MORE FROM 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

Big Ten coach rankings: Urban Meyer maintains hold on top spot

Four Big Ten East coaches dominate the top of Sporting News' Big Ten coach rankings. Who follows Urban Meyer?

Bill Bender

SEC Media Days 2017: Georgia's Nick Chubb, Sony Michel among stars attending four-day event

The SEC announced which players will attend SEC Media Days from July 10-13 in Hoover, Ala.

Bill Bender

Chargers safety Dexter McCoil relishes every stop with return trip to LA

Dexter McCoil's professional path found LA twice, but the stops in between have defined the former CFL star's career.

Bill Bender

Answering five FAQ about Tennessee, Butch Jones heading into 2017

Should Butch Jones be on the hot seat at Tennessee? Sporting News explores that in this week's FAQ.

Bill Bender

Breaking down new-look Packers: Did Aaron Rodgers get what he needed?

Aaron Rodgers has some new pieces around him in Green Bay, and they might just be enough for the Packers to make another run to the Super Bowl.

Bill Bender

June 28, 1992: That time the Dream Team crushed Cuba by 79 points in emphatic debut

Team USA's legendary "Dream Team" made its debut 25 years ago. Here are five things we still love about the Dream Team's opening statement.

Bill Bender

Zamir White, No. 1 running back for 2018, commits to Georgia

Top running back Zamir White committed to Georgia on Tuesday, continuing a line of big-time recruits to the school.

Bill Bender

College Football Playoff debate: Will we be at four teams forevermore?

How long will the College Football Playoff keep four teams? Will we ever get to eight? Sporting News breaks down the debate.

Bill Bender

Handicapping Cleveland Browns quarterback battle: Should DeShone Kizer start in Week 1?

How realistic is it for DeShone Kizer to start at quarterback for the Browns in Week 1? Sporting News sizes up the competition.

Bill Bender

'Celtics/Lakers: Best of Enemies': Seven reasons '80s NBA rivalry was the greatest

Watching the Lakers-Celtics "30 for 30"? Here are seven things to know about the legendary rivalry.

Bill Bender

Jarrett Stidham, Will Grier lead list of impact transfer QBs for 2017

Who are the biggest impact transfer quarterbacks for 2017? Auburn's Jarrett Stidham and West Virginia's Will Grier made that list.

Bill Bender

Charlotte among those enjoying hidden benefits of satellite camp exposure

Charlotte enjoys the exposure of inviting big-name college football programs to its satellite camp, but it's also a way to protect its recruiting turf.

Bill Bender

Here's why Draymond Green wasn't ejected from Game 4

Warriors forward Draymond Green appeared to be ejected from in Game 4 of the NBA Finals against the Cavaliers on Friday night after a second technical foul.

Bill Bender

Draymond Green shoots up list of Cleveland villains

Draymond Green called out Cleveland in a press conference after Game 4 of the NBA Finals. Where does he rank among Cleveland basketball villains?

Bill Bender

NBA Finals: This 3-1 lead isn't same game, and Warriors can prove it in Game 5

The NBA Finals are at 3-1 again, but it's hardly like last year. It won't matter unless Golden State blows Game 5.

Bill Bender

Ohio State hires Butler's Chris Holtmann as new basketball coach, per report

Ohio State will announce Chris Holtmann as its new basketball coach, according to a report.

Bill Bender

Steph Curry finds peace as part of Warriors' dynamic duo of destruction

Stephen Curry appears to be at peace — and thriving — as the best 1A-1B wing man next to Kevin Durant.

Bill Bender

Big 12 banks on young guns Lincoln Riley, Tom Herman to elevate playoff profile

Will Tom Herman and Lincoln Riley elevate the Big 12's profile enough, like Mack Brown and Bob Stoops used to? That's the big question at OU and Texas now.

Bill Bender

With Bob Stoops out, Iowa's Kirk Ferentz now longest-tenured FBS coach

Iowa's Kirk Ferentz is now the dean of FBS coaches in terms of continuous service; he's heading into his 19th consecutive season with the Hawkeyes. Bill Snyder has had two stints at Kansas State totaling 25 years.

