Standings
1) Draper 8-1 (1-1 upset)
1) Seeberg 8-1 (0-2 upset)
3) Schweinfurth 7-2 (1-1 upset)
4) Hoying 5-4 (1-1 upset)
Hope you enjoyed those easy victories over Virginia Tech and Hawai'i, Buckeye Nation, because the cupcake train is over. Coming up, the Bucks have not one, but TWO games against teams from the MAC, the first conference this season to crack the ALMIGHTY SEC WEST. There are a few ranked matchups scattered across the college football landscape, but the real action this Saturday will be down by the banks of the Olentangy.
Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets @ Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Draper: Malik Zaire is gone and that is simply devastating to the Irish hopes of greatness. They eked out the win last week, but GT is just steamrolling people now. Paul Johnson is showing what can happen with the option offense and really good athletes. It's nearly impossible to get ready to face a pure option offense that runs this well. The best chance to win is to outscore the option team...and ND lost their QB. Jacketstime! GT: 41 -- ND: 24
Hoying: Old and busted...new hotness. The Irish are losing weapons fast, with RB Tarean Folston going down at the hands of the 'Horns and QB Malik Zaire getting destroyed by the 'Hoos. The injuries haven't hurt the Irish yet, because they played...Texas and Virginia (and apparently college DBs still don't know what "defense" is), but a powerful Georgia Tech offense is going to put a lot of pressure on the Notre Dame offense to keep up. Good thing they still have Everett Gols...whoops. The Ramblin' Wreck crashes into the playoff discussion with a big road victory. GT: 34--ND: 24
Schweinfurth: Notre Dame had a game last week, eh? Losing Zaire plus several other playmakers are going to make, what looked like a top 10 team, a team that will probably make a meh bowl game. Georgia Tech can just grind teams down and that is exactly what the Yellow Jackets do. GT: 35--ND:20
Seeberg: At the start of the season I had Georgia Tech as the surprise ACC winner. Notre Dame might have been a decent test as they can likely score with the Ramblin' Wreck (they're a heckuva engineer), but without Zaire at QB I can't picture them conjuring up enough points. Georgia Tech's triple option is tough enough to prep for as it is, and ND's subpar defense will be exposed. GT: 38--ND: 21
Ole Miss Rebels @ Alabama Crimson Tide
Draper: Ole Miss seems to continually get credit simply for playing in the SEC West. They pulled the upset last year...then collapsed. They've overrun the 'competition' this year, but those quotation marks tell a story. Revenge is always a factor and Nick Saban doesn't forget. Revenge game in Tuscaloosa? Sorry Rebs. Miss: 17 -- Bama: 31
Hoying: Poor Ole Miss. Last year they pulled off the monster upset in Oxford, catapulting them into the national title discussion, and it didn't matter at all. Alabama still ran the table and ended up #1 in the final playoff committee rankings. After last week's SEC West near-implosion, it looks like the Tide are poised to do it again, regardless of the outcome of this game. And that's a shame, because Ole Miss has blown the doors off their first two opponents and look like they could really put a scare into another super-tough Tide defensive squad. But if there's anything my last two weeks of craptastic picks have taught me, it's that 2015 does not appear to be the year of the upset. Pick the favorite and move on. Miss: 24--Bama: 31
Schweinfurth: Ole Miss' offense has looked really good this year, albeit against very inferior competition. However, Alabama's offense isn't exactly lighting teams up. As much as Saban likes to play defense and a adequate offense, the Tide are going to have to score a lot of points. I think Ole Miss pulls this one out...and Bama will drop 1 spot in the poles. Miss: 42--Bama:35
Seeberg: The Ole Miss football team is averaging 74.8 points over its first two games. Allow that to sink in for a minute. For perspective, only 29 men's BASKETBALL teams averaged more last season. That average is likely to drop significantly against a staunch Crimson Tide D...but not as much as you might think. The Bama offense has been very mediocre thus far, managing just 36 ppg, including a sleepwalking 37-point performance against Middle Tennessee State. To put it bluntly, I don't trust Lane Kiffin to keep the ball away from Ole Miss long enough. He'll probably give the ball to Derrick Henry more often than he did in the Sugar Bowl (I've said it before and I'll say it again- if he had 25 touches in that game the Buckeyes would have lost), but I don't think it will be enough. The Rebels do the unthinkable and pull back-to-back upsets of the King of the SEC. Miss: 38--Bama: 33
BYU Cougars @ UCLA Bruins
Draper: Everyone continues to hype the Bruins, but how good are they really? BYU has been the master of the Hail Mary, but will that last? Something's gotta give. BYU is an ok team...but I don't see a real contender (especially without Taysom Hill). Rosen isn't the second coming, but he's pretty darn good. The game in the Rose Bowl solidifies the choice. Bruins win comfortably (and make sure the game is not within a TD on the last possession). BYU: 20 -- UCLA: 38
Hoying: How good is UCLA's prevent defense? We know how good Nebraska's and Boise State's are (bad, m'kay.) 2-0 is 2-0, and against 2 good teams at that, but the Cougs are 2 Hail Joseph Smiths away from being another mid-major also-ran with a busted QB. Meanwhile every trendy voice in the college football world is falling all over himself to crown freshman QB Josh Rosen as the next Jameis Manziel. With no Taysom Hill taking the field for BYU, we won't learn as much about UCLA as we might've from this game, unless they lose. Make sure you keep a 2 possession lead until the end, Bruins. BYU: 20--UCLA: 31
Schweinfurth: Let's see, I know enough about these teams to pick a score. :) BYU: 17--UCLA: 28
Seeberg: UCLA has looked remarkably steady under freshman QB Josh Rosen early. BYU has looked exactly how you'd expect a team to look under a reasonably talented backup thrown into duty: bipolar. Still, both squads are 2-0 making this a surprisingly intriguing early-season game. I can't decide if Rosen will break out and drop 50 on anyone this year. I don't think it will happen just yet, but a sound bend-but-don't-break defense (*cough Tressel cough*) will keep the freshman confident and he appears to play well as a front runner. The Cougars run out of Mormon Magic in the Rose Bowl. BYU: 13--UCLA: 34
Auburn Tigers @ Louisiana State Tigers
Draper: Auburn has those stirring wins vs. 0-2 Louisville and in OT vs. Jacksonville State...woof. LSU has an impressive win vs. CLANGA on the docket, and returns to the Bayou...uh oh. I think this one should be a sizable win for the Tigah's, but Les Miles tries to 'dumb it up' and makes it closer. Leonard Fournette is still a stud and will finally show that Malzahn is back to earth. Aub: 17 -- LSU: 31
Hoying: Y'all is still Tiger bait. One team can't throw the ball well, the other doesn't even try to. I suppose that gives the advantage to the team that can run the ball. LSU has Leonard Fournette, who gashed the Bulldogs for 159 yards and 3TDs. Auburn has Peyton Barber: good, not great. Then again, this game might come down to the team that doesn't collapse during the 4th quarter, a feat neither of these teams has yet accomplished (though it hasn't cost either one...yet). LSU should have the lead at that point, so...advantage Auburn? Hahahaha no. Aub: 17--LSU: 24
