Draft Insiders’ & Coaches Top 25 

 Notre Dame Beats Duke in Game of the Week
Key Conference Matchups This Week

 Draft Insiders’ Top 25 Poll 2023 – Week Six
Frank Coyle / Publisher

Team of the Week
Notre Dame Beats Duke – 17-14

Photo – OT Joe Alt – Notre Dame (Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

Players of the Week
Offense – QB Bo Nix – Oregon
Defense – DT Howard Cross – Notre Dame

Draft Insiders’ – Top 25 Poll

1          Georgia                        5-0                   
2          Michigan                      5-0                   
3          Ohio State                    5-0                   
4          Florida State                4-0       
5          USC                             5-0       
6          Washington                  5-0       
7          Texas                           5-0                   
8          Penn State                   5-0
9          Oregon                         5-0
10         Notre Dame                  5-1       
11         Alabama                      4-1       
12         North Carolina             4-0       
13         Oklahoma                    4-0                   
14        Miami                           4-0
15         Utah                             4-1       
16         Duke                            4-1
17         Washington State        4-0       
18        Ole Miss                       4-1
19         Oregon State                4-1                
20         Tennessee                    4-1       
21         Missouri                      5-0
22         Kentucky                     5-0
23         Fresno St.                    5-0
24        LSU                              3-2
25         Louisville                     5-0

Others receiving consideration: Maryland, Texas A&M, Kansas State, UCLA, Iowa, Clemson, TCU, South Carolina, Syracuse, Cincinnati, James Madison, Air Force, Mississippi State, Tulane, Colorado, Wyoming, Arkansas, Wake Forest, UCF and BYU

Coaches Poll – Top 25 Poll
Rank    Team                Record Pts
1          Georgia (59)      5-0        1589
2          Michigan (1)      5-0        1503
3          Ohio State (2)   4-0        1405
4          Texas (1)          5-0        1381
5          Florida State     4-0        1374
6          Penn State        5-0        1241
7          USC                 5-0        1227
8          Washington (1)  5-0        1199
9          Oregon             5-0        1118
10         Alabama           4-1        996
11         Notre Dame      5-1        925
12         Oklahoma         5-0        888
13         North Carolina   4-0        795
14         Washington St  4-0        711
15         Ole Miss           4-1        617
16         Oregon State    4-1        606
17         Miami               4-0        566
18         Tennessee        4-1        490
19         Utah                 4-1        428
20         Kentucky          5-0        356
21         Duke                4-1        319
22         Missouri            5-0        283
23         LSU                  3-2        169
24         Fresno State     5-0        144
25         Louisville          5-0        99

Others receiving votes: Maryland 81, Kansas State 73, Texas A&M 59, Air Force 32, UCLA 29, Clemson 18, Iowa 17, Wyoming 12, Kansas 11, Tulane 10, James Madison 8, West Virginia 6, BYU 5, Marshall 3, Wisconsin 3, Ohio 2, Memphis 1, Florida 1

Dropped from rankings: Florida 23, Kansas 24, Kansas State 25

NFL Power Poll – Week 4
Draft Insiders’ – Power Poll – Week 4

Team of the Week 
Dolphins Smashes Broncos in key AFC Matchup

Players of the Week
  NFC
   Offense – RB Christian McCaffrey – 49ers
   Defense – DE Aidan Hutchinson – Lions

  AFC
   Offense – QB Tua Tagavailoa – Dolphins
   Defense – S Keith Hamilton – Ravens

 Rookies of the Week
  Offense – QB CJ Stroud – Texans & RB De’Von Achane – Dolphins
  Defense – S Brian Branch – Lions

 Games of Week 4

Thursday 
Detroit @ Green Bay – 8:15 pm Prime

Sunday
Miami @ Buffalo – 1:00 pm – CBs

Monday
Seattle @ NY Giants – 8:15 pm – NBC
 

NFL Team Power Poll

Draft Insiders’ Staff – Frank Coyle/Publisher

Ranking /Record /Team

#1 – 49ers – 3-0
The 49ers drilled the Giants behind the explosive versatile Christian McCaffrey and cagey QB Brock Purdy. Host the Cardinals in an NFC West matchup.

#2 – Eagles – 3-0
The Eagles wacked the Bucs relying on their deep strong ground game and tough defense to make the difference. Host rival the Commanders this week in their first key NFC matchup.

#3 – Chiefs – 2-1
Chiefs toyed with the pathetic Bears last week. Mahomes is the magic man. Their underrated defense has given up only 40 points in 3 games. Travel to MetLife to face struggling Jets on Sunday night.

#4 – Bills – 2-1
Bills regrouped with two game winning streak. Host crucial AFC East matchup vs the Dolphins for divisional lead. Huge challenge for divisional leadership which may define AFC playoffs.

#5 – Dolphins – 3-0
Dolphins smoked the Broncos with a record setting performance behind QB Tue and a potent ground game. That offense will be tested vs the Bills in Buffalo with clubs usually playing tight competitive contests.

#6 – Lions – 2-1
The Lions rebounded with a strong win over the Falcons. Edge defender Aidan Hutchinson is a game changer and team leader. Travel to Titletown in huge NFC North battle for leadership.

#7 – Ravens – 2-1
The Ravens fell asleep vs the Colts. Travel to Cleveland and Pittsburgh in back to back AFC North matchups which have always proven to critical in the AFC playoff picture.

#8 – Cowboys – 2-1
The Cowboys were spanked by the Cardinals again, exploiting their overrated defense. Host the Patriots this week where inconsistent QB Dak Prescott will be tested by a savvy Belichick defense.

