#1 Alabama- 38, #11 Miss. St.- 7
What was supposed to be the biggest test for the 'Tide so far this season, ended up looking like every other game the 'Tide have played to this point. They were dominant, in every aspect of the game. Alabama rolled up 414 yards and limited Miss. St. to 256 total and only 47 on the ground, as well as forcing three turnovers. Alabama faces rival LSU this weekend at Death Valley- a game that will have major national title ramifications.
-Nick-Roll Tide, 34-20
-Jeremy- 'Bama- 31-17
#2 Florida- 9, #10 Georgia- 17
This game stumped both of us this week. Georiga's defense showed why it is one of the best in the country. The Bulldogs forced six turnovers from a Florida offense that has sputtered along most of this season and exposed some weeknesses. Neither team's offense looked that great, but this was two amazing SEC defenses going at it. Both teams had less than 300 yards of total offense (UGA 273, UF 266) and both had three or more turnovers. The six for Florida is what won Georiga this game. Todd Gurley's performance for the Bulldogs put them over the top rushing for 118 yards and one touchdown on 27 carries. The Bulldogs control thier own destiny in the SEC East now and look like they will meet the Tide in the SEC title game.
Jeremy- Florida- 28-23
Nick-Florida, 24-21
#3 Kansas State- 55, #14 Texas Tech- 24
I'm going to take this one and keep Nick from totally raking me over the coals for this pick. You'd think, after picking against K-State last week against West Virginia, I would have learned my lesson. Like beating the 14th ranked UWV, 55-14 wasnt' enough of an indicator of how good this K-State team was. I know I saw them take apart Oklahoma on the road earlier in the season... Lesson learned. I'm taking K-State in every game they play from here on out.
-Jeremy
Don't think you are getting away that easy on this one broha. I understand Tech is playing good football right now, but I am not sure if anyone is playing better than K-State and Collin Kline. Kline is by far the Heisman front runner and if this team runs the table I think they will meet Bama in the National Title game. Still have to say how do you pick agianst a team playing so well especially at home? Just had to start a little back-and-fourth on this one!
-Nick
-Nick-Kansas State, 42-31
Jeremy- Texas Tech- 31-30
#4 Oregon vs. Colorado, 3pm ET
Do I really even need to talk about this game? One of the worst teams in major college football playing the fastest offense in major college football. I looked at the score at one point during this and saw it was 42-0 in the middle of the second quarter and all I could do was laugh. The Ducks put up my predictied final score of 56 points before the end of the first half. That is about all I am going to say about this game. One final shot at Oregon there is a reason you keep getting jumped in the rankings. You continually play dogs.
Jeremy- Oregon 61-10
Nick-Oregon, 56-17
#5 Notre Dame- 30, #8 Oklahoma- 13
If defense wins championships then pencil Notre Dame in for a national championship birth. Despite being undefeated, the Irish were 10+ point underdogs going to Norman on Saturday where the Stoops lead Sooners were 79-4. In the end, the Irish were too much for the one-dimensional Sooners. The Irish defense forced the Sooners to run play after play, not allowing any big plays and in the end, Notre Dame was able to capitolize on the mistakes that were bound to happen. A late interception by all world linebacker Manti T'eo sealed the fate of the Sooners and kept the Irish in the title hunt. Missing the call on K-State was bad, but missing the call on the Irish, Nick? Come on. They went to Oklahoma and dismantled an offense that was 'hitting its stride.' And by the way, Notre Dame's non-existant offenst only put of 400 yards and 30 points.
-Nick-Oklahoma, 38-31
-Jeremy- Notre Dame, 23-20
#7 Oregon St.- 17, Washington- 20
I think both Jeremy and I thought that having Sean Mannion back for Ore. St. would help keep them rolling but the signal caller threw four picks in the loss to Washington. Interesting stat of this game is total yardage the Beavers rolled up 427 total yards to just 293 for the Huskies, but four turnovers really took the wind out of Oregon State's sails. Washington is not a great team but it has shown glempses of being a Pac-12 contender in years to come. After this season the Huskies are probably going to want to start playing all their home games in CentryLink field after having knoked off two top-10 teams there. Big win for the Huskies this team is moving in the right direction.
Jeremy- Oregon State, 31-24
Nick-Oregon State, 37-24
#9 USC- 36, Arizona- 39
BooYah, brosef! Calling this one will hopefully redeem me just a little bit for taking TTech over Kansas State. USC's struggles on the road continue dropping this one to Arizona, dispite a record setting performance by Marquise Lee who had 16 catches for 345 yards and two touchdowns. With the loss, the Trojans road to the Rose Bowl gets a little less certain as they are now tied with UCLA with two losses in conference. They'll have to rebound quickly with the Ducks rolling in.
-Nick-USC, 45-42
-Jeremy- Arizona, 51-48
#12 Florida State-48, Duke- 7
Duke has been a great story this season, but they had no chance against this Seminoles team at Doak Campbell Stadium. With the win, and NC State losing, the Seminoles now control their own destiny in the ACC, leading the Atlantic division. Quaterback EJ Manuel went to their air for big play after big play, taking advantage of Duke's 81st ranked pass defense. Manuel went for 282 and two touchdowns, while running backs Devonte Freeman and James Wilder Jr. combined for 174 and three touchdowns. Defensively, the 'Noles shutdown what had been a dangerous passing offense led by Conner Vernon who was basically a non-factor with only 12 yards on three catches. FSU welcomes a much needed week off before a big ACC showdown at Virginia Tech next Thrusday.
-Jeremy- Florida State, 41-13
-Nick-FSU, 38-24
#13 South Carolina- 38, Tennessee- 35
Jeremy did a great job of picking this one to be close. I thought the Gamecocks would come out and roll in this game looking to get back on track after losing two in a row. The difference was losing running back Marcus Lattimore to a dislocated knee. That was one of the most gruesome injuries I have seen in a while. I hope he has a speedy recovery. Lattimore is a talanted back that can play on Sunday's. Back to the game- this was a true quarterback duel that you don't see as much in the SEC. Tennessee's Tyler Bray was tossing the ball all over with 368 yards and four touchdowns on 27-of-43 passing. South Carolina's Connar Shaw threw for 356 yards and three TDs on 22-of-32 passing. Shaw also ran 18 times for 33 yards and a touchdown. Shaw had some help through the air with both Justice Cunningham (6-108) and Bruce Ellington (6-101 1 TD) each going over 100 yards receiving. The Vols gave the Gamecocks a scare, but USC kept its BCS bowl hopes alive with a hard fought win at home.
-Jeremy- S. Carolina, 34-31
-Nick-South Carolina, 38-27
#15 Rutgers- 23, Kent St.- 35
Credit Kent State for beating Rutgers at its own game. Kent State controlled the clock 37:05-22:55, outran Rutgers 224 to 96 and forced seven Rutgers turnovers, including six interceptions of quaterback Gary Nova in handing the Scarlet Knights their first loss of the season and giving the MAC another good non-conference win. Rutgers is still undefeated in Big East play and takes on Army next week. Kent State gets some top 25 votes as they improve to 7-1 and take on conference foe, Akron next week.
-Jeremy- Rutgers- 24-20
-Nick-Rutgers, 35-31
#16 Louisville-34, Cincinnati- 31
This game was crazy last Friday night. It showed that trying to ice the kicker is not always the best choice. Ask Butch Jones about that. The snap of the first field goal (in overtime) went about four feet above the holders head, but Jones called a timeout to ice the kicker right before the snap. The next snap was perfect and the kick was good and the Cardinals survived in overtime. I have to give it to Louisville, it keeps winning close games and continues to find ways to win when it is not playing well. Teddy Bridgwater continues to lead this team to victory and I will continue to say is one of the best young quarterbacks in the country. He threw for 416 yards and two touchdowns on 24-of-41 passing with one interception. I also have to give it up to Cincy in this game it also battled tell the scoring the game-tying touchdown with 1:03 left in the fourth. The Bearcats just could not put anything together in overtime to pull the shocker off agianst the Cardinals.
-Jeremy- Cincinnati, 30-28
-Nick-Louisville, 31-27
#17 Stanford- 24, Washington St.- 17
Yikes. Stanford almost handed Washington State their first conference win of the season. If not for a steller defensive performance, this one might very well have gotten away from the Cardinal. Stanford has struggled on offense all season long and had, perhaps their worst performance of the season against the Cougers managing only 256 total yards against the 91st ranked defense in the nation. The Cardinal defense held the Cougs' to -16 yards rushing and forced a pick-six of Jeff Tuel in the fourth quater that ended up being the difference in the game. Stanford will have an opportunity to get right this week as they travel to Colorado before back-to-back games against Oregon State and Oregon.
-Nick-Stanford, 31-17
-Jeremy- Stanford, 28-14
#18 Clemson- 42, Wake Forest- 13
The Tigers steamrolled the Deamon Deacons in Winston-Salem on Thursday night. Tajh Boyd threw for a school-record 428 yards and five touchdowns while completing 27-of-38 passes on the night. Wide receiver Sammy Watkins returned to his oldself cating eight balls for 202 yards and one touchdown. Clemson put Wake out of this game early scoring 28 in the second quarter and led 35-7 at half. The Tigers rolled up 534 yards of total offense in the rout of the Deamon Deacons.
Jeremy- Clemson
Nick-Clemson
#20 Texas A&M- 63, Auburn- 21
Texas A&M was all over Auburn in this game and had a victory all but sealed up by the end of the first half leading 42-7 going into the break. A&M racked up 671 total yards and put up 63 points on the Tigers- the most points Auburn has given up at home since 1917. The Aggies star freshman quarterback, Johnny Manziel threw for 260 and two scores and ran for 90 and three touchdowns as A&M improve to 6-2 on the season, 3-2 in SEC play. They travel to Miss. State this weekend.
-Nick-Texas A&M, 42-17
-Jeremy- Texas A&M, 38-21
#21 Boise State- 45, Wyoming- 14
Like Jeremy said, my heart is always with the Cowboys, but wow this game was bad. Watching it live, Wyoming looked totally out classed by Boise State. The Cowboys kept this one close in the first half down just 17-7 at half. A D.J. Harper touchdown opened the scoring and gave BSU a 7-0, but UW sophomore signal caller Brett Smith made an excellent play on a zone read in the second quarter rushing for four yards and tying the ball game. After that Smith run I thought maybe this team is going to play inspired for interim head coach Pete Kaligas, but from that point Boise pretty much took control. The Broncos scored 10 straight at take a 17-7 lead into half. Harper added his second touchdown before the end of the half. The weakness of the Wyoming defense was exposed in the second half with UW missing too many tackles to count and Harper rushing for 105 yards on 19 carries with two touchdowns. This Cowboy defense has allowed 400 yards plus in five games this season no wonder they are 1-7.
-Jeremy- Boise St., 33-24
-Nick-Boise State, 31-28
#22 Michigan- 9, Nebraska- 23
Nice call brosef- should have gone with the Huskers at home. Nebraska has put itself in a good position on their side of the conference (I just can go with this 'Legends' 'Leaders' nonsense). Michigan quarterback, Denard Robinson went out in the second quarter with an elbow injury and Michigan was unable to do anything offensively with 'Shoelaces' on the sideline. The 'Blackshirts' held Michigan to 188 total yards and intercepted backup quarterback Russell Bellomy three times on their way to the 23-9 victory. Nebraska is 3-1 in the conference and now holds the tie-breaker over Michigan. The Huskers go on the road to East Lancing to take on Michigan State this weekend.
-Nick-Nebraska, 35-24
-Jeremy- Michigan, 38-35
#23 Texas- 21, Kansas- 17
Suprising here but it just shows where Texas is at this season. If it were not for the Longhorn rushing attack Kansas would have won this game. Longhorn quarterbacks David Ash and Case McCoy went a combined 13-of-23 for 131 yards and a touchdown. That is pathetic. The only bright spot was the Texas running game that racked up 211 yards and two touchdowns. It was led by Johnathan Gray with 18 rushes and 111 yards. This would have been a huge win for Charlie Weis and a Kansas team that needs something to look up at but the Longhorns found a way to pull it out.
-Jeremy- Texas, 51-24
-Nick-Texas, 48-20
#24 Ohio- 20, Miami (OH)- 23
Wow did I wiff on this game. Here I am the last two weeks calling Ohio one of the best non-BCS teams in the country and they go and drop one on the road to a pretty bad/average Miami (OH) team. Neither team played any defense with both racking up 400-plus yards of total offense. Miami only had one turnover in this game, but it just seemed like neither team could punch the ball into the endzone on offense. Neither team was very impressive in this game, but give credit to Miami for driving the ball down at the end of the game and kicking the game winning field goal. Ohio can wave goodbye to any chance at a BCS sleeper bearth now.
-Nick-Ohio, 35-10.
-Jeremy- Ohio, 31-27
#25 Wisconsin- 13, Michigan St.- 16
This game could have gone either way. The Badgers are playing better football as of late, but the Spartans escaped with one here. Le'Veon Bell rushed for 77 yards on 21 carries and caught the game-tying touchdown with 1:08 to go. Give credit to Michigan State for batteling and forcing overtime. The Spartan defense made the Badgers go backwards in OT forcing a 43-yard field goal, then came out and scored a touchdown with a nice drive in the second half of the first OT.
-Jeremy- Wisconsin, 24-16
-Nick-Michigan State, 20-17
*Ohio St.- 35, Penn St.- 23
I was a little suprised with the outcome of this game. I really thought with how hot Penn State was playing it would be able to slow down Ohio State. Braxton Miller went off on the ground again rushing for 134 yards and two touchdowns on 25 carries. Ohio State is a tough team when he is at quarterback, but I think they are going to run into someone that puts eight in the box and forces him to throw. We will see how good he really is then. I still say, if I have to hear one more time that if Ohio State goes undefeated they will win the AP national championship I may freek.
-Jeremy- Penn State, 34-30
-Nick-Penn State, 21-17
Final Kinney vs. Kinney Tally:
Nick- 13-7
Jeremy- 11-9
High-five, Nick. You got me this week with great calls on K-State, Louisville, Nebraska and Mich. St.
Look our upcoming top 25 picks in 2nd Down and follow us on twitter: @KinneyBrozCFB
Thanks for reading!
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Friday, October 26, 2012
Week 9 Picks, Upset Alert, Game of the Week, Most to gain and most to lose
#1 Alabama vs. #11 Miss. St., 8:30pm ET
This is an interesting game for both teams and is both teams first true test. This will play out a lot better for the 'Tide because it will be a great test before a major road trip to Death Valley next week. The Tide better not over look this game because Miss. State is a sneaky team and could give them some fits. I am not sold on the Bulldogs yet because they have literally played no one. I give the nod to 'Bama in this game because it has one of the best defenses in the country and no matter who has been across the line this season it has made them look bad. Alabama has the No. 1 scoring defense in the country allowing just 8.3 points per outing. Miss. State has a solid defense as well, but I do not see how it can slow down a 'Bama rushing attack that averages nearly 220 yards per contest. Tide gets a top-15 victory and builds some serious momentum going into the major showdown next week in Baton Rouge. This game will be closer than most 'Bama has played, but it will pull away late.
-Nick-Roll Tide, 34-20
I'm with Nick here. This will be a tough game for the 'Tide but they're simply better than Miss. St. and will get the win.
-Jeremy- 'Bama- 31-17
#2 Florida vs. #10 Georgia, 3:30pm ET, Jacksonville
See my thoughts below on the implications of this game- just the SEC East, no big deal. These teams are coming into this game from two different directions. Florida has been rolling lately with wins over LSU and S. Carolina in the last three weeks. Offensively, they're very one dimensional, resting almost entirely on their running game which is going for over 212 ypg. The story of the Gators, however, is their defense which is ranked fourth in the nation in scoring defense. I think this running game and defense will be the difference in the game and gives Florida the edge. Georgia's run defense is 72nd in the nation is seems to be in total disarray coming off their loss to S. Carolina and uninspiring win over Kentucky last week. The Gator's will lean on the ground game and defense to get a hard fought win over a Georgia team that is playing for their season.
Jeremy- Florida- 28-23
I am going to have to agree with Jeremy. Florida is playing as well as anyone in the country right now and looks like a title contender. I just think that defense will be too much for the Bulldogs.
Nick-Florida, 24-21
#3 Kansas State vs. #14 Texas Tech, 3:30pm ET
Another tough test for Collin Kline and the Wildcats, but this team just keeps rolling on. They beat Oklahoma and West Virginia on the road and now return home for a tough Texas Tech squad. This game will be a quarterback duel. With the way Heisman frontrunner Kline is playing right now it is tough to bet against KSU. Kline is completing 70 percent of his passes for nearly 1,400 yards and 10 touchdowns. What is more impressive is he has rushed for 551 yards and 14 touchdowns. This K-State team can run the ball with two other running backs who have 500-plus yards on the season, helping this squad to the 14th-best rushing attack in the country averaging 233 yards per game. I think you can see which way I am leaning in this game, but I must get a couple sentences in about the Red Raiders. Quarterback Seth Dodge has 2200 yards this season and 28 touchdowns and is leading the fourth-ranked passing offense in the country. Tech also scores the 10th most points in the country with nearly 43 per game. This defense which was No. 1 in the country earlier this season has taken a step back over the last couple weeks and is capable of allowing some big numbers. I think K-State and Kline can expose that and come out of this one with a win.
-Nick-Kansas State, 42-31
I know I'm going to regret this but I'm going the other way here. I like Tech to come in and steal one from the Wildcats.
Jeremy- Texas Tech- 31-30
#4 Oregon vs. Colorado, 3pm ET
I'm not really sure this game even deserves an explanation. Coming off a their 50-6 loss to USC, Colorado is arguably the worst team in college football. Oregon should be able to eclipse their season average of 51 ppg in the first half and cruise to an easy victory.
Jeremy- Oregon 61-10
How can I not agree here? An offense that can score with anyone and a defense that cannot stop anyone. Should be a rough day for the Buffs.
Nick-Oregon, 56-17
#5 Notre Dame @ #8 Oklahoma, 8pm ET
You can see my thoughts below on this game in the upset alert section so I am not going to spend much time on it. With this game in Norman, I think Oklahoma has the edge. The Sooners are rising and have played well over the last couple weeks. I think this is the week that Notre Dame's lack of a solid offense really gets the better of them. I really like Notre Dame's defense but this is the first really high powered offense it has faced this season. Now I may be wrong here but I think this game gets a little higher scoring than most think and the Irish cannot keep up with the Sooners. Sooners win a close one.
-Nick-Oklahoma, 38-31
I'm really torn here and everything in me says to go with the Sooners. But, I think the ND defense will keep Jones and Co. in check and the offense does just enough to pull the upset in Norman.
-Jeremy- Notre Dame, 23-20
#7 Oregon St. @ Washington, 10:15pm ET
The only thing in this game that makes me think the Huskies have a chance is that they've played pretty well at home. That said, they're playing an Oregon State team that's off to its best start in over 100 years and always give the Huskies a hard time. The Huskies have lost three straight and are playing their fourth game in five weeks against a ranked opponent. The offense is struggling and is ranked 103rd in total offense in the nation. I don't see them getting on track this week against the Beavers who look to get starting quarterback Sean Mannion back. Oregon State will go to Seattle and take care of a pesky Husky team that will be trying to keep its bowl hopes alive.
