Week 9 Picks and Predictions (October 31, 2009)

LAST WEEK: Wins 9-Losses 5
Lock of the Week: 4-1

CURRENT BCS TOP 10 STANDINGS:

1.  Florida, 2.  Alabama, 3. Texas, 4. Iowa, 5. USC, 6. TCU, 7. Boise St., 8. Cincinnati, 9. LSU, 10. Oregon.

THE LINE
Michigan St...........3 1/2..........at MINNESOTA
EXTRA POINTS:  The Spartans have been competitive in every game and are coming off a last second loss to Iowa.  Minnesota loses all Big-10 receiver Eric Decker for the year.   Look for Spartan quarterback Cousins to have a big day.
PREDICTION:  Michigan St. 27-Minnesota 17

THE LINE
Miami..........7..........at WAKE FOREST
EXTRA POINTS:  The Cane's lost in overtime to Clemson last week.  This week QB Jacory Harris exploits a week Wake Forest secondary.  Riley Skinner is talented but Miami needs this one badly.   I like the Cane's by a couple of touchdowns.
PREDICTION:  Miami 30-Wake Forest 16

THE LINE
Missouri..........4..........at COLORADO
EXTRA POINTS:  The Tigers have stumbled badly and sophomore quarterback Blaine Gabbert has not been fully healthy battling ankle issues.   The Buffs since their QB switch have been tough and they get it done in the underdog role at home.
PREDICTION:  Colorado 33-Missouri 27

THE LINE
AT OKLAHOMA..........28..........Kansas St.
EXTRA POINTS:  Twenty Eight points is a ton !   Kansas St. is leading the Big-12 North Division (which isn't saying much).  The Sooners defense was fierce last week in crushing Kansas on the road.  I love the Sooners at home but by 28 ????   I say they win by 27 and the Wildcats cover.
PREDICTION:  Oklahoma 47-Kansas St. 20

THE LINE
AT TENNESSEE.........5 1/2..........South Carolina
EXTRA POINTS:  By all accounts, this should be a defensive battle.  Tennessee still reeling after last weeks loss to Alabama, a game in which they should have won.   The Gamecocks have just a little bit more offense than the Vols, close game but I like South Carolina to win this outright.
PREDICTION:  South Carolina 18-Tennessee 15

THE LINE
AT UTAH..........17..........Wyoming
EXTRA POINTS:  I keep picking against Utah and I keep winning.   The Utes have yet to totally dominate an opponent this season.   They will take care of business against Wyoming but closer than the experts think.
PREDICTION:  Utah 28-Wyoming 14

THE LINE
Notre Dame..........27..........Washington St.  (San Antonio-Neutral Site)
EXTRA POINTS:  Jimmy Clausen should light it up against a very undermanned Cougar secondary.  Look for at least 4 or 5 TD's and over 300 yards as the Notre Dame QB looks to climb the Heisman ladder.
PREDICTION:  Notre Dame 43-Washington St. 6

THE LINE
AT OREGON ST.........9..........U.C.L.A.
EXTRA POINTS:  The Bruins are in a tailspin and it doesnt' get any easier this week.  Oregon St. almost pulled off another upset over the USC last week but take care of the Trojans Los Angeles neighbor this week.
PREDICTION:  Oregon St. 34-UCLA 21

LOCK OF THE WEEK


THE LINE
Florida..........15..........Georgia  (Jacksonville, FL-Neutral Site)
EXTRA POINTS:  Tim Tebow and the Gators offense has looked less than impressive in the past two weeks.  Georgia has played below their talent level.  This is a huge rivalry game dubbed "The Worlds Largerst Cocktail Party" and played in Jacksonville, FL at the Gator Bowl.  I think Florida will win this game but take the Bulldogs and those 15 points.   Closer than the experts think.
PREDICTION:  Florida 23-Georgia 20

UPSET and MARQUEE MATCHUP OF THE WEEK (SAME GAME)

THE LINE
USC..........3..........AT OREGON
EXTRA POINTS:  Since losing their opening game against Boise St., the Ducks have been unbeatable and on Saturday they take control of the Pac-10 by upsetting the Trojans. Oregon coach Chip Kelly has done a remarkable job and next to Cincinnati's Brian Kelly has been the best coach this year in college football. USC has not won in Autzen Stadium since 2004 and this will not be a repeat.  Oregon quarterback Jeremiah Masoli is playing like the Heisman candidate I touted him to be.  Tight End Ed Dixon is dangerous and freshman running back LaMichael James is one of the best two freshman tailbacks in the nation (next to Pitt's Dion Lewis).  The crowd will be amped up for this one and USC will lose yet another Pac-10 game.  This is the game where Trojan QB Matt Barkley will play like the freshman he is.
PREDICTION:  Oregon 36-USC 24

THE LINE
Michigan........7.........AT ILLINOIS
EXTRA POINTS:  The Wolverines need to get well and soon.  Just what the doctor ordered, a trip to Illinois for a matchup with the Fightin' Illini.  Illinois has been downright HORRID this year (What happened to Juice Williams ???).  Michigan has too much offense for Illinois.
PREDICTION:  Michigan 34-Illinois 16

THE LINE
Cincinnati..........14 1/2..........AT SYRACUSE
EXTRA POINTS:  Bearcats quarterback Tony Pike is making progress in regards to his injured wrist so he might get some snaps in this game.  Doesn't matter, Cincinnati has been explosive on offense no matter who is taking snaps from center.  Cincinnati defense is underated and physical.  The Cuse' don't stand a chance.
PREDICTON:  Cincinnati 37-Syracuse 14

THE LINE
Texas..........9 1/2..........AT OKLAHOMA ST.
EXTRA POINTS:  This is the week the Longhorns finally put a full game together.  Colt McCoy has been plagued by nagging injuries and the flu this season.  He is fully heathy are ready to put up big numbers against the Cowboys.  With a huge performance, McCoy will jump to the head of the Heisman class and Texas could make up ground on SEC twins, Florida and Alabama.
PREDICTION:  Texas 35-Oklahoma St. 17

THE LINE
AT WISCONSIN..........6 1/2..........Purdue
EXTRA POINTS:  I like the Badgers to use their size up front and run the ball effectively against the smallish Purdue defensive front.   With John Clay running piling up yardage, look for a ten point Badgers victory.
PREDICTION:  Wisconsin 27-Purdue 17

Other games of note:
I like B.C. over Central Michigan, Georgia Tech over Vanderbilt, Nebraska over Baylor and Mississippi over Auburn.

**ALL LINES SET BY WORLD FEATURES SYNDICATE, INC.
Favorites highlighted in blue

For Notre Lame (I mean, Notre Dame) Haters

Back by popular demand......just another reason to HATE the Fighting Irish....

This weeks loathing comment, HEISMAN VOTING !

I do remember back in 1993 when an OVER hyped freshman quarterback from Berwick, PA named Ron Powlus first stepped foot on the Notre Lame campus.   Many of the Irish faithful had cemented his legacy without Powlus ever playing a down !   Four years later...he fell flat on his face !

