CFP 1st Round Preview: Who Blinks First? - FFD Ep 53

On Episode 53 of Flagged for Discussion, we break down every CFP first-round matchup by identifying the storylines, pressure points, coaching stakes, and matchup edges that will ultimately decide who advances and who goes home.

We open with a full overview of the slate before diving deep into Alabama vs Oklahoma, a rematch loaded with turnover volatility, discipline concerns, and real coaching intrigue. With rumors swirling around Kalen DeBoer and Michigan, we ask whether outside noise matters in playoff football…. and why this game may come down to one stat above all else.

From there, we examine Miami vs Texas A&M, a true statement game for both programs. Is this Mario Cristobal’s “prove it” moment? Which defensive line can take control? And are these two teams closer to the sport’s upper tier than the public realizes? We also discuss why the winner of this matchup may be more dangerous in the next round than most expect.

We’re joined by Dylan Altman, host of the Clash of Clubs Podcast, Oregon alum, and friend of the program, to break down James Madison vs Oregon. We discuss Oregon’s health, identity, and national title ceiling and maybeeee JMU’s path to chaos, the psychology of underdogs on the playoff stage, and whether the Ducks are still being undervalued nationally.

To close, we hit on Michigan’s coaching search, where conflicting reports have narrowed the focus to a handful of names: DeBoer, Fisch, and Dillingham, and debate what actually makes sense for the Wolverines in this moment.

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