Podcast Summary: The Ryen Russillo Podcast Episode: College Football Conference Picks, Best QB, Breakout Players, and the Title Picture With Danny Cannell and Bruce Feldman Release Date: August 12, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of The Ryen Russillo Podcast, Ryen Russillo is joined by sports analysts Danny Cannell and Bruce Feldman to delve deep into the upcoming college football season. The discussion covers a wide range of topics, including conference predictions, quarterback uncertainties, standout players, and the overall title picture.

Season Outlook and AP Rankings

Danny Cannell kicks off the conversation by referencing the release of the AP rankings, noting a potential shift in team order compared to the coaches' poll. He emphasizes the uncertainty surrounding many top quarterbacks, suggesting that this unpredictability adds intrigue to the season's championship contenders.

“...there's a lot of assuming going on with a lot of the guys behind center even with the pedigree that they have.” — Danny Cannell [01:46]

Bruce Feldman concurs, highlighting that this season promises to be one of the most entertaining due to the variety of teams receiving votes in the top 25—a trend not seen since 2016. He points out that unlike the past few years dominated by a few teams like Georgia and Alabama, this season introduces more variability and competition.

“I think it was 2016 was the last time this many different teams received some sort of vote in the top 25.” — Bruce Feldman [03:46]

Quarterback Uncertainties and Transfer Portal Impact

A significant portion of the discussion centers around the influx of quarterbacks in various conferences, particularly the Big Ten. Cannell notes that the Big Ten has the most quarterbacks in the ESPN Top 300, with seven projected starters. This depth brings both opportunity and uncertainty, as many QBs lack substantial playing experience.

“The transfer portal part of this becomes way too exciting. It's never, it look, this sport has never been.” — Danny Cannell [04:50]

Feldman adds that the transfer portal has democratized talent distribution, preventing historically dominant programs like Alabama and Georgia from hoarding all top prospects. This shift leads to a more balanced and competitive landscape across conferences.

“Now I think there's players that are hungry for playing time and they want to play right away.” — Bruce Feldman [13:55]

Conference-Specific Analyses

Big Ten

Cannell and Feldman discuss the Big Ten's quarterback situation, emphasizing the challenges for programs like Ohio State, which relies on quarterbacks with high potential but limited experience. They express concern over the lack of continuity and the pressure on new quarterbacks to perform immediately.

“But there's a lot of guys that have almost zero playing experience and we're just banking on them working.” — Danny Cannell [06:22]

SEC

The conversation shifts to the Southeastern Conference (SEC), where Feldman predicts Alabama to emerge as the frontrunner despite previous losses. He highlights the team's strong offense, led by new starter Ty Simpson, and a solid defense poised to make significant strides under new coordinators.

“I think Alabama is going to be at the top… the defense, I think, is absolutely one of the top three in the sec.” — Bruce Feldman [34:35]

Cannell raises concerns about other SEC teams struggling with quarterback performance and turnover, suggesting that Alabama's consistency gives them an edge over rivals like Georgia and LSU.

“So I think Penn State has a real chance at this.” — Bruce Feldman [30:05]

Big 12

Feldman praises the Big 12 for its depth and competitiveness, particularly noting the transfer portal's role in leveling the playing field. He mentions Kansas State and Arizona State as teams with strong quarterback prospects who could surprise many based on preseason expectations.

“I don't think BIM in the Big 12. I think the transfer portal is actually thinning out the top end talent.” — Danny Cannell [27:23]

Penn State's Prospects

A substantial discussion revolves around Penn State and their coach James Franklin. Feldman believes this is Franklin's pivotal year, given the returning talent and new additions to both offense and defense. He asserts that Penn State could contend for a national title if they capitalize on their strengths and navigate challenges effectively.

“James Franklin, like, if he can't get it done this year, I don't know if it's going to get any better.” — Bruce Feldman [31:45]

Cannell supports this view, highlighting Penn State's balanced roster and the strategic hires that bolster both their offensive and defensive units.

