College Football Top 25: Recapping Week 8, previewing Week 9
By Mitch Kaiser
16. Baylor (6-1)
Week 8 result: Bye
Baylor surprisingly moved up four spots in the poll after not even playing a game. Lucky for them, a few teams in their way took some losses which helped the Bears rise up the rankings. Baylor’s last game was a win against BYU who is once again ranked which helps their credibility. But the Bears have a few tough games coming up versus Texas and Oklahoma which will ultimately prove if they deserve this high of a ranking or not.
Next game: vs. Texas
My prediction: Lose 37-35
17. Pittsburgh (6-1)
Week 8 result: Defeated Clemson 27-17
This Pitt offense should be proud of itself. The Panthers scored the most points on Clemson that anyone has scored on the Tigers this season. Well, technically NC State tied Pitt at 27 points, but that game went to overtime so you can put an asterisk on that one. That’s reason to celebrate right there because that Clemson defense is just as good as it’s been the past few years.
Clemson’s offense, not so much. Credit Pitt’s defense for holding the Tigers to 17 points and intercepting DJ Uiagalelei twice, including a pick-six by linebacker SirVocea Dennis. They even forced the Tigers to bench their quarterback at one point.
Offensively, Kenny Pickett delivered for the Panthers and passed his biggest test yet this season. He continued his stretch of great play finishing with 302 passing yards, two touchdowns, and a PFF grade of 78.8. He very well could find himself in the Heisman race if he keeps up this level of play and if Pitt keeps winning.
Next game: vs. Miami
My prediction: Win 38-28
18. Auburn (5-2)
Week 8 result: Bye
Auburn had a bye week in the middle of the toughest stretch of their schedule. So it was beneficial for them to get a quick break in because their schedule doesn’t get any easier. They’ve already had one of the hardest schedules in the entire country and it will remain that way. The next challenger will be Ole Miss this Saturday. Auburn needs to take it one game at a time though and can’t afford to worry about Texas A&M or Bama who still await them this season.
Next game: vs. Ole Miss
My prediction: Lose 36-33