Week 12 - B(1G)East Mode

Standings
1) Seeberg             41-14    (1-10 upset) 
2) Draper               40-15    (5-6 upset)
3) Schweinfurth     36-19    (2-9 upset)
3) Hoying               36-19    (1-10 upset)

We're ten games into the season, and the mission for the B1G East's elite remains the same as it was in August: win out and you're going to Indianapolis to (probably) play Iowa.

Meanwhile, the Big 12 season has finally arrived in earnest. Get ready for a sprint to the finish as Oklahoma State desperately tries to carry the BXII flag into the playoff for the first time.

#11 Michigan Wolverines @ Penn State Nittany Lions
Draper: Michigan survives another nail biter against a mediocre to bad team.  Everyone talks about Michigan as being super unlucky after the UM/MSU ridiculousness, but look at the last few games in which they COMPLETELY fell backwards into wins.  Here's the secret, Michigan's defense can handle a good running game.  Leidner played well, but Jordan Howard completely destroyed the myth of a stout UM defense.  Enter Saquan Barkley who is really really good.  PSU has the Hackenburg suckiness, but if Franklin hands the ball off 30 times, PSU wins a big one.  The Lion defense shouldn't have too much of a problem with Jake Rudock (you know, because they don't suck like IU).  Lions knock the Wolverines out of the BEast race backing them into a corner for the The Game. UM: 20--PSU: 27
Hoying: Did any of you actually think that Indiana would be able to hold a 4th quarter lead against a team with a pulse? OK, so last week taught us nothing new about the Hoosiers, but the last two weeks have revealed a disturbing trend regarding what was once the nation's hottest team: Harbaugh's defense has suddenly disappeared. Granted, Jordan Howard is very good and Mitch Leidner was very lucky, but 3 consecutive shutouts feels like an eternity ago. And here comes Saquan I-ran-for-194-yards-against-an-actual-elite-defense Barkley. Fortunately for that school up north, Jake Rudock seems to have become what Hackenberg was at his peak, and UM will need him against a stout Penn State D. This is a terrible trap game for the Corn and Blue, and they drop a big one at the most inopportune time. We'll find out how stern their stuff is next week. UM: 23--PSU: 24
Schweinfurth: Penn St. gets Michigan at a good time, right before playing the Buckeyes and in a good place, Happy Valley. After watching Jordan Howard run crazy and tenderize the scUM front seven, Saquan Barkley is set up for a BIG day. I expect lots of running and not so much passing. UM: 13--PSU: 17
Seeberg:  Unfortunately, scUM avoided a collapse against Indiana last week, and in the process won a borderline shootout- something the Wolverines didn't appear capable of doing.  This game is likely to feature a helluva lot fewer points, which is right in their wheelhouse.  With Sackenburg sitting in the pocket like one of those targets at the county fair that just moves back and forth every time you hit it with the pop gun, the Nittany Lions are likely to be in a lot of 3rd and longs which means the maize and blue defense will tee off on the immobile QB.  Crowd keeps them in it for a half or so, but (We Are) Penn State wears down late.  UM: 24--PSU: 13

#15 Louisiana State Tigers @ #21 Ole Miss Rebels
Draper: I don't know what to make of these teams.  LSU looked beastly until Bama destroyed them, then even Bert could take em down.  Ole Miss has been up and down all year but Nkemdiche is questionable and the best player on the field wear's purple and gold.  Are Miles and the Tigers going to go quietly into that goodnight? I don't think so.  Leonard Fournette restates his Heisman hopes (albeit a little too late). The Grove will be rocking but the Taigahs will geaux.  LSU: 27--Miss: 20
Hoying: LSU loses to Arkansas in another installment of the world's wackiest rivalry and the fans instantly complain that the wheels are falling off in Baton Rouge. I'm glad our fans are more patient and never freak out over a loss...But however bad it's been, it's about to get worse. Alabama drafted the blueprint for stopping Fournette, and the Landsharks aren't going to be to be any easier of a puzzle for the Tigers to solve. Maybe LSU can win by throwing over the top. Heh. Heheheheh. HeeheeeheeheeheehahahahaHAHAHAHAHAH! LSU: 17--Miss: 20
Schweinfurth: There is no way LSU loses three in a row right? Yes, Alabama gave the blueprint to stop Fournette (and really all you had to do was load the box because the Tigers don't have a QB). With that said, I just don't think Ole' Miss has the horses on defense, mostly becuase it's Ole' Miss. Fournette does just enough to win this for the Tigers. LSU: 20--Miss: 14
Seeberg:  Seriously, Tiger fans?  Les Miles is coaching for his job?  If there is even a shred of truth in that Miles should just bolt out the back door and never return.  In any event, LSU will likely be okay either way.  Bama put 37 on the Landsharks with an offense that has serious trouble throwing the ball.  Sound familiar?  I wouldn't expect any explosion quite like that, but the Tigers will Rag on that Ole Miss O (see what I did there??) and make just enough plays on offense to get back on track.  LSU: 24--Miss: 20

#17 Northwestern Wildcats @ #21 Wisconsin Badgers
Draper:  Another toughie.  Wisconsin has floated around the periphery after dropping the only two games of consequence.  Bama destroyed them and Iowa killed football with their 10-6 crapfest win (see Bengals on MNF).  Northwestern has the win over Stanford and....yeah.  I think the Badgers may be able to finally squeeze some life out of Camp Randall for a 'bigger than anyone will give them credit for' win.  The game should be competitive...but that doesn't mean good.  NW: 14--Wisc: 17
Hoying: How good is Wisconsin? The Badgers played 2 elite teams, lost to them both, and played NOBODY else. Northwestern's rebounded a bit from their midseason skid, claiming a nice victory over Penn State, but moving the ball against the nation's top scoring defense (!) might bring out the old Northwestern we know and love. However, even if Northwestern can't move the ball, Wisconsin has offensive struggles of their own, completely losing their identity without a viable running threat. Ehhh...I'm feeling the battle-tested NW defense to outshine a Badger D that's been feasting on cupcake row. NW: 13--UW: 10
Schweinfurth: If this game was in the "mighty" SEC it would be touted as a clash of two great defenses. There will be almost no points scored in this one. Northwestern's offense does just enough to win and Wisconsin is a shell of what they have been the past few years. First team to score a TD wins. NW: 10--UW: 9
Seeberg:  Another B1G clash with points at a premium.  Sadly for Iowa, the loser is likely out of the top 25, hurting their quality win status.  Iowa's hideous 10-6 win over the Badgers earlier in the year was against an extremely shorthanded Wisconsin squad.  The Badgers are marginally healthier now, and I expect them to completely shut down NW.  Will they score enough points to win?  Not in most cases- but this is the exception.  NW: 6--UW: 10

