Week 1 - Title Defense Mode

Welcome back to Ohio State's sport: college football. We're still a few days away from seeing the Bucks take the field but there's plenty of action in the meantime, starting with the enemy heading out west for a revenge game of their own. 

Here are our thoughts on the best five games of the week. Maybe. It's Week 1; who knows where any of these teams will end up?

Michigan Wolverines @ Utah Utes
Draper: Harbaugh, Harbaugh, Harbaugh....blah, blah, blah.  The Wolverines had a decent roster last year and limped to a 5-7 record.  Is the coach enough to turn this team around in a snap? I just don't see it.  They'll be improved, but I think the national media is giving far to much credit to the coach.  Harbaugh is also nuts so let's pump the brakes.  I think Michigan ends the season with 8 wins, but this isn't one of them.  UM: 20-Utah: 24
Hoying: How bad was Maize and Blue Satan last year, really? The defense was quite good, the running game was passable, and What What Jake Butt was enough by himself to bail out any semi-competent QB. Except...they didn't have a competent QB, and there's nobody swooping in to take the job. Any improvement will have to come from the top down, but fortunately for You Know Who, Harbaugh excels at developing QBs. Not everyone can take a 3rd string QB and guide him to a win over a 41-point favorite. What difference does a stellar head coach make? Ask 2011 and 2012 Ohio State.  UM: 27--Utah: 20
Schweinfurth: I can't wait for this game to kick off just so I don't have to hear about Harbaugh.  Yes, the QB situation at TTUN isn't ideal, but the defense is a bit underrated. I think this game is close to the end with the Utes kicking a last second field goal for the win. UM: 21--Utah: 24
Seeberg:  Last year, Utah's victory over TTUN was a big deal.  Except it shouldn't have been.  Utah was the better team last season and, at least early on, it's likely to be the better team again.  Remember, Utah should've been up 14-0 on Oregon going into the second quarter last year if it weren't for that whole "who needs to actually carry the ball over the goalline" issue.  The Khaki Eclipse gets off to a rocky start out west.  UM: 23- Utah: 31

Wisconsin Badgers vs. Alabama Crimson Tide
Draper:  I'll be honest, I know very little about these teams.  I do know Bama tends to have a revolving door of good players and they usually come out like gangbusters in these early season games.  Wisconsin was overrated last year and most of their offense now plays for the Chargers.  I'm banking on the Tide reloading.  Wisc: 16--Bama: 31
Hoying: Oh boy, another marquee non-conference game for Wisconsin. Wisc: 13--Bama: 27
Schweinfurth: I really don't know what to think of Wisconsin. Paul Chryst did a great job as a coordinator but Pitt was meh with him as head coach. Both teams lost a lot of talent but Bama has the (oversigned) talent to restock. This is the first game of, what I think will be, a long season for Wisconsin. Wisc: 10--Bama: 35
Seeberg:  This is likely to be a defensive battle as both squads return solid units on that side of the ball but have lost Heisman finalists in Melvin Gordon and Amari Cooper.  Wisconsin will have to rely on Stave and/or McEvoy to make some plays which is a dicey prospect at best.  The best offensive player on either team is easily Derrick Henry, who torched the Buckeyes in last year's Sugar Bowl (and probably should have gotten the ball more often in that game).  He will make enough plays to keep the Badgers in passing situations which is the kiss of death for the Wisconsin offense.  Wisc: 13- Bama: 27

Texas Longhorns @ Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Draper:  Are these teams ready to burst back onto the big stage? Texas hasn't really been the same since the Colt McCoy injury in the National Title game vs. Bama and the Irish had a brief resurgence the following year before crashing back to earth.  While Notre Dame seems to be the media darling to return to prominence, I don't think they're ready for big time yet...that being said, neither is Texas.  Charlie Strong is working to improve things in Austin, but we aren't back to the VY era yet.  Here come the Irish.  UT: 21--ND: 31
Hoying: Can the Irish survive without Everett Golson? After Golson's precipitous drop last year, which resulted in him...transferring to the team that beat him, the Irish now turn to Malik Zaire (Congo?). The sky's the limit for Malik, but Texas knows that they still have butt at QB, where the ineffective Tyrone Swoopes still holds handoff duties. The Longhorns can't keep getting worse, but a road game in South Bend is not the place to turn their fortunes around. UT: 13--ND: 28
Schweinfurth: I honestly don't know much about either team. While both teams are typically media darlings, I just don't see much in either team.  I do know that Notre Dame has more talent and should win this game. UT: 17--ND: 35
Seeberg:  Ah yes, the age-old question:  How overrated is Notre Dame this season?  In years past, an opening game against powerhouse Texas might have answered that question immediately.  Not so much recently.  Texas just hasn't gotten back to Mack Brown levels since, well, Mack Brown.  Charlie Strong just can't get any offense going to supplement his typically solid D.  Notre Dame's strength is it's offense so those possessions will be interesting, but the Texas O versus Notre Dame D confrontations might set the game back a generation or two.  Sadly, the golden domers should prevail, allowing the hype to continue a while longer.  UT: 13- ND: 24

Arizona State Sun Devils vs. Texas A&M Aggies
Draper:  No clue.  ASU was sneaky good last year and A&M is always tough to pin down.  The Sun Devils should be a factor in the Pac 12 (along with most of the crowd out west).  The Aggies love the flash from Manziel and then Kenny Trill (for a few games last year) but I think the Sun Devils' more blue collar mentality will lead to a close win.  Kyle Field is a bear to deal with, but the creepy boom mike Todd Graham emerges victorious. ASU: 40--TAMU: 35
Hoying: Here we see two teams heading in different directions. The Aggies have fallen off a bit after storming their way into the SEC in 2012, while the Sun Devils were a touchdown away from playing in the Pac-12 championship game for a second consecutive year. A&M isn't going to turn anything around without some solid QB play, and I need to see more from Kyle Allen (or Kenny Trill) before I buy in. SEC QBs should be BAD this year, and A&M sadly should be no exception. ASU: 38--TAMU: 24
Schweinfurth: ASU looked good last year, and I think that momentum will carry over into this year. The Aggies just seem to be going the other way since Johnny Football left.  Yes, A&M looked good and surprised everyone to start the year last year, but I just don't see it this year.  ASU: 42--TAMU: 31
Seeberg:  If I were a betting man (and I am- but only when I actually have money to bet, which means currently I'm not), I'd wager this one will be high-scoring.  Both teams return most pieces from good offensive units and lackluster defensive squads.  A&M's new D-coordinator, John Chavis, may help- but he was hired almost as much to stop thwarting A&M's offense as he was to improve their defense.  The Sun Devils have a decent shot to make some noise in the Pac-12 and a big win against the now-slightly-less-vaunted SEC could slingshot them to a third-straight 10-win season.  ASU: 45- TAMU- 35

