Nike Unveils new Pro Bowl Uniforms

As we all know, Nike is now the new maker of NFL uniforms. That being said, we all knew there was an overhaul coming but I did not expect it to be for the Pro Bowl. Nike is getting away from the traditional blue and red combos and has instead created these black and white ones. I think they are really neat but I would have preferred them to keep the same jerseys as last year. It reminds me a lot of of Oregon and Oregon State (coincidence?). More info below.

http://nflcommunications.com/2013/10/08/nfl-nike-elite-51-pro-bowl-uniforms-unveiled/

OU unveils alternate uniform for OU/TX

It was a mere month ago, that I called on the athletic department to get alternate uniforms, and this morning I finally saw what I have been waiting years for. A tweet from Bob Stoops this morning made it official, the Sooners WILL have an alternate uniform for the game this weekend. This is not a complete overhaul just some gold around the numbers and different shoulder combinations. What do you guys think? Click the link below to see the new more pictures.

http://newsok.com/oklahoma-football-ou-texas-uniforms-get-gold-treament/article/3890840

Three things we learned this weekend

1. Derrick Rose is back
After sitting out over a year with a torn ACL, Rose made his return in an exhibition game against the Pacers scoring 13 points in 20 minutes. Is he the spark that leads the Bulls to the top of the Eastern conference this year?
                   

2. Peyton Manning can run
For the first time since 2008, Manning had a rushing touchdown. It wasn't pretty and it's safe to say he does not have the same speed he had a few years ago, but this was a huge touchdown that would play a major role in the Broncos 51-48 win yesterday. He even faked out the cameraman.

                 

3. Racing is dangerous
I found this amazing video this morning. Yesterday, Indycar was in Houston and the event took a sad turn when this incredible crash happened.

                 

Bonus from last weekend
It doesn't look like this guy has much going for him, regardless, this is probably my favorite sports video so far this year.

                 

Football, Politics and Religion

In Brazil, there's a common saying that says, “não se discute futebol, politica, e religião”. For those non-Portuguese speakers, that roughly translates to “You don’t discuss soccer, politics, and religion”. Lucky for you, I feel that we know each other well enough to discuss all three of these topics; more specifically on how this trio of subjects should or shouldn’t mix together on an individual or national level. So follow me, as we discuss what roles and responsibilities athletes and organizing committees like the NOC’s (national Olympic committees) should have in the public eye.

So who could I possibly be thinking of when I speak of ‘religious athletes’? Probably the most talked about athlete in recent times, Tim “God’s QB” Tebow™; the man behind the cultural phenomenon known as “tebowing”. Should Tebow take advantage of his position and prominence to promote his beliefs/religion? Most people wouldn’t care in this case but what if the man was Muslim or a believer of some other religion? What would you think if he pulled out a mat and prayed before every game and then went on to discuss his beliefs during his press conferences? Some people probably would not take that very well but then again not all of the world population is ruled by bigotry so maybe you wouldn’t be affected.

So let’s choose another example. Recently (Aug. 10^th-18^th), the Track World Championships were held in Moscow, Russia. Not all is well in Russia with civil unrest and protests against President Putin, but luckily this is a sports blog and not a political column so we’ll steer clear of who’s wrong and who’s right. A prominent point to make is that Russia is strictly against same-sex marriage and has proven it by taking action against protesters. Yet, this did not deter American athlete Nick Symmonds who, after winning silver in the 800m, dedicated his medal to his homosexual friends and spoke out against Russia’s repression. This begs the question: Is this proper behavior for an “ambassador” of the US or should athletes restrain themselves and their right to free speech to avoid all conflict? For athletes in their own sports leagues, such as the NBA or the NFL, their opinions should be thought through carefully because they still represent an organization but they stay in the same country (except when on international duty). However, athletes like runners have it more complicated because often they travel across the globe to compete. Should they not have the same right to speak out against what they feel is wrong just because they are guests? In a perfect world no! However, our athletes represent a country, and so when they have the American flag, they should be more cautious and careful in what they say. Perhaps even wait until after the event is over to state what they experienced and how they feel. This leads me to my next subject: the Olympic Games.

Ever since Pierre de Coubertin brought back the Olympics in 1896, they have always been a source of controversy. After all, countries around the world are vying not only for the gold medals but also to host the Olympics. Most often times, a European or American city is chosen. In fact, they've only been held outside of these two areas only 7 times (including the 2016 and 2020 Olympics). However, many times the choice of a certain city has led to boycotts. The most known and biggest boycotts: 1980 and 1984. In 1980, a total of 62 countries, including the US, boycotted the Games which were held in Soviet Russia. As a response, Russia and her allies (16) boycotted the games held in Los Angeles, four years later. Subsequently, large country boycotts have been avoided but it raises a question: Should athletes be penalized because a country disagrees with the host city’s politics? Personally, I feel that unless the country is blatantly breaking international laws or treaties (in which case they shouldn't even be chosen in the first place), countries shouldn't mix politics and sports. Athletes train for years for one moment, and to see it go to waste simply because the two nations cannot agree is a shame.

