Another crappy opponent, another beatdown. Not much to say. Let's be honest; Purdue is the second worst opponent on the schedule (sorry FAMU, you're still #1).
Offense: A
Braxton, Hyde, and ... Heuerman? Purdue clearly didn't know we had a tight end. Braxton failed to get the elusive 300 yard passing game because he had 0 snaps in the second half. Hyde, however, still reached 100 yards on 8 carries (I believe). The best thing to take away was Ezekiel Elliot looked REALLY good. Looks like OSU will have a nice back to replace Hyde next year.
Defense: A
Shutout...can't do much better. Defense scores again...can't do much better. Still some softness, but Purdue wasn't exposing it. Moving on.
Special Teams: A
Woo. No returns on punts. I still don't know why we don't bury every kickoff in the endzone to prevent a 'get lucky' moment from a bad team, but Elliot's beatdown on the kickoff was a thing of beauty. Moving on.
Coaching: A
I honestly don't remember much of this game because it was over in 5 minutes, but I loved what I saw from Vrabel and Coombs (as usual) keeping the juice flowing against a crappy opponent. Total focus is needed for this team to avoid slipups (like Northwestern--kind of--or Purdue last year).
Overall: A
Purdue sucks. On to a bye which might be a better opponent (might be tougher than Illinois too).
Showing posts with label Purdue. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Purdue. Show all posts
Wednesday, November 06, 2013
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Week 10: November is for Contenders
Standings
1) Schweinfurth 26-12 (3-6 upset)
2) Draper 25-13 (2-7 upset)
3) Hoying 24-14 (1-8 upset)
Miami Hurricanes @ Florida State Seminoles
Draper: A top ten matchup in November with your standard 21+ point spread. The Noles are riding high while the Canes just can't seem to lose no matter how much they try. Duke Johnson is the real deal in the backfield for Miami, but that's pretty much the only position at which they have an advantage. Famous Jameis is doing serious work, and I don't see a let down in Miami week. This is a very heated rivalry that has cooled a bit recent years, but don't let this trick you...these guys hate each other. When I was at FSU, the Noles took 3 of 4 from the Gators and lost 3 of 4 to the Canes (2 to heartbreaking missed field goals). I want blood. Noles step on the gas and keep it going for a blowout. UM: 20--FSU: 52
Hoying: This year we might see a glimpse of what was once one of the top rivalries nationwide. The Noles and the Canes haven't come into this game with 0 combined losses since 2003 (not counting the few times they've met in the season opener). Unfortunately, one of these teams seems to be a complete mirage. Whereas Florida State has rolled merrily along, crushing Clemson on the road and destroying almost everyone else on their schedule, Miami has struggled mightily, sneaking past a mediocre Florida team at home and needing last-minute scores to dispatch bad North Carolina and Wake Forest squads. Give the Hurricanes credit for doing what it takes to get to November undefeated, but their Golden season ends now. Nastily. UM: 17--FSU: 34
Schweinfurth: This game was interesting to me...until I watched Miami struggle last week. Don't get me wrong, Duke Johnson is really good, but the rest of that offense is not very good. Florida State's offense can make any defense look silly. Miami's defense isn't quite the "U" defense that dominated opponents and I think Florida State is absolutely for real this year. Total domination by the 'Noles this week.
UM: 13--FSU: 42
Michigan Wolverines @ Michigan State Spartans
Draper: A little hint for you...little brother is quietly having a really nice season. Michigan had the preseason hype, but Dantonio's Spartans are nasty on defense and quietly moving through the Legends. Yes, they play ugly, yes, they win ugly, but they are winning. The offense is predominantly walrusball, but the defense is an immovable object. Sparty had a Sparty YES moment before halftime last week that Bollman certainly drew up in the kitchen (tipped pass that should have been intercepted twice completed for a TD on 4th down with no time left in the half). The Wolverines have been supremely unimpressive outside of their tight end Funyons (yeah, I don't know the actual name, but this is better). When does the little brother supplant the big? How much domination is needed? UM: 13--MSU: 20
Hoying: While I don't give a damn for the whole state this game's being played for, it does have huge implications for the final Legends division race. The Wolverines are coming off a bye to face a Spartan squad that put up an impressive 14 points against one of the worst defenses in the country (see game prediction #4 for the identity of this mystery team). However, for Michigan to win this game, they'll have to move the ball against arguably the nation's best defense. The Spartan front 7 are sure to give Michigan's RBs Fitz, so this one will fall squarely on the shoulders of Tom Harm...er, Devin Gardner. In two road games thus far, #98 has put up a combined 28/53 for 351 yards, 3 TDs, and 4 INTs. And that was against winless UConn and the same Penn State that gave up 2+ TDs to 3 different Buckeyes last week. Yikes. Get ready to eat some dirt, Shoelace II. UM: 10--MSU: 13
Schweinfurth: This has always been one of my favorite B1G rivalries through the years. This game is down right nasty and always produces a close, entertaining game. I really like the Spartan defense, I really don't like the Spartan's offense (*cough* Walrus *cough*). Michigan I just don't get. Gardner just can't go a game without forgetting what color jersey he should be throwing to (hint: white jerseys this week). After watching some of the teams in the Legends Division, this game is most definitely the Legends Division championship game. I don't expect Michigan State's offense to do much but that defense is going to give them great field position all day long (plus maybe a pick six). I'll even throw Bollman a fish for maybe an offensive touchdown. This game is closer on the scoreboard than it really should be but Sparty YES!!
UM: 9--MSU: 24
Oklahoma State Cowboys @ Texas Tech Red Raiders
Draper: Two nice looking teams without a win of note between them. Kingsbury has the Red Raiders clicking on offense with terrific freshman QB play and OSU has quietly been sneaking around in the Big 12. I haven't seen much of these teams other than to form the opinion that they're nice teams around the 15-20 ranking...nothing elite, but good teams. I'll go with the home team in a close one. The Texas Tech fans usually go a little crazy close to Halloween. OSU: 35--TT: 38
Hoying: What a terrific matchup! How about that great win Oklahoma State had over...well, what about Texas Tech's...huh...at least they kept it close with Oklahoma! Moral victories! Anyway, the Red Raiders do pass the eye test, as new HC Kliff Kingsbury has managed to maintain the old air raid offense while instituting a decent defense as well. Tech hasn't beaten Okie State since they darn near won the Big 12 title in 2008, but this year the streak ends. The Red Raiders stay in the title hunt while the Cowboys quietly slip away. OSU: 24--TTU: 45
Schweinfurth: Hey, did anyone notice that Kliff Kingsbury looks like Ryan Gosling? Honestly the only thing I know about these teams are the coaches. Neither team has really played a great schedule and both are back loaded with the best Big XII teams. It's at Texas Tech so I'll take the home team in a shootout.
OSU: 38--TTU: 45
THE Ohio State Buckeyes @ Purdue Boilermakers
Draper: Bad....really bad. That's Purdue. Good...potentially really good. That's OSU. With that being said, Troy Smith, Terrelle Pryor, and Braxton Miller have a grand total of 0 wins in West Lafayette. I think that changes this year. Ryan Kerrigan is walking on for Purdue and this OSU team is....not the pile of crap from 2 years ago. Another big day for Hyde and Miller on the ground as the Bucks start running the clock out early. The motivation is there to avenge past losses in Ross-Ade so I doubt will see a let down. Hyde for 150, Braxton throws for 200 and runs for 100, then it's time for Kenny G. Comfortable win, but not as big as last week. There's just no reason. I want to see if the defense keeps it up for 2 weeks in a row. OSU: 55--PU: 24
Hoying: Purdue is an appalling dump heap, overflowing with the most disgraceful assortment of deplorable rubbish imaginable, mangled up in tangled-up knots. Buckeye Nation wishes that first-year coach Darrell Hazell could be having a better season, but they hope even harder that his signature win doesn't come this weekend, against a team the Boilers have tagged 4 of the last 6 times they've visited scenic West Lafayette. What can be said about a game like this? Ohio State is better than Purdue in every way. Unless this has become some kind of "helmet game" for our esteemed men of the scarlet and gray, this contest should make last week's Penn State debacle look like a nail-biter. Get used to it. OSU: 52--PU: 16
Schweinfurth: It seems like forever since the Buckeyes have won in West Lafayette. Those losses included such Ohio State QBs as Troy Smith, Terrel Pryor, and yes, even Braxton Miller. The common denominator: Urban Meyer was NOT the head coach. This Buckeye team is laser focused now and that showed last week. This Purdue team is some kind of bad. If the Bucks can drop over 600 yards of offense on Penn State, just think of what can they do to the Boilermaker defense. I really expect this to be a "name your score" game. I think we see another flat dominant performance by the offense and a couple of INTs from the defense. OSU: 63--PU: 17
Upset Special
Draper: Tennessee over Missouri
Hoying: Iowa over Wisconsin
Schweinfurth: Washington St. over Arizona St.
