MORE FROM Bill Bender

Pickerington, Ohio, gets its moment with Ohio State's CFP title game appearance

Six Ohio State players hail from a small-ish suburb of Columbus, including defensive stars Ty Hamilton, Jack Sawyer and Sonny Styles.

Marcus Freeman's cool factor keeps elevating Notre Dame's brand

Ohio State has been the program to beat in the Midwest for a while, but the Irish have a chance to re-establish themselves as a peer to the Buckeyes on Monday.

Emeka Egbuka keeps focus on title, not records, ahead of Notre Dame clash

The senior wide receiver is poised to become Ohio State's all-time leader in catches and possibly yards on Monday night, but all he wants is a national title.

Jim Tressel says one key for Marcus Freeman has been being 'true to himself'

Former Ohio State coach Jim Tressel has a vested interest in the CFP title game not only with the Buckeyes, but also former Buckeye Marcus Freeman, who played for him from 2004-08.

Comparing Ohio State and Notre Dame's all-time rosters of NFL players

The two schools have combined to put 24 players in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

NFL playoff picks for divisional weekend: Bills, Chiefs set up epic AFC title game

Bill Bender breaks down his divisional-round NFL picks, including the Bills upsetting the Ravens and the Chiefs handling the Texans.

TSN Archives: Inside Pickerington, Ohio's modern-day football factory

Jack Sawyer put Pickerington, Ohio, back on the map, but this small suburb has been been producing NFL players for a while. A republication of our story from 2018.

Four fixes for the CFP, including playing the championship game on New Year's Day

The 12-team playoff has been a success, but a few tweaks can make it even better.

NFL playoff picks for wild-card weekend: Rams upset Vikings, Eagles run past Packers

Bill Bender breaks down his wild-card weekend NFL picks, including the Rams upsetting the Vikings and the Chargers handling the Texans.

Jack Sawyer becomes the perfect Buckeyes legend in victory over Texas

The kid who grew up just outside of Columbus has Ohio State on the brink of a national title after a game-sealing touchdown in the Cotton Bowl.

Five most important players in Ohio State-Texas Cotton Bowl matchup

The stars for each team will need to shine in order to advance to the national championship.

You can have faith in Marcus Freeman, Notre Dame after thrilling win over Penn State

Marcus Freeman and Notre Dame overcame injuries and a fourth-quarter deficit to land in the national championship game.

James Franklin gets another chance to add a 'big' win to his Penn State resume

Adam Breneman, the former Penn State tight end and CBS Sports analyst, says James Franklin is in position to write a storybook ending.

Five most important players in Penn State-Notre Dame Orange Bowl matchup

One team will emerge from the CFP semifinal with a chance to end a 30-plus year national championship drought.

Unbeaten Ohio State women's basketball team prepared for Big Ten 'juggernaut' schedule

Unbeaten Ohio State faces No. 25 Michigan on Wednesday in one of many tough battles ahead in the brutal Big Ten.

Picks against the spread for Notre Dame-Penn State, Texas-Ohio State CFP semis

Tough defenses will be on display at the College Football Playoff semifinals on Thursday and Friday.

NFL playoff QB power rankings: The best and worst starters in 2025

Once again, Patrick Mahomes sits atop our NFL playoff QB power rankings. See the full list heading into the 2025 postseason.

NFL picks, predictions for Week 18: Lions, Broncos win marquee matchups

Bill Bender breaks down his Week 18 NFL picks, including the Broncos and Lions winning pivotal matchups.

Bowl season winners & losers: Cam Ward, coach fight, Pop-Tarts, opt-outs

The College Football Playoff has taken center stage, but that hasn't been all of the excitement this postseason.

Marcus Freeman's formula for a championship comes from his old coach at Ohio State

Marcus Freeman played for Jim Tressel at Ohio State, and now he has his Fighting Irish using 'Tressel Ball' to get within two wins of a long-awaited national championship.

Ohio State the unquestioned favorite after steamrolling Oregon at Rose Bowl

The Buckeyes are looking like the national championship team some predicted in the preseason with its dazzling array of talent.

College Football Playoff picks, predictions against the spread for 2025 CFP quarterfinal games

Sporting News' expert picks and predictions for the 2024 College Football Playoff quarterfinals, from the Fiesta Bowl to Sugar Bowl.

Boise State shows the Group of 5 belongs in a 12-team playoff

There is no guarantee College Football Playoff fields after next season will include a representative from the Group of 5, but Boise State's performance, even in a loss, should make the decision on future formats a no-brainer.

