College Football Monday – Week 9

Alabama & Ohio State Impress with Strong Victories
Illinois Upsets Penn State

Draft Insiders’ – Top 25 Weekly Rankings

Team of Week –  
  #10 Ole Miss beats LSU, 31-17
 
Upset of the Week –
     Illinois over Penn State, 20-18, 9 OTs (NCAA record)

Offensive Player of Week – RB Chase Brown – Illinois
Defensive Player of Week – DE Kayvon Thibodeaux – Oregon
 
Upcoming Key Weekly Matchup – 10/30
    #6 Michigan (7-0) at #7 Michigan State (8-0)
            Interstate Clash of Big Ten Unbeaten

     #13 Ole Miss (6-1) @ #21 Auburn (5-2)
           SEC West bowl contenders in a crucial matchup

DraftInsiders.com   Top 25 Rankings

Rank / Team              Record               
1 Georgia                       7-0
2 Cincinnati                 7-0
3 Alabama                    7-1                   
4 Ohio State                 6-1                   
5 Oklahoma                 8-0                   
6 Michigan                   7-0
7 Michigan State       8-0                   
8 Oregon                       6-1                   
9 Ole Miss                     6-1
10 Kentucky                 6-1                   
11 Notre Dame             6-1                   
12 Iowa                           6-1
13 Texas A&M              6-2                   
14 Wake Forest            7-0                   
15 SMU                             7-0
16 San Diego State       7-0
17 Penn State                 5-2                   
18 Oklahoma State       6-1
19 Baylor                         6-1                   
20 Auburn                      5-2                   
21 Pittsburgh                 6-1                   
22 North Carolina St    5-2       
23 Coastal Carolina      6-1       
24 UTSA                          8-0       
25 Iowa St                      5-2
 

Coaches Poll
 
Rank /     Team             Record / Pts    
1          Georgia (64)      7-0        1600    
2          Cincinnati         7-0        1469    
3          Alabama            7-1        1439    
4          Oklahoma         8-0        1430    
5          Ohio State         6-1        1338    
6          Michigan           7-0        1313    
7          Michigan St      7-0        1208    
8          Oregon               6-1        1139    
9          Ole Miss             6-1        1019    
10         Iowa                   6-1        1008    
11         Notre Dame      6-1        950      
12         Kentucky           6-1        857      
13         Wake Forest     7-0        838      
14         Texas A&M        6-2        736      
15         Oklahoma St     6-1        684      
16         SMU                     7-0        535      
17         Penn State         5-2        517      
18         Baylor                6-1        509      
19         Pittsburgh        6-1        487      
20         San Diego St    7-0        431      
21         Auburn              5-2        418      
22         UTSA                 8-0        219      
23         Iowa State        5-2        190      
24         Coastal Carolina 6-1    134      
25         NC State            5-2        73        
 
Others receiving votes: Louisiana 42, BYU 42, Arkansas 41, Houston 27, Arizona State 27, Virginia 23, Oregon State 13, Florida 13, Fresno State 10, Air Force 9, Appalachian State 5, Liberty 3, Texas 3, Utah 1
 
Dropped from rankings: Clemson 24
 

Frank Coyle is a long-time scout with nationwide ties with coaches, scouts and player agents. He is a long-time member of the FWAA and voter in College player awards – Heisman, Outland, Nagurski, Lombardi, Thorpe, Biletnikoff etc for the past 28 years. He writes College Football Mondays weekly during the season. He was a longtime scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl, the nation’s premier postseason All-star game. He does sports radio shows for ESPN and Sporting News on a year-round basis related to NFL and College Football especially during the postseason team and All-star Bowl time. He has worked for CBS Sports, NBC Sports, Yahoo and Rivals sports publications and web sites.

Draft Insiders’ – NFL Power Poll – Week 7

 Cardinals Drills Browns – NFL’s Only Undefeated Club
Ravens Crush Chargers in a Key AFC Matchup

Team of the Week 
    Ravens (5-1) over Chargers (4-2) – 34-6
Ravens defense swarms Justin Herbert

Upset of the Week
   Jaguars Beat Dolphins – 23-20
Jaguars end their 20-game losing streak

 Players of the Week
  Offense – RB Jonathan Taylor – Colts    
  Defense – DT Kenny Clark – Packers
 
Rookies of Week
    Offense – QB Mac Jones – Patriots
    Defense – LB Derrick Barnes – Lions

Games of  Week 8 
  Bengals (4-2) at Ravens (5-1)
      Clash of AFC North Leaders

  Kansas City (3-3) at Tennessee (4-2)
AFC Contenders in Key Midseason Matchup

NFL Team Power Poll

Ranking /Record /Team
#1 – 5-1 Bucs
Bucs jumped the Eagles early and held on for another victory.

#2 – 6-0 Cardinals
Cardinals blasted the Browns to remain the NFL’s only unbeaten club with another strong performance.

#3 – 5-1 Rams
Rams took the Giants defense apart behind the hot hand of Matt Stafford.

#4 – 5-1 Ravens
Ravens drilled the Chargers with their strongest defensive performance of the season.

#5 – 5-1 Packers
The Packers Aaron Rodgers smoked the Bears defense for their 5^th straight win.

#6 – 4-2 Bills
Bills lost a shootout with the Titans that could play out bigger down the road.

#7 – 4-2 Chargers
Chargers were flat vs the Ravens and get their bye week now to regroup.

