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South Carolina Football 2025: The Championship Window Is Wide Open

Mark Haines on June 30, 2025

Shane Beamer is about to find out if last year’s South Carolina football season was real or just a beautiful accident.

After a breakthrough 9-4 season that nobody saw coming, South Carolina enters 2025 with championship expectations for the first time in over a decade. The Gamecocks finished ranked 19th in both major polls, posted a school-record four wins against ranked opponents, and came within inches of their first College Football Playoff appearance.

The question isn’t whether they have talent.

The question is whether they can handle the pressure of being hunted, rather than being the hunters.

“You want high expectations,” Beamer said recently. “Our players and the people in our program, I believe, embrace those high expectations and understand that with those expectations, you have to prepare the right way, that it doesn’t just happen.”

LaNorris Sellers Is Either Going to Be a Superstar or Crack Under Pressure

Everything rides on one player.

LaNorris Sellers isn’t just South Carolina’s quarterback. He’s the most valuable player in the transfer portal who chose to stay home. Sellers holds an On3 NIL Valuation of $2.7 million and turned down massive offers from playoff contenders to remain in Columbia.

His 2024 numbers tell you why everyone wanted him:

  • 2,534 passing yards with 18 touchdowns
  • 674 rushing yards with seven touchdowns
  • Just seven interceptions on 65.6% completion rate
  • 6-0 record in his final six starts with 1,917 total yards

But here’s what separates Sellers from other “promising” quarterbacks: he got better as the season went on. Over his final six starts of the regular season, Sellers helped South Carolina go 6-0 with 1,917 yards of total offense and 17 touchdowns. When the lights got brighter, he shone brighter.

ESPN ranked him 7th in their Heisman Trophy predictions. That’s not hype. That’s recognition that Sellers has the tools to be elite in the SEC.

The pressure? Enormous. The upside? Even bigger.

Dylan Stewart Might Be the Best Pass Rusher You’ve Never Heard Of

While everyone talks about Sellers, Dylan Stewart might be South Carolina’s best player.

The sophomore edge rusher was a unanimous Freshman All-American after posting 6.5 sacks and 10.5 tackles for loss as a true freshman. But numbers don’t tell the whole story. Stewart’s 48 generated pressures were 21 more than the next true freshman pass rusher in college football.

When asked which quarterback he most wanted to sack in 2025, Stewart’s response was perfect:

“Everybody. I like to play football. I like to hit people.”

That’s the mentality that separates good players from great ones.

Stewart returns to anchor a defense that must replace multiple NFL-bound stars, including All-American safety Nick Emmanwori and SEC Defensive Player of the Year Kyle Kennard. The Gamecocks added 10 defensive transfers to maintain their identity, but Stewart is the irreplaceable piece that makes everything work.

The Transfer Portal Became South Carolina’s Secret Weapon

Innovative programs no longer only recruit high school players.

They strategically attack the transfer portal to fill specific needs. South Carolina’s approach was surgical in its precision, identifying weaknesses as early as 2024 and finding proven solutions.

Key additions that will impact immediately:

  • Air Noland (QB, Ohio State): Elite backup with starting experience
  • Rahsul Faison (RB, Utah State): Explosive runner who averaged 7+ yards per carry
  • Nick Sharpe, Boaz Stanley, Rodney Newsom Jr. (OL): Three interior linemen to protect Sellers
  • 10 defensive transfers to replace NFL departures

The one area they didn’t address? Wide receiver.

South Carolina’s receiver room produced zero 400-yard receivers in 2024. Joshua Simon, a tight end, led the team with 519 yards. The development of Nyck Harbor and Mazeo Bennett Jr., plus incoming freshman speedster Malik Clark, will determine whether the passing game reaches its ceiling.

This gamble either pays off huge or becomes their biggest weakness.

The Schedule Is Brutal (And That Might Be Perfect)

South Carolina faces seven top-25 teams from 2024.

Here’s the gauntlet:

  • August 31: vs Virginia Tech (Atlanta) – Beamer faces his father’s former program
  • October 11: at LSU – First win in Baton Rouge since 1994
  • October 18: vs Oklahoma – Revenge game at home
  • October 25: vs Alabama – Another revenge game
  • November 1: at Ole Miss – Road test in hostile environment
  • November 15: at Texas A&M – Late-season trap game

“It’s a former SEC West-heavy schedule,” Beamer told SEC Network. “That’s basically what the month of October is.”

But here’s why this brutal schedule might be perfect timing: South Carolina has championship-level talent and needs championship-level tests to prove it. No more sneaking up on people. No more moral victories. Win or go home.

The Gamecocks have the talent to compete with anyone on this list.

Recruiting Success Creates Long-Term Sustainability

Championship programs recruit at championship levels.

South Carolina’s 2025 recruiting class ranks in the nation’s top 20, featuring four four-star prospects who could contribute immediately. This represents a fundamental shift in how elite prospects view the program.

