As we begin the road to Detroit for the 2nd time in conference history this week, every team in the MAC will begin their season this week. With five games on Thursday, two on Friday, and six on Saturday. Let’s take a look at each team’s matchup for the 2025 season. During a 3 year cycle, each team will play another 12 home and away contests which allows for new teams to face off and rivalries to continue.
Broadcasts for games will vary depending on the team, date, time, and opponent. We have some of the games broadcast plans listed below and we will give updates here with a written weekly recap of each game.
Another notable event for this season is University of Massachusetts will return to the MAC for the first time since 2015 and this will be the concluding season in the MAC for Northern Illinois Football. Overall each team will play non conference matchups with the first conference game being September 13th on Saturday when Buffalo will travel to Kent State to battle the Golden Flashes.
So with all that information, here are all the MAC football games for the 2025 season.
Thursday8/28
Ohio Bobcats @ Rutgers Scarlet Knights 6:00 PM ET
Big Ten Network, Ohio Sports Network, WRSU-FM (88.7)
Lafayette Leopards @ Bowling Green Falcons 6:00 PM ET
ESPN+, Falcon Media Sports Network, Lafayette Sports Network
Wyoming Cowboys @ Akron Zips 7:00 PM ET
ESPN+, Cowboy Sports Network, WZIP Radio
Buffalo Bulls @ Minnesota Gophers 8:00 PM ET
FS1, The Varsity Network, 100.3 KFAN, KTCN 1130 AM
Miami Redhawks @ Wisconsin Badgers 9:00 PM ET
Big Ten Network, Redhawk Radio, iHeartMedia Wisconsin
Friday
Western Michigan Broncos @ Michigan State Spartans 7:00 PM ET
FS1, Bronco Media Network, Impact 89FM
Central Michigan Chippewas @ San Jose State Spartans 10:30 PM ET
Big Ten Network, WMHW FM, KLIV 1590 AM
Saturday
Ball State Cardinals @ Purdue Boilermakers 12:00 PM ET
Big Ten Network, Purdue Broadcast Network
Merrimack Warriors @ Kent State Golden Flashes 12:00 PM ET
ESPN+, WMCK Radio
Toledo Rockets @ Kentucky Wildcats 12:45 PM ET
SEC NETWORK, 88.3 FM WXUT
Temple Owls @ University of Massachusetts 3:30 PM ET
ESPN+, 1210 AM WPHT, UMass Sports Network
Holy Cross Crusaders @ Northern Illinois Huskies 3:30 PM ET
Eastern Michigan Eagles @ Texas State Bobcats 8:00 PM ET
ESPN+, 89.1 FM, KTSW 88.9
Overall these games will be the stepping stone for how the year goes along. Some games are projected to be more lopsided such as Kentucky having a 81.9% chance to win over Toledo as well as NIU being projected with a 88.8% chance to win over the Holy Cross Crusaders (Both Probabilities as per ESPN). What we see as well is games that could go either way and are very close such as Akron being projected with a 50.5% chance to win over the Wyoming Cowboys (as per ESPN). Overall the closest game by probability is Akron vs. Wyoming as the most likely game for victory is Bowling Green vs. Lafayette where BGSU has a 95.5% chance to win. All these probabilities will be up for discussion as well depending on how the game goes, as we are prone to see upsets with the MAC. A notable upset being Northern Illinois upsetting CFP finalist Notre Dame in week 2. Enjoy the first week of college football, Smee Sports will be doing a schedule breakdown similar to this every week during the college football season. As well as a breakdown each week for Volleyball then Men’s and Women’s soccer starting next week. More to come for week 2 here on Smee Sports!
*Please note we have highlighted all student media to our knowledge as well as the major networks where games have been announced. If Dan Ridenour has missed any MAC or other conference student broadcasting, let him know at dridenourbroadcasting@gmail.com
Welcome to the first article since my announcement of being the writer for MAC content on Smee Sports. Here are the previews of all the 13 football teams in the Mid American Conference this season.
Akron
After finishing 3-5 in the conference, we will advance to a new season for the Zips. They bring back quarterback Ben Finley who threw for 2,604 yards last season and had a completion percentage of 54.8%. His 9 interceptions to 16 touchdowns are notable statistics as well. We must acknowledge however that Akron needs to be an all-around team. The defense had 3 interceptions all season and 16 sacks. Their defense should not be considered poor, they have 844 tackles. This means their lineman can get the job done. . We’ll have to see how their journey begins when the Zips take on Wyoming at home on August 28th. As of now, the idea that Akron will be at Ford Field December 6th is far fetched.
Ball State
Their conference record of 2-6 (The 2nd worst in the MAC) and an overall record of 3-9. Led many people to note a difficult season for the Ball State Cardinals. Their quarterback who threw for 2,904 yards, and 25 touchdowns: Kadin Semonza has transferred to the Tulane Green Wave. Mike Uremovich has arrived for his first year in Muncie, Indiana. Currently the Cardinals are in a rebuilding stage of their football program. What this rebuild will look like, it is too early to tell. The Cardinals start on Saturday August 30th, yet they take on the unenviable task of facing the Purdue Boilermakers. Even with all odds against them, there still is a chance with Coach Uremovich in the future.