THE Ohio State University Buckeyes @ Virginia Tech Hokies
Draper: I didn't see it last year...and I really don't see it this year.  OSU will have the bullseye on their back all year...but if they will be amped for any game this year, this is it.  Revenge is a dish best served cold.  Yes, suspensions surround the team, but I can't believe Urban is terribly concerned.  Michael Brewer had the game of his life last year and the Buckeyes folded.  This time, they will rain fire and brimstone on their opponents from the first down.  There are far too many weapons on this team to breed concern.  Zeke dominates the lunch box defense and the huge question at QB...is rendered moot after a beat down.  OSU: 45--VT: 20
Hoying: Why did the Buckeyes lose this game last year? The undermanned Hokies counted on an inexperienced offensive line that couldn't handle a relentless blitzing front, and a QB that couldn't make the right reads under tremendous pressure. VT will have neither luxury this year; it'll be their personnel vs. ours. Anyone who watched Tech carefully last season (including this gem) shouldn't be too worried. Look for the Buckeyes to come out a little too excited (especially the backups for our boneheaded dopers), gagging away some early opportunities on both sides of the ball, but ths one shouldn't be in doubt in the second half. Hopefully. OSU: 38--VT: 20
Schweinfurth: The Hokies defense absolutely mugged the Buckeyes offense last year.  That was a very inexperienced offensive line and a guy making his second career start. I just don't foresee the Buckeyes being underprepared and not ready for whatever Bud Foster has to throw at the offense. The loss of Bosa for this will be felt by the defense, but the Hokie offense is okay not great. I think we see a heavy dose of Zeke, a few slants to Thomas, and Braxton catches a bomb for a TD. This game is only close because of the suspensions. OSU: 35--VT: 21
Seeberg:  Ah yes, redemption time (and also brag time:  I have 35-yard line seats for this one!).  This felt like a relatively open and shut game before the one-game suspensions were levied against the Buckeyes.  Despite the fact that three were offensive, the loss of Bosa may be the most critical (see my post on preseason predictions).  The Hokies will be amped up for this game as well and even under Tressel I would've been nervous for this one.  The key is Urban, no doubt.  The grind for nine will get tougher the longer the season wears on- manufacturing motivation to play the likes of Purdue and Maryland.  That won't be an issue September 7th.  'Zeke runs well, J.T. Jones runs and throws and Braxton scares the crap out of 11 other defensive coordinators.  The Grind for Nine starts with a revenge win.  VT: 27- OSU: 38


Upset Special
Draper: Minnesota over TCU (get lucky)
Hoying: Louisville over Auburn
Schweinfurth: Northwestern over Stanford
Seeberg:  North Carolina over South Carolina

Week 14 - THE GA_E (And _any Others)

Standings

1) Draper                40-19    (6-7 upset)

1) Hoying               40-19    (4-9 upset)
3) Seeberg              38-21    (2-11 upset)
4) Schweinfurth     37-22    (6-7 upset)

We would like to give thanks for college football, titanic Rivalry Week clashes, the greatest sports rivalry in the world, and the fact that we are blessed enough to be Let's Go Bucks! and not Let's Go Blue!

#6 _ississippi State Bulldogs @ #16 Ole _iss Rebels

Draper: In what is an Egg Bowl for the ages, we should see a pretty good contest.  In fact, this could have been an epic showdown...if it had been played a few weeks back.  The state of these schools had the best first half of a college football season ever, but has since declined.  The Rebels played the role of David that took down Goliath but the loss of Laquan Treadwell vs. Auburn has been too great an obstacle to surpass in the last few weeks.  A beat down by Arkansas has Dr. Bo hobbling into the rivalry.  The Bulldogs rebounded nicely after dropping to the Tide.  The local advantage in Oxford is great and will keep it reasonably close, but the Bulldogs and Dak Prescott know they still are in the hunt and need a big win to stay viable as a non-division winner.  With no downfield passing attack from the Rebs (see loss of Treadwell) the ground and pound Dawgs take care of business to end the season strong...at #5.  If it was in StarkVegas, I'd expect a blowout.  In Oxford, close, but no cigar.  Bulldogs: 24--Rebels: 17

Hoying: It's been quite a while since the Bulldogs and Rebels were #1 and #2 back in October. Since then, Dr. Bo and friends have dropped 3 of 4, with their one win over lowly PresbyterI-AAn. But it didn't appear that the Rebs had given up until last week's outing, when they were drilled by 30 by Bert and the 'Backs. Even so, it's not like the Bulldogs have shown any greater degree of excellence, struggling against Kentucky and Arkansas before losing to the Tide. There's (probably) no longer an SEC West title on the line, but this is still the biggest Egg Bowl in recent recollection. Can fading all-SEC candidate Dak Prescott find a few gaps in what is still the nation's top defense? Will the good Dr. Bo show up? Better indicator: look to the running attack. State has one, Johnny Reb doesn't. The Bulldogs continue to hang around like a black cloud over OSU's playoff chances. Bulldogs: 27--Rebels: 20

Schweinfurth: Ole Miss is starting to show their true colors by losing 3 of their last 4 games.  I also feel that Hail State was exposed by Alabama.  Bo Wallace is pretty much meh and Dak Prescott hasn't exactly impressed the last few weeks.  The Bulldogs are the better team and should win.  Bulldogs: 35--Rebels: 21

Seeberg:  How the ephemerally mighty have fallen.  Mississippi was the center of the college football universe for a month or so (ssshhh, don't tell Paul Finebaum and/or Alabama).  Now this one is mostly for pride, barring an unforeseen collapse in Tuscaloosa.  Arkansas ran rampant last week against the Rebels' usually stout D, and MSU can run it almost as well.  Don't expect much from former Heisman frontrunner Dak Prescott, but the ground game will be enough to win the Bulldogs the Egg Bowl.  Bulldogs: 24--Rebels: 17

#20 _innesota Golden Gophers @ #13 Wisconsin Badgers
Draper: Can the Gophers really pull this off? The potent Badgers return to the friendly confines of Wisconsin to battle for the axe behind the legs of Gordon.  Cobb vs. Gordon is what this is about.  I think the Gophers will fight valiantly and keep this close until Gordon shows his style.  Everyone is overlooking the Gophers due to recent failure (recent as in the last 10 years), but I believe they'll play with a great deal of pride.  Wisconsin just has a little extra talent on their sideline that will be the difference.  Bucky nips Goldy as the Fifth Quarter sends the Badgers on a date with the Buckeyes,  Wisc: 31--Goldy: 27

Hoying: Now we turn to B1Gger affairs: who will be Ohio State's opponent in Indianapolis next week? The Badgers nearly gagged one away in Iowa City last week, but they're a totally different squad on their own field. The nation's top running back, Gordon, is still running strong, playing far better than Nebraska's Abdullah, who the Gophers were able to shut down last week. David Cobb will be able to get a touchdown or two, and Goldy will keep it close for a quarter or two, but Wisconsin is just...better. WARNING: if you like the forward pass, or any other football innovation since about 1910, you probably should avoid the Big Ten Network at 3:30. Goldy: 24--Bucky: 38

Schweinfurth: I really can't believe that the Gophers are a win away from the B1G Championship.  This game will be a fast one with all the running these two teams do.  I am actually looking forward to watching Cobb and Gordon run the ball.  Not much QB play here but man will it be a slobberknocker.  Next week, OSU vs. Bucky.  Goldy: 17--Bucky: 24

Seeberg:  Amazingly enough, we're 11 games into the season and I STILL don't know what to make of Minnesota.  Yeah, they played us close, largely because we were in an early Christmas mode, giving them opportunities left and right.  Yeah they got whipped by TCU early, but it turns out TCU is really good.  Yeah they beat Nebraska, but Nebraska's lousy.  This one won't be pretty to watch, but Gordon will officially stamp his ticket to NYC with another 200 yard, multi-TD day.  Goldy: 20--Bucky: 35

