Yes, it sucks to start the season on the road, but just be thankful Kevin Wilson's reunion tour with the Scarlet and Gray isn't kicking off with one of those neutral-site abominations plaguing the remainder of the sport this week.
Michigan Wolverines vs. Florida Gators
Draper: Well, this game is my personal hell. No clue what to expect here. Michigan came out firing on all cylinders last year but all those studs are in the NFL now. I truly believe they are supremely overrated....but...Florida seems to be the definition of mediocrity this year (and the recent past). I don't think the Wolverines can make a statement for the CFP this year, they do have a returning QB who was pretty good last year and a coach that just seems to get results (maybe because his players are scared he'll eat them). I'll lean Michigan just barely as their uniforms blind the Gators. UM: 24--UF: 20
Hoying: I wish I could write something intelligent about this game but Michigan refuses to release their roster and Florida won't name a starting QB. So I'll have to say something mindless instead. Did you see those new uniforms that the Maize and...well, Maize are wearing this Saturday? On the positive side, I don't think they'll burn out my eyes like UM's awful yellow-on-yellow b-ball jerseys, but this one's going to be ugly. And it could be a blowout, too. UM: 20--UF: 10
Schweinfurth: The headline for this game should be "Have you seen what TTUN is wearing?" This could be one of the worst uniforms ever (and I bet they break them out against the Buckeyes too). I really don't know what to expect from either team. Florida is suspending everyone and TTUN lost a ton of talent last year. Don't let Harbooger fool you, Speight will start and lead the offense to a one score win, making TTUN even more overrated than they already are. UM: 21--UF: 17
Seeberg: Ugh, this is the college football equivalent of the Mayweather-McGregor fight where I hoped the pay-per-view cut out completely and both guys lost because neither got paid (admit it, you would've laughed your arse off if that happened). At any rate, TTUN rolls their uniforms in cat urine and trots down south to take on the Gators. I don't expect it to be a particularly pretty matchup as the Wolverines are replacing about as many starters as OSU was last year while Florida is, well, Florida: Very good defense, middling offense, expectations always just a notch or two above any realistic outcomes. Malik Zaire actually gives them a credible QB threat...if he starts over highly touted freshman Feleipe Franks. Either way there won't be a lot of points, which is just how both teams prefer it. In crunch time, I have to go with a proven commodity at QB and Speight makes just enough plays to, sadly, pull it out for the maize and more maize. UM: 20--UF: 16
Florida State Seminoles vs. Alabama Crimson Tide
Draper: Bama has been starting with a big boy for the past few years (USC, PSU, etc.), but this is a real challenge. The Noles are primed to make a run this year, but it can come crashing down (sort of) in week 1. Honestly, this game is a perfect scenario for both teams. The winner vaults to number 1 and is a prohibitive favorite for the playoff and the loser...is still right there in the running. I wonder what kind of strides DeAndre Francois and the Noles have made this offseason. Beating last year's UM team in the Orange Bowl was a nice feather in their cap, but Bama is a juggernaut that seems to be unstoppable (unless your name is Dabo). Definitely a little heart in this pick, but I'll call for the upset. Bama is a factory, but they have to run a little lower on talent when their roster is playing on Sundays, right...RIGHT!?! Either way, I just hope it's not the traditional early season stomp by the Tide. Go Noles! FSU: 31--Bama: 27
Hoying: The other day, I was listening to the good people at 97.1 The Fan try to list their top coaches of college football today. After the obvious top two (Nick and Urban), they filled out the second tier with Chris Petersen and Dabo Swinney, notably placing Jimbo Fisher somewhere down the line. It's hard to argue with recent results, with Clemson going to 2 straight national championships and claiming a win over Alabama. Florida State now has a golden opportunity to make a statement and regain their status as standard-bearer for the ACC. Can they do it? Probably not. Alabama has shown no signs of slowing down, they excel on the big stage, and they are pissed after gagging away a possible second straight national title. Florida State has lost the bulk of their receiving corps and their dynamic running back, Dalvin Cook. The good news for the Noles is that nobody on the committee will hold this loss against them (just don't get wrecked by 46 like USC did last year). FSU: 24--Bama: 31
Schweinfurth: Oh look, Bama playing a marquee matchup at a neutral site. Heaven forbid Saban actually has to play on someone else's home field. DeAndre Francois looked like a solid first year QB last season. Jalen Hurts on the other hand looked like a dynamic runner but throwing the ball was an issue. Yes, 'Bama reload every year, blah blah blah. So do the 'Noles. I'm excited for this game as it should be much better then the last few kickoff games. I got the 'Noles giving Saban two (!) losses in a row. FSU: 27--Bama: 24
Seeberg: Make no mistake about this game kids, Alabama is the better football team. There is a caveat, however. Both have sophomore star-in-the-making QBs hoping to take a big leap forward this season. Both lost a truckload of talent to the NFL. However, Jalen Hurts is the less-skilled of the two QBs and he is forced to learn a new, NFL-complicated offense. If this game were in about week 6 or later, it would be at least a two-possession win for the Tide, but right now, JUST right now, I trust the Seminoles a tad more. FSU: 27--Bama: 20
West Virginia Mountaineers vs. Virginia Tech Hokies
Draper: And now we come to the 'oh yeah, there's other games happening' portion. The crazy coach often comes out the victor Harbaugh, Saban, Fisher, Dabo, etc. and they don't get much crazier that Dana Holgorson. West Virginia will come out trying to drop a hundo but the lunch pail defense will prevent that....but not enough to win. Burn those couches as WVU gets an early jump on that 8-4 record (don't worry Hokies, you'll get there too) WVU: 48--VT: 38
Hoying: Is it mid-October yet? No? Then I don't see West Virginia's annual slide starting anytime soon. WVU: 44--VT: 31
Schweinfurth: I don't know what to think of this game. I saw some pundits picking Virginia Tech as a sleeper (sounds like basketball). Bud Foster can give teams nightmares but I don't think VaTech has the offense to keep up. WVU: 45--VT: 35
Seeberg: Despite Bud Foster still being at the defensive helm for the Hokies, this isn't your older brother's Frank Beamer Va Tech team. They can score it, and score it relatively often. Unfortunately, recruiting is down in Blacksburg and Foster isn't getting the premium talent he had during Beamer Ball's heyday. Meanwhile, West Virginia is getting offensive talent from everywhere...and scoring was never really an issue there anyhow. Expect the antithesis of the UM-Fla game (read: actually fun to watch) with the Mountaineers pulling away late. WVU: 48--VT: 33
THE Ohio State Buckeyes @ Indiana Hoosiers
Draper: I'm really excited about this year's Buckeye squad, particularly under center. I truly believe that having actual live QB Coaches and offensive coordinators will do wonders for JT. The Hoosiers simply won't be the same with one of their more successful coaches of the past 20 years now championing the OSU offense. The speed offense and short passing game is what JT's (and quite frankly, Urban's) offense is designed for, and Kevin Wilson runs it extremely well. Here's hoping Ryan Day improved JT's mechanics and we should see fireworks. Let's not forget how studly Mike Weber was last year not to mention some criminally under-utilized receiving corps talent. While so far I've only mentioned offense, the defense (particularly the line) should be the bread and butter of this team. Bosa, Hubbard, Sprinkle, Lewis, Jones, and Holmes will likely all be playing on Sundays in the near future. The front seven is loaded but there are a few question marks in the secondary. IU actual provides a really nice tune up for the Sooners. I don't anticipate this to be close. The Buckeyes are hungry after last year's embarrassment. Time to suit up. OSU: 59--IU: 10
Hoying: So, what do you do if you're Indiana? What is there to do when your offensive wizard of a coach is chased out after restoring your program to a semblance of respectability? Come roaring back with a new defensive identity. Unfortunately, it probably won't matter when the team you're facing has picked up that offensive wizard to call plays for them. The Buckeye O, while more or less effective over the last two seasons, has slowed a bit since JT's sensational freshman campaign, and their championship chances will largely rest on his development over his final year under Coach Wilson's steady hand. Having some competent receivers might not be a bad idea, either. OSU: 52--IU: 24
Schweinfurth: So many questions coming into this game: What will the offense look like? Can J.T. complete an intermediate pass? Can the receivers get open down field? What will the secondary look like? Can a Buckeye kicker make a damn field goal? Will there be a kickoff out of bounds in this game? (The answer to the last one is yes). The addition of Kevin Wilson and Ryan Day to the offensive staff can't be overlooked. It's been 2 years since J.T. had an actual QB coach and his mechanics and reads should be much better. I am worried about rotating 6 receivers. It almost sounds like the coaching staff is saying, "We don't know who is going to step up so everyone plays." The D-line play will be fun to watch. Schiano changed up the defensive front a bit so expect more sacks and domination up front. Ohio State will win this game, but we really need some of those questions answered. OSU: 49--IU: 28
Seeberg: Okay, I saved the jubilation for here, but COLLEGE FOOTBALL IS (INSERT FAVORITE EXPLETIVE OR STRING OF EXPLETIVES HERE) BACK!!! Despite the name on the opponent's jersey (and the laughable resume that accompanies it) this is quite the intriguing matchup. The Hoosiers offense has given the Buckeyes fits in recent years, keeping games close despite a wide talent disparity between the two programs except, somehow, at running back where Hoosier alum Tevin Coleman is currently running amok in the NFL akin to Zeke. However, the alleged mastermind of said offense now works for the scarlet and gray. Oops. Yes the Buckeyes have a lot of weaknesses, like a secondary made up of...yeah, if you're reading this you don't know either. But the front 4/6/19 studs that rotate in and out will wreak havoc upon opposing QBs so even if receivers are getting open they won't have the time to find them. I expect a bit of rust, a bit of adrenaline, and, most importantly, a dominant OL and DL. With those two pieces, everything else has a way of *cough 2014 cough* falling into place. Enjoy everyone, Buckeye football is upon us again! OSU: 45--IU: 17
Upset Special
Draper: App State over Georgia
Hoying: Rutgers over Washington
Schweinfurth: Georgia Tech over Tenn
Seeberg: Youngstown State over Pitt
Showing posts with label Alabama. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Alabama. Show all posts
Wednesday, August 30, 2017
Friday, November 13, 2015
Week 11 - In Which Ohio State Plays Illinois
Standings
1) Draper 37-14 (4-6 upset)
1) Seeberg 37-14 (1-9 upset)
3) Hoying 32-19 (1-9 upset)
3) Schweinfurth 32-19 (1-9 upset)
As Ramzy at Eleven Warriors so eloquently pointed out, The Grind is nearly at a close. Not just for Ohio State, but for the entire college football landscape. We've had a few clashes between heavyweights throughout the season, but next week is when the rubber really hits the road and the playoff field will really start to take shape. This week's slate should serve as a nice palate cleanser in the interim.