Bill Bender

Lincoln Riley, like former Oklahoma coaches, faces huge expectations early

Lincoln Riley is Oklahoma's new coach, and there is a high standard to keep in Norman. Will he be up to the job?

Bill Bender

Amid sexual assault case, Mark Dantonio's moment to redefine Michigan State arrives

Michigan State coach Mark Dantonio responded to dismissing three players from the team Tuesday. How will the program respond now?

Bill Bender

Dismissed Michigan St. football players Corley, King, Vance arrested, charged with sexual assault

Three Michigan State players were arrested on sexual assault charges Tuesday.

Bill Bender

Three Michigan State football players to face sexual assault charges

Three Michigan State football players will face sexual assault charges in connection with an on-campus incident on Jan. 16, according to multiple reports.

Bill Bender

Thad Matta's firing makes it clear recruiting top priority for next hire at Ohio State

Ohio State fired Thad Matta on Monday in an unexpected move. The next hire will have to be a top-notch recruiter.

Bill Bender

Is Malik Zaire the right answer for Florida at quarterback in 2017?

Is Malik Zaire, who is free-and-clear to transfer to Florida, the right answer for the Gators? It's not a sure thing.

Bill Bender

Notre Dame's Brian Kelly among five hot-seat coaches in 2017

Which college football coaches are feeling the hot seat in 2017? Sporting News takes a closer look.

Bill Bender

Answering FAQ about 2017-18 college football bowl projections

Sporting News released its bowl projections for the 2017-18 season. Now, we're addressing five FAQ about those projections.

Bill Bender

A Hater's Guide to the NBA Finals: How to choose your side in Cavs vs. Warriors III

Which side are you on for Cavs-Warriors III? Sporting News provides a guide to help you decide.

Bill Bender

Michigan State parting ways with staffer Curtis Blackwell, per report

Michigan State will not renew the contract of Curtis Blackwell, according to multiple reports.

Bill Bender

Chargers' Tyrell Williams embraces big plays, big change and big move to L.A.

Tyrell Williams spoke to Sporting News about the Chargers' move to Los Angeles and his expectations for 2017.

Bill Bender

Four reasons Pat Dye's proposal to move Auburn to SEC East won't work

Former Auburn coach Pat Dye wants the Tigers to move to the SEC East. Here's why that won't hunt.

Bill Bender

NBA playoffs 2017: Comparing poor performances of LeBron James, Michael Jordan leads to same conclusion

LeBron James had a bad playoff game, and everybody is digging up the Michael Jordan comparisons. If you're going to do that, then go the distance.

Bill Bender

Three accused Michigan State football players reportedly violated school policy, according to attorney

An attorney for an alleged victim says three accused Michigan State football players violated school policy stemming from a Title IX investigation.

Bill Bender

Answering FAQ about the Auburn Tigers for 2017

Sporting News answers five frequently asked questions about Auburn heading into 2017.

Bill Bender

How Kirby Smart plans on meeting expectations at Georgia in 2017

Kirby Smart enters his second season at Georgia facing higher expectations. Here are three things that must work in the Bulldogs' favor.

Bill Bender

Five conference realignment scenarios we'll never stop talking about

It's the college football offseason, so let's re-hash the always-popular conference expansion and realignment talks that we enjoy so much.

Bill Bender

Big, fast, fun: Browns finally building something worth watching

Cleveland worked through rookie minicamp with a loaded draft class eager to make its mark. When will that infusion of talent pay off for the long-suffering franchise?

Bill Bender

Cleveland's timing everything in DeShone Kizer's rookie development

How Cleveland handles the development of second-round pick DeShone Kizer heading into the 2017 season.

Bill Bender

Jabrill Peppers answers ridiculous criticism off field, so let him do the same on it

Jabrill Peppers at Browns rookie minicamp fired back at the criticism he faced this week off the field. He is used to criticism, though.

Bill Bender

Answering FAQ about Michigan's Jim Harbaugh for 2017

Jim Harbaugh comes with the same-old questions heading into Year 3. Sporting News answers them.

Bill Bender

East Carolina coach delivers perfect Mother's Day present with walk-on scholarship

East Carolina coach Scottie Montgomery delivered the perfect Mother's Day present a few days early.