Bowling Green
A lot has changed and 2025 marks a clean slate for the Bowling Green Falcons. They now have Drew Pyne. He is a grad student from Notre Dame, Missouri and Arizona State. He will be at the helm of the offense this season. Pyne threw for 391 yards last season and recorded 3 touchdowns with an even 3 interceptions to follow. Last season, Harold Fannin Jr led their offense. He was the 67th overall pick in this year’s draft. Having 1,555 yards on 117 receptions. The biggest piece of new for BG this year. They will have head coach Eddie George who, like 5 other MAC schools; have a new head coach for 2025. BGSU will start their season at Doyt Perry Stadium on August 28th against the Lafayette Leopards. BG is set on Ford Field for December, we will need to see how others perform in the MAC. Including that school up north.
Buffalo
A 3rd place finish suits the Bulls well and they look to repeat dominance. Their quarterback C.J Ogbonna recorded 2,381 passing yards for the season with 19 touchdowns. He is a breakout player for Buffalo and a key factor of their offense. Running back Al-Jay Henderson returns from a season of 2,381 yards on 204 carries. The defense is solid. They recorded over 900 tackles during the entire season. They also achieved 13 interceptions and 33 sacks. Buffalo is a force to reckon with this season and they bring back two notable receivers to their resume. JJ Jenkens with 36 receptions for 536 yards, and Victor Snow who had 55 receptions for 651 yards. Given all the data, I predict Buffalo will be in the MAC championship game at Ford Field.
Central Michigan
The Chippewas finished last season with a conference record of 2-6 having conference wins against Ball State and Western Michigan. While their record struggled and they only had one non conference win. Matt Drinkall will be in charge of the program for his first season in 2025. He has 22 years of coaching experience, leading many to believe this season could be improvement at CMU. Veteran quarterback Joe Labas will return to the Maroon and Yellow on the offense. He recorded 1,114 yards passing on 160 attempts with a completion percentage of 58.8%. As for the defense Senior Jordan Kwiatkowski returns as the linebacker had 96 tackles last season. Improving on his 32 tackles in 2023. The Mount Pleasant destination is still uncertain. However, we will see their season opener on August 29th as they travel to San Jose State.
Eastern Michigan
Finishing with the same conference record as neighbor Central Michigan, but a better overall record at 5-7. The Eagles are coming into the 2025 season with big shoes to fill. Chris Creighton has led EMU since 2014 and will be a rarity in the conference. Leading a program longer than any other coach in the MAC and tied with Miami of Ohio head coach Chuck Martin. Quarterback Cole Snyder and running back Delbert Mimms III left due to graduation. They will rely on veteran wide receiver Terry Lockett jr. who had 660 yards on 46 receptions. In 2025, their new quarterback will be either Jerimiah Salem who served as a backup to Snyder last season. He recorded 126 yards on 11 attempts, with a completion percentage of 72.7%. With a lot of new and established coaching, Eastern Michigan will begin their season on August 30th as they face the Texas State Bobcats on the road.
Kent State
Dubbed the worst team in college football by Bleacher Report and many other content creators on YouTube. Kent State finished 2024 with a record of 0-12. They have won only a single game in the last two seasons, leading many to speculate. Interim head coach Mark Carney will begin to rebuild the program after years of disappointment. Many players including QB Tommy Ulatowski, WR Chrishon McCray, and S Josh Baka have transferrd to different universities. While many things are worrisome for the Golden Flashes. A positive note is they are rebuilding from their shortcomings. A new head coach, backups now becoming starters such as QB Devin Kargman. He had a 2024 record of 432 passing yards, 3 touchdowns with a QBR of 106.3 for an overall completion percentage 54.9%. While this may seem low, there was improvement as his percentage was 51.2%. KSU will not be competing for a MAC title this year based on stats. However, no rebuild happens overnight. Kargman has two more seasons of eligibility and if Kent can recruit. We will see a very different Kent State than the one we have now.
UMass
Return customers to the Mid American Conference, the Minutemen return as they had been independent since 2015. Dawning a record of 2-10 last season, they had played 5 other MAC schools. Signs were there that they would return home to the MAC, but even with a homecoming. There is still plenty of work to be done. Head Coach Joe Harasymiak will take over the program. Wide Receiver Jakobie Keeny- James will not return as he is now with the Detroit Lions. Last season he had 839 receiving yards for UMass. As at QB signs point towards AJ Hairston being the new QB for the minutemen. Last season he had a 54.8% Completion, for 480 yards and 5 touchdowns. He will definitely see the field more this season only playing in 4 games last season. Where the Minutemen will go in 2025 is to be determined but, we’ll follow along with an addition to the conference.