1) Schweinfurth 26-12 (3-6 upset)
2) Draper 25-13 (2-7 upset)
3) Hoying 24-14 (1-8 upset)
Miami Hurricanes @ Florida State Seminoles
Draper: A top ten matchup in November with your standard 21+ point spread. The Noles are riding high while the Canes just can't seem to lose no matter how much they try. Duke Johnson is the real deal in the backfield for Miami, but that's pretty much the only position at which they have an advantage. Famous Jameis is doing serious work, and I don't see a let down in Miami week. This is a very heated rivalry that has cooled a bit recent years, but don't let this trick you...these guys hate each other. When I was at FSU, the Noles took 3 of 4 from the Gators and lost 3 of 4 to the Canes (2 to heartbreaking missed field goals). I want blood. Noles step on the gas and keep it going for a blowout. UM: 20--FSU: 52
Hoying: This year we might see a glimpse of what was once one of the top rivalries nationwide. The Noles and the Canes haven't come into this game with 0 combined losses since 2003 (not counting the few times they've met in the season opener). Unfortunately, one of these teams seems to be a complete mirage. Whereas Florida State has rolled merrily along, crushing Clemson on the road and destroying almost everyone else on their schedule, Miami has struggled mightily, sneaking past a mediocre Florida team at home and needing last-minute scores to dispatch bad North Carolina and Wake Forest squads. Give the Hurricanes credit for doing what it takes to get to November undefeated, but their Golden season ends now. Nastily. UM: 17--FSU: 34
Schweinfurth: This game was interesting to me...until I watched Miami struggle last week. Don't get me wrong, Duke Johnson is really good, but the rest of that offense is not very good. Florida State's offense can make any defense look silly. Miami's defense isn't quite the "U" defense that dominated opponents and I think Florida State is absolutely for real this year. Total domination by the 'Noles this week.
UM: 13--FSU: 42
Michigan Wolverines @ Michigan State Spartans
Draper: A little hint for you...little brother is quietly having a really nice season. Michigan had the preseason hype, but Dantonio's Spartans are nasty on defense and quietly moving through the Legends. Yes, they play ugly, yes, they win ugly, but they are winning. The offense is predominantly walrusball, but the defense is an immovable object. Sparty had a Sparty YES moment before halftime last week that Bollman certainly drew up in the kitchen (tipped pass that should have been intercepted twice completed for a TD on 4th down with no time left in the half). The Wolverines have been supremely unimpressive outside of their tight end Funyons (yeah, I don't know the actual name, but this is better). When does the little brother supplant the big? How much domination is needed? UM: 13--MSU: 20
Hoying: While I don't give a damn for the whole state this game's being played for, it does have huge implications for the final Legends division race. The Wolverines are coming off a bye to face a Spartan squad that put up an impressive 14 points against one of the worst defenses in the country (see game prediction #4 for the identity of this mystery team). However, for Michigan to win this game, they'll have to move the ball against arguably the nation's best defense. The Spartan front 7 are sure to give Michigan's RBs Fitz, so this one will fall squarely on the shoulders of Tom Harm...er, Devin Gardner. In two road games thus far, #98 has put up a combined 28/53 for 351 yards, 3 TDs, and 4 INTs. And that was against winless UConn and the same Penn State that gave up 2+ TDs to 3 different Buckeyes last week. Yikes. Get ready to eat some dirt, Shoelace II. UM: 10--MSU: 13
Schweinfurth: This has always been one of my favorite B1G rivalries through the years. This game is down right nasty and always produces a close, entertaining game. I really like the Spartan defense, I really don't like the Spartan's offense (*cough* Walrus *cough*). Michigan I just don't get. Gardner just can't go a game without forgetting what color jersey he should be throwing to (hint: white jerseys this week). After watching some of the teams in the Legends Division, this game is most definitely the Legends Division championship game. I don't expect Michigan State's offense to do much but that defense is going to give them great field position all day long (plus maybe a pick six). I'll even throw Bollman a fish for maybe an offensive touchdown. This game is closer on the scoreboard than it really should be but Sparty YES!!
UM: 9--MSU: 24
Oklahoma State Cowboys @ Texas Tech Red Raiders
Draper: Two nice looking teams without a win of note between them. Kingsbury has the Red Raiders clicking on offense with terrific freshman QB play and OSU has quietly been sneaking around in the Big 12. I haven't seen much of these teams other than to form the opinion that they're nice teams around the 15-20 ranking...nothing elite, but good teams. I'll go with the home team in a close one. The Texas Tech fans usually go a little crazy close to Halloween. OSU: 35--TT: 38
Hoying: What a terrific matchup! How about that great win Oklahoma State had over...well, what about Texas Tech's...huh...at least they kept it close with Oklahoma! Moral victories! Anyway, the Red Raiders do pass the eye test, as new HC Kliff Kingsbury has managed to maintain the old air raid offense while instituting a decent defense as well. Tech hasn't beaten Okie State since they darn near won the Big 12 title in 2008, but this year the streak ends. The Red Raiders stay in the title hunt while the Cowboys quietly slip away. OSU: 24--TTU: 45
Schweinfurth: Hey, did anyone notice that Kliff Kingsbury looks like Ryan Gosling? Honestly the only thing I know about these teams are the coaches. Neither team has really played a great schedule and both are back loaded with the best Big XII teams. It's at Texas Tech so I'll take the home team in a shootout.
OSU: 38--TTU: 45
THE Ohio State Buckeyes @ Purdue Boilermakers
Draper: Bad....really bad. That's Purdue. Good...potentially really good. That's OSU. With that being said, Troy Smith, Terrelle Pryor, and Braxton Miller have a grand total of 0 wins in West Lafayette. I think that changes this year. Ryan Kerrigan is walking on for Purdue and this OSU team is....not the pile of crap from 2 years ago. Another big day for Hyde and Miller on the ground as the Bucks start running the clock out early. The motivation is there to avenge past losses in Ross-Ade so I doubt will see a let down. Hyde for 150, Braxton throws for 200 and runs for 100, then it's time for Kenny G. Comfortable win, but not as big as last week. There's just no reason. I want to see if the defense keeps it up for 2 weeks in a row. OSU: 55--PU: 24
Hoying: Purdue is an appalling dump heap, overflowing with the most disgraceful assortment of deplorable rubbish imaginable, mangled up in tangled-up knots. Buckeye Nation wishes that first-year coach Darrell Hazell could be having a better season, but they hope even harder that his signature win doesn't come this weekend, against a team the Boilers have tagged 4 of the last 6 times they've visited scenic West Lafayette. What can be said about a game like this? Ohio State is better than Purdue in every way. Unless this has become some kind of "helmet game" for our esteemed men of the scarlet and gray, this contest should make last week's Penn State debacle look like a nail-biter. Get used to it. OSU: 52--PU: 16
Schweinfurth: It seems like forever since the Buckeyes have won in West Lafayette. Those losses included such Ohio State QBs as Troy Smith, Terrel Pryor, and yes, even Braxton Miller. The common denominator: Urban Meyer was NOT the head coach. This Buckeye team is laser focused now and that showed last week. This Purdue team is some kind of bad. If the Bucks can drop over 600 yards of offense on Penn State, just think of what can they do to the Boilermaker defense. I really expect this to be a "name your score" game. I think we see another flat dominant performance by the offense and a couple of INTs from the defense. OSU: 63--PU: 17
Upset Special
Draper: Tennessee over Missouri
Hoying: Iowa over Wisconsin
Schweinfurth: Washington St. over Arizona St.
Monday, October 22, 2012
Grading the Bucks--Purdue (yeesh)
Another near miss. I'm stunned this team is undefeated. Credit them for the 0 in the loss column, but if we keep playing with fire, we're going to get burned....
Offense: D+
I'll be honest, I would have gone much much lower were it not for the herculean effort by Kenny Guiton. Yes, a backup at OSU should be able to beat Purdue, but the way he did it and the situation into which he was placed made it that much more special. Let's be honest, this offense is about as bland as last year's...in a different way. It seems to me that the only thing that we run is the zone read and screens. Hyde seems to be a bruiser between the tackles, but we refuse to run I-formation up the gut. I believe halftime had Hyde with over 50 yards on 7 carries. That's over 7 yards a carry for you non-math people and he only got 7 CARRIES?!? Braxton is electric, but play to your strengths...and this year, the O-line and Hyde are the bread and butter when Miller isn't there. Obviously, his passes were completely out of sync all game, and his first and only play of any substance was the long run that ended in injury. This is why Kenny G is so incredibly useful as a backup: he doesn't have the physical, raw talent of Braxton, but I believe he has stronger decision making skills. It's very cliche, but the 'game manager' status of Guiton is underrated. When Miller dropped out, there was very little drop off. Yes, he threw a pick, but there was no residual effects as he led the game winning drive. Give him credit for being a phenomenal leader and never giving up.
