playEJ Manuel previews the path to CFP quarterfinal upsets (1:42)EJ Manuel gives the keys to victory for the College Football Playoff quarterfinal underdogs. (1:42)Adam RittenbergDec 28, 2025, 08:00 AM ETCloseCollege football reporter; joined ESPN in 2008. Graduate of Northwestern University. Follow on XEmailPrintOpen Extended ReactionsTHE PHONE BUZZED and the voice on the other end sounded characteristically upbeat and cheerful, but also a bit worn down. Collin Klein was a week away from calling offensive plays for Texas A&M in the school's first College Football Playoff game, facing Miami at Kyle Field.