MORE FROM Bill Bender

College football Week 9 primer: Heisman watch, upset picks, predictions and more

Week 9 features an over-the-top afternoon slot with four loaded games, including the Big Ten showdown between Penn State and Ohio State. Get ready with the Week 9 primer.

Bill Bender

•

J.T. Barrett must own this big-game stage for Buckeyes against Penn State

Ohio State's J.T. Barrett gets the big stage again in a showdown with No. 2 Penn State on Saturday. Expect the fifth-year senior to take advantage of it.

Bill Bender

•

Penn State vs. Ohio State: Looking back at six memorable top-10 showdowns

Penn State and Ohio State head into their seventh top-10 matchup on Saturday. Here's a look at the past matchups that define this Big Ten rivalry.

Bill Bender

•

Making sense of Big Ten playoff outlook, and potential chaos looming in November

The Big Ten has four teams in the playoff discussion, and here's a look at five wild scenarios that could unfold over the next five weeks.

Bill Bender

•

What time is it? Penn State shows it's ready for something more with this team

Penn State proved its Big Ten mettle by unloading on Michigan in the "White Out." Can they do it again at Ohio State?

Bill Bender

•

Michigan is fine with Jim Harbaugh, but that's not good enough now

Michigan suffered another loss in a big game, but the long-term forecast is favorable for Jim Harbaugh and the Wolverines.

Bill Bender

•

Texas' pain won't end under Tom Herman until close losses become close wins

Texas' heartache got worse with another loss to No. 10 Oklahoma State, and that's something Tom Herman must fix soon in Austin.

Bill Bender

•

Week 9 bowl projections: Clemson or Georgia for last playoff spot?

Sporting News projects every college football bowl game for 2017 heading into Week 9. Which teams will make the fourth annual College Football Playoff?

Bill Bender

•

Penn State 42, Michigan 13: Five things we learned in Nittany Lions' statement win

Penn State made a statement in a 42-13 blowout against Michigan on Saturday. The Nittany Lions proved just how big-game ready they are.

Bill Bender

•

College Football Playoff picture: Who's in, out and knocking on door in Week 9

Which four teams look like the best bets to reach the College Football Playoff heading into Week 9? Bill Bender breaks it down.

Bill Bender

•

Penn State vs. Michigan: Matchups, keys to victory in massive Big Ten East game

Here are the matchups and keys to victory for Penn State and Michigan in a game that could not only determine the outcome of the Big Ten East — but also the College Football Playoff.

Bill Bender

•

College football Week 8 primer: Heisman watch, upset picks, predictions and more

Two prime time games between USC and Notre Dame and Penn State and Michigan, not to mention a historic spread in a classic rivalry. Get ready for Week 8.

Bill Bender

•

Angry Bender: Stop throwing punches, start watching the game

Angry Bender looks at fights in the stands. This isn't "Road House," people.

Bill Bender

•

Sporting News 2017 midseason All-Americans

Sporting News' midseason All-American team is out, and it's heavy on play-making quarterbacks, uber-talented running backs and a bevy of other star-studded players.

Bill Bender

•

Week 8 bowl projections: TCU crashes College Football party

Sporting News projects every college football bowl game for 2017. Which teams will make the fourth annual College Football Playoff?

Bill Bender

•

Packers' QB options without Aaron Rodgers start with Hundley, end with Romo

Are Tony Romo and/or Colin Kaepernick options for the Packers with Aaron Rodgers sidelined? SN's Bill Bender breaks down what Green Bay might do at quarterback.

Bill Bender

•

Seven tests the College Football Playoff will face soon

The College Football Playoff rankings will be released on Oct. 31, and here are seven tests the committee could encounter in the second half of the season.

Bill Bender

•

College Football Playoff picture: Who's in, out and knocking on door in Week 8

Which four teams look like the best bets to reach the College Football Playoff heading into Week 8? Bill Bender breaks it down.

Bill Bender

•

Ohio State looks like Big Ten's best team again, and they can prove it after bye week

Is Ohio State the best team in the Big Ten? It looks that way again, but the next referendum will come against Penn State on Oct. 28.

Bill Bender

•

How Washington's loss to Arizona State impacts College Football Playoff race

Washington was the third top 10 team to lose in Week 7. Here are the impacts of that loss on the Huskies, Pac-12 and College Football Playoff.

Bill Bender

•

​Making sense of ACC playoff outlook, and Notre Dame's role in the chaos

The ACC is down to one unbeaten team, and Miami made it close against Georgia Tech. How will Notre Dame fit into the ACC puzzle?

Bill Bender

•

Tennessee loses on last play, turns up more heat on Butch Jones

Tennessee lost to South Carolina despite three chances near the goal line in the final seconds. The loss drops the Vols to 3-3.

Bill Bender

•

Butch Jones' hot seat isn't Tennessee's problem — it's finding the next coach

Butch Jones' days appear to be numbered in Knoxville, but that isn't Tennessee's biggest problem. Finding the next coach won't be easy.

Bill Bender

•

Michigan will find out how good (or bad) it really is against Penn State

Michigan escaped Indiana with an overtime victory, but the real test comes next week at Penn State. Can Jim Harbaugh score the big win next week?

Bill Bender

•

Clemson's loss to Syracuse shows you're only as good as your (healthy) starting QB

Clemson's loss, which was partially because of Kelly Bryant's injury, showed why national title contenders can't have an injury at QB.