Jeremy- Oregon State, 31-24
I think with Mannion back a quarterback the Beavers should be able to handle this game pretty well. Washington is an improving team but it is not quite there yet.
Nick-Oregon State, 37-24
#9 USC @ Arizona, 3:30pm ET
This game is not very hard to call. At the beginning of the season everyone was giving Airzona a chance at the Pac-12 title, but after it lost three consecutive games to ranked teams including a 49-0 drubbing by Oregon, the Cats look like just another over hyped Pac-12 school. Thing about that is they are playing the most over hyped Pac-12 school in history. Don't get me wrong USC is a pretty good team and sure Barkley is a pretty solid quarterback, but it is pretty easy for Barkley when he has some of the best weapons in the country around him. That being said Barkley has looked pretty mediocre for being the Heisman favorite to start the season. He has thrown for 22 touchdowns which is nothing to sneeze at, but when you have a receiver like Marqise Lee catching balls it is pretty easy. There is no doubt that Arizona can sling the ball around with the No. 4 ranked passing game in the country, but that has not helped when it plays good teams so far and I don't think it will again this week. USC should win this in a high scoring game.
-Nick-USC, 45-42
After going back and forth on this one, I'm going to go for the upset here. USC hasn't played well on the road this season, while Arizona has played well at home- aside from their 3-point loss to Oregon State. Arizona wins a shootout and shocks 'the most over hyped Pac-12 school in history.'
-Jeremy- Arizona, 51-48
#12 Florida State vs. Duke, 3:30pm ET
Duke comes into this game fresh off their six win, becoming bowl eligible for the first time since 1995. Congrats Dukies. Now that that's out of the way, they're about to run into a buzz saw that is Florida State at home. The Seminoles have been dominant at Doak Campbell out scoring their opponents 152-44 (that's not counting their 69-3 and 55-0 wins over FCS opponents, Murry St. and Savannah St.). Duke has been throwing the ball well going for 289per. The Seminoles have arguably the best d-line in the nation and look for bookends, Bjoern Werner and "Tank" Carradine have a combined 16 sacks and 20.5 tackles for loss. Offensively, look for EJ Manuel to rip off big chunks early and often against the Blue Devils 66th ranked defense. FSU wins going away.
Jeremy- Florida State, 41-13
Agree here I know Duke is one of the better teams in the ACC this season, but FSU needs to continue to make statements to be considered one of the best teams in the country. This game will be a little closer than expected.
Nick-FSU, 38-24
#13 South Carolina vs. Tennessee, 12pm ET
This games looks much more interesting now with South Carolina coming off back-to-back road losses, including a 44-11 blow-out loss to the Gators last week. Tennessee is also reeling and facing their fifth ranked opponent in six weeks. The Gamecocks have played well at home this season outscoring opponents 163-33 and they'll need their homefield advantage to be a factor with a Tennessee team coming in desperate to end their three game skid. To me, the determining factor in this game will be the health and impact of SC running back Marcus Lattimore. The Gamecocks are a different team without him and I think Tennessee wins this game if he's not a factor. I'm going with SC, but I think this one is close.
Jeremy- S. Carolina, 34-31
I like the call here, Tennessee is another improving team but South Carolina is trying to get back on track and should be able to handle this game pretty easily.
Nick-South Carolina, 38-27
#15 Rutgers vs. Kent St., 3:30pm ET
I think the lack of out of conference strength of schedule in the Big Least is pretty laughable this season. What's better is when those bad teams beat what was a ranked team, including a MAC team. That doesn't happen this week though. Rutgers quarterback Gary Nova is one of the best youngsters in the country and should find a way to pull his Scarlet Knights through this game. Nova gave Rutgers a much needed spark last weekend and helped the Scarlet Knights run away against Temple. The combo of Nova and the defense (No. 3 scoring 11.3 points per game) have carried Rutgers thus far and is see nothing different this week. Kent State is a tough team scoring nearly 34 per game and coming in 6-1. They have not beat any big teams but when you can run the ball (210 yards per game) you can be a nightmare for anyone. I think Nova wills Rutgers to a victory in this one but it will be close enough to make them sweat.
Jeremy- Rutgers- 24-20
Nick-Rutgers, 35-31
#16 Louisville vs. Cincinnati, Friday 8pm ET
I've been flipping back and forth in this one. Louisville, though undefeated hasn't been overly impressive this season. Quarterback, Teddy Bridgewater has played well, protecting the football, but I feel like they're living on borrowed time. Cincinnati is probably the best team Louisville has played this season and I think the Bearcats can go in with their 225.7 rushing yards per game and dominate time of possession and take the crowd out of the game. Mistakes lost the game for Cincinnati last week and if they clean them up, I think they can sneak out of here with a win.
-Jeremy- Cincinnati, 30-28
-Nick-Louisville, 31-27
#17 Stanford vs. Washington St., 6:15pm ET
Stanford is coming off a pretty easy win at Cal and this game shouldn't be much different. The Cardinal plays very physical defense which is bad for this weak Washington State offense. Stanford does not wow you on the stat sheet but with a running back like Stepfan Taylor who has 846 yards and six touchdowns so far it does not need to. If you can run the ball well and play physical defense all these spread offenses (like Mike Leach's) are in trouble. The spread relays on quick moves and big plays just what Stanford does not give up. Stanford should control this game from beginning to end.
Nick-Stanford, 31-17
Couldn't agree more. Wazzou is reeling and won't get back on track against a well-coached, physical Cardinal team.
Jeremy- Stanford, 28-14
#18 Clemson @ Wake Forest, Thursday 7:30pm ET
Jeremy- Clemson
Nick-Clemson
#20 Texas A&M @ Auburn, 7pm ET
Auburn has looked woefully bad this season and around they are already calling for Gene's job just two years removed from a national championship. A&M is a rising team and with Johhny Football catching snaps this team should roll on the plains of Alabama. The Aggies are coming off a tough loss to LSU when it looked like they had the game in control before the Tiger defense put the clamps down. Manziel makes this team go with over 2,600 yards (1,956 passing and 703 rushing) of total offense this season including 16 total touchdowns. I fully expect him to go off this game after being shutdown in the second half last week. Auburn is ranked 100-plus in both offensive categories and 121st in points scored. I see no way this team can move the ball on a much improved Texas A&M defense. Look out for this one to get ugly for the Tigers.
-Nick-Texas A&M, 42-17
It would be great for the Tigers to get a win and stop the downward spiral, but not against this A&M team that will be too much for this bad Auburn defense.
-Jeremy- Texas A&M, 38-21
#21 Boise State @ Wyoming, 3:30pm ET
My heart will always be with the Pokes, but they have no chance in this game. Boise isn't the Boise of the past few years but they're very well coached, they have a solid defense and the offense has played much better the past four weeks, averaging just over 30ppg. The Cowboys are in complete disarray and will be without head coach Dave Christiansen after being suspended for his post-game outburst against Air Force. Not helping things is Wyoming's defense which is giving up 33.9ppg and over 450 yards under new DC Chris Tormey. Look for the Cowboys to rally and play well out of the gate, but don't expect them to hold on for the win.
-Jeremy- Boise St., 33-24
I will be at this game live watching, and I have the liberty of watching these Cowboys every week. This has been a disappointing year so far for Wyoming, but I think it will keep this game close at home. The Pokes should play inspired football with out HC Christiansen, but will come up heartbreakingly short.
-Nick-Boise State, 31-28
#22 Michigan @ Nebraska, 8pm ET
I have gone back and forth on this game because I cannot decide which Denard Robinson or Taylor Martinez will show up. For the record I do not like either one of them a quarterback. Robinson forces way to many passes, throwing way too many interceptions and Martinez (who was supposed to be a much improved passer) if pressured returns to the same ole' Taylor who also throws too many picks and cannot hit the broad side of a barn if he tries. Now I give the quarterback matchup to Robinson for the mear fact that he is all Michigan has on offense with 2,100 yards of total offense and 15 touchdowns. That being said I am still going with the Huskers in this game because of the two-headed monster that is Amear Abdullah and Rex Burkehead who have rushed for a combined 1,020 yards and 10 touchdowns. Abdullah is averaging nearly six yards per carry while Burkhead is going off averaging 8.6 per touch. The Blackshirt defense (or what is left of it) will force some big turnovers from the very turnover prone Robinson and that will be the deciding factor in this game.
-Nick-Nebraska, 35-24
It's tough to go against Nebraska at home but I'm taking Michigan here. I agree that neither team is a real threat in the passing game, so I look to the team the plays better run defense. Michigan is 49th, Nebraska is 90th. Go Blue.
-Jeremy- Michigan, 38-35
#23 Texas @ Kansas, 12pm ET
Nothing builds your confidence going into a tough match up like whipping up on Kansas. The only chance the Jayhawks have of even keeping this one close is the hope that Texas is looking ahead to next weeks game against Texas Tech. KU has lost six straight and won't get back on the 'W' side this weekend. Surprisingly, Texas is giving up more points per game this season than Kansas, but the Longhorns have the 6th best scoring offense in the country, averaging 44.4 to KU's 17.3. That's 17.3ppg. The last two ranked teams to play KU (K-St. and Oklahoma) have put up 50+ and Texas will do the same.
-Jeremy- Texas, 51-24
-Nick-Texas, 48-20
#24 Ohio @ Miami (OH), 3:30 pm ET
I have been saying for the last couple weeks how much I like this Ohio team. This is a team that in week one beat a Penn State team that is getting on a roll now and looks like a solid squad. What I really like about this team is it has played a lot of close games and found ways to win all of them. The Bobcats have won five games by 10 points or less. I am sure some would say that is a team that is on the verge of losing, but good teams find a way to win close games and this team seems to have that down. The good thing for Ohio is Miami is not a very good team with just a 3-4 record and ranking in the bottom third in almost every major statistical category. The Bobcats should win this game pretty easily.
-Nick-Ohio, 35-10.
I like Ohio here too. They don't win pretty but they do keep winning.
-Jeremy- Ohio, 31-27
#25 Wisconsin vs. Michigan St., 3:30pm ET
These teams are going in two different directions. Wisconsin seems to have fixed some of the issues they were facing early in the season and have won three straight by an average of 22 points and has not given up more than 14 points in those three games. Michigan State has dropped three of their last four and though they have a top ranked defense, they're getting absolutely no help from a putrid offense. Le'Veon Bell has been good for the Spartans, but will be facing an eight-man box all day against Wisconsin. Look for the Badgers to pull away late, in what looks to be a physical game.
-Jeremy- Wisconsin, 24-16
I went back and fourth on this game, but I have to disagree with Jeremy here. I think Bell should finally get some running room in this game and score a couple touchdowns. This should be low scoring, but I think the Spartans hold on against and emerging Badger team.
-Nick-Michigan State, 20-17
*Ohio St. @ Penn St., 5:30pm ET (*Ohio State and Penn State are ineligible for the post-season and cannot be ranked in the BCS or Coaches Poll)
Ohio State has been living on the edge lately and the health of quarterback Braxton Miller will go a long way in determining the winner of this game. Ohio State isn't a threat in the passing game and it will be on Penn States 21st ranked run defense to corral Miller and the OSU running game that's going for nearly 250 yards per game. The Buckeye's have struggled on the road this season and going into Happy Valley is a tall task, especially with the Penn State offense averaging 34 points per game in their five wins this season. The Buckeye's luck runs out and Penn State gets win number six.
-Jeremy- Penn State, 34-30
-Nick-Penn State, 21-17
Upset Alert:
Looking this week at someone to put on upset alert is tough. None of the lower ranked teams play any one that is really going to knock them off, so I have to go to the top 10. I am putting Notre Dame on upset alert this week. Sure it is two top-10 teams battling, but a trip to Norman is where the Irish and their national title hopes end. Notre Dame have beat some tough teams this season, but this team still has no offense. No denying the Irish have one of the best defenses in the country and arguably the best player in the country in Manti T'eo, but that can only get them so far. This Sooner team is finally hitting its stride after looking pretty ugly to start the season. I am calling Oklahoma in this game because I looked at its last match up against a very stout defense in Texas Tech, who was the No. 1 defense in the country at that time. The Sooners put up 41 points on the Red Raiders and looked like an unstoppable offense. That game was even in Lubbock.
-Nick
I like you're call here with Notre Dame. Getting past Oklahoma on the road seems like a tall task for this Irish team. How many more times can that defense rise to the occasion?
I'm also going to put K-State on upset alert. Tommy Tubberville has a knack for knocking off top five teams and this Red Raider teams seems up to the task. If Tech can load the box and for Colin Klein to throw the ball, they've got a fighting chance. If not, look for Texas Tech to try to make this a shoot out.
-Jeremy
Game of the Week:
How can you not go with Notre Dame @ Oklahoma? The Irish have beaten some quality teams already this season but probably no one who's more well rounded or playing better football at the moment that the Sooners. This game has national title implications for both teams. Oklahoma will need some help to get in but if Notre Dame is able to run the table, there's no way they'll be left out.
-Nick
I disagree here, brosef. While this is a great game, I've got to go with UF-UGA here. Even if they win out, I doubt that Oklahoma makes the title game. The winner of the SEC will play in the BCS Championship and the winner of this game will represent the East in the SEC title game. Can they beat Alabama or LSU? We'll see but, they'll be in better position than either Notre Dame or Oklahoma with a win in this game.
-Jeremy
Team with the most to gain:
Looking at the top 25, the team I see with the most to gain is the Georgia Bulldogs. After Florida, they've got a very managable schedule and a win against the Gators puts them in the drivers seat in the SEC East. The win would put Georgia and Florida at one loss apiece with the Bulldogs holding the head-to-head tie-breaker and also keep them a game ahead of S. Carolina who has two conference losses.
The Bulldogs remaining schedule shapes up with Ole Miss, @ Auburn, Georgia Southern and Georgia Tech, with only Ole Miss and Auburn remaining in SEC play, both very winnable games.
Florida's remaining schedule is also managable with Missouri, UL Lafayette and Jacksonville State all at home, until their Nov. 24th trip up the road to Tallahassee to play Florida State in a game that could have national title implications.
Team with the most to lose:
The team with the most to lose this weekend is the No. 2 Florida Gators. Jeremy called them with the most to gain, but this is a two-way street because they can really put themselves in the national title hunt, but can also fall out of it very quickly. A victory this weekend locks up the SEC East race for them, but a loss makes a true log jam at the top of the East. If Florida loses to Georgia then Georgia not Florida controls its own road to the SEC title game. Looking at the remaining schedules for both teams they are both pretty manageable, but the road is a little easier for the Bulldogs (see Jeremy's schedule breakdowns of these teams above).
I feel like the Florida pick was pretty easy to call as a team with the most to lose so I am going to pick another team to add in this. I was trying to pick someone outside of the top 10, but there are too many teams in the top 10 with a lot to lose. My second thought in this segment is going to be about Kansas State. After talking with Jeremy, the Kansas State-Texas Tech match up is huge in the Big 12 race. With a win K-State puts itself in full control of the Big 12 race, but with a loss (like in the SEC East) it becomes a headache trying to figure out this conference. If the Wildcats lose this weekend that puts Tech and OU tied for the league lead with only one loss. A win would give Tech the tiebreaker over K-State, but OU still holds the tiebreak over Tech so if K-State loses this Big 12 race would get really interesting. Neither KSU or TTU have tough roads left, with only one ranked team in Texas on both of their schedules the winner of this game could very well run the table and win the Big 12. I have to give the nod to K-State but this will be a close hard fought game.
This is an interesting game for both teams and is both teams first true test. This will play out a lot better for the 'Tide because it will be a great test before a major road trip to Death Valley next week. The Tide better not over look this game because Miss. State is a sneaky team and could give them some fits. I am not sold on the Bulldogs yet because they have literally played no one. I give the nod to 'Bama in this game because it has one of the best defenses in the country and no matter who has been across the line this season it has made them look bad. Alabama has the No. 1 scoring defense in the country allowing just 8.3 points per outing. Miss. State has a solid defense as well, but I do not see how it can slow down a 'Bama rushing attack that averages nearly 220 yards per contest. Tide gets a top-15 victory and builds some serious momentum going into the major showdown next week in Baton Rouge. This game will be closer than most 'Bama has played, but it will pull away late.
-Nick-Roll Tide, 34-20
I'm with Nick here. This will be a tough game for the 'Tide but they're simply better than Miss. St. and will get the win.
-Jeremy- 'Bama- 31-17
#2 Florida vs. #10 Georgia, 3:30pm ET, Jacksonville
See my thoughts below on the implications of this game- just the SEC East, no big deal. These teams are coming into this game from two different directions. Florida has been rolling lately with wins over LSU and S. Carolina in the last three weeks. Offensively, they're very one dimensional, resting almost entirely on their running game which is going for over 212 ypg. The story of the Gators, however, is their defense which is ranked fourth in the nation in scoring defense. I think this running game and defense will be the difference in the game and gives Florida the edge. Georgia's run defense is 72nd in the nation is seems to be in total disarray coming off their loss to S. Carolina and uninspiring win over Kentucky last week. The Gator's will lean on the ground game and defense to get a hard fought win over a Georgia team that is playing for their season.
Jeremy- Florida- 28-23
I am going to have to agree with Jeremy. Florida is playing as well as anyone in the country right now and looks like a title contender. I just think that defense will be too much for the Bulldogs.
Nick-Florida, 24-21
#3 Kansas State vs. #14 Texas Tech, 3:30pm ET
Another tough test for Collin Kline and the Wildcats, but this team just keeps rolling on. They beat Oklahoma and West Virginia on the road and now return home for a tough Texas Tech squad. This game will be a quarterback duel. With the way Heisman frontrunner Kline is playing right now it is tough to bet against KSU. Kline is completing 70 percent of his passes for nearly 1,400 yards and 10 touchdowns. What is more impressive is he has rushed for 551 yards and 14 touchdowns. This K-State team can run the ball with two other running backs who have 500-plus yards on the season, helping this squad to the 14th-best rushing attack in the country averaging 233 yards per game. I think you can see which way I am leaning in this game, but I must get a couple sentences in about the Red Raiders. Quarterback Seth Dodge has 2200 yards this season and 28 touchdowns and is leading the fourth-ranked passing offense in the country. Tech also scores the 10th most points in the country with nearly 43 per game. This defense which was No. 1 in the country earlier this season has taken a step back over the last couple weeks and is capable of allowing some big numbers. I think K-State and Kline can expose that and come out of this one with a win.
-Nick-Kansas State, 42-31
I know I'm going to regret this but I'm going the other way here. I like Tech to come in and steal one from the Wildcats.
Jeremy- Texas Tech- 31-30
#4 Oregon vs. Colorado, 3pm ET
I'm not really sure this game even deserves an explanation. Coming off a their 50-6 loss to USC, Colorado is arguably the worst team in college football. Oregon should be able to eclipse their season average of 51 ppg in the first half and cruise to an easy victory.