#6 Alabama Crimson Tide @ #22 Mississippi State Bulldogs
Draper: Welcome to Stark Vegas. Dak Prescott has been very good this year, but as the Bulldogs aren't undefeated, there has been very little discussion. Derrick Henry is the work horse that was fantastic last week vs. LSU. The question is: will they show up when the stage isn't nearly as big? As I said, MSU has been very good lately and is really clicking at the right time. The bad news is: so is Bama. Saban knows that the Tide cannot afford another hiccup (yes, even they can't survive another loss. Bama bell cow (Derrick Henry) > MSU cowbell. Bama: 27--MSU: 20
Hoying: OMG ALABAMA IS SO GOOD WHY ARE THEY NOT RANKED #1 YET???? Yes, Alabama had a great win last week But as Ole Miss showed a few weeks ago in Tuscaloosa, the Tide is mortal, and the Bulldogs catch the Tide at a dangerous time after a huge emotional win. MSU certainly can beat Alabama, but will they? The Tide have never been swept by the two Mississippi schools, and their combination of a solid power run game and stifling defense (that stuffed Leonard Fournette with 7 in the box). The Bulldogs will be motivated after their loss to the Tide last season, and Dak Prescott is still quite good, but it won't be enough. Don't be surprised if Alabama jumps off the top of the rankings completely next week. Bama: 24--MSU: 23
Schweinfurth: I am like a lot of people who said the Saban dynasty is over. I still believe this to be true on a national stage. However, the Crimson Tide still look to be the kings of the SEC. Lane Kiffin finally realized he has a beast and Derrick Henry. The Tide will ride that horse as far has he will carry them. Bama: 42--MSU: 13
Seeberg: OK, disclaimer time: I picked LSU last week over 'Bama on the (so-far correct by all accounts) assumption that Lane Kiffin would be too cutesy in his play-calling to just give the damn ball to Derrick Henry and get the heck out of the way. 38 carries and a 2-TD win later, I will not be picking against the Tide again until such time as Lane Kiffin forgets to just give the damn ball to Derrick Henry. It really is just that simple. Bama: 31--MSU: 20
#17 Memphis Tigers @ #17 Houston Cougars
Draper: Memphis finally hit the stumbling block at a terrible time (chop-block-o-clock). Teams have a tendency to collapse the week after facing an option offense. I could certainly see the same here, but I'm not sure about Tom Herman's boys. They're undefeated, yet completely untested. The schedule is simply poo. That, of course, is not the team and/or Herman's fault, but the best wins are vs. 5-4 Cincinnati and 5-4 Louisville (and both were 3 points games). Memphis's schedule isn't appreciably better, but Navy and Ole Miss are much better squads. I'm gonna roll with Justin Fuente to ensure the Group of Five is 'defeated'. Mem: 31--Hou: 24
Hoying: What could've been the biggest mid-major showdown since Boise State - TCU back in the 2010 Fiesta Bowl was ruined by Navy and their cut blocking voodoo. Houston's done their part, blowing out awful awful opponents before nearly succumbing to a decent Cincinnati team last week. Memphis will be the best team the Cougars have faced, but playing Navy takes a lot out of a team (ask a squad a little closer to home how the following week goes). Tom Herman continues to build his resume toward a big boy job. Mem: 31--Hou: 41
Schweinfurth: The Houston Cougars and Touchdown Tom Herman look almost like Ohio State South. Memphis was exposed a little bit against a run heavy offense last week against Navy. Between that and the Navy "body blow" theory, I'll take the Cougs at home. Mem: 27--Hou: 35
Seeberg: Navy's victory over Memphis last week certainly took some luster away from this game, but it's still a huge one in the Group of 5 Race forNew Years' Day More Money (TM). Unfortunately for the Cougars, they can't really take much away from Navy's triple option attack that worked virtually all night, scoring 45 points. More fortuitously, however, is that Navy's defense also did well against the Tigers, and Houston is likely to study that game film in-depth and employ some similar tactics to keep Memphis's offense as one-dimensional as possible. Go Houston Hermans! Mem: 31--Hou: 38
#17 Oklahoma Sooners @ #5 Baylor Bears
Draper: This game is very very interesting. Last week, we saw the chink in the Bear armor as the freshman QB was simply not at the level of Sean Russell. KSU was annihilated by Oklahoma in Manhattan but the Cats almost pulled of the upset vs. Briles' squad. Baylor (like Houston) has feasted on the Little Sisters of the Poor. OU has played a decent amount of crap as well, but the win at Tennessee was a nice gut check win. I know the Sooners can rise up on the road, but can Baylor rally? Baylor presses on the big stage. BOOMER!!.... OU: 52--Baylor: 40
Hoying: Has Baylor been exposed? KSU used all its wizard magic blowing a giant lead against TCU, and Baylor still struggled to put them away. The passing game is still working with true freshman Jarrett Stidham, but they're not the juggernaut they were with Russell slinging the ball. A true freshman hasn't led a team to a national title since Jamelle Holieway did it for...Oklahoma, back in 1985. On the other sideline, Oklahoma seems to be peaking at the right time, though this will be by far their biggest test. The Sooners are equal to the task, and Oklahoma State leaves the weekend as the Big 12's One True Playoff Hope. OU: 42--Bay: 38
Schweinfurth: Baylor has play no one this year and has yet to really be tested. Kansas State showed the blueprint on how to slow down the Bear offense. The difference between Oklahoma and K-State is talent. Oklahoma also has the guns to put up points with Baylor. OU: 52--Bay: 35
Seeberg: Only two things you need to know about this game: Baylor squeaked by Kansas State in Manhattan last week 31-24 with their shiny new backup QB. Oklahoma dismantled KSU so badly (55-0, also in Manhattan) that head coach Bill Snyder wrote a letter of apology to the Wildcats' fan base. Oklahoma is finally running the ball more, primarily with Samaje Perine, and quite frankly I might've picked the Sooners even with a healthy Seth Russell at QB for Baylor. At least we won't have to hear Art Briles whining any more about how lowly his team is ranked due to playing glorified high school teams in their out-of-conference slate. Boomer Sooner rolls out of Texas 9-1 and squarely in the CFP hunt. OU: 48--Bay: 38
THE Ohio State University Buckeyes @ Illinois Fighting Illini
Draper: The Bucks are finishing with the appetizer and preparing for the meat. Last week allowed the team to fight through a little adversity with Mr. Barrett not in the wings looking to save them. Now it's time to get everything firing on all cylinders. Let's start the pain train a week early. The Illini put it on Purdue last week...but OSU is no Purdue. There is the questions of the 'wind tunnel' in Champaign, but does it matter? I think this is a game to refine the ground game, improve the blocking, and get back into the read option game. Zeke and JT each rush for 150+ and JT also throws for 150+. The nice thing is that whenever JT returns, he seems to have never missed a beat. Another get in, work on a few things, win, and go home. OSU: 48--Ill:10
Hoying: As odd as it seems, losing JT for the Minnesota game might have helped the Buckeyes a bit. There's not much danger of a letdown coming from behind center; it seems like every time JT steps onto the field, he's completely rust-proof. And the excitement of him returning to the starting job might be the spark this team needs to avert what could be the trap game of trap games. Make no mistake, this is a good Illinois football team that can run the ball nearly as well as the Bucks when their star RB Josh Ferguson is on the field. Ohio State is still much, much better, though, and as long as they stay focused, they should bring The Grind to a satisfying conclusion and put themselves in prime position to begin The Chase anew. OSU: 49--Ill: 13
Seeberg: J.T. is back...again. Last time these two met in Champaign it was an unbelievably entertaining game I was fortunate enough to take in in person. A huge 47-14 Buckeye lead suddenly became 47-35...until the offense came back from hiatus and the final was 60-35. I wouldn't expect quite so many points this week (particularly from Illinois- although they did light up Purdue last week), but a similarly comfortable win, hopefully without the 4th-quarter mini-scare. Hyde destroyed the Illini two years ago, look for a big day from Zeke to get him creeping up in the Heisman talk. OSU: 49--Ill: 17
Upset Special
Draper: Washington State over UCLA
Hoying: Indiana over Michigan
Schweinfurth: Arkansas over LSU
Seeberg: NC State over Florida State
1) Draper 37-14 (4-6 upset)
1) Seeberg 37-14 (1-9 upset)
3) Hoying 32-19 (1-9 upset)
3) Schweinfurth 32-19 (1-9 upset)
As Ramzy at Eleven Warriors so eloquently pointed out, The Grind is nearly at a close. Not just for Ohio State, but for the entire college football landscape. We've had a few clashes between heavyweights throughout the season, but next week is when the rubber really hits the road and the playoff field will really start to take shape. This week's slate should serve as a nice palate cleanser in the interim.
