Nick Saban, one of the most successful coaches in college football history, announced his retirement on Wednesday after 17 seasons as the head coach at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa. Saban, 72, has won seven national championships in his career, six of which came at Alabama.
He stated that his time at Alabama was special to him and his wife, Terry, as they enjoyed being part of the Tuscaloosa community. He emphasized that the focus was not just on wins and losses but on creating a lasting legacy, building players’ futures, and helping them succeed in life. Saban expressed that Alabama would always be their home.
Saban completed his 17th season at Alabama, which ended with a loss to national champion Michigan in the Rose Bowl. He won 201 games at Alabama, tied for the second-most wins at a single school in SEC history, behind only Bear Bryant’s 232 wins. Saban helped return Alabama to greatness, winning six national titles and nine SEC championships, following in the footsteps of Bryant, who won 13 SEC titles and six national championships.
Greg Byrne, Alabama’s athletic director, praised Saban as one of the greatest coaches of all time and emphasized the long-lasting impact he has had on the program. Saban made the announcement to his players first before it went public, and sources revealed that he had been interviewing potential assistant coaches just an hour before making the decision.
He explained to his players that his decision was carefully thought out, and that changes in college football, such as the introduction of the transfer portal and NIL, had influenced his choice to retire.
Saban’s coaching career spanned 28 years, including stops at Toledo, Michigan State, LSU, the Miami Dolphins, and Alabama. He never had a losing season and led LSU to a national title in 2003. At Alabama, he won 201 games in 17 seasons, which is more than the 171 games Alabama won between Bryant’s retirement and Saban’s hiring.
Nick Saban (NFL)
His record at Alabama includes winning 11 SEC championships and appearing in the College Football Playoff eight times in 10 seasons.
Saban is ranked sixth in all-time wins for FBS college football coaches, with a 292-71-1 record. He had a strong career at Alabama, where he guided the Crimson Tide to multiple national titles, including undefeated seasons in 2009 and 2020. His ability to recruit was unmatched, securing a record 49 first-round NFL draft picks, including 44 from Alabama.
Saban coached four Heisman Trophy winners during his time at Alabama, and his recruiting classes consistently ranked among the best in the country. Alabama’s success on the field also matched their success in the classroom, with hundreds of degrees earned by players during his tenure.
Saban’s influence extended beyond football, as he and his wife Terry were deeply involved in community efforts through the Nick’s Kids Foundation, which has donated millions to various causes.
Although Saban’s time at Alabama has ended, his legacy will continue to impact the program. His coaching tree includes many successful head coaches, such as Kirby Smart, Steve Sarkisian, and Lane Kiffin. Saban’s teams were consistently at the top of the rankings, and his retirement marks the end of an era for Alabama football.
Alabama’s athletic director, Greg Byrne, mentioned that the search for a new coach will be thorough and efficient, with the focus on recruiting, player development, and leadership.
After the news of Saban’s retirement, Alabama’s odds to win next season’s national championship shifted, moving from 6-1 to 8-1. The program now looks ahead to finding a new coach to continue the success Saban built during his 17 years at Alabama.
Michael Vick speaks to members of the media during NFL football training camp
Michael Vick has been in talks with at least two schools about becoming a college head coach.
Sacramento State president Dr. Luke Wood shared on Monday that he has spoken with Vick about the open position at his school. According to the Virginian-Pilot, Norfolk State has also interviewed the former NFL star for its head coach role.
Wood mentioned that Vick showed interest in the position at Sacramento State, which is aiming to move from the FCS level to the FBS, provided the school can get an invitation from either the Pac-12 or Mountain West Conference.
“Vick and I did meet about Sac State football and our athletic rise,” Wood wrote on X. “As you can imagine, given the success of our athletic programs that our football head coach job is an attractive role. Announcements on several major decisions coming soon.”
Andy Thompson, who coached Sacramento State for the past two years, left last week to become an assistant coach at Stanford. The Hornets finished this season with a 3-9 record and tied for last place in the 12-team Big Sky Conference.
Vick, 44, who served 18 months in prison for dogfighting during the peak of his career, confirmed he spoke with Norfolk State president Javaune Adams-Gaston and athletic director Melody Webb about their open head coach position. He told the Virginian-Pilot that he expects a decision to come soon.
Norfolk State fired coach Dawson Odums after the team finished 4-8 this season. Vick, who has no coaching experience, was a dynamic dual-threat quarterback in both college and the NFL.
Michael Vick (NFL)
He played at Virginia Tech, leading the Hokies to the 1999 national title game, where they lost to Florida State. In 2001, he made history by becoming the first Black quarterback drafted first overall by the Atlanta Falcons.
“I know how to lead and I know what it takes,” Vick told the newspaper, adding that Norfolk State, a historically Black university near his hometown of Newport News, Virginia, reached out to him for the job.
Norfolk State did not immediately respond to a request for comment from The Associated Press.
Vick played 13 seasons in the NFL for Atlanta, Philadelphia, the New York Jets, and Pittsburgh, earning four Pro Bowl selections. He helped change the game for quarterbacks, showing that they could be a threat both as passers and runners.
