GameDay: #14 Iowa at #19 Michigan in the Big House

The #14 Iowa Hawkeyes (1-0 B1G West, 4-0) travel to #20 Michigan (1-1 B1G East, 3-1) for a Homecoming showdown in the Big House. It is an 11 AM kickoff on FOX. The Hawkeyes have won five of last six in the series over the past decade.

The Hawkeyes and Wolverines have not meet, since the 2016 season. The Iowa Hawkeyes upset then-#2 Michigan 14-13 in Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Iowa has won two in a row in the series, and the Hawks have won the last two Homecoming match ups in the Big House.

Jim Harbaugh and the Wolverines were the Big Ten favorite by the Media entering 2019. However, a Big Ten opening loss two weeks ago in Madison, 35-14 have tempered views on the Wolverines.

The Wolverines got back on the winning track last week with a 52-0 win over Rutgers at home. The Hawkeyes opened Big Ten play in Week 2, with a 30-0 win over Rutgers. Rutgers has fired head coach Chris Ash, after the 0-2 B1G start.

This is a big game today for the Wolverines and very important for the Hawkeyes, as well.

Both teams feature senior quarterbacks. Iowa has three year starter Nate Stanley, while former Ole Miss QB Shea Patterson is in Year 2 at the helm of the Michigan offense.

Iowa is coming off a 48-3 win over Middle Tennessee and the offense is clearly humming. The Michigan offense under first year OC Josh Gattis and smooth sailing has not been the case, until last week over the Scalet Knights. A program that hasn't won a FBS match up, since 2017.

The Hawkeyes have played clean football in 2019, with the fewest turnovers in College Football. But, Iowa enters the game as the underdog.

Michigan is the favorite, despite the inconsistent play on offense. Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh called Iowa "consistent" in all three phases of the game: offense, defense and special teams. Not to surprising for a Kirk Ferentz team.

The Hawkeyes will likely have to bring that game to Michigan, if they want to remain undefeated in 2019.

Our pick:

Iowa Hawkeyes 30
Michigan Wolverines 20

The Hawkeyes should bring a very balanced attack to Ann Arbor. The Hawkeyes have a sold offensive and defensive line. It will come down to the 3 keys in football: turnovers, explosive plays and tackling on Saturday in the Big House.

Year 21 under Kirk Ferentz: Is Iowa finally coming to age?

• at Iowa State, W 18-17
• at Michigan, Saturday, 11:30 am Kickoff on FOX

Has there ever been a bigger game in the two series?

Michigan is ranked, unlike Iowa State, who the Iowa Hawkeyes beat 18-17, in a game that included to separate lightening delays for roughly three hours But, heading into each road game this season, has there ever been a bigger game in Ann Arbor or Ames, for that matter for both teams?

The 1985 game was the biggest game to date in the Iowa - Michigan series, but oh my, how important is this one, on Saturday for each team?

• Iowa head coach was OL coach under Hayden Fry
• Michigan head coach was QB, under Bo Schembechler

Iowa is going for its third win on a Michigan Homecoming, under Kirk Ferentz. The Hawkeyes won the previous games, 34-9 in 2002, and 38-28 in 2010. Iowa is 7-5, since 2001, during the Kirk Ferentz era against Michigan.

Since 2001, Iowa has won 152 games and finished in the Top 10 nationally, five times. For Michigan, it is 151 wins, and four Top 10 finishes.

Know the foe: Iowa

Although the Hawkeyes barely escaped against Iowa State on the road, they've played well to start the season. They've shared two common opponents with Michigan: Middle Tennessee State, who they beat 48-3 on Saturday, and Rutgers, who they beat 30-0 in Week 2. The offense has impressed under the direction of quarterback Nate Stanley. The senior is completing 64% of his passes, averaging 8.2 yards per attempt and has eight touchdowns and zero interceptions. The run game features a trio of backs in Mekhi Sargent, Toren Young and Tyler Goodson; collectively, they are averaging 6.2 yards per carry and have 752 rushing yards. The defense is allowing just 8.5 points per game and is anchored by star defensive end A.J. Epenesa, a future high NFL draft pick. - Detroit Free Press

Iowa at Michigan, Week 6 - Homecoming for the Wolverines.

Another battle of two quarterbacks. This one, features two seniors at the helm, of each offense for Iowa and Michigan, respectively.

However, defense and special teams are always important to each of these programs.

And, what about fifth year Michigan head coach, Jim Harbaugh?

Week 1 of 2019 College Football

Minnesota Golden Gophers beat the mighty South Dakota State Rackrabbits 28-21 out of FCS on Thursday night in a game that came down to three or so critical plays.

Rankings are from the AP Poll.

Friday
Tulsa at #18 Michigan State
#19 Wisconsin at South Florida
UMass at Rutgers
Purdue at Nevada

Saturday
Florida Atlantic at #5 Ohio State
South Alabama at #24 Nebraska
Howard at Maryland
Akron at Illinois
Indiana vs Ball State
Idaho at #15 Penn State
Northwestern at #25 Stanford
Middle Tennessee at #7 Michigan
Miami (OH) at #20 Iowa

The Big Ten should be a salty football race in 2019.

The Iowa Hawkeyes (9-4 in 2019) are picked any where from first to sixth in the Big Ten West for 2019.

The 21st season under Kirk Ferentz, dean of College Football coaches begins on Saturday, as the Iowa Hawkeyes host Miami-OH (6-6, 6-2 in the MAC in 2018) with a 6:40 PM kickoff on FS1 at Kinnick Stadium.

The Hawkeyes are a 22 point favorite, with an over/under is at 58 points at one point, this past week.

Iowa Hawkeyes 35
Miami-OH 13

The spreads and over/under appear right heading into the 2019 season at Kinnick Stadium.

Jay Norvell was a member of the 1985 Iowa Championship Football team, under fifth year offensive line coach Kirk Ferentz. The Hawkeyes won a critical game at Purdue in 1985.

The Hawkeyes won a #1 vs. #2 showdown earlier in the season against Michigan. On the final play of the game, the Hawkeyes kicked a game winning field goal to win 12-10.

Jim Harbaugh enters his fifth season, as head coach at Michigan in 2019. Many have the Wolverines #1 in the Big Ten, and a possible College Football Playoff contender?

Jay Norvell is in his third season at Nevada, as head coach. Congratulations on his Week 1 win against Purdue, with a walk off game winning field goal, by a freshman placekicker.

The 2019 season should be a great season for the Iowa Hawkeyes win, lose and unlike the 1985, where a team could draw.

We don't see the Big Ten in the College Football Playoff in 2019. The Big Ten should be very salty week after week.

Welcome to the 2019 College Football season.

A look at our Preseason Top 30+ College Football programs of 2019

The 150th Anniversary of NCAA College Football.

The 2019 College Football season celebrates the 150th anniversary of the collegiate sport. In 1869, the first game played was Princeton vs. Rutgers.

Last year, Clemson was the first national champion to finish with 15 wins in a season. The first College Football Playoff champion to finish undefeated.

There have been five College Football Playoff champions, since 2014. Clemson and Alabama have combined for four of those titles, with each program winning two.

Ohio State won the inaugural title in 2014, but the Big Ten has failed to score a single point, since that first season of the Playoff. The Big Ten Conference has been shutout of participation the past two seasons, as Iowa in 2017, then Purdue last year, brought down Ohio State.

Only ten programs have played in the College Football Playoff over the past five seasons, since its inception.

Three of the five title games have seen Alabama and Clemson meet, with the Tigers winning two of those three title games.

Alabama has played in all five. Clemson four, Oklahoma three, but OU has yet to win a game. Ohio State two, but has missed two straight seasons, as mentioned. 

Single season participants have been:

• Notre Dame, 
• Georgia, 
• Washington, 
• Michigan State, 
• Oregon,
• Florida State
• Only the Bulldogs and Ducks have been title game participants 
• Losing to Alabama and Ohio State in 2017 and 2014, respectively

FBS Football

Will we get another repeat champion in 2019?

2019 NCAA TV schedule

The 2019 season will be the 130th anniversary for the Iowa Hawkeyes, who finished last season, in the Top 25, with a win over Mississippi State in the Outback Bowl.

Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz is the only FBS coach, who was at the same school,
since 1999. Ferentz enters his 21st season in 2019, surpassing Hayden Fry at Iowa.

Head coach Kirk Ferentz enters his 21st season as head coach at Iowa. Since 1999, he has lead Iowa Hawkeyes. He is the Dean of College Football coaches and the lone coach, who has been at the same program for the past twenty straight seasons.

Here's CIDsports 2019 preseason list of Top 30+ College Football teams.
We have added a little wrinkle in 2019:

1.) Clemson (15-0) - Dabo Swinney enters his 12th season at the helm, with 55-4 record, since 2015. QB Trevor Lawrence was the first true freshman to lead a program to a College Football Playoff title, last year. The target will be on the Tigers in 2019!

2.) Alabama (14-1) - Nick Saban is 67-6, since the College Football Playoff began, as he enters his 13th season in Tuscaloosa. Junior QB Tua Tagovailoa came off the bench as a freshman to win the last title for the Crimson Tide. They should be all in to get back to the Playoff for the sixth straight season!

There are really only two consensus preseason candidates for #1 heading into 2019 College Football season. The defending champion has earned that position, but no program has won back to back titles, yet, so the Crimson Tide are viewed by many still, as the program to beat in 2019!

So, who are the next 28 plus programs for 2019?

3.) Oklahoma (24-4), the past two seasons under coach Lincoln Riley entering his third season. So, despite zero wins in the College Football Playoff, the Sooners will have QB Jalen Hurts, transfer from Alabama, to lead the program in 2019. Could we see a third straight Sooner QB win a third straight Heisman Trophy in 2019? Can Hurts lead his second program to a College Football Playoff?

4.) Georgia (32-10), the past three seasons, under Kirby Smart. QB Jake Fromm enters his junior season, after leading his his team to a title game, as a true freshman, in 2017. Last year, the Bulldogs came up short, losing three games.

5.) LSU (10-3 last year), as Ed Orgeron enters his fourth season, 25-9 overall. Second year starting QB Joe Burrow, the former Buckeye, looks to get the Tigers into the College Playoff picture in 2019.

