MORE FROM Bill Bender

College Football Playoff picture: Who's in, out and knocking on door on championship week?

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

Bill Bender

Seven Nebraska coaching candidates to replace Mike Riley

Here are seven coaching replacements for the Huskers, and it all starts with former quarterback Scott Frost.

Bill Bender

Nine Arkansas coaching candidates to replace Bret Bielema

Arkansas parted ways with Bret Bielema. Here are nine possible replacements for the Razorbacks, with a big name at the top.

Bill Bender

Week 14 bowl projections: Auburn moves in College Football Playoff for now

Sporting News projects every college football bowl game for 2017 heading into Week 14. Which teams will make the fourth annual College Football Playoff?

Bill Bender

Week 14 college football primer: How conference championship chaos could unfold

How could even more chaos unfold on conference championship weekend? Here are five things that could increase the chaos.

Bill Bender

Nine Florida State coaching candidates to replace Jimbo Fisher

With Jimbo Fisher heading to Texas A&M, who are the best fits to become FSU's third coach since 1976? Oregon's Willie Taggart is interesting.

Bill Bender

College football TV schedule: Game times, what's at stake for conference championships

A quick look at conference championship weekend and what's at stake heading into the final week before the College Football Playoff pairings are released.

Bill Bender

SEC championship: Georgia, Kirby Smart planted on solid ground in unstable SEC

Kirby Smart is trying to put Georgia back in its rightful place. For now, being in a stable place should keep the Bulldogs in the hunt for years to come.

Bill Bender

Alabama down, but not out, in College Football Playoff race

Alabama is the first team out of the College Football Playoff at No. 5. Here are the outs that would get the Crimson Tide back in the College Football Playoff.

Bill Bender

Seven Texas A&M coaching candidates to replace Kevin Sumlin

Kevin Sumlin's tenure at Texas A&M is over. Here are some coach candidates the Aggies may consider to replace him.

Bill Bender

Angry Bender: Fake news? Fake Twitter is the worst

Angry Bender unleashes his wrath on fake Twitter accounts.

Bill Bender

Urban Meyer's test is keeping Buckeyes' 'laser focus' amid distractions

Urban Meyer maintains the challenge for Ohio State is keeping the Buckeyes focused heading to the Big Ten championship game.

Bill Bender

Alabama vs. Ohio State: Argue here about who deserves last playoff spot

If Ohio State beats Wisconsin in the Big Ten championship, does it or Alabama get that last College Football Playoff spot? Good luck figuring it out.

Bill Bender

Bravo, Bruins: Chip Kelly gives UCLA a refreshing big-time hire

UCLA hired Chip Kelly, a home-run hire that should have the Bruins back in contention in the Pac-12 soon.

Bill Bender

With Jim Harbaugh, Michigan still hasn't changed enough to catch Ohio State

Michigan suffered another loss to Ohio State under Jim Harbaugh. When will things really change in Ann Arbor?

Bill Bender

Ohio State QB J.T. Barrett injures knee vs. Michigan

J.T. Barrett went down clutching his knee in Ohio States game vs. Michigan.

Bill Bender

Urban Meyer angry at J.T. Barrett injury, but Ohio State's QB plan works again

Urban Meyer's post-game rant after a 31-20 loss focused on J.T. Barrett's injury. Here is the good news: Ohio State's backup quarterback plan worked again.

Bill Bender

Unbeaten UCF brings amazing game, but same questions hinder playoff hopes

UCF likely won't make the College Football Playoff even if it goes undefeated, and there is no easy solution to that problem unless it expands.

Bill Bender

How Miami's loss to Pitt impacts College Football Playoff picture

Miami lost to Pitt on Friday, another wrinkle in the College Football Playoff race. Here's how that impacts the race heading into the ACC championship.

Bill Bender

Path to College Football Playoff for contenders, and who they should root for

A dozen teams still have realistic College Football Playoff hopes. Here is the breakdown for how those teams get in -- and who they should be rooting for the last two weeks.

Bill Bender

Ohio State, Michigan head into The Game still separated at most important position

Jim Harbaugh didn't announce Michigan's starting quarterback for Saturday's game at Ohio State who knows J.T. Barrett is it's go-to guy. That's the difference between both teams right now.