#9 – Browns – 2-1
Browns bashed the Titans last week where in QB Deshaun Watson stepped up. Their defense has flashed dominant play. They host the Ravens in the acid test where they usually battle in very competitive matchups.

#10 – Seahawks – 2-1
Seahawks edged the winless Panthers last week. Travel to MetLife to face the GMen on Monday night. They rely on QB Geno Smith with their defense slow to come together in the early action.

#11 – Packers – 2-1
The Packers edged the Saints last week behind some clutch play of QB Jordan Love. They face a huge test at home Thursday night vs the hot Lions. Love gets his toughest test yet in his early starting time.

#12 – Saints – 2-1
The Saints fell to the Packers last week in a game they let get away from them. Host the Bucs in a huge NFC South matchup between strong contenders for the divisional title.

#13 – Jaguars – 1-2
Jaguars were bombed by the Texans, failing on both sides of the ball. Their defense was toasted by rookie QB CJ Stroud where they failed to cover with any consistency. QB Trevor Lawrence needs better protection to get this offense producing. Face the Falcons in London this week.

#14 – Bengals – 1-2
The Bengals got their first win on Monday night vs the Rams. Look to get to ,500 in a key early AFC matchup with the Titans. QB Joe ‘Cool’ Burrow has struggled with a leg injury, though needs to be the leader here to right this contender.

#15 – Chargers -1-2
The Chargers slugged it out with the Vikings and gutted it out for their first victory. They host arch rival, the Raiders this week where they need to get to .500 to stay close to the Chiefs.

#16 – Giants – 1-2
The Giants are well rested after a poor Thursday night loss to the 49ers. Host the Seahawks on Monday night in a huge game vs the Seahawks. Runner Saquon Barkley is probably out with an ankle injury. QB Danny Jones benefits from the return of LT Andrew Thomas which should improve their suspect protection.

#17 – Steelers – 2-1
Steelers edged rival, the Raiders on Sunday night. QB Kenny Pickett continues to be clutch, despite some inconsistencies. They travel to Houston to face hot rookie QB CJ Stroud where their defense faces a huge test.

#18 – Rams – 1-2
Rams came up short vs the Bengals last week. QB Stafford must carry the load with a subpar ground game currently. Travel to Indy for a key matchup to stay abreast in the tough NFC West.

#19 – Bucs – 2-1
Bucs fell from the unbeaten to the Eagles last week. They still hold the lead the NFC South along with the Saints and Falcons. They travel to New Orleans in key divisional battle which may determine early leadership.

#20 – Falcons – 2-1
Falcons were inept vs the Lions, struggling mainly on offensive. Starting young QB Desmond Ridder faces the Jaguars in London, looking to rebound from a poor performance.

#21 – Commanders – 2-1
The Commanders were toasted by the Bills last week for their first loss. Travel to Philly in another big matchup where they will get tested and must prove more than a paper tiger.

#22 – Patriots – 1-2
The Pats beat the struggling Jets with another strong Belichick game plan. Travel to Dallas for big matchup where their offense will be tested by quality speed. Belichick will have to put together great game plan to neutralize the savvy QB Burrow with both clubs needing a victory for their postseason hopes.

#23 – Jets – 1-2
Jets have been totally inept on offense behind young QB Zach Wilson. With few options currently, they need a new game plan. Host the Chiefs Sunday night in a very difficult matchup They need a stronger ground game to put their tough defense in better position to contain the Chiefs explosive attack.

#24 – Titans – 1-2
The Titans got crushed by the Brown last week. Host the Bengals this week where the loser goes a
discouraging 1-3. Titans are one of the lowest scoring clubs in the league which has negated a good
defensive effort. Their offense needs to step up and control the game behind runner Derrick Henry.

#25 – Colts – 2-1
Colts shocked the Ravens last week in OT. They host the Rams where their pass defense will be tested to the fullest. They hope to hold the AFC South leadership with a home victory.

#26 – Raiders – 1-2
Raiders failed to close vs the Steelers last week. Travel to LA to face rival, the Chargers in a key AFC West contest looking to reach the .500 mark. Offense struggling mightily currently.

#27 – Texans – 1-2
The young Texans played hard and shocked the Jaguars. Rookie QB CJ Stroud has brought fire to their struggling offense. Hout the Steelers in a battle of young passers with Kenny Pickett. They could surprise in the wide open AFC South.

#28 – Vikings – 0-3
Vikings failed to beat the Chargers in a close shootout. Their explosive offense continues to compensate of a vulnerable defense with major secondary issues. Travel to Carolina in a battle of the winless.

#29 – Cardinals – 1-2
Cardinals beat the Cowboys regularly with young QB Joshua Dobbs directing the upset. They travel to  San Fran for huge divisional test.

#30 – Panthers – 0-3
Panthers waiting for top pick Bryce Young to clear concussion protocol. This season promises growing pain, though valuable experience for the face of the franchise. Host the winless Vikings this week with Young likely to return to the field.

#31 – Broncos – 0-3
Broncos were annihilated by the Dolphins 70-20 last week. Things coming apart at the seam.
Travel to Chicago in week’s second matchup of winless teams.

#32 – Bears – 0-3
The Bears are equally inept on both sides of the ball and are on another losing streak. Who voted QB Justin Fields as the leagues’ #86^th ranked player? They host the desperate Broncos this week.

