See Ball Get Ball with David Pollack

Episode: CFP Quarterfinals PREVIEWS and PICKS | David Pollack's College Football Playoff Predictions
Date: December 23, 2025
Host: David Pollack
Analyst: Brent Rollins

Episode Overview

In this packed College Football Playoff preview, David Pollack and analyst Brent Rollins break down each CFP quarterfinal, offering in-depth analysis, X’s and O’s, and honest predictions for all four games. With Pollack’s signature high-energy, line-of-scrimmage focus and Rollins’s stat-heavy insights, this episode is a feast for football diehards—delving into matchups, hidden storylines, coaching decisions, keys to the games, rust vs. momentum, and who they believe will advance.

Pollack and Rollins avoid gambling talk and stick to pure football analysis, making this a perfect listen for serious fans who want to understand the “why” behind every matchup. Expect spirited discussion on defense’s return, offensive balance, coaching wrinkles, and a few Christmas cookie hot takes along the way.

Key Themes

Defense and Balance Are Back: Both hosts repeatedly emphasize that defenses and balanced offenses are the defining qualities among quarterfinalists.
Rust vs. Rhythm: The potential impact of playoff byes and long layoffs on top seeds generates significant discussion.
In-Depth Matchups: Each CFP game is dissected down to individual position battles, coaching tactics, and which units have the edge.
Bold Predictions: Both Rollins and Pollack go on record with detailed score predictions and reasoning.

Quarterfinal Previews, Insights, & Picks

1. Miami vs. Ohio State

(Deep dive begins at 02:44)

Storylines & Matchups

Rematch with significant CFP implications—referencing the legendary 2002 natty:

“How long were we on this program talking about who’s better in the beginning of the year—Miami or Ohio State? Well, we’re here now. We get to settle it.” —Pollack (03:22)
Theme: It will be decided “in the trenches”—Miami’s DL vs. Ohio State’s OL, and vice versa.
Miami’s defensive front, led by Bain and Mezador, is described as possibly the best in the CFP.

“Miami's better on both sides of the line of scrimmage... and that’s saying something because I think Ohio State’s defensive line is really, really good.” —Pollack (11:38)

X’s & O’s

For Ohio State: Absolute necessity to run the ball for offensive balance.

“They have a zero percent chance of being successful if Bo Jackson in the running game doesn’t get going.” —Pollack (11:46)
Ohio State’s right guard injury/battle highlighted—a possible vulnerability against Miami’s pass rush.
Ryan Day taking over playcalling is considered a positive, providing schematic edge.

“Ryan Day is a smart man… and the one thing I always appreciated about Ryan Day—playcalling. You know what Ryan Day does as good a job as anybody? Your safeties are going to be challenged.” —Pollack (12:57)
For Miami: Must be able to run the ball (ground-and-pound), especially with a massive OL. Pollack stresses Miami must avoid being one-dimensional.

Prediction & Score

Both pick Ohio State in a “coin-flip, physical brawl.”

“I think this is a 20, 21 to 17 type game. 21 to 14. Ohio State’s defense, though, to me, it’s just the versatility, the coverage, the ability to do multiple things. I just think it’s a little too much for an offense that’s too Tony dependent.” —Pollack (25:22)
Rollins: “To me, I picked Ohio State 20 to 17…this is a lot like the Big Ten championship game.” (24:09)
Key factor: Miami’s poor tackling pops up as the possible difference.

2. Oregon vs. Texas Tech (Orange Bowl)

(Starts at 27:54)

Storylines & Matchups

Home-field angle: Lanning says it should be closer for Tech, but it’s in Miami.
Can Texas Tech’s Baron Morton (“boot finally off”) provide enough playmaking?

“This offense is not really diverse... it’s very run inside dependent. He’s not pulling the ball and making a bunch of plays.” —Pollack (27:58)
Matchup to watch: Oregon’s run game (top 3 nationally) vs. Texas Tech’s “grown man” D-line (best run defense nationally at 68 yds/game).