#8 – 5-1 Cowboys
The Cowboys are running on all cylinders and beat the Patriots in OT.

#9 – 4-2 Titans
The Titans bowed their neck vs the Bills Monday night. Host the Chiefs in another huge AFC matchup.

#10 – 4-2 Bengals
Bengals continue to impress, though get an acid test with a trip to Baltimore this Sunday.

#11 – 3-3 Chiefs
Chiefs regrouped vs WFT and prepare for key AFC road game in Nashville.

#12 – 3-3 Browns
Browns defense was pounded again and must recover quickly for Thursday night game.

#13 – 4-2 Raiders
The Raiders found a way to beat the Broncos after a wild week of changes on coaching leadership.

#14 – 3-2 Saints
Saints will be well rested for the Seahawks Monday night in a key NFC matchup.

#15 – 3-3 Colts
The Colts pounded the Texans to keep pace in the competitive South division.

#16 – 3-3 Broncos
Broncos have lost three in a row and face AFC rival, the Browns in Cleveland on Thursday.

#17 – 2-4 Patriots
Pats lost a wild OT game vs the Cowboys that puts them in an important contest vs the rested Jets.

#18 – 3-3 Steelers
Steelers edged the Seahawks in OT to reach .500. Get their bye week to prep for a playoff run.

#19 – 3-3 Vikings
Vikings edged Carolina in another win that keeps them alive in the NFC playoff chase.

#20 – 2-3 49ers
The 49ers are rested for vital home game vs the Colts Sunday night.

#21 – 3-3 Bears
The Bears were bashed by Aaron Rodgers again. Travel to Tampa in a major test for their fate this season.

#22 – 3-3 Panthers
Panthers lost their 3^rd in a row as Sam Darnold continues to return to reality after a strong start.

#23 – 2-4 Seahawks
Seahawks lost tough OT game to Pittsburgh. Host the Saints Monday night that may determine any hope for the postseason.

#24 – 2-3 Falcons
Falcons coming off their bye week. Travel to Miami for key matchup.

#25 – 2-4 Redskins
The Redskins defense failed to contain the Chiefs last week. Travel to Titletown in a must win situation.

#26 – 2-4 Eagles
The Eagles fought the Bucs tough in their loss. Go to Las Vegas hoping to claim a much-needed win.

#27 – 1-5 Giants
The Giants were outclassed by the Rams. Host the Panthers in a must win game.

#28 – 1-5 Dolphins
Dolphins lost to the winless Jaguars last week. Host the Falcons hoping to regroup for second half.

#29 – 1-5 Texans
Texans were crushed by the Colts. Travel to Arizona to face the undefeated Cardinals this Sunday.

#30 – 1-4 Jets
Jets rested for their trip to New England hoping to avert a midseason collapse.

#31 – 1-5 Jaguars
Jaguars shocked the Dolphins to end their 20-game losing streak. Get their bye week to enjoy the victory.

#32 – 0-6 Lions
Lions are being outclassed weekly and face the potent Rams in LA this Sunday.

Frank Coyle is a long-time scout with nationwide ties with NFL and college coaches, scouts and player agents. He is a member of the FWAA and voter in College player awards – Heisman, Outland, Nagurski, Lombardi, Thorpe, Biletnikoff etc for the past 25 years. He writes College Football Mondays weekly during the season. He is a longtime scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl, the nation’s premier postseason All-star game. He does sports radio shows for CBS, ESPN, Fox Sports and Sporting News on a year-round basis related to NFL and College Football especially during the postseason team and All-star Bowl time. He has worked for CBS Sports, NBC Sports, Yahoo and Rivals sports publications and web sites

Creator of ‘Mr Irrelevant’ – Paul Salata Passes

Paul Salata, the Newport Beach businessman and philanthropist who founded Mr. Irrelevant Week 45 years ago, died Saturday, October 16th. Salata was 94 years old and passed the day before his 95th birthday this past Sunday. He had been in declining health for several years.

Salata was part of the rich bizarre history and lore of the NFL Draft. He created Irrelevant Week in 1976 to honor the last player selected in the NFL Draft, who would be known as “Mr. Irrelevant.” A week’s worth of activities, including a welcome party, a golf tournament, a trip to Disneyland and The Lowsman Banquet’ with a parade, were among the events.

Mr. Irrelevant would be presented the ‘Lowsman Trophy’, which looked like the famed Heisman Trophy except the football player on the Lowsman Trophy is dropping the football. This last selection in the NFL Draft also created the ‘Salata Rule’ after an incident in 1979 between the LA Rams and Pittsburgh Steeler. The Rams passed on the next to last selection to allow the Steelers to move up one spot and the Rams would get the final selection. The Steelers also passed on the selection which forced the Commissioner Pete Rozelle and NFL office to rule that no team can pass on the next to last selection to claim the final overall draft choice. Steelers retained the last draft choice.

Salata gave to many charitable causes – Irrelevant Week always benefited local charities – and created endowments at USC where he played football and baseball.

Salata was master of ceremony and guest of honor at many events for many years in Orange County. His quick wit was always on display. One example: Tampa Bay Buccaneers placekicker Ryan Succop was a Mr. Irrelevant when he was the last player drafted in 2009 by the Kansas City Chiefs. Succop’s last name is pronounced “suck up.” With that in mind, Salata’s introduction of Succop included, “He comes from a whole family of Succops.” As a Buccaneer in 2021, Succop became the first ‘Mr. Irrelevant’ to win a Super Bowl ring with the Bucs.