Bill Bender

Ohio State can break College Football Playoff again — with Bama's help

Ohio State in the College Football Playoff again? Here's the breakdown of how the Buckeyes could sneak back in after the last two weeks.

Bill Bender

Week 13 bowl projections: Oklahoma-Alabama new championship game pick

Sporting News projects every college football bowl game for 2017 heading into Week 13. Which teams will make the fourth annual College Football Playoff?

Bill Bender

Kirk Herbstreit thinks Alabama's Jalen Hurts, Auburn's defense key to Iron Bowl

ESPN's Kirk Herbstreit thinks Auburn's defense will have to find a way to contain Jalen Hurts. That's the key to this year's Iron Bowl.

Bill Bender

The Game vs. The Iron Bowl: Which rivalry is better?

Which rivalry is better: Ohio State-Michigan and "The Game?" Or the Iron Bowl between Auburn and Alabama? Sporting News looks at the rivarly.

Bill Bender

Ranking college football's top 25 must-see games on Rivalry Week

Sporting News ranks the top 25 games this Rivalry Week, including The Game, Iron Bowl, Apple Cup and more.

Bill Bender

College Football Playoff picture: Who's in, out and knocking on door in Week 13

Which four teams look like the best bets to reach the College Football Playoff heading into Week 13? Bill Bender breaks it down.

Bill Bender

Nine UCLA coaching candidates to replace Jim Mora

UCLA parted ways with Jim Mora on Sunday. Here are nine possible replacements for the Bruins, with a big name at the top.

Bill Bender

Baker Mayfield's Kansas antics are harmless, but he should practice discretion

Baker Mayfield's antics at Kansas were harmless, but viewer discretion is advised as the Sooners continue their College Football Playoff push.

Bill Bender

Jarrett Stidham vs. Jake Fromm: Which QB can topple Alabama's SEC dynasty?

Which quarterback has a better chance to topple Alabama's SEC dynasty? Jarrett Stidham is up first, and Jake Fromm might get his chance later.

Bill Bender

Wisconsin has a QB it can trust in Alex Hornibrook, but Michigan still looking

Alex Hornibrook made the clutch plays against Michigan, whose quarterback situation took yet another hit on Saturday.

Bill Bender

College football Week 12 primer: Heisman Watch, upset picks, predictions and more

Week 12 features just one matchup between ranked teams (Michigan at Wisconsin). The top two schools are tuning up for their respective rivalry week games. We get you ready for that and more in the Week 12 primer.

Bill Bender

Florida, Tennessee need big-name coaches now, or SEC won't change at all

Florida and Tennessee need to hire the big-name coach more than ever, and Chip Kelly and Florida State's Jimbo Fisher are the names worth selling out for.

Bill Bender

Angry Bender: Why two-loss chaos is built for losers

Angry Bender looks at the idea of two-loss chaos and why that's a bad thing in general.

Bill Bender

Week 12 bowl projections: Miami, Wisconsin moving up after big wins

Sporting News projects every college football bowl game for 2017 heading into Week 12. Which teams will make the fourth annual College Football Playoff?

Bill Bender

College Football Playoff rankings: Could Clemson, Miami both make playoff?

Could two ACC teams make the playoff? It's unlikely, but Clemson and Miami could make things interesting down the stretch.

Bill Bender

Jim Harbaugh can make or break big-game criticism vs. Wisconsin, Ohio State

Michigan's next two games against Wisconsin and Ohio State are of monumental importance to the Wolverines — and Jim Harbaugh.

Bill Bender

College Football Playoff picture: Who's in, out and knocking on door in Week 12

Which four teams look like the best bets to reach the College Football Playoff heading into Week 12? Bill Bender breaks it down.

Bill Bender

Mark Richt shows a little fun always goes a long way at Miami

Mark Richt brought the fun back to Miami, and it's showing as the Hurricanes barrel toward the ACC championship game with a College Football Playoff berth in sight.

Bill Bender

Nine Tennessee coaching candidates to replace Butch Jones

Tennessee fired Butch Jones. Here are nine possible replacements for the Volunteers. Yes, we included Chip Kelly and Jon Gruden.

