
David Pollack PICKS CFB Week 8 Games: Ole Miss-Georgia, Tennessee-Alabama, USC-Notre Dame and MORE 0:00 Ole Miss-Georgia 7:05 Tennessee-Alabama 12:16 USC-Notre Dame 18:30 Utah-BYU 23:21 LSU-Vanderbilt 28:42 Texas Tech-Arizona State 32:08 Georgia Tech-Duke 35:58 Lousiville-Miami 39:38 Washington-Michigan 43:29 Upsets?
Loading summary
MultiCare/Udemy Advertiser
For 140 years, MultiCare has been in Washington prioritizing long term solutions, partnering with local communities and expanding access to care. Together we're building a healthier future. Learn more@mycare.org not sure if you have the experience to start your dream job. Good news these days it's the skills that count. Udemy can help you get those in demand. Skills. Want to be an AI mastermind? Learn with us Game Developer. We've got you covered. AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner. We can help you prep. You'll learn from real world experts who love what they do so that you can love what you do. Go to udemy.com for the skills to get you started and get set for your dream job.
Granger Advertiser
This is the story of the one as head of maintenance at a concert hall, he knows the show must always go on. That's why he works behind the scenes, ensuring every light is working, the H Vac is humming and his facility shines with Granger's supplies and solutions for every challenge he faces. Plus 24. 7 customer support. His venue never misses a beat. Call quickgranger.com or just stop by Granger for the ones who get it done.
Brent
And how about that Polack interception in the end zone?
David Pollack
Well, it's David Pollack and I think people are going to learn what kind of ball player he is. He's got a heart of a lion. I'm real proud of that kid.
Brent
This is C Ball, Get Ball, College football's top show for football analysis, predictions and coaches interviews. Now here's your host, three time All.
David Pollack
American, seven time Emmy Award winner. All right, it's time for week eight and it's time for the picks and it's kind of an elimination week. It's kind of cool because you got SEC on sec, which a lot of people are going to start to match now and say okay, well they're going to slide down and so you'll get excited because you'll have other team rise up. And speaking of, I think Notre Dame is a team that is going to be watching this weekend cheering on them. Big hurdle game for them with USC probably their, their toughest left and if they're going to lose it, this might be the last chance. Then we get some interesting games in the acc. Honestly, it's, it's every week. I think we're going to continue to do this and I think we're going to continue to say the same thing. A bunch of games on the slate and we'll start with a nugget platter and that's the game we all love to see, Brent. The one. The ones we're going to tune in on. And it's kind of cool because we got three this week, but Ole Miss and Georgia. I think obviously there's obvious reasons why this one sticks out. And the first thing you start with is last year and Ole Miss beating Georgia. Yeah. And so, like, it was a big deal and it was. It was a bludgeoning. Like, it was a. Like that. That defensive front for. For Ole Miss, they took the game over like it was. It was pure dominance. And Carson Beck kind of threw his way back into the game. But I think Georgia is going to rem. I think that will be obviously a part of it. Is Georgia going to keep being Rocky Balboa, for gosh sakes? Like, do you. Do you. Do you need to get smacked in the mouth like bloody need to taste blood? Do you. Do you need to get jacked up? Like, surely this start thing has to get fixed. And again, one Power 4 opponent they have faced since Texas last year in the regular season where they've had a halftime lead, one that. That's unacceptable. I don't know the answer to that. Kirby definitely doesn't know the answer to that either, so otherwise he'd have fixed it. But if you do it against Ole Miss and that tempo and the way they can cruise and the way they can roll, you might dig yourself a hole that you're not able to get out of.
Brent
Can I give you a theory?
David Pollack
Sure.
Brent
Actually, I mean, everybody's talked about this and. But no one obviously has an answer. Even Kirby himself doesn't have an answer. But, you know, we've been over there. We've seen practice, we've seen how they run things and during the week. And this was just something I was thinking about the other day, just randomly, what if there's just too much information? They're going over like they practice everything. They go over like they are drilled and they sort of see and talk about everything to the nth degree, support staff everywhere. And when you have all that information and it's like, hey, don't forget this. Don't forget that. Remember this?
David Pollack
Remember that words.
Brent
Paralysis by analysis early. Then you get hit, you get kind of knocked back, you kind of breathe a little bit. Then you get in the flow of the game and you just go play and that your instincts take over and the knowledge from the week. But that was a thing that I had.
David Pollack
Okay, I. I can listen to that. Because here's the thing. There's also More youth on this team than we're accustomed to seeing. So when you're young, man, the picture's big and it's bright and. And you can't get finite. A lot of times it's hard to. To sift through here. Here's what I'll say. When you watch the Alabama game and you watch their defense, they go from doing a lot of different things and they go to literally base concepts. You watch them, it's like they're in there in spring ball. It's first level. When you watch them last week against Auburn, to Auburn starts shifting in motioning. Bro, let's just get rid of that. Like, let's just stay where we're at, put our cleats in the ground, make you earn it. So ole. Missing company, they go fast. It makes you become more. It makes you become more base, which is why Lane and company does it. But. But it's going to be interesting to watch. They got six sacks on the season. Georgia. They got five from linebackers. Five. Five are from linebackers. That. That. That has to shift. That has to change. Trinidad struggled a week ago. I wonder about Trinidad throwing over the middle against Georgia with all of those big bodies and those big guys. Because if I'm coaching this week at Georgia, I'm like, get your hands up, get your hands up. Get your hands up. He ain't real tall. Loves to throw it over the middle, loves to run it, especially in the red. You get in the red, it's Trinidad time. So I think Georgia being at home, Georgia with the revenge factor, I'm going Georgia in this game. I think it's going to be good. But I think every game like this, like every Georgia score, I'm just going to copy and paste like 28, 24. Like, I think because of the way they play. I think it was also really good. Georgia having Auburn a week ago, which is a very similar system, very quarterback run heavy. You saw it. You saw some tempo. You saw the different runs. I think that's a good thing for Georgia coming into this game. I still think Ole Miss is a good team. I just don't think their defense is as good as it was a year ago with those butt kickers up front that just annihilated quarterbacks.
Brent
What if I told you that both Trinidad Chambliss and Gunner Stockton were in the top 10 in the power four and batted passes, would that shock you?
