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Finally-A-Friday, Week 7, Tonight’s Showdown in the Desert, Utah at Arizona State

Mark Haines on October 11, 2024

Game: 16 Utah at Arizona State

Game Time: 10:30 PM Eastern, 7:30 PM Pacific

TV: ESPN

The stage is set for a classic Big 12 showdown under the Friday night lights. Still licking its wounds from a humbling loss to Arizona, Utah heads to Tempe to face an unexpectedly potent Arizona State squad. It’s a clash of styles, a battle of wills, and a pivotal moment for both teams in the conference race.

The Utes: Wounded But Dangerous

Utah, known for its stifling defense and physicality, has been hit hard by injuries. The availability of star quarterback Cameron Rising remains a mystery, shrouded in the typical Whittinghamian secrecy. If Rising can’t go, it’ll be up to freshman Isaac Wilson to navigate a hostile environment and avoid the red zone woes that plagued him against Arizona.

The Sun Devils: A Desert Mirage or the Real Deal?

Arizona State, led by freshman quarterback sensation Sam Leavitt, has defied expectations with a 4-1 start. But their schedule has been soft, and Utah represents a significant step up in competition. Can Leavitt handle the pressure of a primetime matchup against a top-tier defense?

The Key Matchup: Utah’s D-Line vs. ASU’s O-Line

This game will be won in the trenches. Arizona State boasts a powerful rushing attack led by Cam Skattebo, but Utah’s defensive line is a force to be reckoned with. The battle between these two units will likely determine the outcome.

The X-Factor: Pac-12 After Dark Weirdness

It’s a Friday night game in Tempe, with all the unpredictable energy that comes with it. Expect the unexpected, as late kickoffs in the desert often lead to bizarre and chaotic moments.

The Stakes: High Noon in the Big 12

Both teams have something to prove. Utah needs to get back on track and show they’re still a contender, while Arizona State has a chance to make a statement and solidify their place in the conference hierarchy.

The Prediction: A Gritty, Defensive Slugfest

This game has all the makings of a low-scoring, hard-fought battle. Expect a heavy dose of running, bone-jarring tackles, and a few moments of pure, unadulterated Pac-12 After Dark madness. Ultimately, Utah’s experience and defensive prowess might give them the edge, but don’t be surprised if Arizona State pulls off the upset.

Got Comments? Post em here: Utah @ Arizona State Preview

Other Friday Games:

How about some great game intel, with a dose of insider savvy and a take on betting lines?

Targeting the Winners. This isn’t your average college football podcast. This is where the rubber meets the road, where the pigskin turns into profit. These guys aren’t just giving you picks; they’re diving deep into the trenches, analyzing the futures market, and breaking down the games with insider savvy that would make your bookie sweat.

Think of it as Moneyball, but with shoulder pads and touchdowns. We’re talking Xs and Os, mixed with a healthy dose of that good old-fashioned gambling wisdom. So, if you’re looking to turn your love of the game into a winning season, tune in every week. You’ll get the intel and the laughs, and maybe, just maybe, we’ll all walk away a little richer. Available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

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Finally a Friday! – Week 5 Friday Game Preview

Mark Haines on September 27, 2024

Virginia Tech at Miami: A Hurricane Brewing in the ACC

TV: ESPN

Game Time: 7:30 PM Eastern, 4:30 PM Pacific

Announcers: Anish Shroff, Andre Ware

Friday night’s showdown in Miami isn’t just another game; it’s a clash of narratives, a collision of ambition and adversity. The upstart Hokies, battered but unbowed, march into the eye of the storm, facing a Hurricanes squad riding a wave of hype and Heisman dreams.

The Underdog’s Gambit: Virginia Tech’s Fight for Relevance

For Brent Pry and his Hokies, this isn’t about the Vegas odds or the pundits’ predictions. It’s about proving they belong, about scratching and clawing for every inch of respect. They’ll need Kyron Drones to channel his inner Houdini, escaping Miami’s ferocious pass rush and delivering strikes to a receiving corps hungry for redemption.

Brayshul Tuten, the Hokies’ workhorse back, will be the battering ram against a Miami defense that prides itself on stopping the run. Every yard gained, every tackle broken, will be a testament to Virginia Tech’s grit.