Bill Bender

These 11 one-sided college football rivalries need a response

Which one-sided college football rivalries might flip in 2017? Sporting News look at 11 rivalries with one-sided winning streaks.

Bill Bender

LeBron James' conference dominance on par with Magic Johnson's 'Showtime' Lakers

LeBron James' domination of the Eastern Conference continues to follow a familiar pattern. Magic Johnson did the same thing in the 1980s with the "Showtime" Lakers.

Bill Bender

College football bowl schedule: ESPN announces dates, times for 2017-18 bowl lineup

ESPN announced the dates and times for 13 bowl games on Wednesday leading up to the 2017-18 College Football Playoff.

Bill Bender

North Carolina closes in on Stanford in men's Capital One Cup standings

Stanford still leads the men's standings in the Capital One Cup, but North Carolina isn't far behind.

Bill Bender

SEC poised for its own 'Year of the Quarterback' in 2017

The SEC put six quarterbacks on Sporting News' Top 25 for 2017, and that list should create excitement on the field this season.

Bill Bender

College football rankings 2017: Alabama dominates composite of preseason Top 25

Sporting News mashed together preseason college football rankings from SN, ESPN, Bleacher Report, CBS, Fox and Athlon to get a composite Top 25 for 2017.

Bill Bender

College football breakout players for 2017 include three SEC quarterbacks

Sporting News tabs 17 breakout players for the 2017 season, and that starts with a trio of SEC quarterbacks.

Bill Bender

USC's Sam Darnold vs. Penn State's Saquon Barkley will spark Heisman, NFL Draft debates

Will Sam Darnold or Saquon Barkley be the top pick in the 2018 NFL Draft? Here's an early look at the debate.

Bill Bender

13 college football stadium name changes that could be next

Kentucky changed the name of its stadium from Commonwealth Stadium to Kroger Field on Monday, and it's becoming a trend in college football.

Bill Bender

NFL Draft 2017: Michigan edges Alabama for most draft picks by college

Michigan edges Alabama for most NFL draft picks by college.

Bill Bender

NFL Draft 2017: Another gap grows between college football's 'haves' and 'have-nots'

The competition gap is growing within the NFL Draft, and that showed. How will other schools catch up with the powerhouses in the arms race?

Bill Bender

Jake Butt's fifth-round value worth arguing, but he knows best solution

Jake Butt fell in the 2017 NFL Draft, but he's the one with the right answers about that slide.

Bill Bender

NFL Draft 2017: BYU product Jamaal Williams powers up running game for Packers, Aaron Rodgers

Green Bay powered up the running game with the addition of Jamaal Williams. What does that do for Aaron Rodgers and the Packers' offense?

Bill Bender

Three reasons why Steelers drafting Pitt's James Conner is perfect

The Steelers drafted James Conner in the third round of the NFL Draft on Friday. It's the perfect pick for them.

Bill Bender

DeShone Kizer's place in Browns' QB plan a mystery worth exploring

Where does DeShone Kizer fit in Cleveland's master plan? That's hard to say, but the lower cost makes it worth the wait.

Bill Bender

Dalvin Cook slips to Vikings, and response now falls on his shoulders

Why did Dalvin Cook fall to the Vikings? Minnesota landed a franchise back, but the question will be how long that shelf-life is for the FSU star.

Bill Bender

NFL Draft 2017: Browns go all-in on Jabrill Peppers, and it will pay off

Cleveland landed a football player in Jabrill Peppers, a somewhat risky first-round pick that could pay off later.

Bill Bender

NFL Draft 2017: Browns made right call passing on first-round quarterback

Cleveland didn't select a quarterback in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft, and we're OK with that.

Bill Bender

NFL Draft 2017: SEC dominates first round with 12 picks

The SEC dominated the first round of the NFL Draft with 12 first-round picks.

Bill Bender

Will Jabrill Peppers boom or bust in NFL? That depends on who you ask

Jabrill Peppers' draft stock is a hot topic heading into the 2017 NFL Draft. Will the former Michigan star boom or bust at the next level?