David Pollack
I would say they're both short.
Brent
I mean, the gunner also has a longer throwing motion, too, I think.
David Pollack
Let me tell you something. I saw Trinidad practice last week. No, no, no. Yeah, last week I saw him practice before the Washington State game. I was at the facility and he's 510 in heels. Like, he is not a big cat. And he is. And he is slim. He's a trim dude now he's a fricking baller. I mean, the dude's good, but he's going to have to be Superman good in that environment. But, but the crowd, man, I'm less inclined to say the crowd's going to be a bigger deal because when you get going tempo and you go fast, that crowd doesn't know when to cheer because they'll speed it up. Talking the headset, the crowd's going crazy going. It's not going to go crazy for 30 seconds, right? Like, so they do a really good job. That kind of limits the, the crowd damage.
Brent
Some third downs and red zone. This is where this game is decided. Georgia's not very good at defending third downs. They, they get better as the game goes along, but they're not overall not good at it. Ole Miss is, is actually really good at it. Sort of in the top third of the FPS and then in the red zone, they, they are actually one after each other. 57, 58th in terms of scoring percentage. But Georgia gets about 12 or 13 more touchdowns. So who gets touchdowns in the red zone this game? I think it's Georgia. I've got Georgia 20 and the difference is Georgia 27. Almost 20.
David Pollack
Gunner's. Gunner's a little thicker. He can be a little bit more powerful. Georgia's backs are more powerful. That's the, that's the difference. More guys at that running back spot that can stay fresh and go. So.
Brent
Yep. Next game night game. Tennessee at Alabama. Early spread. I saw that nine and a half, Bama favored. Can I ask you what's happened to Tennessee's defense?
David Pollack
Yeah, not as deep as they were banged up this season like crazy. I mean, really banged up. So I mean, I think this is the defense that it doesn't look like it did a year ago. Not near the depth it had a year ago. But man, this game is intriguing for so many reasons. Like first of all, all of Tennessee's games in conference has been decided by seven points or less. So they're, they're, they're all competitive. They lead the FBS in scoring 40, 48 a game. That's pretty good. Like most in school history at this point. Like they've got 200. I think it's kind of funny. This is Funny with the research. Peyton Manning's team in six games had 209 his senior year. So such a different era of, of sport and throwing the football and Joey Aguilar, you know, throwing the football all over the yard, having a lot of success. And I think he's the reason that you're going to give him a chance. And because of Brazil, like, this dude is legit, man. Like, I think this dude's going to be a guy that we're talking about flying up draft boards because the big body out wide, the ability to go deep, the deep connection has been so much better. Staley goes over 100 for the first time against Arkansas. And I think you talk about the defense, and it's not as good. It's giving up more explosive plays. They don't have the depth, but you know what they do do? They sack the quarterback. Like, they get after the quarterback, that they got 26 sacks on this defense, that's. That leads the SEC, that's second in FBS. Like, they get after the quarterback. We talked about Alabama, we talked about their propensity of giving up sacks on the right side of the football. So I think that's important, Brent. But their defense, obviously not as dynamic, not as good as they were a year ago with the amount of bodies they could, they could, they could rush or rotate in and stay fresh and make plays over and over again. But I'll tell you what, I'll let you get to all your stuff, but look, I'm just telling you, I'm not doing it again. I'm not picking against Bama again. I'm not doing it. I'm not. Like, I just. Ty Simpson is just that guy and he's going to be at home. And I just think he's got a swag about him. And I trust him, his mentality, the coach's kid, who he is, man. Like, I just, I don't think he's going to have an off game like you think about last game. Like, just think about this. Alabama fans. Alabama. Alabama fans. Let me talk to you for a second. If I told you going into the game that Gio Bernard was a non factor, Ryan Williams was a non factor, you'd be like, oh, shoot, man, we might be in some trouble. Like, we might not be. We might not be all right. Isaiah Horton coming on, Jim Miller, like Brooks, he just finds people, like, he's going to make everyone around him better. He's going to make the right decisions. I'm not betting against Ty Simpson anytime soon. So I know it's been murderers row for Alabama, like murderers row. But yeah, I think you were thinking.
Brent
Bengals, Bengals running back Gio Bernard, but.
David Pollack
Yeah, but Jeremy Bernard, they got the best receiving cord in the SEC with, with Jeremy Bernard, Ryan Williams, Isaiah Horton and Simpson knows how to do it and knows how to spin it and I don't care how good your pass rush is, most of the time he's going to get away and the ball is going to come out. So I like Bama in this game. I was surprised you just said it was a nine point spread.
Brent
Nine and a half.
David Pollack
See, I don't do the spread game. I think this is like a 30, 27 game. I think this is actually a close. I think Tennessee is going to absolutely score.
Brent
Yeah, I think both teams get in the 30s. I got Alabama 38, 31. We talked about the right tackle issue. Form B75 is giving up three sacks in the last three games. Yeah, Carol, the freshman has only allowed two pressures in the last three games. So maybe you see more of him potentially. But it's the run defense from Tennessee. Like their run defense is now like 60th in the FBS. It was in the top 10 a year ago. And I keep looking for Gibson and McCoy and whether they're going to get those guys back on the outside and you just. I don't see anything yet where it's positive that they're going to get them soon. And the Redmond kid, the freshman, he's been getting picked on since Georgie, the Georgia game, 20 receptions he's allowed in last four games for 270 yards. So yeah, I think Alabama gets it done them at home well.
David Pollack
And so, so think about how they're going to have to play. Like they're going to have to play a lot of zone coverage. Like they're going to have to protect their corners. They can't play a lot of man. So if here's the bottom line. If they can get home and they can get to Simpson like you saw a little bit last week with four guys, if they can do that and play zone and sit back, they got a chance. If they can't, they're not going to stop him very much. But Aguilar has been a great fit. He's been unbelievable and it's been fun to watch him. And I think with this Bama defense playing better, this will be a really good true test for Bama to see if they're really, really, really improved from. From the beginning of season when we.
Brent
Saw him struggling, he's on pace to actually have a better season, at least from a PFF standpoint, than Hinden Hooker had in 21 or 22.
