Big Ten Power Rankings Week 9: Perfection is Over But Playoffs Still in Sight

Big Ten Power Rankings Week 9

Did that really just happen? The Big Ten Power Rankings Week 9 got flipped upside down.

Yup, that actually happened. For the second straight year, Ohio State was blown out by an unranked opponent on the road. This doesn’t derail their chances for a Big Ten Title, but it may throw a wrench in their plans to make the College Football Playoff. The blowout loss to Iowa from a season ago played a major factor in Ohio State’s absence from the playoff. Will this loss to Purdue have the same impact? Only time will tell.

Here are last week’s Big Ten Power Rankings for reference.

14. Rutgers (1-7)

Lost to Northwestern, 18-15

Rutgers almost won a Big Ten game. They should have won the game against Northwestern. Rutgers had the lead entering the fourth quarter before surrendering the game-winning touchdown with 8 minutes to go. If there are moral victories, at least Rutgers did not lose by double digits. Rutgers has a bye week.

13. Nebraska (1-6)

Beat Minnesota, 53-28

Scott Frost, congratulations on your first win at Nebraska. It should be the first of many to come in the future. Nebraska’s offense is one of the best in the Big Ten, and they proved that in their 53-28 win over Minnesota. Nebraska’s offense totaled 659 yards for the game, led by their sensational freshman quarterback Adrian Martinez, who threw for 276 yards and 3 TDs and rushed for 125 yards and a touchdown. Now that the monkey is off their back, can Nebraska make it two straight? The Cornhuskers play Bethune-Cookman at home on Saturday.

12. Illinois (3-4)

Lost to Wisconsin, 49-20

Illinois losing by 29 points to Wisconsin came as a surprise to no one. Wisconsin laid an egg the game before so many expected the frustrated Badgers to take out their aggression on the Illini. That’s exactly what happened. Here’s the good news. Four of the next five games come against unranked opponents. Can the Illini make it to a bowl game? The journey starts on Saturday when the Illini go on the road to face Maryland.

11. Minnesota (3-4)

Lost to Nebraska, 53-28

There has been no rowing of the boat as of late. PJ Fleck’s squad started the season with three straight wins, but after Saturday’s loss against Nebraska, Minnesota has lost 4 straight games. There was one lone bright spot for the Golden Gophers. Backup quarterback Tanner Morgan replaced Zack Annexstad at halftime and led Minnesota on two straight scoring drives. The defense allowed a mind-blowing 659 yards of offense to a Nebraska team that was 0-6 coming into the game. Minnesota plays Indiana at home in their version of “Friday Night Lights.”

10. Indiana (4-4)

Lost to Penn State, 33-28

Indiana missed an opportunity to register a quality win against a Big Ten opponent. I seem to be writing that same phrase every week because once again, Indiana lost a close game in the Big Ten. This time, it was Penn State who pulled out a 5 point victory of the Hoosiers. With a 1-4 record in the Big Ten, Indiana still has not figured out how to win the close game against a tough opponent, and it continues to cost them week after week. To make matters worse, freshman quarterback Michael Penix is out for the season with an ACL tear. Indiana travels to TCF Bank Stadium to take on Minnesota under the lights on Friday night.

9. Maryland (4-3)

Lost to Iowa, 23-0

With a chance to shock the Big Ten, Maryland was nowhere to be found on Saturday as Iowa controlled the game from start to finish. Maryland’s rushing game, which is one of the best in the nation, struggled mightily, accumulating 68 yards. The Terps had only 115 yards of total offense and had the ball for less than 20 minutes. That’s a recipe for disaster. Maryland plays Illinois in College Park on Saturday.

8. Michigan State (4-3)

Lost to Michigan, 21-7

Michigan State is one of the weirdest teams in college football. Two weeks ago, they pulled off the last second upset victory over Penn State. This past weekend, the Spartans accumulated less than 100 yards of total offense on their way to a defeat at the hands of Michigan Wolverines. For a team that had so much potential coming into the year, this season has been nothing short of a disappointment. Michigan State plays Purdue in East Lansing on Saturday.

7. Northwestern (4-3)

Beat Rutgers, 18-15

Northwestern is not flashy by any stretch of the imagination. They love to flirt with disaster this season. On Saturday, the Wildcats were losing to Rutgers (yes, Rutgers) 15-10 heading into the 4th quarter. However, the Wildcats once again found a way to win as running back Isaiah Bowser scored a 5-yard touchdown in the middle of the 4th quarter to take the lead, 18-15, which ended up being the difference. It wasn’t pretty, but a win is a win. Northwestern is now tied for 1st in the Big Ten West. The Wildcats welcome Wisconsin to Ryan Field in an extremely important matchup this weekend.

6. Purdue (4-3)

Beat Ohio State, 49-20

Purdue just changed the entire landscape of the college football season with a blowout win over Ohio State. Purdue’s offense not only scored at will, but they out-dueled the prolific Ohio State offense. The defense is still spotty at times, but it is hard to outscore a Boilermaker team that averages 36.0 points per game. After starting the season 0-3, Purdue has now won 4 straight games and is back in the hunt for a Big Ten title. Purdue travels to play Michigan State on Saturday.

5. Wisconsin (5-2)

Beat Illinois, 49-20

Wisconsin returned to their winning ways after the embarrassing loss to Michigan. Alex Hornibrook was much better against Illinois, throwing for 3 TDs on the day. The Badgers still control their own destiny in the Big Ten West. Win out, and they will play in the Big Ten title game. Wisconsin travels to Northwestern on Saturday in a game with huge conference implications in the Big Ten West.

4. Penn State (5-2)

Beat Indiana. 33-28

This was a lot closer than expected. Penn State overcame a second-half deficit to defeat Indiana in Bloomington. The win snapped a two-game losing streak for the Nittany Lions. It will be hard for Penn State to play in the Big Ten championship, but they can play spoiler to a lot of teams in these upcoming weeks. It all starts with the game against Iowa on Saturday at Happy Valley.

3. Iowa (6-1)

Beat Maryland, 23-0

Run the ball and play good defense. That’s the Big Ten way. The Iowa rushing attack ran for 224 yards, and the defense pitched a shutout as the Hawkeyes defeated the visiting Maryland Terrapins. Iowa still needs another Wisconsin loss to overtake the Badgers in the Big Ten West, but Northwestern and Purdue both have one conference loss as well. As things begin to play themselves out, will Iowa be the last Big Ten West team standing? Iowa travels to Happy Valley for a monster game with Penn State on Saturday afternoon.

2. Ohio State (7-1)

Lost to Purdue, 49-20

Wow. I’m still speechless after Saturday night. For the second straight year, Ohio State is in danger of missing the College Football Playoff thanks to a blowout loss. Last year, Iowa scored 55 on the Buckeyes. This past week, Purdue put up 49 points in a dominant 49-20 win over the Buckeyes. Last year proved that one loss could change everything. Ohio State will now have to not only win out, but win in convincing fashion to compete with the likes of Alabama, Clemson, and Notre Dame. Ohio State has a bye week.

1. Michigan (7-1)

Beat Michigan State, 21-7

I said last week that Michigan was the second team in the Big Ten. Now, they are the best team in the Big Ten. It’s amazing how things change so quickly in college football. Michigan won an ugly game against in-state rival Michigan State the other day, which was Harbaugh’s second win over the Spartans in his tenure at Ann Arbor. This game was personal as Harbaugh, and Mark Dantonio pretty much hate each other at this point. The Wolverines are in the driver’s seat to the Big Ten Championship. Michigan has a well-deserved bye week.

