USC does have a great defense, but they are in a weaker conference. The Big 12 was a beast this year. Losing to lowly Oregon State was unfortunate...otherwise they would be right there in the mix.
Bama blinking Auburn (no clue about Off) or LSU (rotating FR QBs in a loaded SEC) this yr shouldnt be in the thread.
Agreed that FL isnt a given w/Bama. Bama cant afford to fall behind 14 or 10 - o early. Get up and fill FL w/HBs between the tackles. Anyway...should be a good next 2 weeks to set this all up.
As far as Bowls....I love them. it's college ball so controversy is ok. Some gets in somebody doesnt. Keep the bowls. I went to the 83 Sugar Bowl as a kid w/H Walker GA vs Marino Pitt. Much better than any playoff system. keep that for the NFL.