Tennessee has made great strides in year two under Jeremy Pruitt, and sit in third place in the SEC East. Tennessee has won its last three games in impressive fashion, and with Missouri foundering on a four-game losing skid and still unsure whether it is eligible for the postseason, another upset isn't out of the question. Missouri is 5-1 the last six years in home finales, and has pounded Tennessee on the ground in the last three meetings, rushing for 1,080 yards.
Oregon State at Washington State: Bowl eligibility awaits the winner, and the Beavers have been won their last three away from home and have shown real signs of improvement in year two under Jonathan Smith. OSU has averaged 45 points per game in its three road wins, while Wazzu has dropped four of its last six. Washington State has won five straight in the series and knows a win here is vital, with the Apple Cup up next. OSU quarterback Jake Luton has tossed 23 touchdowns and just two picks, while Anthony Gordon leads all of FBS with 39 TD strikes. 
San Diego State at Hawaii: This one is defense vs offense, and may the best unit win. The Aztecs rank 10th in yards per play allowed while the Rainbow Warriors are 11th in yards per play. San Diego State has won five of its last 8 road finales, and has won comfortably in its last two trips to the big island. The winner has the inside track to the Mountain West title game, so this one is worth staying up for.

College Football Whiparound Week 10

Florida faces Georgia in Jacksonville on Saturday, with first place in the  SEC East at stake (AP/John Raoux)

This will be the final week this season where the majority of the card is crappy. Yes, we do get to enjoy the World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party, and a tasty AAC showdown featuring SMU and Memphis. But otherwise, this is a week to check those final items off your Honey-Do list. It doesn't help that the nation's top three teams are all idle this weekend, a stat oddity that hasn't happened since September 1991.