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 major college player awards – Heisman, Outland, Nagurski, Lombardi, Thorpe, Biletnikoff etc. for the past 30 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 CBS and ESPN 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’ & Coaches Top 25 Poll

Ohio State Beats Notre Dame in Top Ten Matchup
17 Clubs Remain Unbeaten Entering Conference Matchups

 Draft Insiders’ – Top 25 Poll 2023 – Week Five
Frank Coyle / Publisher

Team of the Week
Ohio State Beats Notre Dame – 17-14

Players of the Week
  Offense – QB Drew Allar – Penn State
  Defense – DT Byron Murphy – Texas

Draft Insiders’ – Top 25 Poll

1          Georgia                        4-0                   
2          Michigan                      4-0                   
3          Ohio State                    4-0                   
4          Florida State                4-0       
5          USC                             4-0       
6          Washington                  4-0       
7          Penn State                   4-0       
8          Texas                           4-0                   
9          Utah                             4-0                   
10         Oregon                         4-0
11         Notre Dame                  4-1       
12        LSU                              3-1                   
13         Alabama                      3-1       
14         North Carolina             4-0       
15         Oklahoma                    4-0                   
16        Miami                           4-0
17         Duke                            4-0
18         Washington State        4-0       
19        Ole Miss                       3-1
20         Oregon State                3-1                                           
21         Tennessee                    3-1       
22         Missouri                      4-0
23        Kansas                         4-0
24         Florida                         3-1
25         Kansas State               3-1
 
Others receiving consideration: Fresno St., Colorado, Kentucky, UCLA, Iowa, Louisville, Clemson, TCU, South Carolina, Syracuse, Cincinnati, James Madison, Air Force, Mississippi State, Tulane, Maryland, Auburn, Texas A&M, Wyoming, Arkansas, Wake Forest, UCF and BYU

Coaches Poll – Top 25 Poll

Rank    Team            Record  Points
1          Georgia (61)      4-0        1592
2          Michigan           4-0        1495
3          Ohio State (2)    4-0        1414
4          Florida State     4-0        1390
5          Texas               4-0        1336
6          USC                 4-0        1288
7          Penn State        4-0        1225
8          Washington (1)  4-0        1194
9          Oregon             4-0        1071
10         Utah                 4-0        1010
11         Alabama           3-1        930
12         LSU                  3-1        844
13         Notre Dame      4-1        837
14         Oklahoma         4-0        784
15         North Carolina   4-0        698
16         Duke                4-0        605
17         Washington St  4-0        555
18         Miami               4-0        485
19         Tennessee        3-1        404
20         Ole Miss           3-1        305
21         Oregon State    3-1        293
22         Missouri            4-0        140
23         Florida              3-1        134
24         Kansas             4-0        120
25         Kansas State    3-1        109

Others receiving votes: Fresno State 93, Kentucky 87, TCU 54, Maryland 39, Texas A&M 36, Louisville 36, UCLA 36, Clemson 35, Syracuse 32, Colorado 29, Air Force 24, Iowa 16, Tulane 11, Wyoming 8, Marshall 2, James Madison 2, Liberty 1, Georgia State 1

Dropped from rankings: Colorado 19, Iowa 22, Clemson 23, UCLA 25

Draft Insiders’ & Coaches Top 25 Poll

Pac-12 Places 8 Teams in Top 25
  22 Clubs Remain Unbeaten Entering Major Weekend Matchups

 Draft Insiders’ Top 25 Poll 2023 – Week Four
Frank Coyle / Publisher

Team of the Week
Colorado beats Colorado State 43-35 in Overtime

Players of the Week
Offense
QB Jayden Daniels – LSU
WR Malik Nabers – LSU

Draft Insiders’ Top 25 Poll – Sept 18th

1          Georgia                        3-0                   
2          Michigan                      3-0                   
3          Ohio State                    3-0                   
4          Florida State                3-0       
5          USC                             3-0       
6          Notre Dame                  4-0       
7          Washington                  3-0       
8          Penn State                   3-0       
9          Texas                           3-0                   
10         Utah                             3-0                   
11         Oregon                         3-0
12        LSU                              2-1                   
13         North Carolina             3-0       
14         Oregon State                3-0                   
15         Oklahoma                    3-0                   
16        Ole Miss                       3-0
17        Miami                           3-0
18         Duke                            3-0       
19         Colorado                      3-0       
20         Tennessee                    2-1       
21         Washington State        3-0       
22         UCLA                           3-0                   
23         Iowa                             3-0                   
24        Clemson                      2-1
25         Missouri                      3-0
           
Others receiving consideration: Florida, Kentucky, Alabama, Kansas State, TCU, South Carolina, Syracuse, Cincinnati, James Madison, Air Force, Mississippi State, Fresno St., Louisville, Tulane, Maryland, Kansas, Auburn, Texas A&M, Wyoming, Arkansas, Wake Forest, UCF and BYU

Coaches Poll – Top 25 Poll

Rank    Team                Record Pts
1          Georgia (62)     3-0        1598
2          Michigan (1)      3-0        1514
3          Florida State     3-0        1396
4          Ohio State (1)   3-0        1394
5          USC                 3-0        1325
6          Texas               3-0        1312
7          Penn State        3-0        1224
8          Washington       3-0        1164
9          Notre Dame      4-0        1044
10         Utah                 3-0        967
11         Oregon             3-0        946
12         Alabama           2-1        886
13         LSU                  2-1        808
14         Oklahoma         3-0        683
15         Oregon State    3-0        660
16         Ole Miss           3-0        602
17         North Carolina   3-0        592
18         Duke                3-0        469
19         Colorado           3-0        435
20         Tennessee        2-1        362
21         Miami               3-0        298
22         Iowa                 3-0        206
23         Clemson           2-1        193
24         Washington St   3-0        160
25         UCLA               3-0        156

