2015 NCAA Coaching Vacancies and Who Should Fill Them

Pretty soon here, we are going to have some unprecedented movement among FBS coaches. With several high profile jobs open already including Miami, South Carolina, and Southern Cal, it is going to be fun to watch. Who goes where and why? I will try to predict all of that for you....

First, some rules though. I will not list the same coach for more than one vacancy. The priority goes to the most high profile job which in my opinion here is Southern Cal. For each position I will select who I think the school should hire. I also attempt to only select coaches that I think would actually take the job available. As you can see below I think there will be quite a bit of turnover in college football. This will get very interesting.....

American Athletic

Houston

Tom Herman will be a candidate at every power 5 job and for good reason. The guy has been a masterfully productive coach. Houston would obviously love to keep him obviously, but I just don’t see it happening. They nab a bigtime coordinator with upside. Luckily for them, that coordinator is already on staff.

Hire: Todd Orlando (Houston Co-Defensive Coordinator)

Memphis

Justin Fuente has done a bang-up job for the Tigers and got them to be a nationally ranked and respected team. That being said, he is in line for a much better job than the one he currently has. Memphis would do well to take a rising coordinator. They do just that by nabbing the mastermind behind Ohio State’s defense.

Hire: Chris Ash (Ohio State Co-Defensive Coordinator)

Navy

I am torn on this one. Ken Niumataolo is always a candidate for a Power 5 job it seems and it seems he always stays at Navy. That very well could happen again, but I just have a feeling that a Power 5 school is able to lock him up this time. To replace him Navy looks for a guy that runs a similar offense and has experience at a military school. That search leads them to Citadel coach Mike Houston to replace Niumataolo.

Hire: Mike Houston (Citadel Head Coach)

Temple

This situation is very similar to Houston’s. Temple has a coach in Matt Rhule that is outperforming his job. It is incredibly unlikely that he will remain with Temple. There best option could well be to nab a coordinator that is outperforming their job as Conklin is doing for Pitt. Conklin has turned around the defense at Pitt after leading FIU to a historic turnaround. This guy is going to get a lot of head coaching looks.

Hire: Josh Conklin (Pittsburgh Defensive Coordinator)

UCF

Has a team ever fallen further than UCF has since their Fiesta Bowl victory over Baylor? They have gone from a BCS bowl win to looking like a team without a prayer to get a victory. They need a young, high energy guy that is well known in Florida. Terrell Buckley would be a risky hire, but the type of hire needed at this stage by the program. He could get UCF back to running the conference quickly. He won’t be the hire, but that’s who I would target.

Hire: Terrell Buckley (Louisville DB Coach)

USF

Willie Taggert is slowly improving the program, but they are taking baby steps and I believe a change can and will be made. This is about as good a non-Power 5 job as you can get with the talent advantage these guys get over most other schools by being in Tampa. You have to think they will be looking to make a change and make a splash. After swinging for the fences and missing on more prominent names, I think they end up with Mark Stoops after he gets axed from Kentucky. That would be a solid hire for the Bulls and he already has recruiting connections in Florida from his time with the Noles.

Hire: Mark Stoops (Kentucky Head Coach)

Atlantic Coast

Boston College

Steve Addazio has done a solid job changing the trajectory of the program, but 6 straight losses is 6 straight losses and I think a change is going to have to be made here. The Eagles have limited resources compared to some other ACC schools and would do well to stick with a guy that has to program’s interest at heart. They need a strong Catholic guy to take the helm. The choice here is current Oklahoma defensive coordinator Mike Stoops who previously served as Arizona HC. Stoops brings a big name and some punch to a job that will have a little bit of patience with him.

Hire: Mike Stoops (Oklahoma DC)

Miami

This job is apparently going to Mario Cristobal and that would be a solid hire for the Hurricanes. The current Bama offensive line coach is a favorite among South FL HS coaches and I think his relationships in the area are what will land him the job.

I am not giving away who I would hire just in case some decision makers for the U are reading this blog. Hey, you never know right?

Hire: Mario Cristobal (Alabama OL Coach)

Syracuse

Syracuse is a job that some, but not all expect to be open. I expect it to open up and for them to aim big and aim for a young energetic coach. That coach I would aim for if I was the Orange is PJ Fleck. His name is coming on strongly as of late in a lot of spots and I think that Syracuse could be the perfect destination for him. He is a 34 year old coach that has a lot to offer a program and he has Western Michigan humming this season. In fact, the team is winning the MAC as of now and looks to be completely turned around as a program.

Hire: PJ Fleck (Western Michigan Head Coach)

Virginia

Mike London has done a terrific job recruiting for the Cavs, but it has not resulted in wins outside of his first season. It is time to make a change. Seeing how Georgia Tech has run the coastal recently with the triple option, Virginia will look to capitalize off a younger and more exciting personality with the same style of football. This is a huge opportunity for the Cavs if they get Navy’s coach and I think they go for it.

Hire: Ken Niumataolo (Navy Head Coach)

Virginia Tech

Virginia Tech will swing and miss on some bigger targets like Rich Rodriguez who will ultimately select better offers. However, they get a guy who is exciting. A guy they need. This program needs a fresh exciting offensive coach that can keep Virginia kids excited and in state. Enter the coach of one of the most exciting offenses in the country at TCU. Meachem would get kids excited and add some fun to Blackburg real quick.

Hire: Doug Meachem (TCU Offensive Coordinator)

Big 10

Illinois

Fuente is one of the top young names that will land a high profile job. He may land one much better than Illinois. However, Illinois should target him and he would be a major hire should they pull it off.

Hire: Justin Fuente (Memphis Head Coach)

Indiana

If Arkansas is expecting to be a perennial championship contender they must let go of Bielema. How he did in the Big 10 before though would have Indiana fans quite excited to have him. His relationships are in Big 10 country and not SEC country. He is a Big 10 coach and there is a school in the Big 10 that would gladly welcome him back. I believe that school is Indiana.

Hire: Bret Bielema (Arkansas Head Coach)

Maryland

It seems as if the writing is on the wall for Richt to leave UGA and it just might be time for a change for both parties. If you project where he might fit, Maryland just might be the perfect place. This is a good spot in an incredibly weak division and could be a great opportunity. 9 wins is disappointing at Georgia, but it would be a major success for the Terrapins. He could get Maryland headed in the right direction.

Hire: Mark Richt (Georgia Head Coach)

Minnesota

This is a loyal program that stood by Coach Kill through all of his health issues. Anybody would love to coach for a school with that much support. They go for a top defensive mind from a rival by bringing in Durkin. This would be a terrific fit.

Hire: DJ Durkin (Michigan Defensive Coordinator)

Nebraska

Let’s be honest, Nebraska blew the hiring process last time. They went from a solid coach to a guy that doesn’t belong in a Power 5 job. They could possibly give him more time, especially after upsetting Michigan State, but I expect a change to again be made. Nebraska swings for the fences and hits with arguably the most coveted young coach in Matt Campbell. He gives the Cornhuskers everything they want in a coach. They could not hope for much more than beating several other Power 5 schools and getting this elite coach.