X’s & O’s

Texas Tech’s offense: Needs diversity and balance; RBs Dickey and Williams must produce, Morton must avoid sacks and hit explosive plays off play action.
Oregon’s offense: Pollack expresses that Oregon “will not pound the Red Raiders”—but their multidimensional RB committee and Dante Moore’s legs may prove the X-factor.

“If you think this is just a cute story with Texas Tech and they just got a good Big 12 defense, you’re about to find out… They got multiple first round picks on that defensive line.” —Pollack (32:39)
Texas Tech’s red zone woes highlighted as a possible Achilles' heel.
NFL scouts’ dream: Texas Tech’s Bailey & Height vs. Oregon’s “NFL-caliber” OL.

Prediction & Score

Both pick Oregon in another low-scoring slugfest.

“I think this is 20 to 17. Like I think this is super low scoring. And give me the Ducks because remember I said they're one of the four teams that can win this puppy.” —Pollack (36:16)
Rollins: “20 to 17, the exact score that I typed out in red.” (36:19)

3. Indiana vs. Alabama (Rose Bowl)

(Begins at 36:55)

Storylines & Matchups

First-ever meeting—Indiana as a “perennial basement dweller” faces the “mystique now gone” Alabama.

“The most interesting thing about this is the aura, the mystique that used to be with Alabama … that’s gone.” —Pollack (36:55)
No fear from Indiana—a “complete team” imparts confidence.

X’s & O’s

For Indiana: Mendoza’s running ability must be in play; Indiana’s shown late-game resolve all season (“one more play than you” team).

“Mendoza’s wheels I think become a bigger part of the story in this game because they can use him. They’re going to have to start to do this and I’ve seen the Bama defense, they’ve been very, very susceptible to giving up quarterback run game.” —Pollack (39:41)
For Alabama: Struggling run game, O-line toughness and “catching” instead of driving opponents raised as ongoing issues—called out as coaching-related, not talent-related.

“The lack of toughness and physicality on the offensive line. It doesn’t make sense. Like, Kaden Proctor is as big... It doesn’t make sense. It’s a coaching [problem]...” —Pollack (44:18)
Possible answer? Go 10 personnel (four WRs), play up tempo, and hope Ty Simpson catches fire. But Indiana’s creative blitzing/pressure defense is a nightmare for him.
Losing DE Steven Daly is a blow for Indiana but not enough to tilt the game.

Prediction & Score

Both pick Indiana:

“I think this is the end of the line for the Tide… the better, more rounded, more physical team is Indiana.” —Pollack (47:22)
“I think this feels like it’s going to be a four quarter game. But I think making one more play, you trust Mendoza and…you trust him to do it…” —Rollins (49:43)

4. Ole Miss vs. Georgia (Sugar Bowl)

(Section starts at 52:09)

Storylines & Matchups

Rematch: The first matchup was a “track meet,” with Georgia not punting once; Lane Kiffin missing boosts uncertainty for Ole Miss’s ability to counterpunch with Charlie Weis Jr. at OC.

“Do you have the ability in-game to do the same? Without another great mind in the room like that?” —Pollack (52:55)
Georgia’s defense transformed after being exposed in the first meeting—now playing more creatively and aggressively, especially at CB.
Both agree: If Ole Miss stays one-dimensional, they’re “in trouble.”

X’s & O’s

For Ole Miss:
- Must achieve run-pass balance: “Lacy has to get involved… Trinidad’s going to run it in the red, he’s got to make plays…” —Pollack (54:12)
- Trinidad's lowest PFF passing grade came in the first game vs. Georgia, and missed throws (especially on first down) could be costly.
For Georgia:
- Gunner Stockton’s health and rest from bye week could be key (especially after significant wear late in the season).
- Defensive evolution—the secondary is now capable of forcing mistakes.
- Expect Georgia to “ask Stockton to do less;” Ole Miss must “play perfect” to keep up.

Prediction & Score

Both pick Georgia:

“I trust Gunner Stockton more because he will be asked to do less. I think [Ole Miss’s] Trinidad is going to be asked to win this thing. Gunner’s going to be asked not to screw it up.” —Pollack (58:58)
- Rollins: “I got Georgia as well. I don’t think it’s going to be as high scoring. I think both teams are in the 20s. Georgia 27, Ole Miss 20.” (60:31)
- Key: Ole Miss’s offensive variety, Georgia’s rest/timing, and defensive improvement.

