College Football – 2022 Roundtable Preview

Following on from my ‘Everything you need to know about college football’ article, I thought I’d get together a few fellow enthusiasts to mull over the state of college football entering Week 1. I’ll be posing the questions with some opinions on each of the Power Five conferences with some predictions. It’s also never too early to look ahead to the draft. After all, this is one of the main reasons college football is growing, so you’ll hear some names to keep an eye on too. Joining me (Kev), we have the boss Jack Brentnall, owner of the site; Kieran Horne, a regular contributor to this site, Full 10 Yards and his own video content on Youtube; and lastly my co-host from NFL Draft Punk Podcast, Pete Barlow.

Links to each conference:

ACC
Big 12
Big Ten
Pac-12
SEC
G5

ACC

Kev: Ok chaps let’s start with the ACC. Clemson struggled last season and had the first sub-10 win regular season since pre-Trevor Lawrence days in 2014.  This was also the last time they failed to make the ACC Championship game.  Their defense looks imposing as ever with potentially three players in the All-ACC Team with Bryan Bresee, Xavier Thomas and Myles Murphy manning the trenches. They do however have new coordinators on both sides of the ball and this really feels like a pivotal season for Dabo Swinney. The concern is on offense. DJ Uiagalelei struggled with his accuracy and they have no high-end receiver talent. The major milestone game is October 1st, when NC State travels to Clemson for a game that could decide the Atlantic Division. How do you see NC State’s chances?

What about the Coastal Division? Do you see it as a battle between last year’s winners Pittsburgh Panthers and Miami Hurricanes? Mario Cristobal returns to his alma mater from Oregon and has already led an impressive recruiting drive.

I’m also happy to give a mention to Notre Dame here as they align mostly with the ACC from a scheduling standpoint. I’m alarmingly high on them this year and have signed up to all things Marcus Freeman. Michael Mayer at tight end is a standout at his position, and I’m curious to see the development of the powerful edge rusher Isaiah Foskey. I really think the Fighting Irish could sneak into the final four.

Pete:  I’m a big fan of NC State’s chances of pulling off an upset in the ACC this year. Quarterback Devin Leary emerged last year and helped the Wolfpack to a solid 9-3 season, including a statement win over Clemson. It wouldn’t surprise me if Leary has a similar breakout season to Kenny Pickett. He might need to, as the running game could potentially let this offense down. It struggled last season, even with Zonovan Knight, Ricky Person and Ikem Ekwonu so it is hard to see where a major improvement is going to come from.

The defense was excellent in 2021 and could take a leap as it returns multiple starters from last season. The linebacker corps of Payton Wilson, Drake Thomas, and Isaiah Moore is one of the best in the country and could help push the Wolfpack into getting the recognition they deserve. As Kev mentions, the big game at Clemson in October could decide the Atlantic Division. I also share his concerns around Clemson’s offense.

The Coastal Division top to bottom is definitely the weaker of the two. Despite Pittsburgh losing star quarterback Kenny Pickett to the NFL and wide receiver Jordan Addison to USC, I still believe they will have enough to pip Miami. The Hurricanes could have a wide range of outcomes in Cristobal’s first season. The defense needs to improve to avoid quarterback Tyler Van Dyke having to win in a shootout every week. The final week of the season sees Pitt travel to Miami in what could be a massive game to decide the Coastal Division Champion.

Jack: I’m a big Devin Leary fan and I’m expecting a good year for NC State. That said, Clemson are still my favourites for the ACC title. Last season was a huge disappointment but I don’t want to overthink this. Dabo Swinney has helped the Tigers to deliver double digit wins in five of the last six seasons. They also boast one of the fiercest-looking defenses in all of college football. Their front seven is legitimately capable of winning them games and they just need the offense to be functional. If Uiagalelei underwhelms again they now have five-star true freshman Cade Klubnik waiting in the wings.

Kieran: As much as it pains me to admit I think Clemson will clear the rest of the ACC this year. Despite some strong competition from Wake Forest and NC State, Dabo’s Tigers are too well coached and far too talented to give an inch this year. Their biggest question mark is DJ Uiagalelei as he’s been up and down at best. Cade Klubnik is now on campus though and it’s not like Clemson will be hurting for another signal caller should they need it. Clemson have reigned over the ACC for a long time and as long as Dabo is consistently bringing in such high level recruits and yearly packing his defence with monsters, the status quo will continue.

