ESPN announced today that it has added college football analyst Phil Steele to the company.

Steele, known for publishing the "Phil Steele College Football Preview" every year, joins ESPN full time as a reporter and analyst after contributing to ESPN Insider and "ESPN The Magazine" for the past several years.

His preseason magazine, referred to as "the bible of college football," will contribute across ESPN linear, digital and radio platforms, according to a press release.

Chad Millman - ESPN vice president, editorial director, domestic digital content - said the addition "elevates our ability to serve fans."

Earlier this summer, Steele explained to me he believed both Alabama and Florida State, who meet in Week 1 of the college football season, are set up to make the College Football Playoff this season, despite the outcome of their game.

He listed Alabama's linebackers (1st), offensive line (2nd), defensive backs (2nd) and defensive line (6th) units all ranked in the top 10 in the country.

In addition, Steele has Ohio State and Southern Cal in the College Football Playoffs.

"Last year, I got on the phone with (Florida State head coach) Jimbo Fisher after the magazine came out. ... After we finished talking about each position, coach would say, "we're going to be good next year.'" Steele told me in June. "Well, next year is here for Florida State. I don't like their schedule. They have to play Alabama, Clemson on the road, Florida on the road."

Meanwhile, Steele told me in the same discussion, Auburn is primed for a playoff run this year.

"They have top-10 talent, which makes them a legitimate title threat, but also have a schedule that includes road trips to Clemson, LSU and (Texas) A&M," he said. "Still, they host 'Bama and with an upset of the Tide, they could be back in the mix to make the playoffs."