After serving time in federal prison for his involvement in a dogfighting ring, Vick was released in 2009. He made a comeback in the NFL, winning the AP Comeback Player of the Year award in 2010 with the Eagles. However, his prime years were behind him, and he retired in 2017.
Since his retirement, Vick has been an advocate against animal cruelty and works as an NFL analyst for Fox Sports.
Washington State players celebrates after a touchdown
In what has been a very unusual season for the Pac-12, Oregon State and No. 25 Washington State will face each other this weekend for what is essentially the regular-season title for the league.
This is the reality for the once-proud Pac-12, which was left with just two teams — the Beavers and the Cougars — after last year’s realignment.
The only remaining Pac-12 game will be held Saturday in Corvallis. While Washington State and Oregon State had a scheduling agreement with the Mountain West this year, neither team is part of that conference’s standings.
After the collapse of the Pac-12, the Beavers and Cougars have worked together to rebuild the conference. In 2026, five Mountain West teams, along with Gonzaga for basketball, will join a restructured Pac-12.
However, this partnership doesn’t extend to football, at least according to Washington State head coach Jake Dickert.
“I’ve never gotten into, like, they’re our buddy. Oregon State’s not our buddy. They would have left us as fast as we would have left them. This is what it is,” Dickert said this week. “It’s one of our biggest rivals now. That’s the way I looked at it. That’s not bulletin board material. I hope they would say it the same way, let’s go compete.”
Washington State (8-2) recently suffered a tough 38-35 loss to New Mexico, which hurt their hopes of winning out and earning a spot in the 12-team College Football Playoff. The Cougars had been ranked as high as No. 18 in the CFP rankings.
“Our team will be defined in how we respond to this,” Dickert said. “That’s what we talked about after the game. That’s what we talked about this morning. We have a commitment to finish here.
That isn’t just committing to finish because we’re in the playoff hunt. It’s a commitment to finish to each other and our team. There are 50 other teams in the country that would switch places with us, and be 8-2 with where we’re at.”
Oregon State players celebrate in the 2nd half
Oregon State (4-6) has been struggling with five straight losses, including a 28-0 defeat at Air Force last weekend.
The Beavers could still make a bowl game if they win against the Cougars and then defeat No. 12 Boise State next weekend.
“When you lose like we’ve lost the last five weeks, it’s never just one thing, and it’s certainly not just the players,” Oregon State coach Trent Bray said.
Washington State’s quarterback John Mateer has been one of the top players in the country, even though he plays outside of a Power Four conference. Mateer is ranked fifth nationwide with 340.2 yards of total offense per game. He has 26 passing touchdowns (tied for fourth) and 12 rushing touchdowns, setting a new single-season record for a Washington State quarterback.
Mateer is the only quarterback in the country with over 20 passing touchdowns and 10 rushing scores.
His success has led to growing interest from other teams, much like his predecessor, Cam Ward, who played for Washington State last season before transferring to Miami. Ward is now a Heisman candidate and a possible first-round NFL draft pick.
The transfer portal will open on December 9.
Looking ahead, the scheduling agreement with the Mountain West was not renewed for next season, so Washington State and Oregon State had to set up their own schedules. As part of this, the two teams will play each other twice next season — once in Corvallis and once in Pullman.
In 2026, five Mountain West schools — Boise State, Fresno State, San Diego State, Colorado State, and Utah State — will join the reformed Pac-12. Gonzaga, which does not have a football team, will also be a part of this new conference.
To gain official NCAA recognition, the new Pac-12 still needs to add another football team.
Northwestern football hosted No. 2 Ohio State at Wrigley Field on Saturday, highlighting one of Chicago’s most famous venues.
On Monday, the Wildcats revealed designs for their new stadium, Ryan Field, set to open in 2026. According to a news release, the new stadium will be “a state-of-the-art $850 million sports and entertainment venue set to become a landmark for college football and Chicago.”
This new Ryan Field project will be the “largest stadium project in college football history,” according to ESPN.
The new stadium will be fully funded by the Ryan family with no public investment. The Ryan family is a minority owner of the Chicago Bears and has a stake in the English Premier League club AFC Bournemouth.
“With the new Ryan Field, we are introducing a bold new vision for the future of college sports,” said Pat Ryan Jr. “This stadium is not just a world-class football stadium; it’s for our students, student-athletes, fans, alumni, and the Northwestern and Evanston communities.
We’re committed to creating spaces that embody the best of the modern fan experience, while building a legacy of economic empowerment and cultural benefits for our community.”
“The Ryan Family is proud to be partnered with Northwestern in creating this transformational project.” The majority of the funding for the new Ryan Field will come from the Ryan Foundation, and the Ryan Family’s sports development team is working on the design and development of the stadium on a pro bono basis, in collaboration with Northwestern Athletics.
The new Ryan Field is expected to serve as a venue for not only Northwestern football games but also youth sports, holiday festivals, and other student activities in Evanston, Illinois, and the surrounding Northwestern community.