#6 Alabama Crimson Tide @ #22 Mississippi State Bulldogs
Draper: Welcome to Stark Vegas. Dak Prescott has been very good this year, but as the Bulldogs aren't undefeated, there has been very little discussion. Derrick Henry is the work horse that was fantastic last week vs. LSU. The question is: will they show up when the stage isn't nearly as big? As I said, MSU has been very good lately and is really clicking at the right time. The bad news is: so is Bama. Saban knows that the Tide cannot afford another hiccup (yes, even they can't survive another loss. Bama bell cow (Derrick Henry) > MSU cowbell. Bama: 27--MSU: 20
Hoying: OMG ALABAMA IS SO GOOD WHY ARE THEY NOT RANKED #1 YET???? Yes, Alabama had a great win last week But as Ole Miss showed a few weeks ago in Tuscaloosa, the Tide is mortal, and the Bulldogs catch the Tide at a dangerous time after a huge emotional win. MSU certainly can beat Alabama, but will they? The Tide have never been swept by the two Mississippi schools, and their combination of a solid power run game and stifling defense (that stuffed Leonard Fournette with 7 in the box). The Bulldogs will be motivated after their loss to the Tide last season, and Dak Prescott is still quite good, but it won't be enough. Don't be surprised if Alabama jumps off the top of the rankings completely next week. Bama: 24--MSU: 23
Schweinfurth: I am like a lot of people who said the Saban dynasty is over. I still believe this to be true on a national stage. However, the Crimson Tide still look to be the kings of the SEC. Lane Kiffin finally realized he has a beast and Derrick Henry. The Tide will ride that horse as far has he will carry them. Bama: 42--MSU: 13
Seeberg: OK, disclaimer time: I picked LSU last week over 'Bama on the (so-far correct by all accounts) assumption that Lane Kiffin would be too cutesy in his play-calling to just give the damn ball to Derrick Henry and get the heck out of the way. 38 carries and a 2-TD win later, I will not be picking against the Tide again until such time as Lane Kiffin forgets to just give the damn ball to Derrick Henry. It really is just that simple. Bama: 31--MSU: 20
#17 Memphis Tigers @ #17 Houston Cougars
Draper: Memphis finally hit the stumbling block at a terrible time (chop-block-o-clock). Teams have a tendency to collapse the week after facing an option offense. I could certainly see the same here, but I'm not sure about Tom Herman's boys. They're undefeated, yet completely untested. The schedule is simply poo. That, of course, is not the team and/or Herman's fault, but the best wins are vs. 5-4 Cincinnati and 5-4 Louisville (and both were 3 points games). Memphis's schedule isn't appreciably better, but Navy and Ole Miss are much better squads. I'm gonna roll with Justin Fuente to ensure the Group of Five is 'defeated'. Mem: 31--Hou: 24
Hoying: What could've been the biggest mid-major showdown since Boise State - TCU back in the 2010 Fiesta Bowl was ruined by Navy and their cut blocking voodoo. Houston's done their part, blowing out awful awful opponents before nearly succumbing to a decent Cincinnati team last week. Memphis will be the best team the Cougars have faced, but playing Navy takes a lot out of a team (ask a squad a little closer to home how the following week goes). Tom Herman continues to build his resume toward a big boy job. Mem: 31--Hou: 41
Schweinfurth: The Houston Cougars and Touchdown Tom Herman look almost like Ohio State South. Memphis was exposed a little bit against a run heavy offense last week against Navy. Between that and the Navy "body blow" theory, I'll take the Cougs at home. Mem: 27--Hou: 35
Seeberg: Navy's victory over Memphis last week certainly took some luster away from this game, but it's still a huge one in the Group of 5 Race for
#17 Oklahoma Sooners @ #5 Baylor Bears
Draper: This game is very very interesting. Last week, we saw the chink in the Bear armor as the freshman QB was simply not at the level of Sean Russell. KSU was annihilated by Oklahoma in Manhattan but the Cats almost pulled of the upset vs. Briles' squad. Baylor (like Houston) has feasted on the Little Sisters of the Poor. OU has played a decent amount of crap as well, but the win at Tennessee was a nice gut check win. I know the Sooners can rise up on the road, but can Baylor rally? Baylor presses on the big stage. BOOMER!!.... OU: 52--Baylor: 40
Hoying: Has Baylor been exposed? KSU used all its wizard magic blowing a giant lead against TCU, and Baylor still struggled to put them away. The passing game is still working with true freshman Jarrett Stidham, but they're not the juggernaut they were with Russell slinging the ball. A true freshman hasn't led a team to a national title since Jamelle Holieway did it for...Oklahoma, back in 1985. On the other sideline, Oklahoma seems to be peaking at the right time, though this will be by far their biggest test. The Sooners are equal to the task, and Oklahoma State leaves the weekend as the Big 12's One True Playoff Hope. OU: 42--Bay: 38
Schweinfurth: Baylor has play no one this year and has yet to really be tested. Kansas State showed the blueprint on how to slow down the Bear offense. The difference between Oklahoma and K-State is talent. Oklahoma also has the guns to put up points with Baylor. OU: 52--Bay: 35
Seeberg: Only two things you need to know about this game: Baylor squeaked by Kansas State in Manhattan last week 31-24 with their shiny new backup QB. Oklahoma dismantled KSU so badly (55-0, also in Manhattan) that head coach Bill Snyder wrote a letter of apology to the Wildcats' fan base. Oklahoma is finally running the ball more, primarily with Samaje Perine, and quite frankly I might've picked the Sooners even with a healthy Seth Russell at QB for Baylor. At least we won't have to hear Art Briles whining any more about how lowly his team is ranked due to playing glorified high school teams in their out-of-conference slate. Boomer Sooner rolls out of Texas 9-1 and squarely in the CFP hunt. OU: 48--Bay: 38
THE Ohio State University Buckeyes @ Illinois Fighting Illini
Draper: The Bucks are finishing with the appetizer and preparing for the meat. Last week allowed the team to fight through a little adversity with Mr. Barrett not in the wings looking to save them. Now it's time to get everything firing on all cylinders. Let's start the pain train a week early. The Illini put it on Purdue last week...but OSU is no Purdue. There is the questions of the 'wind tunnel' in Champaign, but does it matter? I think this is a game to refine the ground game, improve the blocking, and get back into the read option game. Zeke and JT each rush for 150+ and JT also throws for 150+. The nice thing is that whenever JT returns, he seems to have never missed a beat. Another get in, work on a few things, win, and go home. OSU: 48--Ill:10
Hoying: As odd as it seems, losing JT for the Minnesota game might have helped the Buckeyes a bit. There's not much danger of a letdown coming from behind center; it seems like every time JT steps onto the field, he's completely rust-proof. And the excitement of him returning to the starting job might be the spark this team needs to avert what could be the trap game of trap games. Make no mistake, this is a good Illinois football team that can run the ball nearly as well as the Bucks when their star RB Josh Ferguson is on the field. Ohio State is still much, much better, though, and as long as they stay focused, they should bring The Grind to a satisfying conclusion and put themselves in prime position to begin The Chase anew. OSU: 49--Ill: 13
Seeberg: J.T. is back...again. Last time these two met in Champaign it was an unbelievably entertaining game I was fortunate enough to take in in person. A huge 47-14 Buckeye lead suddenly became 47-35...until the offense came back from hiatus and the final was 60-35. I wouldn't expect quite so many points this week (particularly from Illinois- although they did light up Purdue last week), but a similarly comfortable win, hopefully without the 4th-quarter mini-scare. Hyde destroyed the Illini two years ago, look for a big day from Zeke to get him creeping up in the Heisman talk. OSU: 49--Ill: 17
Upset Special
Draper: Washington State over UCLA
Hoying: Indiana over Michigan
Schweinfurth: Arkansas over LSU
Seeberg: NC State over Florida State
Thursday, November 05, 2015
Week 10 - Exhale for Cardale
Standings
1) Seeberg 34-11 (0-9 upset)
2) Draper 33-12 (4-5 upset)
3) Hoying 30-15 (1-8 upset)
3) Schweinfurth 30-15 (1-8 upset)
We've made it through the wilderness and to the Promised Land: November. Unfortunately, our Moses won't be joining us for a week. While we breathlessly await his return, there are some pretty important struggles throughout outlying provinces.
Duke Blue Devils @ #25 North Carolina Tar Heels
Draper: The Battle for the Victory Bell...not as sexy as the basketball matchup. Duke is reeling after the crazy loss to the Canes after some missed calls and poor officiating and UNC is high after a nationally televised win over ranked Pitt. I think these are two teams moving in different directions. Duke \has something to prove...but I don't see the rebound this quickly from what they experienced. Heels win in Chapel Hill to avenge the Dukie national championship (although no one will care). Duke: 17--UNC: 27
Hoying: One of the nation's great rivalries is renewed at the Dean Smith Center...what? Football? Consequence?? Yes, boys and girls, Duke and UNC are about to lock horns to determine control of a Power 5 division! The Heels are riding high after a huge road win over a good Pitt team, while Duke saw a great comeback against Miami ruined by the most special special teams ever. Both teams feature great defense, although the Devils have been exposed a bit lately, and not against juggernaut offenses either (hello, Virginia Tech). Time for a loss that even Mike Greenberg and the BooHoo Devils agree shouldn't be reversed. Duke: 20--UNC: 27
Schweinfurth: This is two underrated teams. I really think that Duke is going to be inspired by that debacle last week. I expect this will be a low scoring game. Duke: 17--UNC:14
Seeberg: As odd as this may sound, this relevant football game is all riding on Duke. If they can put last week's debacle behind them, they have a very good shot to win this game. If not? Their season may collapse like the gingerbread houses most of us try to make in December. UNC might be riding high after their win over Pitt and their entrance into the rankings (including the prestigious Let's Go Bucks rankings, of course), but Duke's mindset is still more in question. Both teams avoid Clemson and FSU in crossover games and have a pretty legitimate shot to be at double-digit wins heading to the ACC title game. In the end, I think the Hurricane Hullabaloo (because Miami Miracle is catchy but I want to be original while still using alliteration) is too much for the Blue Devils to overcome. Duke: 17--UNC: 28
#17 Florida State Seminoles @ #2 Clemson Tigers
Draper: Can the Tigers handle the pressure? Can the Noles respond after a flukish bad game vs. the Jackets? Clemson is playing at a super high level right now...but that's exactly when it all comes crashing down. FSU has been pretty 'eh' all year, but the talent cannot be denied. If Dalvin Cook plays and is 100%, there's a chance, but this Nole team isn't as good as the last 5 years. The primary thing going for FSU is, as Thad Matta would say, 'Their ***holes are tight." Clemson always chugs along and hits that wall against the Noles--they just expect to lose. A 3:30 kick is great for the Noles because I've said in the past that Death Valley is the 3rd loudest stadium I've ever been to (behind the Swamp and the Shoe). However, the magic of the stupid rock and crazy Dabo rises up to take control of the ACC and the playoffs...until they poop it away vs. Syracuse or Wake. FSU: 27--Clem: 38