Miami of Ohio
Finishing 2nd in the conference last season with a record of 7-1 and an overall record of 9-5. Miami of Ohio is going to see a lot of change coming into 2025. While they still have head coach Chuck Martin who’s been their coach since 2014. One could wonder what the future hold for the RedHawks. They won the Arizona Bowl yet came short in the MAC championship with a loss to Ohio. They lose quarterback Brett Gabbert who had 2,921 passing yards all season, and they lose runningback Keyon Mozee who recorded 1,098 rushing yards. On the defensive side of the ball, their new leader will be senior Silas Walters who recorded 95 tackles last season. This is an improvement to his 34 tackles in 2023, and brings up some consideration. While the players may not be in Oxford, the leadership is. Coach Martin who’s been a coach since 1992. Has experience in the game of football.
Northern Illinois
While UMass is coming back into the Mid American Conference. NIU will join the Mountain West Conference for only football in 2026. This is the end to an era that began in 1973. A .500 record of 4-4 last season places them in the middle of the pack. They could go in any direction for their future. Upsetting College Football Playoff Finalist Notre Dame is surely a holy achievement and NIU is set for a rebuild in the right way. Head Coach Thomas Hammock is back and has led the Huskies since 2019. Key figures such as QB Ethan Hampton who transferred to Illinois and WR Trayvon Rudolph left for MAC rival Toledo. Hammock looks to start sophomore Josh Holst, who threw for 593 yards and 2 touchdowns as a true freshman. Overall, this team has lost a handful of players whether to the transfer portal or to the NFL. NIU will be a .500 team again. To be successful at the college level, you need players to develop with one team.
Ohio University
The Bobcats are on top of the Mid American Conference heading into the 2025 season. After winning it all at Ford Field for the first time since 1968. They have built a foundation over time of success. Head Coach Tim Albin has led the program since 2021 and through that time the Bobcats have a 23-16 record. Returning to Athens this season is QB Parker Navarro who had 2,423 yards with 13 touchdowns to 11 interceptions last season. He’ll continue leading the offense for this season as we see some changes to the Bobcat defense. Blake Leake will return to Ohio this season as one of the team’s best linebackers. He recorded 94 tackles last season and included an interception. Other notable names are Safety DJ Walker (he had 53 tackles and 34 solo), as well as Marcel Walker-Burgess. As the team goes into the season they battle difficult opponents, but have the ability to return to Detroit.
Toledo
Tucker Gleason is back at quarterback for the Toledo Rockets for his senior season. He had a 60.5% completion as well as 2,793 passing yards and 24 touchdowns last season, the best stats of his career. As for the run game they will be with Connor Walendzak with 458 rushing yards in 2024 on 128 carries. Now for the Rockets they also lose Daniel Bolden to graduation and Maxen Hook to the NFL. Their receiving core however is still there with Junior Vandeross III. He had 957 receiving yards last season with 5 touchdowns and averaged 11.3 yards per reception. As the main target for Toledo after last year target Jerjuan Newton went to the Broncos, the offense is as strong as ever for UT. Braden Awls returns as well defensively overall with 72 tackles as a sophomore and will be part of the backfield in 2025. Overall the testament to Toledo’s strength in the MAC will be shown as they take on the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field on August 30th.
Western Michigan
While the Bronco hockey team won their first national championship in Men’s Ice Hockey, their football team last season finished 6-7 overall (5-3 MAC). Broc Lowry appears to be the starting QB for the Broncos this season as we saw him in 5 games last season as the team would go 2-3 during those contests. Lowry also recorded a 50% completion percentage with a QBR of 72.1 and threw for 21 yards. For running back they will have Jalen Buckley who as a 2nd string last season had 683 yards and 9 rushing touchdowns. As for the defense, we see safety Tate Hallock return as he had 84 tackles last season and will be part of the WMU backfield. The coaching staff for WMU head coach Lance Taylor is back in the saddle, as he’s been there since 2023. With an overall record of 10-15 in that time, but he has the 3rd best home record in the conference. The Broncos will be heading into the new season on the side with an existing head coach and we will see if this gives them a benefit.
Thursday July 24th was an unforgettable day. It was one of the best experiences I’ve had in the world of media. Let’s break it down to bring you behind the scenes on what goes on during a conference media day. As well as show you my new position with Smee Sports as we transition into the school year. The day began early in the morning as I left Bowling Green that morning at around 6:30 in the morning. Battling mild Detroit traffic and getting ahead of the morning commute. I head inside to check in and register. Now everything in there from the people at the check-in desk. To the people with teams. Was professional. Suits everywhere with backpacks filled with cameras, helmets, and other media equipment. Players in their fanciest suits drinking coffee to prepare for the long day of interviews. Seeing each team walk in with their head coach, and two players (One offense and One defense). Was the sight to see. Cameras focused on their team. Also, various independent media outlets captured the action. I would fall under this category.
