Mocking a QB to the Detroit Lions is lazy

Firstly, this is not discounting that Malik Willis (or Kenny Pickett) is or will be a bad QB in the NFL. In fact, I think that Malik Willis can be a top QB if he falls to a team with a proper coaching staff and with adequate weapons around him. He is an exciting prospect, but raw. He will be 23 years old in his first NFL game, and hasn’t really solidified himself as the QB1 in a draft class that lacks high-end talent in his position. In my opinion, he would be a fantastic 2nd-round project with incredible upside, however not worthy of the #2 pick.

The Detroit Lions have glaring holes in their defense. There is a desperate need for an elite pass-rusher. Unfortunately, this draft is missing a Bosa or Myles Garrett or Chase Young. Hutchinson/Thibodeaux/Walker are great but not elite talents. However, whether it be any of those three, the Lions will get a much needed improvement to their defense as compared to drafting a QB that may or may not be better than the one they have. If I thought that Kyle Hamilton was the next Ed Reed, then I would support him being drafted to the Lions, yet I don’t see that. An EDGE rusher is the only position the Lions can draft at #2 that will make sense.

Now, trading down makes the most sense. Loading up on draft capital in a class that lacks high-end talent but is deemed to have a pool of good talent is a fan’s wet dream. If the Lions move down, I would look for guys like S Kyle Hamilton, DT Jordan Davis, or EDGE Jermaine Johnson. I think all three of these guys will be day 1 starters for the Lions, while the organization also has more draft capital to build this team.

Malik Willis is a “We’re a QB away from being great” type pick. If he ends up in Pittsburgh or Washington, I think he’s going to be great. Pittsburgh has great weapons for him, and he can sit behind a serviceable Trubisky for a year or two. Washington traded for Carson Wentz who is nothing more than a bridge QB. They have a great defense, good weapons on offense, but are missing a QB to take them over the edge in an otherwise weak NFC East.

In the end, please stop mocking a QB to the Lions. If they do indeed draft Malik Willis, then I’ll tip my cap to the lazy bloggers, but he better be a top-5 QB for that not to be the beginning of the end of the Holmes/Campbell era.

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Grading the Detroit Lions’ free-agent signings

The 3-12-1 Lions entered the off-season with a dumpster fire defense. Flashback to Week 1, many believed that this defense would carry the load. Signing Trey Flowers and Mike Daniels, while also having Da’Shawn Hand, A’Shawn Robinson, and Damon “Snacks” Harrison. Fans hoped for Jarad Davis to improve, yet it shows that he is not a suitable MIKE for this team. We scratched our heads at the Tavai pick, yet he showed some flashes throughout the season. Then the Quandre Diggs trade happened, which seemingly spiraled everything out of control. Injuries upon injuries struck this team, and now, here we are. Slay traded to Philly for a 3rd and 5th. Kennard released. Snacks released. Glasgow released. Daniels let go. Melvin let go. Sam Martin let go. McKissic let go. What did we get back in return? Well, let’s go through everything.

Desmond Trufant, CB (Atlanta Falcons)

Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

With Slay gone, many were hoping for Byron Jones. The Lions play the most man-to-man defense in the NFL, therefore, the available pool of corners that fit our scheme slims down. The former first round pick back in 2013 has been the CB1 for the Falcons, leading their secondary. What worries me is that this could be another situation like Mike Daniels, where an aging player is released by their team and we sign them after they come off a serious injury.

THE GOOD: Trufant is able to fill a massive hole at CB1 with the departure of Darius Slay.

THE BAD: Concerns with injuries, as well as Trufant is turning 30 later this year. This signing satisfies the Lions’ need for a CB1 for the short-term, but will need to invest in a younger CB somewhere in the near future. With the third pick in the draft this year, Okudah seems like a strong possibility to be this successor to Trufant.

GRADE: B

Jamie Collins, LB (New England Patriots)

Winslow Townson, Associated Press

Patricia likes the guys that he has experience with back in New England. Jamie Collins is a linebacker that is a great fit for the Lions because of his ability to cover tight-ends and running-backs. A revamp of this defense is much needed, so bringing in veterans that understand the culture that Patricia is trying to develop.

THE GOOD: Collins has experience in Patricia’s scheme and is capable of playing at an incredibly high level. He has been very productive over the course of his career, particularly with New England.

THE BAD: Collins is currently 31 years old and just signed to Detroit on a three-year deal worth $30M. I’m not a huge fan of the deal itself, but if Detroit is able to get similar production to what he did with New England last year, Collins will be a great addition to this defense.

GRADE: B+

Halapoulivaati Vaitai, OT (Philadelphia Eagles)

Dave Zangaro/NBC Sports

The offensive line for the Lions had question marks looming since the departure of TJ Lang. Taylor Decker appeared to be a star early, however, has not been able to keep it all together. Frank Ragnow has been awesome at center, but that is really it. Glasgow seemed to be a solid guard, yet Quinn thought otherwise. Rick Wagner proved to be overrated and overpaid with his release. The key factor at play is what the Lions are going to do with Tyrell Crosby. Many believed he would get his chance at RT, yet the Lions signing Big V to a 5-year $50M contract, I find it hard to believe that Big V is going to sit behind Crosby making that much money.

