The 2019 spring college football rankings, taking a look at all 130 teams.
Just how good are all 130 college football teams looking as we dive into the dog days of the offseason?
Obviously, a slew of key position battles still have to be figured out. There will be injuries, transfers, and only about a million other things happening to change this over the next few months. But for now, here’s your snapshot of every team.
This isn’t about where the teams will end up – the CFN Season Rankings are about production, not talent. It’s about how strong everyone looks at the moment, with the next rankings coming this summer as a part of Preview 2019.
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CFN 2019 Rankings: Spring
Top 10 | 11-25 | 26-50 | 51-75 | 76-100
130. UTEP Miners
At some point this all has to turn. The offense needs to find something that works with all the decent experience returning, but the defense needs way too many new starters to emerge as instant stars.
2019 Spring Prediction: 3-9
2018 Final Record: 1-11
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 130
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
129. Texas State Bobcats
It’s going to take a lot of work and rebuilding for new head man Jake Spavital to overcome. There are veterans on the O line and secondary, but the defensive front and offensive playmakers are way too questionable.
2019 Spring Prediction: 4-8
2018 Final Record: 3-9
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 123
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
128. UTSA Roadrunners
The Roadrunners have to come up with some semblance of offensive production. It was a rebuilding year in 2018, but where are the sure playmakers? The D won’t be 2017 amazing, but it’ll be better.
2019 Spring Prediction: 4-8
2018 Final Record: 3-9
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 112
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
127. New Mexico State Aggies
There’s experience, but where’s the talent? The Aggies should have a decent passing game, but the defense is going to be a problem in shootout after shootout. The line is there for the D, but the linebacking corps will need some time.
2019 Spring Prediction: 2-10
2018 Final Record: 3-9
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 124
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
126. San Jose State Spartans
At some point the thing will start to work under head coach Brent Brennan. The offense has experience in the backfield, and four starters return up front, but the defense needs an overhaul. The secondary has to find playmakers – fast.
2019 Spring Prediction: 3-9
2018 Final Record: 1-11
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 126
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
125. Rice Owls
The team should be better in Year Two under Mike Bloomgren, but the schedule is going to be an issue. The bigger problem is an offense that’s lacking in firepower. If there’s any pop, the veteran defense should lead the way to a stronger season.
2019 Spring Prediction: 2-10
2018 Final Record: 2-11
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 127
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
124. UMass Minutemen
The Minutemen will be worse without WR Andy Isabella and a few other major producers on both sides of the ball. It’s a rebuilding job for new head man Walt Bell, but he has a decent-looking D line to work around.
2019 Spring Prediction: 4-8
2018 Final Record: 4-8
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 104
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
123. Akron Zips
New head coach Tom Arth’s first job is to get the offense going, and it starts with QB Kato Nelson and a group of veteran receivers. Almost all of the top tacklers have to be replaced, but the combination of LB John Lako and S Alvin Davis are great to build around.
2019 Spring Prediction: 4-8
2018 Final Record: 4-8
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 102
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
122. Bowling Green Falcons
New head coach Scot Loeffler needs to do a rebuild, but the offense should be fun enough to hang around with most mediocre teams. Enough veterans are back on defense to hope for an improvement, but the secondary is a concern.
2019 Spring Prediction: 4-8
2018 Final Record: 3-9
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 118
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
121. Ball State Cardinals
There’s hope for a little bit of an improvement thanks to a defense that gets back the top seven tacklers along with everyone in the back seven. The O line gets all five starters back, and the receiving corps should be fine. Now the offensive backfield has to show up.
2019 Spring Prediction: 5-7
2018 Final Record: 4-8
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 10 6
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
120. Kent State Golden Flashes
There’s plenty of experience to a team that might just rise up and surprise in Year Two under Sean Lewis. QB Woody Barrett and the offense should be stronger, but the defense has too many big losses on the front four.
2019 Spring Prediction: 4-8
2018 Final Record: 2-10
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 114
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
119. South Alabama Jaguars
It took a year of work to potentially take a big step forward under Steve Campbell. The offense has to show up, but everyone returns on the O line, and there are some nice parts to the attack. The defensive front seven needs more tuning.
2019 Spring Prediction: 5-7
2018 Final Record: 3-9
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 109
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
118. Old Dominion Monarchs
It’s an interesting team that was close to being good last year, but should take a slight step back. The linebacking corps will be great, but the rest of the D is a concern. Former Michigan State QB Messiah deWeaver should help the offense that loses just enough to hurt.
2019 Spring Prediction: 5-7
2018 Final Record: 4-8
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 105
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
117. Coastal Carolina Chanticleers
There’s a whole lot of experience returning under new head man Jamey Chadwell to be far better than this ranking, but they need to find a quarterback and the pass protection has to be a whole lot stronger.
2019 Spring Prediction: 5-7
2018 Final Record: 5-7
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 98
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
116. Liberty Flames
Can Hugh Freeze turn Liberty into a player in the bowl chase? There’s enough talent to push for a winning campaign thanks to a great-looking group of skill players. There’s enough defensive talent returning to not be a problem. As good as Turner Gill was, there’s a coaching upgrade.
2019 Spring Prediction: 6-6
2018 Final Record: 6-6
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 95
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
115. Georgia State Panthers
It might have been a rough 2018, but it’s a veteran team that should be a whole lot stronger on both sides of the ball. A pass rush needs to show up, but the offensive line is good and the secondary will be among the Sun Belt’s best
2019 Spring Prediction: 4-8
2018 Final Record: 2-10
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 122
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
114. UConn Huskies
The Huskies have to be better – there’s no way the defense can be any worse. At the very least, they’re absolutely loaded with experience on D with 11 of the top 12 tacklers returning. The offense should be fine in time thanks to a loaded line, but more firepower has to come from the skill spots.