Hoying: I'm tempted to never pick Clemson in this game again. Last year, the Tigers had the Noles exactly where they wanted them: trailing, with a terrible QB behind center that engineered shorter drives than a 4 year old golfer. And then they Clemsoned all over themselves. You might be tempted to say that this isn't last year's Clemson team, but one can never be sure until they play Florida State. Yes, FSU pooped the bed against an awful Georgia Tech team, but they still feature a very efficient QB, possibly the nation's top RB, and a stifling defense. All the pressure is on Clemson in this one. I don't think they can handle it. Look for the Seminole defense to force some turnovers and turn the tide. No hurricane is going to stop the Clemsoning this time. FSU: 30--Clem: 28
Schweinfurth: It seems like every time Clemson gets highly ranked and I pick them they lose. What brings me back to Clemson is the absence of Everett Golson (I can't believe I just wrote that) and the possible absence of Dalvin Cook. Cook at full go, I think he piles up the yards. I just really don't think the 'Noles have the firepower to pull off the upset on the road. FSU: 28--Clem: 35
Seeberg: I'll be honest, I thought this pick was a no-brainer for Clemson until I saw what Florida State did without Everett Golson and Dalvin Cook last week. Yes Syracuse is mediocre at best, but 45 points without their two primary playmakers seemed unthinkable. Cook is probable for this game which means one of two things: He's 100% and ready to shred the Tiger D, or he's about 85% and has to give it a go for the Seminoles to have a reasonable chance of winning. The starting quarterback is TBD, but my gut tells me they should go with Maguire and see if a talented backup with which the opponent has very little film of can win a big game (sound familar, Cardale fans??). With all that said, however, I just don't fully trust the FSU defense. They have put up some nice numbers against...Georgia Tech? Miami? Boston we-forgot-to-field-an-offense College? The Tigers will test that defense and though Florida State might pass that test, it'll only be with a C- or a D+, and that's not enough for a win. FSU: 31--Clem: 38
#5 TCU Horned Frogs @ #10 Oklahoma State Cowboys
Draper: The first real game in the Big 12 on display here. While we've seen defense is a dirty word in the conference, TCU has the slightly less sucky squad. Trevone Boykin is the best athlete on the field with a bevy of good receivers, but the Pokes are nothing to sneeze at. Mike Gundy has the Cowboys contending, but they've played a LOT of scrubs. TCU is slightly more battle tested so I lean on the Frogs here. TCU: 52--OSU: 45
Hoying: Give these teams credit. Both found themselves in deep holes early in games (TCU vs. KSU, OKSt vs. TTech) and clawed their way to victory. Don't count on seeing a great comeback this week, though. Whoever starts fast will just keep blasting away until the final gun. It's not like one of these teams would just stop playing up 21 in the 4th quarter and suffer a loss that eliminates them from national title contention. You could say TCU is on a mission after getting left out of last year's playoff, but the Cowboys were jobbed even harder in 2011 and turned that rage into an 8-5 campaign the next year. TCU has started to play a bit of defense since the first half at Kansas State, so look for them to stay within the ranks of the undefeated for at least another week. TCU: 49--OSU: 45
Schweinfurth: Welcome to your Big 12 shootout game of the week. TCU is going to have a chip on their shoulder after getting buried outside of the top 5 in the CFP rankings. Even without that motivation, I just think that TCU is better. I expect Trevone Boykin to continue to put up numbers (especially with the state of Big 12 defenses). I'm still not sold on TCU as a championship contender, but they are still one of the best teams in the Big 12. TCU: 52--OSU: 42
Seeberg: Start the obligatory scoreboard-breaking clichés. Texas Tech has lost 2 games this year in which they scored at least 50 points...55-52 to TCU and 70-53 to Oklahoma State. (Incidentally the last team to lose two games in a season scoring 50+ was Baylor in 2012, which probably surprises nobody). I don't know when this game is on but I hope it doesn't conflict with the Buckeyes' 8 PM kick (ok, 8:12 or whatever it is) so that I can watch this hilarity in its entirety. I still can't decide if Big 12 coaches simply stop recruiting defensive players after about 8th grade or if they self-select and go to the SEC or Big 10 where they have a chance to be relevant. In any event, expect some video-game numbers in this one, particularly from Trevone Boykin, and a Horned Frog defense that's getting a little bit healthier and a little bit better to make enough plays to win another old west shootout. TCU: 56--OSU: 45
Navy Midshipmen @ #7 Memphis Tigers
Draper: Memphis joins Iowa at the 'royally screwed by the playoff committee' table. That being said, you want respect Tigers? Prove it. Keenan Reynolds is about to take sole possession of the career TD rushing record in NCAA history from Montee Ball (sorry, Joe Tessitore) but the Tigers have the primo victory over Ole Miss (is it reeeeeeally that good, though?). That option attack is a bear to prepare for, but Memphis knows the stakes. Justin Fuente's Tigers keep rolling in a close hard fought win. Navy: 24--Mem: 30
Hoying: Upset about a premiere at #13 in the playoff rankings, Memphis? Here comes a nice stretch run to improve that resume. The Tigers' next 3 opponents have a combined record of 24-2, kicking off with the Midshipmen. Memphis actually has a pretty good rush defense, surrendering only 3.2 yards per carry, but preparing for Navy and the triple option is a whole different animal (ask Florida State about faceplanting against such an offense). Considering that Memphis played Tulane last, week, they probably had a bit of extra time to think about getting ready to face Navy. Y'all is Tiger boat. Navy: 20--Mem: 30
Schweinfurth: Navy is always a good quality opponent, but I would not want to face that offense in the middle of the season. With that said, I expect Navy to score, but Memphis will make the necessary adjustments. Navy: 21--Mem: 35
Seeberg: Navy will definitely score some points in this matchup. Memphis, however, is likely to score even more. The Tigers' primary concern has got to be keeping their defensive line healthy against the endless cut blocking of the triple option Midshipmen attack. Memphis has a darn good shot to go 12-0 and despite a first-half tussle with the only currently relevant service academy, the Tigers stay unbeaten. NAVY: 24--MEM: 42
#1 Louisiana State Tigers @ #9 Alabama Crimson Tide
Draper: This one should be fun....maybe. Let's be honest, Bama loses this one they're done, right? RIGHT?!?! Does a second 'quality loss' move them up? Leonard Fournette is the best athlete in college football right now but Bama has the best combination on the field. Coker isn't spectacular, but he complements Derrick Henry really well and the Tide defense is quite good. Bama was in no way deserving of the 4 spot in the CFP rankings...yet, but if they win out, they'll have a great argument. This game is by far the toughest game of the year for them and they get em in Tuscaloosa. I have a lot of respect for the Tigers, but the Tide is a bit too much. Please don't suck as much as the 9-6 crap fest 3 years ago... LSU: 17--Bama: 24
Hoying: Welcome to your GAME OF THE YEAR, if you don't count about 5 games coming up in the Big 12, or Ohio State/Michigan State. LSU hasn't been playing particularly well on the road, struggling against Mississippi State and Syracuse, while Alabama has sucked at home, losing to Ole Miss and nearly screwing the Smokey against Tennessee. Despite these efforts, the Playoff Committee is ready to crown Alabama for another year, but why? Because they blew out a mediocre Georgia team? Because they whupped a Wisconsin team that no one seems to care that Iowa beat? They do have that QUALITY LOSS (TM), I suppose. LSU still can't throw the ball, but it doesn't matter. The Tigers are sick of losing to the Tide and they have the power running game and the defense to deliver a victory in Tuscaloosa. Phyllis won't be happy after this one. LSU: 21--Bama: 20
Seeberg: I...I just don't know about this one. Eerily similar teams with dominant running backs, excellent defenses and questions at the QB position. Make no mistake, our beloved Zeke might be the best all around RB in college football (rout running, pass blocking, etc.), but Leonard Fournette and Derrick Henry are the two best backs in the game with the ball in their hands. I think this game is a low-scoring version of the Bama-Ole Miss game. In the end, I just don't trust Kiffin to give the ball to Henry enough, and LSU squeaks out a huge win. Enjoy that fescue, Les. LSU: 20--Bama: 16
Minnesota Golden Gophers @ #3 THE Ohio State University Buckeyes
Draper: The Buckeyes suffered a punch to the gut last week as JT went full Simple Jack, but it doesn't compare to the pile driver Tracy Claeys performed on the Gophers. I've never seen the end of a game coached worse than I saw last week. 19 seconds from the 1 yard line and a timeout and you run...2 plays...2!!!! I would have fired him on the sideline. Jerry Kill (clear B1G COY) could have coached that better from his house. Claeys stole from those kids a huge opportunity thaey won't get back. I don't see any way their heads are on straight this week. Cardale will be fine (not as good as JT), but there won't be a huge issue. Meyer will play this as a 'get the ball to Zeke, put em away early, and go home' type game. It won't feature explosive plays, but a workmanlike yeoman performance will get it done. Minn: 10--OSU: 38
Hoying: OK, JT did a dumb thing. And it'll hurt the Buckeyes to be without him this week. Fortunately, the opponent we face is far dumber, gagging away a sure win against our hated rivals by demonstrating clock management that would knock the blade of grass out of Les Miles's mouth and play-calling that begs for a Malcolm Butler interception. Don't fear the Gophers, Buckeye Nation. Minnesota QB Leidner inexplicably got away with chucking up prayers against a pretty good Wolverine secondary and Michigan still found a way to win behind the arm of a guy who wasn't even good enough to beat out Jake freaking Rudock for a starting gig. Cardale will be good, not great, just like always, and the Silver Bullets will step up in a big way to get the Bucks to 9-0. Minn: 13--OSU: 34 (sorry, Seeberg)
Seeberg: This is without a doubt the oddest quarterback carousel I can recall. Starting all the way back in the summer of 2014, allow me to refresh your memory: J.T. passes Cardale on depth chart as backup, Braxton goes down a week and a half later and J.T. is starter, J.T. injured against scUM and Cardale wins the golden lipstick, Braxton goes to H-back, Cardale wins starting job, Cardale yields to J.T. in red zone, J.T. takes starting job, J.T. suspended a week later and Cardale is starting again. Absolutely insane. Thankfully, Cardale has a full week to prepare with the starters and Minnesota is likely to be crushed mentally after snatching defeat from the jaws of victory in a valiant effort against TTUN last week. The Silver Bullets have a week to study the schematic changes the Gophers made to basically rip apart the Wolverine D in the first half (254 yards) and coast to a comfy win in the friendly confines of the 'Shoe. Minn: 13--OSU: 34
Upset Special
Draper: Indiana over Iowa
Hoying: Cincinnati over Houston
Schweinfurth: Washington over Utah
Seeberg: Northern Illinois over Toledo (had it up Monday night- Hoying saw it!)
1) Seeberg 34-11 (0-9 upset)
2) Draper 33-12 (4-5 upset)
3) Hoying 30-15 (1-8 upset)
3) Schweinfurth 30-15 (1-8 upset)
We've made it through the wilderness and to the Promised Land: November. Unfortunately, our Moses won't be joining us for a week. While we breathlessly await his return, there are some pretty important struggles throughout outlying provinces.
