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THIS IS SCOTT SATTERFIELD’S FINAL CHANCE TO RESURRECT CINCINNATI

Mark Haines on April 16, 2025

Scott Satterfield has 12 Saturdays to save his job.

After back-to-back losing seasons and a dismal 8-16 record, the Cincinnati head coach enters 2025 with the temperature rising and patience wearing thin. The contrast couldn’t be more stark between Satterfield’s tenure and the Luke Fickell era that preceded it—a golden age that saw the Bearcats crash the College Football Playoff and compile a stunning 53-10 record.

For Bearcats fans who once tasted the sweetness of national relevance, the current state of affairs is unacceptable.

The Brutal Truth: Satterfield’s On The Hot Seat

Is Scott Satterfield the right man for the job?

That question hangs over Nippert Stadium like a storm cloud as the Bearcats enter a pivotal 2025 campaign. The statistical reality is sobering:

  • Satterfield’s .333 winning percentage stands in stark contrast to the program’s recent history
  • Cincinnati finished 2024 with a 5-7 record after a promising 5-2 start
  • Five consecutive losses to end last season continued a troubling pattern
  • Industry analysts, including On3’s Andy Staples, have placed Satterfield firmly on the hot seat

“We’re trending up, and we’re going in the right direction,” Satterfield claimed after the final game of 2024, pointing to young players gaining experience.

But the math suggests otherwise.

The Financial Stakes Are Enormous

Cincinnati invested heavily in Satterfield when they hired him.

His six-year, $3.4 million annual contract runs through 2028, with a 100% buyout clause for early termination—a potentially expensive decision for Athletic Director John Cunningham if the team struggles again. The financial commitment also includes a record $7.25 million assistant coaching pool, bringing the total coaching investment to $10.65 million annually.

This massive financial stake only heightens the pressure to produce results immediately.

A Coaching Staff Overhaul Was Necessary

Satterfield recognized changes were needed and acted accordingly:

  • Special Teams and Cornerbacks Coach Kerry Coombs departed
  • Co-Defensive Coordinator and Stars Coach Nate Fuqua left the program
  • Adam Braithwaite joined from Samford to coach safeties
  • Eddie Hicks arrived from LSU as cornerbacks analyst
  • Special teams will see complete restructuring after ranking 80th nationally in net field position

“Tim Connor is still on our staff here… I want all eyes on it,” Satterfield explained about special teams. “We’ve got to put the best guys on the field… We’re going to do all we can to emphasize our special teams and all hands on deck in the coaching staff.”

The staff changes signal Satterfield’s awareness that the status quo was unacceptable.

The Players Who Will Determine Cincinnati’s Fate

Will these key players elevate the program or continue the downward trend?

Offensive Firepower

  • Brendan Sorsby (QB): Generated 2,453 passing yards with 16 touchdowns through the air and 8 more on the ground in 2024
  • Corey Kiner (RB): Produced back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons, including 1,153 yards in 2024
  • Xzavier Henderson (WR): Led the team with 52 receptions for 632 yards in 2024
  • Joe Royer (TE): Provides stability and leadership in the passing game

Defensive Anchors

  • Dontay Corleone (DL): Returns as the standout defensive lineman and NFL prospect
  • Jack Dingle and Jared Bartlett (LB): Veteran linebackers expected to anchor the middle of the defense
  • Josh Minkins and Derrick Canteen: Returning secondary leaders

Impact Transfers

  • Tawee Walker (RB): Adds power and experience from Wisconsin
  • Cyrus Allen (WR): Brings deep-threat capability from Texas A&M
  • Matthew McDoom (CB): Bolsters the secondary from Coastal Carolina
  • Taran Tyo (OL): Provides offensive line experience from Ball State
  • Christian Harrison (DB): Competes for starting role after transferring from Tennessee

The talent is there, but integration and development remain critical questions.