So to recap, individual athletes should be able to express their opinion without the fear of being penalized and punished for them. Yet, I believe too much discussion can take away from the sport at times. There is a time for playing and a time to talk, world affairs aren’t a subject that should be linked to sports. Maybe it’s the innocent side of me, but I find that sports are a beautiful art form that is tainted by cheating and scandals to overcome a country because your country doesn’t like them and can’t stand to lose against them. For my sake, keep your politics to yourself and just enjoy the game. Fair-play and sportsmanship are things that tend to disappear when national tensions arise; yet, in the end all that matters, no matter what you believe, who you are, or what sport you play, the only thing that counts, the one thing that unites us all is that desire for the perfect play.

Bryan Corbaz (@CorbazXC): Bringing an old wooden ship from the civil war to this crew, Bryan is currently a student in Switzerland. An obsessed runner, Bryan was a part of a state champion XC team, an all-american at USATF nationals in steeplechase, placed 5th last year at Swiss Nationals, and is the current state XC champ. He hopes to attend a DI college to continue to achieve in and outside of the classroom, all while being the funniest of the Corbaz brothers.

NFL PREVIEW

Adrian Peterson

The 2013-14 NFL season begins this Thursday night with Baltimore vs. Denver. In honor of the new season, I have gathered Eric Sarani and Allen Collins to create this preview for your reading pleasure. Enjoy.

1. Most under the radar team?
Corbaz (@yungswiss_): The New Orleans Saints. After being rocked by the bounty gate scandal, the Saints get their coaching staff back. Adding Rob Ryan will have the biggest difference as he will turn that last place defense around. Look for Brees to have another big season. Also look for the Bucs, Eagles and Lions to bounce back.
Allen (@AC_Writer): The Cincinnati Bengals. Strong defense and the Dalton-Green connection on O.
Eric (@Eric_sarani): Cardinals; With a legitimate arm in the pocket now in Carson Palmer, reigning coach of the year Bruce Arians could take the Cardinals to second in the NFC west and a shot at a wild card spot in the NFC. Don’t sleep on ARIZONA.

2. Most over hyped team?
Corbaz: The Baltimore Ravens. After winning the Super Bowl the Ravens have lost six starters as well as the heart and soul of that defense, Ray Lewis and Ed Reed. It will take at least a season for the chemistry to get where it needs to be.
Allen: The Denver Broncos. Yes Peyton Manning is good, yes they added Wes Welker but they won't go far this year.
Eric: Redskins; Don’t think RGIII stays healthy. Even though I love Alfred Morris running the ball, too tough of a division. Eagles way underperformed last year (healthy Mike Vick and Chip Kelly offense is dangerous), and the cowboys and giants will both have at or over .500 records.

3. Who will win the MVP?
Corbaz: Peyton Manning. He will have plenty of targets to throw to including Wes Welker and Demaryius Thomas. Their defense is a question mark so count on Manning to make up for that weakness by putting up huge numbers.
Allen: AD. That year he had coming off surgery was spectacular. I see him having an equally impressive year being healthier.
Eric: Adrian Peterson; Boomer

4. --- will win the AFC West.
Corbaz: This division is a joke right now. The Denver Broncos will win easily. They will go undefeated and have no problem with the lowly Raiders, Chiefs and Chargers.
Allen: The Denver Broncos. Fever shouldn't have any trouble with division foes behind Manning.
Eric: Denver Broncos, Easiest division and they’ve got Peyton.

Peyton Manning

5. --- will win the AFC South.
Corbaz: The Houston Texans. This was a really hard decision for me but there is just a little more talent in Houston than there is in Indianapolis. Schaub, Johnson and Foster will be too much for a lot of defenses. Ed Reed will also have a huge impact not only on the field but in the locker room as well.
Allen: The Houston Texas. Luck's Colts will challenge but Houston three pronged offensive attack will prevail.
Eric: Colts; This is going to be decided by one game like last year and unlike last year, the Colts will edge out Houston for top dog in the South. Andrew Luck is only getting better and They have got backs now in Bradshaw and a polished Ballard. Reggie Wayne is the youngest looking 34 year old I’ve ever seen.

6. --- will win the AFC North.
Corbaz: The Cleveland Browns. Just kidding, I am picking the Cincinnati Bengals. They are a young team, hungry to improve on a 10-6 season in 2012.
Allen: The Cincinnati Bengals. If there defense performs like last year and the offense plays up to potential they'll win out.
Eric: Bengals; I think the Bengals edge out a question mark-ridden Ravens D as Number 1 in the AFC North. I think Gio passes the Green-Ellis for the starting job at running back to win out the last 7 games and take 1st place.

7. --- will win the AFC East.
Corbaz: The New England Patriots. Even though they had a very interesting off season, Belichick is a genius and will be good enough to win this weak division. However, it will be interesting to see how they fair against better opponents such as the Falcons in week 4 and the Broncos in week 12.
Allen: Bill and Tom. No receivers, no problem, Brady will get the Patriots to the winner's circle.
Eric: Patriots; Haven’t been anything less than 1st since 2008, and Miami isn’t beating them this year either.

Colin Kaepernick

8. --- will win the NFC West.
Corbaz: The San Francisco 49ers. This was the hardest decision to make but there will be some great games in the West this year so mark your calendars. I think the 49ers-Seahawks game in week 2 will be one for the ages.
Allen: The Seattle Seahawks. This league will be tough be behind Russell and Marshawn on O as well as lock corners Browner and Sherman. They'll gut it out.
Eric: 49ers; Reigning NFC champions win their division and get the 1 seed in the playoffs.