Other Notable Segments

Common Quarterfinal Themes

(See 05:52, 06:21, and 08:26)

Defensive excellence: Most of the remaining teams are top 25 in scoring defense.

“There is not a team in this thing that will win the whole thing without running the football well… If you don’t have balance, you will lose.” —Pollack (07:37)
Balance necessary on offense—teams that are one-dimensional will fall.
It’s a “defensive podcast, baby.” (08:20)

Analysis of Rust and Upset Possibility

(See 61:18–62:46)

Top seeds losing after long layoff (“rust factor”) discussed, but both hosts predict at least three of the top four seeds will win.

“The only way those [lower] teams really have a shot…you’re going to need to have some rust.” —Pollack (62:21)

Bowl Games to Watch

(See 62:58–65:08)

Iowa vs. Vandy: Both teams excited to play, solid play expected.
Tennessee vs. Illinois: Measuring-stick game for Big Ten/SEC mid-tier.
Clemson vs. Penn State: “Preseason natty” now a bowl curiosity.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

On Miami’s DL:

“18 is insanely stupid. Like, that is just absolutely stupid. A good game for a defensive end is four or five pressures. 18? Like, that’s absolutely insane.” —Pollack, on Bain and Mezador (10:22)
On Alabama’s lost intimidation:

“That is absolutely gone. And so Indiana, they should come in with a lot of confidence.” —Pollack (37:03)
On the importance of balance:

“That’s why two-dimensional teams win most of the time.” —Pollack (55:55)
Pollack on O-line coaching:

“It’s a coaching problem. I watch it, and it’s not that these guys can’t do it. It’s that they don’t do it.” (44:57)
On defensive confusion:

“Now defenses, man, like you watch all these defense, even with great players, man, they're not just sitting there… We're going to confuse the absolute piss out of you. That's our job.” —Pollack (06:21)
On being football nerds:

“I did the same thing. I watched with my phone because it happens first and then I can watch the replay with the TV… We’re losers.” —Pollack (67:03)

Timestamps for Major Segments

[02:44] – Miami vs. Ohio State Preview & Deep Dive Begins
[06:21 – 08:26] – Defense, Balance, and The Modern Game
[09:57] – Position group matchups, Miami’s DL
[11:38] – Why Miami’s better in the trenches
[15:28] – Ryan Day’s playcalling impact
[27:54] – Oregon vs. Texas Tech Preview
[32:39] – “Grown ace man” defensive line reality-check
[36:55] – Indiana vs. Alabama Preview
[52:09] – Ole Miss vs. Georgia Preview
[58:58] – Who do you trust more: Stockton or Trinidad?
[61:18] – Most likely scenario: Top seeds win or lose?
[62:58] – Non-CFP Bowls to Watch
[65:09+] – Who won the weekend, closing thoughts

Final Thoughts

Pollack and Rollins deliver a comprehensive, no-fluff breakdown of the 2025 College Football Playoff quarterfinals, rooting their analysis in physicality, balance, and defensive prowess. Their trustworthy, lighthearted banter is married to real X’s and O’s and offers clear guidance for fans eager to understand who will advance and why.

For those who haven’t listened: Expect a defense-first, old-school approach; deep dives on line play, coaching, and matchups; and fiercely honest, sometimes biting, but always insightful banter between two true football junkies.

Picks Recap:

Ohio State over Miami
Oregon over Texas Tech
Indiana over Alabama (upset)
Georgia over Ole Miss

Most memorable exchange:

Pollack: “We are losers.”
Rollins: “Don’t forget the sky cast!”
[Both describing their dual-TV, all-22 replay viewing setup.] (67:13)

For more analysis and interaction, join the chat and follow David Pollack’s channels on X, Instagram, TikTok, and his website.