Nationwide Advertiser
So nationwide is so much more than a great insurance company. They're one of America's largest financial services companies. Like how I'm more than saquon Barkley, the NFL's reigning leading rusher. I'm also the NFL's leading husher.
National Debt Relief Advertiser
Shh.
Nationwide Advertiser
Hush up back there. Wow. I might have just set the hushing record. Well, almost. For your insurance and financial needs, Nationwide is on your side.
David Pollack
Nationwide Investment Services Corporation Ember Finra Columbus.
Chumba Casino Advertiser
Ohio Game day energy starts before the first snap with Chumba Casino. Whether you're killing time before kickoff or celebrating a big touchdown, Chumba Casino brings the thrill of the game right to your browser. Spin the reels, play blackjack, instant scratch style cards, and more. It's like having a full playbook of fun at your fingertips. Sign up in seconds and score a free welcome bonus, plus daily login bonuses each time you return. And here's the extra point. You don't need to make a purchase to get in on the action. So whether you're going for a Hail Mary or just looking for a solid drive of entertainment, Chumba Casino gives you a chance to score some serious prizes without leaving your home turf. It's your move. Start your streak@chumbacasino.com today. Sponsored by VGW Group. No purchase necessary. See terms@chumbacasino.com must be over 21 and present in a state where it's legal to play.
Prime Video Thursday Night Football Advertiser
Thursday Night Football is on, and it's only on Prime Video. This week, the AFC north takes center stage as the Pittsburgh Steelers battle the Cincinnati Bengals. Can the Steelers defense dominate once again? The Steelers bring experience and that signature toughness. The Bengals. They've got young stars and explosive playmakers. It's discipline versus Firepower. Exactly what makes this division one of the toughest in football. Coverage begins at 7pm Eastern with football's best party, TNF Tonight, presented by Verizon. Not a Prime member? Not a problem. Simply sign up for a 30 day free trial. It's the Steelers and Bengals Thursday at 7pm Eastern only on Prime Video. Restrictions apply. See Amazon.com Amazon prime for details.
LifeLock Advertiser
It's Cybersecurity Awareness Month and LifeLock is here with tips to help protect your identity. Use strong passwords, set up multi factor authentication and report phishing scams. And for comprehensive identity protection, LifeLock is your best choice. LifeLock alerts you to suspicious uses of your personal information and Also fixes identity theft, guaranteed or your money back. Stay smart, stay safe and stay protected with a 30 day free trial@lifelock.com Specialoffer terms apply.
Brent
All right, next up, Trojans at Irish. Push. Push. Game. However many years later, do you remember.
David Pollack
Where you were when you watched that game?
Brent
Not really, no.
David Pollack
I was in. I was in the hotel.
Brent
What was it? I mean, what year was that? I can't even.
David Pollack
That was. I think it was like 040304. I remember being in the hotel as a player and we were watching it on television before we went and played. I think it was 05. I think it was my senior year. And it was. It was incredible. Like, it was crazy. You literally were like, is that legal? What? Like that. Is that. Can you do that? And then you hear the announcers. But it was. It was incredible.
Brent
So I think I would have been at work that night. I worked. I worked as a pharmacist in grad school every other weekend. So, you know, I didn't really watch. Get to watch a lot of football in those days during grad school, so. But no, this is a big game. This is Notre Dame's, like, to me, this is their first playoff game. They lose this game. There's no way that at 9 and 3 with all three losses in the big games that they're getting in. I'm sorry, I just can't.
David Pollack
So you know what that tells me? I know exactly who you're picking because you said it was their first playoff game, not their last. So I know you're picking Notre Dame. You like that? Did I give that away? Well, I mean, but listen, if you're not watching, man, like, C.J. carr is a baller. Like, this dude is a baller. Like, he's really, really good, man. I mean, I don't know what else. Like, back to back, 300 yards games. He's not Riley Leonard running the football, but he's a heck of a lot better passer. Like Malachi Fields. He's got a catch in 33 straight games. You look at Raritan at tight end like he went over 100. Like Pauling went over 100 for the first time in his career. So I think this offense, we already know about price, we already know about love. Like, this thing's starting to roll, man. Like Notre Dame starting to get it cooking. And just remember all the people that are Notre Dame haters, I get it. They haven't beaten a great team yet. They lost by four to two. Top five teams, top six teams in the country like four total points and one of them was a missed extra point. So, like, it's not like this team isn't good. It's not like they didn't compete in those big games. They were right there and now they got a chance to, to absolutely prove it, which I think, I think they will. I think Notre Dame will prove it this weekend and a lot more people will start to buy. Buy in. But, but Listen, Notre Dame's 16 of the last seven in this meeting. Notre Dame scored 49 and 48 in the last two games against USC. Like 49 and 48. And they've been cruising on offense, too. So I think this is a, this is a big prove it week for Notre Dame. I think they prove it. I think they, they take out usc. Usc. Brent looked good last week, but this passing attack to me is going to be a different world in Michigan because Michigan's not even on the same planet that, that Notre Dame is as far as a complete offense that makes you play the whole field.
Brent
And we talked about on Monday with the running back injuries for usc, that the walk on regular freshman King, King Miller gets to kind of take over, which he did phenomenally in, in that game against Michigan.
David Pollack
So good.
Brent
But there's maybe some depth issues I think that might be there in this game. You, that maybe you need that second guy who is the second guy. But I agree. I'm going with the home team. I'm, I'm mainly watching this game and I'm just going to watch Leonard Moore and Malachi Lemon, so go against each other because they're two of the best in the country at what they do, and they're the highest graded receiver and then highest graded corner. But I think this game is also in the 30s. We're both teams. I've got Notre Dame 38, USC 34.
David Pollack
Well, Bishop Fitzgerald also has five picks. He's, he's good in the secondary for USC, like, and the defense for USC, they, they have three plus sacks and, you know, they have 11 players with at least a sack. Like, they've got a bunch of guys that can get after the quarterback. The problem with usc, man, if you watch them on the outside at corner, like, I just don't know that they're going to be able to hold up. And you know, last year when you played Notre Dame, I don't know, I think it was all about the brutality, like, and just the physicality of hitting you over, over again. I think Notre Dame, as this season continues to go along. Yeah, like now, now, defensively, they've got a lot to prove to us. Like, because they struggled early in the season, got it together more. Is it who you've been playing or is it. Is it. Is it something different? Because now when I look at usc, this is one of the better, better offenses in the country. But, but Notre Dame, 11 defense, 11 interceptions on defense. Man, that. That's second most in the fbs. If I gave you a hundred dollar bill, would you tell me who's first?