Will bowls hold on to CFP quarterfinals? Peach Bowl CEO weighs in

Gary Stokan says it would be hard for colleges to put on major football events during the holidays.

Re-ranking the eight teams remaining in the College Football Playoff

The betting favorite does not crack the top four.

Caitlin Clark is The Sporting News Female Athlete of the Year

Caitlin Clark didn't win a national championship, make the Olympic team or get voted the MVP of the WNBA in 2024. What she did was expand the game of at every level.

NFL picks, predictions for Week 17: Commanders, Vikings win marquee matchups

Bill Bender breaks down his Week 17 NFL picks, including the Commanders and Vikings winning pivotal NFC matchups.

Despite first-round blowouts, College Football Playoff loaded with intriguing matchups

The first round of the College Football Playoff saw several blowouts, but that leaves fans with a slate of epic matchups in the next round.

Ohio State turns things around with convincing blowout of Tennessee

Momentum was clearly not on Ohio State's side entering the College Football Playoff, but the Buckeyes were dominant in securing a Rose Bowl rematch with Oregon.

Notre Dame-Indiana shows on-campus games rule, but tweaks still needed

The Irish were mostly dominant in what was a one-sided first-round matchup that showcased the highs – and potential lows – of the new first-round format. 

If Ohio State moves on from Ryan Day, these six coaches will be ones to watch

The big names Ohio State would look at have a common thread.

College football bowl picks, predictions for all 41 bowl and CFP games in 2024-25

Here's Sporting News' complete guide to the 2024-25 college football bowl season, including our expert picks and predictions for every game through the College Football Playoff first round.

Would an Ohio State national title erase Michigan loss? Maybe

The frustrations of the Ohio State fan base is reaching outrageous levels when it comes to losing to Michigan.

College football coaching carousel: Tracker for every FBS coaching change in 2024

2024 Consensus All-America team: Travis Hunter, Ashton Jeanty lead Unanimous selections

Travis Hunter and Ashton Jeanty were among the eight unanimous choices on the NCAA's Consensus All-American Team, which was announced Thursday. 

Colorado's Travis Hunter is The Sporting News 2024 Player of the Year

Travis Hunter made good and then some on his high school recruiting profile, which read 'Legitimately CB1 and WR1'.

Ohio State record vs. SEC teams: Will Buckeyes' bowl struggles continue in College Football Playoff?

NFL picks, predictions for Week 16: Eagles, Buccaneers win marquee matchups

Bill Bender breaks down his Week 16 NFL picks, including the Eagles and Buccaneers winning pivotal NFC matchups.

The Sporting News 2024 College Football All-America Team

Travis Hunter won the Heisman Trophy after his two-way stardom for Colorado. So where to put him on an All-America team?

Ryan Day record at Ohio State vs. top five teams, top-10 teams and Penn State

Ryan Day has a history of struggling against high-end competition during his time at Ohio State.

Picks against the spread for College Football Playoff's four first-round games

Winter weather is likely to be a factor at three of the four sites this weekend.

Travis Hunter vs. Charles Woodson stats: How Colorado's two-way star compares to 1997 Heisman legend

Travis Hunter could become the first full-time two-way player to win the Heisman Trophy. Here's how he compares to Charles Woodson, the last and only defensive player to win college football's top honor, and other two-way players.

Joe Theismann talks Army-Navy

Former college and NFL legend Joe Theisman talked to Sporting News about giving back to military families and previewed the annual Army vs Navy clash.

Will Bill Belichick win at UNC? Bill Walsh's Stanford swan song offers hints

This is a reversal of the usual narrative when it comes to legendary coaches in college football and the NFL. Bill Walsh's 1990s return to Stanford might serve as a preview for The Hoodie in Chapel Hill.

NFL picks, predictions for Week 15: Eagles, Lions win marquee matchups

Bill Bender breaks down his Week 15 NFL picks, including the Eagles and Lions winning potential Super Bowl previews.

College Football Playoff expert bracket: Oregon storms to first national title

Sporting News' Bill Bender breaks down the 2024 College Football Playoff bracket with predictions for every game, from the first round to the CFP national championship game.

Ranking the 2024 College Football Playoff teams 1-12, from Oregon to SMU

No, the College Football Playoff rankings system doesn't make any sense. We decided to do our own ranking for all 12 teams in the 2024 bracket, starting with No. 1 Oregon down to the ACC entrants.