9. --- will win the NFC South.
Corbaz: The Atlanta Falcons. I definitely see them going 13-3 again and hungrier then ever to reach the Super Bowl. Adding Stephen Jackson in the backfield was a great under the radar move.
Allen: Those Dirty Birds. Matt Ryan's crew adds Stephen Jackson and Osi Umenyora on D. They'll overcome the Saints in this division.

RG3 and the Skins have high hopes for the new season

Eric: Falcons; Stephen Jackson is going to tear up the league this year. Falcons win by a big margin.

10. --- will win the NFC North.
Corbaz: The Green Bay Packers. Aaron Rodgers is a stud and drafting Ed Lacy will give this offense balance it hasn't had in years.
Allen: The Green Bay Packers. Aaron Rodgers and Clay Matthews will simply get it done, again.
Eric:The Green Bay Packers led by Rodgers will edge out the Vikings.

11. ---will win the NFC East.
Corbaz: The Washington Redskins. This team will go as RG3 goes. It sounds like his knee is fine so look for him to have another great season. The Eagles under Chip Kelley will be interesting to watch and could possibly end up in a shoot out between the two when they play.
Allen: RGIII and crew. Solid rushing attack and Griffin's playmaking will put up enough points to win this division.
Eric: Giants; I honestly think there are too many questions with the Redskins and the Cowboys aren’t winning anything any time soon.

12. Who will be hoisting the Lombardi Trophy on February 2nd, 2014?
Corbaz: The San Francisco 49ers. After reaching the NFC title game in 2012 and the Super Bowl last season, it is finally their time to hoist that trophy. They had a spectacular off-season and with a year under Kapernick's belt, I do not see them being stopped in the playoffs.
Allen: The Atlanta Falcons. After a few early exits I see Atlanta getting over the hump. With a stronger rushing attack and a much needed pass rusher added the Falcons will finally do the job. All hail the Dirty Birds.
Eric: I’m picking the patriots over Atlanta.

Eric Sarani (@Eric_sarani) and Allen Collins (@AC_Writer) are contributors to Corbaz Sports Blog.

WINNERS AND LOSERS FROM THIS PAST WEEKEND

In case you missed the top 10 from the first weekend of college football click here.
WINNERS:

1. Villanova's trick play- Thanks to this great play, everyone is now aware that Villanova doesn't just have a basketball team. The wildcats ran this fake punt fumblerooskie play within the first three minutes of the game against Boston College. They would ultimately lose but at least they garnered some national attention.

                  

2. Clemson Tigers- The #8 Tigers proved that they are indeed a contender this year by beating #5 Georgia 38-35 on Saturday night. Tajh Boyd did not disappoint as went 18-30 for 270 yards and three touchdowns.

                  

3. Kurtis Drummond- This should be catch/interception of the year.

                  

4. Jamies Winston- The Florida State quarterback had his coming out party last night against Pitt, going 25-27 for 356 yards and four touchdowns. Did I mention he's a redshirt freshman?

LOSERS

1. Malcolm Mitchell- Junior reciever Malcolm Mitchell from Georgia is now out of for the season because he tore his acl while celebrating a touchdown with his teammates Saturday.
                               

2. Roger Federer- For the first time since 2002 Federer has failed to reach the final at one of the grand slams. On Monday, Federer lost to #19 Tommy Robredo in straight sets prompting concern over whether he will ever win another major again.

3. Alabama high school coaches- I'm not sure what the back story is to this video but regardless this is really ridiculous. Look to the right of the screen.

                             

Who were your winners and losers from this past weekend?

MUST SEE GAMES OF THE WEEKEND

Jadeveon Clowney and the Gamecocks will be in action tonight vs. UNC

Tonight the new season of college football begins (thank the lord). Here is a list of the games on tonight and what you need to know:

Game	Network	Time
North Carolina at (6) South Carolina	ESPN HD	8/29/2013 6:00 PM
Liberty at Kent St.	ESPN3	8/29/2013 6:00 PM
Presbyterian at Wake Forest	ESPN3	8/29/2013 6:30 PM
Tulsa at Bowling Green	ESPNU HD	8/29/2013 7:00 PM
Indiana St. at Indiana	BTN HD	8/29/2013 7:00 PM
UNLV at Minnesota	BTN HD	8/29/2013 7:00 PM
Akron at UCF	ESPN3	8/29/2013 7:00 PM
Illinois St. at Ball St.	ESPN3	8/29/2013 7:00 PM
Northwestern St. at Missouri St.	Mediacom-Springfield	8/29/2013 7:00 PM
Robert Morris at Eastern Kentucky	OVC Digital Network	8/29/2013 7:00 PM
Pikeville at Morehead St.	OVC Digital Network	8/29/2013 7:00 PM
Rhode Island at Fordham	Patriot League Network	8/29/2013 7:00 PM
Grand View at Drake	College Sports Direct	8/29/2013 7:00 PM
Hampton at Western Illinois	College Sports Direct	8/29/2013 7:00 PM
Southern Utah at South Alabama	ESPN3	8/29/2013 7:30 PM
Towson at Connecticut	ESPN3	8/29/2013 7:30 PM
Western Carolina at Middle Tennessee	CBS Sports ULive	8/29/2013 7:30 PM
UT Martin at Chattanooga	CSS	8/29/2013 7:30 PM
Jacksonville at Delaware	College Sports Direct	8/29/2013 7:30 PM
Dayton at Youngstown St.	YSUSports.com	8/29/2013 7:30 PM
Utah St. at Utah	FOX Sports 1	8/29/2013 8:00 PM
Jackson St. at Tulane	CBS Sports ULive	8/29/2013 8:00 PM
Valparaiso at North Dakota	MidCo Sports Net	8/29/2013 8:00 PM
Cumberland at Tennessee Tech	OVC Digital Network	8/29/2013 8:00 PM
SE Missouri St. at SE Louisiana	LionSports.Net	8/29/2013 8:00 PM
Monmouth at Montana St.	Max Media HD	8/29/2013 9:00 PM
Ole Miss at Vanderbilt	ESPN HD	8/29/2013 9:15 PM
Sacramento St. at San Jose St.	Mountain West Network	8/29/2013 10:00 PM
Eastern Oregon at Portland St.	BigSkyTV.Org	8/29/2013 10:00 PM
Rutgers at Fresno St.	ESPNU HD	8/29/2013 10:30 PM

Clearly the most interesting game on the schedule tonight is between South Carolina (6) vs. North Carolina. The Tar Heels are not favorites here and it is going to take a lot to beat a very good South Carolina team but on paper this has potential to stay interesting for three quarters. Another matchup that I will be watching is Ole Miss at Vanderbilt. Two rising teams in the SEC on a Thursday night seems alright with me. 

Here is a list of this week's must see games:

Rice at Texas A&M

ESPN HD

8/31/2013 1:00 PM

Virginia Tech vs. (1) Alabama (at Atlanta, GA)

ESPN HD

8/31/2013 5:30 PM

UL-Monroe at (16) Oklahoma

FSN PPV

8/31/2013 7:00 PM

(5) Georgia at (8) Clemson

ABC HD

8/31/2013 8:00 PM

(12) LSU vs. (20) TCU (at Arlington, TX)

ESPN HD

8/31/2013 9:00 PM

(19) Boise St. at Washington	FOX Sports 1	8/31/2013 10:00 PM
Nevada at (21) UCLA	Pac-12 Networks	8/31/2013 10:00 PM
(22) Northwestern at California	ESPN2 HD	8/31/2013 10:30 PM

(11) Florida St. at Pittsburgh

ESPN HD

9/2/2013 8:00 PM

For full weekend schedule click here.

-Chris Corbaz (@yungswiss_): After conquering the YMCA basketball leagues in Tulsa with his Westbrook like quickness, Corbaz is now studying public relations at the University of Oklahoma. He is a die-hard Oklahoma City Thunder fan and an avid follower of the Dallas Cowboys but not Tony Romo. #Thunderup

ALL I WANT THIS SEASON IS NEW UNIFORMS

Blake Bell

(For yesterday's college football preview click here). As I sit here on my laptop and browse all the new uniforms that will be debuting in college football this year, I keep anticipating to see those new crimson and cream unis. But as time goes by and I get to the end of the list; I put my hand on my forehead and sigh, as another year rolls around without a change from the University of Oklahoma. Now don't get me wrong friends I do love what we have now, I love the traditional look as it symbolizes the past triumphs of this program and the future success OU will incur. It's a classic and one of the most recognized in sports. But when your own players are calling for change it's time to step up.

Oklahoma 2008 alternate uniform

Let's be clear, I'm not calling for a complete overhaul, for the equipment manager to lose his job or even have 29839874 different combinations like our Stillwater friends do, but having an alternate uniform for even one game can only be seen as a benefit. Recruits these days look for more than tradition, they look for the newest stadiums, the newest facilities and I believe uniforms can have an impact as well. They want to look flashy and cool for the cameras and the millions watching at home. Is it safe to assume we have lost a recruit or two because we are falling more and more behind every year? For you diehard fans, yes we did have a very cool alternate uniform for one game in 2008. It looked great and Nike did a great job of keeping the same basis but adding a few alterations, most notably the white helmet. Why not do this for one home game?

The most reoccurring EXCUSE that I hear is that "we're a traditional, conservative classy program." So, if I understand correctly, one uniform will be the deciding factor in how people perceive this program? Let me be the first to reassure you, one game will not define the decades of excellence of Oklahoma football. Other "traditional" schools do not seem to be having this problem. For example:

1. LSU
2. Notre Dame
3. Georgia
4. Stanford

Nebraska and Michigan are also some schools that have gone down the new uniform path. If you cannot let go of the concept of "traditional" I have another proposition for you. I saw this on the web awhile ago but why not have alternates for one game and then sell the jerseys after with all the proceeds going to tornado victims in Moore. I do not think anybody would object to that happening because it benefits both Moore and Oklahoma football.

Whether you agree with me or not it does not matter, I'm tired of seeing almost every school with really nice, modern, updated gear. It's time for the Sooners to step up and get into the game. We do not need a mind blowing overhaul or many combinations, just something new for at least one game. Now is that too much to ask for?