The highlight of the morning was looking down onto the turf at Ford Field. Watching it go from school to school on the jumbotrons was also thrilling. Sitting down looking over notes and enjoying breakfast I took in the atmosphere. Knowing I had to interview the local guys (Bowling Green and Toledo), I also wanted to include Kent State in my expedition. What I regret however is not talking with Akron. As we all had leisure time before commissioner Jon Steinbrecher gave his remarks. I left to clean up. Before heading over to the opposite end of the stadium, I saw a familiar face. Head BGSU football coach Eddie George, along with new quarterback Drew Pyne, and defensive end Eriq George walked in. I introduced myself to the group. We had a discussion on astro-turf. We also talked about how George played on the surface during his time with the Tennessee Titans.
After walking around and undertsanding the amosphere, it was time for Commissioner Steinbrecher to speak with us all. He spoke highly of the MAC in how the conference is in a new era. What he highlighted was the academic excellence. Stating the purpose of all Mid American Conference Athletes is to eventually gain a college degree. After his remarks, we disbanded. Everyone scattered whether their athletes would speak 1 one 1 with media, or film promotional content. My job was to interview our Bowling Green student athletes and here is what I learned.
Drew Pyne, who graduated from Notre Dame, and has been around in college football ever since 2020. Afterward he spent a year at Arizona State then Missouri before finally landing in Northwest Ohio. He spoke highly of Coach George and the offense. He said that the offensive line is a veteran staff. He knows he can put his trust into them. As for classes, he still takes them seriously. Even as a grad student; Pyne takes his academic career seriously as well. Now for Eriq George, entering his junior season after playing with Tennessee State under his father. He finds the academic side of college football is as serious as his play. The Bowling Green defense looks to be strong this season, and with George gaining a roster spot. The Falcons will rely heavily on their lines. Coach George, who is one of 6 new head coaches in the Mid American Conference. Discussed his expectations for the student athletes, as well as what he expects on the football field. In the classroom, Coach George wants his players in the first two rows. He insights as well they should not be wearing hoodies to make themselves presentable in a learning environment. He also expects Falcon football to “Leave places better than we found it”.
Talking with all of the players, media, and coaching staff. It was an honor getting to know their stories and backgrounds . Other notable athletes I talked with were Tucker Gleason and Emmanual McNeil-Warren, both of whom are with the Toledo Rockets. As for coaching I met not only Eddie George, but also Mark Carney who is the interim head coach with Kent State. I was fortunate enough to meet the broadcast crew for ESPN+. I also met other local broadcasters and reporters. As the day began to end, I noticed some of my connections with WTOL 11. It is a local CBS affiliated tv station based out of Toledo. While they were on the field, I asked if I could help. I was fortunate enough to hang out with them for a few minutes. Capturing the photo for this article and being in an NFL endzone were experiences I will never forget. As I left, I felt proud of all the work I have done. I realized that the best is yet to come. Now for the final announcement you have all been waiting for.
I will be the writer for all MAC content this fall. I will give you weekly articles about the conference. You will also get updates on how all the teams are doing. Join us as we prepare to begin the 2025-2026 academic year, Go Falcons!
This offseason has proven to be a busy one indeed and has certainly drawn attention of the football world. Aaron Rodgers, a future hall of famer and Superbowl champion, made the decision. He decided to take his talents to Pittsburgh, PA, earlier this summer. Ever since then, it seems to be a major headache. It also causes trouble as we had predicted back in June when this news broke. Rodgers has already had a dispute with head coach Mike Tomlin. He claims to be the one who “calls the shots.” He is also having disputes with fans on the golf course over autographs. He is showing an arrogance to him, which we have not seen in a long time, if ever. Rodgers presents a difficult situation for the Pittsburgh Steelers to digest. We can make our best predictions. We will also share the news on what’s going on in the Steel City.
The situation is not favorable for the 40-year-old quarterback. The shift that Mike Tomlin, the “Standard” head coach, likes to discuss is now more of a recommendation. It is not a hardcore never adapt concept to success. The current Steeler’s culture has become more of a recommendation to a fickle standard than an outline to success. While it may seem lopsided in one direction, the Aaron show isn’t as simple as it appears. One hand will project his arrogance and unwillingness to adapt. On the other hand, he shows optimism and the ability to be an established leader for Pittsburgh in 2025. Rodgers shows no sign of giving up. This is very clear in how he could have retired after leaving the Green Bay Packers. My point overall is that Aaron Rodgers has led football teams in the past. He did so most notably against his current team. Whether or not he can do the same in 2025, we will have to wait and see.