Hire: Matt Campbell (Toledo Head Coach)

Purdue

Purdue had some solid years once upon a time, but now they are pretty much the laughing stock of the Big 10. It does not have to be that way. Not only does it not have to be that way, but these guys could really compete. The easiest way for this school to compete is to bring in a National Championship level coach. They do that by bringing in former Ohio State Head Coach Jim Tressel. He would welcome a return to the Big 10 at any school and they should take advantage of that.

Hire: Jim Tressel (Former Ohio State Head Coach)

Big 12

Iowa State

If your goal is to compete on the biggest stage and knock off the conference big dogs consistently, then sometimes you need to learn from what they do. Baylor has an explosive offense that few in the country can replicate. If I am a Big 12 bottom feeder like Iowa State, then I look to bring in a dynamic coach from that squad to help me score points in bunches. Bringing Kendal Briles in at Iowa State would add a lot of excitement to a program that has very little right now.

Hire: Kendal Briles (Baylor Offensive Coordinator)

West Virginia

After being passed over for the Virginia Tech job, Bud Foster will be looking on to head elsewhere. He doesn’t mind heading to a rival school because VT passes on him in their coaching search. I expect him to never be treated as a serious candidate with the Hokies and to put himself in position to get hired elsewhere.

Hire: Bud Foster (Virginia Tech Defensive Coordinator)

Conference USA

Florida Atlantic

If I am looking to gain some success for my program and knock the other in state teams down a few pegs, I might look at a smaller school being able to do that to the big boys. I see this coach take Auburn to their absolute limit and I think about how great a fit he will be for my school.

Hire: John Grass (Jacksonville State Head Coach)

North Texas

David Gibbs was the interim coach at Houston last year and holds a 1-0 career record. He has a stellar record as a defensive coordinator and some background success in the Texas region. That success, the relationships he has with HS coaches and the fact that he is a rising coordinator makes him seem like an ideal fit at North Texas.

Hire: David Gibbs (Texas Tech Defensive Coordinator)

Texas San-Antonio

Novell has seen some success and is another coach from the southwest. He will be able to recruit kids well at this spot and can help bring some excitement to the program.

Hire: Mike Norvell (Arizona State Offensive Coordinator)

Tulane

Tommy led an undefeated season at Tulane in what is probably the best season in school history. Terry is younger than Tommy and led an undefeated season at Auburn. For a school with little upside to replicate a similar season, it is certainly worth a shot.

Hire: Terry Bowden (Akron Head Coach)

Independent

No expected openings

Mid-American

Akron

Let’s not sugarcoat it here, I love Bowden as much as anyone, but it hasn’t worked at Akron. For whatever reason, they haven’t had the success that I and others envisioned. After this season it is probably best for both parties to head their separate ways. Akron will attempt to get a coordinator with upside and hits the mark if they go with Sanford.

Hire: Mike Sanford (Notre Dame Offensive Coordinator)

Kent State

Should Boston College let Addazio go as it seems they must, a small school will swoop him up. If Kent State is fortunate enough to be that school, good for them.

Hire: Steve Addazio (Boston College Head Coach)

Toledo

Toledo would prefer to keep Campbell, but he will be one of the most sought after coaches for the many Power 5 openings. To fill his impending departure, do not be surprised if a former Power 5 coach falls down to them

Hire: Mike London (Virginia Head Coach)

Western Michigan

Elko is a name on the rise. He has done well as the coordinator for the Deacs after making a name for himself with Bowling Green as their coordinator. A move back to the MAC is very possible with a head coaching offer this time. Elko is a good fit to replace the high energy Fleck.

Hire: Mike Elko (Wake Forest Defensive Coordinator)

Mountain West

Hawaii

Clune spent 2014 as the Hawaii defensive coordinator and when he left the Hawaii defense fell apart. The Warriors look to bring him back and see if he again can have a positive impact on their defense. This hard-working coach would be a solid hire for Hawaii.

Hire: Kevin Clune (Utah State Defensive Coordinator)

San Jose State

Tyson Summers leaves UCF for Colorado State and all of a sudden the UCF team looks like a high school squad. He has done a great job turning around defenses everywhere he goes and there is no reason to think he can’t do the same for a weak San Jose State squad.

Hire: Tyson Summers (Colorado State Defensive Coordinator)

Pac 12

Arizona

Although some crazies suggest otherwise, the ideal option is obviously for the Wildcats to keep RichRod. If he leaves for a more prestigious Power 5 job though, they need another dynamic mind that can recruit in the Pac 12. That guy is Scott Frost.

Hire: Scott Frost (Oregon Offensive Coordinator)

Colorado

Colorado is too proud of a program to put up with how much they have struggled since joining the Pac 12. They need a coach that can get them to be a lot more competitive. Pelini has success recruiting the area, getting a strong defense, and winning games. There is no reason the Buffs should not target Pelini.

Hire: Bo Pelini (Former Nebraska Head Coach)

Southern Cal

This job has been open for quite some time and is perhaps the best job available. They should have the pick of the litter during this offseason. Ultimately, I think they settle on Tom Herman, but this could go many different ways and will likely have a domino effect whichever way they decide.

Hire: Tom Herman (Houston Head Coach)

SEC

Arkansas

It is time to move on from the 6 wins a year that Bielema has provided the Razorbacks. If they want to make a true contending push in the SEC West, they obviously may need to do something different. When you have a big dog like Alabama you are trying to catch, sometimes you need to replicate what they do. Arkansas will make a big run at Kirby Smart as they should and they could well get him.

Hire: Kirby Smart (Alabama Defensive Coordinator)

Georgia

The home run and rumored candidate is Rich Rodriguez the current coach @ Arizona. That offense would slay in the SEC. Alabama has struggled with teams that run this type of offense and nobody is better at it than RichRod. Getting an offense that the conference juggernaut struggles with would be huge. Not to mention that he’d have a fairly easy path to the SEC Championship game to likely play Bama. If they could lure him away as I think they can it would be a major coup. However, I do think there will be some competition for Rich Rodriguez and that competition will likely be the other SEC teams.

Hire: Rich Rodriguez (Arizona Head Coach)

Kentucky

I really like Stoops and think he is the right guy for the job and a guy that will ultimately turn the program around, but I don’t think Kentucky will be that patient. They will try to go in another direction and try to go with a guy that has a proven track record as a head coach. Rhule would be a coup for Kentucky if they can Stoops.

Hire: Matt Rhule (Temple Head Coach)

Missouri

Their choice here is Florida Defensive Coordinator Geoff Collins. Although I would not be surprised if Collins got a better power 5 job as well. He would be a fantastic choice for the Tigers. To get back atop the SEC East, one way is to take a brilliant mind off the team that knocked you off.

Hire: Geoff Collins (Florida Defensive Coordinator)

South Carolina

Clemson has not only passed South Carolina, but knocked the school back a few pegs. Taking their top coach and one of their top recruiters is a great way to battle back. Build the Gamecocks on the defensive side and make them a real force in the SEC. Venables has the potential to deliver that elusive SEC title that the Ol’ Ball Coach never could. The cupboard is pretty bare though so it will take a few years.