6.) Notre Dame (44-20), entering the 10th season under Brian Kelly, as the Fighting Irish went 13-1 last year. Notre Dame fell 30-3 in the semifinals to Clemson. Senior QB Ian Book is back leading the Fighting Irish into the new season!

7.) Washington (47-21), the past five seasons under Chris Peterson, will call on junior QB Jacob Eason, a transfer from Georgia, who has headed back home to the Pacific Northwest to lead the Huskies in 2019. The Huskies won the Pac 12 last season, but came up short 28-23, as Ohio State's Urban Meyer won his first and final Rose Bowl to close out his college coaching career.

Ohio State turns the reigns of head coach over to former OC Ryan Day, who was
3-0 as interim coach in 2018, while Urban Meyer sat out the first three games.

8.) Ohio State (13-1), with new head coach Ryan Day leading the team to the first three wins last season, while Meyer was suspended. The Buckeyes will welcome a new era, asking Georgia transfer QB Justin Fields, a true sophomore, to step up and lead the offense. Two new defensive coordinators, Greg Mattison and Jeff Hafley, will welcome nine starters back on the defensive side of the ball in 2019.

9.) Auburn (8-5), last year under seven year coach Gus Malzahn, vs. Oregon (9-4), in  Mario Cristobal's first full season in Eugene, as head coach, the winner likely comes in at #9 for 2019, as the two programs kickoff the season in Arlington in Week 1. The Tigers will have a new QB for 2019, as redshirt freshman Joey Gatewood and true freshman Bo Nix compete for the #1 position. While, the Ducks are lead again by senior QB Jason Herbert, while the Tigers first year OC Kenny Dillingham will need a new QB to step up in 2019 and run the show?

Jim Harbaugh enters his fifth season, as Michigan head coach, at his alma mater. 

10.) Michigan (38-14), entering the fifth campaign under Jim Harbaugh, the Wolverines have senior QB Shea Patterson back, after transferring from Ole Miss. First year OC Josh Gattis is back in the Big Ten, now handling the Wolverines offense, after a season at Alabama. Harbaugh, as a QB for Hall of Fame coach Bo Schembechler, back in the mid-1980s, it took him five seasons to win a B1G title, so can the offense combined with DC Doc Brown, in his fourth season in Ann Arbor, pull the right strings, facing the challenging 2019 schedule? Harbaugh was only 10-3 last season. The majority of the Big Ten media is picking the Wolverines in 2019. But, Harbaugh is only 1-9 in Top 10 games over past four seasons. 

11.) Texas (10-4), the Longhorns had their first double digit win season, since 2009 last year. Will third year coach Tom Herman be a one year wonder? Will junior QB Sam Ehlinger and the Longhorns, who only return three defensive starters build on winning on four of the last five games, including 28-21 Sugar Bowl win over Georgia from last season?

Injuries impacted Michigan State in 2018, especially on offense. Mark Dantonio
shuffled around his offensive staff duties, as they seek to rebound from a 7-6 season.

12.) Michigan State (43-22), under Mark Dantonio over past five years, 107-51 over 12 years. The Spartans return nine starters on offense, including senior QB Brian Lewerke, eight defensive starters and both kickers coming off an injured plagued 7-6 season in 2018.

13.) Florida (10-3), in Dan Mullen's first season in Tallahassee, vs. Miami-FL (7-6), as first year Manny Diaz takes over the Hurricanes, winner open Week 0 in Orlando. The Gators return eight starters on defense and junior QB Feleipe Franks looks to make his 22nd start leading the offense. While the Hurricanes turn redshirt freshman QB Jarren Williams over Ohio State sophomore transfer Tate Martell. OC Dan Enos is in from Alabama, after one year, as QB coach. Diaz was the DC the past three seasons for Miami and grew up in the City.

Iowa is lead at QB by senior Nate Stanley, who has thrown for
52 touchdowns in his 26 starts for OC Brian Ferentz.

14.) Iowa (9-4), the Hawkeyes enter 2019, like many College Football programs with questions? QB Nate Stanley, like Ricky Stanzi, who began the decade as a senior; is seeking to lead the Hawkeyes to three straight bowl wins, as a starter. But, what about another trip to Indianapolis? Stanley is making his 27th start and he has thrown for 52 touchdowns in his two year career, as a starter.

15.) Texas A&M (9-4), the Aggies enter Year 2 under Jimbo Fisher. Week 2, the Aggies travel to face the defending National Champion Clemson, after hosting them last season. Junior QB Kellen Mond will make his 22nd start in 2019.

16.) Utah (9-5), the Utes return both senior Tyler Huntley and sophomore Jason Shelley, who both split QB starts 9-5 last year. Kyle Whittingham enters 15th season at the helm.

Penn State coach James Franklin enters his sixth season, at the helm in State College.

17.) Penn State (9-4), have been lead by James Franklin for five seasons, 45-21 overall, as the Nittany Lions best two seasons were under former OC Joe Moorhead, who lead Mississippi State last year. Sophomore QB Sean Clifford, who played in four games, will need to replace three year starter Trace McSorley, so Franklin and his staff have their work cut out for him in 2019.

Northwestern Pat Fitzgerald lead his alma mater to their first Big Ten West
division title in 2018. The Wildcats could be salty again on defense and the
offense may show improvement, under Clemson transfer QB Hunter Johnson.

18.) Northwestern (9-5) @ Stanford (9-4) winner as Pat Fitzgerald and David Shaw kickoff season, in the return game, from the 2015 season. Fitzgerald is 41-24 and Shaw is 48-19 each over the past five seasons, as Fitz enters 14th season and Shaw enters his ninth season, respectively at helm. The Wildcats will ask sophomore redshirt transfer from Clemson, Hunter Johnson, to make his first career start at QB, while junior QB KJ Costello will make his 21st college start for the Stanford Cardinal.

19.) TCU (7-6), the Horned Frogs, enter their 19th season under Gary Patterson, who is highly respected coach in the Big 12. The final two QBs are K-State graduate transfer Alex Delton and #1 recruit, true freshman Max Duggan out of the State of Iowa.

Iowa State coach Matt Campbell is only 19-19 overall. Cyclone fans are
quite excited, after back to back 8-5 seasons in Ames.

20.) Iowa State (8-5), the Cyclones open the fourth season under Matt Campbell (19-19 overall). Sophomore QB Brook Purdy is a foundation to much of the excitement heading into the 2019 season for the Cyclones. Week 3, the Cy-Hawk Game between cross-state rival Iowa could be a Top 25 showdown for the first time in series history, as the Hawkeyes arrive in Ames.

21.) Boise State (10-3) vs. Florida State (5-7) winner in Week 1 game in Jacksonville to kickoff 2019! Bryan Harsin is 52-15 entering his sixth season, as sophomore Chase Cord is favorite to step into QB position in 2019 for departed Brett Rypien, who was 37-12, as a starter for the Broncos. Willie Taggert enters Year 2 at the helm at Florida State, with first year OC Kendal Briles, who will have sophomore James Blackman and Wisconsin transfer Alex Hornibrook.

22.) UCF (12-1), the Knights have had back to back undefeated regular seasons. First under Scott Frost, who left after two seasons for his alma mater, Nebraska. Then, last year, under first year head coach Josh Heupel, who came over from Missouri as a OC/QB coach. Notre Dame QB transfer Brandon Winbush will likely lead the 2019 offense, with McKenzie Milton, out due to injury. Sophomore Darriel Mack is back, as well.

Wisconsin coach Paul Chryst brings a 42-12 record into his fifth season.

23.) Wisconsin (8-5) @ USF (7-6) winner as Paul Chryst enters Year 5 for the Badgers (42-12 overall) and Charlie Strong (17-8 overall) enters Year 3 for the Bulls. The Badgers return a part-time starter at QB Jack Coan, with true freshman Graham Mertz, a likely option, in relief. The Bulls return senior QB Blake Burnett, who made one start in 2016 at Alabama, later transferring in from Arizona State.

24.) UCLA (3-9) @ Cincinnati (11-2) winner as the season opener heads to the Midwest in 2019. The Bruins enter the second season under Chip Kelly with sophomore QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson looking to make his ninth start under center. Luke Fickel for the Bearcats enters his third campaign with a 15-10 record. Sophomore QB Desmond Ridder has 12 starts under his belt.

25.) Fresno State (12-2) vs. USC (5-7) winner, as the Bulldogs enter third season under Jeff Tedford (22-6) and Clay Helton (32-17) enters fifth season for Trojans. Senior QB Jorge Reyna is favorite to start in 2019 for Fresno, who should be solid up front in defensive line. The Trojans turn again to sophomore QB JT Daniels making his 12th start in 2019.

26.) Mississippi State (8-5), the Bulldogs enter their second season under Joe Moorhead with only four starters back on one of the nation's best defenses. A new QB will need to step up as Penn State grad transfer Tommy Stevens or junior Keytaon Thompson provide different options for the Bulldogs in 2019.

27.) Virginia (8-5), the Cavaliers enter their fourth season under Bronco Mendenhall (16-22 overall) coming off a 28-0 bowl win over South Carolina (7-6) in the Belk Bowl. Senior Bryce Perkins is a former JC transfer, beginning his college journey at Arizona State, where he did not play. He threw 25 touchdowns last year making his debut in Charlottesville.

28.) Virginia Tech (6-7) @ Boston College (7-5) winner, as Hokies travel for the ACC season opener, entering Justin Fuente's fourth season at 25-15. Junior QB Ryan Willis will make 21st college start, after 10 at KU and 10 last year for Hokies. For BC, Steve Addazio enters seventh season at 38-38, so some Eagles fans are a little restless? Junior QB Anthony Brown will make his 23rd start to kickoff 2019.

29.) Missouri (8-5), the Tigers enter the fourth season under Barry Odom, 19-19 overall. Clemson transfer, senior Kelly Bryant will take over the reigns at QB. The Tigers will be ineligible for bowl and the Playoff in 2019. So, a role of spoiler in the SEC will be on the Tigers minds.

Minnesota coach P.J. Fleck enters his third season, with positive expectations.