#15 Arizona State Sun Devils @ #11 Arizona Wildcats

Draper: I expected great things in this showdown before I heard RichRod's frosh sensation QB may be sidelined.  The Wildcats played very well in Salt Lake City to perhaps show they were for real, and the Sun Devils have fallen back.  That being said, the Cats were fully dependent on Anu's throwing ability and his quick decisions.  Bercovici and crew should return to their rightful throne of the Sun in this contest to let RichRod know that he can't win this week...anywhere.  Anu would lead to an interesting contest....no Anu and the Sun Devils control the Grand Canyon State.  ASU: 31--Zona: 24

Hoying: Unfortunately for those in the Grand Canyon State, this showdown between top-15 crews is likely to be inconsequential. As long as UCLA takes care of business against Stanford on Friday, neither of these two will represent the Pac-12 South in San Francisco. At any rate, this one will likely depend on the availability of Arizona's frosh starting quarterback, Anu. The Wildcats' backup has tried all of 7 passes this season, lacking the experience of ASU's Bercovici. Not that the Sun Devils will need Bercovici; Taylor Kelly's doing just fine these days. I'll take a risk and bet that Anu won't be ready to go, which should guarantee an ugly throwdown in the desert. ASU: 38--Zona: 17

Schweinfurth: From what I have seen, ASU is the more rounded team.  That's all my insight here.  ASU: 42--Zona:24

Seeberg:  Anyone remember who beat Oregon anymore?  Yeah I barely do either.  Amazingly, the Wildcats' victory over the Ducks is an infinitely better-looking loss than our loss to Virginia Tech (yeah, I know, it's not basketball.  I can't figure it out either).  Arizona has done nothing else of note until a thrasing of Utah last week.  Meanwhile, ASU inexplicably lost to the OTHER Oregon team (AKA, the OTHER OSU), knocking them off of the Pac-12 South podium.  Unfortunately, that demolition of the Utes may be a pyhrric victory for Arizona as their QB has a dodgy ankle.  He will likely give it a go on Friday, but one fewer day of recuperation will ruin Rich Rod's chances at his 10th win.  ASU: 34--Zona: 20

#17 Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets @ #10 Georgia Bulldogs
Draper: Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate--that's a title for a rivalry.  The Yellow Jackets triple option attack is no fun for anyone to face (poor Noles).  UGA has rebounded with a few nice wins since the drubbing to the Gators on the legs of Todd Gurley and Nick Chubb (which is a all-inclusive list of the talent of the Dawgs).  This Bulldog squad is nothing to sneeze at...but nothing to go wild over either.  The rushing attack is good, but there is little to no...other talent.  That being said, the Jackets are so rush heavy and 'eh' on defense, UGA VIII could have a big day toting the rock.  The Dawgs control the battle between the hedges and escape with token knee injuries stay alive in the playoff chase (if on life support).  GT: 30--UGA: 37

Hoying: Nothing like a little Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate to close out the regular season. Is there a squad as undervalued as the Yellow Jackets? Sure, they're predictable and passing is strictly optional, but only two heartbreaking losses to Duke and UNC deprived GT of an 11-0 start and a spot in the playoff chase. As it stands, they'll have to settle for a crack at the SEC East's two-talented-RBs-and-garbage group, who have bounced back nicely after getting crushed by the Gators. How did Florida pull off that win? Oh yeah, they RAN THE BALL over and over and over and over and then Georgia lost by 18. If the Gators can do that, think what the Jacket juggernaut is capable of. GT: 34--UGA: 27

Schweinfurth: Let's see, Georgia has Nick Chubb and...yea that's it.  Georgia Tech and the triple option are always hard to prepare for.  In a way, it's almost like playing the shell game.  Just because Georgia is in the SEC doesn't mean they are good.  Florida ran all over Georgia and that's what Tech does best.  Tech bleeds this down.  GT--24--UGA: 14

Seeberg:  The ramblin' wreck head between the hedges this year down in JO-gia for their annual in-state clash.  As much running as there will be in the Goldy-Bucky bout, there may be even more in this one.  The Yellow Jackets are basically a REALLY fast Navy, which causes fits for pretty much everyone.  However, Georgia completely shut down an equally prolific rushing offense in Auburn in a 34-7 beatdown, a game featuring Todd Gurley's return from making money for himself (a standard NCAA violation).  Coupled with Mizzou's loss against Arkansas (see my upset special!), Georgia heads to the SEC title game with some momentum.  GT: 24--UGA: 38

#14 Auburn Tigers @ #3 Alaba_a Cri_son Tide
Draper: The Iron Bowl...boy...another clash that was soooo sexy a few weeks back...but not so now.  Our boy Brent is even back to call the rivalry, but this should be a bit one-sided.  The Tigers rushing attack has faded in the past few weeks and Gus's wild offense has toned down.  The Tide have been taking control with the defense that has become interchangeable with Saban.  The Tide QB has been good...but not as good as the SEC crazies would have you believe.  The Tiger QB hasn't been up to his standards lately...and this one is in Tuscaloosa...uh oh.  Saban knows revenge is a dish best served cold...and he'll portion out a heaping serving to the Tigers.  Roll Tide to Atlanta.  Aub: 16--Tide: 30

Hoying: Let's have a few seconds of silence for the Tigers, who saw their season die at the hands of the Aggies 3 weeks ago. Since then, they got drubbed by Georgia and foundered for a few quarters against Bobby Bowden's first coaching stop before pulling out a victory. Passing is non-existent, the rush attack is failing, and the defense is kaput. The Tide haven't really done anything astounding since crushing the Aggies 59-0, but they're passing the ball reasonably well, and the defense is fantastic. No last-second oddities this year; just the extension of the dynasty, COWTURD! Tigers: 13--Tide: 24

Schweinfurth: I really could care less about these two teams.  Alabama is the better team but has had a tendency to play down to the competition this year.  For that reason alone, Auburn will hang around in this game.  Saban's teams are very good in revenge games and that should ring true here.  Tigers: 17--Tide: 20

Seeberg:  A month ago, a second-straight Tiger victory in the Iron Bow l seemed a distinct possibility.  Now?  Not so much.  The Tide has been rising of late, but that only lifts their own boat sadly, contrary to JFK's beliefs.  In any event, Amari Cooper and Co. will be on high alert to avoid a similarly miraculous debacle as last year.  Perhaps Gus has some tricks up his sleeve saved up for this one, but given how bad they looked against Georgia, I'm pretty sure that's not the case, as saving his season would have been more important than winning this game.  Tide rolls.  Tigers: 17--Tide: 34