The standouts who could impact Year 1:

  • Malik Clark (WR): 4.39 speed, who addresses receiver depth
  • Lex Cyrus (WR): Another speed threat for the passing game
  • Multiple defensive prospects to maintain depth

This recruiting momentum reflects South Carolina’s elevated status under Beamer. Elite prospects now see Columbia as a pathway to NFL success, not just a stepping stone.

The foundation is being built for sustained excellence, not just one magical season.

Vegas Knows Something Everyone Else Is Missing

South Carolina’s win total sits at 7.5 games.

That number reflects both the program’s trajectory and the difficulty of its schedule. Vegas isn’t predicting collapse. They’re acknowledging that championship-level talent faces championship-level competition.

For South Carolina to reach the College Football Playoff, they need:

  • 8+ regular season wins
  • Competitive performances in losses
  • 1-2 signature victories over ranked opponents

The pieces are in place: elite quarterback play, a dominant pass rusher, strategic roster additions, and proven coaching. But the margin for error is razor-thin.

“There’s still a great hunger for what we didn’t accomplish,” Beamer said during an appearance on Josh Pate’s show. “They’ve been very purposeful, very driven since they came back and that’s exciting to see.”

The Verdict: This Is Make-or-Break Time

South Carolina enters 2025 as college football’s most fascinating storyline.

The talent level is undeniable. Sellers and Stewart represent two of the SEC’s most dynamic players. The coaching staff has proven they can develop talent and win big games. The infrastructure continues improving under Beamer’s leadership.

But championship expectations change everything.

No more flying under the radar. No more “just happy to be here” mentality. Every opponent will bring their best shot. Every game becomes a referendum on whether South Carolina belongs among the elite.

The 2025 season will answer the ultimate question: Was 2024 a launching pad or a ceiling?

With Sellers under center and Stewart terrorizing opposing quarterbacks, the Gamecocks have the foundational pieces to make their first College Football Playoff appearance. The championship window is wide open in Columbia.

Now comes the ultimate test of whether they can walk through it.

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Targeting Winners: College Football’s Day of Reckoning

Mark Haines on November 29, 2024

When History Comes Due: College Football’s Day of Reckoning

On the final Saturday of November 2024, college football will remind us why it remains America’s most compelling social experiment. In four different stadiums, eight teams will engage in a ritual that’s equal parts sporting event and psychological warfare. These aren’t just games—they’re settling accounts, tests of collective will, and exercises in mass delusion, where entire states convince themselves that the impossible is probable.

In South Carolina, two programs that share nothing but geography and mutual contempt will try to prove that statistics are just numbers on a page. In Columbus, Ohio State faces the cruel irony of finally getting a vulnerable Michigan team after three years of losses, only to discover that beating a wounded rival might be the most challenging task. In Los Angeles, USC will attempt to salvage a disappointing season by derailing Notre Dame’s playoff dreams, proving once again that nothing satisfies quite like ruining someone else’s perfect ending. And in Eugene, Oregon stands ready to exorcise three years of frustration against a Washington program that’s fallen from national championship contender to cautionary tale in less time than it takes to earn a college degree.

Each of these games carries its own particular strain of madness. Together, they form a perfect case study in how rational human beings – coaches, players, and millions of fans – can convince themselves that history, statistics, and probability are merely suggestions rather than laws. In short, it’s everything that makes college football the most irrational, and therefore most human, of our sports.

The Numbers That Lie: A Tale of Two Programs – South Carolina at Clemson

In the gathering dusk of late November, two football programs circle each other like prizefighters, each convinced they’ve decoded the other’s fatal flaw. The statistics tell one story: Clemson, the higher-ranked team with the more prolific offense, should win this game. But anyone who’s spent time in South Carolina knows that numbers, like the sweet tea served at every diner from Charleston to Greenville, can be deceptive.

The conventional wisdom says Clemson has the edge. Their quarterback, Cade Klubnik, throws for nearly fifty more yards per game than his counterpart. Their offense generates more total yards, touchdowns, and everything that should matter. We could all go home now if football games were played on spreadsheets.

But here’s where it gets interesting.

While everyone’s been watching Klubnik light up the stat sheet, South Carolina has been quietly perfecting the art of chaos. They don’t just play defense; they create havoc. Eighteen forced fumbles this season – a number that makes defensive coordinators salivate and quarterbacks wake up in cold sweats. Their defensive captain, Nick Emmanwori, has turned the secondary into a no-fly zone with four interceptions, but it’s his 76 tackles that tell the real story. He’s not just picking off passes; he’s hunting down ball carriers with the relentless precision of a Wall Street algorithm.

The market inefficiency here – the thing everyone else has missed – is in the special teams battle. South Carolina’s punter, Kai Kroeger, is averaging 47.8 yards per punt, a full five yards more than his Clemson counterpart. In a game where field position is currency, Kroeger prints money with every boot of the ball.