Hire: Brett Venables (Clemson Defensive Coordinator)

Sun Belt

Georgia State

Schiano wants another shot coaching and Georgia State gets a coach that can outcoach anybody they would normally get. It isn’t everyday that a former NFL coach comes to the Sun Belt.

Hire: Greg Schiano (Former Rutgets and Tampa Bay Buccaneers Head Coach)

Idaho

With as many high profile jobs open as there are, it is entirely plausible and perhaps even likely that Riley can score a bigger job than this. However, he should be the target and could put the Vandals on the football map. After their upset of Baylor yesterday though, this is looking unlikely.

Hire: Lincoln Riley (Oklahoma Offensive Coordinator)

Louisiana Monroe

Holgersen is likely toast at West Virginia, but he was a very successful coordinator with Oklahoma State before taking over at WVU. The last time a successful Oklahoma State coach ended up in Louisiana, he won a natty. That will not happen here. However, Holgersen could make a major impact for this Louisiana school.

Hire: Dana Holgersen (West Virginia Head Coach)

New Mexico State

This is one of the worst if not the worst division 1 job. This program has not had a winning season since 2002. Their current coach is 4-20. The program looks like they have no prayer. They cannot possibly expect to get a really big name in here. They can however, try to get a young coach with a lot of upside from outside the Power 5. My choice fitting that criteria would be Bryan Vincent from South Alabama.

Hire: Bryan Vincent (South Alabama Offensive Coordinator)

As I said that is quite a change. 40+ open jobs are predicted to have change by me here. It will be interesting to see if teams think like me and how the dominos fall. Prepare to learn some new names football fans....

-Noland

Best 5 Football Games To Watch Each Week

With College Football season officially kicking off next week, I thought it was appropriate to give everyone the best five college and NFL games for each week. Or the games that as of today I believe are the best 5 games each week. These are the games that I strongly recommend tuning into, especially the top matchup each week. Not the games that will feature the best teams, but the ones I believe will be the most competitive and fun to watch. Each should be fun to watch even for the casual fan, I will start with college. Home team listed 2nd in all cases.

NCAA Week 1

5. Arizona v. Texas A&M Saturday 9/5 7:00 PM ESPN

4. Virginia v. UCLA Saturday 9/5 3:30 PM FOX

3. Louisville v. Auburn Saturday 9/5 3:30 PM CBS

2. Wisconsin v. Alabama Saturday 9/5 8:00 PM ABC

1. Ohio State v. Virginia Tech Monday 9/7 8:00 PM ESPN

NCAA Week 2

5. ECU v. Florida Saturday 9/12 7:00 PM ESPN2

4. Notre Dame v. Virginia Saturday 9/12 3;30 PM ABC

3. LSU v. Mississippi State Saturday 9/12 9:15 PM ESPN

2. Oklahoma v. Tennessee Saturday 9/12 6:00 PM ESPN

1. Oregon v. Michigan State Saturday 9/12 8:00 PM ABC

NCAA Week 3

5. Georgia Tech v. Notre Dame Saturday 9/19 3:30 PM NBC

4. Auburn v. LSU Saturday 9/19 3:30 PM CBS

3. Clemson v. Louisville Thursday 9/17 7:30 PM ESPN

2. Ole Miss v. Alabama Saturday 9/19 9:15 PM ESPN

1. Florida State v. Boston College Friday 9/18 8:00 PM ESPN

NCAA Week 4
5. Boise State v. Virginia Friday 9/25 8:00 PM ESPN
4. Oklahoma State v. Texas Saturday 9/26 TBD
3. Georgia Tech v. Duke Saturday 9/26 TBD
2. Mississippi State v. Auburn Saturday 9/26 TBD
 1. Southern Cal v. Arizona State Saturday 9/26 TBD
NCAA Week 5
5. Miami v. Cincinnati Thursday 10/1 7:30 PM ESPN
4. Air Force v. Navy Saturday 10/3 3:30 PM CBSSN
3. Arizona State v. UCLA Saturday 10/3 TBD
2. Notre Dame v. Clemson Saturday 10/3 TBD
1. Alabama v. Georgia Saturday 10/3 TBD
NCAA Week 6
5. Boise State v. Colorado State Saturday 10/10 7:00 PM CBSSN
4. Oklahoma v. Texas Saturday 10/10 TBD
3. Navy v. Notre Dame Saturday 10/10 3:30 PM NBC
2. Georgia Tech v. Clemson Saturday 10/10 TBD
1. Miami v. Florida State Saturday 10/10 TBD
NCAA Week 7
5. UCLA v. Stanford Thursday 10/15 10:30 PM ESPN
4. Virginia Tech v. Miami Saturday 10/17 TBD
3. Michigan State v. Michigan Saturday 10/17 TBD
2. Louisville v. Florida State Saturday 10/17 TBD
1. Penn State v. Ohio State Saturday 10/17 TBD
NCAA Week 8
5. Tennessee v. Alabama Saturday 10/24 TBD
4. Boston College v. Louisville Saturday 10/24 TBD
3. Clemson v. Miami Saturday 10/24 TBD
2. Duke v. Virginia Tech Saturday 10/24 TBD
1. Florida State v. Georgia Tech Saturday 10/24 TBD
NCAA Week 9
5. Central Florida v. Cincinnati Satuday 10/31 TBD
4. Miami v. Duke Saturday 10/31 TBD
3. Virginia Tech v. Boston College Saturday 10/31 TBD
2. Ole Miss v. Auburn Saturday 10/31 TBD
1. Oregon v. Arizona State Thursday 10/29 10:30 PM ESPN
NCAA Week 10 (FSU v. Clemson also this week)
5. NC State v. Boston College Saturday 11/7 TBD
4. LSU v. Alabama Saturday 11/7 TBD
3. Baylor v. Kansas State Thursday 11/5 7:30 PM Fox Sports 1
2. Arizona v. Southern Cal Saturday 11/7 TBD
1. TCU v. Oklahoma State Saturday 11/7 TBD
NCAA Week 11
5. Oklahoma v. Baylor Saturday 11/14 TBD
4. BYU v. Missouri Saturday 11/14 TBD
3. Oregon v. Stanford Saturday 11/14 TBD
2. Virginia Tech v. Georgia Tech Thursday 11/12 7:30 PM ESPN
1. NC State v. Florida State Saturday 11/14 TBD
NCAA Week 12
5. Boston College v. Notre Dame Saturday 11/21 7:30 PM NBC
4. TCU v. Oklahoma Saturday 11/21 TBD
3. Michigan State v. Ohio State Saturday 11/21 TBD
2. Baylor v. Oklahoma State Saturday 11/21 TBD
1. Arizona v. Arizona State Saturday 11/21 TBD
NCAA Week 13 (FSU v. Florida also this week, Rivalry Week)
5. Oklahoma v. Oklahoma State Saturday 11/28 TBD
4. Georgia v. Georgia Tech Saturday 11/28 TBD
3. Alabama v. Auburn Saturday 11/28 TBD
2. Penn State v. Michigan State Saturday 11/28 TBD
1. Baylor v. TCU Friday 11/27 7:30 PM ESPN
NCAA Week 14
5. Texas v. Baylor Saturday 12/5 TBD
4. SEC Championship Saturday 12/5 TBD
3. Big 10 Championship Saturday 12/5 TBD
2. ACC Championship Saturday 12/5 TBD
1. PAC-12 Championship Saturday 12/5 TBD

