Standings
1. Hoying (3-1, 0-1 upset)
2. Draper (2-2, 0-1 upset)
3. Schweinfuth (2-2, 0-1 upset)
4. Seeberg (2-2, 0-1 upset)
Auburn Tigers @ Clemson Tigers
Draper: Auburn has been one of those 'hot' teams in the off season but I'm not quite sold. I love how Clemson is playing the 'disrespect' card while sitting in the top 5. Clemson will be just fine but I don't know if they can surmount the Bama challenge again. But the Auburn challenge in Death Valley? Yeah, I think they'll be fine. Maybe Jarrett Stidham will return to his glory days at Baylor, but I think the Tigers (of Clemson) have more than enough firepower on both sides to take care of business. Aub: 17--Clem: 34
Hoying: How much talent can a team lose and stay elite? Asking for a friend. No Deshaun Watson, no Mike Williams...no problem. Dabo has built a consistent winner at Clemson, while Auburn has been a year of Cam Newton, a string of miracle finishes, and a load of mediocrity over the last decade. There's no more to this than meets the eye. Aub: 16--Clem: 27
Schweinfurth: I predict the Tigers will win this game. Not good enough? I have no love for either of these teams. Mostly because one is an overrated SEC team and the other likes to violate other teams (ask Curtis Samuel). Auburn hasn't been the all powerful offense since Cam Newton graduated. Even with the questions Clemson had on offence entering the year, the defense is still more than capable of carrying this team to the playoffs. Aub: 17--Clem: 28
Seeberg: I also laugh at the purported disrespect flying around Death Valley as Clemson sits in the top five. They are, begrudgingly, reloading year in and year out a la Bama and the Bucks. Meanwhile, Auburn is a solid squad considering it isn't even the best team in its own state and took Clemson to the brink of Clemsoning at home last year, but Death Valley will prove a different story. Aub: 13--Clem: 27
Georgia Bulldogs @ Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Draper: Is Notre Dame 'back'? Have we realized how stupid making those claims are as of yet? No Jacob Eason for the Dawgs seems like the Irish could be poised to pounce, but Nick Chubb and Sony Michel are still healthy. I don't think we're at the crash point for UGA yet so I'll roll with Kirby Smart for another week. UGA: 27--ND: 17
Hoying: Ah, the has-beens get a visit from the never-really-were. But for a late Amari Cooper TD to lifting Alabama over UGA in the 2012 SEC Championship game, this could've been a nice national championship matchup (because Alabama-Notre Dame sure as hell wasn't). This game won't get Georgia any closer to their first SEC title since 2005, but it would be a nice signature win for the young Kirby Smart era, no matter how much of a mirage Notre Dame turns out to be (again). Georgia can't lose their first visit north in 50 years (unless you count a visit to Colorado, which I don't), or else the other SEC teams will re-barricade themselves in Confederate territory until they finally add Ohio State and Michigan in the next round of expansion. UGA: 41--ND: 24
Schweinfurth: 1-0 over with the win being over a total mismatched team makes ND good again? Righhhht. This is a team coming off of a losing season and questions around Brian Kelly. Last I checked, Nick Chubb still has NCAA eligibility and he is really, really good. I will laugh as he has a monster day over a very overrated Irish team. UGA: 35--ND: 10
Seeberg: Intriguing matchup of recent underachieving teams...if only considered so by their rabid fan bases as the rest of the nation sees these programs as second-tier these days. Nevertheless, the Bulldogs are a class above the Golden Domers just about everywhere across the board (remember Nick Chubb? Yeah he's been there for like 17 years now). UGA pulls away in the second half. UGA: 38--ND: 20
Stanford Cardinal @ USC Trojans
Draper: USC was certainly tested (surprisingly?) by a resilient Western Michigan team while Stanford just steamrolled Rice in Australia. There's been an awful lot of love for the Cardinal, but I think the Trojans will be fine after a little growing pains. Sam Darnold may not be the second coming, but he'll pull things together in week 2. USC is like their fans and don't really get interested (somewhat) until a bigger game comes up so they'll be ready to go on Sat. Fight On. Stan: 30 -- USC: 37
Hoying: USC is back...again. Yeah, you can jump all over the Trojans for starting slowly last week, but at least they didn't get smoked by 46 like they did to open last season. USC has grown up and came of age on the big stage last year in Pasadena (no, not against UCLA). Unfortunately for them, Stanford has shown zero signs of slowing down, and the Cardinal smacked last year's Rose Bowl champs up in Palo Alto. Will another year of experience for star QB Sam Darnold and a change of venue make a difference? Nah. Stan: 21--USC: 20
Schweinfurth: So Sam Darnold for Heisman? Not so much. He looked absolutely average last week and USC barely squeaked by. Stanford has owned USC in this matchup because they play great defense and control the ball. David Shaw just has some voodoo curse over the Trojans. Darnold throws 2 picks again and the Cardinal win. Stan: 28--USC: 24
Seeberg: USC forgot to play for about 2.5 quarters last week so it's difficult to gauge just how good they might be. The talent is not in question, only their ability to gel cohesively. If they do, Darnold can still rip through the Pac-12 and hang out in New York for an important trophy presentation in a few months. If not? Well, the Cardinal will show us what that may look like on Saturday. Fight off. Stan: 34--USC: 24
Oklahoma Sooners @ THE Ohio State Buckeyes
Draper: Do we get the repeat beatdown of last year, or are the chinks in the Buckeye Armor too much for a hot Sooner team? Last week was a fantastic benchmark test for the Buckeyes getting them up to game speed a little early while OU simply walked over the Little Sisters of the Poor. Baker Mayfield looked great last week, but doing that in the Shoe is another thing all together. I don't have faith that OU's defense will stop Barrett, Dobbins, Weber, and co., but by the same token, the Sooners will score. The hyped battle is OSU's D-line vs. the Sooner's O-line. I actually think the reverse may be more impactful to see if the OSU running game can get work done. The Sooners will have revenge on their minds, but the Buckeyes have their eyes on the prize. 4+ sacks for OSU enroute to high scoring victory. OU: 38 -- OSU: 41
Hoying: To win the big games, you need great players and/or great coaching. At what point do we face the harsh truth that Oklahoma doesn't really have either? Bud Elliott of SBNation has been tracking a stat he calls the "Blue Chip Ratio," or what percentage of a team's signees are 4 or 5 star recruits. If you're not above 50%, you're not winning a national championship. The Buckeyes are sitting pretty at 71%, while Oklahoma sits right around the top of the Big 12 at 45%. Yeah, Baker Mayfield is special, and the OU O Line is pretty good, but the Bucks can pretty much outclass them at every other position (yeah, maybe even wide receiver). And the Sooners are still breaking in a brand new coach who suddenly succeeded to the throne a few short months before the season started. When in doubt, pick the team with the better players and the better coach, especially when they're playing at home. The Buckeyes wore down Indiana in the second half, and the same will happen to Oklahoma. The Bucks exorcise some prime time non-conference home game demons (Texas, USC, Virginia Tech...). Even if this one does make me extremely nervous. OU: 27--OSU: 38
Schweinfurth: Last week I asked a bunch of questions and not many were answered. Yes, Paris Campbell and Johnnie Dixon hit some home runs, but Zone Six still can't take the top off a defense (yes, Paris should have caught the ball and it would have satisfied the requirement). The chart I saw showed only like two deep shots the entire game. It's understandable because the Hoosiers were giving up the mid-range routes, but you HAVE to hit one in this game. J.K. Dobbins is a beast and it will be good to have Weber back to take some of the load off the freshman. Defensively, the lack of experience showed last week, but adjustments were made. I think the Indiana WRs played over their skill set in the first half. Oklahoma won't run that tempo in the offense so the defensive backs should't be as gassed. The defensive line is as advertised. I think we see a repeat of last week. Oklahoma will move the ball in the first half, but adjustments will be made and the D-Line will take over. Dobbins and Weber combine for 150+ and JT throws for 300 again. Should be a fun one to watch. Go Bucks!