THE GOOD: Vaitai has sat behind two of the best tackles in the game, Lane Johnson and Jason Peters. With Cory Undlin (former Eagles coach) joining Detroit’s staff, one can assume that Undlin saw promise in Vaitai.

THE BAD: A 5-year $50M deal for a player that has been unproven is concerning.

GRADE: C (with B upside)

Chase Daniel, QB (Chicago Bears)

Lions fans know Chase Daniel as the backup that defeated them on Thanksgiving Day back in 2018. Daniel is a career backup, spending time on the Saints, Chiefs, Eagles, and Bears throughout his 10-year career. He’s been proven to be competent, which has not been the case for backup QB’s in Detroit for the last few years.

THE GOOD: Stafford going down last year derailed the season. Chase Daniel will be able to come in, per anything to happen to Stafford, and bring the Lions success.

THE BAD: There is not really anything bad about this deal. I’m interested to see what the Lions do in this year’s draft and see if they invest a late pick in a developmental QB to sit behind both Stafford and Daniel.

GRADE: A

Danny Shelton, DT (New England Patriots)

I understand that the casual fan hearing the Lions signing another former Patriot is annoying, but I’d rather look at the player. Shelton is a solid run-stuffer on the interior of the defensive line. Shelton will be replacing Snacks, who had a similar role. I’m sure the Lions were looking to purse Chris Jones (franchise tagged by KC) and DJ Reader (signed to CIN), but luckily were able to grab a solid DT in Shelton.

THE GOOD: Value. Shelton signed to a 2-year $8M deal with Detroit, which is significantly less than that of Snacks’ former contract. This allowed Detroit to grab another piece for the defensive line.

THE BAD: Shelton is not the premier run-stuff player that Snacks was. Also, Shelton has been used more as a rotational piece than a solidified starter. This will be another case, like Vaitai’s, to see what kind of player he really is being a starter.

GRADE: B-

Nick Williams, DT (Chicago Bears)

Mentioned above, Shelton signing his deal allowed for Nick Williams signing with Detroit. Williams is a 29-year old vet, with experience on numerous teams. Last year, Williams was able to get to the QB 6 times, which is great for an interior lineman. A pass-rushing interior lineman is much needed on Patricia’s defense, which Williams is able to do.

THE GOOD: The Lions needed to improve their defensive line personnel. Further, they needed players that have the ability to rush the QB, which Williams showed he was able to do last season.

THE BAD: Williams broke out in his fifth season with the Bears. It is unknown why he wasn’t able to get his career going earlier with Kansas City or Miami, but maybe the Lions found a diamond in the rough.

GRADE: C+

 

 

 

 

Don’s 2020 NFL Mock Draft 1.0

The NFL Draft is nearly a month away. With most of the big-name free agents off the market, we now have a better idea of where players will fall. Obviously, it’s almost easier to hit the lottery than getting a perfect mock. Also, adding in a couple trades to make things a little spicier. There is a table at the bottom of the mock that translates each selection to each team for easier view. Enjoy!

MOCK TRADES:

MIA sends 1.05, 1.26, 5.126 to DET for 1.03

CLE sends 1.1, 3.74 to CAR for 1.07

MIN sends 1.22, 2.58, 7.249 to TB for 1.14

ROUND 1

1. CIN- Joe Burrow, QB, LSU

Josh Auzenne/WAFB-TV

Transitioning from Andy Dalton to Joe Burrow will not only rejuvenate AJ Green and John Ross, but the entire Bengal’s team. Pairing Burrow with young head coach Zac Taylor will be something to keep an eye on heading into the 2020 season. With 2019 first round pick Jonah Williams returning, Cincy’s offense is something to keep an eye on.

2. WSH- Chase Young, EDGE, Ohio State

With Washington trading for Kyle Allen, it is almost fact that they will not be taking a QB at #2. The only other thing that can happen is the Chargers or Dolphins can trade up above Detroit to take Tua, but that seems less likely than Washington taking Chase here. An elite pass rusher to put across of 2019 first round pick Montez Sweat will give an immediate boost to Washington’s front.

3. MIA (via DET) – Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama

A bidding war between Miami and LA can and will be won by Miami due to their amount of draft capital. I do believe that it is in which ever team that drafts Tua to sit on him for a year, be 100% sure that he is healthy, and come into the 2021 season prepared. Both LA and MIA are capable of this, with Miami sitting on Fitzpatrick/Rosen and LA with Tyrod Taylor. In this case, I see Fitzpatrick starting most of the season, and seeing Rosen appear later in the year to see exactly what he is worth for Miami to ship him off to gain picks in the following year’s drafts. Tua has superstar traits, it just comes down to providing him weapons and protection.

4. NYG – Tristan Wirfs, OT, Iowa

The Giants will have the first choice at the top offensive line prospects. Wirfs provides versatility, with his ability to play guard and tackle. Scouts believe he will be best playing at guard, but I would like to see him at RT. With a generational running back heading into year 3 in Saquon Barkley, and a young QB in Daniel Jones, investing in a solid piece in Wirfs will be beneficial for all of the weapons the Giants have on offense.

