Penn State faces a critical test as Koby Howard’s injury shakes up the Nittany Lions’ offensive outlook. Can Penn State still dominate without their emerging superstar, especially against powerhouses like Michigan and USC? Zach Seyko and recruiting expert Brian Smith break down what Howard’s absence means for personnel, play-calling, and Penn State’s ability to stay unpredictable in both 11 and 12 personnel sets. Key questions arise about Zay Robinson’s and Ben Brahmer’s ability to step up, and how Rocco Becht’s dual-threat skills might be leveraged in high-stakes matchups.

Wisconsin’s stout front seven and disciplined secondary set the stage for a gritty Big Ten showdown, with third downs and special teams poised to tip the scales. The show also spotlights a massive recruiting weekend in Happy Valley—can Matt Campbell secure top regional talents like Jordan Hall and George Parkinson? Brian Smith weighs in on the long-term implications for Penn State’s 2027 and beyond.

Support us by supporting our sponsors!

KALSHI
For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.

SupplyHouse
Visit https://SupplyHouse.com/TM to learn more about becoming a Trade Master. Use promo code S H 5 College for five percent off your first order. SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service.

Odoo
Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.

Square
Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod

LARINECO
Give Larine a try. Right now, Larine Co is offering our listeners up to 50% off at https://BUYLARINE.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE.

5-Hour ENERGY
Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It’s time to put your knowledge to the test with College Football Pick’Em from FanDuel. Download the FanDuel app and play College Football Pick'Em for free. Only on FanDuel. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expire in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Florida Gators run wild over Ole Miss Rebels with Jadan Baugh and Duke Clark shredding defenses for over 250 combined rushing yards, while Georgia Bulldogs dismantle Oklahoma Sooners behind Talyn Taylor’s 110 yards and a relentless defense. Are the Gators poised for SEC dominance, or will lingering secondary concerns haunt the Rebels all season?

The conversation focused on Texas scraping by Tennessee despite offensive struggles, Iowa shocking Michigan with a last-second touchdown, and Oregon Ducks outlasting USC after a key injury to Dante Moore. Key themes include Alabama’s offensive resurgence with Keelan Russell, LSU’s emphatic win raising questions about Texas A&M’s quarterback situation, and Wake Forest’s upset at Louisville. The discussion explored offensive line weaknesses, coaching decisions shaking up the playoff race, and emerging stars set to change the course of the college football season. Overall, which teams truly made a move up, or down, from Week 4?

Support us by supporting our sponsors!

KALSHI
For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.

Butcher Box
If you're looking for an easier way to get great meals on the table, give ButcherBox a try. Go to https://ButcherBox.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE to get $20 off your first box, plus your choice of free ribeye, new york strip, or filet mignon in every box for a year — with free shipping always.

Aura Cybersecurity
Start your free trial today at https://aura.com/aware.
Protect yourself now.

Square
Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod

5-Hour ENERGY
Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It’s time to put your knowledge to the test with College Football Pick’Em from FanDuel. Download the FanDuel app and play College Football Pick'Em for free. Only on FanDuel. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Alabama and Notre Dame face mounting pressure as coaching blunders fuel fan unrest. After a disastrous showing against Tennessee, Alabama’s offense—led by quarterback Keelon Russell and scrutinized offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb—failed to meet expectations, raising questions about Kalen DeBoer’s future and just how long the Crimson Tide can tolerate mediocrity. Can this once-dominant program rediscover its physical identity before the axe comes down?

Notre Dame’s defensive struggles under coordinator Chris Ash spark outrage, with a talent-laden front seven failing to deliver sacks or third-down stops. Marcus Freeman’s leadership comes under the microscope as the Irish squander their defensive roster’s potential, including future top-ten pick Leonard Moore, leaving their College Football Playoff hopes in jeopardy ahead of a looming clash with Miami. Will Freeman make the tough calls, or is another wasted season already on the horizon?

Please support our sponsors!

KALSHI
For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.

Indeed
Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast.

SupplyHouse
Visit https://SupplyHouse.com/TM to learn more about becoming a Trade Master. Use promo code S H 5 College for five percent off your first order. SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service.

Butcher Box
If you're looking for an easier way to get great meals on the table, give ButcherBox a try. Go to https://ButcherBox.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE to get $20 off your first box, plus your choice of free ribeye, new york strip, or filet mignon in every box for a year — with free shipping always.