OU: 28--OSU: 31
Seeberg: OOOOOOOOOOklahoma where we forget that we have to play D. However, even that beleaguered half of the ball looked good for the Sooners against UTEP last week. Actually, several teams looked better than I'd hoped last week *cough Penn State cough* but alas, here we are with another huge early season matchup. Lincoln Riley is presumably the next "big thing" in coaching, but he already has the Oklahoma gig and there aren't too many any better. Will his brilliant play-calling win the day? Sure will...except it's a night game. By mid-second quarter last week our new offensive minds finally figured out that RUNNING to set up the pass is better than PASSING to set up the pass and it was a 35-7 second-half deluge on the Hoosiers. And hey, 45-24 worked well last year, why not again? Bucks big. OU: 24--OSU: 45
Upset Special
Draper: Cincinnati over Michigan
Hoying: Boise State over Washington State
Schweinfurth: Pitt over Penn St.
Seeberg: Western Michigan over Michigan State
Showing posts with label Georgia. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Georgia. Show all posts
Friday, September 08, 2017
Thursday, October 29, 2015
Week 9 - Smell My Feet
Standings
1) Seeberg 30-11 (0-8 upset)
2) Draper 29-12 (4-4 upset)
3) Hoying 27-14 (1-7 upset)
3) Schweinfurth 27-14 (1-7 upset)
After an abysmal round of picks last week, we turn our attention to a few better matchups around the nation. Florida State and Utah proved that no undefeated team is safe in any given week, except the Buckeyes (and the Tigers, and the Spartans, and the Bears, and the Rockets), because they're not playing.
Georgia Bulldogs vs. #12 Florida Gators
Draper: While the Cocktail Party has lost luster over the past 5 years, this one should be a good one. The Gators should be reeling after the dismissal of Will Grier, but they showed up in a big way in Death Valley in a close loss to the Tigers. The Dawgs had super high hopes that crashed early, but are slowly resurging. This game has a good chance of determining the SEC East. While I believe UGA will be playing tough, no Nick Chubb and a surprisingly resilient Gator squad keeps the dream alive in a close one. Be honest, Richt is known for blowing games like this on a regular basis. UGA: 20--UF: 27
Hoying: Which Georgia is going to show up in Jacksonville: the one that lost a heartbreaker to Tennessee or the one that got emasculated by Alabama? It's not like Georgia to get outclassed in the World's Largest Drunken Whatever, but this one will depend whether Treon Harrisuspension is able to put last season's nightmarish production behind him. Will Muschamp isn't around to keep the Gators from scoring this time. UGA: 17--UF: 27
Schweinfurth: Interesting that this is an under performing team and an over performing team. To me, these two teams are mirror images of each other. This well be kept close, but I think the Dogs kick a field goal to win. UGA: 20--UF: 27
Seeberg: Ah yes, somebody pass me a cocktail. Florida's offense was surprisingly productive in Death Valley, managing 28 points in a loss to LSU. Greyson Lambert, meanwhile, has been dreadful against the two elite defenses he has played, though one was a set-the-game-back-50-years 9-6 win at Missouri. Nick Chubb has remained excellent, but the Gator D can feast on a largely one-dimensional offense so the Bulldogs are likely in trouble yet again. Anybody have 3 losses for Georgia this early in the season? Well, it's about to be a reality. UGA: 17--FLA: 28
#14 Notre Dame Fighting Irish @ #15 Temple Owls
Draper: Another team left for dead when the quarterback was lost for the season...and they refuse to comply. Yeah, the Irish lost to Clemson in a monsoon, but acquitted themselves quite well versus a team that is steamrolling most competition. Temple on the other hand is quietly undefeated with a few decent wins. Can they keep it going when the national eyes are focused on them as Gameday visits Philly? While Temple has been surprising people all year, I don't think they quite have the horses to take that next giant step as of yet. It will be a good game, but the better athletes outlast the emotions of the upstarts. ND: 30--Tem: 20
Hoying: Finally ready for primetime, it's the Temple Owls on ESPN 2, 5, and 6! It would sure be a treat for the Owls to take down the mighty Irish, but they might need a few tricks to do so. Notre Dame has rolled merrily along after a hard-fought comeback fell just short in Death Valley. Temple has the formula for success against Power 5 (+1, sorry BYU) opponents: get to the QB early and often. ND backup DeShone Kizer has been serviceable, but if he goes down 10 times like Sackenberg did, it'll be a long night for the Irish. Somehow I don't think ND's O-line is quite that bad. ND: 27--Tem: 16
Schweinfurth: Temple, as an undefeated team, has been a nice story this year. I just don't see them finishing the season unbeaten (Houston and Memphis will see to that). The Irish have endured a tone of injuries, but are just a deeper team. Notre Dame is much stronger on the O-line so don't expect Temple's pass rush to reek havoc in this one. ND: 35--Tem:21
Seeberg: Remember when we all buried Penn State in week one after that horrendous loss against Temple? Might not have been so bad after all (although nearly losing to Maryland was). At any rate, Temple hasn't played any notable programs since (sorry, Cinci), and the Owls are 7-0 as a result. Meanwhile, the Golden Domers have thrived with backup QB DeShone Kizer filling in quite nicely. However, this game needs to be about C.J. Prosise. Temple's proven pass rush may cause issues at times for the Irish, but I expect Prosise to have a big day and wear the Owls down in the second half despite their nocturnal proclivities. Wake up the echoes again (sigh). ND: 35--Tem: 21
North Carolina Tar Heels @ #23 Pittsburgh Panthers
Draper: Wheeeeeeee...classic ACC showdown between 6-1 teams. Are either of these teams any good...probably not, but someone's gotta win. Winner of this game has a great chance to represent the ACC Coastal in Charlotte if they can defeat the Duke juggernaut. I'll be honest, I know very little about these teams, but neither is anything special. Usually, I lean to the home team in such cases, but Pitt has squeaked out all their wins. Yes, the Panther loss is better (last second FG loss to Iowa) but the wins...trash. Who cares! UNC: 27--Pitt: 24
Hoying: And you thought the ACC Atlantic division race was exciting, with Clemson and...Clemson vying for a spot in Playoffs 2: The Search for More Money. No, dear readers, the Coastal division is where the real action is! See powerhouses like North Carolina and Pittsburgh square off in forgotten Thursday night games for the right to face THE DUKIES in a de facto divisional championship. We know that UNC is B1G caliber, thrashing Illinois at home, and Pitt is not, losing to Iowa on a 80 or so yard FG in Iowa City. Still, I picked Pitt to win the Coastal before the season started and I'm much too stubborn to change my mind now. UNC: 20--Pitt: 21
Schweinfurth: ACC ROFLcopter game of the week. Pitt's been playing well so I'll roll with them. UNC: 17--Pitt: 28
Seeberg: In case you haven't noticed (and judging by the attendance, you haven't- thanks Bob), both of these squads have just one blemish and the 2 combined losses are by just 7 points. Both teams have road wins at Georgia Tech and home wins against Virginia by relatively similar scores as well, so it's likely there won't be much separating these two teams. Both have well-balanced offensive units and the Tar Heels move the ball a bit better but have done so against slightly inferior competition than Pitt has faced (2 FCS programs vs. 1, Pitt's lone loss was at undefeated Iowa). Quite frankly, I think this game is a toss-up no matter how you look at it, so I literally flipped a coin. UNC wins! UNC: 31--Pitt: 28
#10 Stanford Cardinal @ Washington State Cougars
Draper: Stanford has really come into their own after the early loss to Northwestern dominating the ground game in the Pac 12. Mike Leach has finally developed the Wazzu team into a viable threat in the Pac 12 due to his deep thoughts about mystery of life. With that being said, the Cougs haven't faced a defense or a ground game of this caliber. I wish game day would have shown up to WSU after the years and years of flying their colors in the background, but Stanford should grab total control of the North this week. Stan: 38--WSU: 24
Hoying: From ACCtion to PACtion. Stanford might need a few more points than the 6 they trotted out against Northwestern to start the season, but that shouldn't be a problem as long as they play Stanford Football (TM). Cap'n Leach will do his best to make the Stanford D walk the plank in Pullman with his efficient Cougar offense, but the Cardinal have stepped up big in 2 consecutive prove-it games over the past two weeks. Kevin Hogan has a big day against a suspect Wazoo D, and the Cougs are left to wonder if having Gameday on campus would've provided the boost they needed to return to their 2002-03 peak of relevance. Stan:45--WSU: 23
Schweinfurth: The Stanford Steamroller is chugging along again. Hogan looks like the QB we all though he was at the start of the season. Mike Leach is known for offense, not defense and it will show through. Stanford keeps on (steam)rolling. Stan: 42--WSU: 21
Seeberg: I have 11 misses on the season and without going back through all of my picks I am positive at least half involved a PAC-12 team. Can't figure out what's going on out west this season. I do know that WAzoo has played better than expected this season, but Stanford has been basically lights out since their abysmal start against Northwestern. The Cougars have some offensive firepower to keep it close for awhile, but the Cardinal pull away comfortably in the second half. Stan: 45--WSU: 27
Upset Special
Draper: Texas Tech over Oklahoma State
Hoying: West Virginia over TCU
Schweinfurth: Auburn over Ole Miss
Seeberg: UMass over Ball State
1) Seeberg 30-11 (0-8 upset)
2) Draper 29-12 (4-4 upset)
3) Hoying 27-14 (1-7 upset)
3) Schweinfurth 27-14 (1-7 upset)
After an abysmal round of picks last week, we turn our attention to a few better matchups around the nation. Florida State and Utah proved that no undefeated team is safe in any given week, except the Buckeyes (and the Tigers, and the Spartans, and the Bears, and the Rockets), because they're not playing.
