FAVORITE TEAMS

As I continue to update these teams, I’ll explain why some were dropped or appeared on my list. It’s still a work in progress, but I’m learning as I go.

Wake Forest was replaced by Syracuse. Wake Forest has a young and upcoming roster that won a dramatic bowl game over Memphis, but the last 6 games on their 2019 schedule presents a big challenge for them, including 3 road games at Virginia Tech, Clemson, and Syracuse. Talk about walking into a hostile environment this late.

Miami (FL) was replaced by Virginia. The decision was complicated because Miami (FL) has a decently favorable schedule after Florida, but they’re dropped to this list because of their offensive line. The Hurricanes’ chance at a Coastal Division comes down to the performance of that position.

Iowa was replaced by Nebraska. Before Bo Pelini was ousted from Nebraska as coach, the Cornhuskers finished between first and third in their division of the Big 12 and Big Ten between 8 and 10 wins, including 3 conference title appearances. The Huskers will return to their former glory. Iowa dropped only because they’re on the road in the final game against Nebraska. If both teams play it right and beat out Wisconsin, this could be the game for the division.

Kent State was replaced by Ohio. The Flashers should win more than 2 games in 2019, but their defense could hinder them from winning 6 plus games. Four Games between Oct. 19th and Nov. 14th will present the biggest challenge of their season.

Ball State moves up to this list. I understand the loss of quarterback Riley Neal and running back James Gilbert hurts their backfield, but both players were also hurt last season so it’s a smooth transition. Whoever wins the quarterback job will be blessed by skilled players and an experienced offensive line.

Nevada was replaced by Hawai’i. I had Nevada as the underrated team from the beginning because of the amount of skilled players returning, but the offensive line and the defensive backs could be problematic. Some opponents on their schedule presents plenty of passing and physical defense.

Tennessee was replaced by Missouri. The Volunteers are expected to win 6 games at least this season and their home games should challenge some of their tougher opponents. The only issue is their front on offense and defense. Tennessee’s O-Line has yet to make any more progress and the defensive line’s depth is thin.

Texas A&M was replaced by LSU. LSU immediately jumped from nowhere to the top of my list and Mississippi State was removed altogether. Texas A&M was hyped by plenty of people, including me. I realize that they’re a year away from competing for the West, but that’s why I do The Underrated. A&M will continue to improve with each game, but man how about their schedule? Wow!

TEAMS WAITING IN THE WINGS

MICHIGAN STATE – Majority of the roster returns on both sides, but can the offense make drastic improvements from 18.7 points per game?

NORTH CAROLINA – A 2-9 team that battled even with a roster affected by injuries and suspensions. UNC’s seven losses were by 10 points or less.

INDIANA – They return 18 starters with additional players that received playing time. The offense has potential to score a lot of points, but their defense must improve despite having experience.

AUBURN – The Tigers’ roster is experienced, talented and full of depth. But can junior quarterback Mark Willis, redshirt freshmen Joey Gatewood, or true freshmen Bo Nix be the guy to lead Auburn to an SEC West title? Their last four games will be at home, however (Ole Miss, Georgia, Samford, and Alabama).

ILLINOIS – They return 10 players on defense, four players on the offensive line, and a senior running back. Their schedule gives them one more chance to win 6 games or Lovie Smith is gone. MJ Rivers II’s transfer leaves two freshmen quarterbacks to handle the pressure.

MIAMI (OH) – They’re dropped from the stock list and their pre-October schedule doesn’t help their cause, but they still pose a danger to the rest of their MAC opponents.