Let’s move now to the other side of the ball. Pittsburgh icon TJ Watt has been discussing a possible trade scenario. The former Wisconsin Lineman skipped the mandatory team practice sessions. As we have discussed before, he wants to get paid rightfully being so. Division rival Myles Garrett recently signed a massive $160 Million contract over the course of 4 years. The average annual value (AAV) is astronomically high. Garrett’s contract will be the highest by a non-quarterback in NFL history. TJ Watt is a player of high caliber. He deserves a lucrative contract and will pursue it. The case in point is clear. He will search for a lucrative contract. It will have to be with whatever team is willing to give it to him. Watt wants the same price tag as Myles Garrett and will need to find a way to get it. This isn’t all doom for the Steelers. There are still signs that Watt will stay in the black and gold next season. One of these signs being teams willing to give the value Watt will entail in a trade deal. Another good sign is per CBS where the Steelers want a deal finalized before week 1 vs the Jets. What will happen with either of these juggernauts in the NFL? We will find out if we see the #90 rushing Justin Fields. We will also discover how the #8 of Rodgers performs throwing the football.
Earlier today during the off season as teams prepare for training camp to take place in roughly a month. The Pittsburgh Steelers traded with the Miami Dolphins. They sent 28-year-old, five-time pro bowler Minkah Fitzpatrick back to the sunshine of Miami. In return, the black and gold brigade will get 30-year-old, seven-time pro bowler Jalen Ramsey. They will also acquire Jonnu Smith from the Miami Dolphins. Whether or not this move will work out is beyond me. Still, as a Steelers enthusiast, I can’t help but be somewhat optimistic about the trade. I hope it works out. I must say, Jalen Ramsey has the credentials of an elite cornerback in the NFL. Ramsey has played 135 games in his NFL career. Four of these were against Pittsburgh. He has totaled 24 interceptions and 267 yards. Fitzpatrick on the other hand has 106 games under his belt with 20 interceptions for over 400 yards. Some casual fans analyzing the trade may overlook the draft picks. The Steelers will get a seventh-round pick for 2027. The Dolphins have a fifth-round pick also for 2027. Jonnu Smith who is a lesser-known player in this trade, will be a good backup at TE for Pat Freiermuth. During his carrer, Smith has played in 124 games and gotten over 3,000 yards in his career. The FIU alum will leave his college state of florida and come home to his Birth state of Pennsylvania.
Everyone has a predetermined idea of what this trade means. People also have ideas about how it will affect both franchises in the future. Me personally, I would rather have Minkah but that’s my own opinion. Both the headline players in this trade are stars. Fitzpatrick has garnered himself as an icon with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Now, will Ramsey be the leading force to his 2nd ring and the franchises 7th Lombardi? It’s unlikely we’ll see that soon. Yet if the rumors that TJ Watt is in the works on a contract extension. Any Steelers fan would be grateful that the defense is building. At present, there are two well-known athletes in the NFL being moved around. This is one of the most popular trades this offseason. During my research of this trade and using what I already know. Here is the official prediction I will make for how the trade affected these teams.
Dan-alytics:
Pittsburgh Steelers:
Lost the trade. Only got a seventh-round pick and while notable figures like Brock Purdy have come from the seventh round. Similar to Miami this pick could either be a diamond in the rough or a complete bust. At this time, it is too hard to tell. Jalen Ramsey has made a name for himself and has mostly been used as a supporting cast member. He will take on this role for the defense. There will be no need for him to act as a leader. This is Cam Heywards, TJ Watt, and Alex Highsmith’s defense and will continue to be for the near future. Jonnu Smith will be a good backup. He will help if Pat Freiermuth ends up getting injured.
Miami Dolphins:
Won the trade. They got a fifth-round pick, which may be a diamond in the rough. This pick gets them some ground to stand on. Minkah, I believe is the better player, but we’ll see how he adapts back in the sunshine state. While they have a semi-decent defense heading into 2025.There is no doubt that Fitzpatrick will be the leader to help Miami rival others in the AFC East.
In conclusion I have one thing to say. Why Not? This isn’t the first time the city of Miami got a generational player from Pittsburgh (Dan Marino).
While we continue on in the summer, we’re having the typical stretch without NFL football. We won’t see a game until July 31st. That’s when we have the Hall of Fame Game between the Detroit Lions and the Los Angeles Chargers. The AFC North though will not have a preseason game until August 7 where Cincinnati and Baltimore have preseason games. During this time of the offseason, not only are the 4 AFC north teams making moves. Every team in the NFL is now making moves for the 2025 season. So here is my way too early predictions for the AFC North standings, and why I see this happening.
4. Cleveland Browns (6-11)
The Cleveland Browns had a 3-14 season in 2024, which was one of the rougher years for the franchise. Going 0-16 in 2017 has been the meme and throughout the sports world. The Cleveland Browns have been a punching bag, and we will see the same situation this season. Even with the worst QB situation in the NFL with newcomers Dillon Gabriel, Sheduer Sanders. As well as veterans Kenny Pickett, and Joe Flacco. They had a good draft. They were patient with getting Mason Graham. They waited and, in doing so, passed on Travis Hunter. I’m confident Cleveland will bounce back, but this is not going to be the year for Cleveland. They need to get the QB room figured out, and then the rest of the offense will fall into place. The Browns had a strong draft. They picked up Harold Fannin Jr., who I think is the greatest Tight End in the draft class, from Bowling Green State University. Cleveland will do their best on defense. Getting linebacker Carson Schwesinger from UCLA helped tremendously and will hopefully give the Browns defense new light. New editions and the leadership of Myles Garrett will be the face defensively. However, there is still much more work to be done. There are too many aging offensive linemen. This is similar to their Ohio counterpart, the Bengals. The QB room is unclear. Finally, the wide receiver core is uncertain. These issues will be the reasoning behind another rough year for the Cleveland Browns. Unfortunately, it will be a down year this season. Here are the results of all the regular season games.