“He knows what he's doing with quarterbacks. And they have all these returning pieces.” — Bruce Feldman [30:05]

Clemson's Contention

Feldman expresses optimism about Clemson, crediting their upgraded roster and strategic coaching hires. He believes that their quarterback Cade Clubnick has the potential to be a top NFL draft pick and that the team's defense will significantly improve under new leadership.

“He’s the quarterback I trust the most coming into the season in college football.” — Bruce Feldman [15:55]

Transfer Portal and Its Effects

Both hosts agree that the transfer portal has fundamentally changed college football dynamics. Cannell describes it as the most unpredictable era in the sport's history, where player movement creates constant shifts in team strengths and weaknesses.

“It's a mistake that I know I'm guilty of kind of making and trying to stop myself.” — Danny Cannell [12:40]

Feldman adds that while the portal spreads talent more evenly, it also introduces challenges in team chemistry and continuity, making it harder to predict season outcomes.

“You can't keep everyone. So where I think it impacts is sort of depth that becomes more of an issue.” — Bruce Feldman [31:45]

Big 12 Predictions

Discussing the Big 12, Cannell highlights the conference's openness and the potential for multiple teams to vie for the championship. He praises quarterback Rocco Beck from Iowa State for his leadership and fit within the team.

“I think he's the guy who helped reestablish the culture there.” — Danny Cannell [78:49]

Feldman echoes the sentiment, emphasizing Iowa State's balanced team and the strategic moves by coach Matt Campbell to solidify their position.

“I think he helps get it back. I think Campbell had to shake up the staff and they have that kind of, kind of ethos about them right now.” — Bruce Feldman [85:30]

Title Picture and Best Quarterbacks

The hosts evaluate potential national contenders, focusing on standout quarterbacks across various programs. Feldman names Cade Clubnick from Clemson as his top pick, citing his decision-making and leadership qualities. He also mentions emerging talents like Austin Simmons from Ole Miss and DJ Lagway from South Carolina as potential breakout stars.

“I think Cade Clubnick's the best college quarterback this season.” — Bruce Feldman [86:12]

Cannell expresses confidence in Arch Manning from Texas, acknowledging the pressures he faces but also pointing to the support system around him as pivotal for his success.

“But he does have Sark and Sark's a really good play caller. I'm fascinated to see because I think... I'm betting on him this year.” — Ryan Rossillo [60:55]

Final Thoughts and Conclusion

As the episode wraps up, Cannell and Feldman reinforce the unpredictability of the upcoming college football season. They encourage listeners to stay engaged and keep an eye on emerging storylines, particularly those influenced by the transfer portal and coaching changes. The hosts express excitement for the competitive landscape and the potential for unexpected champions to rise.

Notable Quotes:

• “...there's a lot of assuming going on with a lot of the guys behind center even with the pedigree that they have.” — Danny Cannell [01:46]

• “I think it was 2016 was the last time this many different teams received some sort of vote in the top 25.” — Bruce Feldman [03:46]

• “The transfer portal part of this becomes way too exciting. It's never, it look, this sport has never been.” — Danny Cannell [04:50]

• “I think Alabama is going to be at the top… the defense, I think, is absolutely one of the top three in the sec.” — Bruce Feldman [34:35]

• “James Franklin, like, if he can't get it done this year, I don't know if it's going to get any better.” — Bruce Feldman [31:45]

• “I think Cade Clubnick's the best college quarterback this season.” — Bruce Feldman [86:12]

• “But he does have Sark and Sark's a really good play caller. I'm fascinated to see because I think... I'm betting on him this year.” — Ryan Rossillo [60:55]

This episode provides a comprehensive analysis of the upcoming college football season, offering insights into team dynamics, player performances, and the evolving impact of the transfer portal. Danny Cannell and Bruce Feldman deliver nuanced opinions, making this a must-listen for fans eager to understand the potential outcomes of the 2025 season.