Chris Corbaz (@yungswiss_): After conquering the YMCA basketball leagues in Tulsa with his Westbrook like quickness, Corbaz is now studying public relations at the University of Oklahoma. He is a die-hard Oklahoma City Thunder fan and an avid follower of the Dallas Cowboys but not Tony Romo. #Thunderup

THE COLLEGE FOOTBALL PREVIEW

It's the best time of the year because college football is back, starting Thursday with 17 intriguing match ups. Time to bring in Gabe Njoku , Allen Collins, Pat Turner and Chris Carwile AKA the Corbaz College Football Panel to preview the 2013 season.

1. Most underrated team this year?
Gabe (@G_Njoku): TCU. After a 7-6 record in 2012, the Horned Frogs come into 2013 with young, dynamic players. Returning players Casey Pochall (QB), Brandon Carter (WR), Jason Verrett (Preseason All-American), and Devonte Fields (Big 12 Defensive POY) could cause teams trouble. I can see TCU beating LSU and receiving an At-Large BCS bid this year.

Teddy Bridgewater

Allen (@AC_Writer): I see the Teddy Bridgewater led Louisville Cardinals as the most under rated team this year. Picked first to win the once again down Big East, they should make it through the regular season unblemished. UL returns three of Bridgewater's favorite receivers. Behind the SEC's heavy hitters and Pac 12's top contenders, I see Louisville as a real threat.

Pat (@BootstrapPat): Nebraska. Returning QB Taylor Martinez and the Huskers have one of the most powerful offenses in the nation. Martinez had 2871 passing yards and 23 TD’s, while rushing for 1317 yards and 10 TD’s. in 2012. Ameer Abdullah has proved to be solid in the running game with 1193 rushing yards and 8 TD’s, while Kenny Bell salvaged as Martinez’s #1 receiver.  Head Coach Bo Pelini’s defense is set up to take down pocket passing offenses, which is what their schedule is full of. Their schedule is tough, with three consecutive games against Northwestern, Michigan, and Michigan St, but I think they have a shot to knock off someone big.

Carwile: Wisconsin. They’ve won three straight BIG 10 titles, and while they’ve changed coaches recently, don’t expect them to change much in terms of how they get things done on the field. The power running game will still be the staple of the Badgers attack. James White (806 yards, 12 TD in 2012) will replace Montee Ball in the backfield, and will be helped by sophomore Melvin Gordon (621 yards, 3 TD in 2012 on just 60 carries). Between the two of them the Badgers should be just fine on offense, while defensively they return 8 starters from a unit that held its own against Ohio State last year, holding them to a season low in rushing yards. 

2. Most overrated team this year?
Gabe: Texas A&M. Johnny Manziel’s dominance in the SEC ends. Not only do they have a new offensive coordinator, but opposing teams have had a year to learn how to stop the Aggies star quarterback. Also, the amount of attention the team has received this past summer because of the Heisman winner will be too much for the team to handle.
Allen: The most over rated team in my opinion goes to Texas A&M. Last year A&M went into Tuscaloosa and won but only narrowly. Along with that a tough loss to Florida who won't drop off very far this year and and shoot out with Louisiana Tech they could've easily lost. Of course Johnny Manziel is a dynamic playmaker and the first freshman to win the Heisman but their success rests heavily on him. With his eligibility in question after wind of a possible memorabilia sign for pay situation still under investigation by the NCAA, A&M's future could be in the balance.
Pat: Louisville is the most overrated team for the 2013 season. Heisman trophy candidate QB Teddy Bridgewater has been under the spotlight for most of the offseason, and will most likely fall under pressure. Although Bridgewater accounted for 25 pass TD’s with only 7 interceptions, his lead blockers are not strong enough to protect his so called “dual-threat” capabilities. Not to mention that the Cardinals running game overall has not proven itself as an elite group with their starters only combining for 21 rush TD’s. The only thing anchoring them a shot to the National Championship would be an overall weak schedule, with their hardest competition in a solid Central Florida or Cincinnati team.
Carwile: Stanford. Replacing running back Stefan Taylor and transitioning to a more pass based offense will take its toll on the Cardinal. The PAC 12 is getting stronger, with UCLA improving and USC getting back to where they need to be. While the Cardinal get UCLA at home, they end the season with a tough 4 game stretch starting November 7 against Oregon, followed by a road game at USC, before they finish with home games against Cal and Notre Dame. My prediction is that the Cardinal lose at least 4 games this season and while that certainly is not a failure, it won’t see them ranked in the top 5, where they are now.

3. (Blank) will win the Heisman this year.

