The Colorado Buffaloes are preparing for the 2025 football season under the leadership of head coach Deion Sanders, entering his third year at the helm. Following a 9–4 record in 2024, the team aims to build on its success despite significant roster changes.

**Notable Players and Transfers:**

- **Julian "JuJu" Lewis (QB):** A highly touted freshman quarterback, Lewis is expected to compete for the starting position vacated by Shedeur Sanders. koaa.com

- **Kaidon Salter (QB):** Transferring from Liberty, Salter brings experience and will challenge Lewis for the starting quarterback role. koaa.com

- **Hykeem Williams (WR):** A former five-star recruit from Florida State, Williams adds depth and talent to the receiving corps. collegefootballnetwork.com

- **Jehiem Oatis (DL):** Transferring from Alabama, Oatis bolsters the defensive line with his size and experience. koaa.com

- **Aki Ogunbiyi (OL):** A transfer from Texas A&M, Ogunbiyi strengthens the offensive line, addressing a key area of need. skobuffssports.com

**2025 Schedule:**

The Buffaloes' 2025 schedule features a mix of non-conference and Big 12 matchups:

- **Aug. 30:** vs. Georgia Tech
- **Sept. 6:** vs. Delaware
- **Sept. 13:** at Houston
- **Sept. 20:** vs. Wyoming
- **Sept. 27:** vs. BYU
- **Oct. 4:** at TCU
- **Oct. 11:** vs. Iowa State
- **Oct. 25:** at Utah
- **Nov. 1:** vs. Arizona
- **Nov. 8:** at West Virginia
- **Nov. 22:** vs. Arizona State
- **Nov. 29:** at Kansas State

**Projected Win/Loss Record:**

Given the significant roster turnover, particularly at key positions like quarterback and wide receiver, the Buffaloes may face challenges early in the season. However, the influx of talented transfers and recruits provides optimism. Considering the competitive nature of the Big 12 and the team's recent performance, a projected record of 7–5 appears realistic for the 2025 season. This would reflect a period of transition while maintaining a competitive edge within the conference.

The Utah Utes football team is gearing up for the 2025 season under the continued leadership of head coach Kyle Whittingham, now in his 21st year. The team is undergoing significant changes, particularly on offense, with the departure of veteran quarterback Cam Rising and the introduction of new offensive coordinator Jason Beck.

**Notable Returning Players:**

- **Lander Barton (LB):** Barton led the team in tackles during the 2024 season, recording 72 total tackles, including 38 solo efforts, along with two sacks and two interceptions. His leadership and experience will be pivotal for the Utes' defense. ([sportskeeda.com](https://www.sportskeeda.com/college-football/utah-returning-players-2025-top-3-players-will-return-kyle-whittingham-s-squad-ft-lander-barton?utm_source=openai))

- **Tao Johnson (S):** As a sophomore in 2024, Johnson registered 70 total tackles, with 41 solo efforts, and added an interception and a forced fumble. His continued development is expected to bolster the secondary. ([sportskeeda.com](https://www.sportskeeda.com/college-football/utah-returning-players-2025-top-3-players-will-return-kyle-whittingham-s-squad-ft-lander-barton?utm_source=openai))

- **Spencer Fano (RT) and Caleb Lomu (LT):** Both offensive linemen started every game in 2024, providing stability and protection up front. Their return ensures continuity on the offensive line. ([utahutes.com](https://utahutes.com/news/2025/2/11/utah-football-season-ticket-renewal-period-begins-today?utm_source=openai))

**Key Transfers:**

- **Devon Dampier (QB):** Transferring from New Mexico, Dampier brings a dual-threat capability, having amassed 2,768 passing yards and 1,166 rushing yards in 2024. His familiarity with offensive coordinator Jason Beck's system is expected to facilitate a smooth transition. ([collegefootballnetwork.com](https://collegefootballnetwork.com/utah-2025-football-schedule/?utm_source=openai))

- **Wayshawn Parker (RB):** Joining from Washington State, Parker contributed 735 rushing yards and four touchdowns in 2024. His addition adds depth and versatility to the backfield. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayshawn_Parker?utm_source=openai))

- **Nate Johnson (QB):** A transfer from Vanderbilt, Johnson adds competition and depth to the quarterback position. ([deseret.com](https://www.deseret.com/sports/2024/12/04/utah-utes-football-2025-roster-transfer-portal-tracker/?utm_source=openai))

The Utes' 2025 schedule features a mix of non-conference and Big 12 matchups:

- **Aug. 30:** at UCLA
- **Sept. 6:** vs. Cal Poly
- **Sept. 13:** at Wyoming
- **Sept. 20:** vs. Texas Tech
- **Sept. 27:** at West Virginia
- **Oct. 11:** vs. Arizona State
- **Oct. 18:** at BYU
- **Oct. 25:** vs. Colorado
- **Nov. 1:** vs. Cincinnati
- **Nov. 15:** at Baylor
- **Nov. 22:** vs. Kansas State
- **Nov. 28/29:** at Kansas

**Season Outlook and Win/Loss Projection:**

With the integration of a new offensive coordinator and quarterback, the Utes may face initial challenges in establishing offensive cohesion. However, the return of key defensive players and experienced linemen provides a solid foundation. Considering the competitive nature of the Big 12 and the team's recent 5-7 record in 2024, a realistic projection for the 2025 season would be an improvement to a 7-5 record. This would signify progress and set the stage for future success under the current coaching regime.

