Alabama has edge on Clemson, Aggies overrated as season begins

2019 Playoff Contenders

1) Alabama Crimson Tide

Pretty obvious pick. This team has the most talent in college football and is looking to avenge an embarrassing national championship performance from last season. I expect Tua to light up scoreboards far and wide this year. 

2) Clemson Tigers

The next best team in college football and defending champs have a relatively weak ACC schedule to climb through this season on their way to returning to the big stage. Clemson is the only ranked ACC team heading into this season. 

3) Oklahoma Sooners

The addition of Jalen Hurts will surely help Oklahoma’s case in replacing the incomparable Kyler Murray at quarterback. Whispers of an improving defense have emerged this summer ahead of the season. If that is the case, Oklahoma has a very good shot at this year’s championship. 

4) Utah Utes

Don’t sleep on the Utes this season. Huntely and Moss are a dynamic QB and RB combo. If the Utes can make it through Washington, they will play in the Pac-12 title game against likely opponent Oregon. A potential run at the playoff is in the cards here. 

2019 Pretenders

1) Florida Gators

The first power 5 game out of the gates, Florida squeaked out a win over an underwhelming Miami squad on August 24th. I think the Gators’ schedule is among the toughest in the country. Continued poor play will lead to an underwhelming year. 

2) Texas A&M

Too much confidence in quarterback Kellen Mond will lead to disaster. They are not deserving of the No. 12 ranking and should finish the season on the lower end of the top-25, especially after their final two games at LSU and Georgia. 

3) Oregon Ducks

Justin Herbert has captured national headlines for his great QB play. Over exaggeration of this team’s abilities has led to an inflated No. 11 ranking. Away games at USC, Washington and Stanford are likely stumbling blocks for the Ducks who were a mere 8-4 last season. 

2019 Dark Horse

Iowa State Cyclones

The third best team in the Big 12 is only a couple upsets away from playoff contention. Brock Purdy comes into his second season with more experience, which will surely help this team to more than one unexpected victory this season.