Predictions for Title Game

WriterChampionship MatchupWinners
KevClemson Vs PittClemson
JackClemson Vs PittClemson
KieranClemson Vs PittClemson
PeteNC State Vs PittNC State

Big 12

Kev: On Monday 26th July 2021 the Big 12 changed forever with Texas and Oklahoma’s announcement. They informed commissioner Bob Bowlsby they would be leaving the conference for the SEC. The conference could have withered into insignificance without their two major players. They didn’t sit idle though and recruited Cincinnati, Houston, and UCF from the AAC. They also finally put BYU back into a conference. Is it just me that finds the future of this conference both interesting and unpredictable?

There’s a real opportunity here for future dominance amongst the newcomers and incumbents. This coming season it’s the usual name for me. Oklahoma start as favourites with a new coaching staff and exciting quarterback Dillon Gabriel transferring in from UCF. His 2019 combination with coach Jeff Lebby (who’s now the offensive coordinator with the Sooners) led to a 3,653 yard season with 29 touchdowns. With Brent Venables arriving from Clemson I expect an immediate impact on the defensive line. Keep an eye on Jalen Redmond who ranked sixth in the NCAA last season on pass rush win rate for interior defensive linemen.

If you like imposing defensive lines look no further than the monsters on Baylor’s interior, with Siaki Ika and Tulsa transfer Jaxon Player giving them one of the best tandems in the country. They will look to challenge again this season and retain their crown. However for me it’s Oklahoma State that has that little bit extra. I think Mike Gundy finally gets over the hump with long-time quarterback Spencer Sanders consistently finding his ‘mojo’ and an experienced offensive line returning four starters. The defensive line is a unit that should feast on a weekly basis with a wealth of options in all four spots. I’m interested to see what your opinions are on any potential outsiders? I’ve also deliberately not spoken about any Longhorn Burnt Orange! I’ll be amazed if anyone is undefeated when the regular season is finished in Big 12 country.

Jack: It has been a chaotic offseason for Oklahoma, losing their head coach, quarterback, a star receiver, and three five-star commits. It is a testament to the quality of the program that despite all of this I still have them as the favourites for the conference. Brent Venables was exceptional at Clemson and should bring some steel on defense. On offense the decision to reunite quarterback Dillon Gabriel with Jeff Lebby is inspired. The two worked together at UCF in 2019 and have shown that they can produce offensive fireworks. I think that Baylor could push them close though. Dave Aranda has worked wonders since arriving in 2020 and this is a team with a tonne of talent in the trenches. Siaki Ika is a name that all NFL draftniks should be keepig an eye on this season.

Texas are the wildcard in the conference. Everyone knows that Steve Sarkisian is an excellent offensive play caller. They also have bags of talent at skill positions, with Bijan Robinson looking like a leading Heisman candidate. The likes of Xavier Worthy, Jordan Whittington, and Jahleel Billingsley give Quinn Ewers plenty of pass catching talent. The question marks surrounding their offensive line and defense are what keeps them out of the running for me though.

Kieran: Texas will be relying on the most overhyped quarterback recruit in college football in Quinn Ewers. In running back Bijan Robinson they have a clear standout at the position, but he’s not going to be able to carry the ball 350 times over the season to help alleviate the burden on such a young signal caller. With Oklahoma in the mud after Lincoln Riley’s departure I think this is finally their neighbours the Cowboy’s year. Temper your excitement Dallas fans as I’m talking about Oklahoma State! This is a strong team led by Spencer Sanders that will be looking to make their mark over other hopefuls like Iowa State and TCU. Baylor also shouldn’t be overlooked, but most of their talent is on the offensive line. This isn’t always conducive to championships when you need the skill positions to contribute and shine. 

Pete: It is hard to look past Oklahoma as the class of the field this year. New head coach Brent Venables should get the defense turned around and reuniting new offensive coordinator Jeff Lebby and incoming quarterback transfer Dillon Gabriel will make the offense explosive. I wouldn’t rule out seeing Gabriel suited and booted at the Heisman Trophy Ceremony. Add in their friendly schedule (both Baylor & Oklahoma State travel to Norman) and they should finish top of the standings.