Schweinfurth: Auburn almost lost to Jacksonville St. While I don't think LSU is a world beater, Auburn should have lost to Jacksonville St. Because Auburn should have lost to Jacksonville St, I'll take LSU. Aub: 10--LSU: 17
Seeberg: Auburn looked very good for a half against Louisville...and very horrendous in the three halves (plus OT) they have played since. I really thought that the Tigers' (Auburn Tigers, that is) run game would give Jeremy Johnson enough time to adjust and surprise a few people. I thought wrong. He has a mediocre QBR and less than 190 passing yards per game against Louisville and a 1-AA opponent (albeit one on the top 5). LSU is just too suffocating on D and Fournette will keep the ball away from Auburn, limiting their opportunities to score. This one goes to the Tigers (can't go wrong there!) Aub: 13--LSU: 27
Northern Illinois Huskies @ THE Ohio State University Buckeyes
Draper: This is simply another round of: Will Urban call a game suited to the strengths of this team? If he stretches the field with Cardale and/or runs the read option with JT, this team won't be stopped. Otherwise, I'm confident the Bucks win comfortably, but I want a pasting. The defense was great last week. If they keep it going, we'll be in great shape. I'm more concerned with the offense. There are no more excuses. Time to stomp these teams mercilessly. 38-0 is great, but we were not good on offense. What happens if we do play well on offense? It may be rated NSFW. That's what we need here. Take no prisoners and be the monsters of college football that you should be. NIU: 10 -- OSU: 56
Hoying: Whither the Buckeye O? Cardale didn't look too sharp on Saturday, and the defenders were getting outside before Zeke was, but the Bucks did have an impressive red zone performance, going 5-for-5 with 4 TDs. With a full week to prepare for a mediocre MAC-style defense, Buckeye Nation should expect a few more fireworks this week. Of course, you always win when the other team doesn't score, and the Silver Bullets look even better than they did during last year's championship run. They'll be tested by QB Drew Hare and the impressive Husky passing attack, but Eli Apple, Gareon Conley, and Vonn Bell should be able to make some big plays and preserve a big margin for our beloved Bucks. MORE JT! NIU: 13--OSU: 52
Schweinfurth: The offense was a hot mess last week. The execution was messy and I think the Slobs looked tired. I am in the camp that a short week after a VERY physical game will do that to a team. Yes, Northern Illinois is a good MAC team. The Huskies just aren't on the same level as the Buckeyes. I do think the Huskies will score and keep it close for a quarter or two, but Ohio State just has way too much talent to lose. I expect the Silver Bullets to stay loaded and force a few turnovers. The offense will respond and we should see the typical Cardale led offense that we grew accustom to in the postseason last year. Zeke gets his yards, Braxton goes X-Brax again, and Cardale shows of the 12 gauge. On a side note, Ohio State made the best decision in bringing back the grey sleeve stripes. NIU: 17--OSU: 49
Seeberg: Let's be honest, even if this were the Northern Illinois team circa 2012 that was ripping the MAC apart, they would still be no contest for the Buckeyes. Sadly for the Huskies, they are a couple notches worse than those NIU teams and they are entering the 'Shoe to face a team looking to prove last week (a 38-0 win, mind you) was nowhere near their best game. The playcalling offensively has been head-scratching at times, likely a combination of new play-callers not knowing how to best use the vast array of weaponry available to them. No shutout this week, but an equally convincing win. NIU: 10--OSU: 48
Upset Special
Draper: Stanford over SC (saw Duke was favored)
Hoying: Boston College over Florida State
Schweinfurth: Air Force over Michigan St (why not)
Seeberg: Western Kentucky over Indiana
Showing posts with label Georgia Tech. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Georgia Tech. Show all posts
Friday, September 18, 2015
Wednesday, December 31, 2014
Bowl Pick Bonus - The Dirty Half-Dozen
Final Regular Season Standings
1) Draper 48-22 (7-8 upset)
1) Hoying 48-22 (4-11 upset)
3) Schweinfurth 46-24 (6-9 upset)
4) Seeberg 45-25 (2-13 upset)
Bowl creep continues. Not only are there 38 total postseason exhibition games, not counting the +1 National Championship Playoff Final, but we've expanded from 4 BCS games to 5 BCS games to 6...New Year's Eve and Day Super Important Games (TM). We'll pick the championship once 2015 arrives, but here's a six-pack of picks to last you until then.
Peach Bowl: Ole Miss Rebels vs. TCU Horned Frogs
Draper: The deciding factor will be TCU's mindset heading into the game. Yeah, they were left out of the playoff. Is this a moment to prove themselves or one in which they just don't care? TCU had this opportunity with the Ginger Ninja playing in the orange and black and took down the Badgers in the Rose Bowl so I think Coach Patterson will get the troops ready to go. This is a game for Treyvone Boykin to show off. The LandShark defense is for real and will rear its ugly head, but the TCU D is no slouch either. I actually think this is more low scoring than my counterparts, but I agree on the outcome. Rebels: 20--TCU: 24
Hoying: PEACHES AIN'T SPORTS, except in the thankfully classically-renamed Peach Bowl. What better way to kick off New Year's Eve than with a mismatch? Ole Miss hasn't been the same worldbeater since Laquon Treadwell's heartbreaking (and leg-breaking) injury against Auburn. However, as my colleagues note, this game will hinge on whether TCU comes out pouting because they got left out of the playoff (see Alabama last year) or with their hair ablaze, ready to prove to a skeptical world that they belonged after all. If it's the latter, watch out. The nation's top defense won't know what hit them. Heisman-invite worthy QB Trevone Boykin and company will be scoring early and often. The Rebel forces can't repel firepower of that magnitude! Rebels: 31--TCU: 45
Schweinfurth: How overrated is the Big 12 this year? This game (and the Cotton Bowl) will bear this out. TCU has a ridiculous offense this year. Ole Miss has Bo Wallace. Saying that, both defenses are about equal. I will take TCU and Trevone Boykin. Rebels: 28--TCU: 42
Seeberg: Ole Miss saved their New Year's Eve and Day Super Important Games (TM) chances with a nice win in the Egg Bowl. Meanwhile, TCU got bumped from the playoff after the Buckeyes' thrashing of Wiscy. This game likely will come down to how motivated TCU is to be in this game after the disappointment of being left out of the playoff. If TCU comes out flat they could struggle to get into double digits on offense against the Rebels' stout D, but I think they will play with anger and purpose and finish off a great season with another W. Rebels: 20--TCU: 28
Fiesta Bowl: Boise State Broncos vs. Arizona Wildcats
Draper: Mr. Hoying and I were two of the VERY few people who believed in the Little Blue Engine that Could in 2007 as the Broncos took down the mighty Sooners. This Boise State team is a shadow of the Zabransky 'juggernaut'. Zona is a weird team that ended a fantastic season with a whimper getting stomped by Oregon. RichRod's boys can fly around the field, but they usually have inferior athletes. Not so in this case. Scooby Wright and Anu Solomon will control both sides of the ball as the Fiesta pays back the Broncos. Boise: 24--Zona: 41