30.) Minnesota (7-6), the Golden Gophers are only 12-13 overall entering the third season under PJ Fleck, though some are projecting a breakout year in the B1G West. Sophomore QB Tanner Morgan will make his seven start and was 4-2, as a starter, including wins over IU, Purdue, @ Wisconsin (program's first in 15 games) and bowl win over Georgia Tech.

Need to Win a key game first, like many above:

#1) Nebraska (4-8), the Huskers travel to Colorado (5-7), who will be under first year coach Mel Tucker, in Week 2. The Huskers have lost eight of last ten on road, and haven't won since their inaugural season in the Big Ten on the road in the non-conference.

Hype, expectations and excitement are at record highs lately in Lincoln, as head
coach Scott Frost enters his second season. The Huskers are coming off back to back
4-8 seasons, but the Big Ten media likes them to win the Big Ten West in 2019.

The B1G media have picked the Huskers in the West, under second year coach Scott Frost the front-runner for the B1G West division. Sophomore QB Adrian Martinez will make his 12th start in 2019 and is fueling much of the excitement. The road trips this season are at Colorado, Illinois, Minnesota, Purdue and Maryland. Those last two road wins were at Illinois and Purdue in 2017.

One Liners on other Power Five programs for 2019

• Ole Miss (5-7) - the Rebels enter Year 3 under Matt Luke with 3 starters back on offense and 10 starters back on defense
• Arkansas (2-10) - the Razorbacks enter Year 2 under Chad Morris, with 6 starters back on both sides of the football
• South Carolina (7-6) vs. North Carolina (2-9) in Charlotte, as Will Muschamp enters Year 4 for the Gamecocks against Mack Brown, back in coaching and back with the Tar Heels for 2019!
• Tennessee (5-7), as the Volunteers enter Year 2 under Jeremy Pruitt with 10 starters back on offense and 6 on defense in 2019
• Kentucky (10-3), as Wildcats look to rebuild with 6 starters back on offense, 4 on defense, as Mark Stoops enters Year 7 at the helm!
• Vanderbilt (6-7) - the Commodores return 7 starters on offense and 5 on defense for 2019 under Derek Mason, in his sixth season!
• Indiana (5-7) - the Hoosiers enter Year 3 under Tom Allen, with a new DC and OC, as 7 starters are back on both sides of the ball, including junior QB Peyton Ramsey, who may start?
• Maryland (5-7) - the Terrapins welcome back Mike Locksley, who was 1-5 in 2015, as an interim coach .... he will work with 5 starters back on each side of the football, and welcomes Virginia Tech transfer, junior QB Joshua Jackson to College Park!
• Rutgers (1-11) - the Scarlet Knights return 8 offensive and 5 defensive starters, including sophomore QB Artur Sitkowski, as head coach Chris Ash enters Year 4
• Purdue (6-7) - the Boilermakers enter Year 3 under Jeff Brohm, with junior QB Elijah Sindelar back off a medical redshirt .... he will have 3 offensive starters and 9 defensive starters back along side of him!
• Illinois (4-8) - the Fighting Illini enter Year 4 under Lovie Smith, as he takes over as DC, as well .... with a new QB needed, and 7 starters back on offense and 10 back on defense!
• Syracuse (10-3) - the Orange enter Year 4 under Dino Babers, as sophomore QB Tommy DeVito takes over, with 6 other starters on offense and 7 starters back on defense!
• North Carolina State (9-4) - the Wolfpack enter Year 7 under Dave Doeren with only 4 back on offense and 7 starters back on defense!
• Wake Forest (7-6) - the Demon Deacons enter Year 6 under Dave Clawson, with both junior QB Jamie Newman and sophomore QB Sam Hartman back after splitting starts last season .... 6 other starters are back on offense and 5 are back on defense!
• Louisville (2-10) - the Cardinals welcome Scott Satterfield as the new head coach, coming off a 47-16 record at Appalachian State .... junior QB Jawon "Puma" Pass is back, along with 5 other starters on offense and 10 back on defense!
• Pittsburgh (7-7) - the Panthers are coming off the Coastal division title in 2018, as Pat Narduzzi enters Year 5 at the helm, junior QB Kenny Pickett is back, along with 4 other offensive starters and 6 defense starters!
• Duke (8-5) - the Blue Devils enter Year 12 under David Cutcliffe, with 4 starters back on offense and 8 back on defense, as senior QB Quentin Harris takes over as the new starter
• Georgia Tech (7-6) - the Yellow Jackets welcome the Geoff Collins era to Atlanta, after two seasons at Temple .... 5 starters are back on offense and only 4 starters return on defense!
• Baylor (7-6) - the Bears enter Year 3 under Matt Rhule coming off a bowl game and win .... junior QB Charlie Brewer returns, with 7 other offensive starters back and 7 defensive starters back, as well
• Oklahoma State (7-6) - the Cowboys enter Year 15 under Mike Gundy, as redshirt freshman QB Spencer Sanders and senior Dru Brown battle for the QB position in 2019, as 7 starters return on offense and 5 on defense!
• Texas Tech (5-7) - the Red Raiders welcome Matt Wells in from Utah State, after compiling a 44-34 record in six seasons .... sophomore QB Alan Bowman is back, along with 6 other starters on offense and defense!
• Kansas State (5-7) -

A look at the Big Ten teams, after Week 1 of the 2018 College Football season

Have a problem with @JLaurinaitis55 keeping Michigan at No. 3?

He hears you, but there's a reason he isn't dropping the Wolverines.

Get his latest power rankings, presented by @ArcelorMittalUS. pic.twitter.com/1ii71JPunF

— Big Ten Network (@BigTenNetwork) September 3, 2018

There are various schools of thoughts, when it comes to Top 25 ratings and conference power ratings heading into each season. Around the country, there are certain programs that often are ranked on reputation.

For example, last year, Florida State was a prime example of a school expected to finish in the Top 5, but at season's end, it finished 7-6, with wins over Delaware State, a 4-7 Florida, ULM and a bowl win over Southern Miss to take a 3-6 record and finish with a winning record. Florida State is often one of the most overrated programs each year, in College Football.

Another team with plenty of questions to answer entering 2018 is Michigan. The Wolverines finished 8-5 last year, with three straight losses @ Wisconsin, against Ohio State and in the bowl game against South Carolina. Now, they have lost four straight, with the 24-17 loss @ Notre Dame to open 2018 College Football season.

My problem with Michigan at #3 in the Big Ten power ratings is based on what have they done to earn the preseason #3 rating in the first place?

Despite a new season, familiar struggles returned for Michigan, as the Wolverines fell to No. 12 Notre Dame.

Game story: https://t.co/9OMMwKQJjl pic.twitter.com/AAkDrkceF4

— Zach Shaw (@_ZachShaw) September 2, 2018

The Big Ten appears to be loaded in 2018? Michigan State and Penn State struggled in Week 1, but they won. Michigan shouldn't be awarded for a moral victory, as James Laurinaitis appears to suggest that should be considered?

Notre Dame is a good program, but ultimately, like with Florida State in 2017. We don't know how good any team may be, until after enough games are played. Notre Dame lost to Georgia, @ Miami-FL and @ Stanford last year, so good losses. They are often overrated.

There are five college football teams that are continually overrated.

Notre Dame.
Texas.
Michigan.
USC.
FSU.

I never trust their rankings until the season's progressed a ways.

— Connor Mighell (@cmigbear) September 4, 2018

Michigan and Nebraska are two Big Ten programs that are often among the Top 7 schools overrated in preseason ratings. Texas is the most common example. On Saturday, they clearly rose up and demonstrated why, when they fell 34-29 @ Maryland in a game played in Landover, MD.

Deja vu for the Longhorns.

Texas loses to Maryland in back-to-back season openers. pic.twitter.com/W7C1JDJGJb

— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) September 1, 2018

So, after Week 1, here are the Big Ten power ratings ....

1. Wisconsin (1-0) - the Badgers have won 3 of the first 4 West division titles; and 5 of the first 7 division titles, when you toss in the first 3 seasons of Leaders and Legends, when division play began in the 2011 season in the Big Ten. Week 1 - beat Georgia State 34-3. Week 2 - vs. New Mexico (1-0) - first meeting between each program.
2. Michigan State (1-0) - the Spartans return 19 starters from last year's team, including one 3 OT loss @ Northwestern. It's not uncommon for Mark Dantonio teams to start slowly. The Spartans won the Big Ten in 2015. Week 1 - beat Utah State 38-31. Week 2 - @ Arizona State (1-0) - which is certainly going to be a big test, at night, in the Valley of the Sun! 
3. Ohio State (1-0) - the Buckeyes have had some off the field issues, since Big Ten Media Days. In the past two seasons, OSU has lost two games by 31 points. The Buckeyes won the Big Ten last year. Week 1 - destroyed Oregon State 77-31. Week 2 - vs. Rutgers (1-0), as head coach Urban Meyer returns to practice on Tuesday, but Meyer's three game suspension remains in force.
4. Penn State (1-0) - the Nittany Lions enter 2018 needing to replace play-makers on offense and welcome a new offensive coordinators. They won the Big Ten in 2016. Week 1 - beat Appalachian State 45-37 in OT. Week 2 - @ Pittsburgh (1-0), the Panthers beat the Nittany Lions here in 2016, so this one should be very interesting.
5. Northwestern (1-0, 1-0 B1G West) - the Wildcats opened 2018 in conference play for the first time in a long, long while. Week 1 - won @ Purdue 31-27, as two QB system of Clayton Thorson and T.J. Green is utilized by head coach Pat Fitzgerald. Week 2 - vs. Duke (1-0), who beat the Wildcats 41-17, after the Wildcats had won back to back non-conference games against the Blue Devils in previous seasons.
6. Iowa (1-0) - the Hawkeyes tallied the 144th win to boost Kirk Ferentz into the all-time win leader, as head coach. Week 1 - beat Northern Illinois 33-7. Week 2 - CyHawk game against Iowa State (0-0), who are looking to complete a game, after thunderstorms shelved their opener on Saturday night.
7. Michigan (0-1) - the Wolverines have one victory over a rival entering the fourth season of head coach Jim Harbaugh. The Wolverines will get plenty of opportunities to move up, since they play 1-5 in conference play. Week 1 - lost @ Notre Dame 24-17. Week 2 - vs. Western Michigan (0-1), the Wolverines should be safe in another home opener, having won 25 of last 28.
8. Purdue (0-1, 0-1 B1G West) - the Boilermakers play two quarterbacks and often the old saying with quarterbacks, if you have two, you likely have none. This appeared to be the case, watching game one. Week 1 - lost to Northwestern 31-27. Week 2 - vs. Eastern Michigan (1-0), who will start former Iowa QB Tyler Wiegers, who had a solid first start for the Eagles.
9. Indiana (1-0) - the Hoosiers were the only Big Ten team to pick up a win on the road to open the season. Week 1 - won @ FIU 38-28 to pick up first win of season. Week 2 - vs. Virginia (1-0), as the Hoosiers have won 14 of the past 16 home openers.
10. Nebraska (0-0) - the Scott Frost era has to wait one week to officially kickoff, after a thunderstorm Saturday night canceled the home opener. Week 1 - vs. Akron - canceled. Week 2 - vs. Colorado (1-0), the Huskers have won three straight in the series and three straight in Lincoln. Last meeting was 2010.
11. Rutgers (1-0) - the Scarlet Knights open the third season, with head coach Chris Ash. Week 1 - won 35-10 over Texas State. Week 2 - @ Ohio State (1-0), the Buckeyes defeated the Scarlet Knights 56-0 last season in New Brunswick, after 58-0 previously in Columbus.
12. Maryland (1-0) - the Terrapins opened 2018, with new offensive coordinator Matt Canada, also in the interim head coach role, after D.J. Durkin was placed on administrative leave in August. Week 1 - beat Texas 34-29 to begin back to back seasons, with an upset win over a ranked Longhorns team (note - not ranked in my Top 25). Week 2 - @ Bowling Green (0-1), which is ironically Durkin's alma mater.
13. Minnesota (1-0) - the Golden Gophers opened the second year under head coach P.J. Fleck, with another non-conference win. They Golden Gophers are 4-0 OOC under Fleck. Week 1 - beat New Mexico State 48-10. Week 2 - vs. Fresno State (1-0), the Bulldogs were 10-4 last season and are likely the best non-conference, since Fleck arrived that the Golden Gophers have lined up against.
14. Illinois (1-0) - the Fighting Illini entered 2018, coming off a ten game losing streak. Week 1 - despite playing from behind much of the game, Illinois beat Kent State 31-24. Week 2 - vs. Western Illinois (0-1), the Fighting Illini are 2-0 in this series outscoring the Leathernecks 65-0.