Behind that I see the other contenders in the same tier, with five or six teams that could compete in the Championship Game. Last year Baylor surprised everyone with their Championship win and as Jack pointed out, they have real quality in the trenches. I have some concerns over their secondary and skill positions though as they lost a lot to the NFL. Texas arguably has the most talent, but they have let me down so many times that I’ll believe they are back when I see it!

Predictions for Title Game

WriterChampionship MatchupWinner
KevOklahoma Vs Oklahoma StateOklahoma State
JackOklahoma Vs BaylorOklahoma
KieranOklahoma Vs Oklahoma StateOklahoma State
PeteOklahoma Vs Oklahoma StateOklahoma

Big Ten

Kev: Let’s get to the purest football conference, the Big Ten! Who doesn’t love 13 personnel here? The strength of this conference remains in the Big Ten East, as we again see a legitimate reason to scrap divisions allowing the two best teams to compete for the divisional title.

It’s impossible to look past Ohio State for the East and the Big Ten Championship. I’ll let you quarterback gurus wax lyrical about CJ Stroud and the receiving strength. It’s the two Michigan teams I find intriguing. Can they both finish top 10 in the rankings again? Jim Harbaugh flirted with an NFL role in the offseason but returns as reigning conference champion. The loss of Hutchinson and Ojabo means ‘next man up’ on the edge, with four-star prospect Jaylen Harrell likely moved into multiple spots along the line. Tough defense and hard running put them above their divisional rival last year and the same formula will be relied upon again.

Their State rivals handed a big contract to coach Mel Tucker and he’ll need to cope with the loss of Doak Walker award winner Kenneth Walker. The transfer portal worked last time for finding a star to carry the rock and they’ll hope for more of the same with former Wisconsin back Jalen Berger who’ll join dangerous returning receiver Jayden Reed.

For me the Big Ten West is an open competition. I’m going to put my faith in the mean stingy Iowa defense that tied first nationally for turnovers last season. They return opportunistic Riley Moss at corner and all-action linebacker Jack Campbell. Minnesota should threaten but haven’t taken the Floyd of Rosedale trophy since 2014. How much do you all love the Ohio State offense? Do you see Penn State competing?

Jack: Ohio State are the runaway favourites in the Big Ten for good reason. In Stroud they have a high-level NFL calibre quarterback. He is surrounded by a tonne of talent and the riches at wide receiver are quite frankly ridiculous. That’s before even mentioning TreVeyon Henderson in the backfield. Their competition has also taken a step back. Michigan lost Aidan Hutchinson to the draft, as well as defensive stars David Ojabo and Daxton Hill. They also have new coordinators on both sides of the ball. The Spartans lost the heart of their offense in Kenneth Walker and don’t look convincing on defense. The West is much more open, but I’m taking Wisconsin. There are concerns at quarterback, but the Badgers have a reputation for winning with an imposing defense and a punishing running game. I see no reason why that can’t work for them this season.

Kieran: As a certified Ohio State hater it galls me to believe the Buckeyes will run away with the Big Ten as usual. CJ Stroud is truly the best quarterback I’ve seen in a long time, making beautiful throws and slicing defences open with ease. Despite falling to Oregon and Michigan last year (Michigan is mandated one victory against Ohio State every 2 decades!) they still look better than anyone else they will face this year. Whilst I like Mel Tucker’s Spartans, losing Walker will hurt their offence considerably. I’m not sure their defence can pick up the slack either, especially down the stretch. Also, did I mention how great CJ Stroud is?

Pete: It’s easy to love the Buckeye offense with all that talent, but I think their most impactful move so far has been on the other side of the ball. Listening to fellow Draft Punk Ted Holmes repeatedly bemoan the Buckeyes defense in 2021, the hire of Jim Knowles as defensive coordinator could elevate this team. Knowles had the Oklahoma State defense punching above their weight for the last few years. He now has a far more talented roster in Ohio. If he can impact that unit quickly then this is a much more well-rounded team than last year.

As for the rest of the East, they are going to struggle to compete. Michigan will be strong again but Penn State has too much improvement to make to their running game. Quarterback Sean Clifford isn’t consistent enough to overcome an average run game when they play the top opposition. I expect the Nittany Lions to get ranked at some point, but the Big Ten East is too strong for them to claim.

