AP Top 25 College Football Podcast

Ranking college football coaches is even tougher than ranking college football teams. But we tend to do it anyway, especially in the offseason. Stewart Mandel from The Athletic and Bruce Feldman from Fox join AP’s Ralph Russo to talk about their current Top 25 college coaches. Bruce and Stew are finally buying in on Brian Kelly as a top-three coach. Stewart gave James Franklin a big demotion after a tough year, but not so much with PJ Fleck. Bruce is still defending Jim Harbaugh and higher on veterans with a long track record like Gary Patterson, Kirk Ferentz and Mike Leach. And they both snubbed Mack Brown. Plus, the NCAA’s latest misstep and should it cost Mark Emmert his job?

The NCAA Tournament is back after a one-year pandemic-forced hiatus. That means the football show turns to basketball for a week. AP college basketball writer Aaron Beard joins Ralph Russo to break down the bracket, search for upsets and pick a Final Four. Plus, what went wrong this season for blue bloods Duke and Kentucky? And why can’t Indiana seem to recapture past glory. And we’ll sprinkle in a some football, too.

The worst Power Five program in college football is once again in the news for all the wrong reasons. Kansas parted ways with coach Les Miles after revelations about inappropriate behavior toward women while he was at LSU. It is another setback for a program that has become synonymous with them. Max Olson from The Athletic joins AP’s Ralph Russo to discuss how Kansas football got so bad, why Miles was never the solution and where it goes from here. Plus, new Marshall coach Charles Huff joins the show to talk about his time working for James Franklin at Penn State and Nick Saban at Alabama, and how it prepared him for his first head coaching job.

New Vanderbilt coach Clark Lea played for the Commodores and grew up in Nashville. If there is a man who understands the challenges and potential for the football program of the Southeastern Conference’s lone private school, it’s Lea, the former Notre Dame defensive coordinator. Then Steven Godfrey of Banner Society joins AP’s Ralph Russo for an in-depth discussion on a topic suggested by a listener: Which programs have recently been the biggest underachievers in each of the 10 FBS conference?  To email questions or comments to the show use APTop25mailbag@gmail.com

The 2021 season is about seven months away, but it’s never to early to start projecting how teams will do. ESPN’s Bill Connelly, the mastermind behind SP+ power rankings, joins AP’s Ralph Russo to discuss the first 2021 projections. They’ll compare SP+ to the composite of way-too-early rankings done by four notable news organizations that cover college football. SP+ is more optimistic about Miami, Michigan and the Pac-12 in general than the humans. On the flip side, SP+ is more skeptical about Notre Dame, Indiana, Coastal Carolina and LSU for the 2021 season.

Five and half year ago, Steve Sarkisian was fired by Southern California, a promising career derailed by alcoholism. The road back for Sark went thrown Alabama and the NFL and now he is a head coach again, taking at Texas. Sarkisian joins AP’s Ralph D. Russo to talk about his comeback and how recovery has made him a different, and he hopes better, coach. Then Richard Johnson of the Split Zone Duo podcast joins the show to breakdown what made Sark’s offense so good at Alabama and how the top college teams are trying to mimic the way NFL teams play offense.

The 2020 coaching carousel in college football was more active than expected. ESPN’s Adam Rittenberg joins AP Ralph Russo to talk takeaways on changes made from Texas to Marshall. For some schools it’s never a and time to fire a coach, even though the chances of landing an established and proven replacement have never been less likely. Meanwhile, opportunities for Black coaches are still lagging as the leadership in major college football fails to match the makeup of the rosters. Plus, the transfer market is booming and schools are building depth charts around super seniors who are taking advantage of an extra year of NCAA eligibility.

The early signing period in college football has become the main signing period for the sport. So the traditional signing period in February is mostly about tying up loose ends. Most teams have already moved on to 2022, and we will, too. Bud Elliott, recruiting director for 247 Sports joins AP’s Ralph Russo to take a look at the class of 2022 and how limitations caused by the pandemic, plus the hopeful return to normal late this year, impacts the next 10 months before the next December signing period. Also, Tennessee has a new coach and a lot of problems. UCF is looking for a coach and has a lot to offer. So why did Josh Heupel leave the Knights for the Volunteers?

College football’s offseason has already included a coaching change at Tennessee and a Power Five commissioner announcing he will step down. The news never really stops.  To kickoff the offseason mode at the AP Top 25 College Football Podcast, Andy Staples from The Athletic joins AP’s Ralph Russo. The Volunteers might have a replacement for Jeremy Pruitt by the time you hear this, but what kind of a hole will the next regime need to climb out of? Why did Pac-12 commissioner Larry Scott go from being perceived as a visionary to then being thought of as a failure during 11 years in the conference? And, Andy discussed on his podcast a radical rule change that would persuade teams to punt less. Ralph wants to take the radical change one step farther as a way to put more value on defense in this age of offense. 

College football’s season in a pandemic has ended with a most familiar champion. Nick Saban’s Alabama dynasty won its sixth title by beating Ohio State in the College Football Playoff national championship game. To put a wrap on the season and the championship game, Paul Myerberg and Dan Wolken from USA Today join AP’s Ralph Russo. They discuss if there is anyway to tap the brakes on college football’s offensive revolution. Is it even necessary? There appears to be no end in sight for Saban and the Tide’s dominance. What other programs can at least make a run at Alabama next year? Can the changing landscape of college football help provide a little more parity at the top?

Alabama against Ohio State for the national championship. After a long, strange season there is one game left to be played. The College Football Playoff title game will feature the two most talented rosters in the country and put to bed a season that has been a grind for everyone involved. To preview Crimson Tide-Buckeyes and review what it took to get here, ESPN’s Chris Fowler joins AP’s Ralph Russo. Chris discusses why this season lacked the usual joy, and why he was still thankful to be part of it. And he gives his thoughts on Alabama’s steady dominance and Ohio State’s winding path to the title game. Plus, how to do a virtual Heisman Trophy presentation.

The College Football Playoff features four of the bluest of blue bloods. No. 1 Alabama takes on No. 4 Notre Dame and No. 2 Clemson faces No. 3 Ohio State. Cole Cubelic of the SEC Network and ESPN joins AP’s Ralph Russo to breakdown each matchup. For Notre Dame to stay within striking distance of the might Crimson Tide, the Irish need to play perfectly complementary football. Meanwhile, the other semifinal could come down to which is more efficient: Trevor Lawrence and Clemson’s passing game or Ohio State’s powerful running game. Also, what to make of Auburn’s hiring of Boise State’s Bryan Harsin as head coach? 

Bowl season is here in college football. It is not as long as usual, which is sad. But there are plenty of games to enjoy. To preview them all _ even the ones that might have already been played by the time you listen _ Matt Brown, college football editor at The Athletic and an AP poll voter, joins Ralph Russo, AP college football writer. Matt and Ralph provide a tidbit or two on every game, make a few picks, and tell you what to watch for. The bowl are more unpredictable than ever, which is why you should watch every one from the Potato Bowl to the Orange Bowl.

The latest conference championship weekend in the history of college football has arrived and the question is: Will the results create any drama for Sunday’s College Football Playoff selections. National college football writer Paul Myerberg joins AP’s Ralph D. Russo to go through the scenarios and try to find what could cause some mayhem. Also, Auburn finally fired Gus Malzahn after years of the coach going on and off the hot seat. Who is next? Did the Tigers just spent more than $21 million to promote their defensive coordinator? And is Illinois really a sleeping giant? Or maybe a sleeping contender in the Big Ten West?

The never-ending college football season will now combine the early signing period with championship weekend. Starting Dec. 16, schools can begin signing high school prospects, but because the season started late and was extended because of the pandemic, the College Football Playoff won’t be set until the weekend of Dec. 19. There is a lot going on. To discuss recruiting, the coaching carousel and the playoff race, Barton Simmons and Bud Elliot of 247 Sports join AP’s Ralph Russo. In-person recruiting has been shutdown since the spring. What kind of impact will that have on the class of 2021, and beyond?

About 13 months ago LSU-Alabama was a No. 1 vs. No. 2 matchup. Biggest game of the season. Game of the Century. And LSU broke through for a landmark victory on the way to a national championship. Now the Tide and Tigers play again and LSU is slogging through a season of attrition and regression while Alabama is better than ever. Sports Illustrated’s Ross Dellenger joins AP’s Ralph Russo to discuss the Tigers’ slide and the Tide’s unrelenting excellence. Plus, the Big Ten can’t catch a break: Can Ohio State make the playoff playing only six games? Who is the real Heisman favorite and will Texas make a coaching change?

Because everything is a little weird this season, we have the convergence of two events in college football that would normally be weeks apart. The first College Football Playoff selection committee rankings of season make their debut. And Thanksgiving week comes with some _ though not as many us usual _ rivalry games. Plus, there is a big batch of Black Friday games for a college football feast. Nicole Auerbach of The Athletic joins AP’s Ralph D. Russo to talk about what to expect from the playoff rankings: Why where BYU and Cincinnati start is important? Is Ohio State allowed a regular-season mulligan? What happens if Clemson blows out Notre Dame in an ACC rematch? Pac-12, anyone? Plus, the Clemson-Florida State postponement controversy.

From Monday to Friday the college football season has been a grind of uncertainty and instability. But the Saturdays are still delivering intrigue and excitement. Dennis Dodd of CBS joins AP’s Ralph Russo to talk about the odd dynamic of the season in the pandemic. Plus, will the first head coach firing in the Power Five break the seal for other schools? And what to expect from two crucial Big Ten games; Bedlam between Oklahoma State and Oklahoma; and Cincinnati’s big test at UCF?

In a normal college football season we would be waist deep in coaching change rumors and speculation right about now. But this year’s carousel figures to be relatively quiet. Conventional wisdom has been that schools struggling financially because of the pandemic will be less willing to pay big buyouts. Plus, how can you judge performance is this weird season? But fans at some schools are reverting back to the default mode and looking to fire everyone involved with their struggling teams. To take a look at which coaches are on the hottest seats, Dan Wolken from USA Today joins AP’s Ralph Russo to assess the situations in places like South Carolina, Virginia Tech, Iowa and Michigan.

The first week of November in college football feels like opening weekend of the season all over again. All the major conferences will be playing games for the first time, including the MAC on Wednesday night and the Pac-12 starting at 9 a.m. Pacific Time on Saturday. There are huge games involving BYU and Boise State, Florida and Georgia, and Clemson and Notre Dame. Stewart Mandel of The Athletic joins AP’s Ralph D. Russo to dive into it all and try to figure out how the results will impact the College Football Playoff race.

Penn State suffered an epic and thrilling upset the hands of Indiana last week, taking some of the shine off this week’s game against No. 3 Ohio State. But if we look deeper than the final score, the Nittany Lions might not be so bad off. ESPN’s Bill Connelly, the mastermind behind the advance metric SP+ rankings, joins AP’s Ralph Russo to do an autopsy on Penn State’s loss and preview the showdown with the Buckeyes. Plus, why does math hate Kansas State? Is it better to have a good offense or a good defense? Why a boring playoff doesn’t have to mean a boring college football season.

Just in time for Big Ten weather, the Big Ten is kicking off its football season. Dave Revsine from the Big Ten Network joins AP’s Ralph D. Russo to preview the conference that at first punted on fall football only to reverse course and give it go. Ohio State still seems to be the class of the conference and maybe the country. Can Wisconsin defend it’s West Division title with a new quarterback and new running back? Is Minnesota ready to take another step forward? What to make of Michigan this year? Where do things stand in Nebraska as Scott Frost enters year three?

College football’s game of the year is this weekend as No. 3 Georgia goes to No. 2 Alabama. It is a matchup of the best defense in the country against the best offense. Richard Johnson from the SEC Network joins AP’s Ralph D. Russo to breakdown the clash of the titans. How can Georgia’s D slow the Tide? Or, maybe the better question, can Georgia’s offense keep up with Alabama? Also, can anybody challenge Clemson in the ACC and a look at an interesting weekend for the American Athletic Conference and BYU.

This coming weekend in college football will have a lot of Tennessee and Texas in it. Because he is an expert on both, David Ubben from The Athletic joins AP’s Ralph D. Russo for a both an examination and a preview. We have already reached the point in the season where we ask what’s wrong with the Longhorns. Adding to this week’s Red River Shootout drama is we’re asking the same questions of Oklahoma, too, as the Sooners limp in with a two-game losing streak. Texas A&M also has a measuring stick game this week in the SEC against Florida.  David covered college football in Texas and the Big 12 for years before moving to Knoxville to cover Tennessee football. The Vols have a huge opportunity this weekend too as they go to Georgia to face the mighty Bulldogs. For the first time in a while, Tennessee might appears to be on the right track to SEC East contention.  

LSU coach Ed Orgeron went from failed SEC head coach to jilted USC interim coach to national champion, leading his home state Tigers. Bruce Feldman of Fox Sports and The Athletic chronicles coach O’s rise in a new book called Flip the Script. Feldman joins AP’s Ralph Russo to discuss the contentious end to Orgeron’s time as USC’s interim coach. And they talk about another coach Bruce wrote a book with: Mississippi State’s Mike Leach.  Before Bruce, Ralph interviews another successful coach from Louisiana. Billy Napier of the undefeated Louisiana-Lafayette Ragin Cajuns talks about his time working for both Dabo Swinney and Nick Saban how he learned to build a program.

There have been plenty of bumps along the way, but this weekend has a chance to feel the closest thing we have had to a normal college football Saturday. The Southeastern Conference kicks off, plus there is a full slate of Atlantic Coast Conference and Big 12 games on the schedule. Hopefully, it stays that way. Andy Staples from The Athletic joins AP’s Ralph Russo on the podcast to dive into the most intriguing storylines of the weekend, including: Rhett Lashlee’s winding to path to becoming the man who saved Miami’s offense.  Also, UCF might not be the best team in Florida, but it very well might have the best quarterback in the state. What will Auburn’s offense look like now that Chad Morris is calling plays for Gus Malzahn? And how will Lane Kiffin and Mike Leach do in their SEC debuts.

A college football season appeared five months ago to be crumbling is now resurgent. The Big Ten announced it is going t play in late October. The Pac-12 is trying for a fall re-start. So is the Mountain West. Meanwhile, games are still be postponed because of virus outbreaks. Paul Myerberg of USA Today joins AP’s Ralph D. Russo to talk about the Big Ten’s reversal and how the conference can recover from a month-long PR disaster. Will any of this college football season feel legitimate? Does it matter? Is piecing it together good enough considering the circumstances.

The college football season has started. Group of Five games kicked off Labor Day weekend. The Big 12 and ACC get rolling this weekend. So I guess we better get done previewing this very odd season that followed a most-bizarre and chaotic offseason. We have already done preview of the ACC and Big 12. Heck we even did one of the Pac-12, before the conference postponed fall football. We never got to the Big Ten, before it punted on the fall. What’s left to do is preview the Southeastern Conference and the Group of Five leagues that are giving it a go this September. To take a deep dive into the SEC, Cole Cubelic of ESPN and the SEC Network joins AP’s Ralph Russo. Then Chris Vannini of The Athletic joins the show to talk about the American Athletic Conference, Sun Belt and Conference USA.

Since postponing its football season on Aug. 11, the Big Ten has been in the news constantly _ for all the wrong reasons. The conference and its new commissioner, Kevin Warren, have been criticized from all angles and now they have been thrust into the presidential campaign, with both sides blaming the other for taking out the season in the Midwest. A true political football. Teddy Greenstein with the Chicago Tribune joins Ralph D. Russo to talk about how the Big Ten got into this mess and how it is trying to dig itself out.

The AP Preseason Top 25 has been released and it’s weird. The AP instructed voters to consider all teams for the preseason poll. Even the ones in the Big Ten, Pac-12 and other conferences that have postponed their football seasons because of the pandemic. Those teams will go away when games start, but for now the poll gives a glimpse at what could have been and what still remains. Matt Brown of The Athletic, an AP poll voter, joins Ralph Russo to talk about how he went about voting and how he intends to handle voting the rest of what figures to be a strange and unpredictable season. Or seasons.  

Is the gap closing between Oklahoma and the rest of the Big 12? Which teams could be the wild cards in a league that typically produces at least one surprising contender? How good can Oklahoma State be after a rocky offseason? And where is Texas after an offseason overhaul? Max Olson of The Athletic joins AP’s Ralph Russo to preview one of the three Power Five conferences still planning to play football in the fall.    

