The first-ever 12-team college football playoff is here -- and Sharpen the Point is here to break down the matchups like nobody else, including tips and picks for putting together a DFS lineup for the action.

First round (Dec. 20-21)

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The transfer portal giveth, the transfer portal taketh away.

With the winter window opening last week, we’ve seen a flurry of movement for Florida State football in the transfer portal. At the moment, it’s mainly been departures — including a major surprise in quarterback Luke Kromenhoek — but the Seminoles also hit the portal for the second straight year to bring in a passer, this time former Boston College quarterback Thomas Castellanos.

In this episode of the Florida State of Recruiting, Tomahawk Nation’s Three Stars (Tim Alumbaugh, Josh Pick and NoleThruandThru) break down FSU’s quarterback changes as well as who Florida State needs to be targeting in the trenches and across the board in order to fulfill Mike Norvell’s promise of an immediate turnaround.

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As a nightmare season unfolded for Florida State, the Seminoles saw their top 10 recruiting class fall apart.

Heading into the start of the Early Signing Period with the 53rd-ranked class in the 247Sports Composite Rankings, FSU rallied for a strong finish that featured several major flips to move to No. 20.

While it doesn’t make up fully for the season that just went down in Tallahassee nor the players lost throughout it, it was an unprecedented finish that felt like the first breath of positivity for the program in months.

Fuzzy feelings aside, just how impactful was the finish for Mike Norvell and his staff as they look to right the ship in Tallahassee? What is there to make of the players that made up #Tribe25? The Three Stars — Tim Alumbaugh, Josh Pick and NoleThruandThru — break it down in the latest episode of the Florida State of Recruiting podcast.

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FRIDAY: Western Kentucky Hilltoppers (+3.5) at Jacksonville State Gamecocks, 7 p.m. ET, CBSSN

I’m just guessing here.

Brian’s Pick: Jacksonville State -3.5

Jordan’s Pick: JSU -3.5

FRIDAY: No. 20 UNLV Rebels (+4.5) at No. 10 Boise State Broncos, 8 p.m. ET, FOX

Boise seems to be slowing down. Ashton Jeanty is Heisman-worthy but banged up. UNLV could steal this CFP bid with a win.

Brian’s Pick: UNLV +4.5

Jordan’s Pick: BSU -4.5

FRIDAY: Tulane Green Wave (-4.5) at No. 24 Army Black Knights, 8:30 p.m. ET, ABC

Tulane blew their CFP chances last week but should rebound here as their defense limits Army’s ground game.

Brian’s Pick: Tulane -4.5

Jordan’s Pick: Tulane -4.5

No. 16 Iowa State Cyclones (+2.5) vs. No. 15 Arizona State Sun Devils (Arlington, TX), Noon ET, ABC

Iowa State is set to circle back into CFP contention. Arizona State missing Jordyn Tyson strengthens ISU’s chances.

Brian’s Pick: Iowa State +2.5

Jordan’s Pick: ASU -2.5

Ohio Bobcats (+3.5) vs. Miami (OH) Redhawks (Detroit, MI), Noon ET, ESPN

Guessing again.

Brian’s Pick: Ohio +3.5

Jordan’s Pick: Miami (OH) -3.5

No. 5 Georgia Bulldogs (+2.5) vs. No. 2 Texas Longhorns (Atlanta, GA), 4:00 p.m. ET, ABC

Texas has improved their run game and trenches, but it’s hard to doubt Georgia in Atlanta.

Brian’s Pick: Georgia +2.5

Jordan’s Pick: Texas -2.5

Marshall Thundering Herd (+5.5) at Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns, 7:30 p.m. ET, ESPN

Louisiana should win at home despite coaching distractions.

Brian’s Pick: Louisiana -5.5

Jordan’s Pick: UL -5.5

No. 3 Penn State Nittany Lions (+3.5) at No. 1 Oregon Ducks (Indianapolis, IN), 8:00 p.m. ET, CBS

Oregon is the best team but could be vulnerable. I’m taking Penn State for the upset.

Brian’s Pick: Penn State +3.5

Jordan’s Pick: Oregon -3.5

No. 17 Clemson Tigers (+2.5) at No. 8 SMU Mustangs (Charlotte, NC), 8:00 p.m. ET, ABC

Clemson could pull off an upset after gaining experience from last week’s matchup.