The Cesspool of the West @ #7 THE Ohio State University Buckeyes

Draper: This one is easy.  If the Bucks stop turning the ball over, it's a 4 touchdown spread.  But this rivalry goes beyond the sidelines.  There are those who fear the Blue...but that's in the past.  Now is the era to crush the spirit of the Blue.  They are to fear the Scarlet and Gray.  Brady, Navarre, Grbac, Biakubatuka, Perry, Braylon, Woodson...they aren't stepping on the field.  Those who are...they are scared...and they should be.  On a day when Troy enters the rafters of hallowed territory, it is on the Bucks to continue his legacy.  JT needs to return to the style and flair we all saw earlier this year.  Zeke and the line need to dictate the pace with speed and power.  The defense needs to hit hard, strong, and SURE to send notice to that State Up North that this is not a passing fancy.  The Buckeyes own you...and will continue to do so.  It's all over but the crying.  GO BUCKS! BEAT BLUE!!  Cesspool: 17--OSU: 48

Hoying: Perhaps it's a sign of how spoiled I've been by the last 14 years, but I haven't loved the way Ohio State has played its last two tilts against That School Up North. Urban does a fantastic job of getting his players up for the big showdowns, but in this rivalry, they've tended to start the first half a bit too excited, leading to overpursuit, penalties, and general foul-ups. If the Buckeyes can settle down, stick to the plan, and TACKLE a ballcarrier or two, this one shouldn't be close. The Wolverine offense is a total disaster: Gardner's too shell-shocked to play well, Funyuns has given up on the season, and I don't think they actually have a running back left. The defense is fine, but the Buckeyes haven't been stopped since Virginia Tech (other than by their own goofs). A couple of turnovers or boneheaded kicking plays will prevent a total blowout, but this one should never really be in doubt. I can barely stand to see a true blue Wolverine coach depart with a losing record against the Buckeyes, but how can I argue with tradition? Cesspool: 16--OSU: 38

Schweinfurth: I am a child of the 90s, therefore I will always be worried about this game.  It's in my nature.  However, I don't know if there has been a bigger mismatch since Rich Rod's first year.  This Wolverine offense has been anemic all year and don't get me started on that defense.  J.T. hasn't looked great the last two weeks but I really think that changes this week.  These seniors get to go out with another set of Gold Pants!!  Cesspool: 17--OSU: 52

Seeberg:  I've said it before and I'll say it again, I will ALWAYS, forever and ever amen, get nervous this time of year.  This nervousness was instilled in me by one John Cooper, who recruited 80 bajillion all-Americans (Eddie George, Orlando Pace, Terry Glenn, Shawn Springs, Bobby Hoying, Mike Vrabel, oh wait we had all of those guys on the SAME TEAM in 1995) that somehow collapsed in the third weekend of November.  Thankfully, things have changed.  Saint Urban of Ashtabula (can't take credit for that catchy nickname, but check out landgrantholyland for a hilarious piece on the state of the rivalry at present) has arrived and is 2-0 against TTUN, though neither victory has been all that smooth, winning by a combined six points.  The talent level has become increasingly disparate in the rivalry but it hasn't shown on the scoreboard...until this year.  TCotW kicks a few field goals, gets a mercy TD late, but order remains in the universe...as long as we hold on to the (insert favorite expletive here) ball.  Hold onto the ball, move on to Indy.  Cesspool: 23--OSU: 42

Upset Special
Draper: Texas over TCU
Hoying: Florida over Florida State (I live to be disappointed)
Schweinfurth: Notre Dame over USC
Seeberg:  Arkansas over Missouri

Week 11 - REVENGE!

Standings

1) Draper               30-15    (4-6 upset)

1) Seeberg              30-15    (1-9 upset)
3) Hoying               29-16    (3-7 upset)
4) Schweinfurth     28-17    (3-7 upset)

Welcome to the biggest week of the 2014 football season. Both the B1G and the B12 feature matchups that could practically decide their conference titles right now, while the Pac-12, SEC, and Notre Dame all feature in games with serious January implications. Fourteen Power 5 teams enter the weekend with one loss or fewer; a maximum of eleven will leave.

#8 Kansas State Wildcats @ #5 TCU Horned Frogs

Draper: The Battle for the Big Twelve won't be decided here, but this goes a long way to deciding it.  The Horned Frogs schedule opens up after this game so all the other 1-loss teams have to be rooting furiously for K-State.  The Wildcats still have tough road tests to follow.  Gary Patterson's squad played about as bad as they could, and still eked out an ugly win in Morgantown.  Bill Snyder likes to play the 'slow and steady wins the race' card, but the Frogs have just enough with Boykin to take care of business.  I want AARP to get the win....but I'm not expecting it.  KSU: 27--TCU: 31

Hoying: Particular people prefer purple power playoff play-ins. Two historical Big 12 powerhouses square off for an inside track to the Sugar Bowl semifinal game. Whether Bill Snyder is actually Emperor Palpatine or George Burns from Oh, God!, his mystical powers have once again propelled the Wildcats into the thick of the national title hunt. Jake Waters isn't quite Collin Klein, but he's engineering a high-scoring, well-balanced offense that's only been stopped by the top-5 Auburn Tigers. However, Trevone Boykin and the Violet Lizards are even more prolific on O, though the Mountaineers did manage to provide a blueprint for victory against them (don't commit 5 turnovers, don't Tresselball in the 4th quarter). Bottom line: TCU is just better, and a win on Saturday virtually guarantees them a spot in the inaugural College Football Playoff (TCU's remaining schedule: Kansas, Texas, Iowa State). KSU: 24--TCU: 30

Schweinfurth: In my mind, TCU is one of the most battle tested teams in the country.  Yes, they have lost in spectacular fashion to Baylor, but they have played well in general.  Last week's come from behind win at West Virginia showed that the Horned Frogs have the stones needed to play with most teams.  Kansas State just seems to be that steady team that just wins but doesn't wow anyone.  To me the difference in this game is going to be Trevone Boykin.  He just seems to make that offense click and can flip a switch when needed.  KSU: 21--TCU: 31

Seeberg:  Once again, the match up everyone had circled on their calendars for Big 12 supremacy...except not.  TCU escaped West Virginia (who has had an absolutely brutal schedule en route to the best 6-3 team in the country) on a last-second field goal.  Meanwhile, Kansas State just keeps rolling and their near-miss against Auburn while allowing just 20 points looks all the more impressive after Auburn put up 35 at Ole Miss.  I don't like that this game is at TCU, but Kansas State is my pick in the Big 12, and their road win at Oklahoma gives them the confidence to do it again.  KSU: 28--TCU: 24

#7 Alabama Crimson Tide @ #12 LSU Tigers

Draper: If you want chaos, root for the booger eater.  An LSU win here could lead to some ridiculous SEC West scenarios.  The Tigers have improved greatly from early in the season, but was it improvement, or maybe the teams they played weren't THAT good.  I think mostly improvement, but Bama comes in with some swagger.  Yes, Saban's squad has been beating up on the Little Sisters of the Poor, and LSU at home is another thing entirely, but the Tide know this is a statement game.  Beat Mississippi State, no one will care (even though they thrashed LSU).  Beat the Tigers (even though they're down), and the masses take note.  Saban sacrifices a small animal and the Tide Roll.  Bama: 24--LSU: 13

Hoying: It's plausible that the top 5 teams in the nation are all in the SEC West, and it's possible that they might all end up tied at season's end at 10-2 apiece. Step 1 would be Les Miles working his bayou voodoo against his old rival Nick Saban. The Tigers have underperformed away from Baton Rouge, skirting by Florida and getting obliterated by Auburn, but Death Valley has been home sweet home, where LSU is a Hail Mary away from a Magnolia state sweep. Unfortunately, the Tigeouaeauxrs still seem to be without a passing game, and you're not going to stop Nick Saban by being one-dimensional. Not even if you're Louisiana-Monroe. Ala: 17--LSU: 9