On a grim day for college football, the Big Ten and Pac-12 decided to cancel their fall football seasons and attempt to play in the spring. Neither conference felt it was best to move forward with the pandemic still running hot around the country, especially in Pac-12 territory. ESPN’s Rece Davis joins AP’s Ralph Russo to talk about the depressing news, and how the pandemic has exposed the fractures and weaknesses of college football. The Big Ten has seemed unsteady in the crisis while the Pac-12, often ridiculed, has appeared more unified with a cohesive message. Why are the SEC, ACC and Big 12 still marching forward and is playing two football seasons in a calendar year, one spring and one fall, doable?  

We have schedules. That’s a big step toward having a season. Whether college football gets there is still up in the air, but we have schedules and games set to be played so it’s time to start to preview the season _ and hoping for the best. The Atlantic Coast Conference and Pac-12 are up first. Jon Wilner from the San Jose Mercury News joins AP’s Ralph Russo to take a look at the Pac-12. There is uncertainty just about everywhere, from Oregon to Utah. David Hale from ESPN takes on the ACC, where Notre Dame is now a member and the race is really for No. 2 behind Clemson.  

Conferences are working to revise their college football schedules to accommodate potential disruptions from COVID-19. But there has been more planning than actual decisions being made as college sports leaders play a waiting game. Brett McMurphy of Stadium joins AP’s Ralph Russo to discuss where each conference stands, whether Notre Dame will play in the ACC and who will finally make the call on whether college football is played. Plus: if there is a season, will there be a postseason with dozens of bowl games?

Colleges are spending millions of dollars and countless hours to try to protect their athletes from being infected by COVID-19. And still there might not be a fall football season because the pandemic is raging on across the country. Lucia Mullen, a epidemiologist and analyst with the Johns Hopkins University Center for Health Security, joins AP’s Ralph Russo to explain why _ without a bubble _ the athletic departments can only do so much to determine whether they will be able to play this season. Mullen explains why everything is connected, what is a good way to determine when the virus is “under control,” and when time is ally _ but only if it is well spent. Plus, for the first time on the podcast, Russo answers questions from the Twitter mailbag.

As the pandemic worsens, so do the prospects of a college football season being played in the fall. Nicole Auerbach of The Athletic joins Ralph Russo of AP to discuss an avalanche of bad news throughout college football, numerous warning signs that the season is in peril and how everything is connected. The Big Ten and Pac-12 have already said they will play just conference games _ if they can play at all. We’ll discuss the trickle-down effects of that from the other Power Five leagues to the Group of Five to FCS. The pandemic is winning right now and college sports leaders are sounding the alarms.

Even the successful athletes who compete at the highest levels of their sports have moments when the game seems a little big for them. Those welcome-to-the-big-time moments can either break a player or make that player even better in the long run. Former college football offensive linemen Aaron Taylor of Notre Dame, Cole Cubelic of Auburn and Geoff Schwartz of Oregon join Ralph Russo to talk about the humbling moments that made them better by teaching them that they had to step up their games _ somehow _ to make it in college football.

College football is plowing toward a season in a pandemic. It begs the question: Is this essential and why? Dan Wetzel from Yahoo Sports joins AP’s Ralph Russo to discuss a bizarre offseason that is setting the stage for a college football season like we have never season before. The pandemic and social unrest is changing the power structure in all aspects of life, including sports. Plus, Mike Gundy, the Confederate flag and how journalism suffers from a lack of diversity. And how those in it can work to recognize the blind spots.  

So many good choices but you can only pick 13. AP college football poll voter Matt Brown from The Athletic and AP’s Ralph Russo pour through the dozens of former college football greats on this year’s Hall of Fame ballot. The goal: select a class of 13 players and two coaches to be inducted into the Hall next year. Heisman Trophy winner Carson Palmer seems like an obvious choice, but what about former Kentucky quarterback Tim Couch? Or Indiana’s sensational dual threat Antwan Randle El? Brown and Russo do their best at an impossible task.   

Plans are being made to give college football teams a little extra time in the summer to get ready for the season. What will practices look like during a pandemic? And what types of standards will have to be set when it’s time for teams to start playing one another? Sports Illustrated’s Ross Dellenger joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk about the latest steps being taken to play a football season while protecting players and coaches from COVID-19. Plus, what’s the significance of a statement? With their players watching and listening, coaches have been forced from their comfort zones to speak out against racial injustice.

The first steps toward having a college football season are being taken on campuses all over the country. Athletes are being allowed to return to their teams’ facilities for voluntary workouts throughout June. That means schools and specifically athletic departments are trying to execute detailed plans for testing, monitoring and educating athletes on how to get some prep work in for the season while staying safe during a pandemic. Baylor athletic director Mack Rhoades joins AP’s Ralph Russo to discuss the Bears’ plans to “on-board” football players, starting June 15. It covers a lot of ground and if it doesn’t go well, it could setback efforts to play ball come Labor Day weekend.

The prospects for a college football season that starts on time are looking good. Paul Myerberg of USA Today joins AP’s Ralph Russo to discuss the latest positive developments as college football prepares for playing amidst a pandemic. There is still much uncertainty. Plenty of reasons for hope and plenty of reasons to think the 2020 season will be far from normal. Plus, some offseason talk: Myerberg gives at least one team in each Power Five conference that could be a surprise contender this season the way Baylor and Minnesota rose to prominence last season. Also, take away Trevor Lawrence and Justin Fields, and pick three Heisman Trophy contenders. Remember, nobody thought Joe Burrow was a Heisman candidate going into 2019 and we all saw how that played out.  

The scheduled start of the college football season is four months away. With so much uncertainty, how can a fan and a reporter sift through all the noise and speculation to find relevant information and insight? It’s difficult. Max Olson, national college football writer from The Athletic, join AP’s Ralph Russo to talk about trying to make sense of it all. And they talk football. TCU has signed a five-star tailback who had some trouble in his senior year. Rutgers landed a quarterback transfer from Nebraska. Tennessee is cleaning up in recruiting. Jim Harbaugh has some big ideas.  

The 1984 Orange Bowl was maybe the greatest college football game ever played. No. 1 Nebraska came in undefeated and trying to stamp itself as one the best teams of all time, but Miami pulled the upset in a thriller that launched the Hurricanes dynasty. AP’s Ralph Russo is joined by three guests to talk about what led up to that memorable night in South Florida and its aftermath. Former Miami Herald sportswriter Jim Martz provides the Hurricanes' side of the story. Former Omaha World-Herald sports writer Lee Barfknecht gives the Huskers' perspective. And ESPN’s Ivan Maisel provides some context to a game that signaled a shift in the balance of power in college football for years to come.

The first night of the NFL draft went really well for the college football recruiting analysts. Most of the players selected in the first round were either four- or five-star recruits. Bud Elliott, recruiting analyst for 247 Sports, joins AP’s Ralph Russo to talk about how the inexact science of evaluating high school football players is improving. Plus, Miami continues to have a good number of players drafted and its recruiting rankings are pretty consistently better than the rest of their ACC Coastal Division rivals. Then why hasn’t the U. been able to turn that talent into consistent success on the field? Also, how will the extra-long recruiting dead period because of the coronavirus outbreak affect teams and players?

Notre Dame tight end Cole Kmet, UCLA running back Josh Kelley and Ole Miss defensive back Myles Hartsfield join AP Pro Football Writer Rob Maaddi to discuss the NFL draft and how they've handled an unusual pre-draft process with virtual pro days and video visits with teams. Super agent Leigh Steinberg also joins the show to chat about one of his clients, Alabama quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, and how the coronavirus pandemic has impacted draft prospects.  

The NFL Draft is approaching and Dane Brugler of The Athletic joins AP’s Ralph Russo to break down the prospects. Who is rising? Who is falling? Where will Alabama quarterback Tua Tagovailoa land? How about Oregon quarterback Justin Herbert? Will a half dozen receivers be selected in the first round? Will any running back go on the first day? Then new Ole Miss coach Lane Kiffin joins the show. He talks about recruiting Tagovailoa and his time at Florida Atlantic. What drew him to Ole Miss and his unusual path back to being an SEC head coach.  

Stanford football coach David Shaw makes his yearly offseason appearance on the podcast to discuss a wide range of issues in college football, starting with how he is managing his team through the pandemic. Shaw, who is also the chairman of the NCAA rules committee, talks about why it was time to crackdown on coaches instructing defensive players to fake injuries to slow down fast-paced offenses. The longtime Cardinal coach gives his views on the push for more lenient NCAA transfer rules and opening up opportunities for athletes to make money off their names, images and likenesses. Plus, why he is hopeful the worst season of his head coaching career can be a springboard for Stanford to return to its winning ways.

Las Vegas has weighed in with its win total projections of the 2020 college football season. Every FBS team from Alabama to UMass. Chris Fallica from ESPN, aka Bear from “College Gameday,” joins AP’s Ralph Russo to share his early picks in every conference. Optimism for Purdue. Pessimism for Kansas. And a good value pick in the SEC championship race. Plus, how Bear helps plot out where GameDay could be headed next season.

This is a special presentation of APs Ground Game: Inside The Outbreak. State and local officials are receiving high marks for how they’ve been handling the coronavirus outbreak, less so for President Donald Trump and the federal government. AP Washington Bureau Chief Julie Pace and Director of Public Opinion Research Emily Swanson explain what this means based on several recent surveys done by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. You can listen and subscribe to all episodes here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ap-ground-game-inside-the-outbreak/id1399328854

This is a special presentation of APs Ground Game: Inside The Outbreak. The coronavirus pandemic continues to take a devastating toll on The United Sates economy, with over 6 million Americans filing for unemployment. The disruptions due to coronavirus are causing a ripple effect, trickling into the day-to-day lives of people across the globe. AP National Writer and Director of Digital Innovation, Ted Anthony, has been covering the ripple effect of the virus and breaks it all down for us on this episode of Ground Game. You can listen and subscribe to all episodes here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ap-ground-game-inside-the-outbreak/id1399328854

Who are the best college football teams to not win the national championship? USA Today’s Paul Myerberg has some candidates, going back as far as 1940. Paul joins AP’s Ralph Russo to talk all-time great teams that came up short on a national title, including heralded squads from Michigan, Ole Miss, Oklahoma and Miami. Paul and Ralph agree on who’s No. 1 of the teams that did not finish No. 1 in the modern era of college football. Plus, let’s go back and re-do some of those misguided Heisman Trophy votes.

This is a special presentation of APs Ground Game: Inside The Outbreak. Spain has been hit especially hard by the coronavirus outbreak and the country’s death toll remains comparatively high despite a two-week lockdown. With more than 9,000 COVID-19 deaths documented, officials have been forced to convert hotels into hospitals and ice rinks into morgues. Madrid-based AP reporter Aritz Parra explains what is happening inside Spain’s overburdened medical facilities and funeral homes. You can listen and subscribe to all episodes here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ap-ground-game-inside-the-outbreak/id1399328854

This is a special presentation of APs Ground Game: Inside The Outbreak. New York has been hit especially hard in the COVID-19 pandemic, with more than 75,000 cases confirmed so far. In New York and elsewhere, health officials are reviewing guidelines from sources including state governments and medical groups on how to fairly ration limited resources as hospitals prepare for a surge in patients. Central to these guidelines will be figuring out who gets a ventilator and who doesn’t. AP reporter Candice Choi explains what this all means. You can listen and subscribe to all episodes here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ap-ground-game-inside-the-outbreak/id1399328854

This is a special presentation of APs Ground Game: Inside The Outbreak. In rural towns and already isolated communities across the country, the concerns about the coronavirus outbreak range from outsiders bringing the virus with them from bigger cities to economies that normally rely on tourism grinding to a halt. AP Reporter Gillian Flaccus takes us inside rural Oregon to discuss how the pandemic is playing out there. You can listen and subscribe to all episodes here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ap-ground-game-inside-the-outbreak/id1399328854

Eight college football writers. One question: How did you come to love college football? On the latest AP Top 25 College Football Podcast, AP’s Ralph Russo asks that question some of his friends and colleagues who cover the game for a living. Each shares a story of being drawn into the passion and pageantry of college football, though some were smitten later than others and in various ways. Telling their tales are Andy Staples, Stewart Mandel, Bruce Feldman and Nicole Auerbach from The Athletic; Heather Dinich and Adam Rittenberg from ESPN; Pat Forde from Sports Illustrated; and Paul Myerberg from USA Today.  

It’s never too early to have a Top 25 for next season. Plenty of those have been circulating since the day after LSU beat Clemson to win the national title. ESPN’s Bill Connelly chimed in with his SP+ preseason projections for 2020 in February. Connelly joins the AP’s Ralph Russo to compare and contrast where the human opinions and his numbers diverge. SP+ is embracing some traditional powers this year like Texas and Nebraska that it was skeptical about last season _ when the humans were hyping up the Longhorns and Cornhuskers. Meanwhile, SP+ sees some regression on the way for several teams _ like both of the state of Iowa’s FBS schools _ that the humans are giving a fair amount of preseason love.  

The sports world has been shut down because of the coronavirus outbreak. The AP Top 25 College Football Podcast will try to get you through it. In this week’s episode, host Ralph Russo of the AP goes solo on why he’ll miss March Madness so much. But his is a college football show. And since all of sports content is about to embrace talking about lists, Russo has one to share. The top 25 coaches in college football, right now. You all know who is No. 1. And No. 2. But from No. 3 on, it gets a little tricky. Did Jim Harbaugh make the list? What about Mack Brown? How do you weigh recent success against a coach's entire body of work?

Former NFL official and college coordinator of officials Terry McAulay has made the transition to TV rules expert, but he still keeps a close on officiating at all levels of football. McAulay joins AP’s Ralph Russo to talk about the state of college football officiating and what _ if anything _ can be done to build credibility at a time when fans are so skeptical and critical. McAulay talks targeting, replay reviews and what to do about players faking injuries to slow down the fast-pace offenses.

The most fascinating coaching move of the offseason might involve a man who has never been an on-field college coach. Georgia hired longtime Alabama strength and conditioning coach Scott Cochran away from Nick Saban and the Tide and is making him an on-field coach. Max Olson from The Athletic joins AP’s Ralph D. Russo to discuss the intriguing news and what it means for everyone involved. Plus, Colorado has a new coach and it is not someone anybody would have expected. Also, Max wrote about how loosening restrictions on transferring college football players might also mean some tweaks are needed to rules about how many scholarships a school can hand out each year. Is it possible for NCAA rules to accommodate more players stepping into the portal and help teams that might lose a plethora of transferring players at once?  

It is the middle of February and still a major college football team is trying to hire a head coach. This week on the AP Top 25 College Football Podcast, ESPN’s Adam Rittenberg joins AP's Ralph Russo to discuss Michigan State’s hiring of Mel Tucker, Colorado’s reaction to Tucker leaving and why schools seem to be overpaying for coaches with limited head coaching experience. Plus, the NCAA moves toward more freedom for transfers and Adam explores what the road back to glory looks like for Nebraska and Southern California.  

Tim Nevius is a former Division I baseball player who worked for five years as an NCAA investigator after graduating from law school. Now he works to change college sports by representing athletes and pushing for reforms to NCAA rules regarding things like transfers, and compensation for name, image and likeness. Nevius joins AP’s Ralph Russo to talk about what he believes are the reasons NCAA rules are often inherently unfair to the athletes. And why changing them won’t mean the end of football Saturdays and March Madness.

The transfer rules could be changing in a big way in college athletics within the next two years. Dennis Dodd of CBS Sports reported last week the Big Ten athletic directors are planning to put forth a proposal that would allow all college athletes to transfer once without sitting out a season. That would be a major change in the sports of football and basketball. Dodd joins AP’s Ralph Russo to talk about how college sports got to a place where an idea once thought to be too radical is now being endorsed by the Big Ten. Also, how can there be more parity in college football? Plus, did anybody who covers college football see this coming from Patrick Mahomes?

Patrick Mahomes led the Kansas City Chiefs to their third straight postseason comeback win from a double-deficit to beat the San Francisco 49ers 31-20 in Super Bowl 54, giving Andy Reid his first championship as head coach. AP Pro Football Writers Teresa Walker and Dennis Waszak joined Rob Maaddi to discuss the Big Game.

The 49ers and Chiefs got a break from the media and we moved closer to Super Bowl 54 with a star-studded list of guests on Radio Row. Joe Montana talked about being forced to leave the 49ers and join the Chiefs and offered Tom Brady advice. Cowboys tight end Jason Witten said he's leaning toward playing next season. Saints quarterback Taysom Hill discussed his pending free agency and his desire to be a starting quarterback. Former Texans star receiver Andre Johnson, Raiders rookie Josh Jacobs, former Alabama receiver Jerry Jeudy, Katie Couric and Gary Vaynerchuk also joined Rob Maaddi to discuss various topics.