NFL Draft Prospects Creating Their Own Stories

Despite team struggles, several Bearcats are generating NFL Draft buzz:

  • Luke Kandra (OG): The All-Big 12 offensive guard has allowed just one sack over 24 games
  • Corey Kiner (RB): Consecutive 1,000-yard seasons have scouts taking notice
  • John Williams (OT): Consistent starter at left tackle with prototypical size
  • Xzavier Henderson (WR): Reliable hands and production make him an intriguing prospect

Individual success stories could help change the program’s perception among recruits.

The Statistical Case For Optimism

Can Cincinnati turn close losses into victories in 2025?

The 2024 statistics reveal reasons for cautious optimism:

  • Balanced attack: 236.5 passing yards, 184.1 rushing yards per game
  • Efficient ground game: 5.2 yards per carry
  • Solid completion percentage: 63.8% team completion rate
  • First down advantage: +3.3 first downs per game over opponents

Four one-score losses suggest that fine-tuning, rather than a complete overhaul, could flip the script.

The Roadblocks Standing In Their Way

But significant obstacles remain before Cincinnati can compete for bowl eligibility:

  • Turnover margin: -0.3 per game in 2024 proved costly in close games
  • Defensive inconsistency: 385.5 total yards allowed per game
  • Red zone efficiency: Scoring didn’t match yardage production
  • Special teams liability: Among the nation’s worst in field position
  • Late-season fades: Back-to-back years with 5+ game losing streaks

These aren’t minor issues—they’re program-defining weaknesses that must be addressed immediately.

A Schedule That Offers Both Opportunity And Peril

The 2025 slate features pivotal matchups that will define Cincinnati’s season:

Must-Win Home Games

  • UCF (October 11): This is a winnable rivalry game with Big 12 standing implications
  • Baylor (October 25): This is a critical swing game against a rebuilding Bears team
  • BYU (November 22): Late-season opportunity against a beatable opponent
  • Bowling Green (September 6): This is a non-conference game that cannot slip away
  • Northwestern State (September 13): FCS opponent that must be handled decisively

Season-Defining Road Tests

  • Nebraska (August 27): The season opener at Arrowhead Stadium sets the tone
  • Kansas (September 27): First conference road test against an improving Jayhawks team
  • Oklahoma State (October 18): Challenging trip to Stillwater
  • Utah (November 1): Perhaps the most challenging game on the schedule
  • TCU (November 29): The season finale that could determine bowl eligibility

Early momentum is essential with this challenging schedule.

The Pathway To Salvation For Satterfield

What must happen for Cincinnati to reach bowl eligibility and cool Satterfield’s hot seat?

  1. Quarterback elevation: Brendan Sorsby must reduce turnovers and increase TD production
  2. Special teams revival: The restructured coaching approach must yield immediate improvement
  3. Turnover creation: The defense must generate more than 1.2 takeaways per game
  4. Transfer impact: Newcomers need to make immediate contributions
  5. Health preservation: Key players like Kiner and Sorsby must stay injury-free
  6. Early momentum: At least a 3-1 start is essential before hitting the Big 12 gauntlet
  7. Home-field advantage: Nippert Stadium must become a true advantage again

The margin for error is nonexistent.

The Bottom Line: It’s Now Or Never For Satterfield

The clock is ticking loudly in Cincinnati.

Industry projections suggest another 5-7 finish, but program expectations demand at least 6-6 and bowl eligibility. With a buyout that becomes increasingly prohibitive the longer Cincinnati waits, 2025 represents an actual inflection point for Satterfield and the program.

As the Bearcats continue spring practice and Nebraska looms on the horizon, the question isn’t whether Satterfield is on the hot seat—it’s whether he can finally deliver the results this proud program demands.

Twelve Saturdays will tell the story.