How about the 1987 Heisman Winner, Tim Brown ?  NOT !   There is NO WAY he should have EVER won that award in 1987 !   Notre Dame was a very AVERAGE team going 8-3 playing their usual listless schedule.  The award that year should have gone to Syracuse quarterback Don MacPherson who guided the Orangeman (as they were known back then) to an undefeated season while setting Syracuse passing records for yards, touchdowns and completion percentage.

Lets delve further into history...Paul Hornung and the 1956 Heisman.....okay, Hornung did lots of things well, running, receiving, kicking and punting....oh, Notre Lame finished 2-8 that year.   He did not lead the country in any one of those particular categories....ever hear of a running back named JIM BROWN ?????   Nuff said !   Now, Hornung should have won the Heisman for sleeping around with married woman (alleged) and his gambling habits (fact).  

Oh yeah...least I forget, I hate Lou Holtz !    Has ANYONE ever seen his "Doctor Lou" segment on ESPN ????   Talk about Notre LAME !   Either become a preacher, minister or rabbi (great, now I'll have the wrath of all my hebrew followers), but stop with the ridiculous PEP talks and incoherent ramblings !   Besides, with that slurred speech impediment, I can't understand a darn thing he says !  I just wish Mark May would pick him up and pile drive him through the floor !

Playmakers of Week 8

C.J. Spiller          Running Back          Clemson

In Saturday's 40-37 overtime victory over Miami the senior speedster totalled 316 all purpose yards including a 90 yard TD kickoff return and a 56 yard TD pass reception from quarterback Kyle Parker.

Dexter McCluster          WR/RB          Ole Miss

McCluster rushed for 123 yards and caught 7 passes for 137 yards and a touchdown in leading the Rebels past SEC rival Arkansas, 30-17.

Terrence Cody          Defensive Tackle          Alabama

The mammoth 6'-6", 355 pound tackle single handedly beat upset minded Tennessee by blocking two field goals, the final attempt on the last play of the game to preserve the Tide win and keep their unbeaten season in tact.

Terrelle Pryor          Quarterback          Ohio St.

I've ridden Pryor hard all season but he finally put together a solid four quarters as the Buckeyes cruised over Minnesota, 38-7.   Pryor threw for 239 yards and 2 TD's and added 104 yards on the ground and a touchdown.

Week 8 Wrap Up

I lost some big games (thank you Notre Dame and B.Y.U.) but overall had another good week going 9-5 (and winning my "Lock of the Week").

THE LINE:     BOISE ST.....25.....HAWAII  (LOSS)
FINAL SCORE:  Boise St. 54-Hawaii 9
The Boise St. defense forced six turnovers that led to 30 Broncos points.   Quarterback Kellen Moore threw for 5 touchdowns.  Although still remaining unbeaten, Boise St. may drop in the BCS rankings due to a lack of top notch competition.

THE LINE:     MICHIGAN ST......E.....IOWA  (WON)
FINAL SCORE:  Iowa 15-Michigan St. 13
Ricky Stanzi hit Marvin McNutt for a 7 yard touchdown as time expired to keep the Hawkeyes undefeated and in the running for a Big 10 Championship as well as BCS Championship. 

THE LINE:     NOTRE DAME.....8.....BOSTON COLLEGE  (LOSS)
FINAL SCORE:  Notre Dame 20-Boston College 16
The Fighting Irish did it again winning in the final minutes over B.C.   Jimmy Clausen's 36 yard touchdown pass to Golden Tate provided the winning margin.  The Eagles blew numerous chances to take control fumbling at the Notre Dame 1 yard line and also being intercepted 3 times in the second half.

THE LINE:     OHIO ST......18.....MINNESOTA  (WON)
FINAL SCORE:  Ohio St. 38-Minnesota 7
Terrelle Pryor finally put together a complete game throwing for 239 yards and 2 TD's and rushing for 104 yards and a touchdown as Ohio St. beat up on the Gophers.  Whatever game plan the Ohio St. coaches came up with in this one, keep Pryor doing the same things.

THE LINE:     ARIZONA.....8 1/2.....UCLA  (WON)
FINAL SCORE:  Arizona 27-UCLA 13
Despite Nick Foles' 3 interceptions, the Wildcats rode a stingy defense, holding the Bruins to 211 total yards in winning their third straight Pac-10 game.

THE LINE:     GEORGIA TECH.....5.....VIRGINIA  (WON)
FINAL SCORE:  Georgia Tech 34-Virginia 9
The Yellow Jackets ground attack ripped up the Cavaliers defense to the tune of 447 yards as Tech romped in an ACC showdown.  With this win and Miami's loss to Clemson, Georgia Tech controls their fate in the ACC Coastal Division.

THE LINE:     MISSISSIPPI.....6.....ARKANSAS  (LOSS)
FINAL SCORE:  Mississippi 30-Arkansas 17
Rebels WR/RB Dexter McCluster totalled 282 all purpose yards and Jevan Snead threw for a career high 332 yards to lead Mississippi over Arkansas.  Former Razorback coach and current Rebel coach Houston Nutt is now 2-0 against his former team.

THE LINE:     USC.....20 1/2.....OREGON ST.  (WON)
FINAL SCORE:  USC 42-Oregon St. 36
Third string tailback Allen Bradford ran for a career high 147 yards and 2 touchdowns as the Trojans held off a late Oregon St. rally to get the win.   A huge one for USC next week as the Trojans, ranked 6th in the BCS head to Eugene, OR and a date with the Oregon Ducks for control of the Pac-10.

THE LINE:     T.C.U......2 1/2.....BRIGHAM YOUNG  (LOSS)
FINAL SCORE:  T.C.U. 38-Brigham Young 7
This was a major shocker as Andy Dalton threw for over 200 yards and 3 touchdowns and the Horned Frogs defense sacked Cougars quarterback Max Hall 5 times.  Look for T.C.U. to make a jump in the BCS rankings, possibly passing Boise St. or Cincinnati.

THE LINE:     UTAH.....9.....AIR FORCE  (WON)
FINAL SCORE:  Utah 23-Air Force 16 (Overtime)
Eddie Wide's touchdown run in overtime gave the Utes the victory.   Utah Lineback Stevenson Sylvester sacked Air Force quarterback Connor Dietz on 4th and 1 on the Utah goaline to preserve the win.  Next up for Utah (BCS 19th ranking) a matchup with red hot T.C.U.

THE LINE:     PENN ST.....4 1/2.....MICHIGAN  (LOSS)
FINAL SCORE:  Penn St. 35-Michigan 10
Daryll Clark threw 4 touchdown passes finally looking like the senior leader he was supposed to be in leading the Nittany Lions over the fast fading Wolverines of Michigan.   Michigan was held to 250 total yards and generated no running game.

THE LINE:     OKLAHOMA.....8.....KANSAS  (WON)
FINAL SCORE:  Oklahoma 35-Kansas 13
Landry Jones threw for 252 yards and 2 scores and the Sooners defense intercepted Todd Reising 3 times in the Oklahoma rout over Kansas.  The Jayhawks who have now lost back to back games are in an uphill battle to jump back into the Big-12 North race.