NFL Week 1
5. Philadelphia v. Atlanta Monday 9/14 7:10 PM ESPN
4. Cincinnati v. Oakland Sunday 9/13 4:25 PM CBS
3. Kansas City v. Houston Sunday 9/13 1:00 PM CBS
2. New York Giants v. Dallas Sunday 9/13 8:30 PM NBC
1. Indianapolis v. Buffalo Sunday 9/13 1:00 PM CBS
NFL Week 2
5. Atlanta v. New York Giants 1:00 PM FOX
4. Detroit v. Minnesota Sunday 9/20 1:00 PM FOX
3. Denver v. Kansas City Thursday 9/17 8:25 PM CBS
2. Seattle v. Green Bay Sunday 9/20 8:30 PM NBC
1. Dallas v. Philadelphia Sunday 9/20 4:25 PM FOX
NFL Week 3
5. Atlanta v. Dallas 1:00 PM FOX
4. Denver v. Detroit Sunday 9/27 8:30 PM NBC
3. Cincinnati v. Baltimore Sunday 9/27 1:00 PM CBS
2. Tampa Bay v. Houston Sunday 9/27 1:00 PM FOX
1. Kansas City v. Green Bay Monday 9/28 8:30 PM ESPN
NFL Week 4
5. Carolina v. Tampa Bay Sunday 10/41:00 PM FOX
4. Kansas City v. Cincinnati Sunday 10/4 1:00 PM CBS
3. Detroit v. Seattle Monday 10/5 8:30 PM ESPN
2. New York Giants v. Buffalo Sunday 10/4 1:00 PM FOX
1. Baltimore v. Pittsburgh Thursday 10/1 8:25 PM CBS
NFL Week 5
5. New Orleans v. Philadelphia Sunday 10/11 1:00 PM FOX
4. Arizona v. Detroit Sunday 10/11 4:05 PM FOX
3. Seattle v. Cincinnati Sunday 10/11 1:00 PM FOX
2. Pittsburgh v. San Diego Monday 10/12 8:30 PM ESPN
1. Indianapolis v. Houston Thursday 10/8 8:25 PM CBS
NFL Week 6
5. Atlanta v. New Orleans Thursday 10/15 8:25 PM CBS
4. Arizona v. Pittsburgh Sunday 10/18 1:00 PM FOX
3. New York Giants v. Philadelphia Monday 10/19 8:30 PM ESPN
2. Cincinnati v. Buffalo Sunday 10/18 1:00 PM CBS
1. San Diego v. Green Bay Sunday 10/18 4:25 PM CBS
NFL Week 7
5. Houston v. Miami Sunday 10/25 1:00 PM CBS
4. Minnesota v. Detroit Sunday 10/25 1:00 PM FOX
3. Pittsburgh v. Kansas City Sunday 10/25 1:00 PM CBS
2. Dallas v. New York Giants Sunday 10/25 4:25 PM FOX
1. Baltimore v. Arizona Monday 10/26 8:30 PM ESPN
NFL Week 8
5. Miami v. New England Thursday 10/29  8:25 PM CBS
4. Cincinnati v. Pittsburgh Sunday 11/1 1:00 PM CBS
3. San Diego v. Baltimore Sunday 11/1 1:00 PM CBS
2. Tampa Bay v. Atlanta Sunday 11/1 1:00 PM FOX
1. Seattle v. Dallas Sunday 11/1 4:25 PM FOX
NFL Week 9
5. Oakland v. Pittsburgh Sunday 11/8 1:00 PM CBS
4. St. Louis v. Minnesota Sunday 11/8 1:00 PM FOX
3. Miami v. Buffalo Sunday 11/8 1:00 PM CBS
2. Philadelphia v. Dallas Sunday 11/8 8:30 PM NBC
1. New York Giants v. Tampa Bay Sunday 11/8 4:05 PM FOX
NFL Week 10
5. Buffalo v. New York Jets Thursday 11/12 8:25 PM CBS
4. Houston v. Cincinnati Monday 11/16 8:30 PM ESPN
3. Arizona v. Seattle Sunday 11/15 8:30 PM NBC
2. Dallas v. Tampa Bay Sunday 11/15 1:00 PM FOX
1. New England v. New York Giants Sunday 11/15 4:25 PM CBS
NFL Week 11
5. Dallas v. Miami Sunday 11/22 1:00 PM FOX
4. Kansas City v. San Diego Sunday 11/22 8:30 PM NBC
3. Cincinnati v. Arizona Sunday 11/22 4:05 PM CBS
2. Buffalo v. New England Monday 11/23 8:30 PM ESPN
1. Tampa Bay v. Philadelphia Sunday 11/22 1:00 PM FOX
NFL Week 12
5. Minnesota v. Atlanta Sunday 11/29 1:00 PM FOX
4. New England v. Denver Sunday 11/29 8:30 PM NBC
3. Buffalo v. Kansas City Sunday 11/29 1:00 PM CBS
2. Tampa Bay v. Indianapolis Sunday 11/29 1:00 PM FOX
1. Pittsburgh v. Seattle Sunday 11/29 4:25 PM CBS
NFL Week 13
5. Green Bay v. Detroit Thursday 12/3 8:25 PM CBS
4. New York Jets v. New York Giants Sunday 12/6 1:00 PM CBS
3. Atlanta v. Tampa Bay Sunday 12/6 1:00 PM FOX
2. Indianapolis v. Pittsburgh Sunday 12/6 8:30 PM NBC
1. Houston v. Buffalo Sunday 12/6 1:00 PM CBS
NFL Week 14
5. Pittsburgh v. Cincinnati Sunday 12/13 1:00 PM CBS
4. New England v. Houston Sunday 12/13 1:00 PM CBS
3. Dallas v. Green Bay Sunday 12/13 4:25 PM FOX
2. Seattle v. Baltimore Sunday 12/13 8:30 PM NBC
1. Buffalo v. Philadelphia Sunday 12/13 1:00 PM CBS
NFL Week 15
5. New York Jets v. Dallas Saturday 12/19 8:25 PM NFL
4. Denver v. Pittsburgh Sunday 12/20 4:25 PM CBS
3. Houston v. Indianapolis Sunday 12/20 1:00 PM CBS
2. Kansas City v. Baltimore Sunday 12/20 1:00 PM CBS
1. Arizona v. Philadelphia Sunday 12/20 1:00 PM FOX
NFL Week 16
5. Cincinnati v. Denver Monday 12/28 8:30 PM ESPN
4. New England v. New York Jets Sunday 12/27 1:00 PM CBS
3. Dallas v. Buffalo Sunday 12/27 1:00 PM FOX
2. Pittsburgh v. Baltimore Sunday 12/27 8:30 PM NBC
1. Green Bay v. Arizona Sunday 12/27 4:25 PM FOX
NFL Week 17
5.New York Jets v. Buffalo Sunday 1/3 1:00 PM CBS
4. Tampa Bay v. Carolina Sunday 1/3 1:00 PM FOX
3. Baltimore v. Cincinnati Sunday 1/3 1:00 PM CBS
2. Philadelphia v. New York Giants Sunday 1/3 1:00 PM FOX
1. Seattle v. Arizona Sunday 1/3 4:25 PM FOX

One thing is for sure with all of these terrific matchups, we are in for one fantastic football season!

