Matthew Lowrimore
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We all knew the 2020 college football season was going to be different due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but I’m not sure anybody saw it being quite this crazy. We’ve seen some massive upsets, some bizarre finishes, and a whole lot of craziness all around.
The power structure is much more balanced, and every week there’s a feeling of uncertainty. Today we’ll be breaking down a few of the biggest takeaways from this past weekend’s action:
1. Clemson proved (again) that it is miles above the rest of the ACC
We knew the Clemson Tigers were the team to beat in the ACC, but this past Saturday proved they are basically untouchable. Heading into the clash with Miami, it looked like the Hurricanes might have a chance to create some chaos in the standings.
However, that was quickly proven false when Clemson jumped out to a 21-3 lead in the first half. Some kicking miscues gave Miami hope before halftime, but the Tigers were never troubled by what was thought to have been an improved Miami offense. The Canes managed just 210 total yards, 89 yards rushing, and 121 yards passing. Miami QB D’Eriq Kin threw three interceptions, as well, proving this Clemson defense is still top notch.
Clemson’s offense is also still hitting on all cylinders and Trevor Lawrence was never under too much pressure. He did not even have some insane stat line as the Clemson rushing attack was able to run for 258 yards. One final test for Clemson will be Notre Dame in November, otherwise they will look to run away with the ACC Championship again.
2. Alabama looks vulnerable on defense
The Crimson Tide’s offense is still elite, seeing what we saw this past Saturday, but they clearly have major issues on the defensive side of the ball. I do not buy the claim that Lane Kiffin might have known the signals of Alabama’s defense, considering Kiffin has not coached at Alabama since 2016. If the Tide are using the same defensive signals from four years ago, that is a different issue. Considering they just allowed 647 total yards, I honestly believe that Alabama is not the defensive powerhouse as we have seen in years past.
They will put their defense to the test this week once again as they host the Georgia Bulldogs. The Dawgs do not have an explosive offense like Ole Miss, so if they are able to have success, it will be an even bigger issue moving forward.
3. At this rate, the Big 12 might not make the playoffs
This past Saturday was a must win for Texas as it already had one loss (TCU) and could not afford to lose again. However, they failed to pull the game off, losing to Oklahoma in four overtimes. With both Texas an Oklahoma having two losses, it opens the door for a team like Oklahoma State. The Cowboys are the lone undefeated team in the conference, but do not look unbeatable. By the end of the season, it is likely that every team in the Big 12 could have multiple losses. That would basically eliminate them from any playoff consideration, especially with the Big 10 starting soon. Unless one of these other teams steps up and wins out, do not expect the Big 12 to be represented in the top four come the end of the season.
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