Defense: B
After the first play, the defense played pretty darn well. Hankins completely ate up the middle of the line and the remainder of the line played very well. I'd grade the secondary and linebackers as below average in terms of performance, but the effects (13 points given up) deserve the above average grade. Let's also not forget the pick in the endzone that saved the day. Perhaps this is somewhat of an over-correction to the crapfest in Bloomington, but 13 points given up by the D should be a gimme win with this offense. The first play had Barnett WAY out of position leaving Klein on an island and the other TD drive was an embarrassment of not adjusting to the same bubble screen (although, we might not have the athletes healthy to cover that adequately). Other than that, they played well. I love Roby, but I thought he had his worst game of the year. With the patchwork secondary, the stars need to step up. Think about this: our linebackers are good (Shazier), fullback (Boren), hurt freshman (Perry) and guy kicked off the team and reinstated (Klein). With that lineup, I'll take 13 points given up any day.
Special Teams: D+
Blocked PAT may have been the difference, but let's not forget the missed FG and the kickoff return. This is absolutely inexcusable. Stay in your lanes and tackle soundly. I'm very concerned if this game comes down to a FG as Basil hasn't seemed like the same guy. Also, Meyer doesn't seem to have the same faith in Basil we've seen in the past. The defense stepped up and the special teams and offense let us down. Punts were ok. Lost in all this has been the exception improvement in the kick return game. Rod Smith has held on to the ball (!) and has been getting us starting field position around the 35 every time. Give him big time credit for that.
Coaching: C
I don't understand the bland offense. It's not Dave every play, but it's just as boring. Where are the slants? Posts? Fades? I-formation? Mixing it up? Nope, always shotgun--zone read or screen/bomb. Everyone says how exciting this team is to watch. I don't see it. Miller is big play machine, but it's not due to design; just talent. The coaches need to step up and start to bring more creativity. By the way, every time a WR motions into the backfield, it's ALWAYS a triple option. Defensively, they're doing what they can, but scheme is a bit sit back and hope it works. I think inventiveness is lacking as a staff and more needs to be shown to step up to the next level.
Overall: C
Offense: D+
I'll be honest, I would have gone much much lower were it not for the herculean effort by Kenny Guiton. Yes, a backup at OSU should be able to beat Purdue, but the way he did it and the situation into which he was placed made it that much more special. Let's be honest, this offense is about as bland as last year's...in a different way. It seems to me that the only thing that we run is the zone read and screens. Hyde seems to be a bruiser between the tackles, but we refuse to run I-formation up the gut. I believe halftime had Hyde with over 50 yards on 7 carries. That's over 7 yards a carry for you non-math people and he only got 7 CARRIES?!? Braxton is electric, but play to your strengths...and this year, the O-line and Hyde are the bread and butter when Miller isn't there. Obviously, his passes were completely out of sync all game, and his first and only play of any substance was the long run that ended in injury. This is why Kenny G is so incredibly useful as a backup: he doesn't have the physical, raw talent of Braxton, but I believe he has stronger decision making skills. It's very cliche, but the 'game manager' status of Guiton is underrated. When Miller dropped out, there was very little drop off. Yes, he threw a pick, but there was no residual effects as he led the game winning drive. Give him credit for being a phenomenal leader and never giving up.
Defense: B
After the first play, the defense played pretty darn well. Hankins completely ate up the middle of the line and the remainder of the line played very well. I'd grade the secondary and linebackers as below average in terms of performance, but the effects (13 points given up) deserve the above average grade. Let's also not forget the pick in the endzone that saved the day. Perhaps this is somewhat of an over-correction to the crapfest in Bloomington, but 13 points given up by the D should be a gimme win with this offense. The first play had Barnett WAY out of position leaving Klein on an island and the other TD drive was an embarrassment of not adjusting to the same bubble screen (although, we might not have the athletes healthy to cover that adequately). Other than that, they played well. I love Roby, but I thought he had his worst game of the year. With the patchwork secondary, the stars need to step up. Think about this: our linebackers are good (Shazier), fullback (Boren), hurt freshman (Perry) and guy kicked off the team and reinstated (Klein). With that lineup, I'll take 13 points given up any day.
Special Teams: D+
Blocked PAT may have been the difference, but let's not forget the missed FG and the kickoff return. This is absolutely inexcusable. Stay in your lanes and tackle soundly. I'm very concerned if this game comes down to a FG as Basil hasn't seemed like the same guy. Also, Meyer doesn't seem to have the same faith in Basil we've seen in the past. The defense stepped up and the special teams and offense let us down. Punts were ok. Lost in all this has been the exception improvement in the kick return game. Rod Smith has held on to the ball (!) and has been getting us starting field position around the 35 every time. Give him big time credit for that.
Coaching: C
I don't understand the bland offense. It's not Dave every play, but it's just as boring. Where are the slants? Posts? Fades? I-formation? Mixing it up? Nope, always shotgun--zone read or screen/bomb. Everyone says how exciting this team is to watch. I don't see it. Miller is big play machine, but it's not due to design; just talent. The coaches need to step up and start to bring more creativity. By the way, every time a WR motions into the backfield, it's ALWAYS a triple option. Defensively, they're doing what they can, but scheme is a bit sit back and hope it works. I think inventiveness is lacking as a staff and more needs to be shown to step up to the next level.
Overall: C
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Week 8: Calm before the storm
Standings
1) Schweinfurth 23-5 (3-4 upset)
2) Hoying 19-9 (2-5 upset)
3) Draper 18-10 (2-5 upset--missed 2 pts conv!!)
4) Auer 15-9 (0-6 upset)
Louisiana State Tigers @ Texas A&M Aggies
Draper: The Aggies have been electric on offense but terrible on defense. LSU has been the exact opposite. Were this game in Death Valley, I'd call for a blowout, but the 12th Man evens the playing field a bit. Manziel has put up stupid good numbers but hasn't faced a defense like this. Mingo and Montgomery pull LSU solidly back into the national title hunt. LSU:20--TAMU: 10
Auer: A huge game in College Station, a place where LSU has never won. The Tigers missed out on a lot of scoring opportunities last week and still came away with a win over South Carolina. LSU is the real deal and will win a close one. LSU: 34--TAMU: 28
Hoying: Give credit to Texas A&M for a win over a ranked team, but is anyone feeling good about their chances after a WAC opponent took them to the brink of disaster? LSU's defense won't be giving up 59 points, even to Johnny Football, everyone's newest blip on the Heisman radar. LSU has a little trouble scoring, but that rarely seems to be a problem for them (anyone remember watching the 2003 Buckeyes?) The Aggies continue their nasty "Welcome to the SEC tour" as another quality opponent kicks them to the curb. LSU: 22--TAMU: 16
Schweinfurth: So far this season, Texas A&M have held their own in their first SEC season. This will be LSU's first trip into Kyle Field, but I think it will matter not. LSU is the all around better, and oversigned (sorry I couldn't help myself) team. Tigers win close, but that is their identity this year. LSU: 17--TAMU: 13
South Carolina Gamecocks @ Florida Gators
Draper: The schedulers certainly did South Carolina no favors with back to back road games at Death Valley and the Swamp. Sometimes, a loss can tell just as much as a win. LSU is almost unbeatable at home at night, and the Cocks brought it to an onside kick. Driskell has been very good at QB but no one is blown away by the Gator offense. Lattimore and Shaw were able to score some on the Tigers but couldn't push it over the edge. Florida has an excellent defense, but while some predict the Tigers softened the Gamecocks, I think it strengthened their resolve. Also, I can't pick Florida (they are 4 of my losses I believe). Go Cocks! USC: 20--UF: 13
Auer: USC may be without Lattimore and the Gators are at home... this may get ugly. Factor in a revenge factor of Florida, and this will certainly be another big statement game from the Gainesville Gators. USC: 17--UF: 35
Hoying: South Carolina fans were feeling Cocky after their a big win over Georgia but got a sobering dose of reality at the hands of the punishing LSU defense. SC QB Connor Shaw is probably better than Florida QB Jeff Driskell, but the Gator D might be even better than LSU's. Going to the Swamp is no fun for anybody, and the ol' ball coach is going to get another reminder of why he never should have left. USC: 13--UF: 21
Schweinfurth: This game could have been epic if South Carolina could have held on last week. Both of these teams sport efficient offenses and stout defenses. I expect the same offensive formula that has worked for the most part from the Gamecocks: Lattimore, Lattimore, and and then Shaw over the top. Unfortunately I'm not sure if that will be enough. The Gators get a roughed up USC in Gainsville, which is huge for this game. The Head Ball Coach throws his visor at the end of this one. USC: 21--UF: 24
Kansas State Wildcats @ West Virginia Mountaineers
Draper: No one is giving Kansas State any credit. Collin Klein (in my opinion) is the clear frontrunner for the Heisman. West Virginia is the flash and Wildcars are the grind it out hardworking 'Mericans. Geno and company will put up points, but the defense can't stop anything. AARP Bill Snyder's team makes a few stops to win a close one in Morgantown. KSU: 30--WVU: 28
Auer: I haven't watched KSU play, but WVU was exposed in a big way this past weekend and it makes it very hard to be confident in their ability to win against a real opponent. Then again, I kind of question the legitimacy of the Wildcats. What the hell, I'll call for the home team upset. KSU: 38--WVU: 41