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GRIDIRON ARMAGEDDON: SEC Titans Clash, Big Ten Behemoths Collide, and Big 12 Underdogs Rise in a Weekend That’ll Shatter College Football’s Status Quo

Mark Haines on October 12, 2024

Here we go, football fanatics. We’re about to witness GRIDIRON ARMAGEDDON: SEC Titans Clash, Big Ten Behemoths Collide, and Big 12 Underdogs Rise in a Weekend That’ll Shatter College Football’s Status Quo. This isn’t just another Saturday of college football. It’s a seismic event that’s about to rock the very foundations of the sport. From the thunderous roar of SEC stadiums to the electric atmosphere of Big Ten showdowns and the uprising of Big 12 underdogs, every snap, every tackle, every touchdown could rewrite the playoff narrative. Forget everything you think you know about rankings and reputations. When the dust settles on this epic slate of games, the landscape of college football will never be the same. Are you ready?

Early Games

South Carolina at No. 7 Alabama

Game Time: Noon Eastern, 9:00 AM Pacific

Network: ABC, ESPN+

First up – an SEC showdown about to set the gridiron ablaze.

South Carolina rolls into Tuscaloosa with a chip on their shoulder and something to prove. Sure, their offense looked about as lively as a wet firecracker against Ole Miss, but don’t let that fool you. These Gamecocks have teeth.

Remember when they went toe-to-toe with LSU? That wasn’t a fluke. South Carolina’s pass defense is a fortress, and they’re itching to test Alabama’s mettle.

Speaking of the Crimson Tide, they want to bounce back after a wake-up call at Vanderbilt. But here’s the million-dollar question: Did they learn their lesson?

On paper, this should be Alabama’s game to lose. But games aren’t played on paper, are they? They’re played in the trenches, where grit meets glory, and underdogs bare their fangs.

This isn’t just a game. It’s a battle for redemption, a test of will, and a chance for South Carolina to shock the world.

Washington at Iowa

Game Time: Noon Eastern, 9:00 AM Pacific

Network: Fox

Next – a clash that’s been brewing for nearly three decades.

Washington and Iowa are squaring off for the first time since 1995 – that’s right before any of these young guns were even a twinkle in their parent’s eyes. Now they’re conference rivals, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.

On paper, this might look like just another Big Ten slugfest. But don’t you dare sleep on this game.

The Huskies are riding high after taking down Michigan. They tasted victory, and now they’re hungry for more. But here’s the kicker – their road ahead is paved with ranked opponents and West Coast juggernauts. This game? It’s not just another notch in the win column. It’s their golden ticket to bowl eligibility.

On the other hand, Iowa is looking to prove they’re more than just another middling Big Ten team. They’ve got home-field advantage and a chip on their shoulder. Will it be enough?

It’s a battle for respect, momentum, and a shot at glory. Old school meets new school, East meets West, and only one team can come out on top.

Early Games Schedule & TV Listings

All times listed are Pacific

Afternoon Games

No. 18 Oklahoma vs No. 1 Texas

Location: AT&T Stadium, Dallas, Texas

Game Time: 3:30 PM Eastern, 12:30 PM Pacific

Network: ABC, ESPN+

At the top of the afternoon games – the Red River Rivalry is about to explode, and this time, it’s got SEC written all over it.

Texas rolls into Dallas with a perfect record and coveted #1 ranking. But don’t think for a second that Oklahoma will roll over and play dead. This isn’t just a game. It’s a battle for supremacy, bragging rights, and the soul of college football.

The Longhorns are bringing back their golden boy, Quinn Ewers. Sure, Arch Manning held down the fort, but make no mistake – this is Ewers’ team, and he’s got something to prove. He’s not just fighting Oklahoma; he’s fighting to reclaim his throne.

But here’s where it gets juicy. Oklahoma’s quarterback situation? It’s a powder keg waiting to explode. They’ve rolled the dice on true freshman Michael Hawkins Jr. It paid off against Auburn, but Texas? That’s a whole different beast.

The Longhorns’ defense isn’t just good; it’s a nightmare. One passing TD allowed. Seven interceptions. They’re not just stopping offenses; they’re devouring them.

But here’s the million-dollar question: Can Oklahoma channel the same magic that led them to upset Texas last year? Can they dig deep and find that extra gear, that white-hot intensity that turns underdogs into legends?

