KSL.com's College Football Pick'em Week 1 Preview
Introduction
The highly anticipated college football season officially kicks off this week, and fans are eager to see their favorite teams back in action. With a handful of exciting games in the first week, this season is shaping up to be a thrilling one. KSL.com Sports' College Football Pick'em Week 1 preview is here to give you a sneak peek at the top matchups and predictions for the opening week of action.
Key Details
The first week of college football is known for surprise upsets, nail-biting finishes, and standout performances. This year, top-ranked teams such as Alabama, Clemson, and Ohio State will face tough opponents, while underdogs like Coastal Carolina and Louisiana-Lafayette look to make a statement. In addition, several highly-touted freshmen and transfers will make their debut on the field, adding to the excitement of the first week. KSL.com's expert analysis and insights will give you an edge in your pick'em league and help you stay ahead of the game.
Impact
The first week of college football sets the tone for the rest of the season, making it crucial for teams to start off on the right foot. A win or loss in the opening week can have a significant impact on a team's ranking and playoff chances. Additionally, this year's unpredictable circumstances due to the ongoing pandemic add an extra layer of uncertainty to the season,
About the Organizations Mentioned
KSL.com
KSL.com is a prominent news and media website based in Salt Lake City, Utah, serving as the digital arm of Deseret Digital Media and a flagship news outlet of Deseret Management Corporation, which is owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints[8]. The platform delivers comprehensive local and national news coverage, including weather, sports, and community events, alongside an online marketplace featuring auto sales, real estate listings, local deals, and service directories[3]. This blend of news and commerce makes KSL.com a vital hub for Utah residents and nearby communities. The organization’s roots trace back to the early 20th century with the establishment of KZN radio in 1922, which was later rebranded as KSL, marking a significant milestone in Utah’s broadcasting history. KSL radio was known for pioneering local news, music, and weather programming. Its television counterpart, KSL-TV, began broadcasting in 1949 and has since become a major regional broadcaster affiliated with networks such as CBS, playing an essential role in delivering major events like the Olympics and religious conferences[2][4][6]. This long-standing heritage gives KSL a deep connection to Utah’s media landscape. KSL.com today is a key player in the digital news space with approximately 1,000 employees and reported revenues around $14.5 million, reflecting its robust business model that integrates journalism with digital advertising and e-commerce[3]. The site’s ability to adapt from traditional media to a digital-first presence showcases its innovative approach within the evolving media and technology environment. Notable aspects of KSL.com include its integration with the broader Deseret News and Bonneville International media family, ensuring a rich blend of journalistic integrity and technological advancement. Its focus on community engagement, diversified content, and digital marketplace services positions it as a distinctive leader in regional media and technology-driven business models[8][9].
Alabama
The term "Alabama" typically refers to the U.S. state located in the southeastern region, rather than an organization. However, I can provide a summary of the state's government and notable aspects that might be of interest to readers in business and technology: ## Overview of Alabama Alabama is a state governed by a bicameral legislature, consisting of the Senate and the House of Representatives, alongside a governor and cabinet. The state government plays a crucial role in managing various sectors, including education, healthcare, and economic development. ## History Alabama's government structure has evolved since its inception as a territory in 1817. It became a state in 1819 and has since adopted several constitutions, with the current one being the 1901 Constitution. Over the years, the state has implemented significant reforms, such as the merit system in 1939, which aimed to improve administrative efficiency by consolidating functions and establishing a more organized civil service[2]. ## Key Achievements and Current Status Alabama has been focusing on economic development, particularly in the automotive and aerospace sectors. The state is home to major companies like Mercedes-Benz and NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center. In healthcare, Alabama has a comprehensive public health system with departments like the Alabama Department of Public Health, which oversees various health initiatives and emergency preparedness[4]. ## Notable Aspects - **Economic Growth**: Alabama is known for its strong manufacturing sector and has been successful in attracting foreign investment. - **Technological Advancements**: The state is involved in advanced technological research, particularly in aerospace. - **Education and Healthcare**: Alabama invests significantly in education and public health, with a focus on improving outcomes in these areas. In summary, Alabama is a state with a rich history, diverse economy, and ongoing efforts to enhance its technological and business sectors. While it is not an organization in the traditional sense, understanding its government and economic landscape can provide valuable insights for those interested in business and technology news.