Duke Blue Devils @ #25 North Carolina Tar Heels
Draper: The Battle for the Victory Bell...not as sexy as the basketball matchup. Duke is reeling after the crazy loss to the Canes after some missed calls and poor officiating and UNC is high after a nationally televised win over ranked Pitt. I think these are two teams moving in different directions. Duke \has something to prove...but I don't see the rebound this quickly from what they experienced. Heels win in Chapel Hill to avenge the Dukie national championship (although no one will care). Duke: 17--UNC: 27
Hoying: One of the nation's great rivalries is renewed at the Dean Smith Center...what? Football? Consequence?? Yes, boys and girls, Duke and UNC are about to lock horns to determine control of a Power 5 division! The Heels are riding high after a huge road win over a good Pitt team, while Duke saw a great comeback against Miami ruined by the most special special teams ever. Both teams feature great defense, although the Devils have been exposed a bit lately, and not against juggernaut offenses either (hello, Virginia Tech). Time for a loss that even Mike Greenberg and the BooHoo Devils agree shouldn't be reversed. Duke: 20--UNC: 27
Schweinfurth: This is two underrated teams. I really think that Duke is going to be inspired by that debacle last week. I expect this will be a low scoring game. Duke: 17--UNC:14
Seeberg: As odd as this may sound, this relevant football game is all riding on Duke. If they can put last week's debacle behind them, they have a very good shot to win this game. If not? Their season may collapse like the gingerbread houses most of us try to make in December. UNC might be riding high after their win over Pitt and their entrance into the rankings (including the prestigious Let's Go Bucks rankings, of course), but Duke's mindset is still more in question. Both teams avoid Clemson and FSU in crossover games and have a pretty legitimate shot to be at double-digit wins heading to the ACC title game. In the end, I think the Hurricane Hullabaloo (because Miami Miracle is catchy but I want to be original while still using alliteration) is too much for the Blue Devils to overcome. Duke: 17--UNC: 28
#17 Florida State Seminoles @ #2 Clemson Tigers
Draper: Can the Tigers handle the pressure? Can the Noles respond after a flukish bad game vs. the Jackets? Clemson is playing at a super high level right now...but that's exactly when it all comes crashing down. FSU has been pretty 'eh' all year, but the talent cannot be denied. If Dalvin Cook plays and is 100%, there's a chance, but this Nole team isn't as good as the last 5 years. The primary thing going for FSU is, as Thad Matta would say, 'Their ***holes are tight." Clemson always chugs along and hits that wall against the Noles--they just expect to lose. A 3:30 kick is great for the Noles because I've said in the past that Death Valley is the 3rd loudest stadium I've ever been to (behind the Swamp and the Shoe). However, the magic of the stupid rock and crazy Dabo rises up to take control of the ACC and the playoffs...until they poop it away vs. Syracuse or Wake. FSU: 27--Clem: 38
Hoying: I'm tempted to never pick Clemson in this game again. Last year, the Tigers had the Noles exactly where they wanted them: trailing, with a terrible QB behind center that engineered shorter drives than a 4 year old golfer. And then they Clemsoned all over themselves. You might be tempted to say that this isn't last year's Clemson team, but one can never be sure until they play Florida State. Yes, FSU pooped the bed against an awful Georgia Tech team, but they still feature a very efficient QB, possibly the nation's top RB, and a stifling defense. All the pressure is on Clemson in this one. I don't think they can handle it. Look for the Seminole defense to force some turnovers and turn the tide. No hurricane is going to stop the Clemsoning this time. FSU: 30--Clem: 28
Schweinfurth: It seems like every time Clemson gets highly ranked and I pick them they lose. What brings me back to Clemson is the absence of Everett Golson (I can't believe I just wrote that) and the possible absence of Dalvin Cook. Cook at full go, I think he piles up the yards. I just really don't think the 'Noles have the firepower to pull off the upset on the road. FSU: 28--Clem: 35
Seeberg: I'll be honest, I thought this pick was a no-brainer for Clemson until I saw what Florida State did without Everett Golson and Dalvin Cook last week. Yes Syracuse is mediocre at best, but 45 points without their two primary playmakers seemed unthinkable. Cook is probable for this game which means one of two things: He's 100% and ready to shred the Tiger D, or he's about 85% and has to give it a go for the Seminoles to have a reasonable chance of winning. The starting quarterback is TBD, but my gut tells me they should go with Maguire and see if a talented backup with which the opponent has very little film of can win a big game (sound familar, Cardale fans??). With all that said, however, I just don't fully trust the FSU defense. They have put up some nice numbers against...Georgia Tech? Miami? Boston we-forgot-to-field-an-offense College? The Tigers will test that defense and though Florida State might pass that test, it'll only be with a C- or a D+, and that's not enough for a win. FSU: 31--Clem: 38
#5 TCU Horned Frogs @ #10 Oklahoma State Cowboys
Draper: The first real game in the Big 12 on display here. While we've seen defense is a dirty word in the conference, TCU has the slightly less sucky squad. Trevone Boykin is the best athlete on the field with a bevy of good receivers, but the Pokes are nothing to sneeze at. Mike Gundy has the Cowboys contending, but they've played a LOT of scrubs. TCU is slightly more battle tested so I lean on the Frogs here. TCU: 52--OSU: 45
Hoying: Give these teams credit. Both found themselves in deep holes early in games (TCU vs. KSU, OKSt vs. TTech) and clawed their way to victory. Don't count on seeing a great comeback this week, though. Whoever starts fast will just keep blasting away until the final gun. It's not like one of these teams would just stop playing up 21 in the 4th quarter and suffer a loss that eliminates them from national title contention. You could say TCU is on a mission after getting left out of last year's playoff, but the Cowboys were jobbed even harder in 2011 and turned that rage into an 8-5 campaign the next year. TCU has started to play a bit of defense since the first half at Kansas State, so look for them to stay within the ranks of the undefeated for at least another week. TCU: 49--OSU: 45
Schweinfurth: Welcome to your Big 12 shootout game of the week. TCU is going to have a chip on their shoulder after getting buried outside of the top 5 in the CFP rankings. Even without that motivation, I just think that TCU is better. I expect Trevone Boykin to continue to put up numbers (especially with the state of Big 12 defenses). I'm still not sold on TCU as a championship contender, but they are still one of the best teams in the Big 12. TCU: 52--OSU: 42
Seeberg: Start the obligatory scoreboard-breaking clichés. Texas Tech has lost 2 games this year in which they scored at least 50 points...55-52 to TCU and 70-53 to Oklahoma State. (Incidentally the last team to lose two games in a season scoring 50+ was Baylor in 2012, which probably surprises nobody). I don't know when this game is on but I hope it doesn't conflict with the Buckeyes' 8 PM kick (ok, 8:12 or whatever it is) so that I can watch this hilarity in its entirety. I still can't decide if Big 12 coaches simply stop recruiting defensive players after about 8th grade or if they self-select and go to the SEC or Big 10 where they have a chance to be relevant. In any event, expect some video-game numbers in this one, particularly from Trevone Boykin, and a Horned Frog defense that's getting a little bit healthier and a little bit better to make enough plays to win another old west shootout. TCU: 56--OSU: 45
Navy Midshipmen @ #7 Memphis Tigers
Draper: Memphis joins Iowa at the 'royally screwed by the playoff committee' table. That being said, you want respect Tigers? Prove it. Keenan Reynolds is about to take sole possession of the career TD rushing record in NCAA history from Montee Ball (sorry, Joe Tessitore) but the Tigers have the primo victory over Ole Miss (is it reeeeeeally that good, though?). That option attack is a bear to prepare for, but Memphis knows the stakes. Justin Fuente's Tigers keep rolling in a close hard fought win. Navy: 24--Mem: 30
Hoying: Upset about a premiere at #13 in the playoff rankings, Memphis? Here comes a nice stretch run to improve that resume. The Tigers' next 3 opponents have a combined record of 24-2, kicking off with the Midshipmen. Memphis actually has a pretty good rush defense, surrendering only 3.2 yards per carry, but preparing for Navy and the triple option is a whole different animal (ask Florida State about faceplanting against such an offense). Considering that Memphis played Tulane last, week, they probably had a bit of extra time to think about getting ready to face Navy. Y'all is Tiger boat. Navy: 20--Mem: 30
Schweinfurth: Navy is always a good quality opponent, but I would not want to face that offense in the middle of the season. With that said, I expect Navy to score, but Memphis will make the necessary adjustments. Navy: 21--Mem: 35
Seeberg: Navy will definitely score some points in this matchup. Memphis, however, is likely to score even more. The Tigers' primary concern has got to be keeping their defensive line healthy against the endless cut blocking of the triple option Midshipmen attack. Memphis has a darn good shot to go 12-0 and despite a first-half tussle with the only currently relevant service academy, the Tigers stay unbeaten. NAVY: 24--MEM: 42
#1 Louisiana State Tigers @ #9 Alabama Crimson Tide
Draper: This one should be fun....maybe. Let's be honest, Bama loses this one they're done, right? RIGHT?!?! Does a second 'quality loss' move them up? Leonard Fournette is the best athlete in college football right now but Bama has the best combination on the field. Coker isn't spectacular, but he complements Derrick Henry really well and the Tide defense is quite good. Bama was in no way deserving of the 4 spot in the CFP rankings...yet, but if they win out, they'll have a great argument. This game is by far the toughest game of the year for them and they get em in Tuscaloosa. I have a lot of respect for the Tigers, but the Tide is a bit too much. Please don't suck as much as the 9-6 crap fest 3 years ago... LSU: 17--Bama: 24
Hoying: Welcome to your GAME OF THE YEAR, if you don't count about 5 games coming up in the Big 12, or Ohio State/Michigan State. LSU hasn't been playing particularly well on the road, struggling against Mississippi State and Syracuse, while Alabama has sucked at home, losing to Ole Miss and nearly screwing the Smokey against Tennessee. Despite these efforts, the Playoff Committee is ready to crown Alabama for another year, but why? Because they blew out a mediocre Georgia team? Because they whupped a Wisconsin team that no one seems to care that Iowa beat? They do have that QUALITY LOSS (TM), I suppose. LSU still can't throw the ball, but it doesn't matter. The Tigers are sick of losing to the Tide and they have the power running game and the defense to deliver a victory in Tuscaloosa. Phyllis won't be happy after this one. LSU: 21--Bama: 20
Seeberg: I...I just don't know about this one. Eerily similar teams with dominant running backs, excellent defenses and questions at the QB position. Make no mistake, our beloved Zeke might be the best all around RB in college football (rout running, pass blocking, etc.), but Leonard Fournette and Derrick Henry are the two best backs in the game with the ball in their hands. I think this game is a low-scoring version of the Bama-Ole Miss game. In the end, I just don't trust Kiffin to give the ball to Henry enough, and LSU squeaks out a huge win. Enjoy that fescue, Les. LSU: 20--Bama: 16
Minnesota Golden Gophers @ #3 THE Ohio State University Buckeyes
Draper: The Buckeyes suffered a punch to the gut last week as JT went full Simple Jack, but it doesn't compare to the pile driver Tracy Claeys performed on the Gophers. I've never seen the end of a game coached worse than I saw last week. 19 seconds from the 1 yard line and a timeout and you run...2 plays...2!!!! I would have fired him on the sideline. Jerry Kill (clear B1G COY) could have coached that better from his house. Claeys stole from those kids a huge opportunity thaey won't get back. I don't see any way their heads are on straight this week. Cardale will be fine (not as good as JT), but there won't be a huge issue. Meyer will play this as a 'get the ball to Zeke, put em away early, and go home' type game. It won't feature explosive plays, but a workmanlike yeoman performance will get it done. Minn: 10--OSU: 38
Hoying: OK, JT did a dumb thing. And it'll hurt the Buckeyes to be without him this week. Fortunately, the opponent we face is far dumber, gagging away a sure win against our hated rivals by demonstrating clock management that would knock the blade of grass out of Les Miles's mouth and play-calling that begs for a Malcolm Butler interception. Don't fear the Gophers, Buckeye Nation. Minnesota QB Leidner inexplicably got away with chucking up prayers against a pretty good Wolverine secondary and Michigan still found a way to win behind the arm of a guy who wasn't even good enough to beat out Jake freaking Rudock for a starting gig. Cardale will be good, not great, just like always, and the Silver Bullets will step up in a big way to get the Bucks to 9-0. Minn: 13--OSU: 34 (sorry, Seeberg)
Seeberg: This is without a doubt the oddest quarterback carousel I can recall. Starting all the way back in the summer of 2014, allow me to refresh your memory: J.T. passes Cardale on depth chart as backup, Braxton goes down a week and a half later and J.T. is starter, J.T. injured against scUM and Cardale wins the golden lipstick, Braxton goes to H-back, Cardale wins starting job, Cardale yields to J.T. in red zone, J.T. takes starting job, J.T. suspended a week later and Cardale is starting again. Absolutely insane. Thankfully, Cardale has a full week to prepare with the starters and Minnesota is likely to be crushed mentally after snatching defeat from the jaws of victory in a valiant effort against TTUN last week. The Silver Bullets have a week to study the schematic changes the Gophers made to basically rip apart the Wolverine D in the first half (254 yards) and coast to a comfy win in the friendly confines of the 'Shoe. Minn: 13--OSU: 34
Upset Special
Draper: Indiana over Iowa
Hoying: Cincinnati over Houston
Schweinfurth: Washington over Utah
Seeberg: Northern Illinois over Toledo (had it up Monday night- Hoying saw it!)
