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The preseason US LBM college football coaches poll is out. The initial Top 25 for this year is dominated by teams from the Big Ten and Southeastern Conference, but there is also strong representation from the Big 12.
With all of the uncertainty and change entering this season, it’s worth analyzing the schools that find themselves starting in the rankings. What are the strengths and potential trouble spots ahead for the contenders? Who are the potential standouts worth keeping an eye on?
Here are season outlooks for all of the teams that begin their campaigns in the preseason poll:
1. Georgia (13-1)
Points: 1,364 (46 first-place votes). Previous ranking: 3. Opens: Aug. 31 vs. Clemson (Atlanta)
A run for a historic three-peat ended in the SEC championship game last season. Now the Bulldogs will try to get back to the top of the mountain with one of the nation’s top rosters. QB Carson Beck should be a Heisman contender and will have the advantage of a receiving group that includes Dominic Lovett and Miami (Fla.) transfer Colbie Young. Great defense is a constant for Kirby Smart’s team, and this year will be no exception with DL Mykel Williams, LB Smael Mondon and DB Malaki Starks, all future NFL draft picks.
TOP DOGS: Georgia leads preseason poll dominated by SEC, Big Ten
LEFT OUT: Five teams snubbed in the preseason Top 25 ranking
2. Ohio State (11-2)
Points: 1,302 (seven first-place votes). Previous ranking: 10. Opens: Aug. 31 vs. Akron
The pressure is on Ryan Day to beat Michigan after three consecutive losses. This could be the best defense in the country, and easily Day’s best group since the 2019 unit that led the Bowl Subdivision in several major categories. While headlined by All-America picks, led by JT Tuimoloau, what separates the Buckeyes is potentially unmatched depth across the board, with five-star…
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/college-football-season-outlooks-top-160946777.html
Author : USA TODAY Sports
Publish date : 2024-08-05 16:09:46
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