As we are moving towards the start of the 2020/21 college football season, it is the time for early predictions for the upcoming season to begin. With that said, I am here to give you my early college football playoff predictions for the 2020/21 season.
1. Ohio State
The joint 2019 Big Ten coach of the year award winner Ryan Day looks to bring his Buckeyes to their second straight playoff appearance. After falling just short of a National Championship appearance with a 29-23 loss to the Clemson Tigers in the playoff semi-finals, Day’s first full season as HC was over.
Even though the Buckeyes had an incredible 2019 season, it wasn’t enough. I fully expect this team to be even better than the year before, with a loaded secondary, an incredible receiving core, and arguably the best quarterback in the nation in Justin Fields.
2. Alabama
Whether Mac Jones or Bryce Young is at the helm next season, I undoubtedly expect Nick Saban and the Crimson Tide to be back where they belong: in the college football playoff. The Crimson Tide bring back many impactful players on both sides of the ball.
Dylan Moses, who missed all of last season with a torn ACL, looks to lead this defense along with Patrick Surtain II. Alabama will have an explosive offense going into the year with a dominant offensive line and dynamic receivers in Jaylen Waddle and Devonta Smith. Look out for the Crimson Tide next season as they have a team that can go all the way.
3. Clemson
As the Tigers look to make it to their sixth straight college football playoff, I would bet all my money on them being back here at the end of the season. Travis Etienne returned for his senior year, Justyn Ross emerging as a number one receiver, and Trevor Lawrence. This team will still be scary. The only real threat I see for them in the ACC for them is Mack Brown and the Tar Heels.
4. Oregon
HC Mario Cristobal is looking to finally bring the Oregon Ducks to the promised land. Though the loss of Justin Herbert hurts, I would say this team will be better than ever. One thing that will hurt this team is the first three home games, as they will not be held in the state of Oregon due to recent coronavirus rulings.
However, this defensive line is easily the most talented in college football, and they nabbed transfer Anthony Brown from Boston College. Don’t forget about their Heisman candidate in CJ Verdell with that offensive line. I believe that the Oregon Ducks get back into the college football playoff.
Photo: Mickey Welsh