College football bowl announcements: Tracking the 2024-25 schedule

See who will fill the 35 bowl games and College Football Playoff slots.

Army vs. Navy game: CBS announces deal keeping 'America's Game' on network through 2038

CBS has carried the Army-Navy game since 1996.

Final projections for CFP field, 35 bowl games for 2024-25 postseason

The league championship games will determine the final slots for college football's postseason.

Projecting the final 12-team CFP bracket - SMU gets final spot over Alabama

Clemson's upset of SMU in the ACC title game should keep the SEC at three teams, with Alabama losing its spot to ACC runner-up SMU.

Making sense of the confusing College Football Playoff bracket

The 2024 College Football Playoff format is confusing. Here's a complete guide to understanding how the new 12-team bracket works, from the seeding to the bowl game participants.

Alabama's playoff fate could rest on outcome of ACC championship game

The final at-large bid could come down to Alabama at 9-3 and SMU at 11-2.

Sporting News Top 25: Oregon heads into College Football Playoff at No. 1

Oregon secured the Big Ten championship in its first year in the league, completing an undefeated regular season with a win over Penn State.

Georgia QB injury not the same situation as when Florida State lost Jordan Travis

Florida State was left out of the College Football Playoff last season primarily because it lost its starting quarterback. While Georgia lost Carson Beck against Texas, the similarities end there.

What happens to SMU if it loses the ACC title game? A CFP debate with Alabama

SMU controls its own destiny as it tries to reach the first 12-team College Football Playoff. A win in the ACC title game gets the Mustangs in, but a loss will lead to a committee debate, likely against Alabama.

How will championship weekend affect Ohio State's seeding for CFP?

Ohio State is likely assured of a first-round home game in the College Football Playoff.

College football pool picks for conference championship pick'em games

Nine conference championship games highlight the final weekend of the 2024 college football regular season. 

NFL picks, predictions for Week 14: Seahawks, Bengals win marquee matchups

Bill Bender breaks down his Week 14 NFL picks, including the Seahawks and Bengals winning under-the-radar marquee matchups.

Texas, Oregon, Michigan among winners of early Signing Day

The early signing period had predictable winners, but also some losers in Oklahoma and Florida State.

Alabama vs. Miami, Ohio State vs. Tennessee and more CFP rankings debates

The College Football Playoff committee unveiled its latest rankings before Championship Weekend and tipped its hand for what we will likely see on Selection Sunday.

Projections for all 35 college bowl games, plus the 12-team playoff

There are several matchups we would opt-in to watch outside of the first 12-team College Football Playoff.

Who ya got? Alabama-Miami debate will be central in CFP rankings reveal

Alabama and Miami appear to be vying for the final at-large bid of the 12-team College Football Playoff. Sporting News breaks down the arguments for both teams.

Picks against the spread for league title games, including Texas-Georgia, Penn-St.-Oregon

Conference championship weekend features five games that will have a direct impact on the 12-team College Football Playoff picture.

College Football Playoff projection: Alabama is back in, Miami falls out

The final spot in the first 12-team bracket could come down to 9-3 Alabama vs. 10-2 Miami.

Michigan stuns Ohio State, likely knocks Buckeyes into at-large pool of CFP

No. 2 Ohio State has little chance to reach the Big Ten title game after suffering a second loss and will likely be in the at-large pool of the College Football Playoff.

Sporting News Top 25: Oregon, Texas head into championship week at Nos. 1 and 2

Oregon and Texas are showing that stepping in conference does not appear to be difficult.

SEC championship prediction for Georgia vs. Texas rematch in Atlanta

This could be the second of three matchups this season for the new SEC rivals.

Ohio State, Ryan Day at a loss to explain what happened and what's next

The post-game fight is a distraction from the newly posed psychological test for Ohio State, which lost the most important game of the season and now has to prepare for a run in the College Football Playoff. 

Updated Big Ten standings, tiebreaker scenarios for conference title game

Oregon is in the Big Ten championship game. Ohio State can join the Ducks with a win over Michigan.

Big Ten championship scenarios: Ohio State, Penn State, IU still in the mix

There are three teams still with a shot to face Oregon for the Big Ten title on Dec. 7.

Big 12 championship scenarios, explained: How Colorado, Arizona State and more can reach 2024 title game

SEC Championship Game scenarios explained: Georgia, Texas, Texas A&M in mix

When Texas meets Texas A&M on Saturday, a berth in the SEC title game will be at stake.