Week 1: Cinncinati Bengals L
Week 2: @ Baltimore Ravens L
Week 3: vs. Green Bay Packers L
Week 4: @ Detroit Lions L
Week 5: Minnesota Vikings (London Game) W
Week 6: @ Pittsburgh Steelers L
Week 7: Miami Dolphins W
Week 8: @ New England Patriots W
Week 9: BYE
Week 10: @ New York Jets W
Week 11: Baltimore Ravens L
Week 12: @ Las Vegas Raiders L
Week 13: San Francisco 49ers L
Week 14: Tennessee Titans W
Week 15: 2 Chicago Bears W
Week 16: Buffalo Bills L
Week 17: Pittsburgh Steelers L
Week 18: @ Cinncinati Bengals L
3. Cincinnati Bengals (9-8)
The Cincinnati Bengals will repeat their 9-8 stretch that happened last year in 2024. Times have been rough for the Bengals, ever since their Cinderella run back in the 2021 season. Joe Burrow, the Louisiana State quarterback, was taken 1st overall in the 2020 draft. He is the star of this franchise. He is going in the right direction with LSU teammate Ja’Marr Chase. What is difficult for the Bengals, however, is the absence of a plan for the offensive line. Without it, these weapons can not be effectively utilized. Tee Higgins is another notable figure in the Bengals Offense. He further adds to the idea that Cincinnati has it nearly figured out. However, they are still struggling to find an offensive line identity. Let’s look at the defensive side of the ball because Cincinnati is making advancements towards that side of the game. Keven Winston jr. is recovering from a torn ACL at this time and this will be a damper to defense. If I’m a Bengals fan, I should be looking forward to seeing Oren Burks. He is a linebacker who will be the starter for the season, and some will overlook him. What could be seen, however, are the Bengals getting a good chance here at a veteran. He can be a role model for the stars. He can improve their team chemistry by guiding them. These stars already know their way around the NFL. as for the draft. Although they have made some positive contributions to the franchise, the Cincinnati Bengals will still have an off year.
Week 1: @ Cleveland Browns W
Week 2: Jacksonville Jaguars W
Week 3: @ Minnesota Vikings L
Week 4: @ Denver Broncos W
Week 5: Detroit Lions L
Week 6: @ Green Bay Packers L
Week 7: Pittsburgh Steelers L
Week 8: New York Jets W
Week 9: Chicago Bears W
Week 10: BYE
Week 11: @ Pittsburgh Steelers L
Week 12: New England Patriots W
Week 13: @ Baltimore Ravens L
Week 14: @ Buffalo Bills L
Week 15: Baltimore Ravens L
Week 16: @ Miami Dolphins W
Week 17: Arizona Cardinals W
Week 18: Cleveland Browns W
2. Pittsburgh Steelers (10-7)
I am a Steelers fan. I feel like we’re all beating a dead horse here. I bet you can already tell what is going to happen. Aaron Rodgers will not live up to the expectations set in place, Mike Tomlin will finish the season above .500 and last but not least. We will lose in the Wild Card. We have not won a playoff game since I was in 3rd grade back in 2016 (I start my first semester of college in August). Let’s keep the preseason pessimism to a low and look towards the improvements for 2025. I believe Will Howard will be a strong quarterback for Pittsburgh this season, and he has the credentials for it. He had over 4,000 yards and 35 touchdowns with a national championship playing the toughest college teams you can. This breakout season is nothing to sneeze at, and what makes it so great is now he has confidence. Now will he (and should he) start right out of the gate foe week 1 against the Jets? No, but what I do like is he has veteran guidance and a good position of receivers and a running back in Jaylen Warren if things go poorly. Additionally, our defense is in a strong position. Veterans TJ Watt and Cam Heyward are locked in to the Steelers for the foreseeable future. What got us worried was the capability of Alex Highsmith leaving, but these rumors seem to have died down. The Steelers actively engaged in the draft. They picked up Jack Sawyer. This move simply makes the defense more intimidating in terms of what will be the factor for the Steelers. While the Pittsburgh defense will be their strength; the black and gold brigade will fail to win, if they fail to rebuild the offense.
