Sorry this is late (and a bit brief) but I was grading actual students this week.
Offense: A
JT looked phenomenal again. The line is giving him time (albeit against weaker competition) but his passes have been right on the mark. I'm loving the progression in his decision making. Let's not forget about Zeke and a 'Carlos-Hyde-esque' performance. The offense of the Buckeyes continues to improve and should keep the train rolling until we face a decent defense (good news: we shouldn't face a decent defense until MSU). I will say this, Barrett's passing has already surpassed Braxton's which could make for an interesting competition next year. FBS record 45 first downs? Achievement unlocked!
Defense: C+/B-
Whoa! This seems awfully generous for a team that gave up some absolutely crazy deep passes (especially right before the half). Let's look at the game as a whole. The defense was actually pretty good against a very solid Bearcats team with some absolutely horrid plays mixed in. The pass play at the end of the half was completely inexcusable....completely ridiculous. There is no excuse to fail at this crucial moment. Removing the lapses in coverage on the 3 deep passes, the defense was really good. Those lapses don't happen in a vacuum so they matter, but I choose to look at some positives. The safety play is the number 1 position that cannot have these 'oops' plays....and they had 3. Time to fix that, but a lot to like other than those plays. Oh yeah, Joey Bosa killed a guy. He should probably lay low for awhile.
Special Teams: B+
Pretty low with no mistakes, but nothing of note happened on special teams (that I can remember). No downgrade for bad play, but no upgrade for anything special. With 45 first downs, Cameron Johnston probably got pretty bored on the sideline.
Coaching: B
Offense churned out a million yards, but those terrible breakdowns on defense were mental more than physical. That's coaching. I do love Urban yelling at Barrett to take charge of his team. The response by JT showed that Urban is getting through.
Overall: B+
Great offense (other than the fumble) and good defense but can't give up 221 yards receiving to one guy on 3 catches. The safety play must improve going forward, but Cincinnati is one of the best offenses we will face this year. Remove the mistakes, and we're in great shape moving on.
Showing posts with label Cincinnati. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Cincinnati. Show all posts
Wednesday, October 01, 2014
Thursday, September 25, 2014
Week 5 - The Battle of Ohio
Standings
1) Draper 11-6 (2-2 upset)
1) Schweinfurth 11-6 (1-3 upset)
1) Seeberg 11-6 (0-4 upset)
4) Hoying 10-7 (2-2 upset)
After last week's presciently named "Paring the Ranks of the Undefeateds" post, 9 undefeated teams went on to lose, 5 of them to teams with losses (good work, Maryland, Iowa, and Indiana), leaving just 25 undefeated teams left after 4 weeks of play. Our first two picks this week each feature a pair of undefeated teams, and the Buckeyes hope to knock off undefeated Cincinnati as well.
In other news, every B1G team except Michigan avoided a loss last week, and the Wolverines celebrated by offering free football tickets to anyone who could afford two $1.50 Coke products.
UCLA Bruins @ Arizona State Sun Devils
Draper:UCLA is undefeated...but their 3 wins have been as unimpressive as anyone who was supposed to be a national title contender, but they did win, even with backup QB Jerry Neuheisal stepping in when 'mega-star' Brett Hundley got hurt. ASU has been pretty much as unimpressive with 3 craptastic wins before this Thursday night showdown. UCLA's win at UVA is actually gaining some credit as time passes but the SunDevils have beaten...no one. My gut says UCLA has to be the better team with the 'hype', but they can't protect the QB. ASU is at home, but I have no idea what this team is made of...so many questions. I have to believe that Hundley is better than he's shown and if he plays, I'll lean to the Bruins. If he doesn't play, I'm betting (HAHA GET IT!? HIS DAD WAS FIRED FOR GAMBLING!!) that Jerry Neuheisal can 'game manage' a road win. UCLA in a close one. UCLA: 28--ASU: 27
Hoying: Never underestimate the inertia of preseason rankings. Somehow, UCLA comes into this game ranked #11 after three quite unimpressive wins, the best of which may well turn out to be at Virginia. Why so mediocre? Despite featuring everyone's Heisman darling, Brett Hundley, at QB, the Bruins can't buy him a few seconds' worth of protection. UCLA has given up 12 sacks so far, while dialing up only 3 of their own. It's become so bad that Hundley had to leave a game in which UCLA was trailing Texas, so that Rick Neuheisel's son could lead them to victory. In contrast, what do we know about the home team? They have three big wins over three bad opponents. They run the ball very well. And, like UCLA, their starting quarterback, Taylor Kelly, is injured. Were that last fact not the case, I would be tempted to pick to Sun Devils, but Neuheisel is battle-tested and ASU backup QB Mike Bercovici isn't. UCLA: 24--ASU: 17
Schweinfurth: I'm going out on a limb and predicting that Hundley will at least start this game. That won't matter though as ASU has been pretty meh these last few years while UCLA is on the up swing. UCLA: 28--ASU: 10
Seeberg: Both teams are 3-0, having beaten almost nobody between them with the possible exception of UVA (by UCLA). Hundley is hurt, supposedly, but UCLA isn't telling anyone whether he'll play or not. ASU may have wished they did the same as their starting QB is out with a bad wheel. ASU also allowed more points to Colorado than lowly Hawaii, so their D is suspect at best. Assuming Hundley is anywhere near 100%, this one should end up somewhat comfortably for the Bruins. UCLA: 27--ASU: 17
Florida State Seminoles @ North Carolina State Wolfpack
Draper: NC State is the annual 'trap' game for the Noles. Especially in Raleigh. Not this year. Jameis will be back and hungry to lead this team. Yes, the Noles looked vulnerable vs. Clemson, but the Tiger pass rush is very good and the receivers made some circus catches. NCSU is undefeated but no longer. FSU reminds everyone what the number 1 team can do. Don't underestimate the importance of a solid experienced leader at the QB position. Noles roll. FSU: 38--NCSU: 17
Hoying: You thought the big Florida State ACC showdown was last week, didn't you? Fie! Clemson wasn't even undefeated! NC State rolls in with 4 wins over Georgia Southern, Old Dominion, South Florida, and Presbyterian. Meanwhile the Noles miraculously benefited from some heavy Clemsoning to overcome the loss of Jameis Winston, but we learned something very important in the process: Florida State has no running game. GaSo and ODU were able to have success on the ground and keep their games against NC State close. Will FSU need to discover a rush attack in order to maintain their winning ways? Yes, but not this week. The talent gap is still too large. FSU: 27--NCSU: 20
Schweinfurth: Jameis Winston is playing in this game right? Florida State's defense carried them through that thriller last week and showed that there is more to this team than Infamous Jameis. Looking at history says that NC State typically gives the 'Noles issues in Raleigh. This year I don't see it happening. Jameis feels like he has something to prove and blows the doors off the Wolfpack D. FSU: 35--NCSU: 10
Seeberg: Has Jameis Winston randomly yelled poor-spirited 4-letter words at anyone yet this week? No? Got it. The Seminoles should be golden. Nevertheless, NC State has been TTUN to John Cooper's Buckeye squads, inexplicably ruining multiple high-profile seasons with less-talented teams. The same nearly happened two years before FSU stopped their first-half sleepwalking routine, turning a 16-0 deficit into a 17-16 win. Last year the Seminoles seemingly buried the curse forever, routing the Wolfpack by 32. They aren't as dominant this year, but I do not expect a return to the drama. Keep a lid on it Famous Jameis! FSU: 38--NCSU: 13
Arkansas Razorbacks @ Texas A&M Aggies
Draper: TAMU has been known for lots of points over the Johnny Football and Kenny 'Trill' eras, but defense is fairly optional (no I don't care that they played well against bad offenses). I'd like to congratulate the fat turd (Bielema) for actually winning a conference game with an explosive offense...but no defense either. Put em together and what do you get? A shootout...that may be too kind....Lots of points, but the 12th man and the better team gives the sizable edge to the Aggies. The win over South Carolina has matured nicely. College Station rocks as the Aggies give up a decent number of points, but score much more. Ark: 27--TAMU: 48
Hoying: Since the end of Arkansas's karma-based 10 game losing streak, the Razorbacks have looked impressive in 3 straight wins, showcasing one of the nation's top rushing attacks behind two-headed monster Alex Collins and Jonathan Williams. How dominant is the Arkansas ground game? Against Texas Tech, the Razors attempted 12 passes and scored 49 points, all on run plays. Woo Pig Sooie even averaged 5.3 yards/carry while getting whomped by Auburn in the opener. Unfortunately for them, Texas A&M has inexplicably found a defense to complement their scary-good offense. Since giving up 28 points (on four touchdown passes) to South Carolina in the opener, the Aggies have surrendered 19 points total in their last 3 games. You can't be one-dimensional and knock off A&M this year. Ark: 20--TAMU: 41