5. DET (via MIA) – Isaiah Simmons, LB/S, Clemson

This pick comes down to Simmons or Okudah and the Lions are going with Simmons. With the Lions signing Trufant, that allows them to invest in a playmaker. Trading Slay hurts the secondary, but I believe that Oruwariye is going to take a big step in becoming the Lions CB2. Jarad Davis is not capable of being a starter for the Lions any longer, and with the release of Devon Kennard, the LB group in Detroit needs a boost. Simmons provides versatility that is needed with the amount of times Patricia drops his linebackers into coverage.

6. LAC – Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon

Justin Herbert could be playing for the Arizona Cardinals right now, however, with him staying in school, it hurt his draft stock. I was wrong about Josh Allen coming out of college because I was worried about his accuracy. Similarly, I worry about Herbert’s accuracy. Scouting reports suggest that he is “deadly accurate” and I don’t see it. However, Herbert has the arm and the physical traits that you want in a QB. Putting him in LA to sit behind Tyrod will allow him to learn the offense, and eventually take over for the Chargers.

7. CLE – Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia

The Giants selecting Wirfs puts pressure on Cleveland to move up and grab the next tackle. Cleveland had great signings in free agency, now getting an anchor at LT will provide the much needed protection for Baker Mayfield. All of the hype last season for the Cleveland offense disappointed fans, however, look for a positive bounce back year as the Browns get a full year with Kareem Hunt, as well with the pairing of Austin Hooper and David Njoku.

8. ARZ – Jedrick Wills, OT, Alabama

Over the past few months, we have watched Wills fly up draft boards. Wills is a polished blocker, being a two year starter at Alabama. At 6’5, 320lbs, Wills is capable of being one of the top tackles in the league for years to come. With the Cardinals robbing Houston of DeAndre Hopkins, giving Kyler Murray protection is a must and Wills here seems to be a no brainer.

9. JAX – Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn

Derrick Brown is a name that will be known by many next season. He is one of the most complete DT coming into the draft that I have witnessed in recent memory. Brown has incredible strength that allows him to fight off blocks. His run stuffing ability appears to be elite. With Jacksonville sending off Campbell, a boost to their defensive line is needed. Getting Brown here at 9 is fantastic value.

10. CAR – Javon Kinlaw, DT, South Carolina

With Carolina signing Bridgewater, they eliminate themselves with moving up to take Tua or Herbert. In this case, they are able to pick up an extra pick by moving down and still getting an absolute beast. Kinlaw has been relatively flying under the radar, which shocks me because of his talent. Kinlaw provides a pass rushing ability that is superior to that of Derrick Brown’s. That said, I would not be surprised to see Jacksonville grab Kinlaw and Brown to fall here to Carolina.

11. NYJ- Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville

12. LV – CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma

13. SF (via IND) – Jeffery Okudah, CB, Ohio State

Okudah dropping all the way to 13 seems insane. Remember Greedy Williams being a solidified top 10 pick early last year? Okudah is definitely a better prospect and, in my opinion, a better player, so he will not drop far. Pairing Okudah with Sherman, while also reuniting with Nick Bosa, seems unfair. This SF defense only gets better.