Week 1: @ New York Jets W
Week 2: Seattle Seahawks W
Week 3: @ New England Patriots L
Week 4: Minnesota Vikings W
Week 5: BYE
Week 6: Cleveland Browns W
Week 7: @ Cincinnati Bengals W
Week 8: Green Bay Packers L
Week 9: Indianapolis Colts L
Week 10: @ Las Angeles Charges W
Week 11: Cincinnati Bengals W
Week 12: @ Chicago Bears W
Week 13: Buffalo Bills L
Week 14: @ Baltimore Ravens L
Week 15: Miami Dolphins W
Week 16: @ Detroit Lions L
Week 17: @ Cleveland Browns W
Week 18: Baltimore Ravens L
1. Baltimore Ravens (14-3)
I think it’s clear that Baltimore will repeat as AFC North champions this year. Lamar Jackson is a top 3 quarterback in the AFC and top 5 in the NFL. Mark Andrews will be a go-ahead target for Jackson when he needs to throw. Receivers Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman will also be key targets. Roquan Smith is unbelievable in terms of raw ability, as well as Kyle Hamilton at safety. What should be noted is their strength of schedule. Baltimore has to play Buffalo Week 1, Detroit Week 3, and Kansas City in week 4. To say this is a tough way to start your regular season would be an understatement. We are talking about Baltimore, and we already should know this one detail. They will grow in adversity and even if the season doesn’t start their way. The flock will end the 2025 season their way. Baltimore is set for the future. We see this in the way they drafted in Green Bay, adding fuel to the fire of this claim. Taking two cornerbacks aids them defensively for the future, as well as the fact of them offensive lineman. The O-Line may seem mundane. Baltimore now has the ability to develop guys. These players will aid the offense and keep Lamar protected. We observed this being one of the main issues. If Lamar Jackson can run more often, this will spell trouble for defenses throughout the NFL. It will especially be troublesome in the AFC North where defenses have tried and mostly struggled to stop him. The Baltimore Ravens have built significant support. Therefore, they will reign on top of the AFC North for the 3rd year in a row.
Week 1: @ Buffalo Bills L
Week 2: Cleveland Browns W
Week 3: Detroit Lions L
Week 4: @ Kansas City L
Week 5: Houston Texans W
Week 6: Las Angeles Rams W
Week 7: BYE
Week 8: Chicago Bears W
Week 9: @ Miami Dolphins W
Week 10: @ Minnesota Vikings W
Week 11: @ Cleveland Browns W
Week 12: New York Jets W
Week 13: Cincinnati Bengals W
Week 14 Pittsburgh Steelers W
Week 15: @ Cincinnati Bengals W
Week 16: New England Patriots W
Week 17: @ Green Bay Packers W
Week 18: @ Pittsburgh Steelers W
There you have it, my way too early predictions for the AFC North in the 2025 NFL season. If you would like me to do the other divisions in the NFL, please let me know. I hope you enjoyed this article. Please let me know if you have any comments. Share what you would change down below.
After my beloved Pittsburgh Steelers pulled the checkbook out. They signed future hall of fame quarterback Aaron Rodgers for a 1 year $13.65 Million contract (with $10 Million guaranteed). One thing was made very clear to me after hearing this news. The Steelers are not as defense-driven as they have been in the past. Now do I think that this signing undermines the entire core of their team? No, I do not think this, but I do think this will affect the defense. Whether or not this will be a positive or negative shift, we will have to get closer to the preseason. What I can see now though is the defense, and there are a lot of positive adjustments being made there. Pittsburgh has always been a “defense wins championships” type of franchise. Even looking all the way back to 1969, when arguably the most known player in franchise history was drafted. Defensive Tackle Charles “Mean Joe” Greene was drafted. He has since been the leading member of the history behind the Steelers defense. From the Steel Curtain, to Blitzburgh, to the 2000s crew led by Joey Porter. Pittsburgh has had a longstanding tradition in Defense. Therefore let’s analyze this current era of defense and how it will look moving forward.
Let’s begin with an overview of how the defense looks heading into the 2025 year. For starters, Derrick Harmon looks to be a promising rookie. Steelers Defensive line coach Karl Dunbar has named him the starter. Other notable key figures in this roster are linebackers TJ Watt and Alex Highsmith. The Eagles’ rumored $68 Million contract offer for Highsmith in a trade proposal is alarming news for us Steelers fans. Our defense relies on him. He forms the perfect duo with Watt. Together, they keep the defense as the core of our required gameplan to success. Brandon Graham who is retiring makes the landscape that much more that Highsmith is traded. While his contract runs through 2027, one can only imagine if he will be moved to a different team. I mention this because the Steelers’ salary cap is affected by Rodgers. They will need to reorganize the defensive checkbook. Their defense has many loyal players. These include Cam Heyward and TJ Watt who seem unlikely to leave for a higher paycheck. That doesn’t mean everyone will apply to this logic, and even then Watt and Heyward will need a reasonable extension. As of now, Watt’s current deal will expire at the end of the 2025 season. Heyward’s will expire after 2026. It seems like a long time away. We need to be aware that Watt is looking for a contract similar to Myles Garrett.