Schweinfurth: Here's the skinny, I don't think these teams should be that highly rated.  Alabama has beaten whom this year? A three loss West Virginia team.  Who has LSU beaten? An overrated Ole Miss team.  Les Miles has already had his "I'm gonna pull this win outta my butt" win for the year.  Amari Cooper is good and he's gonna toast the Tiger secondary. Ala: 24--LSU:10

Seeberg:  LSU got back to playing like LSU at home in their impressive win over Ole Miss.  Alabama is, stunningly, under the radar after losing early in the season and then looking very lackluster against Arkansas and allowing a mediocre Tennessee team to make things interesting for a while last week.  If a wideout is going to win the Heisman for just the third time ever, Amari Cooper must step up big in this game (he would be fourth in my Heisman ballotting if we went that far).  I believe the Tigers will hold Cooper down enough to effectively end his outside shot at the stiff-arm trophy, but LSU has too few playmakers on offense to pull out another low-scoring affair.  Ala: 21--LSU: 10

#10 Notre Dame Fighting Irish @ #9 Arizona State Sun Devils

Draper: Two teams that are riding high with 1-loss, but man have they looked shaky.  ND struggled mightily against a scrappy Navy squad and ASU has struggled with...well...everyone. Who is the team that comes up with one big stop or one big play to make the difference in a super close one?  I'll lean to the home team.  Injuries are starting to run through the Irish roster.  Golsen is the better QB, but let's not forget that the Irish gave up a billion points to god-awful North Carolina.  ND: 27--ASU: 28

Hoying: What's that phrase again? "Borrowed time"? After another pair of unimpressive victories last week (Notre Dame over Navy and Arizona State over Utah in overtime), both of these teams limp into this game to technically keep their playoff hopes alive, but does anyone believe either one is going to get there? After a promising start against terrible competition, ND again stands for No Defense, giving up over 30 points in each of their last 3 games. What will they do against ever-improving ASU QB Mike Bercovici? Everett Golson lives to get his teams out of tight jams, but the luck of the Irish is about to run out. ND: 30--ASU:31 

Schweinfurth: It's starting to look like Notre Dame went all in on that Florida State game only to come out on the wrong side of the scoreboard.  Those last two games the Domers have played have not been good.  Here is also a fun statistic roaming around: teams are WINLESS (this includes Ohio State) the week after playing Navy (with no bye week).  I look for that trend to continue. ND: 21--ASU:35

Seeberg:  It's that time of year again, when Notre Dame's brutal backloaded schedule catches up to them.  The Golden Domers may play the toughest schedule this side of the SEC West (and West Virginia), but it has benefitted from the likes of Rice, Syracuse, and *chuckle* TTUN thus far.  Road games at ASU, USC and a home tilt against Louisville will expose the defensive struggles that have been typical of the Irish in recent years.  Arizona State escaped against a one-dimensional Utah attack, but points will be easier to come by in this one.  I still love those trident helmets!!  ND: 28--ASU: 38

#11 Baylor Bears @ #16 Oklahoma Sooners

Draper: OU has been supremely disappointing this season.  Baylor....well, they beat TCU in the 'huh?' game of the year and got wrecked in Morgantown.  This team is different on the road.  The Sooners usually blow people out in Norman and they'd still be in this thing if their kicker didn't choke (and cost me a game---still bitter).  Baylor has that video game offense, but the horses aren't the same this year.  Bryce Petty is having a nice year, but a lot of his toys are missing.  I'll lean to the home team again.  This feels like a random game that Big Game Bob shows up for and the Sooner Schooner is busy.  Bay: 31--OU: 41

Hoying: At this point, it's all but certain that the preseason Big 12 favorite Oklahoma Sooners aren't going to walk away with the conference title. Instead, the Sooners have become the championship gatekeeper, separating the contenders (Kansas State, TCU) from the pretenders (West Virginia). Baylor still controls its destiny in the Big 12, but it's going to have to weather an Oklahoma offense that hasn't been held to below 30 points all season. The Baylor O was a little flighty on the road in October, but they're ready to make a big statement and knock the B12's premier team down another peg. Bay: 38--OU: 34

Schweinfurth: Man, Baylor can sure light up a scoreboard.  While offense is fun to watch, defense is going to win you games and championships.  Oklahoma have just been sitting there setting up a normal ten win season.  Like I said, Baylor can put up some points, but so can Oklahoma. Which team has the defense that can make a stop in this game? That's Oklahoma.  Bay: 45--OU: 49

Seeberg:  This may shock some of you, but the Sooners are a mere five points away from being undefeated this season, losing by 4 at TCU and by one against K-State.  Both teams are coming off demolitions of lowly conference foes and are relatively healthy.  Baylor is still that head-scratching loss against West Virginia away from being undefeated, but the Sooners have a come-uppance in store for the Bears.  Oklahoma gets a late stop when it needs it and officially ends Baylor's playoff hopes.  Bay: 38--OU: 45

#14 THE Ohio State University Buckeyes @ #6 Michigan State Spartans

Draper: The Bucks haven't had a 'circle the date game' for a while, but this is one of them.  After crushing the Buckeyes' B1G title and possible National Title hopes last year, the Spartans get the juggernaut in their place.  I know the Buckeyes haven't forgotten, but the question is whether this will be fuel for the fire, or amp them up beyond any useful energy.  This team has a lot of fire, but the youth has reared its head on the big stage (VT, PSU).  JT, this is your chance.  You want this job going forward, you make a claim tonight.  The numbers are great, but a loss to MSU ends not only the playoff hopes, but also the conference title hopes.  The team needs to show more than the resolve from PSU.  They need to show discipline and execution.  Connor Cook is overrated as shown by some of the struggles vs. terrible teams, but the senior leadership is important.  The Bucks need to keep the defensive intensity high and approach the offensive side of the ball with workmanlike precision.  If they can be blue-collar and fight to the end, I think they pull it off.  The real test will rear its head with an early mistake.  Can the Bucks regroup?  That will decide it.  I'm going to be a homer.  Go. Bucks. OSU: 34--MSU: 31

Hoying: Finally, after 336 days, the Buckeyes have the opportunity to reascend their perch as the B1G's standard-bearer. Can it be done? Ohio State is certainly talented enough. JT seems destined to break Troy Smith's single-season passing TD record, the Silver Bullets are playing tight coverage and missing very few tackles, and the Barrett-Elliott rushing combo is doing a decent impression of Miller-Hyde. The Spartans have looked vulnerable at times during their current winning streak, failing to put away their opponents late in the game. Sounds like the ingredients for a Buckeye victory, right? That's what I thought...until the Penn State game 2 weeks ago. This team has improved immensely since the Virginia Tech debacle, but on the big stage, we become Bucks in the headlights. Spartan Stadium isn't State College by a long shot, but the Spartans are very good, tough, motivated, and experienced. Gone is the erratic Connor Cook from the start of last year. After all, no one puts starting quarterbacks in the NFL like Mark Dantonio (Brian Hoyer, Kirk Cousins, even Nick Foles). Mistakes doom the young Buckeyes to another year of mediocrity. OSU: 24--MSU: 27

