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CFB Insider

Rodeo Bowl Triumphs, Transfer Portal Turns

Crowned by Sports Illustrated as "unassailably the best bowl week diversion," the 2022 Rodeo Bowl presented by Kroger took home the esteemed "Best Event Award" at the Bowl Season Awards during the industry's annual conference.

As the Rodeo Bowl basks in its well-deserved accolade, the college football world gears up for the spring transfer portal, which brings with it the potential for significant changes in teams' dynamics.

The annual migration of college football players in search of new opportunities is in full swing, and the sport is bracing for the ripple effects these changes will have.

The spring transfer portal, which opened on April 15, provides 15 days for athletes to seek fresh horizons and for programs to reinforce their squads.

The portal has become a focal point of excitement this season, sending tremors through the college football world as star players embark on bold new journeys.

Among the early transfers, former Michigan Wolverines' starting quarterback Cade McNamara has bid farewell to Ann Arbor for a fresh start with the Iowa Hawkeyes. 

McNamara's move comes after a mixed-success season at Michigan, and the change of scenery could be the catalyst he needs to thrive truly.

In another attention-grabbing move, DJ Uiagalelei, once considered Trevor Lawrence's successor at Clemson, has opted to leave the renowned program for new opportunities at Oregon State.

The highly sought-after quarterback's decision holds the potential to disrupt the Pac-12 and establish the Beavers as a formidable presence on the national stage.

As the spring transfer portal spins, college football fans and analysts eagerly anticipate more announcements. With additional high-profile players expected to reveal their decisions in the coming days, the impact of this year's portal will undoubtedly reshape the sport's landscape and set the stage for an exciting and unpredictable 2023 season.

Here's a list of some players who have decided to enter the transfer portal and attend a new school this fall:

1. WR Jordan Hudson, TCU

2. CB Bobby Taylor, Texas A&M

3. DB Jahquez Robinson, Alabama

4. DT Tywone Malone, Ole Miss

5. TE Elijah Brown, Alabama

6. RB Sy'Veon Wilkerson, Jackson State

7. LB Brenden Grant, Florida State

8. CB Jalil Tucker, Oregon

9. WR Brenen Thompson, Texas

10. DB Jaden Davis, Oklahoma

 

Press Release

TaxAct Texas Bowl Gives Record Annual Donation to DePelchin Children’s Center

TaxAct Texas Bowl Surpasses $2.3 Million in Total Giving

HOUSTON – Today, the TaxAct Texas Bowl announced a $225,000 donation to DePelchin Children's Center, setting a record for a single-year contribution from the Bowl. Since selecting DePelchin Children’s Center as its charitable beneficiary in 2006, the Bowl has provided over $2.3 million in direct financial support and millions more in promotional support. This is the eleventh-straight year the Bowl has provided a gift of $100,000 or more. 

The Bowl presented the check to Jenifer Jarriel, President and CEO of DePelchin Children’s Center at their Houston Main Campus. 

“On behalf of the board, staff, and families served at DePelchin Children's Center, we are so thankful for our long-standing partnership with the TaxAct Texas Bowl,” said Jarriel. “Over the last seventeen years, our friends at the Bowl have not only provided more than $2.3 million dollars to support and sustain children in our community, but they have given families memories that will last a lifetime by hosting fun events and gameday experiences. We are excited to see what more is to come from our amazing partnership.”

TaxAct Texas Bowl Board of Directors Chair, and Senior Vice President and Market Manager for Audacy Houston Sarah Frazier spearheaded fundraising efforts over the last year. 

“We are excited to add to the TaxAct Texas Bowl’s legacy of supporting DePelchin Children’s Center,” said Frazier. “The team at DePelchin provides vital services to our community that strengthen families and create opportunities for children across Texas to meet their fullest potential. I am thankful for the support from our partners, fans, and my fellow board members who made this donation possible.” 

Beyond financial and promotional support, the TaxAct Texas Bowl provides once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to families within the DePelchin network including field days with participating teams, tickets to the game, and on-field recognition. 

“Our ability to directly put a smile on the face of children from across the Houston-area is one of the most rewarding pieces of our partnership,” said TaxAct Texas Bowl Executive Director David Fletcher. “It is a treat to see the kids interact with student-athletes and establish new role models. I look forward to building on these initiatives for years to come.”

Founded in 1892 by Kezia Payne DePelchin, DePelchin Children’s Center is an accredited foster care and adoption agency serving the most vulnerable children and families in Texas and working to break the cycles of abuse and neglect. DePelchin’s approach to caring for kids integrates at-risk prevention, foster care, adoption and post-adoption programs to improve the mental health and physical well-being of children who are at risk of entering or are in the State’s child welfare system.