Hoying: West Virginia was exposed in a BIG way last week, both by their dismantling at the hands of Texas Tech and the discrediting of their previous vanquished opponent, Texas. The Mountaineers seem to have a problem with teams that can play defense. What's that thing that Kansas State does really well? It may be old man football, but KSU will pull out a big road win as they finally prove they can handle the spotlight. KSU: 27--WVU: 23
Schweinfurth: Texas Tech showed the world how to beat WVU last week: score and don't let Geno Smith beat you. While I haven't watched enough (or any) of KSU this year, Bill Snyder is a smart man and has been around the block a few times. Geno will get at least 2 TDs but Collin Klein busts out and takes the lead in the Heisman race after this one. KSU: 42--WVU: 21
Purdue Boilermakers @ THE Ohio State University Buckeyes
Draper: Let's be real: we play like last week, we lose. Thankfully, we're at home and I think last week was a giant notice for the defense (coaches and players). Purdue can play (sort of), but the Shoe makes the difference here. The crowd's electricity will prevent apathy from seeping back in. Purdue has beaten OSU 2 of the past 3 years, but the year we beat them, was an absolute beatdown at home. I expect a repeat of 2010. Braxton and Hyde will tear apart the Boilers and the defense, while still not worthy of being called Bullets, will do enough. Bucks get back on track at home. PU: 20--OSU: 48
Auer: Another closer than expected game. The defense is still bad, meh. PU: 31--OSU: 44
Hoying: Let's take a step back from the horrendous defense we saw last week. Before the last 4 minutes of the game, there wasn't an actual fear the Buckeyes were going to lose. And after the fear set in, Braxton never touched the ball until he ran out the clock. A consistent pattern has emerged of this Buckeye offense making plays when it has to, and I reiterate that as long as Braxton isn't busted, Ohio State will not lose another game. (Qualification: he has to be on the field. Multiple onside kicks void my prediction.) What about our worthy opponent? Ehhh, it's Purdue. We've lost to them once at home in the last 44 years. Plus they've been exposed in the last two weeks as the mediocre team they are. Bucks win big. Probably. PU: 27--OSU: 44
Schweinfurth: Another week, another spread offense for the Silver Pop Gun. While Purdue is bad defensively, this is the type of offense that has confounded Luke Fickle and Everett Withers. The focus this week was on minimizing the big play and it may show up in softer secondary coverages. Purdue WILL move the ball, and the Boilers WILL score...just not enough. The Buckeye offense is putting up just sick rushing numbers. Braxton Miller can become the first Ohio State QB to rush for 1000 yards, and this is only game 8! Carlos "El Guapo" Hyde has been a beast since Hall went down and I expect nothing less than 150 yards out of him. Bucks win and put up 50+ for the third week in a row (and I puke over the points given up again, bleh) PU: 38--OSU: 54
Upset Special
Draper: Cal over Stanford
Auer: Virginia Tech over Clemson
Hoying: Baylor over Texas
Schweinfurth: Tennessee over Bama (!!!)
1) Schweinfurth 23-5 (3-4 upset)
2) Hoying 19-9 (2-5 upset)
3) Draper 18-10 (2-5 upset--missed 2 pts conv!!)
4) Auer 15-9 (0-6 upset)
Louisiana State Tigers @ Texas A&M Aggies
Draper: The Aggies have been electric on offense but terrible on defense. LSU has been the exact opposite. Were this game in Death Valley, I'd call for a blowout, but the 12th Man evens the playing field a bit. Manziel has put up stupid good numbers but hasn't faced a defense like this. Mingo and Montgomery pull LSU solidly back into the national title hunt. LSU:20--TAMU: 10
Auer: A huge game in College Station, a place where LSU has never won. The Tigers missed out on a lot of scoring opportunities last week and still came away with a win over South Carolina. LSU is the real deal and will win a close one. LSU: 34--TAMU: 28
Hoying: Give credit to Texas A&M for a win over a ranked team, but is anyone feeling good about their chances after a WAC opponent took them to the brink of disaster? LSU's defense won't be giving up 59 points, even to Johnny Football, everyone's newest blip on the Heisman radar. LSU has a little trouble scoring, but that rarely seems to be a problem for them (anyone remember watching the 2003 Buckeyes?) The Aggies continue their nasty "Welcome to the SEC tour" as another quality opponent kicks them to the curb. LSU: 22--TAMU: 16
Schweinfurth: So far this season, Texas A&M have held their own in their first SEC season. This will be LSU's first trip into Kyle Field, but I think it will matter not. LSU is the all around better, and oversigned (sorry I couldn't help myself) team. Tigers win close, but that is their identity this year. LSU: 17--TAMU: 13
South Carolina Gamecocks @ Florida Gators
Draper: The schedulers certainly did South Carolina no favors with back to back road games at Death Valley and the Swamp. Sometimes, a loss can tell just as much as a win. LSU is almost unbeatable at home at night, and the Cocks brought it to an onside kick. Driskell has been very good at QB but no one is blown away by the Gator offense. Lattimore and Shaw were able to score some on the Tigers but couldn't push it over the edge. Florida has an excellent defense, but while some predict the Tigers softened the Gamecocks, I think it strengthened their resolve. Also, I can't pick Florida (they are 4 of my losses I believe). Go Cocks! USC: 20--UF: 13
Auer: USC may be without Lattimore and the Gators are at home... this may get ugly. Factor in a revenge factor of Florida, and this will certainly be another big statement game from the Gainesville Gators. USC: 17--UF: 35
Hoying: South Carolina fans were feeling Cocky after their a big win over Georgia but got a sobering dose of reality at the hands of the punishing LSU defense. SC QB Connor Shaw is probably better than Florida QB Jeff Driskell, but the Gator D might be even better than LSU's. Going to the Swamp is no fun for anybody, and the ol' ball coach is going to get another reminder of why he never should have left. USC: 13--UF: 21
Schweinfurth: This game could have been epic if South Carolina could have held on last week. Both of these teams sport efficient offenses and stout defenses. I expect the same offensive formula that has worked for the most part from the Gamecocks: Lattimore, Lattimore, and and then Shaw over the top. Unfortunately I'm not sure if that will be enough. The Gators get a roughed up USC in Gainsville, which is huge for this game. The Head Ball Coach throws his visor at the end of this one. USC: 21--UF: 24
Kansas State Wildcats @ West Virginia Mountaineers
Draper: No one is giving Kansas State any credit. Collin Klein (in my opinion) is the clear frontrunner for the Heisman. West Virginia is the flash and Wildcars are the grind it out hardworking 'Mericans. Geno and company will put up points, but the defense can't stop anything. AARP Bill Snyder's team makes a few stops to win a close one in Morgantown. KSU: 30--WVU: 28
Auer: I haven't watched KSU play, but WVU was exposed in a big way this past weekend and it makes it very hard to be confident in their ability to win against a real opponent. Then again, I kind of question the legitimacy of the Wildcats. What the hell, I'll call for the home team upset. KSU: 38--WVU: 41
Hoying: West Virginia was exposed in a BIG way last week, both by their dismantling at the hands of Texas Tech and the discrediting of their previous vanquished opponent, Texas. The Mountaineers seem to have a problem with teams that can play defense. What's that thing that Kansas State does really well? It may be old man football, but KSU will pull out a big road win as they finally prove they can handle the spotlight. KSU: 27--WVU: 23
Schweinfurth: Texas Tech showed the world how to beat WVU last week: score and don't let Geno Smith beat you. While I haven't watched enough (or any) of KSU this year, Bill Snyder is a smart man and has been around the block a few times. Geno will get at least 2 TDs but Collin Klein busts out and takes the lead in the Heisman race after this one. KSU: 42--WVU: 21
Purdue Boilermakers @ THE Ohio State University Buckeyes
Draper: Let's be real: we play like last week, we lose. Thankfully, we're at home and I think last week was a giant notice for the defense (coaches and players). Purdue can play (sort of), but the Shoe makes the difference here. The crowd's electricity will prevent apathy from seeping back in. Purdue has beaten OSU 2 of the past 3 years, but the year we beat them, was an absolute beatdown at home. I expect a repeat of 2010. Braxton and Hyde will tear apart the Boilers and the defense, while still not worthy of being called Bullets, will do enough. Bucks get back on track at home. PU: 20--OSU: 48
Auer: Another closer than expected game. The defense is still bad, meh. PU: 31--OSU: 44
Hoying: Let's take a step back from the horrendous defense we saw last week. Before the last 4 minutes of the game, there wasn't an actual fear the Buckeyes were going to lose. And after the fear set in, Braxton never touched the ball until he ran out the clock. A consistent pattern has emerged of this Buckeye offense making plays when it has to, and I reiterate that as long as Braxton isn't busted, Ohio State will not lose another game. (Qualification: he has to be on the field. Multiple onside kicks void my prediction.) What about our worthy opponent? Ehhh, it's Purdue. We've lost to them once at home in the last 44 years. Plus they've been exposed in the last two weeks as the mediocre team they are. Bucks win big. Probably. PU: 27--OSU: 44
Schweinfurth: Another week, another spread offense for the Silver Pop Gun. While Purdue is bad defensively, this is the type of offense that has confounded Luke Fickle and Everett Withers. The focus this week was on minimizing the big play and it may show up in softer secondary coverages. Purdue WILL move the ball, and the Boilers WILL score...just not enough. The Buckeye offense is putting up just sick rushing numbers. Braxton Miller can become the first Ohio State QB to rush for 1000 yards, and this is only game 8! Carlos "El Guapo" Hyde has been a beast since Hall went down and I expect nothing less than 150 yards out of him. Bucks win and put up 50+ for the third week in a row (and I puke over the points given up again, bleh) PU: 38--OSU: 54
Upset Special
Draper: Cal over Stanford
Auer: Virginia Tech over Clemson
Hoying: Baylor over Texas
Schweinfurth: Tennessee over Bama (!!!)