Georgia's 8-overtime win over Georgia Tech should guarantee CFP bid

Rivalry Week delivered its first thriller on Black Friday. 

Breaking down the Big 12 standings, tiebreakers and remaining schedules

Will second-year coach Deion Sanders lead Colorado to the Big 12 championship game?

Picks against the spread for Top 25 games, including Texas-Texas A&M

The old Southwest Conference and Big 12 rivals have reunited in the SEC and will play for the first time since 2011.

NFL picks, predictions for Week 13: Eagles, Steelers win marquee matchups

Bill Bender breaks down his Week 13 NFL picks, including the Eagles continuing to roll and the Steelers getting back on track.

Week 14 college football pool picks, grid projections and expert CFB predictions for Saturday pick'em games

NFL picks for Thanksgiving: Lions too good, Dolphins-Packers to play tight one

Bill Bender breaks down his Thanksgiving NFL picks.

JuJu Watkins follows Caitlin Clark as next State Farms spokesperson

USC star JuJu Watkins is at the head of the class for the next wave of women's college basketball stars.

Five chaos scenarios for Rivalry Week that would blow up the 12-team CFP

Five rivalry games could create more chaos in Week 14.

College Football Playoff Projection: Tennessee, Arizona State, SMU move in

A wild Week 13 caused a major shakeup in our projected field for the College Football Playoff.

Bowl projections for 12-team playoff and 35 other matchups in 2024-25

The championship games on Dec. 7 will dictate what could be some amazing first-round games in the CFP.

Sporting News Top 25: Ohio State, Notre Dame bury upstarts in Week 13

Undefeateds Indiana and Army ran into bullies from Ohio State and Notre Dame, and the latter two could collide in an epic playoff battle in December.

Updated 2024 SEC tiebreakers for Georgia, Tennessee and more

There are eight teams still fighting for a spot in the SEC championship game in Atlanta with three weeks to play.

SMU clinches ACC championship game berth; Miami, Clemson still alive

Breaking down the race for the ACC championship game in Charlotte.

Indiana misses its big chance against Ohio State. Will Hoosiers get another?

Curt Cignetti is still confident his team will be in the College Football Playoff despite a disappointing performance in a 38-15 loss to Ohio State.

Ohio State moves one step closer to Oregon rematch with blowout of Indiana

The Buckeyes overcame a slow start and hammered No. 5 Indiana 38-15 on Saturday.

Last time Indiana beat Ohio State in football: Revisiting the 1988 blowout in Bloomington

Breaking down the Browns' 2024 schedule

Cleveland has arguably the toughest schedule in the NFL in 2024. Check out what makes it so difficult ahead of a make-or-break season for Deshaun Watson.

Football's first family of coaches: Jack, Jim and John Harbaugh set the standard

Here is a closer look at the coaching accomplishments of Jack, Jim and John Harbaugh.

No. 1 QB recruit Bryce Underwood flips from LSU to Michigan

Michigan gets some good news in a down season with Underwood's commitment to the 2025 class.

Week 13 college football pool picks, grid projections for pick'em games

A pair of Big 12 games will go a long way in determining who reaches the conference championship at Jerry World on Dec. 7.

NFL picks, predictions for Week 12: Packers, Chargers win marquee matchups

Bill Bender breaks down his Week 12 NFL picks, including the 49ers and Ravens continuing their struggles.

College Football Playoff bracket: Sorting out the bubble by Big Ten, SEC brands

After three sets of rankings, the Big Ten and SEC have three at-large bids apiece. Will that hold?

Picks against the spread for Top 25 games, leading with Indiana-Ohio State

The matchup between the Hoosiers and Buckeyes will clear up the Big Ten championship picture. Ohio State is a double-digit favorite and expected to continue its winning streak in the series.

College football bowl projections for CFP games and 35 other matchups

Three SEC teams may have to play road games in the first round of the College Football Playoff.

College Football Playoff projections: Georgia moves in, Tennessee moves out

It wouldn't be a College Football Playoff race without controversy. 

What Georgia's win against Tennessee means for SEC, College Football Playoff

Carson Beck bounced back and pushed Georgia passed the Vols and back into the CFP field.

Sporting News Top 25 after Week 12 sets up big games for Indiana, Arizona St.

With one week left in the regular season, Indiana and Arizona State are playing in the two most significant games of Week 13.