The 2022 TaxAct Texas Bowl matched the Texas Tech Red Raiders against the Ole Miss Rebels in the ninth year of the Bowl’s partnership with the Big 12 and the SEC. Texas Tech won 42-25 to cap off an eight-win season in HC Joey McGuire’s first campaign at the helm for the Red Raiders.

About the TaxAct Texas Bowl

The TaxAct Texas Bowl is owned and operated by ESPN Events and managed locally by Lone Star Sports & Entertainment. The Bowl annually showcases teams from the Big 12 and the SEC, two of the country’s premier athletic conferences. Through the years, the TaxAct Texas Bowl has been a tremendous success both on and off the field. Since 2014 the game is the most attended Bowl in the country outside of the “New Year’s 6” games.  The Bowl has also generated an average of $40 million annually for the Houston economy and has contributed over $2.3 million in financial support to DePelchin Children’s Center, The Bowl’s official charitable beneficiary and one of the oldest children’s organizations in the city.

 

 

 

CFB Insider

2023 Unleashed: College Football's Spring Blitz

As college football enthusiasts eagerly await the return of their favorite pastime, they can finally celebrate the start of spring practice, signaling the countdown to much-anticipated spring games. 

These annual showdowns provide a sneak peek into the 2023 season, unveiling the potential and promise of new and returning players. 

Missouri was the first from the Power Five to hit the gridiron when they took the field on March 18. 

Spectators were treated to an early look at the Tigers' restructured roster and a preview of the team's prospects for the upcoming season. 

The remaining Power Five teams are slated to follow suit throughout April, presenting their lineups and providing fans with an exhilarating preview of the forthcoming season.

BYU and four other Big 12 programs began preparations for the 2023 season last week, while the remaining nine schools commenced spring practices this week. 

These games present an opportunity for athletes to showcase their abilities and contend for starting positions. 

Concurrently, the coaching staff can assess their rosters and make critical determinations before the 2023 season.

As spring games transpire nationwide, fans can stay engaged by tuning in to various available television and streaming options. 

So don't miss out on the action - check out the times below to see when the SEC and Big 12 kick off their spring games and the corresponding viewing times!

Big 12

TEAM DATE TIME (CST) CHANNEL
Baylor Saturday, April 22 12 p.m. ESPN+
Iowa State Saturday, April 22 11 a.m. --
Kansas Friday, April 7 7 p.m. --
Kansas State Saturday, April 15 -- --
Oklahoma Saturday, April 22 2:30 p.m. ESPN+
Oklahoma State None -- --
TCU Saturday, April 15 -- --
Texas Saturday, April 22 1 p.m. --
Texas Tech Saturday, April 22 12 p.m. ESPN+
West Virgina Saturday, April 22 12 p.m. ESPN+

 

SEC

TEAM DATE TIME (CST) CHANNEL
Alabama Saturday, April 22 2 p.m. SEC Network+
Arkansas Saturday, April 15 12 p.m. SEC Network+
Auburn Saturday, April 8 1 p.m. SEC Network+
Florida Thursday, April 13 6:30 p.m. SEC Network+
Georgia Saturday, April 15 3 p.m. ESPN2
Kentucky  None -- --
LSU Saturday, April 15 1 p.m. SEC Network+
Mississippi Saturday, April 15 2 p.m. SEC Network+
Mississippi State Saturday, April 15 12 p.m. SEC Network+
Missouri Saturday, March 18 11 a.m. SEC Network+
South Carolina Saturday, April 15 7 p.m. SEC Network+
Tennesse Saturday, April 15 2:30 p.m. SEC Network+
Texas A&M Saturday, April 15 4 p.m. SEC Network+
Vanderbilt Saturday, April 8 6 p.m. SEC Network+

 

CFB Insider

New Year, New Players, New Possibilities

As spring practice draws near, the stage is set for the best incoming prospects to showcase their skills and stand out from the crowd.

 

So, it's no surprise that college football has adopted the "what have you done for me lately" mentality in 2023, reflecting the impressive impact of highly skilled transfers and first-year players in the 2022 season.

 

The transfer portal has become a goldmine for college football programs, providing an influx of talented and experienced players that can help coaches revamp their rosters. 

 

One position, the quarterback, has seen a major shakeup as many new signal-callers have found their way to different programs. As a result, the college football landscape is transforming as coaches aim to put their teams in the best position to succeed.

