Rivalry week delivered clarity and chaos all at once, and we took notes. We open with Ohio State’s blueprint: a bully-ball offensive line, the emergence of Bo Jackson in the run game, and a Patricia-led defense that snuffed out explosives and forced Michigan off script. Julian Sayin’s composure after an early pick set the tone for clean pockets, balanced calls, and a scoreboard that matched the eye test. From comms confusion to sideline scuffles and marathon reviews, the noise never rattled a team built for domes, turf, and playoff pressure.

Then we pivot to the title chase. Indiana stands between the Buckeyes and a top seed, and the keys are simple: spy the quarterback, deny scramble lanes, and make Mendoza win from the pocket. We weigh matchups, recruiting momentum, and how staff changes ripple through development. Beyond Columbus, the national board simmers—Georgia’s steel, Alabama’s punch, Big 12 volatility, and ACC trickiness that could reshape the bracket. Conference titles still matter, even in the 12-team era, and seeding rewards teams that finish with discipline.

Down in Cincinnati, belief is back. Joe Burrow elevated tempo and timing, while the defense cashed in with five takeaways and well-timed pressure. Depth becomes destiny in December, and a seasoned backup like Joe Flacco might be the quiet advantage no other AFC contender can match if injuries strike. We map the Bengals’ remaining path and where they can steal edges against Buffalo and division foes. In Cleveland, it’s a harder conversation: special teams miscues, stalled red zone trips, and a WR room that leaves a tight end—Harold Fannin—leading in yards. There’s real talent with Swearinger and Quinshon Johnson, but the Browns need cleaner structure and defined roles to turn potential into points during a must-win stretch.

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