#16 Baylor Bears @ #4 Oklahoma State Cowboys
Draper: Shootouts continue in the Big 12.  Baylor faltered under the lights this week, but they get an immediate shot at redemption.  The Pokes came back from another late deficit, but keep winning.  While Baylor shrunk on the big stage, OSU tends to rise up.  Stillwater is always rocking so lean on the Cowboys.  Baylor had their hopes and dreams crushed last week, and I don't think this team has the intestinal fortitude to come back from disappointment.  Baylor: 49--OSU: 59
Hoying; Good news for the Big 12: the Pac 12 isn't churning out a champion with fewer than 2 losses, all but eliminating them from the playoff picture. Bad news for the Big 12: Notre Dame is still sitting at the 4 spot and only Oklahoma State has a chance to escape the conference unblemished. Considering Baylor's craptastic schedule, Bob Bowlsby's dreamcatcher is probably chock full of trogglehumpers of Baylor recovering from last week's loss to run the table. Fortunately for him, the Cowboys are a legitimate title contender who fight until the final pistol. The Force is with young Jarrett Stidham, but he's not a Big 12 contender yet. Baylor: 45--OSU: 56
Schweinfurth: That vaunted Baylor offense sure looked great last week...or not. Baylor just doesn't have it when they play top competition. Oklahoma State on the other hand has looked good lately and is climbing up the standings. Take the Pokes at home. Baylor: 42--OSU: 63
Seeberg:  I'll be honest, it'd be nice to see Baylor lose again so we can finally stop hearing from Art it's-un-American-to-leave-us-out-of-the-playoff Briles.  Fortunately, that's likely to come to fruition.  On the road with a backup QB whose only games thus far are a narrow win at KSU and a loss at home against the Sooners.  They'll score points as always, but that steel-sieve defense will be their undoing again.  Bay: 35--OSU: 45

UCLA Bruins @ #18 Utah Utes
Draper: Both of these teams are...I have no clue.  Utah had it all in front of them, and crapped themselves vs. Arizona.  UCLA has been a Jekyll and Hyde team all year.  Rosen, Wilson, who will emerge.  No clue.  I do know that Salt Lake is a pretty intense environment.  Utah has crashed after flying too close to the sun, but UCLA has been middling all year.  With the Utes fight back for a chance and the title or will good UCLA grab control of their Pac 12 South destiny.  No clue.  The loss of Booker for the year tips the scales slightly to the visitors.  UCLA: 27--Utah: 24
Hoying: Oh yeah, the Pac-12 is still playing football. I forgot how boring a conference race becomes when it's not likely to end with a playoff berth. Remember how many conferences suffered this fate back in the BCS era, when only 2 teams got to move on to the championship? They dragged me kicking and screaming into the brave new world of playoffs, but I think I've been proven dead wrong. I genuinely care about all the other games on this list because of the playoff implications they carry. In contrast, I can't come up with anything to say about this one. Really. Got nothing. UCLA: 27--Utah: 20
Schweinfurth: I really have no clue here. I did see that Booker may be questionable for Utah. That will be a huge difference in this one. UCLA: 24--Utah: 17
Seeberg:  I have been whiffing on PAC-12 games left and right all year and this one is no easier to prognosticate.  Both teams are coming off bad losses, UCLA is having an expected mercurial season with a true frosh QB, and Utah is just good enough to get your hopes up before falling flat.  I expect Rosen to play an inspired game after a lackluster performance last week, so I'll take the Bruins in an I-wouldn't-be-at-all-surprised-if-it-went-the-other-way contest.  UCLA: 31--Utah: 23

#12 Texas Christian Horned Frogs @ #8 Oklahoma Sooners
Draper: OU is flying up everyone's charts,  but their one win may not be that impressive if Baylor takes a dive.  That being said, no one has fallen quicker than TCU.  After losing to the Pokes, the near miss vs. one of the worst teams in the country is a major worry.  TCU is falling fast and OU is rising quickly.  While I'm not completely on the Sooner Schooner, I like what I'm seeing out of Norman.  The game's also in Norman? BOOMER!! TCU: 17--OU: 38
Hoying: Remember the 2010 national championship? Texas finally made it back to the big show after being controversially left out the previous year in favor of Oklahoma, a team they beat (although any Big 12 selection for the title game that year would've been controversial). They came out firing on their first drive...and lost Colt McCoy for the game to a shoulder injury. The Alabama-Texas clash of the titans never came to be and the Tide cruised to victory. I feel like we were robbed of a possible matchup of that level here. No Boykin, no Doctson, no chance for TCU to stop what's become the nation's most frightening juggernaut since That School Up North in early October. Bedlam next week will have never been Bedlammier. TCU: 27--OU: 42
Schweinfurth: Boykin and Doctson may be out for this one and that is most definitely not a good thing for TCU. Add the porous TCU defense this year and you have the perfect storm for a Sooner win. TCU: 21--OU: 38
Seeberg:  TCU's defense has gotten moderately healthier in the last few weeks; however, their offense has gotten much more ill.  Both Trevone Boykin and Josh Doctson are questionable for the game with nagging injuries, meaning if both can give it a go they won't be at full strength.  Meanwhile, the Sooners are riding high after dethroning the Briles Bears last week.  TCU is too good for the Sooners to look past like they did against Texas for their annual Bob Stoops Inexplicable Loss of the Year Award (TM).  Onto Bedlam as a potential playoff play-in game.  TCU: 28--OU: 42

#8 Michigan State Spartans @ #2 THE Ohio State University Buckeyes
Draper:  Is MSU good? They have the fluky win over the Wolverines and a lot of near misses against subpar to bad competition.  The Bucks finally get their first test, but I'm not totally sure if this is the test that we thought it would be in August.  Cook is hurt (no matter what the Spartans say) which pretty much removes the offense.  LJ Scott is a nice back and the receivers are alright, but without the signal caller, there's not much there.  Oh yeah, the Buckeye defense has been fantastic of late.  The Bucks, on the other side of the ball, need to emerge from the cocoon as they did in the MSU game last year.  JT needs to take control and rebound after last weeks' 'eh' performance.  More importantly, the O-line needs to slow Shilique Calhoun.  I think they will and the Bucks make a statement before facing the fighting Harbaughs.  MSU: 17--OSU: 42
Hoying: Did you know that Penn State can still win the B1G East? All they need is to win their final two games and hope that the Buckeyes lose out. I hate Penn State more than any other team (except one), so it's very important that our boys slam the door on any Rose Bowl hopes for the Lions with a big win over Sparty. Back in September, these teams were #1 and #2 for a brief period before Michigan State went all 2002 Ohio State and started struggling against poor opponents. This is not the same Sparty that terrorized the B1G for a couple years with a dominating defense, but that might make Buckeye fans more nervous. No one scores consequential upsets over Ohio State like That Other School Up North. From wins over Archie and the gang back in the early 70's to ending the Bucks' title hopes in the BCS's opening and closing seasons, there are plenty of reasons not to take this team lightly. The good news is that Urban has had this game marked on his calendar since last season ended, so Buckeye fans should expect to see the best performance from the Silver Bullets and a fully armed and operational JT Barrett-led offense (don't expect any field goals, though). A Penn State win over Meatchicken (see above) and the Buckeyes clinch a spot in the B1G championship a week ahead of THE GAME. MSU: 17--OSU: 35