Will the Big Ten miss the College Football Playoff for the second straight year? If Michigan and Ohio State both pick up a second loss, no Big Ten team will make the playoff. If you want to root for the success of the conference, you better pray Michigan and Ohio State to win out the rest of the year until their matchup in late November.

Unafraid Show’s College Football Top 10 Rankings Week 9: Chaos is Coming

College Football Top 10 Rankings Week 9

Chaos is Coming

The Unafraid Show College Football Top 10 Rankings Week 9 are not going to look like the AP Poll. Open your eyes to see a different view of evaluating the top 10. Most polls including the College Football Playoff Committee give college blueblood teams a massive “benefit of the doubt.”  I don’t believe in that. The college football top 10 teams are ranked by the correct criteria: quality wins, schedule played, and dominance. Only the games have played matter.

I re-rank the top 10 every week from scratch. The previous week’s rankings do not factor into the next week. So, the rankings will change, sometimes drastically every week because we will have new information.

Before we get to College Football Top 10 Rankings Week 8, you can reference the Unafraid Show’s College Football Top 10 Rankings for Week 8.

Leave a comment or shoot an email: ImMad@unafraidshow.com… Yes, that is the real email address.

1.  Alabama (8-0) Last Week: #1

The Crimson Tide ran through Tennesse like they were a JV team. Tua Tagoviloa finished the game healthy after a scare last week. Alabama fans know they cannot be beaten if Tua is healthy. The truth is Bama has not played any real competition, and their resume suggests they should not be #1. However, their dominance has been unprecedented.

The thing that makes the Crimson Tide so impressive is how fast they play on both sides of the ball. Every player knows their assignment and executes in a hurry. There is never any second-guessing.

They are off next week, and then finally get to a real game in week 10! Smh.

2. Clemson (7-0) Last Week: #4

Clemson has their best game of the year against undefeated NC State. Their defense finally displayed the dominance we all expected preseason. They Trevor Lawrence had another solid performance. The Tigers defense turned a trap game and a top NFL quarterback draft prospect into lunch meat. The ACC runs through Clemson at this point. They can’t go to sleep next week as they head to Tallahassee to play Florida State.

3. Notre Dame (7-0) Last Week: #3

Notre Dame was on a BYE this week. They better be prepared for NAVY next Saturday. Triple option teams are always tricky matchups. Brian Kelly is only five wins away from securing a spot in the College Football Playoffs. However, they cannot have another performance like against Pitt, or they may not be lucky enough to survive.

4. LSU (7-1) Last Week: #7

LSU handled their business against Mississippi State. The Tigers offense is still not as explosive as it will need to be to give Alabama some competition in a couple of weeks. Their defense continues to have dominant performances each week. LSU is the most battle-tested team in the country. I double dog dare anybody to try and say Coach ‘O’ is not the right man to lead the Tigers. He has knocked off Miami, Auburn, and Georgia, so far this year. So technically he does have three top 10 wins. The fact is that Miami and Auburn (lost to Tennessee) were ranked WAY too high in the preseason and neither is currently ranked.

If Joe Burrow and the Tigers offense continue to improve, Bama better watch out.

5. Texas (6-1) Last Week: #5

The Longhorns fans have to be saying prayers every night for Sam Ehlinger’s shoulder to be healed. His legs and improved passing have been the difference in Texas starting the season 6-1 instead of 3-4. Texas will be hard pressed to finish the season 11-1 heading into the Big XII championship game if Ehlinger misses extended time. The Longhorns will need all hands on deck if they want to escape Stillwater with a win against Oklahoma State on Saturday.

6. Oklahoma (6-1) Last Week: #NR

Oklahoma has the best offense in the country. Yes, they are better than Alabama. Their offense is more explosive and dynamic with Kyler Murray at quarterback than last year with Baker Mayfield. The only concern surrounding the Sooners is their defense. They played much better against TCU without Mike Stoops as defensive coordinator. Oklahoma’s offense is so good that if the defense can keep everybody under 30 points, they will cruise to the playoffs. I hope we get to see the Alabama defense try and stop this offense in the Playoffs.

7. Florida (6-1) Last Week: #6

Florida had a BYE week and is preparing for their most important game in at least 4-5 years. Dan Mullens is preparing to take his team to Jacksonville, Florida for the “Biggest cocktail party in the world” to play Georgia. This is going to be a must win for both teams. The loser will undoubtedly be eliminated from College Football Playoff consideration. Feleipe Franks will need to have his most efficient game thrown the ball if the Gators are going to put the Bulldogs down.

8. Michigan (7-1) Last Week: #9

The Michigan game against Michigan State was painful to watch. There is no doubt Michigan’s defense is dominant and one of the top in the country. However, the offense leaves a lot to be desired at times. Jim Harbaugh’s offense seems to get ultra conservative in big games. I have no Idea why he likes to play a plodding style of offense instead of opening things up. Michigan’s roster is littered with top recruits who are potentially explosive playmakers that go unused. The Wolverines will need better offensive performances against Penn State and Ohio State to get wins.

9. Central Florida (7-0) Last Week: #10

The Knights have won 20 straight games going back to last season and have earned their spot in the College Football Top 10 Rankings Week 9. Much to the chagrin of the CFB Playoff committee, UCF beat East Carolina badly in week 8. It will cause too much commotion if UCF doesn’t get in the playoffs two years in a row undefeated. The only team people wish losses on more than the UCF Knights is Notre Dame. Both teams could take a spot for a Power 5 team.

10. Ohio State (7-1) Last Week: #2

Dwayne Haskins threw for 470 yards and two touchdowns, but the Buckeyes offense only managed 20 points. Ohio State’s offense has struggled running the football in back to back weeks against Minnesota and Purdue. The Buckeyes are one of the most athletic, dynamic, and talented teams in the nation. I wonder if Ohio State started to read it’s own press clippings and lost focus against Purdue. Maybe this piece of 49-20 humble pie will keep the Buckeyes energized for the rest of the season.

I believe Ohio State will bounce back unless Urban Meyers’ “memory loss” has finally started to affect his coaching.

Next Up:

Iowa, Georgia (needs a quality win), Washington State, Oregon, Penn State, Texas Tech

I know some of you are steaming mad right now because your team is ranked too low or is unranked. Take a breathe and realize that your fandom is causing irrational thoughts. The College Football Top 10 Rankings Week 9 is accurate, unbiased, and unafraid.

Maryland Football: Booster Removed From Team Plane over Jordan McNair Comments

Maryland Football

College athletes have power and influence when they rally together.  The football team at the University of Maryland, College Park (Maryland) proved this the players caused a highly regarded booster removed from the team’s flight prior to their game against the University of Michigan.  The booster, Rick Jaklitsch, made insensitive comments about Jordan McNair, a former Maryland football player who died on June 13, 2018. McNair died as a result of a heat stroke he suffered in a team practice on May 29, 2018.

Jaklitsch essentially blamed McNair for his own death. His comments did not sit well with the remaining members of the team. Accordingly, when the players learned Jaklitsch was scheduled to fly with them to Michigan, they demanded that he be removed from the flight.  Thereafter, Jaklitsch was removed.

The Unrealized Power of College Athletes

Maryland’s football players successful effort to remove Jaklitsch from their team flight shows just how powerful college athletes can be.  It seems as though college athletes may think they are powerless. However, the opposite is true. College athletes have the power to effectuate real change because they are the labor force driving a billion-dollar industry.  There is so much money at stake in college athletics.  All of that money rides on the athletes’ willingness to compete.