Miami’s High-Flying Offense: A Symphony of Speed and Precision

Cam Ward, the Hurricanes’ maestro, conducts a breathtaking offensive symphony. His arm is a cannon, launching missiles to a fleet of receivers who turn every catch into a potential touchdown. The offensive line, a fortress of protection, allows Ward to dissect defenses with surgical precision.

But even the most dominant offenses have vulnerabilities. Virginia Tech’s defense, though depleted, will look to disrupt Miami’s rhythm and force Ward into mistakes he hasn’t made all season.

The Chess Match: Coaching Strategies Collide

This game isn’t just about the players on the field; it’s a battle of wits between the coaches. Brent Pry, the architect of Virginia Tech’s rebuild, will be looking to outsmart Shannon Dawson, the mastermind behind Miami’s offensive explosion. Can Pry devise a scheme to slow down the Hurricanes’ aerial assault? Will he gamble on blitzes, risking big plays in exchange for a chance to rattle Ward?

On the other hand, Lance Guidry, Miami’s defensive coordinator, will aim to exploit Virginia Tech’s offensive line woes. Can he dial up the pressure and force the Drones into turnovers? Will he stack the box to stop Tuten, daring the Hokies to beat them through the air?

Beyond the X’s and O’s: The Intangibles

This game is about more than schemes and statistics. It’s about heart, resilience, and the underdog’s hunger to prove the doubters wrong. Virginia Tech may be facing a hurricane, but they’re not going down without a fight. They’ll be playing for pride, for their coach, and for the maroon and orange faithful who believe in them.

The Verdict: A Test of Character

Miami may be the heavy favorite, but Virginia Tech has a chance to make this a game. They could turn this into a nail-biter if they can control the clock, establish the run, and force a few turnovers. But even if the scoreboard doesn’t go their way, a strong showing against a top-ranked opponent could be the spark that ignites their season.

Friday night’s clash in Miami is more than just a football game; it’s a test of character, a battle of wills. The Hokies are facing a hurricane, but they’re ready to weather the storm.

Washington vs. Rutgers: A Big Ten Baptism Under Friday Night Lights

Game Time: 8:00 PM Eastern, 5:00 PM Pacific

Network: Fox

Announcers: Tim Brando, Devin Gardner

The lights will be bright, the crowd will be raucous, and the stakes will be high as the Washington Huskies, fresh off their Pac-12 exodus, step into the Big Ten cauldron for their first conference game. It’s a Friday night showdown in Piscataway, and the Rutgers Scarlet Knights, undefeated and hungry to prove their mettle, are ready to welcome them with a blacked-out stadium and a historically stingy defense.

New Kids on the Block: Washington’s Big Ten Debut

This isn’t just another road game for Jedd Fisch and his Huskies. It’s a statement game, a chance to show the Big Ten that they’re not just here to make up the numbers. But it won’t be easy. The cross-country travel, the short week of preparation, and the unfamiliarity of the Big Ten environment all stack the deck against them.

The Huskies’ offense, still finding its footing under Fisch’s new system, will need to overcome its slow-starting tendencies. Quarterback Will Rogers, facing his first true road test as a Husky, must make quick decisions and accurate throws in a hostile environment. Rutgers ‘ stout defensive front will test the offensive line, a patchwork of new faces.

Rutgers’ Resurgence: Proving They Belong

Greg Schiano has the Scarlet Knights believing again. They’re 3-0, playing confidently, and ready to show the nation they’re a force to be reckoned with in the Big Ten. Their offense, led by the bruising Kyle Monangai and the improved Athan Kaliakmanis, is built to control the clock and wear down opponents. While not as dominant as in years past, their defense still boasts a strong secondary that could give Rogers fits.

The Quarterback Duel: Rogers vs. Kaliakmanis

This game could very well hinge on the performance of the quarterbacks. With his accuracy and decision-making, Will Rogers needs to establish a rhythm early and avoid the costly turnovers that have plagued him in the past. Athan Kaliakmanis, showing newfound confidence and poise, must make smart throws and convert key third downs to keep the chains moving.

The Battle in the Trenches

The trenches will be a war zone. Washington’s rebuilt offensive line, facing its toughest test yet, must give Rogers time to throw and open holes for Coleman. Rutgers’ defensive front, led by Aaron Lewis and Ifeanyi Maijeh, will be looking to disrupt the Huskies’ rhythm and force them into predictable passing situations.