Complete Rankings
Others receiving votes: Kansas State 114, Missouri 44, Fresno State 43, Florida 41, Kentucky 28, TCU 26, Maryland 19, Kansas 17, Auburn 16, Texas A&M 11, Syracuse 10, Air Force 9, Tulane 7, UCF 5, Wyoming 3, James Madison 3, Ohio 3, Wake Forest 2, Louisville 2, BYU 1, Memphis 1, Arkansas 1

Dropped from rankings: Kansas State 15

NFL 2023 Predictions
Chiefs Face Heavy AFC Competition to Repeat
Bengals Ready for SB Challenge

Eagles and 49ers Hope to Hold Off NFC Risers

 DraftInsiders.com – NFL 2023 Predictions

  Frank Coyle/ Head scout

The 2023 NFL season is finally here with huge changes across the league giving fans hope their team can get to the elusive Super Bowl. Teams are hard pressed to duplicate the SB, just ask the Los Angeles Rams who fell significantly last season. The Chiefs will seek their third title in four seasons this year, though they will be pressured in the deep talented AFC Conference which is loaded with contenders with premier QBs from top to bottom.

Parity reigns across the league with both the AFC East and West and NFC East and West looking like powerhouse divisions which could provide multiple playoff teams each. New upstarts like the Jaguars, Giants, Jets, Lions, Saints and Chargers could all play a huge role in the playoff races while established clubs like Bucs, Packers and Rams may be pressed to return to the NFL postseason.  

2023 Season Awards

    MVP Award – QB Josh Allen – Bills
NFC
Offensive Player of the Year – QB Jalen Hurts – Eagles
Defensive Player of the Year – DE Aidan Hutchinson – Lions
Comeback Player of the Year – QB Baker Mayfield – Bucs

Rookies of the Year
Offense – RB Bijan Robinson – Falcons
Defense – DL Lukas Van Ness – Packers

AFC
Offensive Player of the Year – QB Trevor Lawrence – Jaguars
Defensive Player of the Year – LB T.J. Watt – Steelers
Comeback Player of the Year – QB Marc Jones – Patriots

Rookies of the Year
Offense – WR Zay Flowers – Ravens
Defense – LB Will Anderson – Texans

NFC
EAST
Philadelphia Eagles – 12-5
Eagles are still the team to beat in the NFC and rely on young QB Jalen Hurts and veteran defense to make another strong run at title.

New York Giants – 10-7
GMen are geared up to make the playoffs again behind an offense directed by young emerging talented Daniel Jones. Their offensive line made looks to RT Evan Neal to take a critical step up. They look to explosive Kayvon Thibodeaux to become a difference maker weekly.

Dallas Cowboys – 9-8
Cowboys are still a contender though need QB Dak Prescott to prove he can beat the top clubs. Their defense depends on big play defenders, LB Micah Parsons and corner Trevon Diggs to set the pace.

Washington Redskins – 6-11
Skins start another new QB in Sam Howell behind a very average line. Their defense loses DE Chase Young early to IR, though front four is one of most in the league.

NORTH
Detroit Lions – 10-7
Lions closed winning 8 of final 9 last season and looks to ride that momentum to a playoff appearance. HC Dan Campbell has them playing hard and their defense can step up behind dominant DE Aidan Hutchinson.

Minnesota Vikings – 9-8
Vikes will ride QB Kirk Cousin and wideout Justin Jefferson. Their changing defense will determine if they can repeat in the average NFC North.

Green Bay Packers -7-9
The post Aaron Rodgers ear begins with young QB Jordan Love. Young offense will be challenged. Veteran tough defense should keep them competitive weekly.

Chicago Bears – 6-11
QB Justin Fields was a threat to run and dangerous there, though only an average pocket passer entering his third season. Their young defense probably goes through painful growing challenges.

SOUTH
New Orleans Saints – 10-7
The Saints begin the Derek Carr era looking for an explosive offense with wideout Chris Olvie and Michael Thomas. Saints’ defense is a top five unit who keeps them in the postseason chase.

Tampa Bay Bucs – 9-8
The Bucs lose QB Tom Brady to retirement and look to new vet Baker Mayfield to direct this attack. Their veteran talented defense has faded recently and must return to prior levels for this club to challenge for the NFC South.

Atlanta Falcons – 7-10
Falcons have changed the face of this club recently, but improvement probably depends on first year starting QB Desmond Ridder. Their ground game behind rookie Bijan Robinson gives them a much needed new dimension. Defense ranked with the worst in the league and will have half new starters.

Carolina Panthers – 6-11
Panthers turns the page with top pick QB Lance Young starting behind a much-improved line. Their talented young defense should continue to improve. This club could be the surprise team here, though   probably a year away of turning them into victories.

WEST
San Francisco 49ers – 11-6
The 49ers look to young Brock Purdy to lead this balanced offense which ranks among the best in the league. Wideout Deebo Samuel and TE George Kittle are among the best playmakers in the game. Edge defender Nick Bosa is the games’ best pass rusher. 49ers will challenge for the NFL title.

Seattle Seahawks – 10-7
Seahawks hope to ride the hot hand of Geno Smith for another strong offense. They have rebuilt their once renowned defense and will press for the NFC West division.

Los Angeles Rams – 9-8
Rams seem so removed from their SB title from just two years ago. Only a strong performance behind star QB Matthew Stafford can return this club to the postseason. Their once top defense still relies on DT Aaron Donald, though the supporting cast has slipped noticeably recently.

Arizona Cardinals – 4-13
Cards will start the season without injured QB Kyler Murray after the worst season of his career. They face massive turnover on both sides of the ball and have the makeup to challenge for the #1 overall pick in the NFL Draft 2024.