Northwestern University Stadium
The 35,000-seat stadium, which will have the smallest capacity in the Big Ten, is projected to have a $1.3 billion impact on the Chicago area, with $659 million of that impact in Evanston.
The project is also expected to provide $208 million in contracts for minority- and women-owned businesses, and the Ryan Foundation is contributing $10 million to fund workforce development programs for Evanston residents.
Key features of the new Ryan Field include:
Every one of the 35,000 seats will have better-than-TV sightlines, optimized to be as close to the field as possible. All seats will have comfortable seat backs and be protected from the weather by a canopy.
The seating canopy will also be designed to amplify homefield sound, giving Northwestern a strong home advantage during games.
With 194% of the required ADA seating, the stadium will be the most accessible stadium ever built, ensuring that every fan, regardless of physical ability, can experience the games equally.
More than 200,000 square feet of parks and plazas will surround the stadium, offering spaces for pregame activities like pop-up restaurants, live music, and community tailgating zones.
The stadium’s main concourses will be open to the stadium bowl, allowing fans to enjoy the game without missing any moments.
Four premium clubs will cater to all types of fans, from the most dedicated Wildcat supporters to those looking for corporate entertainment opportunities at Chicago’s Big Ten Stadium. These clubs will be available year-round for events, meetings, and private gatherings.
The project involves partners like Turner Walsh, who is leading the construction, and architecture firms Perkins & Will and HNTB.
Penn State junior running backs Kaytron Allen and Nicholas Singleton announced on Monday that they will not enter the NFL draft and will return for the 2025 season.
“We still have goals we want to reach as a team, and I want to be alongside my teammates as we reach those goals,” Singleton shared in his announcement.
This is big news for the Nittany Lions, as both Allen and Singleton are two of the top running backs in college football.
Meanwhile, junior quarterback Drew Allar also plans to return next season for his senior year. He had previously stated he would keep an “open mind” after receiving feedback from the NFL, according to Dane Brugler of The Athletic.
On the other hand, star tight end Tyler Warren announced that he will enter the NFL draft. Warren is considered the No. 14 overall player by Bleacher Report’s Scouting Department. In 2024, he had 104 catches for 1,233 yards and eight receiving touchdowns.
Even with Warren leaving, Penn State will have plenty of talent coming back, especially with the return of the two talented running backs.
Drew Allar throws in the 1st half
“Going to work with coach Seider and the Lawnboyz every day is something I will cherish forever,” Allen wrote. “Penn State has been an extraordinary experience for me… it’s clear that we still have a lot more to accomplish.”
Both Allen and Singleton were part of one of the best rushing duos in college football this season. Allen rushed for 1,108 yards and eight touchdowns on 220 carries, while Singleton rushed for 1,099 yards and 12 touchdowns on 172 carries. Singleton also ranked fourth in the Big Ten with 6.4 yards per carry.
Together, they combined for 166 rushing yards in the 27-24 Orange Bowl loss to Notre Dame, with Singleton scoring three touchdowns.
Singleton’s return is particularly surprising because he was projected as the No. 50 player in the 2025 NFL Draft and the No. 5 running back, according to Bleacher Report.
Although quarterback Drew Allar had already committed to returning to Penn State before the Orange Bowl, some NFL general managers believed he might have reconsidered entering the draft if he had performed well in the game, per Brugler. However, Allar’s final game was a letdown, as he threw for just 135 yards with zero touchdowns, one interception, and one fumble, completing only 52 percent of his passes.
Despite this, the Nittany Lions will head into next season with a talented and experienced backfield, with Allen, Singleton, and Allar returning.
Ohio State and Notre Dame set for a closer clash in the National Championship
The longest college football season in history is nearing its end, with only one game left. The season began on August 24, 2024, when Georgia Tech defeated then-No. 10 Florida State 24-21 in Ireland. This game set the stage for a season full of surprises.
Now, nearly five months later, (7) Notre Dame and (8) Ohio State are set to face each other in the College Football Playoff National Championship in Atlanta. Both teams have earned their spot in this game. Notre Dame defeated Indiana, Georgia, and Penn State to get here, while Ohio State has defeated Tennessee, Oregon, and Texas.
These teams have proven to be among the best in the country this season, even though each has one surprising loss. However, only one team will leave with the national title. The spread suggests Ohio State is the heavy favorite, but is that the best bet? Let’s break down the spread, total, and a few prop bets for this matchup between two of the biggest programs in college football.
National Championship: (7) Notre Dame vs. (8) Ohio State
Spread
One of the biggest challenges in the expanded College Football Playoff is dealing with injuries. As teams play more games, injuries become more common. Both teams have had injuries during the season, but Notre Dame has faced more difficulties in the playoffs. Ohio State’s offensive line has been hit hard, and Notre Dame has suffered injuries all over the roster.