The X-Factors

Special teams and turnovers could be the difference-makers in a game that could come down to the wire. Surprisingly, Washington has struggled on special teams this year, while Rutgers can potentially create big plays in the return game. Both quarterbacks will need to protect the ball and avoid the game-changing interception.

The Verdict: A Clash of Styles

This game promises to be a fascinating clash of styles. Washington’s explosive offense, led by Rogers and Coleman, will try to break through Rutgers’ stingy defense. The Scarlet Knights, meanwhile, will look to grind down the clock with their run game and force Washington into mistakes.

It’s a game that could go either way. Rutgers’ home-field advantage and ball-control style give them a slight edge, but Washington’s talent and potential for big plays make them a dangerous opponent. The team that executes its game plan better and avoids critical errors will likely emerge victorious.

Friday night’s showdown in Piscataway is more than just a football game; it’s a statement game for both teams. Washington wants to prove they belong in the Big Ten, while Rutgers wants to show they’re ready to compete with the conference’s best. Get ready – this one will be a fight to the finish.

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Finally-A-Friday – Week 4 Featured Friday Game Preview and Schedule

Mark Haines on September 20, 2024

No. 24 Illinois (3-0) at No. 22 Nebraska (3-0): The Big Ten’s Unlikely Prizefight

Television: Fox

Time: 8:00 p.m. Eastern, 5:00 p.m. Pacific

Announcers: Tim Brando, Devin Gardner

Picture this: Once relegated to the footnotes of Big Ten history, two teams are now squaring off in a Top 25 slugfest that has the college football world buzzing. This isn’t just a game; it’s a resurrection story times two.

Illinois and Nebraska. Last year, these names elicited shrugs. This year? They’re the talk of the town, each riding a wave of defensive dominance that would make the ghosts of the ’85 Bears nod in approval.

Let’s break it down:

Illinois: The Fighting Illini aren’t just fighting anymore; they’re conquering. They waltzed into Lawrence and knocked off a ranked Kansas team like it was a warm-up drill. Their defense? It’s a steel curtain that’s allowed a measly 26 points in three games. That’s not a statistic; that’s a statement.

Nebraska: Remember when the Cornhuskers were a punchline? Those days are gone. They didn’t just beat Deion Sanders’ Colorado; they embarrassed them on national television. Their defense has been stingier than a Depression-era banker, surrendering a mere 20 points this season.

Now, these two defensive juggernauts collide in Lincoln. The irresistible force meets the immovable object. It’s a game that promises more tension than a John Grisham novel and more hits than a Beatles anthology.

But here’s the real story: This isn’t just about football. It’s about redemption. It’s about two programs, written off by the pundits, now poised to reshape the Big Ten landscape. Every tackle, every touchdown, every decision isn’t just changing the scoreboard—it’s rewriting narratives.

Who emerges victorious? The team that doesn’t just play the game but rewrites its history.

Welcome to college football in 2024, where yesterday’s underdogs are today’s main event.

Friday Game Schedule

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“Finally-A-Friday!” Game Schedule and Featured Game Preview

Mark Haines on September 13, 2024

Tonight’s Game Schedule (All Times Pacific)

Tonight’s Featured Game: #20 Arizona at #14 Kansas State

Bill Snyder Family Stadium on the Campus of Kansas State University

Television: Fox

Time: 8:00 pm Easter / 5:00 pm Pacific

Announcers: Tim Brando, Kevin Gardner. Sideline: Josh Sims

The scoreboard might say “Game Preview,” but this ain’t no mere scrimmage. This is Arizona, swaggering into the lion’s den at Kansas State, undefeated but underestimated. Two young teams, both hungry, both with something to prove.

Arizona – The Underdogs

Arizona, they’re the underdogs with the chip on their shoulder. Their QB, Noah Fifita, had a rough outing last week, but this kid’s got ice in his veins. He’s completed 70% of his passes for over 3,500 yards. That’s the kind of quiet confidence that wins ball games.

Then there’s Tetairoa McMillan, the wide receiver who rewrote the record books in their season opener. This kid’s a human highlight reel, a one-man wrecking crew. When he’s got the ball, anything can happen.