But perhaps the most telling number isn’t on any stat sheet. Five games – that’s how long South Carolina’s winning streak has stretched. Like confidence in financial markets, momentum in football is a self-fulfilling prophecy. Teams that believe they can’t lose often don’t.

The paradox at the heart of this rivalry is that for all of Clemson’s statistical superiority—their 469.9 yards per game, their 30 passing touchdowns, their number twelve ranking—they’re facing an opponent that has mastered the art of winning ugly. South Carolina’s defense doesn’t just stop drives; it ends them violently, with forced fumbles and defensive stands that send offensive coordinators back to their drawing boards.

Ultimately, this game won’t be decided by the comfortable certainties of statistics. It will come down to something far more primal: the ability to create chaos and thrive within it. South Carolina has turned defensive mayhem into an art form, while Clemson has built an offensive machine that looks unstoppable – until it meets a force that doesn’t play by the normal rules of engagement.

Overall Team Comparison

Records and Rankings:

  • Clemson: 9-2, ranked #12
  • South Carolina: 8-3, ranked #16

Momentum:

  • Clemson is on a 3-game winning streak
  • South Carolina is on a 5-game winning streak

Offensive Analysis

Passing Game:

  • Clemson’s Cade Klubnik leads a more prolific passing attack (274.6 yards/game) compared to South Carolina’s LaNorris Sellers (225.5 yards/game).
  • Clemson has a slight edge in passing touchdowns (30 vs. 20).

Rushing Game:

  • Clemson averages more rushing yards (195.3 vs. 181.8 yards/game).
  • South Carolina’s Raheim Sanders is the standout rusher with 11 TDs, while Clemson’s Phil Mafah leads with 8 TDs.

Key Playmakers:

  • Clemson: Antonio Williams (WR, 10 receiving TDs), Phil Mafah (RB, 1012 rushing yards)
  • South Carolina: Raheim Sanders (RB, 13 total TDs), Joshua Simon (TE, 6 receiving TDs)

Total Offense:

  • Clemson averages 469.9 yards/game
  • South Carolina averages 407.3 yards/game

Defensive Analysis

Run Defense:

  • South Carolina allows fewer rushing yards (103.4 vs. 139.6 yards/game).

Pass Defense:

  • Both teams are similar, with South Carolina slightly better (200.3 vs. 210.8 yards allowed/game).

Turnovers:

  • Clemson has more interceptions (13 vs. 12).
  • South Carolina forces more fumbles (18 vs. 11).

Key Defenders:

  • Clemson: T.J. Parker (9 sacks), Wade Woodaz and Barrett Carter (61 tackles each)
  • South Carolina: Kyle Kennard (11.5 sacks), Nick Emmanwori (76 tackles, 4 INTs)

Special Teams

Kicking:

  • Clemson’s Nolan Hauser: 15/20 FGs, 50/51 XPs
  • South Carolina’s Alex Herrera: 13/18 FGs, 41/41 XPs

Punting:

  • South Carolina’s Kai Kroeger averages 47.8 yards/punt
  • Clemson’s Aidan Swanson averages 42.4 yards/punt

Returns:

  • Clemson has a slight edge in kick returns (18.8 vs. 17.5 yards/return)
  • Clemson is significantly better in punt returns (8.2 vs. 5.9 yards/return)

Key Factors for the Matchup

  1. Offensive Firepower: Clemson’s more balanced and productive offense could challenge South Carolina’s defense.
  2. Defensive Playmaking: South Carolina’s defense has shown a greater ability to force turnovers and create big plays.
  3. Quarterback Play: The performance of Klubnik (Clemson) and Sellers (South Carolina) will be crucial.
  4. Field Position Battle: South Carolina’s superior punting game could be a significant factor.
  5. Red Zone Efficiency: Both teams have efficient kickers, making red zone conversions critical.
  6. Momentum: South Carolina enters with a longer winning streak, potentially providing a psychological edge.

Prediction

This matchup promises to be closely contested. South Carolina’s defensive strengths balance Clemson’s offensive advantages. The game could come down to turnovers, special teams play, and quarterback performance in critical moments. Given Clemson’s slightly higher ranking, more balanced offense, and home-field advantage, they might have a slight edge. However, South Carolina’s momentum and defensive playmaking ability make them a formidable opponent. Expect a tight game with the potential for big plays on both sides. The team that manages the turnover battle and performs better in special teams is likely to emerge victorious in what could be a classic rivalry matchup.

The smart money says Clemson wins this game 31-27. That’s what the algorithms predict, the statistical models suggest, and every rational analysis concludes. But there’s something fitting about the fact that this game will be played on the last day of November when the crisp autumn air carries just a hint of winter’s chaos. Because in the end, this rivalry isn’t about the predictable – it’s about the moments that break the models.

Clemson 31, South Carolina 27. That’s what the numbers say. But as one wizened South Carolina assistant coach told me with a knowing smile, “The beautiful thing about this game is that it’s played on grass, not paper.” In Palmetto State, grass has a way of growing wild.

