As the 2025 college football season creeps closer, you can feel the buzz building. Fans and analysts are already tossing around predictions about breakout players, draft hopefuls, and which teams might shake things up.
On the latest episode of The McShay Show, Todd McShay and Steve Muench take a closer look at what’s coming. They get into everything from Arch Manning’s next steps to the biggest transfer moves and early guesses for the 2026 NFL Draft. If you’re a college football junkie, you’ll want to tune in for their take.
Arch Manning’s Future at Texas
Arch Manning’s future is on everyone’s mind lately. Todd McShay points out that Archie’s grandson, a top quarterback recruit, plans to play at Texas next year.
That move has set off a wave of speculation about what Manning could mean for the Longhorns and how he might shape his own NFL path.
Impact on Texas Longhorns
Manning’s decision to join Texas could totally change the team’s outlook. With his skills and family legacy, fans are hoping he’ll push the Longhorns to another level.
Everyone’s eager to see how he’ll fit into the team’s plans and what kind of spark he can bring on game day.
Potential NFL Draft Implications
It’s hard not to think ahead to the NFL when you talk about Manning. Scouts and analysts will have their eyes glued to his performance at Texas.
He’s already on the radar as a possible top pick down the road, though it’s still early to say for sure.
Biggest Transfer Portal Additions
The transfer portal keeps shaking up college football, letting players find new homes and fresh starts. McShay and Muench point out some transfers this season that could really move the needle for their new teams.
Key Players to Watch
Some transfers are making headlines for good reason:
- Quarterbacks: When top QBs switch schools, it can flip the script for a whole conference. Watch for those chasing more playing time or a better fit.
- Defensive Stars: Defensive players looking for a bigger stage could make a name for themselves and boost their draft chances.
2026 NFL Draft Odds
Yeah, it’s early, but people are already chatting about the 2026 NFL Draft. McShay shares his thoughts on who’s climbing up the list for the top pick.
Top Contenders
Some names are already getting buzz:
- Quarterbacks: No surprise—QBs with big arms and leadership skills usually headline draft talk.
- Defensive Standouts: Dominant defenders can work their way into those top spots too.
Top Quarterbacks in Next Year’s Draft
McShay and Muench also break down the quarterbacks who might headline next year’s draft. These guys have shown flashes of brilliance and poise under pressure.
Notable Names
Quarterbacks to keep tabs on include:
- Experienced Leaders: Those who’ve been steady and calm when it counts will draw attention.
- Rising Stars: Younger QBs who might just be hitting their stride and could surprise everyone.
Does an Experienced QB Matter?
The old debate about quarterback experience just won’t die. McShay and Muench go back and forth on whether an experienced signal-caller is really the key to winning.
Pros and Cons
Both sides have their points:
- Pro: A veteran QB can steady the ship and lead through tough stretches.
- Con: But sometimes, a fresh face brings a spark and shakes things up in ways nobody saw coming.
Will the Committee Value Strength of Schedule More?
Another hot topic: will the selection committee finally care more about strength of schedule when picking playoff teams?
Implications for Teams
If they do, teams might need to rethink their non-conference games and schedule tougher matchups. That could mean some wild early-season showdowns and maybe a fairer shot at ranking teams.
LSU Poised to Take Over the SEC?
LSU’s getting a lot of chatter as a possible SEC powerhouse this season. McShay and Muench dig into whether the Tigers have what it takes to run the table.
Key Factors
LSU’s chances might hinge on a couple of things:
- Strong Recruiting: Landing top recruits never hurts.
- Coaching: Smart coaching moves and quick adjustments could make all the difference.
Texas Tech’s Big 12 Contention
Texas Tech is another team that’s hard to ignore right now. McShay and Muench talk about what could help them make a real run at the Big 12 title.
Team Strengths
The Red Raiders have a few things going for them:
- Offensive Firepower: If their offense clicks, they could light up the scoreboard.
- Defensive Improvements: Tightening up on defense could be the missing piece.
Oklahoma’s Improved Offense
Oklahoma’s offense is expected to look a lot better this year. McShay and Muench break down what’s changed and how it might play out.
Offensive Upgrades
Some key upgrades stand out:
- Quarterback Play: Better QB play could push them up the standings.
- Playmaking Abilities: Adding players who can break a game wide open always helps.
Exciting Big Ten Newcomers
The Big Ten has some fresh faces stirring up excitement. McShay and Muench spotlight a few players and teams that might surprise people.
Standout Players
Names to remember:
- Freshman Phenoms: Some first-year players could make noise right away.
- Transfer Additions: Transfers who are eager to prove themselves are worth watching.
SEC Playmakers
The SEC just keeps pumping out game-changers. McShay and Muench highlight the players who could tip the scales this season.
Key Contributors
Watch for these types:
- Offensive Stars: Guys who can score from anywhere are always fun to watch.
- Defensive Stalwarts: Defenders who can flip momentum in a heartbeat.
Teams Needing a Strong Start
Some teams really can’t afford to stumble out of the gate this year. McShay and Muench toss around a few names that need to hit the ground running if they want to reach their goals.
Critical Early Games
The early part of the season really matters for these teams.
- Key Matchups: Those first few games against tough opponents? They can show us what a team is actually made of.
- Building Confidence: If a team grabs some early wins, you can bet their confidence goes up. That kind of momentum often sticks around for a while.
Want more analysis and some honest takes? Check out The McShay Show. And if you’re into it, you can subscribe to The McShay Report for Todd McShay’s newsletter all season long.
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