SALT LAKE CITY — The spotlight shined too bright for a pair of Power Four teams who were ranked this past weekend in my ballot — one was ranked high, too.
Utah had little going for it outside of its defense until late in the game to allow two fourth-quarter scores and ensure a blowout win for Texas Tech (we’ll get to the Red Raiders shortly).
The bigger blowout — and most surprising result — came in Indiana, where the Hoosiers dominated Illinois en route to a 63-10 victory. Admittedly, Illinois’ resume was a bit weak as a top-10 team, but a 53-point loss bad?
The following is the ballot I submitted to the Associated Press that will be counted in the consensus rankings that will be released Sunday afternoon.
1. Ohio State
The Buckeyes were on a bye week; but with each passing week, Michigan freshman QB Bryce Underwood looks better — even if his stat line didn’t fully represent that this week. That’s got to concern Ohio State.
2. LSU
The Tigers had a cupcake game against an FCS opponent — next.
3. Oregon
I previously had Georgia at No. 3, but after another weekend of action I felt the need to bump up two teams that are seemingly more complete in all facets of the game. The Ducks overwhelmed in-state opponent Oregon State this week, with Dante Moore throwing four TD passes.
4. Miami
A heated rivalry game doesn’t always go well — especially when one team has nothing to lose. But Miami continues to prove it is one of the best teams in the country, notching another victory to prove its worth. At No. 4, the Hurricanes may be rated too low if we’re being honest.
5. Georgia
The Bulldogs were on a bye week, and I dropped them two spots. At No. 5, there’s no doubting Kirby Smart, but I like a few teams more — for now.
6. Florida State
A meeting with Kent State went as planned. The Seminoles scored five touchdowns in the first quarter, and added another one in the second quarter to take full control.
7. Oklahoma
We learned that officiating can sometimes influence a game — or at least benefit one team. The Sooners got the win over Auburn, but a later review of a questionable TD by the SEC provided some intrigue when the league said it shouldn’t have counted. Either way, Oklahoma remains a threat with John Mateer under center.
8. Penn State
Penn State had an off week, so nothing of note here. But Oregon lurks on the schedule, and we’ll find out who the Nittany Lions are Saturday.
9. Texas A&M
Another team with an off week. The Aggies will face Auburn on Saturday in another test for Texas A&M.
10. Texas Tech
The well-funded Red Raiders have proven the experiment is working — at least for another week. The defense looked the part and will be a tough out for any Big 12 opponent, and the offense didn’t miss a step with its starting QB sidelined. Texas Tech is the team to beat in the Big 12, with no one particularly close.
In consideration (alphabetical): Arizona State, Illinois, Kansas, Louisville, Mississippi State, Nebraska, Notre Dame, South Florida, UNLV, Utah
If you can’t see my full ballot below, click here.
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