 

As fans eagerly await the start of the upcoming season, here are some of the standout newcomers to keep an eye on:

 

Alabama Crimson Tide

 

As Alabama football sets its sights on the 2023 season, fans of the Roll Tide can look forward to a new era of dominant offense. Coach Saban and his team have added three explosive weapons to their arsenal in the form of the top two running backs of the 2023 class, Richard Young and Justice Haynes. The Tide have also added five-star offensive lineman Kadyn Proctor and a new quarterback. With a potential emphasis on the running game, Young and Haynes could shine and be formidable forces on the field.

 

TCU Horned Frogs

 

The TCU Horned Frogs faced some significant losses this off-season, with key players such as QB Max Duggan, WR Quentin Johnston, and CB Tre'vius Hodges-Tomlinson departing the team. However, TCU is determined to build on the momentum from its successful 2022 season and has set its sights on acquiring top talent. The Horned Frogs have made a strong statement by landing six transfers from the SEC, including three from powerhouse program Alabama. This impressive haul consists of the highly touted JoJo Earle, a 5-9 wideout and kick returner rated No. 73 in the 2021 ESPN 300. With this talented addition, TCU aims to sign its highest-rated recruiting class in recent history, solidifying its position as a dominant force in the Big 12.

 

Texas Longhorns

 

Longhorn Nation is in high spirits after securing a commitment from one of the nation'snation's premier quarterbacks, Arch Manning, in July. Despite the transfer portal leading to talent departures from other programs, Manning's arrival has energized fans and heightened anticipation for the talented prospects joining the squad in the upcoming season. One such prospect is the 2023 class's top-rated linebacker, Anthony Hill, who sits at No. 16 in the ESPN 300 rankings. The combination of Hill's skills and Manning's talent has Longhorn fans eagerly awaiting the start of the new season.

 

LSU Tigers

 

As the LSU Tigers look to bounce back from a heartbreaking loss in the SEC championship game, they have moved to address a key weakness on their roster. The transfer portal has proven to be a valuable resource for college football programs, and LSU has taken advantage of it by adding two talented cornerbacks to the roster. Denver Harris, ranked No. 5 in the 2022 class, brings a wealth of experience to the secondary, having made an impact as a true freshman at Texas A&M. And Chestnut, a former Freshman All-American at Syracuse, has proven himself over two seasons with 83 tackles, four interceptions, and nine passes defended in 24 games. These two transfers could play a significant role in helping the Tigers reach their goals for the 2023 season.

CFB Insider

Top Quarterbacks Who Will Return for Another Season

The 2022-23 Bowl Season was a thrilling ride from start to finish, with shocking upsets and incredible performances that left fans on the edge of their seats.

These electrifying moments on the field had fans cheering and sent the draft stock of many players soaring as they solidified themselves as top prospects for the upcoming NFL Draft.

Ohio State's quarterback CJ Stroud, Georgia's defensive tackle Jalen Carter, and Alabama's quarterback Bryce Young are just a few of the players who declared for the draft. 

Still, there are just as many who did not.

As a result, some fan bases will see their quarterback return for another college football season as they put off professional aspirations for a year to hone their skills and improve their draft prospects. 

Here are the top 5 QBs who were draft eligible and will be returning for the 2023-24 season:

1. Michael Penix Jr., Washington

2022 stats: 362-for-554, 4,641 yards, 31 TDs, 92 rushing yards, 4 rushing TDs

Transferring to Washington, he earned the position and had a phenomenal season under new coach Kalen DeBoer after being hired. With two 1,000-yard receivers back in Rome Odunze and Jalen McMillan, the Huskies might surpass their national-leading 370 passing yards per game from this season.

2. Bo Nix, Oregon

2022 stats: 294-for-409, 3,593 yards, 29 TDs, 510 rushing yards, 14 rushing TDs

Nix was a candidate for the Heisman Trophy and kept the Ducks in playoff contention for the whole of the season. Nix topped all quarterbacks with 14 running touchdowns and drove Oregon's sixth-ranked offense.

3. Jordan Travis, Florida State

2022 stats: 226-for-353, 3,214 yards, 24 TDs, 417 rushing yards, 7 TDs

Travis, a dynamic runner and efficient thrower led FSU to 10 wins for the first time since 2016. His performance earned him second-team All-ACC honors, putting him in a prime position for the 2024 NFL Draft.