But Kansas State, they’re no slouches. They’re ranked 15th for a reason. Their QB, Avery Johnson, is a dual-threat nightmare. He can throw, he can run, he keeps defenses guessing. And their running back, DJ Giddens, is a workhorse. He’s been racking up yards like it’s his job because, well, it is.

A Clash of Styles

This game is a chess match, a clash of styles. It pits Arizona’s explosive offense against Kansas State’s stingy defense, McMillan’s speed against their secondary, and Fifita’s cool under pressure against a crowd that’ll be roaring like wildfire.

The coaches know it, too. Arizona’s defensive coordinator, Duane Akina, is already sweating bullets over Johnson: “Quarterbacks with legs always put a lot of strain on defenses.” And Kansas State’s head coach, Chris Klieman, is well aware of McMillan’s threat: “He’s phenomenal.”

There’s also an injury hanging in the air. Arizona’s safety, Dalton Johnson, is questionable. That could be the crack in the dam that Kansas State needs.

But here’s the thing about underdogs: they bite. They’ve got nothing to lose and everything to gain. Arizona might be walking into a hostile environment, but they’re also walking in with a swagger. They’re not just looking for an upset, they’re looking to make a statement. Their potential is palpable, and it’s enough to make any fan hopeful and excited.

Coaches Hot Seat Take

The smart money’s on Kansas State, but don’t count Arizona out. This game’s got all the makings of a classic. It’s the kind of game that’ll be talked about for years to come, the kind of game that defines a season. Its unpredictability is what makes it so intriguing and engaging for any sports fan.

Get ready, folks. This game is going to be a wild ride.

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Friday Night Lights, College Football Preview: Upsets Brewing, Showdowns Looming, and Swagger Overflowing

Mark Haines on September 6, 2024

BYU and SMU Collide in a Big 12-ACC Showdown That’ll Leave You Buzzing

A Short Week, High Stakes, and a Whole Lotta Texas Swagger

Dallas, baby. Where else would you want to kick off a Friday night college football fiesta? This ain’t your grandpa’s BYU-SMU matchup, folks. We’ve got Big 12 ambition clashing with ACC aspirations, all under the dazzling Friday night lights.

BYU: The Cougars Ain’t Kitten Around

Kalani Sitake’s crew rolls into town with a swagger that says, “We’re Big 12 now, y’all.” They steamrolled Southern Illinois, but this isn’t Carbondale. Quarterback Jake Retzlaff looked sharp in Week 1, but can he sling it against a real defense? And let’s talk about that BYU run game – it’s like a two-headed monster with LJ Martin and Hinckley Ropati. SMU’s defense better be ready to rumble.

Sitake’s got his eye on:

SMU’s quarterback carousel: They’ve got two dudes back there, and Sitake’s defense needs to be ready for anything.
Finishing drives: The Cougars left some points on the field last week. That won’t fly against a hungry Mustangs squad.
Special teams: It’s not glamorous, but those return yards matter. Sitake wants to see some juice.

SMU: Mustangs Lookin’ to Gallop

Rhett Lashlee’s Mustangs are the Vegas favorites, and they’re chomping at the bit to show the ACC what they’re made of. They squeaked by Nevada, then ran wild against Houston Christian. Now, they’re facing a real test in BYU.

Lashlee’s got his mind on:

Picking a QB: Is it Preston Stone or Kevin Jennings? Lashlee needs to make a call, and he needs to make it fast.
Balance: The Mustangs’ ground game was dominant last week, but they can’t forget about the passing attack.
BYU’s multiple threats: This ain’t no one-trick pony offense. Lashlee’s defense needs to be prepared for anything.
History: SMU is 0-4 all-time against BYU. Time to break that streak.

The Hot Seat Sizzle

Neither coach is sweating bullets yet, but this game could set the tone for their seasons. A BYU win would send shockwaves through the Big 12, while SMU needs a victory to prove they belong in the ACC.

So grab your popcorn, folks. This Friday night showdown in Dallas is going to be a good one.

Prediction: It will be close, but I’m giving the edge to SMU. They’re at home, they’re motivated, and they’ve got something to prove. Mustangs win a nail-biter, 31-28.

Hoosiers Look to Roll Against Leathernecks in Lopsided Matchup

Bloomington, Indiana: Where the expectations are sky-high, but the schedule… well, let’s just say it’s a bit softer than advertised.