Salata was a successful sewer contractor. The late Orange County Register columnist John Hall often called Salata “The Sewer King.”

Before getting into the business world, Salata was an outstanding receiver at USC. He caught a touchdown pass for the Trojans in a 25-0 victory over Tennessee in the 1945 Rose Bowl game (Salata would claim he caught two touchdown passes in the game, but an official, Salata said, made a mistake when the official ruled Salata was out of bounds on what would have been a touchdown reception). At USC, he was an infielder and part of the Trojans’ first College World Series title. His USC playing days were interrupted by an 18-month stint in the Army Air Corps.

Salata played for the Baltimore Colts when the Colts were in the All-American Football Conference and rejoined the team when the Colts were integrated in the NFL. He played for the San Francisco 49ers in 1949 and 1950. During the 1950 season, he had 50 receptions, playing for the 49ers and Colts that season.

He also played in the Canadian Football League in which he was an all-star receiver with the Calgary Stampeders. Salata played college and minor-league baseball.

Salata was an extra or bit-player in 18 films, including as a prisoner of war in “Stalag 17,” as one of the Pittsburgh Pirates baseball players in the original “Angels in the Outfield,” the ‘Ten Commandments’, ‘Singin in the Rain’, and he was the guy who sliced open Frank Sinatra’s nose in “The Joker Is Wild.”

He is survived by his wife Carolyn, daughter Melanie Salata Fitch, son Brian Salata, granddaughters Alix and Marie, and brother George.

Salata Fitch assumed the leadership role in Irrelevant Week in recent years and hopefully continues this amazing tradition.

College Football Monday – Week 8

Georgia Drills Kentucky to Retain #1 Ranking
Purdue Upsets #2 Iowa

Draft Insiders’ – Top 25 Weekly Rankings

Team of Week –  
  LSU over Florida 49-42
 
Upset of the Week –
     Purdue over Iowa 24-7

Offensive Player of Week – RB Tyrion Davis-Price – LSU
Defensive Player of Week – LB Will Anderson – Alabama
 

Upcoming Key Weekly Matchup – 10/23
    #23 Clemson (4-2) at #24 Pittsburgh (5-1)
     LSU (4-3) @ #15 Ole Miss (5-1)
 
DraftInsiders.com   Top 25 Rankings

Rank / Team               Record   
1 Georgia                     7-0
2 Cincinnati                 6-0
3 Alabama                    6-1                   
4 Ohio State                 5-1                   
5 Oklahoma                 7-0                   
6 Michigan                   6-0
7 Michigan State        7-0                   
8 Iowa                           6-1                   
9 Oregon                       5-1                   
10 Penn State               5-1                   
11 Oklahoma State       6-0
12 Kentucky                   6-1                   
13 Notre Dame              5-1                   
14 Texas A&M                5-2                   
15 Ole Miss                      5-1
16 North Carolina St   5-1   
17 Wake Forest              6-0                   
18 Coastal Carolina     6-0       
19  SMU                             6-0
20 San Diego State       6-0
21 Baylor                       6-1                   
22 Auburn                     5-2                   
23 Clemson                  4-2                   
24 Pittsburgh             5-1                   
25  UTSA                       7-0       

Coaches Poll

Rank /     Team                         Record / Pts    
1          Georgia (65)                 7-0        1625    
2          Oklahoma                    7-0        1508    
3          Cincinnati                    6-0        1467    
4          Alabama                       6-1        1446    
5          Ohio State                    5-1        1305    
6          Michigan                      6-0        1299    
7          Michigan State             7-0        1158    
8          Penn State                   5-1        1134    
9          Oklahoma State           6-0        1093    
10         Oregon                          5-1        1048    
11         Iowa                               6-1        1031    
12         Ole Miss                        5-1        826      
13         Notre Dame                 5-1        816      
14         Kentucky                      6-1        763      
15         Wake Forest                6-0        696      
16         Coastal Carolina       6-0        675      
17         Texas A&M                   5-2        580      
18         NC State                        5-1        528      
19         SMU                               6-0        399      
20         Baylor                           6-1        369      
21         San Diego State         6-0        334      
22         Auburn                         5-2        315      
23         Pittsburgh                    5-1        192      
24         Clemson                      4-2        146      
25         UTSA                           7-0        96        
 
Complete Rankings

Others receiving votes: Iowa State 38, Utah 35, Arkansas 31, BYU 23, Florida 23, Air Force 20, Louisiana 18, Arizona State 18, Purdue 16, Houston 11, Virginia 6, Texas 4, LSU 2, Fresno State 1
 
Dropped from rankings: Florida 17, Arkansas 19, BYU 20, Arizona State 22
 
 Frank Coyle is a long-time scout with nationwide ties with coaches, scouts and player agents. He is a long-time member of the FWAA and voter in College player awards – Heisman, Outland, Nagurski, Lombardi, Thorpe, Biletnikoff etc for the past 28 years. He writes College Football Mondays weekly during the season. He was a longtime scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl, the nation’s premier postseason All-star game. He does sports radio shows for ESPN and Sporting News on a year-round basis related to NFL and College Football especially during the postseason team and All-star Bowl time. He has worked for CBS Sports, NBC Sports, Yahoo and Rivals sports publications and web sites.