14. MIN (via TB) – Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama

15. DEN – Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama

16. ATL – AJ Epenesa, EDGE, Iowa

17. DAL – CJ Henderson, CB, Florida

18. MIA (via PIT) – K’Lavon Chassion, EDGE, LSU

19. LV (via CHI) – Kristian Fulton, CB, LSU

20. JAX (via LAR) – Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU

21. PHI – Tee Higgins, WR, Clemson

22. TB (via MIN, BUF) – Josh Jones, OT, Houston

23. NE – Yetur Gross-Matos, EDGE, Penn State

24. NO – Patrick Queen, LB, LSU

25. MIN – Zach Baun, EDGE, Wisconsin

26. DET (via MIA, HOU) – Ross Blacklock, DT, TCU

27. SEA – Curtis Weaver, EDGE, Boise State

28. BAL – Laviska Shenault, WR, Colorado

29. TEN – Neville Gallimore, DT, Oklahoma

30. GB – Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU

31. SF – Denzel Mims, WR, Baylor

32. KC – Kenneth Murray, LB, Oklahoma

ROUND 2

33. CIN – Terrell Lewis, EDGE, Alabama

34. IND – Jordan Love, QB, Utah State

35. DET – Cesar Ruiz, OG, Michigan

36. NYG – Bradlee Anae, EDGE, Utah

37. LAC – Austin Jackson, OT, USC

38. CAR – Trevon Diggs, CB, Alabama

39. MIA – Lucas Niang, OT, TCU

40. HOU – Lloyd Cushenberry III, OG, LSU

41. CLE – Grant Delpit, S, LSU

42. JAX – AJ Terrell, CB, Clemson

43. CHI – Xavier McKinney, S, Alabama

44. IND – DeAndre Swift, RB, Georgia

45. TB – Jonathan Taylor, RB, Wisconsin

46. DEN – Noah Igbinoghene, CB, Auburn

47. ATL – Justin Madubuike, DT, Texas A&M

48. NYJ – Jalen Raegor, WR, TCU

49. PIT – Ben Bartch, OT, St. John’s

50. CHI – Jonah Jackson, OG, Ohio State

51. DAL – Matt Hennessy, OG, Temple

52. LAR – Joshua Uche, EDGE, Michigan

53. PHI – Julian Okwara, EDGE, Notre Dame

54. BUF- Jaylon Johnson, CB, Utah

55. BAL – Jordyn Brooks, LB, Texas Tech

56. MIA – J.K Dobbins, RB, Ohio State

57. HOU – Raekwon Davis, DT, Alabama

58. TB – Robert Hunt, OG, Louisiana

59. SEA – Cam Akers, RB, Florida State

60. BAL – Ezra Cleveland, OT, Boise State

61. TEN – Jonathan Greenard, EDGE, Florida

62. GB – Cameron Dantzler, CB, Mississippi State

63. KC – Damon Arnette, CB, Ohio State

64. SEA – Isaiah Wilson, OT, Georgia

Picks By Team

ARZ	Wills, OT
ATL	Epenesa, EDGE	Madubuike, DT
BAL	Shenault, WR	Brooks, LB	Cleveland, OT
BUF	Johnson, CB
CAR	Brown, DT	Diggs, CB
CHI	McKinney, S	Jackson,OG
CIN	Burrow, QB	Lewis, EDGE
CLE	Thomas, OT	Delpit, S
DAL	Henderson, CB
DEN	Ruggs III, WR	Hennessy, OG
DET	Simmons, LB	Blacklock, DT	Ruiz, OG
GB	Jefferson, WR	Dantzler, CB
HOU	Cushenberry, OG	Davis, DT
IND	Love, QB	Swift, RB
JAX	Kinlaw, DT	Gladney, CB	Terrell, CB
KC	Murray, LB	Arnette, CB
LV	Lamb, WR	Fulton, CB
LAC	Herbert, QB	Jackson, OT
LAR	Uche, EDGE
MIA	Tagovailoa, QB	Chassion, EDGE	Niang, OT	Dobbins, RB
MIN	Jeudy, WR	Baun, EDGE
NE	Gross-Matos, EDGE
NO	Queen, LB
NYG	Wirfs, OT	Anae, EDGE
NYJ	Bechton, OT	Raegor, WR
PHI	Higgins, WR	Okwara, EDGE
PIT	Bartch, OT
SF	Okudah, CB	Mims, WR
SEA	Weaver, EDGE	Igbinoghene, CB	Akers, RB	Wilson, OT
TB	Jones, OT	Taylor, RB	Hunt, OG
TEN	Gallimore, DT	Greenard, EDGE
WSH	Young, EDGE

Detroit Lions 2020 7-Round Mock Draft

After an incredibly disappointing 2019 season, the Lions find themselves drafting 3rd overall in this years draft. With there being three “elite” prospects in Burrow, Young, and Tagovailoa, the Lions could possibly be sitting on a gold-mine with teams looking to move up for Tua. Teams that are being expected to purse the Lions’ pick are the Dolpins, Chargers, Panthers, and Raiders. In this mock, the Lions will be accepting a trade with the Dolphins.

TRADE: DET sends 1.03 to MIA for MIA 1.05, 1.26 (via HOU), and 3.07

1.05 (via MIA) – Jeffery Okudah, CB, Ohio State

Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports

Jeffrey Okudah has the skill-set either take over duties at CB1 for the Lions if Slay is moved, or form one of the most dangerous trios in football with Slay/Okudah/Coleman. Okudah has been compared to Marshon Lattimore, both OSU alumni, and if the Lions can grab someone of Lattimore’s caliber, that is well worth a top-5 pick. With the Lions playing the most man coverage in the NFL, getting the best man-to-man corner is a no-brainer. Okudah showcases his ability to mirror routes with his insane statistics, coming from PFF. He has only allowed six 15+ yard completions over 400 snaps. While on the boundary, Okudah has only allowed first downs on 20% of his 93 targets since 2018.

1.26 (via MIA) – Ross Blacklock, DT, TCU

Julie Toles, TCU Athletics

Blacklock is a 6’4, 305lb monster. He is able to use his strength to power through gaps and get after opposing QB’s. The Lions struggles to apply pressure on passers last season was evident. With the departures of Damon ‘Snacks’ Harrison and possibly A’Shawn Robinson, the Lions will need to fill a massive hole on the defensive line. Using the draft capital gained from trading out of the 3rd overall pick allows the Lions to get a high end talent.

2.35 – Julian Okwara, EDGE, Notre Dame

Rick Kimball/ISD

With the third pick for the Lions, we are going to bolster the defense again with a pass rushing specialist. Julian Okwara is has the speed and bend to get around the edge and produce sacks. Experts suggest that he would be best used in a 3-4 front with flexibility, which would be a perfect fit for the Lions. I would like to get an instant starter this early in the second round, but plugging in an edge rusher day one is not that common. Rotating Okwara into the game on passing downs would allow him to shine best in 2020, while he develops into a true three down defender improving his run defense.