Schweinfurth: Sparty is mad about last year. Ya know, that one game they played Ohio State and couldn't stop the QB power when everyone knew it was coming. The Buckeye offense since the Virginia Tech game has looked very vanilla and has still put up decent numbers. With JT shaking the rust off last week, I expect the playbook to be wide open this week. The Spartan secondary has been very suspect lately, but they can get a pass rush. Urban and Warriner have been working to shore the pass blocking up the past few weeks and we should see dividends Saturday afternoon. With Connor Cook possibly injured, this game could get ugly, but emotion keeps Sparty in through the first half. MSU: 17--OSU: 42
Seeberg:  Anybody see/believe the betting line on this? We are a 2-touchdown favorite.  That terrifies the heck out of me.  As we know the offense has been sputtering for much of the year, but a pleasant surprise, at least to me, has been the Silver Bullet D.  They seemed to embrace The Grind a bit more than the O, and are already playing at CFP-level form. I do believe the offense will begin to round into shape, but not fully against a tough Sparty D.  Regardless, bettors should take Sparty, but the Bucks take the game.  MSU: 17--OSU: 28   

Upset Special
Draper: Virginia Tech over North Carolina
Hoying: Tulsa over Navy
Schweinfurth: Boston College over Notre Dame
Seeberg: Indiana over Maryland (seriously, MD is a 2-point favorite)

Week 7 - That Rivalry Up North

Standings
1) Seeberg              24-7    (0-6 upset)
2) Draper                22-9    (4-2 upset) 
3) Hoying               21-10    (1-5 upset)
4) Schweinfurth     20-11    (1-5 upset)

As we approach the season's halfway point, 16 undefeated teams are still in the playoff chase, with another 14 Power 5 teams floating around with just one loss. This week's action should go a long way toward determining  who we'll see in Miami and Dallas on New Year's Eve, particularly from our own beloved B1G.

UCLA Bruins @ Stanford Cardinal
Draper: After the anomaly in Evanston, Stanford has really come together and started to look like a real football team.  UCLA on the other hand, started super hot and now has come crashing back to earth.  Stanford has much more experience at QB but Josh Rosen is the flavor of the month.  The loss of Myles Jack is huge, but I'm expecting a rebound from the Bruins.  Stanford tries to muck it up, but UCLA gets enough flash to escape Palo Alto with a win.  UCLA: 31 -- Stan: 28
Hoying: With all the turmoil that's engulfed the Pac-12 over the last couple of weeks, it's odd that these teams aren't getting more hype as potential playoff contenders. Each is sitting on only one loss and has looked pretty good the rest of the time. Age meets beauty behind center as Stanford senior QB Kevin Hogan and UCLA freshman QB Josh Rosen continue to have excellent seasons slinging the ball. But in big games, experience counts, and Stanford has been the hot team after losing their opener to better-than-expected Northwestern. Cardinal get the win in front of all 50 of their fans at home. UCLA: 20--Stan: 24
Schweinfurth: I can honestly say I really don't know much about these two teams (thanks to after 10 PM PAC-12 games and the whole east coast bias thing). What I do know is that both teams have good QBs. Unfortunately, UCLA is without Miles Jack and Stanford have a senior QB. Advantage Cardinal. UCLA: 28--Stan: 31
Seeberg:  Stanford is averaging 35 ppg on offense.  That may come as a shock to some of you who only remember their 16-6 opening week debacle at Northwestern.  Meanwhile in SoCal, UCLA was the toast of the Pac-12 for about 47 minutes and then lost badly to Arizona State at home last week.  Both teams run it well and have talented QBs, though Kevin Hogan has far more experience.  I think UCLA will be poised for this game, knowing a second conference loss all but ruins their plans for the year, but Stanford is playing just a little too well at the moment.  Dance hideous tree, dance.  UCLA: 24--STAN: 31

Iowa Hawkeyes @ Northwestern Wildcats
Draper:  Is Iowa for real? Is Northwestern decent or will they fold after their first adversity of the year.  Michigan took the wind out of the Wildcats sails, but we need to see if Northwestern folds after the first bad game like they have so often in the recent past.  Iowa is undefeated but they haven't played anyone of note (before you give me Wisconsin...you obviously didn't watch that poor excuse of a 'game' in Madison).  I think Northwestern rebounds at home in a tight low scoring affair.  Iowa: 10 -- NW: 13
Hoying: Michigan ruins everything. What could've been a showdown between two undefeated B1G West heavyweights is...still actually really important. Sure, Northwestern got blasted, but they still control their destiny and a win over the Hawkeyes would put them in the driver's seat. But do the 'Cats have anything left in the tank? In 2013, Ohio State broke undefeated and ranked Northwestern and it took them 2 years to recover. The loss to Michigan wasn't quite as heartbreaking (NW was probably at peace with it by about the 4th quarter) but they'll need to be at full power to handle an Iowa team that continues to have success on the ground and on defense. Northwestern is the better team, but don't underestimate the hangover effect. Iowa: 16--NW: 13
Schweinfurth: You have to think that Northwestern is reeling after the beating they took last week. This seems to happen every year. Northwestern gets off to a great start and then puts all their energy into one game, get their hearts ripped out, and then crash the rest of the year. It looks like it might happen again this year. Iowa is just bullying teams with their defense and physical run game. The Wildcat defense was totally shut down last week and I don't see much changing this week. The Northwestern crash begins. Iowa: 20--NW: 3
Seeberg:  Let's be honest here, both teams are already playing with house money at 6-0 (Iowa), 5-1 (NW) and in the top 20.  However, NW basically collapsed after their last nationally relevant game ended in defeat against the Buckeyes in Evanston two years ago.  The 38-0 scoreline against TTUN was a touch misleading as 14 points came off of returns (kick and INT), but Northwestern still got exposed and they haven't scored more than 27 against an FBS opponent this season.  This is the biggest test for Iowa to date, but after winning ugly against an albeit down Wisconsin team at their hellhole of a stadium, I don't expect the Cubbie-crazy Chicago suburb to be too into this game after the loss at UM.  Hawkeyes ugly their way to 7-0.  IOWA: 17--NW: 10