Divisional Champs
Eagles, Lions, Saints and 49ers

Wild Card Clubs
Giants, Seahawks & Cowboys

NFC Championship
49ers beat Eagles in NFC title game

AFC
EAST

Buffalo Bills – 12-5
Bills are shooting for their 4th consecutive East title behind star QB Josh Allen. Receivers Diggs and Gabriel along with TEs Knox and rookie Dalton Kincaid form a strong contingent.  One of the league’s top defenses will have to prove better in big game situations to get that elusive SB title.

New York Jets – 11-6
Aaron Rodgers mania is at a high pitch with good reason. Jets’ offense will depend on their line to step up and protect Rodgers. This defense will rank among the top in the game, though must come up big in late key games to make the postseason. Capable of competing vs every NFL club.

Miami Dolphins – 10-7
Dolphins ride the health of young QB Tua Tagovailoa to direct this potent offense. They look to new DC Vic Fangio to improve this talented unit. Dolphins capable of returning to the postseason if Tua stays heathy. Must survive the tough AFC East race.

New England Patriots – 8-9
Pats are slipping in one of the best divisions. They look to new OC Bill O’Brien to help QB Mac Jones take a huge step up after a disappointing 2022. Bill Belichick will coax this young defense to further improvement. Pats are always in the playoff hunt, though the AFC may be too loaded this season.

NORTH
Cincinnati Bengals – 12-5
QB Joe Burrow is a difference maker again and capable of carrying this club to the SB. He goes to wideouts Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins both produced 1000-yard performances. Their defense needs to improve especially in coverage. They look for critical maturing to live up to SB hype.

Baltimore Ravens – 10-7
The Ravens look for a healthy QB Lamar Jackson to improve their passing game vs top competition. Their ground game is highly productive, though unspectacular. They made major changes in their secondary to improve coverage. Ravens will push to return to postseason, though need a big effort from Jackson vs top clubs.

Pittsburgh Steelers – 10-7
Steelers look to young QB Kenny Pickett to continue his fast progress. Wideout George Pickens is ready to emerge to an elite level in year two. Their offensive line must improve to play up to their potential. The Steel defense slipped noticeably especially vs the pass despite edge TJ Watt. This club is a borderline contender and needs offensive line and secondary to step up to make the postseason.

Cleveland Browns – 7-10
Browns started vet QB Deshaun Watson after his 11 game suspension where he was noticeably rusty. No excuses this season for their poor passing game. Back Nick Chubb is a workhorse. Their highly rated defense gives up too much air yardage and points and will have to improve for this club to contend.

SOUTH
Jacksonville Jaguars – 11-6
Jaguars rode the hot hand of young QB Trevor Lawrence to the divisional round. HC Doug Pederson can improve this offense further with new wideout Clavin Ridley joining a strong receiving group. Their young defense is loaded and looks to edge Travon Walker and Mike LB Devin Lloyd to become playmakers. This club can take another step up with Lawrence directing this club to another AFC South title.

Tennessee Titans – 9-8
The Titans slipped significantly last season and will be hard pressed to win a playoff spot. They need both QB Ryan Tannehill and premier back Derrick Henry to return to prior form. Their OL must improve after surrendering too many sacks. Their defense crashed last season and their young corners must improve especially vs playoff clubs. Tough team with limited playmakers on both sides of the ball. Long shot for postseason.

Houston Texans – 7-10
New regime and field leadership in HC DeMeco Ryans and QB CJ Stroud and edge Will Anderson. Stroud gets the starting call to begin a new era. Their defense ranks among the worst in the league and equally inept vs the pass and run. HC Ryans will continue their massive roster turnover, hoping he can turn more games into W while he develops their young talent.

Indianapolis Colts – 5-12
The Colts have fallen quickly attempting to maintain playoff levels with veteran passers. They turn the page with raw rookie QB Anthony Richardson. Stud runner Jon Taylor may move in a trade which could begin a bigger house cleaning. Their young defense has failed to improve and a big reason they could land in the basement.

WEST
Kansas City Chiefs – 12-5
Chiefs look for their 8th consecutive West title behind elite QB Patrick Mahomes. He will rely on TE Travis Kelce to lead a changing receiving corps. Their defense looks to CB McDuffie and edge rusher Karlaftis to become playmakers.  Veterans DT Chris Jones ranks with the best interior linemen in the league. SB contender plays in the toughest conference and will be pushed to the fullest with every team capable of West title.

San Diego Chargers – 11-6
The Chargers look to young QB Justin Herbert to lead this potent offense to the playoffs again. Herbert was outstanding and adds top pick WR Quinten Johnston. The line looks to a healthy LT Slater to stabilize their front. They can surprise for the West title, though need improvement from their young defense especially healthy vets, LB Joey Bosa, CB J.C. Jackson and safety Darwin James.

Denver Broncos – 9-8
Broncos have missed the playoffs since 2016 with vet QB Russell Wilson playing poorly. He must return to prior levels for this club to compete in the tough AFC. Their highly regarded defense performed only average with marginal pressure and average coverage.  Club is hoping new HC Sean Payton can get Wilson right and defense returns to prior levels.

Oakland Raiders – 7-10
Raiders parted ways with talented QB Derek Car and replaced by vet Jimmy Garoppolo. This club has fall significantly off horrible draft classes from 2019 thru 2021 with five of six top picks released or let go. Wideout Davante Adams and runner Josh Jacobs need to carry this offense.  Edge rushers Maxx Crosby and Chandler Jones are difference makers, though have a marginal supporting cast. Raiders will be hard pressed to play over .500 in the tough AFC and probably a few draft classes from postseason.

