Arch Manning isn’t the Heisman Favorite
Oddsmakers nabbed Manning as the Heisman favorite heading into 2025, despite it being his first year as QB1 at Texas. It’s safe to say the Heisman hype can be put on hold for now. Manning often struggled in the loss to Ohio State as the ‘Horns put up just seven points. He did find some rhythm later in the game, and has time to grow and eventually reach the lofty expectations placed upon him. However, it was made clear that Manning is still far from the best
player in the nation this season.
The G5 Playoff Picture is Wide Open
Boise State was the only ranked G5 program heading into the season, but that may be the last time they appear with a number next to their name after being smacked by USF in week one. According to the AP poll, next in line are Tulane, UNLV, Toledo, James Madison, and Memphis. Toledo was the only other team to suffer a loss in week one, failing to upset Kentucky. They may not have another chance to impress the committee based on their remaining schedule. Tulane beat Northwestern 23-3, and may now lead the race along with USF, the new contender after taking down Boise State.
Trouble in Tuscaloosa
Kalen DeBoer failed to meet the impossible standard set by Nick Saban in year one, missing the playoffs following upset losses to Vanderbilt and Oklahoma. Year two is off to a horrendous start after a 31-17 loss to Florida State where they were outperformed on both sides of the ball. The margin of error to make the playoffs has become slim, with five ranked teams ahead on the schedule, as well as the always-unpredictable Iron Bowl at Auburn to close out the regular season. DeBoer’s $70 million buyout should give him some breathing room, but the seat is certainly getting warm for a program used to being an annual national title favorite.
First Year Starting QBs Struggle
Manning wasn’t alone in his struggles as a first-time starter at quarterback. Six of the preseason top eight will be breaking in new quarterbacks this season (Texas, Ohio State, Georgia, Notre Dame, Oregon and Alabama), and every one of them who faced a defense with a pulse got off to a shaky start. It’s far too early to pass judgement, as these players should like quite different later in the season with more experience. However, we could see some major upsets when some of these new quarterbacks face growing pains in the wrong weeks.
Miami Looks Legit
I did not believe Miami was worthy of their #10 ranking heading into the season. Mario Cristobal excels in bringing in talent, but always seems to struggle to get the team to play to their potential. They certainly proved me wrong in the week one victory over Notre Dame. Carson Beck showed that he was not the problem with Georgia’s offense in 2024, putting in a strong performance the rain. The team also looked much more physical than in the past, especially on defense. The ‘Canes had trouble stopping just about everyone last year, but it appears the off-season overhaul was successful as Miami will be a force to be reckoned with and possibly the new favorite in the ACC.
Farewell to a Legend
Those who tuned in for GameDay were treated to a pitch-perfect send-off for the legendary Lee Corso. The broadcast was filled with classic moments of Corso’s incredible career, with the man of the hour looking good as ever in a tux. Of course, the highlight of the broadcast was his final headgear selection as he came full-circle to correctly pick the Buckeyes. Corso went out on a high note, as all of his picks were correct, and every team that he either played for or coached at celebrated a victory on Saturday. It was one heck of a career, and Saturday mornings will never be the same.