No. 4 Penn State at USC

Game Time: 3:30 PM Eastern, 12:30 PM Pacific

Network: CBS

Another key afternoon matchup pits Penn State, riding high at #4 and marching into the Coliseum against USC. Sure, the Trojans stumbled against Minnesota, but don’t you dare write them off. This is more than a game. It’s a powder keg of potential, ready to explode.

James Franklin, the mastermind behind Penn State’s rise, is staring down the barrel of his legacy. Eleven years at the helm, and now? Now it’s do-or-die time. The past haunts him – three road games as a top-five team, three heartbreaking losses. But this isn’t about the past. It’s about right here, right now.

The Nittany Lions have found their offensive roar this season. They’re not just winning; they’re dominating. But here’s where it gets interesting, folks. USC’s got an ace up their sleeve – D’Anton Lynn, Penn State alum turned Trojan defensive coordinator. Talk about a plot twist!

Can Lynn unlock the secrets to Penn State’s newfound offensive prowess? Will his defensive unit be the key to USC’s redemption? Or will Franklin finally exorcise those road game demons and cement his legacy?

Afternoon Schedule & TV Listings

All times are Pacific

Evening Games

No. 2 Ohio State at No. 3 Oregon

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

TV: NBC

The prime-time game of the week is Ohio State vs. Oregon. Number 2 vs. Number 3. In Eugene.

The Buckeyes? They’re not just playing football. They’re on a crusade. It’s all or nothing this season, and so far, they’re delivering with the force of a thousand thunderbolts. Their defense isn’t just good; it’s an impenetrable fortress, leading the nation and crushing dreams week after week. And that offense? It’s a juggernaut, a runaway freight train leaving scorched earth in its wake.

But don’t you dare count out Oregon. Sure, they had a few early hiccups. That Boise State game? Consider it growing pains. Since then, the Ducks have spread their wings and soared to heights, with the rest of college football looking up in awe.

At the helm of these powerhouses? Two gunslingers who are rewriting the quarterback playbook. Will Howard and Dillon Gabriel aren’t just transfer students. They’re gridiron prophets, here to show us the future of college football. Top 15 in passing efficiency? That’s a step beyond impressive.

No. 9 Ole Miss at No. 13 LSU

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

TV: ABC, ESPN+

Get ready for a gridiron showdown that’ll have your heart racing.

Don’t miss checking out LSU vs Ole Miss. Two titans of the SEC, ready to clash in the cauldron of Death Valley.

The Rebels are rolling but walking into a hornet’s nest. Ole Miss hasn’t tasted victory at LSU since ’08, and LSU’s coming off a bye week, hungry and rested.

But here’s the kicker – the Rebels’ defense is a brick wall against the run. Can LSU’s freshman phenom Durham crack it?

On the flip side, LSU’s pass defense has more holes than Swiss cheese. If Ole Miss can exploit that, we’re in for fireworks.

My prediction? LSU by a whisker, 28-27. But in this pressure cooker? Anything can happen.

Evening Schedule & TV Listings

All times are Pacific

Night Games

No. 18 Kansas State at Colorado

Game Time: 10:15 PM Eastern, 7:15 PM Pacific

TV: ESPN

Finally, a showdown that’s got more drama than a Hollywood blockbuster.

Deion Sanders and his Colorado Buffaloes aren’t just playing football. They’re rewriting the damn script. 2-0 in the Big 12? That’s not just a start. That’s a statement. And now they’re eyeing the conference crown. Who is standing in their way? The battle-hardened Kansas State Wildcats.

Sure, K-State stumbled against BYU. But don’t you dare count them out. That 42-20 stomping of Oklahoma State? That wasn’t just a win. It was a warning shot to the entire conference.

But here’s where it gets juicy. Remember Dylan Edwards? The kid who broke K-State hearts when he flipped to Colorado? Well, guess who’s back in Wildcat purple, hungry for revenge? That’s right. Edwards isn’t just running for yards. He’s running to prove a point.

Colorado’s looking to prove they’re not just hype. Kansas State’s out to show they’re still the big dogs of the Big 12. And caught in the middle? A young running back with a chip on his shoulder the size of the Rockies.

