TWIF Notes 8/27

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Welcome Back!

I hope you had a great weekend enjoying the first few games of the college football season!  There were only 4 games, involving 6 FBS teams, so this will be a relatively short TWIF Notes segment.

Wyoming looked solid in defeating New Mexico State 29-7.  I expect Wyoming to be a very good team, despite the loss of Josh Allen.  Their defense was outstanding, and the Lobos looked lost.  New Mexico St may eventually become bowl eligible, but life as an independent is difficult.

UMass was solid in destroying Duquesne 63-15.  However, this doesn't tell us much about the Minutemen.  Their game against Boston College this weekend should tell us more.

Rice struggled against Prairie View, a middling FCS team last year, only winning 31-28.  It looks like it may be a long season for the Owls.

Hawai'i defeated Colorado State 43-34, despite a furious comeback attempt by the Rams.  The question is, is the Rainbow Warriors' offense that good, or is the Ram defense that bad?  Hawai'i plays Navy this weekend in Annapolis, while the Rams are hosting Colorado, the first of 3 straight Power 5 opponents.  Both games should tell us a great deal about these 2 teams.

I haven't mentioned my 4 picks for the CFB Playoff.  Looking at schedules, and possible matchups, I believe the 4 playoff teams will be:

1. Georgia
2. Clemson
3. Wisconsin
4. Washington (not necessarily in this order)

I think if Alabama only has one loss, they'll probably be in, especially if the loss is in the SECCG.  The only way UGA gets in is with an undefeated season, or with one loss NOT in the SECCG (which means winning that game).  Wisconsin, if it gets past Iowa, will make it by winning the Big 10 CG.  Clemson is clearly the best team in the ACC, and, barring an upset (like to Syracuse in 2017), should be undefeated; the Tigers should have no problems beating whoever wins the ACC Coastal in the ACCCG.  Washington has the best chance to win the PAC 12 CG.  I think the Big 12 will have a difficult time having any team with less than 2 losses, considering how competitive that conference is, but if any team can do it, it would be Oklahoma.

The best chance for a Group of 5 team to make it is Boise St.  If FAU upsets Oklahoma this weekend, and then runs the table, they could have a strong case.  Otherwise, one of these is destined for one of the New Year's Six Bowls.  Other contenders could be UCF, or Memphis, whichever wins the AACCG.

That's it for now.  Until next time, may you and your loved ones be blessed!

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