THE LINE:     CINCINNATI.....8.....LOUISVILLE  (WON)
FINAL SCORE:  Cincinnati 41-Louisville 10
Backup quarterback Zach Collaros was almost perfect completing 15 out of 17 passes for 253 yards and 3 touchdowns as the Bearcats rolled over Louisville and solidified their spot in the BCS and Big East.  Every week, Head Coach Brian Kelly continues to prove that he is the best coach in college football this year.

THE LINE:     L.S.U......7 1/2.....AUBURN  (WON)
FINAL SCORE:  L.S.U. 31-Auburn 10
L.S.U. quarterback Jordan Jefferson had perhaps his finest game as the Tigers signal caller throwing for 242 yards and 2 scores and exciting freshman Russell Shepard bolted 69 yards for another score leading L.S.U. to the easy win.  With this latest loss, Auburn drops to 4-3 (losing three in a row).

Week 8 Picks & Predictions (October 24, 2009)

Last Week versus the spread: Wins 8-Losses 4-Ties 2
Lock of the Week: Wins 2-Losses 1
Marquee Matchup of the Week: 2-1

More than half of the season gone...we start to head down the back stretch.

THE LINE
BOISE ST..........25..........at HAWAII
EXTRA POINTS:  The Broncos come in with a number 4 BCS ranking as they take on the Rainbow Warriors.  After struggling last week to put away Tulsa on the road, it only gets more difficult, Boise St. will remain unbeaten but take the underdog in this one.
PREDICTION:  Boise St. 43-Hawaii 24

THE LINE
At MICHIGAN ST..........E..........IOWA
EXTRA POINTS:  This game is Iowa quarterback Ricky Stanzi's to lose.  I like the Hawkeyes to remain unbeaten and ride their defense in this one.
PREDICTION:  Iowa 23-Michigan St. 13

THE LINE
At NOTRE DAME..........8..........BOSTON COLLEGE
EXTRA POINTS:  The roller coaster season continues for the Eagles, up last week and down this week.  B.C. will need to pressure Clausen, don't bet on it !   I like the Irish outside speed.   Notre Dame will have to be weary of tailback Montel Harris, they will, take the Golden Domers and the points.
PREDICTION:  Notre Dame 31-Boston College 17

THE LINE
At OHIO ST..........18..........MINNESOTA
EXTRA POINTS:  Until Terrelle Pryor plays a RESPECTABLE game, I'm taking the Gophers and the points.  Ooops...did I say that ?  Okay, wrong, Pryor will FINALLY show his athletic ability as this is a "MUST" win for Tressel's band of Buckeyes.
PREDICTION:  Ohio St. 34-Minnesota 14

THE LINE
At ARIZONA..........8 1/2..........UCLA
EXTRA POINTS:  What has happened to the Bruins ?  Their once stout defense has shown more cracks than the New Orleans levees after Hurrican Katrina !  Nick Foles coming off career day and Grigsby to run the ball.  I like Zona' to cover.
PREDICTION:  Arizona 27-UCLA 16

THE LINE
GEORGIA TECH..........5..........at VIRGINIA
EXTRA POINTS:  How can Virginia lose to Richmond and be leading the Atlantic Division of the ACC ?  Because the ACC is THAT BAD !  After witnessing the Rambling Wreck...wreck Florida St. and Virginia Tech the past two weekends, how can you bet against the triple option attack ?
PREDICTION:  Georgia Tech 39-Virginia 24

THE LINE
At MISSISSIPPI..........6..........ARKANSAS
EXTRA POINTS:  The Rebels season is going down the drain and if they lose this, it's all over.  I think they win it but by a field goal.  Take the underdog in this one !  I like Michael Smith and the Razorback running attack in this game more than their usual aerial assault.  Can someone find the "real" Jevan Snead ?
PREDICTION:  Mississippi 31-28

LOCK OF THE WEEK






THE LINE
At USC..........20 1/2..........OREGON ST.
EXTRA POINTS:  The Trojans try to avenge last years 27-21 defeat at the hands of the Beavers.  USC should win but not by the spread.  I like Beavers tailback Jacquizz Rodgers outside speed and the Oregon St. special teams to keep this closer than the experts think.  Letdown alert for USC after last weeks big win at Notre Dame.
PREDICTION:  USC 30-Oregon St. 24

MARQUEE MATCHUP OF THE WEEK






THE LINE
T.C.U..........2 1/2..........at B.Y.U.
EXTRA POINTS:  The Mormons versus the Horned Frogs, sounds like a religious horror flick !  Okay, T.C.U. comes in undefeated and ranked in the BCS Top 10.  Great defense and playing lights out.  On the flipside, this is the Cougars biggest game of the year.  They passed against Oklahoma and failed miserably with Florida St.   I think they will pass the test and win this one outright.  At least for this week, the spotlight is showing bright on the Mountain West Conference.  Now, I love T.C.U. and I want them to win this badly, but I don't see them having an answer for Max Hall, Harvey Unga or McKay Jacobson.  The B.Y.U. defense will be the dominate one in this game, I like B.Y.U. BIG !
PREDICTION:  B.Y.U. 45-T.C.U. 20

THE LINE
At UTAH..........9..........AIR FORCE
EXTRA POINTS:  Staying in the Mountain West, the Falcons of Air Force will give Utah fits but in the end lose a tight one.  Utah has been winning games lately but not playing up to their ability or talent level.  Take Air Force to ground the Utes passing game and keep it very close.
PREDICTION:  Utah  24-Air Force 20

UPSET OF THE WEEK







THE LINE
PENN ST..........4 1/2..........at MICHIGAN
EXTRA POINTS:  The Wolverines have stumbled a bit lately losing two in a row (sorry Wayne, I can't count the Deleware St. win as an actual game !).  Forcier is healthy and Penn St. has shown a total inhability to play any kind of offense against a decent caliber Division 1 team.  Look for Nittany Lions quarterback Clark to have another "off" day and Michigan pulls off the shocker in the Big House. 
PREDICTION:  Michigan 27-Penn St. 24

THE LINE
OKLAHOMA..........8..........at KANSAS
EXTRA POINTS:  The Sooners coming off another loss to Texas and Kansas being knocked from the unbeaten ranks by the lowly Colorado Buffaloes.  What will this week bring ?  The Jayhawks can certainly move the ball through the air with Todd Reising and Dez Briscoe but will be facing a very talented defense.  Landry Jones steps up,  as for the remainder of the season, he is the Oklahoma starting quarterback.  In the end, I think Bob Stoops and Sooner pride win this one and by 10 points. 
PREDICTION:  Oklahoma 30-Kansas 20

THE LINE
At CINCINNATI..........8..........LOUISVILLE
EXTRA POINTS:  Cincinnati Head Coach Brian Kelly is my vote for "Coach of the Year".  Who else could lose ten starters on defense, three offensive lineman and a starting running back and be better the next year ?  Louisville and coach Steve Kragthorpe are sliding badly and even though Bearcats quarterback Tony Pike is still a game time decision, I like Kelly and company to whip up on the Cardinals. 
PREDICTION:  Cincinnati 34-Louisville 10

THE LINE
At L.S.U........7 1/2........AUBURN
EXTRA POINTS:  I should be AT THIS GAME..I had tickets....but imagine a one way flight from Baton Rouge to Boston for $1,020 ??? I love the Tigers, not that much !  Next year !   Back to this game, Auburn has lost two in a row and already the critics are calling for Gene Chizik's head.  The L.S.U. Tigers have already lost one Saturday night game, they will cover the points with a comfortable margin of victory.
PREDICTION:  L.S.U. 33-Auburn 23

**All Lines Set By World Features Syndicate
ALL FAVORITES SHOWN ABOVE BOLDED IN BLUE

Playmakers of Week 7

The Boston College sophomore running back exploded for 264 yards and five touchdowns in a 52-21 rout of N.C. State.  Of the 264 yards, Harris rushed for 205 of them out of the "wildcat" formation.