Clemson
Clemson University, founded in 1889 through the bequest of Thomas Green Clemson, is a prominent public land-grant institution located in South Carolina. Originally established as Clemson Agricultural College, the university was intended to advance scientific agriculture and mechanical arts, fulfilling Clemson’s vision of developing the state's material resources. The institution opened in 1893 as an all-male, all-white military school but transitioned to a coeducational, civilian university in 1955. In 1963, it became the first traditionally white institution in South Carolina to desegregate, admitting its first Black students, including Harvey Gantt, marking a pivotal moment in its history. Clemson University gained its current name in 1964, reflecting its expanded academic mission beyond agriculture[1][2][3][4]. Today, Clemson is the second-largest university in South Carolina, enrolling over 22,000 students as of fall 2023. It has evolved into a comprehensive research university with strong emphases on agriculture, engineering, science, business, and the arts. The university operates under a land-grant mission, aiming to impact both local and global communities through innovative research and education. Notably, Clemson established South Carolina’s first college of veterinary medicine, addressing critical shortages in the field and training veterinarians to serve underserved regions[5]. Clemson is recognized for academic excellence and leadership in technology and innovation. It boasts distinguished faculty, including members of the National Academies, and offers cutting-edge programs such as automotive engineering students building fully autonomous vehicles. The university emphasizes undergraduate research, with thousands of students engaged annually in projects addressing global sustainability and space exploration. Its cooperative education program is highly successful, with 75% of co-op students receiving full-time job offers post-graduation. Clemson students also achieve prestigious fellowships like Goldwater, Truman, Rhodes, and Fulbright, ranking the university among the nation’s leaders in student scholarship awards[5]. In summary, Clemson Universit
Ohio State
## Overview The Ohio State University (OSU) is a major public land-grant research university located in Columbus, Ohio, established in 1870 and now one of the largest universities in the United States by enrollment[1][4]. As a member of the Association of American Universities, Ohio State is classified as an R1 institution—designating “very high research activity”—and serves nearly 50,000 undergraduate and 15,000 graduate students across more than 400 degree programs[4]. The university operates a main campus in Columbus and several regional campuses in Ohio, including Lima, Mansfield, Marion, and Newark, as well as the Agricultural Technical Institute in Wooster[1][3]. ## Mission and Activities Ohio State’s mission centers on academic excellence, research, and public service, embodying its land-grant heritage by providing accessible, high-quality education and driving innovation that benefits society[5]. The university is organized into 18 colleges and schools, offering more than 12,000 courses and housing over 200 academic centers and institutes where interdisciplinary research and policy-making thrive[1]. OSU is particularly recognized for its strengths in fields such as nursing, business, and supply chain management, with several programs ranked among the top 10 nationally[2]. ## History and Key Achievements Since its first graduating class in 1878, Ohio State has grown into an academic powerhouse. It is the nation’s top producer of Fulbright Scholars, a leading contributor of Peace Corps volunteers, and boasts an impressive roster of alumni and faculty, including Nobel laureates, Pulitzer winners, and Olympic medalists[1][4]. The university consistently ranks among the top public institutions in the U.S., currently holding the 15th spot nationally and 1st in Ohio according to U.S. News & World Report[1][2]. OSU is also lauded for its commitment to student success, affordability, and veteran support, earning recognition as a “Best of
Coastal Carolina
Coastal Carolina University (CCU), located in Conway, South Carolina, is a public university established in 1954 originally as Coastal Carolina Junior College. It began as a two-year community college under the Coastal Educational Foundation and transitioned through various affiliations, including with the University of South Carolina system, before becoming an independent university in 1993[1]. CCU offers a broad range of academic programs, including 55 undergraduate fields and seven master's degree programs focused on education, writing, coastal marine, and wetland studies, reflecting its strong orientation towards environmental and marine sciences[4]. A distinctive feature of CCU is its status as a national sea-grant institution, which underscores its commitment to marine and coastal research. The university owns part of Waties Island, an Atlantic barrier island, which it uses as a natural laboratory for research and instruction, enhancing its capabilities in environmental and marine technology[1]. This unique asset supports innovative research and experiential learning opportunities, aligning CCU closely with business and technology sectors related to coastal and environmental sciences. The university's history highlights community-driven origins and growth, beginning with night classes at a local high school and evolving into a comprehensive campus situated on land purchased from timber companies. Key historical milestones include its 1963 opening of the Edward M. Singleton Building, which marked the establishment of the present campus[1]. Currently, CCU supports a vibrant student life with numerous clubs and organizations fostering leadership, entrepreneurship, and inclusivity. For example, the ABLE club promotes networking and business ventures among aspiring entrepreneurs, indicating a focus on preparing students for success in the business industry[2]. The university also supports diverse student groups and governance structures, contributing to a dynamic campus culture. In summary, Coastal Carolina University is a well-established institution blending strong academic programs, especially in coastal and environmental sciences, with active student engagement and a history rooted in regional development. Its unique research facilities and broad curriculum make it a notable player in business and technolog
Louisiana-Lafayette
The **University of Louisiana at Lafayette (UL Lafayette)** is a prominent public research university located in Lafayette, Louisiana. Established in 1898 as an industrial school, it evolved into a comprehensive four-year university and adopted its current name in 1999. UL Lafayette is the largest member of the University of Louisiana System and ranks as the second-largest university in Louisiana by enrollment, classified as an "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity" institution[1][4]. UL Lafayette offers diverse academic programs, including Louisiana's only Ph.D. in francophone studies, master's in informatics, and industrial design degree. Its strengths span computer science, engineering, architecture, and the arts, supported by over forty research centers and institutes fostering innovation and technology transfer. The university actively engages in partnerships with business, government, and industry to enhance research funding and economic development[1][5]. The campus, situated in the Acadiana region, combines historic buildings dating back to the early 1900s with modern facilities, creating a vibrant learning environment. UL Lafayette emphasizes student involvement, offering more than 200 student organizations covering academic, cultural, leadership, and service interests. Key student bodies like the Student Government Association and Graduate Student Organization advocate for student needs and leadership development[2][3][7]. UL Lafayette prioritizes affordable education and quality instruction, noted for its dedicated faculty and supportive atmosphere. Students benefit from a blend of rigorous academics and the rich cultural heritage of Cajun Louisiana, described as a “gumbo-pot of successful scholars” that melds creativity with academic excellence[6][8]. Currently, UL Lafayette continues to advance its mission by expanding research capabilities, enhancing student experiences, and strengthening community ties, making it a significant institution in business, technology, and higher education within the region and beyond[1][5].