Accordingly, when athletes are unwilling to compete things change. This was proven in 2015 when the University of Missouri (Missouri) football team forced the resignation of the university president, Tim Wolfe.   Members of the student body called for President Wolfe’s resignation due to his failure to adequately address the volatile racial climate on the campus.  Very little was accomplished in the student body protest until members of the Missouri football team refused to play unless President Wolfe resigned. Two days later, President Wolfe resigned. Missouri would have faced a one million dollar payout to Brigham Young University if they forfeited the game.  The football players’ refusal to give their labor forced the university to take action or suffer a major financial penalty. Accordingly, this situation proves that college athletes have power because of the financial incentives that are tethered to their labor.

College Athletes Are Their Most Powerful Advocate

Several people advocate on behalf of college athletes’ rights in a variety of ways.     Some advocate for their rights in court while others create documentaries exposing the ugly truth about the NCAA and the billion-dollar college athletics industry.  This advocacy is needed and serves the greater purpose of helping the rights of college athletes to finally be recognized.  However, the college athletes themselves have the most power to be their best advocate and effectuate immediate change. The labor of college athletes is what drives college athletics.  Without their willingness to give their labor, there would be no one to coach and no content to leverage billion-dollar television deals.

If college athletes used their labor as a bargaining tool for more freedom, they would likely see immediate change. They could bargain for the right to profit from their own name.  It is true that college athletes do have some incentive to give their labor because they may receive a cost of attendance scholarship.  However, many college athletes are uniquely situated to receive other benefits and should be allowed to do so.  College athletes have the power to be the change that many of them may want to see.

Big Ten Power Rankings Week 8: The State of Michigan Asserts Its Dominance

Big Ten Power Rankings Week 8

The state of Michigan had an unbelievable weekend. The Michigan Wolverines asserted their dominance on the defensive side of the ball in a blowout victory over Wisconsin. Michigan State pulled a rabbit out of their hat and escaped Penn State with a last-second victory. Now, the in-state rivals will face each other this Saturday in East Lansing with huge Big Ten implications on the line. Where do both teams fall in the Big Ten Power Rankings Week 8? Find out below

Here are last week’s Big Ten Power Rankings for reference.

14. Nebraska (0-6)

Lost to Northwestern, 34-31

Nebraska, you were so close to winning your first game! Northwestern had to score 10 points in under 6 minutes in the fourth quarter to tie the score, where the Wildcats pulled out the win in overtime. Will Scott Frost win a game this year? This week, they will have an excellent chance to win as Minnesota comes into town.

13. Rutgers (1-6)

Lost to Maryland, 34-7

I’m running out of things to say about Rutgers. They just don’t belong in the Big Ten. The competition is too stiff, and they play in the harder side of the conference with Ohio State, Penn State, Michigan State, and Michigan. That’s just not fair. Then again, Rutgers was blown out by Kansas and Buffalo, so this team can’t beat anyone right now. In three years under Chris Ash, Rutgers has lost a staggering 15 out of 24 games by more than 20 points. Hot seat: Chris Ash. Rutgers hosts Northwestern on Saturday.

12. Illinois (3-3)

Lost to Purdue, 46-7

Did I jinx Illinois? Last week, I said it’s time to start “Bowl Watch” for Illinois after accumulating three wins. This past Saturday against Purdue, they were steamrolled from start to finish. After scoring the first touchdown of the game, Purdue scored the last 46 points of the game to win handily. Unfortunately, Illinois has to travel to Camp Randall to play a Wisconsin team that will be looking to take out their frustration after a blowout loss to Michigan. Pray for the Illini.

11. Minnesota (3-3)

Lost to Ohio State, 30-14

If we’re honest, I was super impressed with Minnesota this past Saturday. They hung around the entire game against Ohio State in Columbus. Going into the game, Ohio State was averaging 56.75 points per game at home and beat teams by an average of 40.25 points. Minnesota held Ohio State to 30 points and only lost by 16. Moral victories don’t win games, but they help build programs. I’m starting to believe in PJ Fleck. Minnesota travels to Lincoln to play Nebraska on Saturday.

10. Indiana (4-3)

Lost to Iowa, 42-16

Indiana had another chance to beat a quality Big Ten opponent but was blown out of their own building against Iowa. Indiana is now 1-3 against conference opponents with their one win coming against Rutgers. The bottom line is that Iowa’s defense pushed Indiana’s offense around especially at the line of scrimmage. Indiana only rushed for 67 yards on the day. Indiana will have another chance to beat a top-notch Big Ten opponent when they welcome Penn State to Bloomington on Saturday.

9. Purdue (3-3)

Beat Illinois, 46-7

Purdue scored 46 unanswered points this past Saturday after falling behind 7-0 to Illinois. Don’t look now but Purdue is now 3-3 after beginning the season 0-3. The offense has been the key to the turnaround as the Boilermakers are averaging just below 40 points a game during their three-game winning streak. Purdue has a chance to shock the country if they can pull off the upset victory at home on Saturday night against Ohio State.

8. Maryland (4-2)

Beat Rutgers, 34-7

Dominate on the ground and be efficient through the air is going to be Maryland’s ride or die offense. The Terps running game exploded once again for 290 yards and 1 TD. However, quarterback Kasim Hill only accumulated 76 yards through the air, but it resulted in 3 TDs. I still do not believe this formula can beat the top teams in the conference, but it’s lead to 4 wins so far including a standout victory over Texas, so I can’t argue it doesn’t provide results. Maryland will turn heads if they defeat Iowa in Kinnick on Saturday.

7. Northwestern (3-3)

Beat Nebraska in OT, 34-31

The Wildcats won their second straight game after scoring 10 points in the final 5:41 to force overtime, where they eventually defeated the Cornhuskers on a field goal. Quarterback Clayton Thorson continues to put the Wildcats on his back and deliver in big situations. Thorson finished with a career-high 455 yards and three touchdowns. Northwestern will look to make it 3 in a row on Saturday against Rutgers.

6. Wisconsin (4-2)

Beat to Michigan, 38-13

Wisconsin had a chance to separate themselves from the rest of the pack in the Big Ten with a win over Michigan. However, the Badgers put up a dud on Saturday night and lost by 25 points. Credit to Michigan’s defense for holding the Badgers running game to 183 yards as opposed to their average of 269.7. It’s no secret in how to beat Wisconsin. Stack the box and make quarterback Alex Hornibrook throw the ball. Against Michigan, Hornibrook threw for 100 yards, 1 TD, and 2 INTs for a QBR. of 0.7 (!!!). The Badgers are going nowhere if that poor play continues. Wisconsin plays at home against Illinois on Saturday.

5. Penn State (4-2)

Lost to Michigan State, 21-17

Penn State just can’t buy a break. In 2017, Penn State lost in heartbreaking fashion to Ohio State and Michigan State in back-to-back weeks. History repeated itself in 2018 as Penn State once again lost in heartbreaking fashion to Ohio State and Michigan State in back-to-back weeks. James Franklin needs to figure out how to close out games if they ever want to compete for a spot in the College Football Playoff. Penn State travels to Indiana on Saturday afternoon.

4. Michigan State (4-2)

Beat Penn State, 21-17

Will the real Michigan State please stand up? Two weeks ago, the Spartans looked lost in all facets of the game after losing to Northwestern at home. This past Saturday, the Spartans rallied back in the fourth quarter to win the game on a Brian Lewerke touchdown pass with 19 seconds left to defeat the Nittany Lions. It’s crazy how in one week, the entire outlook of your season changes. Michigan State now controls its own destiny and can make the Big Ten title game if they win out. The Spartans take on the visiting Wolverines in a battle for state supremacy on Saturday.