Divisional Champs
Bills, Bengals, Jaguars and Chiefs

Wild Card Clubs
Jets, Dolphins & Ravens

AFC Championship
Bengals beat the Chiefs

Super Bowl Matchup
Bengals over 49ers
Joe Burrow drives Bengals to a SB title

Draft insiders’ Top NFL Defensive Rookies for 2023

Frank Coyle/ Head scout

Edge Will Anderson – Texans
Impact edge rusher should excel under the tutelage of new HC DeMeco Ryans. Capable of taking this unit up a few levels this season and become an elite NFL difference maker.

Photo – DL Lukas Van Ness – Packers

DL Lukas Van Ness – Packers
Emerging versatile playmaker has improved significantly over his recent career. Gives the Packers a diverse front seven defender who can create big mismatches.

Frank Coyle is a long-time scout with nationwide ties with coaches, scouts and player agents. He is a long-time scout from mini-camp through training camps prior to the regular and postseason. He is a consultant to many NFL player agents related to all levels of preparation for both NFL Free Agency and the NFL Draft process. 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, Fox Sports and Sporting News on a year-round basis related to 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.

LB Jack Campbell – Lions
Gritty backer will be counted on to be the anchor in this defense. He reflects HC Dan Campbell’s mentality and should be an early three down starter.

CB Devon Witherspoon – Seahawks
Quick cover man has been hindered in camp by hamstring issues, but has the makeup and level of development to become a top flight NFL corner early in his career.

CB Tre Banks – Giants
Prototypical cover man stepped in like a veteran this preseason. Capable of being a shutdown corner in time and counted on to be a tough starter now.

DT Jalen Carter – Eagles
Big agile athlete joins a potent front line. Capable of impact in limited reps where his initial burst can be very disruptive from the inside.

CB Emmanuel Forbes – Commanders
Ball hawk was a welcome addition here. He will benefit from a strong front four and hopes to continue his legacy to intercept passes.

LB Drew Sanders – Broncos
Instinctive defender will get reps both inside and outside and should become a fixture in this front seven within a short time.

CB Christian Gonzalez – Patriots
Long cover man should excel in a Bill Belichick defense and become a fixture in this defense. His skill set allows Belichick to play diverse schemes.

Safety Brian Branch – Lions
Savvy versatile defender gives this secondary a leader and playmaker who can provide impact this fall from a few roles.

Edge Keion White – Patriots
Athletic versatile edge defender has the talent to become a three down difference maker with refinement. Probably starts as a key rotational front seven for pass rushing sets.

CB Mekhi Blackmon – Vikings
Quick savvy cover man has a high level of development to be a mainstay in this secondary and possible a fulltime rookie starter.

NFL Top Offensive Rookies for 2023

Frank Coyle/ Head scout

WR Zay Flowers – Ravens

Highly developed playmaker should become a favorite for Lamar Jackson immediately. Capable of opening up this attack and giving them a huge boost

Photo – WR Zay Flowers – Ravens (school)

RB Bijan Robinson – Falcons
Complete back should be the linchpin here and get 200+ touches this season.

WR Quenton Johnston – Chargers
Huge athlete will give this air attack a huge boost for strong armed Justin Herbert and has the talent to be the #1 here within a short time.

RB Jahmyr Gibbs – Lions
Playmaker gives the Lions their best three down runner since Barry Sanders. Probably becomes their feature performer this fall in this attack.

QB Bryce Young – Panthers
Overall top pick has responded well to HC Frank Reich’s coaching and gets the starting call opening day. Shows the makeup to handle the big stage.

TE Dalton Kincaid – Bills
Big agile receiver gives QB Josh Allen a highly developed weapon with impact ability in this attack especially in the red zone.

WR Marvin Mims – Broncos
Coming off a great preseason, this speedster is perfect fit for three wideout sets. Capable of becoming an early favorite of veteran passer Russell Wilson.

TE Michael Mayer – Raiders
Sure-handed two-way athlete gives QB Jimmy Garoppolo an excellent weapon in the short and intermediate zones and can become a fixture in this attack.

WR Jonathan Mingo – Panthers
The prototypical numbers teams covet in a #1 receiver. Should become rookie QN Bryce Young’s favorite receiver, though must prove consistent catching the ball and route running.

C John Michael Schmitz – Giants
Took to the pivot like a seasoned veteran this preseason. Capable of being a fixture inside here with a strong career.

TE Sam LaPorta – Lions
Developed receiver gives QB Jared Goff an excellent playmaker in the middle zones to move the chains.

WR Jalin Hyatt – Giants
Speedster can take the top off the defense and open this attack for Daniel Jones and Saquon Barkley. Capable of impact in three wideout sets.

College Football 2023 All-American Teams

Draft Insiders’ – Frank Coyle /Head scout

Draft Insiders’ publishes All-American teams annually 
 Photo – WR Marvin Harrison – Ohio St (school)

Draft Insiders’ College Football All-America Teams

First Team
Offense

QB Caleb Williams, USC
RB Braelon Allen, Wisconsin
RB Blake Corum, Michigan
WR Marvin Harrison Jr., Ohio State
WR Rome Odunze, Washington
WR Xavier Worthy, Texas
TE Brock Bowers, Georgia
OL Joe Alt, Notre Dame
OL Olumuyiwa Fashanu, Penn State
OL Cooper Beebe, Kansas State
OL JC Latham, Alabama
C Sedrick Van Pran, Georgia
All-Purpose Travis Hunter, Colorado