Jeremy- Oregon 61-10
How can I not agree here? An offense that can score with anyone and a defense that cannot stop anyone. Should be a rough day for the Buffs.
Nick-Oregon, 56-17
#5 Notre Dame @ #8 Oklahoma, 8pm ET
You can see my thoughts below on this game in the upset alert section so I am not going to spend much time on it. With this game in Norman, I think Oklahoma has the edge. The Sooners are rising and have played well over the last couple weeks. I think this is the week that Notre Dame's lack of a solid offense really gets the better of them. I really like Notre Dame's defense but this is the first really high powered offense it has faced this season. Now I may be wrong here but I think this game gets a little higher scoring than most think and the Irish cannot keep up with the Sooners. Sooners win a close one.
-Nick-Oklahoma, 38-31
I'm really torn here and everything in me says to go with the Sooners. But, I think the ND defense will keep Jones and Co. in check and the offense does just enough to pull the upset in Norman.
-Jeremy- Notre Dame, 23-20
#7 Oregon St. @ Washington, 10:15pm ET
The only thing in this game that makes me think the Huskies have a chance is that they've played pretty well at home. That said, they're playing an Oregon State team that's off to its best start in over 100 years and always give the Huskies a hard time. The Huskies have lost three straight and are playing their fourth game in five weeks against a ranked opponent. The offense is struggling and is ranked 103rd in total offense in the nation. I don't see them getting on track this week against the Beavers who look to get starting quarterback Sean Mannion back. Oregon State will go to Seattle and take care of a pesky Husky team that will be trying to keep its bowl hopes alive.
Jeremy- Oregon State, 31-24
I think with Mannion back a quarterback the Beavers should be able to handle this game pretty well. Washington is an improving team but it is not quite there yet.
Nick-Oregon State, 37-24
#9 USC @ Arizona, 3:30pm ET
This game is not very hard to call. At the beginning of the season everyone was giving Airzona a chance at the Pac-12 title, but after it lost three consecutive games to ranked teams including a 49-0 drubbing by Oregon, the Cats look like just another over hyped Pac-12 school. Thing about that is they are playing the most over hyped Pac-12 school in history. Don't get me wrong USC is a pretty good team and sure Barkley is a pretty solid quarterback, but it is pretty easy for Barkley when he has some of the best weapons in the country around him. That being said Barkley has looked pretty mediocre for being the Heisman favorite to start the season. He has thrown for 22 touchdowns which is nothing to sneeze at, but when you have a receiver like Marqise Lee catching balls it is pretty easy. There is no doubt that Arizona can sling the ball around with the No. 4 ranked passing game in the country, but that has not helped when it plays good teams so far and I don't think it will again this week. USC should win this in a high scoring game.
-Nick-USC, 45-42
After going back and forth on this one, I'm going to go for the upset here. USC hasn't played well on the road this season, while Arizona has played well at home- aside from their 3-point loss to Oregon State. Arizona wins a shootout and shocks 'the most over hyped Pac-12 school in history.'
-Jeremy- Arizona, 51-48
#12 Florida State vs. Duke, 3:30pm ET
Duke comes into this game fresh off their six win, becoming bowl eligible for the first time since 1995. Congrats Dukies. Now that that's out of the way, they're about to run into a buzz saw that is Florida State at home. The Seminoles have been dominant at Doak Campbell out scoring their opponents 152-44 (that's not counting their 69-3 and 55-0 wins over FCS opponents, Murry St. and Savannah St.). Duke has been throwing the ball well going for 289per. The Seminoles have arguably the best d-line in the nation and look for bookends, Bjoern Werner and "Tank" Carradine have a combined 16 sacks and 20.5 tackles for loss. Offensively, look for EJ Manuel to rip off big chunks early and often against the Blue Devils 66th ranked defense. FSU wins going away.
Jeremy- Florida State, 41-13
Agree here I know Duke is one of the better teams in the ACC this season, but FSU needs to continue to make statements to be considered one of the best teams in the country. This game will be a little closer than expected.
Nick-FSU, 38-24
#13 South Carolina vs. Tennessee, 12pm ET
This games looks much more interesting now with South Carolina coming off back-to-back road losses, including a 44-11 blow-out loss to the Gators last week. Tennessee is also reeling and facing their fifth ranked opponent in six weeks. The Gamecocks have played well at home this season outscoring opponents 163-33 and they'll need their homefield advantage to be a factor with a Tennessee team coming in desperate to end their three game skid. To me, the determining factor in this game will be the health and impact of SC running back Marcus Lattimore. The Gamecocks are a different team without him and I think Tennessee wins this game if he's not a factor. I'm going with SC, but I think this one is close.
Jeremy- S. Carolina, 34-31
I like the call here, Tennessee is another improving team but South Carolina is trying to get back on track and should be able to handle this game pretty easily.
Nick-South Carolina, 38-27
#15 Rutgers vs. Kent St., 3:30pm ET
I think the lack of out of conference strength of schedule in the Big Least is pretty laughable this season. What's better is when those bad teams beat what was a ranked team, including a MAC team. That doesn't happen this week though. Rutgers quarterback Gary Nova is one of the best youngsters in the country and should find a way to pull his Scarlet Knights through this game. Nova gave Rutgers a much needed spark last weekend and helped the Scarlet Knights run away against Temple. The combo of Nova and the defense (No. 3 scoring 11.3 points per game) have carried Rutgers thus far and is see nothing different this week. Kent State is a tough team scoring nearly 34 per game and coming in 6-1. They have not beat any big teams but when you can run the ball (210 yards per game) you can be a nightmare for anyone. I think Nova wills Rutgers to a victory in this one but it will be close enough to make them sweat.
Jeremy- Rutgers- 24-20
Nick-Rutgers, 35-31
#16 Louisville vs. Cincinnati, Friday 8pm ET
I've been flipping back and forth in this one. Louisville, though undefeated hasn't been overly impressive this season. Quarterback, Teddy Bridgewater has played well, protecting the football, but I feel like they're living on borrowed time. Cincinnati is probably the best team Louisville has played this season and I think the Bearcats can go in with their 225.7 rushing yards per game and dominate time of possession and take the crowd out of the game. Mistakes lost the game for Cincinnati last week and if they clean them up, I think they can sneak out of here with a win.
-Jeremy- Cincinnati, 30-28
-Nick-Louisville, 31-27
#17 Stanford vs. Washington St., 6:15pm ET
Stanford is coming off a pretty easy win at Cal and this game shouldn't be much different. The Cardinal plays very physical defense which is bad for this weak Washington State offense. Stanford does not wow you on the stat sheet but with a running back like Stepfan Taylor who has 846 yards and six touchdowns so far it does not need to. If you can run the ball well and play physical defense all these spread offenses (like Mike Leach's) are in trouble. The spread relays on quick moves and big plays just what Stanford does not give up. Stanford should control this game from beginning to end.
Nick-Stanford, 31-17
Couldn't agree more. Wazzou is reeling and won't get back on track against a well-coached, physical Cardinal team.
Jeremy- Stanford, 28-14
#18 Clemson @ Wake Forest, Thursday 7:30pm ET
Jeremy- Clemson
Nick-Clemson
#20 Texas A&M @ Auburn, 7pm ET
Auburn has looked woefully bad this season and around they are already calling for Gene's job just two years removed from a national championship. A&M is a rising team and with Johhny Football catching snaps this team should roll on the plains of Alabama. The Aggies are coming off a tough loss to LSU when it looked like they had the game in control before the Tiger defense put the clamps down. Manziel makes this team go with over 2,600 yards (1,956 passing and 703 rushing) of total offense this season including 16 total touchdowns. I fully expect him to go off this game after being shutdown in the second half last week. Auburn is ranked 100-plus in both offensive categories and 121st in points scored. I see no way this team can move the ball on a much improved Texas A&M defense. Look out for this one to get ugly for the Tigers.
-Nick-Texas A&M, 42-17
It would be great for the Tigers to get a win and stop the downward spiral, but not against this A&M team that will be too much for this bad Auburn defense.
-Jeremy- Texas A&M, 38-21
#21 Boise State @ Wyoming, 3:30pm ET
My heart will always be with the Pokes, but they have no chance in this game. Boise isn't the Boise of the past few years but they're very well coached, they have a solid defense and the offense has played much better the past four weeks, averaging just over 30ppg. The Cowboys are in complete disarray and will be without head coach Dave Christiansen after being suspended for his post-game outburst against Air Force. Not helping things is Wyoming's defense which is giving up 33.9ppg and over 450 yards under new DC Chris Tormey. Look for the Cowboys to rally and play well out of the gate, but don't expect them to hold on for the win.
-Jeremy- Boise St., 33-24
I will be at this game live watching, and I have the liberty of watching these Cowboys every week. This has been a disappointing year so far for Wyoming, but I think it will keep this game close at home. The Pokes should play inspired football with out HC Christiansen, but will come up heartbreakingly short.
-Nick-Boise State, 31-28
#22 Michigan @ Nebraska, 8pm ET
I have gone back and forth on this game because I cannot decide which Denard Robinson or Taylor Martinez will show up. For the record I do not like either one of them a quarterback. Robinson forces way to many passes, throwing way too many interceptions and Martinez (who was supposed to be a much improved passer) if pressured returns to the same ole' Taylor who also throws too many picks and cannot hit the broad side of a barn if he tries. Now I give the quarterback matchup to Robinson for the mear fact that he is all Michigan has on offense with 2,100 yards of total offense and 15 touchdowns. That being said I am still going with the Huskers in this game because of the two-headed monster that is Amear Abdullah and Rex Burkehead who have rushed for a combined 1,020 yards and 10 touchdowns. Abdullah is averaging nearly six yards per carry while Burkhead is going off averaging 8.6 per touch. The Blackshirt defense (or what is left of it) will force some big turnovers from the very turnover prone Robinson and that will be the deciding factor in this game.
-Nick-Nebraska, 35-24
It's tough to go against Nebraska at home but I'm taking Michigan here. I agree that neither team is a real threat in the passing game, so I look to the team the plays better run defense. Michigan is 49th, Nebraska is 90th. Go Blue.
-Jeremy- Michigan, 38-35
#23 Texas @ Kansas, 12pm ET
Nothing builds your confidence going into a tough match up like whipping up on Kansas. The only chance the Jayhawks have of even keeping this one close is the hope that Texas is looking ahead to next weeks game against Texas Tech. KU has lost six straight and won't get back on the 'W' side this weekend. Surprisingly, Texas is giving up more points per game this season than Kansas, but the Longhorns have the 6th best scoring offense in the country, averaging 44.4 to KU's 17.3. That's 17.3ppg. The last two ranked teams to play KU (K-St. and Oklahoma) have put up 50+ and Texas will do the same.
-Jeremy- Texas, 51-24
-Nick-Texas, 48-20
#24 Ohio @ Miami (OH), 3:30 pm ET
I have been saying for the last couple weeks how much I like this Ohio team. This is a team that in week one beat a Penn State team that is getting on a roll now and looks like a solid squad. What I really like about this team is it has played a lot of close games and found ways to win all of them. The Bobcats have won five games by 10 points or less. I am sure some would say that is a team that is on the verge of losing, but good teams find a way to win close games and this team seems to have that down. The good thing for Ohio is Miami is not a very good team with just a 3-4 record and ranking in the bottom third in almost every major statistical category. The Bobcats should win this game pretty easily.
-Nick-Ohio, 35-10.
I like Ohio here too. They don't win pretty but they do keep winning.
-Jeremy- Ohio, 31-27
#25 Wisconsin vs. Michigan St., 3:30pm ET
These teams are going in two different directions. Wisconsin seems to have fixed some of the issues they were facing early in the season and have won three straight by an average of 22 points and has not given up more than 14 points in those three games. Michigan State has dropped three of their last four and though they have a top ranked defense, they're getting absolutely no help from a putrid offense. Le'Veon Bell has been good for the Spartans, but will be facing an eight-man box all day against Wisconsin. Look for the Badgers to pull away late, in what looks to be a physical game.
-Jeremy- Wisconsin, 24-16
I went back and fourth on this game, but I have to disagree with Jeremy here. I think Bell should finally get some running room in this game and score a couple touchdowns. This should be low scoring, but I think the Spartans hold on against and emerging Badger team.
-Nick-Michigan State, 20-17
*Ohio St. @ Penn St., 5:30pm ET (*Ohio State and Penn State are ineligible for the post-season and cannot be ranked in the BCS or Coaches Poll)
Ohio State has been living on the edge lately and the health of quarterback Braxton Miller will go a long way in determining the winner of this game. Ohio State isn't a threat in the passing game and it will be on Penn States 21st ranked run defense to corral Miller and the OSU running game that's going for nearly 250 yards per game. The Buckeye's have struggled on the road this season and going into Happy Valley is a tall task, especially with the Penn State offense averaging 34 points per game in their five wins this season. The Buckeye's luck runs out and Penn State gets win number six.
-Jeremy- Penn State, 34-30
-Nick-Penn State, 21-17
Upset Alert:
Looking this week at someone to put on upset alert is tough. None of the lower ranked teams play any one that is really going to knock them off, so I have to go to the top 10. I am putting Notre Dame on upset alert this week. Sure it is two top-10 teams battling, but a trip to Norman is where the Irish and their national title hopes end. Notre Dame have beat some tough teams this season, but this team still has no offense. No denying the Irish have one of the best defenses in the country and arguably the best player in the country in Manti T'eo, but that can only get them so far. This Sooner team is finally hitting its stride after looking pretty ugly to start the season. I am calling Oklahoma in this game because I looked at its last match up against a very stout defense in Texas Tech, who was the No. 1 defense in the country at that time. The Sooners put up 41 points on the Red Raiders and looked like an unstoppable offense. That game was even in Lubbock.
-Nick
I like you're call here with Notre Dame. Getting past Oklahoma on the road seems like a tall task for this Irish team. How many more times can that defense rise to the occasion?
I'm also going to put K-State on upset alert. Tommy Tubberville has a knack for knocking off top five teams and this Red Raider teams seems up to the task. If Tech can load the box and for Colin Klein to throw the ball, they've got a fighting chance. If not, look for Texas Tech to try to make this a shoot out.
-Jeremy
Game of the Week:
How can you not go with Notre Dame @ Oklahoma? The Irish have beaten some quality teams already this season but probably no one who's more well rounded or playing better football at the moment that the Sooners. This game has national title implications for both teams. Oklahoma will need some help to get in but if Notre Dame is able to run the table, there's no way they'll be left out.
-Nick
I disagree here, brosef. While this is a great game, I've got to go with UF-UGA here. Even if they win out, I doubt that Oklahoma makes the title game. The winner of the SEC will play in the BCS Championship and the winner of this game will represent the East in the SEC title game. Can they beat Alabama or LSU? We'll see but, they'll be in better position than either Notre Dame or Oklahoma with a win in this game.
-Jeremy
Team with the most to gain:
Looking at the top 25, the team I see with the most to gain is the Georgia Bulldogs. After Florida, they've got a very managable schedule and a win against the Gators puts them in the drivers seat in the SEC East. The win would put Georgia and Florida at one loss apiece with the Bulldogs holding the head-to-head tie-breaker and also keep them a game ahead of S. Carolina who has two conference losses.
The Bulldogs remaining schedule shapes up with Ole Miss, @ Auburn, Georgia Southern and Georgia Tech, with only Ole Miss and Auburn remaining in SEC play, both very winnable games.
Florida's remaining schedule is also managable with Missouri, UL Lafayette and Jacksonville State all at home, until their Nov. 24th trip up the road to Tallahassee to play Florida State in a game that could have national title implications.
Team with the most to lose:
The team with the most to lose this weekend is the No. 2 Florida Gators. Jeremy called them with the most to gain, but this is a two-way street because they can really put themselves in the national title hunt, but can also fall out of it very quickly. A victory this weekend locks up the SEC East race for them, but a loss makes a true log jam at the top of the East. If Florida loses to Georgia then Georgia not Florida controls its own road to the SEC title game. Looking at the remaining schedules for both teams they are both pretty manageable, but the road is a little easier for the Bulldogs (see Jeremy's schedule breakdowns of these teams above).
I feel like the Florida pick was pretty easy to call as a team with the most to lose so I am going to pick another team to add in this. I was trying to pick someone outside of the top 10, but there are too many teams in the top 10 with a lot to lose. My second thought in this segment is going to be about Kansas State. After talking with Jeremy, the Kansas State-Texas Tech match up is huge in the Big 12 race. With a win K-State puts itself in full control of the Big 12 race, but with a loss (like in the SEC East) it becomes a headache trying to figure out this conference. If the Wildcats lose this weekend that puts Tech and OU tied for the league lead with only one loss. A win would give Tech the tiebreaker over K-State, but OU still holds the tiebreak over Tech so if K-State loses this Big 12 race would get really interesting. Neither KSU or TTU have tough roads left, with only one ranked team in Texas on both of their schedules the winner of this game could very well run the table and win the Big 12. I have to give the nod to K-State but this will be a close hard fought game.
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Week 8 Recap
1) Alabama-44, Tennessee- 13
The Crimson Tide were all together too much in every area for the Vols. The offense was steady and methodical racking up 539 yards and controlling the clock for over 36 minutes.
Nick- Tide wins, 38-17
Jeremy-Alabama- 35-17
2) Florida- 44, (7) South Carolina- 11
The Florida running game and defense were too much for the Gamecocks who were playing with playing with an injured Marcus Lattimore.
Nick- Florida wins a close one, 24-21
Jeremy- Florida- 20-16
4) Kansas State- 55, (13)West Virginia- 14
Yikes! Probably won't hear the end of this one for awhile. 'Optimus' accounted for 364 total yards and seven touchdowns. The K-State defense was stout, holding the high-powered Mountaineers to a paltry 243 yards and picked off Geno Smith twice- picks one and two of the season for Smith.
Nick- K-State wins, 35-31.
Jeremy- West Virginia- 41-37
5) Notre Dame- 17, BYU- 14
A tough game for the Irish without starting quarterback Everett Golson as the offense struggled against a solid BYU defense. In the end it was too much Irish ground game with Riddick and Wood both eclipsing the 100-yard mark and that defense... oh, that defense.
Nick- Irish roll in this match-up, 28-10.
Jeremy- Irish- 31-13
6) LSU- 24, (18) Texas A&M- 12
After a slow start and spotting the Aggies 12 points, LSU rolled off 24 unanswered on their way to their second win in a row over a ranked team. LSU's defense forced five turnovers including three picks of A&M quarterback Johnny Manziel and limiting them to 2 of 16 on third down.
Nick- Aggies win a close one, 24-21.
Jeremy- LSU- 24-21
8) Oregon State- 21, Utah- 7
Sometimes in college football you've just got to gut out a tough win and that's exactly what the Beavers did. The offense struggled but a solid defensive performance, forcing four Utes turnovers, got the Beavers in and out of Utah with a win. OSU is 6-0 for the first time since 1907.
Nick- OSU- 34-14
Jeremy- OSU- 34-17
9) Oklahoma- 52, Kansas- 7
This one was a bit of a gimme. The Sooners continue rolling as they drill the Jayhawks 52-7. Oklahoma as effective and efficient jumping out to a 38-0 halftime lead and scored two more early third quarter touchdowns and this game was pretty much in the books.
