Blake Toppmeyer

The true gift is giving back. So, I’m dishing out presents before the college football season arrives, from golf tips to vacations to a good book.

Where's the love for Tennessee after Vols smashed NC State? Weren't the Wolfpack supposed to be a quality foe? The Vols made them look like mincemeat.

You didn't seriously think College Sports Inc. would tighten the belt to help pay athletes, did you? Ha! No, fans will help pay those costs. Of course.

In the victory against Oklahoma, Tennessee showed it can win with defense. The growth on that side of the ball makes UT a national title contender.

The College Football Playoff bubble is becoming awfully crowded. As many as eight teams in the SEC could finish the regular season at 10-2.

Tennessee needs help. Look West, Vols. Lincoln Riley can save Tennessee's CFP bracket hopes.

The SEC has taken March Madness by storm. So, how many to the Final Four?

One stat nerd gives 10 SEC teams at least a 5% chance of finishing 10-2 or better. Those are playoff odds!

Sacred cows often wind up served on platters, carved up by the almighty dollar. Latest example: LSU wants to sell sponsorships for its uniforms.

Not every Week 1 result is either a five-alarm fire or a triumph warranting a parade. Sometimes the truth is in the middle.