Alabama Crimson Tide @ Texas A&M Aggies
Draper:  Bama seemed to have rebounded with a monster of a game vs. UGA but the Arkansas game was clearly a little scary for 3 quarters for those in Tuscaloosa.  A&M is another of those teams just hanging around.  Are they good? I have no idea, but I think Bama, when at their peak, is solid.  I fear for my life too much to pick against Saban, even at Kyle Field.  Bama: 31--TAMU: 21
Hoying: It's possible that the SEC's best team is playing in this game, and that they'll be wearing the home maroons. After thrashing Arizona State in the season opener, the Aggies have quietly strung together 4 more wins behind the excellent play of QB Kyle Allen. Meanwhile, Alabama struggled to do anything for 3 quarters against Bert before pulling away. Stopping the Arkansas offense is one thing; can Saban shut down Texas A&M? Ole Miss needed every trick in the book and every favorable bounce to bounce Alabama, and I don't think lightning is going to strike twice until Bama's opponent has a bit more thunder in the tank. Bama: 38--TAMU: 28
Schweinfurth: One gets the feeling that Alabama has been escaping more games this year than in the past. This isn't the Alabama of the last few years. Saban still hasn't figured out how to stop a good spread offense and relies on guys who are on the large, slower side. It does seem that Lane Kiffin has pulled his head out of his backside (Saban's edict?) and has begun to rely on that strong running game lead by Derrick Henry. The Aggies always give the Tide fits and this is another close one. Henry and the Tide run game are the difference. Bama: 42--TAMU: 38
Seeberg:  Bama is 5-1 this season despite not really looking much like Bama for long stretches with the exception of their thrashing of Georgia.  They were down 7-3 in the 3rd quarter against we-lost-to-Toledo Arkansas before waking up to win 27-14.   In a slightly darker shade of Crimson, the Aggies haven't really faced any adversity whatsoever in their 5-0 start except against- that's right- we-also-lost-to-Texas-Tech Arkansas.  The Aggies needed OT to escape the Razorbacks.  The difference?  The Aggies could not run the ball at all and needed Kyle Allen heroics (358 pass yds) to win.  Bama has an improving Jay Coker and Derrick Henry to hand the ball to.  That balance will, combined with Bama's D shutting down the run like Arkansas did, give the Crimson Tide a close win.  BAMA: 27--TAMU: 20

Michigan State Spartans @ Michigan Wolverines
Draper: This game all of a sudden got realllllll interesting.  Michigan is arguably the hottest team in football with 3 straight shutouts.  MSU has been limping along all season similar to OSU.  The question is: Is MSU (and OSU) bored, or do they have chinks in the armor? I imagine it's a little of both.  In my opinion, Michigan is playing at their maximum level and we have yet to see the best of MSU.  Being in the Big House, the Wolverine faithful will be strutting their stuff up until kickoff.  Something tells me, this is the week in which MSU puts it together.  Cook, and Scott steadily wear down the vaulted Wolverine defense and the Spartan defense exposes Jake Rudock as the worthless QB he is.  Close game, but the Blue go home crying after another beat at the hands of 'little brother'.  MSU: 20 -- UM: 13
Hoying: Remember when the hot talk was whether Ohio State and Michigan State could both make the playoff after blowing through their easy conference slates? Suddenly, the hot takes aren't talking about either team representing the B1G. Three straight shutouts will do wonders for a team's reputation, even when that team has done this to us before in recent memory, starting 4-0 in 2009 (finished 5-7), 5-0 in 2010 (finished 7-6), and 5-0 in 2013 (finished 7-6). What's the mark of Michigan being back for real? Knocking off Little Brother. The Maize and Blue owned the Green and White before Lloyd left, but it's been incredibly rough sailing since. Part of it is the constant coaching changes, especially since a first-year Wolverine coach hasn't beaten their #2 rivals since Bennie Oosterbaan in 1948. This year, the evil empire has the better defense and maybe even the better running game. This one will come down to how well the Spartan front can rattle Rudock and force him to make mistakes. Sparty's struggled to put away worse teams, and after seeing Utah pick off Cal QB Jared Goff 5 times, it looks like maybe Jake's not the turnover machine Buckeye Nation thought they could ridicule all year. Be glad we have another 6 weeks to prepare, because the Harbaugh victory train keeps right on rolling. MSU: 20--UM: 24
Schweinfurth: I really don't know what to make of these two teams. TUN defense actually looks legit, but I have serious questions about Jake Rudock as a decent QB. I feel like he just hasn't done much and the Wolverines rely way too much on the run game. On the other side, the Spartans have been playing uninspired football the last few weeks and barely escaped Piscataway with a win last week. We know Dantonio can coach up that defense and I think the Spartans have been looking forward to this game all year to this point. We finally see the Spartan team that rolled Oregon in week two and L.J. Scott has a big day chewing up clock. All hail Little Brother. MSU: 17--UM: 14
Seeberg:  If anyone tells you they had the Wolverines favored by a full touchdown in this game at the start of the season, then they have taken a quantum leap in the field of compulsive lying.  Yet somehow, that's where we find ourselves.  I think the Spartans are probably the better team assuming both squads are at even strength, but a laundry list of injuries has Sparty looking quite pedestrian.  Meanwhile, Jake Rudock has looked positively competent since his disastrous 3 INT performance against Utah, although I do think the 38 points put up against NW last week is a bit misleading (kick return TD and a pick-6 account for 14 of those points).  Nonetheless, the hideous maize and blue are the better team right now.  The shutout streak ends, but L.J. Scott is really all MSU has on offense, and it won't be enough.  Sorry Sparty.  MSU: 13--UM: 20