Brent
Is it Vandy?
David Pollack
No. Maryland.
Brent
Maryland. Okay. Yeah.
David Pollack
Crazy thing. Eight different.
Brent
Got a lot of turnovers.
David Pollack
Yeah. Eight different players have a pick, like, and it's. And they're starting to figure. I think it took some time, too, with Chris Ash, remember Al golden left. I think it took some time. I just think that they're. That they're figuring out who they are. So I'm right there with you. I think Notre Dame gets a big win, and I think that, you know, they prove something to a lot of people, and then they start to earn their ranking, and then all you got to do is get hot towards the end of the season. That's all you got to do, man. Like.
Brent
And I think they're gonna curb stomp the rest of their schedule.
David Pollack
Yeah, just. I love, I love when people use that word. Like, I love that boat race. Curb stomp. I love all of those.
Brent
You like those words, too?
David Pollack
Yes, I like what you know. I go skillet upside the melon. Speaking of melon. All right, I got this, actually, this lid right here from melon. Melon hats. And here's why it's so cool, believe it or not. So I'm a large individual. I sweat gravy. So when I'm out on the golf course, I'm sweating and it's going through my hat. And the interesting thing is, most of the time, I ruin hats at a high pace. But this hat is ridiculous. It does not get like that. It's crazy. It keeps the stains away. So all y' all that want to get, I promise, you want to get it, you use it. Use Pollock and you'll get 30% off at Melon. M, E, L, I, N. I can spell. See that? See, I'm a defensive lineman and I appreciate Melon as well. Just. They support the Pollock family foundation, but again, use the promo code Pollock for 30 off@melon.com. next. You want to get. You want to get. You want to get. You want to get biblical on me?
Brent
Yes. The utes@ BYU, who is currently a 3 1/2 point favorite based upon the last number that I saw. Maybe I'm wrong there. I'll double check. While we're looking at that. What in terms of. Oh, sorry, Utah is a 3 1/2 point favorite. I had that backwards. Ah, so Utah is a three and a half point favorite because I think Vegas probably doesn't know enough about BYU yet to make them the favorite, even though they're playing at home. And Utah's been running the ball the last few weeks very well. It's a shock when you don't play Texas Tech. It helps you put up, you put.
David Pollack
Up 10 against Texas Tech. I think first of all, if you don't know, it's called the Holy War, like, this is A, these two schools are like, they're 40 miles apart. Like, both these campuses are absolutely gorgeous. But BYU actually has won the last two meetings, but Utah won nine before that. Like it's, it's, it's going to be fun to watch this game. There is. This is a true rivalry. This is a true. I don't like you, you don't like me. I know you go to different schools and I know it's called the Holy War, but there's been fights, there's been all kinds of altercations. But Utah and BYU are so physical and they're, they're very similar, man. Not only are they close, they're similar type people, they're similar type programs. They're physical, they're tough, they're not overly skilled on the perimeter. They don't make things track meets, they make things fist fights. Like they use these two things and they swing and it's really, really fun to watch. And if you start with Utah, like 30 points in all five wins, like the offense is hummed, right? They scored 10 against Texas Tech because Texas Tech match the physicality of Utah. And that's what BYU is going to have to be because, because every other game on BYU schedule, they've taken care of business. They've won by 24 plus. And Devin Dampier, we talked about him preseason coming over and we talked about the change and how he could run. You saw it last week, Arizona State, he's still running, still hasn't been stopped. I think he had 120 on the ground. But they, they, they mix it up. The offense is really fun to watch and the way they, they, they'll spread the ball around. There's not a lot of, you know, there's not a lot of burners, but there's a lot of guys that can do A lot of different things and, and you go to BYU on the other side and it's very similar. Like they're 60 and like you know it's interesting about BYU if you know Sataki for years like this dude is aggressive as it gets and they're 71% on fourth down. Like they just, they're going to go for it. It's 10 of 14 and we've talked about on this show Bear Bachmyer like he wears 47 and I think Brent, it's a cool look. Him and LJ Martin make up a big part of this game and they're physical and they run the rock. And if you started the season with Bachmire, he started the first four games. Six TD passes, zero interceptions. Last two games, two d, two TD passes, three interceptions. So here's what happens. He's a true freshman. First true freshman ever start game one for byu. Here's what happens. You start to get some tape. You start to understand what he can do and what he can't do. What he does best is run the football. And are you going to line up in pound Utah? I find that very hard to believe.
Brent
I agree. And also interesting enough with Utah. We talked earlier in the year when we did the something's ruined with him about all the two way guys that they have that they use. That's kind of changed a little bit. And last week Smith Snowden didn't play any offense so he could go cover Jordan Tyson all game. And my guess is that he doesn't really play any offense this week and goes Chase Roberts, Chase Roberts all week or all game. And then they've got a freshman running back Bray that's kind of taken over that speed change of pace guy he's got, you know he's averaging like nine yards of carry in the last couple games. So they've. It's pretty good. Supplemented that on offense. I think Utah wins. I think Utah is a more physical team. I think we're just on a path towards either a Texas Tech versus Utah or Cincinnati Big 12 championship game.
David Pollack
State. Just, just throwing them out with.
Brent
I may have water preempted that pick too I guess. Sorry, we're going to look at that game a little later.
David Pollack
I'm just, I'm picking, I'm picking up on all your picks early. We're getting all this.
Brent
So who, who are you picking?
David Pollack
2417. I got Utah.
Brent
Okay. Even though you said the other night you weren't picking against 47 playing quarterback.
David Pollack
Yeah, I did say that. And then now they have to play Utah.
Brent
So speaking rarities, let's go to the rarity that is Vanderbilt being favored against a top 10 opponent for I think the first time since like the late seventies. I saw basically never. And Vanderbilt is a two and a.
David Pollack
Half point favorite ever since basically never. I like, yeah, like how you put that.