Georgia Bulldogs vs. #12 Florida Gators
Draper: While the Cocktail Party has lost luster over the past 5 years, this one should be a good one. The Gators should be reeling after the dismissal of Will Grier, but they showed up in a big way in Death Valley in a close loss to the Tigers. The Dawgs had super high hopes that crashed early, but are slowly resurging. This game has a good chance of determining the SEC East. While I believe UGA will be playing tough, no Nick Chubb and a surprisingly resilient Gator squad keeps the dream alive in a close one. Be honest, Richt is known for blowing games like this on a regular basis. UGA: 20--UF: 27
Hoying: Which Georgia is going to show up in Jacksonville: the one that lost a heartbreaker to Tennessee or the one that got emasculated by Alabama? It's not like Georgia to get outclassed in the World's Largest Drunken Whatever, but this one will depend whether Treon Harrisuspension is able to put last season's nightmarish production behind him. Will Muschamp isn't around to keep the Gators from scoring this time. UGA: 17--UF: 27
Schweinfurth: Interesting that this is an under performing team and an over performing team. To me, these two teams are mirror images of each other. This well be kept close, but I think the Dogs kick a field goal to win. UGA: 20--UF: 27
Seeberg: Ah yes, somebody pass me a cocktail. Florida's offense was surprisingly productive in Death Valley, managing 28 points in a loss to LSU. Greyson Lambert, meanwhile, has been dreadful against the two elite defenses he has played, though one was a set-the-game-back-50-years 9-6 win at Missouri. Nick Chubb has remained excellent, but the Gator D can feast on a largely one-dimensional offense so the Bulldogs are likely in trouble yet again. Anybody have 3 losses for Georgia this early in the season? Well, it's about to be a reality. UGA: 17--FLA: 28
#14 Notre Dame Fighting Irish @ #15 Temple Owls
Draper: Another team left for dead when the quarterback was lost for the season...and they refuse to comply. Yeah, the Irish lost to Clemson in a monsoon, but acquitted themselves quite well versus a team that is steamrolling most competition. Temple on the other hand is quietly undefeated with a few decent wins. Can they keep it going when the national eyes are focused on them as Gameday visits Philly? While Temple has been surprising people all year, I don't think they quite have the horses to take that next giant step as of yet. It will be a good game, but the better athletes outlast the emotions of the upstarts. ND: 30--Tem: 20
Hoying: Finally ready for primetime, it's the Temple Owls on ESPN 2, 5, and 6! It would sure be a treat for the Owls to take down the mighty Irish, but they might need a few tricks to do so. Notre Dame has rolled merrily along after a hard-fought comeback fell just short in Death Valley. Temple has the formula for success against Power 5 (+1, sorry BYU) opponents: get to the QB early and often. ND backup DeShone Kizer has been serviceable, but if he goes down 10 times like Sackenberg did, it'll be a long night for the Irish. Somehow I don't think ND's O-line is quite that bad. ND: 27--Tem: 16
Schweinfurth: Temple, as an undefeated team, has been a nice story this year. I just don't see them finishing the season unbeaten (Houston and Memphis will see to that). The Irish have endured a tone of injuries, but are just a deeper team. Notre Dame is much stronger on the O-line so don't expect Temple's pass rush to reek havoc in this one. ND: 35--Tem:21
Seeberg: Remember when we all buried Penn State in week one after that horrendous loss against Temple? Might not have been so bad after all (although nearly losing to Maryland was). At any rate, Temple hasn't played any notable programs since (sorry, Cinci), and the Owls are 7-0 as a result. Meanwhile, the Golden Domers have thrived with backup QB DeShone Kizer filling in quite nicely. However, this game needs to be about C.J. Prosise. Temple's proven pass rush may cause issues at times for the Irish, but I expect Prosise to have a big day and wear the Owls down in the second half despite their nocturnal proclivities. Wake up the echoes again (sigh). ND: 35--Tem: 21
North Carolina Tar Heels @ #23 Pittsburgh Panthers
Draper: Wheeeeeeee...classic ACC showdown between 6-1 teams. Are either of these teams any good...probably not, but someone's gotta win. Winner of this game has a great chance to represent the ACC Coastal in Charlotte if they can defeat the Duke juggernaut. I'll be honest, I know very little about these teams, but neither is anything special. Usually, I lean to the home team in such cases, but Pitt has squeaked out all their wins. Yes, the Panther loss is better (last second FG loss to Iowa) but the wins...trash. Who cares! UNC: 27--Pitt: 24
Hoying: And you thought the ACC Atlantic division race was exciting, with Clemson and...Clemson vying for a spot in Playoffs 2: The Search for More Money. No, dear readers, the Coastal division is where the real action is! See powerhouses like North Carolina and Pittsburgh square off in forgotten Thursday night games for the right to face THE DUKIES in a de facto divisional championship. We know that UNC is B1G caliber, thrashing Illinois at home, and Pitt is not, losing to Iowa on a 80 or so yard FG in Iowa City. Still, I picked Pitt to win the Coastal before the season started and I'm much too stubborn to change my mind now. UNC: 20--Pitt: 21
Schweinfurth: ACC ROFLcopter game of the week. Pitt's been playing well so I'll roll with them. UNC: 17--Pitt: 28
Seeberg: In case you haven't noticed (and judging by the attendance, you haven't- thanks Bob), both of these squads have just one blemish and the 2 combined losses are by just 7 points. Both teams have road wins at Georgia Tech and home wins against Virginia by relatively similar scores as well, so it's likely there won't be much separating these two teams. Both have well-balanced offensive units and the Tar Heels move the ball a bit better but have done so against slightly inferior competition than Pitt has faced (2 FCS programs vs. 1, Pitt's lone loss was at undefeated Iowa). Quite frankly, I think this game is a toss-up no matter how you look at it, so I literally flipped a coin. UNC wins! UNC: 31--Pitt: 28
#10 Stanford Cardinal @ Washington State Cougars
Draper: Stanford has really come into their own after the early loss to Northwestern dominating the ground game in the Pac 12. Mike Leach has finally developed the Wazzu team into a viable threat in the Pac 12 due to his deep thoughts about mystery of life. With that being said, the Cougs haven't faced a defense or a ground game of this caliber. I wish game day would have shown up to WSU after the years and years of flying their colors in the background, but Stanford should grab total control of the North this week. Stan: 38--WSU: 24
Hoying: From ACCtion to PACtion. Stanford might need a few more points than the 6 they trotted out against Northwestern to start the season, but that shouldn't be a problem as long as they play Stanford Football (TM). Cap'n Leach will do his best to make the Stanford D walk the plank in Pullman with his efficient Cougar offense, but the Cardinal have stepped up big in 2 consecutive prove-it games over the past two weeks. Kevin Hogan has a big day against a suspect Wazoo D, and the Cougs are left to wonder if having Gameday on campus would've provided the boost they needed to return to their 2002-03 peak of relevance. Stan:45--WSU: 23
Schweinfurth: The Stanford Steamroller is chugging along again. Hogan looks like the QB we all though he was at the start of the season. Mike Leach is known for offense, not defense and it will show through. Stanford keeps on (steam)rolling. Stan: 42--WSU: 21
Seeberg: I have 11 misses on the season and without going back through all of my picks I am positive at least half involved a PAC-12 team. Can't figure out what's going on out west this season. I do know that WAzoo has played better than expected this season, but Stanford has been basically lights out since their abysmal start against Northwestern. The Cougars have some offensive firepower to keep it close for awhile, but the Cardinal pull away comfortably in the second half. Stan: 45--WSU: 27
Upset Special
Draper: Texas Tech over Oklahoma State
Hoying: West Virginia over TCU
Schweinfurth: Auburn over Ole Miss
Seeberg: UMass over Ball State
Thursday, October 01, 2015
Week 5 - B1G East Battle
Standings
1) Seeberg 14-5 (0-4 upset)
2) Draper 13-6 (3-1 upset)
2) Schweinfurth 13-6 (1-2 upset)
4) Hoying 11-8 (1-3 upset)
What a difference a year makes. After the end of nonconference play last season, the only undefeated B1G team was Penn State. This year, 5 out of the 29 remaining undefeated teams call the Big Ten their home. But only two meet this week as conference play kicks off in earnest.