Hoying: Poor, poor Fiesta Bowl. The bowl selection white elephant took a big steaming dump in the desert, plopping down 2-loss Boise State to face DickRod's Destroyers. Were he still coaching Michigan, I'd believe Rodriguez could find a way to cHoke this one away, but the Wildcats are very much a program on the rise and are solid enough in all phases of the game (except game-winning field goals). All-American LB Scooby Wright will snack on star Bronco RB Jay Ajayi, while Arizona's freshman QB Solomon will push the Wildcats another step forward toward Anu era of success. Boise: 20--Zona: 34
Schweinfurth: Why is Boise State playing in one of the "New Year's Six" games? This game will only be watchable to see how many points Arizona puts up. This game will be on in the background. Boise: 17--Zona: 45
Seeberg: Let's be clear, this is NOT your father's Arizona Wildcats football program. Rich-Rod has them playing solid football in the second best conference in the country. Meanwhile, this is also NOT your older brother's Boise State team. Other than a nice win over Colorado State, the Broncos have beaten nobody of note and are unlikely to be able to do enough to slow down the Wildcats' potent O. Arizona posts their first relevant bowl win in, well, literally forever (seriously, they're the only original PAC-10/12 team to never even PLAY in the Rose Bowl, let alone win it). Boise: 24--Zona: 38
Orange Bowl: Mississippi State Bulldogs vs. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Draper: This bowl game is quite intriguing. The Bulldogs faltered down the stretch but are still enormously talented. The Yellow Jackets are a one trick pony....but what a trick! Paul Johnson shows that if you commit to something wholeheartedly, you can still have success even if the technique is outdated. The Jackets potent option attack is a 'you-know-what' to stop, but the Bulldogs are really good on D. Oh yeah, Dak and the Bowling ball are good enough to roll over the overmatched Jacket D. Georgia Tech will frustrate the crap out of the MSU defense, but they won't be able to stop Dak Prescott. MSU: 38--GT: 27
Hoying: Remember when, during the month of October, and for the first time ever, the entire college football world revolved around the state of Mississippi? Since then, the shine's come off the apple a bit in Stark Vegas, but a BCS (New Year's One-of-Six? What do you call one of these non-playoff games?) bowl win would still be a huge jump forward for the program. We're about to find out just how good of a coach Dan Mullen really is. You know what Georgia Tech's going to do. You know they will do it very well. You know you have the athletes that can stop them. Can you figure out a way to get it done, with a month to prepare? Since Mullen seems to be one of the hottest young coaches in the game, and was trained by the best (Corch Irvin Meyers), I have high hopes for the Bulldogs to take this one. MSU: 31--GT: 17
Schweinfurth: Georgia Tech runs that tricky triple option offense. However, it's really only tricky if you don't have time to prepare for it. News flash, Mississippi St has had around 3 weeks to prep for this game. The only problem with the triple option is falling behind early. I think that's what happens in this game. GT keeps it somewhat close but just can't keep up with that run heavy offense. MSU: 35--GT: 31
Seeberg: This game is not getting nearly the attention it deserves. GT is a mere eight points away from being undefeated this year while the Bulldogs lost by just five to Bama. A win in that de facto SEC title game likely would have secured their spot in the playoff regardless of the Egg Bowl outcome. The triple option is a nightmare to prepare for, but the extra prep time for a bowl game will certainly help the Bulldogs. In a game likely to be close, the Yellow Jackets' one-dimensional offense may be their undoing (see Florida State). Bulldogs win a tight one. MSU: 34--GT: 27
Cotton Bowl: Michigan State Spartans vs. Baylor Bears
Draper: Another game about 'who want to be here?' I've been pretty consistent on the Sparty is overrated front all year. Yeah, the D is pretty good, but not as good as last year's No Fly Zone. The Offense...eh.... Connor Cook and Langford are nice pieces and Tony Lippett is the real deal, but that's about it. Bryce Petty has been phenomenal all year with the Baylor fast paced attack. Looking at the resume, Baylor has a clear advantage as they've actually won a game vs. a decent team (sorry Nebraska). I feel the unstoppable force vs. the immovable goes to the force. Despite the mantra of defense wins championships, a great offense beats a great defense more often than not these days. I think the Spartans get into a track meet...which is not what they're designed for. Sparty NO!! MSU: 41--Baylor: 48
Hoying: Can Sparty really handle success? There's been a conspicuous dearth of "Sparty, NO!" moments since the refs stole the Notre Dame game from State's grasp last season, but they haven't really beaten anyone of consequence since last year's Rose Bowl win. Two marquee opponents, two faceplants. Baylor's probably kicking themselves that they didn't get a chance at MSU during the regular season, since beating Sparty seems to punch a ticket to the playoff. Alas... This game has the same X-factor as the Peach Bowl: can Baylor shrug off a snub? Whereas TCU was able to graciously accept a Rose Bowl berth after an undefeated 2010 season, and come away with a win over a tough Wisconsin squad, Baylor dealt with last season's title chase stumble by Bortling all over themselves in a loss to Central freaking Florida. With all the foaming at the mouth Art Briles did in his December rants against the Big 12 Commissioner and the Playoff Committee, I'll be surprised if he has anything left to motivate his team for this one. Sparty YES! MSU: 35--Baylor: 34
Schweinfurth: Both of these teams can put up points, that much is undeniable. However, Baylor does not have a defense. I really expect Connor Cook to flat light up the Bear's defense. MSU's defense will have a tough time with the Bear offense, but they should get a stop or two. That will be the difference in this game. MSU: 42--Baylor: 35
Seeberg: Ah yes, "Big 12 team who thinks they should be in the playoff" part two. Baylor laid a big fat egg in their last bowl game, giving up a whopping 52 points to Blake Bortles and UCF. They may have some extra motivation this year to prove they belonged in the playoffs, but they're also playing a much better team in Michigan State, especially on the defensive side of the ball. Art Briles went all Andrew Jackson nepotism, promoting his son to offensive coordinator, and Dantonio and Co. should have some interesting wrinkles to throw at Briles, Jr. Sparty gets a second consecutive high-profile bowl win. Sparty: 42--Baylor: 28
Rose Bowl: Oregon Ducks vs. Florida State Seminoles