 

3.67 – Ben Bartch, OT, St. John’s

AJ Shulte/Pro Football Network

D-III athlete in the third round? Bartch is more than capable playing at the next level. He was able to elevate his draft stock with his outstanding performance at the Senior Bowl, which Matt Patricia witnessed first-hand. Although he was on the South team, it was evident that Bartch held his own against some of the premier pass-rushers entering this year’s draft. Bartch is not going to be a plug and play OT off the rip, but he can develop into a solid tackle for the Lions if Decker/Crosby do not take a positive step in 2020.

3.70 – Denzel Mims, WR, Baylor

Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports, USA TODAY Sports)

The first of my two receivers the Lions taking is an excellent talent, who if were in year’s prior drafts, would likely be a late first/early second prospect. Denzel Mims can be a QB’s best friend with his ability to catch nearly every ball you throw his way. An aging Marvin Jones and Danny Amendola leaves question marks on the future of the receiving group for Matt Stafford, but giving him Mims will provide a future WR2 who can fill Jones’ role.

4.99 – Shane Lemieux, IOL, Oregon

Andrew Doughty, Oregon Athletics

Since the departure of TJ Lang, the Lions offensive line has not been up to par with where it needs to be to make a step at being a serious contender. Lemieux is at the worst, a depth piece. He can contribute best in a power run scheme, which is great for Kerryon and Bo. Just as there are question marks at RT, there are also concerns with both of the guard spots. Shane has great power and shows it off on film. He has a place in the NFL as a future starter.

5.131 – David Woodward, LB, Utah State

Wade Denniston, USU Athletic Media Relations

This has potential to be an awesome pick or a wasted pick with Woodward’s injury history. He suffered a vertebrae fracture and several concussions in college, which will raise concerns for NFL GM’s. However, his upside is worth the risk. If taken, the Lions can sit on Woodward, allow his body to full heal for another year, and then plug him into the MIKE spot after they get rid of the disappointment that is Jarad Davis. Scouts recommend providing him with a solid interior line that will prevent blockers reaching him, which I do not believe will be a problem given that the Lions should grab some DT’s in free agency, along with drafting Blacklock.

5.154 – Antoine Brooks, S, Maryland

Maryland Football

Trading Quandre Diggs mid-2019 season showed serious concerns over who is going to take his place, but also showed how much the front office believes in Tracy Walker and Will Harris. Adding depth here in the fifth round with Brooks gives the Lions a safety that has incredible tackling ability with the added trait of being able to be a solid nickel defender.

6.162 – Anthony Gordon, QB, Washington State

Vasha Hunt-USA TODAY Sports

One can dream that Gordon falls this far. The thing about Gordon is that he will be lumped in as a system QB, similar to how Minshew was last season. Last year, I mocked Minshew to the Lions. I enjoyed Minshew’s personality and game. What I see in Gordon is a guy that can exploit defenses WHEN he is on fire. Being a one year starter, he still needs time to acclimate himself to the speed of the game, especially moving from the PAC-12 to the NFL. However, I believe he will be able to come in and be a better back-up to Stafford than those who have been the last few years.

 

 

Don’s Top 10 Quarterbacks: 2019 Midseason College Football Rankings

On July 23, 2019, I released my preseason rankings for QB’s here and now I’m back with an updated ranking. We’re seeing four new faces, and a little shifting up and down the list. This list is based off stats, team performance, and my opinion. Let’s get into it.

Honorable Mention: Dillion Gabriel, UCF; Kaleb Barker, Troy; Chris Robinson, Florida Atlantic; Cole McDonald, Hawaii; Jacob Eason, Washington

10. Jamie Newman, Wake Forest

via Andrew Dye, JournalNow.com

Starting off this list is the man leading the UNDEFEATED #19 Wake Forest Demon Deacons. Jamie Newman currently has 1,521 passing yards, 14 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions. Along with this, Newman is a top dual-threat QB with 262 rushing yards and 3 touchdowns on 78 rushes. Wake Forest is not only making themselves a name in the ACC, but also nationally. After defeating Utah State week 1, and North Carolina week 3, Jamie Newman will continue his push for the Heisman along into Wake Forest’s big game against Clemson November 16th.

9. Justin Herbert, Oregon

via GoDucks.com

Justin Herbert was my 3rd ranked QB entering the season and has not impressed me thus far. The Ducks suffered a hard loss to Auburn week 1 and since then, Oregon has not been able to put together a good offensive performance (excluding Nevada). Herbert looks great on the stat sheet with 1,341 passing yards, 15 touchdowns, and 1 interception. However, I would like to see Herbert be able to dominate the Pac-12 and compete for a national title, but that loss to Auburn and the games against Stanford and Cal were a little to close for comfort for Herbert, who is a top QB prospect in the upcoming 2020 NFL draft. Herbert has a chance to prove me wrong with the games against Washington and Washington State approaching in a few weeks.