3. Iowa (5-1)

Beat Indiana, 42-16

After 7 weeks, I did not expect Iowa to be the third best team in the Big Ten, but here we are. Unlike Wisconsin, Michigan State, or Penn State, Iowa is consistent and rarely plays down to their competition. Iowa beats the teams they are supposed to beat and you can’t fault them for that. The defense has always been the team’s strength, but after a 6 TD day from quarterback Nate Stanley, the Hawkeye offense is starting to hit its stride. Iowa takes on Maryland at Kinnick Stadium on Saturday.

2. Michigan (6-1)

Beat Wisconsin, 38-13

Michigan is the second best team in the Big Ten. That is not up for debate anymore after throttling Wisconsin this past Saturday night, 38-13. The Wolverine defense is arguably the best in the country. Michigan is first in the Big Ten in total defense, scoring defense, rushing defense, and passing defense. Dominant is an understatement. Expect a defensive slugfest on Saturday as the Wolverines travel to East Lansing to take on their in-state rival, Michigan State.

1. Ohio State (7-0)

Beat Minnesota, 30-14

Dwayne Haskins throws for over 400 yards and multiple touchdowns. Ohio State wins by double digits. Have you heard that story before? That’s because it happens almost every Ohio State game. This game was closer than expected, but Haskins’s 412 yards and 3 TDs were too much for Minnesota as the Buckeyes remain undefeated. Haskins is first in the Big Ten in total offense with an average of-of 340 yards per game, which is 50 more than second place. Ohio State travels to red-hot Purdue on Saturday night. Expect a huge and raucous crowd for the Boilermakers.

In a perfect world, Michigan and Ohio State win out the rest of the year and face each other in late November for a trip to the Big Ten Title. However, this is college football. Anything can happen.

Big Ten Power Rankings Week 7: Here Come The Wolverines

Big Ten Power Rankings Week 7

Week 6 in the Big Ten was full of many lopsided games. The closest game was Northwestern’s upset victory over Michigan State, 29-19. This week, two of the top teams will square off as Wisconsin travels to the Big House to play Michigan on Saturday night. The whole conference will be watching because it will have a significant impact on the Big Ten title race. There is a clear #1 in the Big Ten Power Rankings Week 7, but the rest are neck and neck.

Here are last week’s Big Ten Power Rankings for reference.

14. Nebraska (0-5)

Lost to Wisconsin, 41-24

It’s getting harder to defend a team that has zero wins. Using “Scott Frost will eventually turn this around” is starting to get old. I know that he will probably turn it around, but it likely won’t be this season. No one thought Nebraska would be 0-5 right now. If you search the schedule, it’s becoming harder to pinpoint a game where they can get their first win. Nebraska travels to Northwestern on Saturday.

13. Rutgers (1-5)

Lost to Illinois, 38-17

The only reason why Rutgers is not ranked last is because Nebraska has zero wins. Otherwise, Rutgers would occupy that spot. Rutgers could not build on the momentum from a week ago and instead, scored 0 points in the second half on their way to a 38-17 defeat. If Rutgers ends the season with one win, I don’t see Chris Ash returning as the head coach. Rutgers plays Maryland in College Park on Saturday.

12. Illinois (3-2)

Beat Rutgers, 38-17

Illinois bowl watch has begun! Behind a huge rushing day from running back Reggie Corbin (137 yards), Illinois blew Rutgers out 38-17. The story of the day was AJ Bush Jr. The graduate student got his first career start on Saturday, and he did not disappoint. 116 yards on the ground, 2 TDs, and one passing TD is a great debut. Illinois plays at home against Purdue on Saturday.

11. Minnesota (3-2)

Lost to Iowa, 48-31

What began as a promising 3-0 start has quickly turned into 3-2 after the Golden Gophers lost again on Saturday to the visiting Iowa Hawkeyes. Minnesota’s secondary without Antoine Winfield has been a disaster as they allowed Nate Stanley to pass for over 300 yards and 4 TDs. Freshman Zack Annexstad threw for 3 touchdowns but continues to turn the ball over in losses (3 INTs against Iowa). Things will not get any easier for Minnesota as they travel to Columbus to take on Ohio State.

10. Purdue (2-3)

Bye

Can Purdue continue their offensive hot streak? The Boilermakers have scored more than 30 points in their last three games (2-1 record). Purdue will look to make it three straight wins against Illinois on Saturday.

9. Maryland (3-2)

Lost to Michigan, 42-21

Great start, bad finish. After a first-quarter kick return touchdown, Maryland was winning 7-3. Maryland did not score again until the 4th quarter, and by then, it was too late after Michigan scored 28 unanswered. I can’t stress this enough. If Maryland cannot pass for more than 100 yards per game (73 against Michigan), it will be extremely hard to win games. Maryland plays Rutgers at home on Saturday.

8. Northwestern (2-3)

Beat Michigan State, 29-19

My hand is up. I was in the crowd that thought Northwestern was dead in the water after their heartbreaking loss to Michigan a week ago. I was wrong. Northwestern rallied behind an inspired Clayton Thorson performance to beat Michigan State by double digits in East Lansing. Keep in mind that Northwestern only rushed for 8 yards. However, behind Thorson’s 373 yards and 3 TDs, the Wildcats beat the Spartans for the third straight year. Northwestern will look to win their first home game of the year against Nebraska on Saturday.

7. Indiana (4-2)

Lost to Ohio State, 49-26

The final score does not indicate just how close this game was. Ohio State needed their A-game versus the visiting Indiana Hoosiers. Indiana had the lead early and was only down 28-21 at halftime and 35-26 in the fourth quarter. Indiana needed to be perfect to beat the Buckeyes.  They weren’t but did get a tremendous effort from Peyton Ramsey (322 yards and 3 TDs). The Hoosiers gave up over 455 yards through the air and simply did not have enough firepower down the stretch.

6. Michigan State (3-2)

Lost to Northwestern, 29-19

I did not expect this result. Despite only allowing Northwestern to rush for 8 (!!!) yards on the day, the Spartans could not stop quarterback Clayton Thorson, who carved up the Michigan State secondary for 373 yards and 3 TDs. Not having running back LJ Scott proved to be detrimental to the Spartans. Michigan State has to figure things out quickly before they travel to Happy Valley to take on Penn State.

5. Iowa (4-1)

Beat Minnesota, 48-31

The Iowa offense scored 48 points in their win against rival Minnesota to keep the Floyd of Rosedale pig in their possession. If you are shocked that a Hawkeyes offense scored 48 points, then you are not alone. Quarterback Nate Stanley was terrific on his way to 314 yards and 4 TDs. Despite surrendering 31 points, the Hawkeyes defense forced four turnovers. You better believe that Iowa will be the biggest fans of Michigan on Saturday night as they hope to keep their Big Ten title hopes alive. Iowa will travel to play Indiana on Saturday.

4. Wisconsin (4-1)

Beat Nebraska, 41-24

This is the Wisconsin team that we expected to see. Run the ball, control the time of possession, and physically wear down their opponent. Badgers Running back Jonathan Taylor finished the game with 24 carries, 221 yards, 3 TDs. Wisconsin won the time of possession battle 35:33 to 24:27. On the downside, the Badgers secondary was shaky as they allowed 407 yards through the air to the Cornhuskers. Wisconsin will need to fix things on that side of the ball when they travel to Michigan on Saturday night.