The West is a different story. I fancy Minnesota to pull off a shock and win that division. Back in 2019, with Kirk Ciarrocca as offensive coordinator and Tanner Morgan at quarterback, the Gophers had an 11-2 season. The offense simply hasn’t looked as good since. Well, Ciarrocca is back in the same role this season, and if wide receiver Chris Autman-Bell and running back Mo Ibrahim can stay fit then that offense will surprise a few people.

Predictions for Title Game

WriterChampionship MatchupWinner
KevOhio State Vs IowaOhio State
JackOhio State Vs WisconsinOhio State
KieranOhio State Vs IowaOhio State
PeteMinnesota Vs Ohio StateOhio State

Pac-12

Kev: Now over to the mess of the Pac-12. Where do we start with this conference? It’s all changed here too, following UCLA and USC’s announcement that they will leave for the Big Ten in 2024. This season will see the abandonment of divisions and depending on how much you buy into Lincoln Riley’s USC “bad guys”, it should be a three horse race. USC poached the transfer portal, signing Oklahoma quarterback Caleb Williams, whose freshman season grade broke Trevor Lawrence’s previous mark. They also landed all-purpose back Travis Dye from Oregon and previously mentioned wide receiver Jordan Addison from Pitt. The speed with which these skill players gel will dictate success this season. I’m going with a repeat of last year however in the title game with Utah and Oregon.

Oregon welcomes Dan Lanning as coach. Lanning comes from one of the nastiest defenses seen in college for some time in last season’s champions Georgia. Their defense will look to keep games close for Auburn transfer Bo Nix and an inexperienced offense. The good news is that they are stacked. Interior lineman Brandon Dorlus will offer protection for heat seekers Noah Sewell and hopefully, a fully fit Justin Flowe, who has huge potential. Week 1 should tell us where Oregon are, as Lanning returns to his old stomping ground in Georgia for a fearsome opening test. Where do you see Utah in comparison to Oregon and USC? Do you see any risers from the rest of the “PAC”?

Jack: Lincoln Riley and USC are the ones getting all of the headlines this offseason, but I think some are being a little unrealistic with their expectations for 2022. This is even more true when you consider the rest of the talent in the conference. Utah look like they could very realistically be one of the best teams not only in the Pac-12, but in all of college football. A playoff appearance certainly isn’t out of the question for this team. Cam Rising is a very efficient quarterback who played well in his first year as a starter in 2021. He also has some nice weapons to lean on at tight end and running back.

I think Oregon will be a tier below due to their weakness and inexperience on offense. I’m not sure there’s another team in that tier, although if there is a dark horse it could be Washington. Michael Penix seems to be made of glass, but he is a good quarterback when he is on the field. They also have some nice talent on defense. Edge rusher Zion Tupuola-Fetui and linebacker Edefuan Ulofoshio are both prospects to keep a close eye on this year. If the Huskies get a clean bill of health they could surprise a few people.

Kieran: USC being clear favourites here might seem a little too obvious. Lincoln Riley has seemingly monopolised the top talent in college football, with Caleb Williams and other high-level transfers joining the Trojans as they look to return to glory. Oregon is another team that I think could stake a claim as they’ve impressed over the last two seasons, especially with their win over Ohio State last year. Utah are my dark horses though as Cam Rising has done nothing but impress me every time he’s taken the field. He could very much be the difference in winning and losing a lot of games for Utah. 

Pete: I see Utah as the best team in the conference ahead of USC & Oregon. This is partly because of how they finished last season, as well as the continuity in place. If quarterback Cam Rising had started the season in 2021 then Utah might have been knocking on the door of the playoffs.

UCLA could be the dark horse this season. Dorian Thompson-Robinson has slowly improved as a passer, is reducing his turnovers and is still a threat with his legs. Zach Charbonnet is back too, as is an experienced offensive line, meaning they can still lean on the ground game. The Bruins have had to use the transfer portal to fill gaps in the roster for pass catchers and at all levels of the defense. These moves may take some time to gel. Given their soft out-of-conference schedule to start the year, they can use those games to build momentum before the real season starts in conference play. There are possibly too many question marks with their defense for a Championship push, but with home games against Utah, Washington, and USC as well as travelling to Oregon, they could still play a part in the outcome of the Pac-12 Championship game.