Thursday, September 06, 2012
Week 2 Picks: BOOOOOORRRIIIIINNNNGGG!!!
After a relative snoozefest in week 1 that showed the Wolverines getting trounced and essentially limited those in serious national title contention to about 7 teams, one would think that this week must be more exciting....nope. The 'big games' this week are some of the weakest I've ever seen. Here's hoping for one GT-VT thriller because these games look awful.
Standings
1. Draper 4-0 (1-0 upset)
1. Schweinfurth 4-0 (1-0 upset--he copied me)
3. Hoying 3-1 (0-1 upset)
4. Auer 0-0 (0-0 upset)
Games
Florida Gators @ Texas A&M Aggies
Draper: The epic Gameday matchup that no one cares about. Yes, it's TAMU's intro to the SEC, but Florida was embarassing in week one. This being on the picks shows how much these games suck. The Aggies week 1 game was postponed so we know very little about what to expect. I do know, however, that the Gators looked terrible. I expect the Aggies to win the SEC opener against a hapless UF offense. Which team will suck more? UF: 10--TAMU: 20
Auer: UF was able to earn valuable experience in last week's close win over Bowling Green. A&M will have a tough time game-planning for a team without a quarterback too. With an inexperienced QB for the Aggies playing at home under the microscope, it will not be an easy game. UF: 31--TAMU: 13
Hoying: Two teams, no quarterback. If you watched football last week, you saw a Florida team with no offense almost lose to a Bowling Green juggernaut with no kicker. You also probably wondered where Texas A&M was. (Just kidding, no one cares about Texas A&M.) This strikingly mediocre program is going to get a rude awakening after jumping conferences to the SEC, but it's not going to be at the hands of the Gators. Freshman Aggie QB Johnny Manziel leads his team to a victory and adds another burning coal under Florida coach Will Muschamp's hot seat. UF: 13--A&M: 20
Schweinfurth: We are about to see if a team built to play in the Big 12 can survive in the SEC. Texas A&M's offense over the last few years has been meh and the defense is a Big 12 defense. I expect emotions to carry TAMU for a while, but in the end the Gators will prevail in the end (and maybe give the UF media something to talk about other than Urban). UF: 35--TAMU: 14
Purdue Boilermakers @ Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Draper: Notre Dame had a great week one showing in Ireland, but Purdue is a sleeper in the Big Ten (for the hundredth straight year). That being said, I believe the talent on the Irish is just simply better than Purdue. The QB situation for the Boilers is a mess. I expect the Irish to capture a convincing win that will propel them into the Top 5 (in Lou Holtz's rankings) before they face the Spartans. PU: 20--ND: 37
Auer: Admittedly not going with logic here. Notre Dame put the smack down on Navy WITHOUT their starting QB and RB... the Boilers put the smack down on EKU without their starter... but used former starter Marve. I hate Notre Dame, and somehow Marve will start and pull of the HUGE upset. PU: 23--ND: 21
Hoying: This is a dangerous game for Purdue, mostly because they're vastly inferior to Notre Dame. Don't get me wrong; the Boilermakers were one of five B1G teams (Ohio State, Nebraska, Illinois and Michigan State) to not embarrass themselves last weekend, but the globetrotting Irish are not exactly Eastern Kentucky. Senior Purdue QB Caleb TerBush will pose a bigger threat to the Irish defense than Navy's non-existent pass game, but Notre Dame's balanced attack is more than capable of piling even more points on a weak Purdue defense. PU: 17--ND: 34
Schweinfurth: I guess Notre Dame is good (for Notre Dame as of late). The Irish offense has another year under Brian Kelly and should be making strides. It showed last week in the drubbing Navy took last week. Purdue is a bit better than Navy and it will show on the field. Purdue's offense put up impressive numbers against Eastern Kentucky but Robert Marve (yes, I expect Marve to start) won't fare as well against the Irish D. Notre Dame wins in a bit of a shootout. PU:28--ND:45
Nebraska Cornhuskers @ UCLA Bruins
Draper: Martinez had a solid 5 TD performance against Southern Miss but the Black Shirts were a little soft. UCLA showed last week that their young team behind Brett Hundley can score some points. I think the Bruins will put up some points but the Huskers snag the last score. Expect a score fest in LA with the B1G grabbing a nice close win. Neb: 41--UCLA: 38
Auer: Nebraska's flakiness may start to rival that of what used to belong to the Spartans. Offensively they were impressive against Southern Mississippi, but the defensive spunk was missing. UCLA is not without talent, starting QB Brett Hundley was impressive in the first win of the season (and he's really good in the video game), and this is the home opener for the Bruins. Nebraska must come ready to play, this will quite possibly be the best game of the weekend. Neb: 34--UCLA: 32
Hoying: Is UCLA back? The Bruins managed to turn some heads after piling up 646 yards in their last game. However, that was against...Rice. And UCLA also gave up 24 points to...Rice, none of which occurred during garbage time. To be fair, Nebraska had a similar performance last week against Southern Mississippi, but Nebraska's been pretty solid the last few seasons. The burden of proof is on UCLA, and it'll take a win against an opponent of this level to put them back on the map. Problem is, Nebraska's offense is going to be tough to stop, even if star RB Rex Burkhead isn't ready to go. Huskers win close. Neb: 38--UCLA: 34
Schweinfurth: Both Nebraska and UCLA's offenses showed up big time last week. Martinez with his 5 TDs and UCLA with 600+ yards of offense. No Burkhead means this game will be closer than it should be. This one will be high scoring and very entertaining to watch. Neb: 49--UCLA: 35
UCF Golden Knights @ THE Ohio State Buckeyes
Draper: The Bucks looked pretty solid in week one but the secondary remained a little questionable. That being said, Dysert for the Redhawks was a pretty savvy experienced QB. UCF is a sexy pick as a threat but I don't see them hanging with the Bucks. They're a nice CUSA team, but they're not ready for the big time. Miller's passing can only improve and his running has already been electric so I see 4 TDs (3 passing, 1 rushing) with Hyde chipping in 2. Guiton comes in late to mop up. The defense will relax here and there leading Coach Coombs to kill a kitten on the sideline--never let it happen again... UCF: 16--OSU: 48
Auer: With the rainy forecast, and UCF's somewhat existent run game, this will possibly be a bit closer than anyone expects. Ohio State is a superior team all-around, but after a great opening weekend, there is bound to be a bit of a hangover. UCF: 22--OSU: 37
Hoying: Welcome to the Ineligi-bowl. Buckeye Nation is breathing a little easier after last week's coming out party, and the cream puff feast rolls merrily along with fellow bowl-ineligible UCF coming to town. The Golden Knights are fresh off a dismantling of terrible terrible Akron, but don't look for them to put up too much of a fight. If the UCF receivers can hang onto a pass, the game might be close for a quarter, but this game should be ugly. Like "ESPN's sideline eye candy now that Erin Andrews is gone" ugly. UCF: 13--OSU: 48
Schweinfurth: It's said that a team's biggest improvement happens between weeks 1 and 2. We are about to find out if that is true for the Buckeyes. Miami's pass happy offense moved the ball well against the Bullets but UCF is not a pass happy offense. This should be a good time for the defensive line to flex their muscles. I would expect the OSU D to force 1 or 2 more turnovers and more special teams chaos created by the "Freak Show." I also expect there to be a bit of jitters to start the game on offense again. But, like last week, once the O gets rolling, Miller and the boys are going to put up some numbers. OSU is better and it will show. UCF: 14--OSU: 52
Upset Special:
Draper: Out on a limb--Penn State over Virginia
Auer: Missouri over Georgia
Hoying: Iowa State over Iowa
Schweinfurth: Oregon State over Wisconsin
Standings
1. Draper 4-0 (1-0 upset)
1. Schweinfurth 4-0 (1-0 upset--he copied me)
3. Hoying 3-1 (0-1 upset)
4. Auer 0-0 (0-0 upset)
Games
Florida Gators @ Texas A&M Aggies
Draper: The epic Gameday matchup that no one cares about. Yes, it's TAMU's intro to the SEC, but Florida was embarassing in week one. This being on the picks shows how much these games suck. The Aggies week 1 game was postponed so we know very little about what to expect. I do know, however, that the Gators looked terrible. I expect the Aggies to win the SEC opener against a hapless UF offense. Which team will suck more? UF: 10--TAMU: 20
Auer: UF was able to earn valuable experience in last week's close win over Bowling Green. A&M will have a tough time game-planning for a team without a quarterback too. With an inexperienced QB for the Aggies playing at home under the microscope, it will not be an easy game. UF: 31--TAMU: 13
