In today’s Fact or Fiction, I look at three big recent topics in college football and decide whether the statement is indeed FACT or if it’s FICTION.
1. Lincoln Riley is ducking the media.
Farrell’s take: FICTION
I’ve heard this, and I don’t believe it. Is Riley a bit soft at times? Yep. As a head coach, he’s very sensitive to the media and to strangers on social media, that’s well known. And not allowing his players to talk after the loss to Utah will be disguised as concern for his players but it’s all about Riley being too sensitive. But to question an illness is not something I’m comfortable doing. Let me just say this, even if it’s an “Urban Meyer illness” as some have joked, it’s still clear he’s fighting something or he’d never miss practice.
2. James Franklin will never beat Ohio State or Michigan again.
Farrell’s take: FICTION
Franklin last beat Ohio State in 2016 and last beat Michigan in 2020, so it’s been a while, and I don’t see the Nittany Lions beating Michigan this season. But for those unhappy Penn State fans thinking this will be forever, I have good news. It won’t be. Penn State should be strong next season and have the Buckeyes at home, and while it’s early to predict, I think they could win that game. They have Ohio State in 2025 as well and then Michigan replaces the Buckeyes in 2026 and 2027, so there will be fewer chances. But eventually, Franklin will break through, and it could be as early as next season.
3. Michigan will be banned from the playoff.
Farrell’s take: FICTION
I’ve heard this nonsense, and it’s laughable. NCAA investigations take years, and Jim Harbaugh will likely be in year three with his new NFL team before anything comes down. And that’s assuming this is legit cheating and anything is done about it. Michigan will actually probably win the national title this season and laugh all the way there.