Predictions for Title Game

WriterChampionship MatchupWinner
KevUtah Vs OregonOregon
JackUtah Vs OregonUtah
KieranUSC Vs OregonUSC
PeteUtah Vs OregonUtah

SEC

Kev: The final Power Five conference where stars are made – the SEC! A wealth of riches and always the conference that accounts for the most draft picks. It feels very much like an Alabama revenge tour, with Heisman Trophy winner Bryce Young at quarterback as well as potential No. 1 draft pick Will Anderson hunting SEC quarterbacks. I fully expect an unbeaten run and overall champions. Despite losing eight key contributors to the draft, Georgia still return Jalen Carter and Nolan Smith on the defensive line. Both were equally disruptive as drafted teammates Trevon Walker and Jordan Davis last season. 

As for the others, take your pick. I’m going into this season with some optimism for the Tennessee Volunteers. They were hugely disrespected in the preseason Associated Press Top 25. I believe they can finish as runners up to Georgia in the SEC East ahead of Kentucky. Since quarterback Hendon Hooker won the starting job in Week 3 the Vols had the third most efficient passing attack in the SEC behind Alabama and the Bulldogs. He also threw 31 touchdowns to just three interceptions.

Following the aforementioned changing of the guard at USC, Jaxson Dart moves over to Ole Miss to replace Matt Corral (drafted by Carolina) in Lane Kiffin’s high-powered quarterback friendly offense. If you’re starting to watch college football to find future draft stars you’re spoiled in this conference!

Jack: As always there is a tonne of talent in the SEC, but once again it feels like it will be another heavyweight battle between Alabama and Georgia. In Tuscaloosa they bring back Bryce Young and a talented defense including Will Anderson. Nick Saban has also added some interesting names through the transfer portal. Former Georgia Tech running back Jahmyr Gibbs is perhaps the standout of that group. Georgia might have lost plenty of defensive talent in the draft, but it is testament to their absurd depth that this still looks like a very capable unit. Both feel like obvious favourites for their respective divisions and should be in the playoffs once again.

Outside of those two heavy-hitters there are some other teams I’m interested to watch in 2022. I can’t wait to see what Billy Napier can do in Florida, as well as whether quarterback Anthony Richardson can take the next step in his game. I’m also intrigued to see whether Spencer Rattler can silence his doubters now he has landed in South Carolina.

Pete: Kev just can’t stop showing his love for the Vols every chance he gets! I think he might be right this year though and I expect them to finish above Kentucky in the East and finish ranked. Outside of Kev’s appreciation of the Vols, Alabama and Georgia should be favourites for their respective divisions, but it is very crowded behind them. Should either of the favourites trip up then some teams can be ready to take advantage.

In the West I fancy Arkansas to put together a run and garner some attention. Quarterback KJ Jefferson is a true dual-threat. The offensive line, particularly the interior, is one of the best in the country. Expect the running game to be strong again and seen in heavy doses on Saturdays. Replacing Treylon Burks’ production will be difficult but the transfer portal has helped out the Razorbacks. Former five-star recruit Jadon Haselwood is brought in from Oklahoma, while Matt Landers has transferred in from Toledo. Landers averaged over 25 yards per reception last year and can be the big play threat whilst Haselwood takes over the ‘big slot’ role that Burks thrived in. The potential issue for Arkansas is their tricky out-of-conference schedule. Playing both Cincinnati & BYU is no joke, but if they can get through those games I wouldn’t be surprised if they finish ranked inside the top 10.

Kieran: After another national title game involving two SEC giants it is going to make the SEC harder to call. Both Alabama and Georgia will be head-to-head all season but Tennessee and LSU shouldn’t be ignored. With Heisman hopeful Hendon Hooker looking to bring the Vols their first taste of the playoffs and Brian Kelly finally having the resources to build a proper team for the Tigers, both teams could be poised to upset the two best teams in the country. Every year Texas A&M boast their multi-million dollar recruiting class, yet flatter to impress at 8-4. Florida faithful think it’s 2012 again but in the end none of this matters as long as Saban remains. Look for Bryce Young and the Crimson Tide to dominate again as their roster of five-star talent is too hot for anyone to handle.