Schweinfurth: It's finally time for the psuedo-B1G Championship game this year.  This one is going to be a fun game to watch for sure.  Both teams are essentially equal in points scored and allowed this year.  The Buckeye defense has looked really good this year (VT game not withstanding) and looks to have most if not all of the kinks worked out.  The offensive performance is going to be determined by the performance of J.T. Barrett.  Giving J.T. time to throw and safety valves will be key.  Offensive line, you guys are up. No more performances like Penn State or Virginia Tech.  On the Spartan side, they seem almost bored at times and play to their competition.  I really think they should have beaten TTUN by more, but they let them hang around.  There are holes to exploit in that secondary, and I actually have faith that Meyer and Co. are going to exploit them.  It's time for revenge and Urban always gets the best out of his teams in underdog situations.  OSU: 24--MSU: 17

Seeberg:  The good news?  I, along with most of the rest of the country, see this game as much more competitive than we had thought just a few weeks ago.  OSU cleared the lone hurdle after the VT catastrophe, but they knocked it over in the process in the near-collapse against Penn State.  The Spartans coasted a bit too freely in back-to-back weeks against Nebraska and Purdue and looked somewhat vulnerable, but here comes the bad news.  MSU has looked very solid in their last two games and also had two weeks to get ready for our beloved Bucks.  J.T. stayed healthy and seemed ok last week, but the Penn State game proved he still gets happy feet at times when pressured.  IF the coaching staff mixes in wide runs and LOTS of 3-step-drop type passes, we just might spring the upset.  Unfortunately, the play-calling has been utterly miserable in the six quarters of football where it was needed most (VT, PSU 2nd half), and I don't have faith enough in the offensive staff to make up for our lack of experience with enough good calls.  Sparty moves on as the B1G's lone playoff possibility.  OSU: 20--MSU: 24

Upset Special

Draper: Washington over UCLA

Hoying: Kentucky over Georgia

Schweinfurth: Texas over West Virginia

Seeberg:  Iowa over Minnesota

Week 10 - The Playoff Eliminator

Standings

1) Draper               27-14    (4-5 upset)

1) Seeberg              27-14    (1-8 upset)
3) Hoying               26-15    (3-6 upset)
4) Schweinfurth     24-17    (3-6 upset)

Even after a few more upsets last week, only one Power 5 team, Minnesota, made the dreaded drop from 1 to 2 losses, essentially falling out of playoff contention. Eighteen Power 5 teams are sitting on fewer than 2 losses, but this week's slate guarantees the demise of at least 2 more.

#5 Auburn Tigers @ #6 Ole Miss Rebels

Draper: Auburn has kind of become the forgotten team in the SEC West after the loss to Mississippi State.  Let's not forget they played for the Championship last year.  Nick Marshall runs Gus Malzahn's system extremely well and they are a truly solid team.  But...Ole Miss finally got Bad Bo and faceplanted against a so-so LSU team.  Granted, it was in Death Valley, but LSU is not as good as it's been in the recent past.  Now the tables turn as the Rebels get the Tigers on their home field where memories of the big Bama win still echo.  I'm sticking with the home team taking care of business.  Good Bo returns and more importantly, the landsharks defense holds Malzahn to a modest game.  Aub: 20--Ole Miss: 24
Hoying: Even though these two teams share a division (the ALMIGHTY INVINCIBLE SEC WEST), they share only one common opponent, LSU. Ole Miss puffed and sputtered all over Death Valley on the way to a puzzling 10-7 loss, while Auburn steamrolled the Tigers 41-7 at Jordan-Hare. Is there a huge gap between these teams, or is home field really a monster factor in the SEC? After all, Ole Miss upset Bama and home and obliterated every other visitor to Oxford, and Auburn's road trips led to a squeaker over Kansas State and a solid loss to Mississippi State. Auburn QB Nick Marshall has 0 INTs in 5 home games and 3 INTs in 2 road games. That's not a good weakness to expose to the nation's top defense. Tonight's forecast: a FREEZE is coming! Aub: 24--Ole Miss: 28
Schweinfurth: Ah yes, two teams from the most overrated division in college football.  Ole Miss is reeling from that loss to LSU last week and is highly ranked based on a win over Alabama (who has really beaten no one).  Auburn runs the ball, and does it well with Nick Marshall.  I'm not sure that the Land Shark D can stop that run game. I also believe that Ole Miss was exposed last week and drops another one here.  Aub: 31--Ole Miss 17
Seeberg:  This game, already huge, has suddenly become even bigger as both teams are in the top four of the inaugural playoff era poll (it will be 16 teams by 2030, mark my words).  Auburn waxed LSU at home, scoring 34 more than the Rebels managed in Death Valley.  The Ole Miss D, however, is still allowing a measly 10.5 ppg and Auburn struggled to score in its only other road game of consequence.  I believe the Tigers will be forced to throw more than they would like, and the Rebels will get back on track after that debacle INT at the end of last week's game.  Aub: 13--Ole Miss: 21

#4 TCU Horned Frogs @ #16 West Virginia Mountaineers
Draper: Don't want to be a couch in Morgantown these days.  WVU is rolling with former Nole Clint Trickett slinging the rock around like Larry Fine/Phil Collins/Dana Holgorson likes.  Kevin White has been a stud at wide receiver keeping up with the likes of Amari Cooper.  TCU, since suffering the horrible meltdown in Waco, has done nothing but destroy.  Last week's beatdown was just ridiculous with Boykin breaking records left and right.  The atmosphere will be nuts, but TCU is a sound football team that has their eyes on the prize.  Expect the Mountaineers to take an early lead and TCU just slowly take control away after momentum dies down.  TCU: 38--WVU: 27
Hoying: If not for a bizarre 24 point 4th quarter collapse at Baylor, TCU would be sitting at 7-0 and have a serious case to be #1 in the rankings. Instead they travel to the Baylor-slaying Mountaineers to face possibly the nation's hottest player, QB Clint Trickett, and the terrific West Virginia offense. Unfortunately for the home team, TCU's offense is even more formidable, averaging more than 50 points a pop and showing no signs of slowing down. Thank goodness poor Chris Spielman isn't calling this one, or he'd be retching in the studio by the end of the first quarter. TCU: A WHOLE BUNCH--WVU: STILL A LOT BUT NOT AS MUCH
Schweinfurth: What in the world is going on in the Big 12?  TCU put up 82 points last week?!? Who could have predicted that in any game.  That Horned Frog offense is something to marvel at but WVU isn't a slouch either.  Unfortunately for the Mountaineers, you have to be able to make at least ONE stop a game to win. I'm gonna take Trevon Boykin and the Frogs.  You may want to divert your eyes if you are a fan of defensive football.  This score is going to look like a video game.  TCU: 70--WVU: 63
Seeberg:  This one should be a very interesting watch.  WVU may have shaken their habit of playing down to their competition, handling Oklahoma State easily.  Maybe feeding off the confidence of the Baylor win?  TCU, meanwhile, dropped 82 points- no that's not a typo- last week, equaling their men's BASKETBALL team from a year ago who also managed just one game above 80 points.  West Virginia should use a Baylor-esque game plan to put some significant points on the board, but TCU is too good across the board to let another collapse happen to a team they need to (and should) beat.  TCU: 41--WVU: 34

