As anticipation builds for the college football season, the preseason AP rankings have unveiled the top contenders. But it’s not just the best that catch attention; the teams facing challenges are also under the spotlight.
ESPN’s Ryan McGee recently spotlighted the “Bottom 10” teams as we head into the 2023 season. UMass clinches the undesired No. 1 spot, a choice influenced by a personal encounter McGee had with a UMass alumnus.
Kent State and Louisiana-Monroe follow suit, with Northwestern, the sole Power 5 team, taking the No. 4 spot. The Wildcats face an uphill battle, still reeling from a dismal 1-11 season and now navigating the absence of coach Pat Fitzgerald due to a hazing controversy.
The list continues with Sam Houston, Jacksonville State, and Charlotte. New Mexico and FIU finalize the Bottom 10. Interestingly, the fifth position went to atlas creators Rand-McNally, reflecting the considerable shifts in team placements this summer.
It’s a safe bet that McGee’s list will generate reactions from dedicated fans as the matches kick off.
Here’s the 2023 Preseason Bottom 10:
1. UMess
2. #Kentergy
3. ULM
4. North by Northworstern
5. Rand-McNally
6. Sam Houston,
7. Jacksonville State Other Gamecocks
8. Charlotte 3-and-9’ers
9. Whew Mexico No-Bos
10. FI(not A)U