While the San Francisco 49ers and Kansas City Chiefs get ready for Super Bowl 54, Radio Row is filling with athletes, entertainers and anyone who wants to be part of the Big Game hype.  Former Giants running back Rashaad Jennings revealed that he and newly retired two-time Super Bowl MVP Eli Manning have a running prank on players still on the team. Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott talked about his excitement playing for new coach Mike McCarthy. Super agent Leigh Steinberg updated quarterback Tua Tagovailoa's health status ahead of the draft and much more. Hall of Famers Jerome Bettis and Tim Brown, receiver Allen Robinson, Vikings defensive backs Harrison Smith and Xavier Rhodes, former running back Ronnie Brown and Martha Stewart also joined Rob Maaddi to discuss various topics.

The San Francisco 49ers and Kansas City Chiefs hit the practice field to prepare for Super Bowl 54 while current players, former stars and various entertainers made their way to Radio Row to discuss the Big Game and much more.    Hall of Famer Marshall Faulk expressed his frustration with the lack of minorities hired for NFL head coaching vacancies. XFL Commissioner Oliver Luck said his son, Andrew Luck, hasn't given him any indication he wants to return to the NFL. Bears running back Tarik Cohen, Seahawks twins Shaquill and Shaquem Griffin, former Giants standout Victor Cruz, and actors Lilly Singh and Busy Phillips also joined Rob Maaddi to discuss various topics.

Super Bowl kicked off in Miami with a more subdued Media Night Monday that opened with a tribute to Kobe Bryant. The San Francisco 49ers and Kansas City Chiefs have two of their four media sessions out of the way and now can start to focus on practice. Chiefs coach Andy Reid seemed to be enjoying this trip to the Super Bowl far more than his last appearance with the Eagles 15 years ago.    Radio Row was jumping with former players, entertainers and other celebrities in town to talk about the Big Game and more.     Denver Broncos safety Justin Simmons, former Green Bay Packers wide receiver Greg Jennings, Hall of Famer Rod Woodson, and former players Solomon Wilcots and Lofa Tatupu joined Rob Maaddi to discuss various topics ranging from the upcoming game to what they're doing off the field. 

The college football offseason is here but there is still plenty of news in college sports. This week attention turns to the NCAA convention where the hot topic will be name, image and likeness. The NCAA is trying to come up with an ideal model that would allow athletes to be paid for their fame. But ultimately it might be federal lawmakers who have the most say in what comes next. What if any news could come out of the NCAA convention this week in Southern California? Nicole Auerbach from The Athletic joins AP’s Ralph Russo to talk about NCAA policy and the news of the week closer to the field. Will there be anyone left at LSU to defend the Tigers’ national championship after a mass exodus of players and key assistant coaches? Miami might have found a transfer quarterback to help turnaround its offense. And where does Justin Fuente stand at Virginia Tech after he talked to Baylor about its job opening?

On the final AP College Football Podcast of the 2019 season, Dan Wolken and Paul Myerberg of USA Today join AP’s Ralph Russo to recap LSU’s national championship game victory against Clemson. What is Joe Burrow’s place in college football history after a record-breaking season and remarkable rise to super stardom? How about these Tigers? Is coach Ed Orgeron’s team worthy of a spot among the great in recent college football history? Plus, what to make of Trevor Lawrence’s first taste of adversity at Clemson? Then we spin it ahead to 2020. The top stories, the most interesting teams, players, rivalries and coaches, heading into next season.  

The national championship comes down to Tigers vs. Tigers. No. 1 LSU will face No. 3 Clemson in New Orleans for the title. To break down the matchup, Cam Mellor, a college football analyst from Pro Football Focus, joins AP’s Ralph Russo. What is Clemson’s best route defensively to slowing down Joe Burrow and LSU’s prolific passing game? Will Trevor Lawrence need to run as much as he did against Ohio State? In a matchup of great receivers and great cornerbacks on both sides, who has the edge? Plus, a breakdown of Tua Tagovailoa’s draft stock now that we know he’s heading to the NFL.

The last AP Top 25 College Football Podcast of 2019 is with Andy Staples of The Athletic, and the Andy Staples Show podcast. Andy and AP’s Ralph Russo talk officiating and targeting in the wake of the Clemson-Ohio State game in which a few close calls helped swing things the way of the Tigers. Andy gives his solution to change targeting and Ralph rants a little about conspiracy theories and why he tunes out complaints about officiating. Plus, what are Tua Tagovailoa’s options as he considers whether to enter the NFL draft or return to Alabama after a serious hip injury? Why, as Florida’s Dan Mullen said, is it tougher to go from 11 victories to 12 than from four to 11? And will Urban Meyer or Matt Rhule end up in the NFL?

No. 1 LSU and Heisman Trophy winner Joe Burrow face No. 4 Oklahoma and Heisman runner-up Jalen Hurts in the Peach Bowl. No. 2 Ohio State and its two Heisman finalists, Justin Fields and Chase Young, face defending national champion and No. 3 Clemson, with Trevor Lawrence, in the Fiesta Bowl. The playoff is here and it’s time to break down the matchups in each game with Cole Cubelic of the SEC Network and ESPN. What is Oklahoma’s best strategy for dealing with LSU’s unstoppable offense? Slow the game down? Or go super-aggressive and hope to win a shootout? How will Clemson deal with Young? And can Fields rise the occasion the way we have already seen Lawrence do on the biggest stage? Plus, Cole makes his semifinal and national championship game picks.

The early signing period is here and in just three years it has become THE signing period for college football teams. Most FBS teams will have their classes full before Christmas. Barton Simmons, scouting director for 247 Sports, joins AP’s Ralph Russo to run down what teams are cleaning up and what teams have work to do. Of course, the usual suspects are pulling in most of the five-star prospects. But it looks like an especially good year for Clemson. What’s going on in Texas with the Longhorns and Aggies? What new coaches have a chance to make a big impact in recruiting? And how does USC build toward better results when there is still so much long-term uncertainty surrounding head coach Clay Helton?

The bowl matchups are set. A marathon football feast that lasts from December to early January includes 40 games of varying quality needs an extra-long podcast to preview it all. Matt Brown, college football editor at The Athletic -- and an AP poll voter -- joins Ralph Russo on the AP Top 25 College Football Podcast’s bowl preview show. Brown and Russo hit on every game but the playoffs. (There will be plenty of time for that later.) This week, they give you a nugget on all those other games, starting in the Bahamas with Buffalo and Charlotte. There is a matchup of triple-option versus air raid. There are some struggling ACC teams that got sent to the bowl equivalent of the penalty box. Alabama is playing Michigan _ and all anybody is talking about is who may or may not play.  

Championship weekend is upon us, but that’s only a portion of all that is going on in college football this week. The coaching carousel has cranked up and the Heisman race will be settled as well. USA Today national college football writer Paul Myerberg joins AP’s Ralph Russo for an extra long edition of the AP Top 25 College Football Podcast to discuss why coaching searches are set up to fail, the legacy of Chris Petersen and why his surprising resignation was not so surprising. And which job is worst: Arkansas, Missouri or Mississippi? Plus, a rundown of each conference title game, the playoff ramifications and why LSU shouldn’t be a lock to make the CFP without winning the SEC title. Plus, who should be No. 2 behind Joe Burrow in the Heisman voting?  

Are rivalries as important as they used to be in college football? With so much focus on the College Football Playoff and the sport's becoming more national, AP’s Ralph Russo worries that it’s taking away from the intensity of regional rivalries. Stephen Godfrey of the Banner Society joins the AP Top 25 College Football Podcast to talk about the state of rivalries and some of his favorite rivalry games. Plus: how perspective has gone out the window for many college football fans.

The College Football Playoff race took a turn when Alabama lost star quarterback Tua Tagovailoa to a season-ending injury last weekend. How does losing the Heisman contender effect the selection committee’s view of the Crimson Tide? And what was his legacy at Alabama? What are the most complicated scenarios that could play out over the next month? And could a difficult choice for the committee that includes leaving out two well-qualified conference champions be a catalyst to start work on playoff expansion?

There has been a Power Five coach fired each of the last two weeks. To get you ready for college football’s silly season, Bruce Feldman of Fox Sports and The Athletic joins AP’s Ralph Russo to discuss the open jobs, the jobs that might come open and the coaches who could be on the move from South Carolina to Southern California.

There is a lot going on in college football. Willie Taggart is out at Florida State and it seems like a forgone conclusion that Clay Helton will be out at USC soon. Which is a better job and who might fill them? Paul Myerberg of USA Today joins AP’s Ralph Russo to discuss the start of the coaching carousel. Plus, It is a huge weekend of games with No. 1 LSU and No. 2 Alabama playing. We’ll preview that and Penn State at Minnesota, another battle of unbeatens. Also, the first College Football Playoff rankings are out. What should you be looking for in in the selection committee’s top 25?

A week before the first College Football Playoff rankings come out, there is a new No. 1 in the AP poll and one of the closest votes ever. Brett McMurphy of Stadium, and an AP poll voter, joins Ralph Russo to talk about how he selects No. 1 and what the playoff selection committee might do next week. Most of the top teams are off this weekend, so the resumes are pretty much locked in between now and then. McMurphy and Russo discuss the Group of Five race for a New Year’s Six bid and why they would rather not see one conference send two teams to the playoff. Plus, can Ohio State defensive end Chase Young win the Heisman? And should schools fire a coach after only two seasons?

Alabama star Tua Tagovailoa is recovering from an ankle injury. Will he be healthy in time for the Crimson Tide’s showdown with No. 2 LSU on November 9? USA Today national college football writer George Schroeder joins AP’s Ralph Russo to talk about the potential impact Tua’s injury could have on the College Football Playoff selection process and the Heisman Trophy race. Also, USA Today’s excellent coaches’ salary database is out. George and Ralph discuss a market that no long seems to be acting rationally. Plus, what does it mean for a team to struggle?

Clemson is down to No. 3 in the latest AP College football poll after starting the season No. 1. The Tigers have been passed by both Alabama and LSU since they had a close call against North Carolina. David Hale of ESPN thinks Clemson has earned the benefit of the doubt similar to what Alabama gets from pollsters. Hale argues the underlying numbers show Clemson’s performance really hasn’t dropped off much at all this year. Plus, trying to make sense of the Atlantic Coast Conference beyond Clemson and why strength of schedule is often poorly used when judging teams. Also, why we should stop judging coaching hires when they are made.

No. 7 Florida at No. 5 LSU. No. 6 Oklahoma against No. 11 Texas. No. 10 Penn State at No. 17 Iowa. USC at Notre Dame. Alabama at Texas A&M. Florida State goes to Clemson. There have been few surprises so far this season and the same six teams have totally dominated the top of the rankings. Maybe that changes this week? Ross Dellenger of Sports Illustrated joins AP’s Ralph Russo to break down a big weekend in college football. Ross covers college football nationally but he was a beat writer covering LSU for five years previously. He explains why LSU is finally embracing modern offense under Ed Orgeron and the interesting road Joe Burrow took to Baton Rouge. Can Florida be the first team to slow down the flying Tigers? Plus, can Texas's defensive coordinator come up with a plan to slow down Jalen Hurts? Just how good is Penn State? Were the expectations out of whack for Jimbo Fisher’s second season at A&M? Can Clay Helton still save his job at USC? Is Clemson ready to break out?

A new California law is pushing the NCAA toward allowing college athletes to make money off their names, images and likenesses. It is being built up as tipping point for college athletics, a change in the landscape that could finally bring the NCAA down. But in reality, it is just forcing the NCAA to do something it probably should have done a long time ago. Andy Staples from The Athletic joins AP’s Ralph Russo to talk about the consequences, intended and unintended, from Fair Pay to Play and why fans shouldn’t fear this being what ruins college sports. Also, during the first month of the season the gap between Clemson and Alabama and the field seems to have closed. And Andy talked to Gus Malzahn about why the Auburn coach went back to calling plays. The Tigers face Florida in the game of the week in college football.

There is so much more than a Clay Helton hot-watch going on at the University of Southern California these days. ESPN’s Adam Rittenberg joins AP’s Ralph Russo to discuss the Trojans. Both were in LA for last week’s game against Utah, which had plenty of side stories with Reggie Bush and Urban Meyer in the Coliseum. Rittenberg and Russo look back at Michigan’s mess, discuss the odd news out of Houston regarding star quarterback D’Eriq King deciding to sit out the rest of this season, and they search for second-tier playoff contenders. Plus, what will it take for Jonathan Taylor to run past a slew of talented quarterbacks and win the Heisman?

Figuring out what to make of early season college football results can be hard. Bill Connolly of ESPN joins AP’s Ralph Russo to sort through the noise using Bill’s SP+ rankings. The advance metric system looks beyond wins and losses to judge the performance of each team. College football followers are often too quick to dismiss results of any game that doesn’t qualify as a big game. Every team is terrible. Every schedule is soft. Connolly’s system helps quantify the value of each team and game. It allows us to see why it’s significant that Georgia beat Arkansas State 55-0 and why being the 17th ranked team in the country is not so different from being the 37th ranked team in the country. Plus, why Russo might be ready to jump on the UCF bandwagon.

Fox has decided to take on ESPN’s iconic pregame game show “College GameDay” with an hour show leading into its Big Noon game of the week. John Walters, who writes the Bubble Screen column for the Athletic, joins AP’s Ralph Russo to discuss how Fox’s new crew is doing. Former Ohio State coach Urban Meyer shows signs of being great on television, but you can tell he’s still trying to get comfortable leaving coach-speak behind. Plus, John talks about some of his favorite analysts, what he’d like to see GameDay do more often and who would be an interesting addition to the crew if and when Lee Corso ever steps away from the set?

The first week of the season was highlighted -- or lowlighted, if you’re a fan of Florida State or Tennessee -- by a couple of embarrassing losses by blue blood programs. Or at least programs that used to be blue bloods. Dan Wolken from USA Today joins AP’s Ralph Russo to discuss where Jeremy Pruitt and Tennessee and Florida State and Willie Taggart go from here. Chip Kelly’s second year at UCLA also got off to a bad start. We look ahead to LSU-Texas and Texas A&M-Clemson, plus, does it really even matter which conference is best?

The season is about to start, but the race for the Heisman Trophy has already begun. Heisman historian Chris Huston, who edits Heisman.com, joins AP’s Ralph Russo to talk about how Heismans are won. The process has evolved throughout the years from the days of running backs and upperclassmen dominating to now when quarterbacks and underclassmen are all the rage. Heisman campaigns are not quite as important for simple name recognition, but winning a Heisman takes a good story and schools need to help differentiate their stars from others. How much influence does media coverage have on Heisman voting and is there an East Coast bias among voters?

Voting in the AP Top 25 is a mix of art, science and hunch, and it’s especially tricky when it comes to the preseason poll. On the latest AP Top 25 College Football Podcast, ESPN’s Rece Davis joins AP’s Ralph Russo to discuss filling out a ballot when nobody has played yet. Davis explains how he tries not to make his preseason vote a straight prediction for the season and how that can lead to some rankings that look a little different from the consensus. Rece like Texas A&M more than the consensus and is not quite as high on Florida and Michigan.

Oregon is trying to make the jump to playoff contender in the Pac-12 North, while Washington is breaking in a high-profile transfer quarterback and a bunch of new players on defense. Meanwhile, in the South, what will be the fate of coach Clay Helton at USC? Jon Wilner of the Pac-12 Hotline joins AP’s Ralph Russo to preview the conference season. While all the drama surrounds USC, Utah has become the one sure bet in the Pac-12 South. The Utes might have a team good enough to win the Pac-12 for the first time. But will that be good enough to get a team in the college football playoff? The Pac-12 could really use a break to its playoff drought.

Oregon is trying to make the jump to playoff contender in the Pac-12 North, while Washington is breaking in a high-profile transfer quarterback and a bunch of new players on defense. Meanwhile, in the South, what will be the fate of coach Clay Helton at USC? Jon Wilner of the Pac-12 Hotline joins AP's Ralph Russo to preview the conference season. While all the drama surrounds USC, Utah has become the one sure bet in the Pac-12 South. The Utes might have a team good enough to win the Pac-12 for the first time. But will that be good enough to get a team in the college football playoff? The Pac-12 could really use a break to its playoff drought.