Brian’s Pick: Clemson +2.5

Jordan’s Pick: SMU -2.5

Record Year to Date: 24 Wins 28 Ties 31 Losses

Cade Klubnik, Clemson ($9,000) – Klubnik’s dual-threat ability makes him a strong play against SMU’s defense, which has struggled against top-tier QBs like Shough and Hoover.

Rocco Becht, Iowa State ($7,600) – Becht is reliable as Iowa State continues to rely on the pass. Pair him with Jayden Higgins or Jaylin Noel for upside.

Bill Davis, ULL ($4,900) – The freshman has been productive, finding the end zone consistently. He’s a great value against Marshall’s porous run defense.

Cam Skattebo, Arizona State ($10,300) – Skattebo’s workload and versatility make him a must-play, especially with Tyson out. Iowa State’s run defense struggles against explosive runners.

Gunnar Helm, Texas ($4,000) – Helm has delivered in big games, posting solid lines against top opponents. He’s a steal at this price.

Bryant Wesco Jr, Clemson ($3,400) – Wesco’s role is growing, and he’s primed for a breakout. His downfield ability and SMU’s pass defense set him up for a strong outing.

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FRIDAY: Oregon State Beavers (+19.5) at No. 11 Boise State Broncos, Noon ET, FOX

Oregon State impressed me last week—not great, but better than expected. Boise relies on Ashton Jeanty, and this is his Heisman moment. The Broncos have slowed, and the Beavers need this for bowl eligibility.

Pick: Oregon State +19.5

FRIDAY: Oklahoma State Cowboys (+16.5) at No. 25 Colorado Buffaloes, Noon ET, ABC

Travis Hunter’s Heisman case feels secure unless disaster strikes. Oklahoma State’s defense is porous, and Hunter should dominate.

Pick: Colorado -16.5

FRIDAY: Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (+19.5) at No. 7 Georgia Bulldogs, 7:30 p.m. ET, ABC

Georgia Tech’s keepaway approach could give them life, especially if Carson Beck commits an early mistake.

Pick: Georgia Tech +19.5

No. 15 South Carolina Gamecocks (+2.5) at No. 12 Clemson Tigers, Noon ET, ESPN

South Carolina is playoff-worthy. Their defensive line and offense are formidable enough to secure a road win.

Pick: South Carolina +2.5

Michigan Wolverines (+20.5) at No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes, Noon ET, FOX

Ohio State’s offensive line issues could finally catch up, and Michigan’s defensive front may exploit them.

Pick: Michigan +20.5

No. 8 Tennessee Volunteers (-11.5) at Vanderbilt Commodores, Noon ET, ABC

Nico’s success has come against weak teams. Vanderbilt won’t win but should keep it closer than expected.

Pick: Vanderbilt +11.5

No. 5 Notre Dame Fighting Irish (-7.5) at USC Trojans, 3:30 p.m. ET, CBS

Notre Dame’s offense is clicking, and their defense will overwhelm USC. The Irish are CFP-ready.

Pick: Notre Dame -7.5

No. 6 Miami Hurricanes (-10.5) at Syracuse Orange, 3:30 p.m. ET, ESPN

This feels like a trap game for Miami. Syracuse has enough firepower to pull off the upset in a shootout.

Pick: Syracuse +10.5

Auburn Tigers (+11.5) at No. 13 Alabama Crimson Tide, 3:30 p.m. ET, ABC

Auburn’s reliance on Cam Coleman and Jarquez Hunter is clicking. They can exploit Alabama’s vulnerabilities.

Pick: Auburn +11.5

No. 16 Arizona State (-9.5) at Arizona Wildcats, 3:30 p.m. ET, FOX

Arizona State has been dominant, but Arizona can challenge them in this rivalry.

Pick: Arizona +9.5

Florida Gators (-15.5) at Florida State Seminoles, 7:00 p.m. ET, ESPN2

Florida has been the team of the moment and should carry their momentum to cover here.

Pick: Florida -15.5

Washington Huskies (+18.5) at No. 1 Oregon Ducks, 7:30 p.m. ET, NBC

Oregon is better in every aspect and should win comfortably at home.

Pick: Oregon -18.5

No. 3 Texas Longhorns (-5.5) at No. 20 Texas A&M Aggies, 7:30 p.m. ET, ABC

This rivalry means everything. A&M’s defense and home field give them an edge in a low-scoring battle.