-Noland

2015-16 NCAA Football Predictions

Another glorious football season is upon us. Fall is practically here and our favorite sport will be played before you know it. Since it is so close, that can only mean that it is prediction time. So my predictions for the 2015-2016 football season are what this entry is all about.

After their surprising run last season, most people are on Ohio State to win, but not this guy. Despite their incredibly manageable schedule and incredible amount of talent returning, it is just an entirely different animal to repeat. Something can and will go wrong for the Buckeyes. Who does that leave us to compete? Let's start with some teams that nobody is talking about that could have an impact on the College Football Playoff that I have outside of my playoff and most people have outside their top 10 teams.

The Darkhorse Teams

5. Notre Dame Fighting Irish
The Irish lately have seemed to be the team that provides just enough to make you believe they are a contender before eventually fading away. Last year, they had that incredible almost win in Tallahassee where they came closest to ending Florida State's winning streak. They had a lot of injuries late in the year that contributed to their late slide. You better expect this team to compete though and if they lose a game or less, they will be in the hunt.

4. Penn State Nittany Lions
I can't believe I am writing this team as a darkhorse playoff contender a few years after crippling sanctions, but they are just that. Bill O'Brien did a fantastic job keeping this program afloat and was succeeded by another incredible coach in James Franklin. The Nittany Lions have a guy that is arguably the best QB in the country and a lot of returning talent. They also play in a conference that behind the top two teams of Ohio State and Michigan State is fairly weak. The opportunity is there for Penn State with a giant bullseye on Ohio State should Michigan State falter. Do not be shocked if this team surprises the majority of the country.

3. Oklahoma State Cowboys
Oklahoma State demonstrated last year that they have an incredible amount of young talent. They also saw injuries derail part of their season, but were still able to beat rival Oklahoma. The Cowboys return talented QB Mason Rudolph who was able to lead that upset over the Sooners. Perhaps more importantly, the Cowboys get to play Big 12 powers Baylor, Oklahoma, and TCU in Stillwater. Mike Gundy could follow-up his worst season since 2007 with a playoff appearance.

2. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets

The Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets are being talked about by practically nobody to be a player on the national scene, but it is quite possible that they can achieve just that. There is only one legitimate threat in the Coastal division and should they dispose of Virginia Tech and somehow finish 13-0, they have a real legitimate shot at competing for a National Title. Almost the entire Yellow Jacket defense is back and they have 6 starters returning on offense including quarterback Justin Thomas. Do not be surprised if these guys shake up some things nationally and not just in the ACC.

1. Arizona State Sun Devils

USC was picked by practically everyone to be the PAC representative in the College Football Playoff this year. I though had a hard time deciding between two other PAC South teams for the spot. USC to me has a lot of talent, but most of it is overrated as is QB Cody Kessler. Add in that they lost to Boston College last year have a lot to replace up front and I am not a believer. That is especially true when several in conference coaches are superior. One of those superior coaches is Todd Graham who has led Arizona State to 20 wins the last two seasons. This team has a lot of returning talent this season. They do not have their QB returning though which is why I chose another team to represent the conference. However, I am not that concerned because QB Mike Bercovici had three great starts at QB last season.

The Playoff Teams

4. Alabama Crimson Tide

Assuming Coker is the starter, I think that Alabama makes it here despite losing a great deal of talent. He could have the best arm out of any QB Saban has coached. Notice I didn't say be the best QB (although perhaps he will develop into that), but best arm. I am unsure how they will do should Coker not get the nod. If he does not get it, my pick is Auburn to get this last spot.

3. Michigan State Spartans

The Spartans were not far off the playoffs last year and a lot of people seem to forget that they beat trendy pick Baylor in one of the best games in years. They also have a serious amount of talent returning led by QB Connor Cook who I will have more about later. I think the pressure to repeat will be too much for Ohio State and that Michigan State will be the team to take advantage of that.

2. TCU Horned Frogs

This is the one team that everyone else is picking that I agree with. It is hard not to. The coaching and talent for the Horned Frogs are incredibly elite. However, how do they deal with being the favorites all year long, it is a new role for them. Do not be surprised at all if Oklahoma State plays spoiler in the big 12 and knocks either TCU or Baylor out of the championship race. Perhaps, they can knock both teams out and head to the playoff themselves.

1. Arizona Wildcats

The Arizona Wildcats led by Rich Rodriguez are my pick to be National Champions this season. They have 7 returning starters on offense including QB Anu Soloman. They also have all their skill position players returning for Rodriguez's explosive offense. On defense, they have 6 starters returning including All-American Scooby Wright. Do not forget either that these guys beat Oregon by 21 last season @ Oregon. This is a very capable team with a lot of returning talent. 

5 Best Regular Season Matchups

5. 11/7 TCU @ Oklahoma State

4. 11/28 Penn State @ Michigan State

3. 11/27 Baylor @ TCU

2. 11/21 Michigan State @ Ohio State

1. 11/21 Arizona @ Arizona State 

5 Best Week 1 Matchups

5. 11/5 3:30 PM BYU @ Nebraska

4. 11/5 7PM Arizona State v. Texas A&M (NRG Stadium in Houston)

3.11/5 8PM Wisconsin v. Alabama (AT&T Stadium)

2. 11/7 8 PM Ohio State @ Virginia Tech 

1. 11/5 3:30 PM Louisville v. Auburn (Georgia Dome)

Heisman Darkhorses NOBODY is Talking About

5. Mario Pender RB Florida State

Nobody is talking about Mario Pender even at Florida State University, but perhaps they should be. Pender was on a roll before suffering an injury early and would be in line for the majority of the carries should Dalvin Cook be unable to play. Florida State has had a 1,000 yard rusher each of the last three seasons and it isn't something that is likely the change. The question is who gets the most carries. If it is Pender, than he very well could be invited to New York.

4. Mason Rudolph QB Oklahoma State
Should the Cowboys have the season I am expecting and should they knock off multiple Big 12 powerhouses, it will be hard to deny Rudolph the big stage. He is a very capable quarterback with a great quarterback coach. With several favorable matchups in marquee games, he will have plenty of opportunity to shine as well.

3. Jacoby Brissett QB North Carolina State
Last week, I posted in my ACC preview, that Brissett is my selection for ACC Offensive Player of the Year. Should he pull that off, he will likely be a Heisman candidate, especially if he does it in leading the Wolfpack to the ACC Championship.