Bill Bender

NFL Draft 2017: O.J. Howard's small-town roots paved way for big-time chance in Tampa Bay

O.J. Howard's journey from a small town to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is remarkable. Here's how he made it there.

Bill Bender

FSU's Jimbo Fisher sees Alabama on horizon, but knows much more lies beyond Tide

Jimbo Fisher knows Alabama awaits in the opener, but he's not biting into the talk about FSU's looming showdown in Atlanta.

Bill Bender

Clemson players enjoy one more college moment before 2017 NFL Draft

Clemson is sending another large contingent to the 2017 NFL Draft. Jordan Leggett spoke with SN about that class.

Bill Bender

How many College Football Playoff contenders have real quarterback controversy in 2017?

Several Top 10 college football teams, including three playoff teams from last year, might have some real quarterback drama in 2017.

Bill Bender

Brian Kelly's plan for Notre Dame football renovation starts at home

Brian Kelly looks to renovate the Notre Dame program after a 4-8 season. That project starts at home in 2017.

Bill Bender

Brandon Wimbush's next direction will set the course for Notre Dame in 2017

Brandon Wimbush had an up-and-down spring game for Notre Dame, but he's still the key for the Irish heading into 2017.

Bill Bender

Irish backup QB Ian Book among five standouts at Notre Dame Blue-Gold Game

Brandon Wimbush is Notre Dame's starting quarterback, but backup Ian Book had a solid spring game.

Bill Bender

For Luke Fickell and Cincinnati, finding new identity will be no trouble

Fickell's entire coaching career has been spent in Columbus, but he's bringing those lessons to establish a new identity at Cincinnati.

Bill Bender

Juwan Johnson's breakout potential another big piece for Penn State in 2017

Juwan Johnson has created a buzz this spring for the Nittany Lions heading into 2017. How does Johnson feel about those expectations?

Bill Bender

Michigan fans name child after Wolverines coach Jim Harbaugh

Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh recognized a child with the same name. Meet Harbaugh Fettig.

Bill Bender

NHL playoffs: Penguins vs. Blue Jackets needs one more thing for full-scale rivalry

The rivalry between the Penguins and Blue Jackets is growing, but it needs one more thing for a full-scale launch.

Bill Bender

Next Mitchell Trubisky? Ohio State's Joe Burrow could share same arc

Could Joe Burrow take a Mitchell Trubisky-like leap up NFL Draft boards in a few seasons? Don't be surprised when it happens.

Bill Bender

Penguins have answer for everything in comeback win over Blue Jackets

Pittsburgh took a 3-0 lead on the road against Columbus on Sunday. The Penguins had a comeback for everything the Blue Jackets threw at them.

Bill Bender

No, Buckeyes don't have a QB controversy, but just wait until 2018

J.T. Barrett is the guy for Ohio State in 2017, but the future quarterback battle might be the biggest one yet under Urban Meyer.

Bill Bender

Ohio State back on passing 'attack' with new coordinator Kevin Wilson

Ohio State showed off a new passing attack with offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson, and the early results are good.

Bill Bender

Joe Burrow, Dwayne Haskins among five big Ohio State spring game winners

Ohio State's spring game didn't have tackling on Saturday, but there were several big-time play-makers in the process.

Bill Bender

Talkative Bill Belichick winning offseason like never before

Bill Belichick continues to win the offseason, and he's doing it by talking a little more.

Bill Bender

Nebraska, Mike Riley chasing 'special place' in Big Ten title race

What kind of energy will Nebraska bring in Mike Riley's third year? A look at the Huskers ahead of their spring game.

Bill Bender

Wilton Speight healthy, confident, ready for Michigan's next shot

Wilton Speight will be the key for an inexperienced Michigan team in 2017. Here's how Speight is preparing for his second season as starter.

Bill Bender

'I'm not for everybody': Where will P.J. Fleck fit for Minnesota in Big Ten?

How will P.J. Fleck fit at Minnesota? The Big Ten? That's one of the more interesting storylines heading into 2017.

Bill Bender

WED AM NHL playoffs 2017: Blue Jackets, John Tortorella eager for opportunity against Penguins

John Tortorella is back in the playoffs, and his Blue Jackets have the chance to make a statement against the defending champion Penguins.