Bill Bender

•

How Clemson's loss to Syracuse impacts College Football Playoff race

Clemson lost to Syracuse on Friday, which will have huge College Football Playoff implications. We sort out the mess here.

Bill Bender

•

College football Week 7 primer: Heisman watch, upset picks, predictions and more

Sam Darnold, OU-Texas, Jim Harbaugh and an ACC upset pick are all part of the Week 7 primer. Get ready for the midpoint.

Bill Bender

•

Angry Bender: Telling the truth about Michigan's Jim Harbaugh

Angry Bender looks at the three biggest misconceptions about Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh heading into Week 7.

Bill Bender

•

Cleveland must learn to wear yet another postseason collapse

Cleveland lost a 2-0 lead to the New York Yankees in the ALDS. How will the Indians wear this postseason failure?

Bill Bender

•

Yankees vs. Indians: Score, highlights from Bombers' ALDS Game 5 win in Cleveland

The Yankees and Indians played the decisive Game 5 of the ALDS in Cleveland. New York advanced with a 5-2 victory. Check out what you may have missed with SN's live blog.

Bill Bender

•

Didi Gregorius etches name into October lore with memorable ALDS Game 5

From Bucky to Aaron to Didi: Another Yankees infielder has earned himself a salty moniker with a power display in a must-win October game.

Bill Bender

•

Week 7 bowl projections: Washington moves into College Football Playoff

Sporting News projects every college football bowl game for 2017. Which teams will make the fourth annual College Football Playoff?

Bill Bender

•

College Football Playoff picture: Who's in, out and knocking on door in Week 7

Which four teams look like the best bets to reach the College Football Playoff heading into Week 7? Bill Bender breaks it down.

Bill Bender

•

Penn State proves it's more than Saquon Barkley, and that's a good thing

Penn State had trouble getting Saquon Barkley loose against Northwestern, but the Nittany Lions are still off to a 6-0 start heading into a bye week.

Bill Bender

•

In FSU win, Malik Rosier proves he's Miami's big-game quarterback

Malik Rosier led the game-winning drive against FSU, which opened the door for some larger conversations now.

Bill Bender

•

Michigan State exposes Wolverines' offensive identity crisis when it hurts most

Michigan's offensive issues were exposed again, and this time it cost them the Paul Bunyan Trophy in a loss to Michigan State.

Bill Bender

•

​How Oklahoma's loss to Iowa State will impact College Football Playoff race

Oklahoma's loss to Iowa State on Saturday will have effects on the College Football Playoff race later for the Big 12. Here is how that might shape up.

Bill Bender

•

MLB playoffs: Cleveland's magical momentum points toward bigger moment

Cleveland's magic continued in a 13-inning victory against the Yankees in Game 2 of the ALDS on Friday. When will the magic stop?

Bill Bender

•

Indians' Edwin Encarnacion leaves ALDS with right ankle sprain

Edwin Encarnacion left Friday’s game against the New York Yankees after an awkward play at second base.

Bill Bender

•

College football Week 6 primer: Heisman watch, upset picks, predictions and more

Bryce Love's Heisman campaign could hit the next level, and some in-state rivalries come into focus on Saturday. Here is Sporting News Week 6 primer.

Bill Bender

•

Jay Bruce reminds Indians, Yankees you get what you pay for in ALDS Game 1

Jay Bruce proved the difference at the plate for the Indians in Game 1 of the ALDS, continuing a thrill ride since his arrival in Cleveland.

Bill Bender

•

Trevor Bauer proves Terry Francona right by attacking Yankees in ALDS Game 1

Trevor Bauer gives the Indians 6 2/3 scoreless innings in their ALDS opener. The performance puts Cleveland in control of the best-of-five series as it sends ace Corey Kluber to the mound in Game 2.

Bill Bender

•

Mark Richt knows it's on Miami to change state of FSU rivalry now

Miami has another chance to take down Florida State, and Mark Richt knows it. Can the Hurricanes end a seven-game streak?

Bill Bender

•

Mark Dantonio, Spartans embrace prime-time opportunity against Michigan

Michigan State can work back into some larger discussions by knocking off No. 7 Michigan on Saturday. Can Mark Dantonio and the Spartans pull it off?

Bill Bender

•

How Alabama, Nick Saban will impact SEC hot-seat coaches in 2017

Nick Saban and Alabama have routed their first two opponents and now face a slew of hot seat coaches. What's next?

Bill Bender

•

Week 6 bowl projections: Penn State, Oklahoma switch spots in playoff

Sporting News projects every college football bowl game for 2017. Which teams will make the fourth annual College Football Playoff?

Bill Bender

•

Alabama-Clemson rubber match in College Football Playoff one step closer to reality

Can any team actually stop Alabama-Clemson III? Heading into October, that's a better bet for the national championship game than the field.

Bill Bender

•

Georgia serves notice to SEC, and there's no turning back this time

Georgia put the playoff contenders on notice with an impressive 41-0 disposal of Tennessee on Saturday. The Bulldogs look the part this time.

Bill Bender

•

College Football Playoff picture: Who's in, out and knocking on door in Week 6

Which four teams look like the best bets to reach the College Football Playoff heading into Week 6? Bill Bender breaks it down.

Bill Bender

•

Breaking down every unbeaten FBS team's October schedule, biggest hurdle

A total of 17 team survived September with an unbeaten record. Here's a look at those teams' biggest hurdle in October to staying undefeated.