Wednesday, October 14, 2015
Week 7 - That Rivalry Up North
Standings
1) Seeberg 24-7 (0-6 upset)
2) Draper 22-9 (4-2 upset)
3) Hoying 21-10 (1-5 upset)
4) Schweinfurth 20-11 (1-5 upset)
As we approach the season's halfway point, 16 undefeated teams are still in the playoff chase, with another 14 Power 5 teams floating around with just one loss. This week's action should go a long way toward determining who we'll see in Miami and Dallas on New Year's Eve, particularly from our own beloved B1G.
UCLA Bruins @ Stanford Cardinal
Draper: After the anomaly in Evanston, Stanford has really come together and started to look like a real football team. UCLA on the other hand, started super hot and now has come crashing back to earth. Stanford has much more experience at QB but Josh Rosen is the flavor of the month. The loss of Myles Jack is huge, but I'm expecting a rebound from the Bruins. Stanford tries to muck it up, but UCLA gets enough flash to escape Palo Alto with a win. UCLA: 31 -- Stan: 28
Hoying: With all the turmoil that's engulfed the Pac-12 over the last couple of weeks, it's odd that these teams aren't getting more hype as potential playoff contenders. Each is sitting on only one loss and has looked pretty good the rest of the time. Age meets beauty behind center as Stanford senior QB Kevin Hogan and UCLA freshman QB Josh Rosen continue to have excellent seasons slinging the ball. But in big games, experience counts, and Stanford has been the hot team after losing their opener to better-than-expected Northwestern. Cardinal get the win in front of all 50 of their fans at home. UCLA: 20--Stan: 24
Schweinfurth: I can honestly say I really don't know much about these two teams (thanks to after 10 PM PAC-12 games and the whole east coast bias thing). What I do know is that both teams have good QBs. Unfortunately, UCLA is without Miles Jack and Stanford have a senior QB. Advantage Cardinal. UCLA: 28--Stan: 31
Seeberg: Stanford is averaging 35 ppg on offense. That may come as a shock to some of you who only remember their 16-6 opening week debacle at Northwestern. Meanwhile in SoCal, UCLA was the toast of the Pac-12 for about 47 minutes and then lost badly to Arizona State at home last week. Both teams run it well and have talented QBs, though Kevin Hogan has far more experience. I think UCLA will be poised for this game, knowing a second conference loss all but ruins their plans for the year, but Stanford is playing just a little too well at the moment. Dance hideous tree, dance. UCLA: 24--STAN: 31
Iowa Hawkeyes @ Northwestern Wildcats
Draper: Is Iowa for real? Is Northwestern decent or will they fold after their first adversity of the year. Michigan took the wind out of the Wildcats sails, but we need to see if Northwestern folds after the first bad game like they have so often in the recent past. Iowa is undefeated but they haven't played anyone of note (before you give me Wisconsin...you obviously didn't watch that poor excuse of a 'game' in Madison). I think Northwestern rebounds at home in a tight low scoring affair. Iowa: 10 -- NW: 13
Hoying: Michigan ruins everything. What could've been a showdown between two undefeated B1G West heavyweights is...still actually really important. Sure, Northwestern got blasted, but they still control their destiny and a win over the Hawkeyes would put them in the driver's seat. But do the 'Cats have anything left in the tank? In 2013, Ohio State broke undefeated and ranked Northwestern and it took them 2 years to recover. The loss to Michigan wasn't quite as heartbreaking (NW was probably at peace with it by about the 4th quarter) but they'll need to be at full power to handle an Iowa team that continues to have success on the ground and on defense. Northwestern is the better team, but don't underestimate the hangover effect. Iowa: 16--NW: 13
Schweinfurth: You have to think that Northwestern is reeling after the beating they took last week. This seems to happen every year. Northwestern gets off to a great start and then puts all their energy into one game, get their hearts ripped out, and then crash the rest of the year. It looks like it might happen again this year. Iowa is just bullying teams with their defense and physical run game. The Wildcat defense was totally shut down last week and I don't see much changing this week. The Northwestern crash begins. Iowa: 20--NW: 3
Seeberg: Let's be honest here, both teams are already playing with house money at 6-0 (Iowa), 5-1 (NW) and in the top 20. However, NW basically collapsed after their last nationally relevant game ended in defeat against the Buckeyes in Evanston two years ago. The 38-0 scoreline against TTUN was a touch misleading as 14 points came off of returns (kick and INT), but Northwestern still got exposed and they haven't scored more than 27 against an FBS opponent this season. This is the biggest test for Iowa to date, but after winning ugly against an albeit down Wisconsin team at their hellhole of a stadium, I don't expect the Cubbie-crazy Chicago suburb to be too into this game after the loss at UM. Hawkeyes ugly their way to 7-0. IOWA: 17--NW: 10
Alabama Crimson Tide @ Texas A&M Aggies
Draper: Bama seemed to have rebounded with a monster of a game vs. UGA but the Arkansas game was clearly a little scary for 3 quarters for those in Tuscaloosa. A&M is another of those teams just hanging around. Are they good? I have no idea, but I think Bama, when at their peak, is solid. I fear for my life too much to pick against Saban, even at Kyle Field. Bama: 31--TAMU: 21
Hoying: It's possible that the SEC's best team is playing in this game, and that they'll be wearing the home maroons. After thrashing Arizona State in the season opener, the Aggies have quietly strung together 4 more wins behind the excellent play of QB Kyle Allen. Meanwhile, Alabama struggled to do anything for 3 quarters against Bert before pulling away. Stopping the Arkansas offense is one thing; can Saban shut down Texas A&M? Ole Miss needed every trick in the book and every favorable bounce to bounce Alabama, and I don't think lightning is going to strike twice until Bama's opponent has a bit more thunder in the tank. Bama: 38--TAMU: 28
Schweinfurth: One gets the feeling that Alabama has been escaping more games this year than in the past. This isn't the Alabama of the last few years. Saban still hasn't figured out how to stop a good spread offense and relies on guys who are on the large, slower side. It does seem that Lane Kiffin has pulled his head out of his backside (Saban's edict?) and has begun to rely on that strong running game lead by Derrick Henry. The Aggies always give the Tide fits and this is another close one. Henry and the Tide run game are the difference. Bama: 42--TAMU: 38
Seeberg: Bama is 5-1 this season despite not really looking much like Bama for long stretches with the exception of their thrashing of Georgia. They were down 7-3 in the 3rd quarter against we-lost-to-Toledo Arkansas before waking up to win 27-14. In a slightly darker shade of Crimson, the Aggies haven't really faced any adversity whatsoever in their 5-0 start except against- that's right- we-also-lost-to-Texas-Tech Arkansas. The Aggies needed OT to escape the Razorbacks. The difference? The Aggies could not run the ball at all and needed Kyle Allen heroics (358 pass yds) to win. Bama has an improving Jay Coker and Derrick Henry to hand the ball to. That balance will, combined with Bama's D shutting down the run like Arkansas did, give the Crimson Tide a close win. BAMA: 27--TAMU: 20
Michigan State Spartans @ Michigan Wolverines
Draper: This game all of a sudden got realllllll interesting. Michigan is arguably the hottest team in football with 3 straight shutouts. MSU has been limping along all season similar to OSU. The question is: Is MSU (and OSU) bored, or do they have chinks in the armor? I imagine it's a little of both. In my opinion, Michigan is playing at their maximum level and we have yet to see the best of MSU. Being in the Big House, the Wolverine faithful will be strutting their stuff up until kickoff. Something tells me, this is the week in which MSU puts it together. Cook, and Scott steadily wear down the vaulted Wolverine defense and the Spartan defense exposes Jake Rudock as the worthless QB he is. Close game, but the Blue go home crying after another beat at the hands of 'little brother'. MSU: 20 -- UM: 13
Hoying: Remember when the hot talk was whether Ohio State and Michigan State could both make the playoff after blowing through their easy conference slates? Suddenly, the hot takes aren't talking about either team representing the B1G. Three straight shutouts will do wonders for a team's reputation, even when that team has done this to us before in recent memory, starting 4-0 in 2009 (finished 5-7), 5-0 in 2010 (finished 7-6), and 5-0 in 2013 (finished 7-6). What's the mark of Michigan being back for real? Knocking off Little Brother. The Maize and Blue owned the Green and White before Lloyd left, but it's been incredibly rough sailing since. Part of it is the constant coaching changes, especially since a first-year Wolverine coach hasn't beaten their #2 rivals since Bennie Oosterbaan in 1948. This year, the evil empire has the better defense and maybe even the better running game. This one will come down to how well the Spartan front can rattle Rudock and force him to make mistakes. Sparty's struggled to put away worse teams, and after seeing Utah pick off Cal QB Jared Goff 5 times, it looks like maybe Jake's not the turnover machine Buckeye Nation thought they could ridicule all year. Be glad we have another 6 weeks to prepare, because the Harbaugh victory train keeps right on rolling. MSU: 20--UM: 24
Schweinfurth: I really don't know what to make of these two teams. TUN defense actually looks legit, but I have serious questions about Jake Rudock as a decent QB. I feel like he just hasn't done much and the Wolverines rely way too much on the run game. On the other side, the Spartans have been playing uninspired football the last few weeks and barely escaped Piscataway with a win last week. We know Dantonio can coach up that defense and I think the Spartans have been looking forward to this game all year to this point. We finally see the Spartan team that rolled Oregon in week two and L.J. Scott has a big day chewing up clock. All hail Little Brother. MSU: 17--UM: 14
Seeberg: If anyone tells you they had the Wolverines favored by a full touchdown in this game at the start of the season, then they have taken a quantum leap in the field of compulsive lying. Yet somehow, that's where we find ourselves. I think the Spartans are probably the better team assuming both squads are at even strength, but a laundry list of injuries has Sparty looking quite pedestrian. Meanwhile, Jake Rudock has looked positively competent since his disastrous 3 INT performance against Utah, although I do think the 38 points put up against NW last week is a bit misleading (kick return TD and a pick-6 account for 14 of those points). Nonetheless, the hideous maize and blue are the better team right now. The shutout streak ends, but L.J. Scott is really all MSU has on offense, and it won't be enough. Sorry Sparty. MSU: 13--UM: 20
Florida Gators @ Louisiana State Tigers
Draper: A sexy matchup in the Bayou...before Will Grier was suspended for the year. The Gators were a pleasant surprise through the first half of the year (even with the close call vs. UK) but this is the straw that broke the Gator's back...and oh yeah, there's a guy named Leonard Fournette on the other sideline. With Grier, the Gators had a chance (still not a great one), without him, I don't see this being close. Death Valley is really tough to win in at night, even for full teams. This could be over by half. UF: 10--LSU: 27