2019 Spring Prediction: 4-8
2018 Final Record: 1-11
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 129
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
113. ULM Warhawks
The fun and firepower are there with QB Caleb Evans working behind a line that gets everyone back, but it’s the defense that has to rise up with eight starters returning. Overall, the experience has to turn into production.
2019 Spring Prediction:5-7
2018 Final Record: 6-6
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 89
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
112. WKU Hilltoppers
The Hilltoppers will end up higher than this if all goes according to plan – 2018 was likely an aberration. New head man Tyson Helton walks into a nice situation with everyone back on offense and almost all of the veterans back on D. Now everyone has to be better at college football.
2019 Spring Prediction: 5-7
2018 Final Record: 3-9
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 111
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
111. East Carolina Pirates
There’s a solid chance this becomes one of the high risers in the American Athletic Conference under new head coach Mike Houston, but only if the skill spots emerge in a hurry. The offensive line should be a positive, and the defense has veterans, but the new staff has to be a differentiating factor.
2019 Spring Prediction: 5-7
2018 Final Record: 3-9
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 117
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
110. Navy Midshipmen
Can the Midshipmen get their mojo back? It’s going to be tough with so many parts gone from a mediocre team that struggle way too much. Do-it-all playmaker Malcolm Perry is back, but the lines need a whole lot of work, and almost all of the top tacklers have to be replaced.
2019 Spring Prediction: 5-7
2018 Final Record: 3-10
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 101
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
109. Charlotte 49ers
There’s experience for new head coach Will Healy to work with, starting with a good quarterback situation and a deep group of running backs. The defense should be stronger, too, with S Ben DeLuca and most of the top tacklers returning.
2019 Spring Prediction: 5-7
2018 Final Record: 5-7
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 93
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
108. Tulsa Golden Hurricane
Can the program finally turn around and get the offense going again? The veterans are there at the skill spots, but the line has to be far stronger and the experience has to translate into production. Almost everyone returns on defense, but again, everyone has to be better.
2019 Spring Prediction: 3-9
2018 Final Record: 3-9
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 115
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
107. Eastern Michigan Eagles
It’s going to take some rebuilding to get back to a bowl game. Too many key parts are done on defense, and the running attack needs work after losing a few starters on the interior of the line. EMU won’t fall off the map, but going bowling again will be tough.
2019 Spring Prediction: 6-6
2018 Final Record: 7-6
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 71
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
106. Central Michigan Chippewas
There should be a nice turnaround right away under new head man Jim McElwain – 2018 was an aberration. Houston transfer QB Quinten Dormady helps the passing game that gets back all of the top targets. The O needs to light it up with the defense losing just about everyone.
2019 Spring Prediction: 5-7
2018 Final Record: 1-11
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 128
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
105. Colorado State Rams
Alright, so the Rams might just be a whole lot better than this. The receiving corps has to do some work, but that’s just one part of the attack that has to find a slew of new starters. The D didn’t do much last season, and now it has to replace four of the top six tacklers.
2019 Spring Prediction: 6-6
2018 Final Record: 3-9
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 120
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
104. Buffalo Bulls
It’s been a rough run for the program with QB Tyree Jackson turning pro, and WR KJ Osborn leaving for Miami. The running backs, though, are great, and the line is a plus. The defense, though has to replace some irreplaceable parts. Six of the top nine tacklers are done.
2019 Spring Prediction: 7-5
2018 Final Record: 10-4
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 34
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
103. Miami University
The defense might have to replace a few of the top tacklers, but the depth is there to rise up back up in a hurry. The O has to replace QB Gus Ragland, but the other skill parts are good enough to get by in the MAC.
2019 Spring Prediction: 7-5
2018 Final Record: 6-6
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 70
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
102. New Mexico Lobos
Can the offense that showed hope and potential explosion early on – before the quarterback injuries – start to work? The veteran offensive line should help the cause, and the attack has to blow up with way too many key parts gone from the defense.
2019 Spring Prediction: 5-7
2018 Final Record: 3-9
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 110
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
101. Wyoming Cowboys
If there’s any offense whatsoever, all of a sudden, Wyoming should be interesting. However, the defense loses several mainstays who kept the team afloat over the last few years. QB Tyler Vander Waal returns – even though he’s not guaranteed to be the starter – but he has to move the attack.
2019 Spring Prediction: 6-6
2018 Final Record: 6-6
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 90
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
CFN 2019 Rankings: Spring
Top 10 | 11-25 | 26-50 | 51-75 | 76-100
NEXT: Spring Rankings Top 100
CFN 2019 Rankings: Spring
Top 10 | 11-25 | 26-50 | 51-75 | 101-130
100. Hawaii Rainbow Warriors
This should be an interesting team to figure out. It’s full of veterans, but the schedule will make it tough to come up with a winning record. QB Cole McDonald should put up huge numbers – if Chevan Cordeiro doesn’t take over the gig – and there might be a little defense, too, with nine starters returning.
2019 Spring Prediction: 6-7
2018 Final Record: 8-6
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 73
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
99. Florida Atlantic Owls
Remember, these rankings are based off of how good the teams appear to be to start the season and now where they’re projected to end up. However, the quarterback situation is a bit of a mess for an O that loses way too much, and the defensive front loses veterans.
2019 Spring Prediction: 7-5
2018 Final Record: 5-7
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 91
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
98. Georgia Southern Eagles
You know what’s coming. The running game will be devastating, but the inexperienced running backs have to emerge as stars right away. The defense is solid, especially at linebacker.
2019 Spring Prediction: 7-5
2018 Final Record: 10-3
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 28
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
97. Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders
Losing veteran quarterback Brent Stockstill hurts, but that’s not the only issue. The Blue Raiders had issues on an O line that had big, big problems, and the secondary is all but starting from scratch.
2019 Spring Prediction: 6-6
2018 Final Record: 8-6
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 59
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
96. Toledo Rockets
There’s a lot to like, but like last season, the MAC West is going to be a fight. The running backs are great, but the offensive line and receivers will be a work in progress. The bigger problem is defensively, especially at linebacker.