UCF has been the dominant team outside the Power Five conferences for two seasons. Can the Knights keep it up without McKenzie Milton? Chris Vannini from The Athletic joins AP’s Ralph Russo to preview all the Group of Five conferences. UCF is trying to make it three straight American Athletic Conference titles. Boise State out of the Mountain West is looking for a second New Year’s Six appearance. Can Appalachian State break through and challenge for a New Year’s Six bid out of the Sun Belt? Also, Pete Sampson of the Athletic joins the show to preview Notre Dame. The Fighting Irish will try to follow up their first playoff appearance against a schedule that includes road trips to Georgia and Michigan.

UCF has been the dominant team outside the Power Five conferences for two seasons. Can the Knights keep it up without McKenzie Milton? Chris Vannini from The Athletic joins AP's Ralph Russo to preview all the Group of Five conferences. UCF is trying to make it three straight American Athletic Conference titles. Boise State out of the Mountain West is looking for a second New Year's Six appearance. Can Appalachian State break through and challenge for a New Year's Six bid out of the Sun Belt? Also, Pete Sampson of the Athletic joins the show to preview Notre Dame. The Fighting Irish will try to follow up their first playoff appearance against a schedule that includes road trips to Georgia and Michigan.

Oklahoma is trying to make it five straight Big 12 titles. Can the Sooners continue their reign with another transfer quarterback? Max Olson from The Athletic joins AP’s Ralph Russo to preview the Big 12 and the contenders to unseat Oklahoma. It starts with Texas, but Iowa State could be primed for another step forward under Matt Campbell _ which will lead to even more speculation about Campbell being lured away by another school or the NFL. Veteran coaches Mike Gundy at Oklahoma State and TCU’s Gary Patterson are looking for bounce-back seasons from their programs. And four new coaches enter the league, including Les Miles at Kansas.

Oklahoma is trying to make it five straight Big 12 titles. Can the Sooners continue their reign with another transfer quarterback? Max Olson from The Athletic joins AP's Ralph Russo to preview the Big 12 and the contenders to unseat Oklahoma. It starts with Texas, but Iowa State could be primed for another step forward under Matt Campbell _ which will lead to even more speculation about Campbell being lured away by another school or the NFL. Veteran coaches Mike Gundy at Oklahoma State and TCU's Gary Patterson are looking for bounce-back seasons from their programs. And four new coaches enter the league, including Les Miles at Kansas.

The Big Ten might be the most intriguing conference in the country this season. The four superpowers in the East Division all enter with different levels of uncertainty, either with new quarterbacks or new offensive coordinators. In the West Division, a case could be made for any of six teams to reach the championship game in Indianapolis. Nebraska is considered the favorite coming off a 4-8 season. Dave Revsine of Big Ten Network joins AP’s Ralph Russo to preview the conference. Is this finally the season Michigan and Jim Harbaugh break through and win the East? Has the rest of the West caught up to Wisconsin?

The Big Ten might be the most intriguing conference in the country this season. The four superpowers in the East Division all enter with different levels of uncertainty, either with new quarterbacks or new offensive coordinators. In the West Division, a case could be made for any of six teams to reach the championship game in Indianapolis. Nebraska is considered the favorite coming off a 4-8 season. Dave Revsine of Big Ten Network joins AP's Ralph Russo to preview the conference. Is this finally the season Michigan and Jim Harbaugh break through and win the East? Has the rest of the West caught up to Wisconsin?

Georgia and Alabama appear to be heading toward another high-stakes matchup in the Southeastern Conference. Can any of the other SEC teams stand in the way of the league’s two superpowers meeting again? Barrett Sallee of CBS Sports and SiriusXM joins AP’s Ralph Russo to preview the SEC from top to bottom. Why Tennessee is trending up while Kentucky is likely going in the other direction. Why Texas A&M might be Alabama’s biggest challenger in the SEC West, not LSU.

Georgia and Alabama appear to be heading toward another high-stakes matchup in the Southeastern Conference. Can any of the other SEC teams stand in the way of the league's two superpowers meeting again? Barrett Sallee of CBS Sports and SiriusXM joins AP's Ralph Russo to preview the SEC from top to bottom. Why Tennessee is trending up while Kentucky is likely going in the other direction. Why Texas A&M might be Alabama's biggest challenger in the SEC West, not LSU.

The college football season is less than two months away and it’s time to start previewing the Power Five conferences. We start with the Atlantic Coast Conference. David Hale of ESPN joins the AP's Ralph Russo to talk about the unpredictable ACC Coastal, where Miami might be the default favorite. What new coaches in the conference face the toughest tasks, but who is most likely to have long-term success? How will Florida State bounce back? And David has a creative way to tell you just how good Clemson is.

The college football season is less than two months away and it's time to start previewing the Power Five conferences. We start with the Atlantic Coast Conference. David Hale of ESPN joins the AP's Ralph Russo to talk about the unpredictable ACC Coastal, where Miami might be the default favorite. What new coaches in the conference face the toughest tasks, but who is most likely to have long-term success? How will Florida State bounce back? And David has a creative way to tell you just how good Clemson is.

Former Notre Dame offensive linemen and current CBS analyst Aaron Taylor joins AP’s Ralph Russo to talk about his favorite subject: blocking. Taylor breaks down how Florida State might be able to fix its problems up front, how Oklahoma will replace four players who were selected in April’s draft and why Georgia could be the favorite for this year’s Joe Moore Award, which goes to the best offensive line in the country. Who are some of the best offensive line coaches in the country? Plus, Taylor gives his assessment on the state of Notre Dame under Brian Kelly, whether anybody can catch up to Clemson and Alabama this season and what it will be like for Ryan Day to replace Urban Meyer at Ohio State.

Former Notre Dame offensive linemen and current CBS analyst Aaron Taylor joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk about his favorite subject: blocking. Taylor breaks down how Florida State might be able to fix its problems up front, how Oklahoma will replace four players who were selected in April's draft and why Georgia could be the favorite for this year's Joe Moore Award, which goes to the best offensive line in the country. Who are some of the best offensive line coaches in the country? Plus, Taylor gives his assessment on the state of Notre Dame under Brian Kelly, whether anybody can catch up to Clemson and Alabama this season and what it will be like for Ryan Day to replace Urban Meyer at Ohio State.

Former Notre Dame offensive linemen and current CBS analyst Aaron Taylor joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk about his favorite subject: blocking. Taylor breaks down how Florida State might be able to fix its problems up front, how Oklahoma will replace four players who were selected in April's draft and why Georgia could be the favorite for this year's Joe Moore Award, which goes to the best offensive line in the country. Who are some of the best offensive line coaches in the country? Plus, Taylor gives his assessment on the state of Notre Dame under Brian Kelly, whether anybody can catch up to Clemson and Alabama this season and what it will be like for Ryan Day to replace Urban Meyer at Ohio State.

Former Notre Dame offensive linemen and current CBS analyst Aaron Taylor joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk about his favorite subject: blocking. Taylor breaks down how Florida State might be able to fix its problems up front, how Oklahoma will replace four players who were selected in April's draft and why Georgia could be the favorite for this year's Joe Moore Award, which goes to the best offensive line in the country. Who are some of the best offensive line coaches in the country? Plus, Taylor gives his assessment on the state of Notre Dame under Brian Kelly, whether anybody can catch up to Clemson and Alabama this season and what it will be like for Ryan Day to replace Urban Meyer at Ohio State.

Former Notre Dame offensive linemen and current CBS analyst Aaron Taylor joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk about his favorite subject: blocking. Taylor breaks down how Florida State might be able to fix its problems up front, how Oklahoma will replace four players who were selected in April's draft and why Georgia could be the favorite for this year's Joe Moore Award, which goes to the best offensive line in the country. Who are some of the best offensive line coaches in the country? Plus, Taylor gives his assessment on the state of Notre Dame under Brian Kelly, whether anybody can catch up to Clemson and Alabama this season and what it will be like for Ryan Day to replace Urban Meyer at Ohio State.

Are great college football players born or made? AP college football writer Ralph Russo and Barton Simmons, recruiting director at 247 Sports, dive into the debate over how much football programs mold their players into NFL-ready stars, and how much talent rises, regardless of coaching.

Are great college football players born or made? AP college football writer Ralph Russo and Barton Simmons, recruiting director at 247 Sports, dive into the debate over how much football programs mold their players into NFL-ready stars, and how much talent rises, regardless of coaching.

Are great college football players born or made? AP college football writer Ralph Russo and Barton Simmons, recruiting director at 247 Sports, dive into the debate over how much football programs mold their players into NFL-ready stars, and how much talent rises, regardless of coaching.

Are great college football players born or made? AP college football writer Ralph Russo and Barton Simmons, recruiting director at 247 Sports, dive into the debate over how much football programs mold their players into NFL-ready stars, and how much talent rises, regardless of coaching.

Are great college football players born or made? AP college football writer Ralph Russo and Barton Simmons, recruiting director at 247 Sports, dive into the debate over how much football programs mold their players into NFL-ready stars, and how much talent rises, regardless of coaching.

Florida State coach Willie Taggart sits down for an interview with AP’s Ralph Russo. Taggart talks about rebuilding a broken program at Florida State the way he did at previous stops. And why he believes the Seminoles are on track for a turnaround.

Florida State coach Willie Taggart sits down for an interview with AP's Ralph Russo. Taggart talks about rebuilding a broken program at Florida State the way he did at previous stops. And why he believes the Seminoles are on track for a turnaround.

Florida State coach Willie Taggart sits down for an interview with AP's Ralph Russo. Taggart talks about rebuilding a broken program at Florida State the way he did at previous stops. And why he believes the Seminoles are on track for a turnaround.

Florida State coach Willie Taggart sits down for an interview with AP's Ralph Russo. Taggart talks about rebuilding a broken program at Florida State the way he did at previous stops. And why he believes the Seminoles are on track for a turnaround.

Florida State coach Willie Taggart sits down for an interview with AP's Ralph Russo. Taggart talks about rebuilding a broken program at Florida State the way he did at previous stops. And why he believes the Seminoles are on track for a turnaround.

UConn is heading back to the Big East, leaving the American Athletic Conference in a move made to prioritize basketball over football. The Huskies are likely heading for football independence. Neill Ostrout, longtime UConn beat writer from the Journal Inquirer of Manchester, joins AP’s Ralph Russo to discuss how UConn got to where it is and the ramifications of the move. Huskies football has been run into a ditch, but more damaging to the school is it seems the conference and its failures in football were also hurting a men’s basketball program that has won four national titles. UConn will try to recapture its old hoops glory by aligning itself with some familiar rivals.

UConn is heading back to the Big East, leaving the American Athletic Conference in a move made to prioritize basketball over football. The Huskies are likely heading for football independence. Neill Ostrout, longtime UConn beat writer from the Journal Inquirer of Manchester, joins AP's Ralph Russo to discuss how UConn got to where it is and the ramifications of the move. Huskies football has been run into a ditch, but more damaging to the school is it seems the conference and its failures in football were also hurting a men's basketball program that has won four national titles. UConn will try to recapture its old hoops glory by aligning itself with some familiar rivals.

UConn is heading back to the Big East, leaving the American Athletic Conference in a move made to prioritize basketball over football. The Huskies are likely heading for football independence. Neill Ostrout, longtime UConn beat writer from the Journal Inquirer of Manchester, joins AP's Ralph Russo to discuss how UConn got to where it is and the ramifications of the move. Huskies football has been run into a ditch, but more damaging to the school is it seems the conference and its failures in football were also hurting a men's basketball program that has won four national titles. UConn will try to recapture its old hoops glory by aligning itself with some familiar rivals.

UConn is heading back to the Big East, leaving the American Athletic Conference in a move made to prioritize basketball over football. The Huskies are likely heading for football independence. Neill Ostrout, longtime UConn beat writer from the Journal Inquirer of Manchester, joins AP's Ralph Russo to discuss how UConn got to where it is and the ramifications of the move. Huskies football has been run into a ditch, but more damaging to the school is it seems the conference and its failures in football were also hurting a men's basketball program that has won four national titles. UConn will try to recapture its old hoops glory by aligning itself with some familiar rivals.

UConn is heading back to the Big East, leaving the American Athletic Conference in a move made to prioritize basketball over football. The Huskies are likely heading for football independence. Neill Ostrout, longtime UConn beat writer from the Journal Inquirer of Manchester, joins AP's Ralph Russo to discuss how UConn got to where it is and the ramifications of the move. Huskies football has been run into a ditch, but more damaging to the school is it seems the conference and its failures in football were also hurting a men's basketball program that has won four national titles. UConn will try to recapture its old hoops glory by aligning itself with some familiar rivals.

Almost every college football conversation eventually devolves into someone exclaiming: “Y’all ain’t played nobody,” or something similar. Steven Godfrey, the national college football writer from SB Nation and host of “Podcast Ain’t Played Nobody” joins AP’s Ralph Russo to discuss why too much energy is spent on strength of schedule discussions _ and why it’s probably not ever going to change. Plus, what would happen if Alabama and Clemson had played 10 times last year, and why it doesn’t matter. Also, the importance of making college football a national sport. And is Georgia winning a national title inevitable?

Almost every college football conversation eventually devolves into someone exclaiming: "Y'all ain't played nobody," or something similar. Steven Godfrey, the national college football writer from SB Nation and host of "Podcast Ain't Played Nobody" joins AP's Ralph Russo to discuss why too much energy is spent on strength of schedule discussions _ and why it's probably not ever going to change. Plus, what would happen if Alabama and Clemson had played 10 times last year, and why it doesn't matter. Also, the importance of making college football a national sport. And is Georgia winning a national title inevitable?

Almost every college football conversation eventually devolves into someone exclaiming: "Y'all ain't played nobody," or something similar. Steven Godfrey, the national college football writer from SB Nation and host of "Podcast Ain't Played Nobody" joins AP's Ralph Russo to discuss why too much energy is spent on strength of schedule discussions _ and why it's probably not ever going to change. Plus, what would happen if Alabama and Clemson had played 10 times last year, and why it doesn't matter. Also, the importance of making college football a national sport. And is Georgia winning a national title inevitable?

Almost every college football conversation eventually devolves into someone exclaiming: "Y'all ain't played nobody," or something similar. Steven Godfrey, the national college football writer from SB Nation and host of "Podcast Ain't Played Nobody" joins AP's Ralph Russo to discuss why too much energy is spent on strength of schedule discussions _ and why it's probably not ever going to change. Plus, what would happen if Alabama and Clemson had played 10 times last year, and why it doesn't matter. Also, the importance of making college football a national sport. And is Georgia winning a national title inevitable?

Almost every college football conversation eventually devolves into someone exclaiming: "Y'all ain't played nobody," or something similar. Steven Godfrey, the national college football writer from SB Nation and host of "Podcast Ain't Played Nobody" joins AP's Ralph Russo to discuss why too much energy is spent on strength of schedule discussions _ and why it's probably not ever going to change. Plus, what would happen if Alabama and Clemson had played 10 times last year, and why it doesn't matter. Also, the importance of making college football a national sport. And is Georgia winning a national title inevitable?

The latest College Football Hall of Fame ballot of 76 major-college candidates is out and it’s impossible to whittle down the list for the class of 2020. It includes Heisman Trophy winners Eric Crouch and Carson Palmer, Miami stars Jerome Brown and Ray Lewis and dozens of other former stars who would be hall of fame worthy. AP Top 25 voter Matt Brown of The Athletic joins AP’s Ralph Russo take on the task and putting together next year’s class of hall of famers. They also discuss why Eric Dickerson has yet to be inducted. Plus, a quick look at The Athletic’s 150 years of college football series.

The latest College Football Hall of Fame ballot of 76 major-college candidates is out and it's impossible to whittle down the list for the class of 2020. It includes Heisman Trophy winners Eric Crouch and Carson Palmer, Miami stars Jerome Brown and Ray Lewis and dozens of other former stars who would be hall of fame worthy. AP Top 25 voter Matt Brown of The Athletic joins AP's Ralph Russo take on the task and putting together next year's class of hall of famers. They also discuss why Eric Dickerson has yet to be inducted. Plus, a quick look at The Athletic's 150 years of college football series.

The latest College Football Hall of Fame ballot of 76 major-college candidates is out and it's impossible to whittle down the list for the class of 2020. It includes Heisman Trophy winners Eric Crouch and Carson Palmer, Miami stars Jerome Brown and Ray Lewis and dozens of other former stars who would be hall of fame worthy. AP Top 25 voter Matt Brown of The Athletic joins AP's Ralph Russo take on the task and putting together next year's class of hall of famers. They also discuss why Eric Dickerson has yet to be inducted. Plus, a quick look at The Athletic's 150 years of college football series.