Hoying: Two teams, no quarterback. If you watched football last week, you saw a Florida team with no offense almost lose to a Bowling Green juggernaut with no kicker. You also probably wondered where Texas A&M was. (Just kidding, no one cares about Texas A&M.) This strikingly mediocre program is going to get a rude awakening after jumping conferences to the SEC, but it's not going to be at the hands of the Gators. Freshman Aggie QB Johnny Manziel leads his team to a victory and adds another burning coal under Florida coach Will Muschamp's hot seat. UF: 13--A&M: 20
Schweinfurth: We are about to see if a team built to play in the Big 12 can survive in the SEC. Texas A&M's offense over the last few years has been meh and the defense is a Big 12 defense. I expect emotions to carry TAMU for a while, but in the end the Gators will prevail in the end (and maybe give the UF media something to talk about other than Urban). UF: 35--TAMU: 14
Purdue Boilermakers @ Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Draper: Notre Dame had a great week one showing in Ireland, but Purdue is a sleeper in the Big Ten (for the hundredth straight year). That being said, I believe the talent on the Irish is just simply better than Purdue. The QB situation for the Boilers is a mess. I expect the Irish to capture a convincing win that will propel them into the Top 5 (in Lou Holtz's rankings) before they face the Spartans. PU: 20--ND: 37
Auer: Admittedly not going with logic here. Notre Dame put the smack down on Navy WITHOUT their starting QB and RB... the Boilers put the smack down on EKU without their starter... but used former starter Marve. I hate Notre Dame, and somehow Marve will start and pull of the HUGE upset. PU: 23--ND: 21
Hoying: This is a dangerous game for Purdue, mostly because they're vastly inferior to Notre Dame. Don't get me wrong; the Boilermakers were one of five B1G teams (Ohio State, Nebraska, Illinois and Michigan State) to not embarrass themselves last weekend, but the globetrotting Irish are not exactly Eastern Kentucky. Senior Purdue QB Caleb TerBush will pose a bigger threat to the Irish defense than Navy's non-existent pass game, but Notre Dame's balanced attack is more than capable of piling even more points on a weak Purdue defense. PU: 17--ND: 34
Schweinfurth: I guess Notre Dame is good (for Notre Dame as of late). The Irish offense has another year under Brian Kelly and should be making strides. It showed last week in the drubbing Navy took last week. Purdue is a bit better than Navy and it will show on the field. Purdue's offense put up impressive numbers against Eastern Kentucky but Robert Marve (yes, I expect Marve to start) won't fare as well against the Irish D. Notre Dame wins in a bit of a shootout. PU:28--ND:45
Nebraska Cornhuskers @ UCLA Bruins
Draper: Martinez had a solid 5 TD performance against Southern Miss but the Black Shirts were a little soft. UCLA showed last week that their young team behind Brett Hundley can score some points. I think the Bruins will put up some points but the Huskers snag the last score. Expect a score fest in LA with the B1G grabbing a nice close win. Neb: 41--UCLA: 38
Auer: Nebraska's flakiness may start to rival that of what used to belong to the Spartans. Offensively they were impressive against Southern Mississippi, but the defensive spunk was missing. UCLA is not without talent, starting QB Brett Hundley was impressive in the first win of the season (and he's really good in the video game), and this is the home opener for the Bruins. Nebraska must come ready to play, this will quite possibly be the best game of the weekend. Neb: 34--UCLA: 32
Hoying: Is UCLA back? The Bruins managed to turn some heads after piling up 646 yards in their last game. However, that was against...Rice. And UCLA also gave up 24 points to...Rice, none of which occurred during garbage time. To be fair, Nebraska had a similar performance last week against Southern Mississippi, but Nebraska's been pretty solid the last few seasons. The burden of proof is on UCLA, and it'll take a win against an opponent of this level to put them back on the map. Problem is, Nebraska's offense is going to be tough to stop, even if star RB Rex Burkhead isn't ready to go. Huskers win close. Neb: 38--UCLA: 34
Schweinfurth: Both Nebraska and UCLA's offenses showed up big time last week. Martinez with his 5 TDs and UCLA with 600+ yards of offense. No Burkhead means this game will be closer than it should be. This one will be high scoring and very entertaining to watch. Neb: 49--UCLA: 35
UCF Golden Knights @ THE Ohio State Buckeyes
Draper: The Bucks looked pretty solid in week one but the secondary remained a little questionable. That being said, Dysert for the Redhawks was a pretty savvy experienced QB. UCF is a sexy pick as a threat but I don't see them hanging with the Bucks. They're a nice CUSA team, but they're not ready for the big time. Miller's passing can only improve and his running has already been electric so I see 4 TDs (3 passing, 1 rushing) with Hyde chipping in 2. Guiton comes in late to mop up. The defense will relax here and there leading Coach Coombs to kill a kitten on the sideline--never let it happen again... UCF: 16--OSU: 48
Auer: With the rainy forecast, and UCF's somewhat existent run game, this will possibly be a bit closer than anyone expects. Ohio State is a superior team all-around, but after a great opening weekend, there is bound to be a bit of a hangover. UCF: 22--OSU: 37
Hoying: Welcome to the Ineligi-bowl. Buckeye Nation is breathing a little easier after last week's coming out party, and the cream puff feast rolls merrily along with fellow bowl-ineligible UCF coming to town. The Golden Knights are fresh off a dismantling of terrible terrible Akron, but don't look for them to put up too much of a fight. If the UCF receivers can hang onto a pass, the game might be close for a quarter, but this game should be ugly. Like "ESPN's sideline eye candy now that Erin Andrews is gone" ugly. UCF: 13--OSU: 48
Schweinfurth: It's said that a team's biggest improvement happens between weeks 1 and 2. We are about to find out if that is true for the Buckeyes. Miami's pass happy offense moved the ball well against the Bullets but UCF is not a pass happy offense. This should be a good time for the defensive line to flex their muscles. I would expect the OSU D to force 1 or 2 more turnovers and more special teams chaos created by the "Freak Show." I also expect there to be a bit of jitters to start the game on offense again. But, like last week, once the O gets rolling, Miller and the boys are going to put up some numbers. OSU is better and it will show. UCF: 14--OSU: 52
Upset Special:
Draper: Out on a limb--Penn State over Virginia
Auer: Missouri over Georgia
Hoying: Iowa State over Iowa
Schweinfurth: Oregon State over Wisconsin
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Grading the Bucks--Week 11 Purdue
Editor's Note: Sorry for the delay but I'm still recovering from the horror in West Lafayette as it took me this long to find my way out.
Offense: D
Yuck, Yuck, Yuck. Much of the blame falls on the coaching staff and the play calls, but let's not let the players off the hook. On pure talent, the Buckeyes should have won easily against a terrible team in Purdue. Braxton Miller is not a good quarterback...now. He has exceptional running ability but his decision making and passing ability are horrendous (no coaching helps his regression). He holds the ball way too long. The receivers popped open deep downfield on seemingly every play and he Bauserman'd the ball way over their head. The running game was doing nothing. While I know that Purdue had 15 people in the box, it shouldn't have mattered. It's Purdue. The offensive line was not blowing people off the ball like they did against Wisconsin (what?). Shugarts was sorely missed even with the false starts. Only thing saving the offense from an F was the coaches burying them.
Defense: D+
Can anyone make a tackle? The 1st half was just horrendous with players out of position and seemingly confused on every play. The 2nd half wasn't much better, but at least we only game up 3 points. This week's secondary scapegoat is Bradley Roby who was beaten on almost every play of the half. Our secondary is horrendous and has been all year, but the opponent picks on a different weak link every week (Bryant, Howard, etc.). The line did their best, but the ball was out of the QB's hands within about 3 seconds every play--seems like other coaches watch tape and realize that once you get past the front four, it's easy pickins. 3rd and 12 in OT and you give up a wide open pass? I know the QB is running backwards 30 yards, but cover someone. Tackling must improve. I know there must be some talent there, but we didn't see it on Saturday.