What if Auburn had hired Deion Sanders? An alternate history of the Tigers

Auburn was looking at Deion Sanders and Hugh Freeze two years ago to replace Bryan Harsin. What would have happened if Coach Prime, Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter came to the SEC?

Week 12 college football pool picks, grid projections and expert CFB predictions for Saturday pick'em games

Looking for an upset this week? Keep an eye on unranked Kansas visiting No. 6 BYU.

Redrafting the top quarterbacks from stacked 2020 draft class

The 2020 NFL Draft QB class is stacked with at least five franchise passers. How would the top signal-callers be selected if the draft was held today? Bill Bender breaks down his picks.

NFL picks, predictions for Week 11: Chiefs, Ravens win marquee matchups

Bill Bender breaks down his Week 11 NFL picks, including the Chiefs continuing their quest for a perfect season and the Ravens slowing down the Steelers.

College picks against the spread for Week 12, including Tennessee-Georgia, Utah-Colorado

Georgia will face its fourth Top 10 team of the season when it hosts No. 7 Tennessee on Saturday.

SEC chaos has Georgia is OUT, and Bama and Ole Miss in

The reigning national champs are suddenly on the outside looking in after being bumped by Boise State.

12-team College Football Playoff bracket has a major seeding problem

Why don't the CFP rankings match the bracket? Fans will be asking this question in earnest in December.

College football bowl projects, College Football Playoff predictions after Week 11

The bowl matchups have shifted after an eventful Week 11.

Alabama blows out LSU, shakes up SEC tight race

Seven SEC teams have two or fewer losses after Week 11, setting up for a wild race not only for the SEC championship game but also the College Football Playoff.

Sporting News Top 25: Will Indiana, Notre Dame hold off two-loss SEC teams?

If you thought the campaign season was over, just wait until Tuesday. Indiana is the swing state in the College Football Playoff race.

Projecting the College Football Playoff: Georgia is out, Ole Miss is in

Georgia becomes the first team out after a 28-10 loss sends it tumbling to fourth place in the SEC.

Week 11 college football pool picks, grid projections and expert CFB predictions for Saturday pick'em games

NFL picks, predictions for Week 10: Lions, Eagles win marquee matchups

Bill Bender breaks down his Week 10 NFL picks, including the Lions continuing their hot streak in Houston and the Eagles putting away the Cowboys.

Breaking down Lamar Jackson and Joe Burrow's burgeoning rivalry

Lamar Jackson and Joe Burrow will continue their rivalry on 'Thursday Night Football' in Week 10. Who has the edge so far between the two franchise QBs?

College football bowl projections and playoff predictions

Will Dan Lanning get another crack at his old boss Kirby Smart in an Oregon-Georgia championship game?

College Football Playoff bubble watch: ND, Alabama in; SMU Texas A&M out

Why are Alabama and Notre Dame in? Who are the four teams that could burst that bubble over the coming weeks? Sporting News looks at the bubble. 

Alabama's path to the playoff: What the Tide need to do to reach CFP in 2024

Alabama is looking for its ninth playoff appearance in 11 years.

Colorado's path to the playoff: Big 12 title best bet, but at-large still in play

Colorado is tied for second in the Big 12 standings with four weeks to play.

Picks against the spread for Week 11, including LSU-Alabama, Georgia-Ole Miss

The SEC takes center stage this weekend with two games that will shape the College Football Playoff race.

College Football Playoff projection: Bama, ND get in, SMU, Texas A&M on bubble

There were some shakeups in our forecast before Tuesday's initial rankings release.

Sporting News Top 25: Oregon, Georgia, Ohio State lead the way

Colorado climbs to No. 21 and will be a factor in the race for the Big 12 championship game.

Big Ten standings: What Ohio State's win against Penn State means for Big Ten, College Football Playoff

What a difference a week makes in Columbus. Ohio State shook off an uneven performance against Nebraska and has vaulted itself right into the national championship conversation.

Week 10 college football pool picks, grid projections and expert CFB predictions for Saturday pick'em games

NFL picks, predictions for Week 9: Lions, Cowboys win marquee matchups

Bill Bender breaks down his Week 9 NFL picks, including the Lions continuing their hot streak in Green Bay and the Cowboys getting back on track against the Falcons.

Why No. 4 Ohio State has fallen short of sky-high expectations to date

Is the pressure of an or-else season getting to Ohio State?

Ranking all 134 college football teams after Week 9, from Oregon to Kent St.

Army is the most interesting team in the nation as we enter November.