Hoying: A league of terrible quarterbacks just got terribler. Florida's Will Grier, a virtual lock for all-SEC QB, peed in the wrong cup and now he'll have to watch Treon Harris bumble and stumble his way against a fearsome Tiger D in Death Valley. That is, if Harris himself doesn't get suspended again before Saturday. It's not like LSU is going to be any better through the air, but when you have Leonard Fournette, you don't really need a two-dimensional offense. It's like having a 16 oz prime rib and complaining that your salad doesn't have enough croutons on it. Florida, like a crouton, is toast, and not even the Ol' Ball Coach could save them. It's not possible to lose your superstar QB for the season and compete for the national title. Fla: 17--LSU: 31
Schweinfurth: What happens when you don't check the label on your over-the-counter supplements? You get suspended for using a PED (oops). So now both teams have huge question marks at the QB position. It's also put up or shut-up time for Fournette. I think he will provide all the offense LSU needs in this game, but doesn't rip off the big one he has had the last few weeks. Fla: 13--LSU: 14
Seeberg: Can LSU throw the ball? I honestly have no idea. What's scarier is that LSU has no idea either, averaging a paltry 122 yards per game. If Fournette runs all over the Gators he is a likely shoe-in for the Heisman but I don't see that happening. He'll certainly get near/over 100 yards, but it will probably take 20-25 carries. Florida's offense isn't exactly a juggernaut either, but they did put up 38 on Ole Miss which is more than I would expect LSU to score against the Rebels. Oddly, Florida doesn't run the ball particularly well, so both offenses are one-dimensional. In short, the squad I trust most on the field is the Florida D, having faced better competition than LSU and giving up 8 fewer ppg. Fournette might make enough plays to win it, but if he doesn't do it by himself, the Gators will rule the day. STOP THE PRESSES: Will Grier was just suspended for the season for testing positive for PEDs. I had Florida before that news, but that just might be the break LSU needs to pull out a low-scoring win. FLA: 10--LSU: 17
Penn State Nittany Lions @ THE University of Cincinnati Bearcats
Draper: Penn State was to be the second biggest threat to the Buckeyes after the Spartans. Now, I'm not really concerned at all. Christian Hackenberg was once the NFL darling, but he folds under pressure...uh oh. The front seven will be giving him fits all day (I'm saying 5 sacks). I haven't seen a single thing out of Happy Valley that should worry the Buckeyes. This is a rebound game for the defense after a subpar performance vs. craptastic Maryland. Offensively, there were some good things that need to continue. This whole redzone QB thing bothers me (if JT is the best making decisions in the red zone, he's the best option period) but we should have plenty of time to work out the kinks. Game goals: , no turnovers for the offense, utilize the short passing game effectively but take a few shots deep, and the usual 100+ for Zeke. Defensively, at least 3 sacks, zero big plays, and run defense. Another tune-up game that SHOULD be done by half. PSU: 10 -- OSU: 38
Hoying: FINALLY. That's the #1 Buckeye team we've been waiting to see since Labor Day. No turnovers? Check. Perfect in the red zone? Check. Contain the QB? ......well, it's a good thing we don't have to worry about facing another mobile QB for a while (bring it on, Cook & Rudock). Last year, this was the game that I thought would solidify OSU's resurrection from their awful loss to VT, but it instead showed that they could handle adversity and come together when it mattered most. This season, I'm not really worried. Hackenberg continues to struggle when put under pressure (dear Lord...) and the two-headed monster should shred an overrated Nittany Lion D. Make no mistake, Penn State is a complete mirage, and if the Bucks keep their current trajectory, they might steal a few first place votes back on Sunday morning. PSU: 13--OSU: 35
Schweinfurth: Ahh yes, Pick Six University is rolling into town this week to face off the Men of the Black and...What are our school colors again? The two headed monster of Cardale and J.T. looked good and the coaching staff did a very good job of playing to both QBs' strengths. I expect this to continue with some J.T. sprinkled in to other areas of the field as well (probably some short yardage packages). This is going to be a pass first game as the Nittany Lions are going to load up to stop Zeke. Is this the week we see Braxton throw a pass? Maybe if it is the jet sweep tap pass. Otherwise, he stays on the outside. I expect Braxton and Thomas to have huge games (100+ yards each). We also get to see Christian Sackenberg and boy will he take a beating. Yes, the Lion offensive line has looked better since that Temple game, but they haven't faced a D-Line like this since last year's OSU game and they gave up 4 sack. Lewis, Washington, Bosa, and Lee all get at least one sack in this game. PSU lives up to expectations this year and Powell gets the pick six. PSU: 10--OSU: 45
Seeberg: SO many games this week that seem as if they will be closely contested, this is the only one I can pick with a good amount of confidence. The offense seemed to take a step forward last week. Still too many penalties but no turnovers is definitely a plus. J.T. in the red zone was unexpected but highly effective. We just have to hope that one week of tape isn't enough for teams to put a package together to thwart our sudden red-zone efficiency. Our previously highly touted defense apparently refuses to use a spy on a running quarterback, but thankfully good ole' Sackenburg is a relatively stagnant target in the pocket. I'm still concerned about the receiving corps- only Michael Thomas appears to be getting separation with any consistency. I also think Samuel needs more touches to compliment Zeke and Braxton in the backfield. Still, in the 'Shoe and not the confines ofDrunkard Happy Valley for a night game, the Bucks should win going away. PSU: 17--OSU: 38
Upset Special
Draper: Kansas State over Oklahoma
Hoying: Arizona State over Utah
Schweinfurth: West Virginia over Baylor
Seeberg: Louisville over Florida State
1) Seeberg 24-7 (0-6 upset)
2) Draper 22-9 (4-2 upset)
3) Hoying 21-10 (1-5 upset)
4) Schweinfurth 20-11 (1-5 upset)
As we approach the season's halfway point, 16 undefeated teams are still in the playoff chase, with another 14 Power 5 teams floating around with just one loss. This week's action should go a long way toward determining who we'll see in Miami and Dallas on New Year's Eve, particularly from our own beloved B1G.
UCLA Bruins @ Stanford Cardinal
Draper: After the anomaly in Evanston, Stanford has really come together and started to look like a real football team. UCLA on the other hand, started super hot and now has come crashing back to earth. Stanford has much more experience at QB but Josh Rosen is the flavor of the month. The loss of Myles Jack is huge, but I'm expecting a rebound from the Bruins. Stanford tries to muck it up, but UCLA gets enough flash to escape Palo Alto with a win. UCLA: 31 -- Stan: 28
Hoying: With all the turmoil that's engulfed the Pac-12 over the last couple of weeks, it's odd that these teams aren't getting more hype as potential playoff contenders. Each is sitting on only one loss and has looked pretty good the rest of the time. Age meets beauty behind center as Stanford senior QB Kevin Hogan and UCLA freshman QB Josh Rosen continue to have excellent seasons slinging the ball. But in big games, experience counts, and Stanford has been the hot team after losing their opener to better-than-expected Northwestern. Cardinal get the win in front of all 50 of their fans at home. UCLA: 20--Stan: 24
Schweinfurth: I can honestly say I really don't know much about these two teams (thanks to after 10 PM PAC-12 games and the whole east coast bias thing). What I do know is that both teams have good QBs. Unfortunately, UCLA is without Miles Jack and Stanford have a senior QB. Advantage Cardinal. UCLA: 28--Stan: 31
Seeberg: Stanford is averaging 35 ppg on offense. That may come as a shock to some of you who only remember their 16-6 opening week debacle at Northwestern. Meanwhile in SoCal, UCLA was the toast of the Pac-12 for about 47 minutes and then lost badly to Arizona State at home last week. Both teams run it well and have talented QBs, though Kevin Hogan has far more experience. I think UCLA will be poised for this game, knowing a second conference loss all but ruins their plans for the year, but Stanford is playing just a little too well at the moment. Dance hideous tree, dance. UCLA: 24--STAN: 31
Iowa Hawkeyes @ Northwestern Wildcats
Draper: Is Iowa for real? Is Northwestern decent or will they fold after their first adversity of the year. Michigan took the wind out of the Wildcats sails, but we need to see if Northwestern folds after the first bad game like they have so often in the recent past. Iowa is undefeated but they haven't played anyone of note (before you give me Wisconsin...you obviously didn't watch that poor excuse of a 'game' in Madison). I think Northwestern rebounds at home in a tight low scoring affair. Iowa: 10 -- NW: 13
Hoying: Michigan ruins everything. What could've been a showdown between two undefeated B1G West heavyweights is...still actually really important. Sure, Northwestern got blasted, but they still control their destiny and a win over the Hawkeyes would put them in the driver's seat. But do the 'Cats have anything left in the tank? In 2013, Ohio State broke undefeated and ranked Northwestern and it took them 2 years to recover. The loss to Michigan wasn't quite as heartbreaking (NW was probably at peace with it by about the 4th quarter) but they'll need to be at full power to handle an Iowa team that continues to have success on the ground and on defense. Northwestern is the better team, but don't underestimate the hangover effect. Iowa: 16--NW: 13
Schweinfurth: You have to think that Northwestern is reeling after the beating they took last week. This seems to happen every year. Northwestern gets off to a great start and then puts all their energy into one game, get their hearts ripped out, and then crash the rest of the year. It looks like it might happen again this year. Iowa is just bullying teams with their defense and physical run game. The Wildcat defense was totally shut down last week and I don't see much changing this week. The Northwestern crash begins. Iowa: 20--NW: 3
Seeberg: Let's be honest here, both teams are already playing with house money at 6-0 (Iowa), 5-1 (NW) and in the top 20. However, NW basically collapsed after their last nationally relevant game ended in defeat against the Buckeyes in Evanston two years ago. The 38-0 scoreline against TTUN was a touch misleading as 14 points came off of returns (kick and INT), but Northwestern still got exposed and they haven't scored more than 27 against an FBS opponent this season. This is the biggest test for Iowa to date, but after winning ugly against an albeit down Wisconsin team at their hellhole of a stadium, I don't expect the Cubbie-crazy Chicago suburb to be too into this game after the loss at UM. Hawkeyes ugly their way to 7-0. IOWA: 17--NW: 10
Alabama Crimson Tide @ Texas A&M Aggies
Draper: Bama seemed to have rebounded with a monster of a game vs. UGA but the Arkansas game was clearly a little scary for 3 quarters for those in Tuscaloosa. A&M is another of those teams just hanging around. Are they good? I have no idea, but I think Bama, when at their peak, is solid. I fear for my life too much to pick against Saban, even at Kyle Field. Bama: 31--TAMU: 21
Hoying: It's possible that the SEC's best team is playing in this game, and that they'll be wearing the home maroons. After thrashing Arizona State in the season opener, the Aggies have quietly strung together 4 more wins behind the excellent play of QB Kyle Allen. Meanwhile, Alabama struggled to do anything for 3 quarters against Bert before pulling away. Stopping the Arkansas offense is one thing; can Saban shut down Texas A&M? Ole Miss needed every trick in the book and every favorable bounce to bounce Alabama, and I don't think lightning is going to strike twice until Bama's opponent has a bit more thunder in the tank. Bama: 38--TAMU: 28