Nick- Sooners roll, 48-10.
Jeremy- Oklahoma- 42-14
10) USC- 50, Colorado- 6
Well, what'd you expect? The week in, week out grind of college football can be rough, so it's nice to have teams like Colorado on your schedule from time to time.
Nick- USC rolls, 52-17.
Jeremy- USC- 48-24
11) Georgia- 29, Kentucky- 24
The Bulldogs struggled with a feisty Kentucky team who ran the ball well against the Georgia, who was without star defensive player Jarvis Jones.
Nick- UGA- 35-24
Jeremy- UGA- 45-14
12) Mississippi State- 45, Middle Tennessee- 3
Dan Mullen's Bulldogs improve to 7-0 as they drill Middle Tennessee. After a close first half, Miss. St. piled on 35 second half points in the route of the Blue Raiders. Next up for the Bulldogs... Roll Tide!
Nick- Bulldogs roll in this one, 42-17.
Jeremy- MSU- 28-17
14) Florida State- 33, Miami- 20
Florida State was able to overcome early turnovers to run away with this game against the rival 'Canes. Despite this, the Seminoles were mostly in control of this game from the second quarter on, thanks to a very stout defensive performance and a solid running game and finally pulled through in the fourth quarter.
Nick- FSU, 38-17.
Jeremy- FSU- 34-20
15) Rutgers- 35, Temple- 10
Rutgers keeps rolling after a slow start against Temple. The Scarlet Knights spotted Temple a 10-0 first half lead before roaring back with a 35-0 second half to improve to 7-0.
Nick- Rutgers 21-17.
Jeremy- Rutger- 17-14
16) Louisville- 27, South Florida- 25
Louisville overcame a late comeback by BJ Daniel and the USF Bulls. A touchdown with 3:26 to play gave the Bulls a 25-20 lead, but Louisville's Teddy Bridgwater led the Cardinals on an 8 play 75 yard scoring drive for the go ahead touchdown.
Nick- Louisville wins a close one, 31-28.
Jeremy- Louisville- 38-31
17) Texas Tech- 56, (23) TCU- 53
The Great Texas Shootout! TCU rallied from a 36-26 deficit with four minutes left in the fourth quarter to take the game into over time. Three OT's later it was Texas Tech getting the win on an 8-yard touchdown pass from Seth Doege to Alex Torres.
Nick- Tech 28-24.
Jeremy- TCU- 24-20
19) Clemson- 38, Virginia Tech- 17
Nice call brosef! Clemson pretty much did what was expected today against a VaTech team that continues their season of misery. Surprisingly, VaTech led the game in yards from scrimmage at 406 to 295 holding the Tigers to their lowest yards gained of the season, but it was the turnover battle that was the difference in this one.
Nick- Clemson wins 38-17.
Jeremy-Clemson- 44-24
20) Stanford- 21, California- 3
Solid overall performance by Stanford, who never trailed against the rival Golden Bears. Stanford had balanced offensive attack (200+ yards passing and rushing) and a defense that allowed just three rushing yards and forced three Cal turnovers.
Nick- Stanford wins easy, 24-10.
Jeremy- Stanford- 27-17
21) Cincinnati- 23, Toledo- 29
The Toledo Rockets proved to be too much for Munchie Legaux and the Cincinnati Bearcats. A 75-yard pick-six and a 91-yard fourth quarter kickoff return for a touchdown were the difference.
Nick- The Bearcats win a close one here, 38-35.
Jeremy- Cinn.- 39-14
22) Boise State- 32, UNLV- 7
The Boise defense was suffocating in the 32-7 route of UNLV. The Lobos only score came in the fourth quarter on a fumble return for a touchdown. The Broncos improve to 6-1 and their only real test to come looks to be their season finale at Nevada.
Nick- Boise rolls late, 42-21.
Jeremy- Boise- 37-13
24) Iowa State- 10, Oklahoma State- 31
Oklahoma State proved to be too much at home for the #24 Iowa State Cyclones. OSU out-matched ISU in every aspect, out gaining the Cyclones 625-341, including a season-high 415 yards passing for J.W. Walsh who threw for a score and ran for another for.
Nick- Cyclones in a close one 31-24.
Jeremy- OK St.- 35-17
25) Texas- 56, Baylor- 50
Credit Texas for bouncing back from two tough losses. While their defensive woe's continue, the Longhorns were able to find just enough to outlast Baylor in this shootout. While this win gets the 'Horns back in the win column, they'll need to improve their 105th ranked defense to survive a tough November schedule.
Nick- Texas wins going away, 45-28
Jeremy- Baylor- 43-41
Final tally:
Nick- 17-3
Jeremy- 16-4
Nice work brosef!
1) Alabama-44, Tennessee- 13
The Crimson Tide were all together too much in every area for the Vols. The offense was steady and methodical racking up 539 yards and controlling the clock for over 36 minutes.
Nick- Tide wins, 38-17
Jeremy-Alabama- 35-17
2) Florida- 44, (7) South Carolina- 11
The Florida running game and defense were too much for the Gamecocks who were playing with playing with an injured Marcus Lattimore.
Nick- Florida wins a close one, 24-21
Jeremy- Florida- 20-16
4) Kansas State- 55, (13)West Virginia- 14
Yikes! Probably won't hear the end of this one for awhile. 'Optimus' accounted for 364 total yards and seven touchdowns. The K-State defense was stout, holding the high-powered Mountaineers to a paltry 243 yards and picked off Geno Smith twice- picks one and two of the season for Smith.
Nick- K-State wins, 35-31.
Jeremy- West Virginia- 41-37
5) Notre Dame- 17, BYU- 14
A tough game for the Irish without starting quarterback Everett Golson as the offense struggled against a solid BYU defense. In the end it was too much Irish ground game with Riddick and Wood both eclipsing the 100-yard mark and that defense... oh, that defense.
Nick- Irish roll in this match-up, 28-10.
Jeremy- Irish- 31-13
6) LSU- 24, (18) Texas A&M- 12
After a slow start and spotting the Aggies 12 points, LSU rolled off 24 unanswered on their way to their second win in a row over a ranked team. LSU's defense forced five turnovers including three picks of A&M quarterback Johnny Manziel and limiting them to 2 of 16 on third down.
Nick- Aggies win a close one, 24-21.
Jeremy- LSU- 24-21
8) Oregon State- 21, Utah- 7
Sometimes in college football you've just got to gut out a tough win and that's exactly what the Beavers did. The offense struggled but a solid defensive performance, forcing four Utes turnovers, got the Beavers in and out of Utah with a win. OSU is 6-0 for the first time since 1907.
Nick- OSU- 34-14
Jeremy- OSU- 34-17
9) Oklahoma- 52, Kansas- 7
This one was a bit of a gimme. The Sooners continue rolling as they drill the Jayhawks 52-7. Oklahoma as effective and efficient jumping out to a 38-0 halftime lead and scored two more early third quarter touchdowns and this game was pretty much in the books.
Nick- Sooners roll, 48-10.
Jeremy- Oklahoma- 42-14
10) USC- 50, Colorado- 6
Well, what'd you expect? The week in, week out grind of college football can be rough, so it's nice to have teams like Colorado on your schedule from time to time.
Nick- USC rolls, 52-17.
Jeremy- USC- 48-24
11) Georgia- 29, Kentucky- 24
The Bulldogs struggled with a feisty Kentucky team who ran the ball well against the Georgia, who was without star defensive player Jarvis Jones.
Nick- UGA- 35-24
Jeremy- UGA- 45-14
12) Mississippi State- 45, Middle Tennessee- 3
Dan Mullen's Bulldogs improve to 7-0 as they drill Middle Tennessee. After a close first half, Miss. St. piled on 35 second half points in the route of the Blue Raiders. Next up for the Bulldogs... Roll Tide!
Nick- Bulldogs roll in this one, 42-17.
Jeremy- MSU- 28-17
14) Florida State- 33, Miami- 20
Florida State was able to overcome early turnovers to run away with this game against the rival 'Canes. Despite this, the Seminoles were mostly in control of this game from the second quarter on, thanks to a very stout defensive performance and a solid running game and finally pulled through in the fourth quarter.
Nick- FSU, 38-17.
Jeremy- FSU- 34-20
15) Rutgers- 35, Temple- 10
Rutgers keeps rolling after a slow start against Temple. The Scarlet Knights spotted Temple a 10-0 first half lead before roaring back with a 35-0 second half to improve to 7-0.
Nick- Rutgers 21-17.
Jeremy- Rutger- 17-14
16) Louisville- 27, South Florida- 25
Louisville overcame a late comeback by BJ Daniel and the USF Bulls. A touchdown with 3:26 to play gave the Bulls a 25-20 lead, but Louisville's Teddy Bridgwater led the Cardinals on an 8 play 75 yard scoring drive for the go ahead touchdown.
Nick- Louisville wins a close one, 31-28.
Jeremy- Louisville- 38-31
17) Texas Tech- 56, (23) TCU- 53
The Great Texas Shootout! TCU rallied from a 36-26 deficit with four minutes left in the fourth quarter to take the game into over time. Three OT's later it was Texas Tech getting the win on an 8-yard touchdown pass from Seth Doege to Alex Torres.
Nick- Tech 28-24.
Jeremy- TCU- 24-20
19) Clemson- 38, Virginia Tech- 17
Nice call brosef! Clemson pretty much did what was expected today against a VaTech team that continues their season of misery. Surprisingly, VaTech led the game in yards from scrimmage at 406 to 295 holding the Tigers to their lowest yards gained of the season, but it was the turnover battle that was the difference in this one.
Nick- Clemson wins 38-17.
Jeremy-Clemson- 44-24
20) Stanford- 21, California- 3
Solid overall performance by Stanford, who never trailed against the rival Golden Bears. Stanford had balanced offensive attack (200+ yards passing and rushing) and a defense that allowed just three rushing yards and forced three Cal turnovers.
Nick- Stanford wins easy, 24-10.
Jeremy- Stanford- 27-17
21) Cincinnati- 23, Toledo- 29
The Toledo Rockets proved to be too much for Munchie Legaux and the Cincinnati Bearcats. A 75-yard pick-six and a 91-yard fourth quarter kickoff return for a touchdown were the difference.
Nick- The Bearcats win a close one here, 38-35.
Jeremy- Cinn.- 39-14
22) Boise State- 32, UNLV- 7
The Boise defense was suffocating in the 32-7 route of UNLV. The Lobos only score came in the fourth quarter on a fumble return for a touchdown. The Broncos improve to 6-1 and their only real test to come looks to be their season finale at Nevada.
Nick- Boise rolls late, 42-21.
Jeremy- Boise- 37-13
24) Iowa State- 10, Oklahoma State- 31
Oklahoma State proved to be too much at home for the #24 Iowa State Cyclones. OSU out-matched ISU in every aspect, out gaining the Cyclones 625-341, including a season-high 415 yards passing for J.W. Walsh who threw for a score and ran for another for.
Nick- Cyclones in a close one 31-24.
Jeremy- OK St.- 35-17
25) Texas- 56, Baylor- 50
Credit Texas for bouncing back from two tough losses. While their defensive woe's continue, the Longhorns were able to find just enough to outlast Baylor in this shootout. While this win gets the 'Horns back in the win column, they'll need to improve their 105th ranked defense to survive a tough November schedule.
Nick- Texas wins going away, 45-28
Jeremy- Baylor- 43-41
Final tally:
Nick- 17-3
Jeremy- 16-4
Nice work brosef!
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Top 25
BCS-(AP)
1-(1) Alabama
2-(3) Florida
3-(4) Kansas State
4-(2) Oregon
5-(5) Notre Dame
6-(6) LSU
7-(7)Oregon State
8-(8) Oklahoma
9-(10) USC
10-(12) Georgia
11-(13) Miss. St.
12-(11) Florida State
13-(17) S. Carolina
14-(15) Texas Tech
15-(18) Rutgers
16-(16) Louisville
17-(19) Stanford
18-(14) Clemson
19-(25) West Virginia
20-(22) Texas A&M
21-(21) Boise State
22-(20) Michigan
23-(NR) Texas
24-(23) Ohio
25-(NR) Wisconsin
*Ohio St. is #9 in the AP but ineligible for the BCS
Some major statements were made this weekend with some big wins by some big-time programs- Florida over S. Carolina, K-State over West Virginia, LSU over Texas A&M, specifically. This past weekend had the biggest impact on my top five where all the top teams remain, but the order a bit different. Alabama and Florida are locked in at #1 and #2 and will remain there until one loses. Kansas State moves from #5 to #3, flipping with Oregon. While Oregon has been impressive this season, they just don't have any signature wins, the others do. Kansas State has dominated the top teams on their schedule- Oklahoma, Texas and West Virginia and have earned their way to their rank. Notre Dame stays at #4, but faces a major test this weekend with a trip to Oklahoma.
Ranking 6-10 was a little difficult for me this week. I like LSU at #6. Despite their offensive struggles, when they have their running game going and give their defense a little help, they can beat any one in the country, period. After losing on the road to K-State, Oklahoma has rattled off three impressive wins and sits at #7, as look to make a statement with the Irish coming to town. Oregon State at #8 is painful for me. Like their in-state rival, Oregon, the Beavers have looked good this season, with a few pretty descent wins. That said, no win they have this year says their deserving of a top ten ranking. Having said that, they are 6-0 and the teams around them keep losing, so... here they are. USC and Florida State round out the top ten and are similar in the fact that they're both super talented, but haven't really played to their potential yet this season.
My 11-15 has seen perhaps the biggest movers. Miss. St. is in at #11 and that's as high as they'll get as they get Alabama this weekend. Clemson is up to #12 with a good win, if unspectacular over VaTech. Despite their win over Kentucky, I moved Georgia down. They're coming off a very unimpressive win over Kentucky, who has been a virtual punching bag to every other SEC team they've played. The Dawgs need to step it up and drop to #13. South Carolina drops to #14 after their loss to Florida. Louisville continues their slow, steady ascent up the polls as they continue to win.
Texas Tech is up to #16 from #20 last week with a solid win over TCU. Rutgers, like Louisville continues to climb while they're winning. Stanford remains at #18, Boise moves up three spots to #19 and West Virginia checks at #20, falling all they way from #10 following their second blow-out loss in as many weeks.
Three schools take up spots in 21-25 who weren't there a week ago. Michigan, Wisconsin and Texas continue their week in, week out appearances and are #22, #24 and #25, respectively. A&M moves down to #21 after a tough loss to LSU. Ohio, who continues to win sits at #24.
Jeremy's Top 25
1-(1) Alabama 7-0
2-(2) Florida 7-0
3-(5) Kansas State 7-0
4-(4) Notre Dame 7-0
5-(3) Oregon 7-0
6-(6) LSU 7-1
7-(8) Oklahoma 5-1
8-(12) Oregon State 6-0
9-(13) USC 6-1
10-(10) Florida State 7-1
11-(15) Mississippi State 7-0
12-(14) Clemson 6-1
13-(11) Georgia 6-1
14-(7) South Carolina 6-2
15-(16) Louisville 7-0
16-(20) Texas Tech 6-1
17-(19) Rutgers 7-0
18-(18) Stanford 5-2
19-(22) Boise State 6-1
20-(10) West Virginia 5-2
21-(17) Texas A&M 5-2
22-(NR) Michigan 5-2
23-(24) Ohio 7-0
24-(NR) Wisconsin 6-2
25-(NR) Texas 5-2
I agree with Jeremy, there were some very major statements made this week. My top five has changed a little, but my No. 1 team in Alabama stays the same and until they are knocked off they stay there. Florida moves up to No. 2 after it made a major statement on Saturday dominating South Carolina and taking control of the SEC East. Kansas State also made a huge statement beating the most overrated team this season in West Virginia. The Wildcats made West Virginia look like a team that doesn't deserve to be ranked. (See later). Notre Dame moves up to No. 4 because this team can play defense and has one of the best defensive players in the country in Manti T'eo. I dropped Oregon to No. 5 because I am done backing them. I made a case for them to be the No. 2 team in the country last week, but I will no longer back them because they have not played anyone and everyone above them has quality wins.
No. 6 and No. 7, Oklahoma and LSU stay the same this week. OU's win last weekend though high scoring was still against Kansas. LSU picked up a good win at Texas A&M but had to look better than that to move up on my board. Sure I like the comeback, but the Aggies still had a chance to win that game. Oregon State keeps winning and so I keep moving them up the board. They play physical football, and sure they do not have any marque wins, but they have some big opportunities coming up. Georgia is starting to get back on track after the loss to South Carolina and it has a huge opportunity coming up this weekend against the No. 2 Gators. Florida State looks bad an unprepared on the road, but they also keep winning and they keep moving up.
USC stays at No. 11 because lets face it a win against Colorado is about as good as beating and FCS school. Clemson move up to No. 12 after it out classed Virginia Tech last weekend. The Tigers still have a chance to make some noise in the ACC. Texas Tech pulled out a squeaker in Fort Worth last weekend but they play a brand of football I like. The Red Raiders keep moving up the board this week also. Louisville and Rutgers both look like Big East title contenders, but still have to play one another to decide the crown. I finally moved Mississippi State up, but I still don't think they have played anyone and as soon as they do they are going down. It almost makes me laugh seeing them at No. 11 in the BCS poll, it has played one game against a team with a winning record outside of FCS teams. Look for them to get taken apart this weekend when the No. 1 Tide come calling. South Carolina drops nine spots this week because the Gators rolled through them last week. No doubt the Gamecocks are talented but they have to start winning again. Not sure how many people will agree with me here, but I like the Bobcats of Ohio this team has been steadily on a rise and the MAC is a much improved conference this season. I do not see them cracking the BCS but stranger things have happened. At No. 19 Boise State looks like it is moving itself in position for a BCS run although they have a loss they could have a chance at it if they win the Mountain West.
Texas A&M drops just one spot because it lost to higher ranked LSU and had a chance to win that game. Johnny football is a stud at quarterback, but made some mistakes that cost the Aggies the game. Stanford beat the Golden Bears and move up to make some room for some teams below them. Texas reenters the top-25 this week after a shootout with Baylor. The Longhorns better find a way to stop someone on defense or this stay is going to be short lived. My final three spots are all B1G teams who have played their way back in. Wisconsin is improving and I am not sure about Michigan yet but for lack of any other teams I had to put them there. And yes I have Penn State at No. 25 this team is improving rapidly and although they can not win the B1G or play for the championship they can still make some noise in the conference.
Yes, West Virginia fans I dropped your team from the poll. Mostly because for two consecutive weeks you have looked like a team that cannot win a game unless you begin with a 14 point advantage. The 'Eers have played two physical defense and two solid offenses and have looked bad against them both. They have been outscored 104-28 in two games. Pathetic. It was only a matter of time before this team came back to earth and it has come crashing back the last two weeks. If they can get a win this week against TCU I will re-rank them but as of right now they do not deserve to even be considered.
