ESPN analyst Paul Finebaum struck out on his major predictions before Saturday’s college football season opener.
The longtime SEC Network host predicted Texas would dominate Ohio State. That didn’t happen. He called Arch Manning the best player since Tim Tebow. Another miss. He insisted Alabama was a national title contender and their No. 8 ranking was too low.
All three predictions fell flat.
Paul Finebaum said:
– Texas would blow out Ohio State
– Arch Manning was the best player since Tim Tebow
– Alabama was a national title contender and ranking them #8 was far too lowGenerational ball knowledge.
— RedditCFB (@RedditCFB) August 30, 2025
WWE legend Ric Flair noticed Finebaum’s struggles. The wrestling icon called out the “Mouth of the SEC” in a viral social media post.
Well, Mr. @finebaum, I Guess You Lose Again. Florida State Beat Alabama. Another Bad Prediction On Your Part. Do You Know How Hurtful It Is To Call People Like @LincolnRiley, @CoachJim4UM, And @ryandaytime Out By Name When You Are So Far Off The Mark. Smarten Up! You’re 0-2 So… pic.twitter.com/J8Z6rWFGmN
— Ric Flair® (@RicFlairNatrBoy) August 30, 2025
“Well, Mr.@finebaum, I Guess You Lose Again,” Flair wrote. “Florida State Beat Alabama. Another Bad Prediction On Your Part. Do You Know How Hurtful It Is To Call People Like @LincolnRiley, @CoachJim4UM, And @ryandaytime Out By Name When You Are So Far Off The Mark. Smarten Up!”
Flair’s message continued with more criticism. “You’re 0-2 So Far! I Am Actually Embarrassed For You & The Comments You Make About People’s Personal Lives. So Sad!”
Finebaum had expressed strong confidence about the Texas-Ohio State matchup during an ESPN appearance 10 days earlier.
.@Finebaum doesn’t believe No. 3 Ohio St. should be favored over No. 1 Texas to open the season
“Texas’ roster is better, and I think Ohio State is going to be hungover from last year.” pic.twitter.com/mIbPDryls7
— First Take (@FirstTake) August 21, 2025
“I think Vegas is completely wrong. I really don’t even think that this game is going to be close,” Finebaum said on First Take. “I’m not trying to tank viewership for it. It’s a big event, one of the biggest games we have seen, but I think Texas’ roster is better, and I think Ohio State is going to be hungover from last year with a new quarterback.”
He also pointed to Ohio State’s coaching changes. “And by the way, two new coordinators as well.”
The analyst’s track record suggests more bold predictions are coming. Alabama faces UL Monroe next Saturday night in what should provide a bounce-back opportunity.
Finebaum’s willingness to make strong statements has built his reputation over the years. The results from Week 1 show how difficult college football predictions can be.
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