Schweinfurth: Bert's Razorbacks are bad. I mean like really bad (but ESPN will tell you they are good because SEC). Texas A&M is still interesting to me. They are a team that I would expect to have 2-3 losses but they look better than I think they are. Fortunately for A&M, the Razorbacks aren't much of a challenge and this one is over quick. Ark: 17--TAMU: 45
Seeberg: Anyone in the Greensboro, NC area want to go halvsies on some pizza/beer and take in this game with me? I have an impractically large TV and this game is likely to be very entertaining. Bret Bielema's money grab is finally netting the Razorbacks some victories by going back to, ironically, both Razorback and Badger football, running it down people's throats. Their passing game, however, leaves much to be desired, and did not show up in the one game they needed it, a 24-point loss to Auburn. Pass me another slice, TAMU just scored again. Ark: 23--TAMU: 52
Cincinnati Bearcats @ THE Ohio State University Buckeyes
Draper: Bucks responded from the VT debacle by clobbering hapless Kent State. Now it's the return of Little Brother (what a champion) to the Shoe. UC looks to step up and take down the big dog to match up their resume with Oberlin College, but it's just not in the cards. Gunner Kiel has slung the ball around quite well in the first few games, but the LSU transfer...er...Irish transfer...er...whatever, hasn't been to the Shoe. OSU has far better athletes from top to bottom so this should be a Buckeye win although the pass defense will be tested. Look for the O-line to continue to improve against a D-Line better than Kent but worse than VT. The pass defense will be tested, but Zeke, Curtis Samuel, and Mr. Barrett should have a field day against this defense. Keep the record books open. Send them back to Ohio's ONLY crappy stepping stone school. UC: 28--OSU: 41
Hoying: After a bye week, the Buckeyes welcome back Scrappy Doo to Ohio Stadium, ending a 7-year hiatus. Little Brother is excited about its chances with super-recruit Gunner Kiel behind center, but Cincinnati (1) can't run the ball, and (2) has no defense. If the Buck-O-Line continues to improve, the Men of the Scarlet and Gray should be able to roll up quite a few points. This game will come down to how well Chris Ash's newly-installed Cover 4 defense has taken hold. The pass defense was actually pretty decent against Virginia Tech, and Navy and Kent State couldn't throw the ball at all, but this will be the true test of the Silver Bullets' progress. I have a good feeling about this one. It still sUCks to be a stepping stone. UC: 20--OSU: 45
Schweinfurth: It is finally time to see if that sieve of a pass defense is fixed. Yes VaTech threw it a little bit, but Cincinnati is going to go full air raid and throw it 40-50 times. Blitz timing and good corner coverage is going to be needed because Gunner Kiel has some pretty good targets to throw to. I expect the Bearcats to be able to move the ball between the thirties and bog down a bit in the red zone. The Buckeye offense has also had two weeks to figure out what to do on the offensive line and what their identity will be. UC is going to try and run a bear front. Because of that, I expect J.T. to come out throwing lots of short to intermediate passes. Once the defense is loosened up a bit, Zeke and Samuel will get their yards. Ohio State has the better talent in the state. It's time to prove it. UC: 20--OSU: 52
Seeberg: Had to wait an extra week to say this thanks to the bye week, but where in the (insert favorite expletive here) was that team/coaching staff when we actually NEEDED them against Va Tech? No matter, the Bearcats come rolling into Columbus with a high-powered, if one-dimensional, offense. The front four will need to put some pressure on Top Gunner to ease things for the back seven. It's unlikely the D is completely patched up, but luckily our non-Tressel-influenced offense will be scoring plenty. Doubling up the little brother in the Shoe. UC: 24--OSU: 48
Upset Special
Draper:Minnesota over Michigan (get the pitchforks ready)
Hoying: Oregon State over USC
Schweinfurth: Missouri over South Carolina
Seeberg: Texas Tech over Oklahoma State
1) Draper 11-6 (2-2 upset)
1) Schweinfurth 11-6 (1-3 upset)
1) Seeberg 11-6 (0-4 upset)
4) Hoying 10-7 (2-2 upset)
After last week's presciently named "Paring the Ranks of the Undefeateds" post, 9 undefeated teams went on to lose, 5 of them to teams with losses (good work, Maryland, Iowa, and Indiana), leaving just 25 undefeated teams left after 4 weeks of play. Our first two picks this week each feature a pair of undefeated teams, and the Buckeyes hope to knock off undefeated Cincinnati as well.
In other news, every B1G team except Michigan avoided a loss last week, and the Wolverines celebrated by offering free football tickets to anyone who could afford two $1.50 Coke products.
UCLA Bruins @ Arizona State Sun Devils
Draper:UCLA is undefeated...but their 3 wins have been as unimpressive as anyone who was supposed to be a national title contender, but they did win, even with backup QB Jerry Neuheisal stepping in when 'mega-star' Brett Hundley got hurt. ASU has been pretty much as unimpressive with 3 craptastic wins before this Thursday night showdown. UCLA's win at UVA is actually gaining some credit as time passes but the SunDevils have beaten...no one. My gut says UCLA has to be the better team with the 'hype', but they can't protect the QB. ASU is at home, but I have no idea what this team is made of...so many questions. I have to believe that Hundley is better than he's shown and if he plays, I'll lean to the Bruins. If he doesn't play, I'm betting (HAHA GET IT!? HIS DAD WAS FIRED FOR GAMBLING!!) that Jerry Neuheisal can 'game manage' a road win. UCLA in a close one. UCLA: 28--ASU: 27
Hoying: Never underestimate the inertia of preseason rankings. Somehow, UCLA comes into this game ranked #11 after three quite unimpressive wins, the best of which may well turn out to be at Virginia. Why so mediocre? Despite featuring everyone's Heisman darling, Brett Hundley, at QB, the Bruins can't buy him a few seconds' worth of protection. UCLA has given up 12 sacks so far, while dialing up only 3 of their own. It's become so bad that Hundley had to leave a game in which UCLA was trailing Texas, so that Rick Neuheisel's son could lead them to victory. In contrast, what do we know about the home team? They have three big wins over three bad opponents. They run the ball very well. And, like UCLA, their starting quarterback, Taylor Kelly, is injured. Were that last fact not the case, I would be tempted to pick to Sun Devils, but Neuheisel is battle-tested and ASU backup QB Mike Bercovici isn't. UCLA: 24--ASU: 17
Schweinfurth: I'm going out on a limb and predicting that Hundley will at least start this game. That won't matter though as ASU has been pretty meh these last few years while UCLA is on the up swing. UCLA: 28--ASU: 10
Seeberg: Both teams are 3-0, having beaten almost nobody between them with the possible exception of UVA (by UCLA). Hundley is hurt, supposedly, but UCLA isn't telling anyone whether he'll play or not. ASU may have wished they did the same as their starting QB is out with a bad wheel. ASU also allowed more points to Colorado than lowly Hawaii, so their D is suspect at best. Assuming Hundley is anywhere near 100%, this one should end up somewhat comfortably for the Bruins. UCLA: 27--ASU: 17
Florida State Seminoles @ North Carolina State Wolfpack
Draper: NC State is the annual 'trap' game for the Noles. Especially in Raleigh. Not this year. Jameis will be back and hungry to lead this team. Yes, the Noles looked vulnerable vs. Clemson, but the Tiger pass rush is very good and the receivers made some circus catches. NCSU is undefeated but no longer. FSU reminds everyone what the number 1 team can do. Don't underestimate the importance of a solid experienced leader at the QB position. Noles roll. FSU: 38--NCSU: 17
Hoying: You thought the big Florida State ACC showdown was last week, didn't you? Fie! Clemson wasn't even undefeated! NC State rolls in with 4 wins over Georgia Southern, Old Dominion, South Florida, and Presbyterian. Meanwhile the Noles miraculously benefited from some heavy Clemsoning to overcome the loss of Jameis Winston, but we learned something very important in the process: Florida State has no running game. GaSo and ODU were able to have success on the ground and keep their games against NC State close. Will FSU need to discover a rush attack in order to maintain their winning ways? Yes, but not this week. The talent gap is still too large. FSU: 27--NCSU: 20
Schweinfurth: Jameis Winston is playing in this game right? Florida State's defense carried them through that thriller last week and showed that there is more to this team than Infamous Jameis. Looking at history says that NC State typically gives the 'Noles issues in Raleigh. This year I don't see it happening. Jameis feels like he has something to prove and blows the doors off the Wolfpack D. FSU: 35--NCSU: 10