De'Anthony Thomas

Gabe: De’Anthony Thomas. Thomas is an all-around player, there’s nothing he can’t do. Last year he had 11 touchdowns running the ball and 5 catching. He also had one touchdown from a kick return and a punt return. He’ll get more touches on the ground this year and will have over 1,500 all-purpose yards from kick/punt returns, rushing, and receiving yards.
Allen: TJ Yeldon, Alabama Sophomore RB is my favorite for the Heisman this year. Alabama loses several lineman but they'll reload and continue a legacy of recent strong Alabama runners. Yeldon's tough running style and several marquee games will give him the venue to shine.
Pat: Texas A&M’s QB Johnny Manziel “Johnny Football” will not repeat as the Heisman trophy winner in 2013, he’ll be soiled by his last 7 months of fame and autograph allegations. However, for Georgia QB Aaron Murray, 2013 looks to be his year to shine. Murray hasn't been given the credit he deserves as a premiere QB in the NCAA after throwing for 10,091 yards and 95 touchdowns versus 32 interceptions in his three seasons for the Bulldogs. He’s been named to the Pre-season All-SEC 1st Team by coaches around the nation, and nearly took down #1 Alabama in the SEC Championship.
Carwile: Aaron Murray QB Georgia. The only QB in SEC history to pass for 3000+ yards in three straight seasons, Murray will own just about every offensive record in the SEC by the time this season ends. He’ll pass for over 10,000 yards and 100 touchdowns, and if Georgia can win games early in the year against South Carolina, Clemson, and LSU, and Murray can put up big numbers in those games, the stage will be set for him to go head to head with A.J. McCarron for the Heisman, my money is on Murray.

4. Must see game of the year?
Gabe: Oregon (3) at Stanford (4). Going into this November game, both teams will most likely be undefeated and be ranked in the top 5 in the country. This game will decide who wins the Pac-12 North Division, the Pac-12 title, and a chance at a national championship berth.
Allen: One game I'm really looking forward to takes place early on between the offensively strong Clemson Tigers and the rough Georgia defense and two headed rushing attack. Both teams come into the season ranked and with high expectations so it should be a great matchup.

    Pat: The September 14th SEC West matchup between Alabama and Texas A & M promises to be the game of the year as long as reigning Heisman trophy winner Johnny Manziel isn't sidelined due to his autograph scandal.
   Carwile: Alabama @ Texas A&M. Saban and Co. have most likely had this date circled on the calendar since Manziel left Tuscaloosa with a victory last fall. If Johnny Football and crew (assuming he’s eligible) can beat the Tide this year in College Station it will flip the season on its head. The key will be whether the Crimson Tide can prevent A&M from getting off to a fast start like they did last year (21-0 at the end of the first). Saban and Defensive Coordinator Kirby Smart unquestionably have something special planned for Manziel to try and slow him down, but Manziel’s ability to make something out of nothing may allow the Aggies to walk away with 2 wins in 2 tries against the Tide.

Aaron Murray and the Georgia Bulldogs

5. Who wins the SEC?
Gabe: Georgia. Not only because I want to see a team other than Alabama win this year, but the Bulldogs have one of the best offenses in the nation coming into 2013. They return 10 starters on offense, including star quarterback Aaron Murray. Georgia will learn from their mistakes in previous years and find a way to beat Alabama in Atlanta.
Allen: The Alabama Crimson Tide. I look for them to repeat even if they slip up once in the conference.
Pat: The Crimson Tide of Alabama will outlast the Georgia Bulldogs for the second consecutive season, thus propelling them to the National Championship. A strong recruiting class, running game, offensive line, and overall stamina fuel the Crimson Tide. Enough said.
Carwile: Alabama. As cliche as it sounds Alabama doesn’t rebuild, they reload. This year is no exception. They lose RB Ed Lacey, but back up T.J. Yeldon showed last season that he is ready to take over the reigns. The offensive line loses All-American Center Barrett Jones, as well as G Chance Warmack. However, QB A.J. McCarron returns in pursuit of a third national title, and Alabama has proven in the past that it is more than capable of replacing linemen. Defensively Haha Clinton-Dix returns at safety along with 9 other starters from last years unit. The schedule is relatively easy, after a week 2 road trip to College Station. The Tide don’t play Florida or Georgia in the regular season, and get LSU at home.

6. Who wins the Big 12?
Gabe: Oklahoma Sooners. OU goes into the season with a lot of uncertainties on defense and at quarterback. But, if Trevor Knight can come into the season and be successful throwing the ball, OU can be dangerous. It’ll come down to a Thursday night game in Waco against Baylor to determine who will win the Big 12.
Allen: OU is my Big 12 pick under new starter Trevor Knight and many returning weapons at receiver and running back. If they are able to have the same results in last year's TCU, OSU and Texas games, I see them winning the Big 12 title outright this year.
Pat: The big 12 has a lot of uncertainty for an outright leader in 2013. A repeat of a co-champion between Oklahoma and Kansas State seems very possible. If not, I predict Kansas St. to take home the gold. TCU and Oklahoma St. could be trouble though, don’t count them out.
Carwile: Oklahoma State. Mike Gundy’s team averaged 45.6 ppg last season, and doesn’t look like it will slow down anytime soon. They return one of the best receiver corps in the country in Seniors Charlie Moore, Blake Jackson, and Tracey Moore. In addition they return QB Clint Chelf. The defense will need work, but the Cowboys offense should give them a chance to win a lot of games. They also get Oklahoma and Kansas State at home in Stillwater this year. If OSU can get past Mississippi State in Houston to open the year, and West Virginia in week 4, they will give themselves a great shot at taking home the Big 12 crown.

7. Who wins the Big 10?
Gabe: Ohio State. Braxton Miller will have a breakout season for the Buckeyes alongside a strong defense. They’ll go undefeated in Conference, just like last year, and go to the national championship.