Bill Bender

•

How USC's loss to Washington State will impact College Football Playoff race later

USC's loss to Washington State on Friday will have effects on the College Football Playoff race later for the Pac-12. Here is how that might shape up.

Bill Bender

•

No. 7 Georgia 41, Tennessee 0: Five things we learned

No. 7 Georgia routed Tennessee on Saturday, putting even more heat on Butch Jones. Here are five things we learned.

Bill Bender

•

Virginia Tech can bring big-game rep to Blacksburg against Clemson

Virginia Tech gets the "GameDay" spotlight against Clemson on Saturday. Is the big-game reputation coming to Blacksburg under Justin Fuente?

Bill Bender

•

Five big questions for college football's remaining undefeated teams

Which unbeaten teams will survive September? We look at surprises, Group of 5 busters, best matchups and more.

Bill Bender

•

College football Week 5 primer: Heisman watch, upset picks, predictions and more

Tennessee's Butch Jones is the coach on the spot in Week 5 heading into a matchup against No. 7 Georgia. Here is Sporting News Week 5 primer.

Bill Bender

•

Angry Bender: Instant replay gaffes can't keep happening

Angry Bender looks at instant replay this week, the confusing, art that we somehow can't perfect.

Bill Bender

•

If Georgia 'avoids overconfidence,' Bulldogs will get shot at Bama — and SEC title

Can Georgia be the team to challenge Alabama in the SEC championship? SEC Network analyst and former Bulldog Matt Stinchcomb offers his thoughts.

Bill Bender

•

How long can P.J. Fleck, Gophers row with undefeated in Big Ten?

P.J. Fleck has the Gophers heading in the right direction, and it's fair to wonder if they are Wisconsin's biggest competition in Big Ten West? We'll find out now.

Bill Bender

•

In Iowa win, Penn State's Saquon Barkley proves he's college football's best player

Penn State's Saquon Barkley proved he's the best player in college football again through the Nittany Lions' thrilling victory against Iowa. How can you argue?

Bill Bender

•

Two-loss Seminoles face near-impossible College Football Playoff road

Jimbo Fisher and the Florida State Seminoles now face a near-impossible road to the College Football Playoff. Is there any chance for a comeback?

Bill Bender

•

College Football Playoff picture: Who's in, out and knocking on door in Week 5

Which four teams look like the best bets to reach the College Football Playoff heading into Week 5? Bill Bender breaks it down.

Bill Bender

•

What every SEC fanbase is saying in one sentence after Week 4

Here's what every SEC fan-base is saying after a wild Week 4. We got one statement for each team

Bill Bender

•

John O'Korn ignites Michigan offense — and a bye-week quarterback controversy

Michgan's John O'Korn in the second half of a victory against Purdue, and perhaps ignited a QB controversy heading into the bye week.

Bill Bender

•

Week 5 bowl projections: Penn State strengthens playoff position

Sporting News projects every college football bowl game for 2017. Which teams will make the fourth annual College Football Playoff?

Bill Bender

•

College football Week 4 primer: Heisman watch, upset picks, predictions and more

Saquon Barkley is in focus in prime-time, and so are a a bunch of SEC showdowns with historical implications, in Week 4 of the college football season.

Bill Bender

•

Rutgers clear of major penalties now, must be good for Big Ten next

Rutgers avoided major penalties from the NCAA COI on Friday. Now, it's on Chris Ash to mold something good for the Scarlet Knights — and the Big Ten.

Bill Bender

•

Week 4 bowl projections: Penn State moves into College Football Playoff

Sporting News projects every college football bowl game for 2017. Which teams will make the fourth annual College Football Playoff?

Bill Bender

•

With Shawn Eichorst out and Mike Riley on hot seat, Nebraska must get 'fit' again

Nebraska fired Shawn Eichorst on Thursday, and it's time for the Huskers to steal a page from their co-national champs from 1997.

Bill Bender

•

Urban Meyer, Jim Harbaugh profiled in books highlighting The Game

A pair of books will have Ohio State and Michigan fans ready to go for the Big Ten season. Here's your fall reading material.

Bill Bender

•

Angry Bender: Thursday Night Football is bad, but TV options are worse

Angry Bender attacks Thursday Night Football TV options, but he's looking for something else to watch — if only there was something better.

Bill Bender

•

Yes, Florida can take the wheel in the SEC East by beating Kentucky

Jim McElwain and Florida can ride a roller coaster to the top of the SEC East if they beat Kentucky on Saturday. How can they make that happen?

Bill Bender

•

Iowa tapping into 'electric' night atmosphere for Penn State in prime time

Iowa owns a successful track record in night games, and Kirk Ferentz will tap into that once again vs. Penn State on Saturday.

Bill Bender

•

Another loss in Atlanta shows why Packers need Lambeau Field in playoffs

Green Bay lost at Atlanta again in what has become a familiar way. It's why home-field advantage will be vital for Aaron Rodgers and the Packers if they want to make a playoff run in 2017.

Bill Bender

•

Kelly Bryant proves Clemson isn't stuck in the middle at quarterback

Kelly Bryant enjoyed a breakout performance against Louisville, one that proves the Tigers aren't stuck in the middle at quarterback in their national title defense.