Night Game Schedule & TV Listings

All times are Pacific

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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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What We’re Watching Saturday

Mark Haines on September 14, 2024

Pre Game / Kickoff Shows

ESPN College Football Gameday from Columbia, South Carolina (LSU at South Carolina)

Fox Big Noon Kickoff from Madison Wisconsin (Alabama at Wisconsin

Early Games

LSU at South Carolina

Time: Noon Eastern, 9:00 am Pacific

Network – ABC

Announcers: Chris Fowler, Kirk Herbstreit, Holly Rowe

Our Pick: South Carolina

Boston College at Missouri

Time: 12:45 pm Eastern, 9:45 am Pacific

Network: SEC Network

Announcers: Taylor Zarzour, Matt Stinchcomb and Alyssa Lang

Our Pick: BC

Afternoon Games

Texas A&M at Florida

Time: 12:30 pm

Network: ABC

Announcers: Joe Tessitore, Jesse Palmer, and Katie George

Our Pick: Florida

Late Games

Colorado at Colorado State

Time: 4:30 pm

Network: CBS

Announcers: Ross Tucker, Rich Waltz, and Tiffany Blackmon

Our Pick: Colorado State

Indiana at UCLA

Time: 4:30 pm

Network: NBC

Announcers: Noah Eagle, Todd Blackledge, Tappen 

Our Pick: Indiana

Full Schedule

All Times Shown are Pacific

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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

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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Our Guide to NCAA Spin: It’s Not Confusion, It’s “Engagement”

Jason Lucero on September 12, 2024

To:  All NCAA football Athletic Directors, Coaches, and Staff.

From: Missy Helgenberger, NCAA Press Secretary (temp.)

Re:  Talking Points!

Dear NCAA College Football coaches, AD’s and staff. 

I’m super excited to be coming from you in my new position as temporary assistant press secretary for NCAA College Football!

 I hope it works out that I can eventually have a real office with business cards and everything. Until then, the executive board asked me to pass along these talking points as you interact with media in this super-exciting kickoff to our 2024 college football season!

  1. Please stop referring to the SEC as the “Pro League.” We love and respect all our college conferences, even the ones nobody watches or cares about.
  2. Please stop referring to it as the “PAC 2.” There are indeed only two teams in that division, but for the sake of history and tradition, please continue to refer to it as the “PAC 12.” If anyone asks, say that the 12 refers to the twelve days of Christmas, the number of roses in a dozen, or the number of inches in a foot.
  3. Please keep referring to it as the “Big Ten,” even though eighteen teams are in the division. If anyone asks, say the number “10” refers not to the number of teams but to something else, like the number of commandments in the bible or the number of toes we have. Whatever you can decide.
  4. Please stop referring to it as the “transfer portal.” Old people keep thinking it has something to do with Star Trek.  From now on, please call it “The airport.” You might say, for example, “Player X has gone to the airport. Who knows? He might land at Ohio State.” Hopefully, they will stop calling. 
  5. I know you all are receiving a lot of questions about NIL money.  Just tell whoever is asking to mind their own bee’s wax, especially regarding the “consulting fees” the NCAA board requires from each player and team. By the way, include the correct routing number on each payment. Swiss banks are super fussy.
  6. Please stop talking about possible realignment for next season. Everybody loves the new system. We asked about seven people in the office, and they all pretty much agreed that we nailed it, especially with the West Coast teams playing on the East Coast and how it’s a giant mess because nobody knows who plays where anymore. It’s not “confusion,” it’s “engagement.” It’s like when you can’t remember where you parked your car in a parking lot. Sure you have to spend time looking, but in the end you’re so happy when you find it!
  7. We are not merging with the NFL! It’s not going to be like baseball, where each major league team has two or three farm teams that develop young players and track their progress as they move up and down through the system, although, frankly, that would make a lot of sense.
  8. The NCAA still cares about the health and safety of the student-athlete as long as we’re still seeing the NIL kickback payments. That’s what the money is for: to maintain our deep concern.
  9. The NCAA is not a geriatric governance agency out of touch with the modern media environment. It’s a vibrant community of sport-minded educators who have engaged excellent legal representation and are more than willing to sue any troublemakers into oblivion.
  10. Please police your mascots! The NCAA is not responsible for off-campus behavior, especially regarding auto theft. We’re looking at you, Notre Dame!