Predictions for Title Game

WritersChampionship MatchupWinners
KevAlabama Vs GeorgiaAlabama
JackAlabama Vs GeorgiaAlabama
KieranAlabama Vs GeorgiaAlabama
PeteAlabama Vs GeorgiaAlabama

Group of Five

Kev: Lastly, let’s give some love to the Group of Five. After Cincinnati’s potential game-changing season last year, do we feel their success is repeatable? Let’s remember they’ve lost some key talent to the NFL. Whether Desmond Ridder makes it or not in Atlanta, losing a player of his maturity, character and ability is tough to replace. However, I’m leaving the ACC and moving over to the Sun Belt to give some love to Coastal Carolina, the feel good story of the Covid year.

Coach Jamey Chadwell’s offense is expertly marshalled by returning QB Grayson McCall. The triple option offense plus nuanced tweaks makes for entertaining watching. Former Georgia State receiver Sam Pinckney will hope to replace the receiving production lost in the draft, but the running game should be lethal. I genuinely think their Week 1 clash against Army is up there with some of the other spotlight games this weekend. It really is a battle of ground and pound versus ground and confound! If you do tune in, keep an eye out for Army’s potential first round pick (yes, you read that right) Andre Carter II, who was joint first in sacks in the NCAA last season.

My next shout out is for UAB (University of Birmingham Alabama). From 2017 to 2021 their record stands at 43-20 with five bowl appearances and three division titles. Unfortunately, long-time legend Bill Clark had to walk away from his role as head coach due to health issues. That said, I’m betting on the succession plan of former offensive coordinator Bryant Vincent to continue the winning mentality. They return key contributors at all offensive skill positions in Dylan Hopkins at quarterback and Trea Shropshire at receiver. Keep an eye out for DeWayne McBride who could be another G5 Running back who gets late-round draft love after 1,371 yards and 13 touchdowns last season. They won’t make my Top 5 G5 ranked teams, but you have to show appreciation to this organisation.

Jack: Cincinnati’s journey to the College Football Playoffs felt a little like a fairytale last season and I don’t think we will see a Group of Five team matching that for some time. The losses for the Bearcats in 2022 are notable, but for my money they are still the best Group of Five team. Evan Prater, who was the Bearcats’ highest ranked recruit in a decade, should get his chance to start at quarterback, although it sounds like there has been a fierce quarterback competition with Ben Bryant this offseason. Whoever starts will also have Tre Tucker at receiver, who looks set for a good season.

If there is one team that could push them for the AAC title it is Houston. Dana Holgorsen has built a really exciting team that look set for a big 2022. They have a talented quarterback in Clayton Tune, as well as a dynamic playmaker in Nathaniel Dell. They also have plenty of talent along the defensive line to cause roblems for opposing offenses.

Pete: Houston are looking ready to take a leap prior to them joining the Big 12. The QB-WR connection between Clayton Tune and Nathaniel Dell is legit, and there are plenty of other options behind Dell. They lost Logan Hall in the draft but the defensive line was already a deep group, with D’Anthony Jones gets the opportunity to be a starter after performing strongly in the rotation. Two games early in the season against Big 12 opposition (admittedly one is Kansas) can show people they are the real deal this year. The AAC has plenty of opportunities for Houston to trip up though, and Cincinnati will still be strong despite losing a load of talent to the NFL. Add in UCF and their strong rushing attack then the AAC is looking really deep.

Kieran: It’s hard to pick anyone other than Cincinnati here isn’t it? Their QB battle however has taken an unexpected turn with Ben Bryant supposedly winning the job over homegrown talent Evan Prater. Whilst teams like Coastal Carolina and Houston have tonnes of talent, the Cincinnati Bearcats have something no one else has – Luke Fickell. With a coach like this in place it doesn’t matter if it’s Grayson McCall or Clayton Tune lining up against you if you know your game plan is continually one of the best in the G5. Look for the Bearcats to go on another run this year, if they beat Arkansas in Week 1 anyway…..

Top 5 Ranked G5 Teams

Kev:

  1. Houston
  2. Cincinnati
  3. Fresno State
  4. UCF
  5. Coastal Carolina

Pete:

  1. Houston
  2. Fresno State
  3. UCF
  4. Cincinnati
  5. App State

Kieran:

  1. Cincinnati
  2. Houston
  3. Coastal Carolina
  4. UCF
  5. Fresno State

Jack:

  1. Cincinnati
  2. Houston
  3. UCF
  4. Fresno State
  5. Coastal Carolina