2019 Spring Prediction: 8-4
2018 Final Record: 7-6
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 61
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
95. Nevada Wolf Pack
The defense that came up with such a good season loses a ton of talent – five of the top six tacklers are gone. As long as the offense can get the passing game going on a consistent basis with longtime starter Ty Gangi done, there’s a shot to come up with a repeat of 2018.
2019 Spring Prediction: 6-6
2018 Final Record: 8-5
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 48
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
94. Northern Illinois Huskies
New head coach Thomas Hammock will get more out of the running game right away, and it should happen in a little bit of time. The pass rush needs a boost with Sutton Smith gone, but there’s a ton of defensive production returning.
2019 Spring Prediction: 7-5
2018 Final Record: is 8-6
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 38
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
93. Western Michigan Broncos
This needs to be when it all starts coming together. Head coach Tim Lester has been fine so far, but he’s got the team to challenge for the MAC title. It starts with a defense that gets just about everyone back, and the offense has the talent to be more consistent.
2019 Spring Prediction: 7-5
2018 Final Record: 7-6
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 76
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
92. Arkansas State Red Wolves
Star QB Justice Hansen is gone, but the good receivers are back for an offense that shouldn’t miss a beat. There has to be a pass rush with new parts at defensive end, but there’s experience overall on D.
2019 Spring Prediction: 7-5
2018 Final Record: 8-5
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 72
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
91. Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns
The Sun Belt West champs from last year should be even stronger under rising coaching star Billy Napier. The Ragin’ Cajuns are loaded up front with five senior starters returning to lead what should be a great attack. The defensive front is going to be terrific, too.
2019 Spring Prediction: 7-5
2018 Final Record: 7-7
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 79
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
90. UAB Blazers
Admittedly this ranking is a big-time guess considering what the program has been able to do over the last two years. However, the Blazers built back up for the reemergence, and now comes the rebuild. From the offensive line, to the receiving corps, to losing ten top tacklers, there’s a whole lot of work to do.
2019 Spring Prediction: 8-4
2018 Final Record: 11-3
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 11
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
89. UNLV Rebels
There’s way too much returning to not finally turn a corner. QB Armani Rogers and the strong receiving corps should put up big numbers, and the defense should be just good enough to get by if a pass rush emerges.
2019 Spring Prediction: 6-6
2018 Final Record: 4-8
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 107
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
88. Troy Trojans
New head man Chip Lindsey inherits a strong team that has to improve the passing game, but has the running backs and O line to be great right away. The defense should be among the Sun Belt’s best.
2019 Spring Prediction: 9-3
2018 Final Record: 10-3
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 33
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
87. Kansas Jayhawks
The hiring of Les Miles is a big deal, but it’s going to take a while for it all to start working. There’s experience across the board, but the talent and playmakers aren’t there. The secondary will be good, but the defense as a whole has to be a whole lot stronger.
2019 Spring Prediction: 4-8
2018 Final Record: 3-9
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 108
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
86. North Texas Mean Green
There’s no slowing down QB Mason Fine and an offense that should once again be a problem in the Conference USA race as long as the tackle situation is fine. The D won’t stop anyone, but the O should make up for it.
2019 Spring Prediction: 7-5
2018 Final Record: 9-4
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 51
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
85. Ohio Bobcats
Nathan Rourke is back at quarterback, but the rest of the key skill guys are gone and the line has work to do. However, even with a few parts gone up front, the defense is loaded up to be among the MAC’s best. Frank Solich will quickly find replacements.
2019 Spring Prediction: 8-4
2018 Final Record: 9-4
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 30
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
84. Tulane Green Wave
The potential is there for another big season with a backfield full of talent, and with Oklahoma State transfer Jalen McCleskey helping out the receiving corps. The negative? The O line could use some help. Nine starters are back on a defense that might just have to hold serve.
2019 Spring Prediction: 6-6
2018 Final Record: 7-6
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 67
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
83. Air Force Falcons
At some point, the Falcons will get back to being their old selves. The backfield should be better than it’s been, but the offense isn’t the issue. The Air Force defense has to be far better, and the starting 11 will be.
2019 Spring Prediction: 7-5
2018 Final Record: 11-2
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 96
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
82. Utah State Aggies
Okay, so this is way too disrespectful for a team coming off a great year, but Gary Andersen has a whole lot of rebuilding to do on both sides of the ball. Most of the top skill guys have to be replaced, and the D is starting over in some spots.
2019 Spring Prediction: 7-5
2018 Final Record: 11-2
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 19
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
81. Louisiana Tech Bulldogs
There’s a lot to like about the Bulldog defensive back seven, but the pass rush takes a massive hit losing Jaylon Ferguson and Immanuel Turner. The passing attack is good enough to hang around with just about everyone on the schedule. Get ready for a possible run to the Conference USA title game.
2019 Spring Prediction: 9-3
2018 Final Record: 8-5
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 77
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
80. SMU Mustangs
With an upgrade at quarterback thanks to the arrival of Shane Buechele from Texas to bomb away to James Proche and a great receiving corps, the offense should be more explosive again. Making matters better is the experience returning on the lines. In all, 14 of the top 16 tacklers are back.
2019 Spring Prediction: 7-5
2018 Final Record: 5-7
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 85
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
79. Oregon State Beavers
The team will be better, but the schedule is tough in an improved Pac-12. Getting QB Jake Luton back for a sixth year helps, and Jermar Jefferson is a rising star at running back, but the O line has to be a whole lot better. The defense is loaded with enough experience to be stronger.
2019 Spring Prediction: 3-9
2018 Final Record: 2-10
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 116
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
78. Temple Owls
It all starts on the offensive line with four starters returning for new head man Rod Carey. The defensive front seven is strong, and quarterback Anthony Russo is solid. The secondary has an issue and the running backs and receivers are sketchy, but overall, this is a strong team.