Other Games Where We’re Targeting Winners

Michigan at Ohio State – The Cruelest Game in College Football

There’s a particular kind of torture in being favored by three touchdowns against your most bitter rival. Just ask Ohio State, which enters this year’s edition of The Game carrying the kind of burden that could crush a lesser program: the weight of three straight losses to Michigan, a clear path to the Playoff, and the suffocating expectations that come with being the team that absolutely, positively cannot lose to a 6-5 Michigan squad.

The cruel irony isn’t lost on anyone in Columbus. After years of falling to Jim Harbaugh’s powerhouse Michigan teams, the Buckeyes finally get a vulnerable version of their nemesis – and that somehow makes this game even more dangerous. Michigan’s offense may be diminished, but their defense remains stubborn enough to turn this into the ugly, grinding affair that has haunted Ohio State’s recent nightmares.

For Ohio State, it’s a game of psychological warfare against their own demons. Win, and they secure their spot in the Big Ten title game against Oregon while exorcising three years of Michigan-induced trauma. Lose, and… well, no one in scarlet and gray dares contemplate that scenario, even though their Playoff spot would likely survive such a catastrophe.

Michigan, meanwhile, arrives with the most dangerous weapon in college football: nothing to lose. Their defense, still salty enough to make life difficult for any offense, now gets to play the role of spoiler – a position that has produced some of college football’s most

The Game, as it’s known, has never needed additional drama to justify its appointment-viewing status. But this year’s edition adds a particularly twisted psychological element: Ohio State must beat a weakened version of the team that has tormented them or risk a new level of nightmare. There’s no greater pressure in college football than being the team that absolutely must win.

Prediction: Ohio State 31, Michigan 13. But if Michigan’s defense can force a couple of early turnovers and plant those seeds of doubt, that’s why they play The Game.

Notre Dame at USC – The Perfect Trap

There’s something poetic about Notre Dame having to pass through Los Angeles on its way to the College Football Playoff. Like any good Hollywood script, this one comes with all the classic elements of a potential tragedy: the protagonist riding high after overcoming early adversity, one final obstacle that seems manageable on paper, and an antagonist with nothing left to lose but their pride.

The Irish have spent months rehabilitating their image after that inexplicable slip-up early in the season. Like a forgiving audience, the playoff committee has bought into their redemption arc. However, USC’s Coliseum has always had a way of rewriting expected endings, especially when Lincoln Riley’s teams have their backs against the wall.

The numbers that matter here aren’t USC’s five losses – they’ve faced zero fourth-quarter deficits at home this season. Even Penn State, a team currently sitting in playoff position, needed overtime to escape Los Angeles with a win. For all their deficiencies and inconsistent play, the Trojans have mastered the art of the homestand. They’re like a veteran actor who might forget their lines in a touring production but never misses the mark on their home stage.

Lincoln Riley knows this is his last chance at salvaging something from a disappointing season. Expect him to empty the playbook, unleashing everything in USC’s arsenal – George Tirebiter, Traveler, Tommy Trojan, and even John McKay’s statue if he could make them eligible. In USC’s world, where a 6-5 record feels like a dramatic fall from grace, this game represents their chance at a redemptive finale. They’re not just playing spoiler but fighting for their own Hollywood ending.

And therein lies the trap for Notre Dame. They’ve convinced everyone – the committee, the analysts, perhaps even themselves – that they’ve evolved beyond that early-season stumble. But college football has a cruel sense of symmetry. A season that began with an unexpected stumble could end the same way.

Prediction: USC 34, Notre Dame 31. Because sometimes the best Hollywood endings are the ones nobody sees coming, written by a USC team that’s spent all season practicing fourth-quarter drama.

Washington at Oregon – When Empires Fall

Last January, as Washington walked off the field after the national championship game, the future seemed written in stone. The Huskies had Oregon’s number—three straight wins over their nemesis—and a program trajectory that pointed straight up. The rivalry’s power dynamics had shifted permanently toward Seattle.

Ten months later, the story reads like satire. Oregon stands undefeated, the last perfect team in major college football, while Washington stumbles into Eugene, looking less like a rival and more like a ritual sacrifice. The Ducks aren’t just winning; they’re thriving with the offensive balance that defensive coordinators see in their nightmares. Dillon Gabriel has turned the passing game into performance art, already eclipsing 3,000 yards. At the same time, Jordan James pounds out tough yards on the ground like a metronome measuring Oregon’s inevitable march toward the playoff.

Washington’s Will Rogers, meanwhile, looks like a quarterback trying to read a playbook written in hieroglyphics, throwing more interceptions (six) than touchdowns (two) over his last five games. The Huskies’ only hope lies in their 19th-ranked defense, and the strange mathematics of rivalry games – six of the last nine meetings have been decided by less than seven points.

But there’s something almost quaint about those historical statistics now. They’re like photos from a different era, reminders of when Washington could go toe-to-toe with the Ducks. Oregon doesn’t need this game – they could lose here and in next week’s Big Ten title game and likely still make the playoffs. That’s the kind of security that breeds either complacency or ruthlessness.

