Find me someone, anyone, who had a successful Week 0. You can’t. We’re used to this. I think this is our 3rd season in a row going 1-4 in Week 0. Sometimes tradition reigns supreme no matter how much practice you have. The important thing to keep in mind is that’s exactly what it was, practice. It’s called Week 0 for a reason - it basically doesn’t even count. We’re talking about practice. Practice.
Our first true college football Saturday is here and the slate is more crammed than a 2014 Honda Pilot on the AC Expressway. Let’s do a little role play of what it would be like to be in that car on a day like today. Lol, just kidding. If you’re spending the day today driving to the in-laws ‘beach front property’ (that’s actually a mobile home camping ground about 5 miles shy of sand), you more than likely are having some thoughts on the drive similar to the ending of Eminem’s hit classic ‘Stan’. No no, that’s not what we're doing today. Today we’re gambling on non-stop college football. It’s THE Week 1 Digest goddamnit!
(11) Oregon @ (3) Georgia: Over 54.5
I am wearing my Georgia National Championship sweatshirt as I write this. Does that have anything to do with the pick? It has everything and nothing to do with it at the same time. We’re talking about the defending National Champions against transfer QB Bo Nix. BO NIX! Do you remember how many chances we gave that guy over the years, the dude won’t quit! I do think Oregon is actually primed for a strong season, the PAC-12 is theirs to lose. But this is just an overwhelming task to start the season. On the road in Mercedes-Benz against a defense that will gobble you up like every Saturday of the year is Thanksgiving. With that said, Bo-Bo has faced SEC defenses his entire collegiate career, and while the production might not be consistent - I do think it will be enough to bring this total to fruition.
Final Score: Georgia 38, Oregon 21
(24) Houston @ UTSA: Houston -4
While I never enjoy looking at rankings before a game is even played, I am a bit surprised Houston isn’t higher. I personally think they’re going to be a strong team to watch this season. Clayton Tune has a strong receiving corp, along with a variety of competition in the backfield to work in as well. It might take them a bit to get going, but when they get going they’ll be as much as gone. UTSA was a fan favorite last season but you know how that goes - reality will kick in.
Final Score: Houston 34, UTSA 27
Arizona @ San Diego State: San Diego State -6.5
NEW STADIUM ALERT! Snapdragon Stadium, baby. And a top notch defense to go along with it. The Aztecs have the ability to shutout Arizona today if they really wanted to. There’s no way I can let a less than 7 point spread just sit right in front of my fucking face like this and not take it.
Final Score: San Diego State 38, Arizona 21
(5) Notre Dame @ (2) Ohio State: Ohio State -16
The marquee matchup. How the hell is Notre Dame ranked fifth in the nation? Just because Netflix released a Manti Te’o doc this summer does not mean this defense is anything like what it was with him suiting up (although it won’t be that far off against most of their schedule). There is a new era starting for the Fighting Irish, but more importantly, there’s one already in the works looking to improve in the Buckeyes. A pretty disappointing season for THE state that’s round at both ends and hi in the middle (not only a state pun but also referring to Oregon and Michigan last season, think about it). I have to stamp it in now, it’s back to the college football playoff for this team - but they’re going to need to prove that statement tonight.
Final Score: Ohio State 42, Notre Dame 24
Georgia State @ South Carolina: South Carolina -12.5
A lot of people are excited about the Gamecocks this season for two main reasons. First and foremost, the production quality at Williams-Brice is going to be top tier entertainment.
Second and a good bit down the list of excitement, but still notable, is transfer Spencer Rattler. The man I had so much faith for last season with the falling wagon that was the 2021 Oklahoma Sooners. He basically got bullied out of the state. But sometimes a fresh start is just what you need to boost your confidence. And against a team that will bring the Cocks nothing but chances on offense as the Panthers might be able to achieve a first down, I think this is just the game Rattler needs to start what should be a fairly successful season for him. Hammer the second half line for SC also especially if this is anywhere remotely close going into the half.
Final Score: South Carolina 32, Georgia State 17
Side note, I am in LOVE with the #PremiumMemberTickleTeaser today. DM me on Twitter @joeydigest or if you're lucky enough to have the direct line - you know what to do.
Running Record: (146-119-4)
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