Throughout the Aaron Rodgers news hitting the NFL world by storm, with some thinking this news was almost inevitable. It finally came true after two months of speculation. Now the Black and Gold will have some new challenges for 2025. TJ Watt and Cam Heyward are already established leaders. They need to mentor the defense. Let the offense do their thing. While this seems like it will work in a perfect world, we must acknowledge an important and difficult reality. Watt will want to be paid and while it is certainly deserved, it may affect the offense. Hopefully this influences Rodgers to retire after one season. That way, they can pay TJ in 2026. If this is how things are expected to end, why did they even sign Aaron initially? My theory is to have someone with more experience. This person can hopefully mentor Will Howard. Will Howard was a superstar at the NCAA level. Rodgers signing to Pittsburgh is certainly a “brand name” quarterback. We’ll have to see if his play can live up to the Rodgers image. The defense will certainly be affected because of how a team operates. The actions of the offense affect defense, and the opposite. With that being said, TJ Watt is the leader of the steelers and practically the new face of the franchise. Thus, no matter how the offense plays this season, it will come down to the Steelers defense. They must go out there. They need to play the best football week in and week out. For the purpose of continuing on the tradition and legacy of Pittsburgh Steelers football.
OTA (Organized Team Activities) practice for the Pittsburgh Steelers has been completed. National Champion for the Ohio State Buckeyes, Will Howard, has been put in charge of the Pittsburgh offense for 2025. There were a lot of uncertainties coming into the draft. This was true for the majority of teams that needed a quarterback. Now when looking at him, there was a rocky start on day 1. It is surprising how he has adapted to develop under Mason Rudolph. He has also broken out to potentially be the starter on day 1. Who will actually be the starter week one when Pittsburgh travels to MetLife Stadium to take on the Jets? This question is too hard to tell being this far out from the regular season. We can however make predictions if Mason Rudolph is to start and do the same for Will Howard. So here are my three predictions for how each Quarterback will affect the Steelers season. Let’s begin with Mason Rudolph, who is the veteran in this case.
Rudolph has the opportunity to start for the black and gold brigade in the 2025 season. He will face a struggling New York Jets franchise. What most people tend to do is overlook Mason Rudolph and make assumptions that he falls to pressure. While there won’t be “season on the line” pressure, the situation will test him. The 29-year-old could lose his job to Howard. That is contingent however on how he performs in the first 3 games of the regular season. Rudolph can still play when needed. He proved this by leading the Steelers to a win. They defeated division rival Cincinnati Bengals 34-11. (I was at that game). When we observe games like this, we see that Rudolph has shown recent evidence. He can lead an offense. In one game, he threw for 290 yards and 2 touchdowns. Those who know the NFL well, however, also realize a QB is only as good as his receivers. Rudolph had quality receivers. George Pickens (his main target) had 4 receptions for 2 touchdowns and 195 yards. Counterpart Allen Robinson, having 4 receptions for 36 yards. Pittsburgh is in a similar situation. They have Jalen Warren at running back for assistance. The receivers include DK Metcalf and many others that are unknown at this time. Pittsburgh’s receiving core overall will be different from years past, but Metcalf is an established veteran. My confusion lies in what Pittsburgh was thinking in the George Pickens trade. I’m confused. If Pittsburgh was already planning to trade Pickens, why didn’t they go for a wide receiver in the draft? I’m not saying get a receiver instead of Derrick Harmon in the first round. I’m saying possibly go with someone like Isaiah Bond in the 2nd or 3rd round. Where the offense will shine however is with rushing, while Najee Harris left for LA. This should not negatively affect the Steelers since they have Jaylen Warren, and Trey Sermon, a former Buckeye.
Now let’s begin with the predictions and analysis for 2024 Offensive MVP Will Howard. He is overall one of the best options in this year’s QB class. However, as with everyone, there is an adjustment period. Going from West Chester, Pennsylvania to Columbus, Ohio, and now he is back in the Keystone State. Howard had a phenomenal 2024 campaign at Ohio State, passing for 4,010 yards and 35 touchdowns. While watching him during his time at Ohio State, he reminded me a lot of Peyton Manning. This is because he can throw the ball, but he’s not going to be the fastest guy on earth. He also isn’t a one-man show, like Peyton who had targets like Marvin Harrison, Reggie Wayne, and Marcus Pollard. Howard shows these characteristics by having talents like Jerimiah Smith and Emeka Egbuka. He also has the run game of Trey Sermon and Quinshon Judkins. Now these weapons will be different, but I think it will be a positive difference. The stakes are higher now and the weapons will be there if coached right. Arthur Smith, the offensive coordinator is entering his second season at the helm for the Steelers. He needed to get his ground made, and to have Howard who is impressionable. It is time for the Steelers to step up. They need to decide if they will emerge with Will Howard as their starter on day 1. They need to prepare and more importantly Howard needs to work this summer. To show the Pittsburgh Steelers that he is the quarterback of the future and nothing will be handed to him. Now if this is attainable, we will have to wait and see.
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