4. Jayden Daniels, LSU

2022 stats: 266-for-388, 2,913 yards, 17 TDs, 885 rushing yards, 11 rushing TDs

Although his throwing statistics under Brian Kelly were almost identical to those of his rookie year, he nearly quadrupled his running production and led LSU to the SEC West championship. For him, his last year of college football might be his most significant and put him in a prime position for the 2024 NFL Draft.

5. Sam Hartman, Notre Dame

2022 stats: 270-for-428, 3,701 yards, 38 TDs, 129 rushing yards, 1 rushing TD

In five seasons at Wake Forest, Hartman established the ACC career touchdown pass record (108) and was No. 2 in career passing yards (12,967). He transferred to Notre Dame and started the 2023 season with the longest active touchdown throw streak at 30. Hartman will play behind a veteran line and a robust set of running backs at 24 years old.

It's shaping up to be another exciting year of college football, and these players will be the ones to watch as they vie for a spot in the NFL.

CFB Insider

Top QB's in the Transfer Portal

Following NCAA changes to transfer rules and eligibility, the transfer portal has become massive over the past couple of years. The addition of NIL opportunities convinces players that there may be a better spot for them. There are currently over 1,200 college football players in the portal today. The portal can be a blessing or a curse, as 43% of all NCAA athletes don't land at a new school for their sport. We will be diving into the top college football quarterbacks in the transfer portal, who shouldn't have any issue finding their new homes. 

DJ Uiagalelei, Clemson

DJ Uiagalelei, one of the nation's top prospects when he started his career at Clemson University, entered the transfer portal after an underwhelming performance this past season. The junior, originally from Inland Empire, California, ended the regular season with a 31-30 loss to the University of South Carolina. Questions about transferring were brought up throughout the season, especially when he was benched after a disappointing first two possessions in the ACC Championship game against UNC-Chapel Hill, going 3-and-out twice in a row. However, his backup, Cade Klubnik, had a stellar performance, going 20-of-24 for 309 total yards and scoring two touchdowns, and that performance solidified Uiagalelei's transfer decision. Uiagalelei is expected to go somewhere out west and completed an unofficial visit to UCLA this past week. Other contenders for final destinations for the player with two more years of eligibility include Notre Dame, Oregon, and Arizona State.

Devin Leary, NC State

At the beginning of this past football season, Leary was projected to be a top quarterback in the ACC. However, a midseason injury, specifically a torn pectoral muscle on his right side, left him on the sidelines for the remainder of his season. The junior from New Jersey initially held a fourth or fifth-round NFL draft grade going into the season but has since decreased in rankings. He will now be a grad transfer student using his sixth year of eligibility. Leary, the ACC Preseason Player of the Year, generated a lot of buzz surrounding his passing game and ability to be a fantastic leader and play caller. He is a top-rated player in the transfer portal at this time. In the 2021 season, the year before his injury, he threw 35 touchdowns, racked up 3,433 passing yards, and had two rushing touchdowns of his own. It does not seem he will have a shortage of transfer options, and he has reportedly been in contact with Kentucky, Auburn, and Missouri. 

Grayson McCall, Coastal Carolina

One of the surprises of the transfer portal this season has been Grayson McCall, the rising senior and first-ever three-time Sun Belt Player of the Year. His entrance into the portal from Coastal Carolina comes after his former head coach Jamey Chadwell transferred to Liberty University to fill their head coaching position. The North Carolina native is one of the top players in the portal, who finished his Coastal Carolina career with 8,019 passing yards,78 touchdowns, 8 interceptions, a 70.4% pass completion rating, and averaged 10.3 yards per attempt. Often called "the most productive QB in the portal," McCall was a finalist for the Manning Award, a semifinalist for the Davey O'Brien National Quarterback Award, and was the conference Freshman of the Year. With numbers and awards like that, many schools are expressing interest, including Liberty, NC State, Auburn, Florida, and Oregon.

Hudson Card, Texas

With Arch Manning, one of the nation's top recruiting prospects, committed to the University of Texas, Texas football has depth in its offense that did not give Card a lot of future playing time. Card started five games during his three years with the Longhorns and made show promise within his performance, but he was benched this past season behind current starting QB Quinn Ewers. The Texas-raised quarterback will enter his next destination as a redshirt junior but has up to three years of remaining eligibility due to NCAA-granted waivers. The former ESPN top-40 recruit threw for 1,523 yards and 11 touchdowns in the past two seasons, on top of a very promising high school career. His top destinations appear to be TCU, Notre Dame, and Wisconsin, but his agility and high completion percentage have prepared him for many programs. 