#19 Utah Utes @ #14 Arizona State Sun Devils
Draper: Utah loves living on the edge.  They squeak out victories vs. USC, UCLA, and Oregon State, but they defeat that Wolverine 'juggernaut' by a billion.  ASU has also lived on the edge with the Hail Mary victory over USC and the closer than the score would indicate win over Washington.  That being said, the Sun Devils return to Tempe and have looked pretty good at home (other than the UCLA debacle.  Todd Graham should go back to Berkovici in my opinions but either way, I expect a Sun Devil victory. Utah: 21--ASU: 31
Hoying: Although these two teams currently lead the Pac-12 South, the only thing that comes to mind when I think about either of them is "borrowed time." Utah has squeaked by good teams in 3 consecutive weeks after a head-scratching home loss to Washington freaking State, while Arizona State beat one LA team on a Hail Mary and got plastered by the other. At least the Sun Devils can be forgiven for breaking in a backup QB, Mike Bercovici, who has become ASU's J.T. Barrett. We'll know more after Sparky hosts the Irish next week, but Arizona State stays alive in the South hunt, barreling toward a season-ending showdown in Tucson. Utah: 13--ASU: 31
Schweinfurth: I'm really not to sure about either team, mostly because Pac 12 games are played after 10PM and I like my sleep.  Just for kicks, I'll take the home team (and higher ranked) team in ASU. Utah: 20--ASU: 35
Seeberg:  Anybody have this game circled on their schedules in the preseason?  Not likely.  The Sun Devils have looked particularly impressive since their aberrational beatdown at the hands of UCLA by winning at USC and scoring a whopping 26 points against the defensive juggernaut of Stanford.  Utah, meanwhile, went on the road and beat UCLA and just squeaked out a home win over that same USC squad.  Utah runs it a ton, but they may become even more one-dimensional as their senior star wideout Dres Anderson- who has over 2,000 yards receiving in his career- is out the rest of the year with a knee injury.  Look for Utah to try to shorten the game by keeping it on the ground, but obvious passing downs will become virtual locks for the Sun Devil D.  Gotta love those tridents on the helmets!  Utah: 17--ASU: 27

Illinois Fighting Illini @ #15 THE Ohio State University Buckeyes
Draper: Alert the presses! Illinois won a conference game! JT Barrett is hurt so we're ripe for an upset....wait, it's in the Shoe...at night? Nevermind.  Illinois CRASHES hard back to earth as the Buckeye's reassert their case for B1G supremacy and national attention.  Barrett will be somewhat coddled for the knee so expect a heavy dose of Zeke (please, Tom).  The D-Line is looking forward to beating the Illini down.  Can the defense keep the momentum from the PSU performance? I think so.  The offense will be somewhat pedestrian as Urban protects the QB and keeps some in his pocket for East Lansing.  Take it easy, get the win, and make next week count.  Ill: 13--OSU: 41
Hoying: FINALLY, the B1G basement dwellers are starting to rise above 1-11 or 2-10 status. For the first time since the conference expanded beyond 11 teams, each member is going to finish with at least 3 wins, including our beloved rivals, the Fighting Illini. Somehow, Illinois lost the dynamic leader of its offense and got better, rising up to snakebite Minnesota in Champaign. The Orange and Blue were actually outgained by a significant margin, but used turnovers to stay in the game until they could pull off the upset with a late score. Sound a bit similar to another game from last weekend? The good news: Illinois doesn't feature one of the nation's top run defenses, or a great defense at all, or even a bad defense. They won't capture lightning in a bottle twice, as long as J.T. can avoid pick sixes and daydreams of sweet revenge against that other team up north. Ill: 17--OSU: 59
Schweinfurth: I really don't know who this Ohio State team is, and I think that is a product of the schedule.  I think the Bucks roll to a 20+ point victory last week if not for the pick 6, but that offensive line...come on man!  I thought you guys had it fixed.  Run blocking? No problem.  Pass protection...very hit or miss.  As for this week, it's another feel good game before the Sparty showdown next week.  I expect to see very few J.T. runs out of the offense and it won't really be needed.  I don't need to say anything about the Silver Bullets (yea, they are real close to being back) as they have looked aggressive and talented this year.  Bucks roll, bring on Sparty!! Ill: 13--OSU: 52
Seeberg:  Well, last week went as scripted- for two quarters at least.  Apparently our massively paid offensive coaching staff has never heard of a 'Plan B' as the offense sputtered when J.T. tweaked his knee.  Luckily, Joey Bosa is an absolute beast, and we get mediocre Illinois off a surprising win against Minnesota that will likely keep them fat and happy for a couple weeks at least.  Get ahead early, keep J.T. healthy, and pray Michigan State isn't using their bye week well (I still think a conspiracy theory is afoot with that scheduling).  Ill: 13--OSU: 38

Upset Special
Draper: Iowa State over Oklahoma
Hoying: Louisville over Florida State
Schweinfurth: Arkansas over Mississippi State (CHAOS!!!)
Seeberg:  Pitt over Duke

Week 8 - Game of the Century?

Standings

1) Draper               23-10    (4-3 upset)

2) Seeberg              22-11    (0-7 upset)
3) Hoying               21-12    (3-4 upset)
4) Schweinfurth     19-14    (3-4 upset)

Now that the first half of the season has crowned the state of Mississippi as the be-all and end-all of the college football world, we can turn our attention to the other conferences around the nation, with games ranging from a reiteration of one of the most significant showdowns of all time to the return of the Buckeyes to the gridiron against an unfamiliar opponent.

Notre Dame Fighting Irish @ Florida State Seminoles

Draper: FSU continues their unbeaten streak while suffering the slings and arrows from every direction due to the lack of intelligence (and somewhat of a witch hunt) from their QB.  On the field, the Noles have been moving along quite well.  Many point to the 'struggles' but that's very normal when you get every team's best shot.  The 2013 Seminoles were, without question, better than this edition, but the 2014 Noles are still very very good.  The Irish have been struggling even more than the Seminoles but the narrative hasn't focused on that side of the coin.  Golson is a very good QB, but I believe Tally is ready to explode.  This Irish squad is a far cry from the 1993 squad that defeated the Noles in South Bend.  FSU makes a statement and takes care of business.  ND: 20--FSU: 34

Hoying: In 1993, the #1 Florida State Seminoles visited the #2 Notre Dame Fighting Irish in what was called the "Game of the Century." The Irish won but later suffered an upset and ended the season ranked #2, as Florida State rebounded to win their first national title. Nobody is going to confuse either of these year's teams with those juggernauts, but both have managed to weather the first half of their seasons without a loss. The Noles were tested in both their matchups against ranked teams, including a near loss to Clemson. But now that Jameis Pryor...er, Winston, is back and in freshman year form, the Noles are going to be tough to tackle, even if the defense isn't quite as suffocating as last year's squad. Irish QB Everett Golson's immaculate regular season record comes crashing down in Tallahassee. ND: 24--FSU: 31

Schweinfurth: Both of these teams have shown flaws over the last few weeks.  Notre Dame squeaked by an inferior North Carolina squad and Florida State just doesn't look like the same team this year.  I'm just excited that one of these teams have to lose this week (more chaos).  In the end, it comes down to Jameis' eligibility.  If he can go, the Noles win.  If not, well, just remember the Clemson game.  ND: 30--FSU: 35