Draper: I've got a weird feeling about this playoff-possibly, due to my alma mater-but I think FSU has something to say. Every game has been a nail-biter it seems, but they always seem to 'escape'. Eventually, it's not escaping but winning. Winston has yet to play a complete game this year but many fantastic halves. This is the game in which he blows up. The Seminole D hasn't been good due to injuries piling up all year, but many will return for the Rose Bowl. Oregon has trouble with complete teams that can play both sides of the ball (OSU, Stanford, Auburn,etc.). While FSU's D is not the same as last year's squad, they have the athletes to disrupt any team. The loss of Ifo Ekpre-Olomu will loom large as Winston shows why NFL scouts will prefer him to the Duck counterpart. Mariota is fantastic and will be a nice pro for 5-10 years, but Jameis has superstar talent...if he can stay clean. This will be the shock of the bowl season to most, but I'm going with the Noles. I've got a feeling... UO: 31--FSU: 41
Hoying: Another classic Rose Bowl matchup: Pac-12 vs. ACC. Somehow, Florida State still has not lost a game since Obama's first term, but their style points make 2002 Ohio State look like 2001 Miami. Oregon exorcised some demons in their Blowout...err...Championship Saturday win over Arizona, but do they have the weapons to bring a 29-game win streak to an end? Bluntly, yes. The Ducks feature a high-powered balanced offensive attack behind dual-threat Super Mariota and talented RB Royce Freeman, and I don't think anyone is about to forget what the Duck D did to a terrific Wildcat attack on December 5th. Jameis has been playing with fire all season, actively hurting his team in the first half only to ride to astounding heroics late. Problem is, this only works if you can stop your opponent for a few drives, and this year's Seminole D is like the Chicago Bears compared against last year's Seattle Seahawk-level juggernaut. Root hard for Florida State, Buckeye Nation, but this Duck Hunt will leave the dog laughing all day long. UO: 45--FSU: 31
Schweinfurth: Which Heisman QB will shine the brightest? That is the question everyone is asking. Winston has been giving the ball away like Oprah gives away gifts (you get a pick and you get a pick...). If Winston throws 2 or more this time, game over. The Ducks will make the Noles pay. I expect a good game and a FSU comeback, but Oregon's powerful offense is just too much. UO: 35--Noles:31
Seeberg: For weeks us Buckeye fans were convinced a Seminole loss was our only shot to get into the playoff. Now, we must ironically root for them to beat Oregon because, in my opinion, the Ducks are the best team in the country. If this game is anywhere close in the fourth quarter, I genuinely believe that (in)famous Jameis will find a way to win it. The only problem is that the Ducks aren't going to allow it to be that close. Mariota inches closer to equaling Winston's resume with a Heisman and a ring. Ducks: 43--Noles: 24
Sugar Bowl: Alabama Crimson Tide vs. THE Ohio State University Buckeyes
Draper: Ah...another game, another alma mater. The Tide roll in as heavy favorites, but no team in the country is as hot right now as the Buckeyes. Cardale is on top of the world, but he needs to sharpen up a bit against Saban's defense. Blake Sims has been quite consistent during this year but he's been serviceable. Cooper, Henry, and Yeldon will shoulder the offensive load for the Tide while Jones, Elliot, and Smith work for the Bucks. A big part of this game will be decided on the lines. The team that gets pressure will grab the advantage. Bosa needs to dominate and the Buckeye O-line needs to keep Cardale clean. While the Tide have more experience, if the Bucks can avoid mistakes they can ride the youthful exuberance to Dallas. The B1G Championship was largely a case of willpower and refusal to let a repeat occur in Lucas Oil. This time, it's about strict execution. Meyer vs. Saban battles usually turn out something special. I think the Bucks are a year away, but 'I ain't no fake Buckeye!' Bama: 27--OSU: 31
Hoying: In January 1978, the top two coaches in the game led Ohio State and Alabama to a titanic clash in the Sugar Bowl. What happened? The Tide rolled the Buckeyes, 35-6, despite fumbling the ball 10 (!) times. Don't expect either result to occur this time, as these teams are much more easily matched than one of Bear's finest squads taking on fading Woody Hayes (also, ball control is a thing now). Where is Bama vulnerable? If the midseason is any indication, it's on offense. Blake Sims, while impressive, is still learning to be a QB (glad the Buckeyes don't have that problem...) and Super Amario can only do so much to bail him out. The Lucas Oil Massacre showed that the Silver Bullets could win a game with defense; now it's time for them to actually DO it for the first time since the 2012 Wisconsin game. On the other side of the ball, the Buckeyes will need a healthy dose of EzE churning out some yards and 12-gauge Cardale cocking and firing over the top of the Tide's weak safety play. Most importantly, the lines will have to impose their will upon the enemy, like they did against Michigan State and Wisconsin and did NOT do against Virginia Tech. This one's winnable. I feel lucky. The dynasty IS over! Bama: 24--OSU: 27
Schweinfurth: I am so ready for this one. This is not the Bama of the last few years. That secondary just doesn't have that killer instinct of the last few years. Alabama's offense looks like a one trick pony. Yes Amari Cooper is very good, but OSU's D has bottled up good receivers all year. Offensively, OSU knows what it has in Cardale Jones. Alabama has some garbage time against Illinois and the B1G Champ game. Not exactly a lot of film on 12 Gauge. This will be fun and I expect a lot of the same offensive formula that got Cardale into a rhythm early in the B1G Champ game. I trust the front 7 to get pressure on Sims. Finally, Urban Meyer is THE master motivator. Ohio State is a big underdog. Meyer doesn't lose at Ohio State as an underdog. This will be a pissed off OSU team coming out of the tunnel Thrusday night. Happy New Year! GO BUCKS!! Bama: 20--OSU: 28
Seeberg: Congratulations Buckeyes, you made the first EVER college football playoff! (You know, if you don't count any of the other divisions who have had playoffs for decades). Your prize? You get to play the best program of the last five years by a pretty sizable margin. Both coaches will have their teams supremely well-prepared for this game. I believe if these teams played ten teams, OSU wins 3, maybe 4. In a one-game-takes-all scenario though, things are different. Cardale will lead a couple of seamless drives thanks to some solid play-calling and in-game adjusting, but the difference in the game will be Amari Cooper. The Silver Bullets will have to devote a corner and a safety to containing him, which will leave enough gaps in the run game for Bama to have some success between the tackles. If Bosa, Bennett and Co. rattle Sims, which is possible, all bets are off, but Bama's O will make just enough plays to keep the Buckeyes at bay. An overachieving Buckeye squad falls just short, if a year ahead of schedule. Watch out for the 3-QB system in 2015! Bama: 31--Bucks: 21
1) Draper 48-22 (7-8 upset)
1) Hoying 48-22 (4-11 upset)
3) Schweinfurth 46-24 (6-9 upset)
4) Seeberg 45-25 (2-13 upset)
Bowl creep continues. Not only are there 38 total postseason exhibition games, not counting the +1 National Championship Playoff Final, but we've expanded from 4 BCS games to 5 BCS games to 6...New Year's Eve and Day Super Important Games (TM). We'll pick the championship once 2015 arrives, but here's a six-pack of picks to last you until then.