Nick's Top 25
1-(1) Alabama
2-(3) Florida
3-(4) Kansas State
4-(5) Notre Dame
5-(2) Oregon
6-(6) Oklahoma
7-(7) LSU
8-(10) Oregon State
9-(12) Georgia
10-(13) Florida State
11-(11) USC
12-(14) Clemson
13-(15) Texas Tech
14-(16) Louisville
15-(17) Rutgers
16-(21) Mississippi State
17-(8) South Carolina
18-(22) Ohio
19-(23) Boise State
20-(19) Texas A&M
21-(24) Stanford
22-(NR) Texas
23-(NR) Wisconsin
24-(NR) Michigan
25-(NR) Penn State
BCS-(AP)
1-(1) Alabama
2-(3) Florida
3-(4) Kansas State
4-(2) Oregon
5-(5) Notre Dame
6-(6) LSU
7-(7)Oregon State
8-(8) Oklahoma
9-(10) USC
10-(12) Georgia
11-(13) Miss. St.
12-(11) Florida State
13-(17) S. Carolina
14-(15) Texas Tech
15-(18) Rutgers
16-(16) Louisville
17-(19) Stanford
18-(14) Clemson
19-(25) West Virginia
20-(22) Texas A&M
21-(21) Boise State
22-(20) Michigan
23-(NR) Texas
24-(23) Ohio
25-(NR) Wisconsin
*Ohio St. is #9 in the AP but ineligible for the BCS
Some major statements were made this weekend with some big wins by some big-time programs- Florida over S. Carolina, K-State over West Virginia, LSU over Texas A&M, specifically. This past weekend had the biggest impact on my top five where all the top teams remain, but the order a bit different. Alabama and Florida are locked in at #1 and #2 and will remain there until one loses. Kansas State moves from #5 to #3, flipping with Oregon. While Oregon has been impressive this season, they just don't have any signature wins, the others do. Kansas State has dominated the top teams on their schedule- Oklahoma, Texas and West Virginia and have earned their way to their rank. Notre Dame stays at #4, but faces a major test this weekend with a trip to Oklahoma.
Ranking 6-10 was a little difficult for me this week. I like LSU at #6. Despite their offensive struggles, when they have their running game going and give their defense a little help, they can beat any one in the country, period. After losing on the road to K-State, Oklahoma has rattled off three impressive wins and sits at #7, as look to make a statement with the Irish coming to town. Oregon State at #8 is painful for me. Like their in-state rival, Oregon, the Beavers have looked good this season, with a few pretty descent wins. That said, no win they have this year says their deserving of a top ten ranking. Having said that, they are 6-0 and the teams around them keep losing, so... here they are. USC and Florida State round out the top ten and are similar in the fact that they're both super talented, but haven't really played to their potential yet this season.
My 11-15 has seen perhaps the biggest movers. Miss. St. is in at #11 and that's as high as they'll get as they get Alabama this weekend. Clemson is up to #12 with a good win, if unspectacular over VaTech. Despite their win over Kentucky, I moved Georgia down. They're coming off a very unimpressive win over Kentucky, who has been a virtual punching bag to every other SEC team they've played. The Dawgs need to step it up and drop to #13. South Carolina drops to #14 after their loss to Florida. Louisville continues their slow, steady ascent up the polls as they continue to win.
Texas Tech is up to #16 from #20 last week with a solid win over TCU. Rutgers, like Louisville continues to climb while they're winning. Stanford remains at #18, Boise moves up three spots to #19 and West Virginia checks at #20, falling all they way from #10 following their second blow-out loss in as many weeks.
Three schools take up spots in 21-25 who weren't there a week ago. Michigan, Wisconsin and Texas continue their week in, week out appearances and are #22, #24 and #25, respectively. A&M moves down to #21 after a tough loss to LSU. Ohio, who continues to win sits at #24.
Jeremy's Top 25
1-(1) Alabama 7-0
2-(2) Florida 7-0
3-(5) Kansas State 7-0
4-(4) Notre Dame 7-0
5-(3) Oregon 7-0
6-(6) LSU 7-1
7-(8) Oklahoma 5-1
8-(12) Oregon State 6-0
9-(13) USC 6-1
10-(10) Florida State 7-1
11-(15) Mississippi State 7-0
12-(14) Clemson 6-1
13-(11) Georgia 6-1
14-(7) South Carolina 6-2
15-(16) Louisville 7-0
16-(20) Texas Tech 6-1
17-(19) Rutgers 7-0
18-(18) Stanford 5-2
19-(22) Boise State 6-1
20-(10) West Virginia 5-2
21-(17) Texas A&M 5-2
22-(NR) Michigan 5-2
23-(24) Ohio 7-0
24-(NR) Wisconsin 6-2
25-(NR) Texas 5-2
I agree with Jeremy, there were some very major statements made this week. My top five has changed a little, but my No. 1 team in Alabama stays the same and until they are knocked off they stay there. Florida moves up to No. 2 after it made a major statement on Saturday dominating South Carolina and taking control of the SEC East. Kansas State also made a huge statement beating the most overrated team this season in West Virginia. The Wildcats made West Virginia look like a team that doesn't deserve to be ranked. (See later). Notre Dame moves up to No. 4 because this team can play defense and has one of the best defensive players in the country in Manti T'eo. I dropped Oregon to No. 5 because I am done backing them. I made a case for them to be the No. 2 team in the country last week, but I will no longer back them because they have not played anyone and everyone above them has quality wins.
No. 6 and No. 7, Oklahoma and LSU stay the same this week. OU's win last weekend though high scoring was still against Kansas. LSU picked up a good win at Texas A&M but had to look better than that to move up on my board. Sure I like the comeback, but the Aggies still had a chance to win that game. Oregon State keeps winning and so I keep moving them up the board. They play physical football, and sure they do not have any marque wins, but they have some big opportunities coming up. Georgia is starting to get back on track after the loss to South Carolina and it has a huge opportunity coming up this weekend against the No. 2 Gators. Florida State looks bad an unprepared on the road, but they also keep winning and they keep moving up.
USC stays at No. 11 because lets face it a win against Colorado is about as good as beating and FCS school. Clemson move up to No. 12 after it out classed Virginia Tech last weekend. The Tigers still have a chance to make some noise in the ACC. Texas Tech pulled out a squeaker in Fort Worth last weekend but they play a brand of football I like. The Red Raiders keep moving up the board this week also. Louisville and Rutgers both look like Big East title contenders, but still have to play one another to decide the crown. I finally moved Mississippi State up, but I still don't think they have played anyone and as soon as they do they are going down. It almost makes me laugh seeing them at No. 11 in the BCS poll, it has played one game against a team with a winning record outside of FCS teams. Look for them to get taken apart this weekend when the No. 1 Tide come calling. South Carolina drops nine spots this week because the Gators rolled through them last week. No doubt the Gamecocks are talented but they have to start winning again. Not sure how many people will agree with me here, but I like the Bobcats of Ohio this team has been steadily on a rise and the MAC is a much improved conference this season. I do not see them cracking the BCS but stranger things have happened. At No. 19 Boise State looks like it is moving itself in position for a BCS run although they have a loss they could have a chance at it if they win the Mountain West.
Texas A&M drops just one spot because it lost to higher ranked LSU and had a chance to win that game. Johnny football is a stud at quarterback, but made some mistakes that cost the Aggies the game. Stanford beat the Golden Bears and move up to make some room for some teams below them. Texas reenters the top-25 this week after a shootout with Baylor. The Longhorns better find a way to stop someone on defense or this stay is going to be short lived. My final three spots are all B1G teams who have played their way back in. Wisconsin is improving and I am not sure about Michigan yet but for lack of any other teams I had to put them there. And yes I have Penn State at No. 25 this team is improving rapidly and although they can not win the B1G or play for the championship they can still make some noise in the conference.
Yes, West Virginia fans I dropped your team from the poll. Mostly because for two consecutive weeks you have looked like a team that cannot win a game unless you begin with a 14 point advantage. The 'Eers have played two physical defense and two solid offenses and have looked bad against them both. They have been outscored 104-28 in two games. Pathetic. It was only a matter of time before this team came back to earth and it has come crashing back the last two weeks. If they can get a win this week against TCU I will re-rank them but as of right now they do not deserve to even be considered.
Nick's Top 25
1-(1) Alabama
2-(3) Florida
3-(4) Kansas State
4-(5) Notre Dame
5-(2) Oregon
6-(6) Oklahoma
7-(7) LSU
8-(10) Oregon State
9-(12) Georgia
10-(13) Florida State
11-(11) USC
12-(14) Clemson
13-(15) Texas Tech
14-(16) Louisville
15-(17) Rutgers
16-(21) Mississippi State
17-(8) South Carolina
18-(22) Ohio
19-(23) Boise State
20-(19) Texas A&M
21-(24) Stanford
22-(NR) Texas
23-(NR) Wisconsin
24-(NR) Michigan
25-(NR) Penn State
Saturday, October 20, 2012
Week 8 Picks
1) Alabama at Tennessee, 7 p.m. ET
Nick-
Tough environment for the Tide to play in at Neyland Stadium. That being said I expect Alabama to handle this game pretty easly. The 'Bama defense should be able to shut down Tyler Bray and control this game.
Tide wins, 38-17.
Jeremy-
I agree. Neyland isn't the intimidating environment it used to be and Nick Saben will have the 'Tide keyed in for, arguably, their toughest test of the season so far.
Alabama- 35-17
2) Florida vs. (7)South Carolina, 3:30 p.m. ET
Nick-
With this game being played in Gainesville I expect Florida to be able to win this one. I also after I heard Marcus Lattimore was out this game I see that tough Gator defense to slow down this Gamecock attack.
Florida wins a close one, 24-21
Jeremy-
I'm inclined to take South Carolina here on a rebound from last weeks loss at LSU. However, no Marcus Lattimore makes this a different game. The Gators defense is one of the best in the nation and this team has already proven they can win in hostile environments.
Florida- 20-16
4) Kansas State at (13)West Virginia, 7 p.m. ET
Nick-
I will be the first to admit I am not a big fan of this West Virginia team. When they run into a physical defense like last week they struggle. Also when the offense they play is just a good a their's they really struggle. If K-State gets up early in this game I think they win, if it gets to be a shootout I think the 'Eers win. Collin Kline will take control of this game for the Wildcats.
K-State wins, 35-31.
Jeremy-
I'm going with the upset here. West Virginia has played well at home and I expect them to bounce back from last weeks loss at Texas Tech. K-State has had some close wins on the road and think they drop this one.
West Virginia- 41-37
5) Notre Dame vs. BYU, 3:30 p.m. ET
Nick-
I really like this Notre Dame team because they win by playing defense. They are still unsettled at quarterback, but I think the Notre Dame defense shuts down a bad BYU offense.
Irish roll in this matchup, 28-10.
Jeremy-
Quarterback questions haven't slowed this team down yet, and won't today against BYU. Irish win at home and improve to 7-0.
Irish- 31-13
6) LSU at (18) Texas A&M, Noon ET
Nick-
This game had already started by the time I got these in so no real explination here. A&M I think pulls this one off at home. Sumlin is looking for a big win and I think he gets it.
Aggies win a close one, 24-21.
Jeremy- I'm really tempted to agree with Nick here. LSU has struggled on the road this season and are coming off an emotional victory over S. Carolina last weekend. However, I think Les Miles gets his boys up for this one and they pull out a tough one in College Station.
LSU- 24-21
8) Oregon State vs. Utah, 10:30 p.m. ET
Nick-
Oregon State's defense should handle this game pretty easly against a bad Utah team. Utah has some bad losses. Even with a backup quarterback for Oregon State they will win this pretty easly.
OSU- 34-14
Jeremy-
Too easy. Oregon State is too well coached to let this one go. Utah has really struggled this season and shouldn't be a problem for Mike Riley and the Beavers.
OSU- 34-17
9) Oklahoma vs. Kansas, 7 p.m. ET
Nick-
Look out for a rout in this one. Kansas is probably the worst team in the Big 12 and it will really show this weekend against Oklahoma.
Sooners roll, 48-10.
Jeremy-
Ditto. Kansas is bad and the Sonners should be able to roll in and get an easy victory.
Oklahoma- 42-14
10) USC vs. Colorado, 6 p.m. ET
Nick-
Another bad matchup for a bad team on the road. USC has been unimpressive, but Colorado has the ability to make any stuggling offense look like the best in the country.
USC rolls, 52-17.
Jeremy-
Same. Colorado has been epically bad this year. USC is much too talented for this game to even be close. Trojans in a blow-out.
USC- 48-24
11) Georgia at Kentucky, 7 p.m. ET
Nick-
I said for two straight weeks that Kentucky picks times to play well agianst SEC teams at home, but not this week. Georgia is looking to keep moving up the SEC standings and make a statment here.
Dawgs win but closer than you might expect.
UGA- 35-24.
Jeremy-
Georgia has had a week to get over the loss to S. Carolina and get right. Kentucky is the perfect team to do that against. Expect the Bulldogs to take some frustration out on Joker Phillips Wildcats.
UGA- 45-14
12) Mississippi State vs. Middle Tennessee, 7 p.m. ET
Nick-
Someone still needs to explain to me why Miss State is No. 12 in the country. They still have played ablosutley no one and continue that this week against Middle Tennessee.
Bulldogs roll in this one, 42-17.
Jeremy-
This will be the Bulldogs last win for the next three weeks. I don't expect them to slip up against Middle Tennessee, but with Alabama, Texas A&M and LSU in the next three weeks, enjoy it while it lasts Bulldos.
MSU- 28-17
14) Florida State at Miami, 8 p.m. ET
Nick-
Tough road game for the 'Noles who have not performed well on the road this season, but I think they are looking to make a statement and show they are a great team still. Going on a limb here but I think FSU rolls in this game.
FSU, 38-17.
Jeremy-
This will be a tough test for Florida State. Like Nick said, they've struggled away from Doak Campbell Stadium this season and while they're deeper and more talented than the 'Canes, they won't be able to overcome a slow start, or sloppy play. I think the Seminoles will win but, it will be a close game.
FSU- 34-20
15) Rutgers at Temple, Noon ET
Nick-
Interesting matchup for Rutgers at Temple but this Rutgers team looks like it is for real. I think Rutgers should be able to pull this one out on the road.
Rutgers wins a close one and low scoring 21-17.
Jeremy-
Rutgers wins a Rutgers type game. Both teams run the ball well and play good defense so who ever can control the line of scrimmage will take this on.
Rutger- 17-14
16) Louisville vs. South Florida, 3:30 p.m. ET
Nick-
This South Florida team is tough and they played a tough game against Florida State a couple weeks ago, but on the road in Louisville I don't think they can pull it off.
Louisville wins a close one, 31-28.
Jeremy-
I like Louisville in this one. USF has lost four straight and Louisville is the best team they've played other than Florida State this season. The Cardinals win at home.
Louisville- 38-31
17) Texas Tech at (23) TCU, 3:30 p.m. ET
Nick-
This is a tough game for me to call. I like TCU but without Pachall I don't think they can take down a surging Texas Tech team. Tech has a rare combination of excellent offense and defense and I think it will be too much for TCU. This game will be close with both teams having great defenses.
Tech pulls a shocker in Amon G. Carter, 28-24.
Jeremy-
I'm going the other way here. I think TCU will be over the loss of Pachall and they played well against Baylor last week. TCU still plays solid defense and will need them in what shold be a close, defensive battle.
TCU- 24-20
19) Clemson vs. Virginia Tech, Noon ET
Nick-
This is not the Virginia Tech team of old and looks bad this season. A fast and athletic Clemson team should be able to roll in this game.
Clemson wins 38-17.
Jeremy-
While I can totally see this as a let down game for Clemson, I just don't have any confidence that VaTech can get on track this season. The Hokies have been a mess all season and I think Clemson is just too explosive for this VaTcch team.
Clemson- 44-24
20) Stanford at California, 3 p.m. ET
Nick-
Stanford should roll in this game, California seems to be a team that everyone in Pac-12 lands wants to call good but it is not. Stanford's front seven it tough and will shut Cal down.
Stanford wins easy, 24-10.
Jeremy-
Stanford has lost two of their last three, while Cal has won back to back games for the first time this season. I think that ends today, as Stanford recovers from their heartbreaker at South Bend last week. The Cardinal are too well coached and will man-handle the Golden Bears.
Stanford- 27-17
21) Cincinatti at Toledo, 7 p.m. ET
Nick-
This Toledo team can play they have a quick quarterback and running back combination and could spell a little trouble for Cincinatti on the road. Cincy's schedule still is very unimperssive, but their offense looks pretty solid.
The Bearcats win a close one here, 38-35.
Jeremy-
Toledo can score but most of their big wins have come against lower level competition. Cincinnati has the number eight scoring defense in the country and should be able to contain the Rockets offense.
Cinn.- 39-14
22) Boise State vs. UNLV, 3:30 ET
Nick-
UNLV is an improved team but Boise State is beginning to look like a Chirs Peterson team of old and should be able to roll in this game at home.
Boise rolls late, 42-21.
Jeremy-
Boise State has been pretty unremarkable this season, but they are playing good defense. Boise's offense has struggled but UNLV has the 109th ranked scoring defense and the Broncos have taken advantage of bad defenses this season.
Boise- 37-13
24) Iowa State at Oklahoma State, Noon ET
Nick-
This game had already started by the time I got my picks in. For the record I was going to pick Iowa State anyway. I like what Rhoads has done with this team and made them competitive.
Cyclones in a close one 31-24.
Jeremy-
I'm going upset here. Oklahoma St. has an explosive offense and are really tough to beat at home.
OK St.- 35-17
25) Texas vs. Baylor, 8 p.m. ET
Nick-
I think the Texas freefall stops here. Baylor's defense is about as bad as any in the country and the Texas offense should be able to run all over this team.
Texas wins going away, 45-28
Jeremy-
I'm going the other way here. I think the Longhorns are in trouble. Their defense has been exposed the past two games and their going up against one of the most explosive offenses in the country. Baylor runs the run and shoot as well as anybody and Texas hasn't shown that they can stop it.
Baylor- 43-41
Nick-
Tough environment for the Tide to play in at Neyland Stadium. That being said I expect Alabama to handle this game pretty easly. The 'Bama defense should be able to shut down Tyler Bray and control this game.
Tide wins, 38-17.
Jeremy-
I agree. Neyland isn't the intimidating environment it used to be and Nick Saben will have the 'Tide keyed in for, arguably, their toughest test of the season so far.
Alabama- 35-17
2) Florida vs. (7)South Carolina, 3:30 p.m. ET
Nick-
With this game being played in Gainesville I expect Florida to be able to win this one. I also after I heard Marcus Lattimore was out this game I see that tough Gator defense to slow down this Gamecock attack.
Florida wins a close one, 24-21
Jeremy-
I'm inclined to take South Carolina here on a rebound from last weeks loss at LSU. However, no Marcus Lattimore makes this a different game. The Gators defense is one of the best in the nation and this team has already proven they can win in hostile environments.
Florida- 20-16
4) Kansas State at (13)West Virginia, 7 p.m. ET
Nick-
I will be the first to admit I am not a big fan of this West Virginia team. When they run into a physical defense like last week they struggle. Also when the offense they play is just a good a their's they really struggle. If K-State gets up early in this game I think they win, if it gets to be a shootout I think the 'Eers win. Collin Kline will take control of this game for the Wildcats.