Special Teams: D
Even after the worst performance by a Buckeye team, we still had a shot to win...just kick a PAT. Of course, that didn't even work. Punting was tough with the wind and coverage was fine. I don't blame Basil for the missed FG as it was about 50 yards. The PAT is just unacceptable. One great drive to steal a win....and you fail on the kick. I don't know who's fault it was (line, Basil, holder, etc.) and I don't care. It didn't cost us the game as we should have never been in that situation, but it adds to the list of failures.
Coaching: F-----
And we come to the gorilla in the room. All the talk that Fickell deserves another year is officially dead. I have NEVER seen a more poorly coached game in my life. I was in West Lafayette and focused on the sideline. Only one coach...ONE!!...ever got his troops together and coached them up during the game. Mike Vrabel. The others felt it was their duty to stare vacantly at the other units failing on the field without working to fix the problems occurring. They're running hurry up to the outside? Then adjust! Don't keep gettign beat and assume it will change. Underwood (Shugarts replacement) was getting destroyed. On the sideline, he sat alone with no coaches or offensive leaders (if we had them) coaching him up. Just a total failure from top to bottom. Then there's the playcalling. NOTE TO BOLLMAN: THE FOLLOWING PLAYS ARE INDEED LEGAL: SLANT, SWING, SCREEN, QB DRAW, QB SNEAK. Why keep running Dave and bomb when they aren't working (one because of the defense loading up and one because the QB is incompetent). We ran one....one swing to the RB and the OSU fans in the crowd marveled that it worked. Of course it did and it always will with this system because WE NEVER CALL IT. My mother saw a quick slant in the NE/NYJ game on Sunday night and asked why OSU never calls that play (I'm not joking, this actually happened). Perhaps OSU should hire her to be offensive coordinator even though she has no idea what half the positions are. It would be a major step up. Also, the 4th and 1 in OT. Go for it, Luke. This is OSU. We're bigger, nastier, meaner, and stronger. Challenge the line and run a QB sneak with your enormous QB. Don't hand it off, don't kick, don't drop back: smash them in the mouth. Bollman: your QB is the most explosive runner on the team in space, why run the wildcat with Jordan Hall? You can run QB draws and get more yards (see 3rd and a mile twice on the last drive when the play broke down). I could go on forever, but it's abundantly clear that this whole staff will be gone at the first opportunity. Fair or not to Fickell, it is what it is. Bollman may have cost him the job with his incompetence.
Offense: D
Yuck, Yuck, Yuck. Much of the blame falls on the coaching staff and the play calls, but let's not let the players off the hook. On pure talent, the Buckeyes should have won easily against a terrible team in Purdue. Braxton Miller is not a good quarterback...now. He has exceptional running ability but his decision making and passing ability are horrendous (no coaching helps his regression). He holds the ball way too long. The receivers popped open deep downfield on seemingly every play and he Bauserman'd the ball way over their head. The running game was doing nothing. While I know that Purdue had 15 people in the box, it shouldn't have mattered. It's Purdue. The offensive line was not blowing people off the ball like they did against Wisconsin (what?). Shugarts was sorely missed even with the false starts. Only thing saving the offense from an F was the coaches burying them.
Defense: D+
Can anyone make a tackle? The 1st half was just horrendous with players out of position and seemingly confused on every play. The 2nd half wasn't much better, but at least we only game up 3 points. This week's secondary scapegoat is Bradley Roby who was beaten on almost every play of the half. Our secondary is horrendous and has been all year, but the opponent picks on a different weak link every week (Bryant, Howard, etc.). The line did their best, but the ball was out of the QB's hands within about 3 seconds every play--seems like other coaches watch tape and realize that once you get past the front four, it's easy pickins. 3rd and 12 in OT and you give up a wide open pass? I know the QB is running backwards 30 yards, but cover someone. Tackling must improve. I know there must be some talent there, but we didn't see it on Saturday.
Special Teams: D
Even after the worst performance by a Buckeye team, we still had a shot to win...just kick a PAT. Of course, that didn't even work. Punting was tough with the wind and coverage was fine. I don't blame Basil for the missed FG as it was about 50 yards. The PAT is just unacceptable. One great drive to steal a win....and you fail on the kick. I don't know who's fault it was (line, Basil, holder, etc.) and I don't care. It didn't cost us the game as we should have never been in that situation, but it adds to the list of failures.
Coaching: F-----
And we come to the gorilla in the room. All the talk that Fickell deserves another year is officially dead. I have NEVER seen a more poorly coached game in my life. I was in West Lafayette and focused on the sideline. Only one coach...ONE!!...ever got his troops together and coached them up during the game. Mike Vrabel. The others felt it was their duty to stare vacantly at the other units failing on the field without working to fix the problems occurring. They're running hurry up to the outside? Then adjust! Don't keep gettign beat and assume it will change. Underwood (Shugarts replacement) was getting destroyed. On the sideline, he sat alone with no coaches or offensive leaders (if we had them) coaching him up. Just a total failure from top to bottom. Then there's the playcalling. NOTE TO BOLLMAN: THE FOLLOWING PLAYS ARE INDEED LEGAL: SLANT, SWING, SCREEN, QB DRAW, QB SNEAK. Why keep running Dave and bomb when they aren't working (one because of the defense loading up and one because the QB is incompetent). We ran one....one swing to the RB and the OSU fans in the crowd marveled that it worked. Of course it did and it always will with this system because WE NEVER CALL IT. My mother saw a quick slant in the NE/NYJ game on Sunday night and asked why OSU never calls that play (I'm not joking, this actually happened). Perhaps OSU should hire her to be offensive coordinator even though she has no idea what half the positions are. It would be a major step up. Also, the 4th and 1 in OT. Go for it, Luke. This is OSU. We're bigger, nastier, meaner, and stronger. Challenge the line and run a QB sneak with your enormous QB. Don't hand it off, don't kick, don't drop back: smash them in the mouth. Bollman: your QB is the most explosive runner on the team in space, why run the wildcat with Jordan Hall? You can run QB draws and get more yards (see 3rd and a mile twice on the last drive when the play broke down). I could go on forever, but it's abundantly clear that this whole staff will be gone at the first opportunity. Fair or not to Fickell, it is what it is. Bollman may have cost him the job with his incompetence.