We’re super happy to hear any feedback you might have! Please send it via traditional mail to any post office box in the United States. We don’t care which one.

Let’s tailgate!

Sincerely,

Missy Helgenberger

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Big 12 Non-Conference Showdown: Aranda’s Baylor Faces A True Test Against Whittingham’s Utes

Mark Haines on September 4, 2024

Baylor Bears vs. Utah Utes: Big 12 Non-Conference Clash – Deep Dive

Game Details

  • Date: Saturday, September 7, 2024
  • Time: 3:30 PM ET
  • Venue: Rice-Eccles Stadium, Salt Lake City, UT
  • TV: FOX
  • Spread: Utah -14.5
  • Over/Under: 54.5

The Unique Circumstance

In a scheduling quirk that exemplifies the rapidly changing landscape of college football, the Baylor Bears and Utah Utes find themselves in an unusual situation. Despite being a member of the Big 12 conference in 2024, this game will not count toward conference standings. The matchup was scheduled years ago when Utah was still part of the Pac-12, and rather than canceling the agreement when Utah joined the Big 12, both schools and the conference decided to honor the original non-conference arrangement.

This scenario provides an intriguing early-season test for both programs without the added pressure of conference implications. It also offers a unique opportunity for fans and analysts to gauge how these teams stack up against each other before their official conference clashes in future seasons.

Utah Utes (1-0)

Coaching Stability

Coach Kyle Whittingham enters his 21st season at Utah with an impressive 163-79 record (.674 winning percentage). His longevity and success have made Utah a model of consistency in college football. Whittingham’s teams are known for their physicality, strong defense, and adaptability to personnel strengths.

Coaches Hot Seat Metrics for Whittingham:

  • 21 Years at Utah
  • 242 Games
  • 163 Wins
  • 79 Losses
  • 0 Ties
  • .674 Winning Percentage
  • 8.38 SRS (Simple Rating System)
  • 0.56 SOS (Strength of Schedule)

These metrics underscore Whittingham’s consistent success and ability to compete against intense competition.

Season Opener Recap

Utah kicked off their 2024 campaign with a 49-0 victory over Southern Utah. While the scoreline was impressive, Whittingham and his staff are focusing on areas for improvement:

  1. Running Game: Despite 185 rushing yards, the team fell short of their goal of 5 yards per carry.
  2. Penalties: 6 penalties for 55 yards – an area targeted for cleanup.
  3. Ball Security: Two interceptions and two fumbles (though recovered) are concerns.

Key Players and Developments

  1. Cam Rising (QB): In his return from injury, Rising showcased his arm talent with 254 yards and 5 TDs in just one half of play. His health and performance are crucial to Utah’s success.
  2. Brant Kuithe (TE): Also returning from injury, Kuithe immediately re-established his connection with Rising, hauling in 3 TD passes. His presence adds another dimension to Utah’s passing attack.
  3. Dijon Stanley (RB/WR): The emergence of Stanley (3 catches, 150 yards, 2 TDs) provides Utah with a dynamic playmaker who can stress defenses in multiple ways.
  4. Offensive Line: Whittingham graded their performance as a “B+” but noted room for improvement, especially in pass protection where they allowed 9 pressures.
  5. Defense: Pitching a shutout and holding Southern Utah to just 150 total yards, the defense looks to be in midseason form already.

Offensive Strategy

Offensive coordinator Andy Ludwig has indicated a desire for a more balanced attack against Baylor. While the passing game excelled in the opener, establishing a consistent ground game will be a priority. The Utes will likely try to exploit Baylor’s defensive adjustments under Aranda’s new scheme.