Peach Bowl: Ole Miss Rebels vs. TCU Horned Frogs
Draper: The deciding factor will be TCU's mindset heading into the game. Yeah, they were left out of the playoff. Is this a moment to prove themselves or one in which they just don't care? TCU had this opportunity with the Ginger Ninja playing in the orange and black and took down the Badgers in the Rose Bowl so I think Coach Patterson will get the troops ready to go. This is a game for Treyvone Boykin to show off. The LandShark defense is for real and will rear its ugly head, but the TCU D is no slouch either. I actually think this is more low scoring than my counterparts, but I agree on the outcome. Rebels: 20--TCU: 24
Hoying: PEACHES AIN'T SPORTS, except in the thankfully classically-renamed Peach Bowl. What better way to kick off New Year's Eve than with a mismatch? Ole Miss hasn't been the same worldbeater since Laquon Treadwell's heartbreaking (and leg-breaking) injury against Auburn. However, as my colleagues note, this game will hinge on whether TCU comes out pouting because they got left out of the playoff (see Alabama last year) or with their hair ablaze, ready to prove to a skeptical world that they belonged after all. If it's the latter, watch out. The nation's top defense won't know what hit them. Heisman-invite worthy QB Trevone Boykin and company will be scoring early and often. The Rebel forces can't repel firepower of that magnitude! Rebels: 31--TCU: 45
Schweinfurth: How overrated is the Big 12 this year? This game (and the Cotton Bowl) will bear this out. TCU has a ridiculous offense this year. Ole Miss has Bo Wallace. Saying that, both defenses are about equal. I will take TCU and Trevone Boykin. Rebels: 28--TCU: 42
Seeberg: Ole Miss saved their New Year's Eve and Day Super Important Games (TM) chances with a nice win in the Egg Bowl. Meanwhile, TCU got bumped from the playoff after the Buckeyes' thrashing of Wiscy. This game likely will come down to how motivated TCU is to be in this game after the disappointment of being left out of the playoff. If TCU comes out flat they could struggle to get into double digits on offense against the Rebels' stout D, but I think they will play with anger and purpose and finish off a great season with another W. Rebels: 20--TCU: 28
Fiesta Bowl: Boise State Broncos vs. Arizona Wildcats
Draper: Mr. Hoying and I were two of the VERY few people who believed in the Little Blue Engine that Could in 2007 as the Broncos took down the mighty Sooners. This Boise State team is a shadow of the Zabransky 'juggernaut'. Zona is a weird team that ended a fantastic season with a whimper getting stomped by Oregon. RichRod's boys can fly around the field, but they usually have inferior athletes. Not so in this case. Scooby Wright and Anu Solomon will control both sides of the ball as the Fiesta pays back the Broncos. Boise: 24--Zona: 41
Hoying: Poor, poor Fiesta Bowl. The bowl selection white elephant took a big steaming dump in the desert, plopping down 2-loss Boise State to face DickRod's Destroyers. Were he still coaching Michigan, I'd believe Rodriguez could find a way to cHoke this one away, but the Wildcats are very much a program on the rise and are solid enough in all phases of the game (except game-winning field goals). All-American LB Scooby Wright will snack on star Bronco RB Jay Ajayi, while Arizona's freshman QB Solomon will push the Wildcats another step forward toward Anu era of success. Boise: 20--Zona: 34
Schweinfurth: Why is Boise State playing in one of the "New Year's Six" games? This game will only be watchable to see how many points Arizona puts up. This game will be on in the background. Boise: 17--Zona: 45
Seeberg: Let's be clear, this is NOT your father's Arizona Wildcats football program. Rich-Rod has them playing solid football in the second best conference in the country. Meanwhile, this is also NOT your older brother's Boise State team. Other than a nice win over Colorado State, the Broncos have beaten nobody of note and are unlikely to be able to do enough to slow down the Wildcats' potent O. Arizona posts their first relevant bowl win in, well, literally forever (seriously, they're the only original PAC-10/12 team to never even PLAY in the Rose Bowl, let alone win it). Boise: 24--Zona: 38
Orange Bowl: Mississippi State Bulldogs vs. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Draper: This bowl game is quite intriguing. The Bulldogs faltered down the stretch but are still enormously talented. The Yellow Jackets are a one trick pony....but what a trick! Paul Johnson shows that if you commit to something wholeheartedly, you can still have success even if the technique is outdated. The Jackets potent option attack is a 'you-know-what' to stop, but the Bulldogs are really good on D. Oh yeah, Dak and the Bowling ball are good enough to roll over the overmatched Jacket D. Georgia Tech will frustrate the crap out of the MSU defense, but they won't be able to stop Dak Prescott. MSU: 38--GT: 27
Hoying: Remember when, during the month of October, and for the first time ever, the entire college football world revolved around the state of Mississippi? Since then, the shine's come off the apple a bit in Stark Vegas, but a BCS (New Year's One-of-Six? What do you call one of these non-playoff games?) bowl win would still be a huge jump forward for the program. We're about to find out just how good of a coach Dan Mullen really is. You know what Georgia Tech's going to do. You know they will do it very well. You know you have the athletes that can stop them. Can you figure out a way to get it done, with a month to prepare? Since Mullen seems to be one of the hottest young coaches in the game, and was trained by the best (Corch Irvin Meyers), I have high hopes for the Bulldogs to take this one. MSU: 31--GT: 17
Schweinfurth: Georgia Tech runs that tricky triple option offense. However, it's really only tricky if you don't have time to prepare for it. News flash, Mississippi St has had around 3 weeks to prep for this game. The only problem with the triple option is falling behind early. I think that's what happens in this game. GT keeps it somewhat close but just can't keep up with that run heavy offense. MSU: 35--GT: 31
Seeberg: This game is not getting nearly the attention it deserves. GT is a mere eight points away from being undefeated this year while the Bulldogs lost by just five to Bama. A win in that de facto SEC title game likely would have secured their spot in the playoff regardless of the Egg Bowl outcome. The triple option is a nightmare to prepare for, but the extra prep time for a bowl game will certainly help the Bulldogs. In a game likely to be close, the Yellow Jackets' one-dimensional offense may be their undoing (see Florida State). Bulldogs win a tight one. MSU: 34--GT: 27
Cotton Bowl: Michigan State Spartans vs. Baylor Bears
Draper: Another game about 'who want to be here?' I've been pretty consistent on the Sparty is overrated front all year. Yeah, the D is pretty good, but not as good as last year's No Fly Zone. The Offense...eh.... Connor Cook and Langford are nice pieces and Tony Lippett is the real deal, but that's about it. Bryce Petty has been phenomenal all year with the Baylor fast paced attack. Looking at the resume, Baylor has a clear advantage as they've actually won a game vs. a decent team (sorry Nebraska). I feel the unstoppable force vs. the immovable goes to the force. Despite the mantra of defense wins championships, a great offense beats a great defense more often than not these days. I think the Spartans get into a track meet...which is not what they're designed for. Sparty NO!! MSU: 41--Baylor: 48