3. Michigan (5-1)

Beat Maryland, 42-21

Remember when Michigan lost to Notre Dame? It’s starting to become harder and harder to remember that Week 1 letdown against the Irish. Ever since that game, Michigan has rattled off five straight wins with an average margin of victory of 28.2 points. The defense is in a groove despite missing star Rashan Gary last game. However, if Shea Patterson throws for 282 yards and 3 TDs like he did against Maryland, the Wolverines are dangerous. Michigan plays at home against Wisconsin on Saturday night in a game with huge Big Ten implications at play.

2. Penn State (4-1)

Bye

Penn State had an extra week to rest coming off of a brutal home loss to Ohio State. Expect to see a motivated effort from the Nittany Lions as Penn State will look to get back on track against Michigan State on Saturday afternoon in Happy Valley.

1. Ohio State (6-0)

Beat Indiana, 49-26

Dwayne Haskins has been very good at quarterback. His stats look like he’s playing in a video game right now. Haskins stat line in the win vs. Indiana: 33/44, 455 yards, 6 TDs. If Haskins continues to play at an elite level, the question should not be if Ohio State can win the Big Ten. It should be if they can win the National Championship. I will be shocked if Ohio State is not undefeated going into their November 24th game against Michigan. Ohio State plays Minnesota in Columbus on Saturday.

As long as Ohio State continues to play at this level, it will be hard to knock them off the throne of the Big Ten Power Rankings Week 7.

Unafraid Show’s College Football Top 10 Rankings Week 7: Party Crashers

College Football Top 10 Rankings Week 7

College Football is the only sport that can show you what it’s like to simultaneously feel alive and like you want to die! That is why is it is by far the greatest sport there is! Before we get to College Football Top 10 Rankings Week 7, you can reference the Unafraid Show’s College Football Top 10 Rankings for Week 6.

The two most frustrating parts of being a college football fan are the biased polls and the terrible non-conference schedules. I cannot change the schedules but I can rank the college football top 10 teams by the correct criteria: quality wins, schedule played, and dominance. Most polls including the College Football Playoff Committee give college blueblood teams a massive “benefit of the doubt.”  I don’t believe in that. The best teams who play the best schedules will always be ranked highest. Only the games have played matter. I re-rank the top 10 every week from scratch. The previous week’s rankings do not factor into the next week. So, the rankings will change, sometimes drastically every week because we will have new information.

1.  Alabama (6-0) Last Week: #1

Tua Tagoviloa still has not attempted a 4th quarter pass this season. He was 10/11 for 334 yards and four touchdowns before halftime against Arkansas. The Crimson Tide defense was dominant as well. I cannot pretend I am extremely impressed by this win because North Texas beat Arkansas 44-17, so an Alabama destruction was a foregone conclusion. This team has been impressively dominant, but they haven’t played anyone. I wonder if the student section will show up next week vs. Missouri.

2. Notre Dame (6-0) Last Week: #2

At this point, Notre Dame has earned the #2 ranking.  The Fighting Irish have quality wins over Michigan, Stanford, and Virginia Tech. In each of those games, Notre Dame was in control of the entire game and was never in any real danger of losing a game. Since moving Ian Book into the starting lineup, the Irish have an explosive offense that can complement their dominant defense.

3. Ohio State (6-0) Last Week: #4

Dwayne Haskins and the Buckeyes offense were back to putting up insane passing numbers against Indiana. He finished with 455 yards passing and six touchdowns. Ohio State will breeze through the next month until they close out the season against Maryland and Michigan. Unless the Buckeyes show up with their C-game, I’m not sure how this team doesn’t finish undefeated.

4. Clemson (6-0) Last Week: # 6

Clemson apparently did not like everyone questioning how good they are. They took a potential “trap game” against Wake Forest and turned it into a public whipping. Their defense finally played at the level they are capable. They held Wake Forest to three points and only allowed 74 passing yards. The Tigers can beat anybody (including Bama) if they continue to bring their A-game defensively, and Trevor Lawrence stays healthy.

5. Texas (5-1) Last Week: # NR

It is OFFICIAL. Texas is back. And “Dicker the Kicker” is the best nickname in college football history. Tom Herman’s team dominated Oklahoma through 3 quarters but ultimately held on for a 48-45 victory in the Red River Showdown. Sam Ehlinger has improved his passing and decision making so much that Texas is now a College Football Playoff Contender. The Longhorns defense has played well all year and did as good of a job as anyone can do against Oklahoma. Texas has quality wins over TCU, USC, and Oklahoma this year.

6. Georgia (6-0) Last Week: #8

Many Georgia fans want Kirby Smart to replace starting quarterback Jake Fromm with true freshman Justin Fields. Against Vanderbilt Fromm proved that he would not be relinquishing his spot without a fight. Finally, the time has come for Georgia to play some good football teams. Over the next four games, they get LSU, Florida, Kentucky, and Auburn. If they win out, they could shoot all the way up to the #1 spot in the Unafraid Show College Football Top 10 Rankings.

7. Washington (5-1) Last Week: #7

Washington continues to win football games. I am extremely concerned about how this team faired against UCLA. The Huskies may have looked past UCLA to next week’s date at Oregon. However, their usually very stout defense was porous against the Bruins. Jake Browning’s steady play at quarterback has made Washington tough to beat. He rarely makes mistakes, and give his team a chance to win every game, but won’t be a superhero. Browning is the Alex Smith of college quarterbacks.

8. West Virginia (5-0) Last Week: #10

I like Dana Holgorsen’s football team. But, I did not like seeing Will Grier, and the Mountaineers struggled mightily against Kansas. The offense moved the ball well, but Grier proceeded to throw three red zone interceptions. Despite a bunch of offensive turnovers, the defense locked it down and allowed West Virginia to pull away in the 4th quarter. It will make or break time when Texas comes knocking in a few weeks.

9. Central Florida (5-0) Last Week: #NR

The analyst and experts want to ignore UCF. They are hoping UCF will lose a game so they can be ignored. Going back to last season the Knights have won 19 straight games. Last year UCF proved they could hang with the big boys when they beat Auburn in the 2018 Peach Bowl. So, if the Knights go undefeated again and are left out of the College Football Playoffs outrage will ensue. Their dominance has earned them a spot in the College Football Top 10 Rankings Week 7. They have won every game by at least 28 points.

10. Florida (5-1) Last Week: #NR

Dan Mullen has restored the Florida program to relevance. But, he hasn’t fully corrected the offensive struggles that have plagued the Gators for the last four seasons. It took a pick six at the end of the game to pull off the upset against LSU. They will need to find some offensive prowess before the Florida Georgia game to pull off a victory. That game will be for all the marbles in the SEC East. The winner will coast to the SEC championship game.

Next Up:

Michigan, Oregon, LSU, Oklahoma, Penn State

I know some of you are steaming mad right now because your team is ranked too low or is unranked. Take a breathe and realize that your fandom is causing irrational thoughts. Leave a comment or shoot an email: ImMad@unafraidshow.com… Yes, that is the real email address.

Big Ten Power Rankings Week 6: Buckeye Magic in the Air

Big Ten Power Rankings Week 6

Billed as the Game of the Year in the Big Ten, after the dust settled, Ohio State scored 2 TDs in the final seven minutes to knock off Penn State, 27-26. The Buckeyes are the undisputed kings of the Big Ten. Can anyone defeat Ohio State before the year is over? Both Michigan and Michigan State might have something to say about that. The cream is rising to the top in the Big Ten Power Rankings Week 6.

Here are last week’s Big Ten Power Rankings for reference.