8. Anthony Gordon, Washington State

via Michael Wyke, AP

At number 8 is my top Pac-12 QB, Anthony Gordon. Gordon takes over the Washington State offense after Gardner Minshew being taken in the 6th round by the Jacksonville Jaguars. I rank Gordon above Herbert because of how explosive WSU’s offense is. They do have losses to UCLA and Utah, but they are putting up 45 points per game. Gordon himself has 2,146 passing yards (most in NCAA), 22 touchdowns, and 6 interceptions. As mentioned before, Washington State is going to Oregon for a big Pac-12 matchup which should be a great game to see how well Gordon and Herbert compare to one another.

7. Sam Ehlinger, Texas

via Joe Robbins, Getty Images

Texas football is back? Sam Ehlinger thinks so and I do as well. Ehlinger is leading the 4-1 Texas Longhorns with 1,448 passing yards, 17 touchdowns, and 2 interceptions. As Jamie Newman was mentioned to be a dual-threat, Ehlinger is also with 236 rushing yards and 3 touchdowns on 51 carries. The Longhorns only loss is to LSU, which was one of the best games of the season this far. Texas has a big game against Oklahoma this weekend, which will be a true testament of who is the best team in the Big-12.

6. Jake Fromm, Georgia

via 24/7 Sports

The first of the three SEC quarterbacks comes in a #6 with Jake Fromm. Fromm is in his junior season now with the Georgia Bulldogs, who are in contention for a National Championship. Fromm has thrown for 1,076 yards, 8 touchdowns, and 0 interceptions. Fromm was able to beat Notre Dame two weeks ago which was his only close call this season. At this rate, an interesting matchup between Alabama and Georgia for the SEC title is setup for the end of the season. Before that, Georgia must take care of Florida and Auburn, two teams that are going to test Fromm and the Bulldogs.

5. Trevor Lawrence, Clemson

via CBS Sports

Five games in and Trevor Lawrence has been incredibly underwhelming for people, myself included, who believed he was the best quarterback in the nation. Lawrence is sitting at 1,131 passing yards, 8 touchdowns, and 5 interceptions. Furthermore, Clemson is coming off a narrow victory against North Carolina a week ago. I still believe Trevor Lawrence is one, if not the most, talented QB in the nation. Look for him to shine as the season goes on and Clemson makes their way to another College Football Playoff.

4. Justin Fields, Ohio State

via Kevin Allen, USA Today

I mentioned in my initial rankings that I’d expect Justin Fields to make this list come mid season and here he is in the top 5. After transferring from Georgia and not being able to beat out Jake Fromm as the starting quarterback for the Bulldogs, Fields is leading a Buckeyes team that looks to be the best team in the country. Fields is at 1,293 passing yards, 18 touchdowns, 1 interception, 283 rushing yards, and 8 touchdowns. Incredible numbers as the first year starter is leading the undefeated, #3 ranked Ohio State Buckeyes who are almost a certain team to reach the playoffs. Fields is coming up against the top teams in the B1G-10 with Wisconsin, Penn State, and Michigan all left on their schedule. If Fields is able to keep this up, look for him to rise on my rankings at the end of the season.

3. Joe Burrow, LSU

via Brody Miller, The Athletic

Joe Burrow has shocked the nation after leading an LSU team that most thought would be centered around their defense. Burrow led the Tigers past their win against Texas, while averaging 55 points a game. Burrow has thrown for 1,864 yards, 22 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions in 2019. LSU still has Florida, Auburn, and Alabama left on their schedule. We have witnessed what Auburn’s defense is able to do, as they defeated Justin Herbert and the Oregon Ducks week 1. Alabama is the number one team in the country. If LSU gets through this schedule undefeated, Joe Burrow has a chance to lead this team to a national championship.

2. Jalen Hurts, Oklahoma

via SoonerSports.com

Jalen Hurts is another shock to the country, but not as much as Burrow considering how we saw him lead Alabama as a freshman. After losing his job to Tua Tagovailoa, Jalen Hurts stayed on Alabama for a year before transferring to the team that sent consecutive #1 overall draft pick QB’s to the NFL. Jalen Hurts is considered as the front runner for the Heisman trophy, which will also be the third Oklahoma QB to win the Heisman in the third consecutive year. Jalen Hurts is sitting at 1,523 passing yards, 499 rushing yards, 21 total touchdowns, and 2 interceptions. Hurts is leading an Oklahoma team that is battling against Texas for the B1G-12 title, as well as also competing for a national championship. Just as I said with Ehlinger, the Texas/Oklahoma game will be crucial for both teams to reach the College Football Playoff.

1. Tua Tagovailoa, Alabama

via RollTide.com

Just as I ranked him in the preseason, Tua Tagovailoa is still the number one QB in the nation. Tua has been near perfect with a 76.4% completion rate, 1,718 passing yards, 23 passing touchdowns, and 0 interceptions. Alabama has the top receiving group in the nation and Tua is making great use. As of now, he is the top QB prospect in college while also leading the Heisman race. As Alabama begins the tail end of the season, they will be looking forward to showcasing their talent against the likes of LSU and Auburn along with a possible SEC championship game against Georgia. It is a criticism of Alabama that they play a weak schedule, however, they have to overcome great teams to reach the National Championship game once again.