Pick: Texas A&M +5.5

No. 24 Kansas State Wildcats (+2.5) at No. 18 Iowa State Cyclones, 7:30 p.m. ET, FOX

Iowa State seems destined to sneak into the Big 12 title. They should handle Kansas State at home.

Pick: Iowa State -2.5

Nevada Wolf Pack (+17.5) at No. 22 UNLV Rebels, 8:00 p.m. ET, CBSSN

Nevada has no chance against UNLV’s dominant offense at home.

Pick: UNLV -17.5

Record Year to Date: 21 Wins 28 Ties 28 Losses

Kevin Jennings, SMU ($7,000) – Jennings has been consistent, with near-300-yard games and multiple TDs. SMU will lean on him against Cal’s defense.

Brady Cook, Missouri ($4,900) – Cook’s low price is a steal on senior day. Expect fireworks with Luther Burden’s final home game.

Cam Skattebo, Arizona State ($10,100) – Skattebo’s workload and versatility make him a must-play against Arizona’s weak defense.

Jahiem White, West Virginia ($4,300) – White offers consistent production and should excel against Texas Tech’s struggling run defense.

Oronde Gadsden II, Syracuse ($5,200) – In a potential shootout with Miami, Gadsden is Syracuse’s best chance to stay competitive.

Ashtyn Hawkins, Baylor ($3,600) – Hawkins offers value against Kansas’s poor slot coverage in a high-scoring game.

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No. 5 Indiana Hoosiers (+12.5) at No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes, Noon ET, FOX

I’m doing a 180 on Indiana. I’ve doubted them before, but their perfect season has me more nervous about how they’ll perform as favorites rather than underdogs. Still, they have enough fight to stay within a dozen points.

Pick: Indiana +12.5

No. 9 Ole Miss Rebels (-10.5) at Florida Gators, Noon ET, ABC

The Gators capitalized on LSU mistakes last week, but DJ Lagway’s health and decision-making remain questionable. Ole Miss, with their consistent execution, should handle Florida comfortably.

Pick: Ole Miss -10.5

No. 13 SMU Mustangs (-9.5) at Virginia Cavaliers, Noon ET, ESPN2

Virginia’s push for bowl eligibility adds intrigue, but SMU has consistently won by multiple scores this season. They’re a playoff dark horse and should continue their dominance here.

Pick: SMU -9.5

No. 4 Penn State Nittany Lions (-12.5) at Minnesota Golden Gophers, 3:30 p.m. ET, CBS

Penn State is solid but not spectacular, and this matchup feels low-scoring. Minnesota’s defense should help them cover this sizable spread.

Pick: Minnesota +12.5

No. 14 BYU Cougars (+3.5) at No. 21 Arizona State Sun Devils, 3:30 p.m. ET, ESPN

BYU’s luck ran out last week, while Arizona State controls its Big 12 fate. With home-field advantage and a rising trajectory, the Sun Devils should prevail.

Pick: Arizona State -3.5

No. 16 Colorado Buffaloes (-3.5) at Kansas Jayhawks, 3:30 p.m. ET, FOX

Kansas delivered last week, and with a healthy Jalon Daniels, they can score with anyone. Expect another upset bid against Colorado.

Pick: Kansas +3.5

No. 19 Army Black Knights (+14.5) vs. No. 6 Notre Dame Fighting Irish (Yankee Stadium), 7:00 p.m. ET, NBC

Notre Dame has been dominant, but Army’s top-ranked scoring defense should make this a low-scoring, closer-than-expected contest.

Pick: Army +14.5

No. 12 Boise State Broncos (-23.5) at Wyoming Cowboys, 7:00 p.m. ET, CBSSN

Boise State is rolling, led by Jeanty’s dominance. Wyoming isn’t built to keep up with a top-tier team like this.

Pick: Boise State -23.5

No. 7 Alabama Crimson Tide (-14.5) at Oklahoma Sooners, 7:30 p.m. ET, ABC

Oklahoma’s postseason hopes depend on an upset. However, Alabama and Jalen Milroe present too much firepower for the Sooners to handle this week.

Pick: Alabama -14.5

No. 15 Texas A&M Aggies (-2.5) at Auburn Tigers, 7:30 p.m. ET, ESPN

This line is puzzling, but Auburn at home in a potential lookahead spot for Texas A&M makes them worth the pick.