Florida Gators @ Louisiana State Tigers
Draper: A sexy matchup in the Bayou...before Will Grier was suspended for the year.  The Gators were a pleasant surprise through the first half of the year (even with the close call vs. UK) but this is the straw that broke the Gator's back...and oh yeah, there's a guy named Leonard Fournette on the other sideline.  With Grier, the Gators had a chance (still not a great one), without him, I don't see this being close.  Death Valley is really tough to win in at night, even for full teams.  This could be over by half.  UF: 10--LSU: 27
Hoying: A league of terrible quarterbacks just got terribler. Florida's Will Grier, a virtual lock for all-SEC QB, peed in the wrong cup and now he'll have to watch Treon Harris bumble and stumble his way against a fearsome Tiger D in Death Valley. That is, if Harris himself doesn't get suspended again before Saturday. It's not like LSU is going to be any better through the air, but when you have Leonard Fournette, you don't really need a two-dimensional offense. It's like having a 16 oz prime rib and complaining that your salad doesn't have enough croutons on it. Florida, like a crouton, is toast, and not even the Ol' Ball Coach could save them. It's not possible to lose your superstar QB for the season and compete for the national title. Fla: 17--LSU: 31 
Schweinfurth: What happens when you don't check the label on your over-the-counter supplements? You get suspended for using a PED (oops). So now both teams have huge question marks at the QB position. It's also put up or shut-up time for Fournette. I think he will provide all the offense LSU needs in this game, but doesn't rip off the big one he has had the last few weeks. Fla: 13--LSU: 14
Seeberg:  Can LSU throw the ball?  I honestly have no idea.  What's scarier is that LSU has no idea either, averaging a paltry 122 yards per game.  If Fournette runs all over the Gators he is a likely shoe-in for the Heisman but I don't see that happening.  He'll certainly get near/over 100 yards, but it will probably take 20-25 carries.  Florida's offense isn't exactly a juggernaut either, but they did put up 38 on Ole Miss which is more than I would expect LSU to score against the Rebels.  Oddly, Florida doesn't run the ball particularly well, so both offenses are one-dimensional.  In short, the squad I trust most on the field is the Florida D, having faced better competition than LSU and giving up 8 fewer ppg.  Fournette might make enough plays to win it, but if he doesn't do it by himself, the Gators will rule the day. STOP THE PRESSES:  Will Grier was just suspended for the season for testing positive for PEDs.  I had Florida before that news, but that just might be the break LSU needs to pull out a low-scoring win.  FLA: 10--LSU: 17

Penn State Nittany Lions @ THE University of Cincinnati Bearcats
Draper: Penn State was to be the second biggest threat to the Buckeyes after the Spartans.  Now, I'm not really concerned at all.  Christian Hackenberg was once the NFL darling, but he folds under pressure...uh oh.  The front seven will be giving him fits all day (I'm saying 5 sacks).  I haven't seen a single thing out of Happy Valley that should worry the Buckeyes.  This is a rebound game for the defense after a subpar performance vs. craptastic Maryland.  Offensively, there were some good things that need to continue.  This whole redzone QB thing bothers me (if JT is the best making decisions in the red zone, he's the best option period) but we should have plenty of time to work out the kinks.  Game goals: , no turnovers for the offense, utilize the short passing game effectively but take a few shots deep, and the usual 100+ for Zeke. Defensively, at least 3 sacks, zero big plays, and run defense.  Another tune-up game that SHOULD be done by half.  PSU: 10 -- OSU: 38 
Hoying: FINALLY. That's the #1 Buckeye team we've been waiting to see since Labor Day. No turnovers? Check. Perfect in the red zone? Check. Contain the QB? ......well, it's a good thing we don't have to worry about facing another mobile QB for a while (bring it on, Cook & Rudock). Last year, this was the game that I thought would solidify OSU's resurrection from their awful loss to VT, but it instead showed that they could handle adversity and come together when it mattered most. This season, I'm not really worried. Hackenberg continues to struggle when put under pressure (dear Lord...) and the two-headed monster should shred an overrated Nittany Lion D. Make no mistake, Penn State is a complete mirage, and if the Bucks keep their current trajectory, they might steal a few first place votes back on Sunday morning. PSU: 13--OSU: 35
Schweinfurth: Ahh yes, Pick Six University is rolling into town this week to face off the Men of the Black and...What are our school colors again? The two headed monster of Cardale and J.T. looked good and the coaching staff did a very good job of playing to both QBs' strengths. I expect this to continue with some J.T. sprinkled in to other areas of the field as well (probably some short yardage packages). This is going to be a pass first game as the Nittany Lions are going to load up to stop Zeke. Is this the week we see Braxton throw a pass? Maybe if it is the jet sweep tap pass. Otherwise, he stays on the outside. I expect Braxton and Thomas to have huge games (100+ yards each). We also get to see Christian Sackenberg and boy will he take a beating. Yes, the Lion offensive line has looked better since that Temple game, but they haven't faced a D-Line like this since last year's OSU game and they gave up 4 sack. Lewis, Washington, Bosa, and Lee all get at least one sack in this game. PSU lives up to expectations this year and Powell gets the pick six. PSU: 10--OSU: 45
Seeberg:  SO many games this week that seem as if they will be closely contested, this is the only one I can pick with a good amount of confidence.  The offense seemed to take a step forward last week.  Still too many penalties but no turnovers is definitely a plus.  J.T. in the red zone was unexpected but highly effective.  We just have to hope that one week of tape isn't enough for teams to put a package together to thwart our sudden red-zone efficiency.  Our previously highly touted defense apparently refuses to use a spy on a running quarterback, but thankfully good ole' Sackenburg is a relatively stagnant target in the pocket.  I'm still concerned about the receiving corps- only Michael Thomas appears to be getting separation with any consistency.  I also think Samuel needs more touches to compliment Zeke and Braxton in the backfield.  Still, in the 'Shoe and not the confines of Drunkard Happy Valley for a night game, the Bucks should win going away.  PSU: 17--OSU: 38

Upset Special
Draper: Kansas State over Oklahoma
Hoying: Arizona State over Utah
Schweinfurth: West Virginia over Baylor
Seeberg:  Louisville over Florida State

Week 6 - I Went Back to Ohio...

Standings
1) Seeberg               19-7    (0-5 upset)
2) Draper                 17-9    (3-2 upset) 
3) Schweinfurth     16-10    (1-4 upset)
3) Hoying                16-10    (1-4 upset)

A few loyal fans in Buckeye Nation may have been a bit worried at times on Saturday, but Ohio State is coming home after another tough road test, still undefeated and #1 in both polls (ay, oh, way to go, Ohio). The ranks of the undefeateds also feature a few surprise teams that find themselves in put-up-or-shut-up games this week. When the dust settles, we'll have a better idea of who are the contenders, and who are the pretenders.

Navy Midshipmen @ Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Draper: Navy finally got over the hurdle vs. the Irish but for this contest, we return to South Bend and an angry Irish squad.  I'll be honest, I was surprised with the fight that ND showed at Death Valley.  The option attack puts up some points, but not enough as the Midshipman falls short under the shadow of touchdown Jesus.  Navy: 24--ND: 31
Hoying: It's October and Navy is still undefeated! Sure, they have 4 wins vs. crap, but that was Notre Dame's entire resume until they Clemsoned against Clemson last week. The Irish are blowing through QBs as fast as a certain other team near and dear to our hearts, yet still getting pretty consistent play (except on 2-point conversions, but I don't think Malik Zaire is calling the plays). Navy doesn't really have to worry about their passing game, focusing instead on how many ligaments their O-line can snap in opposing defenses' knees as they cut block all over the field. The United States Armed Forces offense enjoys a tactical advantage but their officers-in-training aren't quite as home on the football field as on the battlefield. Navy: 21--ND: 31
Schweinfurth: Even with the injuries, Notre Dame is still the better team here.  The Navy option game is like playing a shell game. The Irish see it every year and usually handle Navy pretty well. Navy's offense will keep them in this game but Notre Dame is just too much. Navy: 21--ND: 28
Seeberg:  Navy spoiled my upset pick last week as they are very at-home in the water... I mean that both as a terrible joke and also literally in football terms with their triple-option rushing attack.  As a result they are the undefeated team in this matchup- a matchup Navy has kept very close the last couple years, scoring 34 and 39 points respectively in narrow defeats.  I see a similar game playing out here, though slightly lower scoring.  Navy will get some traction in the triple-option, but Zaire has proven a more than capable backup and he will keep ND up enough on the scoreboard that Navy will be forced to throw late, spelling their doom.  NAVY: 27--ND: 35