14. Rutgers (1-4)

Lost to Indiana, 24-17

On the bright side, at least Rutgers didn’t lose by 40 points. Things were not looking good for the Scarlett Knights when they entered the 4th quarter down 24-7. However, Rutgers showed some heart the other day and outscored Indiana 10-0 in the fourth quarter to only lose by a touchdown. This was a huge moral victory for Rutgers. Can they keep the momentum going? Rutgers plays Illinois at home on Saturday.

13. Nebraska (0-4)

Lost to Purdue, 42-28

Things have gone from bad to worse for Scott Frost as the Cornhuskers fell to 0-4 despite 582 yards of offense. The offense has been humming, but the defense can’t stop a nosebleed. Bright spots have been quarterback Adrian Martinez, who had 414 all-purpose yards and 2 TDs and running back Devine Ozigbo, who rushed for 160 yards and 2 TDs. It will be a few years before Nebraska starts competing for Big Ten titles, and Frost will turn it around, but for now, wins will be a few and far between. Nebraska plays Wisconsin on the road on Saturday night.

12. Illinois (2-2)

Bye

After the bye week, Illinois sits at 2-2. So far, Lovie Smith’s team has shown promise. The Illini are still a season or two away from taking the next step, but if this team can make a bowl game this year, that would be a huge success. Illinois travels to New Jersey to take on Rutgers in a very winnable game.

11. Northwestern (1-3)

Lost to Michigan, 20-17

Northwestern offense gets off to fast start. Northwestern takes the lead early. The offense stalls and struggles for the rest of the game. The defense can’t make key stops late. Northwestern loses. Rinse and repeat. That exact formula has happened in all three of the Wildcats’ losses with the one to Michigan being the toughest pill to swallow. Northwestern jumped out to a 17-0 lead in the 2nd quarter before the Michigan defense shut down the Wildcats as the Wolverine came from behind to win 20-17. That could have been a win that changes the season for the Cats, but instead, it’s another heartbreaking loss. Things don’t get any easier for the Wildcats as they travel to East Lansing to take on Michigan State.

10. Purdue (2-3)

Beat Nebraska, 42-28

The Boilermakers are on a roll as they dropped 42 points in their win against Nebraska. Quarterback David Blough continues to accumulate a high number passing yards (328 against Nebraska), but the running game was the story as the Boilermakers rushed for 188 yards and 4 TDs. After a disastrous start, Purdue heads into their bye week with two straight wins and serious momentum.

9. Minnesota (3-1)

Bye

After a bye week, it’s time for the young Golden Gophers to grow up. If Minnesota surrenders over 400 yards of offense like they did in their last game, it will be a long season for PJ Fleck. Minnesota travels to Kinnick Stadium on Saturday to play Iowa.

8. Maryland (3-1)

Bye

It’s no secret that Maryland lives and dies by the run. The Terps average 258.5 yards on the ground, which is 10th overall in the nation. However, Kasim Hill will have to get better as a passer for the Terps to win important games. Speaking of important games, Maryland has a gigantic chance to send shockwaves throughout the conference when they take on Michigan at the Big House this Saturday.

7. Indiana (4-1)

Beat Rutgers, 24-17

The score indicates a close game, but Indiana was winning 24-7 heading into the fourth quarter. Credit to Rutgers for making this a touchdown game late in the fourth quarter, who was coming off two embracing blowout losses. Quarterback Peyton Ramsey was 27 of 40 for 288 yards with 1 TD as well as rushing TD. This will go down as a conference win, but Indiana will have to learn to finish games to make some noise in the Big Ten. Indiana has a huge test on Saturday as they travel to Columbus to take on Ohio State.

6. Iowa (3-1)

Bye

Just like Penn State, Iowa does not control its own destiny. The Hawkeyes have to win out and pray Wisconsin loses two conference games in order to win the Big Ten West. Iowa travels to Minnesota on Saturday afternoon.

5. Michigan State (3-1)

Beat Central Michigan, 31-20

Similar to their in-state rival, Michigan State’s defense is elite. However, the offense is still a work in progress. Michigan State jumped out to a 31-3 lead, but the offense stalled in the fourth quarter and the defense experienced a few hiccups as Central Michigan scored 17 unanswered points. However, a win is a win. With a dominant run defense (ranked first in the country against the run 40.3 yards per game), the Spartans can hang with any team in the Big Ten. Michigan State plays Northwestern at home on Saturday.

4. Wisconsin (3-1)

Bye

Wisconsin still controls their own destiny in the Big Ten West. Win out, and they will play for another Big Ten Championship. If quarterback Alex Hornibrook can play like he did at Iowa, the Badgers can compete with any team in the conference. Wisconsin plays Nebraska at home on Saturday night.

3. Michigan (4-1)

Beat Northwestern, 20-17

Offense sells tickets, but defense wins championships. After allowing Northwestern to jump out to a 17-0 lead in the second quarter, the Michigan defense pitched a shut out the rest of the game, allowing less than 100 yards of total offense for the final three quarters as the Wolverines scored 20 unanswered points to survive on the road. The offense struggled mightily, but this was a game that Michigan needed to win. Shea Patterson and Karan Higdon did just enough for the Wolverines to squeak out a W. Survive and advance. Michigan plays Maryland at home on Saturday.

2. Penn State (4-1)

Lost to Ohio State, 27-26

Finish. It’s a word that Penn State can’t seem to comprehend as they suffered a heartbreaking defeat to their rivals Penn State. Despite losing the game, Trace McSorley was the best player on the field Saturday night in front of a record-breaking crowd in Happy Valley. The senior quarterback set a school record with 461 yards of offense including 175 on the ground. However, between questionable play-calling and the inability to tackle late, the Nittany Lions will now have to win out and pray Ohio State loses two conference games to play in the Big Ten Championship. Penn State has a bye this week.

1. Ohio State (5-0)

Beat Penn State, 27-26

For the second year in a row, Ohio State used Buckeye magic to erase a double-digit fourth-quarter lead to defeat conference rival, Penn State. Ohio State was dead in the water in the first half as the Nittany Lions pushed the Buckeyes around on both sides of the ball. Quarterback Dwayne Haskins threw 2 TDs in the final seven minutes to complete the comeback and stamp Ohio State as the best team in the Big 10. This game not only meant that Ohio State is in the driver’s seat for the Big Ten, but this win puts the Buckeyes in the driver’s seat for the College Football Playoff. Ohio State takes on Indiana in Columbus on Saturday afternoon.

Hot Take House: Game 163, Brees GOAT, Jimbo Fisher Fail, CFB Worst Calls Ever

Game 163

These are hot takes and fun from the weekend. Send us your hot takes to ImMad@unafraidshow.com, and they may make the next week Hot Takes House. Do not read any further if you are easily offended. If you do, share with a friend.

Game #163

If the NFL can figure out the field playoff in 16 games, NHL and NBA in 82, why can’t the MLB figure it out in 162? How on earth do they play 162 games in the MLB, but still need one game tie-breakers to decide who wins the division? Game 163?

There are about 62 meaningless games in baseball. Teams and players are going through the motions. If those games were more important, we wouldn’t need a 163rd before playoffs.

NFL

1. All the garbage roughing the passer penalties are actually increasing the NFL fan experience. They add one more thing for you to talk smack talk about in your fantasy leagues, with your friends, and be outraged about. We love outrage.

2. My question is why won’t they just put flags on the QBs? They would rarely hit the ground then. Guys would be able to grab the flags, and that would be a sack. Guys are losing thousands of dollars just doing their job. Something has to change.- Richard Sherman

3. The Khalil Mack trade looks worse and worse every week. Mack is the runaway NFL defensive MVP at this point. The Raiders have no pass rush, and the two first rounders they get from the Bears will be 12-16 because the bears no longer suck.