The latest College Football Hall of Fame ballot of 76 major-college candidates is out and it's impossible to whittle down the list for the class of 2020. It includes Heisman Trophy winners Eric Crouch and Carson Palmer, Miami stars Jerome Brown and Ray Lewis and dozens of other former stars who would be hall of fame worthy. AP Top 25 voter Matt Brown of The Athletic joins AP's Ralph Russo take on the task and putting together next year's class of hall of famers. They also discuss why Eric Dickerson has yet to be inducted. Plus, a quick look at The Athletic's 150 years of college football series.

The latest College Football Hall of Fame ballot of 76 major-college candidates is out and it's impossible to whittle down the list for the class of 2020. It includes Heisman Trophy winners Eric Crouch and Carson Palmer, Miami stars Jerome Brown and Ray Lewis and dozens of other former stars who would be hall of fame worthy. AP Top 25 voter Matt Brown of The Athletic joins AP's Ralph Russo take on the task and putting together next year's class of hall of famers. They also discuss why Eric Dickerson has yet to be inducted. Plus, a quick look at The Athletic's 150 years of college football series.

Former Baylor coach Art Briles, fired amid a scandal at the school three years ago, has landed a job at a mid-sized East Texas High School. The news surprised many who assumed the results of an investigation into the improper handling of sexual assault allegations at Baylor would tarnish Briles beyond repair. Chuck Carlton of the Dallas Morning News joins AP’s Ralph Russo to try to explain why the Mount Vernon Independent School District hired Briles and if leadership there can ride out the criticism. Plus, Carlton gives an update from the uncharacteristically quiet Big 12 meetings, the latest on the comings and goings of Bru McCoy at Texas and who is No. 3 in the Big 12.

Former Baylor coach Art Briles, fired amid a scandal at the school three years ago, has landed a job at a mid-sized East Texas High School. The news surprised many who assumed the results of an investigation into the improper handling of sexual assault allegations at Baylor would tarnish Briles beyond repair. Chuck Carlton of the Dallas Morning News joins AP's Ralph Russo to try to explain why the Mount Vernon Independent School District hired Briles and if leadership there can ride out the criticism. Plus, Carlton gives an update from the uncharacteristically quiet Big 12 meetings, the latest on the comings and goings of Bru McCoy at Texas and who is No. 3 in the Big 12.

Former Baylor coach Art Briles, fired amid a scandal at the school three years ago, has landed a job at a mid-sized East Texas High School. The news surprised many who assumed the results of an investigation into the improper handling of sexual assault allegations at Baylor would tarnish Briles beyond repair. Chuck Carlton of the Dallas Morning News joins AP's Ralph Russo to try to explain why the Mount Vernon Independent School District hired Briles and if leadership there can ride out the criticism. Plus, Carlton gives an update from the uncharacteristically quiet Big 12 meetings, the latest on the comings and goings of Bru McCoy at Texas and who is No. 3 in the Big 12.

Former Baylor coach Art Briles, fired amid a scandal at the school three years ago, has landed a job at a mid-sized East Texas High School. The news surprised many who assumed the results of an investigation into the improper handling of sexual assault allegations at Baylor would tarnish Briles beyond repair. Chuck Carlton of the Dallas Morning News joins AP's Ralph Russo to try to explain why the Mount Vernon Independent School District hired Briles and if leadership there can ride out the criticism. Plus, Carlton gives an update from the uncharacteristically quiet Big 12 meetings, the latest on the comings and goings of Bru McCoy at Texas and who is No. 3 in the Big 12.

Former Baylor coach Art Briles, fired amid a scandal at the school three years ago, has landed a job at a mid-sized East Texas High School. The news surprised many who assumed the results of an investigation into the improper handling of sexual assault allegations at Baylor would tarnish Briles beyond repair. Chuck Carlton of the Dallas Morning News joins AP's Ralph Russo to try to explain why the Mount Vernon Independent School District hired Briles and if leadership there can ride out the criticism. Plus, Carlton gives an update from the uncharacteristically quiet Big 12 meetings, the latest on the comings and goings of Bru McCoy at Texas and who is No. 3 in the Big 12.

Northwestern coach Pat Fitzgerald led the Wildcats to a Big Ten West championship last season and a bowl victory against Utah. This season he replaces a four-year starting quarterback with a former five-star recruit and Clemson transfer as Northwestern tries to maintain a remarkable level of success and consistency. Fitzgerald joins AP’s Ralph Russo to talk transfer rules, compensating players and how he handles it when NFL teams come calling.

Northwestern coach Pat Fitzgerald led the Wildcats to a Big Ten West championship last season and a bowl victory against Utah. This season he replaces a four-year starting quarterback with a former five-star recruit and Clemson transfer as Northwestern tries to maintain a remarkable level of success and consistency. Fitzgerald joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk transfer rules, compensating players and how he handles it when NFL teams come calling.

Northwestern coach Pat Fitzgerald led the Wildcats to a Big Ten West championship last season and a bowl victory against Utah. This season he replaces a four-year starting quarterback with a former five-star recruit and Clemson transfer as Northwestern tries to maintain a remarkable level of success and consistency. Fitzgerald joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk transfer rules, compensating players and how he handles it when NFL teams come calling.

Northwestern coach Pat Fitzgerald led the Wildcats to a Big Ten West championship last season and a bowl victory against Utah. This season he replaces a four-year starting quarterback with a former five-star recruit and Clemson transfer as Northwestern tries to maintain a remarkable level of success and consistency. Fitzgerald joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk transfer rules, compensating players and how he handles it when NFL teams come calling.

Northwestern coach Pat Fitzgerald led the Wildcats to a Big Ten West championship last season and a bowl victory against Utah. This season he replaces a four-year starting quarterback with a former five-star recruit and Clemson transfer as Northwestern tries to maintain a remarkable level of success and consistency. Fitzgerald joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk transfer rules, compensating players and how he handles it when NFL teams come calling.

Two things are safe to say about the future of the College Football Playoff: Someday it will expand to include more than four teams. That expansion is unlikely to happen soon. ESPN playoff reporter Heather Dinich joins AP’s Ralph Russo this week for an all playoff talk edition of the AP Top 25 College Football Podcast. They discuss why we are not on a fast track to expansion and what hurdles need to be cleared to get there. And what would be the best expand playoff formats and what would have to change to improve the way college football crowns a national champion.

Two things are safe to say about the future of the College Football Playoff: Someday it will expand to include more than four teams. That expansion is unlikely to happen soon. ESPN playoff reporter Heather Dinich joins AP's Ralph Russo this week for an all playoff talk edition of the AP Top 25 College Football Podcast. They discuss why we are not on a fast track to expansion and what hurdles need to be cleared to get there. And what would be the best expand playoff formats and what would have to change to improve the way college football crowns a national champion.

Two things are safe to say about the future of the College Football Playoff: Someday it will expand to include more than four teams. That expansion is unlikely to happen soon. ESPN playoff reporter Heather Dinich joins AP's Ralph Russo this week for an all playoff talk edition of the AP Top 25 College Football Podcast. They discuss why we are not on a fast track to expansion and what hurdles need to be cleared to get there. And what would be the best expand playoff formats and what would have to change to improve the way college football crowns a national champion.

Two things are safe to say about the future of the College Football Playoff: Someday it will expand to include more than four teams. That expansion is unlikely to happen soon. ESPN playoff reporter Heather Dinich joins AP's Ralph Russo this week for an all playoff talk edition of the AP Top 25 College Football Podcast. They discuss why we are not on a fast track to expansion and what hurdles need to be cleared to get there. And what would be the best expand playoff formats and what would have to change to improve the way college football crowns a national champion.

Two things are safe to say about the future of the College Football Playoff: Someday it will expand to include more than four teams. That expansion is unlikely to happen soon. ESPN playoff reporter Heather Dinich joins AP's Ralph Russo this week for an all playoff talk edition of the AP Top 25 College Football Podcast. They discuss why we are not on a fast track to expansion and what hurdles need to be cleared to get there. And what would be the best expand playoff formats and what would have to change to improve the way college football crowns a national champion.

There are 27 first-year coaches in FBS this season. Who is most likely to succeed? Who is least likely? AP’s Ralph Russo ranks the new coaches from 1 to 27 based on who is best positioned for long-term success. Recurring guest Paul Myerberg of USA Today joins the show to debate and breakdown Russo’s rankings. Plus, Myerberg has his rankings of the 10 new coaches most likely to have a successful first season. We also spoil Avengers: Endgame in the final minutes. You have been warned.

There are 27 first-year coaches in FBS this season. Who is most likely to succeed? Who is least likely? AP's Ralph Russo ranks the new coaches from 1 to 27 based on who is best positioned for long-term success. Recurring guest Paul Myerberg of USA Today joins the show to debate and breakdown Russo's rankings. Plus, Myerberg has his rankings of the 10 new coaches most likely to have a successful first season. We also spoil Avengers: Endgame in the final minutes. You have been warned.

There are 27 first-year coaches in FBS this season. Who is most likely to succeed? Who is least likely? AP's Ralph Russo ranks the new coaches from 1 to 27 based on who is best positioned for long-term success. Recurring guest Paul Myerberg of USA Today joins the show to debate and breakdown Russo's rankings. Plus, Myerberg has his rankings of the 10 new coaches most likely to have a successful first season. We also spoil Avengers: Endgame in the final minutes. You have been warned.

There are 27 first-year coaches in FBS this season. Who is most likely to succeed? Who is least likely? AP's Ralph Russo ranks the new coaches from 1 to 27 based on who is best positioned for long-term success. Recurring guest Paul Myerberg of USA Today joins the show to debate and breakdown Russo's rankings. Plus, Myerberg has his rankings of the 10 new coaches most likely to have a successful first season. We also spoil Avengers: Endgame in the final minutes. You have been warned.

There are 27 first-year coaches in FBS this season. Who is most likely to succeed? Who is least likely? AP's Ralph Russo ranks the new coaches from 1 to 27 based on who is best positioned for long-term success. Recurring guest Paul Myerberg of USA Today joins the show to debate and breakdown Russo's rankings. Plus, Myerberg has his rankings of the 10 new coaches most likely to have a successful first season. We also spoil Avengers: Endgame in the final minutes. You have been warned.

It's College Football Meeting Time. This week, AP college football writer Ralph Russo sits down with his colleagues Nicole Auerbach and Max Olson of The Athletic while covering the meetings of the top college football conferences. They chew over the stunning selection of Duke's Daniel Jones over Ohio State's Dwayne Haskins in the first round of the NFL draft, and consider the rationale behind and effects of top-dollar contracts for top-level coaches.

It's College Football Meeting Time. This week, AP college football writer Ralph Russo sits down with his colleagues Nicole Auerbach and Max Olson of The Athletic while covering the meetings of the top college football conferences. They chew over the stunning selection of Duke's Daniel Jones over Ohio State's Dwayne Haskins in the first round of the NFL draft, and consider the rationale behind and effects of top-dollar contracts for top-level coaches.

It's College Football Meeting Time. This week, AP college football writer Ralph Russo sits down with his colleagues Nicole Auerbach and Max Olson of The Athletic while covering the meetings of the top college football conferences. They chew over the stunning selection of Duke's Daniel Jones over Ohio State's Dwayne Haskins in the first round of the NFL draft, and consider the rationale behind and effects of top-dollar contracts for top-level coaches.

It's College Football Meeting Time. This week, AP college football writer Ralph Russo sits down with his colleagues Nicole Auerbach and Max Olson of The Athletic while covering the meetings of the top college football conferences. They chew over the stunning selection of Duke's Daniel Jones over Ohio State's Dwayne Haskins in the first round of the NFL draft, and consider the rationale behind and effects of top-dollar contracts for top-level coaches.

It's College Football Meeting Time. This week, AP college football writer Ralph Russo sits down with his colleagues Nicole Auerbach and Max Olson of The Athletic while covering the meetings of the top college football conferences. They chew over the stunning selection of Duke's Daniel Jones over Ohio State's Dwayne Haskins in the first round of the NFL draft, and consider the rationale behind and effects of top-dollar contracts for top-level coaches.

New Miami coach Manny Diaz grew up in south Florida when the Hurricanes were king. Now the son of the former mayor is the 'Canes head coach. He hopes his connection to the program and community can help bring Miami championships again. Diaz joins AP's Ralph Russo for an interview that ranges from his Miami roots to working the transfer portal.

New Miami coach Manny Diaz grew up in south Florida when the Hurricanes were king. Now the son of the former mayor is the 'Canes head coach. He hopes his connection to the program and community can help bring Miami championships again. Diaz joins AP's Ralph Russo for an interview that ranges from his Miami roots to working the transfer portal.

New Miami coach Manny Diaz grew up in south Florida when the Hurricanes were king. Now the son of the former mayor is the 'Canes head coach. He hopes his connection to the program and community can help bring Miami championships again. Diaz joins AP's Ralph Russo for an interview that ranges from his Miami roots to working the transfer portal.

New Miami coach Manny Diaz grew up in south Florida when the Hurricanes were king. Now the son of the former mayor is the 'Canes head coach. He hopes his connection to the program and community can help bring Miami championships again. Diaz joins AP's Ralph Russo for an interview that ranges from his Miami roots to working the transfer portal.

New Miami coach Manny Diaz grew up in south Florida when the Hurricanes were king. Now the son of the former mayor is the 'Canes head coach. He hopes his connection to the program and community can help bring Miami championships again. Diaz joins AP's Ralph Russo for an interview that ranges from his Miami roots to working the transfer portal.

Stepping into a new job is always challenging, but what new coaches have the toughest tasks ahead of them in college football? Bruce Feldman of Fox Sports and The Athletic joins the AP's Ralph D. Russo to talk dirty jobs and heavy liftiong. Nobody seems to have his work cut out for him more than Scott Satterfield at Louisville. Mike Locksley at Maryland is also walking into a tricky situation. Bruce and Ralph also discuss which new coaches at Group of Five schools could be the next rising stars and what first-year starting quarterbacks could be ready to break out the way Kyler Murray and Tua Tagovailoa did last year. Plus a little Tiger Woods talk.

Stepping into a new job is always challenging, but what new coaches have the toughest tasks ahead of them in college football? Bruce Feldman of Fox Sports and The Athletic joins the AP's Ralph D. Russo to talk dirty jobs and heavy liftiong. Nobody seems to have his work cut out for him more than Scott Satterfield at Louisville. Mike Locksley at Maryland is also walking into a tricky situation. Bruce and Ralph also discuss which new coaches at Group of Five schools could be the next rising stars and what first-year starting quarterbacks could be ready to break out the way Kyler Murray and Tua Tagovailoa did last year. Plus a little Tiger Woods talk.

Stepping into a new job is always challenging, but what new coaches have the toughest tasks ahead of them in college football? Bruce Feldman of Fox Sports and The Athletic joins the AP's Ralph D. Russo to talk dirty jobs and heavy liftiong. Nobody seems to have his work cut out for him more than Scott Satterfield at Louisville. Mike Locksley at Maryland is also walking into a tricky situation. Bruce and Ralph also discuss which new coaches at Group of Five schools could be the next rising stars and what first-year starting quarterbacks could be ready to break out the way Kyler Murray and Tua Tagovailoa did last year. Plus a little Tiger Woods talk.

Stepping into a new job is always challenging, but what new coaches have the toughest tasks ahead of them in college football? Bruce Feldman of Fox Sports and The Athletic joins the AP's Ralph D. Russo to talk dirty jobs and heavy liftiong. Nobody seems to have his work cut out for him more than Scott Satterfield at Louisville. Mike Locksley at Maryland is also walking into a tricky situation. Bruce and Ralph also discuss which new coaches at Group of Five schools could be the next rising stars and what first-year starting quarterbacks could be ready to break out the way Kyler Murray and Tua Tagovailoa did last year. Plus a little Tiger Woods talk.

Stepping into a new job is always challenging, but what new coaches have the toughest tasks ahead of them in college football? Bruce Feldman of Fox Sports and The Athletic joins the AP's Ralph D. Russo to talk dirty jobs and heavy liftiong. Nobody seems to have his work cut out for him more than Scott Satterfield at Louisville. Mike Locksley at Maryland is also walking into a tricky situation. Bruce and Ralph also discuss which new coaches at Group of Five schools could be the next rising stars and what first-year starting quarterbacks could be ready to break out the way Kyler Murray and Tua Tagovailoa did last year. Plus a little Tiger Woods talk.

With the college football championships out of the way, it's time to turn back to football. Bill Bender of The Sporting News joins the AP's Ralph Russo to talk about the first look at quarterback Justin Fields, playing for Ryan Day's Ohio State program. Plus is this finally Jim Harbaugh's year to beat the Buckeyes? And which of 2018's surprise teams _ Washington State, Syracuse, Missouri _ can build on their successes, and which will regress? Also, Nick Saban's so-called rant about players leaving early.