Seeberg:   Let's be honest here, people, ND went all "La Suerte de los Tontos" (for you non-Spanish speakers that loosely translates as the luck of the foolish) in beating Stanford - at home - the only team of consequence they have played all season.  Florida State, though not as dominant on either side of the ball as last year, is still a much better team.  The golden domers gave up 43 points to a lackluster UNC squad, but of course ESPiN is invoking the titanic battles between FSU and ND in the late 80's and early 90's.  Sorry about your ratings, but this one won't be that close.  ND: 21--FSU: 38

Stanford Cardinal @ Arizona State Sun Devils

Draper: The Sun Devils' ranking relies on what? Getting blown out by UCLA? Beating USC with the worst Hail Mary defense in history? I just don't see it with Mike Bercovici.  Stanford doesn't have any great wins of note, but the win over Washington is pretty good, not to mention being very competitive vs. Notre Dame and USC (barring a last minute collapse).  It's in Tempe, but I think the Cardinal are simply better. HOGAAAAANNN!!  Stan: 20--ASU: 13

Hoying: Where resides the best defense in the country? I'll forgive you if you said Ole Miss, because their defense is spectacular, but the top lockdown crew is actually found in Palo Alto. The Cardinal are allowing a measly 10 points per game, surrendering 13 and 17 points in their 2 losses and giving up 20 points to NOBODY. The Stanford rushing attack has been lackluster, and QB Kevin Hogan has been good-not-great, but the Cardinal should be able to move the ball against a squishy Sun Devil defense. This game should come down to whether ASU QB Mike Bercovici replicates his UCLA performance (bad) or USC performance (good). I don't think he can navigate this stifling D. Stan: 17--ASU:16

Schweinfurth: Ahh yes, another Pac-12 game that I really don't know much about.  I do know that Stanford is pretty good.  From what I have seen and read, I'm just not sold on the Sun Devils.  It's a Stanford game so it's gotta be a low scoring affair. Stan: 20--ASU: 14

Seeberg:  This is a bizarre matchup to analyze.  It's strength on strength (Cardinal D vs. ASU O) and weakness on weakness (Cardinal O vs. ASU D).  In comparing common opponents, Stanford gave up 13 to USC while ASU gave up 34.  Then again, ASU won, 38-34, and Stanford only mustered 10 points against the Trojans.  It's tough to imagine this game getting into even the 20s where the Sun Devils would have good odds to win this one.  Stanford just squeezes into the 20s and gets another win.  Stan: 23--ASU: 13

Kansas State Wildcats @ Oklahoma Sooners

Draper: Kansas State's best performance of note this year is...a loss.  They fought valiantly against Auburn at home but couldn't get it done.  I'm still a believer in OU.  They have tons of talent and back home in Norman? Watch out.  This is just what the doctor ordered after a tough loss at TCU followed by a middling performance in a big rivalry.  Texas held the Sooners down, but I don't think the Wildcats will be able to recreate the magic.  Boomer!?!? ... KSU: 20--OU: 34

Hoying: Oklahoma struggled mightily against the Longhorns last week, accumulating only 232 yards of offense. This doesn't bode well for the Sooners, as they face a Wildcat defense that held a terrific Auburn offense to 20 points, nearly pulling off the upset. Kansas State has feasted on a steady diet of cupcakes so far this season and fell short in their only shot at glory to date. Normally, "Big Game Bob" is untouchable in Norman, but TCU fought their way to purple victory, a tradition the Wildcats should continue this week. KSU: 31--OU: 27

Schweinfurth: This one smells of an upset.  Oklahoma did not look good against Texas last week and Trevor Knight was held in check for almost all of that game.  Add in a porous pass defense and you have some trouble brewing.  Kansas State can chuck the ball all over, especially with Lockett running downfield.  KSU: 35--OU: 28

Seeberg:  The Sooners have looked pretty, well, average in the last two weeks, losing to TCU and struggling mightily on the offensive side of the ball against Texas.  The judgment that must be made is whether those were aberrations or if there are serious issues with Stoops' squad.  I choose the latter.  The Wildcats take the Longhorns' blueprint and do enough to shut down Oklahoma's offense and get back to the Little Apple with their biggest win of the year.  KSU: 27--OU: 21

Rutgers Scarlet Knights @ THE Ohio State University Buckeyes

Draper: Ho hum...Another game with no benefits for a win and crushing implications for a loss (sorry Michigan).  Rutgers QB Gary Nova has put together a fine season for the Scarlet Knights intro to the B1G, but OSU is sneaking around the chicken coop...quietly murdering everyone in their path on the way to the showdown in East Lansing.  JT has been phenomenal all year and I don't expect anything different here.  Rutgers will fight hard, but this is no Wolverine squad.  The Bucks aren't going to mess around here.  Take care of business and keep the hopes alive. RU: 20--OSU: 48

Hoying: Despite both programs football histories dating back to at least 1890, this week features the first ever Scarlet Knights/Scarlet & Gray showdown. Raise your hand if you foresaw this game as a potential showcase of All-B1G QB candidates. Both Nova and Barrett rank in the top 5 in the nation in pass efficiency, and puzzling one-game chokes aside, both have been the unquestioned leaders of their respective offenses. Here's the big difference: Barrett can run, Nova can't. Rutgers may have been able to contain Devin Gardner, but JT has already surpassed the senior Wolverine in virtually every way (except maybe ability to play while broken in half). If the winner of this game can knock off Michigan State in East Lansing, they're a virtual lock to represent the B1G East in Indianapolis. Somehow, I don't see that contender being the Scarlet Knights. Wait your turn, Queens. RU: 24--OSU: 45

Schweinfurth: Finally, another Ohio State game (and there are no more bye weeks until bowl/playoff season).  JT Barrett has been on fire the last three games and leading the Buckeye offense at a record setting pace.  Now look, I know the competition hasn't been the best, but that is still something to marvel at.  Rutgers is a fine program and "the Birthplace of College Football," but Ohio State is just better at every single position.  Joey Bosa is a man and he will see plenty of double and maybe even triple teams from here on out.  That is gonna open the door for Michael Bennett and Adolphus Washington to do very bad things to QB Gary Nova.  I expect to see more of the same out of this team, get an early lead and put the pedal down until the end of the game.  4th straight game with 50+? It might just happen!  Rut: 17--OSU: 52

Seeberg:  My colleagues have very similar opinions on what will shake down in this game...and I'm no different.  Rutgers is remarkably 5-1 with two of the conference's biggest non-conference wins in Washington State and Navy.  It won't be nearly enough on homecoming in Ohio Stadium, however.  This team is a 180-degree departure from Cooper's days when the team would peak in September, blowing out big non-conference opponents, then stumble down the stretch.  The improvement week-to-week is visible to even a casual fan, and with two weeks to prep for Rutgers, the Scarlet Knights will understand what Scarlet on the football field is really supposed to look like.  RU: 17--OSU: 45

Upset Special

Draper: Northwestern over Nebraska

Hoying: Arkansas over Georgia

Schweinfurth: Boston College over Clemson

Seeberg:  West Virginia over Baylor