K-State wins, 35-31.
Jeremy-
I'm going with the upset here. West Virginia has played well at home and I expect them to bounce back from last weeks loss at Texas Tech. K-State has had some close wins on the road and think they drop this one.
West Virginia- 41-37
5) Notre Dame vs. BYU, 3:30 p.m. ET
Nick-
I really like this Notre Dame team because they win by playing defense. They are still unsettled at quarterback, but I think the Notre Dame defense shuts down a bad BYU offense.
Irish roll in this matchup, 28-10.
Jeremy-
Quarterback questions haven't slowed this team down yet, and won't today against BYU. Irish win at home and improve to 7-0.
Irish- 31-13
6) LSU at (18) Texas A&M, Noon ET
Nick-
This game had already started by the time I got these in so no real explination here. A&M I think pulls this one off at home. Sumlin is looking for a big win and I think he gets it.
Aggies win a close one, 24-21.
Jeremy- I'm really tempted to agree with Nick here. LSU has struggled on the road this season and are coming off an emotional victory over S. Carolina last weekend. However, I think Les Miles gets his boys up for this one and they pull out a tough one in College Station.
LSU- 24-21
8) Oregon State vs. Utah, 10:30 p.m. ET
Nick-
Oregon State's defense should handle this game pretty easly against a bad Utah team. Utah has some bad losses. Even with a backup quarterback for Oregon State they will win this pretty easly.
OSU- 34-14
Jeremy-
Too easy. Oregon State is too well coached to let this one go. Utah has really struggled this season and shouldn't be a problem for Mike Riley and the Beavers.
OSU- 34-17
9) Oklahoma vs. Kansas, 7 p.m. ET
Nick-
Look out for a rout in this one. Kansas is probably the worst team in the Big 12 and it will really show this weekend against Oklahoma.
Sooners roll, 48-10.
Jeremy-
Ditto. Kansas is bad and the Sonners should be able to roll in and get an easy victory.
Oklahoma- 42-14
10) USC vs. Colorado, 6 p.m. ET
Nick-
Another bad matchup for a bad team on the road. USC has been unimpressive, but Colorado has the ability to make any stuggling offense look like the best in the country.
USC rolls, 52-17.
Jeremy-
Same. Colorado has been epically bad this year. USC is much too talented for this game to even be close. Trojans in a blow-out.
USC- 48-24
11) Georgia at Kentucky, 7 p.m. ET
Nick-
I said for two straight weeks that Kentucky picks times to play well agianst SEC teams at home, but not this week. Georgia is looking to keep moving up the SEC standings and make a statment here.
Dawgs win but closer than you might expect.
UGA- 35-24.
Jeremy-
Georgia has had a week to get over the loss to S. Carolina and get right. Kentucky is the perfect team to do that against. Expect the Bulldogs to take some frustration out on Joker Phillips Wildcats.
UGA- 45-14
12) Mississippi State vs. Middle Tennessee, 7 p.m. ET
Nick-
Someone still needs to explain to me why Miss State is No. 12 in the country. They still have played ablosutley no one and continue that this week against Middle Tennessee.
Bulldogs roll in this one, 42-17.
Jeremy-
This will be the Bulldogs last win for the next three weeks. I don't expect them to slip up against Middle Tennessee, but with Alabama, Texas A&M and LSU in the next three weeks, enjoy it while it lasts Bulldos.
MSU- 28-17
14) Florida State at Miami, 8 p.m. ET
Nick-
Tough road game for the 'Noles who have not performed well on the road this season, but I think they are looking to make a statement and show they are a great team still. Going on a limb here but I think FSU rolls in this game.
FSU, 38-17.
Jeremy-
This will be a tough test for Florida State. Like Nick said, they've struggled away from Doak Campbell Stadium this season and while they're deeper and more talented than the 'Canes, they won't be able to overcome a slow start, or sloppy play. I think the Seminoles will win but, it will be a close game.
FSU- 34-20
15) Rutgers at Temple, Noon ET
Nick-
Interesting matchup for Rutgers at Temple but this Rutgers team looks like it is for real. I think Rutgers should be able to pull this one out on the road.
Rutgers wins a close one and low scoring 21-17.
Jeremy-
Rutgers wins a Rutgers type game. Both teams run the ball well and play good defense so who ever can control the line of scrimmage will take this on.
Rutger- 17-14
16) Louisville vs. South Florida, 3:30 p.m. ET
Nick-
This South Florida team is tough and they played a tough game against Florida State a couple weeks ago, but on the road in Louisville I don't think they can pull it off.
Louisville wins a close one, 31-28.
Jeremy-
I like Louisville in this one. USF has lost four straight and Louisville is the best team they've played other than Florida State this season. The Cardinals win at home.
Louisville- 38-31
17) Texas Tech at (23) TCU, 3:30 p.m. ET
Nick-
This is a tough game for me to call. I like TCU but without Pachall I don't think they can take down a surging Texas Tech team. Tech has a rare combination of excellent offense and defense and I think it will be too much for TCU. This game will be close with both teams having great defenses.
Tech pulls a shocker in Amon G. Carter, 28-24.
Jeremy-
I'm going the other way here. I think TCU will be over the loss of Pachall and they played well against Baylor last week. TCU still plays solid defense and will need them in what shold be a close, defensive battle.
TCU- 24-20
19) Clemson vs. Virginia Tech, Noon ET
Nick-
This is not the Virginia Tech team of old and looks bad this season. A fast and athletic Clemson team should be able to roll in this game.
Clemson wins 38-17.
Jeremy-
While I can totally see this as a let down game for Clemson, I just don't have any confidence that VaTech can get on track this season. The Hokies have been a mess all season and I think Clemson is just too explosive for this VaTcch team.
Clemson- 44-24
20) Stanford at California, 3 p.m. ET
Nick-
Stanford should roll in this game, California seems to be a team that everyone in Pac-12 lands wants to call good but it is not. Stanford's front seven it tough and will shut Cal down.
Stanford wins easy, 24-10.
Jeremy-
Stanford has lost two of their last three, while Cal has won back to back games for the first time this season. I think that ends today, as Stanford recovers from their heartbreaker at South Bend last week. The Cardinal are too well coached and will man-handle the Golden Bears.
Stanford- 27-17
21) Cincinatti at Toledo, 7 p.m. ET
Nick-
This Toledo team can play they have a quick quarterback and running back combination and could spell a little trouble for Cincinatti on the road. Cincy's schedule still is very unimperssive, but their offense looks pretty solid.
The Bearcats win a close one here, 38-35.
Jeremy-
Toledo can score but most of their big wins have come against lower level competition. Cincinnati has the number eight scoring defense in the country and should be able to contain the Rockets offense.
Cinn.- 39-14
22) Boise State vs. UNLV, 3:30 ET
Nick-
UNLV is an improved team but Boise State is beginning to look like a Chirs Peterson team of old and should be able to roll in this game at home.
Boise rolls late, 42-21.
Jeremy-
Boise State has been pretty unremarkable this season, but they are playing good defense. Boise's offense has struggled but UNLV has the 109th ranked scoring defense and the Broncos have taken advantage of bad defenses this season.
Boise- 37-13
24) Iowa State at Oklahoma State, Noon ET
Nick-
This game had already started by the time I got my picks in. For the record I was going to pick Iowa State anyway. I like what Rhoads has done with this team and made them competitive.
Cyclones in a close one 31-24.
Jeremy-
I'm going upset here. Oklahoma St. has an explosive offense and are really tough to beat at home.
OK St.- 35-17
25) Texas vs. Baylor, 8 p.m. ET
Nick-
I think the Texas freefall stops here. Baylor's defense is about as bad as any in the country and the Texas offense should be able to run all over this team.
Texas wins going away, 45-28
Jeremy-
I'm going the other way here. I think the Longhorns are in trouble. Their defense has been exposed the past two games and their going up against one of the most explosive offenses in the country. Baylor runs the run and shoot as well as anybody and Texas hasn't shown that they can stop it.
Baylor- 43-41
Friday, October 19, 2012
Four Downs-A brother vs. brother back-and-forth
Alright America, here is a new post that we would like to create this week. Jeremy and I came up with four questions, two each, and we are going to discuss them. In some cases we will disagree and in some we will agree, but these are four topics that seem to be hot in college football right now. So here is our take on these four big stories. Tell us what you think. Comment on our blog our tweet us @kinneybrozcfb on twitter.
1st Down: It is pretty much established that it is Alabama is by far the best team in college football. With The Tide head and shoulders above of everyone else, who is the second best team in college football?
Nick:
I don't really like having to do this, but I have to say Oregon is right now. This is totally contingent on a couple other games this weekend, but for lack of anyone else I have to back Oregon because I moved them up to No. 2 in my poll this week. I know the argument against this team is that they have played no one and they have to leave home to get some respect, but as a fan of a non-AQ team, I think there is only so long you can blame a team for playing a bad schedule. I think this would be very different if Oregon was not just crushing teams. If the Ducks were playing close games against average to bad opponents then I would be more likely not to move them to No. 2, but when you hang 40 in almost every first half this season, I think you diserve to be there. One problem I see with this team, however, is if they get behind and the defense is forced to make some stops, they could be in trouble. That being said I will make my case for this team.
Let's just start by saying Oregon has the best offense in the country. I know it is not No. 1 in every offensive category, but lets look at its offensive stats just for the fun of it. The Ducks are second in scoring offense averaging 52.3 points per game and are only one of two teams in the nation averaging more than 50 points per outing. Leading that scoring offense is the No. 4 ranked rushing attack in the game averaging 317 yards per game. The Ducks are just one of four teams in the country averaging 300-plus rushing yards per game. One stat that has to come up but is not very telling is redzone efficiency, they are No. 26 in the country scoring on 31 of 35 drives that have entered the redzone. This offense creates so many big plays that it is impossible to really take them down becuase of this stat. They are No. 7 in total first downs converting 50 percent. This seems interesting because even a great offense should be a little more effcient creating first downs. The final offensive stat I will throw out is this team has destroyed opponents outscoring them 357-141. Individually, running back Kenjon Barner is running wild with 870 yards and 12 touchdowns this season. He is also averaging 6.6 yards per carry. DeAnthony Thomas is right behind him with 402 yards on the season and six touchdowns, but is averaging more yards per carry at 7.6. These two are a great one-two combo at running back and can keep defenses guessing. At quarterback Marcus Mariota is having a solid season (68.3%, 1347 yards, 16 TDs), but when your running game is that good it is tough it takes a lot of pressure off.
I have heard all season that Chip Kelly's defense is the best he has ever had at Oregon. I am not sure about this because they have never been leaned on to win the Ducks a game, but a couple things make me think this defense is solid. They are top five in redzone defense allowing just 15 scores on 26 opponent drives. Another thing that makes this defense look good is it is very oportunistic with three defensive touchdowns this season. Those three defensive scores came on interceptions, which the Ducks are tied for No. 8 in the country with 10 this season. This team does not blow you away on defense, but it has not had to yet. Like always, the defense of the team is suspect and if they get up against a team that keeps them on the field can they make the big stop? This is yet to be seen, but with some teams that grind like Stanford and Oregon State coming up we will see.
There you have it. There is no doubt this team has the best offense in the country, but can its defense stand up against a grind it out offense that is more physical? We will see soon. For right now Oregon is my No. 2 team and until they lose or Florida knocks off South Carolina, or even Kansas State beats West Virginia they are the second best team in the country.
Jeremy-
Oregon is king of one thing. Hype. It's always hype with the Ducks. No one wins with more flair or gets more style points than the Duckies, from the uni's, to the blow-out victories... Until, they go up against a team that's as fast or faster and bigger and more physical. In '09 it was physicl, fundamentally sound Boise State and Stanford in the regular season and a fast, physical Buckeye team in the Rose Bowl. In 2010 it was Cam Newton, Nick Fariley and a big, fast, nasty Auburn team. Last year they opened the season against LSU and got dismantled, then dropped a big one to USC. Same M.O. Big Ducks in a small pond.
This year, after seven weeks, they've finally played a game outside the Pacific Northwest and really have no win this season that make you go; 'man, that was a good win.' It's the middle of October and I'm sorry but Arizona, Washington and Arizona State are average wins at best. These three teams will likely duke it out for middle-of-the-road in the Pac-12. I'm not saying Oregon isn't good. On the contrary, they're probably the best team on the West Coast right now but number two in the nation... I just can't do it. We'll find out if the Ducks are for real with three of their last four games on the road including trips to #10 USC and #8 Oregon State with a home game against #20 Stanford in the middle. If, and I mean if, they make it throught that they'll still probably have to beat USC again to win the Pac-12.
The team that really jumps out at me at this point in the season is the Florida Gators (that's saying a lot coming from a life-long Seminole fan). You'd be hard pressed to find a team that's earned it more than the Gators so far. Florida has back-to-back, come from behind road wins at Texas A&M (in their first SEC game) and Tennessee. Those two offenses are averaging 543ypg and 482ypg, respectively. Two weeks later took down LSU at home. Five of their six wins are against SEC opponents and three of those are on the road. You can throw style points out the window here, those are three quality wins.
I really don't think there's a better arguement than to just take a look at the quality of opponents they've played. Will the Gators remain undefeated? Doubt it. Their remaining opponents are a combined 24-9 and three of the six are ranked no lower than 14 in the BCS. Few teams in the country could make it through that gauntlet unscathed.
So, today, my number two is the Florida Gators.
2nd Down: After getting throttled, 63-21, last week in the Red River Shootout by Oklahoma is it time for Mack Brown to be on the hotseat at Texas? Should Texas start looking for its next head coach?
This maybe the most idiotic thing I have heard all season. I have told people all week, maybe other than Nick Saban, there is not a better ambassador for a college football team than Mack Brown. Let's just look at thre record and accomplisments of Brown first before I get into anything else. Overall record at Texas 134-41, yes that is 76.5 percent, so three of every four games he is winning. Second he has made 13 bowl games and produced four BCS bearths, including two National Championship bearths. He has compiled 10 10-win seasons, and two 13 win season. One undefeated season at 13-0, and a national championship against USC (who everyone tried to say was the best team ever in college football, but thats not part of this.)
Part of Mack's problem at Texas is he has had some pretty serious attrition at the top level of his coaching staff. The biggest departure was coach-in-waiting Will Mustchamp. Mustchamp is really turning around a Flordia. Actually turning around is not even the right word, making a power is the right wording. So let's look at his coaching staff. Major Applewhite is the offensive cordinator. Ok good college quarterback but obviously not a great college coach, maybe in the future but still a little too young for that job. Manny Diaz is the defensive cordinator and it is his first major Division I job. Now I understand that it is the head coach's job to find the best cordinators he can, attrition or not and that is the one place I would say he has not done a great job of. He needs to restructure his staff and go pluck some excellent cordinators from some major programs. Don't forget this is Texas and you can pretty much have your pick of coaches around the country. I bet there are even some mid-major head coaches who would take a cordinator job just to be at Texas.
I understand the recruiting aspect. Sure Brown is in the best state as far as recuriting goes, but when you have every other big team in the country plucking kids from your state it is tough to continually have those great programs. Bottom line, let's just stay calm Texas fans, you have one of the best coaches in the country in Mack Brown and getting rid of him right now would be the worst decision you could make. Give Mack some time and this team will return to the 10-win team you are used to seeing.
I'd like to agree and I do think that we get way too crazy, way too quickly when it comes to coaching changes. Mack Brown has done some incredible things at Texas, no doubt. That said, he's recruiting the best players in arguably the best state for recruting high school football players and they're not developing. You can only use the attrition in the coaching staff excuse for so long before it starts to fall on deaph ears. Attreition or not, it's the head coaches job to find and develop the coaches under him. Brown might just need a little more time to develop this staff, but this things don't start turning around soon, he's not going to get that chance. Before the loss to West Virginia, it looked like they were in for a really good season but after dropping to UWV, then getting blown-out by rival Oklahoma you've got to start to wonder if Mack Brown can bring this thing back.
While it's not apples to apples, this reminds me of Bobby Bowden's situation at Florida State. You've got a coach who is an institution at their institution, but as they get older and lose the top assistants, it gets harder and harder to keep your edge and continue to be successful. After their '00 championship loss to Oklahoma, FSU struggled through the final decade of the Bowden era losing top assistance along the way. Texas, after their loss to Alabama in the championship has lost a number of their assistants and has yet to rebound. They're 17-14 since that loss and that ain't going to cut it at Texas. Couple that with the fact that Brown is 61 and you're looking at a pretty tough situation. While I don't think it's time to pull the plug, AD DeLoss Dodds' patience will be tested moving forward. The Longhorns final six games are going to be rough and they're going to need to play significantly better to survive. The final six games of the season go: at home against Baylor, at Kansas, at #17 Texas Tech, home against #24 Iowa State and #23 TCU, then they end the season on the road against #4 Kansas State. Looking at this schedule, the only real gimmie is Kansas. After that, it could go either way and if the Longhorns don't show some urgency it's not unrealistic to see them going 1-5 or 2-4 to finish the season. While it might not be enough to get rid of Brown, you can be sure the heat will be full on if they finish around .500.
3rd Down: Midseason Awards
Best QB-
Nick:
Collin Kline-Kansas State
I think everyone would probably give this to Geno Smith, but being the devils advocate here, I think Kline diserves this. Sure Geno's numbers are unreal and video game like, but eventually he is going to come back to earth. Kline has the Wildcats looking like a national title contender. His numbers are not staggering, but a completion percentage of nearly 67 percent is good with 1,074 yards. He has seven touchdowns to just two interceptions. Kline has proven himself as the leader of this team and he may not be the most talanted quarterback in this discussion, but looks don't affect my decisions.
Jeremy:
Marcus Mariota- Oregon
Of couse this is super hypicritical for the guy who went on about how overrated Oregon is but Mariota's been solid this year leading the Ducks. The redshirt freshman had big shoes to fill replacing Darron Thomas and hasn't missed a beat. Oregon is eight in the nation in total offense, fourth in rushing offense and second in scoring offense. Not bad for a kid playing his first year of college football.
Best RB-
Nick:
Stefphon Jefferson-Nevada
Jefferson is unreal. This dude can play the game and is the only running back in the country with 1000-yards or more and he has 1,140 on the season. Not to mention he is averaging 5.2 yards per carry. He also leads the country in points with 90 on 14 touchdowns. He may not be playing the best opponents, but you cannot argue with his numbers. If he keeps it up he could be walking away with some serious hardware come season's end.
Jeremy:
Le'Veon Bell- Michigan State
I realize Bell has been up and down this season and didn't have great numbers against Notre Dame and Ohio State, but this guy has been pretty much a one man offense for the Spartans. With no passing game to speak of Bell has faced the full wrath of every defense he's had to go up against. He's eclipsed the century mark in four of seven games and has been over 200 twice. Dude's a stud.
Best WR
Nick:
DeAndre Hopkins-Clemson
For what is suposed to be the second best reciever on his team Hopkins looks better than Sammy Watkins. No I don't want to hear everyone is keying on Watkins and leaving Hopkins open. Do you leave someone open that has 49 receptions and over 775 yards on the season? No I think you cover him. Not to mention he has caught eight touchdowns and is averaging 15.9 yards per catch.