(8) Georgia vs. (6) Florida (Jacksonville) -- This is the second straight year the teams have met as top 10 foes, the Bulldogs winning in grand fashion last year 36-17. The Gators have lost five of the last eight meetings, and the last five contests have been decided by an average of 22 points. Both teams play standout defense, but Georgia has the edge on offense, averaging nearly seven yards per play. Florida will get after Jake Fromm, who was asked to do very little in Georgia's win over Kentucky (just 12 attempts). Some of Fromm's limitations as a passer have been exposed the last couple of games as he's averaged just 4.5 yards per attempt. Georgia will lean on D'Andre Swift, who has averaged over six yards per carry and scored three touchdowns in the Bulldogs last two games. Both teams rank in the top 10 in red zone touchdowns allowed, so if the end zone is found it's likely coming from a big play. The Gators have five players with at least 19 catches, so defenses cannot focus on just one weapon. Kyle Pitts has been a matchup nightmare in the red zone and Freddie Swain has been the big play guy. Georgia has one of the top cover men in the game in sophomore corner Eric Stokes.
(15) SMU at (24) Memphis -- SMU is one of the better stories of the 2019 season, sitting on an undefeated record heading into November for the first time since before the school received the death penalty in the 1980s. The Mustangs have done it with a nice combination of offense (6th in scoring at 43 points per game0 and a defense that has given up some big plays but is adept at rushing the passer (36 sacks, second in FBS). Memphis has gone 17-2 at home since 2017, have won five straight in the series and are 10-1 in November under Mike Norvell. The Tigers are sixth in Yards Per Play and 10th in scoring (39.5) and have one of the most exciting players in football in freshman running back Kenneth Gainwell (over seven yards a pop, 11 TDs). The AAC West division title hangs in the balance in this one, and it's big enough that ESPN has sent GameDay to Memphis, and the broadcast is in prime time. 
Wofford at (4) Clemson -- It's November, and Clemson is playing Wofford. Repeat that -- Clemson is playing Wofford. While the Tigers cannot control how bad the ACC is -- and it's BAD -- it CAN control who it plays in non-league action. And just like the SEC teams that get a break by taking on FCS squads, Clemson is also taking the easiest path to a CFP berth. The committee should institute a rule that says if you play an FCS squad it counts as one less win. Maybe then these teams wouldn't do it anymore. This game, along with the recent comical comments by Dabo Swinney about quitting coaching if players get paid, will make a certain someone pull hard for the Terriers. 
(7) Oregon at USC -- USC dominated the series early, but the Ducks have four of the last six and two of the last three in the LA Coliseum. The Trojans look like they have something special in frosh quarterback Kedon Slovis, who has tossed eight touchdowns and just one interception in the last three games, completing 68 percent of his passes. USC has found its scoring mojo again, averaging 38 points in its last two games. But points will be harder to come by against an Oregon defense that's ninth in the country in points allowed (14.8) and which leads the nation in interceptions (14). Oregon has needed last minute heroics against both of the Washington schools in consecutive weeks, but was rolling opponents prior to that. Oregon can get after the quarterback (23 sacks), so look for Slovis to throw a lot of quick timing passes -- slants, hitches, curls. An Oregon victory clinches the North division, while a USC win would keep the Trojans atop the South.
(9) Utah at Washington -- The numbers would indicate that Utah is the stronger team here, but one number that stands out is the Utes lack of success in Seattle -- just 1-12, and the Huskies have won four straight, including last year's hard-fought 10-3 win in the Pac-12 title game. Washington has dropped two of its last three, not finding enough offense against Stanford and not enough defense against Oregon. The Utes are playing for a return trip to the league championship and needs to keep pace with USC, which is responsible for Utah's lone defeat this season. Utah has yielded just 23 points in its last four games, and has scored 35 or more in three of the four. Tyler Huntley has been great under center, and the return of Zack Moss -- 115 yards and two TDs against Cal -- in the backfield has brought stability back to the Utes offense.
Ole Miss at (11) Auburn -- The Tigers have won 27 straight homecoming contests, and should be pretty confident after taking LSU to the wire before falling last weekend. Auburn has won six of the last seven in the series as host, and Ole Miss should find points tough to come by against the nation's 14th-ranked scoring D. Auburn should be able to dictate terms with its front four, and may be able to find some big plays through the air against a defense that's allowed 15 passing touchdowns and nearly eight yards per pass attempt. 
(14) Michigan at Maryland -- The Wolverines seem to have found something in the second half of the Penn State game, continuing that momentum into last week's blasting of Notre Dame. The Terps have been gashed on defense of late, allowing at least 34 points in four of its last five games. The Wolverines will want to come out fast and keep their foot on the gas as an open week awaits before rivalry games with Michigan State and Ohio State. After looking lost on defense early in the year, Michigan has really tightened things up, allowing just 3.66 yards per play in the last five games.
Virginia Tech at (16) Notre Dame -- Now that it has two losses, how will Notre Dame respond? Last weekend's beatdown at Michigan was atypical for a Brian Kelly team, which just didn't show up. The Irish were bad, and while the CFP is no longer in reach this will be a real test of resiliency. The Hokies average less than four yards per carry running the ball so may need to take to the air to score points against an Irish defense that allows nearly 59 percent completions and 6.5 yards per attempt. Irish quarterback Ian Book has done a good job valuing the football (just two interceptions), but was awful against Michigan's pressure. Don't be surprised if Bud Foster dials up it a notch. 
(17) Cincinnati at East Carolina -- The Pirates have lost four of the last five meetings, but did win the last time at Dowdy-Ficklen. ECU is offensively challenged, and going against one of the top defenses in the country in Luke Fickell's bunch will magnify that. Holton Ahlers hasn't improved as much as one would hope in his second season at quarterback, tossing eight TDs and seven picks, but he is a good runner who will make you pay if you don't account for him. ECU has allowed 19 rushing touchdowns, which plays right into the hands of the physical Bearcats. Michael Warren has a four game scoreless streak he's looking to break, and his bruising style should wear down the Pirates defense. 
(21) Boise State at San Jose State -- Boise State is still the favorite in the Mountain West, but this is not your typical San Jose State squad -- the Spartans have already won four games, which is more than the previous two seasons combined. Wins over Arkansas and Army show that it hasn't been a fluke, San Jose State is definitely improving. Much of that is because quarterback Josh Love has been very efficient with the football (15 TD-3 INT), and senior wideout Bailey Gaither has become a big play threat. Boise State has been getting it done on the ground, with Robert Mahone scoring five touchdowns and freshman George Holani averaging nearly five and a half yards per tote. Broncos freshman Hank Bachmeier is likely out another week with a hip pointer, but sophomore Chase Cord has provided a nice dual threat in relief. San Jose State has never beaten Boise State in 13 meetings. 
(22) Kansas State at Kansas -- The Jayhawks have had a mini-resurgence in the first year under Les Miles, winning as many times in their first eight games (three) as they did all of last year. The last time Kansas won more than three games was its 5-7 campaign in 2009, and KU is getting it done with offense, ranking 33rd in yards per play (6.33). Senior quarterback Carter Stanley has been very good, throwing 19 touchdowns and pushing the ball down the field (9.5 YPA, top 10 nationally). Running back Pooka Williams has gone over 130 yards in two of the last three games and could be a challenge for a Wildcats defense that allows 5.58 YPC (125th nationally), but did a solid job in limiting Oklahoma to just 102 yards on the ground in last weekend's upset.
NC State at (23) Wake Forest -- The home team has won 10 of the last 12 meetings, but Wake has not been good at home off of an open week, losing seven straight by an average of 15.4 ppg. NC State has been efficient through the air, though not dangerous, which could work against a Wake defense that allows nearly eight yards per completion. The Demon Deacons have been lethal through the air, with Sage Surratt and Scotty Washington combining for 85 catches and 16 touchdowns. Wake likes to play with tempo, eclipsing 80 plays four times this season and going over 100 plays twice. The hosts would be well served to win here as the schedule ends with three of the last four on the road -- including Clemson in two weeks. Wake has played as a ranked team vs NC State three previous times, and has lost all three.