Defense
DL Jared Verse, Florida State
DL JT Tuimoloau, Ohio State
DL Jer’Zhan Newton, Illinois
DL Bralen Trice, Washington
LB Harold Perkins Jr., LSU
LB Tommy Eichenberg, Ohio State
LB Jeremiah Trotter Jr., Clemson
LB Jamon Dumas-Johnson, Georgia
CB Kool-Aid McKinstry, Alabama
CB Kalen King, Penn State
S Malaki Starks, Georgia
S Kamren Kinchens, Miami

Specialists
K Joshua Karty, Stanford
P Tory Taylor, Iowa
KR Jaylin Lucas, Indiana
PR Kool-Aid McKinstry, Alabama
 
Second Team
Offense

QB Drake Maye, North Carolina
RB TreVeyon Henderson, Ohio State
RB Rocket Sanders, Arkansas
WR Emeka Egbuka, Ohio State
WR Dorian Singer, USC
WR Juice Wells, South Carolina
TE Ja’Tavion Sanders, Texas
OL Graham Barton, Duke
OL Christian Haynes, UConn
OL Kelvin Banks Jr., Texas
OL Zak Zinter, Michigan
C Zach Frazier, West Virginia
All-Purpose Will Shipley, Clemson

Defense
DL Tyler Davis, Clemson
DL Demeioun ‘Chop’ Robinson, Penn State
DL Mykel Williams, Georgia
DL Dontay Corleone, Cincinnati
LB Barrett Carter, Clemson
LB Cedric Gray, North Carolina
LB Laiatu Latu, UCLA
LB Junior Colson, Michigan
CB Cooper DeJean, Iowa
CB Fentrell Cypress II, Florida State
S Calen Bullock, USC
S Cole Bishop, Utah

Specialists
K John Hoyland, Wyoming
P Kai Kroeger, South Carolina
KR Lideatrick Griffin, Mississippi State
PR Anthony Gould, Oregon State

Third Team
Offense

QB Michael Penix Jr., Washington
RB Quinshon Judkins, Ole Miss
RB Nicholas Singleton, Penn State
WR Malik Nabers, LSU
WR Jalen McMillan, Washington
WR Johnny Wilson, Florida State
TE Brant Kuithe, Utah
OL Beaux Limmer, Arkansas
OL Donovan Jackson, Ohio State
OL Christian Mahogany, Boston College
OL Tailese Fuaga, Oregon State
C Drake Nugent, Michigan
All-Purpose Donovan Edwards, Michigan

Defense
DL Mekhi Wingo, LSU
DL Junior Tafuna, Utah
DL Keith Randolph Jr., Illinois
DL Kris Jenkins, Michigan
LB Jaylan Ford, Texas
LB Dallas Turner, Alabama
LB Abdul Carter, Penn State
LB Ty’Ron Hopper, Missouri
CB Benjamin Morrison, Notre Dame
CB Will Johnson, Michigan
S Javon Bullard, Georgia
S Demani Richardson, Texas A&M

Specialists
K Jonah Dalmas, Boise State
P Mason Fletcher, Cincinnati
KR Milan Tucker, Appalachian State
PR Ainias Smith, Texas A&M
 

Draft Insiders’ & Coaches Top 25 Poll

Draft Insiders’ Top 25 Poll 2023 – Opening Week

Frank Coyle / Publisher
All-American Teams – Monday, August 28th

Draft Insiders’ – Top 25 Poll

1          Georgia            0-0                   
2          Michigan          0-0                   
3          Ohio State        0-0                   
4          Alabama          0-0                   
5          USC                 0-0       
6          LSU                  0-0                   
7          Florida State    0-0                   
8          Clemson          0-0                   
9          Notre Dame      0-0       
10         Washington      0-0       
11         Penn State       0-0       
12         Texas               0-0                   
13         Tennessee        0-0                   
14         Utah                 0-0                   
15         Oregon             0-0                   
16         Kansas State    0-0                   
17         TCU                  0-0                   
18         North Carolina 0-0       
19         Oregon State    0-0                   
20         Wisconsin        0-0                   
21         Oklahoma        0-0                   
22         Texas A&M      0-0                   
23         Ole Miss           0-0                   
24         Tulane              0-0                   
25         Iowa                 0-0                   

Complete Rankings
Others receiving consideration: Florida, Texas Tech, South Carolina, Pittsburgh, UCLA, UTSA, Arkansas, Boise State, Kentucky, Troy, Kansas, Louisville and Auburn  

 
Coaches Poll – Top 25 Poll

            Team               Record Points
1          Georgia (61)     0-0        1643    
2          Michigan          0-0        1510    
3          Alabama (4)      0-0        1489    
4          Ohio State (1)   0-0        1485    
5          LSU                  0-0        1294    
6          USC                 0-0        1228    
7          Penn State       0-0        1181    
8          Florida State    0-0        1145    
9          Clemson          0-0        1078    
10         Tennessee        0-0        991      
11         Washington      0-0        941      
12         Texas               0-0        848      
13         Notre Dame      0-0        841      
14         Utah                 0-0        839      
15         Oregon             0-0        820      
16         TCU                  0-0        655      
17         Kansas State    0-0        440      
18         Oregon State    0-0        365      
19         Oklahoma        0-0        320      
20         North Carolina 0-0        315      
21         Wisconsin        0-0        309      
22         Ole Miss           0-0        303      
23         Tulane              0-0        225      
24         Texas Tech      0-0        200      
25         Texas A&M      0-0        196      

Complete Rankings
Others receiving votes: Iowa 169, South Carolina 89, Florida 63, UTSA 59, Pittsburgh 52, UCLA 42, Kentucky 34, Baylor 28, Troy 25, Arkansas 20, Fresno State 19, NC State 19, Boise State 18, Auburn 18, Miami 16, Minnesota 16, Mississippi State 13, Oklahoma State 12, Missouri 11, Maryland 10, SMU 8, South Alabama 8, Illinois 7, Air Force 6, Wake Forest 6, Toledo 5, Washington State 4, Houston 3, BYU 2, Duke 2, Arizona 2, Kansas 1, James Madison 1, Memphis 1

Paul Hornung 2023 Award Preseason Watch List
All 10 Conferences + Two Independents Represent the PHA List

Louisville, Ky. – Fifty-three players, representing all 10 conferences plus two of the independents that compete for the Football Bowl Series, have been selected for the Paul Hornung Award Pre-Season Watch List.