Donovan Smith, Texas Tech

Smith, a native of Texas, entered the transfer portal with a couple more seasons of eligibility, and he was a pivotal contributor to Texas Tech's bowl eligibility this past season. The Red Raiders will face Ole Miss in the TaxAct Texas Bowl. The sophomore quarterback played 21 games for the Red Raiders, finishing his Texas Tech career with a 64.2% completion percentage, going 231/360 for 2686 yards, 19 touchdowns, and only 10 interceptions. Smith led the Red Raiders to a few wins throughout the season, including the thrilling overtime win against their rival Longhorns, but was eventually sent to the bench behind starting senior QB Tyler Shough. Despite some inconsistency issues with his performance, Smith will make a great addition to any program, and the top contenders right now include NC State, Notre Dame, Boston College, and Boise State. 

 

Press Release

TIMPSON HIGH SCHOOL ATH TERRY BUSSEY ANNOUNCED AS 2022 MR. TEXAS FOOTBALL

HOUSTON – Dave Campbell’s Texas Football, the leading publication for all things football in Texas, and the TaxAct Texas Bowl are proud to announce Timpson High School ATH Terry Bussey as the recipient of the 2022 Mr. Texas Football High School Player of the Year Award presented by Kroger. Bussey will be honored on the field at the TaxAct Texas Bowl on Wednesday, December 28, at NRG Stadium in Houston, where the Texas Tech Red Raiders will face the Ole Miss Rebels.

Mr. Texas Football annually recognizes the most outstanding high school football player in the state of Texas. As a longtime partner of the TaxAct Texas Bowl and a proud supporter of Texas high school football, Kroger is proud to team up with Mr. Texas Football as the award’s presenting partner this year.

A three-way superstar, Bussey made his impact felt on seemingly every play. As a quarterback, the junior threw for 2,177 yards and 26 touchdowns, completing 64 percent of his passes. Bussey also rushed for 2,596 yards and 46 touchdowns, averaging a staggering 14.1 yards per carry. Defensively, he tallied 115 tackles and five interceptions, returning four of them for touchdowns. On special teams, Bussey returned three kickoffs for touchdowns and added a punt return for a score. Over the course of the season, Bussey accounted for 4,773 yards of total offense and 80 total touchdowns, guiding Timpson to the 2A Division I state semifinals.

Bussey is rated as a Dave Campbell’s Texas Football four-star prospect, checking in as the state’s No. 1 ATH in the 2024 cycle. He already boasts several offers from schools, including Baylor, Houston, SMU, TCU, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, UTSA, Colorado, Kansas State, Oklahoma and Oregon.

Previous recipients of the award include 2018 Heisman Trophy winner and No. 1 overall pick QB Kyler Murray (2013 and 2014, Allen), 2012 Heisman Trophy winner QB Johnny Manziel (2010, Kerrville Tivy), former Texas Longhorns RB Johnathan Gray (2011, Aledo), former Tampa Bay Buccaneers RB Jacquizz Rodgers (2007, Lamar Consolidated), current Oklahoma State QB Spencer Sanders (2017, Denton Ryan) and former Dallas Cowboys QB Garrett Gilbert (2008, Lake Travis). Former China Spring quarterback and current Lamar University RB Major Bowden took home the award in 2021.

The TaxAct Texas Bowl will continue its annual tradition of pinning the Big 12 against the SEC, with tickets available at TaxActTexasBowl.com. 

For more information on the Mr. Texas Football Award presented by Kroger, visit TaxActTexasBowl.com or TexasFootball.com.

About the TaxAct Texas Bowl

The TaxAct Texas Bowl is owned and operated by ESPN Events and managed locally by Lone Star Sports & Entertainment. The Bowl annually showcases teams from the Big 12 and the SEC, two of the country’s premier athletic conferences. Through the years, the TaxAct Texas Bowl has been a tremendous success both on and off the field. Since 2014 the game is the most attended Bowl in the country outside of the “New Year’s 6” games.  The bowl has also generated an average of $40 million annually for the Houston economy and has contributed over $2.1 million in financial support to DePelchin Children’s Center, The Bowl’s official charitable beneficiary and one of the oldest children’s organizations in the city.

About Dave Campbell’s Texas Football

For more than 62 years, Dave Campbell’s Texas Football has been “the bible” to millions of football fans across the Lone Star State. The annual summer edition of the magazine remains a rite of passage for all Texans, previewing every football team in the state — from the rabid world of Texas high school football, through the college ranks, and into the Dallas Cowboys and the Houston Texans. Over the course of six decades, Dave Campbell’s Texas Football remains the undisputed leader in Texas high school football, Texas college football and more.

