On3's Andy Staples gives College Football Playoff picks

On the eve of college football, On3’s Andy Staples called his shot. During a guest appearance on “Pardon My Take,” Staples revealed his College Football Playoff prediction.

While the Staple’s selections aren’t entirely a shock, there are a couple controversial picks. In fact, one team named is not even ranked in the top 10 of the AP Preseason Top 25 Poll. Staples certainly spread out his picks, including teams from three different conferences.

Look below to see if you agree with Staples’ preseason prediction.

1. Georgia — Preseason ranking: No. 1

You’ll struggle to find any college football analyst who doesn’t include the Bulldogs in their CFP predictions. Staples is no exception. Per ESPN, UGA returns 52% of its offense from last season and 70% of its defense.

With numbers like that, Georgia is the easy choice to reach the CFP. After all, the Bulldogs led the nation in rushing defense last season, allowing just 77.1 rushing yards per game. If Carson Beck can replace the magic Stetson Bennett produced in years past, Georgia will pull another national title out of its hat.

2. Michigan — Preseason ranking: No. 2

Michigan might be the No. 2 team in the country, but they’re far from a guaranteed appearance in this four-team race. With Ohio State and Penn State knocking on their door, Michigan will be fighting to stay on top of the Big Ten.

To make matters worse, the Wolverines will be without head coach Jim Harbaugh for their first three games due to a self-imposed punishment by Michigan. Nonetheless, with standouts such as QB JJ McCarthy and RB Blake Corum returning, it’s difficult to see a CFP that doesn’t include Michigan.

3. Alabama — Preseason ranking: No. 4

Another face on college football’s Mt. Rushmore. After two seasons without a national title, Alabama is hungry. This offseason, head coach Nick Saban acquired a couple new utensils to help him feast.

The Crimson Tide will feature a new offensive and defensive coordinator this year with Tommy Rees and Kevin Steele. If Alabama can lick its wounds left by the absence of Bryce Young, the Crimson Tide could make waves in the CFP. Staples certainly sees the vision.

“Georgia and Alabama play in the SEC Championship and Alabama doesn’t win it, but makes the playoffs anyway,” Staples said.

4. Oregon — Preseason ranking: No. 15

This selection is undoubtedly Staple’s hottest take. However, it isn’t unfounded. The Ducks flew close to the sun last season just to get burned. Oregon was weeks away from reaching the CFP only for QB1 Bo Nix to go down with an ankle injury late in a November matchup with Washington. The season was effectively over.

Now, Nix is back and better than ever. Add on the fact that head coach Dan Lanning is entering his second season at the helm, and the Ducks could shock the nation, even if they don’t shock Staples.

“Oregon wins the Pac-12; first Pac-12 participant since 2016 than the league [falls apart],” Staples said.

Whether Staples is right or wrong, college football fans are in for a wild ride this season. Familiar faces and unusual programs both sit atop the heap this season. Despite their differences, they all have one goal: to reach the CFP. Staples knows who he believes will reach their lofty goals in 2023. Do you?