5-Hour ENERGY
Treat yourself to a crisp apple bite and smooth caramel delight with a Caramel Apple 5-hour ENERGY®️ shot, only available online for a limited time at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon.

Odoo
Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expire in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Notre Dame’s defense faces a critical test as the Fighting Irish travel to face the BYU Cougars in what’s billed as one of the biggest home games in BYU history. With star running back LJ Martin sidelined, can BYU engineer enough explosive plays, or will the dominant Notre Dame front seven stuff the run and suffocate Bear Bachmeier’s ground attack? Recent stats spotlight the Irish’s top-tier run defense and the Cougars’ need to limit turnovers to stay competitive.

Brian Smith and Tyler Wojciak break down key matchups, including Leonard Moore’s potential return, the emergence of Jonaz Walton in Notre Dame’s backfield, and how Kalani Sitake’s squad can muster a comeback if they fall behind early. Topics include third-down efficiency, BYU’s lack of likely chunk plays versus Notre Dame’s big-play threats, and whether crowd energy in Provo could spark an upset. Will defensive adjustments and rising stars swing the game, or are the Irish primed for a statement win?

KALSHI
For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.

Butcher Box
If you're looking for an easier way to get great meals on the table, give ButcherBox a try. Go to https://ButcherBox.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE to get $20 off your first box, plus your choice of free ribeye, new york strip, or filet mignon in every box for a year — with free shipping always.

SupplyHouse
Visit https://SupplyHouse.com/TM to learn more about becoming a Trade Master. Use promo code S H 5 College for five percent off your first order. SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service.

Wayfair
Transform your space with pieces that hold up to real life. Join Wayfair Rewards today and get five percent back on every purchase.
Head to https://Wayfair.com or shop the Wayfair app for all things home. Every style. Every home.

Odoo
Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expire in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

For the 2026 season and the foreseeable future, the Georgia Bulldogs, Indiana Hoosiers, and Miami Hurricanes cement their place as college football’s most resilient programs, while the Texas Longhorns spiral amid quarterback woes and leadership dysfunction. Can Kirby Smart’s loaded Georgia roster and Indiana’s portal mastery keep them on top? Josh Hoover’s final year, Gunner Stockton’s development, and Miami Hurricanes’ surging balance raise major playoff questions.

Brian Smith exposes program-altering quarterback battles, NIL spending gaps, and booster infighting reshaping the CFB landscape. Key insights include Arch Manning’s inability to read defenses, Miami’s rising stars Darian Mensah and Malachi Toney, and the disaster zones at Florida State, South Carolina, and Arkansas. With teams like Ohio State, Notre Dame, and Alabama facing varying problems like Julian Sayin’s long-term injury, Chris Ash being under fire, and the same with Ryan Grub at Bama, the showdown for long-term dominance intensifies. Are these powerhouse institutions equipped for sustained success—or destined for disaster?

Please support our sponsors!

KALSHI
For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.

Indeed
Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast.

SupplyHouse
Visit https://SupplyHouse.com/TM to learn more about becoming a Trade Master. Use promo code S H 5 College for five percent off your first order.
SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service.

Butcher Box
If you're looking for an easier way to get great meals on the table, give ButcherBox a try. Go to https://ButcherBox.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE to get $20 off your first box, plus your choice of free ribeye, new york strip, or filet mignon in every box for a year — with free shipping always.

5-Hour ENERGY
Treat yourself to a crisp apple bite and smooth caramel delight with a Caramel Apple 5-hour ENERGY®️ shot, only available online for a limited time at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon.

Odoo
Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expire in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Alabama faces a true test at Mississippi State, with future NFL draft stars Keelon Russell and Kamario Taylor set for a rare sophomore quarterback showdown. Will the Crimson Tide’s offensive firepower and creative offensive schemes outlast Mississippi State’s depth and aggressive run game, or are they primed for an upset in Starkville? Miami travels to Clemson looking for redemption, while Florida aims to overcome a potential letdown at Missouri after a program-defining win.