No reason to delay our Week 1 Cidsports Top 40 College Football ratings: as #20 VA TECH @ #19 Florida State kicks off tonight in Tallahassee

Week 1 of the 2018 College Football season concludes with a Top 20 match up in Tallahassee tonight, as Labor Day weekend concludes with a ACC showdown between #20 Virginia Tech (9-4) @ #19 Florida State (7-6). The Hokies lead by head coach Justin Fuente, entering his third season, were 5-3 in the Coastal Division in 2017. While the Seminoles were 3-5 in the Atlantic Division in 2017, they enter the Willie Taggart era, as the former USF and Oregon head coach returns to lead Florida State into the 2018 season.

#20 Virginia Tech @ #19 Florida State, 7 PM CT on ESPN.

Monday, September 3rd
#20 Virginia Tech at #19 Florida State	7:00 pm	ESPN

The dean of college football, Iowa head coach Kirk Ferentz, won his 144th
game for the Hawkeyes, as first year player and now special teams coach
LeVar Woods celebrate, at the end of the Iowa-Northern Illinois game on
Saturday, at Kinnick Stadium. The Hawkeyes turn their focus to in-state rival,
Iowa State, as the Cy-Hawk game kicks off on Saturday in Iowa City.

1. Alabama (1-0) (2) - we push the Crimson Tide back into the #1 slot, after a 51-14 win over Louisville (0-1) by the defending national champions in Orlando. Week 2 - vs. Arkansas State (1-0) Red Wolves, who won over SE Missouri in the season opener.
2. Clemson (1-0) (1) - the Tigers fall back, after a 48-7 win over Furman (0-1) to kick off the 2018 season. Week 2 - @ Texas A&M (1-0), as the Aggies opened with a 59-7 win over Northwestern State in College Station. 
3. Georgia (1-0) (3) - the Bulldogs opened 2018 with a 45-0 win over Austin Peay (0-1) on Saturday. Week 2 - @ #28 South Carolina (1-0), where Bulldogs take a three game win streak in this series into the 2018 game
4. Oklahoma (1-0) (4) - the Sooners rolled then #25 FAU (0-1) 63-14 to kickoff 2018. Week 2 - vs. UCLA (0-1), as the Chip Kelly era opened at home to a 26-17 loss to Cincinnati (0-1).
5. Auburn (1-0) (6) - the Tigers took down then #5 Washington (0-1) 21-16 in Atlanta on Saturday. Week 2 - vs. Alabama State (1-0), as this is the first meeting between FBS and FCS schools from the same state.
6. Ohio State (1-0) (7) - the Buckeyes won 77-31 over Oregon State (0-1) in Columbus on Saturday, as interim coach Ryan Day lead the squad. Week 2 - vs. Rutgers (1-0), as the Big Ten opener squares off against the Scarlet Knights, who won their opener 35-7 over Texas State (0-1). Ohio State took down Rutgers 56-0 last year, so Week 2 may not be much different than Week 1.
7. Wisconsin (1-0) (8) - the Badgers won 34-3 against Western Kentucky (0-1) on Friday night. Week 2 - vs. New Mexico (1-0), in the first meeting, as the Badgers have won 40 straight home non-conference games by an average of over 27 points per game. 
8. Washington (0-1) (5) - the Huskies drop opener 21-16 to then #6 Auburn (1-0) in Atlanta, so the margin of error for the College Football Playoff gets slim for the favorite in the Pac 12. Week 2 - vs. North Dakota (1-0), in the first meeting between these schools. The Huskies are 27-5 in home openers.
9. Stanford (1-0) (12) - the Cardinal beat then #45 San Diego State (0-1) by the score of 31-10 to avenge last year's 20-17 loss to the Aztecs. Week 2 - vs. #14 USC (1-0), another payback game for the Cardinal ... last year's 42-24 loss on road against the Trojans!
10. Notre Dame (1-0) (13) - the Fighting Irish defeated Michigan 24-17 in South Bend to open 2018 on Saturday night. Week 2 - vs. Ball State (1-0), first meeting ever between the two schools located in Indiana.
11. Michigan State (1-0) (9) - the Spartans were tested in the season opener on Friday night, but pulled out a 38-31 win over Utah State (0-1). Week 2 - @ Arizona State (1-0), as the Sun Devils opened up the Herm Edwards era, with a 49-7 win over UTSA (0-1). A battle in the desert that typically has favored the local Pac 12 school ....
12. Penn State (1-0) (10) - the Nittany Lions had to scramble back and force OT, as PSU beat Appalachian State 45-37 in Happy Valley on Saturday. Week 2 - @ Pittsburgh (1-0), a game that went to the Panthers 42-39 two years ago. 
13. LSU (1-0) (17) - the Tigers took out then #11 Miami-FL (0-1) 33-17 in Arlington on Saturday to win in Week 1. Week 2 - vs. Southeast Louisiana (0-1), as the Lions lost 34-31 @ Louisiana Monroe (0-1).
14. USC (1-0) (15) - the Trojans beat UNLV (0-1) 43-21 on Saturday. Week 2 - @ #9 Stanford (1-0), as the series opens in Week 2 again this season.
15. UCF (1-0, 1-0 AAC) (23) - the Knights won @ UConn (0-1) 56-17 on Thursday night and we will bump the undefeated 2017 program, since they did finished 13-0 last year and new coach Josh Heupel has the offense rolling already. Week 2 - vs. South Carolina State (0-1), as UCF won in the 2016 season opener 38-0 over the Bulldogs.
16. TCU (1-0) (16) - the Horned Frogs pounded Southern (0-1) 55-7 in the season opener on Saturday. Week 2 - @ SMU (0-1), as the former SWC schools square off for their annual showdown on Friday night. The Mustangs lost 46-23 @ North Texas (1-0) in the AAC vs. C-USA showdown.
17. Northwestern (1-0) (35) - the Wildcats opened Thursday night in the Big Ten @ then #36 Purdue, pulling off a 31-27 win for last year's #17 team. Boost them back up. Week 2 - vs. Duke (1-0), who beat the Wildcats 41-17 in Durham, as this year's game returns to Evanston, where Northwestern won 24-13 in 2016.
18. Mississippi State (1-0) (18) - the Bulldogs won 66-3 over Stephen F Austin (0-1) to kickoff 2018. Week 2 - @ Kansas State (1-0), who struggled in the season opener against South Dakota (0-1) 27-24, as Coyotes miss a tying FG late.
19. Florida State (0-0) (19) - the Seminoles host #20 Virginia Tech to close out Week 1. Week 2 - vs. Samford (1-0), as the Seminoles have hosted at least one FCS program the past ten seasons.
20. Virginia Tech (0-0) (20) - the Hokies travel to Tallahassee to open 2018 @ #19 Florida State tonight. Week 2 - vs. William & Mary (1-0), as the Hokies square off in the 64th meeting in this series.
21. Boise State (1-0) (21) - the Broncos opened 2018 with a win @ then #40 Troy (0-1) 56-20. Week 2 - vs. UConn (0-1), as the Broncos return home, before a Week 3 road trip to P5 Okie State. 
22. Oklahoma State (1-0) (22) - the Cowboys won 58-17 over Missouri State (0-1) to kickoff 2018. Week 2 - vs. South Alabama (0-1), who lost home opener against LA Tech (1-0) 30-26, as they fall in back to back years against the Bulldogs.
23. West Virginia (1-0) (27) - the Mountaineers beat Tennessee (0-1) in Charlotte 40-14 on Saturday to kickoff 2018. Week 2 - vs. Youngstown State (0-1), as WVU looks to win their 15th straight home opener and eighth under coach Dana Holgorsen.
24. Iowa (1-0) (24) - the Hawkeyes opened 2018 with the 144th win under Kirk Ferentz, as he opened his 20th season, as head coach and past Hayden Fry in all-time win in a 33-7 win over Northern Illinois (0-1). Week 2 - vs. #31 Iowa State (0-0), as the Cyclones come to Kinnick Stadium for the annual Cy-Hawk trophy game. The Hawkeyes pulled out a 44-41 OT win last year in Ames. Twenty years ago, the Cyclones ended a 15 game losing streak to end the 20 year reign of Fry in the State of Iowa, back in 1998.
25. Miami-FL (0-1) (11) - the Hurricane lost 33-17 to then #17 LSU (1-0) in Arlington on Sunday. Mark Richt has struggled in big games, dating back to his 15 seasons at UGA. Week 2 - vs. Savannah State (0-1), as Tigers were pounded 52-0 by UAB (1-0).
26. Michigan (0-1) (14) - the Wolverines debuted new QB Shea Patterson, but they fell short chasing then #13 Notre Dame, in a 24-17 loss in South Bend on Saturday night. Week 2 - vs. Western Michigan (0-1), as the Wolverines have won 25 of last 28 home openers.
27. Oregon (1-0) (29) - the Ducks opened the 2018 season with a 58-24 win over Bowling Green (0-1) Week 2 - vs. Portland State (0-1), as the Ducks continue a non-P5 non conference slate, ahead of hosting #9 Stanford in the Pac 12 opener in Week 4.
28. South Carolina (1-0) (28) - the Gamecocks win opener 49-15 over Coastal Carolina (0-1) in the season opener. Week 2 - vs. #3 Georgia (1-0), as the Bulldogs seek to win their first SEC home opener, since 2013 over Vanderbilt.
29. Texas A&M (1-0) (NR) - the Aggies won 59-7 over Northwestern State, after being left off inadvertently from our preseason ratings. Week 2 - vs. #2 Clemson (1-0), as new HC Jimbo Fisher wins his debut, just in time for the first showdown. He is 4-4 vs. Clemson, while he was at Florida State. 
30. North Carolina State (1-0) (30) - the Wolfpack won 24-13 over James Madison (0-1) to kickoff 2018. Week 2 - vs. Georgia State (0-1), who were ruffed up by then #8 Wisconsin (1-0) in the road opener.
31. Iowa State (0-0) (31) - the Cyclones, like the Nebraska Cornhuskers (0-0), both witnessed each season openers get called for thunderstorms on Saturday night in the Heartland. Week 2 - @ #24 Iowa (1-0), while the Cornhuskers host Colorado (1-0) in Lincoln. Can a Dec 1st twelve game be arranged between these former Big 8/12 opponents to make up the season opening cancellation?  
32. Boston College (1-0) (32) - the Eagles beat UMass (1-1) 55-21 to kickoff 2018 with a victory. Week 2 - vs. Holy Cross (0-1), as Eagles enjoy back to back home games, before a Week 3 Thursday night ACC road opener @ Wake Forest (1-0).
33. Utah (1-0) (33) - the Utes beat Weber State (0-1) 41-10 to kickoff 2018. Week 2 - @ Northern Illinois (0-1), who are looking to rebound after a disappointing 33-7 loss @ #24 Iowa.
34. Washington State (1-0) - the Cougars opened 2018 with a road win @ Wyoming (1-1) 41-19. Week 2 - vs. San Jose State (0-1), first meeting, since 1996. Cougars have dropped three of last four home openers under Mike Leach.
35. Ole Miss (1-0) (NR) - the Rebels opened the 2018 season with a 47-27 win over Texas Tech (0-1) in Houston on Saturday. Week 2 - vs. Southern Illinois (1-0), in their third meeting, ahead of the SEC home opener in Week 3 against the defending national champions.
36. Kansas State (1-0) (34) - The Wildcats pulled out a narrow win over North Dakota (0-1) 27-24 to open 2018. Week 2 - vs. #18 Mississippi State (1-0), as the Wildcats host a Top 25 SEC team for the first time in Manhattan, since the 2014 Week 3 game against Auburn, which they lost 20-14 in route to a 9-4 season under Bill Snyder.
37. BYU (1-0) (NR) - the Cougars won 2018 opener @ then #37 Arizona (0-1) 28-23 on Saturday. The Cougars opened 2016 with a 18-16 win over the Wildcats on the way to a 9-4 season, back in HC Kalani Sitake's first season at the helm in Provo. Week 2 - vs. California (1-0), as the Golden Bears are coming off a 24-17 home season opener against North Carolina (0-1).
38. Houston (1-0) (38) - the Cougars won 2018 season opener @ Rice (1-1) 45-27. Week 2 - vs. Arizona (0-1), as the Wildcats fell short in new HC Kevin Sumlin's debut 28-23 against BYU (1-0).
39. Memphis (1-0) (39) - the Tigers beat Mercer (0-1) 66-14 to open the 2018 season. Week 2 - @ Navy (0-1), as the Midshipmen fall 59-41 in the season opener @ Hawaii (2-0).
40. Kentucky (1-0) (42) - the Wildcats won the 2018 opener 35-20 over Central Michigan (0-1). Week 2 - @ #41 Florida (1-0), who opened the Dan Mullen era, with a 53-6 win over Charleston Southern (0-1). The Wildcats pulled off the home win 28-27 last season over the Gators.