Jeremy:
Stedman Bailey & Tevon Austin- West Virginia
I know these two play for a video game offense that blows up their stats, but when you've got two receivers in the top six in the nation in yards, they deserve some props. This dynamic duo has accounted for 122 receptions, 1527 yards and 22 touchdowns... in six games! That's an average of 20.3 receptions, 254.5 yards and 3.6 touchdowns per game.
Best OL
Nick:
Barrett Jones-Alabama
There is a reason 'Bama has one of the best running attacks in the country. When you have a center like Jones who you can run behind every play, you can really make some noise. Jones will be playing on Sunday's next season.
Jeremy:
Ditto. Jones is as solid a lineman as there is in the nation and can play every position on the line.
Best DL
Nick:
Scott Crichton-Oregon State
Crichton plays on one of the best defenses in the country and he is a key that makes it that. Crichton has recorded eight sacks on the season and is averaging 1.6 per game which leads the country. He also has 11 tackles for loss which is fourth-best in the country. As just a sophomore that is pretty stout. With eight sacks through six games this kid could end up with 15 plus on the season.
Jeremy:
Bjoern Werner- Florida State
Forget Werner's 6.5 sacks this season. Werner lost his bookend and arguably the best lineman in the country in Brandon Jenkins in the second week of the season and all he's done since then is take on more blokers, while leading the 'Noles fourth ranked rush defense. Along with his 6.5 sacks, he's racked up a team high 10 tackles for loss and taken on countless double teams. Werner is an instinctive player that must be accounted for on every play.
Best LB
Nick:
Manti Te'o-Notre Dame
I had a lot of touble picking this position. Eventually what it came down to is how is the players team, so I had to go with Manti Te'o over Georgia's Jarvis Jones. Jones is a great player having a great season, but the Notre Dame defense is just to good to ignore its leader. Te'o is the leader of a fantastic Notre Dame defense. He has 59 total tackles on the season which is tied for 26th in the country. What is more impressive is he has three interceptions. As a linebacker with three picks in a season means you are really getting all over the field.
Jeremy:
It's hard to argue with Te'o. He's the best player on one of the best defenses in the nation. You don't get Heisman consideration on defense very often, especially at the linebacker position but Te'o is the real deal. Few linebackers are as solid verse the run and he's greatly improved in coverage.
Best CB
Nick:
Jason Veriett-TCU
I am going away from everyone else with this pick mostly because I like the way Veriett plays. This kid is a true lockdown corner. He has eight pass breakups and four interceptions this season. He doesn't have as many picks as everyone else because no one will throw at him.
Jeremy:
Xavier Rhodes- Florida State
Rhodes has only two picks on the year, but don't let that fool you. Team rarely throw at Rhodes, opting instead for one of the Seminoles other corners. At 6'2" 210lbs, Rhodes is a big, physical corner who has the ability to cut the field in half.
Best S
Nick:
Matt Elam-Florida
Elam is the best player on a very stout Florida defense that just keeps rolling. He helps this defense come up with big plays when needed. He is a true game-changing saftey and can do it all play the pass and play the run. He looks like an NFL ready defender for the Gators.
Jeremy:
Eric Reid- LSU
I like Elam here as well, but Reid is no slouch. He's one of the best players on the nations second best defense. Reid is a big, powerful saftey with two picks and 39 tackles on the season.
4th Down: Which team, good or bad has been your biggest surprise?
Nick-
I think the biggest suprise this season for me has been Notre Dame. To start the season this team did not have a quarterback and after six seasons of below average defenses I would not have picked this team to be unbeaten right now. Even playing with a two quarterback system this team has found way to score points when it needs to. Good thing for them they have one of the best defenses in the country to lean on because this offense runs into trouble with good defenses. Are the Domers back to being a national power? That has yet to be seen, with some big games coming up down the stretch. If this team goes undefeated it diserves a spot in the title game but even 10 wins should get it a good matchup in a BCS game.
Jeremy-
I like the Notre Dame call. I don't think anyone would have predicted them to be unbeaten at this point in the season. It really seems like Brian Kelly is hitting his stride with the Irish and they shouldn't be out of any game they play this season.
My biggest surprise of the season is the B1G, across the board. The ballers from the legends and leaders conference have been anything but unless you're talking about what they think of themselves and leading the way in underachieving. The B1G started the season with five teams ranked in the top 25 (#8 Michigan, #12 Wisconsin, #13 Michigan St., #17 Nebraska and #18 Ohio State) and are down to two- #7 Ohio State and #23 Michigan. But the Buckeyes are inelidgible for the post season and Michigan is more of a fringe top 25 team who's been in and out all year. Michigan State started the season at #13 and was a favorite for a lot of people as a dark horse national title contender. They're 4-3 and while their defense has been solid (13th in the nation), their offense is totally one-dimensional and can hardly get out of its own way. Nebraska has looked good at time this year, but when they're up against stiffer competition, they've crumbled and just got their asses kicked by Ohio State.
Wisconsin has looked "better" but are still a long way away from the team they were thought to be. Michigan has looked great against lower competition this year but got drilled by Alabama to start the season and lost a tough one to Notre Dame. Fortunately, they don't play another ranked team until Ohio State at the end of the season.
Oddly enough, the two biggest bright spots I see in the B1G are Northwestern, who's the first team from the conference to become bowl elidgable (way to carry the flag for the legends division!) and Penn State. When taken at face value and just focusing on this years Nittany Lion team, Bill O'Brien has these guys playing well after two early season losses. While they're not bowl eligible, they are much improved from where preseason expectations had them.
1st Down: It is pretty much established that it is Alabama is by far the best team in college football. With The Tide head and shoulders above of everyone else, who is the second best team in college football?
Nick:
I don't really like having to do this, but I have to say Oregon is right now. This is totally contingent on a couple other games this weekend, but for lack of anyone else I have to back Oregon because I moved them up to No. 2 in my poll this week. I know the argument against this team is that they have played no one and they have to leave home to get some respect, but as a fan of a non-AQ team, I think there is only so long you can blame a team for playing a bad schedule. I think this would be very different if Oregon was not just crushing teams. If the Ducks were playing close games against average to bad opponents then I would be more likely not to move them to No. 2, but when you hang 40 in almost every first half this season, I think you diserve to be there. One problem I see with this team, however, is if they get behind and the defense is forced to make some stops, they could be in trouble. That being said I will make my case for this team.
Let's just start by saying Oregon has the best offense in the country. I know it is not No. 1 in every offensive category, but lets look at its offensive stats just for the fun of it. The Ducks are second in scoring offense averaging 52.3 points per game and are only one of two teams in the nation averaging more than 50 points per outing. Leading that scoring offense is the No. 4 ranked rushing attack in the game averaging 317 yards per game. The Ducks are just one of four teams in the country averaging 300-plus rushing yards per game. One stat that has to come up but is not very telling is redzone efficiency, they are No. 26 in the country scoring on 31 of 35 drives that have entered the redzone. This offense creates so many big plays that it is impossible to really take them down becuase of this stat. They are No. 7 in total first downs converting 50 percent. This seems interesting because even a great offense should be a little more effcient creating first downs. The final offensive stat I will throw out is this team has destroyed opponents outscoring them 357-141. Individually, running back Kenjon Barner is running wild with 870 yards and 12 touchdowns this season. He is also averaging 6.6 yards per carry. DeAnthony Thomas is right behind him with 402 yards on the season and six touchdowns, but is averaging more yards per carry at 7.6. These two are a great one-two combo at running back and can keep defenses guessing. At quarterback Marcus Mariota is having a solid season (68.3%, 1347 yards, 16 TDs), but when your running game is that good it is tough it takes a lot of pressure off.
I have heard all season that Chip Kelly's defense is the best he has ever had at Oregon. I am not sure about this because they have never been leaned on to win the Ducks a game, but a couple things make me think this defense is solid. They are top five in redzone defense allowing just 15 scores on 26 opponent drives. Another thing that makes this defense look good is it is very oportunistic with three defensive touchdowns this season. Those three defensive scores came on interceptions, which the Ducks are tied for No. 8 in the country with 10 this season. This team does not blow you away on defense, but it has not had to yet. Like always, the defense of the team is suspect and if they get up against a team that keeps them on the field can they make the big stop? This is yet to be seen, but with some teams that grind like Stanford and Oregon State coming up we will see.
There you have it. There is no doubt this team has the best offense in the country, but can its defense stand up against a grind it out offense that is more physical? We will see soon. For right now Oregon is my No. 2 team and until they lose or Florida knocks off South Carolina, or even Kansas State beats West Virginia they are the second best team in the country.
Jeremy-
Oregon is king of one thing. Hype. It's always hype with the Ducks. No one wins with more flair or gets more style points than the Duckies, from the uni's, to the blow-out victories... Until, they go up against a team that's as fast or faster and bigger and more physical. In '09 it was physicl, fundamentally sound Boise State and Stanford in the regular season and a fast, physical Buckeye team in the Rose Bowl. In 2010 it was Cam Newton, Nick Fariley and a big, fast, nasty Auburn team. Last year they opened the season against LSU and got dismantled, then dropped a big one to USC. Same M.O. Big Ducks in a small pond.
This year, after seven weeks, they've finally played a game outside the Pacific Northwest and really have no win this season that make you go; 'man, that was a good win.' It's the middle of October and I'm sorry but Arizona, Washington and Arizona State are average wins at best. These three teams will likely duke it out for middle-of-the-road in the Pac-12. I'm not saying Oregon isn't good. On the contrary, they're probably the best team on the West Coast right now but number two in the nation... I just can't do it. We'll find out if the Ducks are for real with three of their last four games on the road including trips to #10 USC and #8 Oregon State with a home game against #20 Stanford in the middle. If, and I mean if, they make it throught that they'll still probably have to beat USC again to win the Pac-12.
The team that really jumps out at me at this point in the season is the Florida Gators (that's saying a lot coming from a life-long Seminole fan). You'd be hard pressed to find a team that's earned it more than the Gators so far. Florida has back-to-back, come from behind road wins at Texas A&M (in their first SEC game) and Tennessee. Those two offenses are averaging 543ypg and 482ypg, respectively. Two weeks later took down LSU at home. Five of their six wins are against SEC opponents and three of those are on the road. You can throw style points out the window here, those are three quality wins.
I really don't think there's a better arguement than to just take a look at the quality of opponents they've played. Will the Gators remain undefeated? Doubt it. Their remaining opponents are a combined 24-9 and three of the six are ranked no lower than 14 in the BCS. Few teams in the country could make it through that gauntlet unscathed.
So, today, my number two is the Florida Gators.
2nd Down: After getting throttled, 63-21, last week in the Red River Shootout by Oklahoma is it time for Mack Brown to be on the hotseat at Texas? Should Texas start looking for its next head coach?
This maybe the most idiotic thing I have heard all season. I have told people all week, maybe other than Nick Saban, there is not a better ambassador for a college football team than Mack Brown. Let's just look at thre record and accomplisments of Brown first before I get into anything else. Overall record at Texas 134-41, yes that is 76.5 percent, so three of every four games he is winning. Second he has made 13 bowl games and produced four BCS bearths, including two National Championship bearths. He has compiled 10 10-win seasons, and two 13 win season. One undefeated season at 13-0, and a national championship against USC (who everyone tried to say was the best team ever in college football, but thats not part of this.)
Part of Mack's problem at Texas is he has had some pretty serious attrition at the top level of his coaching staff. The biggest departure was coach-in-waiting Will Mustchamp. Mustchamp is really turning around a Flordia. Actually turning around is not even the right word, making a power is the right wording. So let's look at his coaching staff. Major Applewhite is the offensive cordinator. Ok good college quarterback but obviously not a great college coach, maybe in the future but still a little too young for that job. Manny Diaz is the defensive cordinator and it is his first major Division I job. Now I understand that it is the head coach's job to find the best cordinators he can, attrition or not and that is the one place I would say he has not done a great job of. He needs to restructure his staff and go pluck some excellent cordinators from some major programs. Don't forget this is Texas and you can pretty much have your pick of coaches around the country. I bet there are even some mid-major head coaches who would take a cordinator job just to be at Texas.
I understand the recruiting aspect. Sure Brown is in the best state as far as recuriting goes, but when you have every other big team in the country plucking kids from your state it is tough to continually have those great programs. Bottom line, let's just stay calm Texas fans, you have one of the best coaches in the country in Mack Brown and getting rid of him right now would be the worst decision you could make. Give Mack some time and this team will return to the 10-win team you are used to seeing.
I'd like to agree and I do think that we get way too crazy, way too quickly when it comes to coaching changes. Mack Brown has done some incredible things at Texas, no doubt. That said, he's recruiting the best players in arguably the best state for recruting high school football players and they're not developing. You can only use the attrition in the coaching staff excuse for so long before it starts to fall on deaph ears. Attreition or not, it's the head coaches job to find and develop the coaches under him. Brown might just need a little more time to develop this staff, but this things don't start turning around soon, he's not going to get that chance. Before the loss to West Virginia, it looked like they were in for a really good season but after dropping to UWV, then getting blown-out by rival Oklahoma you've got to start to wonder if Mack Brown can bring this thing back.
While it's not apples to apples, this reminds me of Bobby Bowden's situation at Florida State. You've got a coach who is an institution at their institution, but as they get older and lose the top assistants, it gets harder and harder to keep your edge and continue to be successful. After their '00 championship loss to Oklahoma, FSU struggled through the final decade of the Bowden era losing top assistance along the way. Texas, after their loss to Alabama in the championship has lost a number of their assistants and has yet to rebound. They're 17-14 since that loss and that ain't going to cut it at Texas. Couple that with the fact that Brown is 61 and you're looking at a pretty tough situation. While I don't think it's time to pull the plug, AD DeLoss Dodds' patience will be tested moving forward. The Longhorns final six games are going to be rough and they're going to need to play significantly better to survive. The final six games of the season go: at home against Baylor, at Kansas, at #17 Texas Tech, home against #24 Iowa State and #23 TCU, then they end the season on the road against #4 Kansas State. Looking at this schedule, the only real gimmie is Kansas. After that, it could go either way and if the Longhorns don't show some urgency it's not unrealistic to see them going 1-5 or 2-4 to finish the season. While it might not be enough to get rid of Brown, you can be sure the heat will be full on if they finish around .500.
3rd Down: Midseason Awards
Best QB-
Nick:
Collin Kline-Kansas State
I think everyone would probably give this to Geno Smith, but being the devils advocate here, I think Kline diserves this. Sure Geno's numbers are unreal and video game like, but eventually he is going to come back to earth. Kline has the Wildcats looking like a national title contender. His numbers are not staggering, but a completion percentage of nearly 67 percent is good with 1,074 yards. He has seven touchdowns to just two interceptions. Kline has proven himself as the leader of this team and he may not be the most talanted quarterback in this discussion, but looks don't affect my decisions.
Jeremy:
Marcus Mariota- Oregon
Of couse this is super hypicritical for the guy who went on about how overrated Oregon is but Mariota's been solid this year leading the Ducks. The redshirt freshman had big shoes to fill replacing Darron Thomas and hasn't missed a beat. Oregon is eight in the nation in total offense, fourth in rushing offense and second in scoring offense. Not bad for a kid playing his first year of college football.
Best RB-
Nick:
Stefphon Jefferson-Nevada
Jefferson is unreal. This dude can play the game and is the only running back in the country with 1000-yards or more and he has 1,140 on the season. Not to mention he is averaging 5.2 yards per carry. He also leads the country in points with 90 on 14 touchdowns. He may not be playing the best opponents, but you cannot argue with his numbers. If he keeps it up he could be walking away with some serious hardware come season's end.
Jeremy:
Le'Veon Bell- Michigan State
I realize Bell has been up and down this season and didn't have great numbers against Notre Dame and Ohio State, but this guy has been pretty much a one man offense for the Spartans. With no passing game to speak of Bell has faced the full wrath of every defense he's had to go up against. He's eclipsed the century mark in four of seven games and has been over 200 twice. Dude's a stud.
Best WR
Nick:
DeAndre Hopkins-Clemson
For what is suposed to be the second best reciever on his team Hopkins looks better than Sammy Watkins. No I don't want to hear everyone is keying on Watkins and leaving Hopkins open. Do you leave someone open that has 49 receptions and over 775 yards on the season? No I think you cover him. Not to mention he has caught eight touchdowns and is averaging 15.9 yards per catch.
Jeremy:
Stedman Bailey & Tevon Austin- West Virginia
I know these two play for a video game offense that blows up their stats, but when you've got two receivers in the top six in the nation in yards, they deserve some props. This dynamic duo has accounted for 122 receptions, 1527 yards and 22 touchdowns... in six games! That's an average of 20.3 receptions, 254.5 yards and 3.6 touchdowns per game.
Best OL
Nick:
Barrett Jones-Alabama
There is a reason 'Bama has one of the best running attacks in the country. When you have a center like Jones who you can run behind every play, you can really make some noise. Jones will be playing on Sunday's next season.
Jeremy:
Ditto. Jones is as solid a lineman as there is in the nation and can play every position on the line.
Best DL
Nick:
Scott Crichton-Oregon State
Crichton plays on one of the best defenses in the country and he is a key that makes it that. Crichton has recorded eight sacks on the season and is averaging 1.6 per game which leads the country. He also has 11 tackles for loss which is fourth-best in the country. As just a sophomore that is pretty stout. With eight sacks through six games this kid could end up with 15 plus on the season.
Jeremy:
Bjoern Werner- Florida State
Forget Werner's 6.5 sacks this season. Werner lost his bookend and arguably the best lineman in the country in Brandon Jenkins in the second week of the season and all he's done since then is take on more blokers, while leading the 'Noles fourth ranked rush defense. Along with his 6.5 sacks, he's racked up a team high 10 tackles for loss and taken on countless double teams. Werner is an instinctive player that must be accounted for on every play.
Best LB
Nick:
Manti Te'o-Notre Dame
I had a lot of touble picking this position. Eventually what it came down to is how is the players team, so I had to go with Manti Te'o over Georgia's Jarvis Jones. Jones is a great player having a great season, but the Notre Dame defense is just to good to ignore its leader. Te'o is the leader of a fantastic Notre Dame defense. He has 59 total tackles on the season which is tied for 26th in the country. What is more impressive is he has three interceptions. As a linebacker with three picks in a season means you are really getting all over the field.
Jeremy:
It's hard to argue with Te'o. He's the best player on one of the best defenses in the nation. You don't get Heisman consideration on defense very often, especially at the linebacker position but Te'o is the real deal. Few linebackers are as solid verse the run and he's greatly improved in coverage.
Best CB
Nick:
Jason Veriett-TCU
I am going away from everyone else with this pick mostly because I like the way Veriett plays. This kid is a true lockdown corner. He has eight pass breakups and four interceptions this season. He doesn't have as many picks as everyone else because no one will throw at him.