Bill Bender

•

Clemson reminds Louisville — and everyone else — the champs are here to stay

No. 3 Clemson reminded everyone the defending champions are here to stay in a blowout victory against No. 14 Louisville. Why is anybody surprised?

Bill Bender

•

College Football Playoff picture: Who's in, out and knocking on door in Week 4

Which four teams look like the best bets to reach the College Football Playoff heading into Week 4? Bill Bender breaks it down.

Bill Bender

•

At least for now, Wisconsin looks like most complete Big Ten team

Wisconsin made its case as the most complete Big Ten contender after a 40-6 dismantling of BYU on the road. Can the Badgers keep it that way?

Bill Bender

•

No. 3 Clemson 47, No. 14 Louisville 21: Five things we learned

Clemson made an impressive statement in their ACC victory against Louisville on Saturday. Here are five things we learned.

Bill Bender

•

Nebraska's identity crisis spills over again in shocking upset to Northern Illinois

Nebraska's Big Ten identity is again in question after a shocking loss to Northern Illinois. What will be the fallout in Lincoln?

Bill Bender

•

College football Week 3 primer: Heisman watch, upset picks, predictions and more

Lamar Jackson, the reigning Heisman trophy winner, vs. No. 3 Clemson, reigning national champion, is just one of the storylines we're watching in college football Week 3.

Bill Bender

•

Face it, Ohio State's J.T. Barrett and Michigan's Wilton Speight aren't getting benched

J.T. Barrett and Wilton Speight have struggled in the early season, but Bill Bender explains why neither will get benched.

Bill Bender

•

Alabama, LSU tie for most NFL players on Week 1 rosters

Alabama and LSU tied for the most players on NFL rosters in Week 1, a nod to the talent at both SEC programs.

Bill Bender

•

Angry Bender: James Franklin, Baker Mayfield and how to talk trash properly

Angry Bender is back for Week 3, and this week we talk Baker Mayfield, James Franklin and how to talk trash properly

Bill Bender

•

SN exclusive: How Mason Rudolph beat the 'system' with Oklahoma State

Oklahoma State's Mason Rudolph is letting it fly in his last ride with the Cowboys, and he isn't afraid to talk about the lofty goals in the Big 12.

Bill Bender

•

Heisman Case: Five stats that support Oklahoma's Baker Mayfield

Baker Mayfield made his Heisman case in a big victory against Ohio State in Week 2. Here are five stats that support that.

Bill Bender

•

Week 3 bowl projections: Alabama vs. Clemson III in production?

Sporting News projects every college football bowl game for 2017. Which teams will make the fourth annual College Football Playoff?

Bill Bender

•

Week 3 College Football Playoff picture: Who's in, out and knocking on the door

Sporting News breaks down the College Football Playoff picture heading into Week 3 of the college football season.

Bill Bender

•

DeShone Kizer capable of ending Browns QB misery, but he needs help

DeShone Kizer does not seem like just another failure in a long line of Browns quarterbacks. He can play, but Cleveland needs to protect him much better than it did against Pittsburgh.

Bill Bender

•

T.J. Watt's arrival puts Steelers back in 'Blitzburgh' mode

Pittsburgh rookie T.J. Watt impressed with two sacks and an interception in his first NFL game. He tried to downplay his debut, but more games like that will help usher in a "Blitzburgh" revival.

Bill Bender

•

Browns' season begins with a blocked punt, Steelers touchdown

Not a good start for the Browns.

Bill Bender

•

Steelers vs. Browns: Five reasons to be excited for AFC North opener

The Steelers-Browns matchup finally has some much-needed flavor. Here are five things we're excited to see in the opener Sunday.

Bill Bender

•

When Urban Meyer's big-play Buckeyes return, big-time wins will follow

Ohio State was lacking in the big play department in a loss to Oklahoma. How will Urban Meyer fix it?

Bill Bender

•

Penn State, Trace McSorley overcome Pitt's game of keep-away

Penn State beat rival Pitt on Saturday, and the Nittany Lions showed why that offense is so intimidating

Bill Bender

•

No. 5 Oklahoma 31, No. 2 Ohio State 16: Five things we learned

No. 5 Oklahoma made a playoff statement behind Baker Mayfield in a road victory against No. 2 Ohio State. Here are five things we learned.

Bill Bender

•

Baker Mayfield plants Sooners' flag with statement game against Ohio State

Baker Mayfield led the Sooners to a statement victory against the Sooners, the weight of which will impact the Heisman and College Football Playoff race.

Bill Bender

•

Baker Mayfield, J.T. Barrett face never-ending quest for validation at Oklahoma, Ohio State

J.T. Barrett and Baker Mayfield might be veteran quarterbacks, but they are still searching for respect heading into their top-five showdown on Saturday.

Bill Bender

•

No. 8 Michigan 36, Cincinnati 14: Three questions for Wolverines in uneven win

Michigan won 36-14 on Saturday, but there were some tense moments for the Wolverines. Here are three questions that need to be answered.

Bill Bender

•

College football rankings: Will we see another major upset in Week 2?

Ranked Power 5 schools beat up on the Group of 5 and FCS in Week 1. What's the forecast like for Week 2?

Bill Bender

•

Saturday night's blockbuster Top 25 games will shape College Football Playoff

Week 2 features four monster games in the primetime slot. Here's what at stake for every team involved in those matchups.

Bill Bender

•

Angry Bender: Keep or drop the sideline props?