For more details on the upcoming season, including ticket information and updates, visit the official Utah Utes website. ([utahutes.com](https://utahutes.com/news/2025/2/11/utah-football-season-ticket-renewal-period-begins-today?utm_source=openai))

Here's an AI look at UNI for the coming football season:

The University of Northern Iowa (UNI) Panthers football team is entering the 2025 season under new leadership, with Todd Stepsis taking over as head coach following the retirement of long-time coach Mark Farley. Stepsis brings a wealth of experience, having previously served as the head coach at Drake University from 2019 to 2024.

**Notable Players and Transfers:**

The Panthers have bolstered their roster with a mix of returning talent and new additions. The 2025 signing class includes several promising athletes:

- **Jack Vinyard (DL):** A two-time all-conference athlete from Waukee Northwest High School in Iowa.

- **Tiernan Vokes (TE):** A versatile player from Grundy Center High School, contributing to three consecutive Class 1A state championships.

- **Wyatt Young (DL):** A standout from George Washington High School in Cedar Rapids, leading Iowa's 5A in tackles for loss and sacks.

Additionally, the team has secured transfers to strengthen key positions:

- **Jamarion Augustus (DL):** Transferred from Highland Community College, bringing added depth to the defensive line.

- **Ryan Crandall (LB):** A transfer from Western Illinois, expected to make an immediate impact on defense.

- **Bill Jackson (RB):** Joining from Tulsa, Jackson adds experience and versatility to the backfield.


The Panthers' 2025 schedule features a mix of non-conference and Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC) matchups:

- **Aug. 30:** vs. Butler (Home)

- **Sep. 6:** at Wyoming

- **Sep. 13:** vs. Eastern Washington (Home)

- **Sep. 20:** at Utah Tech

- **Oct. 4:** vs. North Dakota (Home)

- **Oct. 11:** at South Dakota State

- **Oct. 18:** vs. South Dakota (Home)

- **Oct. 25:** at Southern Illinois

- **Nov. 1:** at Illinois State

- **Nov. 8:** vs. Murray State (Home)

- **Nov. 15:** at North Dakota State

- **Nov. 22:** vs. Youngstown State (Home)

**Season Outlook and Win/Loss Projection:**

Transitioning to a new coaching staff often presents challenges, but Coach Stepsis' proven track record suggests a positive trajectory for the program. The infusion of new talent, combined with returning players, provides a solid foundation. Considering the competitive nature of the MVFC and the team's recent 3-9 record in 2024, a realistic projection for the 2025 season would be an improvement to a 6-6 record. This would signify progress and set the stage for future success under the new coaching regime.

For more details on the upcoming season, including ticket information and updates, visit the official UNI Panthers website. ([unipanthers.com](https://unipanthers.com/sports/football/schedule/?utm_source=openai))

As an experiment I thought I'd run AI assessments of Wyoming's 2025 Football Opponents. First up, The Akron Zips:

Akron's football team faces a challenging 2025 season due to an academic ineligibility for postseason play. They were handed a bowl ban for the 2025 season after failing to meet the NCAA's Academic Progress Rate (APR) standards. While the team can still compete in regular season games, they will not be eligible to participate in any bowl games. This situation significantly impacts the team's motivation and overall prospects for the season, despite potential improvements in recruiting and player development.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

• Postseason Ban:
  The most significant factor impacting Akron's 2025 prospects is their ineligibility for the postseason. This means they cannot compete in a bowl game, even if they have a successful regular season record.
  
  
• Academic Issues:
  The ineligibility stems from a failing APR score for the 2023-24 academic year, specifically a multi-year rate of 914 and a single-year rate of 920. The NCAA requires a minimum multi-year rate of 930 for postseason eligibility.
  
  
• Recruiting and Player Development:
  Despite the postseason ban, Akron's recruiting efforts are ongoing. They have several incoming transfers and high school commits, including notable players like DJ Stepney, Michael Johnson Jr., and Cameron Monteiro. This suggests that the team is still working to improve its roster and player talent for the future.
  
  
• Impact on Motivation:
  The postseason ban could negatively impact player motivation and team morale throughout the season. The lack of a bowl game opportunity, a common goal for college football teams, could be a significant setback.
  
  
• Regular Season Performance:
  While the postseason is off the table, the team can still focus on improving their regular season record and performance in the Mid-American Conference (MAC).
  

In summary, while Akron's football team faces a major setback with the postseason ban, they are still actively recruiting and developing players for the future. The lack of a bowl game opportunity will be a major challenge, but the team can still strive to improve their performance in the MAC and build towards future success.

If They Can Do It Why Can’t We?



Go Pokes