TAKE FIVE (Games Featuring Unranked Teams)
Miami at Florida State -- The luster is off of this fierce rivalry as both teams struggle to be even mediocre, but you can bet it can make one team's season if it comes away with a victory. Both teams have had issues at quarterback -- and keeping them upright -- which means it could be up to the ground attack to get things done. That could be tough for the Seminoles, even with Cam Akers, because Miami is 14th nationally allowing just 3.07 yards per carry and seven touchdowns. The visitor in the series has won 9 of the last 13 meetings, and 15 of the last 17 games have been decided by a touchdown or less. 
TCU at Oklahoma State -- It's defense vs offense in Stillwater, with the Horned Frogs ranking in the national top 25 in most of the important defensive categories and the Cowboys doing the same on offense. This one will be decided by how well OSU running back Chuba Hubbard does. The nation's leading rusher, Hubbard has cranked out at least 110 yards in all but one game this season and has multiple touchdowns in five contests. TCU allows just 3.2 yards per carry and has allowed more than 24 points just three times this season. Linebacker Garret Wallow (10+ tackles per game) is the heart and soul of TCU's 3-3-5 attack and has excellent instincts. The home team has won 11 of the last 14 meetings. 
FAU at Western Kentucky -- Both the Owls and Hilltoppers have just one loss in league play, so the winner here gets a leg up in CUSA's East Division. After giving up 13 touchdowns in its first two games, FAU has allowed just 15 the rest of the season. Linebackers Rashad Smith and Akileis Leroy have paced the stop unit, and the offense has been efficient enough to take some pressure off. WKU won just three times last year, so being the running for the division crown is a huge improvement. The Hilltoppers have allowed 14 points or less in four of their last five games, with junior defensive end DeAngelo Malone being a real difference maker (9 sacks, 15 tackles for loss, second on the team in tackles with 62). The visitor has won five of the last eight meetings. 
Virginia at North Carolina -- Looky looky -- the top two teams in the Coastal Division squaring off in Chapel Hill. The Cavaliers are coming off of a demoralizing loss to Louisville while UNC edged Duke thanks to a Chaz Surratt interception at the goal line with 14 left to play. The Tar Heels are 4-4 and playing with a ton of energy, which has to be viewed as a positive in Mack Brown's first year of his second stint as head coach. UVA has been wildly inconsistent this season, playing to the level of competition and letting teams hang around far too long. Quarterback Bryce Perkins has just one touchdown pass in the last three games, and the Cavs have averaged less than 4.5 yards per play in the last three contests. Virginia has lost its last nine when playing a second straight road game, but has consecutive wins over the Tar Heels after losing seven in a row. 
UAB at Tennessee -- The Vols upset South Carolina a week ago and want to keep the momentum going against a Blazers squad ranked fifth in the nation in defensive yards per play (4.09). UAB has yet to allow more than 20 points in a game this season but has given up a lot of yardage in each of its last three games. Junior linebacker Kristopher Moll leads the way (9 tackles per game, 9 TFL, 4.5 sacks), while on offense quarterback Tyler Johnston III isn't afraid to push the ball downfield (9.7 YPA). Tennessee has really dialed up the pressure the last three games, amassing 12 sacks and 21 TFL, while receiver Jauan Jennings has been the go-to guy on offense (7-174-2 TD vs South Carolina). Tennessee lost its opener to G5 Georgia State but is 4-0 all time vs UAB. The Blazers are 0-4 vs Power 5 foes under Bill Clark, all against the SEC.