Lingering questions for CFB's Top 25 as the season...
From new coaches to unproven players, these issues could trip up the best teams in the country.
The college football season is just around the corner, and while the preseason Top 25 rankings are out, there are still many questions that need to be answered. For some of the top teams, new coaches are calling the shots, and it's unclear how quickly they can get their systems in place and their players adjusted to the new schemes. This is especially true for teams that have had stability at the top for years, as replacing a successful coach can be a challenge.
Other teams have unproven players stepping into key roles, and it's uncertain how they'll perform under pressure. This is particularly true for quarterbacks, as a strong leader on the field can make all the difference in a team's success. If these players can't deliver, it could lead to some surprising upsets and shake up the rankings. The parity in college football means that any team can beat another on a given Saturday, so these question marks could have a major impact on the season.
As the season gets underway, keep an eye on how these teams perform in the early going. If they can answer some of these questions and get their new coaches and players up to speed quickly, they could make a deep run in the playoffs. But if they struggle, it could be a long season. Specifically, watch how teams like Alabama, Clemson, and Ohio State handle their new coaches and unproven players - they'll be under the microscope, and their performance will set the tone for the rest of the season.
Originally reported by espn.com. PlayerNews adds analysis for sports & fitness readers.