Angry Bender is back for Week 2, and this week SN's Bill Bender will talk about sideline accessories: Good or bad? Bad. Definitely bad.

Bill Bender

•

Contenders show dominant D-line biggest part of College Football Playoff chase

Defensive line is the key to the College Football Playoff in 2017, and the best playoff contenders — Alabama, Ohio State, Clemson and others — are showing everybody why that's the truth.

Bill Bender

•

WATCH: Tennessee stuffs 2-point conversion in 2OT to beat Georgia Tech

Tennessee beat Georgia Tech on a two-point conversion stop in double overtime. Here's the play.

Bill Bender

•

Tennessee, SEC's drama king, somehow lives on after double-overtime thriller against Georgia Tech

Butch Jones went from hot seat to hero in Atlanta on Monday. So what's next for the Tennessee Volunteers?

Bill Bender

•

College Football Playoff picture: Who's in, out and knocking on the door

After one week, how does the College Football Playoff picture stack up? Sporting News takes a closer look.

Bill Bender

•

Josh Jackson impresses as Hokies future star shines in debut

Virginia Tech freshman Josh Jackson enjoyed an impressive debut in a duel with West Virginia's Will Grier.

Bill Bender

•

Alabama's defensive machine returns, so who's going to solve it now?

No. 1 Alabama's defensive machine returned in a victory against No. 3 Florida State on Saturday. Who is going to solve that now?

Bill Bender

•

Yes, Michigan can be great behind controlled Wilton Speight

Michigan's Wilton Speight will be the difference for the Wolverines in 2017, for better or worse. That showed against Florida.

Bill Bender

•

Here come the Irish? Biggest college football Week 1 overreactions

Which teams warranted the biggest overreactions after Week 1? Bill Bender takes a look at the teams we'll talk about most heading into Week 2.

Bill Bender

•

No. 1 Alabama 24, No. 3 Florida State 7: Five things we learned

No. 1 Alabama won a another season-opener in convincing fashion against No. 3 Florida State. Here are five things we learned.

Bill Bender

•

FSU can't get second chance at Bama without Deondre Francois

Florida State can run back into the playoff mix, but Deondre Francois' health is the biggest concern.

Bill Bender

•

No. 11 Michigan 33, No. 17 Florida 17: Five things we learned

Here are five things we learned from No. 11 Michigan's decisive 33-17 victory against No. 17 Florida in Jerry World.

Bill Bender

•

Wilton Speight benched briefly after Florida gets back-to-back pick-sixes

Michigan has seen enough from Wilton Speight against Florida — for now.

Bill Bender

•

Texas' upset loss to Maryland just shows Tom Herman's overhaul is long-term

Texas lost its opener under Tom Herman to Maryland. In the long run, it won't matter: The Longhorns' reality check was coming one way or another.

Bill Bender

•

Michigan vs. Florida: Unknowns heighten allure of Week 1 Big Ten-SEC showdown

Michigan and Florida meet on Saturday in a game where we'll learn a lot about each team's playoff chances in 2017.

Bill Bender

•

Alabama vs. FSU: Losing team will test College Football Playoff committee

Somebody has to lose the mega-matchup between Alabama and Florida State. How will the CFP committee see it later?

Bill Bender

•

J.T. Barrett, Buckeyes finally flash big-play power in second-half comeback at Indiana

Ohio State worked out the kinks after a slow start, and the product could be scary for opponents down the road in 2017.

Bill Bender

•

Angry Bender: What's grinding our gears heading into 2017?

Angry Bender is back, with Bill Bender's problems with the college football heading into 2017.

Bill Bender

•

College football's Top 25 running backs for 2017: Saquon Barkley leads powerful wave

Sporting News' Top 25 running backs list is heavy on Big Ten and SEC backs, including Penn State's Saquon Barkley and LSU's Derrius Guice.

Bill Bender

•

Cavs trading Kyrie Irving to Celtics gives LeBron James big reason to stay in Cleveland

How will the Kyrie Irving trade to Boston affect LeBron James' future plans with Cleveland?

Bill Bender

•

Kirk Herbstreit talks Heisman hopes for Alabama's Jalen Hurts, Auburn's Jarrett Stidham

Could the Iron Bowl feature not one, but two Heisman Trophy finalists? Kirk Herbstreit talks Jalen Hurts' and Jarrett Stidham's chances.

Bill Bender

•

Nick Saban's 'Process' at Alabama explored in '4th and Goal Every Day'

Alabama color analyst Phil Savage details 'The Process' in the new book '4th and Goal Every Day.'

Bill Bender

•

Alabama vs. FSU: Why Crimson Tide in championship hunt — no matter what

Alabama enters another season on top, so when will the season truly begin? Bill Bender weighs in with the first 'Around the Bender' of 2017.

Bill Bender

•

Maria Taylor's versatile star rising heading into 'College GameDay' assignment

Maria Taylor is making the jump to "College GameDay" this year. The multitalented star talks about her new assignment.

Bill Bender

•

Alabama vs. FSU: How preseason No. 1 fares in opener against top 25 teams

Alabama is No. 1 heading into the season opener again. Here's a look at how the preseason No. 1 team fares when opening against a top-25 opponent.

Bill Bender

•

Alabama vs. FSU: Peach Bowl CEO's vision made 'greatest opener of all time'

Peach Bowl president Gary Stokan lined up the matchup between Alabama and FSU, part of a vision he has had for Atlanta for many years.