Another sophomore sensation, Alabama's Mark Ingram torched the usually stingy South Carolina defense for a career high 246 yards and a touchdown leading the Tide to a hard fought 20-6 SEC win over the rival Gamecocks.  With this performance, Ingram solidifies himself as a top Heisman contender.

First year starting quarterback Nick Foles passed for 415 and three touchdowns as the Wildcats overcame a second half deficit to beat Stanford, 43-38 in Tucson.






Coming later tonight, Week 8 picks and predictions....stay tuned.

Current BCS Rankings (October 18, 2009)

1. FLORIDA 9886

2. ALABAMA 9526

3. TEXAS 8911

4. BOISE ST. 8083

5. CINCINNATI 7870

6. IOWA 7869

7. USC 7695

8. TCU 7139

9. LSU 7083

10. MIAMI, FL. 6273

Week 7 Wrap Up

This topsy turvy college football season continues, not a bad week going 8-4-2.  Lets take a look at the wrap ups from week 7:

THE LINE:     Cincinnati by 2 1/2  (LOSS)
Quarterback Tony Pike threw two touchdown passes before leaving the game with an apparent left arm injury leading CINCINNATI 34-17 in over SOUTH FLORIDA and control of the Big East.  Backup quarterback Zach Collaros took off on a quarterback draw for a 75 yard touchdown icing the win.

THE LINE:     Texas by 3 (TIE)
In my Marquee Matchup of the Week, TEXAS got a 32 yard field goal from Hunter Lawrence at 12:43 of the fourth quarter as the Longhorns hung on to beat OKLAHOMA 16-13.   Sooners quarterback was knocked out of the game in the first quarter suffering the same shoulder injury that shelved him for the first 3 1/2 games.  Even with the Horns' winning, Colt McCoy did not put up even close to Heisman type numbers finishing 21 for 39 for 127 yards (1 TD, 1 INT). 

THE LINE:     T.C.U. by 22 (Loss)
TCU used a punishing defense to whip COLORADO ST. 44-6.  The Horned Frogs gear up for their biggest game of the season this Saturday at Provo, UT and the Cougars of B.Y.U.  The T.C.U. defense gave up a total of 182 yards and quarterback Andy Dalton threw for a pair of scores.

THE LINE:     Utah by 16 (Win)
The UTAH Utes got their 600th win in program history playing a very average game before finally pulling away from a terrible U.N.L.V. team 35-15.  Not much to report here other than Utah quarterback Terrence Cain threw for two touchdowns.

THE LINE:     Nebraska by 10 (Loss)
My "Lock of the Week" was picked clean by TEXAS TECH as the Red Raiders upset NEBRASKA in Lincoln, NE 31-10.  Red Raiders backup quarterback Steven Sheffield threw for one touchdown and the Texas Tech defense confused Huskers' quarterback Zac Lee for 3 quarters.  Lee continues to struggle in big games and if this trend continues, Nebraska will have a difficult time winning the Big-12 North.

THE LINE:     Miami, FL by 14 (Win)
Jacory Harris completed 20 of 26 passes for 293 yards and a touchdown in an easy 27-7 win for the Hurricanes of MIAMI over CENTRAL FLORIDA. 

THE LINE:     USC by 10 (Win)
The USC Trojans built a huge second half lead and then watched as the NOTRE DAME Fighting Irish made yet another storied comeback before holding off a last second Jimmy Clausen pass to defeat the Irish 34-27.  Trojans quarterback Matt Barkley threw for a career high 380 yards (2 TD's, 1 INT).  Of course, this game wouldn't end without some controversy as Notre Dame received an extra second on the clock (at the end of regulation) to try one more time to wake up the echoes.....unfortunately for them, they fell on deaf ears !

THE LINE:     Alabama by 17 (Win)
Crimson Tide running back Mark Ingram jumped up into the Heisman race as he galloped for a career high 246 yards (1 TD) leading ALABAMA to a 20-6 victory over the visiting SOUTH CAROLINA Gamecocks.  Ingram ran all over the South Carolina defense in keeping the Tide in contro despite a season high four turnovers.   The Alabama defense held the Gamecocks to 278 total yards. Both quarterbacks had very difficult games against each teams stellar defeneses.  With this win, I believe that Alabama has cemented themselves at the most complete team in the nation so far.

THE LINE:     Arizona by 5 (TIE)
ARIZONA running back Nate Grigsby raced 57 yards for the winning touchdown as the Wildcats came back from a 15 point 4th quarter deficit, beating STANFORD 43-38.  Wildcat quarterback also threw for a career high 415 yards and 3 TD's.

THE LINE:     Arizona St. by 6 1/2 (Win)
Danny Sullivan's 50 yards touchdown pass with no time left shocked the entire stadium and the WASHINGTON Husky defense in a 24-17 ARIZONA ST. win.  This win puts the Sun Devils back in contention for a Pac-10 title with the Trojans.

THE LINE:     Michigan St. by 14 (Win)
Kirk Cousins connected on a pair of touchdown strikes to Blair White in the MICHIGAN ST. 24-14 victory over the Wildcats of NORTHWESTERN.  Next up for Sparty, a home date with Big-10 leader Iowa.

THE LINE:     Auburn by 13 1/2 (Loss)
Randall Cobbs 4 yard touchdown run sealed the come back victory for KENTUCKY 21-14 over AUBURN.  This seven point victory was the Wildcats first over Auburn since 1966.  In all, Kentucky rushed for 246 yards and held down the high powered but sputtering Auburn offense.

THE LINE:     Georgia by 8 (Win)
GEORGIA easily handled VANDERBILT taking apart the home town Commodores, 34-10.  The Georgia defense which has been disspaointing this season (ranking 110 nationally) came up with three sacks and an interception.