Prediction: Oregon 42, Washington 17. The cruelest part of college football’s natural order isn’t the fall from grace – it’s watching your rival ascend to heights you thought would be yours.

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Week 6 – Saturday Showdown – Game Preview and Schedule

Mark Haines on October 5, 2024

Coaches Hot Seat Targets The Winners!

Coaches Hot Seat took a thrilling ride yesterday on the Targeting Winners podcast, and let me tell you, these guys know their stuff. We’re talking about the intersection of coaching pressure, game matchups, and cold, hard cash—the kind of analysis that makes you see the game in a new, exhilarating light.

We dove headfirst into the hottest seats in the nation, dissecting the coaches on the brink, the ones whose every decision could be their last. We talked about the odds, the whispers, the gut feelings that separate the winners from the losers, both on the field and in the sportsbook.

And guess what? We didn’t just analyze; We put our money where our mouths are. We broke down the week’s matchups and gave our picks raw and unfiltered. So, if you want to hear our insights, strategies, and predictions, check out this episode.

Trust me, it’s a wild ride. You’ll learn, you’ll laugh, and you might walk away with a whole new, informed perspective on the game. Click here to listen to the episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0Inr4sJteXILIu2Tftryhd?si=m_Hfogt-Qq-2wHsgnDm6XQ

Early Game

9 Missouri at 25 Texas A&M

TV: ABC/ESPN+

Game Time: Noon Eastern/9:00 AM Pacific

The Backstory

The Texas A&M Aggies and the Missouri Tigers, two SEC powerhouses with a shared history, are set to clash in a top-25 showdown in the heart of Texas.

The Stakes

The Aggies, led by the stoic Mike Elko, ride a wave of momentum. They’ve clawed their way to a 4-1 record, and their only blemish is a season-opening loss to Notre Dame. But the Tigers, under the charismatic Eliah Drinkwitz, are undefeated and ranked 9th in the nation. This game is more than just a conference matchup; it’s a statement game.

The Coaches

Elko and Drinkwitz have a history. They faced each other as coordinators in the ACC, with Drinkwitz’s high-flying NC State offense getting the better of Elko’s Wake Forest defense. Now, they’re head coaches in the SEC, and the stakes are higher than ever.

The Players

The Aggies boast a dynamic quarterback in Marcel Reed, who has stepped in admirably for the injured Conner Weigman. They also have a rising star at receiver in Noah Thomas. The Tigers, meanwhile, have a balanced attack and a defense that has been stingy all season.

The Rivalry

The Aggies and Tigers have a long and intertwined history. They were both charter members of the Big 12 and made the jump to the SEC in 2012. They’ve played each other 16 times, with the Aggies holding a 9-7 edge. But the Tigers have won seven of the last ten, so the Aggies will seek revenge.

The Atmosphere

Kyle Field, the home of the Aggies, is one of the most intimidating venues in college football. The 12th Man, as the Aggie faithful are known, will be in full force, creating a cauldron of noise and energy.

The Prediction

This is a tough one to call. The Aggies have the home-field advantage, but the Tigers are more experienced. It will be a close game, but I will give the Tigers an edge. I think they’ll win by a field goal.

Don’t Miss It

This is a game you won’t want to miss. It’s a clash of styles, a battle of wills, and a rivalry renewed.

Afternoon Game

Game: 12 Ole Miss @ South Carolina

TV: ESPN

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

The air in Columbia, South Carolina, crackles with anticipation. It’s not just the humid October air, thick with the scent of barbeque and impending collisions. No, this is different. This is the feeling of a program on the rise, a sleeping giant stirring. After years of mediocrity, South Carolina is finally showing signs of life. And they’re about to face a wounded animal, a Rebel army licking its wounds after a shocking upset.

Ole Miss, the preseason darlings, the team with National Championship aspirations, stumbled. They tripped over a Kentucky team that South Carolina had dismantled just weeks earlier. Now, they limp into Williams-Brice Stadium, desperate to prove that last week was a fluke, a blip in their otherwise stellar radar.

But this isn’t the same South Carolina team that Ole Miss has grown accustomed to bullying. Shane Beamer has injected a new energy into this program, a swagger that’s been missing for years. They’ve got a quarterback, LaNorris Sellers, who, when healthy, is a magician with the ball. They’ve got a running back, Raheim Sanders, who runs with a violence that would make Marshawn Lynch proud. And they’ve got a defense that’s finally starting to live up to its potential.

This game is a fascinating collision of narratives. It pits the high-flying offense of Ole Miss, led by the gunslinging Jaxson Dart, against the gritty, determined defense of South Carolina. It’s the wounded pride of a Rebel team that expected to be undefeated against the burgeoning confidence of a Gamecock squad that’s starting to believe.