Seeberg: Has Jameis Winston randomly yelled poor-spirited 4-letter words at anyone yet this week? No? Got it. The Seminoles should be golden. Nevertheless, NC State has been TTUN to John Cooper's Buckeye squads, inexplicably ruining multiple high-profile seasons with less-talented teams. The same nearly happened two years before FSU stopped their first-half sleepwalking routine, turning a 16-0 deficit into a 17-16 win. Last year the Seminoles seemingly buried the curse forever, routing the Wolfpack by 32. They aren't as dominant this year, but I do not expect a return to the drama. Keep a lid on it Famous Jameis! FSU: 38--NCSU: 13
Arkansas Razorbacks @ Texas A&M Aggies
Draper: TAMU has been known for lots of points over the Johnny Football and Kenny 'Trill' eras, but defense is fairly optional (no I don't care that they played well against bad offenses). I'd like to congratulate the fat turd (Bielema) for actually winning a conference game with an explosive offense...but no defense either. Put em together and what do you get? A shootout...that may be too kind....Lots of points, but the 12th man and the better team gives the sizable edge to the Aggies. The win over South Carolina has matured nicely. College Station rocks as the Aggies give up a decent number of points, but score much more. Ark: 27--TAMU: 48
Hoying: Since the end of Arkansas's karma-based 10 game losing streak, the Razorbacks have looked impressive in 3 straight wins, showcasing one of the nation's top rushing attacks behind two-headed monster Alex Collins and Jonathan Williams. How dominant is the Arkansas ground game? Against Texas Tech, the Razors attempted 12 passes and scored 49 points, all on run plays. Woo Pig Sooie even averaged 5.3 yards/carry while getting whomped by Auburn in the opener. Unfortunately for them, Texas A&M has inexplicably found a defense to complement their scary-good offense. Since giving up 28 points (on four touchdown passes) to South Carolina in the opener, the Aggies have surrendered 19 points total in their last 3 games. You can't be one-dimensional and knock off A&M this year. Ark: 20--TAMU: 41
Schweinfurth: Bert's Razorbacks are bad. I mean like really bad (but ESPN will tell you they are good because SEC). Texas A&M is still interesting to me. They are a team that I would expect to have 2-3 losses but they look better than I think they are. Fortunately for A&M, the Razorbacks aren't much of a challenge and this one is over quick. Ark: 17--TAMU: 45
Seeberg: Anyone in the Greensboro, NC area want to go halvsies on some pizza/beer and take in this game with me? I have an impractically large TV and this game is likely to be very entertaining. Bret Bielema's money grab is finally netting the Razorbacks some victories by going back to, ironically, both Razorback and Badger football, running it down people's throats. Their passing game, however, leaves much to be desired, and did not show up in the one game they needed it, a 24-point loss to Auburn. Pass me another slice, TAMU just scored again. Ark: 23--TAMU: 52
Cincinnati Bearcats @ THE Ohio State University Buckeyes
Draper: Bucks responded from the VT debacle by clobbering hapless Kent State. Now it's the return of Little Brother (what a champion) to the Shoe. UC looks to step up and take down the big dog to match up their resume with Oberlin College, but it's just not in the cards. Gunner Kiel has slung the ball around quite well in the first few games, but the LSU transfer...er...Irish transfer...er...whatever, hasn't been to the Shoe. OSU has far better athletes from top to bottom so this should be a Buckeye win although the pass defense will be tested. Look for the O-line to continue to improve against a D-Line better than Kent but worse than VT. The pass defense will be tested, but Zeke, Curtis Samuel, and Mr. Barrett should have a field day against this defense. Keep the record books open. Send them back to Ohio's ONLY crappy stepping stone school. UC: 28--OSU: 41
Hoying: After a bye week, the Buckeyes welcome back Scrappy Doo to Ohio Stadium, ending a 7-year hiatus. Little Brother is excited about its chances with super-recruit Gunner Kiel behind center, but Cincinnati (1) can't run the ball, and (2) has no defense. If the Buck-O-Line continues to improve, the Men of the Scarlet and Gray should be able to roll up quite a few points. This game will come down to how well Chris Ash's newly-installed Cover 4 defense has taken hold. The pass defense was actually pretty decent against Virginia Tech, and Navy and Kent State couldn't throw the ball at all, but this will be the true test of the Silver Bullets' progress. I have a good feeling about this one. It still sUCks to be a stepping stone. UC: 20--OSU: 45
Schweinfurth: It is finally time to see if that sieve of a pass defense is fixed. Yes VaTech threw it a little bit, but Cincinnati is going to go full air raid and throw it 40-50 times. Blitz timing and good corner coverage is going to be needed because Gunner Kiel has some pretty good targets to throw to. I expect the Bearcats to be able to move the ball between the thirties and bog down a bit in the red zone. The Buckeye offense has also had two weeks to figure out what to do on the offensive line and what their identity will be. UC is going to try and run a bear front. Because of that, I expect J.T. to come out throwing lots of short to intermediate passes. Once the defense is loosened up a bit, Zeke and Samuel will get their yards. Ohio State has the better talent in the state. It's time to prove it. UC: 20--OSU: 52
Seeberg: Had to wait an extra week to say this thanks to the bye week, but where in the (insert favorite expletive here) was that team/coaching staff when we actually NEEDED them against Va Tech? No matter, the Bearcats come rolling into Columbus with a high-powered, if one-dimensional, offense. The front four will need to put some pressure on Top Gunner to ease things for the back seven. It's unlikely the D is completely patched up, but luckily our non-Tressel-influenced offense will be scoring plenty. Doubling up the little brother in the Shoe. UC: 24--OSU: 48
Upset Special
Draper:Minnesota over Michigan (get the pitchforks ready)
Hoying: Oregon State over USC
Schweinfurth: Missouri over South Carolina
Seeberg: Texas Tech over Oklahoma State
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Week 11 - All the Marbles
Friday Night Special!
#25 West Virginia vs. #5 Cincinnati
Gomer: I'll go ahead and admit it; Cincinnati is pretty good. Do I think they'd hang with "the big boys", probably not, but we should get to find out sometime in early January. West Virginia has quietly put themselves in position to win the Big East if they win out, but the national attention has been on the Bearcats. Since the tandem of Pat White and Steve Slaton left the Mountaineers, they really haven't been the same team, or received the same amount of attention. Noel Devine has been able to dazzle from time to time, but unless WVU QB Jarrett Brown is a threat as well, it could be a long night for the WVU offense and another night of passing and running at will for the Bearcats. WVU: 28--UC: 41
Chief: I really want UC to take a dive, but I don't think WVU (especially with a banged up Noel Devine) can stop them. The UC offense is hitting on all cylinders (when playing Big East defenses), but the defense is mediocre at best. Last week was way too difficult against a subpar UConn team at home at night to inspire confidence in this team. Regardless, the UC offense should be more than good enough to take the Mountaineers out. Watch out for Pitt next week. Kelly should be very distracted with the calls from South Bend and Ann Arbor rolling in. WVU: 31 UC: 45
Saturday's Games
#16 Utah vs. #4 TCU
Gomer: My defense of TCU all season has been just that, their defense. As many wise coaches have said too: Defense wins championships. The TCU defense has been outstanding in wins @ Virginia, @ Clemson, and @ BYU. They look to get revenge for last year's loss to the Utes and claim a spot in the BCS. I'm not going to throw a bunch of names and opinions out here when I really don't know a ton about other team other than watching their premiere games from earlier in the season. I like TCU a lot and frankly don't think that Utah has the horses on offense to offset that mismatch. Utah: 19--TCU: 28
Chief: Utah was the team of the year last year and even with the 1-loss record, everyone is expecting a big upset this week. Not so fast my friend. TCU has been destroying teams since the near miss at Air Force. I think Jerry Highes and the Frog defense smother the Ute attack while Andy Dalton (TCU QB) racks up some solid numbers as he's been under the radar. TCU rolls toward the BCS. Utah: 10--TCU: 31
Stanford vs. #9 USC
Gomer: Let's see, USC is coming off a tough win in Tempe while the Cardinal are coming off of a massive upset and offensive explosion against the Oregon Ducks. USC has been up and down this year, not really knowing week to week which team will show up. Stanford will look to repeat the huge upset they pulled two years ago in Los Angeles, but Pete Carroll's boys will be ready to roll and hope that someone else can pull an upset or two over the Ducks to get back in the BCS. Stan: 14--USC:31