Brent
I mean there's no reason for them to be a favored against a ranked team before this year, but this year's a little different. Coming off a bye week. And at what point is Garrett Nussmeier just a guy? He is a guy, but in terms of a QB that it was talked about as a potential qb, one top of the tier, top tier of the draft type quarterback. He's got 11 picks, interception is 11 of his last 19 games. He's got multiple picks in five of those games.
David Pollack
Bad times too on the one yard line. Like it's, it's mistakes that would get you benched a lot of places. And if Brian Kelly had an option, I could see him doing it. Like, but, but the thing about Nuss is he is Nuss. Meyer is the, the heartbeat of the squad. Like, he's the, he's the tough guy, he's the guy that will take hits. But man, I, I, at some point you got to stop turning the football over. Like you, you have a defense that is elite. So one of the biggest things though to understand as a, as a quarterback, as a, as a play caller, like, what do I have on the other side? Like, they don't give up big plays, they don't give up a lot of points. I can't make mistakes. I've got to be extremely smart with the football. And maybe last week he learned, maybe he says, okay, trade as green. Where is he? Throw it to him. Throw it up. Maybe this is the answer. Now listen, Durham in the running game, they're not getting that going either. Like, that's not, that's not a thing. They've got speed on the outside. But you know this, this has to be an offense that plays to its strengths and understands the defense will keep me in every game. Run the football, be patient, throw the screen game like crazy. But, but it's those throws over the middle man that he really gets himself in trouble. And I still think he's the guy that thinks he can make every throw and he needs to get that out of his head. I need to make the smart throws and if it's not there, I need to get rid of it. But this game, this game should be fun though. This Game. You know, you talk about playing in environments and stuff. Like obviously at Vanderbilt, not an lsu, that's a good thing. And when you look at. I'm interested, Brent, to see this too. Like when you talk about Vanderbilt started off blazing hot. Just like last year. Smoking hot. Just like last year. Everything the offense was, was humming. And they're humming, they were humming. They were humming along. Now played Bama. You know, South Carolina played Bama. Like now it's what, what are we. Like, what is this team going to be? And I think we're going to find obviously LSU is a tremendous challenge for everybody. Like they play great defense, but you know, season low pass, yards per completion versus Bama for Pavia, like right. Like it was bombs away. It was big time throws, all that stuff. Like, and then it came back down. So I'm just interested to see that they've got seven different players who's recovers a fumble. Like 10 different players that have a sack. Like that's the thing about Vanderbilt that has to continue. Vanderbilt has to play good defense and they still did. Versus Bama, they still played pretty good. Like they were impactful. Like they can be disruptive. Like they have to be disruptive in this football game. They have to force a few turnovers. LSU's defense is legit. They got to, they, they got a dart. They've got to guard Green. Like they have to take him away by whatever means possible. Take him away or else LSU will make some of those big plays because of him.
Brent
The next two weeks for Vandy, after a bye week, home this week against lsu, obviously, and then next week home Mizzou, if you were, if you're a playoff team or want to be that you win those two games at home, you take care of business at home. And I actually think they do. I'm going Vanderbilt 23, LSU 20. And LSU gets a little. LSU starts the rumblings that in, in the bayou, maybe a little bit.
David Pollack
I think you just wanted to keep your non zero chance available with, with Vanderbilt, I'm, I'm.
Brent
I mean there's probably some subliminal.
David Pollack
Like I'm not there.
Brent
No, I actually think the bye week and then at a certain point with lsu you just are what you are.
National Debt Relief Advertiser
Yeah.
Brent
And right now they just aren't. Offensively, Green helps, but Green helps and he take over the game. If he takes over the game, I'm gonna. Okay, fine.
David Pollack
But he did last week versus South Carolina. And I think he can. Like, I think, I think he's the difference. I think out of all the playmakers in this football game, you're going to watch Green do the most and when they get near the red, they can throw those jump balls and he'll box out and he'll make the plays. I think LSU's defense wit Weeks and company flying around. I think they can cover on the outside and play a lot of man and be very aggressive and hit Pavia and I like lsu. I don't think this is a high scoring game though. I think this is a 24. Yeah, this is a 24, 21 type of a game. And I think if I'm LSU, I'm very thankful that I don't have to play in a loud atmosphere that's going to be deafening. Right? Like, I do think that matters and I do because of that, I don't think they'll make as many mistakes, I don't think they'll as many false starts, as many penalties. And because of Green, I think they win this game.
Brent
Hating on Nash, Vegas hating on the Vandy crowd. You, you and Saban hating on the Vandy crowd.
David Pollack
I mean, it's the truth.
Brent
That was right before the Bama game last year, right, that he was talking about everywhere.
David Pollack
It's the truth, but man.
Brent
All right.
LifeLock Advertiser
It's cybersecurity awareness month and Lifelock is here with tips to help protect your identity. Use strong passwords, set up multi factor authentication and report phishing scams. And for comprehensive identity protection, Lifelock is your best choice. Lifelock alerts you to suspicious uses of your personal information and also fixes identity theft. Guaranteed or or your money back. Stay smart, stay safe and stay protected with a 30 day free trial@lifelock.com Special.
National Debt Relief Advertiser
Offer terms apply if you owe $10,000 or more in credit card debt, medical bills or personal loans. Help is here. More and more Americans turn to credit cards to get by. National debt relief is helping qualified clients reduce what they owe. For many continuing to struggle, making minimum monthly payments could take years to pay off. National debt relief has already helped over 550,000Americans reduce their debt by negotiating directly with their creditors. When you call, you'll be amazed at how much you can save and how quickly you can become debt free. If you want off the debt treadmill, visit nationaldebtrelief.com today. You don't need to declare bankruptcy and you may qualify for significant debt relief. To find out what savings you may qualify for, simply visit nationaldebtrelief.com that's national debt relief dot com.
Sarah (AM PM Advertiser)
Hey, this is Sarah. Look, I'm standing out front of a.m. p.m. Right now and, well, you're sweet and all, but I found something more fulfilling. Even kind of cheesy. But I like it. Sure, you met some of my dietary needs, but they've just got it all. So farewell. Oatmeal. So long, you strange soggy.