Draft Insiders’ – NFL Power Poll – Week 6

Cardinals Beat Rams – NFL’s Only Undefeated Club
Chargers Win Another Key AFC West Matchup

Team of the Week 
Chargers (4-1) over Browns (3-2), 47-42

Upset of the Week
Bears Beat Raiders, 20-9
 
Players of the Week
  Offense – QB Tom Brady – Bucs    
  Defense – DT Aaron Donald – Rams
 
Rookies of Week
    Offense – WR Kadarius Toney – Giants
    Defense – DE Greg Rousseau – Bills

Games of Week #6 
  Chargers (4-1) at Ravens (4-1)
     Clash of AFC Leaders

NFL Team Power Poll

Ranking /Record /Team

#1 – 4-1 Bucs
Bucs smashed the pretender Dolphins to remain the top club.

#2 – 4-1 Bills
Bills drill the Chiefs in a statement victory.

#3 – 4-1 Rams
Rams took it to the outmanned Seahawks to remain among the best in the NFC.

#4 – 4-1 Chargers
Chargers won a wild shootout in Cleveland and take command of the AFC West.

#5 – 5-0 Cardinals
Cardinals remain the NFL’s only unbeaten club with another strong performance this time vs the 49ers.

#6 – 4-1 Packers
The Packers Aaron Rodgers continues to shocked defenses in crunch time.

#7 – 4-1 Cowboys
The Cowboys blitzed an undermanned Giant club and take command in the NFC East.

#8 – 4-1 Ravens
Ravens won a great comeback vs the Colts behind Lamarr Jackson to stay atop the North.

#9 – 3-2 Browns
Browns defense smothered the Vikings along with a strong ground game. Ready for the Cardinals this week.

#10 – 2-3 Chiefs
Chief’s face WFT on the road in a key game to regain their equilibrium.

#11 – 3-2 Broncos
Broncos lost their 2nd in a row and face West rival, the Raiders in an important early season contest.

#12 – 3-2 Bengals
Bengals lost a crazy game off missed kicks.  Must take care of business in Detroit.

#13 – 3-2 Saints
Saints’ put together a solid game vs WFT.  Get their bye week to load up for the second half of season.

#14 – 3-2 Titans
The Titans took care of business with win over the Jaguars. Host the Bills Monday night.

#15 – 3-2 Raiders
The Raiders were lackluster vs the Bears. HC Gruden resigns that may be the start of a collapse.

#16 – 3-2 Panthers
Panthers lost close one to the Vikings. Host the Vikings in a vital matchup.

#17 – 2-3 Patriots
Pats edged the Texans. Host the hot Cowboys this week that may determine their overall development.

#18 – 3-2 Bears
The Bears beat the Raiders in their best overall performance this season.

#19 – 2-3 49ers
The 49ers lost again vs an NFC West opponent. Get their bye week to regroup.

#20 – 2-3 Colts
The Colts defense collapsed vs the Ravens Monday nite. Host the Texans in a vital matchup.

#21 – 2-3 Steelers
Steelers woke up in their win over the Broncos and look to get to .500 vs the Hawks at home.

#22 – 2-3 Seahawks
Seahawks are without Russell Wilson and travel to Pittsburgh in a vital game for both franchises.

#23 – 2-3 Falcons
Falcons beat the undermanned Jets. Get the bye week now.

#24 – 2-3 Vikings
Vikings edged the Lions. Travel to Carolina in a key NFC contest.

#25 – 2-3 Redskins
The Redskins defense failed again vs the Saints and get the hungry Chiefs this week.

#26 – 2-3 Eagles
The Eagles edged the Panthers. Difficult stretch over next month.

#27 – 1-4 Giants
The injured Giants were outmatched in Big D and face must win games to stay in the race.

#28 – 1-4 Dolphins
Dolphins were crushed by the Bucs and Tom Brady. Get the weak Jaguars this week.

#29 – 1-4 Texans
Texans fought the Patriots to the wire before losing.

#30 – 1-4 Jets
Jets came up short in London vs the Falcons.

#31 – 0-5 Lions
Lions lost another heartbreaker Sunday against the Vikings.

#32 – 0-5 Jaguars
Jaguars suffered their 20th consecutive loss and drilled by the Titans.

Frank Coyle is a long-time scout with nationwide ties with NFL and college coaches, scouts and player agents. He is a member of the FWAA and voter in College player awards – Heisman, Outland, Nagurski, Lombardi, Thorpe, Biletnikoff etc for the past 25 years. He writes College Football Mondays weekly during the season. He is a longtime scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl, the nation’s premier postseason All-star game. He does sports radio shows for CBS, ESPN, Fox Sports and Sporting News on a year-round basis related to NFL and College Football especially during the postseason team and All-star Bowl time. He has worked for CBS Sports, NBC Sports, Yahoo and Rivals sports publications and web sites

College Football Monday – Week 7

Bama Upset by Texas A&M
Iowa Wins Thriller Over Penn St

Georgia Claims #1 Ranking – Hosts Undefeated Kentucky Next

Top 25 Weekly Rankings

Team of Week –
  Iowa over Penn State 23-20
 
Upset of the Week –
     Texas A&M over Alabama 41-38

Offensive Player of Week – RB Kennedy Brooks – Oklahoma
Defensive Player of Week – DT Octavious Oxendine – Kentucky
 