Don’s Week 3 College Football Picks

Last week was not my best work and we are now in the red at 14-16 in our picks. Regardless, I think this week will bring us up from the red. I’ll put it this way, whether Wake Forest wins or loses today will determine how Saturday will go for me. Let’s get into it.

Spreads

Houston (+9) vs Washington State

Maryland (-9) @ Temple

Illinois (-7.5) vs Eastern Michigan

Colorado (-3.5) vs Air Force

North Texas (+14) @ California

Moneyline

Wake Forest (-145) vs North Carolina

USC (-190) @ BYU

Iowa State (+110) vs Iowa

Florida (-325) vs Kentucky

Texas Tech (-130) @ Arizona

Total (Over/Under)

Ohio State @ Indiana (Over 61)

Pittsburgh @ Penn State (Over 53.5)

Arizona State @ Michigan State (Over 45)

TCU @ Purdue (Under 53)

Clemson @ Syracuse (Under 59)

Don’s Week 2 College Football Picks

We’re in the green boys, last week we went 8-7. Above average, profitable expert right here. Now that I have been able to watch how teams are this year, I feel as if it’s only up from here. Let’s get into it.

Spreads

Michigan (-22.5) vs Army

Texas A&M (+17) @ Clemson

Western Michigan (+16) @ Michigan State

Texas (+6.5) vs LSU

Stanford (+1.5) @ USC

Moneyline

Boise State (-440) vs Marshall

Maryland (-130) vs Syracuse 

Nebraska (-190) @ Colorado 

North Carolina (+155) vs Miami Florida

Oregon State (+210) vs Hawaii

Totals (Over/Under)

Vanderbilt @ Purdue (Under 56)

Cincinnati @ Ohio State (Under 53.5)

LSU @ Texas (Under 56)

Eastern Michigan @ Kentucky (Over 53.5)

California @ Washington (Over 44.5)

 

 

Don’s Week 1 College Football Picks

Each week, I will place my units on FIFTEEN different picks. Five will be the spread, five will be money lined, and five will be the over/under. Let’s get into it.

Spreads

Georgia Tech (+36) vs Clemson

Purdue (-10) vs Nevada

Virginia (-2.5) vs Pittsburgh

Toledo (+11.5) vs Kentucky

Stanford (-6.5) vs Northwestern

Moneyline

Boston College (+150) vs Virginia Tech

Oregon (+140) vs Auburn

Eastern Michigan (-220) vs Coastal Carolina

UCLA (+135) vs Cincinnati 

Utah (-210) vs BYU

Totals (Over/Under)

Tulsa vs Michigan State (Under 47.5)

South Florida vs Wisconsin (Under 57.5)

Houston vs Oklahoma (Over 83)

Texas State vs Texas A&M (Under 57.5)

Rice vs Army (Over 50.5)

 

 

 

Don’s Five Sleeper Teams: 2019 College Football

The 2019 College Football Season is approaching very soon, so I have decided to release my top 5 teams that can really stir the pot this season. I don’t think these teams have a real shot at winning their conference, let alone the national championship, but each team will play a key role in knocking off the top teams in the nation.

1. Auburn Tigers

via ESPN

Auburn has the ability to emerge as a top team in the nation depending on how they handle their brutal schedule. They kick off their season with Justin Herbert and Oregon coming down Week 1. They then have Texas A&M, Florida, LSU, Georgia, and Alabama all on their schedule. Freshman Bo Nix has been named the starting QB, who takes over the position after Jarrett Stidham was drafted by the New England Patriots this April. On the defensive side of the ball, defensive tackle Derrick Brown returns as the defensive leader. Brown, who is looked at as the top defensive tackle in the country, looks to show his abilities against the likes of all the teams listed above. Auburn was given a tough schedule but I believe they can pull out some gritty wins and upset one of the top SEC teams.

2. Texas A&M Aggies

via College Football News

Similar to Auburn, Texas A&M was given a rough schedule. Looking at the preseason rankings, the Aggies will play the #1, #2, #3, and #6 teams in the nation. Kellen Mond returns at QB with Kendrick Rodgers returning at receiver. This duo will look to keep up an explosive offense against the highly talented offenses of Clemson and Alabama. What will make or break the Aggies’ season will be their secondary. It is not an easy task to be forced to contain receivers like Jerry Jeudy, Henry Ruggs III, Justyn Ross, and Tee Higgins, but having to play against the nation’s top QB’s in Jake Fromm, Tua Tagovailoa, and Trevor Lawrence, it makes things much more complicated. If Texas A&M pulls out a a couple wins against Alabama, Clemson, LSU, and Georgia, this season will be a success.