In the playoffs, Notre Dame lost star defensive tackle Rylie Mills early and also lost two offensive linemen in the win over Penn State, including left tackle Anthonie Knapp. Knapp has been ruled out for the title game, but there’s a possibility Charles Jagusah, who was supposed to start earlier in the season before getting injured, could replace him.
Despite the injuries, Notre Dame has been a strong team. However, facing Ohio State, arguably the most talented team in the country, makes this matchup challenging. Outside of their loss to Michigan, Ohio State has been excellent all season. Their defense has been particularly strong in the playoffs, overpowering Tennessee, Oregon, and Texas. Although Notre Dame’s offensive line has been solid, their current patchwork line may struggle against Ohio State’s defensive line, which has been dominant.
While Notre Dame’s defense has been impressive all season, they haven’t faced an offense as strong as Ohio State’s. Ohio State has proven its defense can handle high-scoring teams, holding Tennessee, Oregon, and Texas to just 52 points combined in the first three rounds of the playoffs.
Notre Dame players celebrates after scoring in the 1st half
Notre Dame’s offense, while strong, relies heavily on the run game, which may not match up well with Ohio State’s top-tier defense, especially given the state of Notre Dame’s offensive line. Based on the current situation, it’s hard to bet on Notre Dame. Pick: Ohio State -8
Total
While I’m confident in picking Ohio State to cover the spread, I feel even more confident in betting on the total. The main reason is that Notre Dame’s offense may struggle to score many points. The Irish will likely need to generate points through defense or special teams, areas they’ve excelled in all season.
On the other hand, Ohio State’s offense may not easily light up the Notre Dame defense. While Notre Dame’s defense has been injured, they’ve been opportunistic and effective all season. It’s not unrealistic to think they can slow down Ohio State’s offense. In the past, Texas showed how to successfully defend against Ohio State by limiting key players like Jeremiah Smith. If you’re hoping for a high-scoring game, you may be disappointed. Pick: Under 46.5
Props
Notre Dame QB Riley Leonard (37.5 yards rushing): Leonard’s mobility is key to Notre Dame’s offense. However, Ohio State’s defensive line has been dominant, and their pass rush has led to several sacks. Leonard has been sacked six times in three playoff games, which has affected his rushing totals. While Leonard is capable, it’s hard to see him hitting this rushing yard total. Pick: Under
Ohio State TE Gee Scott (17.5 yards receiving): Scott has been more involved in the offense during the playoffs, with 10 catches for 99 yards in three games. He has exceeded this yardage in each playoff game and has had at least 30 yards in every game. With Notre Dame focusing on Ohio State’s star receivers, Scott will likely get more opportunities. It wouldn’t take much for him to hit this mark. Pick: Over
The athletic director of a mid-sized school that is seeing success this season has a simple idea to address the growing concerns around the college sports transfer portal system.
Sean Frazier, the athletic director at Northern Illinois University (NIU), proposed a “talent acquisition fee” to manage what many consider the chaotic transfer portal system in college sports.
His idea is for schools to pay a fee to other teams when they sign players from them. While he admits this is a long shot and might not solve all the issues, he believes it could help establish guidelines in a system that many feel is out of control.
Frazier’s idea is somewhat similar to the “transfer fees” seen in European soccer, where teams pay a fee when they acquire a player from another team. He believes this approach could support smaller schools like NIU, add transparency to the process, and make the transfer system more structured.
There are over 11,000 football players from all divisions entering the transfer portal, and some of these deals are made through text messages in the middle of the night.
“At the end of the day, the kid deserves the compensation and support,” Frazier said in an interview with The Associated Press at the NCAA convention. “But the institution, to keep the cycle going, they deserve something as well. We’re not in the situation to continue to do that if we keep losing our best and brightest.”
NIU has faced its own set of challenges despite recent successes, such as beating Notre Dame earlier this season. NIU has also announced it will move its football program from the Mid-American Conference to the Mountain West Conference starting in 2026. The Mountain West is one of the strongest conferences in the Group of Five, with teams like Boise State making it to the College Football Playoff this season.
Smaller schools like NIU are faced with difficult decisions as the House Settlement will soon change the college sports landscape. The settlement will allow institutions to pay players directly and reshape roster sizes. NIU must decide whether to join revenue-sharing agreements for direct player payments or continue to use third-party collectives to handle those deals.
Despite having success on the field, schools like NIU are at a disadvantage in competing with larger schools that have more resources to attract talent. Frazier shared the example of defensive tackle Skyler Gill-Howard, who came to NIU as a walk-on, improved over the years, and had a strong season with five sacks. However, after entering the transfer portal, Gill-Howard will finish his college career at Texas Tech.
Northern Illinois running back Antario Brown ran the ball
“He did a wonderful job. Our coaching staff did a great job developing him,” Frazier said. “The heartache of it is, he’s gone. From the G5 perspective, we’re fine with the developmental side of things. There’s a certain level of respect there. But this could help institutions like us, where there’s a flat fee, or dollar amount, that’s a show of appreciation for the development of the game.”