4. Josh Allen is back being to who we thought he was. Don’t be mad Bills fans; facts are facts. Swing and a miss

5. #FitzMagic is dead, and VF Castro doesn’t like it. LOL

6. Drew Brees will need 201 passing yards next Monday night at home against Washington to become the NFL’s all-time passing yards leader. Why is he not in your top 10 quarterbacks of All-Time? I’ll wait…

7. Remember a long time ago last week when Tom Brady was old and the Patriots sucked? They are bullies for what they did to the Dolphins.

8. The Steelers will cave in on LeVeon Bell. James Connor is a good back, but he’s the FitzMagic of running backs. It was fun for a little while, but it’s a novelty.

9. Carolina Panthers owner David Tepper May Change the NFL by signing Eric Reid.

College Football

1. “Kelly Bryant has an opportunity to extend his football life & actually control his own future… and you think it’s selfish??? Give me a break.” – Joel Klatt

2. Holding on the running back? WTH!

 

3. The original worst football call of the day was Louisville up by 3 with 1:56 left in the 4th quarter on the Florida State 21 yard line calling a pass play instead of a run. The pass was intercepted, and Louisville lost in regulation.

4. The actual worst football call of the day belongs to James Franklin and Penn State. They had two timeouts on 4th and 5 to run this play:

5. Jimbo Fisher needs to be suspended. If the player were to do this to Jimbo, he would be finished in college football!  There is no reason any coach should be getting physical with a player to get his point across.

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Send us your hot takes to ImMad@unafraidshow.com, and they may make the next week post.

Unafraid Show’s College Football Top 10 Rankings Week 6: Crushing the Competition

College Football Top 10 Rankings Week 6

Best weekend of college football this year.

There were multiple quality games and near upsets on at every time slot. College Football is the only sport that can show you what it’s like to simultaneously feel alive and like you want to die! That is why is it is by far the greatest sport there is! Before we get to College Football Top 10 Rankings Week 6, you can reference the Unafraid Show’s College Football Top 10 Rankings for Week 5.

The two most frustrating parts of being a college football fan are the biased polls and the terrible non-conference schedules. I cannot change the schedules but I can rank the college football top 10 teams by the correct criteria: quality wins, schedule played, and dominance. Most polls including the College Football Playoff Committee give college blueblood teams a massive “benefit of the doubt.”  How else can you explain Georgia at #2 when they haven’t played anyone, or Wisconsin ranking above Cal and BYU before this week? I don’t believe in that. The best teams who play the best schedules will always be ranked highest. Only the games that have been played matter. I re-rank the top 10 every week from scratch. The previous week’s rankings do not factor into the next week. So, the rankings will change every week as more games are played.

1.  Alabama (5-0)

Alabama won a game with their starting quarterback Tua Tagoviloa only attempting 8 passes. I know it was only Louisianna, but that is still impressive. Teams typically move down in the College Football Top 10 Rankings when their schedule is not particularly impressive. But, Alabama combats their schedule with an unmatched dominance. It will be interesting to see how the 2018 Crimson Tide respond when someone puts up a fight. We may have to wait till November when they get LSU and Auburn.

2. Notre Dame (5-0)

A quarterback change has taken Notre Dame from a really good football team to a playoff contender. Brandon Wimbush could only beat you with his legs. Ian Book can beat you with arm and legs. Against Stanford, he regularly extended plays and escaped sacks to complete passes for 3rd down conversions. The Notre Dame defense is fast and extremely physical. This is not your typical Fighting Irish team that is overrated. Dominant wins over Michigan and Stanford make them an easy choice at #2 in the College Football Top 10 Rankings Week 6.

3. LSU (5-0)

LSU keeps piling up wins. They didn’t beat Ole Miss as bad as Alabama did, but Joe Burrow and company still showed offensive dominance. Burrow threw for 292 yards and three touchdowns and added another 92 yards and a touchdown on the ground. I cannot remember the last time LSU had a dynamic passer at quarterback who could also hurt you with his legs. I am salivating thinking about their matchup against Georgia in two weeks. They are one of the few SEC teams that have played a quality schedule so far.

4. Ohio State (5-0)

Penn State had the game in sewed up, but Ohio State pried a victory from the jaws of defeat. Dwyane Haskins stats looked good again, but the truth is in the film. The majority of his 270 pass yards came off screens to backs and wide receivers. The Ohio State vs. Penn State game felt a lot like the Stanford vs. Oregon game last week. The team who dominated and looked better lost the game. However, there are no moral victories in sports. The Buckeyes won, so they reap the rewards in the College Football Top 10 Rankings Week 6.

5. Oklahoma (5-0)

Kyler Murray is the Black Doug Flutie. He is small, but he can play! He and Oklahoma bounced back from that narrow escape against Army with an offensive explosion. Murray finished with 432 yards passing and 8 total touchdowns (1rush) against Baylor. I truly believe Oklahoma’s offense is more explosive this year than last year with Baker Mayfield. Most people expect Murray to hang his cleats up and play in the MLB. Oklahoma has the best receiving corps in the country.  I would love to watch Alabama try and stop this offense.

6. Clemson (5-0)

The Tigers are breathing a sigh of relief. Kelly Bryant decides to transfer, and Trevor Lawrence gets hurt while they are down to Syracuse. All signs pointed to a loss for Clemson. But, Dabo Swinney cashed in all his good Karma from doing the right thing for Kelly Bryant, and they got the win. You are always rewarded in life for doing the right things. Every top team faces a couple of gut-check games each season, and this was one for Clemson.

This team is good, but they have not been nearly as dominant this season as I expected.

7. Washington (4-1)

The Huskies has the best defense in the nation not named Alabama. Washington has stepped up their game since their close week 1 loss to Auburn. This week the Huskies undressed BYU, who beat a highly regarded Wisconsin team. It was a dominant performance. Jake Browning is real close to shutting me up about his inconsistent play against good teams. Their matchup against Oregon in two weeks will be an epic showdown.

8. Georgia (5-0)

New week, weak opponent, Georgia Wins. Rinse. Repeat. Georgia has played no teams currently ranked in the top 25. Unless Georgia starts demonstrating some Alabama-like dominance, it will be tough to rank them as higher until they get to the heart of their schedule. Please don’t try to tell me the South Carolina game was a good game. They just got beat up by Kentucky. I believe the Bulldogs could be a playoff team, but they will need to get more production out of Fromm or Fields at quarterback.

9. Auburn (4-1)

It took Auburn all four quarters to put So. Miss away. They were only able to rush for 96 yards on 36 attempts. The win was extremely unimpressive. War Eagle needs to figure out how to get their running game on track, or they will get tripped up against Miss State, Ole Miss, or Texas A&M in the next month. The only way the Tigers make the College Football Playoffs is if they do so on the back of Jared Stidham.

10. West Virginia (4-0)

500 yards of total offense seems to be the norm for West Virginia in 2018. Will Grier will find himself a finalist for the Heisman if he keeps playing like this. We still don’t know a lot about the Mountaineers defense. Their schedule has been relatively light so far, but their dominance has them narrowly ahead of the teams Next Up. Dana Holgorsen has a shot to get West Virginia over the hump in the Big 12 this year.

Next Up:

Michigan, UCF, Texas, Oregon, Penn State

I know some of you are steaming mad right now because your team is ranked too low or is unranked. Take a breathe and realize that your fandom is causing irrational thoughts. Leave a comment or shoot an email: ImMad@unafraidshow.com… Yes, that is the real email address.