2019 Spring Prediction: 7-5
2018 Final Record: 8-5
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 58
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
77. Marshall Thundering Herd
It’s going to be one of the most intriguing Group of Five programs, thanks to a deep and talented backfield and a great O line. The linebacking corps might be iffy, but everything else is in place.
2019 Spring Prediction: 9-3
2018 Final Record: 9-4
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 46
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
76. FIU Golden Panthers
Butch Davis has built the program up into a possible Conference USA monster. It starts with a defense that returns almost all of the key tacklers, but the offense should be more explosive with a great receiving corps for QB James Morgan to work with.
2019 Spring Prediction: 8-4
2018 Final Record: 9-4
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 43
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
CFN 2019 Rankings: Spring
Top 10 | 11-25 | 26-50 | 76-100 | 101-130
NEXT: Spring Rankings No. 51 to 75
CFN 2019 Rankings: Spring
Top 10 | 11-25 | 26-50 | 76-100 | 101-130
75. Southern Miss Golden Eagles
The team is in place, but the schedule is going to be a problem, especially early on. Talent-wise, let’s go. The offense gets back ten starters including everyone up front, and the defense should be good enough on the line to overcome a few issues in the back seven.
2019 Spring Prediction: 6-6
2018 Final Record: 6-5
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 75
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
74. BYU Cougars
This is one of those X factor teams that’s solid, but needs a few things to go its way. The defense should be a brick wall at times with a ton of tacklers returning. If QB Zach Wilson can rise up and become a star, the passing game should start to rock.
2019 Spring Prediction: 5-7
2018 Final Record: 7-6
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 53
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
73. Appalachian State Mountaineers
It’s a new era under Eliah Drinkwitz, but the team is still loaded with enough talent to win another Sun Belt title. The offense gets just about everyone of note back, and the defense – especially the back seven – is going to be special.
2019 Spring Prediction: 9-3
2018 Final Record: 11-2
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 21
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
72. USF Bulls
There are plenty of veterans on offense, but now they all have to play better. The receiving corps is outstanding, the running backs are deep, and the line is good enough to protect QB Blake Barnett. The defense is another story with a lot to do up front, but with a decent secondary.
2019 Spring Prediction: 7-5
2018 Final Record: 7-6
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 78
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
71. Louisville Cardinals
Consider the Cardinals to be past their hiccup. New head coach Scott Satterfield isn’t going to work miracles right away, but the running backs and receivers are strong enough be great. The veterans are there on defense, but the stops have to come.
2019 Spring Prediction: 5-7
2018 Final Record: 2-10
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 121
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
70. Rutgers Scarlet Knights
Rutgers should be better – someday. There’s more than enough offensive experience and talent to field a decent starting 11 – starting with RB Raheem Blackshear – but the defense has to replace five of the top seven tacklers. The line will be a plus.
2019 Spring Prediction: 3-9
2018 Final Record: 1-11
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 125
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
69. North Carolina Tar Heels
The Tar Heels won’t be awful, but the ACC is solid and the talent level isn’t where it needs to be. There’s experience, depth, and upside at the offensive skills spots, but it all has to come together fast. The defense should get better as the season goes on.
2019 Spring Prediction: 4-8
2018 Final Record: 2-9
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 113
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
68. Wake Forest Demon Deacons
There’s just enough missing to be a problem. The O line has to find a few new parts, and a star receiver has to rise up with Greg Dortch gone. The defensive starting 11 will be good with Miles Fox coming from Old Dominion for the line, but overall depth is questionable.
2019 Spring Prediction: 6-6
2018 Final Record: 7-6
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 49
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
67. Arkansas Razorbacks
With Nick Starkel coming over from Texas A&M and Ben Hicks transferring in from SMU, the quarterbacks are in place. Now the rest of the skill parts that got banged up in spring ball have to be okay. The D won’t be amazing, but the O will be better equipped for shootouts.
2019 Spring Prediction: 6-6
2018 Final Record: 2-10
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 119
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
66. Indiana Hoosiers
There’s hope. The quarterbacks are good, RB Stevie Scott is a baller, and the secondary is quietly going to be nasty. Almost all of the top tacklers return, and the offensive skill guys are good, but the O line has to come together fast.
2019 Spring Prediction: 5-7
2018 Final Record: 5-7
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 84
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
65. Army Black Knights
The system, the schedule, the coaching, and the attitude are all there to keep the fun going. The offense should still be unstoppable, and the defense has enough talent back to be okay, but should take a step back.
2019 Spring Prediction: 10-3
2018 Final Record: 11-2
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 20
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
64. Vanderbilt Commodores
There’s a lot to like in the receiving corps and on the defensive line, but the offensive front needs some reworking, the linebacking corps and secondary are going to be early concerns, and Ball State transfer Riley Neal has to be the man right away at quarterback.
2019 Spring Prediction: 5-7
2018 Final Record: 6-7
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 74
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
63. Duke Blue Devils
The Blue Devils won’t be awful, but there’s a redo coming on the offensive side after losing QB Daniel Jones and most of the top receivers. The defense, though, should be stronger with almost all of the top tacklers returning, except for star LB Joe Giles-Harris.
2019 Spring Prediction: 6-6
2018 Final Record: 7-6
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 24
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
62. Colorado Buffaloes
Remember that these are early rankings – Colorado could grow into a sleeper-fun team to get excited about by the time August rolls around. New head man Melvin Tucker has two stars in QB Steven Montez and WR Laviska Shenault to work around, and the D should be a big positive with its secondary.
2019 Spring Prediction: 5-7
2018 Final Record: 5-7
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 99
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
61. Texas Tech Red Raiders
The Red Raiders should be a win better if they can keep a quarterback healthy. New head coach Matt Wells inherits a good team that needs to find a few new star receivers – that shouldn’t be an issue. The O line is good, and there are decent parts back on defense, but the awful secondary has to be a whole lot better.
