College Football 2019: 5 bold predictions for Week 1 action

College football is finally back and while the Week 1 slate isn’t filled with blockbusters, it’s still an exciting one. Let’s talk bold predictions.

We have all been waiting for this, for college football to be back. Week 1 is full of some hidden gems, exciting games that many people aren’t talking about unless they are fans of the teams playing. Yes, there is more to this week than Oregon taking on Auburn for those of you who are just planning on tuning into that one.

Just as a small look into what is out there this week, let’s talk bold predictions.

5. Memphis vs. Ole Miss is a wild shootout

Ole Miss is replacing quite a bit on their offense, including their quarterback Jordan Ta’amu and much of their wide receiver corps: DeMarcus Lodge, AJ Brown and DK Metcalf.

However, all the Rebels have done is reload, starting with Matt Corral at quarterback. Add in Scottie Phillips at running back as well as wide outs Elijah Moore and Braylon Sanders and this is a pretty strong unit. Behind an offensive line that is rebuilding, I’m sure there will be a few issues, but this is a team that tends to figure it out on offense.

Memphis has lost two of its best running backs to the draft. As a result, the Tigers will look for running back Patrick Taylor Jr. to carry much of that offensive load. He gained 1,122 rushing yards and scored 16 touchdowns on the ground last season, in addition to catching 17 passes for 197 yards and two more scores on his teams way to yet another AAC Championship Game.

They still have quarterback Brady White as well as big-time receiver Damonte Coxie and tight end Joey Magnifico, so this offense is ready to go.

The issue? Neither of these teams has a strong defense. Memphis has issues in the secondary and has yet to prove they can do much to stop a good offense. Ole Miss is supposed to get better on the defensive side of the ball and the Rebels have nowhere to go but up after they were dead-last in total defense and couldn’t generate a pass rush.

This game will be all offense and no defense. This will be one of those ‘whoever has the ball last’ kind of games with scores in the 40s on each side. Look for Memphis to grab the win, though.