Braxton Miller

Allen: Ohio State. The Buckeyes are many people's favorites in a down Big 10. Now off sanctions and the second year under Urban Meyer I expect them to go undefeated again and contend for the national title.
Pat: If the 2012 undefeated season of the Ohio St. Buckeyes is any indication of how they will perform in the 2013 season, then a Big 10 championship is clearly in store. With the return of Heisman trophy candidate QB Braxton Miller, stellar Urban Meyer recruits, and a solid group of replacement and returning starters, the Buckeyes can surely win the Big 10 outright. The only thing truly stopping them from a chance at the National Championship would be their Nov. 30th regular season finale in Ann Arbor with Michigan.
Carwile: Michigan. The Wolverines win their first conference title under Brady Hoke, knocking off Ohio State in the season finale before beating Wisconsin in Indianapolis to finish the season 10-2 and earn a trip to Pasadena. Greg Mattison’s defense will need to replace 5 starters, but his ability to recruit top players will help them fill the gaps. The offense gets a new QB (kind of) in Devon Gardner, but Gardner took a large number of snaps last season, and his speed and throwing ability combined with his size will help to ease the learning curve, and may make him more of a headache for opposing defensive coordinator than his predecessor was. Fitz Toussaint is back at running back as well. The key for Michigan is the last five games of the season, starting at Michigan State on November 1st, then Nebraska at home, at Northwestern, at Iowa, and Ohio State at home. That’s 5 tough games in a row with no bye week in between. If they can win 4 of those, they should find themselves as Division champions and headed to Indy.

8. Who wins the ACC?
Gabe: Clemson. Their only competition in the conference this year will be Florida State, who lost 11 players to April’s NFL Draft. Tajh Boyd is looking to have a repeat season from 2012 that included 36 touchdowns and nearly 4,000 passing yards. They’ll dominate the ACC this year.

Allen: My ACC pick is Clemson. Heisman Candidate QB Tajh Boyd leads the team once again. I look for the Tigers defense to step up just enough to allow the offense to out score teams as they've had to do so many times last year. Their big test will be FSU which I think they'll win behind Boyd's playmaking ability on offense.

Tajh Boyd

Pat: Clemson and Heisman trophy candidate QB Tajh Boyd will win the ACC in 2013. He has legitimized himself as an elite dual-threat QB, and put his stake in as a serious competitor for the Heisman trophy. Boyd posted 3896 passing yards and 36 TD’s versus only 13 Int., while rushing for 514 yards and 10 TD’s in 2012. With DeAndre Hopkins and Sammy Watkins to throw to, Boyd looks to break open some ACC passing records. However, the Tigers seem to struggle defensively against highly ranked teams, they have a young defensive line and a weak secondary. Head Coach Dabo Swinney seems poised to make his team successful on both sides of the ball with 7 returning starters on offense and defense respectively. The biggest problems in the Tigers 2013 schedule come against Jimbo Fisher’s sleeper Florida St. and a scrappy Georgia Tech team. If the Tigers can overcome a weak pass protection issue they will win the ACC, and maybe even land themselves a BCS birth.
Carwile: Clemson. Tajh Boyd is a Heisman candidate at QB, and this Tigers team is loaded with other big time players like Sammie Watkins, that will make them very dangerous offensively. Defensively they lose some big pieces, with just 6 full time starters returning from last season, but they return 10 players who started at least 5 games. The defense was third in the ACC in scoring, and will look to get even better under second year coordinator Brent Venables.

9. Who wins the PAC-12?
Gabe: Oregon. The Ducks have 15 returning starters between offense and defense this year. That experience will help them get through a tough second half of the season schedule (UCLA, Stanford, Arizona, and Oregon State). Huge offensive threats such as Marcus Mariota (26 TDs and 2600 passing yards) and De’Anthony Thomas will lead Oregon to go undefeated and win the Pac-12.

Allen: I have Oregon overcoming Stanford this year with a heavy dose of De'Anthony Thomas and Marcus Mariota and that fast pace offense. I don't see Chip Kelly's departure slowly up the Ducks at all.
Pat: Stanford and head coach David Shaw will repeat as the champion of the Pac-12. Although the Oregon Ducks explosive offense poses a huge obstacle for the Cardinal, Stanford has one of the strongest front 7 in the nation on defense. The Cardinal return talented starters on both offense and defense including QB Kevin Hogan and three All-Pac-12 offensive linemen to protect him, while the defense brings back defensive end Henry Anderson and linebacker Trent Murphy. Despite the strong team still being intact and a clever coach, Stanford’s schedule is what could hinder them from a National Championship. They play 4 back-to-back games against top 25 teams in UCLA, Oregon St, Oregon, and USC, with a regular season finale at home against Notre Dame. Winning the Pac 12 would be difficult, but is possible for the Cardinal.
Carwile: Oregon. Yes they lose coach Chip Kelley, but they keep QB Marcus Mariota, while running backs De’Anthony Thomas, Byron Marshall, and Freshman Thomas Tyner will be charged with carrying the load now that all-time leading rusher Kenjon Barner has gone on to the NFL. The offense returns 9 starters from a unit that ranked in the top 5 in points per game, rushing yards per game, and total yards per game. Defensively they return all their starters from a secondary that led the country with 26 interceptions last year. The Ducks get UCLA at home, before a November 7 game at Stanford. Win both of those, and the PAC 12 title should be theres, with a possible national title game birth a strong possibility.

