As we reach the end of the offseason and start up one of the best times of the year, we take a look at some teams that are on the bid for upsets. Let’s dive into some of the most intriguing games of the first weekend.

Upset Alert:

Maryland at #23 Texas

One of the first games of the new season features Texas, and again it is “their year”. For new head coach Tom Herman, it’s not a question about when/if they will win, it’s more a demand of winning now. Texas is the overwhelming favorite, but look for Maryland to spread the ball around, and use speed to their advantage. Texas pulls away with a late field goal and wins by three, but the upset scare will still be there.

Toss-up of the week:

#11 Michigan vs. #17 Florida

This game might as well be decided by the flip of a coin. According to ESPN’s Football Power Index, Michigan is favored by .5%. Not even a whole percentage separates the two teams’ odds. These numbers may be different if Florida star wide out Antonio Callaway would be suiting up, but Florida isn’t the only team with question marks. Michigan has some problems with maturity and depth. I have Florida winning by a single point as the get it done in Jerry’s World.

Game of the week:

#3 Florida State vs. #1 Alabama

This is by far the best game of opening weekend. Quarterback Deondre Francois will have to be much improved if the ‘Noles hope to have a chance. He will have to produce if this game is going to live up to the hype (which it will). We all know how tough the kid is, but this Alabama defense tends to be in a league of its own, and they will get the chance to showcase that in the most intriguing game of the first weekend. I have the Tide taking care of business by a touchdown.