West Virginia Mountaineers @ Oklahoma Sooners
Draper: Another Oklahoma game...where is it? Norman? These are the games Stoops usually wins. Oklahoma has been tested in Knoxville (how good are the Vols? Don't know) but WVU has played the Little Sisters of the Poor. I don't know how good either of these teams are, but I'll lean Perine and the Sooners in Norman. WVU: 27 -- OU: 34
Hoying: You thought Bert and the 'Backs had a tough schedule? Try West Virginia. The Mountaineers kick off the first of 4 ranked matchups in October with a visit to Norman. Oklahoma had a nice comeback win against Tennessee, but last week the Gators showed us that any washed-up has-been former power can do the same. Meanwhile, West Virginia doesn't seem to be missing QB Clint Trickett, with Skyler Howard stepping in to lead one of the nation's top passing attacks. Beating West Virginia requires competent defense, and after Oklahoma gave up 38 to Tulsa, I'm not sure they can do it. The Sooners enter a land of confusion, and West Virginia gets a victory against all odds. WVU: 34--OU: 31
Schweinfurth: I feel like Oklahoma has fallen into the Big 12 trap of good offense, no defense. West Virginia has been doing that dance for years and are used to putting up big offensive numbers. I also feel that the Sooners are still settling into this new Air Raid system and are not running the ball enough. I give the edge to WVU, but they have a rough next few weeks. WVU: 42-OU: 38
Seeberg: Not likely to see a whole lot of "D" in this one. Oklahoma's win over the Vols has been cheapened by their second unconscionable 4th-quarter collapse against Florida last week, but that doesn't mean Oklahoma isn't still the better team in this matchup. The Sooners are historically woeful on the road in any early-season matchup of consequence, but they got that monkey off their back by taking down rocky top, and back at home you can expect a better performance. I like WVU and think they're a bit underrated personally, and in Morgantown I might give them the edge, but not in Norman. Boomer Sooner survives a shootout WVU: 42--OU: 45
Iowa Hawkeyes @ Wisconsin Badgers
Draper: Are either of these teams any good? Iowa is undefeated after a long FG to beat Pitt while Wisconsin's 'feather in the cap' is losing to Bama. Who do I trust more? I don't really like either of these teams, but Kirk Ferentz has had too many bad to mediocre years to give any credence to until I have more evidence. In Madison? Edge Badgers. Iowa: 14--Wisconsin: 24
Hoying: Remember when Nebraska ran Bo Pelini out on a rail for winning no fewer than 9 games for 7 straight seasons? Iowa hasn't won 9 games since 2009, but the Hawkeyes may be poised to make a run this year. Iowa swept their nonconference slate for the first time in 6 years, and they drew powerhouses Indiana and Maryland from the BEast this year. But if they want to face our beloved Bucks under the lights in Indy, they'll have to get by a Wisconsin team that doesn't run the ball. That's as confusing as, well, Iowa still being relevant in October. Paul Chryst's growing pains continue as Kirk steals one in Madison. Iowa: 17--Wisc: 16
Schweinfurth: Iowa got past Iowa State for the first time in ever a few weeks ago. I still don't trust the Hawkeyes. This game is going to be a fight in the trenches and Wisconsin typically has the bulls to win that fight. Iowa: 14--Wisc: 17
Seeberg: Iowa's unbeaten? Color me shocked. The Hawkeyes even have 2 wins over power 5 opponents, though a 3-point home win against Pitt barely qualifies. (Man, I hope Mark May reads that). The Badgers are struggling to find an identity on offense but have given up a measly 3 points in their last 3 games combined. If my math skills serve me right, that's only an extra point per contest. Iowa broke out offensively last week against North Texas but, well, that's North Texas. Bucky reestablishes himself as the mascot to beat out west. IOWA: 13--WISC: 24
Alabama Crimson Tide @ Georgia Bulldogs
Draper: The streak of 6 straight years of Nick Saban and the Tide being favorites has come to an end. Will the Bulldogs further dethrone the Bad Boys of the SEC? Will UGA ever not disappoint in the big game under Richt? There will be some fantastic running back play in this play with Nick Chubb and Derrick Henry. The question is: Will Lane Kiffin remember Henry is on the team? I think we're seeing a decline in the Bama juggernaut and Georgia gets the win at home (only to crap it away in a few weeks). Ala: 27 -- UGA: 31
Hoying: In order to beat Crimson Tide under Nick Saban, you either need to play a near-perfect game or be a near-perfect team (or play them in his first year there, but that ship sailed 8 years ago). We saw the former in the Tide's second consecutive loss to Ole Miss (no, the Rebels aren't going to the playoff this year). Is Georgia the latter? The Bulldogs certainly look the part, riding Nick Chubb and an elite ground game to 4 blowout wins over teams that Bret Bielema would complain about and then lose to. The passing game isn't spectacular, but it's better than the hot mess brewing behind center in Tuscaloosa. If Lane Kiffin can finally learn to trust his stud RBs and stop throwing the ball, Alabama will come away with a victory. Never bet against Lane. Ala: 31--UGA: 24
Schweinfurth: Georgia can run the ball and Nick Chubb is a beast. For some reason, Lane Kiffin has a allergy to running the ball. Oh wait, he is Lane Kiffin. In Saban's last two losses, his team has just been beaten up front. I think Georgia is the more physical team and Mark Richt finally gets the Saban monkey off his back. Ala: 20--UGA: 28
Seeberg: I hate to disagree with my colleague Mr. Hoying, but I intentionally bet against Lane last week and it worked out. JUST GIVE DERRICK HENRY THE BLEEPING BALL. Will he figure it out this week? I honestly don't know. What I do know is that Greyson Lambert has only attempted 17 throws per game in Georgia's 4-0 start because Nick Chubb and Co. are ramming the running game down everyone's throat. As good as their ground attack is I have trouble believing that much one-dimensionality can cause sustained problems for the Bama D. Despite a 7:0 TD-int ratio this year, Lambert for his career is just 18:13. I think Bama's D will rattle him and make a couple plays to bail out Kiffin's consistently head-scratching play calling and, unfortunately, put the Crimson Tide back in the hunt to be beaten in the playoff again. ALA: 28--UGA: 23
Kansas State Wildcats @ Oklahoma State Cowboys
Draper: Has anyone actually seen a K-State game this year? All I know about these teams is the the Pokes squeaked out a close win in Austin last week so I feel more confident with them. Bill Snyder is known for scheduling (through Kansas State) cupcakes to start the year, so 4-0 is never a shock. The undefeated season comes to a halt in Stillwater. KSU: 20--OSU: 34
Hoying: I apologize for putting this game on the list, but K-State is still undefeated after a classic Bill Snyder non-conference slate: South Dakota, UTSA, and Louisiana Tech. Oklahoma State almost faceplanted against a bad Texas team and need to find their footing if they're going to keep pace in a deep Big XII. OSU QB Mason Rudolph leads a Cowboy offense that has sputtered at time, failing to reach 40 (I'm a man!) in 3 of their 4 games. I think they'll again have trouble hitting that mark, but an improved defense should keep the Wildcats at bay. KSU: 20--OSU: 31
Schweinfurth: Not sure how this one plays out due to the fact that I only know who the coaches of these teams are. I do know that Mike Gundy typically has a pretty good offense, so I'll pick the Cowboys out of my hat. KSU: 21--OSU: 30