TexasFootball.com is the online home of Dave Campbell’s Texas Football, covering high school football, college football and recruiting across the Lone Star State. From thought-provoking commentary to videos to podcasts to its daily live show, nobody covers football in Texas like TexasFootball.com.

About Kroger

At The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR), we are dedicated to our Purpose: to Feed the Human Spirit™. We are, across our family of companies, nearly half a million associates who serve over nine million customers daily through a seamless digital shopping experience and 2,800 retail food stores under a variety of banner names, serving America through food inspiration and uplift, and creating #ZeroHungerZeroWaste communities by 2025. To learn more about us, visit our newsroom and investor relations site.

CFB Insider

Texas Bowl Analysis and Prediction

Ole Miss and Texas Tech will square off in the TaxAct Texas Bowl on December 28, 2022, at NRG Stadium. 

Texas Tech

The Red Raiders come to town with a 7-5 record after going 5-4 in Big 12 under first-year coach Joey McGuire. However, the team is coming off a three-game win streak and looking to finish the season strong. For Texas Tech, this was not their first rodeo: they had previously appeared in the Texas Bowl in 2015 and are eager to claim this victory this year.

Unfortunately, they will be without 1st team All Big 12 edge rusher Tyree Wilson as he suffered a season ending foot injury against Kansas. The Red Raiders will also be without their two-quarterback package against Ole Miss as QB Donavon Smith entered the transfer portal this past week. 

Texas Tech’s high-powered offense is averaging 459.5 total yards per game. They are led by QB Tyler Shough along with RB SaRodorick Thompson and freshman wide receiver Jerand Bradley. The Red Raiders are an impressive 7-1 over the past two years in games that Shough has started and finished. 

Ole Miss

Ole Miss comes down to the Texas Bowl for the first time in program history, following an 8-4 year and going 4-4 in the SEC. The Rebels are looking to turn things around and gain momentum into the offseason after losing 4 of their last 5. Head coach Lane Kiffin signed a 6-year contract extension in November, following rumors of him possibly filling the Auburn vacancy. 

Ole Miss this season is led by QB Jaxson Dart and SEC Freshman of the Year RB Quinshon Judkins. The team’s running attack is among the top in the nation averaging 261.6 yards per game. Running back Zach Evans (North Shore) is also a large part of the ground game. 

Prediction

The Ole Miss Rebels enter this game as 3.5-point favorites. Given the offensive dominance of both teams, it’s safe to say we can expect a very high scoring game. If Ole Miss can control the line of scrimmage with Evans, Judkins, and Dart, it could be a long night for the Red Raiders. However, Texas Tech fans could very well make this game a home field atmosphere, giving Kiffin and the team quite a challenge. Ole Miss being ranked as high as #7, before falling off to lose 4 of their last 5 concerns me. Both teams have a lot to prove and will bring a lot of energy to NRG on December 28th.

Final Score: Texas Tech 38 – Ole Miss 35

CFB Insider

Let's Talk Heisman Finalists and Notable Snubs

Monday night saw the announcement of the 2022 Heisman Trophy finalists: Georgia's Stetson Bennett, Caleb Williams of USC, TCU's Max Duggan, and Ohio State's C.J. Stroud. 

However, since some of the strongest contenders — Michigan RB Blake Corum and Tennessee QB Hendon Hooker — had their seasons cut short by injury, it's no surprise that sports experts and fans have flocked to social media to express their opinions on the nominees.

Many in the college football world feel the Heisman voting process is still faulty. 

Hooker guided Tennessee to a 10-2 record, propelling the Volunteers to the top of the College Football Playoff rankings for the first time.

In reality, the Volunteers remained in the hunt until late November, when a 63-38 defeat to South Carolina affected not only their CFP chances but also the season of QB Hendon, who suffered a torn ACL.

The same can be said for Michigan RB Blake Corum, who sustained a left knee injury against Illinois late in the first half.

Corum concluded his junior season with 247 attempts for 1,463 yards and 18 touchdowns on 247 attempts. Except for Michigan's regular-season finale against Ohio State, he rushed for at least 100 yards in every conference game. 

The four quarterback finalists, including three participating in the College Football Playoff, will be in New York this Saturday for the annual event where they will announce the 2022 Heisman Trophy winner. 