The conversation focused on key matchups across college football, from Notre Dame’s battle at North Carolina to Ohio State’s defensive concerns after surprising struggles against Illinois and Texas. A key theme that emerged was the impact of coaching decisions, special teams, and turnovers on underdog upsets. The discussion explored FanDuel betting spreads, rankings, and insider predictions for games including BYU-TCU, Virginia-Florida State, and Arizona-Cincinnati. Can favorites avoid falling prey to trap games this weekend?

Support us by supporting our sponsors!

KALSHI
For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.

Butcher Box
If you're looking for an easier way to get great meals on the table, give ButcherBox a try. Go to https://ButcherBox.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE to get $20 off your first box, plus your choice of free ribeye, new york strip, or filet mignon in every box for a year — with free shipping always.

Aura Cybersecurity
Start your free trial today at https://aura.com/aware.
Protect yourself now.

Square
Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod

5-Hour ENERGY
Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It’s time to put your knowledge to the test with College Football Pick’Em from FanDuel. Download the FanDuel app and play College Football Pick'Em for free. Only on FanDuel. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expire in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Notre Dame emerge as a legitimate College Football Playoff contender, flaunting elite defensive stats and key playmakers like CJ Carr, Joey O’Brien, and Rodney Dunham. Can the Fighting Irish’s deep roster, aggressive defensive schemes–especially with the addition of defensive line coach Charlie Partridge– finally deliver a national title? Brian Smith breaks down the team’s balanced strengths, O-line concerns, and the race to develop more explosive offensive weapons, and questioning whether a lackluster schedule could impact their postseason hopes.

The podcast also spotlights underperforming powerhouses: Oklahoma’s Brent Venables faces the hot seat, while South Carolina’s Shane Beamer and Maryland’s Mike Locksley struggle to keep rosters competitive amid embarrassing defeats. Florida’s ground attack stuns Ole Miss, Miami’s explosive offense grabs attention, and Texas must address offensive misfires despite winning at Tennessee. Plus, updates on portal decisions, key injuries, and which coaches might be out the door before season's end.

Support us by supporting our sponsors!

KALSHI
For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.

Butcher Box
If you're looking for an easier way to get great meals on the table, give ButcherBox a try. Go to https://ButcherBox.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE to get $20 off your first box, plus your choice of free ribeye, new york strip, or filet mignon in every box for a year — with free shipping always.

Aura Cybersecurity
Start your free trial today at https://aura.com/aware.
Protect yourself now.

Square
Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod

5-Hour ENERGY
Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It’s time to put your knowledge to the test with College Football Pick’Em from FanDuel. Download the FanDuel app and play College Football Pick'Em for free. Only on FanDuel. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expire in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Miami Hurricanes are flying under the radar, but could this be their year for a national championship push? With key starters like Xavier Lucas and O.J. Frederique battling injuries, Miami’s playoff hopes may hinge on a fully healthy secondary and improved offensive line play. The conversation focused on Mario Cristobal’s conservative approach, the need to unleash Darian Mensah’s arm, and how playmakers Malachi Toney and Cooper Barkate give the Hurricanes one of the most dynamic offenses in college football.

The discussion explored quarterback struggles around the nation, spotlighting disappointing performances from Oklahoma’s Mattier and Texas A&M’s Marcel Reed, along with rising concerns about technique and consistency for names like Arch Manning and Josh Hoover. Several points were raised, including Miami’s path through the ACC, the significance of upcoming clashes with Clemson and Notre Dame, and whether this roster can finally fulfill its championship potential. Will Miami’s defense rebound in time to seize the title?

Support us by supporting our sponsors!

KALSHI
For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.

Butcher Box
If you're looking for an easier way to get great meals on the table, give ButcherBox a try. Go to https://ButcherBox.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE to get $20 off your first box, plus your choice of free ribeye, new york strip, or filet mignon in every box for a year — with free shipping always.

Aura Cybersecurity
Start your free trial today at https://aura.com/aware.
Protect yourself now.

Square
Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/COLLEGE ! #squarepod

5-Hour ENERGY
Bring on the sweetness with Cotton Candy 5-hour ENERGY®️ shots—available online now at https:/5hourENERGY.com or on Amazon.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. It’s time to put your knowledge to the test with College Football Pick’Em from FanDuel. Download the FanDuel app and play College Football Pick'Em for free. Only on FanDuel. Join all the action at https://FANDUEL.COM

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expire in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.