Seeberg: Tough to figure this one out. Kansas State has taken the mantle from Baylor as the most pathetic nonconference schedule known to man to get to 3-0. Okla State looked rough against a Texas team that can suddenly score the ball a little, but squeaked out the W to stay unbeaten as well. Ironically, the Big 12's OSU has had a similar arc to our beloved Buckeyes this year: Highly touted offense that has struggled at times, but a D with question marks that has actually played half-decent. Add that to the fact that K-State gave up 33 at home to Louisiana Tech and you've got yourself a 5-0 Cowboys squad by Saturday's end. KSU: 24--OSU: 34
Ole Miss Rebels @ Florida Gators
Draper: Ole Miss is going to tout that win over Bama forever...even though they got super lucky and we don't know if Bama is 'world beater' of the recent past. That being said...Florida? Really? Yeah, they're undefeated but you spell mirage G-A-T-O-R-S. The game will be shockingly close in the 3rd but the Rebs pull away late. Miss: 28 -- UF: 16
Hoying: Is Florida a historically mediocre program buoyed by two all-time great coaches: Spurrier and Meyer? Or are they a top-tier mainstay that only incompetent hacks like the Zooker and big dumb Will Muschamp can wreck? The post-Muschamp Gators have yet to lose a game, but the competition ramps up in a hurry. The Rebels, the hottest team east of Utah, are looking to avoid the post-Alabama meltdown that wrecked their playoff hopes last season. That quest will end eventually, but not this week, no matter how loud Jim McElwain screams. Miss--31--UF: 13
Schweinfurth: Florida is still rebuilding and Ole Miss looks like the class of the SEC right now. Miss: 35--UF: 20
Seeberg: Really? A last-minute win over a we-forget-games-have-four-quarters Tennessee squad is enough to put the Gators in the top 25? Ridiculous. Thankfully that will be a short-lived issue as the Rebels come to town sporting the only team in the top ten in both offensive and defensive efficiency- even after meeting the overlord Bama. Rebels make quick work of this one. MISS: 45--FLA: 17
Notre Dame Fighting Irish @ Clemson Tigers
Draper: Did I say mirage? That is the theme of this game. I believe both of these teams may be mirages, but Notre Dame's claim to fame was taking down the Jackets...who subsequently lost to Duke. This is when the Irish rubber meets the road and Clemson's Death Valley is the 3rd loudest stadium I've ever been to (behind the Swamp and the Shoe). Dabo tries to blow it, but this is the game in which the Domers fall from glory. Clemson's day will come, but it will not be this day. ND: 21 -- Clemson: 31
Hoying: When will Notre Dame's injuries finally catch up with them? The crew at Let's Go Bucks! unanimously picked the Irish to crash and burn against GT after losing Malik Zaire, but the Jackets rambled and wrecked their way to a loss in South Bend. ND's fate may change as they leave the friendly confines and enter "Death Valley." Clemson has 3 okay wins against 3 bad teams, but they have all of 2 home losses in the last 4 years. Notre Dame doesn't travel particularly well, and they don't have the horses to move the ball on an improved Tiger defense. Pick the home team. ND: 20--Clem: 35
Schweinfurth: At some point, all of these injuries have to catch up with the Irish. I think it is this week. Both offenses move the ball well and neither team plays great defense. Time for a shootout in Death Valley. ND: 42--Clem: 49
Seeberg: I've actually been very impressed with Clemson this year. They seem to be playing a reasonable facsimile of...oh crap what's the word? Oh yeah. DEFENSE. Though their offense struggled against the only 1-A opponent they've played to date, the Golden Domer D is more porous than in recent years. And quite frankly, I just don't like them either; however, I thoroughly enjoy the Tiger Rag, so I gotta go with #soybeanwind (it's an anagram for Dabo Swinney that I sadly cannot take credit for, but if you aren't watching Last Week Tonight clips on youtube the following day like everybody not fortunate enough to have HBO then SHAME ON YOU...and go watch it!). ND: 20--CLEM: 31
THE Ohio State University Buckeyes @ Indiana Hoosiers
Draper: Will the Buckeye offense ever figure it out? This is the (fifth straight) week in which they should. Let's be real here. IU has an offense. Sudfeld is a good QB and Kevin Wilson can coach offense, but the Hoosier defense is a steaming pile of cow dung. 117th in the country in total defense after the murderer's row of Southern Illinois, FIU, Western Kentucky, and Wake Forest. If the Bucks don't break 50, I'll be extremely disappointed. While the D gives up more than most will be comfortable with, Cardale hits some of those bombs he missed last week and the Bucks keep it going. OSU: 62 -- IU: 30
Hoying: For the fourth time this year, the Bucks enter a battle of unbeatens. But this game is a really, really, B1G deal. You may have seen that Ohio State and Indiana haven't faced each other unblemished since 1954. What you probably don't know is that that was the season opener! The Buckeyes and Hoosiers haven't met with both teams better than 1-0...EVER. Ohio State doesn't lose to Indiana often, but the wins have not come easily under Urban Meyer. Letting Tevin Coleman run all over you is understandable, but allowing Xander Diamont to have success throwing the ball is not. This year, the Hoosiers have Nate Sudfeld back and might lead the best offense the Bullets will face this regular season. Don't expect Cardale to struggle against another vintage Indiana defense, but the Hoosiers have just enough weapons to make this one interesting. The good news is, there's no reason at all for Ohio State to be looking ahead. On to 5-0. OSU: 42--IU: 24
Schweinfurth: Laugh at this all you want, but I think the Western Michigan game was a great tune up for Indiana. Both teams like to throw quick passes to the outside and then run inside zone from a wide open spread. This exposed the Buckeye interior defense, but I expect this coaching staff to make the adjustment. Now that the QB situation is finally settled, Cardale can get all the reps in practice and lock those deep bombs in. The receivers had separation last week and they should be able to get behind the leaky Hoosiers' secondary. It's B1G season so it's time to hammer Zeke and stop getting cute with the "Globetrotter Offense." OSU: 49--IU: 21
Seeberg: The good from last week: The offense looked better, the special teams improved as well. The bad? The D looked worse. Getting into conference play, I fear the Huskies may have exposed some weaknesses. Specifically, teams can score on us if centers don't shoot their teams in the foot. In any event, Indiana can typically score it well the past few years, and they give up points equally well. This should be a matchup that will test the Silver Bullets but allow the offense to begin to hit its stride. What's a Hoosier anyway? OSU: 45--IU: 20
Upset Special
Draper: CLANGA over Texas A&M
Hoying: Minnesota over Northwestern
Schweinfurth: Texas Tech over Baylor
Seeberg: Air Force over Navy
1) Seeberg 14-5 (0-4 upset)
2) Draper 13-6 (3-1 upset)
2) Schweinfurth 13-6 (1-2 upset)
4) Hoying 11-8 (1-3 upset)
What a difference a year makes. After the end of nonconference play last season, the only undefeated B1G team was Penn State. This year, 5 out of the 29 remaining undefeated teams call the Big Ten their home. But only two meet this week as conference play kicks off in earnest.
