2015-16 College Football Preview: Road to the Playoff

Will Church and Zach Lutz|September 24, 2015

As September begins excitement arises not only for our beloved Hitters’ football season, but also the beginning of college football. Last season Ohio State prevailed as National Champion under the new playoff format, and entered the season as the first unanimous AP number one ever.

Other favorites to make the 4-team playoff include SEC rivals Alabama and Auburn, as well as Big 12 foes TCU and Baylor looking to avenge last year’s controversial playoff selection. Additional notable teams include recent powerhouses Clemson, Oregon and Michigan State; as well as perennial heavyweights Notre Dame, Florida State and USC.

TCU quarterback Trevone Boykin is the preseason favorite to take home the coveted Heisman trophy, but faces stiff competition with Clemson quarterback Deshaun Watson and Ohio State teammates Cardale Jones and Ezekiel Elliott. Ohio State obviously fields an immensely talented team, which includes Glenbard West alumnus defensive tackle Tommy Schutt, now a senior starting for the Buckeyes.

Schutt is a prime example of Glenbard West’s dominance, and ascension to an annual contender since Coach Hetlet took over. With success came opportunities for standouts including San Diego Chargers’ Chris Watt, Johnny Caspers (Stanford), Jordan Walsh (Iowa), Nathan Marcus (Vanderbilt), and future Vanderbilt player: 2016 Glenbard West graduate Sam Brodner.

Glenbard West football and Coach Hetlet have not only established a competitive spirit and electric atmosphere for players and fans alike, but provided connections to college football. As fans it becomes mind-blowing to watch local superstars on TV at the next level, and creates a unique view that makes college football even more intriguing.

This year we foresee a playoff consisting of Schutt and Ohio State vs. Watson and Clemson. The other semifinal pits SEC Champ Auburn vs. Heisman winner Boykin and TCU. Building a modern dynasty, Ohio State will take a second consecutive championship over Auburn.

Watch out for dark horses Texas A&M, Ole Miss and Georgia Tech to make heavy noise in a playoff run or potential upsets. However, history has proven nobody knows this season’s outcome, we’ll just have to find out.