Prospect Matchup Review
Clemson DE Vic Beasley and DT Grady Jarrett vs Georgia RB Todd Gurley
For almost three quarters, this match was pretty much even. However it was the fourth quarter where Gurley took over and dominated. Whether it was going through massive holes up the middle or bouncing it to the outside. It wasn't a total loss for Beasley who did notch a sack in the first half.
Wisconsin RB Melvin Gordon vs LSU DEs Jermauria Russell and Danielle Hunter
It was a story of two haves for this match up. In the first half Gordon showed why some are considering him the best running back in the nation. He was explosive and gave the Tigers all they could handle. However in the last two and a half quarters Gordon was shut down. LSU loaded the box and their athletic ability was just too much to overcome. But he did finish with 140 yards and a TD, it wasn't a total loss.
Notre Dame RG Christian Lombard vs Rice DT Christian Covington
Looking to make a name for himself against the best team he'd play all year he failed to do so. Notching only two tackles and zero QB hurries while their defense was lit up. Now Covington was by far the Owls best defensive player and saw plenty of double teams. It was going to be tough for him, but this was missed opportunity.
Heisman Watch
Last Week: 15 carries 198 yards 3 TDs, KO return TD vs Clemson Next Week: BYE
Summary: After an injury filled 2013, Gurley used this game to announce his presence with authority. Showing his power and speed he rushing for 198 yards and three scores dominating a supposively improved Tiger defense. Add in the 100 yard kick off for a touchdown and it was a complete game for this back. Next week the Bulldogs are off before a big SEC match up with South Carolina.
Last Week: 14/20 267 yards passing 3 TDs, 43 yards rushing TD vs South Dakota Next Week: vs Michigan State
Summary: It was a pretty standard game for Mariota seeing they played a FCS school while playing just two quarters. But this is the same reason why Mariota is one of the front runners for the award. But as we know, you win the Heisman on big games. And Mariota has his first crack with a non conference showdown against Michigan State. A huge game and win against the Spartan defense would really set him apart from the rest of the contenders.
Last Week: 44/60 511 yards 3 TDs at South Carolina Next Week: vs Lamar
Summary: Forget Johnny Football, we've got Kenny Football. Hill made it look easy at South Carolina breaking a school record for most yards in a game with 511. The Heisman is all about momentum and Hill clearly has that. He'll put up numbers in this system, but is that enough?
Last Week: 13/23 161 yards passing 2 TDs, Rushing TD Next Week: vs Northwestern State
Summary: After getting banged up in the opening series, Petty was still able to get some work in. Throwing over 161 yards and even adding a rushing TD is quite a bit for somebody who was injured. And that was done all in the first half. Petty will likely be fine, otherwise he wouldn't have stayed in the game. His stats took a hit, but he'll be able to get those back this next week against the FCS foe. But we all know it will be what he and the rest of his team does in the Big 12 conference that gets him to New York or not.
Last Week: 25/40 370 yards passing TD and 2 INTs, rushing TD Next Week: vs Citadel
Summary: If Winston wants to be only the second two time winner of the Heisman, he'll have to have better performances than this game. Sure he threw for almost 400 yards, but he threw two picks and 62% passing. But will voters see that? Or will they see 370 yards and one amazing run that saw him hurdle, twist and dive in for a touchdown?
Power 8
In
1. Florida State Seminoles (1-0)
There game against Oklahoma State wasn't the blowout that many expected. But they got the win and right now that's all that matters. Their schedule isn't great, but as long as they keep winning they're in.
2. Georgia Bulldogs (1-0)
This could be the first year the SEC West isn't the division representing in the title game. But the Bulldogs really showed what they are capable with their win over Clemson. If the defense gets confidence then they could be scary good.
3. Oregon Ducks (1-0)
If Oregon is going to win the National Title or least get back to the game, you would think this would be the year. Mariota is in his third year while the coaching staff will be more comfortable running the show.
4. Baylor Bears (1-0)
Oklahoma has been the media darling, but it could be the Bears that get into the playoffs. We know about their offense, but it's their defense that could be the difference maker. Now SMU isn't good, but they can score points and the Bears locked them down.
Knocking on the Door
5. Michigan State Spartans (1-0)
If Sparty can knock off Oregon than they could be a lock for the playoff, but if that is their only loss they do have a shot. But they need their conference mates to help out.
6. Oklahoma Sooners (1-0)
They'll have a shot with their schedule, but I'm not sure they can win enough games to make it. But they'll need QB Trevor Knight to be more consistent. That's a big if.
7. Auburn Tigers (1-0)
The Tigers are good, very good. However they might not be as good as last year while the rest of the division has gotten better. Then add in that Georgia might be the best team in the conference and they could be on the outside looking in.
8. Stanford Cardinal (1-0)
They're clearly the bottom of these eight teams, but their schedule sets up nice and they seem to have Oregon's number. But they'll have to avoid that huge slip up they tend to have each year.
Team on the Rise
Notre Dame Fighting IrishWatch out now, the Irish could be back! Having Everett Golson back has really breathed life into this team and that showed with an impressive 5 touchdown performance. If Notre Dame can finally live up to Brian Kelly's previous offensive teams then we could see this team in the first ever playoff.
Team on the Decline
South Carolina GamecocksThe constant for the Gamecocks under Steve Spurrier has always been their defense. They've churned out NFL prospect after NFL prospect which has helped them be a force in the SEC East year in and year out. This year could be the exception. Not only did they give up 52 points but 680 total yards. Pair that up with an offense that can't throw the ball when they need to and it spells a long year and four or five losses.
Team Under the Radar
Colorado State RamsIt may have been against the worst team in the Pac 12 and they needed 17 straight points to get the win, but Jim McElwain's really building a team in Fort Collins. But they're coming off an eight win season last year and have already avenged one of the losses from last year. The Rams also have some quality NFL talent on their roster. The Mountain West better watch out, because the Rams are serious contenders to win the title.
Bold Prediction
If there was any concern how the A&M offense was going to be after Manziel left was quickly answered this past Thursday. Not only did Hill lead the Aggies to a win vs South Carolina, he helped the A&M route the Gamecocks. His 511 yards broke Manziel's single game passing record. Hill clearly is a talented QB and in Sumlin's spread scheme is going to put up numbers. Hill will be a contender to win the Heisman this season, but he's only a sophomore and he'll have a better opportunity the next couple of years once the Aggies defense improves and they are back to contending for the SEC Title.
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