10. Who wins the national championship?

AJ Mccarron

Gabe: Oregon vs. Ohio State. Both teams will go undefeated during the season. Oregon will edge out Ohio State to win the national championship. De’Anthony Thomas will become a star player this year and will be too much for any defense to handle.

Allen: Three peat. No one has ever done it in the BCS and in its last year, why not? Alabama continues to amaze us and I don't see this year being any different. I say Roll, Roll and Roll again Tide on to another national championship.
Pat: There is no doubt that Saban’s Alabama squad is a powerhouse with the ability to three-peat. They’re still the team to beat for the upcoming 2013 season.
Carwile: Alabama. They have too much talent, to good of coaching, and a relatively easy schedule. Not to mention, despite coming off a national title last year they didn’t end the season undefeated, something I’m sure Saban will continue to point out to every Crimson Tide player. Alabama won’t get complacent, Saban will make sure his team stays hungry, and when Alabama is hungry they can be almost impossible to beat.

Gabe, Allen, Pat and Carwile are contributors to Corbaz Sports. Make sure you go follow these three guys for all the latest updates.
Gabe Njoku: (@G_Njoku)
Allen Collins: (@AC_Writer)
Pat Turner: (@BootstrapPat)
Corbaz Sports (@corbazsports)

THE CONFERENCE YOU LOVE TO HATE

Oh SEC haters, how short sighted you have become. If you love college football you definitely love the SEC. No doubt that the SEC's dominance has grown the college brand. The excitement around what national championship contending team(s) the SEC produces, at the same time heightens curiosity of what Big 12/PAC 12/B1G will try to beat them. The BCS tried hard to stop from putting two SEC teams in the title game in 2012 and unsuccessfully in 2011. The SEC being so dominant kept your favorite teams and favorite conferences relevant. Tell the baby NFL, I mean the SEC thank you, they're used to it. Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Texas A&M last year. Alabama and LSU the year before. With teams like OU, USC, Texas, and Michigan down, the SEC keeps us glued.

The last 7 champions hail from the SEC. Florida in '06 & '08, LSU in '07 Alabama in '09, '11-12 and favorites in 2013. Auburn's burst onto the scene in with Cam Newton and Michael Dyer in 2010. We have watched the SEC win championships year after year beating perennial powers such as Ohio State, OU, Texas, Notre Dame and recent giant Oregon. I see why the hate for SEC teams continue to grow. It's not their 2.25 billion dollar tv deals or their highest number of players taken(a record 63 last year) in the NFL draft. Not even all the recent Heisman trophy hoisters like Tim Tebow, Cam Newton, Mark Ingram, and Johnny Football himself. No, no, that's not why, those things only hype up the college football brand. The fact the Alabama's of the world are pushing out you're favorite Big East, ACC, B1G, Big 12 and Pac 12 teams out of the spotlight. Even academically prestigious Vanderbilt is on the rise under fiery coach James Franklin. Newly hired Mark Stoops at Kentucky, a traditional basketball school is reeling in top recruits, the most highly touted in the schools history. Lowly Ole Miss, yes Ole Miss has top rated kids flocking down to Oxford to get a taste of the SEC.

Marvel at it all. The crystal balls, the Tebows and Manziels, the massive first round pick lineman, the speed at every position, Alabama's all-star running backs. Be jealous. As a fan you can't help but love it. College football is thriving. Every week there are key championship incentive match ups and sell out crowds. According to a census done by the NCAA in 2011, 5 of the top ticket selling school were from the SEC (Alabama, Florida, LSU, Georgia and Tennessee). Recent addition Texas A&M was also in the top 10. 

Johnny Manziel

Often times the SEC championship game is seen as a semi-final game to the national championship. It might as well serve as the pre-crowning of college football's best. The excitement of the SEC brand of football will keep you interested. Don't worry, maybe your team will rise to the top of their conference visibly untouched with a shot at knocking off whatever SEC power has fought their way out of the conference with the least amount of bruises. Maybe the SEC is overhyped, the numbers say otherwise. What do you say about the SEC? ... I just tricked you into thinking your opinion matters. While you were thinking Alabama just won another title and the whole first round of the NFL was from the SEC. It must be tiring to watching the phenomenal athletes of the SEC on national tv every year. Oh well, you'll watch anyway. You can't watch or talk college football these days without the SEC. You might not like 'em, but boy the SEC sure is a sight to see. College Football 1, SEC 7, and the fans infinity. Enjoy your college football this year. Someone just may dethrone the SEC but I doubt it.

Allen Collins (@AC_Writer) is a sophomore media studies major at Northeastern State University in Tahlequah. He is an obsessive sports fan and  a proud, diehard OU Sooner supporter. His friends and family describe his love for sports as "a bit over the top" and that's putting it mildly. With any academic success Allen plans to be a sports journalist, author and a member of a sports talk radio show. Allen can be a handful to tolerate so just bear with him.

Coming Soon

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