Bill Bender

Notre Dame bound to lose two-loss chaos with no conference to lean on

Notre Dame has two losses, suffered a blowout and doesn't have a conference championship. That's the combination that keeps them out of the playoff.

Bill Bender

Mark Richt, Miami bring back 'The U' you remember in dismantling Notre Dame

Miami dominated Notre Dame, and with that, made a playoff statement that won't be forgotten heading into the ACC championship.

Bill Bender

No. 7 Miami 41, No. 3 Notre Dame 8: Five things we learned from Canes' impressive blowout

No. 7 Miami routed No. 3 Notre Dame at Hard Rock Stadium, an impressive statement in the College Football Playoff race.

Bill Bender

How Georgia's loss to Auburn impacts the SEC, College Football Playoff race

No. 10 Auburn routed No. 1 Georgia on Saturday. How does that impact the College Football Playoff and SEC championship picture?

Bill Bender

Two-loss Ohio State, fresh off throttling Spartans, keeps playoff talk alive

The Buckeyes have two bad losses, but they could have even more big wins. That's the key to keeping their playoff hopes alive.

Bill Bender

'Fake Urban Meyer' shows productive side of college football parody accounts

Can college football parody accounts be productive? A look at the Fake Urban Meyer account shows that can be the case.

Bill Bender

College football Week 11 primer: Heisman watch, upset picks, predictions and more

Week 11 features three more top 10 showdowns with Notre Dame-Miami, TCU-Oklahoma and Georgia-Auburn. We get you ready for that and more in the Week 11 primer.

Bill Bender

Angry Bender: Stop complaining about Notre Dame's schedule

Angry Bender looks at the idea of that Notre Dame's schedule isn't enough to get in the College Football Playoff.

Bill Bender

Notre Dame vs. Miami: A rivalry that could be great again, if the schedule allowed it

Notre Dame-Miami is big again, and that should make for one spectacular night at Hard Rock Stadium. It's just a disappointment how often these teams will get to play.

Bill Bender

Ageless Frank Solich still building at Ohio, and this looks like his 'special team'

Ohio keeps building under veteran coach Frank Solich, and this team could be the one that wins the program's first championship since 1968.

Bill Bender

Notre Dame vs. Miami: Ranking 16 most memorable games in heated series

Notre Dame and Miami meet in another chapter of a heated series on Saturday. We look at 16 memorable games between the Irish and Hurricanes.

Bill Bender

College Football Playoff rankings: Wisconsin learning perfect isn't always good enough

Wisconsin's unbeaten record is still being scrutinized by the CFP committee, maybe a little too much. Is that why Badgers AD Barry Alvarez spoke up this week?

Bill Bender

College Football Playoff rankings: Oklahoma will press for No. 4 spot

Oklahoma sits No. 5 in the College Football Playoff Rankings. Will the Sooners press the committee into a tough decision? That's among five things we learned.

Bill Bender

Week 11 bowl projections: Notre Dame, Clemson in College Football Playoff (for now)

Sporting News projects every college football bowl game for 2017 heading into Week 11. 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 11

Which four teams look like the best bets to reach the College Football Playoff heading into Week 11? Bill Bender breaks it down.

Bill Bender

Big Ten East too good for its own good, and that's a problem

Ohio State, Penn State, Michigan State and Michigan all have two losses. Here's why the Big Ten is too good for its own good.

Bill Bender

How Ohio State recovers from disaster at Iowa is worth watching in muddled Big Ten

Ohio State coach Urban Meyer must lead the Buckeyes after a disastrous loss at Iowa. It's worth watching the next three weeks.

Bill Bender

OK Miami, we see 'U' look ready for Notre Dame — and maybe Clemson

Miami eliminated some doubts with a statement victory against Virginia Tech. Now, the Hurricanes get the big stage against Notre Dame

Bill Bender

How Ohio State, Penn State losses wreck Big Ten's College Football Playoff outlook

Ohio State lost to Iowa and Penn State lost to Michigan State. Here is how that wrecks the Big Ten playoff picture.