2019 Spring Prediction: 6-6
2018 Final Record: 5-7
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 68
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
60. Kansas State Wildcats
The Wildcats underachieved a bit last season, and now it’s up to new head man Chris Klieman to make everything work. The offense has the pieces for a good starting 11, but the attack has to work a whole lot better. The defensive front has to generate more of a pass rush, but overall, the top tacklers from last year return.
2019 Spring Prediction: 6-6
2018 Final Record: 5-7
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 94
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
59. Illinois Fighting Illini
The Illini will finally be better – they have to be. The young players who went through the growing pains over the last few years should turn into good veterans – 19 of the top 20 tacklers are back. Now the offense has to be more consistent.
2019 Spring Prediction: 6-6
2018 Final Record: 4-8
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 103
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
58. Cincinnati Bearcats
After a breakthrough 2018 season, can Luke Fickell keep it all going? It’s going to take some work considering the lines are all but starting over, and too many of the top tacklers are gone. On the plus side, the offensive skill parts are outstanding.
2019 Spring Prediction: 8-4
2018 Final Record: 11-2
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 23
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
57. Memphis Tigers
There’s a whole lot in place to make a push for the American Athletic Conference title. Darrell Henderson is gone from the backfield, but Patrick Taylor is a fine back and Brady White is a veteran quarterback who can do more with a terrific receiving corps. The defense is full of veterans, too, with ten of the top 12 tacklers back.
2019 Spring Prediction: 8-4
2018 Final Record: 8-6
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 66
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
56. Fresno State Bulldogs
Jeff Tedford has done great things with the program, but he has to hope the new parts can rise up and be productive right away. The running backs are great, but that’s about it for the offensive experience. Most of the top tacklers are done, but the line should be strong.
2019 Spring Prediction: 9-3
2018 Final Record: 12-2
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 6
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
55. Maryland Terrapins
Can Mike Locksley coach? The new Terp head man takes over a nice-looking team that got a whole lot better by landing Virginia Tech QB transfer Josh Jackson. The O line is the issue after losing just about everyone. The defense takes a huge production hit, too.
2019 Spring Prediction: 6-6
2018 Final Record: 5-7
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 82
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
54. Pitt Panthers
A few top tacklers from the Coastal champion defense are gone, but the line and secondary will be positives as the season goes on – get to know pass rusher Rashad Weaver. The offensive line is starting over and the running game has to be reestablished, but the passing attack has upside if QB Kenny Pickett is better.
2019 Spring Prediction: 4-8
2018 Final Record: 7-7
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 47
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
53. Ole Miss Rebels
The offense loses some epic wide receiver talents, but the defense should be stronger – it had better be – with ten of the top 11 tacklers returning. The O won’t be that bad, at least in the backfield. QB Jordan Ta’amu and RB Scottie Phillips are good parts to start with.
2019 Spring Prediction: 6-6
2018 Final Record: 5-7
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 97
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
52. Arizona Wildcats
The offensive backfield needs to be a force with QB Khalil Tate and RB JJ Taylor back, and now the line should be a plus after being a big concern early on last year. The experience is back on a young D that should thrive after going through the growing pains in Kevin Sumlin’s first year.
2019 Spring Prediction: 7-5
2018 Final Record: 5-7
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 92
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
51. Cal Golden Bears
The schedule is a problem, especially if the offense isn’t more consistent. The defensive side will be a killer with eight of the top ten tacklers back, but the other side of the ball needs to be able to throw. On the plus side, the O line will be good.
2019 Spring Prediction: 6-6
2018 Final Record: 7-6
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 81
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
CFN 2019 Rankings: Spring
Top 10 | 11-25 | 26-50 | 76-100 | 101-130
NEXT: Spring Rankings No. 25 to 50
CFN 2019 Rankings: Spring
Top 10 | 11-25 | 51-75 | 76-100 | 101-130
50. Arizona State Sun Devils
There won’t be a lot of early buzz, but this ranking could turn out to be way, way too low. The passing game needs new parts, but Eno Benjamin is one of the nation’s best running backs. The D? Loaded – 16 of the top 19 tacklers are back.
2019 Spring Prediction: 8-4
2018 Final Record: 7-6
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 63
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
49. Purdue Boilermakers
It’s going to be a fight to get back to a bowl game, but head coach Jeff Brohm is back instead of at Louisville. Start there, and everything else looks okay. There’s enough experience on defense returning to be better, and the offense needs more explosion than WR Rondale Moore.
2019 Spring Prediction: 6-6
2018 Final Record: 6-7
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 55
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
48. Boston College Eagles
There’s too much of a talent overhaul on defense not to hurt, but BC always has good pieces ready to go on that side of the ball. Offensively, it’ll be the AJ Dillon show – he’ll once again be among the nation’s best running backs. However, the receivers and line lose way too much.
2019 Spring Prediction: 6-6
2018 Final Record: 7-5
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 50
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
47. Houston Cougars
Alright, Dana Holgorsen. Time to prove to the world just how good you are. The passing game will be fantastic as long as QB D’Eriq King is okay, and there should be a solid ground attack, too. The defense is another story with a do over in the back seven and the Ed Oliver-less line needing to be stronger.
2019 Spring Prediction: 9-3
2018 Final Record: 8-5
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 56
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
46. San Diego State Aztecs
It’s all about finding something more on offense. The running game should be outstanding with four starters back on the line, and with the 1-2 rushing punch of Juwan Washington and Chase Jasmin good enough to carry the attack. The D line might need some new parts, but the back eight will be among the Mountain West’s best.
2019 Spring Prediction: 9-3
2018 Final Record: 7-6
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 62
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
45. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
It’s going to take a little while to pivot from the option offense to what new head man Geoff Collins is putting together, and it starts with finding the right quarterback. There’s talent on the O, but they have to change things up. If the line comes around fast, the defensive should be fine.
