Well, we're only a piece of the way through the college football season, but at this moment, let's take a look at the best match-ups we have coming our way yet and some predictions to finish things off.
7. Houston vs Louisville (November 17, 2016)
These teams both looked like good seasons were heading their way. Louisville stocked up on defense and Greg Ward Jr. looks poised for a great season. Waiting for these to collide is harder than almost any other game this season, except a few others...six to be precise.
6. Ole Miss vs. Alabama (September 17, 2016)
Will two years of history cause a stumbling block for the defending champs? The season opener gave us no reason to doubt talent from Alabama, but Ole Miss has their own. No matter the stats or Vegas, a close game is exactly what I'm predicting.
5. Iowa vs Michigan (November 12, 2016)
This rivalry is far from the one people think of when it comes to each team, but it always seems to be competitive. I got to be present the last time these teams played and Iowa got the victory. Both teams made massive strides last year (both were considered top candidates for coach of the year) and this game could mean so much more than Big Ten implications.
4. Washington vs Stanford (September 30, 2016)
Again, no classic rivalry, but this game is what's looking to be the deciding factor for the Pac-12 North and both teams look capable of defeating any of the southern teams en route to a possible playoff bid. Washington Offensive coordinator, Eric Kiesau, will have his hands full with the stout Stanford defense in what will be a great game.
3. Texas vs Oklahoma (October 8, 2016)
Texas overcame all the odds and beat Oklahoma last year in what felt like a miracle. Can Texas and coach Strong keep this year's momentum? Can Oklahoma take what they learned from the early loss and get a quality win?
2. Florida State vs Clemson (October 29, 2016)
As much as the ACC has suffered in perception in recent years, there should be no doubt these two teams can compete with anyone. The winner should be playoff bound and the one bested could easily end up still playing in a New Year's Six Bowl even despite early struggles from Clemson.
1. Michigan vs Ohio State (November 26, 2016)
I have to say that I always found this placement biased on other lists. This year, however, is different. Season openers proved talent is there and ready to go. If both teams didn't lose another game, could both enter the playoff?
Playoff and New Year's Six Predictions
Playoff Bracket:
1. Alabama vs 4. Houston
2. Ohio State vs 3. Florida State
Other Bowls:
Rose Bowl: Michigan vs Washington
Sugar bowl: Georgia vs Oklahoma
Orange bowl: Clemson vs Iowa
Cotton Bowl: Stanford vs Baylor