Bill Bender

Auburn pretender or contender? Jarrett Stidham shows why latter still possible

Two-loss Auburn beat Texas A&M on Saturday, and Jarrett Stidham showed why he's the key against No. 1 Georgia and No. 2 Alabama in November.

Bill Bender

Ohio State's Nick Bosa ejected for targeting against Iowa

Ohio State's Nick Bosa was ejected for targeting in the first half against Iowa on Saturday.

Bill Bender

Florida drops hilarious 'Naked Gun' tweet during Missouri blowout

Florida's social media team had a little fun during a blowout against Missouri on Saturday. Did you see this tweet?

Bill Bender

Bedlam, The Game, Iron Bowl: College football's top 25 games of November

Sporting News ranks the top 25 games left on the November college football schedule. Where do Bedlam, the Iron Bowl and The Game fit in?

Bill Bender

Alabama No. 2? Tide disciplined enough to know that doesn't matter

Alabama isn't No. 1 in the College Football Playoff rankings, and that matters little to Nick Saban. The Tide are taking the same-old disciplined approach into this month.

Bill Bender

College football Week 10 primer: Heisman watch, upset picks, predictions and more

Week 10 features an over-the-top afternoon slot with seven games between Top 25 teams. That includes Bedlam and LSU-Alabama. We break it all down.

Bill Bender

College Football Playoff rankings: Ohio State, Big Ten shouldn't be concerned yet

No Big Ten team is in the top four of the first College Football Playoff rankings. But Ohio State and Wisconsin have no reason to worry yet.

Bill Bender

College Football Playoff rankings: Two-team SEC playoff alive with Bama, Georgia and Auburn

The SEC owns the top two spots in the College Football Playoff rankings with Georgia and Alabama, but Auburn is far from done, given its position. Five things we learned from the first set:

Bill Bender

Angry Bender: SEC bias? Get out of here with that nonsense

Angry Bender looks at the idea of SEC bias and why that's ridiculous in this week's installment of Angry Bender.

Bill Bender

SN exclusive: Khalil Tate bringing Rich Rod's vision back to life at Arizona

Khalil Tate's star is rising fast at Arizona, and that means more long-term success for the Wildcats under Rich Rodriguez.

Bill Bender

College Football Playoff picture: Who's in, out and knocking on door in Week 10

Which four teams look like the best bets to reach the College Football Playoff heading into Week 10? Bill Bender breaks it down.

Bill Bender

Penn State's loss to Ohio State hurts now, and will hurt worse in November

No. 2 Penn State let an 11-point lead slip away, and that could be what keeps the Nittany Lions out of the College Football Playoff in November.

Bill Bender

College Football Playoff Rankings: Get ready for six heated arguments in November

The College Football Playoff rankings are coming, and that means six arguments are going to heat up. Here's what we think will happen.

Bill Bender

Week 10 bowl projections: Ohio State, Notre Dame move in four-team playoff

Sporting News projects every college football bowl game for 2017 heading into Week 10. Which teams will make the fourth annual College Football Playoff?

Bill Bender

Nine Florida coaching candidates to replace Jim McElwain

Florida needs a new coach. Here are the nine best replacements for Jim McElwain. Bob Stoops is the biggest name on that list.

Bill Bender

No. 6 Ohio State 39, No. 2 Penn State 38: Five things we learned

No. 6 Ohio State beat Penn State at Ohio Stadium on Saturday.

Bill Bender

With J.T. Barrett, Heisman front runner, Ohio State shows all things are possible

J.T. Barrett's heroics put Ohio State in the Big Ten East driver's seat, and the fifth-year senior at the front of the Heisman Trophy conversation.

Bill Bender

WATCH: Penn State scores TD after refs overturn Ohio State interception in end zone

Ohio State's Denzel Ward had an interception. Then Penn State's DeAndre Thompkins had a touchdown. On the same play.

Bill Bender

WATCH: Saquon Barkley takes opening kickoff back for TD against Ohio State

Saquon Barkley showed why he's the Heisman front runner against Ohio State. It only took him one play.

Bill Bender

Michigan finds QB in Brandon Peters — here's why that matters in November

Michigan finally found a quarterback for the stretch run in Brandon Peters, and that will throw a wrench in Big Ten race down the stretch.

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

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