See Ball Get Ball with David Pollack

Episode: CFP Quarterfinals PREVIEWS and PICKS | David Pollack's College Football Playoff Predictions
Date: December 23, 2025
Host: David Pollack
Analyst: Brent Rollins

Episode Overview

Key Themes

Defense and Balance Are Back: Both hosts repeatedly emphasize that defenses and balanced offenses are the defining qualities among quarterfinalists.
Rust vs. Rhythm: The potential impact of playoff byes and long layoffs on top seeds generates significant discussion.
In-Depth Matchups: Each CFP game is dissected down to individual position battles, coaching tactics, and which units have the edge.
Bold Predictions: Both Rollins and Pollack go on record with detailed score predictions and reasoning.

Quarterfinal Previews, Insights, & Picks

1. Miami vs. Ohio State

(Deep dive begins at 02:44)

Storylines & Matchups

Rematch with significant CFP implications—referencing the legendary 2002 natty:

“How long were we on this program talking about who’s better in the beginning of the year—Miami or Ohio State? Well, we’re here now. We get to settle it.” —Pollack (03:22)
Theme: It will be decided “in the trenches”—Miami’s DL vs. Ohio State’s OL, and vice versa.
Miami’s defensive front, led by Bain and Mezador, is described as possibly the best in the CFP.

“Miami's better on both sides of the line of scrimmage... and that’s saying something because I think Ohio State’s defensive line is really, really good.” —Pollack (11:38)

X’s & O’s

For Ohio State: Absolute necessity to run the ball for offensive balance.

“They have a zero percent chance of being successful if Bo Jackson in the running game doesn’t get going.” —Pollack (11:46)
Ohio State’s right guard injury/battle highlighted—a possible vulnerability against Miami’s pass rush.
Ryan Day taking over playcalling is considered a positive, providing schematic edge.

“Ryan Day is a smart man… and the one thing I always appreciated about Ryan Day—playcalling. You know what Ryan Day does as good a job as anybody? Your safeties are going to be challenged.” —Pollack (12:57)
For Miami: Must be able to run the ball (ground-and-pound), especially with a massive OL. Pollack stresses Miami must avoid being one-dimensional.

Prediction & Score

Both pick Ohio State in a “coin-flip, physical brawl.”

“I think this is a 20, 21 to 17 type game. 21 to 14. Ohio State’s defense, though, to me, it’s just the versatility, the coverage, the ability to do multiple things. I just think it’s a little too much for an offense that’s too Tony dependent.” —Pollack (25:22)
Rollins: “To me, I picked Ohio State 20 to 17…this is a lot like the Big Ten championship game.” (24:09)
Key factor: Miami’s poor tackling pops up as the possible difference.

2. Oregon vs. Texas Tech (Orange Bowl)

(Starts at 27:54)

Storylines & Matchups

Home-field angle: Lanning says it should be closer for Tech, but it’s in Miami.
Can Texas Tech’s Baron Morton (“boot finally off”) provide enough playmaking?

“This offense is not really diverse... it’s very run inside dependent. He’s not pulling the ball and making a bunch of plays.” —Pollack (27:58)
Matchup to watch: Oregon’s run game (top 3 nationally) vs. Texas Tech’s “grown man” D-line (best run defense nationally at 68 yds/game).

X’s & O’s

Texas Tech’s offense: Needs diversity and balance; RBs Dickey and Williams must produce, Morton must avoid sacks and hit explosive plays off play action.
Oregon’s offense: Pollack expresses that Oregon “will not pound the Red Raiders”—but their multidimensional RB committee and Dante Moore’s legs may prove the X-factor.

“If you think this is just a cute story with Texas Tech and they just got a good Big 12 defense, you’re about to find out… They got multiple first round picks on that defensive line.” —Pollack (32:39)
Texas Tech’s red zone woes highlighted as a possible Achilles' heel.
NFL scouts’ dream: Texas Tech’s Bailey & Height vs. Oregon’s “NFL-caliber” OL.

Prediction & Score

Both pick Oregon in another low-scoring slugfest.

“I think this is 20 to 17. Like I think this is super low scoring. And give me the Ducks because remember I said they're one of the four teams that can win this puppy.” —Pollack (36:16)
Rollins: “20 to 17, the exact score that I typed out in red.” (36:19)

3. Indiana vs. Alabama (Rose Bowl)

(Begins at 36:55)

Storylines & Matchups

First-ever meeting—Indiana as a “perennial basement dweller” faces the “mystique now gone” Alabama.