Northwestern Wildcats @ Michigan Wolverines
Draper:  Northwestern is just chugging along like a machine right now.  Everything is set up for the Wildcats to have success (aka no OSU on the schedule).  Just 2 years ago, Evanston was rocking after a 6-0 start that the Buckeyes squelched (and backdoor covered).  Has NW turned the corner, or is it time for TSUN to believe again?  Michigan has shellacked an overrated (albeit still good) BYU team and a pathetic Maryland squad.  Are they that good? I don't think so.  Can they beat the Wildcats at home? Sure why not.  Adds more fuel to the Sun and Blue fire.  Sorry Greeny.  NW: 16--UM: 20
Hoying: As soon as Harbaugh was hired, I predicted the immediate resurrection of That Demon Up North. QB Jake Rudock wasn't ready for prime time against a better-than-expected Utah team, but the Maize and Blue have looked the part since, pitching back-to-back shutouts against...2 bad offenses. And look! Another bad offense is coming to town! The B1G enjoyed last week's Iowa-Wisconsin game so much that they scheduled a sequel. Northwestern runs the ball as well as anyone, but they can't throw (are we picking the Navy game again?). Kind of sounds like...Michigan. This would be a great opportunity for Northwestern's coming out party, but they're facing their slight superiors in every phase of the game...on the road. Big picture: it's better this game isn't in Evanston, or the Wildcats would be broken for another 2 years after another devastating loss. NW: 9--Mich: 13
Schweinfurth: Raise your hand if you saw one loss between these two teams at this point in the season. Anyone? I didn't think so. TUN has looked good against some "decent" competition (if you count a BYU team that won two games on Hail Mary's decent). Northwestern's defense has looked good this year and shut down a pretty good Stanford team. The Cardinal have a better QB than Jake Rudock and Northwestern just confused him. The Wolverines run a very similar offense to Stanford but worse. I'll take the Wildcats in an upset. Can't wait to see the look on Khaki Man's face. NW: 17--UM: 14 
Seeberg:  Pains me to admit it, but these may be the two most consistent, competent teams in the B1G thus far.  Both feature very stingy defenses and offenses that, with Jake Rudock beginning to understand which jerseys to throw to, limit mistakes and don't stop themselves too often (imagine if the Bucks did that??).  TTUN actually opened as 10-point favorites which I find shocking because it's reasonably plausible that neither team even scores 10 points.  It's not likely to be pretty, but the maize and blue are about to make some noise in the B1G again.  Heaven help us.  NW: 13--MICH: 20

California Bears @ Utah Utes
Draper:  Cal is undefeated after feasting on terrible defenses...but note those teams also feasted on their defense.  Goff and the Bears are fun to watch, but no one is really taking them seriously...yet.  Utah is the current flavor of the month after obliterating Oregon in Eugene, but how good is Oregon, really?  That being said, I want the team that has at least a small semblance of a defense.  Cal is fun, but Utah is better.  Salt Lake City will be rockin as usual.  Cal: 34--Utah: 45
Hoying: Stop me if you've heard this one before. Cal has a skinny little twig at QB putting up ridiculous numbers as the Bear offense rolls along...and actually stops their opponents on a drive or two?!? That's right, Cal has shut down the HIGH-POWERED Texas, Washington, and Washington State attacks on their way to a 5-0 start. The Utes, led by somewhat disappointing RB Devontae Booker and dual-threat QB Travis Wilson, will pose a bit of a tougher challenge to the Cal defense, but it's not like Cal QB Jared Moss...er...Goff is going anywhere. Utah may have held Oregon to 20 points, but Cal's attack is undoubtedly better. It won't be enough, especially with 2 weeks for the Utes to prepare, but Cal's rise continues with a hard-fought close loss. Cal: 27--Utah: 34
Schweinfurth: I've watched a little of Utah and none of Cal. Utah has been pretty impressive and it will be interesting once they play some better teams in the PAC-12. Until then, the Utes win. Cal: 28--Utah: 42
Seeberg:  Hey Cal is 5-0, who knew?  They even have 3 wins over power 5 opponents.  Unfortunately, those wins are a by a combined 13 points over Texas, Washington and Washington State.  Those three teams have a COMBINED 1 win over power 5 schools, WSU's 3-point win over powerhouse *cough not so much cough* Rutgers.  Had Cal seen Utah the week after blasting Oregon, they might have gotten the Utes squad on a letdown week and kept it close enough to pull off the upset.  Not with two weeks to prepare for the Utes though.  I don't know how "for real" either team is, but my money is on Utah. CAL: 21--UTAH: 38

Baylor Bears @ Kansas Jayhawks
Draper: This....is gonna be gross.  I expect Art Briles to pour it on as much as he can before being arrested for beating the stepson.  The important question is: Will Kansas score? The shutout is a tall order, considering the Baylor drives should last about 2 plays on average.  The Baylor defense will be super tired, but I think they'll go for it.  BU: 70--KU: 0
Hoying: Oh, those crafty Bears. While Ohio State, TCU, Alabama, Michigan State, Auburn, Oregon, USC, Georgia, Florida State, Notre Dame, Clemson, UCLA, LSU, Arizona State, Georgia Tech, Ole Miss, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Wisconsin, Stanford, Arizona, Boise State, Missouri, and Tennessee have each found themselves in tight spots in this young season, Baylor hasn't been close to being touched, thanks to their masterful scheduling. And the hits keep right on rolling as the Bears visit the winless Jayhawks, the only 1-A team to lose to Rutgers this season. In 2007, Kansas went 12-1 and beat Baylor 58-10 in Lawrence. The Jayhawk faithful would do well to stay home and watch that one again. Then cry. BU: 63--KU: 7
Schweinfurth: Are we picking this against the spread? Even if we did, Baylor would win. Kansas is SOOOOOOOO bad. Baylor may try to break the scoreboard. BU: 70--KU: 7
Seeberg:  Not 100% sure why we're picking this one.  4-0 Baylor, 0-4 Kansas.  Oh, and Kansas is starting its true freshman 3rd-string QB due to injuries to the top two signal-callers.  Will Baylor score 100?  It's conceivable.  This is a pad-your-stats game for the crew of Let's Go Bucks.  Baylor rolls and rolls and rolls some more.  BU: 77--KU: 13