2. Malik Zaire QB Notre Dame
The talented sophomore quarterback will surely be invited to New York and will likely be the favorite to win the award should he lead the Irish to an undefeated regular season. He has a better arm and more talent than the departed Evert Golson, the question is whether he is able to put all of that raw talent into production on the field.

1. Mike Bercovici QB Arizona State
He has only had 3 career starts, but in those starts Bercovici has played quite well. The Arizona State QB leads one of the most consistent teams in the Pac 12 and a team that I expect to compete for the national championship.

My Heisman Top 5

5. Taysom Hill QB BYU

He was one of the favorites last season before going down with a devastating injury and there was even some talk that BYU could make the playoff. That injury ended that talk and his Heisman campaign, but there is no reason to think it can't be queued back up for this season.

4. Trevoyne Boykin QB TCU

This will be most people's pick to win the Heisman and it isn't for nothing. He is the quarterback of the team that is favored to win the title. However, I think that the weaknesses of defenses in the Big 12 will hurt Boykin as will his comparisons to Taysom Hill for that reason. 

3. Derrick Henry RB Alabama

While I'd like to think that this will be Coker if there is an Alabama Heisman candidate, chances are that they will still rely more on the ground game. History shows us that a dominant Alabama runningback has a very good chance at coming away with the Heisman trophy.

2. Scooby Wright LB Arizona

Scooby has a legit chance to make history should Arizona do what I am predicting them to do and he dominate on the field as expected. There will be a defensive player invited this year, the question is whether it will be him, Joey Bosa, or Shawn Oakman. I expect it to be Wright.

1. Connor Cook QB Michigan State

Cook is the best quarterback in the country and he will play for one of the best teams in the country. Especially if he takes down the Ohio State Buckeyes, this is his award to lose. He already has some Heisman hype and it won't be going anywhere.

Offensive All-Americans

QB Connor Cook Michigan State

RB Derrick Henry Alabama

RB Nick Chubb Georgia

WR DJ Foster Arizona State

WR Laquon Treadwell Ole Miss

TE Bucky Hodges Virginia Tech

OT Spencer Drango Baylor

OT Ronnie Stanley Notre Dame

OG Landon Turner North Carolina

OG Pat Elfein Ohio State

C Jack Allen Michigan State

Defensive All-Americans

DE Emmanuel Ogbah Oklahoma State

DE Joey Bosa Ohio State

DT A'Shawn Robinson Alabama

DT Anthony Zettel Penn State

LB Scooby Wright Arizona

LB Terrance Smith Florida State

LB Jaylon Smith Notre Dame

LB Myles Jack UCLA

CB Vernon Hargreaves Florida

CB Jalen Ramsey Florida State

FS Quin Blanding Virginia

SS Eddie Jackson Alabama

Specialist All-Americans

K Roberto Aguayo Florida State

P Austin Rehkow Idaho

KR/PR Deandre Reaves Marshall

Coach of The Year

Mike Gundy Oklahoma State
Gundy will once again show off his coaching chops by having a team that is not expected to go anywhere, competing for a national title. This time, he will be rewarded for his effort.

It should be a wonderfully exciting football season indeed.

-Noland

Better College Football Games - Option 2

Last week, I posted my idea for better college football games overall. The key theme was eliminating meaningless matchups such as FSU-Citadel (a game where FSU lost their top two DTs to questionable blocking techniques). There is no need for these games where a team plays a far inferior opponent they are going to crush. One Appalachian State upset over Michigan or Georgia Southern over Florida do not change that these games are usually meaningless. The matchups solve nothing as far as determining the best teams and leave more questions than answers often. Therefore I came up with a solution, one that can be found here.

It seems that people's biggest critique of that scenario is the loss of some rivalry games. While that does not bother me in determining a true champion I realize that it would upset many people. So here is another alternative that solves the issue. The big solve to both issues is the true super-conference.
4 conferences
20 teams
2 divisions in each conference
9 intra-division matchups
1 rotating opponent from the other division
1 cross-division rivalry game
1 out of conference rivalry game
These rivals will be posted in parentheses next to the teams below
Some teams without a true cross division rival, I will have to make up a rivalry. For instance Syracuse will be Duke's rival for the basketball aspect of a Syracuse-Duke matchup.

Atlantic Coast Conference
North Division
Boston College   (Miami, Stanford)
Cincinnati          (Central Florida, Ohio State)
Louisville          (North Carolina, Kentucky)
Marshall            (Wake Forest, Utah State)
Navy                 (Georgia Tech, Army)
Notre Dame       (Florida State, Southern Cal)
Pittsburgh          (North Carolina State, Penn State)
Syracuse            (Duke, Connecticut)
Virginia Tech     (Virginia, Tennessee)
West Virginia     (Clemson, Oklahoma State)
South Division
Central Florida  (Cincinnati, Rutgers)
Clemson           (West Virginia, South Carolina)
Duke                (Syracuse, Michigan State)
Georgia Tech    (Navy, Georgia)
Florida State     (Notre Dame, Florida)
Miami              (Boston College, Michigan)
North Carolina  (Louisville, East Carolina)
North Carolina State    (West Virginia, Memphis)
Virginia             (Virginia Tech, Maryland)
Wake Forest      (Marshall, Vanderbilt)

This ACC would be much stronger top to bottom as it officially adds Notre Dame for football along with UCF, Marshall, Navy, West Virginia, and Cincinnati. It is a realistic scenario as well. Virginia is in the south division as opposed to the north in order to keep the traditional ACC all on one side. Geographically though it is north of Virginia Tech. You protect more rivalries flipping the two. The VT-WVU and WVU-Pitt rivalries are restored under this scenario.

BIG
Eastern Division
Army                (Air Force , Navy)
Connecticut       (Northern Illinois , Syracuse)
Indiana              (Illinois, Missouri)
Maryland           (Wisconsin, Virginia)
Michigan           (Minnesota, Miami)
Michigan State   (Nebraska, Duke)
Ohio State         (BYU, Cincinnati)
Penn State          (Northwestern, Pittsburgh)
Purdue               (Iowa, California)
Rutgers              (Iowa State, Central Florida)
Western Division
Air Force           (Army, Colorado State)
BYU                  (Ohio State, Utah)
Illinois               (Indiana, Oregon State)
Iowa                  (Purdue, UCLA)
Iowa State          (Rutgers, Kansas State)
Minnesota          (Michigan, Mississippi)
Nebraska            (Michigan State, Oklahoma)
Northern Illinois   (Connecticut, Washington State)
Northwestern     (Penn State, Washington)
Wisconsin         (Maryland, Arkansas)

Upon the announcement of only 4 super conferences, I believe the 1st domino to fall would be Iowa State to the BIG 10 which would lead the other conferences to scramble for the remaining Big 12 teams. This conference would be the weakest of the 4, but with some solid teams such as Northern Illinois, Air Force, and BYU it should have more exciting games at least.