However, Frazier’s proposed plan could face significant challenges. College sports are known for being slow to make large changes, and the U.S. court system has previously blocked policies that limit players’ ability to earn money. Frazier’s idea is similar to the now-abolished “Rozelle Rule” in the NFL, which allowed teams to receive draft picks for signing players from other teams with expired contracts.
In European soccer, transfer fees have been a common practice, but there have been legal challenges to that system as well. Gabe Feldman, a sports law expert, believes Frazier’s fee idea is unlikely to succeed, pointing out that while there are many ideas being discussed, not all of them will become reality.
The transfer portal continues to be a hot topic in college sports. As seen with players like UNLV quarterback Matthew Sluka, who left after a promised $100,000 payment wasn’t kept, or former Florida QB Jaden Rashada’s lawsuit over an unpaid $13 million NIL deal, the system remains problematic. Accusations of tampering and players leaving without warning have also become more common.
NCAA President Charlie Baker voiced concerns about the lack of transparency and accountability in the system. “I can’t believe we live in a world where people are making decisions and issuing offers in text messages,” he said. “The number of kids who have told me terrible stories about misrepresentation — there’s no process, accountability, no transparency.”
While Frazier does not see his “talent acquisition” fee as a complete solution, he believes it could be a step in the right direction. He compares it to the NFL and NBA, where collective bargaining and drafts set the rules for player movements.
“We don’t have that,” Frazier said. “This is one of the guardrails that could get us to the point of acknowledging that, yes, you still can buy your team, but it shouldn’t be the wild, wild west.”
On Wednesday, the National Football Foundation (NFF) and College Football Hall of Fame announced that Michael Vick, a Virginia Tech legend, will be inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame. Vick is part of the 2025 class, which includes 18 players who were named First Team All-Americans and four coaches.
In 1999, Vick was selected as a First Team All-American in his redshirt freshman year, making him the first Virginia Tech freshman to achieve this honor. Under Hall of Fame coach Frank Beamer and alongside Hall of Fame teammate Corey Moore leading the defense, Vick helped Virginia Tech achieve its first-ever 11-0 regular season.
This success also led to the Hokies’ first appearance in a national championship game, the Sugar Bowl against Florida State.
“Michael changed the way quarterbacks played with his combination of speed, accuracy, and a powerful arm,” said Beamer, who was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2018. “He inspired a new generation of dual-threat quarterbacks.
He did more than anyone to elevate Virginia Tech’s football program to the national stage. I am grateful for the chance to have coached him, and I’m excited about his induction into the Hall of Fame.”
In 1999, Vick led the nation in passing efficiency with a score of 180.4, setting an NCAA record for a freshman. He completed 59.2% of his passes, throwing for 1,840 yards and 12 touchdowns. Vick also rushed for 585 yards and 8 touchdowns. He finished third in the Heisman Trophy voting and won the ESPY Award as the top college football player. The Hokies finished the season ranked No. 2 in the country.
As a redshirt sophomore, Vick completed 87 out of 161 passes for 1,234 yards and 8 touchdowns. He also rushed for 617 yards and 8 more touchdowns. Vick ended his college career as the MVP of the Gator Bowl after a win over Clemson, which left the Hokies with a final No. 6 ranking.
Vick earned All-Big East honors twice, named First Team in 1999 and Second Team in 2000. He led Virginia Tech to the Big East title in 1999 and was named both the Big East Offensive Player of the Year and the Big East Rookie of the Year. In his two seasons at Virginia Tech, the Hokies posted a 22-2 record, losing only one conference game and the national championship game in 1999.
Michael Vick (NFL)
Vick set several school records, including single-season passing efficiency (180.4 in 1999), single-season yards per completion (20.4 in 1999), single-season yards per attempt (12.0 avg. in 1999), and career yards per attempt (9.79). His 8.14 yards per play was also a school record at the time. By the end of his college career, Vick had completed 177 passes for 3,074 yards and 20 touchdowns, and had rushed for 1,202 yards and 16 touchdowns.
In 2001, Vick was selected by the Atlanta Falcons as the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL Draft. He played 13 seasons in the NFL with the Falcons, Eagles, Jets, and Steelers, earning four Pro Bowl selections and setting NFL records for rushing yards by a quarterback both in a season and throughout his career.
After retiring from the NFL, Vick worked as an analyst for Fox Sports. He was recently named the head football coach at Norfolk State University. Virginia Tech retired his No. 7 jersey in 2002.
Vick becomes the ninth player affiliated with Virginia Tech football to be inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame. Other inductees include Hunter Carpenter (1957), Andy Gustafson (1985), Carroll Dale (1987), Frank Loria (1999), Jerry Claiborne (1999), Bruce Smith (2006), Frank Beamer (2018), and Corey Moore (2023).
The official induction of the 2025 College Football Hall of Fame class will take place during the 67th NFF Annual Awards Dinner on December 9, 2025, at the Bellagio Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. In the fall, the inductees will also be honored at their respective schools with NFF Hall of Fame On-Campus Salutes, presented by Fidelity Investments.
Their achievements will be permanently honored at the Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta. Each inductee will receive a custom ring designed by Jostens, the official and exclusive supplier of NFF rings.