Hoying: Can Sparty really handle success? There's been a conspicuous dearth of "Sparty, NO!" moments since the refs stole the Notre Dame game from State's grasp last season, but they haven't really beaten anyone of consequence since last year's Rose Bowl win. Two marquee opponents, two faceplants. Baylor's probably kicking themselves that they didn't get a chance at MSU during the regular season, since beating Sparty seems to punch a ticket to the playoff. Alas... This game has the same X-factor as the Peach Bowl: can Baylor shrug off a snub? Whereas TCU was able to graciously accept a Rose Bowl berth after an undefeated 2010 season, and come away with a win over a tough Wisconsin squad, Baylor dealt with last season's title chase stumble by Bortling all over themselves in a loss to Central freaking Florida. With all the foaming at the mouth Art Briles did in his December rants against the Big 12 Commissioner and the Playoff Committee, I'll be surprised if he has anything left to motivate his team for this one. Sparty YES! MSU: 35--Baylor: 34
Schweinfurth: Both of these teams can put up points, that much is undeniable. However, Baylor does not have a defense. I really expect Connor Cook to flat light up the Bear's defense. MSU's defense will have a tough time with the Bear offense, but they should get a stop or two. That will be the difference in this game. MSU: 42--Baylor: 35
Seeberg: Ah yes, "Big 12 team who thinks they should be in the playoff" part two. Baylor laid a big fat egg in their last bowl game, giving up a whopping 52 points to Blake Bortles and UCF. They may have some extra motivation this year to prove they belonged in the playoffs, but they're also playing a much better team in Michigan State, especially on the defensive side of the ball. Art Briles went all Andrew Jackson nepotism, promoting his son to offensive coordinator, and Dantonio and Co. should have some interesting wrinkles to throw at Briles, Jr. Sparty gets a second consecutive high-profile bowl win. Sparty: 42--Baylor: 28
Rose Bowl: Oregon Ducks vs. Florida State Seminoles
Draper: I've got a weird feeling about this playoff-possibly, due to my alma mater-but I think FSU has something to say. Every game has been a nail-biter it seems, but they always seem to 'escape'. Eventually, it's not escaping but winning. Winston has yet to play a complete game this year but many fantastic halves. This is the game in which he blows up. The Seminole D hasn't been good due to injuries piling up all year, but many will return for the Rose Bowl. Oregon has trouble with complete teams that can play both sides of the ball (OSU, Stanford, Auburn,etc.). While FSU's D is not the same as last year's squad, they have the athletes to disrupt any team. The loss of Ifo Ekpre-Olomu will loom large as Winston shows why NFL scouts will prefer him to the Duck counterpart. Mariota is fantastic and will be a nice pro for 5-10 years, but Jameis has superstar talent...if he can stay clean. This will be the shock of the bowl season to most, but I'm going with the Noles. I've got a feeling... UO: 31--FSU: 41
Hoying: Another classic Rose Bowl matchup: Pac-12 vs. ACC. Somehow, Florida State still has not lost a game since Obama's first term, but their style points make 2002 Ohio State look like 2001 Miami. Oregon exorcised some demons in their Blowout...err...Championship Saturday win over Arizona, but do they have the weapons to bring a 29-game win streak to an end? Bluntly, yes. The Ducks feature a high-powered balanced offensive attack behind dual-threat Super Mariota and talented RB Royce Freeman, and I don't think anyone is about to forget what the Duck D did to a terrific Wildcat attack on December 5th. Jameis has been playing with fire all season, actively hurting his team in the first half only to ride to astounding heroics late. Problem is, this only works if you can stop your opponent for a few drives, and this year's Seminole D is like the Chicago Bears compared against last year's Seattle Seahawk-level juggernaut. Root hard for Florida State, Buckeye Nation, but this Duck Hunt will leave the dog laughing all day long. UO: 45--FSU: 31
Schweinfurth: Which Heisman QB will shine the brightest? That is the question everyone is asking. Winston has been giving the ball away like Oprah gives away gifts (you get a pick and you get a pick...). If Winston throws 2 or more this time, game over. The Ducks will make the Noles pay. I expect a good game and a FSU comeback, but Oregon's powerful offense is just too much. UO: 35--Noles:31
Seeberg: For weeks us Buckeye fans were convinced a Seminole loss was our only shot to get into the playoff. Now, we must ironically root for them to beat Oregon because, in my opinion, the Ducks are the best team in the country. If this game is anywhere close in the fourth quarter, I genuinely believe that (in)famous Jameis will find a way to win it. The only problem is that the Ducks aren't going to allow it to be that close. Mariota inches closer to equaling Winston's resume with a Heisman and a ring. Ducks: 43--Noles: 24
Sugar Bowl: Alabama Crimson Tide vs. THE Ohio State University Buckeyes
Draper: Ah...another game, another alma mater. The Tide roll in as heavy favorites, but no team in the country is as hot right now as the Buckeyes. Cardale is on top of the world, but he needs to sharpen up a bit against Saban's defense. Blake Sims has been quite consistent during this year but he's been serviceable. Cooper, Henry, and Yeldon will shoulder the offensive load for the Tide while Jones, Elliot, and Smith work for the Bucks. A big part of this game will be decided on the lines. The team that gets pressure will grab the advantage. Bosa needs to dominate and the Buckeye O-line needs to keep Cardale clean. While the Tide have more experience, if the Bucks can avoid mistakes they can ride the youthful exuberance to Dallas. The B1G Championship was largely a case of willpower and refusal to let a repeat occur in Lucas Oil. This time, it's about strict execution. Meyer vs. Saban battles usually turn out something special. I think the Bucks are a year away, but 'I ain't no fake Buckeye!' Bama: 27--OSU: 31
Hoying: In January 1978, the top two coaches in the game led Ohio State and Alabama to a titanic clash in the Sugar Bowl. What happened? The Tide rolled the Buckeyes, 35-6, despite fumbling the ball 10 (!) times. Don't expect either result to occur this time, as these teams are much more easily matched than one of Bear's finest squads taking on fading Woody Hayes (also, ball control is a thing now). Where is Bama vulnerable? If the midseason is any indication, it's on offense. Blake Sims, while impressive, is still learning to be a QB (glad the Buckeyes don't have that problem...) and Super Amario can only do so much to bail him out. The Lucas Oil Massacre showed that the Silver Bullets could win a game with defense; now it's time for them to actually DO it for the first time since the 2012 Wisconsin game. On the other side of the ball, the Buckeyes will need a healthy dose of EzE churning out some yards and 12-gauge Cardale cocking and firing over the top of the Tide's weak safety play. Most importantly, the lines will have to impose their will upon the enemy, like they did against Michigan State and Wisconsin and did NOT do against Virginia Tech. This one's winnable. I feel lucky. The dynasty IS over! Bama: 24--OSU: 27