Pacific Athletic Conference
North Division
Boise State      (Oklahoma State, Mississippi State)
California        (Stanford, Purdue)
Colorado         (Oklahoma, Kansas)
Colorado State (Baylor, Air Force)
Oregon            (Arizona, LSU)
Oregon State    (UCLA, Illinois)
Utah                (TCU, BYU)
Utah State        (Texas, Marshall)
Washington      (Southern Cal, Northwestern
Washington State  (Arizona State, Northern Illinois)
South Division
Arizona              (Oregon, Auburn)
Arizona State      (Washington State, Alabama)
Baylor                (Colorado State, Texas Tech)
Oklahoma           (Colorado, Nebraska)
Oklahoma State   (Boise State, West Virginia)
Southern Cal       (Washington, Notre Dame)
Stanford              (California, Boston College)
Texas                  (Utah State, Texas A & M)
TCU                    (Utah, Southern Methodist)
UCLA                 (Oregon State, Iowa)

Look at that PAC south division...That division is loaded from top to bottom. This conference would easily be the toughest IMO. The teams might need to be spread out a bit more, but what great games this conference would produce.

South Eastern Conference
Eastern Division
Alabama              (LSU, Arizona State)
Auburn                (Mississippi, Arizona)
East Carolina       (Kansas State, North Carolina)
Florida                (Texas A & M, Florida State)
Georgia               (Kansas, Georgia Tech)
Kentucky             (Mississippi State, Louisville)
Memphis             (Texas Tech, North Carolina State)
South Carolina     (Missouri, Clemson)
Tennessee            (Arkansas, Virginia Tech)
Vanderbilt            (Southern Methodist, Wake Forest)
Western Division
Arkansas               (Tennessee,Wisconsin)
Kansas                  (Georgia, Colorado)
Kansas State          (East Carolina, Iowa State)
LSU                     (Alabama, Oregon)
Mississippi           (Auburn, Minnesota)
Mississippi State   (Kentucky, Boise State)
Missouri               (South Carolina, Indiana)
Southern Methodist    (Vanderbilt, TCU)
Texas A & M            (Florida, Texas)
Texas Tech                (Memphis, Baylor)

The SEC would be the biggest resistance to this model or any change IMO. This is because the SEC has the perfect setup and rhetoric for success at this point. It will take a few years of other teams controlling the title picture before they would want to join along, but it could happen. Especially if they got to pick the teams and if Florida could still block Florida State. Kansas, Kansas State, and Texas Tech would be welcome additions for the conference. I think the Gators continue to block other Florida teams from joining the conference and South Florida gets left out of this picture. Auburn and Alabama should move to the East for competition and for geography purposes with the emergence of the Mississippi schools and the arrival of the old Big 12 teams.

As you can see by all the above rivalries some old historic rivalries are restored such as Texas A & M and Texas, but some are a stretch like Alabama and Arizona State. However, if you played these matchups every year they would feel more and more like rivalry games. Although Marshall and Utah State is quite a stretch as a rivalry game. The result is clear though as the true rivalries are protected for the most part and the games get better!

Look at FSU's schedule in the Super Conference Schedule vs. the actual schedule in Parentheses.

8/30 Central Florida @ FSU (Ok State in Dallas)
9/6 FSU @ UNC (Citadel)
9/20 Clemson @ FSU (Same)
9/27 FSU @ NC State (Same)
10/4 Wake @ FSU (Same)
10/11 FSU @ Duke (@ Syracuse)
10/18 Notre Dame @ FSU (Same)
11/1 FSU @ Georgia Tech (10/30 @ Louisville)
11/8 UVA @ FSU (Same)
11/15 FSU @ Miami (Same)
11/22 FSU @ BC (BC)
11/29 Florida @ FSU (Same)

So Ok State, Citadel, Syracuse, and Louisville are replaced with Central Florida, UNC, Duke, and Georgia Tech. That's a solid upgrade in at least the two middle matchups with a possible upgrade in the other two and that's with a solid out of conference schedule.

Now look at a previously soft schedule for Marshall vs. what they currently face. They would also matchup with FSU in the ACC Championship if they could run it.

8/30 Marshall @ Boston College (@ Miami Ohio)
9/6 Cincinnati @ Marshall (Rhode Island)
9/13 Louisville @ Marshall (Ohio)
9/20 Marshall @ Wake Forest (@ Akron)
10/4 Marshall @ Notre Dame (@ Old Dominion)
10/11 Navy @ Marshall (Middle Tennessee)
10/18 Marshall @ West Virginia (@ Florida International)
10/25 Pittsburgh @ Marshall (Florida Atlantic)
11/8 Marshall @ Virginia Tech (@ Southern Miss)
11/15 Syracuse @ Marshall (Rice)
11/22 Marshall @ Duke (@ UAB)
11/29 Utah State @ Marshall (11/28 Western Kentucky)

You cannot argue that this schedule would not test Marshall in far better ways. We could really find out how this team stacks up as there is an improvement in every single opponent. Marshall would also get to square off against in state West Virginia in this scenario.

There is one issue with the super-conference that was solved by my previous option. It would be much harder to send teams down to the lower division or up because of the changing rivalry matchups in this scenario. For instance if Texas got sent down (which would be unfair because of their loaded division) they might be replaced with Fresno State. Does a Fresno State rivalry game with Texas A & M have the same meaning? I am ok without the relegation of teams to protect some rivalries, but it is a neat little twist that adds something for the other matchups. It is possible under this scenario, it would just mess up some rivalries. Under this scenario I think it is better to keep these 80 teams.

This is not perfect, but it's close to it and protects the rivalries. I will post a scenario next week that eliminates the ACC instead of the Big 12 so that you can pick your preference of the three options. Each of the options though is better than the college football playoff and the SEC will agree if their nightmare comes true. Expanding the playoffs leaves more issues than this scenario IMO.

-Noland

You Want Better College Football Games?

Following last night's epic failure of the College Football Selection Committee it seems that this post had perfect timing today...
Last Saturday in college football was separation Saturday. This weekend contained the most exciting games of the year. There were multiple top 25 matchups this past weekend and many of them were quite good. It seems we only get these types of matchups every few weeks though. What if there was a way to guarantee high profile matchups every single week? What if teams could no longer schedule cupcake city in November. It seems quite unfair for Notre Dame to play Arizona State while Mississippi State gets to play Tennessee-Martin after all....

The answer lies in doing away with conferences and taking the scheduling out of individual schools hands. I know this idea is radical and it will never happen, but there will be an infinitely better regular season. SEC fans should love this because it would give that conference the chance to prove it on the field and have an all-SEC football playoff. We could guarantee that deserving teams make the playoff. There would be no need to compare an 8-0 Marshall to a 2 loss team in the SEC. No need because they would play each other every year.