Week 7 Picks & Predictions (October 17, 2009)

Live from Tampa Int'l Airport, here are this weeks picks and predictions:
LAST WEEK:  10-4
LOCK OF THE WEEK: 2-0
MARQUIS MATCHUP OF THE WEEK: 1-1

Special Thursday Night Game

THE LINE
CINCINNATI...............2 1/2...............at SOUTH FLORIDA
EXTRA POINTS:  Both teams come into Thursday nights game ranked and undefeated.  Bearcats QB Tony Pike is a leading Heisman candidate.  The Cincinnati front will have to contain the South Florida pass rush.  This should be a very close game and field position will be key.   I like Cincinnati to win it on a last second field goal.
PREDICTION:     Cincinnati 31-South Florida 30

Saturday Games

THE LINE
At AIR FORCE...............10 1/2...............WYOMING
EXTRA POINTS:  I like the ground attack of Air Force to control time of possession but I think Wyoming can stay in the game with quarterback Austyn Carter-Samuels throwing ability.  If the weather is as bad as last week, the Cowboys will have difficulties.  I'm banking on a close game with Air Force winning by a touchdown.
PREDICTION:     Air Force 34-Wyoming 27

At ARIZONA...............5...............STANFORD
EXTRA POINTS:  Stanford suffered a humbling loss at Oregon St. last week.  They bounce back against a struggling Arizona team.  The Arizona defense is tough to run on but I like Toby Gerhart to rush for 100 hards and freshman QB Andrew Luck to have a big game.
PREDICTON:     Stanford 23-Arizona 17

GEORGIA...............8...............at VANDERBILT
EXTRA POINTS:  A must win for the Bulldogs.  Georgia got embarrassed last week at Tennessee.  This week they turn the tables on Vanderbilt.  
PREDICTION:  Georgia 38-Vanderbilt 20

MIAMI, FL...............14...............at CENTRAL FLORIDA
EXTRA POINTS:  The Canes' should roll.  Jacory Harris should add to his aerial stats and the Miami defense will stifle the Golden Knights offense.  An easy non-conference win for the Canes'.
PREDICTION:  Miami, FL. 36-Central Florida 16

At T.C.U...............22...............COLORADO ST.
EXTRA POINTS:  Colorado St. won for me last week and although they will lose to the 9th ranked Horned Frogs, they will keep it close for the first half.   T.C.U. might be looking ahead to next weeks meeting with B.Y.U.
PREDICTION:  T.C.U. 30-Colorado St. 17

LOCK OF THE WEEK

At NEBRASKA..........10...............TEXAS TECH

EXTRA POINTS:  The Texas Tech pass happy offense will still generate yards but not points.   Nebraskas pass rush will force multiple turnovers and the Nebraska offense, although not potent will do enough to win this one for the Huskers'.  

PREDICTION:  Nebraska 30-Texas Tech 17

UTAH...............16................at U.N.L.V.

EXTRA POINTS:  The Utes should roll in this one.  Utah quarterback Terrence Cain is coming off his finest performance of the year and the porous Rebel defense will make it easy.  Utah is making a push for another Mountain West Conference title.  U.N.L.V. is looking toward next season.

PREDICTION:  Utah 43-U.N.L.V. 20

MARQUIS MATCHUP OF THE WEEK

TEXAS...............3...............OKLAHOMA (neutral field)

EXTRA POINTS:  The Longhorns have not put together a full 4 quarters.  That starts Saturday.  The Sooners defense will keep it close for a half, then the Longhorn stampede begins.   This game is the season for Oklahoma, they just don't have enough to stay with Texas.  Colt McCoy to finally play like a Heisman winner and make a statement.  Look for the Longhorn defense to harass Sam Bradford and put the shackles on the Sooners running backs.  Texas is one of the three best teams in the country and at games end, Oklahoma will be limp back to Norman, OK licking their wounds.

PREDICTION:  Texas 33-Oklahoma 17

At ALABAMA...............17...............SOUTH CAROLINA

EXTRA POINTS:  Now I'm not predicting a Tide loss but the way both defenses are capable of playing, look for a defensive struggle with limited points.   In the End, Bama' will remain undefeated but this one will test them against an underated South Carolina squad.

PREDICTION:  Alabama 20-South Carolina 13

At AUBURN...............13 1/2...............KENTUCKY

EXTRA POINTS:  Interesting to see how Auburn will respond to their first loss of the season.  Just what the doctor ordered as Kentucky comes calling.  Tiger QB Chris Todd should find his rythym and RB Ben Tate could have a big day running the ball.

PREDICTION:  Auburn 43-Kentucky 24

At ARIZONA ST...............6 1/2..............WASHINGTON

EXTRA POINTS:  After last weeks very emotional victory, the Huskies will suffer a letdown and the Arizona St. defense should slow down Washington QB Jake Locker.  The letdown factor leads me to this pick (against my better judgment).  Night games in the desert are always a challenge.

PREDICTION:  Arizona St. 30-Washington 20

At MICHIGAN ST............14...............NORTHWESTERN

EXTRA POINTS:  Fourteen points is just to much to ask the Spartans to cover.  Sparty will win another one for "Sparty Girl" but not by the spread.   I like an offensive show here, both teams moving up and down the field.  In the end, closer than the experts predict.

PREDICTION:  Michigan St. 44-Northwestern 38

UPSET PICK OF THE WEEK

USC...............10...............at NOTRE DAME

EXTRA POINTS:  I've gone back and forth on this one.  USC has won seven games in a row versus the Irish.  USC has not given up a touchdown reception yet this season.  USC is giving up only 8.6 points per game this season.  Regardless, I think the Fighting Irish will not be beat by more than 10 points.  Hey, I'm a Notre Dame hater...but I like the matchup with the Trojans this year in particular.  From what I've seen all season long, the Trojans seem vastly overated to me.  The best offensive line in college, watch closely it just may be Notre Dame that has that distinction.  The Fighting Irish defense has been invisible most of the year but they get up bigtime for this showdown.  The Irish run the ball effectively against the Trojans setting up Clausen play action passes to Golden Tate and down the middle to sensational 6'-6" Tight End, Kyle Rudolph.  Okay, I'm saying it (as much as I HATE SAYING IT).  I like Notre Dame to shock the college football world in a game that might not be that close.

PREDICTION:  Notre Dame 31-USC 20

**All Lines Set by World Features Syndicate

ALL FAVORITES SHOWN IN BLUE

L

Tuesday's News & Notes

After suffering another ACC loss on Saturday to Georgia Tech, legendary Head Coach Bobby Bowden is under fire from the Florida St. fans, alumni and trustees and it's looking more and more like this will be the last year for the iconic coach.  This is a coach that has gone 384-141-4 over his career (311-95-4 with the Noles') won two National Championships (see photo on left), won fourteen conference championships and has had an unprecedented string of fourteen straight years of being ranked in the Top 5.   Oh and an amazing Bowl record of 21-10-1.   But through all of the accomplishments, recent history doesn't lie.  The Noles have not finished in the Top 10 since 2001.  I believe the year by year downslide began with losing excellent coaches like current Georgia Head Coach, Mark Richt and Chuck Amato (now back on the staff).  They were not just great position coaches but excellent recruiters.  Also, Florida's rise to power (beginning with Steve Spurrier) and now taken to a new level by Urban Meyer has snatched talent away from Florida St. as well as excellent recruiting by Miami Hurricanes coach Randy Shannon.  I am not a big fan of the "Head Coach In Waiting" scenerio.  Jimbo Fisher came heavily hyped from his days at L.S.U. and although the offense has clicked this season, has not been consistent.  Longtime Defensive Coordinator Mickey Andrews has had less talent to work with and it has showed on the field.  The always stingy defensive line is undersized and being physically dominated at the line of scrimmage and although Florida St. does have speed, it is often times undiciplined, jumping patterns and overpursuing allowing for HUGE gains as evidenced by their yards and points given up this year.  Bowden deserves better but in this age of "what have you done for me lately" , it's evident that the Seminoles have to go a differnet direction and rebuild their once proud program.  I would like to see Bobby Bowden ride off into the Tallahassee sunset happily ever after, but this thing could be long, drawn out and ugly.