Schweinfurth: I am so ready for this one. This is not the Bama of the last few years. That secondary just doesn't have that killer instinct of the last few years. Alabama's offense looks like a one trick pony. Yes Amari Cooper is very good, but OSU's D has bottled up good receivers all year. Offensively, OSU knows what it has in Cardale Jones. Alabama has some garbage time against Illinois and the B1G Champ game. Not exactly a lot of film on 12 Gauge. This will be fun and I expect a lot of the same offensive formula that got Cardale into a rhythm early in the B1G Champ game. I trust the front 7 to get pressure on Sims. Finally, Urban Meyer is THE master motivator. Ohio State is a big underdog. Meyer doesn't lose at Ohio State as an underdog. This will be a pissed off OSU team coming out of the tunnel Thrusday night. Happy New Year! GO BUCKS!! Bama: 20--OSU: 28
Seeberg: Congratulations Buckeyes, you made the first EVER college football playoff! (You know, if you don't count any of the other divisions who have had playoffs for decades). Your prize? You get to play the best program of the last five years by a pretty sizable margin. Both coaches will have their teams supremely well-prepared for this game. I believe if these teams played ten teams, OSU wins 3, maybe 4. In a one-game-takes-all scenario though, things are different. Cardale will lead a couple of seamless drives thanks to some solid play-calling and in-game adjusting, but the difference in the game will be Amari Cooper. The Silver Bullets will have to devote a corner and a safety to containing him, which will leave enough gaps in the run game for Bama to have some success between the tackles. If Bosa, Bennett and Co. rattle Sims, which is possible, all bets are off, but Bama's O will make just enough plays to keep the Buckeyes at bay. An overachieving Buckeye squad falls just short, if a year ahead of schedule. Watch out for the 3-QB system in 2015! Bama: 31--Bucks: 21
Thursday, December 04, 2014
Week 15 - Championship Week, Or, Play-off Play-ins
Standings
1) Hoying 44-21 (4-10 upset)
2) Draper 43-22 (6-8 upset)
3) Schweinfurth 41-24 (6-8 upset)
3) Seeberg 41-24 (2-13 upset)
1) Hoying 44-21 (4-10 upset)
2) Draper 43-22 (6-8 upset)
3) Schweinfurth 41-24 (6-8 upset)
3) Seeberg 41-24 (2-13 upset)
Pac-12: Arizona Wildcats vs. Oregon Ducks
Draper: In a game that almost no one is picking lightning to strike twice, I'm very intrigued. The Wildcats enter Autzen with the most important thing...belief. They've already conquered the Ducks once, why not again? Anu Solomon is a fantastic quarterback, but still young. I don't think he'll show any ill effects, but with that said, his counterpart has playoffs and the Heisman in mind. Let's be clear, if Oregon wins and Mariota doesn't crap the bed, the Heisman is decided. The Ducks were granted a reprieve with all the losses (and the committee's ignoring of said losses) and have their eyes on the prize. RichRod makes it interesting, but the Ducks are on to the playoff. Zona: 34--OU: 41
Hoying: The Ducks don't lose very often, but when they do, they prefer Arizona (stay thirsty). The Wildcats are trying to become the first team to win 3 in a row over the Ducks since Cal(!) did it from 2006-08. It won't be easy. Oregon hasn't been seriously threatened since Utah's Kaelin Clay dropped the ball celebrating a touchdown at the 1-yard line, and they've shown up impressively in two marquee matchups against Michigan State and UCLA. Arizona's QB Anu Solomon (who is not hurt, silly me) has been a fantastic success story for RichRod, but Oregon has the lock-it-up Heisman winner slinging the football for their Buckeye-esque offense. Whatever went wrong in their first game against the 'Cats, the Ducks will have the kinks worked out for this one. Zona: 20--Oregon: 28
Schweinfurth: Arizona has beaten the Ducks the last two times these teams have played. Let that marinate a minute. I really don't see the Ducks losing 3 straight to Arizona. Ducks get their revenge and Mariota gets his bronze statue. Zona: 24--Oregon: 35
Seeberg: Keeping this one short and sweet. 1.) I have NO idea how Arizona beat Oregon- I presume Oregon saw Arizona on their schedule in football and not basketball and had a ho-hum week of preparation that bit them in the rear. 2.) There is NO way that happens again, particularly with Mariota leading the Heisman ballotting. Ducks fly into the playoffs. Zona: 24--Oregon: 44
SEC: Missouri Tigers vs. Alabama Crimson Tide
Draper: Congrats Mizzou! You won the worst division in college football....here's the winner of the best division. Uh oh. The talking heads are trying to make this one interesting, but I don't see it. Can Mizzousi win? Sure...but I wouldn't hold my breath. Bama showed they can win with defense or offense given the opponent. If you want to beat them, you need to excel at both. The Tiger defense is pretty good...but the offense won't be able to rack up enough points to matter. Tide Rolls into the playoffs. Mizzou: 10--Bama: 27
Hoying: Two words: mis match. Missouri doesn't have a win over a single opponent with more than 8 wins, or an SEC opponent with more than 7. And they've been skating by, using a decent defense to cover for an offense that can't move the ball. Against Florida, the Tigers racked up all of 119 yards on the way to a 42-13 win. They won't be getting 6 turnovers against Blake Sims and the Tide, no matter what happened in the first half of the Auburn game. Run T.J. Yeldon, throw to Amari Cooper, steamroll the Tigers, secure (an undeserved) #1 seed in the playoff. Although it would be hilarious to see Missouri win and the SEC get left out of the inaugural playoff... Mizzou: 17--Bama: 31
Schweinfurth: Mizzou lost to Indiana. While I believe that Alabama is overrated, there is no way they lose to this Tiger team. Please remember that Mizzou was a middle of the road Big 12 team and has now made 2 straight SEC title game appearances. This is close just because that's how Bama rolls this year. Mizzou: 24--Bama: 28
Seeberg: Keeping this one brief as well. 1.) I have NO idea how Missouri made it back into the SEC title game. Remember- they lost to nearly-winless-in-the-B1G Indiana. I presume Gary Pinkel has made a deal with the devil. 2.) It will take the devil reincarnate in Tiger pads to give them any shot of winning this game. Mizzou: 13--Bama: 31
ACC: Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets vs. Florida State Seminoles
Draper: I don't think the committee has realized this, but the Noles still haven't lost. Yeah, they haven't looked great, but they find a way. Maybe it's Jameis, maybe it's the defense, maybe it's Aguayo, but they find a way. Tech comes into the ACC Championship at just the right time: Chop block-o'clock. This is a horrendous matchup for any team but GT still doesn't have the horses on defense to run with the Noles for a full 60 minutes. Jameis played his worst game ever vs. a good Gator defense...and won. He's not going to be that bad here. Georgia Tech will have some success against the injury riddled D-line of the Noles, but the magic continues for the Seminoles. On to the playoffs (until they get jumped inexplicably by another team with a worse resume...TCU?!? Their best win is KSU followed by who? Minn? Ask Louisville, Clemson, a healthy ND, UF, etc. how good the Noles are). GT: 17--FSU: 28 Thank you Mr. Hoying for not giving us the touch of death.