As the season wraps ups, let's look at the top three 2022 Heisman Trophy nominees:

Ohio St. QB C.J. Stroud

The lone returning finalist from 2021, Stroud concluded this season with a completion rate of 70% after passing for 44 touchdowns in his debut year as a starter in 2021. In addition to having the highest passer efficiency rating in the league, the Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year is tied with Tune and Williams for the most throwing touchdowns in college football with 37.

USC. QB Caleb Williams

Williams has over 4,000 throwing yards this season and tied for the national lead with 37 touchdown passes. And this week, the USC QB was honored as the 2022 CBS Sports Player of the Year and 2022 CBS Sports All-Star. Williams scored 11 touchdowns in USC's last three games against UCLA, Notre Dame, and Utah, all against ranked opponents. Despite USC's elimination from the CFP on Friday following a defeat to Utah in the Pac-12 title game, Williams is still the betting favorite to win the award.

TCU. QB Mac Duggan

Duggan, who led TCU to a perfect regular season, passed for 3,321 yards, 30 touchdowns, and just four interceptions this season. As the quarterback of the lone FBS team to win every game against its league opponents, Duggan edges out the competition for the No. 2 spot. The Iowa senior will lead TCU against Michigan in the Fiesta Bowl, with the winner advancing to the national championship game.

Press Release

OLE MISS AND TEXAS TECH ACCEPT BIDS TO PLAY IN TAXACT TEXAS BOWL

Tickets on Sale for 17th Edition of Houston’s Largest Annual College Football Event

HOUSTON – Ole Miss and Texas Tech have accepted bids to play in the 2022 TaxAct Texas Bowl, the bowl organizing committee announced today. The 2022 TaxAct Texas Bowl will be played at 8 p.m. CT on Wednesday, December 28, 2022, at NRG Stadium in Houston. The game will be televised nationally on ESPN with national radio on ESPN Radio and a local radio broadcast available on SportsRadio 610 (KILT-AM). Tickets and suites are now available for purchase www.taxacttexasbowl.com. 

“We are excited to announce the 2022 TaxAct Texas Bowl between the Ole Miss Rebels and Texas Tech Red Raiders, two great institutions from the SEC and Big 12, respectively,” remarked TaxAct Texas Bowl Executive Director, David Fletcher. “The Bowl is one of the largest annual events in our community and we’re thrilled to welcome Ole Miss and Texas Tech back to Houston. We look forward to hosting these teams and their fan bases for a festive bowl week of Texas-themed events that will culminate in a primetime showdown at NRG Stadium on December 28.” 

Ole Miss will represent the Southeastern Conference, while Texas Tech will represent the Big 12 Conference. The two programs have met six times before, with Ole Miss most recently earning a 47-27 victory against Texas Tech on September 1, 2018, at the Texas Kickoff in Houston. The 2022 TaxAct Texas Bowl will mark Ole Miss’ first appearance in the bowl. Texas Tech will make its third appearance in the TaxAct Texas Bowl and first since December 29, 2015, when the Red Raiders were defeated by No. 22 LSU 56-27.  

“Ole Miss and Texas Tech are two programs with tremendous fans and traditions. We look forward to celebrating their outstanding achievements this season at the TaxAct Texas Bowl,” said TaxAct President Curtis Campbell. 

Ole Miss (8-4, 4-4 SEC) comes to Houston following a campaign that had an explosive start in 2022. Lane Kiffin’s offensive prowess facilitated a rushing attack that led the SEC and ranked third in the FBS in rushing offense. The Rebels came in second in the SEC and seventh nationally in total offense. True freshman sensation RB Quinshon Judkins led the conference in rushing yards with 1,476. Judkins ranks sixth in the nation for rushing touchdowns (16), and ninth in rushing yards per game (123.0). The Rebels defense has caused problems for opposing offenses as they lead the SEC in team tackles (922) and sack yards with 253 on 33.0 sacks. 

“We look forward to making our first appearance in the TaxAct Texas Bowl and continuing our rich bowl tradition,” said Ole Miss Vice Chancellor for Intercollegiate Athletics Keith Carter. “Houston is one of our largest and most passionate alumni bases, and this game presents an excellent opportunity to join the Ole Miss family in the Lone Star state. We are grateful for this national platform, and we expect Rebel Nation to be well represented.” 