Against the spread picks for Ohio State-Penn State, Georgia-Florida and more

Who will cover in the fourth Top 5 matchup of the season?

Notre Dame, Texas A&M join the projected College Football Playoff field

Twenty five Power 4 schools enter November with less than three losses and will battle it out for 11 spots in the first 12-team tournament.

Sporting News Top 25: Penn State, Ohio State set for another Top 5 matchup

The first three top-five showdowns of the college football season have been epic. 

Sizing up a four-team Big Ten race with IU, Oregon, Penn State and Ohio State

Four teams – No. 1 Oregon (8-0), No. 3 Penn State (8-0), No. 4 Ohio State (7-1) and No. 13 Indiana (8-0) – are in a scramble for the Big Ten championship game and College Football Playoff.

A look inside the Cowobys-49ers rivalry, from the best moments to all-time record

The 49ers and Cowboys are set to renew their rivalry on 'Sunday Night Football' in Week 8. Relive the most memorable moments from these historic franchises.

PoolGenius Data Grid picks for college football's biggest Week 9 games

There are five matchups between ranked teams in Week 9 – including three matchups between SEC teams that will have an impact on the College Football Playoff race. 

Pitt's perfect start: It's been more than just the transfer portal for Pat Narduzzi

A new offensive coordinator, quarterback and running back have the Panthers' offense revitalized. And despite six wins in six games, the players are still looking for respect.

NFL picks, predictions for Week 8: Commanders, 49ers win marquee matchups

Bill Bender breaks down his Week 8 NFL picks, including the Commanders winning the battle of Rookie of the Year frontrunners and the 49ers getting back on track against the reeling Cowboys.

Jaxson Dart, Jalen Milroe among 16 finalists for Campbell Trophy

The National Football Foundation and College Football Hall of Fame announced the 16 finalists for the William V. Campbell Trophy – commonly known as the "Academic Heisman" – on Wednesday. 

QB shuffle, poor offense have cut Sherrone Moore's Michigan honeymoon short

With a loss to Michigan State on Saturday, Sherrone Moore could be on a hot seat heading into 2025 if the Wolverines do not experience improvement in the final five games.

Ranking all 134 teams, with Oregon checking in as a new No. 1 after Texas loss

Five teams on the outskirts of the Top 25 could work their way into the College Football Playoff discussion.

Breaking down the Vikings 2024 NFL schedule

Minnesota is looking to get back in the playoff picture with a rookie QB and revamped defense. Check out their path to a potential postseason berth.

College football picks against the spread for week 9

Three matchups between ranked teams in the SEC headline week 9 picks against the spread.

Who should be No. 1, Oregon or Georgia? SN goes with the Ducks after Week 8

Oregon is No. 1. The Ducks beat Purdue 35-0 on a short week after winning their top-five showdown against Ohio State in Week 7.

Georgia moves back into a top four seed in latest CFP projections

Alabama is out of the 12-team College Football Playoff. 

SEC reset: Georgia beats Texas, Bama loses again and league race tightens

Georgia responded like a champion at No. 1 Texas. Meanwhile, Alabama fell to Tennessee. The last two unbeatens in SEC play are ... LSU and Texas A&M?

Indiana routs Nebraska 56-7, enters College Football Playoff discussion

If the Hoosiers get to 11 wins, then they would be a virtual certainty to make the College Football Playoff.

Pressure builds around Kirby Smart ahead of matchup with No. 1 Texas

From shoving an opposing player to his players' off-field incidents to being expected to suffer his second loss this season, Georgia coach Kirby Smart under the gone as he prepares to face top-ranked Texas.

Week 8 college football pool picks, grid projections and expert CFB predictions for Saturday pick'em games

Sporting News 2024 Midseason All-America college football team

The SEC, Big Ten and ACC had six players each on this year's Midseason All-American Team. There also were nine Group of 5 players – a nod to some outstanding performances all over the FBS. 

Red Grange did for football what Caitlin Clark has done for women's basketball

Illinois legend Red Grange's most famous game came 100 years ago when he lit up Michigan. The Illini will honor the star this weekend who brought college football's popularity with him to the fledgling National Football League.

NFL picks, predictions for Week 7: Lions, Chiefs win marquee matchups

Bill Bender breaks down his Week 7 NFL picks, including the Lions getting a big road win over the Vikings and the Chiefs staying perfect in a Super Bowl rematch vs. the 49ers.

Ranking all 134 CFB teams, and taking a peek at season's biggest risers and fallers

There are some high risers, and big fallers, since our preseason 134 through the first half of the season.