Here is the idea.
52 teams
4 groups
13 teams per group
All 12 teams play each other only
After games, the top two teams play in a championship
Winner of championship goes to the playoffs
Lowest team in each group gets relegated to next 52
Those next 52 do the same team and the top 4 get to rejoin the top group.
Groups reshuffled each year based on final record
All Games on Saturdays (Thursday and Friday night games reserved for lower groups)

This way the best team in each group goes to the playoff and we settle it on the field. You get true conference championships too. What is the point of not having the 2 best teams play in a conference championship? The SEC is going to have Missouri likely playing the SEC West champ...Missouri lost to INDIANA. NOBODY wants to see Missouri play an SEC West team. They want to see two SEC West teams duke it out again. Divisions make it tougher to get those true conference championships my scenario does not. The biggest plus though is that the regular season is infinitely better.

Check out what the groups would look like below. I will separate groups based on the final coaches poll from last year. There are 41 teams that got votes in the final coaches poll so I will fill in from there.

Group A
1) Florida State
8) Alabama
9) Oregon
16) UCLA
17) Oklahoma State
24) Notre Dame
25) Nebraska
32) Ole Miss
33) Texas
40) Louisiana Lafayette
41) Navy
48) BYU
49) Rice

Group B
2) Auburn
7) Clemson
10) Stanford
15) Louisville
18) Texas A & M
23) Vanderbilt
26) Washington
31) Kansas State
34) Miami
39) Utah State
42) Georgia
47) Arizona
50) Georgia Tech

Group C
3) Michigan State
6) Oklahoma
11) Ohio State
14) LSU
19) USC
22) Duke
27) Fresno State
30) Texas Tech
35) East Carolina
38) Iowa
43) Bowling Green
46) Boise State
51) Penn State

Group D
4) South Carolina
5) Missouri
12) Central Florida
13) Baylor
20) Arizona State
21) Wisconsin
28) Northern Illinois
29) Marshall
36) Cincinnatti
37) North Texas
44) Virginia Tech
45) Mississippi State
52) Tennessee

Next Four In: TCU, Ball State, Minnesota, Colorado State
A look at the top 4 in these lower divisions how it will look and expand it from there if you want
Group E
53) TCU
60) Oregon State
61) San Diego State
68) Maryland
Group F
54) Ball State
59) West Virginia
62) Buffalo
67) Pittsburgh
Group G
55) Minnesota
58) Houston
63) Arkansas State
66) Syracuse
Group H
56) Colorado State
57) North Carolina
64) Western Kentucky
65) Michigan
Obviously, TCU as a championship contender is a big omission, but they went 4-8 last year in a very good Big 12. After the first year though, you would think this would be corrected because teams move out. You would think at least TCU would move up after a year and a team like North Texas would drop out. However, if North Texas could hang around, they would get to prove it. After 2 or 3 years, you would have a terrific field of 52.

Look at the regular season matchup differences though. Let's look at my Seminoles in particular and what their schedule would look like vs. their current schedule.
Group Schedule
Aug. 30 BYU @ FSU
Sept. 6   FSU @ Notre Dame
Sept. 20 FSU @ Ole Miss
Sept. 27 Navy @ FSU
Oct. 4    FSU @ Rice
Oct. 11  La.Lafayette @ FSU
Oct. 18  UCLA @ FSU
Nov.1    FSU @ Oregon
Nov.8    FSU @ Texas
Nov.15  Nebraska @ FSU
Nov.22  FSU @ Oklahoma State
Nov.29  Alabama @ FSU
Actual Schedule
Aug.30  FSU v. Oklahoma State (Dallas)
Sept.6    Citadel @ FSU
Sept. 20 Clemson @ FSU
Sept. 27 FSU @ NC State
Oct. 4    Wake @ FSU
Oct.11    FSU @ Syracuse
Oct.18    Notre Dame @ FSU
Oct.30    FSU @ Louisville
Nov.8     UVA @ FSU
Nov.15   FSU @ Miami
Nov.22   Boston College @ FSU
Nov.29   Florida @ FSU

In both schedules, FSU plays Oklahoma State and Notre Dame which are two very quality opponents. While they lose three rivalry games (Clemson, Miami, and Florida) by going to the group schedule, the schedule is so much better. They get challenged throughout the schedule with only a few lesser opponents. The group schedule they get to play La Lafayette and Rice which are still tougher than the Citadel and arguably tougher than some ACC teams. This group is loaded with competition and you get to see three monster clashes when Bama, FSU, and Oregon collide with each other. You would assume that La. Lafeyette would lose this group and then be replaced in the Top 52 by a team like TCU. If you still aren't convinced though, let's look at the team with the most difficult schedule this year, Auburn.

Group Schedule
Aug. 30  Texas A & M @ Auburn
Sept. 6    Auburn @ Georgia Tech
Sept. 20  Clemson @ Auburn
Sept. 27  Auburn @ Vanderbilt
Oct. 4     Auburn @ Kansas State
Oct.11    Utah State @ Auburn
Oct.25    Auburn @ Stanford
Nov.1     Arizona @ Auburn
Nov.8     Auburn @ Miami
Nov.15   Auburn @ Georgia
Nov.22   Washington @ Auburn
Nov.29   Louisville @ Auburn
Actual Schedule
Aug.30   Arkansas @ Auburn
Sept.6     San Jose State @ Auburn
Sept.18   Auburn @ Kansas State
Sept.27   Louisiana Tech @ Auburn
Oct. 4     LSU @ Auburn
Oct.11    Auburn @ Mississippi State
Oct. 25   South Carolina @ Auburn
Nov.1     Auburn @ Ole Miss
Nov. 8    Texas A & M @ Auburn
Nov.15   Auburn @ Georgia
Nov.22   Samford @ Auburn
Nov.29   Auburn @ Alabama

I realize that the Auburn-Alabama showdown would be lost and you lose some SEC rivalries by losing this schedule, but you can't argue that it isn't better from top to bottom. You keep 3 of the teams on their schedule (Georgia, Kansas State, Texas A & M) and replace the Mississippi schools and Bama with Clemson, Utah State, Stanford, Arizona, Miami, and Louisville. Instead of Samford for the 11th game, they are playing Washington. Instead of San Jose State for game 2 they are now playing Georgia Tech. All of these strong matchups in what I consider the weakest group. Not a cupcake on the schedule besides Vanderbilt who would likely fall out of the Top 52 after one year.

With these awesome groups you would have four more very strong conference championships. Let me try to project them based on how teams are doing this year...
Group A
Florida State v. Oregon (Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, FL)
Group B
Auburn v. Arizona (Georgia Dome, Atlanta, GA)
Group C
Ohio State v. Michigan State (Lambeau Field, Green Bay, WI)
Group D
Arizona State v. Mississippi State (Reliant Stadium, Houston, TX)

That could give us a Final 4 like this
Florida State v. Arizona State (Sugar Bowl)
Auburn v. Ohio State (Rose Bowl)
National Championship
FSU v. Auburn (Dallas)
The more things change the more they stay the same....
While only one of these teams might make the actual playoffs (heck it could be none) this is a way better system. Sure Auburn would have a slightly easier path than the others in this scenario, but they still would have earned their way in. FSU and Oregon could meet twice and while we would be denying that championship from happening, it would be settled on the field. This system is FAR better. I know it won't happen, but it would be AWESOME!! We can dream can't we. Heck, we thought we would never get to a playoff, so maybe we will get here...

-Noland