Hoying: It seems like every week, I pick against the Noles, and every week, they play like garbage and win. That streak is coming to an end, not because I'm picking the Noles to win, but because you can't play like crap and beat Georgia Tech. The Jackets are riding high after two consecutive wins over ranked teams, shredding opposing defenses with their ridiculous triple option. Remember what a so-so Boston College team did to Florida State a couple weeks ago? Imagine that, more competently executed, putting together long drives that keep Jameis Winston and the erratic Florida State offense off the field. Not that the picture's any rosier when the Tech defense takes their turn. GT returned two interceptions for touchdowns against Clemson, and nobody's serving up quacking ducks like ol' Crab Legs these days. After so many ugly victories, a loss cruelly ends the Noles' chase for a second consecutive national title. GT: 31--FSU: 24
Schweinfurth: What has been with the defending champs this year? It almost seems like they are bored right now. With that said, a slow start and falling behind in this one could be the kiss of death to the Noles. Georgia Tech has a very good defense and an offense that will just grind you into oblivion. However, I expect Jameis to get the Noles up for this one (easier to do when a trophy is on the line) and pull off yet another nail biter. GT: 14--FSU: 17
Seeberg: I wasn't all too convinced of the Yellow Jackets' abilities until last week. Granted, they needed a 53-yard FG just to get to overtime, but the triple option rolled over a Bulldog D that had shut down an Auburn rushing offense that is every bit as potent. The Seminoles, meanwhile, have gone all '02 Buckeyes on everybody, winning by the skin of their teeth against highly inferior opponents. The difference between the '02 Bucks and the '14 Noles, however, is that FSU's mistakes are keeping opponents in it where as the Buckeyes were just being throttled by the ultra-conservative sweater vest. FSU's penchant for miscues finally catches up to them. GT: 28--FSU: 20
Kansas State Wildcats @ Baylor Bears
Draper: Another very intriguing matchup. Baylor is puffing their chest out playing Rodney Dangerfield (No Respect). Well, you want respect? Take care of business here. If Baylor wins this one, there's no reason to keep them behind TCU. Resumes are comparable at that point so head-to-head matters....but they need this win. Bill Snyder may be Emperor Palpatine or Yoda but he always finds a way to win 9-10 games a year. The health of Bryce Petty is key here. The Bears struggled last week, but they were looking ahead (and that whole concussion thing). Jake Waters will score, but Baylor is tough to beat at home. You need to put on an offensive show to compete and I don't think KSU quite has the horses. They'll slow the game down to a crawl, but Baylor is too explosive. KSU: 20--Bay: 28
Hoying: There's no longer a de jure Big 12 Championship Game since Nebraska isn't around to lose them anymore, but this game provides a very large piece of the puzzle. A Baylor win gives them no worse than a tie with TCU (and the head-to-head tiebreaker), while a Kansas State win provides a tie with TCU (and a head-to-head loss) unless Iowa State pulls the unthinkable in Fort Worth. Since the Big 12 is very unlikely to get 2 teams into the playoff (no matter what cowardly B12 Commissioner Dan Bowlsby tries to pull), who will be the "One True Champion"? I made the mistake last week of counting out a star quarterback with a potential injury, and I'm not about to count out Baylor QB Bryce Petty for this one after a possible mild concussion. KSU QB Jake Waters is nearly as good, but Petty isn't alone in the backfield. Yes, Virginia, Baylor does have a running game, and Shock Linwood is one of the best in the Big 12. The Wildcats couldn't handle TCU's balanced attack, and while Baylor couldn't either, at least the Bears had the horses to keep up. Kansas State, on the other hand, is going to get trampled. KSU: 31--Bay: 38
Schweinfurth: This game hinges on Bryce Petty's health. If he is healthy, the Bears should win this game. That offense just has too many weapons and can score too quickly for KSU to match. Regardless of Petty's health, this game should be close. Baylor can win the Big 12 with a win and jump into a playoff spot. I think that is motivation enough. KSU: 35--Bay: 42
Seeberg: Baylor's offense is, surprisingly, very 2-dimensional this year, perhaps costing Bryce Petty a serious shot at the Heisman. If it ain't broke, however, it ain't gonna get fixed. The Wildcats have played well all year and have only given up 30 points twice, to Oklahoma (in a 31-30 win) and TCU (41-20 loss). Both of those offenses are balanced and capable of the big play on any down, much like the Bears' O. Baylor scores enough to keep their playoff hopes alive. KSU: 28--Bay: 38
B1G: Wisconsin Badgers vs. THE Ohio State University Buckeyes
Draper: I believe a win here may propel the Bucks into the playoffs (over TCU). No way they pass FSU if they win (just a reality). Now to the game: Run, run, run, run, hello boys, I've missed you. This game will be about the Buckeyes slowing down Gordon and can Cardale make it happen. I know Cardale ain't come to play school, so hopefully he came to play football. I haven't seen anything out of him that wows me other than his clotheslining ability. For the Bucks to win, he needs to be competent and the defense needs to rise up. It's incredibly important for the skill players to step up (Zeke, Thomas, Marshall, etc.). Here's a little hint about how to stop Wisconsin: stop (or slow down) the running game. If they beat us through the air, so be it. Curtis Grant, I'm looking at you. This defense has actually been pretty strong vs. the pass (sans Michigan) but very suspect versus the run. If ever there was a week to completely sell out for the run, this is it. Sure tackling would do well to show up. I think we can score, but no JT is a major issue. It's on Cardale to manage, Zeke to control the ball, and the defense to get the Badgers off the field. You know where I'm going...GO BUCKS!Wisc: 20--Bucks: 24
Hoying: After Ohio State lost their second Heisman-caliber quarterback to a season-ending injury, a stupid question has been popping up all over the place: how will Barrett's injury affect the playoff committee's view of the Buckeyes? The correct answer is: NOT AT ALL. These babbling fools haven't noticed that the Buckeyes face a very stiff test this weekend in the Wisconsin Badgers. Sure, their quarterbacks think that a "forward pass" means pinching a farmgirl's rear, but they feature the B1G's best running game AND best defense (sorry, Sparty). If the Silver Bullets can navigate this minefield, there'll be no question as to Ohio State's playoff viability, no matter who's taking the snaps. Can they do it? One need only consider the Badgers' last game, against Minnesota. With a tremendous home-field advantage, Wisconsin needed every trick in the bag to pull out a win against a team that 1) doesn't like to throw; 2) runs pretty well; and 3) has a decent defense. Even if Cardale Jones in fact did come to play school and not football, you might recognize that Ohio State is basically a better version of Minnesota, and they'll be playing the Badgers on a neutral field in front of a (likely) friendly crowd. Don't start having flashbacks to Virginia Tech, Buckeye Nation. This secondary and offensive line are nothing like what we saw on that fateful September night. As for the nation's top RB, Melvin Gordon, the front seven have had all year to face elite backs and learn how to bring them down. Granted, they've opted not to do so as of yet, but I think they have one solid game left in them. Regardless of what happens in this game and beyond, this season has been a tremendous success, but I'm craving even more gravy after Thanksgiving weekend. Go out and win one for Braxton, JT, and Kosta. Wis: 27--OSU: 28
Schweinfurth: I can't remember an Ohio State team that has had to endure so much in a season. Replace almost the entire offense, lose a Heisman QB, lose another Heisman QB, and then have the death of Kosta Karageorge. This just does not set up well in my mind for an OSU win...but then again, it can be a rallying cry. I have faith in Eli Apple to lock down a wide receiver and I have faith that Ash and Fickell will put together a solid gameplan to stop, or at least slow down, Melvin Gordon. Cardale Jones should be a capable QB in this offense and he is a tank. Expect the offense to look less like Ohio State's offense and more like the Tebow Florida offenses. No matter what happens, this will be an entertaining, and long (thanks FOX) game. Wis: 17--OSU:24
Seeberg: Given the extent to which I follow and scrutinize B1G football, I could write about this game for days, but I won't. For me, it comes down to two things: Who runs the ball better and my own ridiculous superstitious ways. Thing #1: Wisconsin can almost throw the ball now that Stave is back as the starting QB- it's at least enough of a threat to keep our D honest against Melvin Gordon, who we all know can run it and run it well. Our passing offense? TBD. I'm PRAYING for lots of 3-step drops, play action, slants and quick ins (and find Heuerman and Vannett please!!), but lord knows what we will actually call. In any event, we'll need a very potent rushing attack to offset the fact that we're on our 3rd-string QB. Thing #2: My ridicuous superstition. Last year I was leaning ever so slightly towards Michigan State in this game, but picked OSU because, well duh, we want our Buckeyes to win. This year I'm leaning ever so slightly towards OSU because Wisconsin's D is not as tough and I believe the Bucks will put some points on the board. Since that's the case, I'm taking the Badgers in a tight game in hopes of spurring a Buckeye victory. Wis: 31--OSU: 28
Upset Special
Draper: Oklahoma State over Oklahoma (The only game left)
Hoying: Iowa State over TCU (do you believe in miracles?)
Schweinfurth: Fresno St. over Boise St.
Seeberg: Louisiana Tech over Marshall
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
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