The Grueling Truth - Where Legends Speak / Latest College Football News & Rumors / 5 Takeaways from week 1 of the 2021 College Football season

5 Takeaways from week 1 of the 2021 College Football season

What did we learn?

Mike Goodpaster

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Chief Editor

Publish Date: 09/06/2021

Fact checked by: Simon Briffa

PASADENA, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 04: Dorian Thompson-Robinson #1 of the UCLA Bruins in the second quarter at Rose Bowl on September 04, 2021 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

1) Michigan could be a surprise team in the Big Ten

The Wolverines dominated a solid Western Michigan, and they did it on the ground. So you might ask, is beating Western Michigan that big of a deal, and the answer would be no, but it’s not who they beat. It’s how they beat them. The Wolverines showcased a physicality reminiscent of the days of Bo in Ann Arbor. The Wolverines averaged 7.8 yards per carry while rushing for 334 yards. Cade McNamara went 9 of 11 for 136 yards and 2 touchdowns, and I think the Wolverines are here to stay this year, and this could be the season they can hang a big fat L on Ohio State.

2) Slowdown the Indiana hype train

Michael Pennix was god-awful in Saturday’s 34-6 loss at Iowa. The Hoosier’s defense was solid, giving up just 20 points, but the offense was atrocious. I know it’s just one game in a hostile environment, but I really think the Hoosiers are in some trouble. In a couple of weeks, they will welcome the Cincinnati Bearcats to Bloomington, and if Saturday was any indication, they could be in some trouble in that game.

3) Chip Kelly could bring UCLA back into the National spotlight

Kelly has proven he is not an NFL coach, but he has also proven he is a big-time college coach, which was shown in the Bruins 38-27 win over LSU. My guess is the Tigers will have a new coach at the end of the season, and Chip Kelly might very well have a Pac 12 Title in his pocket.

4) Alabama is still the best team until further notice

The Crimson Tide just reloaded, the defense was dominant, and Quarterback Bryce Young is a stud. The Tide has formed under Saban, the most dominant dynasty College Football has ever seen, and it doesn’t seem to be coming to an end anytime soon.

5) Watch out for the Cincinnati Bearcats

You heard it here. First, the cats will go to Indiana and win and follow that up with a win at Notre Dame. Do not be surprised if this team is in the College Football Playoffs when it’s all said and done. They have an elite coach in Luke Fickell and a big-time Quarterback in Desmond Ridder.

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