Picks against the spread for Week 8, including Georgia-Texas, Alabama-Tennessee

The SEC headlines Week 8 with a blockbuster doubleheader that will shake up the Top 10 rankings.

College Football Playoff projections: Seeds shuffle after Big Ten clashes

Oregon moves up to the No. 2 seed after its thrilling win over Ohio State.

Sporting News Top 25: Oregon, Penn State trail No. 1 Texas at the top

There are eight power conference unbeaten teams, and four lead the Sporting News Top 25.

Dillon Gabriel, No. 3 Oregon edge No. 2 Ohio State in new Big Ten classic

Will we see a rematch in Indianapolis? Ohio State came up short on the road as Ryan Day's record against Top 5 teams falls to 2-6.

Texas records a Red River rout; sets up Top 5 clash with Georgia next week

Four takeaways from Texas' 34-3 blowout of Oklahoma, including the Quinn-Arch question and next week's SEC showdown.

Heisman Trophy odds 2024: Why Travis Hunter trails new favorite Ashton Jeanty and his 'video game stats'

Dillon Gabriel has seen everything in his career, and has succeeded through it all

The Oregon QB experienced the COVID season of 2020, plus dramatic changes in NIL, the transfer portal and realignment. On the field, he has stayed focused and thrived among the chaos.

Why Bengals coach Zac Taylor is on hot seat after 1-4 start

Bill Bender explains why Bengals coach Zac Taylor needs to turn things around quickly to save his job.

Week 7 college football pool picks, grid projections and expert CFB predictions for Saturday pick'em games

Ohio State, Penn State face first big-game travel challenges in new Big Ten

Big Ten teams traditionally struggled when visiting Pac-12 schools. Now, the stakes are higher as the contests become league games.

Picks against the spread for Week 7, including Ohio State-Oregon, Texas-Oklahoma

The top-five Big Ten showdown between No. 2 Ohio State and No. 3 Oregon is the highlight of a fantastic Week 7 college football schedule. 

NFL picks, predictions for Week 6: Lions, Ravens win marquee matchups

Bill Bender breaks down his Week 6 NFL picks, including the Lions getting a big road win over the Cowboys and the Ravens winning the Beltway Battle vs. the Commanders.

Ranking all 134 college football teams after Week 6's flurry of upsets

Losses are piling up among some of the top teams in the power conferences.

Revisiting last Cowboys-Steelers prime-time game in 1982

The Steelers and Cowboys resume their legendary rivalry on 'Sunday Night Football' in Week 5, 42 years after their last prime-time game. Bill Bender looks back at that Week 1 thriller.

Saturday of upsets sets up spectacular slate of Week 7 college football games

Oregon-Ohio State and Penn State-USC are just two of many games that will be highly anticipated.

Week 6 upsets shake up the projected College Football Playoff bracket

Three SEC home teams beat Top 10 opponents in a wild Saturday that shifted the CFP race.

College football Top 25 rankings for Week 7 after Upset Saturday

How do you even begin to make sense of what happened in Week 6? 

Ohio State dominates Iowa, sets up Big Ten showdown with No. 6 Oregon

Ohio State started slow but eventually buried Iowa 35-7 in advance of next week's heavyweight fight with Oregon.

Down goes No. 1 - How Alabama's loss to Vandy impacts SEC, CFP race

In the BCS era or College Football Playoff era, the Crimson Tide would be cooked.

Expert college football pool picks for Week 6

These picks will help you dominate your college football pick'em pool.

Revisiting the Cowboys-Steelers rivalry: Super Bowls, Hall of Famers and more

The Cowboys and Steelers defined the NFL in the late 1970's, and the rivalry has endured.

College football picks, predictions against the spread for Week 6

A rematch of last season's national championship game is on the docket this weekend.

Julian Edelman discusses Bill Belichick's future, Tom Brady's announcing role

Julian Edelman is convinced Bill Belichick is using this season as a learning experience for when he returns to the sideline.

NFL picks, predictions for Week 5: Bills, Cowboys get big road wins

Bill Bender breaks down his Week 5 NFL picks, including the Cowboys and Bills getting big road wins over Steelers and Texans.

Heisman Trophy odds: Jalen Milroe, Travis Hunter lead four-man race

The top four candidates through September have created an early race that is better than the usual quarterback derby. This is a true cross-country competition.