Bill Bender

•

NFL misses target with Vontaze Burfict's excessive suspension

Even with his dirty reputation, Bengals LB Vontaze Burfect getting a five-game suspension is not fair. The NFL is not enforcing its new rule properly.

Bill Bender

•

Ranking the top 15 college football games on the Week 1 schedule

We're getting closer to the opening week of college football. Here are the 15 games we're looking forward to most.

Bill Bender

•

Let's predict every college football bowl game and playoff matchup for 2017-18

Sporting News projects every college football bowl game for the 2017-18 season. Which teams will make the fourth annual College Football Playoff?

Bill Bender

•

Cavs trading Kyrie Irving to Celtics gives LeBron James big reason to stay in Cleveland

How will the Kyrie Irving trade to Boston affect LeBron James' future plans with Cleveland?

Bill Bender

•

New CFP committee member Chris Howard ready to blend college football, leadership in 2017

New College Football Playoff committee member Chris Howard is ready for his newest assignment — and he brings a wealth of leadership to the position.

Bill Bender

•

'What Carter Lost': Four things to know about ESPN's Dallas Carter '30 for 30'

Dallas Carter's loaded 1988 high school football team remains the stuff of legend today, and that's chronicled in the new ESPN 30 for 30.

Bill Bender

•

Cavs sending Kyrie Irving to Celtics gives LeBron James big reason to stay

LeBron James is obsessed this offseason. How will that obsession affect James' future plans with Cleveland or another franchise?

Bill Bender

•

Who's your starting QB? Breaking down battles for every Power 5 school

Who's your starting quarterback? Sporting News breaks down the battles for every Power 5 school.

Bill Bender

•

Michigan not a top 10 team? AP ranking good for Jim Harbaugh, Wolverines

Michigan starts outside the top 10 in the initial AP Poll, but a look inside the program shows this is exactly where Jim Harbaugh and the Wolverines thrive.

Bill Bender

•

Comparing AP Poll, Amway Coaches Poll and SN's preseason college football rankings

How do the AP Poll. Coaches Poll and Sporting News' Preseason rankings stack up? Here's a look at the composite rankings

Bill Bender

•

Preseason college football rankings: Alabama leads Top 25 against open playoff field

No surprise that Alabama tops SN's preseason college football rankings, but the rest of the Top 25 is open for debate.

Bill Bender

•

College football 2017: Preseason rankings, bowl projections, All-Americans and more

Sporting News has all the preseason college football content you need to get ready for Week 1.

Bill Bender

•

Preseason No. 1 ranking gives Nick Saban another carrot for Alabama

Alabama is ranked No. 1 in the AP Preseason Poll for the fourth time under Nick Saban. Will the Crimson Tide deliver on those expectations this time?

Bill Bender

•

Eight shakeups that can knock chalk out of college football in 2017

How can we shake up the College Football Playoff? Here are eight scenarios that could knock the chalk out of the 2017 season.

Bill Bender

•

College football schedule 2017: ESPN, ABC set TV times for loaded Week 1

ESPN and ABC announced dates and times for the Week 1 college football TV schedule, which features a blockbuster double-header on ABC.

Bill Bender

•

SN exclusive: Logan Woodside ready to lead Toledo to newfound glory

Logan Woodside took a long path to stardom with the Rockets. Now the quarterback is going to let it loose in 2017.

Bill Bender

•

Ranking 20 best MAC quarterbacks since 2000: Ben Roethlisberger, Byron Leftwich and more

A look at the best MAC quarterbacks since 2000: a talented list that includes Big Ben, Byron Leftwich and Toledo star Logan Woodside.

Bill Bender

•

Wisconsin football schedule, roster and three things to watch

Wisconsin heads into 2017 looking to get back to the Big Ten championship in Paul Chryst's third season. A spring preview for the Badgers.

Bill Bender

•

Florida football schedule, roster and three things to watch

The Florida Gators are the defending SEC East champions. Here are three questions for the Gators heading into Jim McElwain's third season.

Bill Bender

•

Auburn football schedule, roster and three things to watch

Auburn enters Gus Malzahn's fifth season with another quarterback competition to settle. Here's a quick look at the Tigers.

Bill Bender

•

Louisville football schedule, roster and three things to watch

Heisman Trophy winner Lamar Jackson returns to lead Louisville in 2017. Here are three things to look for this spring from the Cardinals.

Bill Bender

•

​Tennessee football schedule, roster and three things to watch

Butch Jones enters his fifth season at Tennessee with a lot of holes to fill. Here are three questions for the Volunteers heading into the spring.

Bill Bender

•

Penn State football schedule, roster and three things to watch

Penn State is back in the national spotlight, and it will be intriguing to see how they handle that attention in 2017.

Bill Bender

•

Bengals schedule 2017: Cincinnati attempts to find path back to playoffs

Can the Bengals get back to the playoffs in Marvin Lewis' 15th season? A look at Cincinnati's schedule.

Bill Bender

•

Browns schedule 2017: Cleveland faces AFC North gauntlet in first four weeks

The Browns will look to improve on last year's 1-15 record against another tough schedule. Here's a breakdown of Cleveland's regular-season games.

Bill Bender

•

Packers schedule 2017: Green Bay draws three NFC heavyweight fights early

Green Bay gets the AFC North and highly anticipated playoff rematches with the Falcons and Cowboys. Here's a breakdown of the Packers' schedule.