“The most interesting thing about this is the aura, the mystique that used to be with Alabama … that’s gone.” —Pollack (36:55)
No fear from Indiana—a “complete team” imparts confidence.

X’s & O’s

For Indiana: Mendoza’s running ability must be in play; Indiana’s shown late-game resolve all season (“one more play than you” team).

“Mendoza’s wheels I think become a bigger part of the story in this game because they can use him. They’re going to have to start to do this and I’ve seen the Bama defense, they’ve been very, very susceptible to giving up quarterback run game.” —Pollack (39:41)
For Alabama: Struggling run game, O-line toughness and “catching” instead of driving opponents raised as ongoing issues—called out as coaching-related, not talent-related.

“The lack of toughness and physicality on the offensive line. It doesn’t make sense. Like, Kaden Proctor is as big... It doesn’t make sense. It’s a coaching [problem]...” —Pollack (44:18)
Possible answer? Go 10 personnel (four WRs), play up tempo, and hope Ty Simpson catches fire. But Indiana’s creative blitzing/pressure defense is a nightmare for him.
Losing DE Steven Daly is a blow for Indiana but not enough to tilt the game.

Prediction & Score

Both pick Indiana:

“I think this is the end of the line for the Tide… the better, more rounded, more physical team is Indiana.” —Pollack (47:22)
“I think this feels like it’s going to be a four quarter game. But I think making one more play, you trust Mendoza and…you trust him to do it…” —Rollins (49:43)

4. Ole Miss vs. Georgia (Sugar Bowl)

(Section starts at 52:09)

Storylines & Matchups

Rematch: The first matchup was a “track meet,” with Georgia not punting once; Lane Kiffin missing boosts uncertainty for Ole Miss’s ability to counterpunch with Charlie Weis Jr. at OC.

“Do you have the ability in-game to do the same? Without another great mind in the room like that?” —Pollack (52:55)
Georgia’s defense transformed after being exposed in the first meeting—now playing more creatively and aggressively, especially at CB.
Both agree: If Ole Miss stays one-dimensional, they’re “in trouble.”

X’s & O’s

For Ole Miss:
- Must achieve run-pass balance: “Lacy has to get involved… Trinidad’s going to run it in the red, he’s got to make plays…” —Pollack (54:12)
- Trinidad's lowest PFF passing grade came in the first game vs. Georgia, and missed throws (especially on first down) could be costly.
For Georgia:
- Gunner Stockton’s health and rest from bye week could be key (especially after significant wear late in the season).
- Defensive evolution—the secondary is now capable of forcing mistakes.
- Expect Georgia to “ask Stockton to do less;” Ole Miss must “play perfect” to keep up.

Prediction & Score

Both pick Georgia:

“I trust Gunner Stockton more because he will be asked to do less. I think [Ole Miss’s] Trinidad is going to be asked to win this thing. Gunner’s going to be asked not to screw it up.” —Pollack (58:58)
- Rollins: “I got Georgia as well. I don’t think it’s going to be as high scoring. I think both teams are in the 20s. Georgia 27, Ole Miss 20.” (60:31)
- Key: Ole Miss’s offensive variety, Georgia’s rest/timing, and defensive improvement.

Other Notable Segments

Common Quarterfinal Themes

(See 05:52, 06:21, and 08:26)

Defensive excellence: Most of the remaining teams are top 25 in scoring defense.

“There is not a team in this thing that will win the whole thing without running the football well… If you don’t have balance, you will lose.” —Pollack (07:37)
Balance necessary on offense—teams that are one-dimensional will fall.
It’s a “defensive podcast, baby.” (08:20)

Analysis of Rust and Upset Possibility

(See 61:18–62:46)

Top seeds losing after long layoff (“rust factor”) discussed, but both hosts predict at least three of the top four seeds will win.