Schweinfurth: One gets the feeling that Alabama has been escaping more games this year than in the past. This isn't the Alabama of the last few years. Saban still hasn't figured out how to stop a good spread offense and relies on guys who are on the large, slower side. It does seem that Lane Kiffin has pulled his head out of his backside (Saban's edict?) and has begun to rely on that strong running game lead by Derrick Henry. The Aggies always give the Tide fits and this is another close one. Henry and the Tide run game are the difference. Bama: 42--TAMU: 38
Seeberg: Bama is 5-1 this season despite not really looking much like Bama for long stretches with the exception of their thrashing of Georgia. They were down 7-3 in the 3rd quarter against we-lost-to-Toledo Arkansas before waking up to win 27-14. In a slightly darker shade of Crimson, the Aggies haven't really faced any adversity whatsoever in their 5-0 start except against- that's right- we-also-lost-to-Texas-Tech Arkansas. The Aggies needed OT to escape the Razorbacks. The difference? The Aggies could not run the ball at all and needed Kyle Allen heroics (358 pass yds) to win. Bama has an improving Jay Coker and Derrick Henry to hand the ball to. That balance will, combined with Bama's D shutting down the run like Arkansas did, give the Crimson Tide a close win. BAMA: 27--TAMU: 20
Michigan State Spartans @ Michigan Wolverines
Draper: This game all of a sudden got realllllll interesting. Michigan is arguably the hottest team in football with 3 straight shutouts. MSU has been limping along all season similar to OSU. The question is: Is MSU (and OSU) bored, or do they have chinks in the armor? I imagine it's a little of both. In my opinion, Michigan is playing at their maximum level and we have yet to see the best of MSU. Being in the Big House, the Wolverine faithful will be strutting their stuff up until kickoff. Something tells me, this is the week in which MSU puts it together. Cook, and Scott steadily wear down the vaulted Wolverine defense and the Spartan defense exposes Jake Rudock as the worthless QB he is. Close game, but the Blue go home crying after another beat at the hands of 'little brother'. MSU: 20 -- UM: 13
Hoying: Remember when the hot talk was whether Ohio State and Michigan State could both make the playoff after blowing through their easy conference slates? Suddenly, the hot takes aren't talking about either team representing the B1G. Three straight shutouts will do wonders for a team's reputation, even when that team has done this to us before in recent memory, starting 4-0 in 2009 (finished 5-7), 5-0 in 2010 (finished 7-6), and 5-0 in 2013 (finished 7-6). What's the mark of Michigan being back for real? Knocking off Little Brother. The Maize and Blue owned the Green and White before Lloyd left, but it's been incredibly rough sailing since. Part of it is the constant coaching changes, especially since a first-year Wolverine coach hasn't beaten their #2 rivals since Bennie Oosterbaan in 1948. This year, the evil empire has the better defense and maybe even the better running game. This one will come down to how well the Spartan front can rattle Rudock and force him to make mistakes. Sparty's struggled to put away worse teams, and after seeing Utah pick off Cal QB Jared Goff 5 times, it looks like maybe Jake's not the turnover machine Buckeye Nation thought they could ridicule all year. Be glad we have another 6 weeks to prepare, because the Harbaugh victory train keeps right on rolling. MSU: 20--UM: 24
Schweinfurth: I really don't know what to make of these two teams. TUN defense actually looks legit, but I have serious questions about Jake Rudock as a decent QB. I feel like he just hasn't done much and the Wolverines rely way too much on the run game. On the other side, the Spartans have been playing uninspired football the last few weeks and barely escaped Piscataway with a win last week. We know Dantonio can coach up that defense and I think the Spartans have been looking forward to this game all year to this point. We finally see the Spartan team that rolled Oregon in week two and L.J. Scott has a big day chewing up clock. All hail Little Brother. MSU: 17--UM: 14
Seeberg: If anyone tells you they had the Wolverines favored by a full touchdown in this game at the start of the season, then they have taken a quantum leap in the field of compulsive lying. Yet somehow, that's where we find ourselves. I think the Spartans are probably the better team assuming both squads are at even strength, but a laundry list of injuries has Sparty looking quite pedestrian. Meanwhile, Jake Rudock has looked positively competent since his disastrous 3 INT performance against Utah, although I do think the 38 points put up against NW last week is a bit misleading (kick return TD and a pick-6 account for 14 of those points). Nonetheless, the hideous maize and blue are the better team right now. The shutout streak ends, but L.J. Scott is really all MSU has on offense, and it won't be enough. Sorry Sparty. MSU: 13--UM: 20
Florida Gators @ Louisiana State Tigers
Draper: A sexy matchup in the Bayou...before Will Grier was suspended for the year. The Gators were a pleasant surprise through the first half of the year (even with the close call vs. UK) but this is the straw that broke the Gator's back...and oh yeah, there's a guy named Leonard Fournette on the other sideline. With Grier, the Gators had a chance (still not a great one), without him, I don't see this being close. Death Valley is really tough to win in at night, even for full teams. This could be over by half. UF: 10--LSU: 27
Hoying: A league of terrible quarterbacks just got terribler. Florida's Will Grier, a virtual lock for all-SEC QB, peed in the wrong cup and now he'll have to watch Treon Harris bumble and stumble his way against a fearsome Tiger D in Death Valley. That is, if Harris himself doesn't get suspended again before Saturday. It's not like LSU is going to be any better through the air, but when you have Leonard Fournette, you don't really need a two-dimensional offense. It's like having a 16 oz prime rib and complaining that your salad doesn't have enough croutons on it. Florida, like a crouton, is toast, and not even the Ol' Ball Coach could save them. It's not possible to lose your superstar QB for the season and compete for the national title. Fla: 17--LSU: 31
Schweinfurth: What happens when you don't check the label on your over-the-counter supplements? You get suspended for using a PED (oops). So now both teams have huge question marks at the QB position. It's also put up or shut-up time for Fournette. I think he will provide all the offense LSU needs in this game, but doesn't rip off the big one he has had the last few weeks. Fla: 13--LSU: 14
Seeberg: Can LSU throw the ball? I honestly have no idea. What's scarier is that LSU has no idea either, averaging a paltry 122 yards per game. If Fournette runs all over the Gators he is a likely shoe-in for the Heisman but I don't see that happening. He'll certainly get near/over 100 yards, but it will probably take 20-25 carries. Florida's offense isn't exactly a juggernaut either, but they did put up 38 on Ole Miss which is more than I would expect LSU to score against the Rebels. Oddly, Florida doesn't run the ball particularly well, so both offenses are one-dimensional. In short, the squad I trust most on the field is the Florida D, having faced better competition than LSU and giving up 8 fewer ppg. Fournette might make enough plays to win it, but if he doesn't do it by himself, the Gators will rule the day. STOP THE PRESSES: Will Grier was just suspended for the season for testing positive for PEDs. I had Florida before that news, but that just might be the break LSU needs to pull out a low-scoring win. FLA: 10--LSU: 17
Penn State Nittany Lions @ THE University of Cincinnati Bearcats
Draper: Penn State was to be the second biggest threat to the Buckeyes after the Spartans. Now, I'm not really concerned at all. Christian Hackenberg was once the NFL darling, but he folds under pressure...uh oh. The front seven will be giving him fits all day (I'm saying 5 sacks). I haven't seen a single thing out of Happy Valley that should worry the Buckeyes. This is a rebound game for the defense after a subpar performance vs. craptastic Maryland. Offensively, there were some good things that need to continue. This whole redzone QB thing bothers me (if JT is the best making decisions in the red zone, he's the best option period) but we should have plenty of time to work out the kinks. Game goals: , no turnovers for the offense, utilize the short passing game effectively but take a few shots deep, and the usual 100+ for Zeke. Defensively, at least 3 sacks, zero big plays, and run defense. Another tune-up game that SHOULD be done by half. PSU: 10 -- OSU: 38
Hoying: FINALLY. That's the #1 Buckeye team we've been waiting to see since Labor Day. No turnovers? Check. Perfect in the red zone? Check. Contain the QB? ......well, it's a good thing we don't have to worry about facing another mobile QB for a while (bring it on, Cook & Rudock). Last year, this was the game that I thought would solidify OSU's resurrection from their awful loss to VT, but it instead showed that they could handle adversity and come together when it mattered most. This season, I'm not really worried. Hackenberg continues to struggle when put under pressure (dear Lord...) and the two-headed monster should shred an overrated Nittany Lion D. Make no mistake, Penn State is a complete mirage, and if the Bucks keep their current trajectory, they might steal a few first place votes back on Sunday morning. PSU: 13--OSU: 35
Schweinfurth: Ahh yes, Pick Six University is rolling into town this week to face off the Men of the Black and...What are our school colors again? The two headed monster of Cardale and J.T. looked good and the coaching staff did a very good job of playing to both QBs' strengths. I expect this to continue with some J.T. sprinkled in to other areas of the field as well (probably some short yardage packages). This is going to be a pass first game as the Nittany Lions are going to load up to stop Zeke. Is this the week we see Braxton throw a pass? Maybe if it is the jet sweep tap pass. Otherwise, he stays on the outside. I expect Braxton and Thomas to have huge games (100+ yards each). We also get to see Christian Sackenberg and boy will he take a beating. Yes, the Lion offensive line has looked better since that Temple game, but they haven't faced a D-Line like this since last year's OSU game and they gave up 4 sack. Lewis, Washington, Bosa, and Lee all get at least one sack in this game. PSU lives up to expectations this year and Powell gets the pick six. PSU: 10--OSU: 45
Seeberg: SO many games this week that seem as if they will be closely contested, this is the only one I can pick with a good amount of confidence. The offense seemed to take a step forward last week. Still too many penalties but no turnovers is definitely a plus. J.T. in the red zone was unexpected but highly effective. We just have to hope that one week of tape isn't enough for teams to put a package together to thwart our sudden red-zone efficiency. Our previously highly touted defense apparently refuses to use a spy on a running quarterback, but thankfully good ole' Sackenburg is a relatively stagnant target in the pocket. I'm still concerned about the receiving corps- only Michael Thomas appears to be getting separation with any consistency. I also think Samuel needs more touches to compliment Zeke and Braxton in the backfield. Still, in the 'Shoe and not the confines of
Upset Special
Draper: Kansas State over Oklahoma
Hoying: Arizona State over Utah
Schweinfurth: West Virginia over Baylor
Seeberg: Louisville over Florida State
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