Pick: Auburn +2.5

Record Year to Date: 19 Wins 25 Ties 21 Losses

Quarterback

Riley Leonard, Notre Dame ($9,500) – Leonard is a dual-threat QB with a high floor and ceiling against Virginia’s porous pass defense. He’s a great anchor for lineups with rushing TD upside.

Cade Klubnik, Clemson ($8,600) – Klubnik has rebounded nicely, with three TDs against Virginia Tech. Facing Pitt’s struggling secondary, he’s a safe pick with rushing upside.

Running Back

Isaac Brown, Louisville ($6,700) – Brown is mispriced for his role, averaging 24+ fantasy points. He thrives in Louisville’s run-heavy scheme and is a must-play against Stanford’s poor run defense.

Kaytron Allen, Penn State ($4,900) – If Nick Singleton sits, Allen becomes a lock for volume against Purdue. If Singleton plays, Allen still offers value but with limited exposure.

Wide Receiver

Will Sheppard, Colorado ($3,600) – Sheppard benefits from Colorado’s pass-heavy attack and has emerged as a value option with consistent targets and scoring potential.

TJ Moore, Clemson ($3,200) – Moore’s consistency and low price make him an ideal salary saver. He’s shown increased involvement and could be due for a breakout game.

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No. 3 Texas Longhorns (-12.5) at Arkansas Razorbacks, Noon ET, ABC

Texas hasn’t had a dominant win yet, though their schedule hasn’t challenged them much. Arkansas, coming off a bye, has been struggling but won’t roll over at home. They could keep it close or even pull off an upset.

Pick: Arkansas +12.5

No. 20 Clemson Tigers (-11.5) at Pitt Panthers, Noon ET, ESPN

Pitt has struggled recently, but Clemson hasn’t been flawless either. While logic points to Clemson, Pitt’s home advantage and potential to rebound make them worth the points.

Pick: Pitt +11.5

Utah Utes (+11.5) at No. 17 Colorado Buffaloes, Noon ET, FOX

Colorado has improved on both sides of the ball, but Utah’s gritty, close-game style could challenge them. Kyle Whittingham may have something up his sleeve for this one.

Pick: Utah +11.5

Virginia Cavaliers (+23.5) at No. 8 Notre Dame Fighting Irish, 3:30 p.m. ET, NBC

Notre Dame has been dominant recently and is one of the best ATS teams under Marcus Freeman. Still, taking Virginia feels like a gamble worth trying.

Pick: Virginia +23.5

Boston College Eagles (+19.5) at No. 14 SMU Mustangs, 3:30 p.m. ET, ESPN

SMU’s path to an ACC title has opened up, and with Thomas Castellanos out for Boston College, SMU should roll.

Pick: SMU -19.5

No. 23 Missouri Tigers (+14.5) at No. 21 South Carolina Gamecocks, 4:15 p.m. ET, SEC Network

South Carolina’s defense at home should handle a Missouri team that has struggled to replicate last year’s success.

Pick: South Carolina -14.5

No. 1 Oregon Ducks (-13.5) at Wisconsin Badgers, 7:00 p.m. ET, NBC

Oregon faces a tough road test in Madison. The Badgers, fresh off a blowout loss to Iowa, could make this closer than expected. November challenges like this can define champions.

Pick: Wisconsin +13.5

No. 7 Tennessee Volunteers (+9.5) at No. 12 Georgia Bulldogs, 7:30 p.m. ET, ABC

Georgia has the edge, but Tennessee’s uncertainty, especially with Nico’s post-concussion play, makes this a tricky pick. Still, Georgia seems better positioned to cover.

Pick: Georgia -9.5

UAB Blazers (+15.5) at Memphis Tigers, 8:00 p.m. ET, ESPN2

Memphis has been inconsistent, while UAB can score. This could be closer than expected and is a more entertaining watch than the Georgia game.

Pick: UAB +15.5

Kansas Jayhawks (+2.5) at No. 6 BYU Cougars, 10:15 p.m. ET, ESPN

BYU has lived on the edge this season, but Kansas feels primed for an upset. The line suggests this could be their week.

Pick: Kansas +2.5

Record Year to Date: 19 Wins 25 Ties 21 Losses

Quarterback

Riley Leonard, Notre Dame ($9,500) – Leonard checks every box this week: mobile QB, home favorite, and facing a weak Virginia pass defense. With 13 rushing touchdowns this season and a 35+ point team total, Leonard has slate-breaking potential.