David Pollack
Break up with bland breakfast and taste AM PM's bacon, egg and cheese biscuit made with K tree egg, smoked bacon and melty cheese on a buttery biscuit. AM PM too much good stuff.
Brent
Tips and dip Game not marquee. Fired to dig into it. Texas Tech at Arizona State. I've kind of already preempted mine. I think Levitt was sat to just so he could be Superman in this game. Utah just ran it all over Arizona State. Here comes Cameron Dickey. And after a 263 number, I did see that Morton is day to day and both him and Gil Howard kind of day to day. So does he play, does he not play Hammond on the road, you know, yes, he performed at Utah, but if he's the starter, it's got to be him for the whole game. Maybe that's the thing that keeps them in the game.
David Pollack
But I think he wasn't great against Kansas last week. No, his throwing. His throwing wasn't great. So. So Morton. Remember the Morton experience? Like, there is always something to be said for that and that kid doesn't blink. He doesn't blink at all. So, yes, there. I think that could be something. But if you're, if you're a Texas Tech fan, you got to love what you're seeing from your offense. And I'm talking about running the football like they've been running the football very consistently now. I think if Hammond does play over Morton, I think your run game gets better because he has the ability to, to really pull it and make it go. But let's be honest, like, of what Texas Tech is and who they are, this is about their defense. Like, it's, it's about what you've been talking about all year long. Like, it's the guys up front, Height and Bailey. Like, we talk about Mazador and Bain being the best one, two punch in college football. I think Height and Bailey are the next ones. Like, and they're not that far off. Like, they're both elite football players. Jacob Rodriguez is one of the funnest guys to watch. I don't know that's correct nomenclature or how you say it, but he's freaking awesome. Like running around, punching the ball out every chance he gets, getting Picks making plays like literally flies all over the field. And if Texas Tech is, has Rodriguez and has heightened, has Bailey and all these guys that are absolute ballers, you know what you need? You need a healthy Sam Levitt. Like you got to have a guy that can make people miss and run the football like he can, that can make things happen because he's going to be harassed and he's going to be pressured. Last time we saw him like he was in a boot. So how is he going to go take on Texas Tech with not being healthy? Probably definitely not 100%. I just think he needs those wheels. I don't think he's going to be able to make it happen, man. And I think if, if Levitt plays, this game is a little bit closer. But, but I think Texas Tech would still, would still win if Levitt doesn't play. I mean we saw last week no shot like with Sims. If Levitt doesn't play then it's a 30 point game. I mean it's, it's a beat down of beatdowns. But if he plays, I think it's a 3120 game. It's a pretty competitive game and they'll score some points because Levitt's a superstar. Like that dude's got, that dude's a super freak athlete now. He has not put it together like we wanted him to and gotten better this year. But the dude is, the dude is at his, at his best when you come try to get him and he can make you miss and go make a play.
Brent
I got Texas Tech by 17, so 34, 7. There you go, big time game. The ACC outside of, you know, the SEC playing each other all this week. The ACC games this week are very impactful. Even when we're not even talking about SMU kind of hanging around. Undefeated in league play. Playing at Clemson this week. But Georgia Tech 12th ranked at Duke as an underdog.
David Pollack
Undefeated. Yeah, both undefeated in ACC play. Remember that like that's, that's a big deal like Duke's loss. And I think they've lost obviously some of the luster in what they've been able to obviously accomplish with the Illinois game and the two lane game. But they're undefeated in the acc. And this, this team, this game right here, one of these two could be in the ACC championship and probably will be in the ACC championship game.
Brent
So that definitely crazy wins this game. I'm putting them in the ACC championship game.
David Pollack
In pen.
Brent
Yeah.
David Pollack
Okay.
Brent
I would put it in pen.
David Pollack
Yeah, it's.
Brent
But here's the thing, I don't know that they're winning this game.
David Pollack
You didn't give away, you didn't give away your pick yet, so that's good. Okay, so. So here, here's what, here's what I'll say. We've talked about Georgia Tech a lot. Like, we're big fans of Haynes King. Everybody is. If you watch football and you don't like Haynes King, you probably don't believe in Santa Claus like that, you know, that kind of person. But anyways, here's what you need to know about Duke. Manny Diaz has, has them excited. Manny Diaz is an excitable guy. He's. He's a. He's blitz happy, which I love. Like he's going to bring pressure, which is I. If you can cover on the outside and that you can, that can be good against Georgia Tech. Georgia Tech can't throw the football great. If they get in third and long. Georgia Tech's man, he's going to win a lot. Like, they can rush the quarterback. Like, here's what I've seen from, from Duke because remember we covered the, the toe blowing off episode against Illinois. Like we saw the, the five turnovers. They could have won that. I'm not going to say they should have. They could have won that football game. But what Duke didn't have was balance. They weren't running the football well enough and they had five turnovers. Then they go play two lane. And here's what scares me a little bit. Red Slap goes for over 100 on the ground. And Haynes King, he can do that really well, like one of the, one of the main guys in all of college football at doing that. So now I think Duke's secondary was supposed to be one of their strengths coming into the season. I think they're getting better. I think they can rush the passer. I think they can absolutely stay in this game. But I think like Nate Shepard is the guy for Duke. Like he's a true freshman running back that has given them some electricity, some speed. Like Mintz is a baller. Like we've talked about that dude, he's got two TD passes in every game. Like he is. He is going to spread it out and he's going to get his yards in every single game. But the thing is, protecting him isn't good. Providing balance for him with Nate Shepard makes Duke really good. Like, that's why I think Duke at home with shepherd creating the balance with the receivers on the outside. With Mensa playing really, really well. I mean, he's throwing for 306 yards a game. That's top five in the country. Like, he's. He's good. So I don't think it's a flash in the pan. There's a reason Duke's favored and I'm going to do it again. And last time I did it, my toes are gone. I blew off all of my toes, remember, in that game. But Georgia Tech, obviously early, could have lost to Colorado. Didn't. Should have lost awake for us.
Brent
Didn't.
David Pollack
They're going to. They're going to let people hang around, I think because their defense isn't always elite. But 3127.
Brent
Do keys exact score I wrote down.
David Pollack
Did you really?
Brent
Yep. Duke 31, Georgia Tech 27.