2019 Spring Prediction: 6-6
2018 Final Record: 7-6
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 64
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
44. Boise State Broncos
There’s a whole lot to like, but the offensive backfield has to be great right away. The offensive line is outstanding, and the defense could be the best in the Bryan Harsin era. At least, it had better be right away with Florida State up first.
2019 Spring Prediction: 10-2
2018 Final Record: 10-3
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 8
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
43. Baylor Bears
There’s a whole lot to like. QB Charlie Brewer leads an offense that should be able to hang with anyone in the Big 12, but a few new go-to receivers have to emerge. A whole lot of key tacklers from last year are back, but the secondary has to be a whole lot better.
2019 Spring Prediction: 7-5
2018 Final Record: 7-6
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 80
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
42. Kentucky Wildcats
Okay, okay, so the Wildcats are being disrespected again, but a whole lot of key parts – led by Josh Allen – are gone on defense, RB Benny Snell is gone of the offense, and it’s going to take a whole lot of rebuilding to get back to that level.
2019 Spring Prediction: 8-4
2018 Final Record: 10-3
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 12
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
41. Tennessee Volunteers
Jeremy Pruitt should have his team stronger and far better in his second year, but the lines are still a question mark and the offense has to be more consistent. The overall experience is there, but it all has to turn into production.
2019 Spring Prediction: 7-5
2018 Final Record: 5-7
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 86
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
40. West Virginia Mountaineers
2018 was supposed to be the big year, and it didn’t quite happen. New head coach Neal Brown might just be an upgrade over Dana Holgorsen, but can Oklahoma transfer Austin Kendall at least match what Will Grier was able to do? The defense loses just enough top tacklers to be annoying, but it’s the offense that should be the star.
2019 Spring Prediction: 7-5
2018 Final Record: 8-4
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 37
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
39. Iowa Hawkeyes
Iowa has to prove it’s a factor for defensive linemen after losing everyone up front, but the defense will be okay. Losing tight ends TJ Hockenson and Noah Fant hurts, but QB Nate Stanley is growing into an underappreciated passing talent.
2019 Spring Prediction: 8-4
2018 Final Record: 9-4
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 25
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
38. Minnesota Golden Gophers
If the Gophers can get decent quarterback play, look out. The running game should be stellar, the experience at receiver is there, and the defense has the potential to be solid, especially in the secondary. Now a star has to emerge under center.
2019 Spring Prediction: 7-5
2018 Final Record: 7-6
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 44
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
37. Missouri Tigers
In terms of talent, the Tigers have the upside to be terrific, with QB Kelly Bryant leading an outstanding O full of playmakers in the receiving corps. The defensive front needs work, and there’s that issue of not being able to go bowling, but the team should have an attitude.
2019 Spring Prediction: 8-4
2018 Final Record: 8-5
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 41
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
36. UCLA Tigers
Okay, ha ha – now the Chip Kelly era should really begin. The passing game should be more consistent, Joshua Kelley is a productive running back, and the line is experienced. The young defense is now experienced, but it has to be a whole lot better.
2019 Spring Prediction: 8-4
2018 Final Record: 3-9
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 100
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
35. NC State Wolfpack
It’s going to take some work to do more on offense without QB Ryan Finley – the attack needs to be far more balanced, and it has to do it with RB Reggie Gallaspy gone. The other side, though, is going to pick up the slack. The secondary is going to be fantastic, and despite losing LB Germaine Pratt, the tacklers are there.
2019 Spring Prediction: 8-4
2018 Final Record: 9-4
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 36
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
34. Florida State Seminoles
FSU will be in for a better Year Two under Willie Taggart, but only if the offensive line play that’s been a problem for the last two seasons improves. Cam Akers is a special running back, and the receivers are in place for either James Blackman or Alex Hornibrook at quarterback. The defensive back seven is going to be as good as any in the ACC as the year goes on.
2019 Spring Prediction: 7-5
2018 Final Record: 5-7
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 83
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
33. USC Trojans
There should be a big turnaround after the rebuilding job done last year, but QB JT Daniels has to be better, there has to be a ground game, and the defense needs to rock in the secondary. Overall, the D will be better, but it has to replace several key tacklers.
2019 Spring Prediction: 9-3
2018 Final Record: 5-7
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 87
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
32. Oklahoma State Cowboys
The offense is loaded at receiver, the line is full of veterans, and Chuba Hubbard is poised and ready for a massive season. Now the quarterback situation has to be settled. The secondary is the strength of the defense, but the front seven is going to be an early concern.
2019 Spring Prediction: 9-3
2018 Final Record: 7-6
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 45
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
31. Nebraska Cornhuskers
Nebraska will be better, but how fast can it get to up to full speed? Adrian Martinez is a rising superstar quarterback, but the running game needs to be a bit better and the defense has to be a whole lot more consistent.
2019 Spring Prediction: 7-5
2018 Final Record: 4-8
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 88
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
30. Iowa State Cyclones
It’s time to accept that Iowa State is just that good under head coach Matt Campbell, and this might be his best team yet. The offensive line gets everyone back, and Brock Purdy is a rising star quarterback, but other skill players are there. The D line is great and the safeties are among the Big 12’s best.
2019 Spring Prediction: 8-4
2018 Final Record: 8-5
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 42
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
29. South Carolina Gamecocks
It’s going to be an interesting season for a Gamecock team that has a whole lot of talent and upside. The defensive front will be a killer, and the offense should more than fine, but the secondary and O line are concerns.
2019 Spring Prediction: 6-6
2018 Final Record: 7-6
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 69
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
28. Northwestern Wildcats
Last year’s breakthrough team was great, but it was helped by a mediocre Big Ten West. These Wildcats will be even better, but the division will be stronger, too. Hunter Johnson is a quarterback upgrade, the receivers are there to help the cause, and the defense will be a brick wall.