Game watch in Week 2 outside the Top 40

• Georgia Tech (1-0) @ USF (1-0) - winner is good candidate for Top 40 ... USF ended 2017 at #21 in both major polls.
• Colorado (1-0) @ Nebraska (0-0) - in many ways it is fitting the Scott Frost debut will now come against former conference mate, the Buffaloes, as the two teams kickoff at 2:30 pm CT in Lincoln on Saturday. Both programs were sub-.500 in 2017.

Nebraska head coach Scott Frost saw his team rained out on Saturday. His first
official debut will now come Saturday in Lincoln against Colorado (1-0).

Preseason has ended: Bring on the 2018 Big Ten Football

So, who do we like in the Big Ten pecking order, as we kickoff the 2018 College Football Season begins tonight?

All five returning starters are back for the 2018 UW Badgers,
who have won 3 out of 4 West divisions, since 2014 and the
kickoff of the College Football Playoff. Can they win the B1G?

• #1 Wisconsin (13-1) - the loaded offense and 34-7 over the past 3 seasons under HC Paul Chryst makes the Badgers the team to beat in the West and a likely participant in Indianapolis in 2018 ....

Junior QB 14 Brian Lewerke leads the MSU Spartans and
the hope to pull the rope back into Indianapolis, after missing
last season. Behind UW, who have been to five Big Ten Title
games. The Spartans have been to three themselves.

• #2 Michigan State (10-3) - HC Mark Dantonio returns 19 starters from last year and a favorable schedule, with key games coming to East Lansing in 2018 ....

Member of the Ohio State of Trustees resigned over the light
punishment given to Urban Meyer in light of the August news
unfolding in Columbus, leading to the suspension of Meyer
and athletic direction Gene Smith. Meyer loses 3 games in 2018.

• #3 Ohio State (12-2) - the off the field issues surround HC Urban Meyer's program should likely knock the Buckeyes lower, but we shall see how the football plays out in 2018 ....

The Penn State Nittany Lions return senior QB Trace McSorley, but some top
play-makers have moved onto the NFL and new players will need to step up
at RB, WR and TE for the 2018 College Football season.

• #4 Penn State (12-2) - the Nittany Lions are seeking to get back to the Big Ten title game, after falling short last year. New players will have to step up and HC James Franklin will have his third OC, since arriving in State College, in 2014.

Junior Ole Miss QB transfer 2 Shea Patterson will engineer the
4th season of Michigan football under HC Jim Harbaugh, as
the Wolverines travel to South Bend, to face Notre Dame.

• #5 Michigan (8-5) - the Wolverines fell short last season and were the only Big Ten bowl team, out of eight bowl participants, to lose their bowl match up. The defense should be strong, but how will the offense step up in 2018 ....

Northwestern senior QB 18 Clayton Thorson is coming off knee
surgery and is questionable for the B1G season opener tonight.

• #6 Winner of Northwestern (10-3) @ Purdue (7-6) - the Wildcats beat the Boilermakers 23-13 last season, it appears more and more likely junior QB T.J. Green will have to lead his team into West Lafayette for a program known for slow starts lately under HC Pat Fitzgerald ....



It's about that time! To Fight For Iowa | #Hawkeyes pic.twitter.com/2s6cXSIIsC

— Hawkeye Football (@HawkeyeFootball) August 30, 2018



• #7 Iowa (8-5) - the Hawkeyes are seeking to get back in the West division title position, after back to back seasons falling short against the Badgers and Wildcats. How much has Iowa's offense, defense and special teams improved this off season, as the Hawkeyes enter the 20th season under HC Kirk Ferentz?

The Boilermakers have two QBs coming off injuries. Tonight,
the QB jerseys stay off and the 2018 starter will make his debut
for the 2nd season of Purdue football under Jeff Brohm. Will
it be senior 11 David Blough or junior 2 Elijah Sindelar at QB?

• #8 Loser of Northwestern (10-3) @ Purdue (7-6) - the Boilermakers only return four defensive starters from last season, so how fast can they get out of the blocks, after a strong first season under Jeff Brohm, know mostly for offense?

New HC Scott Frost returns to Nebraska in 2018. A place back
 in 1997, where he lead the Dr. Tom Osborne to the Cornhuskers last
co-national championship, shared with the Michigan Wolverines.

• #9 Nebraska (4-8) - the Huskers will open the 2018 season, with a true freshman at QB, with an offense, with talent in the skill positions, but questions in the trenches and with zero Blackshirts to pass out Day 1 ....

The Indiana Hoosiers head to Florida to kickoff the 2018 College
Football season at Florida International (8-5).

• #10 Indiana (5-7) - the Hoosiers enter the second straight season under HC Tom Allen, who continues to lead the IU defensive unit, as well.

Like Nebraska and Minnesota, Rutgers will ask a true freshman,
QB 8 Artur Sikowski, to lead the Scarlet Knights offense in 2018.

• #11 Rutgers (4-8) - the Scarlet Knights enter the third season under HC Chris Ash, who will have his third offensive coordinator to lead the offense. How will Rutgers step up in the trenches, when they get into Big Ten play?