The key to this game? It’s simple. Can South Carolina’s defense, which has shown flashes of brilliance but also moments of inconsistency, contain the explosive Ole Miss attack? Can they pressure Dart, force him into mistakes, and keep the Rebels’ receivers in check?

And on the other side of the ball, can Sellers and Sanders, both battling injuries, recapture the magic that led them to dominant performances earlier in the season? Can the offensive line, a work in progress all season, hold up against a ferocious Ole Miss defensive front?

This game is more than just an SEC matchup. It’s a referendum on both programs. For Ole Miss, it’s a chance to prove that they’re still a contender and that last week was an aberration. For South Carolina, it’s a chance to announce their arrival and show the world that they’re a force to be reckoned with.

The atmosphere at Williams-Brice Stadium will be electric. The Gamecock faithful, starved for success, will be ready to erupt. This game could go down to the wire, and a single play could decide it.

So buckle up, folks. This is going to be a wild ride. This is SEC football at its finest. This is Ole Miss vs. South Carolina, and it’s not to be missed.

Evening Game

Game: 10 Michigan @ Washington

TV: NBC, Peacock

Game Time: 7:30 PM Eastern/4:30 PM

The last time Michigan and Washington met, confetti rained down on a jubilant Wolverines squad celebrating a National Championship victory. But that was then, and this is now. This time, the Huskies have home-field advantage and a raucous Husky Stadium crowd hungry for revenge. This time, both teams are different, retooled, and wrestling with unique challenges.

Michigan, the reigning champs, are undefeated, but they’ve hardly looked invincible. Their offense, once a well-oiled machine, has sputtered at times, relying heavily on the legs of running back Kalel Mullings. Quarterback Alex Orji, thrust into the starting role after an injury to JJ McCarthy, has shown flashes of potential but remains an unknown quantity.

Washington, meanwhile, has been a puzzle. They’ve shown flashes of brilliance but also moments of self-destruction. Penalties, turnovers, and red-zone inefficiency have plagued them. But with quarterback Will Rogers at the helm, they have the firepower to put up points against any defense.

This game is a clash of styles. Michigan’s strength lies in its defense, a unit loaded with NFL talent. They’ll be looking to shut down Rogers and the Huskies’ passing attack, forcing them into uncomfortable situations. On the other hand, Washington will need to exploit Michigan’s one-dimensional offense, keeping them off balance and forcing Orji to beat them through the air.

The key matchup to watch? Michigan’s defensive line against Washington’s offensive line. If the Wolverines can get consistent pressure on Rogers, they’ll disrupt the Huskies’ rhythm and force turnovers. But if Washington can give Rogers time to throw, he has the weapons to pick apart Michigan’s secondary.

Beyond the X’s and O’s, this game is about more than just a win or a loss. It’s about pride, redemption, and the ever-shifting balance of power in college football. It’s a chance for Michigan to prove that last year’s championship was no fluke and that they’re still the team to beat. For Washington, it’s a chance to avenge that painful loss and show the world they belong on the national stage.

The atmosphere in Seattle will be electric. Husky Stadium, one of the loudest venues in college football, will be rocking. The 12th Man, Michigan’s loyal fan base, will be there in force, creating a sea of maize and blue. This game could go down to the wire, a game that a single play could decide.

So tune in, folks. This is a must-watch matchup. This is Michigan vs. Washington, a rematch with a twist. And it’s not to be missed.

Night Game

Game: 8 Miami @ Cal

TV: ESPN

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

With their explosive offense and swaggering confidence, the Miami Hurricanes are rolling into Berkeley like a hurricane hitting the California coast. Undefeated and ranked 8th in the nation, they’re looking to make a statement against a Cal team that’s more familiar with them than your average ACC foe.

This isn’t your typical cross-country clash. Cal head coach Justin Wilcox knows Mario Cristobal well from their Pac-12 battles, and quarterback Cam Ward has faced the Bears twice during his time at Washington State. There’s a history here, a familiarity that adds an extra layer of intrigue to this matchup.

But familiarity can only take you so far. Miami’s offense is a juggernaut, averaging nearly 50 points per game. Ward is a magician with the ball, spreading it to a talented group of receivers. They’re explosive, they’re efficient, and they’re a nightmare for opposing defenses.

Cal, on the other hand, is a team that thrives on defense and ball control. They’re not flashy, but they’re disciplined and opportunistic. They lead the nation in turnover margin, and they’ll be looking to force Ward into mistakes.

The key matchup to watch? Miami’s passing attack against Cal’s stingy secondary. The Hurricanes have the number one passing offense in the country, but the Bears have a knack for picking off passes. Something’s gotta give.

Another intriguing battle? Cal’s running back Jaydn Ott, a potential X-factor, against Miami’s run defense. Ott has been battling injuries, but if he’s healthy, he could give the Bears the spark they need to pull off the upset.

But let’s be honest, the odds are stacked against Cal. Miami is simply the more talented team. They have more firepower on offense, more playmakers on defense, and a swagger that’s hard to match.