Can the Florida Gators win another National Championship without the services of Tim Tebow ?  Now, it's not like Tebow is lighting it up this year.  Statistically speaking, this is the worst year of his career.   The one thing Tebow has always brought to the field is he is a WINNER.  It might not be pretty but he gets the job done.  It's almost as if he can "will" the Gators to victory, even on those days when everything looks against them.  I thought Tebow played well in Saturdays 13-3 victory over a tough L.S.U. Tiger team, especially after not having a full week of practice.  I believe the Gators are one of the best 3 teams in the nation but the bottom line is they cannot win the SEC Championship and National Championship without Tim Tebow.

What is going on with Ohio St. quarterback Terrelle Pryor ?   I hyped him before the year as did every publication and pre season talk show.  So far, very dissapointing.  It looks like he has almost regressed !  His poor throwing motion has not changed and although he is completing 56.3% of his passes, from fifteen yards out, that stat drops to 40%.  First thing, I don't think this offense suits his talents.  I know Pryor wants to be the pro style drop back passer but that is NOT what he is.  He needs to be on the run, sprinting right and left, making defenses chase him down.  Running quarterback draws and keeping those linebackers close so it can open up the middle of the field.  He would be the PERFECT signal caller for a Michigan style offense or West Virginia offense but he is stuck in Columbus.  The jury is out on Pryor and more sub par games will only drop his once soaring stock.

Memo to Joe Paterno.  Please, Please, Please start scheduling some semi tough non conference teams !  AKRON, SYRACUSE, TEMPLE & EASTERN ILLINOIS (not to diminish those teams but.....) and then take on Iowa at home and are completely shut down offensively and dominated physically.  Joe Pa. is 1-7 in his last seven meetings with Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz.  I know Paterno is alot like Bowden wanting to coach until he can no longer do it but the writing is on the wall.  I think it's time to hand over the reigns to either a long time assistant (Tom Bradley) or possibly Rutgers head man, Greg Schiano.  Now, all you Nittany Lion yahoos relax.  Penn St. will most likely win 9 or 10 games (because the Big-10 is so mediocre this season) and go to either a BCS or mid level bowl, but don't expect them to win a bigtime bowl game anytime soon.  Does anyone remember last years Rose Bowl ?   How they continue to get Top 15 recruiting classes boggles my mind..they must have some amazing co-eds at Penn St....they don't call it "Happy Valley" for nothing !

What's with this Dez Bryant situation ?  Time for the NCAA to just relax and get a clue !  Now, if the kid was sitting with Deion Sanders and an agent, collecting greenbacks and cell phones and a Rolls...fine, suspend him.  But because he is friends with an EX-pro football player and didn't tell the truth about his relationship with Sanders to NCAA investigators that they hung out and talked ?  C'mon, the kid isn't cheating in class, hasn't committed any major crime, hasn't robbed a store or even signed with an agent !   He is a kid and was scared about losing his eligibility status for his junior season and possibly his career.  Get over it and let him play !

OTHER NEWS

The Miami Hurricanes have lost their top tackler in linebacker Jordan Futch to a knee injury.  From all reports it looks like the freshman linebacker will be lost for the remainder of the year. 

Michigan quarterback Tate "The Great" Forcier suffered a slight concussion during the Iowa game but has been cleared to play this Saturday in the Wolverines non conference matchup with Deleware St.

It sure looks more and more like Florida, Alabama and Texas have distanced themselves from the pack and it's a three team race for the National Championship.  Of course, the Tide will lose to South Carolina, Texas to Oklahoma and the Gators will be upset Georgia....lets hope not !  Lets break down those top 3 teams:

My number one is ALABAMA.   The Tide have a suffocating defense that can stuff the run, rush the passer and cover man to man.  They have forced some good quarterbacks (hello Jevan Snead and Tyrod Taylor) into multiple mistakes while their offense can run the ball down anyones throat.  First year starting quarterback Greg McElroy has played mistake free football and is looking like a seasoned pro with each passing game.

My number two is FLORIDA.  The Gators have Tim Tebow and that is a pretty good start !  Although the Gaors can run the ball (averaging a ridiculous 7.8 ypg), they will not be able to do that against the Tide (if it comes to that).  Tebow is excellent at the read option and knows when to cut it up inside or make that last second pitch to their speedsters.  The Florida defense is ranked second behind the Tide in the SEC and playmakers like Brandon Spikes and cornerback Joe Haden have All-American written all over them.

My number three is TEXAS.  The best defense in the Big-12.   They all can run and can gang tackle with the best of em'.  Watch DE Sergio Kindle...a real stud.  On offense, Colt McCoy has struggled some in the first half of a few games but has made the plays when needed.  His favorite target, his roomate Jordan Shipley (8 TD's).  The Horns' defense will keep them in every game, even with the inconsistent offense, but once they have to play a Florida or Alabama, they lack the running game to beat either of those two teams.

***RECRUITING SPECIAL***

Some of the blog followers have asked that I put together some recruiting news for the 2010 college football season.   I have accumulated information from the following: Rivals, Tom Lemming and ESPN to put together a brief list.  I will first give specific recruiting information on some teams that blog followers are intersted in and then rank the classes nationally.   National Signing Day isn't until the first Wednesday in February.  All the below are "verbal" commitments.