2019 Spring Prediction: 7-5
2018 Final Record: 9-5
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 27
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
27. Syracuse Orange
As long as the line is okay and Tommy DeVito can handle the quarterback gig, the offense should fly. The receivers are great and the running backs are strong. The linebacking corps might need a few new parts, but the overall defensive depth is there, and the secondary is going to be great.
2019 Spring Prediction: 7-5
2018 Final Record: 10-3
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 17
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
26. Stanford Cardinal
It might take a little while to get the parts in place on defense, but the front three will be more than good enough to overcome the loss of all the starting linebackers. QB KJ Costello is terrific, but he needs new receivers to rise up and the running game has to be stronger.
2019 Spring Prediction: 8-4
2018 Final Record: 9-4
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 32
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
CFN 2019 Rankings: Spring
Top 10 | 11-25 | 51-75 | 76-100 | 101-130
NEXT: Spring Rankings Top 25
CFN 2019 Rankings: Spring
Top 10 | 26-50 | 51-75 | 76-100 | 101-130
25. UCF Knights
Why do you think it’s all going to stop now? As long as the offensive line is fine, everything else is there. The skill guys are strong, and they got better with Notre Dame transfer Brandon Wimbush coming in to battle for the starting quarterback gig. The defense loses a slew of key tacklers, but the back seven will be just fine.
2019 Spring Prediction: 10-2
2018 Final Record: 12-1
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 9
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
24. Virginia Tech Hokies
2018 was an aberration, but losing a few key transfers – including QB Josh Jackson to Maryland – will hurt. Youth was a problem on defense, but those growing pains should be over. The offense might not be a killer, but it’ll be efficient enough to win with if the defense does its job.
2019 Spring Prediction: 9-3
2018 Final Record: 6-7
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 65
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
23. Washington State Cougars
It’s a loaded team that should be every bit as good as last year’s version if Eastern Washington transfer QB Gage Gubrud can be another Gardner Minshew. The lines are great, the receivers are solid, and the defensive back seven is good enough.
2019 Spring Prediction: 7-5
2018 Final Record: 11-2
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 16
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
22. Mississippi State Bulldogs
Now it’s time for the offense to do its part. The defense will still be good despite the losses of Jeffery Simons and Montez Sweat, but it’ll take a slight step back. QB Keytaon Thompson and the great group of receivers should pick up the slack.
2019 Spring Prediction: 8-4
2018 Final Record: 8-5
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 35
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
21. Virginia Cavaliers
The program has been building fast under Bronco Mendenhall, and now he has his best team yet. Bryce Perkins is one of the ACC’s better quarterbacks, but he needs help from the running game. The defense will be the star with just about everyone of note but S Juan Thornhill and LB Chris Peace returning.
2019 Spring Prediction: 8-4
2018 Final Record: 8-5
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 39
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
20. TCU Horned Frogs
2018 was an aberration after playing in the Big 12 Championship the year before. This year’s team should be back in the mix with an improved offense, starting with a stronger backfield and WR Jalen Reagor. Even with parts gone from the linebacking corps and a few top receivers done, it’s not going to take much of a rebuild.
2019 Spring Prediction: 9-3
2018 Final Record: 7-6
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 52
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
19. Wisconsin Badgers
Call this a leap of faith ranking. The Badgers don’t have a sure-thing quarterback – although, freshman Graham Mertz should be a superstar with a little time – and almost everyone is gone on the O line. On the plus side, the receivers are terrific – for Wisconsin – and the defense should be closer to the 2017 version.
2019 Spring Prediction: 9-3
2018 Final Record: 8-5
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 54
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
18. Utah Utes
The Pac-12 South will be better, but there’s no reason the Utes can’t keep it all going. QB Tyler Huntley and RB Zack Moss are back along with most of the top receivers. The O will start running the ball a bit more, but it’ll be adaptable. The defense has the line in place to make up for the loss of a few star linebackers.
2019 Spring Prediction: 8-4
2018 Final Record: 9-5
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 29
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
17. Notre Dame Fighting Irish
There should be a bit of a regression after last year’s amazing run, but the Irish will still be strong. The offensive system is still great, Ian Book is established at quarterback, and the O line returns four starters. A lot of tackling experience returns, but the star power has to emerge.
2019 Spring Prediction: 9-3
2018 Final Record: 12-1
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 7
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
16. Washington Huskies
There’s a whole lot of work to do to replace stars on both sides of the ball, but give Chris Petersen the benefit of the doubt at this point. Georgia transfer Jacob Eason has to be great in place of Jake Browning. If he is, the O will be strong, and the defense will eventually be good despite the loss of six of the top seven tacklers.
2019 Spring Prediction: 9-3
2018 Final Record: 11-2
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 14
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
15. Penn State Nittany Lions
The strong recruiting classes under James Franklin are about to payoff. A quarterback – likely Tommy Stevens – has to rise up and be great, but the rest of the offense is more than solid. The youth has to kick in on defense, but there’s a whole lot of talent around Micah Parsons.
2019 Spring Prediction: 9-3
2018 Final Record: 9-4
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 26
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
14. Auburn Tigers
The schedule is a bear, and the offense has to be better despite the loss of QB Jarrett Stidham, but the running backs are solid, the O line should be great, and Derrick Brown and the defensive front will be a killer. The linebacking corps will be the early concern, but that won’t take long to rebuild.
2019 Spring Prediction: 8-4
2018 Final Record: 8-5
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 40
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
13. Miami Hurricanes
The 2017 team fattened up on a relatively easy schedule, but the 2018 team underachieved. This year’s squad under new head coach Manny Diaz should bounce back fast. Ohio State transfer Tate Martell is a huge upgrade at quarterback and the receiving corps is fantastic, but the line has to be better. The defense – led by one of the nation’s best linebacking corps – is going to be a Turnover Chain-filled killer.