West Virginia Mountaineers @ Oklahoma Sooners
Draper: Another Oklahoma game...where is it? Norman? These are the games Stoops usually wins. Oklahoma has been tested in Knoxville (how good are the Vols? Don't know) but WVU has played the Little Sisters of the Poor. I don't know how good either of these teams are, but I'll lean Perine and the Sooners in Norman. WVU: 27 -- OU: 34
Hoying: You thought Bert and the 'Backs had a tough schedule? Try West Virginia. The Mountaineers kick off the first of 4 ranked matchups in October with a visit to Norman. Oklahoma had a nice comeback win against Tennessee, but last week the Gators showed us that any washed-up has-been former power can do the same. Meanwhile, West Virginia doesn't seem to be missing QB Clint Trickett, with Skyler Howard stepping in to lead one of the nation's top passing attacks. Beating West Virginia requires competent defense, and after Oklahoma gave up 38 to Tulsa, I'm not sure they can do it. The Sooners enter a land of confusion, and West Virginia gets a victory against all odds. WVU: 34--OU: 31
Schweinfurth: I feel like Oklahoma has fallen into the Big 12 trap of good offense, no defense. West Virginia has been doing that dance for years and are used to putting up big offensive numbers. I also feel that the Sooners are still settling into this new Air Raid system and are not running the ball enough. I give the edge to WVU, but they have a rough next few weeks. WVU: 42-OU: 38
Seeberg: Not likely to see a whole lot of "D" in this one. Oklahoma's win over the Vols has been cheapened by their second unconscionable 4th-quarter collapse against Florida last week, but that doesn't mean Oklahoma isn't still the better team in this matchup. The Sooners are historically woeful on the road in any early-season matchup of consequence, but they got that monkey off their back by taking down rocky top, and back at home you can expect a better performance. I like WVU and think they're a bit underrated personally, and in Morgantown I might give them the edge, but not in Norman. Boomer Sooner survives a shootout WVU: 42--OU: 45
Iowa Hawkeyes @ Wisconsin Badgers
Draper: Are either of these teams any good? Iowa is undefeated after a long FG to beat Pitt while Wisconsin's 'feather in the cap' is losing to Bama. Who do I trust more? I don't really like either of these teams, but Kirk Ferentz has had too many bad to mediocre years to give any credence to until I have more evidence. In Madison? Edge Badgers. Iowa: 14--Wisconsin: 24
Hoying: Remember when Nebraska ran Bo Pelini out on a rail for winning no fewer than 9 games for 7 straight seasons? Iowa hasn't won 9 games since 2009, but the Hawkeyes may be poised to make a run this year. Iowa swept their nonconference slate for the first time in 6 years, and they drew powerhouses Indiana and Maryland from the BEast this year. But if they want to face our beloved Bucks under the lights in Indy, they'll have to get by a Wisconsin team that doesn't run the ball. That's as confusing as, well, Iowa still being relevant in October. Paul Chryst's growing pains continue as Kirk steals one in Madison. Iowa: 17--Wisc: 16
Schweinfurth: Iowa got past Iowa State for the first time in ever a few weeks ago. I still don't trust the Hawkeyes. This game is going to be a fight in the trenches and Wisconsin typically has the bulls to win that fight. Iowa: 14--Wisc: 17
Seeberg: Iowa's unbeaten? Color me shocked. The Hawkeyes even have 2 wins over power 5 opponents, though a 3-point home win against Pitt barely qualifies. (Man, I hope Mark May reads that). The Badgers are struggling to find an identity on offense but have given up a measly 3 points in their last 3 games combined. If my math skills serve me right, that's only an extra point per contest. Iowa broke out offensively last week against North Texas but, well, that's North Texas. Bucky reestablishes himself as the mascot to beat out west. IOWA: 13--WISC: 24
Alabama Crimson Tide @ Georgia Bulldogs
Draper: The streak of 6 straight years of Nick Saban and the Tide being favorites has come to an end. Will the Bulldogs further dethrone the Bad Boys of the SEC? Will UGA ever not disappoint in the big game under Richt? There will be some fantastic running back play in this play with Nick Chubb and Derrick Henry. The question is: Will Lane Kiffin remember Henry is on the team? I think we're seeing a decline in the Bama juggernaut and Georgia gets the win at home (only to crap it away in a few weeks). Ala: 27 -- UGA: 31
Hoying: In order to beat Crimson Tide under Nick Saban, you either need to play a near-perfect game or be a near-perfect team (or play them in his first year there, but that ship sailed 8 years ago). We saw the former in the Tide's second consecutive loss to Ole Miss (no, the Rebels aren't going to the playoff this year). Is Georgia the latter? The Bulldogs certainly look the part, riding Nick Chubb and an elite ground game to 4 blowout wins over teams that Bret Bielema would complain about and then lose to. The passing game isn't spectacular, but it's better than the hot mess brewing behind center in Tuscaloosa. If Lane Kiffin can finally learn to trust his stud RBs and stop throwing the ball, Alabama will come away with a victory. Never bet against Lane. Ala: 31--UGA: 24
Schweinfurth: Georgia can run the ball and Nick Chubb is a beast. For some reason, Lane Kiffin has a allergy to running the ball. Oh wait, he is Lane Kiffin. In Saban's last two losses, his team has just been beaten up front. I think Georgia is the more physical team and Mark Richt finally gets the Saban monkey off his back. Ala: 20--UGA: 28
Seeberg: I hate to disagree with my colleague Mr. Hoying, but I intentionally bet against Lane last week and it worked out. JUST GIVE DERRICK HENRY THE BLEEPING BALL. Will he figure it out this week? I honestly don't know. What I do know is that Greyson Lambert has only attempted 17 throws per game in Georgia's 4-0 start because Nick Chubb and Co. are ramming the running game down everyone's throat. As good as their ground attack is I have trouble believing that much one-dimensionality can cause sustained problems for the Bama D. Despite a 7:0 TD-int ratio this year, Lambert for his career is just 18:13. I think Bama's D will rattle him and make a couple plays to bail out Kiffin's consistently head-scratching play calling and, unfortunately, put the Crimson Tide back in the hunt to be beaten in the playoff again. ALA: 28--UGA: 23
Kansas State Wildcats @ Oklahoma State Cowboys
Draper: Has anyone actually seen a K-State game this year? All I know about these teams is the the Pokes squeaked out a close win in Austin last week so I feel more confident with them. Bill Snyder is known for scheduling (through Kansas State) cupcakes to start the year, so 4-0 is never a shock. The undefeated season comes to a halt in Stillwater. KSU: 20--OSU: 34
Hoying: I apologize for putting this game on the list, but K-State is still undefeated after a classic Bill Snyder non-conference slate: South Dakota, UTSA, and Louisiana Tech. Oklahoma State almost faceplanted against a bad Texas team and need to find their footing if they're going to keep pace in a deep Big XII. OSU QB Mason Rudolph leads a Cowboy offense that has sputtered at time, failing to reach 40 (I'm a man!) in 3 of their 4 games. I think they'll again have trouble hitting that mark, but an improved defense should keep the Wildcats at bay. KSU: 20--OSU: 31
Schweinfurth: Not sure how this one plays out due to the fact that I only know who the coaches of these teams are. I do know that Mike Gundy typically has a pretty good offense, so I'll pick the Cowboys out of my hat. KSU: 21--OSU: 30