Big Ten Power Rankings Week 5: The Showdown In Happy Valley

Big Ten Power Rankings

The matchup we all have been waiting for has finally arrived. Undefeated Ohio State will travel to undefeated Penn State on Saturday night as the two juggernauts square off for Big Ten supremacy. Not only will this game have Big Ten stipulations on the line, but the winner will have the inside track to the College Football Playoff.

In case you want to reference the Big Ten Power Rankings from last week.

14. Rutgers (1-3)

Lost to Buffalo, 42-13

“Does the Big Ten regret accepting Rutgers into the conference? My column.”

Although the above headline is a joke, I’m not kidding with that sentiment. Getting their doors blown off by Kansas was one thing, but losing to Buffalo at home is embarrassing. It’s not that Rutgers lost to Buffalo, who happens to be 4-0 on the year. It’s that Rutgers got blown out to a team from the MAC. That should not happen especially when you’re in the Big Ten. The Rutgers defense, which was supposed to be the team’s strength, has given up a staggering 149 points in three straight losses. If the Scarlett Knights suffer another blowout loss, Chris Ash may not have a job by the end of the year. Rutgers plays Indiana at home on Saturday.

13. Nebraska (0-3)

Lost to Michigan, 56-10

No one expected miracles from Scott Frost, but I doubt anyone expected him to be 0-3 to start his tenure. Nebraska ran into a buzzsaw in the Big House as Michigan pounced on the Cornhuskers early on their way to a 56-10 beatdown. With a record of 0-3, Nebraska is off to their worst start since 1945, and they have been outscored 113-57. Nebraska will look to win their first game of the year on Saturday when they travel to Purdue.

12. Purdue (1-3)

Beat Boston College, 30-13

Now, this is the Purdue team that everyone expected to see at the start of the year. David Blough’s 3 TD passes led the way as the Boilermakers picked up their first win of the season over Boston College, 30-13. Purdue could very well be 4-0 because they have had chances to win in each of their first three games. The Boilermakers have lost by a combined 8 points in three games. Purdue will look to make it two straight as they travel to Nebraska on Saturday afternoon.

11. Northwestern (1-2)

Bye week

After a bye week, Northwestern has to face the red-hot Michigan Wolverines in Evanston on Saturday afternoon. If Northwestern wants to stay in this game, their offense can’t disappear in the second half like it has the past three games.

10. Illinois (2-2)

Lost to Penn State, 63-24

The good news: Illinois was beating Penn State 24-21 early in the third quarter.

The bad news: Penn State started trying again and scored 42 unanswered points to win the game, 63-24.

Truthfully, the positives outweigh the negatives for me. Did Illinois lose by 39? Yes, but they were winning the game in the third quarter and played a great first half. It’s not like they were blown out by a non-Power 5 School (CC: Rutgers). It was Penn State, who has a chance to make the College Football Playoff. It’s clear that Lovie Smith has some talent at the running back position with Reggie Corbin and Mike Epstein, who combined for 160 yards rushing. Plus, the Illini have been playing with their backup quarterback so let’s see what starter AJ Bush can do when he returns. Illinois has a bye week.

9. Minnesota (3-1)

Lost to Maryland, 42-13

After falling behind in the first half 21-3, Minnesota had no chance for a comeback. Turnovers will kill your ability to win games, and with three turnovers on the day including 2 INTs thrown by Zack Annexstad, that’s pretty much a death wish. It wasn’t a great day for the Minnesota defense as they gave up 432 yards of total offense to the Terps. I don’t care who you are; if you can’t stop the run, you’re not going to win many games. Minnesota has a bye week.

8. Maryland (3-1)

Beat Minnesota, 42-13

Remember when Maryland was blown out by Temple two weeks ago? They seemed to take out their frustration on Minnesota as the Terps dominated the Golden Gophers from start to finish on their way to a 42-13 victory. Maryland found their groove again in the running game as the Terps rushed for 315 yards and 4 TDs. I still have question marks about Kasim Hill’s ability to throw the ball, but if the Terps have success on the ground, they will win games. Maryland has a bye week.

7. Indiana (3-1)

Lost to Michigan State, 35-21

With a chance for a statement win, Indiana could not overcome Michigan State’s fast start on their way to a 35-21 defeat. Although the running game was excellent the previous three games, Indiana was not able to control the line of scrimmage as Sparty held Stevie Scott and the Hoosiers to 29 rushing yards. Indiana travels to Rutgers this Saturday.

6. Michigan State (2-1)

Beat Indiana, 35-21

Just like Wisconsin, Michigan State was looking to rebound after a brutal loss, which is exactly what happened as they defeated an undefeated Indiana team, 35-21. Quarterback Brian Lewerke’s two first-half touchdowns and Shakur Brown’s interception for a touchdown gave Sparty a 21-7 lead in the first half, which was too big of a deficit for Indiana. After Ohio State /Penn State this weekend, the next biggest game in the battle for the Big 10 will be October 13 as Sparty travels to Happy Valley to take on the Nittany Lions. Michigan State plays Central Michigan on Saturday.

5. Iowa (3-1)

Lost to Wisconsin, 28-17

Iowa had the lead going into the fourth quarter, but the Hawkeyes were outscored 14-0 in the 4th quarter on their way to defeat 28-17. Not only would this win be a resume booster, but it would’ve given Iowa the ability to control their own destiny in the Big Ten West. With the loss to Wisconsin, Iowa will have to win out and hope Wisconsin loses two conference games, which is very unlikely, in order to play in the Big 10 title game. Iowa has a bye week.

4. Wisconsin (3-1)

Beat Iowa, 28-17

In a game where many believed the running game would be the focal point, it was quarterback Alex Hornibrook who was the star of the game in Wisconsin’s hard-fought come-from-behind win over Iowa in Kinnick Stadium. Many experts and writers (including myself) believed Hornibrook would need to take the next step as a passer to lead the Badgers to new heights. I’d say 205 yards and 3 TDs in a huge road test is taking the next step. This was a quality bounce-back win for the Badgers. Wisconsin has a bye week.

3. Michigan (3-1)

Beat Nebraska, 56-10

Remember when Michigan looked lost on offense in their loss to Notre Dame? That seems like it happened a lifetime ago as the Wolverines dominated the visiting Nebraska Cornhuskers, 56-10. The stats won’t show it (120 yards and 1 TD), but quarterback Shea Patterson looks more comfortable and poised in Jim Harbaugh’s offense. The defense is one of the best in the country, which should come as a surprise to no one. Michigan is on a roll and looks like it can’t be stopped. Michigan travels to Northwestern on Saturday.

2. Penn State (4-0)

Beat Illinois, 63-24

Illinois was on the verge of an upset. Illinois had the lead early in the third quarter with a score of 24-21. Penn State not only erased the thought of an upset, but destroyed it with a monstrous second half in which they scored 42 unanswered points to win 63-24. Running back Miles Sanders is making it a little easier for fans to forget about Saquon Barkley as Sanders rushed for 200 yards and 3 TDs. The biggest game of the Big Ten season (so far) takes place on Saturday night as Ohio State comes to Happy Valley to take on the Nittany Lions.

1. Ohio State (4-0)

Beat Tulane, 49-6

Urban Meyer is back as the head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes. Frankly, they didn’t need him to blow out Tulane. For me, the Heisman favorite is Dwayne Haskins. The quarterback was as close to perfect as you can get. Haskins threw for 304 yards and and 5 TDs in the first half alone before sitting on the bench for the second half. Although Haskins is 4th in the Heisman watch, Haskins will have a huge opportunity this weekend to improve his stock if he goes into Happy Valley and beats Penn State. Ohio State plays Penn State on Saturday night.