Bill Bender

Best Michigan Wolverines NFL Draft picks in history

Tom Brady? Charles Woodson? Dan Dierdorf? Sporting News ranked the top NFL Draft picks in Michigan history ahead of what could be a historic class for the program.

Bill Bender

Spring game winners: Jarrett Stidham, Feleipe Franks make cases for SEC starting jobs

Auburn might have found its quarterback and a five-star playmaker is ready to take off. Those are the spring game winners from last Saturday.

Bill Bender

USC football preview: Trojans 2017 schedule, roster and three things to watch

The question for 2017 is whether the Trojans can handle the high expectations after a 10-3 season that culminated with a thrilling 52-49 victory against Penn State in the 2017 Rose Bowl Game.

Bill Bender

Michigan football preview: Wolverines 2017 schedule, roster and three things to watch

What kind of success will that lead to in 2017? The Wolverines are ranked No. 8 in Sporting News' Way Too Early Top 25, and here's a preview of Michigan's schedule, roster and biggest questions entering the season.

Bill Bender

Florida State football preview: Seminoles 2017 schedule, roster and three things to watch

Florida State enters the 2017 season with the same lofty expectations in the ACC under eighth-year coach Jimbo Fisher.

Bill Bender

LSU football preview: Tigers 2017 schedule, roster and three things to watch

LSU enters Ed Orgeron's first full season with a new offensive coordinator, a Heisman candidate and questions at QB. A look at the Tigers heading into the spring.

Bill Bender

Nebraska football preview: Huskers 2017 schedule, roster and three things to watch

Nebraska opens the 2017 season with a quarterback competition in Mike Riley's third season.

Bill Bender

Ohio State football preview: Buckeyes 2017 schedule, roster and three things to watch

Urban Meyer enters his sixth year at Ohio State after compiling a 61-6 record the past five seasons, and the coach has the Buckeyes in familiar territory heading into 2017.

Bill Bender

Georgia football preview: Bulldogs 2017 schedule, roster and three things to watch

The Bulldogs are No. 10 in Sporting News' Way-Too-Early Top 25 as a result, and here's a preview of Georgia's 2017 schedule, roster and biggest questions entering the season.

Bill Bender

Texas football preview: Longhorns 2017 schedule, roster and three things to watch

The Texas Longhorns open a new chapter under Tom Herman in 2017. Here are three questions for the Longhorns to address in the offseason.

Bill Bender

Oklahoma football preview: Sooners 2017 schedule, roster and three things to watch

Oklahoma brings back Baker Mayfield and is looking for a third consecutive Big 12 championship. Here are three questions for the Sooners heading into the spring.

Bill Bender

Washington football preview: Huskies 2017 schedule, roster and three things to watch

The Washington Huskies won the Pac-12 and reached the College Football Playoff in 2016. Here are three questions for the spring.

Bill Bender

Notre Dame football preview: Irish 2017 schedule, roster and three things to watch

Notre Dame heads into a pivotal spring under Brian Kelly. Here are three things to watch with the Irish.

Bill Bender

Alabama football preview: Crimson Tide 2017 schedule, roster and three things to watch

Will the Crimson Tide get back to the College Football Playoff for the fourth consecutive season? Here is a spring primer for the 2017 season.

Bill Bender

Clemson football preview: Tigers 2017 schedule, roster and three things to watch

Here's a preview of Clemson's 2017 schedule, roster and biggest questions entering the season.

Bill Bender

Oregon football preview: Ducks 2017 schedule, roster and three things to watch

Oregon begins a new chapter under first-year coach Willie Taggart. Here are three things to watch heading into the spring.

Bill Bender

Clemson's QB competition leads six spring game storylines we're watching

ACC powers Clemson and Florida State play their spring games on Saturday. Which players should you keep tabs on? A preview of six key spring games.

Bill Bender

Coaching Akron after Ohio? Say it ain't so, John Groce

John Groce is Akron's new coach, and that isn't going to sit well with some Ohio fans. How do the Bobcats feel about this?

Bill Bender

Patrick Ewing latest '80s hero to return to school, and it feels great

Patrick Ewing returned to Georgetown. How long will it feel great? Look at another sport for the answer.