Indiana: FCS Foes, No Sweat

Curt Cignetti arrived in Bloomington preaching a winning culture. He even got off to a hot start, snagging a W in his debut. But now, instead of gearing up for a Louisville showdown, they’re hosting Western Illinois. Look, the Hoosiers are supposed to dominate this one. They’ve got a 14-game winning streak against FCS teams, and Western Illinois is riding a 25-game losing skid. This ain’t David vs Goliath; it’s more like Goliath vs. Goliath’s little cousin who’s still learning to tie his shoes.

Cignetti’s got his mind on:

Keeping the starters healthy: This is a tune-up game, folks. There’s no need to risk anyone for a blowout.
Tayven Jackson’s debut: If the score gets out of hand, it’s time for the redshirt sophomore QB to get some reps. He’s the future, after all.
Not looking ahead: Easy to say, harder to do when you’re facing a team that gave up 700 yards last week.

Western Illinois: Leathernecks Looking for a Miracle

Bless their hearts, the Leathernecks are in a tough spot. They’re facing a Big Ten team on the road and haven’t won a game since October 2021. This is the kind of matchup where you hope to keep it respectable, maybe force a turnover or two, and pray for a miracle.

The Coaching Landscape

Cignetti’s still in the honeymoon phase, building his program and establishing his culture. This game is more about fine-tuning and giving younger players a chance to shine. For Western Illinois’ coach, Myers Hendrickson, every game is a chance to build towards that elusive victory and turn the tide for his program.

The Elephant in the Room

Indiana fans were looking forward to Power Five opponent, Louisville. Instead, they got Western Illinois. This scheduling change has raised eyebrows and left a sour taste in some mouths.

Prediction: Indiana wins big. Like, really big. 52-10. The only drama will be how long the starters play and whether Tayven Jackson gets his moment in the spotlight.

Friday Night Lights, Big Ten – ACC Style (With a Dash of Southern Charm)

This ain’t your typical Friday night lights matchup. We’ve got the Duke Blue Devils, fresh off a win in Manny Diaz’s debut, heading north to Evanston to tangle with the Northwestern Wildcats. And let me tell ya, there’s more intrigue here than a season of “Friday Night Lights” – Coach Taylor would be proud.

Northwestern: Breaking the Streak, Building a Legacy

David Braun’s got the reins at Northwestern, and he’s aiming to do more than break their five-game losing streak against Duke. He’s looking to build a legacy. Breaking that streak is a damn good start. They squeaked by UTEP in Week 1, but can they handle Duke’s high-flying offense? QB Mike Wright needs to hold onto the ball (two fumbles last week, yikes!), and that defense better be ready for a shootout.

Duke: New Coach, New QB, Same Old Swagger

Manny Diaz has brought a Texas-sized swagger to Durham, and QB Maalik Murphy is slinging it like he’s back in the Lone Star State. They rolled over Elon in Week 1, but Northwestern’s defense is a different beast. Can Murphy keep the magic going on the road? And let’s not forget about that Duke defense – they racked up eight sacks last week. Northwestern’s O-line better bring their A-game.

The Hot Seat Sizzle

Braun’s in his first full season, so the seat’s not exactly scorching yet, but a win against an ACC opponent would sure make a statement. As for Diaz, he’s got that new coach glow, but a loss here could dim the lights a bit.

X-Factors

The Weather: It’s gonna be rainy in Evanston. Advantage: Northwestern’s ground game.
Turnovers: Both teams need to protect the ball. A sloppy game could swing the momentum.
Home Field Advantage: Northwestern’s got the crowd on their side. Will it be enough?

Prediction: This one’s gonna be a nail-biter. I’m leaning towards Northwestern in an upset. They’re hungry, they’re at home, and that rain could play right into their hands. Wildcats win a close one, 20-17.

Schedule – Friday, September 6

All Times are PDT

BYU at SMU

Time: 4:00 PM

Watch on: ESPN2

Location: Gerald J. Ford Stadium

Western Illinois vs Indiana

Time: 4:00 PM

Watch on: Big Ten Network

Location: Memorial Stadium (Bloomington, IN)

Duke vs Northwestern

Time: 6:00 PM

Watch on: Fox Sports 1

Location: Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium

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