Now in its 14th season, the Paul Hornung Award is given annually to the most versatile player in major college football by the Louisville Sports Commission in memory of the late football legend and Louisville native Paul Hornung. The winner and his family will be honored at the annual Paul Hornung Award dinner in Louisville, Ky., in March 2024.

Photo – Paul Hornung – ‘The Golden Boy’  (Courtesy of the Green Bay Packers)

More information about the Award can be found at www.paulhornungaward.com

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, Biletnikoff, Thorpe, Outland, Nagurski, Lombardi etc for the past 25 years. He writes College Football Mondays weekly during the season. He is a consultant to many NFL player agents related to all levels of preparation for the NFL Draft process. 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, Fox Sports and Sporting News on a year-round basis related to 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.

The players represent 53 different schools and last season combined for more than 56,000 total yards and more than 1,700 points. The vast majority of the players on the Watch List – 47 – play offensive skill positions and all but one are return specialists; six players are defensive backs and return specialists.

By conference, the ACC leads with nine players, followed by the Big 12 with eight, the Pac 12 with seven, and the Big 10 and CUSA with six each. The SEC and Mountain West each have five players on the list, the AAC four, the MAC three and the Sun Belt two. Independent schools Notre Dame and UConn each have one player on the list.

The Paul Hornung Award has created an impressive legacy in 13 years including seven winners who were first-round NFL draft picks – Tavon Austin, Saquon Barkley, Odell Beckham Jr., Christian McCaffrey, Jabrill Peppers, DeVonta Smith and Shaq Thompson. Jack Colletto from Oregon State was named the 13th winner of the Paul Hornung Award in 2022 and the fourth from the Pac-12. A fifth-year senior with a degree in mechanical engineering who was named Academic All-District by the College Sports Communicators, on the field, the “Jackhammer” engineered the transition from part-time starting quarterback as a sophomore to a utility player who played nine different positions on offense and defense depending on the Beavers’ weekly game plan, and was a regular on all special teams.

Hornung, who passed away in his hometown at age 84 in Nov. 2020, played every position in the offensive backfield during his career with the Irish in the 1950s and also played defensive safety, punted, placekicked and returned kickoffs. He was named All-America at quarterback as a senior and won the Heisman Trophy in 1956, then was the first player selected in the NFL draft, going to Green Bay. He earned NFL MVP honors for the Packers in 1961 as a triple-threat halfback and placekicker by setting a single-season NFL scoring record that stood for 46 years. He is a member of the College and Pro Football Halls of Fame, and Vince Lombardi once called him, “The most versatile man ever to play the game.”

The 2023 Watch List was compiled by a panel of college football experts based on a combination of statistics, career performance, SID recommendations and expectations heading into the 2023 season. In addition to the Watch List, the Paul Hornung Award Weekly Honor Roll will recognize players whose performances during the regular season meet the Award’s criteria. Players from both the Watch List and the Weekly Honor Roll are eligible to win the Award.

2023 Watch List Selections

Brian Battie, Auburn
Trey Benson, FSU
Jonathan Brady, New Mexico State
Barion Brown, Kentucky
Jermaine Brown Jr., UAB
Phillip Brooks, Kansas State
Shadrick Byrd, Charlotte
Joshua Cephus, UTSA
Ron Cook Jr., Buffalo
Jacob Cowing, Arizona
Cooper DeJean, Iowa
MJ Devonshire, Pitt
Chimere Dike, Wisconsin
Emeka Egbuka, Ohio State
Trevor Etienne, Florida
Malik Fleming, Houston
Jaelen Gill, Fresno State
Anthony Gould, Oregon State
Lideatrick Griffin, Mississippi State
Smoke Harris, Louisiana Tech
George Holani, Boise State
Tory Horton, Colorado State
Travis Hunter, Colorado
Kris Hutson, Oregon
Jha’Quan Jackson, Tulane
Lexington Joseph, FIU
Jeshaun Jones, Maryland
Jawhar Jordan, Louisville
Brant Kuithe, Utah
Caullin Lacy, South Alabama
Jaylin Lane, Virginia Tech
Kenny Logan Jr., Kansas
Jaylin Lucas, Indiana
Jayden McGowan, Vanderbilt
Jaylin Noel, Iowa State
Ryan O’Keefe, Boston College
Trebor Pena, Syracuse
Ja’Shaun Poke, WVU
Brennan Presley, Oklahoma State
Victor Rosa, UConn
Trayvon Rudolph, Northern Illinois
Will Shipley, Clemson
Nicholas Singleton, Penn State
Cameron Skattebo, Arizona State
Jaylen Stinson, Duke
Jacquez Stuart, Toledo
Milan Tucker, Appalachian State
Chris Tyree, Notre Dame
Terrell Vaughn, Utah State
Tahj Washington, USC
LaJohntay Wester, FAU
Xavier Worthy, Texas
Luke Wysong, New Mexico
 

The Louisville Sports Commission successfully launched the Paul Hornung Award in 2010 to honor its namesake and native son, and to promote outstanding performances by versatile college football players who often go unnoticed.