This was supposed to be D.J. Durkin's third season at the helm
of the Maryland Terrapins. But, following the release of a player's
autopsy, the media found underlying questions of abuse in the
Maryland football program. Durkin hasn't been fired, but members
of the strength and conditioning program are gone and plenty of ???  

• #12 Maryland (4-8) - the Terrapins turn to first-year offensive coordinator Matt Canada to lead the program, as D.J. Dirkin remains on administrative leave. Injuries hampered the quarterback position last season, as five players took the position. Can this team weather the storm in 2018?

Year 0 is in the books, as HC P.J. Fleck and the Minnesota Golden
Gophers open 2018 against New Mexico State (0-1 in '18,
7-6 in '17) in TCF Bank Stadium tonight. Row the boat ....

• #13 Minnesota (5-7) - the Golden Gophers will be the third B1G program turning to a true freshman quarterback to run their offense. The Gophers should be more physically ready to compete in 2018.

Coming off a 2-10 season, is Lovie Smith on the hot seat entering this year? pic.twitter.com/4ZmM4dAkDh

— Outside The Lines (@OTLonESPN) August 30, 2018

• #14 Illinois (2-10) - the Fighting Irish enter 2018 coming off a ten game losing streak, as HC Lovie Smith brings in a new offensive coordinator and the spread offense, last played at Arizona and Michigan, as Rod Smith returns to B1G to serve under HC Lovie Smith.

How Cidsports would rank the Top programs heading into 2018?

Best four for this year's College Football Playoff in 2018

• Alabama
• Clemson
• Georgia
• Washington

Cidsports Top 45 heading into the 2018 College Football Season

• #1 Clemson (12-2) 
• #2 Alabama (13-1)
• #3 Georgia (13-2) 
• #4 Oklahoma (12-2)
• #5 Washington (10-3) vs. #6 Auburn (10-4)
• #7 Ohio State (12-2)
• #8 Wisconsin (13-1)
• #9 Michigan State (10-3)
• #10 Penn State (11-2)
• #11 Miami-FL (10-3)
• #12 Stanford (9-5) 
• #14 Michigan (8-5) @ #13 Notre Dame (10-3) 
• #15 USC (11-3)
• #16 TCU (11-3)
• #17 LSU (9-4)
• #18 Mississippi State (9-4)
• #20 Virginia Tech (9-4) @ #19 Florida State (7-6)
• #21 Boise State (10-3)
• #22 Oklahoma State (10-3)
• #23 UCF (13-0)
• #24 Iowa (8-5)
• #25 FAU (11-3)
• #26 Texas (7-6)
• #27 West Virginia (7-6)
• #28 South Carolina (9-4)
• #29 Oregon (7-6)
• #30 North Carolina State (9-4)
• #31 Iowa State (8-5)
• #32 Boston College (7-6)
• #33 Utah (7-6)
• #34 Kansas State (8-5)
• #35 Northwestern (10-3) @ #36 Purdue (7-6)
• #37 Arizona (7-6)
• #38 Houston (7-5)
• #39 Memphis (10-3)
• #40 Troy (11-2)
• #41 Florida (4-7)
• #42 Kentucky (7-6)
• #43 Arkansas State (7-5)
• #44 Fresno State (10-4)
• #45 San Diego State (10-3)

Who are the teams trending for the College Football Playoff for 2018?

There are the obvious picks heading into the 2018 College Football season:

1. Clemson
2. Alabama 

They have been there before and some are picking them to make a return in 2018:

1. Ohio State 
2. Georgia 
3. Washington
4. Oklahoma
5. Michigan State

Been there before, but not likely yet, in 2018:

1. Florida State - one site likes them at #5 according to Stassen Composite
2. Oregon - #18 was as good as it gets heading into 2018 ....

So, who could be the new guys to make the College Football Playoff in 2018:

1. Wisconsin
2. Auburn
3. Michigan
4. Penn State

There are eleven programs trending, as being in the College Football Playoff conversation for 2018. One too many?

Is anyone missing from the discussion in 2018?

• 2014, Baylor just missed
• 2015, Iowa just missed
• 2016, Penn State just missed
• 2017, Ohio State just missed
• 2018, who will be next?

Often, it has been the Big Ten that just missed in the College Football Playoff. The SEC was the first conference to land two teams, and both teams played in last year's title game.

How do the All-Time AP Top 25 Teams look heading into 2018?

The All-Time AP Top 25   

How are the top rated programs of all-time performing heading into 2018?

            AP All-Time Rank, Team Points Top 20 Top 10 Top 5 1st 2nd (2017 final rating)