Upcoming Key Weekly Matchup – 10/16
   #8 Kentucky (5-0) @ #1 Georgia (6-0)
 
DraftInsiders.com   Top 25 Rankings

Rank / Team          Record   
1 Georgia                      6-0
2 Iowa                          6-0                   
3 Cincinnati                 5-0
4 Ohio State                 5-1                   
5 Alabama                    5-1                   
6 Oklahoma                 6-0                   
7 Michigan                   6-0
8 Kentucky                   6-0                   
9 Michigan State        6-0                   
10 Oregon                    4-1                   
11 Penn State                5-1                   
12 Oklahoma State      5-0
13 Notre Dame             5-1                   
14 Texas A&M              4-2                   
15 Ole Miss                    4-1                   
16 Wake Forest             6-0                   
17 Coastal Carolina     6-0       
18 BYU                            5-1       
19 SMU                           6-0
20 Arizona State          5-1
21 Arkansas                  4-2                   
22 Florida                     4-2
23 San Diego State       5-0
24 North Carolina State     4-1       
25 Clemson                 3-2                   
 
Coaches Poll

Rank /     Team                       Record / Pts    
1          Georgia (64)                 6-0        1624    
2          Iowa (1)                         6-0        1537    
3          Oklahoma                    6-0        1452    
4          Cincinnati                    5-0        1418    
5          Alabama                       5-1        1363    
6          Ohio State                    5-1        1254    
7          Michigan                      6-0        1237    
8          Penn State                   5-1        1124    
9          Michigan State          6-0        1064    
10         Oregon                         4-1        1004    
11         Kentucky                      6-0        994      
12         Oklahoma State        5-0        910      
13         Notre Dame                 5-1        817      
14         Ole Miss                        4-1        741      
15         Coastal Carolina       6-0        708      
16         Wake Forest                6-0        580      
17         Florida                           4-2        543      
18         Texas A&M                   4-2        396      
19         Arkansas                      4-2        386      
20         BYU                                5-1        342      
21         NC State                        4-1        321      
22         Arizona State              5-1        294      
23         SMU                               6-0        269      
24         San Diego State        5-0        156      
25         Clemson                       3-2        155      
 
Complete Rankings
Others receiving votes: Auburn 98, Baylor 91, Texas 74, Pittsburgh 36, UTSA 30, Appalachian State 18, Mississippi State 18, Iowa State 18, Boston College 11, Air Force 9, Tennessee 8, Liberty 8, Nevada 7, Louisiana 3, Fresno State 3, Houston 3, UCLA 1
 
Dropped from rankings: Auburn 19, Texas 23
 
Frank Coyle is a long-time scout with nationwide ties with coaches, scouts and player agents. He is a long-time member of the FWAA and voter in College player awards – Heisman, Outland, Nagurski, Lombardi, Thorpe, Biletnikoff etc for the past 28 years. He writes College Football Mondays weekly during the season. He was a longtime scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl, the nation’s premier postseason All-star game. He does sports radio shows for ESPN and Sporting News on a year-round basis related to NFL and College Football especially during the postseason team and All-star Bowl time. He has worked for CBS Sports, NBC Sports, Yahoo and Rivals sports publications and web sites.

Draft Insiders’ – NFL Power Poll – Week 5

Cardinals Beat Rams – NFL’s Only Undefeated Club
Chargers Win Another Key AFC West Matchup

Team of the Week 
Bucs over Patriots, 19-17

Upset of the Week
Giants Beat Saints, 27-21 OT
 
Players of the Week
  Offense – QB Daniel Jones – Giants    
  Defense – LB Tremaine Edmunds – Bills

 Rookies of Week
    Offense – QB Zach Wilson – Jets
    Defense – LB Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah – Browns

Games of Week #5 
  Giants (1-3) at Cowboys (3-1)
       Clash of NFC East Rivals

   Buffalo (3-1) at Kansas City (2-2)
Last Year’s AFC Championship Game Repeat

NFL Team Power Poll

Ranking /Record /Team

#1 – 3-1 Bucs
Bucs beat the Patriots on the road to reclaim the top rating.

#2 – 3-1 Bills
Bills posted their second shutout this season vs the Texans.

#3 – 3-1 Rams
Rams’ defense was exposed by the Cardinals and Kyler Murray.

#4 – 3-1 Chargers
Chargers beat the Raiders and Chiefs back to back to take command of the West behind Justin Herbert.

#5 – 4-0 Cardinals
Cardinals making a statement with a fast maturing club pushing for West leadership.

#6 – 2-2 Chiefs
Chief’s offense exploded vs the Eagles. Host the Bills in a major AFC test.

#7 – 3-1 Ravens
Ravens defense is dictating the game along with a versatile Lamarr Jackson.

#8 – 3-1 Browns
Browns defense smothered the Vikings along with a strong ground game.

#9 – 3-1 Packers
The Packers Aaron Rodgers toyed with the Steelers secondary leading to an impressive victory.

#10 – 3-1 Raiders
The Raiders were drilled by Justin Herbert who exploited their secondary repeatedly.

#11 – 3-1 Cowboys
The Cowboys offense is playing well in a potent balanced attack led by rejuvenated Dak Prescott.

#12 – 3-1 Broncos
Broncos were inept vs the Ravens defense in their first matchup vs a playoff contender.

#13 – 3-1 Panthers
Panthers young defense was exposed by the Cowboys.