Cade Klubnik, Clemson ($8,600) – Klubnik has been consistent, with three or more TDs in six of nine games. Facing Pitt’s struggling secondary, he’s a reliable play, bolstered by Clemson’s emerging young receivers.

Running Back

Isaac Brown, Louisville ($6,700) – Brown is a lock, averaging 24+ fantasy points per game since taking over six weeks ago. Louisville’s run-heavy offense and a favorable matchup make him a must-play.

Kaytron Allen, Penn State ($4,900) – With Nick Singleton possibly limited or out, Allen becomes a high-volume play. If Singleton sits, Allen is a lock for 20+ carries at a great value.

Wide Receiver

Will Sheppard, Colorado ($3,600) – Sheppard has stepped up in Colorado’s pass-heavy offense, especially after Jimmy Horn’s injury. With touchdowns in four of five games, he’s the best value option.

TJ Moore, Clemson ($3,200) – Moore has emerged as a consistent target in Clemson’s offense, with two touchdowns and strong yardage in recent games. His low price and upside make him an excellent salary saver.

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No. 4 Miami Hurricanes (-10.5) at Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, Noon ET, ESPN

Miami often starts slow, then flips a switch to dominate. Georgia Tech, coming off a bye, hopes to be the team to finally take down Miami. They bring physicality and home-field advantage, but Miami’s offensive firepower is hard to overlook.

Pick: Miami -10.5

Florida Gators (+21.5) at No. 5 Texas Longhorns, Noon ET, ABC

The Gators surprised against Georgia, even after losing freshman QB DJ Lagway. With Texas on the rise, it’s hard to see Florida staying within three scores.

Pick: Texas -21.5

Purdue Boilermakers (+38.5) at No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes, Noon ET, FOX

The Spoilermakers get another shot against a top team. They’re struggling, but Ohio State hasn’t looked like a definitive No. 2. I’ll take Purdue to keep it within 35.

Pick: Purdue +38.5

No. 3 Georgia Bulldogs (-2.5) at No. 16 Ole Miss Rebels, 3:30 p.m. ET, ABC

Georgia still wins big but not as dominantly as in past seasons. Ole Miss could upset, but history favors Georgia in big games.

Pick: Georgia -2.5

Michigan Wolverines (+14.5) at No. 8 Indiana Hoosiers, 3:30 p.m. ET, CBS

Michigan’s defense holds opponents to the mid-20s, but this high-powered Indiana offense will be a challenge. I’ll take Michigan to cover the 14.5.

Pick: Michigan +14.5

No. 23 Clemson Tigers (-6.5) at Virginia Tech Hokies, 3:30 p.m. ET, ESPN

Clemson’s bubble burst recently, and with uncertainties about VT’s key players, this one depends on health.

Pick: Virginia Tech +6.5

No. 20 Colorado Buffaloes (-3.5) at Texas Tech Red Raiders, 4:00 p.m. ET, FOX

Texas Tech delivered last week, and I’ll stick with them in what promises to be a high-scoring “Fantasy Carnival.”

Pick: Texas Tech +3.5

Florida State Seminoles (+26.5) at No. 10 Notre Dame Fighting Irish, 7:30 p.m. ET, NBC

No need to overthink this one.

Pick: Notre Dame +26.5

No. 11 Alabama Crimson Tide (-2.5) at No. 15 LSU Tigers, 7:30 p.m. ET, ABC

As an LSU grad, I’ve been torn. Jalen Milroe’s playmaking favors Alabama, but LSU’s night home-field magic pulls me the other way. I’ll hedge emotionally.

Pick: LSU +2.5

No. 9 BYU Cougars (-4.5) at Utah Utes, 10:15 p.m. ET, ESPN

Utah’s season hasn’t gone well, but this rivalry game in Salt Lake City gives them the edge.

Pick: Utah +4.5

Record Year to Date: 19 Wins 22 Ties 18 Losses

Quarterback

Shedeur Sanders, Colorado ($8,900) – Texas Tech’s porous pass defense (280+ yards allowed per game) offers a great setup for Sanders, who should easily hit 300 yards and 3 TDs. Stack him with his pass catchers for high upside.

Thomas Castellanos, Boston College ($6,600) – With his rushing attempts increasing, Castellanos brings upside. Syracuse’s defense struggles, making Castellanos a solid dual-threat pick.