Maryland Terrapins @ THE Ohio State University Buckeyes
Draper: Maryland is bad....I mean, really, REALLY bad.  The program has all but confirmed that Edsall will be out as soon as our game ends.  IU may not be great, but they're having a nice season and improving.  Maryland is moving in the other direction.  Once again, this is the perfect medicine for a struggling Buckeye offense.  Cardale still can't diagnose a defense and has lost the trust of the coaches.  Zeke will continue carrying the load, but the rest of the weapons need to step up.  Marshall needs to hold on to the ball, JT needs to run the option (what? he's not the QB yet? Why?), Michael Thomas needs to see more balls his way, etc.  The defense had too many lapses that led to big plays last week.  Firm it up and we're back on track.  MD: 9--OSU: 48
Hoying: Remember the Michigan State game in 1998? The Purdue game in 2009? Almost every great team seems to have that one game against an inferior opponent on which nothing seems to go right. This season, every game feels like that, except that the Buckeyes keep winning. Imagine what would happen if the Buckeyes played well, or averagely. For the next 5 games, it would probably mean a 30-40 point blowout. But for that to happen, Ohio State needs to overcome penalties, turnovers, and third down and red zone futility. There seems to be an easy answer (*cough JT Barrett cough*) but we'll have to wait for Cardale to come around and achieve the Craig Krenzel-level athletic greatness we know he can reach. Best news: Maryland is BAD, like worse than any of our other incredibly crappy opponents bad, so we can afford to do whatever the hell we think will help work out the kinks, without worrying about actually putting points on the board. Still, it would be nice to see us dominate just once before the tough games start, for the benefit of the collective cardiac health of the Let's Go Bucks! crew. I'm not 16 anymore like I was in 2002. MD: 6--OSU: 35
Schweinfurth: Maryland is the team Ohio State needs to play right now. Everyone says the Buckeye offense is worse this year, but the stats say otherwise. The big difference this year is the turnovers. Urban has had the team working hard at protecting the ball better (should have been done in camp). Urban has also emphasized getting Samuel and Miller more involved in the offense. Is this the week we finally see some short screens to Braxton and get him in space? I'm gonna call for Marshall to catch a deep ball and Miller shows some flashes. If Zeke gets his 20 carries, he gets at least 200 yards. I'm really not too worried about the Terps offense versus the Buckeye defense. I see 2 or 3 picks from the Silver Bullets and hopefully some Bosa shrugging in the backfield. This one gets ugly and we see JT in the 4th quarter. MD: 3--OSU: 42
Seeberg:  As- crap, what's the politically correct phrase- severely lacking in talent and execution (read:  bad) as Maryland is, I'm intrigued for this game.  Granted the weather was lousy, but TTUN went to Maryland and pitched their second straight shut out.  If our defense is as elite as we'd like to think it is (I personally think it's solid, but not elite yet), we better come close to pitching a shutout as well.  I'm also curious if we'll throw a slant, or a crossing route, or an in route, or ANY route within 15 yards of the line of scrimmage that isn't a swing pass or a pop pass.  Aside from Michael Thomas I don't know if our receivers are getting consistent separation, which might be the reason for the odd playcalling, but all the more reason to keep routes short so Cardale doesn't have to hang in the pocket too long before looking to run or for a safety valve.  In any case, a healthy dose of N-S Zeke (that would be North-South Zeke, fyi), some better play-calling (one hopes), and a solid defensive effort should make this one a lot less harrowing than IU.  MD: 10--OSU: 45

Upset Special
Draper: Texas over Oklahoma (because football makes no sense)
Hoying: West Virginia over Oklahoma State
Schweinfurth: Illinois over Iowa
Seeberg:  Missouri over Florida

Grading the Bucks--Week 6: Northwestern

Offense: C+
The Buckeye offense left much to be critiqued this week.  First let me say, Northwestern is good.  Unfortunately, their defense is not.  This should have been a field day for Braxton and the receivers going up against the B1G's 12th ranked pass defense, but alas, it was among Miller's worst games.  I'd love to give more credit simply based on the fantastic performance of Carlos Hyde, but there were too many errors elsewhere.  3 turnovers (2 fumbles were horrible) are usually a dagger, but the O responded when needed.  Why can't we keep this early explosive offense going?  Where is Dontre Wilson?  When did Braxton forget how to throw a 5 yard fade?  And, one of my biggest pet peeves, where has the quick slant gone?  Our receivers are good enough to make plays in space given the chance.  Hyde was phenomenal in his vision and toughness, but he shouldn't have to be the only weapon on this talent-laden roster.  One final note: Urban absolutely made the right call in sticking with Braxton.  The fumbles were inexcusable, but the interception was an easy TD if his arm wasn't hit.  Braxton did not play well, but a quick trigger in a hostile environment to bring in Kenny could very easily have cost us not only in that game, but down the road.

Defense: B-
This defense is simply not as good as past Bullet defenses.  That being said, they tightened up in the redzone well and played pretty well against an extremely talented Northwestern team.  30 points should never be the goal of any defense, but, post-game, I was somewhat pleased with the defense.  Northwestern is explosive and the Buckeyes exhibited a classic bend-don't-break defense.  The pass defense needs serious work, but the line was playing very well.  I wish that more teams ran the ball because I like the run defense.  Seems like the Buckeyes can use a Ryan-esque defense in which the goal is to get the QB before they can throw.  We can't seem to cover with any number of people in coverage.  Let's also not forget the defensive TD that cost Vegas $100 million.

Special Teams: B+
Blocked punt...BOOM.  Huge momentum swing and really gave OSU some belief back when they were on the ropes.  The kicking game was fine even if someone got some punt return yards this week.  This unit has been pretty solid all year. That fake punt was terrible but I don't blame the unit.

Coaching: D
Credit the coaches for sticking with Miller (I really don't think they were that close to pulling him).  That was a good decision.  Otherwise.... Let's examine a fake punt on 4th and 9.  Woof.  I get the 'surprise' factor, but come on.  The return team didn't bail and the punter had no blocking setup...and he needed 9 yards!!! On the road, taking a risk like this isn't sneaky, it's stupid.  In addition, the Buckeyes seemed to be getting pressure on the QB when blitzing.  Every time a big down came up, we consistently dropped 8 into coverage and were picked apart.  Blitzing may open you to a big play, but sometimes you need to trust the athletes to make a play in the backfield.  It is a risk, but a calculated one.  Offensively, there still seemed to be a few too many designed runs for Braxton.  Also, quick slant!!!  We need to get more inventive throwing the ball other than 'bomb'.