Jeremy:
Xavier Rhodes- Florida State
Rhodes has only two picks on the year, but don't let that fool you. Team rarely throw at Rhodes, opting instead for one of the Seminoles other corners. At 6'2" 210lbs, Rhodes is a big, physical corner who has the ability to cut the field in half.
Best S
Nick:
Matt Elam-Florida
Elam is the best player on a very stout Florida defense that just keeps rolling. He helps this defense come up with big plays when needed. He is a true game-changing saftey and can do it all play the pass and play the run. He looks like an NFL ready defender for the Gators.
Jeremy:
Eric Reid- LSU
I like Elam here as well, but Reid is no slouch. He's one of the best players on the nations second best defense. Reid is a big, powerful saftey with two picks and 39 tackles on the season.
4th Down: Which team, good or bad has been your biggest surprise?
Nick-
I think the biggest suprise this season for me has been Notre Dame. To start the season this team did not have a quarterback and after six seasons of below average defenses I would not have picked this team to be unbeaten right now. Even playing with a two quarterback system this team has found way to score points when it needs to. Good thing for them they have one of the best defenses in the country to lean on because this offense runs into trouble with good defenses. Are the Domers back to being a national power? That has yet to be seen, with some big games coming up down the stretch. If this team goes undefeated it diserves a spot in the title game but even 10 wins should get it a good matchup in a BCS game.
Jeremy-
I like the Notre Dame call. I don't think anyone would have predicted them to be unbeaten at this point in the season. It really seems like Brian Kelly is hitting his stride with the Irish and they shouldn't be out of any game they play this season.
My biggest surprise of the season is the B1G, across the board. The ballers from the legends and leaders conference have been anything but unless you're talking about what they think of themselves and leading the way in underachieving. The B1G started the season with five teams ranked in the top 25 (#8 Michigan, #12 Wisconsin, #13 Michigan St., #17 Nebraska and #18 Ohio State) and are down to two- #7 Ohio State and #23 Michigan. But the Buckeyes are inelidgible for the post season and Michigan is more of a fringe top 25 team who's been in and out all year. Michigan State started the season at #13 and was a favorite for a lot of people as a dark horse national title contender. They're 4-3 and while their defense has been solid (13th in the nation), their offense is totally one-dimensional and can hardly get out of its own way. Nebraska has looked good at time this year, but when they're up against stiffer competition, they've crumbled and just got their asses kicked by Ohio State.
Wisconsin has looked "better" but are still a long way away from the team they were thought to be. Michigan has looked great against lower competition this year but got drilled by Alabama to start the season and lost a tough one to Notre Dame. Fortunately, they don't play another ranked team until Ohio State at the end of the season.
Oddly enough, the two biggest bright spots I see in the B1G are Northwestern, who's the first team from the conference to become bowl elidgable (way to carry the flag for the legends division!) and Penn State. When taken at face value and just focusing on this years Nittany Lion team, Bill O'Brien has these guys playing well after two early season losses. While they're not bowl eligible, they are much improved from where preseason expectations had them.
Thursday, October 18, 2012
Top 25
Top 25
BCS- (AP)
1-(1) Alabama 6-0
2-(3) Florida 6-0
3-(2) Oregon 6-0
4-(4) Kansas State 6-0
5-(5) Notre Dame 6-0
6-(6) LSU 6-1
7-(9) South Carolina 6-1
8-(8) Oregon State 5-0
9-(10) Oklahoma 4-1
10-(11) USC 5-1
11-(13) Georgia 5-1
12-(15) Mississippi State 6-0
13-(17) West Virginia 5-1
14-(12) Florida State 6-1
15-(19) Rutgers 6-0
16-(16) Louisville 6-0
17-(18) Texas Tech 5-1
18-(20) Texas A&M 5-1
19-(14) Clemson 5-1
20-(22) Stanford 4-2
21-(21) Cincinnati 5-0
22-(24) Boise State 5-1
23-(NR) TCU 5-1
24-(NR) Iowa State 4-2
25-(NR) Texas 4-2
Jeremy's Top 25
Some big games this weekend shook up my top 25 a bit, especially in the top 10. Notre Dame and Kansas State are in while South Carolina and West Virginia are out. Alabama and Oregon stand pat at number one and number three respectively. I don't know about you, but it's starting to feel like eveyone else is playing football around these guys, while they're just coasting along drilling mediocre teams. I'm ready for both of these teams to play some legit opponents. Florida leaps Oregon at number two, mostly because the Gator's body of work is much more impressive. Sorry Oregon, but you're actually going to have to leave Autzen Stadium this season to get the respect you think you diserve. Notre Dame keeps making us take note and as long as they keep winning, they're going to be hard to ignore.
I'll admit, I got a little too excited about S. Carolina last week by putting them all they way up at number two. They check in at seven this week, a slot behind LSU after the loss at Tiger Stadium. West Virginia was the other big slipper in the top ten after an eye-popping loss to Texas Tech. Oklahoma and FSU check in at eight and ten, respectively. I know the loss to NC State hurt and the 'Noles really haven't played anyone of note this year, but when they're on, they certainly look the part of an elite team.
Numbers 11-20 look about the same as last week, with two Pac-12 schools, Oregon State and USC sitting at 12 and 13. USC has been largly unspactacular in their five wins and their big ones are yet to come. I really like Oregon State, but just can't put them in the top ten. Undefeated or not, 12 just seems more realistic for this team than number eight. Texas A&M moves up five spots to number 17 coming off a shoot-out against Louisiana Tech. Louisville and Rutgers are there, but neither one has really done anything of notice. Breaking in to my rankings this week is Texas Tech. It's hard not to get noticed when you drop-kick West Virginia like that.
Boise State and Ohio are still hanging tough at 22 and 24, respectively. TCU rebounded after it's loss to Iowa State two weeks ago and drilled Baylor to get back in the top 25. Cincinnati continues to win, but ti's hard to give them too much credit for beating Fordham. Northwestern, who became bowl elidgible last weekend, rounds ou the top 25.
1-(1) Alabama
2-(4) Florida
3-(3) Oregon
4-(7) Notre Dame
5-(6) Kansas State
6-(8) LSU
7-(2) South Carolina
8-(12) Oklahoma
9-(4) West Virginia
10-(9) Florida State
11-(10) Georgia
12-(15) Oregon State
13-(11) USC
14-(14) Clemson
15-(17) Mississippi State
16-(18) Louisville
17-(22) Texas A&M
18-(16) Stanford
19-(19) Rutgers
20-(NR) Texas Tech
21-(20) Cincinnati
22-(23) Boise State
23-(NR) TCU
24-(25) Ohio
25-(NR) Northwestern
Nick's Top 25
My top 25 had to change after my disastrous weekend of picks. So here you go, 'Bama stays No. 1 because no one has come close to dethroning the champs. I hate doing it, but I had to move Oregon up to No. 2. I agree with Jeremy, if the Ducks are going to get the respect they think they deserve they have to win some big ones down the stretch. Florida looks like a legitimate title contender at No. 3, but their problem is South Carolina this weekend and if they make it that far the SEC title game against Alabama. Let's not forget they still have to play Georgia and Florida State as well. I have to admit I like Kansas State, but they have a tough one coming up this weekend. I think Texas Tech showed teams how to beat West Virginia, but don't expect the Wildcats to hold them to just 14 points. If Kansas State can beat West Virginia this weekend look out for them to be in the BCS title conversation. Notre Dame rounds out the top five and as long as it keeps winning they are going to stay there. The Irish have some tough games coming up so I don't see them running the table, especially being so unsettled at quarterback, but that defense looks as good as any in the country.
The Sooners come into this week at No. 6 after making Texas look like an FCS school. For anyone who says they shouldn't be up there lets remember their only loss is to No. 4 Kansas State. LSU re-enters the top 10 at No. 7 after taking down my No. 2 team last week South Carolina. Like Jeremy I admit South Carolina at No. 2 last week was a little two high so the drop to No. 8 this week after that lost to the Tigers. I am not sure why everyone is already talking about Ohio State winning the AP Championship if it goes undefeated. If the AP voters did that under any circumstance that is idiotic. Ohio State has one of the best players in the country, but I had to drop them a spot because they gave up 49 points to Indiana. Oregon State also drops a spot because they were not that impressive against BYU, who has a horrible offense. I think it is just a matter of time before the Beavers get knocked off.
At No. 11 is USC who I am still very unimpressed with and I think they will lose at least one more game this season. Georgia begins its move back up the polls at No. 12, but still has some tough ones coming up. Florida State looked impressive last week taking Boston College to the wood shed. Clemson comes in right behind Florida State mostly because they lost to FSU and have really played no one of significance since. I put Texas Tech at No. 15 even with a big loss to Oklahoma any school that slows down the WVU offense and makes them look plain bad deserves to be ranked that high. Louisville is No. 16 because I like the way Charlie Strong has returned this team to playing defense, but like everyone else in the Big East they still have to play some tough games. Rutgers at No. 17 keeps on winning and I cannot drop them yet but they also still have some tough ones against Cincinatti and Louisville ahead. West Virginia takes the biggest hit this week dropping 14 places because they looked bad against Texas Tech! It is very apparent that this team cannot play from behind and when they do get behind they are in deep trouble. Also when it plays a team with a good defense lookout because if Geno Smith cannot get rolling they have nothing. Let's just put it out there this team was a lot of hype. Texas A&M is No. 19 because of Johnny Manziel. This kid is a player, but don't expect his numbers to keep up with LSU calling this weekend.
Cincinatti is No. 20 mostly because of the lack of some good teams at the bottom five. The Bearcats keep winning and so I have to include them. I put Mississippi State in the top 25 this week because they finally beat a good team in Tennessee, still not sold on them yet and No. 12 in the BCS is laughable. Ohio keeps winning and as long as they do they will keep moving up the rankings, at No. 22 they look like a team that can run the table. Sure Ohio does not play the toughest schedule, but it keeps winning. Boise State pulled off a good win against Fresno State last week and looked like the Boise of old against the Bulldogs. This team probably won't crank the BCS this weekend, but it should win the Mountain West. I had to drop Stanford this week because it lost its second game in three weeks, sure it was to Notre Dame, but it needs to start winning again before they move back up. Northwestern comes in at No. 25 this week because it got back on track against a bad Minnesota team. Tough game this weekend with Nebraska visiting Evanston, but I think Northwestern is the B1G favorite without Ohio State in the picture.
1-(1)-Alabama
2-(3)-Oregon
3-(5)-Florida
4-(6)-Kansas State
5-(7)-Notre Dame
6-(10)-Oklahoma7-(12)-LSU
8-(2)-South Carolina
9-(8)-Ohio State
10-(9)-Oregon State
11-(11)-USC
12-(15)-Georgia
13-(13)-Florida State
14-(16)-Clemson
15-(NR)-Texas Tech
16-(18)-Louisville
17-(19)-Rutgers
18-(4)-West Virgina
19-(21)-Texas A&M
20-(20)-Cincinnati
21-(NR)-Mississippi State
22-(23)-Ohio
23-(24)-Boise State
24-(17)-Stanford
25-(NR)-Northwestern
Not quite there: TCU, Iowa State, Texas, Louisiana Tech, Michigan, Nebraska
BCS- (AP)
1-(1) Alabama 6-0
2-(3) Florida 6-0
3-(2) Oregon 6-0
4-(4) Kansas State 6-0
5-(5) Notre Dame 6-0
6-(6) LSU 6-1
7-(9) South Carolina 6-1
8-(8) Oregon State 5-0
9-(10) Oklahoma 4-1
10-(11) USC 5-1
11-(13) Georgia 5-1
12-(15) Mississippi State 6-0
13-(17) West Virginia 5-1
14-(12) Florida State 6-1
15-(19) Rutgers 6-0
16-(16) Louisville 6-0
17-(18) Texas Tech 5-1
18-(20) Texas A&M 5-1
19-(14) Clemson 5-1
20-(22) Stanford 4-2
21-(21) Cincinnati 5-0
22-(24) Boise State 5-1
23-(NR) TCU 5-1
24-(NR) Iowa State 4-2
25-(NR) Texas 4-2
Jeremy's Top 25
Some big games this weekend shook up my top 25 a bit, especially in the top 10. Notre Dame and Kansas State are in while South Carolina and West Virginia are out. Alabama and Oregon stand pat at number one and number three respectively. I don't know about you, but it's starting to feel like eveyone else is playing football around these guys, while they're just coasting along drilling mediocre teams. I'm ready for both of these teams to play some legit opponents. Florida leaps Oregon at number two, mostly because the Gator's body of work is much more impressive. Sorry Oregon, but you're actually going to have to leave Autzen Stadium this season to get the respect you think you diserve. Notre Dame keeps making us take note and as long as they keep winning, they're going to be hard to ignore.
I'll admit, I got a little too excited about S. Carolina last week by putting them all they way up at number two. They check in at seven this week, a slot behind LSU after the loss at Tiger Stadium. West Virginia was the other big slipper in the top ten after an eye-popping loss to Texas Tech. Oklahoma and FSU check in at eight and ten, respectively. I know the loss to NC State hurt and the 'Noles really haven't played anyone of note this year, but when they're on, they certainly look the part of an elite team.
Numbers 11-20 look about the same as last week, with two Pac-12 schools, Oregon State and USC sitting at 12 and 13. USC has been largly unspactacular in their five wins and their big ones are yet to come. I really like Oregon State, but just can't put them in the top ten. Undefeated or not, 12 just seems more realistic for this team than number eight. Texas A&M moves up five spots to number 17 coming off a shoot-out against Louisiana Tech. Louisville and Rutgers are there, but neither one has really done anything of notice. Breaking in to my rankings this week is Texas Tech. It's hard not to get noticed when you drop-kick West Virginia like that.
Boise State and Ohio are still hanging tough at 22 and 24, respectively. TCU rebounded after it's loss to Iowa State two weeks ago and drilled Baylor to get back in the top 25. Cincinnati continues to win, but ti's hard to give them too much credit for beating Fordham. Northwestern, who became bowl elidgible last weekend, rounds ou the top 25.
1-(1) Alabama
2-(4) Florida
3-(3) Oregon
4-(7) Notre Dame
5-(6) Kansas State
6-(8) LSU
7-(2) South Carolina
8-(12) Oklahoma
9-(4) West Virginia
10-(9) Florida State
11-(10) Georgia
12-(15) Oregon State
13-(11) USC
14-(14) Clemson
15-(17) Mississippi State
16-(18) Louisville
17-(22) Texas A&M
18-(16) Stanford
19-(19) Rutgers
20-(NR) Texas Tech
21-(20) Cincinnati
22-(23) Boise State
23-(NR) TCU
24-(25) Ohio
25-(NR) Northwestern
Nick's Top 25
My top 25 had to change after my disastrous weekend of picks. So here you go, 'Bama stays No. 1 because no one has come close to dethroning the champs. I hate doing it, but I had to move Oregon up to No. 2. I agree with Jeremy, if the Ducks are going to get the respect they think they deserve they have to win some big ones down the stretch. Florida looks like a legitimate title contender at No. 3, but their problem is South Carolina this weekend and if they make it that far the SEC title game against Alabama. Let's not forget they still have to play Georgia and Florida State as well. I have to admit I like Kansas State, but they have a tough one coming up this weekend. I think Texas Tech showed teams how to beat West Virginia, but don't expect the Wildcats to hold them to just 14 points. If Kansas State can beat West Virginia this weekend look out for them to be in the BCS title conversation. Notre Dame rounds out the top five and as long as it keeps winning they are going to stay there. The Irish have some tough games coming up so I don't see them running the table, especially being so unsettled at quarterback, but that defense looks as good as any in the country.
The Sooners come into this week at No. 6 after making Texas look like an FCS school. For anyone who says they shouldn't be up there lets remember their only loss is to No. 4 Kansas State. LSU re-enters the top 10 at No. 7 after taking down my No. 2 team last week South Carolina. Like Jeremy I admit South Carolina at No. 2 last week was a little two high so the drop to No. 8 this week after that lost to the Tigers. I am not sure why everyone is already talking about Ohio State winning the AP Championship if it goes undefeated. If the AP voters did that under any circumstance that is idiotic. Ohio State has one of the best players in the country, but I had to drop them a spot because they gave up 49 points to Indiana. Oregon State also drops a spot because they were not that impressive against BYU, who has a horrible offense. I think it is just a matter of time before the Beavers get knocked off.
At No. 11 is USC who I am still very unimpressed with and I think they will lose at least one more game this season. Georgia begins its move back up the polls at No. 12, but still has some tough ones coming up. Florida State looked impressive last week taking Boston College to the wood shed. Clemson comes in right behind Florida State mostly because they lost to FSU and have really played no one of significance since. I put Texas Tech at No. 15 even with a big loss to Oklahoma any school that slows down the WVU offense and makes them look plain bad deserves to be ranked that high. Louisville is No. 16 because I like the way Charlie Strong has returned this team to playing defense, but like everyone else in the Big East they still have to play some tough games. Rutgers at No. 17 keeps on winning and I cannot drop them yet but they also still have some tough ones against Cincinatti and Louisville ahead. West Virginia takes the biggest hit this week dropping 14 places because they looked bad against Texas Tech! It is very apparent that this team cannot play from behind and when they do get behind they are in deep trouble. Also when it plays a team with a good defense lookout because if Geno Smith cannot get rolling they have nothing. Let's just put it out there this team was a lot of hype. Texas A&M is No. 19 because of Johnny Manziel. This kid is a player, but don't expect his numbers to keep up with LSU calling this weekend.
Cincinatti is No. 20 mostly because of the lack of some good teams at the bottom five. The Bearcats keep winning and so I have to include them. I put Mississippi State in the top 25 this week because they finally beat a good team in Tennessee, still not sold on them yet and No. 12 in the BCS is laughable. Ohio keeps winning and as long as they do they will keep moving up the rankings, at No. 22 they look like a team that can run the table. Sure Ohio does not play the toughest schedule, but it keeps winning. Boise State pulled off a good win against Fresno State last week and looked like the Boise of old against the Bulldogs. This team probably won't crank the BCS this weekend, but it should win the Mountain West. I had to drop Stanford this week because it lost its second game in three weeks, sure it was to Notre Dame, but it needs to start winning again before they move back up. Northwestern comes in at No. 25 this week because it got back on track against a bad Minnesota team. Tough game this weekend with Nebraska visiting Evanston, but I think Northwestern is the B1G favorite without Ohio State in the picture.
1-(1)-Alabama
2-(3)-Oregon
3-(5)-Florida
4-(6)-Kansas State
5-(7)-Notre Dame
6-(10)-Oklahoma7-(12)-LSU
8-(2)-South Carolina
9-(8)-Ohio State
10-(9)-Oregon State
11-(11)-USC
12-(15)-Georgia
13-(13)-Florida State
14-(16)-Clemson
15-(NR)-Texas Tech
16-(18)-Louisville
17-(19)-Rutgers
18-(4)-West Virgina
19-(21)-Texas A&M
20-(20)-Cincinnati
21-(NR)-Mississippi State
22-(23)-Ohio
23-(24)-Boise State
24-(17)-Stanford
25-(NR)-Northwestern
Not quite there: TCU, Iowa State, Texas, Louisiana Tech, Michigan, Nebraska
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