Chief: This game is very interesting as Stanford has quietly put together a great team behind the arm of freshman QB Andrew Luck and the white lightning RB Toby Gerhardt. USC always wins these type of games historically even given the recent struggles. I don't know if this Trojan team is as solid as the past editions, but the revenge factor is strong in this one. Remember, the Cardinal upset the Trojans 2 years ago on their turf. I honestly wouldn't be surprised with a Stanford upset that caps the USC stranglehold on the Pac-10, but I think they come just short in a must see game. I'd love for the Cardinal to end the Trojans hopes, but we'll see. Stan: 23--USC: 24
#10 Iowa vs. #11 Ohio State
Gomer: Well I was thankfully wrong with last week's pick. The Lions proved to be a hollow shell, and TP didn't make mistakes that let PSU stay in the game. Kudos to the whole team. Iowa comes in reeling after going 9-0 and losing to Northwestern at home. It should be noted that the Hawkeyes not only lost the game, but starting QB Ricky Stanzi AKA Mr. Clutch. James Vandenberg came in relief and played as expected in his first ever game action... not good. He should be improved this week, but it won't show against the outstanding Buckeye D. As with last week's game, if TP does not turn the ball over to an underrated Hawkeye defense the Bucks should be able to control this one and celebrate with Roses in hand afterwards. Iowa: 10--OSU: 27
Chief: Now that's what I'm talking about. There's the Buckeye team we've been waiting for. TP comes up with the most important stat of his career on the road vs. the Lions: 0 turnovers. Iowa limps into the Shoe with a Rose Bowl berth on the line, but they are just too banged up to take advantage. OSU is firing like mad with the defense playing at a whole new level. The freshman QB of Iowa has not played significantly on the road and was awful at home vs. a mediocre NU defense...uh oh. The Bullets fire to completely shut down teh Hawkeye O. While the Iowa D is stout, they will not be able to overcome the bad position they're put in time and time again by the defense. Iowa will force at least one turnover and turn it into points, but it won't be enough to keep Tressel from his first Rose Bowl berth. GO BUCKS!!! Iowa: 6--OSU: 24
The Leftovers
Michigan vs. Wisconsin: Gomer: UW Chief: UW
Michigan State vs. Purdue: Gomer: PU Chief: MSU
Miami vs. North Carolina: Gomer: Miami Chief: UNC
Auburn vs. Georgia: Gomer: AU Chief: UGA
Notre Dame vs. Pittsburgh: Gomer: Pitt Chief: Pitt
Arizona vs. California: Gomer: Cal Chief: Arizona
#25 West Virginia vs. #5 Cincinnati
Gomer: I'll go ahead and admit it; Cincinnati is pretty good. Do I think they'd hang with "the big boys", probably not, but we should get to find out sometime in early January. West Virginia has quietly put themselves in position to win the Big East if they win out, but the national attention has been on the Bearcats. Since the tandem of Pat White and Steve Slaton left the Mountaineers, they really haven't been the same team, or received the same amount of attention. Noel Devine has been able to dazzle from time to time, but unless WVU QB Jarrett Brown is a threat as well, it could be a long night for the WVU offense and another night of passing and running at will for the Bearcats. WVU: 28--UC: 41
Chief: I really want UC to take a dive, but I don't think WVU (especially with a banged up Noel Devine) can stop them. The UC offense is hitting on all cylinders (when playing Big East defenses), but the defense is mediocre at best. Last week was way too difficult against a subpar UConn team at home at night to inspire confidence in this team. Regardless, the UC offense should be more than good enough to take the Mountaineers out. Watch out for Pitt next week. Kelly should be very distracted with the calls from South Bend and Ann Arbor rolling in. WVU: 31 UC: 45
Saturday's Games
#16 Utah vs. #4 TCU
Gomer: My defense of TCU all season has been just that, their defense. As many wise coaches have said too: Defense wins championships. The TCU defense has been outstanding in wins @ Virginia, @ Clemson, and @ BYU. They look to get revenge for last year's loss to the Utes and claim a spot in the BCS. I'm not going to throw a bunch of names and opinions out here when I really don't know a ton about other team other than watching their premiere games from earlier in the season. I like TCU a lot and frankly don't think that Utah has the horses on offense to offset that mismatch. Utah: 19--TCU: 28
Chief: Utah was the team of the year last year and even with the 1-loss record, everyone is expecting a big upset this week. Not so fast my friend. TCU has been destroying teams since the near miss at Air Force. I think Jerry Highes and the Frog defense smother the Ute attack while Andy Dalton (TCU QB) racks up some solid numbers as he's been under the radar. TCU rolls toward the BCS. Utah: 10--TCU: 31
Stanford vs. #9 USC
Gomer: Let's see, USC is coming off a tough win in Tempe while the Cardinal are coming off of a massive upset and offensive explosion against the Oregon Ducks. USC has been up and down this year, not really knowing week to week which team will show up. Stanford will look to repeat the huge upset they pulled two years ago in Los Angeles, but Pete Carroll's boys will be ready to roll and hope that someone else can pull an upset or two over the Ducks to get back in the BCS. Stan: 14--USC:31
Chief: This game is very interesting as Stanford has quietly put together a great team behind the arm of freshman QB Andrew Luck and the white lightning RB Toby Gerhardt. USC always wins these type of games historically even given the recent struggles. I don't know if this Trojan team is as solid as the past editions, but the revenge factor is strong in this one. Remember, the Cardinal upset the Trojans 2 years ago on their turf. I honestly wouldn't be surprised with a Stanford upset that caps the USC stranglehold on the Pac-10, but I think they come just short in a must see game. I'd love for the Cardinal to end the Trojans hopes, but we'll see. Stan: 23--USC: 24
#10 Iowa vs. #11 Ohio State
Gomer: Well I was thankfully wrong with last week's pick. The Lions proved to be a hollow shell, and TP didn't make mistakes that let PSU stay in the game. Kudos to the whole team. Iowa comes in reeling after going 9-0 and losing to Northwestern at home. It should be noted that the Hawkeyes not only lost the game, but starting QB Ricky Stanzi AKA Mr. Clutch. James Vandenberg came in relief and played as expected in his first ever game action... not good. He should be improved this week, but it won't show against the outstanding Buckeye D. As with last week's game, if TP does not turn the ball over to an underrated Hawkeye defense the Bucks should be able to control this one and celebrate with Roses in hand afterwards. Iowa: 10--OSU: 27
Chief: Now that's what I'm talking about. There's the Buckeye team we've been waiting for. TP comes up with the most important stat of his career on the road vs. the Lions: 0 turnovers. Iowa limps into the Shoe with a Rose Bowl berth on the line, but they are just too banged up to take advantage. OSU is firing like mad with the defense playing at a whole new level. The freshman QB of Iowa has not played significantly on the road and was awful at home vs. a mediocre NU defense...uh oh. The Bullets fire to completely shut down teh Hawkeye O. While the Iowa D is stout, they will not be able to overcome the bad position they're put in time and time again by the defense. Iowa will force at least one turnover and turn it into points, but it won't be enough to keep Tressel from his first Rose Bowl berth. GO BUCKS!!! Iowa: 6--OSU: 24
The Leftovers
Michigan vs. Wisconsin: Gomer: UW Chief: UW
Michigan State vs. Purdue: Gomer: PU Chief: MSU
Miami vs. North Carolina: Gomer: Miami Chief: UNC
Auburn vs. Georgia: Gomer: AU Chief: UGA
Notre Dame vs. Pittsburgh: Gomer: Pitt Chief: Pitt
Arizona vs. California: Gomer: Cal Chief: Arizona
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Week 7 - When Games Count
Thursday Night Special:
#8 Cincinnati vs. #21 South Florida
#8 Cincinnati vs. #21 South Florida
Gomer: Ohio's BCS Team travels to the sunshine state for a showdown with the undefeated Bulls on a Thursday night primetime game. I hate Cincinnati. There, I said it. Ever since they've started experiencing some ounce of success they have been the annoying little step brother that is constantly screaming "LOOK OVER HERE, WE'RE GOOD TOO, WE'RE PROBABLY BETTER THAN YOU, etc." Missing QB Matt Grothe has not been as painful as expected for the Bulls as BJ Daniels has stepped into the starting spot and become an instant success. As we've seen many times over, Thursday night's do not bode well for highly ranked teams. If I were a coach, I would refuse to play on Thursday's especially in the Big East or ACC. Cincinnati will lose in surprising fashion returning their moniker of Ohio's BCS Team to its rightful owners for now. UC: 17--USF: 21