With the college football championships out of the way, it's time to turn back to football. Bill Bender of The Sporting News joins the AP's Ralph Russo to talk about the first look at quarterback Justin Fields, playing for Ryan Day's Ohio State program. Plus is this finally Jim Harbaugh's year to beat the Buckeyes? And which of 2018's surprise teams _ Washington State, Syracuse, Missouri _ can build on their successes, and which will regress? Also, Nick Saban's so-called rant about players leaving early.

With the college football championships out of the way, it's time to turn back to football. Bill Bender of The Sporting News joins the AP's Ralph Russo to talk about the first look at quarterback Justin Fields, playing for Ryan Day's Ohio State program. Plus is this finally Jim Harbaugh's year to beat the Buckeyes? And which of 2018's surprise teams _ Washington State, Syracuse, Missouri _ can build on their successes, and which will regress? Also, Nick Saban's so-called rant about players leaving early.

With the college football championships out of the way, it's time to turn back to football. Bill Bender of The Sporting News joins the AP's Ralph Russo to talk about the first look at quarterback Justin Fields, playing for Ryan Day's Ohio State program. Plus is this finally Jim Harbaugh's year to beat the Buckeyes? And which of 2018's surprise teams _ Washington State, Syracuse, Missouri _ can build on their successes, and which will regress? Also, Nick Saban's so-called rant about players leaving early.

With the college football championships out of the way, it's time to turn back to football. Bill Bender of The Sporting News joins the AP's Ralph Russo to talk about the first look at quarterback Justin Fields, playing for Ryan Day's Ohio State program. Plus is this finally Jim Harbaugh's year to beat the Buckeyes? And which of 2018's surprise teams _ Washington State, Syracuse, Missouri _ can build on their successes, and which will regress? Also, Nick Saban's so-called rant about players leaving early.

The second and final signing period begins Feb. 6, but most of the recruiting for this year has already been done. The early signing period in December has become THE signing period. Alabama has already locked up the number one class and about 80 percent of available scholarships have been handed out. Barton Simmons, scouting director of 247 Sports, joins AP’s Ralph Russo to preview what’s left for teams to do on signing day. Simmons also discusses how the new transfer rules and early signing period are intersecting. Also, he gives a glimpse of the recruiting story lines already developing for 2020.

The second and final signing period begins Feb. 6, but most of the recruiting for this year has already been done. The early signing period in December has become THE signing period. Alabama has already locked up the number one class and about 80 percent of available scholarships have been handed out. Barton Simmons, scouting director of 247 Sports, joins AP's Ralph Russo to preview what's left for teams to do on signing day. Simmons also discusses how the new transfer rules and early signing period are intersecting. Also, he gives a glimpse of the recruiting story lines already developing for 2020.

The second and final signing period begins Feb. 6, but most of the recruiting for this year has already been done. The early signing period in December has become THE signing period. Alabama has already locked up the number one class and about 80 percent of available scholarships have been handed out. Barton Simmons, scouting director of 247 Sports, joins AP's Ralph Russo to preview what's left for teams to do on signing day. Simmons also discusses how the new transfer rules and early signing period are intersecting. Also, he gives a glimpse of the recruiting story lines already developing for 2020.

The second and final signing period begins Feb. 6, but most of the recruiting for this year has already been done. The early signing period in December has become THE signing period. Alabama has already locked up the number one class and about 80 percent of available scholarships have been handed out. Barton Simmons, scouting director of 247 Sports, joins AP's Ralph Russo to preview what's left for teams to do on signing day. Simmons also discusses how the new transfer rules and early signing period are intersecting. Also, he gives a glimpse of the recruiting story lines already developing for 2020.

The second and final signing period begins Feb. 6, but most of the recruiting for this year has already been done. The early signing period in December has become THE signing period. Alabama has already locked up the number one class and about 80 percent of available scholarships have been handed out. Barton Simmons, scouting director of 247 Sports, joins AP's Ralph Russo to preview what's left for teams to do on signing day. Simmons also discusses how the new transfer rules and early signing period are intersecting. Also, he gives a glimpse of the recruiting story lines already developing for 2020.

College Football turns 150 years old in 2019 and ESPN is preparing a yearlong project to commemorate the birthday and tell the story of the sport. Longtime college football writer Ivan Maisel joins AP’s Ralph Russo to talk about the project and the challenges of telling such a wide-ranging story. Maisel is overseeing the television content _ and there will be 35 hours of it _ along with writing stories and producing podcasts. For a college football fan, it figures to be must-see TV, and Ivan is always a must-read writer. He is even teaching a class at Stanford this semester on the history of college football.

College Football turns 150 years old in 2019 and ESPN is preparing a yearlong project to commemorate the birthday and tell the story of the sport. Longtime college football writer Ivan Maisel joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk about the project and the challenges of telling such a wide-ranging story. Maisel is overseeing the television content _ and there will be 35 hours of it _ along with writing stories and producing podcasts. For a college football fan, it figures to be must-see TV, and Ivan is always a must-read writer. He is even teaching a class at Stanford this semester on the history of college football.

College Football turns 150 years old in 2019 and ESPN is preparing a yearlong project to commemorate the birthday and tell the story of the sport. Longtime college football writer Ivan Maisel joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk about the project and the challenges of telling such a wide-ranging story. Maisel is overseeing the television content _ and there will be 35 hours of it _ along with writing stories and producing podcasts. For a college football fan, it figures to be must-see TV, and Ivan is always a must-read writer. He is even teaching a class at Stanford this semester on the history of college football.

College Football turns 150 years old in 2019 and ESPN is preparing a yearlong project to commemorate the birthday and tell the story of the sport. Longtime college football writer Ivan Maisel joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk about the project and the challenges of telling such a wide-ranging story. Maisel is overseeing the television content _ and there will be 35 hours of it _ along with writing stories and producing podcasts. For a college football fan, it figures to be must-see TV, and Ivan is always a must-read writer. He is even teaching a class at Stanford this semester on the history of college football.

College Football turns 150 years old in 2019 and ESPN is preparing a yearlong project to commemorate the birthday and tell the story of the sport. Longtime college football writer Ivan Maisel joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk about the project and the challenges of telling such a wide-ranging story. Maisel is overseeing the television content _ and there will be 35 hours of it _ along with writing stories and producing podcasts. For a college football fan, it figures to be must-see TV, and Ivan is always a must-read writer. He is even teaching a class at Stanford this semester on the history of college football.

Kyler Murray has declared for the NFL draft. Whether he will give up baseball for professional football is still to be determined, but ESPN’s Tom Luginbill believes Murray has all the skills necessary to be one of the top quarterback prospects in the upcoming NFL draft. Luginbill joins AP’s Ralph Russo to talk about Murray, the aftermath of a championship loss by Alabama, the transfer portal and a little recruiting with signing day a few weeks away.

Kyler Murray has declared for the NFL draft. Whether he will give up baseball for professional football is still to be determined, but ESPN's Tom Luginbill believes Murray has all the skills necessary to be one of the top quarterback prospects in the upcoming NFL draft. Luginbill joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk about Murray, the aftermath of a championship loss by Alabama, the transfer portal and a little recruiting with signing day a few weeks away.

Kyler Murray has declared for the NFL draft. Whether he will give up baseball for professional football is still to be determined, but ESPN's Tom Luginbill believes Murray has all the skills necessary to be one of the top quarterback prospects in the upcoming NFL draft. Luginbill joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk about Murray, the aftermath of a championship loss by Alabama, the transfer portal and a little recruiting with signing day a few weeks away.

Kyler Murray has declared for the NFL draft. Whether he will give up baseball for professional football is still to be determined, but ESPN's Tom Luginbill believes Murray has all the skills necessary to be one of the top quarterback prospects in the upcoming NFL draft. Luginbill joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk about Murray, the aftermath of a championship loss by Alabama, the transfer portal and a little recruiting with signing day a few weeks away.

Kyler Murray has declared for the NFL draft. Whether he will give up baseball for professional football is still to be determined, but ESPN's Tom Luginbill believes Murray has all the skills necessary to be one of the top quarterback prospects in the upcoming NFL draft. Luginbill joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk about Murray, the aftermath of a championship loss by Alabama, the transfer portal and a little recruiting with signing day a few weeks away.

The 2018 season is a wrap. Clemson is the champion after a unprecedented beat down of Alabama. The final AP Top 25 college football podcast of the season takes a look at what went right for the Tigers; what went wrong for the Tide; and where college football’s superpowers go from here. The USA Today college sports crew of Dan Wolken, Paul Myerberg and George Schroeder join AP’s Ralph Russo for a roundtable that puts a bow on 2018 and looks toward the story lines for 2019.

The 2018 season is a wrap. Clemson is the champion after a unprecedented beat down of Alabama. The final AP Top 25 college football podcast of the season takes a look at what went right for the Tigers; what went wrong for the Tide; and where college football's superpowers go from here. The USA Today college sports crew of Dan Wolken, Paul Myerberg and George Schroeder join AP's Ralph Russo for a roundtable that puts a bow on 2018 and looks toward the story lines for 2019.

The 2018 season is a wrap. Clemson is the champion after a unprecedented beat down of Alabama. The final AP Top 25 college football podcast of the season takes a look at what went right for the Tigers; what went wrong for the Tide; and where college football's superpowers go from here. The USA Today college sports crew of Dan Wolken, Paul Myerberg and George Schroeder join AP's Ralph Russo for a roundtable that puts a bow on 2018 and looks toward the story lines for 2019.

The 2018 season is a wrap. Clemson is the champion after a unprecedented beat down of Alabama. The final AP Top 25 college football podcast of the season takes a look at what went right for the Tigers; what went wrong for the Tide; and where college football's superpowers go from here. The USA Today college sports crew of Dan Wolken, Paul Myerberg and George Schroeder join AP's Ralph Russo for a roundtable that puts a bow on 2018 and looks toward the story lines for 2019.

The 2018 season is a wrap. Clemson is the champion after a unprecedented beat down of Alabama. The final AP Top 25 college football podcast of the season takes a look at what went right for the Tigers; what went wrong for the Tide; and where college football's superpowers go from here. The USA Today college sports crew of Dan Wolken, Paul Myerberg and George Schroeder join AP's Ralph Russo for a roundtable that puts a bow on 2018 and looks toward the story lines for 2019.

Cole Cubelic of the SEC Network joins AP’s Ralph Russo to break down the College Football Playoff national championship game between No. 1 Alabama and No. 2 Clemson. Paul Myerberg also joins the show to talk winners and losers from bowl season. It was a good month for the Big 12 and not so great for Jim Harbaugh. Will Urban Meyer coach again? Can Notre Dame do better than Brian Kelly?

Cole Cubelic of the SEC Network joins AP's Ralph Russo to break down the College Football Playoff national championship game between No. 1 Alabama and No. 2 Clemson. Paul Myerberg also joins the show to talk winners and losers from bowl season. It was a good month for the Big 12 and not so great for Jim Harbaugh. Will Urban Meyer coach again? Can Notre Dame do better than Brian Kelly?

Cole Cubelic of the SEC Network joins AP's Ralph Russo to break down the College Football Playoff national championship game between No. 1 Alabama and No. 2 Clemson. Paul Myerberg also joins the show to talk winners and losers from bowl season. It was a good month for the Big 12 and not so great for Jim Harbaugh. Will Urban Meyer coach again? Can Notre Dame do better than Brian Kelly?

Cole Cubelic of the SEC Network joins AP's Ralph Russo to break down the College Football Playoff national championship game between No. 1 Alabama and No. 2 Clemson. Paul Myerberg also joins the show to talk winners and losers from bowl season. It was a good month for the Big 12 and not so great for Jim Harbaugh. Will Urban Meyer coach again? Can Notre Dame do better than Brian Kelly?

Cole Cubelic of the SEC Network joins AP's Ralph Russo to break down the College Football Playoff national championship game between No. 1 Alabama and No. 2 Clemson. Paul Myerberg also joins the show to talk winners and losers from bowl season. It was a good month for the Big 12 and not so great for Jim Harbaugh. Will Urban Meyer coach again? Can Notre Dame do better than Brian Kelly?

No. 1 Alabama plays No. 4 Oklahoma in the Orange Bowl and No. 2 Clemson faces No. 3 Notre Dame in the Cotton Bowl. Steve Palazzolo from Pro Football Focus joins AP’s Ralph Russo to do a deep dive on the semifinals. Does OU have any chance to stop Alabama’s offense? Why playing like a Big 12 team might be Bama’s best strategy. What’s the best way for the Tide to contain Kyler Murray? Can Notre Dame hold up against Clemson’s talented defensive front? Where are the Tigers susceptible on defense and how can the Irish and Ian Book exploit them? Where does Trevor Lawrence rank among recent freshman quarterbacks? Plus, a little NFL draft talk.

No. 1 Alabama plays No. 4 Oklahoma in the Orange Bowl and No. 2 Clemson faces No. 3 Notre Dame in the Cotton Bowl. Steve Palazzolo from Pro Football Focus joins AP's Ralph Russo to do a deep dive on the semifinals. Does OU have any chance to stop Alabama's offense? Why playing like a Big 12 team might be Bama's best strategy. What's the best way for the Tide to contain Kyler Murray? Can Notre Dame hold up against Clemson's talented defensive front? Where are the Tigers susceptible on defense and how can the Irish and Ian Book exploit them? Where does Trevor Lawrence rank among recent freshman quarterbacks? Plus, a little NFL draft talk.

No. 1 Alabama plays No. 4 Oklahoma in the Orange Bowl and No. 2 Clemson faces No. 3 Notre Dame in the Cotton Bowl. Steve Palazzolo from Pro Football Focus joins AP's Ralph Russo to do a deep dive on the semifinals. Does OU have any chance to stop Alabama's offense? Why playing like a Big 12 team might be Bama's best strategy. What's the best way for the Tide to contain Kyler Murray? Can Notre Dame hold up against Clemson's talented defensive front? Where are the Tigers susceptible on defense and how can the Irish and Ian Book exploit them? Where does Trevor Lawrence rank among recent freshman quarterbacks? Plus, a little NFL draft talk.

No. 1 Alabama plays No. 4 Oklahoma in the Orange Bowl and No. 2 Clemson faces No. 3 Notre Dame in the Cotton Bowl. Steve Palazzolo from Pro Football Focus joins AP's Ralph Russo to do a deep dive on the semifinals. Does OU have any chance to stop Alabama's offense? Why playing like a Big 12 team might be Bama's best strategy. What's the best way for the Tide to contain Kyler Murray? Can Notre Dame hold up against Clemson's talented defensive front? Where are the Tigers susceptible on defense and how can the Irish and Ian Book exploit them? Where does Trevor Lawrence rank among recent freshman quarterbacks? Plus, a little NFL draft talk.

No. 1 Alabama plays No. 4 Oklahoma in the Orange Bowl and No. 2 Clemson faces No. 3 Notre Dame in the Cotton Bowl. Steve Palazzolo from Pro Football Focus joins AP's Ralph Russo to do a deep dive on the semifinals. Does OU have any chance to stop Alabama's offense? Why playing like a Big 12 team might be Bama's best strategy. What's the best way for the Tide to contain Kyler Murray? Can Notre Dame hold up against Clemson's talented defensive front? Where are the Tigers susceptible on defense and how can the Irish and Ian Book exploit them? Where does Trevor Lawrence rank among recent freshman quarterbacks? Plus, a little NFL draft talk.

The transfer season is about pick up steam as Georgia’s Justin Fields, a former five-star quarterback recruit, seeks to move on _ and maybe play immediately for a new school. USA Today’s Dan Wolken, who broke the news about Fields, joins AP’s Ralph Russo to discuss Fields, transfer rules and waivers and why the NCAA seems to be subtly acquiescing on players sitting out after switching schools. Plus, a grab-bag of December topics from playoff expansion to players skipping bowls to the coaching carousel.

The transfer season is about pick up steam as Georgia's Justin Fields, a former five-star quarterback recruit, seeks to move on _ and maybe play immediately for a new school. USA Today's Dan Wolken, who broke the news about Fields, joins AP's Ralph Russo to discuss Fields, transfer rules and waivers and why the NCAA seems to be subtly acquiescing on players sitting out after switching schools. Plus, a grab-bag of December topics from playoff expansion to players skipping bowls to the coaching carousel.