“The only way those [lower] teams really have a shot…you’re going to need to have some rust.” —Pollack (62:21)

Bowl Games to Watch

(See 62:58–65:08)

Iowa vs. Vandy: Both teams excited to play, solid play expected.
Tennessee vs. Illinois: Measuring-stick game for Big Ten/SEC mid-tier.
Clemson vs. Penn State: “Preseason natty” now a bowl curiosity.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

On Miami’s DL:

“18 is insanely stupid. Like, that is just absolutely stupid. A good game for a defensive end is four or five pressures. 18? Like, that’s absolutely insane.” —Pollack, on Bain and Mezador (10:22)
On Alabama’s lost intimidation:

“That is absolutely gone. And so Indiana, they should come in with a lot of confidence.” —Pollack (37:03)
On the importance of balance:

“That’s why two-dimensional teams win most of the time.” —Pollack (55:55)
Pollack on O-line coaching:

“It’s a coaching problem. I watch it, and it’s not that these guys can’t do it. It’s that they don’t do it.” (44:57)
On defensive confusion:

“Now defenses, man, like you watch all these defense, even with great players, man, they're not just sitting there… We're going to confuse the absolute piss out of you. That's our job.” —Pollack (06:21)
On being football nerds:

“I did the same thing. I watched with my phone because it happens first and then I can watch the replay with the TV… We’re losers.” —Pollack (67:03)

Timestamps for Major Segments

[02:44] – Miami vs. Ohio State Preview & Deep Dive Begins
[06:21 – 08:26] – Defense, Balance, and The Modern Game
[09:57] – Position group matchups, Miami’s DL
[11:38] – Why Miami’s better in the trenches
[15:28] – Ryan Day’s playcalling impact
[27:54] – Oregon vs. Texas Tech Preview
[32:39] – “Grown ace man” defensive line reality-check
[36:55] – Indiana vs. Alabama Preview
[52:09] – Ole Miss vs. Georgia Preview
[58:58] – Who do you trust more: Stockton or Trinidad?
[61:18] – Most likely scenario: Top seeds win or lose?
[62:58] – Non-CFP Bowls to Watch
[65:09+] – Who won the weekend, closing thoughts

Final Thoughts

Picks Recap:

Ohio State over Miami
Oregon over Texas Tech
Indiana over Alabama (upset)
Georgia over Ole Miss

Most memorable exchange:

Pollack: “We are losers.”
Rollins: “Don’t forget the sky cast!”
[Both describing their dual-TV, all-22 replay viewing setup.] (67:13)

For more analysis and interaction, join the chat and follow David Pollack’s channels on X, Instagram, TikTok, and his website.

CFP Quarterfinals PREVIEWS and PICKS | David Pollack's College Football Playoff Predictions

Powered by Wave AI

Summary

See Ball Get Ball with David Pollack

Episode Overview

Key Themes

Quarterfinal Previews, Insights, & Picks

1. Miami vs. Ohio State

Storylines & Matchups

X’s & O’s

Prediction & Score

2. Oregon vs. Texas Tech (Orange Bowl)

Storylines & Matchups

X’s & O’s

Prediction & Score

3. Indiana vs. Alabama (Rose Bowl)

Storylines & Matchups

X’s & O’s

Prediction & Score

4. Ole Miss vs. Georgia (Sugar Bowl)

Storylines & Matchups

X’s & O’s

Prediction & Score

Other Notable Segments

Common Quarterfinal Themes

Analysis of Rust and Upset Possibility

Bowl Games to Watch

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Timestamps for Major Segments

Final Thoughts

Summary

See Ball Get Ball with David Pollack

Episode Overview

Key Themes

Quarterfinal Previews, Insights, & Picks

1. Miami vs. Ohio State

Storylines & Matchups

X’s & O’s

Prediction & Score

2. Oregon vs. Texas Tech (Orange Bowl)

Storylines & Matchups

X’s & O’s

Prediction & Score

3. Indiana vs. Alabama (Rose Bowl)

Storylines & Matchups

X’s & O’s

Prediction & Score

4. Ole Miss vs. Georgia (Sugar Bowl)

Storylines & Matchups

X’s & O’s

Prediction & Score

Other Notable Segments

Common Quarterfinal Themes

Analysis of Rust and Upset Possibility

Bowl Games to Watch

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Timestamps for Major Segments

Final Thoughts