Chief: The biggest Big East game since Rutgers-Louisville in 2006, invades Tampa. The Bulls are quietly lurking at 5-0 with a beatdown of FSU in Tallahassee (albeit against a team that looked like they'd lose to Leon High School that week). Many don't realize that USF didn't have a football program at all until 1999. Jim Leavitt has formed one heck of a program and his backup QB (BJ Daniels) has been phenomenal as a double threat). Brian Kelly has done the same at UC. Led by Heisman contenders Tony Pike (and to a lesser extent Mardy Gilyard), the Bearcats are making serious noise by invading the top 10 again. This is by far the biggest stumbling block for the Cats. I think USF led by monster George Selvie at D-End will hassle the UC offensive line and get Pike a little nervous--just enough to make a few mistakes. UC will have to play from behind for the first time, and while their offense can keep up, I don't think their defense will make enough stops. Big upset in Florida. UC: 27--USF: 30
Saturday's Showdowns:
#20 Oklahoma vs. #3 Texas
Saturday's Showdowns:
#20 Oklahoma vs. #3 Texas
Gomer: The Sooners have had a rough season so far; an opening day loss and losing their Heisman Trophy QB in the same day, a tough loss in a big revenge game against the Hurricanes, and now facing the #3 team in the land in Dallas. Texas has been good, but nothing spectacular thus far, this has allowed Colt McCoy to remain "under the radar" so far, Saturday at high noon, he reminds the country how good he is. OU has looked flat even with Sam Bradford, and now in his second game back is expected to carry the Sooners to a Red River Shootout victory. This game should see lots of scoring, but Oklahoma's lack of success away from Norman and depleted offense should help the Longhorns to a "W". OU: 27--UT: 35
Chief: The Red River Shootout was supposed to be the marquee game of the year pitting two undefeated teams of which the winner is penciled into the National Championship game. Oops... With Sam Bradford going down in week 1 and the Sooners taking 2 losses already, it's lost some luster. Don't let that stop you from tuning in because this is Texas's time to shine. So far, they've played garbage teams and won convincingly. Time to turn up the heat. I think McCoy to Shipley will become like a broken record as McCoy vaults back to the top of the Heisman race and the woes of Norman continue. OU: 24--UT: 30
#6 USC vs. #25 Notre Dame
Gomer: Not no way, not no how, it isn't going to happen. The Irish really are not that good of a team. The only reason they find themselves ranked this week is so that NBC and the rest of the media could try to hype this game a little more than it already is for no good reason. USC is returning to form blowing out Washington State and California over the last two weeks and will continue to do so this week as Matt Barkley continues to improve. It will greatly help the Trojans with ND's tops receiver, Michael Floyd, not in this game. Fight on. USC: 41--ND: 20
Chief: For the first time since the infamous Bush push, Notre Dame enters this game with a chance of winning. Emu-boy Jimmy Clauson has looked surprisingly good this year and is rightfully getting some Heisman talk. Pete Carroll has the Trojans returning to standard form after their annual gag. One thing about the Trojans, they show up on the big stage. I expect nothing less as they move the ball with ease against the Domers. Weis returns to the hotseat after the loss as it only permits 1 more before the BCS hopes are gone. USC: 34--ND: 24
Chief: For the first time since the infamous Bush push, Notre Dame enters this game with a chance of winning. Emu-boy Jimmy Clauson has looked surprisingly good this year and is rightfully getting some Heisman talk. Pete Carroll has the Trojans returning to standard form after their annual gag. One thing about the Trojans, they show up on the big stage. I expect nothing less as they move the ball with ease against the Domers. Weis returns to the hotseat after the loss as it only permits 1 more before the BCS hopes are gone. USC: 34--ND: 24
#4 Virginia Tech vs. #19 Georgia Tech
Gomer: So far this season the Ramblin' Wreck have been my almost "auto-pick" I really like what Paul Johnson has done in a short time in Atlanta, making NCAA FB relevant when they have NFL, NHL, NBA, and MLB teams to contend with, big time kudos. This is no slam on the career that Beamer has had in Blacksburg, where there is almost a cult-like following for the Hokies. I don't believe in VT QB Tyrod Taylor, Beamer says he's like Vick.... I don't agree. That being said, I don't really believe in GT QB Josh Nesbitt, who helped nearly giveaway the early season win against Clemson. VT's defense is good, but GT's offense is prone to confuse even the best defensive mind and will help put the Hokies down in a sizeable upset. VT: 24--GT: 28
Chief: Probably the most important game in the ACC this year. I picked GT to win the conference this year, but that early season loss to the U really hurts now. While the Jacket offense woke up last week (at the worst possible time), the defense went to sleep. One thing about VT is that they are coming into their own. The defense is shutting teams down cold and Tyrod Taylor is becoming a bit of a QB. The Duke game was spotty, but the Hokies dominated BC. Bobby Dodd stadium is not the most imposing place to play. While the GT option will confuse the Hokie defense, VT will post enough points to escape. One key defensive play by the Hokies will be the difference in a barn burner. VT: 23--GT: 21
#7 Ohio State vs. Purdue
Gomer: The OSU offense proved last week that they are being run by a monkey in the back room. They were unimpressive, uninspired, just plain bad. No credit should be given to the Wisconsin defense who ranked in the lower half of the NCAA prior to facing the Bucks. Thankfull Purdue's offense has been bad too, but mostly because they have butterfingers, they average 2+ TO's per game! There will be a large Buckeye contingent on hand that should help push the Bucks over the top. Not to mention, the Buckeye's performance on the Road vs. Home has been night and day, where on the road they are about to match a Big Ten record for consecutive road victories. OSU: 38--PU: 14
Chief: Ahhhhh... After what can only be termed as an absolute clinic defensively and an absolute tragedy offensively vs. Wisconsin, OSU enters a bye week....what? We have a game? Purdue comes in with their lone win over Toledo in a shootout (yes the same Toledo that the Bucks shutout). Purdue has shown some offense with their RB Ralph Bolden, but they haven't seen a defense like the Bullets. Their defense is just what the doctor ordered for Pryor to learn to go through his progressions (his current progression is 1. Posey, 2. Posey, 3. Posey, return to 1). Joe Daniels (OSU QB coach) needs to start getting Pryor to show some improvement or it's time to move on (coaching wise). Bucks win big and keep chugging before the epic schedule to end the season. OSU: 38--PU: 10
#11 Iowa vs. Wisconsin Gomer: Iowa Chief: UW
Arkansas vs. #1 Florida Gomer: UF Chief: UF (closer than the experts think)
Minnesota vs. #14 Penn State Gomer: PSU Chief: PSU
Texas Tech vs. #15 Nebraska Gomer: Nebraska Chief: Nebraska
#22 South Carolina vs. #2 Alabama Gomer: Bama Chief: Bama (closer than the experts think)
Missouri vs. #16 Oklahoma State Gomer: Okie State Chief: OkState
Chief: Probably the most important game in the ACC this year. I picked GT to win the conference this year, but that early season loss to the U really hurts now. While the Jacket offense woke up last week (at the worst possible time), the defense went to sleep. One thing about VT is that they are coming into their own. The defense is shutting teams down cold and Tyrod Taylor is becoming a bit of a QB. The Duke game was spotty, but the Hokies dominated BC. Bobby Dodd stadium is not the most imposing place to play. While the GT option will confuse the Hokie defense, VT will post enough points to escape. One key defensive play by the Hokies will be the difference in a barn burner. VT: 23--GT: 21
#7 Ohio State vs. Purdue
Gomer: The OSU offense proved last week that they are being run by a monkey in the back room. They were unimpressive, uninspired, just plain bad. No credit should be given to the Wisconsin defense who ranked in the lower half of the NCAA prior to facing the Bucks. Thankfull Purdue's offense has been bad too, but mostly because they have butterfingers, they average 2+ TO's per game! There will be a large Buckeye contingent on hand that should help push the Bucks over the top. Not to mention, the Buckeye's performance on the Road vs. Home has been night and day, where on the road they are about to match a Big Ten record for consecutive road victories. OSU: 38--PU: 14
Chief: Ahhhhh... After what can only be termed as an absolute clinic defensively and an absolute tragedy offensively vs. Wisconsin, OSU enters a bye week....what? We have a game? Purdue comes in with their lone win over Toledo in a shootout (yes the same Toledo that the Bucks shutout). Purdue has shown some offense with their RB Ralph Bolden, but they haven't seen a defense like the Bullets. Their defense is just what the doctor ordered for Pryor to learn to go through his progressions (his current progression is 1. Posey, 2. Posey, 3. Posey, return to 1). Joe Daniels (OSU QB coach) needs to start getting Pryor to show some improvement or it's time to move on (coaching wise). Bucks win big and keep chugging before the epic schedule to end the season. OSU: 38--PU: 10
#11 Iowa vs. Wisconsin Gomer: Iowa Chief: UW
Arkansas vs. #1 Florida Gomer: UF Chief: UF (closer than the experts think)
Minnesota vs. #14 Penn State Gomer: PSU Chief: PSU