MICHIGAN WOLVERINES
Total Commitments (19)
National Class Rank (13)

The Top 5
Devin Gardner, Quarterback (Duel Threat)
6'-4", 195 lbs.
Inkster High School (Detroit, MI)
National Class Rank by Position (53)

Jerald Robinson, Wide Receiver
6'-2", 175 lbs.
Canton High School (Canton, OH)
National Class Rank by Position (43)

Marvin Robinson, Outside Linebacker
6'-1", 190 lbs.
Lake Region High School (Eagle Lake, FL)
National Class Rank by Position (16)

Ken Wilkins, Defensive End
6'-3", 244 lbs.
Trinity High School (Washington, PA)
National Class Rank by Position (17)

Stephen Hopkins, Running Back
6'-0", 235 lbs.
Marcus High School (Flower Mound, TX)
National Class Rank by Position (NR)


WASHINGTON HUSKIES
Total Commitment (18)
National Class Rank (22)

The Top 5
Nick Montana, Quarterback (Pro Style)
6'-2", 177 lbs.
Oaks Christian High School (Westlake Village, CA)
National Class Rank by Position (11)

Deontae Cooper, Running Back
6'-0", 205 lbs.
Citrus Hill High School (Perris, CA)
National Class Rank by Position (15)

Erik Kohler, Offensive Guard
6'-4", 264 lbs.
Oaks Christian High School (Westlake Village, CA)
National Class Rank by Position (5)

Sione Potoae, Defensive Tackle
6'-3", 285 lbs.
Lakes High School (Lakewood, WA)
National Class Rank by Position (12)

Keanon Lowe, Athlete
5'-10", 170 lbs.
Jesuit High School (Portland, OR)
National Class Rank by Position (10)


BOSTON COLLEGE EAGLES
Total Commitments (12)
National Class Rank (47)

The Top 5
Shakim Phillips, Wide Receiver
6'-2", 191 lbs.
DePaul Catholic (Wayne, NJ)
National Class Rank by Position (5)

Andre Williams, Running Back
5'-11", 202 lbs.
Parkland Senior High School (Allentown, PA)
National Class Rank by Position (NR)

Chase Rettig, Quarterback (Pro Style)
6'-4", 205 lbs.
San Clemente High School (San Clemente, CA)
National Class Rank by Position (27)

Kevin Pierre-Louis, Outside Linebacker
6'-1", 205 lbs.
King & Louis Heyward Thomas High School (Stamford, CT)
National Class Rank by Position (31)

Robert Vardaro, Offensive Tackle
6'-5", 307 lbs.
Phillips Academy (Andover, MA)
National Class Rank by Position (33)


NOTRE DAME FIGHTING IRISH
Total Commitments (15)
National Class Rank (11)

The Top 5
Chris Martin, Defensive End
6'-4", 240 lbs.
Grandview High School (Aurora, CO)
National Class Rank by Position (2)

Prince Shembo, Linebacker
6'-2", 232 lbs.
Adrey Kell High School (Charlotte, NC)
National Class Rank by Position (6)

Alex Welch, Tight End
6'-5", 225 lbs.
Elder High School (Cincinnati, OH)
National Class Rank by Position (10)

Cameron Robinson, Running Back
6'-1", 215 lbs.
Newbury Park High School (Newbury Park, CA)
National Class Rank by Position (16)

Andrew Hendrix, Quarterback (Pro Style)
6'-3", 220 lbs.
Moeller High School (Cincinnati, OH)
National Class Rank by Position (14)


SYRACUSE ORANGE
Total Commitments (14)
National Class Rank (73)

The Top 3
Jerome Smith, Running Back
5'-11", 210 lbs.
Pencader Charter High School (Bear, DE)
National Class Rank by Position (NR)

John Kinder, Quarterback
6'-3", 180 lbs.
Lawrence Senior High School (Cedarhurst, NY)
National Class Rank by Positon (NR)

Malcolm Carter, Linebacker
6'-1', 210 lbs.
River Head High School (River Head, NY)
National Class Rank by Position (NR)


L.S.U. TIGERS
Total Commitments (22)
National Class Rank (2)

The Top 5
Jordan Allen, Defensive End
6'-6", 266 lbs.
West Monroe High School (West Monroe, LA)
National Class Rank by Position (9)

Justin Hunter, Wide Receiver
6'-4", 172 lbs.
Ocean Lakes High School (Virginia Beach, VA)
National Class Rank by Position (22)

Elliott Porter, Defensive Tackle
6'-4", 280 lbs.
Archbishop Shaw High School (Waggaman, LA)
National Class Rank by Position (13)

Zach Lee, Quarterback (Pro Style)
6'-4", 195 lbs.
McKinney High School (McKinney, TX)
National Class Rank by Position (12)

Ronnie Vinson, Athlete
5'-11", 186 lbs.
Isidore Newman Prep (New Orleans, LA)
National Class Rank by Position (11)


NEBRASKA CORNHUSKERS
Total Commitments (9)
National Class Rank (41)

The Top 5
Tyler Gabbert, Quarterback (Duel Threat)
6'-0", 190 lbs.
Parkway West High School (Ballwin, MO)
National Class Rank by Position (17)

Andre Rodriguez, Offensive Tackle
6'-6", 298 lbs.
Aurora High School (Aurora, NE)
National Class Rank by Position (11)

Chase Rome, Defensive End
6'-3", 290 lbs.
Rock Bridge High School (Columbia, MO)
National Class Rank by Position (14)

Ciante Evans, Cornerback
5'-11", 170
Juan Seguin High School (Arlington, TX)
National Class Rank by Position (44)

Donovan Vestal, Defensive End
6'-5", 240 lbs.
Bowie High School (Arlington, TX)
National Class Rank by Position (33)

THE RIVALS TOP 20

1. Texas Longhorns
2. L.S.U.
3. Penn St.
4. Oklahoma
5. Florida
6. Tennessee
7. Alabama
8. USC
9. Georgia
10. Texas A & M
11. Notre Dame
12. Stanford
13. Michigan
14. Virginia Tech
15. Ohio St.
16. Clemson
17. Auburn
18. Miami, FL
19. Texas Tech
20. Brigham Young

Playmakers of the Week (Week 6)

Here they are, fresh from some fantastic performances, my playmakers of the week:

Jacquizz Rodgers          Running Back          Oregon St.
THE LINE:     Rodgers broke out in a big way leading the Beavers over the Stanford Cardinal 38-28.  "The Quizz" outshined Heisman hopefull, Toby Gerhart by rushing for a season high 189 yards on 33 carries and 4 TD's.

Freddie Barnes          Wide Receiver          Bowling Green
THE LINE:     The Falcons receiver tied an NCAA record by catching 23 passes for 278 yards and added 3 TD's in a come from behind victory over Kent St. 

Thaddeus Lewis          Quarberback          Duke
THE LINE:     Lewis completed an unbelievable 40 out of 50 passes for a career high 459 yards and 5 TD's in the Blue Devils 49-28 romp over N.C. State.  Besides throwing for the 5 TD's, he also ran for another TD. 




HONORABLE MENTION:

Robert Johnson          Safety          Utah
THE LINE:     Johnson intercepted 3 passes and was in on 5 tackles in the Utes 24-17 win over Colorado St.

Ndamukong Suh          Defensive Tackle          Nebraska
THE LINE:     The 6'-4" 305 pound wrecking ball totalled 6 tackles, 1 sack, 1 forced fumble and an interception in the Huskers 27-12 win over Mizzou.  Each week, Suh shows why he is the best interior lineman in the country.

Brandon Spikes          Middle Linebacker          Florida
THE LINE:     The All-American helped the Gators dominate L.S.U. with a game high 11 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss and a forced fumble keeping Florida undefeated and protecting their number one ranking.

Mark Ingram          Running Back          Alabama
The sophomore sensation ran through the Mississippi defense for 172 yards and a touchdown in helping the Tide roll, 22-3 over the Rebels. 