#14 – 3-1 Bengals
Bengal’s Joe Burrow gives them a chance in every game.

#15 – 2-2 Saints
Saints’ defense was exposed by Daniel Jones while NO offense made few big plays.

#16 – 2-2 Seahawks
Seahawks Russell Wilson managed the game well and made a few big plays in crunch time.

#17 – 2-2 49ers
The 49ers failed in key spots vs Seahawks and two turnovers didn’t help their cause.

#18 – 2-2 Titans
The Titans were shocked by an aggressive Jets club who claimed their first victory.

#19 – 1-3 Patriots
Pats fought the Bucs, but were not able to overcome Tom Brady in crunch time.

#20 – 1-3 Colts
The Colts showed up vs the Dolphins and played their best game of the year.

#21 – 2-2 Redskins
The Redskins got by the Falcons in a high scoring competitive contest they had to have.

#22 – 2-2 Bears
The Bears beat the Lions behind rookie QB Justin Fields in a solid performance.

#23 – 1-3 Giants
The Giants make a great comeback vs the Saints that can turn it around with a repeat Sunday vs the Cowboys this Sunday.

#24 – 1-3 Steelers
Steelers were listless again this time vs the Packers and could face changes soon at key positions.

#25 – 1-3 Falcons
Falcons came up short vs the WFT despite a strong offensive output.

#26 – 1-3 Dolphins
Dolphins came up short again and travel to Tampa in a demanding interconference matchup.

#27 – 1-3 Vikings
Vikings struggled getting their offense in gear vs the Browns and need to focus on the Lions Sunday.

#28 – 1-3 Eagles
The Eagles were outmatched by the Chiefs. Difficult stretch over next month.

#29 – 1-3 Texans
Texans were shut out by the Bills last week. Face the desperate Patriots this Sunday.

#30 – 1-3 Jets
Jets scored their first victory under HC Robert Saleh and rookie QB Zach Wilson.

#31 – 0-4 Lions
Lions were drilled by the Bears. Long rebuilding season ahead.

#32 – 0-4 Jaguars
Jaguars suffered their 19th consecutive loss. HC Urban Meyer facing behavioral issues.

Frank Coyle is a long-time scout with nationwide ties with NFL and college coaches, scouts and player agents. He is a member of the FWAA and voter in College player awards – Heisman, Outland, Nagurski, Lombardi, Thorpe, Biletnikoff etc for the past 25 years. He writes College Football Mondays weekly during the season. He is a longtime scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl, the nation’s premier postseason All-star game. He does sports radio shows for CBS, ESPN, Fox Sports and Sporting News on a year-round basis related to NFL and College Football especially during the postseason team and All-star Bowl time. He has worked for CBS Sports, NBC Sports, Yahoo and Rivals sports publications and web sites

Bucs’ Antoine Winfield Scouting Evaluation – Draft Insiders’ Yearbook Scouting Report – NFL Draft 2020

Winfield – Immediate Impact Defender in the Bucs’ Defense

Antoine Winfield has been a major difference maker for SB Champion Bucs since starting game one as a rookie in 2020. Frank Coyle of Draft Insiders’ ranked him as one of the top safeties especially as a complete defender. He ranked among as one of premier playmakers in the NFL Draft 2020 class and predicted him an early NFL starter and playmaker. He has been a major steal in the late 2nd round and arguably one of the best values in the entire draft class. He was among the Bucs defensive leaders on their run to the NFL Championship.

This season, he has continued his impact in a diverse role in the Bucs secondary. This week vs the Patriots on Sunday night, he was a difference maker in the Bucs 19-17 victory. He totaled 5 tackles, 1 FF, 1 PD and 1 interception and kept Pats’ rookie QB Mac Jones off balance in most key situations.

Safeties NFL Draft 2020

* Underclassmen

* Antoine Winfield #11 – 5-9, 205, Minnesota – Sp. 4.45
NFL Player Comparison: Tyrann Mathieu                            Rating 86
Hard-hitting undersized dynamo safety has been the leader in the Gophers’ secondary since his true freshman season. Stepped in as a full-time starter as a true freshman with limited starting duty the following two seasons due to injuries. His 2019 performance was his best and earned first team Big Ten honors. Short compact athlete combines excellent speed, quickness and fluid athleticism to be a three-down defender with the versatility to lineup at a few spots in the nickel packages. At times, he seeks to deliver big stops, but is not a violent hitter and his marginal size is a concern related to holding up to the physicality of the game. Sure wrap down tackler, though needs to breakdown better in space and eliminate some missed tackles. Displays a quick closing burst, arriving with good pad level to maintain leverage and breakup passes. Outstanding read-react ability and attacks with an aggressive manner with a motor that knows only one speed. Drives through his target upon contact and able to finish. Lined up in a variety of ways, usually the high safety and slot corner in different alignments. Effective single-high safety with excellent range to make up ground and get to the ball. Often lined up over a slot receiver, and shows the quick footwork to mirror off the line with the closing speed to break up passes. Sometimes he drops down into the box and blitzes and added 4 sacks with 3 coming in 2019. Versatile with the range and instincts to play free in the deep middle and at times the toughness and run stopping ability to be the eighth man in the box. He has fine instincts for man-coverage, but only average matchup skills where his lack of height will be tested in the NFL. Fine field vision and reacts to the ball quickly. Attacks the throw at the catch point as if he was the receiver. Marginal height and above average leaping ability, compromises his ability to win jump-ball throws. Plays all facets of the game with a strong sense of urgency. In 2019, started 13 games and had 88 tackles, 3.5 TFL, 7 picks, 1 PBU and 2 FR. Earned 1st team Big Ten honors. In 2018, started 4 of 4 games and made 17 tackles, 1 FR, 1 pick and 1 PBU. For his career, totaled 177 tackles with 7 TFL, 9 picks and 6 PBU. Best suited for playing single high scheme. Fine athleticism to be a three-down defender. At the NFL Combine, he came in at 5’9” and 203 lbs. with 30 1/8” arms. He ran a 4.45 time and did not lift. Added a 36” VL and a 10’4“ BJ with no agility drills. He has the speed, quickness and ball skills to be an early starter and compares to Tyrann Mathieu in size, AA and versatility. Shows flexible hips and quick footwork with the instincts to continue to improve in coverage. Talent to be a difference maker. High quality athlete and football player with experience to compete for time in different packages and an excellent addition. Son of former longtime NFL corner Antoine Winfield. Probable early starting ability with the versatility and fast developing talent to be a three-down defender. Rising top 50 selection with impact talent. Teams like the Cowboys and Dolphins have on their short list in the 2nd day.
Draft Projection: 2nd Round