Texas Tech vs. #15 Nebraska Gomer: Nebraska Chief: Nebraska
#22 South Carolina vs. #2 Alabama Gomer: Bama Chief: Bama (closer than the experts think)
Missouri vs. #16 Oklahoma State Gomer: Okie State Chief: OkState
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Week 3 - The Long and Winding Road
Georgia Tech vs. Miami
Gomer: Georgia Tech has won the last 4 meetings of these two ACC contenders and both teams have a real chance to take a firm grasp on the Division lead. GT is coming off a Thursday night thriller where the Yellow Jackets blew a huge lead in momentum and score to let Clemson retake the lead, only to escape with a win in the end. The Hurricanes have been able to rest and recover since the slugfest with the Seminoles on Labor Day night. I really like both of these teams as sleepers to make their way to the BCS National Championship game, and from what I've seen I have a hard time deciding which has the better defense. I trust Paul Johnson's coaching ability a little more than Randy Shannon's and I'll look for the option attack to manage the game and escape Miami with a win. GT: 24--UM: 20
Chief: This is the toughest game of the week to pick. Miami looked very good against FSU, but FSU seemed inept the following week against lowly Jacksonville State. I believe Jacory Harris will show up in this game, but I have to keep riding the Jacket wagon. The U requested this game to be on a Thursday to 'pay the Jackets back' for last years loss, but GT's option was unstoppable vs. Miami last year. Many say that Miami will work to stop the run exclusively, unfortunately, that's easier said than done. Nesbitt/Dwyer outscore Harris/Cooper in a photo finish. GT: 31--UM:30
Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Toledo Rockets
Gomer: The Bucks could be in for a real big emotional let down this week. I don't need to re-hash the offensive struggles from last week's heart-breaker, but if the Terrelle Pryor led offense isn't clicking, the Bucks will still win, but it could mean bad news bears down the road in the Big Ten. The other worry here is that the Rockets could expose some sort of weakness in the pass defense, because they will move the ball, but it will be a matter of when the Bucks force a turnover or other big defensive stop. Toledo won't be out of the game until late unless the Bucks come up with some early quick strikes, it'll be a better game than anyone expects. OSU: 39--UT: 20
Chief: After throwing all they had emotionally, physically, and mentally against the Trojans and coming up short (due to horrendous playcalling), the Bucks look to rebound against a surprising Toledo Rocket team. The Silver Bullets returned last week and I believe are here to stay. This is a major turning point game for the season...lie down and take it or stand and fight. I believe the Buckeyes have too much pride to quit now. I saw the pride last week and I think they fire out of the gate this week. Toledo smashed Colorado and put some points up on Purdue (while giving up a ton). OSU will put the hammer down in this one early. At first, I thought the letdown would keep it close, but the pride of the Buckeyes will not allow a fallback. Bucks continue to roll against Ohio teams. OSU: 41--UT: 10
Other games...
Boise State vs. Fresno State: Gomer: Boise Chief: Boise
USC vs. Washington: Gomer: USC Chief: USC
Michigan State vs. Notre Dame: Gomer: ND Chief: ND
Arizona vs. Iowa: Gomer: Iowa Chief: Iowa (close)
Navy vs. Pittsburgh: Gomer: Pitt Chief: Navy
Northwestern vs. Syracuse: Gomer: Syr Chief: NW
Texas Tech vs. Texas: Gomer: UT Chief: UT (BIG)
Gomer: Georgia Tech has won the last 4 meetings of these two ACC contenders and both teams have a real chance to take a firm grasp on the Division lead. GT is coming off a Thursday night thriller where the Yellow Jackets blew a huge lead in momentum and score to let Clemson retake the lead, only to escape with a win in the end. The Hurricanes have been able to rest and recover since the slugfest with the Seminoles on Labor Day night. I really like both of these teams as sleepers to make their way to the BCS National Championship game, and from what I've seen I have a hard time deciding which has the better defense. I trust Paul Johnson's coaching ability a little more than Randy Shannon's and I'll look for the option attack to manage the game and escape Miami with a win. GT: 24--UM: 20
Chief: This is the toughest game of the week to pick. Miami looked very good against FSU, but FSU seemed inept the following week against lowly Jacksonville State. I believe Jacory Harris will show up in this game, but I have to keep riding the Jacket wagon. The U requested this game to be on a Thursday to 'pay the Jackets back' for last years loss, but GT's option was unstoppable vs. Miami last year. Many say that Miami will work to stop the run exclusively, unfortunately, that's easier said than done. Nesbitt/Dwyer outscore Harris/Cooper in a photo finish. GT: 31--UM:30
Nebraska vs. Virginia Tech
Gomer: Too bad this isn't a night game, because this would be worth the trip to Blacksburg on a weekend lacking a premiere match-up. A night game is a must-see when the VT faithful get jacked up and they definitely will be for this game trying to make amends in the national spotlight for the game they had against Alabama. This will be Nebraska's Quarterback's first road start and that could spell bad news for the Huskers. Tech will roll in this one with conference pride helping push them to a strong showing for the natives. UN: 20--VT: 42
Chief: Beamer looks to bring his team back to the national stage after dropping a close one to Bama in the opener (closer than the score would seem). VT has a stellar ground game, but very little passing game. I don't think that will hurt them this weekend. The Hokies will rely on the defense and Tyrod Taylor's running ability to take care of the Huskers in Blacksburg. While the Cornhuskers are certainly improving following the Bill Callahan era, they're not there yet. The Hokies keep the Huskers in Bo Pelini land as they roll to victory. UN: 16--VT: 34
Gomer: Too bad this isn't a night game, because this would be worth the trip to Blacksburg on a weekend lacking a premiere match-up. A night game is a must-see when the VT faithful get jacked up and they definitely will be for this game trying to make amends in the national spotlight for the game they had against Alabama. This will be Nebraska's Quarterback's first road start and that could spell bad news for the Huskers. Tech will roll in this one with conference pride helping push them to a strong showing for the natives. UN: 20--VT: 42
Chief: Beamer looks to bring his team back to the national stage after dropping a close one to Bama in the opener (closer than the score would seem). VT has a stellar ground game, but very little passing game. I don't think that will hurt them this weekend. The Hokies will rely on the defense and Tyrod Taylor's running ability to take care of the Huskers in Blacksburg. While the Cornhuskers are certainly improving following the Bill Callahan era, they're not there yet. The Hokies keep the Huskers in Bo Pelini land as they roll to victory. UN: 16--VT: 34
Florida State vs. Brigham Young
Gomer: The once proud Seminoles were to be on the upward swing this season, but the offense has been inconsistent at best making me seriously question the hiring of "coach-in-waiting" Jimbo Fisher. I would definitely prefer to see FSU get the win here, but the defensive pressure the Cougars bring will be too much for Christian Ponder and the 18-game home win streak for BYU will prove too much in their home opener. FSU: 14--BYU: 31
Chief: Oh my Noles... They looked very sharp (not perfect) against a very underrated UM squad on Labor Day only to struggle with garbage on Saturday. Perhaps it was the lull game between the two huge games. I think the Noles show up to fight here, but Max Hall led BYU has certainly been firing on all cylinders lately. I don't think BYU beats OU with Bradford, but it's still very close. They rolled last week, but it's time for the midmajor to show they're a midmajor--can they handle the pressure of success. The Noles wake up and take care of business. Ponder breaks out and leads the Noles to steal one over Mendenhall and the Cougs in a close one. FSU: 31--BYU: 30
Cincinnati vs. Oregon State
Gomer: So far this season Cincinnati has been unstoppable destroying Rutgers and I-AA Opponent SE Missouri State. On the other side of the ball Oregon State has looked average beating up on Portland State and scraping by at UNLV. Both teams are young, but the key to this game will be the location... very very far away from southwestern Ohio. Cincy has lost their last 6 road games to non-conference BCS schools by an average of 21ppg. Another interesting stat: in the 2nd home game the Beavers have come up BIG, they have won 4 straight 2nd home games with an average score of 39-14... yes that does look like some stupid random stat, but I'll tell you why its important, 2 of the 4 victories have come against USC and Boise State, got your attention now? This might be the most underrated game of the weekend. UC: 29--OSU: 33