Bye week gives both teams a chance to prepare without distractions Alabama Crimson Tide (Alabama Crimson Tide)
The coaches of both Alabama and Georgia have not yet turned their attention to one another. That was the assertion made on Wednesday as both teams prepare for their highly anticipated top-four showdown in Tuscaloosa on September 28.
Currently, the second-ranked Bulldogs (3-0, 1-0 SEC) and the fourth-ranked Crimson Tide (3-0, 0-0) have been concentrating on enhancing their respective teams and players during practice this week.
However, it’s certain that assistant coaches and support staff are conducting in-depth analyses of their upcoming opponent behind the scenes.
Kirby Smart emphasizes player improvement during the break (Alabama Crimson Tide)
Despite having eight more games scheduled after this unique regular-season meeting at Bryant-Denny Stadium (7:30 p.m., ABC), the result of this clash is likely to resonate throughout the rest of the season.
Fortunately for both teams, the SEC has provided a bye week ahead of this matchup, allowing Georgia and Alabama to focus on their preparations without distractions.
“We’ve been focused on developing personal-improvement plans for each player, along with performing quality control across special teams, offense, and defense while also dedicating time to recruiting during this break,” Georgia coach Kirby Smart explained during the SEC coaches’ teleconference on Wednesday.
Alabama’s Kalen DeBoer shared similar sentiments: “The coaching staff is engaged in game-planning and breakdowns.
Our players are participating in workouts, and we’ll begin studying Georgia on Thursday and Friday. We’ll give our guys Saturday off from the facility and then resume preparations on Sunday.”
Georgia will take a break on Friday and Saturday, allowing coaches to recruit and enjoy a rare weekend at home to watch football.
The upcoming Saturday marks the first of two bye weeks for both teams. The Bulldogs will also have an open date on October 26, just before facing Florida in Jacksonville. Alabama will enjoy another bye week before their matchup against LSU in Baton Rouge on November 9.
The 2024 season is particularly unique, allowing for 14 regular-season weeks leading up to conference championship Saturday, a departure from the usual 13 weeks.
The last time this format was utilized was in 2019, during which Georgia had a bye before both the Tennessee and Florida games. Prior to that, it occurred in 2013 and 2014.
This early-season open weekend is a rarity, contrasting with the typical mid- to late-season breaks that are more common.
Smart remarked, “I wouldn’t say it’s strange, but it is different. Managing this situation is crucial. Are all bye weeks the same? Are they created equally?
We had to look back to when we last had two in one season and analyze how we used them. Bye weeks can serve different purposes, and ours come at distinct times, so we will approach them differently.”
Smart has effectively utilized these additional preparation periods in the past. The Bulldogs have emerged victorious in their last 21 games when granted more than one week to prepare for an opponent.
At first glance, the statistics suggest a comparable matchup to recent Alabama-Georgia games during Smart’s tenure as head coach of the Bulldogs. Alabama appears to possess the stronger offensive unit, while Georgia has established itself as the superior defensive team.
Among SEC teams, the Bulldogs consistently rank in the top three for most defensive categories, with the exception of rushing yards allowed, where they sit at 10th (110.7 yards per game).
Georgia leads the conference in pass defense (91.33) and ranks third in total defense (184) and points allowed (6.0). Remarkably, UGA has not conceded a touchdown in any of their three games.
Alabama, meanwhile, holds the third spot in the league for scoring (49.0) and fifth for rushing (238 yards per game) and rushing touchdowns (13).
Under the guidance of quarterback Jalen Milroe, the Tide is not passing the ball as frequently as in previous seasons, averaging 228.7 passing yards per game, which places them 11th in the SEC, just behind Georgia’s Carson Beck (256.7).
Quarterback Jalen Milroe (Alabama Crimson Tide)
Much of the buzz surrounding Alabama this year centers on 17-year-old freshman receiver Ryan Williams, who has amassed 285 yards and four touchdowns across three games, outpacing several of Alabama’s all-time great wide receivers through their first three games, including Julio Jones (107 yards, two touchdowns), Jerry Jeudy (107 yards, one touchdown), Calvin Ridley (87 yards, no touchdowns), Amari Cooper (73 yards, one touchdown), and DeVonta Smith (24 yards, no touchdowns).
“Ryan is an incredibly gifted player, someone we recruited and observed multiple times,” Smart said. “He has a wonderful personality and is a joy to be around.”
Alabama enters this game following victories over Western Kentucky, South Florida, and a commanding 42-10 win on the road against Wisconsin.
Georgia defeated then-No. 14 Clemson 34-3 in Atlanta, followed by a 48-3 triumph over Tennessee Tech and a narrow one-point victory against Kentucky (13-12) last week.
As he enters his ninth season, Smart has led the Bulldogs through one of the most successful periods in the program’s history.
With national championships in 2021 and 2022 under their belt, Georgia boasts an impressive 49-2 record over its last 51 games and extended its regular-season winning streak to 42 games following Saturday’s win against Kentucky.