The transfer season is about pick up steam as Georgia's Justin Fields, a former five-star quarterback recruit, seeks to move on _ and maybe play immediately for a new school. USA Today's Dan Wolken, who broke the news about Fields, joins AP's Ralph Russo to discuss Fields, transfer rules and waivers and why the NCAA seems to be subtly acquiescing on players sitting out after switching schools. Plus, a grab-bag of December topics from playoff expansion to players skipping bowls to the coaching carousel.

The transfer season is about pick up steam as Georgia's Justin Fields, a former five-star quarterback recruit, seeks to move on _ and maybe play immediately for a new school. USA Today's Dan Wolken, who broke the news about Fields, joins AP's Ralph Russo to discuss Fields, transfer rules and waivers and why the NCAA seems to be subtly acquiescing on players sitting out after switching schools. Plus, a grab-bag of December topics from playoff expansion to players skipping bowls to the coaching carousel.

The transfer season is about pick up steam as Georgia's Justin Fields, a former five-star quarterback recruit, seeks to move on _ and maybe play immediately for a new school. USA Today's Dan Wolken, who broke the news about Fields, joins AP's Ralph Russo to discuss Fields, transfer rules and waivers and why the NCAA seems to be subtly acquiescing on players sitting out after switching schools. Plus, a grab-bag of December topics from playoff expansion to players skipping bowls to the coaching carousel.

The early signing period debuted in college football last year and it quickly became the main signing period. Most prospects signed their national letters of intent and most schools had their classes all but complete in December. With the early signing period beginning on Dec. 19, Mike Farrell, the national recruiting director from Rivals, joins AP’s Ralph Russo to survey the landscape. How have coaches and prospects adjusted to the new date? What teams are set to clean up? What highly touted prospects figure to wrap up their recruitment in December? Which ones will wait until February?

The early signing period debuted in college football last year and it quickly became the main signing period. Most prospects signed their national letters of intent and most schools had their classes all but complete in December. With the early signing period beginning on Dec. 19, Mike Farrell, the national recruiting director from Rivals, joins AP's Ralph Russo to survey the landscape. How have coaches and prospects adjusted to the new date? What teams are set to clean up? What highly touted prospects figure to wrap up their recruitment in December? Which ones will wait until February?

The early signing period debuted in college football last year and it quickly became the main signing period. Most prospects signed their national letters of intent and most schools had their classes all but complete in December. With the early signing period beginning on Dec. 19, Mike Farrell, the national recruiting director from Rivals, joins AP's Ralph Russo to survey the landscape. How have coaches and prospects adjusted to the new date? What teams are set to clean up? What highly touted prospects figure to wrap up their recruitment in December? Which ones will wait until February?

The early signing period debuted in college football last year and it quickly became the main signing period. Most prospects signed their national letters of intent and most schools had their classes all but complete in December. With the early signing period beginning on Dec. 19, Mike Farrell, the national recruiting director from Rivals, joins AP's Ralph Russo to survey the landscape. How have coaches and prospects adjusted to the new date? What teams are set to clean up? What highly touted prospects figure to wrap up their recruitment in December? Which ones will wait until February?

The early signing period debuted in college football last year and it quickly became the main signing period. Most prospects signed their national letters of intent and most schools had their classes all but complete in December. With the early signing period beginning on Dec. 19, Mike Farrell, the national recruiting director from Rivals, joins AP's Ralph Russo to survey the landscape. How have coaches and prospects adjusted to the new date? What teams are set to clean up? What highly touted prospects figure to wrap up their recruitment in December? Which ones will wait until February?

It is bowl season in college football. There will be 39 games played from Dec. 15 to Jan. 1, including the College Football Playoff. AP poll voter Matt Brown from the Athletic join Ralph Russo to preview all the non-playoff games, pick winners and let you know which is the best game on each day of bowl season. From the Boca Raton with Tulane and Louisiana-Lafayette to the Sugar Bowl between Texas and Georgia, we hit on them all.

It is bowl season in college football. There will be 39 games played from Dec. 15 to Jan. 1, including the College Football Playoff. AP poll voter Matt Brown from the Athletic join Ralph Russo to preview all the non-playoff games, pick winners and let you know which is the best game on each day of bowl season. From the Boca Raton with Tulane and Louisiana-Lafayette to the Sugar Bowl between Texas and Georgia, we hit on them all.

It is bowl season in college football. There will be 39 games played from Dec. 15 to Jan. 1, including the College Football Playoff. AP poll voter Matt Brown from the Athletic join Ralph Russo to preview all the non-playoff games, pick winners and let you know which is the best game on each day of bowl season. From the Boca Raton with Tulane and Louisiana-Lafayette to the Sugar Bowl between Texas and Georgia, we hit on them all.

It is bowl season in college football. There will be 39 games played from Dec. 15 to Jan. 1, including the College Football Playoff. AP poll voter Matt Brown from the Athletic join Ralph Russo to preview all the non-playoff games, pick winners and let you know which is the best game on each day of bowl season. From the Boca Raton with Tulane and Louisiana-Lafayette to the Sugar Bowl between Texas and Georgia, we hit on them all.

It is bowl season in college football. There will be 39 games played from Dec. 15 to Jan. 1, including the College Football Playoff. AP poll voter Matt Brown from the Athletic join Ralph Russo to preview all the non-playoff games, pick winners and let you know which is the best game on each day of bowl season. From the Boca Raton with Tulane and Louisiana-Lafayette to the Sugar Bowl between Texas and Georgia, we hit on them all.

The great debate in college football is Oklahoma or Ohio State? Which school is best positioned to take the fourth College Football Playoff spot heading into championship weekend? Andy Staples of Sports Illustrated joins AP’s Ralph Russo to talk Buckeyes, Sooners and playoff scenarios. Also, the coaching carousel is spinning faster and already has a surprise. Mack Brown is back at North Carolina. What should we make of Kansas and North Carolina hiring 60-something coaches?

The great debate in college football is Oklahoma or Ohio State? Which school is best positioned to take the fourth College Football Playoff spot heading into championship weekend? Andy Staples of Sports Illustrated joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk Buckeyes, Sooners and playoff scenarios. Also, the coaching carousel is spinning faster and already has a surprise. Mack Brown is back at North Carolina. What should we make of Kansas and North Carolina hiring 60-something coaches?

The great debate in college football is Oklahoma or Ohio State? Which school is best positioned to take the fourth College Football Playoff spot heading into championship weekend? Andy Staples of Sports Illustrated joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk Buckeyes, Sooners and playoff scenarios. Also, the coaching carousel is spinning faster and already has a surprise. Mack Brown is back at North Carolina. What should we make of Kansas and North Carolina hiring 60-something coaches?

The great debate in college football is Oklahoma or Ohio State? Which school is best positioned to take the fourth College Football Playoff spot heading into championship weekend? Andy Staples of Sports Illustrated joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk Buckeyes, Sooners and playoff scenarios. Also, the coaching carousel is spinning faster and already has a surprise. Mack Brown is back at North Carolina. What should we make of Kansas and North Carolina hiring 60-something coaches?

The great debate in college football is Oklahoma or Ohio State? Which school is best positioned to take the fourth College Football Playoff spot heading into championship weekend? Andy Staples of Sports Illustrated joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk Buckeyes, Sooners and playoff scenarios. Also, the coaching carousel is spinning faster and already has a surprise. Mack Brown is back at North Carolina. What should we make of Kansas and North Carolina hiring 60-something coaches?

The College Football Playoff rankings have been stagnant for a couple weeks. Some shakeups are possible on rivalry weekend, but what results will cause the selection committee the biggest headaches and toughest choices? ESPN’s Heather Dinich, who covers the playoff 24/7, thinks Ohio State beating Michigan could muddle things for the committee. She joins AP’s Ralph Russo to talk playoff possibilities and what could lead to expansion.

The College Football Playoff rankings have been stagnant for a couple weeks. Some shakeups are possible on rivalry weekend, but what results will cause the selection committee the biggest headaches and toughest choices? ESPN's Heather Dinich, who covers the playoff 24/7, thinks Ohio State beating Michigan could muddle things for the committee. She joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk playoff possibilities and what could lead to expansion.

The College Football Playoff rankings have been stagnant for a couple weeks. Some shakeups are possible on rivalry weekend, but what results will cause the selection committee the biggest headaches and toughest choices? ESPN's Heather Dinich, who covers the playoff 24/7, thinks Ohio State beating Michigan could muddle things for the committee. She joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk playoff possibilities and what could lead to expansion.

The College Football Playoff rankings have been stagnant for a couple weeks. Some shakeups are possible on rivalry weekend, but what results will cause the selection committee the biggest headaches and toughest choices? ESPN's Heather Dinich, who covers the playoff 24/7, thinks Ohio State beating Michigan could muddle things for the committee. She joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk playoff possibilities and what could lead to expansion.

The College Football Playoff rankings have been stagnant for a couple weeks. Some shakeups are possible on rivalry weekend, but what results will cause the selection committee the biggest headaches and toughest choices? ESPN's Heather Dinich, who covers the playoff 24/7, thinks Ohio State beating Michigan could muddle things for the committee. She joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk playoff possibilities and what could lead to expansion.

No. 11 UCF is getting the big stage this weekend with ESPN’s “College GameDay” visiting the Orlando, Florida, campus and the Knights' game against No. 19 Cincinnati being broadcast nationally in prime time. Matt Murschel, the national college football writer for the Orlando Sentinel, joins AP’s Ralph Russo to discuss UCF’s big day, whether fans will be welcoming of ESPN’s “GameDay” crew and how this Knights team stacks up to last year’s undefeated bunch. Also, a whip around the Sunshine state where Florida State and Miami have tanked, Florida is having a solid start to Dan Mullen’s tenure as coach and the Lane Train has slowed at FAU. Plus, some playoff talk.

No. 11 UCF is getting the big stage this weekend with ESPN's "College GameDay" visiting the Orlando, Florida, campus and the Knights' game against No. 19 Cincinnati being broadcast nationally in prime time. Matt Murschel, the national college football writer for the Orlando Sentinel, joins AP's Ralph Russo to discuss UCF's big day, whether fans will be welcoming of ESPN's "GameDay" crew and how this Knights team stacks up to last year's undefeated bunch. Also, a whip around the Sunshine state where Florida State and Miami have tanked, Florida is having a solid start to Dan Mullen's tenure as coach and the Lane Train has slowed at FAU. Plus, some playoff talk.

No. 11 UCF is getting the big stage this weekend with ESPN's "College GameDay" visiting the Orlando, Florida, campus and the Knights' game against No. 19 Cincinnati being broadcast nationally in prime time. Matt Murschel, the national college football writer for the Orlando Sentinel, joins AP's Ralph Russo to discuss UCF's big day, whether fans will be welcoming of ESPN's "GameDay" crew and how this Knights team stacks up to last year's undefeated bunch. Also, a whip around the Sunshine state where Florida State and Miami have tanked, Florida is having a solid start to Dan Mullen's tenure as coach and the Lane Train has slowed at FAU. Plus, some playoff talk.

No. 11 UCF is getting the big stage this weekend with ESPN's "College GameDay" visiting the Orlando, Florida, campus and the Knights' game against No. 19 Cincinnati being broadcast nationally in prime time. Matt Murschel, the national college football writer for the Orlando Sentinel, joins AP's Ralph Russo to discuss UCF's big day, whether fans will be welcoming of ESPN's "GameDay" crew and how this Knights team stacks up to last year's undefeated bunch. Also, a whip around the Sunshine state where Florida State and Miami have tanked, Florida is having a solid start to Dan Mullen's tenure as coach and the Lane Train has slowed at FAU. Plus, some playoff talk.

No. 11 UCF is getting the big stage this weekend with ESPN's "College GameDay" visiting the Orlando, Florida, campus and the Knights' game against No. 19 Cincinnati being broadcast nationally in prime time. Matt Murschel, the national college football writer for the Orlando Sentinel, joins AP's Ralph Russo to discuss UCF's big day, whether fans will be welcoming of ESPN's "GameDay" crew and how this Knights team stacks up to last year's undefeated bunch. Also, a whip around the Sunshine state where Florida State and Miami have tanked, Florida is having a solid start to Dan Mullen's tenure as coach and the Lane Train has slowed at FAU. Plus, some playoff talk.

A college football Saturday is the ultimate multi-screen experience. Veteran sports writer John Walters writes a weekly column for the Athletic, capturing the best and worst of the small screen. He joins AP’s Ralph Russo to talk about ESPN’s “GameDay,” why Twitter goes so well with college football, and who is the voice of the game? Plus, Notre Dame’s playoff hopes and John’s crazy plan for massive conference realignment and playoff expansion.

A college football Saturday is the ultimate multi-screen experience. Veteran sports writer John Walters writes a weekly column for the Athletic, capturing the best and worst of the small screen. He joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk about ESPN's "GameDay," why Twitter goes so well with college football, and who is the voice of the game? Plus, Notre Dame's playoff hopes and John's crazy plan for massive conference realignment and playoff expansion.

A college football Saturday is the ultimate multi-screen experience. Veteran sports writer John Walters writes a weekly column for the Athletic, capturing the best and worst of the small screen. He joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk about ESPN's "GameDay," why Twitter goes so well with college football, and who is the voice of the game? Plus, Notre Dame's playoff hopes and John's crazy plan for massive conference realignment and playoff expansion.

A college football Saturday is the ultimate multi-screen experience. Veteran sports writer John Walters writes a weekly column for the Athletic, capturing the best and worst of the small screen. He joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk about ESPN's "GameDay," why Twitter goes so well with college football, and who is the voice of the game? Plus, Notre Dame's playoff hopes and John's crazy plan for massive conference realignment and playoff expansion.

A college football Saturday is the ultimate multi-screen experience. Veteran sports writer John Walters writes a weekly column for the Athletic, capturing the best and worst of the small screen. He joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk about ESPN's "GameDay," why Twitter goes so well with college football, and who is the voice of the game? Plus, Notre Dame's playoff hopes and John's crazy plan for massive conference realignment and playoff expansion.

College football's first playoff rankings of the season come out, on the eve of a weekend that could turn the whole playoff picture upside down. AP college football writer Ralph Russo talks to Dennis Dodd of CBS about who's in and who's out, and how long the whole playoff edifice lasts in its current form. Then Gary Danielson, also of CBS, does a deep dive into the big game of the weekend: Alabama-LSU.

College football's first playoff rankings of the season come out, on the eve of a weekend that could turn the whole playoff picture upside down. AP college football writer Ralph Russo talks to Dennis Dodd of CBS about who's in and who's out, and how long the whole playoff edifice lasts in its current form. Then Gary Danielson, also of CBS, does a deep dive into the big game of the weekend: Alabama-LSU.

College football's first playoff rankings of the season come out, on the eve of a weekend that could turn the whole playoff picture upside down. AP college football writer Ralph Russo talks to Dennis Dodd of CBS about who's in and who's out, and how long the whole playoff edifice lasts in its current form. Then Gary Danielson, also of CBS, does a deep dive into the big game of the weekend: Alabama-LSU.

College football's first playoff rankings of the season come out, on the eve of a weekend that could turn the whole playoff picture upside down. AP college football writer Ralph Russo talks to Dennis Dodd of CBS about who's in and who's out, and how long the whole playoff edifice lasts in its current form. Then Gary Danielson, also of CBS, does a deep dive into the big game of the weekend: Alabama-LSU.

College football's first playoff rankings of the season come out, on the eve of a weekend that could turn the whole playoff picture upside down. AP college football writer Ralph Russo talks to Dennis Dodd of CBS about who's in and who's out, and how long the whole playoff edifice lasts in its current form. Then Gary Danielson, also of CBS, does a deep dive into the big game of the weekend: Alabama-LSU.

As the college football season approaches November, it's time to start assessing which teams could be making a coaching change. Conventional wisdom suggests it could be a slow silly season after so much turnover the last two years. Dan Wolken of USA Today joins AP's Ralph Russo to discuss who is on the hot seat. It looks like much of the action could be in the Atlantic Coast Conference, and be determined by who can afford to fire their coach. Plus, what's up with Urban Meyer and Ohio State and where could the College Football Playoff race get weird?

As the college football season approaches November, it's time to start assessing which teams could be making a coaching change. Conventional wisdom suggests it could be a slow silly season after so much turnover the last two years. Dan Wolken of USA Today joins AP's Ralph Russo to discuss who is on the hot seat. It looks like much of the action could be in the Atlantic Coast Conference, and be determined by who can afford to fire their coach. Plus, what's up with Urban Meyer and Ohio State and where could the College Football Playoff race get weird?