Bill Bender

•

Steelers schedule 2017: Pittsburgh fast start a must given difficult December

The Steelers will look to get back to the AFC championship game against a schedule that includes a rematch against the Super Bowl champion New England Patriots.

Bill Bender

•

Alabama vs. FSU: Five questions about college football's biggest season opener ever

The Week 1 game between Alabama and FSU is as big as it gets. Here are five questions leading up to what could be the latest "Game of the Century."

Bill Bender

•

Alabama's Minkah Fitzpatrick should be next defensive player in Heisman Trophy talk

Minkah Fitzpatrick is set up for success again in 2017. Will that land the star defensive back in the Heisman conversation?

Bill Bender

•

College Football Playoff 2017: Spotting 10 true national title contenders

Sporting News trims down the College Football Playoff field to find the 10 true national championship contenders heading into 2017.

Bill Bender

•

John Saunders' gripping battle with depression told through 'Playing Hurt'

John Saunders' battle with depression is told through the new book "Playing Hurt: My Journey from Despair to Hope," and it's worth the read.

Bill Bender

•

Nebraska football has something else at quarterback with Tanner Lee

How will Tanner Lee help the Huskers' hopes for winning the Big Ten West?

Bill Bender

•

Jason Taylor knows more MACtion awaits Pro Football Hall of Fame

Jason Taylor joined Jack Lambert as the second MAC player to reach the Pro Football Hall of Fame. More are on the way.

Bill Bender

•

Kurt Warner's remarkable story binds two generations of Hall of Fame QBs

Kurt Warner's story is amazing, and so is the way he influenced the modern quarterback on the path to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Bill Bender

•

Pro Football Hall of Fame 2017: Canton hits all levels with Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium

The new Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium was unveiled Thursday. Canton and the Pro Football Hall of Fame are the big winners.

Bill Bender

•

Blaine Gabbert keeps away Kaepernick comps with impressive Cardinals debut

Blaine Gabbert turned in a solid performance in his first game with Arizona. More importantly, he set a standard other NFL backup QBs should be paying close attention to this preseason.

Bill Bender

•

Mark Dantonio will give Michigan State a say in Big Ten East race — but how much?

Mark Dantonio and Michigan State will be a factor in the Big Ten East race this season, but to what extent remains unclear.

Bill Bender

•

Does College Football Playoff need to bleed new blood in 2017?

Alabama, Ohio State and Florida State are popular playoff picks again. Is that good for the future of college football?

Bill Bender

•

SN exclusive: Lamar Jackson done playing what-if game as Heisman defense nears

Lamar Jackson speaks with Sporting News about life after winning the Heisman Trophy and the challenges that lie ahead.

Bill Bender

•

Which NFL teams are best set up for success? Ranking best QB-coach-GM combos

The Patriots have the best coach, GM and quarterback in NFL. But what about the other 31 teams? SN determines which are best set up for success with their QB-coach-GM combos.

Bill Bender

•

Da'Shawn Hand's arrest puts Nick Saban in another uncomfortable spot

Da'Shawn Hand was arrested on Saturday, and that puts Nick Saban in another comfortable spot heading into the opener against Florida State.

Bill Bender

•

Big Ten predictions: Biggest games, sleeper teams, Heisman hopefuls for 2017 season

Big Ten predictions are here for 2017, and there are several College Football Playoff contenders in Ohio State, Michigan, Penn State and Wisconsin.

Bill Bender

•

SEC predictions: Biggest games, sleeper teams, Heisman hopefuls for 2017 season

Sporting News breaks down the SEC. Can anybody really take a run a three-time SEC champion Alabama?

Bill Bender

•

Pac-12 predictions: Biggest games, sleeper teams, Heisman hopefuls for 2017 season

USC and Washington will fight for Pac-12 supremacy in 2017, and that means a great quarterback battle between Sam Darnold and Jake Browning. Check out our conference picks.

Bill Bender

•

Big 12 predictions: Biggest games, sleeper teams, Heisman hopefuls for 2017 season

Sporting News makes its Big 12 picks for the 2017 season. Does Oklahoma have competition in its quest for a third straight conference title?

Bill Bender

•

ACC predictions: Biggest games, sleeper teams, Heisman hopefuls for 2017 season

Clemson and Florida State will continue their power struggle in the ACC, but can somebody else break through in 2017? We take a closer look.

Bill Bender

•

Michigan's Jim Harbaugh expects even more from Wolverines, and so should you

Jim Harbaugh enters Year 3 with an inexperienced roster, but there's no reason to believe the Wolverines will see a drop off in the Big 10.

Bill Bender

•

College football bowl schedule: Dates, times, TV for all 40 FBS bowls in 2017-18

A look at the 2017-18 college football bowl schedule features 41 games leading up to the College Football Playoff championship game on Jan. 8.

Bill Bender

•

Penn State's high-powered offense evokes old memories, builds new excitement

Penn State has all the right pieces in place around Saquon Barkley for a special season. How has James Franklin managed expectations?

Bill Bender

•

Is Minnesota's P.J. Fleck future Big Ten royalty or another court jester?

P.J. Fleck brought a jolt to Big Ten Media Days with his fast-talking style, but how will that add up for the Gophers in 2017?