Despite this success, Alabama remains a formidable opponent for Smart. After nine seasons with the Tide, he holds a record of 1-5 against them, with all losses coming at the hands of his former boss, Nick Saban.
Only one of those losses occurred during the regular season, a 41-24 defeat in Tuscaloosa during the SEC-only, 10-game schedule of 2020.
The remaining four losses were sustained in SEC or College Football Playoff Championship games, with Georgia defeating Alabama 33-18 to claim the 2021 CFP championship in Indianapolis.
DeBoer is keenly aware of this history. Although he and Smart do not share a personal connection, he has learned much about Smart’s legacy and impact at Alabama, as well as the rivalry that has intensified between their two programs over the past six years.
“With time, you naturally absorb more knowledge about the history and the stakes surrounding the game,” DeBoer noted on Wednesday. “As we approach the bye week leading into the Georgia game, it’s clear this is our first conference matchup against a team that ranks first or second, depending on the rankings.
They consistently bring their best every Saturday. They are exceptionally well-coached, and we understand that this will be a test for us. The focus is solely on the game.”
While Smart and DeBoer may not be complete strangers, they have connected during SEC football coaches’ meetings and various league events.
“I’ve observed from a distance the impressive work he’s accomplished, not only at Georgia but throughout his career,” DeBoer commented. “It’s evident that he goes to great lengths to enhance the game.
He’s one of those coaches who advocates for improvements in college football. I’ve been really impressed with his involvement at meetings and other events. His experience gives him an advantage in our league.”
Coaches Keep Focused on Improvement
This week has a feeling of anticipation before the upcoming clash. Both teams are hopeful that some key players will return to health. Georgia’s starting right guard, Tate Ratledge, is recovering from an ankle injury suffered against Kentucky.
The senior, a preseason All-American, has already undergone tightrope surgery and is aiming for a return after the season’s second bye week. Additionally, the Bulldogs are eager for defensive linemen Mykel Williams (ankle), Warren Brinson (leg), and Jordan Hall (leg) to return to the field.
However, Georgia will leave those concerns for the following week. Smart expressed his eagerness to spend Saturday watching college football on television, although he anticipates he won’t enjoy it like a typical fan.
“I’ll watch our opponents if they are on,” Smart said. “I’m not trying to take notes or anything like that; I’ll obtain a coaches’ copy and game footage for that.
If anything, I’ll be observing game management and how other teams are approaching their games. I’m simply looking forward to the opportunity to watch games.”
Montana State's perfect season ends in a close championship battle (North Dakota State)
On Monday night, North Dakota State triumphed over Montana State with a score of 35-32, marking their 10th national championship win and their first since defeating the Bobcats in the championship game three years prior.
Despite a strong push in the second half, Montana State fell short, closing the gap to just three points but never taking the lead. Before this matchup, Montana State was enjoying an unbeaten season with a perfect 15-0 record.
A tale of resilience as Montana State fights back but falls short in the end (Montana State)
A Tale of Two Halves
The Bison claimed their dominance in the first half, racing to a 14-0 advantage by the end of the first quarter. Quarterback Cam Miller contributed very well, scoring both touchdowns with impressive rushing plays, including a remarkable 64-yard run straight down the center of the field.
With a 21-3 lead as they entered halftime, North Dakota State seemed in control. However, Montana State emerged from the break determined, quickly scoring two touchdowns in the third quarter and converting a two-point attempt to narrow the deficit to three points heading into the final quarter.
Quarterback performances in the fourth quarter were exceptional, showcasing the talents of Walter Payton Award winner Tommy Mellott and finalist Cam Miller.
Mellott accounted for both a rushing touchdown and a passing touchdown, while Miller added another passing touchdown to his tally.
The game was sealed when Jerry Rice Award winner CharMar Brown rushed for a touchdown with just 2:39 remaining in the game, solidifying North Dakota State’s victory.
Mountain West Conference ends scheduling partnership with Oregon State and Washington State (Oregon State and Washington State)
The decision to not continue its scheduling partnership with Oregon State and Washington State for the 2025 season has been made by the Mountain West Conference.
This move adds uncertainty for the remaining Pac-12 institutions, leaving both Oregon State and Washington State without a long-term conference affiliation.
Mountain West confirms one-year deal with Oregon State and Washington State is over (Oregon State and Washington State)
A 7+1 scheduling agreement had previously been established between the “Pac-2” and the Mountain West, allowing MWC teams to engage in seven conference games along with one matchup against either Oregon State or Washington State for the 2024 season.
Although there was an option to extend the agreement into 2025, mutual consent from both parties was necessary for this extension to occur.
In a statement to the Associated Press, the Mountain West confirmed, “The football scheduling arrangement with Oregon State and Washington State was a one-year agreement.
For the 2025 season, the Mountain West and its member institutions are moving forward with their conference and nonconference schedules. Our focus remains on the current season and our exceptional teams.”
In the wake of the departure of the other 10 members, Oregon State and Washington State chose to remain within the “Pac-12” legally, aiming to recover payments and benefits associated with the historic conference.