Still, this is college football, where anything can happen. Cal has the home-field advantage, a coach who knows his opponent well, and a defense that can make life difficult for any quarterback. They might have a chance if they can force turnovers, control the clock, and keep Miami’s offense off the field.

But don’t bet on it. This feels like Miami’s game to lose. They’re the better team, on a roll, and looking to prove they’re a national championship contender. Expect a high-scoring affair, with the Hurricanes ultimately pulling away in the second half.

So grab your popcorn, folks. This is a game you won’t want to miss. It’s Miami vs. Cal, a clash of styles, a battle of wills, and a chance for the Hurricanes to make a statement on the national stage.

Full Game Schedule

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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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Swamp of Despair Puts Napier in the Top Hot Seat

Mark Haines on September 3, 2024

1. Billy Napier, Florida

Let’s dive into the swampy mess that is the Florida Gators football program under Billy Napier. I’m not one to sugarcoat things, so let’s call it like it is: Napier is knee-deep in the muck, and the hot seat is scorching his backside.

The 41-17 beatdown by Miami? Embarrassing. Napier himself said it. And after two-plus seasons, a dismal 11-15 record ain’t cutting it in Gainesville. The lack of progress is glaring, fans are bailing on games early, and even the legendary Steve Spurrier is publicly questioning Napier’s approach.

Let’s face it, Year 3 is judgment time for any coach, and Napier is failing the test. The Gators look lost, undisciplined, and, frankly, uninspired. The offense is sputtering, the defense is porous, and the special teams are, well, “special” in all the wrong ways.

Napier has a hefty buyout, and Florida’s leadership might be hesitant to pull the trigger. But when the program’s ambassador calls for change and fans threaten to stay home, the pressure is mounting.

Napier’s got a tough road ahead. The schedule doesn’t get any easier, and the vultures are circling. He needs to pull a rabbit out of his hat and fast. Otherwise, his tenure in the Swamp might be coming to an unceremonious end.

Can Napier turn this ship around? It’s possible, but the odds are stacked against him. The Gators need a spark, a jolt of energy, and a whole lot of wins. If Napier can’t deliver, well, it might be time for Florida to start looking for a new captain to navigate these treacherous waters.

The clock is ticking, Billy. The hot seat is burning. It’s time to show us what you’re made of.

2. Shane Beamer, South Carolina

The air in Columbia crackles with nervous energy, a far cry from the jubilant anticipation that typically heralds a new season. South Carolina fans are on edge. The wounds of the 2023 season—a dismal 3-5 in the SEC, a humbling 5-7 overall, and the bitter sting of missing a bowl game—still fester. The echoes of boos raining down on their team in the season opener against Old Dominion haunt their collective memory. Social media, a relentless digital amphitheater, reverberates with their discontent.

Shane Beamer, the man at the helm, feels the weight of their expectations bearing down on him. He occupies the precarious #2 spot on the Coaches Hot Seat List, a stark reminder that the honeymoon phase is over. Two promising seasons to start his tenure bought him goodwill, but last year’s regression has everyone questioning his leadership. The brutal reality of college football is that winning isn’t enough in the SEC; you must consistently compete at the highest level. Right now, South Carolina is falling short.

The pressure is immense. Beamer must orchestrate a dramatic turnaround, and he must do it now. He must prove that 2023 was an anomaly, not a harbinger of decline. He must demonstrate his ability to recruit, develop, and win in the most unforgiving conference in college football. He must guide the Gamecocks back to a bowl game and achieve this feat this year.

The clock is ticking. The fans, the boosters, the administration—all eyes are on him. Every game, every play, every decision will be dissected and analyzed. Beamer’s future at South Carolina hangs precariously in the balance.

Yet, amidst the storm clouds, a glimmer of hope remains. Beamer has tasted victory; he has laid a foundation. Now, he must build upon it. He must prove that he is not simply a capable coach but the visionary leader this program needs to reclaim its former glory. He must silence the doubters and etch his name in South Carolina football lore.

The 2024 season is a crucible. It is a chance for redemption, to defy expectations, and to script a new chapter in the Gamecocks’ storied history. The question hangs heavy in the air: Can Shane Beamer rise to the occasion? Can he navigate the treacherous waters of the SEC and lead his team back to the promised land?

The stage is set. The stakes are high. The spotlight is on. It’s time for Shane Beamer to show the world what he’s made of.

3. Dave Aranda, Baylor

Dave Aranda’s the defensive mastermind who brought Baylor a surprise Big 12 title in 2021. But last year’s offensive struggles were like watching paint dry. With the Big 12 expanding and the competition fiercer, Aranda’s feeling the heat.

He’s not one to panic, though. Aranda’s a thinker, a “Professor,” as they call him, constantly analyzing, always strategizing. This season, he’s taking back the reins of the defense, calling the plays himself, just like he did during LSU’s national championship run. It’s a bold move, a statement that he’s not afraid to get his hands dirty.