Overall: B-
Big win against a very good opponent in their biggest home game ever.  Credit for the win, but expectations are always higher in Columbus.

Week 6: Showdown in the B1G

Standings
1) Schweinfurth    18-2      (1-4 upset)
2) Draper             17-3      (1-4 upset)
3) Hoying             14-6      (1-4 upset)

Washington Huskies @ Stanford Cardinal
Draper: This is the toughest call of the week for me.  I really want to pick the Huskies and I would do it without hesitation if the game was in Seattle. You know what? Let's do it.  Keith Price has been fantastic all year, and Stanford has just seemed to sleepwalk through most of their schedule.  THe Huskies are coming back to prominence and I don't think the Cardinal have an identity. Are they a running team? Passing? Defense? Sark steals one on the road to throw the national pundits prediction into a tailspin and make Oregon start to look ahead to next week. UW: 24--Stan: 20
Hoying: The late game on Upstart Saturday features a matchup of the dark horse candidates from each Pac-12 division.  It's odd to see Stanford as the established power and Washington seeking respect, but this game may reveal a great deal about the future of the pecking order out west.  Both teams feature terrific QB play, but contrary to preseason predictions, Washington has been the squad with the shut-down D.  The high-powered Illini (don't laugh) and Arizona attacks were limited by the Huskies, and Boise State's O was completely obliterated.  I foresee Stanford QB Kevin Hogan and the Cardinal suffering the same fate.  The Huskies keep pace with Oregon in the North.  UW: 28--Stan: 20
Schweinfurth: This is a tough one.  In close games, QBs can make all the difference and Keith Price is a good one.  The Huskies have looked good all season and Stanford is ripe for the picking.  Yes, the Cardinal defense is good, but that offense is meh.  As I said, this will be close but Washington takes control of their PAC-12 destiny this week.  UW: 31--Stan: 20

Maryland Terrapins @ Florida State Seminoles
Draper: This game shouldn't be close.  Yes, the Terrapins are undefeated and, yes, the Noles sleepwalked through the BC first half, but FSU is FAR better.  Randy Edsall is doing some good thing in College Park, but Jameis Winston and his bevy of extremely talented receivers will get it done in Doak.  FSU keeps rolling Mary: 20--FSU: 45
Hoying: Are the Seminoles vulnerable?  Everyone points to the upcoming FSU-Clemson showdown as the coronation ceremony for the ACC champion, but the Noles struggled mightily against a bad Boston College team a week ago.  Freshman QB Jameis Winston is, well, a freshman, and the shine is off the apple a bit after his ridiculous start.  On the other hand, can Maryland handle success?  The Terps haven't been in serious ACC title consideration for several years, and while the crushing victory over WVU is nice, FSU will be quite a stiffer test.  Wins for visitors in Tallahassee come at a premium, and I don't think Maryland is quite to the point of challenging the Noles on their home turf.  Terrapins lose a close one.  Mary: 20--FSU:24
Schweinfurth: Maryland is having a great season so far (B1G! B1G!) but I still feel the Terrps are a mediocre team.  Florida State is clearly looking like the class of the ACC and Jameis Winston sure looks like the real deal.  I expect a close first half but FSU makes the adjustments and rolls in the second half.     Mary: 27--FSU: 45

Arizona State Sun Devils @ Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Draper: The Sun Devils are on cloud nine after being the final nail in the coffin for Lane Kiffin and, let's be honest, the Irish just aren't very good.  Yes, it's in South Bend, but they're hurting after the Sooners reminded them that last year was a fluke. ASU has had the magic touch with the refs handing them the Wisky game, and I'm seeing some more late game magic under the outstretched arms of Touchdown Jesus.  The Devils defeat the Domers (uh oh...) in heartbreaking fashion.  ASU: 31--ND: 30
Hoying: If Tommy Rees could complete a pass to one of his own receivers, last week's tilt against Oklahoma would have been a terrific back-and-forth slugfest.  Time to shake up my magic 9-ball and ask "Will Tommy Rees play well this week?"  "My sources say no."  What are your mystical sources, magic 9-ball?  Why do they always say no?  ASU: 27--ND: 20
Schweinfurth: As I have written here in the past, I don't think much of Notre Dame's defense this year.  I mean, they have been bruuutal.  Arizona State can put up points in bunches.  This is clearly a mismatch.  I expect the Devil's defense to get a couple of stops.  Those are the difference in a shootout.      ASU:42--ND: 38


THE Ohio State University Buckeyes @ Northwestern Wilcats
Draper: Put up, or shut up.  I've said all year that this game could be tougher than the Michigan game, and now I truly believe it.  The Wildcats believe they're on to something special and they're looking to get their first real statement win in the Fitzgerald era.  This is also a HUGE stage for Mr. Fitzgerald where I guarantee the eyes of Texas (and USC) will be upon him.  Unfortunately, they're still Northwestern.  The Buckeyes found that taking the foot off the gas last week led to a little more drama than necessary.  Not this week.  The Bucks exert their big dog status and make a statement.  The Cat offense will score, but the Bucks score more...much more.  Look for some more deep throws to help open up the run game. Big win for the Buckeyes. OSU: 52--NW: 27 
Hoying: Fun fact: Northwestern has won three Big Ten titles in the last 78 years: 1995, 1996, and 2000.  They did not play Ohio State in any of those seasons.  In fact, Ohio State has only lost to Northwestern once in the last 42 years (and I was there, sigh).  These are not your father's Wildcats, but they have a familiar-looking defense.  That's good news for an Ohio State offense accustomed to using quick starts to take control of games.  This game will look a lot like the Cal game.  Expect some quick scoring by the Bucks, followed by a decent fight put up by a potent Northwestern offense.  Hopefully, the margin in the 4th quarter will allow Urban to continue his late-game Tresselball, since Northwestern doesn't have the means to stop a healthy dose of Carlos Hyde up the middle.  OSU: 45--NW: 31
Schweinfurth: What a big win for the Bucks at home.  To me, that game was scoreboard close.  Braxton looked to have his rifle cocked and I wouldn't expect anything less this week.  The Buckeye offense is some kind of explosive.  Hyde will get his carries and I think Jordan Hall will reappear as well against a smaller defensive front 7.  The big question will be how the defense will fare against the two-headed QB monster Fitzgerald will throw out there.  Northwestern's offense is one that has given the Silver Bullets problems in the past, and I think they will put up some points.  Unfortunately for them, Ohio State's offense is better.  I expect the Buckeyes to jump all over the Wildcats early and then nurse a decent lead all game.             OSU: 49--NW: 24

Upset Special
Draper: GT over Miami
Hoying: Minnesota over Michigan
Schweinfurth: WVU over Baylor