Texas Tech enters the game 7-5 (5-4 Big 12), winning their last three in a row against Kansas, Iowa State, and Oklahoma to finish fourth in the Big 12. The Red Raiders celebrated early season upsets against No. 25 Houston and No. 22 Texas in Lubbock. Texas Tech leads the Big 12 in passing yards per game, averaging over 327. The offense effectively moved the ball, ranking third in the nation for first downs. The Red Raider defense recorded a conference-high 29.0 sacks this season. Run-stuffing LB Krishon Merriweather finished second in the Big 12 for total tackles with 91. Texas Tech was staunch in the red zone, ranking ninth in the nation in defensive red zone efficiency.  

“Texas Tech is honored to accept an invitation to play in the TaxAct Texas Bowl,” said Texas Tech Director of Athletics Kirby Hocutt. “We cannot wait to showcase our football program in one of the largest alumni bases of Red Raiders in the state of Texas. We look forward to painting the city of Houston and NRG Stadium scarlet and black for an exciting matchup with Ole Miss.”  

“On behalf of our entire program, we are excited for the opportunity to play in one of the premier bowl games this state has to offer in the TaxAct Texas Bowl,” said Texas Tech head coach Joey McGuire. “Wherever the Red Raiders go, so does the most passionate fan base in all of college football. We can’t wait to see a sea of Red Raiders take over NRG Stadium as we face a talented Ole Miss team.” 

The 2022 edition of the TaxAct Texas Bowl will mark the event’s ninth year of affiliation with the Big 12 and the SEC. The 2021 game featured Kansas State and LSU with the Wildcats emerging victorious 42-20. Kansas State senior QB Skylar Thompson was recognized with MVP honors following a three-touchdown performance. 

Entering its 17th year, the TaxAct Texas Bowl is owned and operated by ESPN Events, a division of ESPN, and managed locally by Lone Star Sports & Entertainment, an event management company founded in 2003 that is closely affiliated with the NFL’s Houston Texans. Since 2016, the TaxAct Texas Bowl has the fifth-highest attendance among all college football bowls, trailing only the Rose, Peach, Fiesta and Orange bowls. The TaxAct Texas Bowl and its sister event, the Texas Kickoff, have combined to create an economic impact of close to $80 million annually for the city of Houston while raising over $2.1 million in financial support and millions more in promotional support for DePelchin Children’s Center, Houston’s oldest children’s charity and the bowl’s official charitable beneficiary. 

For more information about the game and affiliated Bowl Week activities, fans can visit www.taxacttexasbowl.com or follow along on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter. 

About TaxAct 

TaxAct is a savvy, tax-filing solution that provides filers with affordable DIY tax software to successfully navigate the U.S. tax code. As a pioneer in the industry, TaxAct’s products enable all users – regardless of profession, tax bracket or complexity of their return – to quickly and accurately file their taxes all while discovering new ways to leverage their tax situation and improve their financial well-being. At TaxAct, taxes are our expertise, but we don’t see them as the end goal. Rather, we believe taxes are a stepping-stone to possibility. Possibilities that are unique as every filer. Possibilities that help each hardworking American not only claim the money they deserve but also enable them to make smart money decisions. We deliver the power of possibility through straightforward technology to help filers secure their best tax outcome and elevate their financial lives. 

To learn more about TaxAct, a business of Blucora, Inc. (NASDAQ: BCOR), visit www.taxact.com or connect with us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter. For more information on Blucora, visit www.blucora.com. 

About ESPN Events  

ESPN Events, a division of ESPN, owns and operates a portfolio of collegiate sporting events nationwide. In 2022, the 32-event schedule includes three early-season college football kickoff games, 17 college bowl games, 11 college basketball events, and a college softball event, which account for approximately 400 hours of live programming, while reaching nearly 64 million viewers and attracting over 800,000 annual attendees. With satellite offices in more than 10 cities across the country, ESPN Events builds relationships with conferences, schools and local communities, as well as providing unique experiences for teams and fans. For more information, visit the official website, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube pages. 

Lone Star Sports & Entertainment 

Lone Star Sports & Entertainment is an event management company founded in 2003 that is closely affiliated with the NFL’s Houston Texans. Since its founding, LSSE has established itself as the leading sports event promoter in Houston. In addition to producing annual college football events such as the TaxAct Texas Bowl and the Battle of the Piney Woods rivalry between Sam Houston and Stephen F. Austin, LSSE has emerged as a premier promoter for international soccer matches, including the Copa de Lone Star, Copa America Centenario, the 2010 MLS All-Star Game featuring Manchester United, the 2006 FC Barcelona U.S. tour, the International Champions Cup, the 2003 and 2008 matches between the United States and Mexico, and the 2005, 2007, 2009, 2011, 2019 and 2021 CONCACAF Gold Cups.