College Football Monday – Week 6

Bama & Georgia Continue to Dominate

Top Ten Shuffles After Key Losses
SEC Posts 9 Teams in Top 25 Rankings

Top 25 Teams

Team of Week –  
Cincinnati over Notre Dame 24-13

Upsets of the Week –
Kentucky over Florida 20-13
   Stanford over Oregon 31-24

Offensive Players of Week

  QB Will Rogers – Mississippi State
  QB Kenny Pickett – Pittsburgh

Defensive Player of Week – DE David Ojabo – Michigan
Special Teams Player of Week – PR Jayden Reed – Michigan St
 

Upcoming Key Weekly Matchup – 10/9
   #6 Penn State (5-0) at #4 Iowa (5-0) at Iowa City, Ia
#3 Oklahoma (5-0) vs #19 Texas (4-1) at Dallas, Tx

 DraftInsiders.com   Top 25 Rankings

Rank / Team               Record               
 1 Alabama                    5-0                   
2 Georgia                     5-0
3 Oklahoma                 5-0                   
4 Iowa                          5-0                   
5 Cincinnati                 4-0
6 Penn State                 5-0                   
7 Oregon                      4-1                   
8 Ohio State                 4-1                   
9 Notre Dame                4-1                   
10 Michigan State        5-0                   
11 BYU                             5-0                   
12 Michigan                  5-0
13 Kentucky                  5-0                   
14 Oklahoma State     5-0                   
15 Arkansas                  4-1                   
16 Coastal Carolina   5-0                   
17 Wake Forest            5-0                   
18 Auburn                     4-1                   
19 Texas                        4-1
20 Florida                    3-2
21 Ole Miss                  3-1                   
22 North Carolina State            4-1       
23 Arizona State          4-1
24 SMU                           5-0
25 Clemson                   3-2                   
 

Coaches Poll

Rank /     Team             Record / Pts    
 
1          Alabama (63)    5-0        1623    
2          Georgia (2)       5-0        1562    
3          Iowa                 5-0        1429    
4          Penn State       5-0        1397    
5          Oklahoma        5-0        1380    
6          Cincinnati        4-0        1358    
7          Ohio State        4-1        1172    
8          Michigan          5-0        1125    
9          Oregon             4-1        1000    
10         BYU                 5-0        968      
11         Michigan St     5-0        911      
12         Oklahoma St    5-0        798      
13         Notre Dame      4-1        777      
14         Kentucky          5-0        758      
15         Coastal Carolina 5-0   699      
16         Arkansas          4-1        652      
17         Ole Miss           3-1        629      
18         Florida             3-2        464      
19         Auburn             4-1        463      
20         Wake Forest     5-0        441      
21         Clemson          3-2        288      
22         NC State           4-1        257      
23         Texas               4-1        256      
24         SMU                 5-0        142      
25         Arizona State   4-1        141      
 

Complete Rankings
 Others receiving votes: Texas A&M 105, San Diego State 103, Baylor 40, Pittsburgh 34, Oregon State 27, Iowa State 27, Virginia Tech 24, Boston College 14, UTSA 13, Appalachian State 11, Fresno State 8, Liberty 7, Mississippi State 6, North Carolina 5, Maryland 5, Western Michigan 2, Texas Tech 2, Nevada 1, Louisiana 1

Dropped from rankings: Texas A&M 13, UCLA 20, Fresno State 21, Baylor 24

Frank Coyle is a long-time scout with nationwide ties with coaches, scouts and player agents. He is a long-time member of the FWAA and voter in College player awards – Heisman, Outland, Nagurski, Lombardi, Thorpe, Biletnikoff etc for the past 28 years. He writes College Football Mondays weekly during the season. He was a longtime scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl, the nation’s premier postseason All-star game. He does sports radio shows for ESPN and Sporting News on a year-round basis related to NFL and College Football especially during the postseason team and All-star Bowl time. He has worked for CBS Sports, NBC Sports, Yahoo and Rivals sports publications and web sites.

