Week 8 didn’t go as planned for Walk-On Redshirts, as our lineup posted 88.2 points and finished 78th out of 92 entries. After back-to-back strong showings earlier in the season, we came back down to earth a bit — but that’s the beauty of Squad Blitz: every week is a clean slate and another shot at redemption. The Week 9 slate is loaded with intriguing matchups and plenty of value plays across the board. With $100 on the line for this week’s winner, there’s no better time to jump in. If you haven’t joined yet, download the Squad Blitz app and make sure to select Walk-On Redshirts as your referral. Here’s my ideal Week 9 lineup featuring two passing offenses, two rushing offenses, and one defense.
Passing
Alabama ($190) – The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again but expecting different results. Alabama was not our biggest issue last week, though. The Crimson Tide’s passing offense produced 24.7 points and should be in line for another strong week through the air. Alabama’s rushing attack has been a major issue this season, and I think they’ll continue to rely on Ty Simpson this weekend against South Carolina. It’s hard to pick against the receiving corps of Isaiah Horton, Germie Bernard, and Ryan Williams.
Illinois ($185) – Illinois may not have the best passing offense, but they have an experienced quarterback and are heading on the road to a tough environment. Luke Altmyer and Hank Beatty will need to have a big weekend if they’re going to beat Washington. The Huskies’ pass defense currently ranks 90th in the country, allowing 235 yards per game. Athan Kaliakmanis threw for 386 yards on this Washington defense. Altmyer threw for 248 yards against Ohio State and then for 328 and 390 against USC and Purdue, respectively. Illinois should have a strong showing through the air on Saturday.
Rushing
Kansas ($215) – The Kansas rushing attack took a serious hit after playing Texas Tech. The Red Raiders have one of the best defensive fronts in the country and completely controlled the line of scrimmage. Luckily for the Jayhawks, Kansas State is not nearly as strong against the run. The Jayhawks have not beaten Kansas State in nearly two decades, and if they’re going to change that on Saturday, they’ll need to be dominant on the ground. Jalon Daniels will also need to make plays with his legs. Look for a big day from Lance Leipold’s crew.
BYU ($185) – BYU is not a passing team. Bear Bachmeier is a good quarterback, but he hasn’t developed as a passer yet and is far more dangerous with his legs. This might be the best pick of the weekend. BYU ranks 10th nationally in rushing, averaging 233 yards and 42 attempts per game. The Cougars will commit to the run, and Iowa State isn’t great at stopping it. The Cyclones rank 88th in opponent yards per carry, allowing 4.4 yards per rush. BYU should have plenty of success on the ground, making this one of the best value picks of the weekend.
Defense
Texas A&M ($190) – I’m out on LSU’s offense this year. Garrett Nussmeier hasn’t been great and has battled injuries. LSU can’t run the ball, and Texas A&M feels like a team poised to make a playoff push. The Aggies’ pass defense ranks 45th nationally, so there’s a chance LSU could find success if Nussmeier is healthy, but I think the Brian Kelly era is nearing its end. The Aggies will make a statement on Saturday, shutting down LSU and cementing themselves as legitimate national championship contenders.
Passing: Alabama ($190), Illinois ($185)
Rushing: Kansas ($215), BYU ($185)
Defense: Texas A&M ($190)
Total: $965
Week 9 Recap
Week 9 was a solid bounce-back effort for Walk-On Redshirts after a rough showing in Week 8. The lineup delivered a more balanced performance across the board, with both passing selections contributing efficiently and the rushing units carrying the load. Alabama once again proved to be a steady pick through the air, while Illinois’ passing game showed flashes against Washington’s shaky secondary. On the ground, Kansas got back to form with a strong effort from Jalon Daniels and the Jayhawks’ backfield, and BYU’s power-run approach continued to pay dividends as expected. Texas A&M rounded things out with a statement performance defensively, validating the faith in the Aggies as one of the country’s most complete teams.
The Week 9 results reaffirm that the strategy is on the right track — identifying efficient passing units, run-heavy attacks with upside, and opportunistic defenses. With the season moving into its stretch run, the focus now shifts to Week 10 and building on the momentum from this rebound week.