2019 Spring Prediction: 9-3
2018 Final Record: 7-6
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 60
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
12. Texas Longhorns
Slow the roll a wee bit. Texas will be good around QB Sam Ehlinger, but most of the top tacklers have to be replaced, the offensive line needs a little help, and more playmakers have to emerge among the skill spots. Good recruiting classes should be ready to step in and shine, but give it another year before national title talk kicks in.
2019 Spring Prediction: 9-3
2018 Final Record: 10-4
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 13
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
11. Michigan State Spartans
Let’s just assume the offense will step up and do anything to be a wee bit better. The defense that was national title good last year should be just as good, but it’s up to the offense to hold up its end of the bargain at least a little bit. There’s experience, but there needs to be production.
2019 Spring Prediction: 9-3
2018 Final Record: 7-6
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 57
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
CFN 2019 Rankings: Spring
Top 10 | 26-50 | 51-75 | 76-100 | 101-130
NEXT: Spring Rankings Top Ten
CFN 2019 Rankings: Spring
11-25 | 26-50 | 51-75 | 76-100 | 101-130
10. Texas A&M Aggies
The schedule is unfairly brutal, but the team is going to be great in Jimbo Fisher’s second season. Kellen Mond has to go from being a good quarterback to fantastic, and that should happen with an amazing receiving corps to work with. The lines are strong, but the defensive depth has to emerge early on.
2019 Spring Prediction: 9-3
2018 Final Record: 9-4
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 22
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
9. Oregon Ducks
Everything is in place for a special season, starting with the return of QB Justin Herbert, and helped by getting everyone else back on offense other than top WR Dillon Mitchell. Throw in Penn State transfer WR Juwan Johnson, and the offense is special. The defense is outstanding in the back seven, the recruiting class was amazing, and there’s no excuse not to be the lead dog in the Pac-12 pack.
2019 Spring Prediction: 9-3
2018 Final Record: 9-4
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 31
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
8. Florida Gators
Now it’s time to take things to a whole other level, but the schedule is just nasty enough to make the final record worse than the team will be with a little bit of time.
The secondary will be among the nation’s best, and reloading on the defensive front seven isn’t a problem, but the offensive skill parts have to be stronger, the O line has to replace a few key parts, and QB Feleipe Franks has to go from okay to consistently amazing.
2019 Spring Prediction: 8-4
2018 Final Record: 10-3
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 18
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
7. LSU Tigers
Now everyone will be expecting something big, and it might just happen. There are just enough big-time players gone to be missed – like LB Devin White and CB Greedy Williams – but the offense should be even steadier, the lines will be great, and Grant Delpit should be the best safety in college football.
2019 Spring Prediction: 9-3
2018 Final Record: 10-3
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 10
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
6. Michigan Wolverines
Lost in the disastrous finish was how Michigan was a win away from going to the Big Ten Championship – and almost certainly – the College Football Playoff. This year’s version will have another outstanding defense, and the offense should be more explosive with the young receiving corps maturing, and QB Shea Patterson a solid veteran.
2019 Spring Prediction: 10-2
2018 Final Record: 10-3
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 14
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
5. Oklahoma Sooners
The machine doesn’t stop. Jalen Hurts isn’t Baker Mayfield or Kyler Murray as a passer, but he’s a winning veteran who’ll be more than fine in his new role. All of the other skill spots are great, the offensive line will be outstanding again, and everything will be fine as long as the D provides a little help.
All Oklahoma’s defense needs to do is hold serve. The secondary is full of veterans, and the almost everyone of note from the young group returns. Now all the parts have to be better.
2019 Spring Prediction: 11-1
2018 Final Record: 12-2
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 5
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
4. Ohio State Buckeyes
There’s bound to be a little bit of a transition period from the Urban Meyer era to Ryan Day a s a full-time guy, but don’t expect much. Justin Fields was a phenomenal quarterback get, but he’s not experienced. There are a whole slew of other missing parts, but it’s Ohio State – replacing stars isn’t a problem.
The defensive side should be the key with 18 of the top 20 tacklers returning. The O will be fine, the D will be better, and the coaching will be more than good enough.
2019 Spring Prediction: 11-1
2018 Final Record: 13-1
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 3
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
3. Georgia Bulldogs
Let’s just assume that Georgia is at the level now where it simply replaces amazing talents with other amazing talents – that’s how good the recruiting has been.
It’s going to take a little while for the developed depth to develop, but the young wide receivers have to emerge around QB Jake Fromm, RB D’Andre Swift working behind a great line. The defense has to replace several key tacklers, and the pass rush has to emerge, but the speed and athleticism are blinding.
2019 Spring Prediction: 11-1
2018 Final Record: 11-3
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 4
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
2. Clemson Tigers
Who’s stopping this offense? Trevor Lawrence and the star receivers that ripped through the College Football Playoff should be great from the start, Travis Etienne is a special running back, and the line will be more than fine after an underappreciated season.
Of course the defense isn’t going to be better after losing so much talent up front, but the program has managed to overcome talent losses before. Eight of the top 12 tacklers are gone, but the defensive backfield will be a rock.
2019 Spring Prediction: 11-1
2018 Final Record: 15-0
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 1
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
1. Alabama Crimson Tide
Oh great. Now you made it mad.
Lost in the aftermath of the national championship clunker was how all-timer unstoppable this team was in a strong year for the SEC. Tua Tagovailoa is back along with an NFL receiving corps, the running backs should be in the pros already, and it’s Alabama – the O line will be fine.
Of course the defense needs to be better, but that’s where Nick Saban kicks in. Expect the glitch to be fixed – relatively speaking considering Alabama’s high standards – and for the D to be back to form, even though the O will put up 40 points per game without breathing hard.
2019 Spring Prediction: 11-1
2018 Final Record: 14-1
2018 CFN Final Season Ranking: 2
– 2019 Schedule Analysis
CFN 2019 Rankings: Spring
11-25 | 26-50 | 51-75 | 76-100 | 101-130