Ranking all 134 college football teams, from Alabama to Kennesaw State

The race toward the Big 12 championship may be the wildest among the Power 4 conferences.

Sporting News top 25 rankings for Week 6

Alabama surges after hanging on against Georgia, while the Big 12 undergoes a makeover at the top.

Projecting the CFB playoff, with Texas and Alabama at the top

Saturday's slate saw several top 20 teams lose major ground in the race for the 12-team playoff.

Alabama survives 28 point rally from Georgia and we want more

Georgia and Alabama treated fans to an absolute instant classic with a 41-34 game littered with big plays. And now we want to see it one more time.

Arch gets an A after slow start

Texas barely had the ball in the first quarter, but Arch Manning still had plenty of time to cook in his first SEC start.

Where Jim Harbaugh ranks among all-time winningest coaches

It might surprise some that Jim Harbaugh is one of the all-time winningest coaches in NFL history. Bill Bender breaks down the numbers.

Week 5 college football pool picks, grid projections and expert CFB predictions for Saturday pick'em games

Here are the college football grid projections for Week 5 to help you dominate your picks pool.

Georgia vs. Alabama odds, prediction, betting trends for top-five SEC showdown

Georgia and Alabama combined for half of the national championships in the four-team College Football Playoff era – and this game will set the tone for the SEC and 12-team CFP race.

Steve Sarkisian giving a masterclass on how to manage the Arch Manning hype

Steve Sarkisian has handled a delicate quarterback situation at Texas deftly thus far, and both Arch Manning and Quinn Ewers have excelled.

Week 4 NFL picks: Vikings & Bills get derailed by Packers & Ravens

Bill Bender breaks down his Week 4 NFL picks, including the Packers and Ravens slowing down the Vikings and Bills.

Who are the best coaching candidates to replace Mike McCarthy if he's let go in Dallas?

From Bill Belichick to Lincoln Riley, we break down the top coaching candidates to replace Mike McCarthy in Dallas if Jerry Jones lets him go.

Against the spread picks for Georgia-Alabama, Penn State-Illinois

No. 2 Georgia at No. 4 Alabama is the main event on a Week 5 college football schedule that features four games between ranked teams. 

Ranking all 134 college football teams, from Texas to Kent State

Texas stays No. 1, but could the winner of Georgia-Alabama leapfrog the Longhorns?

MNF features two Heisman-winning LSU quarterbacks in Joe Burrow, Jayden Daniels

LSU will be in the spotlight on Monday Night Football matchup between the Cincinnati Bengals and Washington Commanders, and Tigers' fans might have a few debates during the game.

College football top 25 rankings for Week 5: Texas holds No. 1 spot

It doesn't matter who the quarterback is at Texas. The Longhorns have dominated to date.

College Football Playoff bracket projection: UNLV, Utah join the party

The SEC has five locks in the 12-team field after four weeks.

Michigan-USC thriller proves Big Ten realignment was a good idea after all

This game was entertaining, head-scratching and thrilling down to the last drive – and it was settled in old-school, Big Ten fashion.

Week 4 college football pool picks, grid projections and expert CFB predictions for Saturday pick'em games

Tim Tebow addresses Billy Napier hot seat, what Florida Gators need to fix

Tim Tebow understands the pressure that comes with playing or coaching at Florida. 

How many teams are in the Big Ten now? Explaining the new-look conference for 2024 college football season

The Big Ten is nearly double its name heading into the 2024 college football season. 

Tennessee coach Josh Heupel's road to his emotional homecoming at Oklahoma

Heupel is the centerpiece of the buildup for Saturday's matchup between No. 6 Tennessee and No. 15 Oklahoma at Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium on Saturday. 

Why Florida State's Mike Norvell is not on the hot seat despite 0-3 start

Coming off an ACC championship, Florida State is winless and looks nothing like the top 10 team it was projected to be.

How many teams are in the SEC now? Explaining the new-look conference for 2024 college football season

Miller Moss waited his turn at USC, and now he leads the Trojans into the Big Ten

Rather than transfer to seek playing time, Miller Moss studied behind Caleb Williams for two years at USC. Now, he will lead his team into a showdown at Michigan.

College football picks, predictions against the spread for Week 4

Four enticing matchups between AP Top 25 teams highlight the Week 4 college football schedule. 

Week 3 NFL picks straight-up: Vikings, Ravens, Chargers win tough ones

Bill Bender breaks down his Week 3 NFL picks, including tough calls on the Vikings, Ravens, and Chargers.