P.S.   Look for my RECRUITING SPECIAL COMING TONIGHT !  I will be focussing on those teams that the blog followers cheer for !   Wolverines, Huskers, Orange, Broncos, Fighting Irish (Fletch...are you an Irish guy or B.C. guy ?) and of course I'll list the TOP 20 classes based on Rivals, Tom Lemming and ESPN rankings.

Week 6 Wrap Up

Overall, not a bad week going 10-4 against the spread.  I did win my "Lock of the Week" and my "Upset of the Week" games, but faltered in my "Marquise Matchup of the Week".  

Let's wrap it up:
THE LINE:     Va. Tech  by 13    (LOSS)
The VIRGINIA TECH defense held visiting BOSTON COLLEGE to three first half yards and Tyrod Taylor threw for a pair of touchdowns leading the Hokies to a 48-14 demolition of B.C.   Va. Tech freshman running back Ryan Williams continued his excellent rookie season piling up 159 yards (1 TD).  Eagles starting quarterback Dan Shinskie went an abysmal 1-12 for FOUR yards and 2 INT's. 

THE LINE:     AUBURN by 2 1/2 (WON)
ARKANSAS jumped out to an early 27-3 lead and coasted to a 44-23 victory over SEC rival AUBURN.  The Hogs accumulated 28 first downs and running back Michael Smith ran for 145 yards (1 TD) while the Arkansas defense limited Auburn to 375 yards (their worst out put of the year). 

THE LINE:     FLORIDA ST. by 3  (LOSS)
GEORGIA TECH ran up 401 yards on the ground in scoring the most points against a Bobb Bowden coached team in Tallahassee, winning 49-44.  Yellowjackets quarterback Josh Nesbitt accounted for 140 yards and 3 TD's while running back Jonathan Dwyer picked up 102 yards and pair of scores.  FLORIDA ST. quarterback Christian Ponder was superb in defeat completing 26-36 for 359 yards and 5 TD's. 

THE LINE:     TENNESSEE by 1   (LOSS)
Maligned TENNESSEE quarterback Jonathan Crompton threw for a career high 310 yards and 4 TD's (1 INT) leading coach Lane Kiffin and the Vols to their first SEC win of the year, a 45-19 drubbing of falling by the wayside GEORGIA.  Bulldog quarterback Joe Cox continues to struggle filling in for the departed Matthew Stafford.

THE LINE:     IOWA by 8   (WON)
IOWA quarterback Ricky Stanzi threw for 248 yards and 2 TD's and the Hawkeye defense intercepted MICHIGAN backup QB Dennard Robinson on the Wolverines final drive to secure a hard fought 30-28 victory in Iowa City.  Michigan starting QB Tate "The Great" Forcier was ineffective throughout the game throwing for 94 yards with 1 interception before being replaced in the 4th quarter by Robinson.  Iowa is off to their best start since going 9-0 in 1985.

THE LINE:     OHIO ST. by 16   (WON)
WISCONSIN outgained the Buckeyes by 184 total yards but could not escape the constant miscues in a 31-13 loss to OHIO ST.  The Badgers held a 22-8 advantage in first downs and held the Buckeyes to 184 yards but the Ohio St. defense returned two interceptions for touchdowns and Ray Small ran back a kickoff 96 yards for the win.  Ohio St. quarterback Terrelle Pryor was ineffective the entire game completing just five passes (1 TD, 1 INT).  He has not improved his play as most thought he would during his sophomore year.

THE LINE:     ALABAMA by 6   (WON)
The ALABAMA defense picked off four Jevan Snead passes and completely dominated the game defensively leading the Tide to an easy 22-3 win over MISSISSIPPI.  Tide running back Mark Ingram rushed for 172 yards and 1 TD and quarterback Greg McElroy played error free football once again. 

THE LINE:     T.C.U. by 9   (WON)
In terrible weather conditions, the T.C.U. Horned Frogs remained unbeaten, slipping and sliding past the AIR FORCE Falcons 20-17.  With wind chills in the low 20's and freezing sleet and snowflurries slowing down both offenses T.C.U. quarterback Andy Dalton did enough to help secure the win.  The Horned Frogs committed three costly turnovers that kept Air Force in the game.

THE LINE:     FLORIDA by 7 1/2   (LOSS)
Tim Tebow did get the start and the top ranked Gators of FLORIDA stayed unbeaten, outslugging L.S.U. 13-3.  Tebow wasn't great and he didn't have to be.   The Gators defense pretty much controlled the game harassing Tigers quarterback Jordan Jefferson all evening, sacking him 5 times including 2 1/2 by All-American linebacker Brandon Spikes (game high 11 tackles).  

THE LINE:     NEBRASKA by 3   (WON)
Huskers quarterback Zac Lee had his troubles through three quarters but hit on two TD passes in the fourth leading NEBRASKA back from a 12-0 deficit, beating MISSOURI 27-12 on Thursday night.  In a driving rain storm, both teams struggled with many penalties and dropped balls all evening.  The Nebraska offense only generated 59 yards unitl 12:42 remaining in the fourth quarter.  Tiger quarterback Blaine Gabbert was sacked in the first quarter by Nebraska DT, Ndamukong Suh and was ineffective for the remainder of the game.  Suh dominated the Missouri offensive line finising with 8 tackles, 2 sacks and a fumble recovery.

THE LINE:     STANFORD by 1 1/2   (WON)
OREGON ST. running back Jacquizz Rodgers ran for a career high 189 yards and 4 TD's as the Beavers knocked off Pac-10 leader STANFORD, 38-28 in Corvallis.  The Beavers defense held Stanford Heisman hopefull, running back Toby Gerhart for under 100 yards (94 yards) for the first time this season. 

THE LINE:     MICHIGAN ST. by 4 1/2   (WON)
Making his first collegiate start, Spartan quarterback Keith Nichol threw for 179 yards and running back Larry Capers ran for 95 yards and a TD to lead MICHIGAN ST. to a 24-14 over the slumping Illini of ILLINOIS.  The Illini have now dropped four in a row and the boos could be heard loud and clear throughout Champaign Urbana directed at coach Ron Zook. 

THE LINE:     UTAH by 7 1/2   (WON)
Quarterback Terrance Cain threw for a pair of touchdowns leading UTAH to a 24-17 victory over an improving COLORADO ST. team.  The game was played in 25 degree temperatures as the Utes try to battle their way back to another Mountain West championship.

THE LINE:     ARIZONA by 3   (WON)
In what is being dubbed as the "Immaculate Interception", Husky linebacker Mason Foster intercepted a Nick Foles pass and returned it 37 yards for the game winning touchdown with 2:37 remaining to give WASHINGTON an improbable come back victory, 36-33 over ARIZONA in Seattle.  At the 6:38 mark of the 4th quarter, Washington trailed Arizona 33-21 before launching their comeback.  Husky quarterback Jake Locker ran for 101 yards and a touchdown and also threw 3 TD's in the win.  The "play" happened as the Wildcats were attempting to run out the clock, a pass from Foles to Delashaun Dean deflected off Dean's shoe tip and into the hands of Foster who took off for the clincher.