Seeberg: Tough to figure this one out. Kansas State has taken the mantle from Baylor as the most pathetic nonconference schedule known to man to get to 3-0. Okla State looked rough against a Texas team that can suddenly score the ball a little, but squeaked out the W to stay unbeaten as well. Ironically, the Big 12's OSU has had a similar arc to our beloved Buckeyes this year: Highly touted offense that has struggled at times, but a D with question marks that has actually played half-decent. Add that to the fact that K-State gave up 33 at home to Louisiana Tech and you've got yourself a 5-0 Cowboys squad by Saturday's end. KSU: 24--OSU: 34
Ole Miss Rebels @ Florida Gators
Draper: Ole Miss is going to tout that win over Bama forever...even though they got super lucky and we don't know if Bama is 'world beater' of the recent past. That being said...Florida? Really? Yeah, they're undefeated but you spell mirage G-A-T-O-R-S. The game will be shockingly close in the 3rd but the Rebs pull away late. Miss: 28 -- UF: 16
Hoying: Is Florida a historically mediocre program buoyed by two all-time great coaches: Spurrier and Meyer? Or are they a top-tier mainstay that only incompetent hacks like the Zooker and big dumb Will Muschamp can wreck? The post-Muschamp Gators have yet to lose a game, but the competition ramps up in a hurry. The Rebels, the hottest team east of Utah, are looking to avoid the post-Alabama meltdown that wrecked their playoff hopes last season. That quest will end eventually, but not this week, no matter how loud Jim McElwain screams. Miss--31--UF: 13
Schweinfurth: Florida is still rebuilding and Ole Miss looks like the class of the SEC right now. Miss: 35--UF: 20
Seeberg: Really? A last-minute win over a we-forget-games-have-four-quarters Tennessee squad is enough to put the Gators in the top 25? Ridiculous. Thankfully that will be a short-lived issue as the Rebels come to town sporting the only team in the top ten in both offensive and defensive efficiency- even after meeting the overlord Bama. Rebels make quick work of this one. MISS: 45--FLA: 17
Notre Dame Fighting Irish @ Clemson Tigers
Draper: Did I say mirage? That is the theme of this game. I believe both of these teams may be mirages, but Notre Dame's claim to fame was taking down the Jackets...who subsequently lost to Duke. This is when the Irish rubber meets the road and Clemson's Death Valley is the 3rd loudest stadium I've ever been to (behind the Swamp and the Shoe). Dabo tries to blow it, but this is the game in which the Domers fall from glory. Clemson's day will come, but it will not be this day. ND: 21 -- Clemson: 31
Hoying: When will Notre Dame's injuries finally catch up with them? The crew at Let's Go Bucks! unanimously picked the Irish to crash and burn against GT after losing Malik Zaire, but the Jackets rambled and wrecked their way to a loss in South Bend. ND's fate may change as they leave the friendly confines and enter "Death Valley." Clemson has 3 okay wins against 3 bad teams, but they have all of 2 home losses in the last 4 years. Notre Dame doesn't travel particularly well, and they don't have the horses to move the ball on an improved Tiger defense. Pick the home team. ND: 20--Clem: 35
Schweinfurth: At some point, all of these injuries have to catch up with the Irish. I think it is this week. Both offenses move the ball well and neither team plays great defense. Time for a shootout in Death Valley. ND: 42--Clem: 49
Seeberg: I've actually been very impressed with Clemson this year. They seem to be playing a reasonable facsimile of...oh crap what's the word? Oh yeah. DEFENSE. Though their offense struggled against the only 1-A opponent they've played to date, the Golden Domer D is more porous than in recent years. And quite frankly, I just don't like them either; however, I thoroughly enjoy the Tiger Rag, so I gotta go with #soybeanwind (it's an anagram for Dabo Swinney that I sadly cannot take credit for, but if you aren't watching Last Week Tonight clips on youtube the following day like everybody not fortunate enough to have HBO then SHAME ON YOU...and go watch it!). ND: 20--CLEM: 31
THE Ohio State University Buckeyes @ Indiana Hoosiers
Draper: Will the Buckeye offense ever figure it out? This is the (fifth straight) week in which they should. Let's be real here. IU has an offense. Sudfeld is a good QB and Kevin Wilson can coach offense, but the Hoosier defense is a steaming pile of cow dung. 117th in the country in total defense after the murderer's row of Southern Illinois, FIU, Western Kentucky, and Wake Forest. If the Bucks don't break 50, I'll be extremely disappointed. While the D gives up more than most will be comfortable with, Cardale hits some of those bombs he missed last week and the Bucks keep it going. OSU: 62 -- IU: 30
Hoying: For the fourth time this year, the Bucks enter a battle of unbeatens. But this game is a really, really, B1G deal. You may have seen that Ohio State and Indiana haven't faced each other unblemished since 1954. What you probably don't know is that that was the season opener! The Buckeyes and Hoosiers haven't met with both teams better than 1-0...EVER. Ohio State doesn't lose to Indiana often, but the wins have not come easily under Urban Meyer. Letting Tevin Coleman run all over you is understandable, but allowing Xander Diamont to have success throwing the ball is not. This year, the Hoosiers have Nate Sudfeld back and might lead the best offense the Bullets will face this regular season. Don't expect Cardale to struggle against another vintage Indiana defense, but the Hoosiers have just enough weapons to make this one interesting. The good news is, there's no reason at all for Ohio State to be looking ahead. On to 5-0. OSU: 42--IU: 24
Schweinfurth: Laugh at this all you want, but I think the Western Michigan game was a great tune up for Indiana. Both teams like to throw quick passes to the outside and then run inside zone from a wide open spread. This exposed the Buckeye interior defense, but I expect this coaching staff to make the adjustment. Now that the QB situation is finally settled, Cardale can get all the reps in practice and lock those deep bombs in. The receivers had separation last week and they should be able to get behind the leaky Hoosiers' secondary. It's B1G season so it's time to hammer Zeke and stop getting cute with the "Globetrotter Offense." OSU: 49--IU: 21
Seeberg: The good from last week: The offense looked better, the special teams improved as well. The bad? The D looked worse. Getting into conference play, I fear the Huskies may have exposed some weaknesses. Specifically, teams can score on us if centers don't shoot their teams in the foot. In any event, Indiana can typically score it well the past few years, and they give up points equally well. This should be a matchup that will test the Silver Bullets but allow the offense to begin to hit its stride. What's a Hoosier anyway? OSU: 45--IU: 20
Upset Special
Draper: CLANGA over Texas A&M
Hoying: Minnesota over Northwestern
Schweinfurth: Texas Tech over Baylor
Seeberg: Air Force over Navy
Thursday, November 27, 2014
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!
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
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
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
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
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
Thursday, November 13, 2014
Week 12 - How the Wests Were Won
Standings
1) Draper 34-16 (4-7 upset)
2) Hoying 33-17 (3-8 upset)
3) Schweinfurth 32-18 (4-7 upset)
3) Schweinfurth 32-18 (4-7 upset)
3) Seeberg 32-18 (1-10 upset)
The natural order has returned to the college football landscape. Our beloved Buckeyes once again reign supreme atop the B1G standings, the playoff contenders dwindle to a mere decade, and...the winds of winter remind us of the waning season before us. But fear not, faithful subscribers. It's a Western theme at Let's Go Bucks! this week, with two Southern-style games on the lineup, one of which should go a long way towards deciding the pecking order in the ALMIGHTY SEC WEST, as well as B1G Championship Part II: Delany Goes West.