Defensive Outlook

Utah’s defense, traditionally a strength under Whittingham, will face a stiffer test against Baylor’s revamped offense. The focus will be on containing Baylor’s dual-threat QB while not allowing big plays in the passing game.

Baylor Bears (1-0)

Coaching Hot Seat

Dave Aranda enters a pivotal season, with his seat cooling slightly but still warm. The move from #2 to #3 on the Coaches Hot Seat rankings indicates some faith in the program’s direction, but this game against Utah is a critical measuring stick.

Coaches Hot Seat Metrics for Aranda:

  • 4 Years at Baylor
  • 37 Games
  • 20 Wins
  • 17 Losses
  • 0 Ties
  • .541 Winning Percentage
  • 5.64 SRS (Simple Rating System)
  • 1.77 SOS (Strength of Schedule)

While Aranda’s overall record isn’t as strong as Whittingham’s, the higher SOS indicates Baylor has consistently faced tough competition.

Season Opener Analysis

Baylor started their 2024 campaign with a convincing 45-3 win over Tarleton State. Key takeaways include:

  1. Offensive Explosion: 45 points and a balanced attack show promise in new OC Jake Spavital’s system.
  2. Defensive Dominance: Holding opponents to 3 points is impressive at any level.
  3. Transfer Impact: Several transfers made immediate contributions, indicating successful portal management.

Key Players and Developments

  1. Dequan Finn (QB): The Toledo transfer showcased his dual-threat ability with a 39-yard TD run and efficient passing. His adaptation to Spavital’s system will be crucial.
  2. Richard Reese (RB): After a down year in 2023, Reese looks to recapture his freshman form in the new offensive scheme.
  3. Ketron Jackson Jr. (WR): The Arkansas transfer caught a TD in his Baylor debut, providing a new weapon in the passing game.
  4. Keaton Thomas (LB): The transfer linebacker’s pick-six in the opener highlights the potential of Aranda’s “defensive weapons” concept.
  5. Offensive Line: An area of concern, as they struggled to generate consistent push against Tarleton State’s defense.

Schematic Changes

  1. Defense: Aranda has taken over as defensive play-caller, which could lead to more aggressive and unpredictable schemes.
  2. Offense: Spavital’s “Air Raid” concepts have been integrated with Baylor’s existing system, promising a more dynamic and explosive offense.

Keys to the Game for Baylor

  1. Establish the Run: Creating a balanced attack to keep Utah’s defense honest.
  2. Pressure Rising: Trying to disrupt Utah’s passing game by pressuring Rising and disrupting his timing.
  3. Special Teams Edge: Looking for big plays in the return game to flip field position.
  4. Limit Big Plays: Preventing the explosive plays that characterized Utah’s opener.

Matchup Dynamics

  1. Utah’s O-Line vs. Baylor’s Front Seven: This battle in the trenches could decide the game. If Baylor can disrupt Utah’s run game and pressure Rising, they have a chance at the upset.
  2. Baylor’s Secondary vs. Utah’s Passing Attack: The Bears’ revamped secondary will be tested by Rising, Kuithe, and Utah’s emerging playmakers.
  3. Coaching Chess Match: Whittingham’s established system against Aranda’s new defensive approach and Spavital’s offense. In-game adjustments will be crucial.
  4. Special Teams: In what could be a closely contested game, field position and kicking game could prove decisive.
  5. Home Field Advantage: Utah’s Rice-Eccles Stadium is known for its intense atmosphere, which could impact Baylor’s communication and execution.

Prediction

While Baylor shows signs of improvement and has the potential to keep this game close, Utah’s experience, home-field advantage, and the return of key playmakers give them a significant edge. Expect a competitive first half before Utah’s depth and physicality wear down the Bears in the second half.

Utah 34, Baylor 23

This non-conference Big 12 clash should provide valuable insights into both teams’ potential for the 2024 season. For Baylor, a strong showing could further cool Aranda’s hot seat, while Utah looks to make a statement in their first game against a Big 12 opponent as a conference member. Regardless of the outcome, this game sets the stage for what promises to be an exciting season in the new-look Big 12.

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