On offense, there’s a new sheriff in town: Jake Spavital. He’s bringing an up-tempo scheme and has some new weapons to play with, including transfer QB Dequan Finn and speedy receiver Ashtyn Hawkins. The offensive line has been bolstered with transfers, too, so there’s hope for a more balanced attack.

But let’s be honest. Aranda’s bread and butter is defense. He’s built a reputation for shutting down opponents, and Baylor needs to get back to that. If the defense can regain its swagger and the offense can find some rhythm, the Bears could surprise some folks.

Aranda is a coach who’s always stayed true to himself, even as the college football landscape has shifted dramatically. He’s embraced NIL and the transfer portal but has returned to his roots as a defensive play-caller. It’s a gamble, but it could pay off big time.

The pressure’s on in Waco, but Aranda’s not backing down. He’s got a plan, he’s got the experience, and he’s got the passion. The Bears might be underdogs this year but don’t count them out. Aranda’s got a few tricks up his sleeve, and he’s ready to prove that he’s still one of the best in the business.

4. Sam Pittman, Arkansas

Sam Pittman’s story at Arkansas combines heartwarming nostalgia and high-stakes pressure. He’s like the beloved hometown hero who returned to coach his alma mater, bringing back some of that good ol’ fashioned Razorback pride. But sentimentality only gets you so far in the cutthroat world of SEC football.

Pittman’s 21-17 record is respectable, but it’s not enough to silence the critics in the SEC. Losses to rivals like LSU and Texas A&M sting deep, and the departure of star quarterback KJ Jefferson leaves a gaping hole in the offense. The pressure is on Pittman to prove he can develop a new quarterback and keep the Razorbacks’ momentum rolling, which is a daunting task he’s fully aware of.

In a bold move that raised eyebrows across college football, Pittman brought back Bobby Petrino as offensive coordinator. It’s a high-risk, high-reward gamble that has the entire football community on edge. Petrino’s a brilliant offensive mind, but his past transgressions at Arkansas are still fresh in many people’s minds. Pittman’s betting that Petrino’s expertise can revitalize the offense and propel the Razorbacks to new heights.

The Hogs faithful are hungry for success, and Pittman knows it. He’s not afraid of the hot seat and will make tough decisions to win. As he puts it, “I want to win. I don’t care about all the rest of it.”

Pittman has the support of his athletic director, a talented roster, and a new offensive coordinator with a point to prove. The 2024 season will be a defining one for Pittman and the Razorbacks. It’s a season filled with anticipation and excitement, as it will determine the team’s future. Will they rise to the occasion and make a statement in the SEC? Or will the pressure prove too much, leading to another chapter of disappointment in Fayetteville?

The stage is set, the players are ready, and the drama unfolds. Stay tuned to Coaches Hot Seat as we track Sam Pittman’s high-stakes gamble in the heart of SEC country.

5. Brent Pry, Virginia Tech

Saturday’s loss by Virginia Tech to Vanderbilt wasn’t just a loss; it was a full-blown coaching meltdown, a symphony of errors and indiscipline that has left Virginia Tech reeling and Brent Pry teetering on the edge of oblivion. The Hokies, favored by 13.5 points, were not just beaten; they were embarrassed, outplayed, and outcoached in their own house.

But the final score was merely a symptom of a deeper malaise. The two players sharing the same jersey number on the field wasn’t just a blunder; it was a glaring indictment of a program in disarray, a coaching staff asleep at the wheel. It’s the kind of mistake that makes you question the competence of everyone involved.

Then there’s the childish name-calling, the “poor man’s Trace McSorley” taunt hurled at Vanderbilt’s quarterback. It’s not just disrespectful; it’s a sign of a team that’s lost its way, a group of players who think they’re better than they are. It’s the kind of arrogance that fuels the underdog and comes back to bite you in the ass.

And bite it did. Vanderbilt, motivated and focused, exposed every crack in Virginia Tech’s foundation. They exploited the lack of discipline, the lack of preparation, and the lack of leadership. They made Pry’s Hokies look like a JV squad, a team devoid of identity and purpose.

This isn’t a one-off; it’s a pattern. Pry’s tenure at Virginia Tech has been a slow-motion train wreck, a series of missed opportunities and unfulfilled promises. The same issues keep cropping up: undisciplined players, lackluster preparation, and an inability to maximize the talent on the roster.

The fans are fed up. The alumni are embarrassed. The media is sharpening its knives. Pry’s seat isn’t just hot; it’s melting. He’s lost the locker room, he’s lost the fanbase, and he’s lost the benefit of the doubt.

The Hokies deserve better. They deserve a coach who can instill discipline, inspire confidence, and lead them to greatness. Right now, Brent Pry is the antithesis of that. He’s the captain of a sinking ship, and unless he can plug the leaks and change course, he’ll be remembered not as the savior of Virginia Tech football, but as the one who ran it aground.

Full Ranking List Here: https://coacheshotseat.com/

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