As the college football season approaches November, it's time to start assessing which teams could be making a coaching change. Conventional wisdom suggests it could be a slow silly season after so much turnover the last two years. Dan Wolken of USA Today joins AP's Ralph Russo to discuss who is on the hot seat. It looks like much of the action could be in the Atlantic Coast Conference, and be determined by who can afford to fire their coach. Plus, what's up with Urban Meyer and Ohio State and where could the College Football Playoff race get weird?

As the college football season approaches November, it's time to start assessing which teams could be making a coaching change. Conventional wisdom suggests it could be a slow silly season after so much turnover the last two years. Dan Wolken of USA Today joins AP's Ralph Russo to discuss who is on the hot seat. It looks like much of the action could be in the Atlantic Coast Conference, and be determined by who can afford to fire their coach. Plus, what's up with Urban Meyer and Ohio State and where could the College Football Playoff race get weird?

As the college football season approaches November, it's time to start assessing which teams could be making a coaching change. Conventional wisdom suggests it could be a slow silly season after so much turnover the last two years. Dan Wolken of USA Today joins AP's Ralph Russo to discuss who is on the hot seat. It looks like much of the action could be in the Atlantic Coast Conference, and be determined by who can afford to fire their coach. Plus, what's up with Urban Meyer and Ohio State and where could the College Football Playoff race get weird?

Former Notre Dame offensive lineman Aaron Taylor, now an analyst with CBS Sports, joins AP’s Ralph Russo to talk about what teams are getting the best play out of their O-lines this season. What are the attributes of a good offensive line and why are the best ones greater than the sum of their parts? Taylor also talks about Notre Dame and whether the Irish can challenge for a playoff spot, LSU's progress -- and whether anybody is capable of taking down Alabama.

Former Notre Dame offensive lineman Aaron Taylor, now an analyst with CBS Sports, joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk about what teams are getting the best play out of their O-lines this season. What are the attributes of a good offensive line and why are the best ones greater than the sum of their parts? Taylor also talks about Notre Dame and whether the Irish can challenge for a playoff spot, LSU's progress -- and whether anybody is capable of taking down Alabama.

Former Notre Dame offensive lineman Aaron Taylor, now an analyst with CBS Sports, joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk about what teams are getting the best play out of their O-lines this season. What are the attributes of a good offensive line and why are the best ones greater than the sum of their parts? Taylor also talks about Notre Dame and whether the Irish can challenge for a playoff spot, LSU's progress -- and whether anybody is capable of taking down Alabama.

Former Notre Dame offensive lineman Aaron Taylor, now an analyst with CBS Sports, joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk about what teams are getting the best play out of their O-lines this season. What are the attributes of a good offensive line and why are the best ones greater than the sum of their parts? Taylor also talks about Notre Dame and whether the Irish can challenge for a playoff spot, LSU's progress -- and whether anybody is capable of taking down Alabama.

Former Notre Dame offensive lineman Aaron Taylor, now an analyst with CBS Sports, joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk about what teams are getting the best play out of their O-lines this season. What are the attributes of a good offensive line and why are the best ones greater than the sum of their parts? Taylor also talks about Notre Dame and whether the Irish can challenge for a playoff spot, LSU's progress -- and whether anybody is capable of taking down Alabama.

It lasted only a few seasons, but the USFL had a wild ride as a spring pro football alternative to the NFL, before it was torpedoed by a flamboyant owner who went on to bigger things. AP college football writer Ralph Russo spends this week with Jeff Pearlman, whose new book, Football for a Buck, outlines the short but wild life of a maverick pro football league.

It lasted only a few seasons, but the USFL had a wild ride as a spring pro football alternative to the NFL, before it was torpedoed by a flamboyant owner who went on to bigger things. AP college football writer Ralph Russo spends this week with Jeff Pearlman, whose new book, Football for a Buck, outlines the short but wild life of a maverick pro football league.

It lasted only a few seasons, but the USFL had a wild ride as a spring pro football alternative to the NFL, before it was torpedoed by a flamboyant owner who went on to bigger things. AP college football writer Ralph Russo spends this week with Jeff Pearlman, whose new book, Football for a Buck, outlines the short but wild life of a maverick pro football league.

It lasted only a few seasons, but the USFL had a wild ride as a spring pro football alternative to the NFL, before it was torpedoed by a flamboyant owner who went on to bigger things. AP college football writer Ralph Russo spends this week with Jeff Pearlman, whose new book, Football for a Buck, outlines the short but wild life of a maverick pro football league.

It lasted only a few seasons, but the USFL had a wild ride as a spring pro football alternative to the NFL, before it was torpedoed by a flamboyant owner who went on to bigger things. AP college football writer Ralph Russo spends this week with Jeff Pearlman, whose new book, Football for a Buck, outlines the short but wild life of a maverick pro football league.

For the first time in six years the Red River Shootout between Texas and Oklahoma is more than just a referendum on the Longhorns coach. Both teams are ranked and the winner emerges as the Big 12 favorite. USA Today national college football writer George Schroeder will be in Dallas on Saturday and he join AP’s Ralph Russo to preview that game, Notre Dame at Virginia Tech and LSU-Florida. Plus, is the new redshirt rule a problem that needs fixing? And how LSU and Oregon can make October interesting.

For the first time in six years the Red River Shootout between Texas and Oklahoma is more than just a referendum on the Longhorns coach. Both teams are ranked and the winner emerges as the Big 12 favorite. USA Today national college football writer George Schroeder will be in Dallas on Saturday and he join AP's Ralph Russo to preview that game, Notre Dame at Virginia Tech and LSU-Florida. Plus, is the new redshirt rule a problem that needs fixing? And how LSU and Oregon can make October interesting.

For the first time in six years the Red River Shootout between Texas and Oklahoma is more than just a referendum on the Longhorns coach. Both teams are ranked and the winner emerges as the Big 12 favorite. USA Today national college football writer George Schroeder will be in Dallas on Saturday and he join AP's Ralph Russo to preview that game, Notre Dame at Virginia Tech and LSU-Florida. Plus, is the new redshirt rule a problem that needs fixing? And how LSU and Oregon can make October interesting.

For the first time in six years the Red River Shootout between Texas and Oklahoma is more than just a referendum on the Longhorns coach. Both teams are ranked and the winner emerges as the Big 12 favorite. USA Today national college football writer George Schroeder will be in Dallas on Saturday and he join AP's Ralph Russo to preview that game, Notre Dame at Virginia Tech and LSU-Florida. Plus, is the new redshirt rule a problem that needs fixing? And how LSU and Oregon can make October interesting.

For the first time in six years the Red River Shootout between Texas and Oklahoma is more than just a referendum on the Longhorns coach. Both teams are ranked and the winner emerges as the Big 12 favorite. USA Today national college football writer George Schroeder will be in Dallas on Saturday and he join AP's Ralph Russo to preview that game, Notre Dame at Virginia Tech and LSU-Florida. Plus, is the new redshirt rule a problem that needs fixing? And how LSU and Oregon can make October interesting.

Ever wanted to know how college football writers stay sane on the road during the long season? AP college football writer Ralph Russo visits with Scott Mayerowitz, host of the AP travel podcast Get Outta Here, with some college football-specific travel tips..

Joel Klatt from Fox Sports is not a fan of the AP college football poll, though he was once a voter. Klatt joins AP’s Ralph Russo to talk discuss why he think the poll is bad for college football. Ralph has a retort, of course. The two delve into confirmation bias and the competence of the voters. And they preview the weekend’s huge games between No. 4 Ohio State and No. 9 Penn State and No. 7 Stanford at No. 8 Notre Dame.

Ever wanted to know how college football writers stay sane on the road during the long season? AP college football writer Ralph Russo visits with Scott Mayerowitz, host of the AP travel podcast Get Outta Here, with some college football-specific travel tips..

Ever wanted to know how college football writers stay sane on the road during the long season? AP college football writer Ralph Russo visits with Scott Mayerowitz, host of the AP travel podcast Get Outta Here, with some college football-specific travel tips..

Joel Klatt from Fox Sports is not a fan of the AP college football poll, though he was once a voter. Klatt joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk discuss why he think the poll is bad for college football. Ralph has a retort, of course. The two delve into confirmation bias and the competence of the voters. And they preview the weekend's huge games between No. 4 Ohio State and No. 9 Penn State and No. 7 Stanford at No. 8 Notre Dame.

Joel Klatt from Fox Sports is not a fan of the AP college football poll, though he was once a voter. Klatt joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk discuss why he think the poll is bad for college football. Ralph has a retort, of course. The two delve into confirmation bias and the competence of the voters. And they preview the weekend's huge games between No. 4 Ohio State and No. 9 Penn State and No. 7 Stanford at No. 8 Notre Dame.

Joel Klatt from Fox Sports is not a fan of the AP college football poll, though he was once a voter. Klatt joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk discuss why he think the poll is bad for college football. Ralph has a retort, of course. The two delve into confirmation bias and the competence of the voters. And they preview the weekend's huge games between No. 4 Ohio State and No. 9 Penn State and No. 7 Stanford at No. 8 Notre Dame.

Ever wanted to know how college football writers stay sane on the road during the long season? AP college football writer Ralph Russo visits with Scott Mayerowitz, host of the AP travel podcast Get Outta Here, with some college football-specific travel tips..

Ever wanted to know how college football writers stay sane on the road during the long season? AP college football writer Ralph Russo visits with Scott Mayerowitz, host of the AP travel podcast Get Outta Here, with some college football-specific travel tips..

Joel Klatt from Fox Sports is not a fan of the AP college football poll, though he was once a voter. Klatt joins AP's Ralph Russo to talk discuss why he think the poll is bad for college football. Ralph has a retort, of course. The two delve into confirmation bias and the competence of the voters. And they preview the weekend's huge games between No. 4 Ohio State and No. 9 Penn State and No. 7 Stanford at No. 8 Notre Dame.

The game of the weekend in college football is in the Pac-12, where No. 7 Stanford visits No. 20 Oregon. We’ll preview Cardinal vs. Ducks with Chantel Jennings, national college football writer with The Athletic, and talk about the Ducks quarterback Justin Herbert. The unheralded hometown recruit has a chance to surge into the Heisman Trophy conversation. Plus, what’s wrong at USC and who could emerge as the favorite in a muddled Pac-12 South? And which fans of a team with a new coach should be most disturbed by the poor start. Jennings also wrote about the radio station that played a national title game between Nebraska and Michigan in 1997. Really.

The game of the weekend in college football is in the Pac-12, where No. 7 Stanford visits No. 20 Oregon. We'll preview Cardinal vs. Ducks with Chantel Jennings, national college football writer with The Athletic, and talk about the Ducks quarterback Justin Herbert. The unheralded hometown recruit has a chance to surge into the Heisman Trophy conversation. Plus, what's wrong at USC and who could emerge as the favorite in a muddled Pac-12 South? And which fans of a team with a new coach should be most disturbed by the poor start. Jennings also wrote about the radio station that played a national title game between Nebraska and Michigan in 1997. Really.

The game of the weekend in college football is in the Pac-12, where No. 7 Stanford visits No. 20 Oregon. We'll preview Cardinal vs. Ducks with Chantel Jennings, national college football writer with The Athletic, and talk about the Ducks quarterback Justin Herbert. The unheralded hometown recruit has a chance to surge into the Heisman Trophy conversation. Plus, what's wrong at USC and who could emerge as the favorite in a muddled Pac-12 South? And which fans of a team with a new coach should be most disturbed by the poor start. Jennings also wrote about the radio station that played a national title game between Nebraska and Michigan in 1997. Really.

The game of the weekend in college football is in the Pac-12, where No. 7 Stanford visits No. 20 Oregon. We'll preview Cardinal vs. Ducks with Chantel Jennings, national college football writer with The Athletic, and talk about the Ducks quarterback Justin Herbert. The unheralded hometown recruit has a chance to surge into the Heisman Trophy conversation. Plus, what's wrong at USC and who could emerge as the favorite in a muddled Pac-12 South? And which fans of a team with a new coach should be most disturbed by the poor start. Jennings also wrote about the radio station that played a national title game between Nebraska and Michigan in 1997. Really.

The game of the weekend in college football is in the Pac-12, where No. 7 Stanford visits No. 20 Oregon. We'll preview Cardinal vs. Ducks with Chantel Jennings, national college football writer with The Athletic, and talk about the Ducks quarterback Justin Herbert. The unheralded hometown recruit has a chance to surge into the Heisman Trophy conversation. Plus, what's wrong at USC and who could emerge as the favorite in a muddled Pac-12 South? And which fans of a team with a new coach should be most disturbed by the poor start. Jennings also wrote about the radio station that played a national title game between Nebraska and Michigan in 1997. Really.

Steve Coughlin, better known as Stanford Steve on ESPN’s SportsCenter with Scott Van Pelt, joins AP’s Ralph Russo to preview week three of the college football season. We’ll get his picks on Ohio State-TCU, LUS-Auburn and USC-Texas. Plus, Coughlin talks about his interesting road to ESPN, from star high school football player with NFL dreams to Stanford to wondering what happens after football when he was just a senior in college.

Steve Coughlin, better known as Stanford Steve on ESPN's SportsCenter with Scott Van Pelt, joins AP's Ralph Russo to preview week three of the college football season. We'll get his picks on Ohio State-TCU, LUS-Auburn and USC-Texas. Plus, Coughlin talks about his interesting road to ESPN, from star high school football player with NFL dreams to Stanford to wondering what happens after football when he was just a senior in college.

Steve Coughlin, better known as Stanford Steve on ESPN's SportsCenter with Scott Van Pelt, joins AP's Ralph Russo to preview week three of the college football season. We'll get his picks on Ohio State-TCU, LUS-Auburn and USC-Texas. Plus, Coughlin talks about his interesting road to ESPN, from star high school football player with NFL dreams to Stanford to wondering what happens after football when he was just a senior in college.

Steve Coughlin, better known as Stanford Steve on ESPN's SportsCenter with Scott Van Pelt, joins AP's Ralph Russo to preview week three of the college football season. We'll get his picks on Ohio State-TCU, LUS-Auburn and USC-Texas. Plus, Coughlin talks about his interesting road to ESPN, from star high school football player with NFL dreams to Stanford to wondering what happens after football when he was just a senior in college.

Steve Coughlin, better known as Stanford Steve on ESPN's SportsCenter with Scott Van Pelt, joins AP's Ralph Russo to preview week three of the college football season. We'll get his picks on Ohio State-TCU, LUS-Auburn and USC-Texas. Plus, Coughlin talks about his interesting road to ESPN, from star high school football player with NFL dreams to Stanford to wondering what happens after football when he was just a senior in college.

The first big test for Jimbo Fisher at Texas A&M comes from a familiar rival: No. 2 Clemson comes to College Station to give the Aggies a sense of how far away they are from being and elite team. Expectations are modest, says Max Olson of The Athletic. Olson join AP’s Ralph Russo to preview A&M-Clemson and the rest of week 2. Plus, where do Texas and Florida State go after opening losses and why Alabama needs Jalen Hurts more than he needs the Tide.

The first big test for Jimbo Fisher at Texas A&M comes from a familiar rival: No. 2 Clemson comes to College Station to give the Aggies a sense of how far away they are from being and elite team. Expectations are modest, says Max Olson of The Athletic. Olson join AP's Ralph Russo to preview A&M-Clemson and the rest of week 2. Plus, where do Texas and Florida State go after opening losses and why Alabama needs Jalen Hurts more than he needs the Tide.

The first big test for Jimbo Fisher at Texas A&M comes from a familiar rival: No. 2 Clemson comes to College Station to give the Aggies a sense of how far away they are from being and elite team. Expectations are modest, says Max Olson of The Athletic. Olson join AP's Ralph Russo to preview A&M-Clemson and the rest of week 2. Plus, where do Texas and Florida State go after opening losses and why Alabama needs Jalen Hurts more than he needs the Tide.

The first big test for Jimbo Fisher at Texas A&M comes from a familiar rival: No. 2 Clemson comes to College Station to give the Aggies a sense of how far away they are from being and elite team. Expectations are modest, says Max Olson of The Athletic. Olson join AP's Ralph Russo to preview A&M-Clemson and the rest of week 2. Plus, where do Texas and Florida State go after opening losses and why Alabama needs Jalen Hurts more than he needs the Tide.

The first big test for Jimbo Fisher at Texas A&M comes from a familiar rival: No. 2 Clemson comes to College Station to give the Aggies a sense of how far away they are from being and elite team. Expectations are modest, says Max Olson of The Athletic. Olson join AP's Ralph Russo to preview A&M-Clemson and the rest of week 2. Plus, where do Texas and Florida State go after opening losses and why Alabama needs Jalen Hurts more than he needs the Tide.