No. 5 – Ohio State
What Erick Smith says about Ohio State
“The questions start with the replacement for Justin Fields. Does C.J. Stroud, Jack Miller or possibly incoming freshman Kyle McCord win the job? And can any of them come close to being as dynamic as Fields? Master Teague and Garrett Wilson will provide threats at running back and wide receiver, respectively. Key losses along both lines can be filled as the Buckeyes have stockpiled enough pieces to remain the class of the Big Ten. However, like Clemson and Alabama, they might get pushed more than usual next year.”
So, what does the rest of the top 10 look like according to Smith? Alabama is (rightfully so) given the benefit of the doubt at No. 1, followed by Georgia (2), Oklahoma (3), Clemson (4). Behind Ohio State is Iowa State (6), Texas A&M (7), Notre Dame (8), Cincinnati (9), and Florida (10).