3. Nebraska Cornhuskers

via Brandon Cavanaugh/Athlon Sports

Nebraska enters the 2019 season after a 4-8 season. What makes me hopeful for Nebraska is that Scott Frost is in his second year, with Adrian Martinez returning at Quarterback, who is regarded as a top QB in the B1G 10. In their last 6 games in the 2018 season, Nebraska ended 4-2. Without a tough schedule, the Cornhuskers can compete in the B1G 10 West, with a shot at the B1G 10 title. I’m looking forward to their game on 9/28 when Ohio State comes to town. The Ohio State/Nebraska game will make or break their season. Entering 2019 as the #24 ranked team in the nation, Nebraska is my personal dark horse of the year.

4. Iowa State Cyclones

via Iowa State Athletics

After experiencing key losses to the offense with running back David Montgomery and receiver Hakeem Butler being drafted last April, Iowa State looks to reload entering 2019. With Brock Purdy back at QB, the Cyclones are primed for a shot at the B1G 12 title. Purdy showed signs of excellence in 2018, but also flashes of disappointment. Entering his sophomore season, Purdy should be able to effectively lead the Cyclones through the first half of the season without taking a loss. The true testament will be their games against Oklahoma and Texas. If they are able to knock off those two teams, Iowa State could make a push for the National Championship.

5. Michigan State Spartans

via Kirthmon F. Dozier, Detroit Free Press

Rounding out this list is a team that should not be here, but is. Michigan State is a very good team, when they decide to play offense. Defensively, Michigan State may have the best defense in the nation. Offensively, they have one of the worst offenses in the nation. With Brian Lewerke returning from after a disastrous 2018, he will be the leader looking to turn the Spartans into a competitor in the B1G 10 East. With myself being a Michigan fan, I am intrigued to see how Michigan State play in 2019.

 

Best Games Each Week in the 2019 College Football Season

WEEK 1

#8 Florida @ Miami (FL) 8/24 7:00 EST

Georgia Tech @  #1 Clemson 8/29 8:00 EST

Northwestern @ #25 Stanford 8/31 4:00 EST

#11 Oregon @ #16 Auburn 8/31 7:00 EST 

Houston @ #4 Oklahoma 9/1 7:30 EST

WEEK 2

Army @ #7 Michigan 9/7 12:00 EST

#12 Texas A&M @ #1 Clemson 9/7 3:30 EST

#6 LSU @ #9 Texas 9/7 7:30 EST 

WEEK 3

#20 Washington State @ Houston 9/13 9:15 EST

Stanford @ UCF 9/14 3:30 EST

#19 Iowa @ Iowa State 9/14 4:00 EST

#1 Clemson @ Syracuse 9/14 7:30 EST

#5 Oklahoma @ UCLA 9/14 9:00 EST

WEEK 4

#16 Oregon @ Stanford 9/21 TBD

#8 Auburn @ #17 Texas A&M 9/21 TBD

#11 Michigan @ #13 Wisconsin 9/21 12:00 EST

#7 Notre Dame @ #3 Georgia 9/21 8:00 EST

WEEK 5

#5 Ohio State @ Nebraska 9/28 TBD

#Washington State @ #19 Utah 9/28 TBD

Texas Tech @ #6 Oklahoma 9/28 TBD

WEEK 6

#15 Washington @ 10/5 TBD

#7 Auburn @ #10 Florida 10/5 TBD

#14 Iowa @ #16 Michigan 10/5 12:00 EST

#25 Michigan State @ #4 Ohio State 10/5 7:30 EST

WEEK 7

#1 Alabama @ #24 Texas A&M 10/12 TBD

#7 Florida @ #5 LSU 10/12 TBD

#10 Penn State @ #17 Iowa 10/12 TBD

#6 Oklahoma @ #11 Texas 10/12 12:00 EST

WEEK 8

#16 Michigan @ #10 Penn State 10/19 TBD

#13 Oregon @ Washington 10/19 TBD

WEEK 9

Washington State @ #13 Oregon 10/26 TBD

#12 Auburn @ #5 LSU 10/26 TBD

#9 Notre Dame @ #16 Michigan 10/26 TBD

#10 Penn State @ Michigan State 10/26 TBD

WEEK 10

#15 Utah @ Washington 11/2 TBD

#4 Georgia @ #7 Florida 11/2 3:30 EST

WEEK 11

#5 LSU @ #1 Alabama 11/9 TBD

Iowa State @ #6 Oklahoma 11/9 TBD

#17 Iowa @ #8 Wisconsin 11/9 TBD

WEEK 12

#11 Texas @ Iowa State 11/16 TBD

#4 Georgia @ #12 Auburn 11/16 TBD

Michigan State @ #16 Michigan 11/16 TBD

WEEK 13

#11 Texas @ #22 Baylor 11/23 TBD

#24 Texas A&M @ #4 Georgia 11/23 TBD

#10 Penn State @ #3 Ohio State 11/23 TBD

WEEK 14

Washington State @ Washington 11/29 4:00 EST

#9 Notre Dame @ Stanford 11/30 TBD

#6 Oklahoma @ Oklahoma State 11/30 TBD

#24 Texas A&M @ #5 LSU 11/30 TBD

#1 Alabama @ #12 Auburn 11/30 TBD

#3 Ohio State @ #16 Michigan 11/30 12:00 EST