#1 Mississippi State Bulldogs @ #5 Alabama Crimson Tide
Draper: MSU was tearing through the SEC for awhile, but teams are starting to get it. This team is not the layup it used to be. The Bulldogs led by Dak Prescott are simply begging to get clipped after close calls vs. Kentucky and Arkansas. Oh yeah, they're rolling into Tuscaloosa this week. Bama isn't the juggernaut from the last few years, but they're pretty darn good. Blake Sims should be able to make some noise against the Bulldog secondary. If this was in CLANGA, I'd be a little skittish picking the Tide...but in Bama...Roll Tide, PAWWWWWLLLL. MSU: 17--Bama: 27
Hoying: 23-17. 34-28. 29-24. 9-6. 28-27. 24-21. These are the scores of Alabama's last 6 conference losses, spanning 5 seasons. The Tide have built a culture of dominance that's the envy of the college football world. If you want to beat them, you'll need to find a way to solve what's arguably the nation's top defense. Even Dr. Bo at his best was only barely enough to take down the Tide, and that was in Oxford. Dak Prescott has trailed off a bit since MSU's big October, and Blake Sims has managed to play mistake-free ball after his poor showing against Ole Miss. These are two teams headed in two different directions, and the Bulldogs have been BEGGING to get tagged, posting lackluster wins at Kentucky and at home against Arkansas. The Tide roll and keep their title hopes alive. MSU: 20--Bama: 28
Schweinfurth: There is a historical trend with Alabama that says they lose the week after LSU. I have been all about these trends (see my ND pick last week). Mississippi State as been proving everyone wrong this year and Dak Prescott is getting some well deserved Heisman hype. Yes this game is at Alabama, but that matters little to me. What matters is that I don't think Alabama is that good. MSU: 31--Bama: 17
Seeberg: I haven't done the research, but this may be the first time in college football history that the #1 team in the country is an 8.5-point underdog. Frankly, I don't think it will sit well with the Bulldogs. Bama's escape against LSU was their first win against a ranked opponent in over a year. It was a game in which even Amari Cooper was neutralized and the offense looked lackluster at best. Dak plays well enough to stay a Heisman frontrunner, and the Bulldogs leave Tuscaloosa unscathed. MSU: 24--Bama: 17
#12 Nebraska Cornhuskers @ #22 Wisconsin Badgers
Draper: While last week was the premier matchup of the Big Ten, this is a solid number 2 (....hehehehe). The West will (may) be won here (don't forget Minnyhaha). Is Ameer going to go for the Huskers? That's a huge question. Let's look on the other side: Melvin Gordon and the Wisky running game has plowed everyone they've faced (Gordon had 259 and a TD in the loss to Northwestern). And that passing game....well, the running game is really good. The issue for the Badgers is the 'Blackshirt' defense. No they aren't the 90s level, but they're better than any team Wisconsin has played sans LSU...and we all saw what happened there. I thinkNebraska keeps the passing game in Bo Pelini land just enough to pull out the win in Madison. Neb: 31--Wisc: 28
Hoying: If last week's de facto B1G East championship was a battle of two sledgehammers, this week's de facto B1G West championship is a clash of bulldozers. The conference's two premier running backs will be going head to head, although the shine's off Abdullah's apple a little after being utterly stifled by the Spartan defense (hmmm, perhaps we saw the B1G's premier back in East Lansing in a bit more recent memory). Melvin Gordon, on the other hand, hasn't been stopped by anybody except...Western Illinois...when they completely sold out the run under the theory that Wisconsin couldn't move the ball through the air (which might have worked, except they were...Western Illinois...). Nebraska's defense is improved, but the B1G's Blackshirts reside in Madison, where they're giving up less than 15 points a game. The problem is, Nebraska is good enough to sell out against the run and keep the nation's top RB contained just enough for the one-two punch of Tommy Armstrong and Ameer Abdullah to squeak out a big road win and put Nebraska's streak of 4-loss seasons in serious jeopardy. Come on, do you really think the Badgers can ride the arm of Joel Stave to a significant victory? Neb: 31--Wis: 24
Schweinfurth: This one is going to look like an old school Big Ten game. Both teams enjoy smash mouth football and play good defense. To me this game comes down to which QB/RB tandem is the best. Right now Tommy Armstrong and Ameer Abdullah is that pair. Melvin Gordon is good, and he will get his yards, but Wisconsin just doesn't have a good enough playmaker at QB. Neb: 21--Wis: 14
Seeberg: This game might feature the two best running backs in the country. I say that not because there may be better ones out there (aside from the recently unsuspended Todd Gurley- see below), I say it because Ameer Abdullah's dodgy knee may keep him out of action, or at least limit him. Nebraska's schedule has gotten them to 8-1, not their talent level. Wisconsin is just a notch better most of the way across the board, and the Badgers will Jump Around to the front of the B1G West. Neb: 21--Wis: 31
#9 Auburn Tigers @ #17 Georgia Bulldogs
Draper: This one is tough because both of these teams are a bit up and down. Auburn is the better team and far more consistent, but UGA is getting the best running back in college football back in Todd Gurley. Much of this will be determined by how the 1-2 punch of Gurley and Chubb run over the Auburn defense. I have a feeling this will be your standard SEC offensive firework show (what?). These defenses are not good. UGA will run at will, and Auburn will mix it up with Sammy Coates and Nick Marshall. This is going to be a shootout (all of a sudden, shootout means good right ESECPN?) with Auburn coming out on top between the hedges. Aub: 51--UGA: 41
Hoying: Florida attempted 4 passes and blew out Georgia. FLORIDA. Georgia's played a great slate of games against Clemson...and...nobody, managing to lose twice along the way, while Auburn's been playing the heavy sluggers week in and week out, dodging punches and counter-punching (join the Nintendo Fun Club today, Mac!). Auburn runs the ball as well as anyone, and while Gurley is a difference-maker, it's not like the Bulldogs were lacking with Chubb in the backfield. The team around them just isn't that great. An Auburn win just about locks up the SEC East for Indian...er...Missouri, to face off against, well, probably not Auburn. But it's important to win your rivalry games, even if they happen every week in the SEC. Aub: 34--UGA: 20
Schweinfurth: I have a hint on how to beat Georgia...run the ball. Wait, I forgot, Auburn is one of the best at running the football!! The Bulldogs must still be having nightmares about that Florida game. Nick Marshall is very good at operating Malzahn's spread option offense. Georgia will get Todd Gurley back but that's not going to be enough. Expect lots of rushing yards and a lot of bad passing. Aub: 24--UGA: 17
Seeberg: Man...I just don't know about this one. Gurley is back- although his stand-in Mr. Chubb has been more than serviceable in Gurley's absence, averaging over 140 ypg. Unfortunately for the SEC East Bulldogs, Nick Marshall and Co. come to town as the only team in the conference better equipped to control the game on the ground. Gurley gives the home team a boost early, but in the end it's just too much Auburn ground game for Georgia to handle. Aub: 38--UGA: 28
#8 THE Ohio State University Buckeyes @ Minnesota Golden Gophers
Draper: Can the Buckeyes handle the spotlight with success? Last week, they were the underdog and fighting against the world. This week, everyone is patting them on the back and saying how great they are. Can they keep it going against a better than expected team in very cold conditions? I think one of the best things for the Bucks is that little number 25 by Minnesota's name. It may be arbitrary, but it's a warning to not look past this team. JT keeps lighting up the scoreboard, but Minnesota will do their best to take the air out of the football and shorten the game. Bucks win comfortably, but the score is lower than expected. Look for another big day for Zeke churning in the cold weather with a few pinpoint passes from Mr. Barrett. OSU: 41--Minn: 24
Hoying: STAY HUNGRY. After the program's biggest win since knocking off Wisconsin in 2011 and most significant win since the phantom victory over Arkansas in the Sugar Bowl, the Bucks are riding high. But there's no rest for the weary, as the Buckeyes now face America's favorite completely one-dimensional team, the Golden Gophers. I'm not sure if there's a bigger mirage in the entire landscape of college football than Minnesota, whose best win is over Iowa and second best win is over...Middle Tennessee...and throws the ball worse than Michigan does. Yeah, yeah, David Cobb is a great running back, but if the Silver Bullets can wake up and remember the tackling that brought them through the early B1G season, this should be a total laugher. This is a colossal mismatch, and the Bucks should keep right on rolling up the rankings towards #4, no matter what my fellow Admiral Ackbars think. OSU: 45--Minn: 17
Schweinfurth: It's a trap (game)!!! No really, it's a trap. Everyone has been praising the Buckeyes since the big win last week, and rightfully so. It was a huge win for Meyer and the program. However, it won't matter if the Bucks look past Goldy this week. Minnesota is not a slouch team, but they aren't world beaters either. There will be plenty of running to go around this week as the weather is going to be cold and snowy. I trust the Bullets to negate David Cobb. I expect Zeke and the O-line to churn out some big yards on the ground. This one stays closer than it should be with the weather factor. OSU: 35--Minn: 10
Seeberg: I have to be honest, I am moderately worried about this game. OSU wins the game it has had circled on its schedule for nearly 12 months and then takes on (previously) lowly Minnesota. Except not anymore. Minnesota is 7-2, ranked in the 12 Titans poll, and is coming off an absolute shellacking of Iowa. Oh, and the game is at noon (11 AM local time) and it will be frigid and snowy (because, for reasons FAR BEYOND my comprehension, they got rid of the dome and build multiple outdoor venues). The only thing that makes me confident is that it is nearly impossible for Minnesota to play that well two weeks in a row. The Bucks are much more talented across the board, but the lousy weather, early start and surprisingly competent opponent will keep things close for a bit longer than they should be. In the end though, too much EZ E (see what I did there) running downhill, and a nice, long drive for 7 to close it out midway through the 4th, eerily reminiscent of how we put away the mighty Spartans. OSU: 38--Minn: 21
Upset Special
Draper: Arkansas over LSU (Derp gets his first SEC win)
Hoying: Miami over Florida State
Schweinfurth: Virginia Tech over Duke
Seeberg: Georgia Southern over Navy
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)