Running Back

Quintrevion Wisner, Texas ($5,000) – Wisner’s workload in Texas’s high-scoring offense is undervalued. Florida’s banged-up defense should give him opportunities to score.

Kanye Udoh, Army ($5,900) – Udoh’s performance hinges on QB Daily’s status. If Daily sits, Udoh becomes a must-play against North Texas’s weak run defense.

Wide Receiver

LaJohntay Wester, Colorado ($5,200) – Wester is consistently undervalued and has a strong role in Colorado’s offense. His red-zone presence makes him a high-floor play.

Tony Johnson, Cincinnati ($3,600) – Johnson’s recent performances make him a value option against a pass-funnel West Virginia defense, with consistent targets from Sorsby.

4o

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No. 4 Ohio State Buckeyes (-3.5) at No. 3 Penn State Nittany Lions, Noon ET, FOX

Ohio State being favored here is surprising; I expected it closer to a pick-em. Both teams are contenders but feel one step from disappointment. In a close matchup like this, taking the home team with points seems smart.

Pick: Penn State +3.5

Duke Blue Devils (+20.5) at No. 5 Miami Hurricanes, Noon ET, ABC

A big spread, but Duke is still Duke. Coach Manny Diaz is motivated to win, but Miami’s talent gap is clear. I’ll take Duke plus 20 points.

Pick: Duke +20.5

No. 1 Oregon Ducks (-15.5) at Michigan Wolverines, 3:30 p.m. ET, CBS

Michigan’s struggles are evident, and Oregon looks title-bound. While Michigan’s defense is solid, Oregon’s firepower on both sides likely proves too much.

Pick: Oregon -15.5

Florida Gators (+16.5) vs. No. 2 Georgia Bulldogs, 3:30 p.m. ET, ABC

Florida has turned things around after a rough start and could still reach bowl eligibility. Freshman QB DJ Lagway offers high potential, but Georgia’s strength will likely overpower them.

Pick: Georgia -16.5

Texas Tech Red Raiders (+14.5) at No. 11 Iowa State Cyclones, 3:30 p.m. ET, ESPN

Could this be the year Matt Campbell makes a CFP push? Despite Iowa State’s Big 12 co-favorite status, I’m skeptical of their Cinderella story and will take Texas Tech with the points.

Pick: Texas Tech +14.5

No. 13 Indiana Hoosiers (-7.5) at Michigan State Spartans, 3:30 p.m. ET, Peacock

Indiana is optimistic about QB Kurtis Rourke’s return and will try to keep their momentum going. I think they’ll pull off a win over Michigan State.

Pick: Michigan State +7.5

North Carolina Tar Heels (-2.5) at Florida State Seminoles, 3:30 p.m. ET, ACCN

Here’s the game for those still following.

Pick: Florida State +2.5

No. 10 Texas A&M Aggies (-2.5) at South Carolina Gamecocks, 7:30 p.m. ET, ABC

Texas A&M’s playoff path looks clear, but South Carolina’s unpredictability could pose a challenge. After a rough start, A&M rallied, but South Carolina’s home advantage may keep it close.

Pick: South Carolina +2.5

Louisville Cardinals (+10.5) at No. 11 Clemson Tigers, 7:30 p.m. ET, ESPN

Clemson feels vulnerable, and while Louisville may not hand them a loss, they could expose some weaknesses.

Pick: Louisville +10.5

No. 18 Pitt Panthers (+7.5) at SMU Mustangs, 8:00 p.m. ET, ACCN

Sticking with Pitt, even without recent game experience.

Pick: Pitt +7.5

Record Year to Date: 18 Wins 20 Ties 16 Losses

Quarterback

Rocco Becht, Iowa State ($6,500) – Becht is an under-the-radar play, leading Iowa State to a top-10 rank. Though they focus on the run, Becht’s rushing and passing skills make him a strong pick against Texas Tech’s weak defense, which allows almost 34 points per game.

Bryson Daily, Army ($9,200) – Service academy QBs like Daily have high ceilings. Facing Air Force, who struggles against the run, Daily is set for a big game with potential help from Kanye Udoh.

Running Back

Trevor Etienne, Georgia ($6,500) – Etienne’s recent performance makes him a top pick in Georgia’s depleted backfield. With Florida’s weak run defense, Etienne should see increased carries as Georgia likely pulls away.