Draft Insiders’ – NFL Power Poll – Week 4

Rams Hold Top Position After Beating Bucs
Chargers Win Key AFC West Game vs Chiefs

Team of the Week 
  Rams over Bucs, 34-24
Upset of the Week
Chargers Beat Chiefs, 30-24
 
Players of the Week
  Offense – QB Josh Allen – Bills    
  Defense – DE Myles Garrett – Browns
  Special Teams – PK Justin Tucker – Ravens
 
Rookies of Week
    Offense – WR Ja’marr Chase – Bengals
    Defense – LB Azeez Ojulari – New York Giants

Games of Week #4 

  Rams (3-0) at Cardinals (3-0)
     Clash of NFC West Powers

  Bucs (2-1) at Patriots (1-2)
Drama matchup with Bill Belichick facing Tom Brady

NFL Power Team Poll

Ranking /Record /Team

#1 – 3-0 Rams
Rams’ beat the SB Champs Bucs and claim the undisputed top spot.

#2 – 2-1 Bucs
Bucs were beat worst than the score indicates.

#3 – 2-1 Bills
Bills bombed the overrated WFT’s defense behind elite QB Josh Allen.

#4 – 1-2 Chiefs
Chiefs lose on the Broncos with four turnovers the primary culprit.

#5 – 2-1 Ravens
Ravens win on a last second 66 FG by the amazing Justin Tucker.

#6 – 3-0 Raiders
The Raiders are learning how to win behind Derek Carr.

#7 – 3-0 Cardinals
Cardinals made a late push to beat the winless Jaguars. Travel to LA to face West leader, the Rams.

#8 – 2-1 Browns
Browns drilled an overmatched Bears team. Defense is playing well. Travel to Minnesota this week.

#9 – 3-0 Broncos
Broncos 3-0 record is vs clubs with totals of 0 wins and 9 losses.

#10 – 2-1 Chargers
Chargers beat the Chiefs on last minute Justin Herbert heroics. Host Da Raiders on Monday nite.

#11 – 2-1 Packers
The Packers beat NFC rival the 49ers on a last second FG. Host the Steelers this Sunday.

#12 – 2-1 49ers
The 49ers failed to hold the lead vs the Packers’ Aaron Rodgers who drive right down the field.

#13 – 2-1 Saints
Saints went into Foxborough and whipped an overmatched Pats team. Host the GMen this week in New Orleans.

#14 – 2-1 Cowboys
The Cowboys drilled the rival Eagles behind a sharp Dak Prescott and defense.

#15 – 2-1 Titans
The Titans claimed the South lead with a strong victory vs their rival Colts.

#16 – 3-0 Panthers
Panthers smoked the Texans on Thursday night. Their three wins are vs clubs with 0-9 record.

#17 – 2-1 Bengals
Bengal’s Joe Burrow drilled the Steelers defense without TJ Watt for their first win in Pittsburgh since 2015.

#18 – 1-2 Vikings
Vikings drilled the Seahawks behind QB Kirk Cousin’s 3 TDs and tough defense that shutdown Seattle in second half.

#19 – 1-2 Seahawks
Seahawks folded late again last week vs the Vikings. Face tough NFC West matchup vs 49ers Sunday.

#20 – 1-2 Steelers
Steelers were listless vs the Bengals. Go to Green Bay in a key tough matchup.

#21 – 1-2 Patriots
Pats were flat vs the Saints. They host the Bucs and Tom Brady in a media bonanza Sunday night.

#22 – 1-2 Eagles
The Eagles were manhandled by the Cowboys Monday nite. Face a difficult stretch over next month.

#23 – 1-2 Dolphins
Dolphins lost to Raiders in overtime. Host a desperate Colts’ club this week.

#24 – 1-2 Redskins
The Redskins were toasted in Buffalo with their overrated defense under criticism.

#25 – 1-2 Falcons
Falcons beat the Giants on late FG. Host the WFT this week in a contest that separates pretender from contender.

#26 – 1-2 Bears
The Bears beat the Bengals in an important early game. Rookie Justin Fields starts for injured Andy Dalton.

#27 – 0-3 Colts
The Colts remain winless, though Wentz has returned. Face major road game vs Dolphins this Sunday.

#28 – 0-3 Giants
The Giants do not know how to win yet and lose on another last second FG vs Falcons.

#29 – 1-2 Texans
Texans were trashed by the Panthers on Thursday nite. Go into the Buffalo buzzsaw this Sunday.

#30 – 0-3 Lions
Lions are snake bite with Justin Tucker hitting record 66 yard FG. Go to Chic town for NFC North matchup.

#31 – 0-3 Jaguars
Jaguars suffered their 18th consecutive loss. Travel to Cinny for Thursday nite contest, hoping to break the streak.

#32 – 0-3 Jets
Jets were shut out again with QB Wilson throwing 2 picks and sacked 5 times. Host the Titans.

Frank Coyle is a long-time scout with nationwide ties with NFL and college coaches, scouts and player agents. He is a member of the FWAA and voter in College player awards – Heisman, Outland, Nagurski, Lombardi, Thorpe, Biletnikoff etc for the past 25 years. He writes College Football Mondays weekly during the season. He is a longtime scouting consultant for the Senior Bowl, the nation’s premier postseason All-star game. He does sports radio shows for CBS, ESPN, Fox Sports and Sporting News on a year-round basis related to NFL and College Football especially during the postseason team and All-star Bowl time. He has worked for CBS Sports, NBC Sports, Yahoo and Rivals sports publications and web sites