Bill Bender

Cool Mickey Mantle baseball cards coming back through Panini promotion

Mickey Mantle will be featured on six Panini MLBPA trading card products this season, released coinciding with significant dates and achievements through his legendary career.

Bill Bender

Brian Lewerke needs to be 'the guy' who leads Michigan State turnaround

Brian Lewerke leads the Michigan State quarterback competition heading into the fall. Can he help the Spartans reverse last year's record?

Bill Bender

How a Gonzaga-like run to championship game could happen in college football

Gonzaga made the championship game in the men's basketball tournament. Here's how such a thing could be made possible in college football.

Bill Bender

Mark Dantonio knows there are no easy answers for Michigan State

Mark Dantonio is trying to fix Michigan State, both on and off the field.

Bill Bender

Bill Raftery likes what sees from 'hard-nosed' Gamecocks under Frank Martin

Bill Raftery likes whe he sees from Frank Martin and South Carolina heading into the Final Four.

Bill Bender

NFL Draft: UCLA's Randall Goforth shows best way to beat a Combine snub

Randall Goforth wasn't invited to the NFL Combine, but the UCLA defensive back turned that into a positive heading into the draft.

Bill Bender

Michigan State's Mark Dantonio sheds few details on sexual assault investigation

Mark Dantonio spoke to reporters Tuesday, but he shed few details on the sexual assault investigation hanging over the program.

Bill Bender

2017 NFL Draft: Pro game within 'The Game' between Ohio State, Michigan bigger than ever

The rivalry with Michigan and Ohio State extends to the NFL Draft, and the schools' Pro Day events proved its bigger and better than ever.

Bill Bender

Six potential replacements for Archie Miller at Dayton

Who are the best bets to replace Archie Miller at Dayton? Here are five possible options.

Bill Bender

Michigan's Chris Wormley offers several NFL teams a solid first-round plan

Michigan's Chris Wormley is yet another defensive linemen who could sneak into the first round. Here's the outlook for Wormley heading into the 2017 NFL Draft.

Bill Bender

Jake Butt does math on NCAA amateurism issue, and it doesn't add up

Michigan's Jake Butt said he doesn’t necessarily think the NCAA should pay athletes, but the player likeness issue is something that needs fixed.

Bill Bender

Curtis Samuel's NFL Draft appeal is obvious, even if his position is not

Curtis Samuel offered a few clues about what position he'll contribute at most to start his NFL career.

Bill Bender

SN exclusive: Jim Harbaugh's third act at Michigan begins where 'waters are hot'

Jim Harbaugh spoke with Sporting News about the expectations at Michigan, and to put it as only he could. "The waters are hot."

Bill Bender

Top 10 potential replacements for Tom Crean at Indiana

Tom Crean is out at Indiana. So who will take on the task of coaching the Hoosiers next? A look at the 10 best candidates.

Bill Bender

Every NFL franchise's greatest team of Super Bowl era

Remembering each franchise's best team.

Bill Bender

Jim Harbaugh 'shouts for nuts' in hilarious Planters commercial

Jim Harbaugh played a role in a hilarious ad for Planters. The video speaks for itself.

Bill Bender

March Madness 2017: One reason to root for each Sweet 16 team to make Final Four

The NCAA Tournament's Sweet 16 field is set. We give you a reason to pull for every school remaining in the field.

Bill Bender

NCAA Tournament 2017: Big Ten in sweet spot after first weekend, but more to prove

The Big Ten did the usual and put multiple teams in the Sweet 16. The true test will come in the second weekend for Purdue, Michigan and Wisconsin.

Bill Bender

NCAA Tournament 2017: Villanova latest defending champion to learn how hard repeat is

Villanova is the 10th consecutive school to fail to national champion to fail to repeat. The Wildcats failed to match the Florida Gators, who went back to back in 2006 and 2007.

Bill Bender

NCAA Tournament 2017: Bob Huggins-led West Virginia looks 'different' roaring into Sweet 16

Bob Huggins says West Virginia's press is 'different.' How much different are the Mountaineers heading into the Sweet 16?

Bill Bender

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