Mario Anderson, Memphis ($7,800) – Anderson thrives in Memphis’s high-paced offense and faces a UTSA defense that’s struggled against competent run teams. There’s some risk of Memphis relying on the pass, but Anderson’s volume makes him valuable.

Wide Receiver

Tez Johnson, Oregon ($7,700) – Johnson’s high target count and Oregon’s offensive strength make him a strong play. Michigan’s secondary struggles, and Johnson’s consistent performances offer a solid floor and ceiling.

Chris Carpenter, UTSA ($3,700) – With WR1 McCuin out, Carpenter has been heavily targeted and is a great value in this high-scoring game.

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Welcome to a special DFS-only episode of Sharpen the Point with your host, Chris Tyndall. flying solo today. No betting insights this time—Chris is focusing on what he knows best: Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) strategy and player picks.

We've been scoring big tournament wins. Over the last two weeks, he's been 20-maxing tournaments on DK, with 15 and 14 entries cashing—a high yield right now. Player pools have been tight and crisp. We’re going to break down every game on the Week 9 college football main slate and highlight the best plays.

Record Year to Date: 15 Wins, 18 Ties, 15 Losses

Record is based on a player's value using points per dollar. A win is more than 4 times, a tie is 3-4 times, and a loss below 3 times. Example: Oronde Gadsden costs $3,500 and scores 26.8 points for a 7.66 value rating and a win.

Quarterback

Josh Hoover, TCU ($8,500) – With two high-scoring games in Tulane/North Texas and Texas Tech/TCU, focusing on these matchups is crucial. Each team is expected to score over thirty, setting the stage for Hoover, who leads a TCU offense struggling on the ground and therefore passing more than 60% of the time—a top-ten rate nationally. Texas Tech's pass defense remains vulnerable, giving up nearly 270 yards per game, as evidenced by last week’s 274/5 performance against Sawyer Robertson. Hoover, combined with Savion Williams and Tahj Brooks, offers a great lineup core.

Will Howard, Ohio State ($7,900) – Howard's last outing, a close road game against Oregon, showcased his playmaking. While Ohio State’s title hopes are still alive, the team’s path forward has narrowed. After the bye, an explosive performance is expected against a Nebraska team coming off a rough outing against Indiana. Ohio State may emphasize the pass here, especially if they want to minimize carries for Quinshon Judkins, who recently underwent hand surgery, and increase Trey’Veon Henderson's workload.

Running Back

Makhi Hughes, Tulane ($7,400) – Hughes was a no-brainer pick due to his role and the ideal matchup. Tulane’s run-heavy offense (about two-thirds of plays) features Hughes as the main back, a trend head coach Jon Sumrall brought over from Troy. With North Texas’s strong offense, Tulane’s best strategy is ball control, leaning on Hughes to exploit a defense that gives up 175 rushing yards per game. Hughes has hit multiple touchdowns in three straight games, and he’s a strong pick to repeat that with 100+ yards and touchdowns.

Quintrevion Wisner, Texas ($4,800) – The Texas backfield has seen turnover, with CJ Baxter initially leading before injury, followed by Jaydon Blue, who fumbled his way down the depth chart. Wisner has now taken the lead, outperforming Blue in touches by 14 over the last two games. Vanderbilt’s run defense has allowed backs to reach big numbers, with Nate Noel nearly hitting 200 yards. Texas should deliver scoring opportunities for Wisner, making him a great value in a Sarkisian-led offense.

Wide Receiver

Daniel Jackson, Minnesota ($4,500) – Wide receivers abound in this slate, making the right combo crucial for payouts. Jackson, a star last season for Minnesota with four 100+ yard games and eight touchdowns, continues to see nearly nine targets per game. Facing a Maryland defense ranked near last in passing yards allowed (288 per game), Jackson has a prime opportunity to break out and deliver a high-impact performance.

DT Sheffield, North Texas ($7,000) – Sheffield caps the slate as a consistent performer in a North Texas offense that’s among the fastest in the country, passing 60% of the time. Averaging 7 catches, 94 yards, and 1.5 touchdowns per game, Sheffield is priced attractively for his role. In cash games, Sheffield feels essential, but for tournaments, Tulane’s ability to control the clock could keep Sheffield off the field, opening leverage options like Josh Kelly, Tez Johnson, or Ohio State's playmakers.

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