In today’s Fact or Fiction national columnist Mike Farrell looks at three big recent topics in college football and decides whether each statement is indeed FACT or if it’s FICTION.
*****
MORE FACT OR FICTION: Nicholas Singleton is best RB in 2022 class | Frank Ladson will break out at Miami
CLASS OF 2022 RANKINGS: Rivals250 | Position | Team | State | JUCO
CLASS OF 2023 RANKINGS: Rivals250 | Position | Team | State
TRANSFER PORTAL: Stories/coverage | Message board
RIVALS CAMP SERIES: Info for 2022 series
*****
1. Clemson fans should be frustrated with Dabo Swinney.
Farrell’s take: FACT. They shouldn’t be frustrated based on the on-field results, as we’ve seen two national titles and a down season (2021) resulting in a 10-win year. But in the transfer portal? It’s a bit disappointing. Swinney has been slow to come around to this new and key trend in college football, but he has finally offered a few players.
It's good to see QB Hunter Johnson come back after a rough time at Northwestern, but with so many other legitimate transfers heading to the competition it has to be a bit worrisome. Time will tell if this lack of effort in the portal hurts him down the line.
*****
2. Nebraska has found the answer at QB in the portal.
Farrell’s take: FICTION. I’d like to say yes, because both Casey Thompson, who is transferring from Texas, and new commit Chubba Purdy (Florida State transfer) have potential, but neither strikes me as a polished and ready QB to plug and play.
And that’s what Nebraska needs — someone with experience who can be a clear leader and difference-maker. So when I say “the answer” I can’t say the Huskers have found that answer. The competition will be good for all involved, but a career year will be needed to save Scott Frost.
*****
3. LSU is dominating the transfer portal.
Farrell’s take: FACT. Every time I turn around it seems that LSU is getting another huge commitment from the portal as Brian Kelly is making it a priority. From OT Miles Frazier and DBs Greg Brooks Jr., Mekhi Williams-Garner and Joe Foucha to WR Kyren Lacy and RB Noah Cain the Tigers are hitting all the key positions.
And add in Mekhi Wingo - an elite DL from Missouri - and you see an overhaul of this roster from the portal, which could lead to similar instant results that we saw with Michigan State last season. No one is doing it better this year.