Both schools currently control a substantial $265 million fund, which encompasses payments related to Pac-12 basketball units, College Football Playoff revenue, and bowl game payouts.
To comply with NCAA regulations, the Pac-12 has a two-year window to maintain a minimum of eight teams.
Washington State Has Scheduled Five Nonconference Games
It has been widely believed that the remaining schools could eventually join the Mountain West after maximizing their financial benefits. However, the Mountain West’s recent decision to sever ties with the two schools complicates this potential scenario.
“I don’t know if the Mountain West thinks they need these two schools, honestly,” remarked Pac-12 commissioner Teresa Gould in July.
She speculated that any future discussions would likely be influenced by economic considerations and the contributions both schools could make, noting, “There is so much riding on that in terms of future media rights, recruiting decisions, all those things.”
Looking ahead to the 2025 season, Oregon State has six nonconference matchups lined up, featuring games against Texas Tech, California, and their rival Oregon.
Meanwhile, Washington State has scheduled five nonconference games, including matchups with San Diego State, Virginia, and Washington.
Nevertheless, assembling a full 12-game FBS schedule on such short notice will pose a huge challenge for both teams, effectively positioning them as FBS independents for the upcoming season.
University of Delaware joins Conference USA as membership expands (Delaware Blue Hens)
The University of Delaware will officially become a member of Conference USA starting on July 1, 2025, which will increase the conference’s membership to 11 institutions.
Commissioner Judy MacLeod expressed enthusiasm for the addition, stating, “Adding the University of Delaware is a tremendous opportunity for Conference USA as we strategically position ourselves for continued success.”
She further highlighted the excitement of partnering with the state’s flagship university, which boasts a strong legacy in both athletics and academics, along with leadership from President Dennis Assanis and Director of Athletics Chrissi Rawak.
Delaware’s championship success paves the way for a bright future (Delaware Blue Hens)
A formal announcement of this transition will take place during a press conference scheduled for Wednesday, November 29, at 10:00 AM ET in the Whitney Athletic Center on the University of Delaware campus. This event will be open to the public and will also be live-streamed on YouTube.
“Just like our football team, the whole University of Delaware is on the rise,” stated President Dennis Assanis. He noted that UD is recognized among the top public research institutions in the country, delivering exceptional professional outcomes for its students.
Joining Conference USA is expected to enhance the university’s visibility, showcasing its outstanding academic programs, groundbreaking research initiatives, and lasting impact on both the local community and beyond.
The Blue Hens will participate in various sports within Conference USA, including baseball, men’s and women’s basketball, cross country, football, men’s and women’s golf, women’s soccer, softball, men’s and women’s tennis, track & field, and volleyball.
Additional information regarding the competition of the other seven programs will be available in the coming months.
Director of Athletics, Community, and Campus Recreation Chrissi Rawak remarked on the importance of joining Conference USA, stating, “The opportunity to join Conference USA is an incredibly proud moment for our entire university.”
She emphasized that this advancement will enhance the student-athlete experience while elevating the university’s visibility and bringing the state of Delaware together.
During the previous season, Delaware achieved five conference championships, secured two NCAA victories, and produced two individual NCAA qualifiers.
The university also boasts well-regarded programs in football and men’s lacrosse, alongside a successful doubles pair in women’s tennis. In the 2022-23 season, nine Blue Hens received All-American honors, with six earning national player of the week awards.
Historically, the Blue & Gold have maintained a strong record in athletics, with an impressive tally of 529 All-Americans, 137 conference titles, and 10 national championships throughout the university’s rich history.
Ranked among the best in the nation, the University of Delaware’s academic programs contribute to its distinguished reputation. The university’s research classification places it in the top 3% of U.S. universities and colleges.
According to the 2024 Best Colleges rankings from U.S. News & World Report, UD holds the No. 76 position among national universities and is ranked No. 36 among public universities.
Additionally, eight undergraduate programs at UD are recognized among the top 100 in their fields, including a commendable No. 5 ranking in chemical engineering.
The university also ranks among the top 50 institutions in the U.S. for veterans and active-duty military. This strong academic reputation translates into success for UD Athletics and its student-athletes.
Balancing their athletic achievements, UD student-athletes have also excelled academically. During the 2022-23 academic year, Blue Hens achieved a cumulative GPA of 3.286—the highest recorded in the department’s history, excluding terms affected by COVID-19.
This accomplishment marks the ninth consecutive year and the 19th straight semester that UD student-athletes have maintained a GPA of 3.00 or higher.
About Conference USA
Conference USA is an NCAA Division I conference dedicated to fostering success in college athletics through committed leadership, dynamic partnerships, and diverse membership.
Established in 1995 and headquartered in Dallas, CUSA currently includes nine schools: FIU, Jacksonville State, Liberty, Louisiana Tech, Middle Tennessee, New Mexico State, Sam Houston, UTEP, and WKU. Kennesaw State will join the league in 2024, followed by Delaware in 2025.
