Big week in College Football, as the first round of playoffs are among us, let’s discuss.
Oregon on a Bye, but My Loyalty Runs Deep
Before diving into my unsolicited opinions on this weekend's games, let me make one thing clear: even though they’re on a bye this week, I’m rooting for Oregon. It’s not just because they’re undefeated this season (13-0) and sitting at the top of the rankings—but because I’ve been an avid Justin Herbert fan for a while now. Go Chargers!
Ohio State vs. Tennessee: The Battle for a Rematch
I think the odds of Ohio State winning their game against the Tennessee Vols are high. The Bucks are frothing at the mouth for that rematch against the Ducks, and I have a feeling they’re going to fight hard for it. Both teams have top-5 defenses, but Ohio State’s defense isn’t just good—it’s scary. I just don’t know if the Vols can run the ball well enough to score enough points to beat Ohio State.
Texas vs. Clemson: The Longhorns Have the Edge
It’s worth noting how the Longhorns managed to avoid facing major SEC teams like Alabama, Tennessee, Ole Miss, and Missouri this season. Their only losses? Those came against Georgia. That said, the gap between these two teams is significant—Texas is ranked 3rd in the standings, while Clemson sits at 16th. Klubnik is talented, but Clemson’s rushing defense? It’s the worst they’ve had in over a decade. Texas all the way.
SMU vs. Penn State: A Clash of Underrated Contenders
When it comes to SMU and Penn State, I’ll be honest—I haven’t really kept up with SMU this season. My focus has been on the SEC and Big Ten games. But I did come across a pretty wild stat: SMU is one of the most penalized teams in the country, ranking 130th out of 135, while Penn State is all the way up at 25th. Definitely something to think about heading into this game. SMU was close to winning the ACC title, but they didn’t pull it off. They still managed to clinch a playoff spot at Alabama’s expense, which, for the record, I’m not happy about. I’ve always really liked Alabama—not just because I made some good money betting on a -1.5 Bama spread and a Jalen Milroe anytime TD when they played Georgia, but because I think they’re an insanely talented team. But back to discussion. Both teams are sitting at 11-2, but I just think Penn State is better. They’ve got home-field advantage, came close to upsetting Oregon, and are solid at running the ball. I’m rolling with Penn State.
Indiana vs. Notre Dame: A Rivalry Renewed After Decades
Indiana vs Notre Dame? This is the first time these teams have played since the dawn of light (1958), and should be an interesting watch. Listen, both teams have been great this season, with both sitting at 11-1. With that in mind, Indiana is playing in Notre Dame, and if I’ve learned anything this season, it’s that teams can play weird as fuck on the road (looking at you Georgia, barely scraping by against Kentucky is embarrassing). Is it really a road game, though? The schools are only 200 miles apart, but still, it could make a difference. Plus, the Hoosiers had a tough time against Ohio’s defense, which might be telling. Honestly, I think this game could go either way, but I’d say it leans in Notre Dame’s favor.
Final Picks, Stay Tuned
As for my detailed picks this week, you’re just going to have to wait for the Lines at Lunch video to come out at the end of the week!
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