Gomer: The once proud Seminoles were to be on the upward swing this season, but the offense has been inconsistent at best making me seriously question the hiring of "coach-in-waiting" Jimbo Fisher. I would definitely prefer to see FSU get the win here, but the defensive pressure the Cougars bring will be too much for Christian Ponder and the 18-game home win streak for BYU will prove too much in their home opener. FSU: 14--BYU: 31
Chief: Oh my Noles... They looked very sharp (not perfect) against a very underrated UM squad on Labor Day only to struggle with garbage on Saturday. Perhaps it was the lull game between the two huge games. I think the Noles show up to fight here, but Max Hall led BYU has certainly been firing on all cylinders lately. I don't think BYU beats OU with Bradford, but it's still very close. They rolled last week, but it's time for the midmajor to show they're a midmajor--can they handle the pressure of success. The Noles wake up and take care of business. Ponder breaks out and leads the Noles to steal one over Mendenhall and the Cougs in a close one. FSU: 31--BYU: 30
Cincinnati vs. Oregon State
Gomer: So far this season Cincinnati has been unstoppable destroying Rutgers and I-AA Opponent SE Missouri State. On the other side of the ball Oregon State has looked average beating up on Portland State and scraping by at UNLV. Both teams are young, but the key to this game will be the location... very very far away from southwestern Ohio. Cincy has lost their last 6 road games to non-conference BCS schools by an average of 21ppg. Another interesting stat: in the 2nd home game the Beavers have come up BIG, they have won 4 straight 2nd home games with an average score of 39-14... yes that does look like some stupid random stat, but I'll tell you why its important, 2 of the 4 victories have come against USC and Boise State, got your attention now? This might be the most underrated game of the weekend. UC: 29--OSU: 33
Chief: UC has looked phenomenal in their quick start (granted against questionable competition--but that's their whole schedule in the Big East). The Beavers have always played well at home but Jacquizz is a little banged up. The last time I saw the Beavers, they were in the biggest snoozer of a bowl game ever (3-0 victory in the Sun Bowl). Lyle Moevao and the Rodgers brothers are very good, but I think Tony Pike and the Bearcats continue their run. Two teams with little to no defense but a heck of a lot of offense. Ohio's only Orange Bowl losing team comes away victorious. UC: 42--OSU: 38
Tennessee vs. Florida
Gomer: I would peg this game as highest potential to be a laugher this weekend. Florida is favored by 28.5 and I would not be surprised if they won by more than that. Of course a Florida victory means another round of hearing how great Tim Tebow is especially after beating up on the vaunted Tennessee Defense, the same vaunted defense that was unable to secure a win against a lowly Pac 10 team like UCLA. Florida will win, by a lot, and Tebow will have 6 touchdowns. UT: 9--UF: 62
Chief: I wanted to talk about this one because it's going to happen. Everyone has been talking about how Urban Meyer, Tim Tebow, and 'Gaytor Nation' have circled this game as revenge to take out Lane Kiffin. Not so fast my friend! Kiffin in his eminent wisdom, threw the game vs. UCLA to lull the gators into a false sense of security. Crompton will toss all over that 'vaunted defense' for 5 TDs while the Monte Kiffin defense shows the nation the Eric Berry is clearly the best defensive player in the nation and knocks Tebow out of the Heisman race. Wait...the Vols are terrible. UT: 6--UF: 42
Gomer: I would peg this game as highest potential to be a laugher this weekend. Florida is favored by 28.5 and I would not be surprised if they won by more than that. Of course a Florida victory means another round of hearing how great Tim Tebow is especially after beating up on the vaunted Tennessee Defense, the same vaunted defense that was unable to secure a win against a lowly Pac 10 team like UCLA. Florida will win, by a lot, and Tebow will have 6 touchdowns. UT: 9--UF: 62
Chief: I wanted to talk about this one because it's going to happen. Everyone has been talking about how Urban Meyer, Tim Tebow, and 'Gaytor Nation' have circled this game as revenge to take out Lane Kiffin. Not so fast my friend! Kiffin in his eminent wisdom, threw the game vs. UCLA to lull the gators into a false sense of security. Crompton will toss all over that 'vaunted defense' for 5 TDs while the Monte Kiffin defense shows the nation the Eric Berry is clearly the best defensive player in the nation and knocks Tebow out of the Heisman race. Wait...the Vols are terrible. UT: 6--UF: 42
Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Toledo Rockets
Gomer: The Bucks could be in for a real big emotional let down this week. I don't need to re-hash the offensive struggles from last week's heart-breaker, but if the Terrelle Pryor led offense isn't clicking, the Bucks will still win, but it could mean bad news bears down the road in the Big Ten. The other worry here is that the Rockets could expose some sort of weakness in the pass defense, because they will move the ball, but it will be a matter of when the Bucks force a turnover or other big defensive stop. Toledo won't be out of the game until late unless the Bucks come up with some early quick strikes, it'll be a better game than anyone expects. OSU: 39--UT: 20
Chief: After throwing all they had emotionally, physically, and mentally against the Trojans and coming up short (due to horrendous playcalling), the Bucks look to rebound against a surprising Toledo Rocket team. The Silver Bullets returned last week and I believe are here to stay. This is a major turning point game for the season...lie down and take it or stand and fight. I believe the Buckeyes have too much pride to quit now. I saw the pride last week and I think they fire out of the gate this week. Toledo smashed Colorado and put some points up on Purdue (while giving up a ton). OSU will put the hammer down in this one early. At first, I thought the letdown would keep it close, but the pride of the Buckeyes will not allow a fallback. Bucks continue to roll against Ohio teams. OSU: 41--UT: 10
Other games...
Boise State vs. Fresno State: Gomer: Boise Chief: Boise
USC vs. Washington: Gomer: USC Chief: USC
Michigan State vs. Notre Dame: Gomer: ND Chief: ND
Arizona vs. Iowa: Gomer: Iowa Chief: Iowa (close)
Navy vs. Pittsburgh: Gomer: Pitt Chief: Navy
Northwestern vs. Syracuse: Gomer: Syr Chief: NW
Texas Tech vs. Texas: Gomer: UT Chief: UT (BIG)
Friday, November 21, 2008
Week 13...
Michigan State Spartans vs. Penn State Nittany Lions
Gomer: As awesome as it would be to see the Buckeyes earn a berth to the Rose Bowl on Saturday, I just can't see it happening, at least not when it depends on Brian Hoyer. Penn State's defense is superior to Ohio State's especially when it comes to getting pressure on the QB and Brian Hoyer is the type of QB that can, and will, crumble against that kind of defensive pressure. The balanced "Spread HD" attack of Clark and Royster and "do-it-all" Williams will be too much for the Spartans defense. MSU: 16 - PSU: 30
Chief: The battle for a guaranteed share of the Big 10 Championship takes place outside of Columbus this weekend. The Spartans come in with one of their greatest teams in recent history led by stellar back Javon Ringer. PSU also sports one of the best Nittany Lion teams as well that’s strong in all aspects. I like the Lions to take care of Sparty at home fairly decisively. Aaron Maybin will wreak havoc on the backfield and the PSU will stuff the MSU running game just as OSU did. JoePa gets sent off to the retirement home smelling roses. MSU: 17—PSU: 34
Pittsburgh vs. Cincinnati
Gomer: This game is pretty much the Big East championship, although funny things can happen in the waning weeks of the season (ask Rich Rodriguez). I don't really like either of these teams, but Brian Kelly is a superior coach to "The Stache" (Dave Wannstedt) and that in conjunction with the home field will be enough to put Cincy over the edge in this one and send them BCS bowling... although, I don't know a Cincy fan who's about to travel halfway across the country to see the Bearcats, whatevs. Pitt: 7 - UC: 20
Chief: A huge Big East battle in the confines of Nippert Stadium will go a long way to seeing which of these perennial also-rans has a shot at a BCS Bowl. Cincinnati has been a surprise story all year with their multitude of injuries, but they keep chugging along under ‘soon-to-be-elsewhere’ coach Brian Kelly. Pitt seems to go through the motions every week and never look like they’ve turned the corner of mediocrity. A great team wouldn’t have needed 4 OT to dispatch Notre Dame. Go Red, Go Black, Go Bearcats, FIGHT! FIGHT! FIGHT! Pitt: 10—UC: 24
Texas Tech Red Raiders vs. Oklahoma Sooners
Gomer: A true Southwestern shootout looms. This game should be awesome, and a showcase of many future NFL-ers. Sam Bradford and Graham Harrell will be on showcase primarily, and the winner of this game, who makes the least mistakes, will be in the driver's seat for the Heisman Trophy. An OU victory will really throw the BCS into a tizzy, because many pundits, including myself, will not be in favor of OU being ranked ahead of the Longhorns. TTU's defense is far better than I thought, their O-line is outstanding, and the all-around talent is very good. OU has a more balanced offense which is the #1 reason I'm going to pick the Sooners in this marquee match-up. Boomer Sooner! TTU: 34 - OU: 42