1. Oklahoma 890.5 55 41 32 6 4 (#3 in '17) - the Sooners (12-2) are coming off their second CFP appearance in four years of the CFP. HC Lincoln Riley will have a lot of work ahead, with #1 NFL draft choice QB Baker Mayfield absent. Riley and his coaching staff return 6 offensive starters, 6 defensive starters and senior PK/P Austin Seibert back in 2018. Stassen Composite has OU trending at #8 in the country and #1 in the Big 12 again. Last national title: 2000, under Bobby Stoops!
2. Alabama 888 55 43 26 12 3 (#1 in #17) - the Crimson Tide (13-1) are the defending national champion. HC Nick Saban has taken each team to the College Football Playoff, since its inception in 2014. The Tide return 7 starters on offense, including both QBs, but only 3 on defense and will have new kickers on special teams in 2018. A new year for  The schedule again is favorable for the defending champions, who have won 2 of  4. Stassen Composite has Bama trending as the #2 team, now. They did not win the SEC West in '17, but they are projected to win it back in '18. The past decade has been impressive with ten Top 10 finishes and five national championships for Coach Saban! 
3. Ohio State 881 56 37 26 5 7 (#5 in #17) - the Buckeyes (12-2) began August, with an announcement that HC Urban Meyer was placed on administrative leave, due to the circumstances surrounding the firing of assistant coach Zach Smith, and his domestic abuse allocations. The Buckeyes co-OC Ryan Day was named interim HC for camp. The coaching staff returns 7 offensive starters, but they will have to turn to sophomore QB Dwayne Haskins, 5 defensive starters and both their PK and punter. OSU have made two CFP appearance, winning the inaugural in 2014, but they were eliminated 31-0 in the 2016 semi-finals by Clemson. Stassen Composite  has the Buckeyes #3 heading into 2018 and the team to beat in the #1 in the Big Ten East, the #1 projected division in College Football. The Big Ten didn't send a team in 2017, after the Buckeyes lost another 31 point game, this time in the regular season 55-24 at Iowa!
4. Michigan 801 57 38 15 2 2 (not rated in '17) - Talk about a program under-performing, as hits Year 4 under HC Jim Harbaugh. The Wolverines (8-5) were the only Big Ten team that failed to win their bowl game in 2017. Seven teams pulled out wins in Big Ten bowls, but South Carolina defeated Michigan 33-28, knocking them completing out of Top 25 consideration. Harbaugh needs to find a new QB again. Like his first year, he turns to an immediate transfer, as Ole Miss QB Shea Patterson arrives in Ann Arbor. The coaching staff is working with 8 starters back on offense, 9 defensive starters from a unit that should be very strong, plus both kickers. Despite the under performance in 2017, Stassen Composite has the Wolverines trending #9 nationally, and #2 in the B1G East. Last national title: 1997, under Lloyd Carr!
5. Notre Dame 783.5 53 36 23 8 5 (#11 in '17) - the Fighting Irish (10-3) took care of business 21-17 over LSU to close out 2017, but the past BCS participant hasn't made it into the College Football Playoff, like Michigan, who will open in South Bend to kickoff the 2018 season! HC Brian Kelly returns 6 offensive starters, including junior QB Brandon Wimbush, 9 defensive starters and both specialty players. Stassen Composite has the Irish trending at #13. Last national title: 1988, under Lou Holtz!
6. USC 672 52 28 19 5 5 (#12 in '17) - the Trojans (11-3) have never reached the CFP and lost the Cotton Bowl 24-7 to #3 Ohio State. HC Clay Helton must replace their QB, but do return 7 offensive starters, 6 defensive starters and both kickers. Without QB Sam Darnold back, the Trojans are trending #15 in the Stassen Composite nationally, but still #1 in the Pac 12 South!
7. Nebraska 638 43 30 13 4 2 (not rated in '17) - the Huskers (4-8) last major bowl game was the 2001 BCS title game in the Rose Bowl, where they lost 37-14 to Miami-FL. Excitement is soaring, with the hiring of HC Scott Frost, the former Huskers' QB of the program's last national title team. Frost and his entire staff are coming off a 13-0 season at UCF in 2017. Frost and his staff return 7 offensive starters, with true freshman QB Adrian Martinez leading as the opening day starter for 2018. The Blackshirts have been silent for years in Lincoln. DC Erik Chinander, a former Iowa walk-on lineman has 8 defensive starters back and the punter back. No immediate Top 25 bounce back is projected and the Huskers are trending #5 in the B1G West by Stassen Composite. Last national title: 1997, under Dr. Tom Osborne!
8. Texas 626 42 26 10 3 2 (not rated in '17) - the Longhorns (7-6) welcomed HC Tom Herman last year, but the season got off to a slow start. A 51-41 loss in the season opener to Maryland (4-8) at home didn't set the tone for an immediate jump start. But, by season's end, the Longhorns did pick up a 33-16 win over Missouri (7-6) in the Texas Bowl. The coaching staff have 7 starters on offense back, including sophomore QB Sam Ehlinger; also 7 starters are back on defense, but the kickers will be new and likely young. The Longhorns are trending in the Stassen Composite #17 nationally and #2 in the Big 12, behind rival OU. The last BCS game was 2009. Last national title: 2005, under Mack Brown!
9. Tennessee 560 40 23 13 2 4 (not rated in '17) - the Volunteers (4-8) turn to Alabama's DC Jeremy Pruitt, as the new HC, his first head coaching job. This is a program that recruits well, but haven't had a double digit win season, in over a decade. The new coaching staff return 6 starters on offense, with Stanford graduate transfer QB Keller Chryst projected #1 at position; 6 starters on defense, including their placekicker. The Vols are trending in the Stassen Composite at #40 nationally and #6 in the SEC East, so it may be a slow start in 2018? Last national title: 1998, under Phillip Fulmer!
10. Penn State 558 41 26 14 2 3 (#8 in '17) - the Nittany Lions (11-2) won the Big Ten in 2016, but fell short in '17, with back to back losses on the road against Ohio State and Michigan State. They are coming off a 35-28 win in the Fiesta Bowl over Washington, as HC James Franklin will have senior QB Trace McSorley back. The offense returns 7 starters, including McShorley, but only 3 starters are back on defense, plus their punter, so their will be some adjustments, with RB Saquon Barkley, top TE, and #1, #3 WRs gone. The roster is at full-strength again, after the demise due to the fallout of Joe Pa and the Sandusky scandal in 2011. Stassen Composite has the Nittany Lions trending #12 nationally and #4 in the strong B1G East division. Last national title: 1986, under Joe Paterno! 
11. Florida State 533.5 30 19 17 3 2 (not rated in '17) - the Seminoles (7-6) have gone three straight season, without a birth in the CFP, making it in the first year of the FBS playoff system! A new era begins with HC Willie Taggert returning to Florida, after one season at Oregon. The Seminoles return 8 starters on offense, with junior QB Deondre Francois back; only 4 defensive starters back, plus punter. FSU is coming off a 42-13 Independence Bowl win over Southern Miss, and a two game win streak over Group of 5 programs to build on! The Stassen Composite has the Seminoles trending #18 nationally and #2 in the ACC Atlantic. Last national title: 2013, in the final BCS season, under Jimbo Fisher!
12. LSU 528 40 21 9 2 3 (#18 in '17) - the Tigers (9-4) enter Year 3 under HC Ed Oregeron, with one of the losses, a 24-21 loss vs. Troy (11-2) last year. They also fell to Notre Dame in the Citrus Bowl to close out  the season. The staff has a new OC and only 5 starters return on offense, 5 starters on defense, plus both kickers. QB has yet be decided, as junior Joe Burrow arrived this Summer from Ohio State and is in contention. Stassen Composite has the Tigers trending #20 nationally and #4 in the SEC West, so their is work ahead, if they wish to be in the mix nationally for the first time, since 2011. Last national title: 2007, under Les Miles!
13. Georgia 481.5 33 21 11 1 3 (#2 in '17) - the Bulldogs (13-2) are coming off the SEC title and runner-up in the College Football Playoff, with a 26-23 OT loss to fellow SEC brother, Alabama. HC Kirby Smart enters Year 3, with 8 starters back on offense, including sophomore QB Jake Fromm, but only 5 starters are back defensively, plus their PK junior Rodrigo Blankenship. The Tigers are trending #4 nationally and #1 in the SEC East in the Stassen Composite. Last national title: 1980, under Vince Dooley!
14. Auburn 467 35 19 9 2 2 (#10 in '17) - the Tigers (10-4) beat Alabama 26-14 to win the SEC West, but lost 28-7 in the SEC title game, then were upset 34-27 in the Peach Bowl to undefeated UCF (13-0). HC Gus Malzahn enters Year 6 and has not made the CFP, after their loss in the final BCS title game to FSU. The coaching staff returns 6 offensive starters, including junior QB Jarrett Stidham, 7 starters on defense, but will likely have new young kickers. The Tigers are trending #7 nationally #2 in the SEC West in the Stassen Composite. Last national title: 2010, under Gene Chizik!
15. Miami-FL 466 30 15 10 5 4 (#13 in '17) - the Hurricanes (10-3) enter the third season under Mark Richt, at his alma mater, coming off the first double digit season in over 10 seasons. Both coordinators return, with 7 starters back on offense, including senior QB Malik Rosier, and 7 starters on defense, plus punter. The Stassen Composite has the Hurricanes trending #10 nationally and #1 in the ACC Coastal division. Last national title: 2001.
16. Florida 449.5 28 17 11 3 1 (not rated in '17) - the Gators (4-7) welcome former OC Dan Mullen back to Gainsville, after nine seasons as HC at Mississippi State. The new HC has 10 starters back on offense, including sophomore QB Feleipe Franks; and 9 defensive starters, but new kickers and coordinator and staff. The Stassen Composite has the Gators trending #21 nationally and #2t in the SEC East division. Last national title: 2008, under Urban Meyer, while Mullen was OC!
17. Michigan State 389.5 27 17 9 1 4 (#15 in '17) - the Spartans (10-3) enter Year 12 under HC Mark Dantonio, who bounced back from a 3-9 season, coming off the Big Ten title and birth in the College Football Playoff in 2015. The Spartans beat Washington State 42-17 in the Holiday Bowl and return 16 Big Ten honorees, with 19 returning starters, with 10 on offense and 9 on defense. Junior QB Brain Lewerke returns along with both kickers. The Spartans are trending #11 nationally and #3 in the tough B1G East in the Stassen Composite. Last national title: 1966, under Duffy Daugherty!
18. UCLA 378 32 17 9 0 1 (not rated in '17) - the Bruins (6-7) dismissed Jim Mora and lost 35-17 to Kansas State (8-5) in the Cactus Bowl. New HC Chip Kelly returns the college game, after a 28-35 NFL record and previously four seasons in the Pac 12 at Oregon. The new coaching staff will need to groom a new QB, with 5 offensive starters back and 7 defensive starters, plus both kickers. The Stassen Composite has UCLA trending at #44t and #4 in the Pac 12 South. Last national title: 1954.
19. Clemson 348 27 11 5 2 2 (#4 in '17) - the Tigers (12-2) have either lost to Alabama or beat them in the College Football Playoff the past three seasons, going 1-2, with the title in 2016 in a 35-31 win over the Tide! HC Dabo Swinney enters his 11th season, with 7 offensive starters back, including senior QB Kelly Bryant, 8 defensive starters also return, plus both kickers. The Stassen Composite has the Tigers trending #1 nationally and #1 in the ACC Atlantic division, so another date with Alabama could occur again, if business is taken care of in 2018! Last national title: 2016, under Dabo!
20. Arkansas 328 28 14 4 0 1 (not rated in '17) - the Razorbacks (4-8) let coach Bret Bielema go after five seasons. HC Chad Morris arrives after leading SMU (7-6) to first bowl since 2012. The new staff will have to find a new QB, but they return 9 offensive starters, along with 8 defensive starters and both kickers. The Razorbacks haven't won double digit games, since back to back marks in 2010-11. Like the Cornhuskers in the Big Ten, the Razorbacks are not trending to open the season in the Top 25, and the Stassen Composite has them trending last in the SEC West division, after 1-7 last year. Last national title: 1964.
21. Wisconsin 313 21 14 3 0 1 (#7 in '17) - the Badgers (13-1) are entering Year 4 under HC Paul Chryst, who is 34-7 at Wisconsin, having won back to back B1G West divisions and leading his team to the first 12-0 regular season record in program history. The Badgers return 9 offensive starters, including junior QB Alex Hornibrook, and only 4 defensive starters to the #3 defense in the country from last season. Both kickers are back, but PK has been sidelined again. The Stassen Composite has the Badgers trending at #6 nationally and the consensus #1 in the B1G West division for 2018. Last national title: The highest team without a national title in the past!
22. Texas A&M 299.5 25 12 3 1 0 (not rated in '17) - the Aggies (7-6) let go of Kevin Sumlin, after six seasons, with only the first season with double digit wins at 11-2. HC Jimbo Fisher moves over from Florida State and inherits a Aggies team coming off a 55-52 loss to Wake Forest (8-5) in the Belk Bowl. The new staff return 8 offensive starters, including sophomore QB Nick Starkel, and 8 defensive starters, plus their PK. The Stassen Composite has the Aggies trending #30 nationally and #5 in the SEC West division. Last national title: 1939, under Homer H Norton!
23. Washington 293 22 11 6 0 2 (#16 in '17) - the Huskies (10-3) failed to repeat in 2017, after making their lone appearance in the College Football Playoff in 2016. The Huskies came up short against Penn State in the Fiesta Bowl, but they will look to rebound in HC Chris Petersen's fifth season at Washington. The coaching staff returns 8 offensive starters, including senior QB Jake Browning, entering his fourth season, as a starter. The defense returns 9 starters, plus their punter. The Stassen Composite is trending the Huskies #5 nationally and #1 in the Pac 12 North for 2018. Last national title: 1991, under Don James!
24. Ole Miss 282.5 23 12 4 0 2 (not rated in '17) - the Rebels (6-6) on the heals of scandal in 2017, leading to the dismissal of Hugh Freeze before the season, after five seasons at the helm. Interim coach Matt Luke was retained, after the season. He and his staff have 8 returning starters on offense, with part-time starting senior QB Jordan Ta'amu back; 7 starters back on defense. The Tigers are not getting any preseason love entering 2018. The Stassen Composite has Mississippi trending #6 in the SEC West division for 2018. The other all-time AP Top 25 program without a national title.
25. Iowa 276 22 14 3 0 1 (not rated in '17) - the Hawkeyes (8-5) won their first bowl game, since 2010, with a 27-20 win over Boston College in the Pinstripe Bowl. HC Kirk Ferentz enters his 20th season as dean of College Football again. His staff returns in tack and revamping the offensive staff before last season. The Hawkeyes return 7 offensive starters, including junior QB Nate Stanley, 5 defensive starters and both kickers. The Stassen Composite has the Hawkeyes trending #32t nationally and #2 in the B1G West division heading into 2018. Last national title: 1957, under Forest Evashevski!

Who were ranked to close out 2017, but not in the all-time AP Top 25?