Bill Bender

•

Should Jim Harbaugh say Wilton Speight is 'tied for first' as Michigan's QB?

Is Wilton Speight really the starting quarterback for Michigan or is he 'tied for first,' as Jim Harbaugh says?

Bill Bender

•

Urban Meyer blending even better future for Buckeyes beyond 2017

Urban Meyer has embraced the future at Ohio State. And he's using it to the Buckeyes' advantage.

Bill Bender

•

Wisconsin running the table? Let Badgers write own narrative to get there in 2017

Wisconsin is a popular pick to win the Big Ten West Division, and Paul Chryst is the perfect coach to embrace those expectations.

Bill Bender

•

Big Ten belongs in best conference debate, but playoff depth only goes so far

The Big Ten belongs in the best-conference-in-college-football-debate, but they need more national titles to get back to the top.

Bill Bender

•

Breaking down new-look Browns: Hue Jackson's vision will be clear in fresh depth chart

For the Cleveland Browns, a flurry of offseason trades, free-agency moves and draft picks has flipped the depth chart heading into the 2017 season.

Bill Bender

•

Les Miles to Ole Miss? Pros, cons for hiring former LSU coach

Les Miles will be a popular candidate for the vacant Ole Miss coaching job, but is that move worth it for the Rebels?

Bill Bender

•

Hugh Freeze's lack of accountability finally caught up with Ole Miss

Hugh Freeze's tenure was undone by his own lack of accountability off the field.

Bill Bender

•

Ole Miss' Shea Patterson isn't Johnny Manziel, but he'll thrill all the same

Shea Patterson will be one of the most exciting players in college football in 2017. Will that be enough to get Ole Miss through its bowl ban?

Bill Bender

•

Tim Tebow relishing every little step toward MLB dream with Mets

Tim Tebow remains positive and focused on working his way through the minor leagues.

Bill Bender

•

Mike Gundy, Cowboys poised for playoff run, but how many wins against OU will it take?

Mike Gundy enters his 13th season with Oklahoma State with everything needed to make a playoff run. Of course, the Cowboys have to take care of Oklahoma first.

Bill Bender

•

Tom Herman making Texas cool again, and great won't be far behind

Tom Herman's blunt assessment for how Texas must get back on top of the Big 12 is refreshing, and it's exactly what the Longhorns need.

Bill Bender

•

Big 12 Media Days: Lincoln Riley's big-game rep worth watching in Year 1

Lincoln Riley will get to make a name for himself in Oklahoma quickly in Year 1. How will the lessons learned from Bob Stoops help?

Bill Bender

•

Hugh Freeze, Ole Miss can't go through this charade again in 2018

Hugh Freeze faced questions about the program again at SEC Media Days. Will he be around in 2018 to do it again?

Bill Bender

•

How Christian Kirk will help Kevin Sumlin catch less heat at Texas A&M

Texas A&M standout Christian Kirk could play a big role in getting Kevin Sumlin off the hot seat in 2017.

Bill Bender

•

Nick Saban's willingness to change means same dominance for Alabama

Nick Saban still dominates SEC Media Days, and the changes made in the offseason mean the continued dominance of the Tide will follow.

Bill Bender

•

Nick Saban name drops Aaron Judge while talking NFL Draft process

Nick Saban knows who Aaron Judge is, and he used the Yankees slugger to make a point about the NFL Draft process.

Bill Bender

•

Georgia, Florida or Tennessee: Who stands up to Alabama in the SEC?

The coaches at Georgia, Florida and Tennessee have taken turns talking about it at this year's SEC Media Days: Which traditional East Division power will beat Alabama first?

Bill Bender

•

Jim McElwain talks lions, Tigers and bears, but QB question matters most for Gators

Jim McElwain talked about an array of topics at SEC Media Days, but one question needs to be answered before the Sept. 2 opener against Michigan.

Bill Bender

•

Georgia will know if hype is real before SEC East race starts

Georgia is the presumed pick to win the SEC East, but the early schedule will be the launching pad for those high hopes.

Bill Bender

•

Eddie George honoring Ohio State for winning Capital One Cup at ESPYs

Former Heisman Trophy winner Eddie George will honor his alma mater for winning the Capital One Cup at the ESPYs on Wednesday.

Bill Bender

•

Does Tennessee have 'competitive depth' Vols coach Butch Jones needs?

Can Tennessee's Butch Jones build on back-to-back nine-win seasons? The Vols are taking a positive approach into 2017.

Bill Bender

•

Arkansas coach Bret Bielema talks hype, hubba bubba and Hogs' path to prominence

How can Arkansas's Bret Bielema get the Razorbacks back in contention in SEC West? It starts with two talking points Bielema hit on at SEC Media Days

Bill Bender

•

Big 12 coach rankings: With Bob Stoops gone, who takes over No. 1?

Sporting News breaks down the top coaches in the Big 12. Who can take the place of Oklahoma's Bob Stoops at No. 1?

Bill Bender

•

ACC coach rankings: Dabo, Jimbo locked in fight for top spot again

The ACC is the only FBS conference with multiple national championship coaches. Is Jimbo Fisher or Dabo Swinney at the top?

Bill Bender

•

SEC coach rankings: Who is best-suited to challenge Nick Saban at No. 1?

Nick Saban tops our SEC coach rankings (again). Is there a coach in the conference worthy of a challenge?

Bill Bender

•
Newer Latest News Older