David Pollack
Oh, we're definitely. You know what that means? That means we're definitely wrong. We are 100% wrong. If we both agreed to that much, we're absolutely wrong.
Brent
I think it's one that's meant to making one more play. That's the. That's the difference. All right. Veggie trade games that you might skip, but we actually be good. Miami at home against Louisville on a Friday night. And it will only be Miami third game in like 28 days because it was Florida by FSU by. And now you've got. And we've already seen some ACC wackiness on Friday night with Virginia and Florida State. But Louisville can't block and very well. And Miami's D line is.
David Pollack
Well, at least they're playing a defensive line that can't get. But you have one of these games every year that you go, okay, there's no way. It's. It's a physical mismatch. It's David versus Goliath and somehow here's what I'll say. Louisville and Braum. What can he do? That dude can orchestrate offense. Like, he absolutely can make it happen. And he's got weapons now. Like, don't. Don't get it twisted. Like, everybody knows about Bell, who's going to be a high draft pick. Lacey's a baller. Brown's a baller. They got some speed at Louisville. Like, Louisville's got some burners. They got some playmakers. Miller Moss is trending in the right direction. They scored 24 points in 19 straight games. Like, so can Louisville's defense bang around and can they be good because they're good up front? Can they match the physicality of Miami? Can they. Can they get some pressure on Carson Beck, who's coming off a 4 TD game against FSU? His best game, you know, as a hurricane. Like, I think this could be a sneaky game, man. Like, I don't think you're right. I don't think Louisville can block. Like, I know they struggle to block, but Miller Moss has played better. But you know why you can't pick Louisville? You know why no one should pick Louisville? Because Louisville makes mistakes in every game. Every game, man. Like they're going to give you those opportunities a la my man. Miller Moss throwing a pick six. Allah, them fumbling on, on fourth down against Virginia and scoops up and it's scored. Like they just, they make too many mistakes. I think they'll have some success. I know Braum will dial up some ball plays cause he's one of the best play callers in football. But I just, I don't know how you dial it up enough against Miami who just. You don't have to blitz if you don't want to. And then Beck has Tony and they have, I mean they have their hat, they have their running backs, they have everything they need and they're rested and they're healthy to, to win this football game.
Brent
Let me see if I can summarize everything that you just said in three words and maybe two words if you combine one of them. Back door cover.
David Pollack
I mean it's happened late TD to.
Brent
Get the, get under the. I don't even know the number I saw.
David Pollack
Yeah, I don't know what the spread is but like, but, but they are arrested.
Brent
Hey.
David Pollack
And, and caught up with Crystal Ball actually last week. Right. Like, so he was, I almost made him smile. Like I almost made Crystal Ball smile like that. If you can make Crystal Ball smile, it's, it's incredible. Like so go watch it on the channel. Like there was a slight, like a little, it was almost, it's almost like you got that fart you need to squeeze out and you kind of just turn. But like there was, there was a little bit of a smile. But you can see what makes him just like, you can see that he's kind of morphed and changed, but he's still got that hard edge and loves Cuban coffee, loves his team and rightfully show he should love his team.
Brent
All right, last one. And then we'll kind of look at a potential likely upset. So Washington at Michigan. Washington the only Big Ten or SEC team that is 5 and 1 and not ranked. I thought that was. And they should be.
David Pollack
I have Washington ranked now. I, I, I can also see where they have struggled. Like, and, and I, I get that like They've. They've had that. But if you watch them play last week, like, and you watched Aman Williams like that, that dude is as exciting as anybody in college football. And let me holl at you for a second, so I want you to come in here for this one, because everybody talks about Bryce Underwood. Everybody. Everybody talks about Bryce Underwood. Damon Williams is way better than Bryce Underwood. Now Bryce Underwood has a chance to get better, has a chance to grow, has a chance to turn into something elite. Demond Williams is already there. That dude is a stud. He can run it, he can throw it. He ain't big. He ain't got to be big. He is electric. He can make you miss. He can throw it deep, he can throw it short. He can run. He can do everything you need him to do on the field. This is. This is a fun game. First thing I thought about when I, When I, When I wrote down this game, I was like, rematch of a Natty not too long ago. Like, isn't that crazy? Like, it feels like it was, like 100 years ago, but that was 2023. And this game is an elimination game for the University of Michigan. If they lose this football game, they are out of the college football playoffs. If they lose it, they're out. Like, they're out. You can sh.
Brent
You.
David Pollack
You can check the schedule, Brent. They're out. They're gone.
Brent
I agree. Well, I was also thinking, like, this is a playoff game for Washington, too, because, yes, they win this game, they could look ahead and maybe, hey, maybe we can get to. Because Oregon maybe doesn't look, you know, they got Oregon later.
David Pollack
Yeah.
Brent
So that's a.
David Pollack
So think about Washington. They play Illinois and Oregon both at home. Like, again, that is a awesome place to play. That is great to host both those teams. Purdue, Wisconsin and ucla. That's their other games. Like, Washington wins this game. Washington messes around and hangs with Oregon probably. And they could beat him at home. They can definitely beat Illinois. Washington wins this game, look out, because they're going to get some attention, because they should. They should be getting attention anyways. They should already be in the rankings, but they can finally get in the rankings. And I know Michigan's not ranked. Michigan's a top 30 team in college football. Like, they're. They're in that mix. So you. You cannot rank them if you want to, but I'm just telling you, man, Bryce Underwood. Washington's winning this game. Like, Washington's winning this game. I don't know if you got him winning or not. I got them winning 100%. I think they're. I think they're better. I think their offense is way better. I think the quarterback is better. I think. I think the biggest issue, Justice Haynes not being able to play or being questionable, that that is Michigan's offense. Dude, that is number one, two and three of most importance in this offense. Like, the offensive line's been beat up all year. They've been trying to find the passing game. You know what's really interesting about Bryce Underwood is. Bryce Underwood is better outside of structure than he is in. Like, he consistently is better when he has to make plays, has to run, man, I make him throw from the pocket. Like, I get him in passing situations without. Without Haynes, I can. I can run. I have no pro. I think Washington's going to win this game. They've been slow starters. Is the only thing that, that, that gives me a little bit of pause. And they got to come across the country. Like, that's not. That's not fun. And that's a real thing. But I feel confident in the Huskies.