• #6 UCF (13-0) - the Knights welcome HC Josh Heupel moving over from Missouri, where he was OC the past two seasons. In 2015, the program was 0-12, in George O'Leary's final season. Scott Frost took the program from 6-7 to 13-0 in his two seasons at the helm. The entire new staff return 6 starters on offense, including junior QB McKenzie Milton, and 6 defensive starters, plus both kickers. The Stassen Composite has the Knights trending #24t nationally and the consensus #1 in the AAC East division for 2018.
• #9 TCU (11-3) - the Horned Frogs enter Year 18 under HC Gary Patterson and a 39-37 win over Stanford in the Alamo Bowl. Only five starters are back offensive and they will need to find a new starter at QB. The defense returns 6 starters and their placekicker. The Stassen Composite has the Horned Frogs trending #19 nationally and #3 in the Big 12 for the 2018 season. Last national title: 1938, under Dutch Meyer!
• #13 Oklahoma State (10-3) - the Cowboys are entering their 14th season under HC Mike Gundy coming off a 30-21 win over Virginia Tech in the Camping World Bowl. QB Mason Rudolph and his top two receivers have departed, but 5 offensive starters and 7 defensive starters return, along with both kickers. The Stassen Composite has the Cowboys trending #26 and #4 in the Big 12 for 2018. 
• #17 Northwestern (10-3) - the Wildcats enter Year 13 under HC Pat Fitzgerald and have won back to back bowl games for the first time in program history, with a 24-23 win over Kentucky (7-6) in the Music City Bowl. The Wildcats have a question at QB, with senior Clayton Thorson coming off an ugly ACL injury in the bowl win last year. The Stassen Composite has the Wildcats trending #29 nationally and #3 in the B1G West heading into 2018.
• #19 Mississippi State (9-4) - the Bulldogs welcome former PSU OC Joe Moorhead, as their new head coach. MSU returns 9 starters on offesne, including senior QB Nick Fitzerald; 8 defensive starters and their sophomore PK. The Bulldogs are coming off a 31-27 win over Louisville in the Taxpayer Bowl. The Bulldogs are trending #16 in the Stassen Composite, #3 in the SEC West.
• #20 Stanford (9-5) - the Cardinal won the Pac 12 North division, losing the title game 31-28 to USC. Then, fell short in the Alamo Bowl to TCU 39-37. HC David Shaw enters Year 8, with 9 returning starters on offense, including sophomore QB KJ Costello; 6 starters on defense, including PK and punter. The Cardinal are trending #14 in the Stassen Composite and #2 in the Pac 12 North heading into 2018.
• #21 USF (10-2) - the Bulls are coming off a 38-34 win over Texas Tech in the Birmingham Bowl, their second straight over a P5 there. HC Charlie Strong enters Year 2, with 6 offensive starters returning and 5 defensive starters. Junior QB Blake Barnett arrives in Tampa, after stops at Bama and ASU. The Bulls are expected to fall back nationally outside the Stassen Composite heading into 2018, but #2 in the AAC East.
• #22 Boise State (11-3) - the Broncos are coming off a 38-28 win over Oregon in the Las Vegas Bowl, as HC Bryan Harsin enters Year 5 at the helm. The Broncos return 6 offensive starters, including senior QB Brett Rypien; 10 defensive starters and both kickers. The Broncos are trending #22 in the Stassen Composite and the consensus #1 in the MWC Mountain division, after defeating Fresno State 17-14 in last season's MWC title game.
• #23 North Carolina State (9-4) - the Wolfpack are coming off a 52-31 Sun Bowl win over Arizona State, as HC Dave Doeren enters Year 8 at the helm. The Wolfpack return 6 offensive starters, including senior QB Ryan Finley; but only 3 defensive starters and their punter. NC State is trending #36 in the Stassen Composite and #3 in the ACC Atlantic division in 2018.
• #24 Virginia Tech (9-4) - the Hokies are coming off a 30-21 loss to Oklahoma State in the Camping World Bowl. HC Justin Fuente enters Year 3 with 7 offensive starters back, including sophomore QB Joshua Jackson; only 5 back on defensive and their punter. The Hokies are trending #23 in the Stassen Composite and #2 in the ACC Coastal division for 2018.
• #25 Memphis (10-3) - the Tigers are coming off a 21-20 loss at home in the Liberty Bowl against Iowa State (8-5) to close out last season. HC Mike Norvell enters Year 3 at the helm, with 7 offensive starters back; 8 defensive starters and their PK. Junior, grad transfer Brady White from ASU is an option at QB. The Tigers are trending #39 in the Stassen Composite and #1 in the AAC West division for 2018. 

They made the inaugural College Football Playoff; but not Top 25 all-time!

• Oregon (7-6) - the Ducks were 13-2 in 2014 and played in the College Football title game, but they have fallen to a low of 4-8 in 2016. Last season, under HC Willie Taggert, they finished 7-5 in the regular season, only to lose Taggert to Florida State. Co-OC Mario Cristobal was named HC and DC Jim Leavitt was retained, but their debut was a 38-28 loss to Boise State in the Las Vegas Bowl. The new coaching staff will return 7 starters on offense, including junior QB Justin Herbert; 7 starters on defense, plus their punter. Stassen Composite has Oregon trending #24t nationally and #3 in the Pac 12 North. The Ducks were 3-2 in BCS era bowl games, but the program is seeking their first national title, after losing the first CFP title game in 2014!

Don't forget about our conference or our team in 2018!

• West Virginia (7-6) - the Mountaineers lost to Utah 30-14 in the Heart of Dallas Bowl to close out last season. HC Dana Holgorsen enters Year 8, with 7 offensive starters back, including senior QB Will Grier; 5 starters back on defense, along with both kickers. WVU is trending #27 in the Stassen Composite and #5 in the Big 12 for 2018.
• South Carolina (9-4) - the Gamecocks are coming off a 26-19 win over Michigan in the Outback Bowl. HC Will Muschamp returns 8 starters on offense, including junior QB Jake Bentley; 6 back on defense and both kickers. The Gamecocks are trending #28 in the Stassen Composite and #2t in the SEC East division for 2018.
• Missouri (7-6) - the Tigers are coming off a 33-16 loss to Texas in the Texas Bowl last year. HC Barry Odom is entering Year 3, with 9 starters back on offense, including senior QB Drew Lock; 7 starters back on defense and both kickers. The Tigers are trending #31 in the Stassen Composite and #4 in the SEC East division for 2018.
• Arizona (7-6) - the Wildcats are coming off a 38-35 loss against Purdue (7-6) in the Foster Farms Bowl. New HC Kevin Sumlin will have 7 starters back on offense for the Wildcats, including junior QB Khalil Tate; 9 starters back on defense and both kickers. The Wildcats are trending #32t in the Stassen Composite and #2 in the Pac 12 South division for 2018.
• Utah (7-6) - the Utes are coming off a 30-14 win in the Heart of Dallas Bowl over West Virginia last year. HC Kyle Whittingham is entering his 14th Year at the helm, with 8 starters back on offense, including junior QB Tyler Huntley; 6 starters back on defense and both kickers, who are among the best in the nation. The Utes are trending #34 in the Stassen Composite and #3 in the Pac 12 South division for 2018.
• Florida Atlantic (11-3) - the Owls are coming off a 50-3 win over Akron (7-7) in the Boca Raton Bowl last season. HC Lane Kiffin enters Year 2, with 5 starters back on offense and 10 defensive starters back. Kiffin hasn't determine his #1 QB yet heading into game against OU. FAU are trending #35 in the Stassen Composite and #1 in the C-USA East division for 2018.
• Georgia Tech (5-6) - the Yellow Jackets are coming off a losing season for the second time in three years, under HC Paul Johnson entering his 11th season. The Jackets return 8 starters on offense, including senior QB TeQuon Marshall; 5 starters back on defense and both kickers. GT is trending #37 in the Stassen Composite and #4 in the ACC Coastal division for 2018.
• Kansas State (8-5) - the Wildcats are coming off a 35-17 win over UCLA in the Cotton Bowl last season. HC Bill Snyder signed a five year extension this summer, as he enters the 10th straight season and 27th overall at the helm in Manhattan. The Wildcats return 8 starters on offense, including junior QB Alex Delton; 5 defensive starters are back. K-State is trending #38 in the Stassen Composite and #7 in the Big 12 for 2018.
• Duke (7-6) - the Blue Devils are coming off a 36-14 win over Northern Illinois (8-5) in the Quick Lane Bowl last season. HC David Cutcliffe enters Year 11, with 7 offensive starters back, including junior QB Daniel Jones; 8 starters back on defense and both kickers. The Blue Devils are trending #41 in the Stassen Composite and #3 in the ACC Coastal division for 2018.
• Louisville (8-5) - the Cardinals are coming off a 31-27 loss to Mississippi State in the Taxslayer Bowl last year. HC Bobby Petrino enters Year 9 at the helm, with 7 starters back on offense, both kickers, but only 4 starters back on defense. The Cardinals are trending #42 in the Stassen Composite and #4 in the ACC Atlantic division for 2018.
• Boston College (7-6) - the Eagles are coming off a 27-20 loss against Iowa in the Pinstripe Bowl last season. HC Steve Addazio enters Year 6, with 10 starters back, including sophomore QB Anthony Brown; 6 defensive starters back and their PK. The Eagles are trending #43 in the Stassen Composite and #5 in the ACC Atlantic division for 2018.
• Arkansas State (7-5) - the Red Wolves are coming off a 35-30 loss against Middle Tennessee (8-5) in the Camellia Bowl last season. HC Black Anderson enters Year 5, with 7 starters back on offense, including senior QB Justice Hansen; 5 back on defense and both kickers. The Red Wolves are trending #44t in the Stassen Composite and #1 in the Sun Belt West division for 2018.
• Texas Tech (6-7) - the Red Raiders are coming off a 38-34 loss to USF in the Birmingham Bowl last year. HC Kliff Kingsbury enters Year 6, with 6 starters back on offense, 10 starters back on defense and both kickers. The Red Raiders are trending #44t in the Stassen Composite and #8 in the Big 12 for 2018.
• Wake Forest (8-5) - the Demon Deacons are coming off a 55-52 win against Texas A&M in the Belk Bowl last season. HC Dave Clawson enters Year 5 at the helm, with 8 starters back on offense, 6 starters back on defense and their punter. The Demon Deacons are trending #47t in the Stassen Composite and #6 in the ACC Atlantic division for 2018.
• The top picks in the MAC in 2018 - Ohio U (9-4) in the East and Northern Illinois (8-5) in the West. HC Frank Solich is heading into his 14th season at Ohio, while HC Rod Carey is heading into Year 6 for NIU.

Nope, Iowa State is not trending in any preseason Top 25 ratings

• Iowa State (8-5) - the Cyclones are coming off a 21-20 win against Memphis in the Liberty Bowl last year. HC Matt Campbell enters Year 3, with 6 starters back on offense, including senior QB Kyle Kempt; 6 starters back on defense and their PK. The Cyclones are trending #6 in the Big 12 in 2018.