Chief: Every week comes with the nation picking against my Red Raiders and every week, they emerge unscathed. TTU will have their hands full trying to enter Norman and take down the Sooners whose record is (something like) 59-2 at home under Stoops. I’m sticking with my boys here and staying with the Red Raider wagon. Both teams are chugging along, but there’s something magical coming out of Lubbock. Look for over 1000 total yards in the game in which 2 (or possibly 3) Heisman finalists take the field. The Texas Texh offensive line again makes the difference as the Raiders start looking to Miami. Harrell to Crabtree over and over while Bradford impresses…but not enough. TTU: 45—OU:41
Michigan vs. Ohio State
Gomer: Wow, wow, wow, the last game of the regular season already. It always amazes me how fast the season goes by, and another one bites the dust. This is the worst Michigan in the history of college football, and that's saying a lot about the ALL-TIME WINNINGEST PROGRAM IN NCAA HISTORY. A Buckeye loss is not only unimaginable, but would be the greatest upset in the history of the rivalry. On the flip side, Ohio State is playing for a share of the Big Ten title, their 4th straight, and an unprecedented 5th straight victory over the state up north. It will be a thrilling day in Ohio Stadium, where we get to see 'Little Animal', Jenkins, Boeckman, Freeman, and (in my opinion) 'Beanie' one last time. The weather will be perfect for a gridiron battle (of spread offenses) where the men will be separated from the boys, and the Men of the Scarlet and Gray will emerge victorious from the trenches after battling the Maize and Blue to a bitter pulp. UM: 20 - OSU: 34
Chief: Throw out the records, it’s still ‘The Game’. Rich Rodriguez comes rolling into Columbus with excuses abounding. Telling his fans to ‘Get a Life’? That tops the list of things you think but don’t say in Ann Arbor. His backup QB is starting, and who knows who starts in the backfield (Minor should be healthy). The Buckeye faithful can’t be caught here looking ahead because this is still Michigan. They have a great defensive line and who knows what could happen if we aren’t prepared. Luckily for us, the sweatervest cares not for any other game and will have the troops fired up. This game is for a share of the Big 10 title and this senior class is looking for the clean sweep (4 straight). It may not be the season they wanted, but it is what it is, and there’s no sweeter way to leave than to send the Wolverines home crying to mama. The Bucks don’t look past (even thought their fans are) and take care of business. Beanie for 150, Laurinitis with 10 tackles, Jenkins with a pick, and close it out with senior captain Todd Boeckman leading a final scoring drive. GO BUCKS!! BEAT BLUE!! UM: 10—OSU: 41
West Virginia vs. Louisville: Gomer:WVU - Chief:WVU
BYU vs. Utah: Gomer:Utah - Chief:Utah
Oregon State vs. Arizona: Gomer:Ariz - Chief:OSU
Iowa vs. Minnesota: Gomer:Minnesota - Chief:Iowa
Florida State vs. Maryland: Gomer:Maryland - Chief:FSU
Illinois @ Northwestern: Gomer:Illinois - Chief:Illinois
Michigan State Spartans vs. Penn State Nittany Lions
Gomer: As awesome as it would be to see the Buckeyes earn a berth to the Rose Bowl on Saturday, I just can't see it happening, at least not when it depends on Brian Hoyer. Penn State's defense is superior to Ohio State's especially when it comes to getting pressure on the QB and Brian Hoyer is the type of QB that can, and will, crumble against that kind of defensive pressure. The balanced "Spread HD" attack of Clark and Royster and "do-it-all" Williams will be too much for the Spartans defense. MSU: 16 - PSU: 30
Chief: The battle for a guaranteed share of the Big 10 Championship takes place outside of Columbus this weekend. The Spartans come in with one of their greatest teams in recent history led by stellar back Javon Ringer. PSU also sports one of the best Nittany Lion teams as well that’s strong in all aspects. I like the Lions to take care of Sparty at home fairly decisively. Aaron Maybin will wreak havoc on the backfield and the PSU will stuff the MSU running game just as OSU did. JoePa gets sent off to the retirement home smelling roses. MSU: 17—PSU: 34
Pittsburgh vs. Cincinnati
Gomer: This game is pretty much the Big East championship, although funny things can happen in the waning weeks of the season (ask Rich Rodriguez). I don't really like either of these teams, but Brian Kelly is a superior coach to "The Stache" (Dave Wannstedt) and that in conjunction with the home field will be enough to put Cincy over the edge in this one and send them BCS bowling... although, I don't know a Cincy fan who's about to travel halfway across the country to see the Bearcats, whatevs. Pitt: 7 - UC: 20
Chief: A huge Big East battle in the confines of Nippert Stadium will go a long way to seeing which of these perennial also-rans has a shot at a BCS Bowl. Cincinnati has been a surprise story all year with their multitude of injuries, but they keep chugging along under ‘soon-to-be-elsewhere’ coach Brian Kelly. Pitt seems to go through the motions every week and never look like they’ve turned the corner of mediocrity. A great team wouldn’t have needed 4 OT to dispatch Notre Dame. Go Red, Go Black, Go Bearcats, FIGHT! FIGHT! FIGHT! Pitt: 10—UC: 24
Texas Tech Red Raiders vs. Oklahoma Sooners
Gomer: A true Southwestern shootout looms. This game should be awesome, and a showcase of many future NFL-ers. Sam Bradford and Graham Harrell will be on showcase primarily, and the winner of this game, who makes the least mistakes, will be in the driver's seat for the Heisman Trophy. An OU victory will really throw the BCS into a tizzy, because many pundits, including myself, will not be in favor of OU being ranked ahead of the Longhorns. TTU's defense is far better than I thought, their O-line is outstanding, and the all-around talent is very good. OU has a more balanced offense which is the #1 reason I'm going to pick the Sooners in this marquee match-up. Boomer Sooner! TTU: 34 - OU: 42
Chief: Every week comes with the nation picking against my Red Raiders and every week, they emerge unscathed. TTU will have their hands full trying to enter Norman and take down the Sooners whose record is (something like) 59-2 at home under Stoops. I’m sticking with my boys here and staying with the Red Raider wagon. Both teams are chugging along, but there’s something magical coming out of Lubbock. Look for over 1000 total yards in the game in which 2 (or possibly 3) Heisman finalists take the field. The Texas Texh offensive line again makes the difference as the Raiders start looking to Miami. Harrell to Crabtree over and over while Bradford impresses…but not enough. TTU: 45—OU:41
Michigan vs. Ohio State
Gomer: Wow, wow, wow, the last game of the regular season already. It always amazes me how fast the season goes by, and another one bites the dust. This is the worst Michigan in the history of college football, and that's saying a lot about the ALL-TIME WINNINGEST PROGRAM IN NCAA HISTORY. A Buckeye loss is not only unimaginable, but would be the greatest upset in the history of the rivalry. On the flip side, Ohio State is playing for a share of the Big Ten title, their 4th straight, and an unprecedented 5th straight victory over the state up north. It will be a thrilling day in Ohio Stadium, where we get to see 'Little Animal', Jenkins, Boeckman, Freeman, and (in my opinion) 'Beanie' one last time. The weather will be perfect for a gridiron battle (of spread offenses) where the men will be separated from the boys, and the Men of the Scarlet and Gray will emerge victorious from the trenches after battling the Maize and Blue to a bitter pulp. UM: 20 - OSU: 34
Chief: Throw out the records, it’s still ‘The Game’. Rich Rodriguez comes rolling into Columbus with excuses abounding. Telling his fans to ‘Get a Life’? That tops the list of things you think but don’t say in Ann Arbor. His backup QB is starting, and who knows who starts in the backfield (Minor should be healthy). The Buckeye faithful can’t be caught here looking ahead because this is still Michigan. They have a great defensive line and who knows what could happen if we aren’t prepared. Luckily for us, the sweatervest cares not for any other game and will have the troops fired up. This game is for a share of the Big 10 title and this senior class is looking for the clean sweep (4 straight). It may not be the season they wanted, but it is what it is, and there’s no sweeter way to leave than to send the Wolverines home crying to mama. The Bucks don’t look past (even thought their fans are) and take care of business. Beanie for 150, Laurinitis with 10 tackles, Jenkins with a pick, and close it out with senior captain Todd Boeckman leading a final scoring drive. GO BUCKS!! BEAT BLUE!! UM: 10—OSU: 41
West Virginia vs. Louisville: Gomer:WVU - Chief:WVU
BYU vs. Utah: Gomer:Utah - Chief:Utah
Oregon State vs. Arizona: Gomer:Ariz - Chief:OSU
Iowa vs. Minnesota: Gomer:Minnesota - Chief:Iowa
Florida State vs. Maryland: Gomer:Maryland - Chief:FSU
Illinois @ Northwestern: Gomer:Illinois - Chief:Illinois
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