Brent
I picked Washington as well.
David Pollack
Okay, There we go. Swanky.
Brent
24, 21, 27. We're in that same boat, right? There's a lot of other really good games. The top 25 type teams. And let's kind of take a look and what you think is which one of some of these other games. Nebraska, Oklahoma, A M, Missouri, Oregon, others, UNLV, Boise State. They're not top 25 game, but that's a big game in terms of stuff. Which one do you think? Who's the most likely upset that we're. That we didn't even discuss tonight?
David Pollack
I think. I think Auburn and Missouri. I think Missouri going to Auburn. Now, listen, that's. That's operating, Crater. That's. That's operating under the caveat that Auburn didn't push the quit button and I'm out. Like, I'm out of here. Like they did in the second half. But like, obviously a physical game last week, a letdown opportunity for Missouri now coming in. You probably think you've heard about Auburn and how bad they stink. They're not. They don't stink. They're still a good team, man. Like, they just haven't been good. Defense is really good when it matters in the clutch. And Missouri's run defense, they're a little bit banged up now at D line, but can they run the football? Can they make some plays? I think Auburn hangs around. I think if Auburn's focused and they're ready to rock and roll, they can use that crowd and they could pull the upset.
Brent
I got Oklahoma as the likely upset going to South Carolina. South Carolina's got to get somebody. I don't know who it's going to be, but somebody on the rest of their schedule. And then after the Texas game and just if you ask me which QB can be super more Superman, I'm going Sellers right now. I'm going him in terms of. Because I just don't like the stuff that we talked about early in the season with Oklahoma and their offense and some of the inefficiencies and the lack of running game, lack of these other pieces. It just keeps showing up week after week. I, I think they're gonna go and take the L at, at Columbia outright.
David Pollack
You're calling the lost outright?
Brent
Yeah. Okay.
David Pollack
All right. Well, Auburn, Auburn is a night game, which again, elite atmosphere at night. You just, if, if they're excited. South Carolina is a tough atmosphere. You're absolutely right that that's an absolute tough atmosphere. But I just, I, I.
Brent
It's going to be like 15 degrees hotter there than it is anywhere else.
David Pollack
Yeah, but it's hard to buy into South Carolina. I mean, they just, like, it's. They've been a struggle bus, like last week, man. LSU just kept giving them an opportunity and they couldn't run through the door, man. They couldn't make it happen. And Lenoris is a big part of that. He's got to do better. I mean, his running game was obsolete. That's another thing that makes me feel better about this week. Like, they, LSU shut him down and now they play Pavia. Like, obviously it's a different type of an animal, but I just can't believe we just made it through our picks. And our producer, Wes is going to be so happy, like, because we did it in under 47 minutes. Like, that's pretty good. Like, for us.
Brent
We like all these games.
David Pollack
Yeah, all these games.
Brent
You like to talk.
David Pollack
We have a tendency to kind of fill it up, like, to get it. We get a little nerdy sometimes. Like, we're both very passionate, passionate fans that watch a lot of this stuff, and we only get so many opportunities to talk about it. And we're like, dude, we want to take advantage. Yeah. So now we appreciate y'.
Brent
All.
David Pollack
Thank you for joining us tonight. And we'll be live. Tune in to. To see Stanford Steve. Like, he is. He's gonna, he's gonna join us as we come into coming to our city for, for college game day. He was disappointed that the North Oconee Titans are on a buy. He really wanted to see Nicholas and the Titans. He was excited about that. But follow C ball, get ball wherever you find your college football shows and we'll be here giving you perspective, predictions, reactions every single week. So we appreciate y'.
Granger Advertiser
All.
David Pollack
Thank you.
LifeLock Advertiser
It's Cybersecurity awareness month and LifeLock is here with tips to help protect your identity. Use strong passwords, set up multi factor authentication and report phishing scams. And for comprehensive identity protection, LifeLock is your best choice. LifeLock alerts you to suspicious uses of your personal information and also fixes identity theft. Guaranteed or your money back. Stay smart, stay safe and stay protected with a 30 day free trial@lifelock.com Specialoffer terms apply.
Episode Summary: October 15, 2025
Hosted by David Pollack, joined by Brent
In this Week 8 edition, David Pollack and Brent provide a rapid-fire, in-depth breakdown of the biggest, most pivotal college football matchups. This episode is heavily focused on “elimination week,” as several games will directly impact conference races and playoff hopes, including Ole Miss-Georgia, Tennessee-Alabama, USC-Notre Dame, Utah-BYU, and more. The hosts go deep on matchups, player performances, and program trajectories, delivering bold predictions and fresh analysis underpinned by their usual blend of humor, passion, and practicality.
Revenge Factor and SEC Implications
Bama’s Endurance vs. Tennessee’s Explosiveness
Playoff Stakes and Prove-It Week
Physicality and Regional Rivalry
QB Intangibles and Identity Questions
QB Rotation, Health, and Defensive Lines
Championship Stakes and Explosive Offenses
The episode is classic Pollack—honest, passionate, and fun, with sharp tactical insights and playful banter with co-host Brent. They focus on tangible details, player performances, and program mentality, offering perspectives useful for both stat-junkies and casual fans.
| Game | Pollack's Pick | Brent's Pick | |-----------------------------|:--------------:|:------------:| | Ole Miss at Georgia | Georgia | Georgia | | Tennessee at Alabama | Alabama | Alabama | | USC at Notre Dame | Notre Dame | Notre Dame | | Utah at BYU | Utah | Utah | | LSU at Vanderbilt | LSU | Vanderbilt | | Texas Tech at Arizona State | Texas Tech | Texas Tech | | Georgia Tech at Duke | Duke | Duke | | Miami vs. Louisville | Miami | Miami | | Washington at Michigan | Washington | Washington |
Pollack and Brent deliver another packed, highly analytical, but entertaining walkthrough of Week 8. The focus is on rising and falling teams, smart tactical matchups, and the reality-check games that will shape the postseason narrative. For anyone looking to get up to speed on College Football’s most pivotal week so far—this episode is your playbook.
(For brevity, all advertisements were omitted. Segments referenced by their natural breaks/transitions in the pod.)