Wednesday, November 09, 2011
Week 11 Picks--Pac 12 Championship
Thurs: Virginia Tech Hokies @ Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Draper: Is Virginia Tech any good? I'm not sure. Lost to Clemson at home, squeaked by Duke, squeaked by Miami at home...can't tell anything yet. Georgia Tech is riding high after knocking Clemson from the undefeated and the option is always a beast for which to prepare. I think the Hokies are going into a 'hornet's nest' (Oh-Ho-Ho, see what I did there) and the option of GT takes the game and control of the ACC Coastal. Nice to have the first good Thurs. night game. Only one thing needs to be said: "Fire Craig James". VT: 27--GT: 34
Auer: VT has had too long to prepare for this one. GT played their best in an upset victory over Clemson, can lightning strike twice? Surely. But with the extra prep time for the superiorly talented Hokies, it won't be enough to save the Yellow Jackets. VT: 31--GT: 27
Hoying: Quick, name a team with 8 terrible wins and a loss to the only real team they played. No, it's not anyone in the WAC or MAC or PAC...12, it's Virginia Tech. On the other hand, we have a flaky Georgia Tech team that rallied to pull off a huge win against another flaky team, Clemson. Who has the edge here? The Georgia Tech option is always difficult to defend, but Beamerball is alive and well, as the Hokies have been shutting down the terrible teams they've faced. Georgia Tech chokes away another big game at home, and the Hokies take the inside track to a rematch with Clemson. VT: 20--GT: 17Schweinfurth: Virginia Tech (basketball and football) is this team that always seems to be right on the brink of being good. That said, the triple option offense of Paul Johnson is problematic for anyone. Believe it or not the Yellow Jacket offense can be very quick strike and a night game in the ATL will be the difference in this one. VT: 24 -- GT: 28
Oregon Ducks @ Stanford Cardinal
Draper: Here comes the Cardinal's one real roadblock on the year. Last year, I was on the Stanford bandwagon and they let me down in the second half. While Luck is going to win the Heisman, he hasn't had a great year. The Ducks have been rolling since that turnover fest in Jerryworld. This is statement game for the winner and a death knell for the loser. With the ineptitude of the Pac12, the winner of this game will most likely be the winner of the North, who will most likely be the winner of the conference, who has a real chance of being in the National Championship. I think the crazy running attack will outduel Andrew Luck for a HUGE road win. UO: 41--Stan: 30
Auer: Homefield advantage shouldn't mean too much in this one as the Ducks are used to big crowds, and Stanford doesn't always bring their A-game... unless there band does something crazy. Anyway, Luck will be without some of his top weapons, possibly two TE's and a WR (Owusu). This Oregon squad hasn't had the pizazz of previous teams, and Stanford will assert themselves as the true class of the Pac12. UO: 35--Stan: 52
Hoying: Since losing a tough game to the best team in the country, the Ducks have had a 2009-esque year, tearing through a slate of squishy west coast defenses on the way to one of the most important games of the 2011 college football season. Stanford, meanwhile, was exposed in a big way in Los Angeles as a feisty USC team nearly knocked them off. The winner of this game will be the one who learned the most from these tough games. When in doubt, go with experience. Andrew Luck will be the difference maker as Stanford takes care of business at home. Stanford stays alive in the lottery to get slaughtered by LSU. UO: 38--Stan: 42Schweinfurth: I feel like this will be the game of the week. This is two high powered offenses that can go off for 50+ any given game. This will be a flat shootout. Andrew Luck will have his way with the Ducks defense that lost a ton from last year. Stanford's defense will also have it's hands full with the Ducks offense especially with TheMicheal healthy and ready to romp. This will be a fun one to watch with tons of points. UO: 52 -- Stan: 49
Nebraska Cornhuskers @ Penn State Nittany Lions
Draper: With everything happening in Happy Valley, will they rally around JoePa or be absolutely devastated by the allegations? I can't imagine the Lions will be able to play with these horrible events surrounding them this week. While I feel bad for the seniors and the current players, this will be a very tough situation from which to fight back. Nebraska comes off being upset at home by Northwestern and they will foaming at the mouth. Penn State has football issues as well that will be exposed against a better offense. The off-the-field issues are way to much to overcome even with the winningest coach on the sideline (Editor's Note: JoePa was fired after this was written). Neb: 31--PSU: 10
Auer: Prayers to the children and families of those children. The rest of you... HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA. Neb: 41--PSU: 7
Hoying: Word is there's a football game in Pennsylvania this Saturday. If the coaching staff is still there, the game is an abomination. If they're gone, the Lions have no chance to keep it together. Not much needs to be said here. Neb: Win--PSU: DoneSchweinfurth: At this point, this game is a sideshow with all that is going on in Happy Valley. JoPa announcing his retirement may spark the Lions to play a bit higher, but the distractions will be way too much. Nebraska is upset after losing to Northwestern last week and the Blackshirts smell the blood in the water. Penn State has played way over their heads so far this year and, with the distractions, is about to come crashing down. This one is ugly early. Neb: 35 -- PSU: 3
Auburn Tigers @ Georgia Bulldogs
Draper: Titanic forces collide in another SEC showdown....in other words, yawn. The SEC is a joke outside of the top 3. Auburn continually squeaks the dregs while Georgia seems reborn after an 0-2 start. UGA should get it done between the hedges simply because Auburn isn't that good. The home crowd and the QB advantage lead me to lean Bulldogs. Aub: 13--UGA: 24
Auer: The momentum of the UGA win over Florida is going to go a long way. It might even save Mark Richt's job. Gene Chizik continues to prove his success was a flash in the pan. Aub: 7--UGA: 31
Hoying: Someone has to win the SEC East so the charade of an SEC championship can take place, and Georgia has seized control late in the season. Problem is, they still have an SEC West team standing in their championship path. Auburn has seriously overachieved this season, falling to three quality teams and taking care of business against the rest, most notably two other SEC East teams: South Carolina and Florida. Will Georgia provide a stiffer challenge? Not really. The Dawgs are still too inconsistent on offense to hang with a spurting Auburn squad. SEC Least falls again. Aub: 28--UGA:21Schweinfurth: This is the classic over achieving team versus the under achieving team. Auburn, somehow, continues to win close games against teams that should be blowing them out. Georgia got off to a terrible start this year and has quietly turned things around. The Bulldogs are still playing for Richt's job and Auburn just isn't that talented. Aub: 10 -- UGA: 17
Miami Hurricanes @ Florida State Seminoles
Draper: I put this on here because it means something to me. Miami continues to sleepwalk while waiting for the hammer to drop from the NCAA (who knows if anything will happen with the ineptitude of the organization) while FSU is quietly rebounding from the Oklahoma loss and subsequent losses due to injured QB. I will still take a minor miracle for FSU to make/win the ACC title game, but I believe they are the most talented team in the conference. EJ Manuel beats up on Clemson if he wasn't hurt (only 7 point loss at Death Valley without him). That being said, Miami has been blah and will continue. How do you salvage a season when the preseason title hopes are dashed? Annihilate your rivals. First up are the Canes. Welcome to Doak. UM: 13--FSU: 30
Auer: Didn't know they still played football in the Sunshine State. Doak will surely be fired up for this annual clash with their cross-state rival. Miami has been very hit-or-miss this season and might have a few tricks up their sleeves in the one remaining game that matters for the Hurricanes. UM: 23--FSU: 21
Hoying: Give the Hurricanes credit; they've hung tough in every game they played this season, even against such quality opponents as Virginia Tech and Kansas State (and crappy ones like Maryland). FSU has surged back after a slow start under the steady play of E J Manuel, but all four wins in their current streak have been against low-caliber competition. The important thing to remember is that Jacory Harris is still slinging the ball for the 'Canes, and that means big trouble against the tough Seminole defense. Miami mistakes cue a win for the garnet and gold. UM: 13--FSU:21Schweinfurth: Miami and Florida St. always seems to come down to the last play (or kick as it were). This year will be much different. Florida State is the better team by far. EJ Manuel and Jacory Harris will enjoy throwing to the team wearing garnet and gold. This isn't much of a game with Harris throwing 3+ picks. UM: 17 -- FSU: 35
Ohio State Buckeyes @ Purdue Boilermakers
Draper: Buckeyes slept walked through the game vs. Indiana and it showed. Offensive performance was pretty good but the defense can't play like that again. Thankfully, Purdue sucks. These Buckeye upperclassman will go in fired up to avenge the 'Get Used to It!' game of 2009. Hopefully, we'll see a steady dose of Boom and Hyde and maybe even a slant route (gasp!). Purdue doesn't run the option game like IU and the Bullets shut down standard offensive attacks. Look for a big Buckeye win to keep the train rolling (they'd better since I'm going to be there!). OSU: 31--PU: 16
Auer: Another trap game for the Buckeyes, but the problem is Purdue isn't very good. The Buckeyes cannot sleep walk into this one, or an upset could be in the making. The Bucks need some serious momentum to building heading into rivalry games with PSU and The University of Michigan. OSU: 27--PU: 9
Hoying: Dang, the Boilers can't win the Leaders division anymore. However, the Buckeyes are in prime position to build some momentum going into the season showdown with You Know Who (after they trash a shattered PSU team next week). The Bullets need some confidence after struggling all day with a better-than-advertised Hoosier attack, and the pedestrian Purdue offense is just what the doctor ordered. Run the ball, don't take stupid chances, and move one step closer to that division crown. OSU: 31--PU: 10Schweinfurth: The battle cry for the Bucks this weekend should be "REVENGE!" Especially after Danny Hope went on record and telling OSU fans to "Get used to it." The Silver Bullets had their wake up call against Indiana last week in what was a classic let down game. Purdue, much like the Hoosiers, has a hard time stopping the run. Watch for Boom, Hyde, and Braxton to have big games on the ground. Walrus ball has been working, so don't look for too many passes this week. Bucks win going away. OSU: 38 -- PU: 9
Upset Special
Draper: Wake over Clemson (stretch)
Auer: Florida over South Carolina, Illinois over Michigan
Hoying: Texas A&M over Kansas StateSchweinfurth: TCU over Boise St.
Draper: Is Virginia Tech any good? I'm not sure. Lost to Clemson at home, squeaked by Duke, squeaked by Miami at home...can't tell anything yet. Georgia Tech is riding high after knocking Clemson from the undefeated and the option is always a beast for which to prepare. I think the Hokies are going into a 'hornet's nest' (Oh-Ho-Ho, see what I did there) and the option of GT takes the game and control of the ACC Coastal. Nice to have the first good Thurs. night game. Only one thing needs to be said: "Fire Craig James". VT: 27--GT: 34
Auer: VT has had too long to prepare for this one. GT played their best in an upset victory over Clemson, can lightning strike twice? Surely. But with the extra prep time for the superiorly talented Hokies, it won't be enough to save the Yellow Jackets. VT: 31--GT: 27
Hoying: Quick, name a team with 8 terrible wins and a loss to the only real team they played. No, it's not anyone in the WAC or MAC or PAC...12, it's Virginia Tech. On the other hand, we have a flaky Georgia Tech team that rallied to pull off a huge win against another flaky team, Clemson. Who has the edge here? The Georgia Tech option is always difficult to defend, but Beamerball is alive and well, as the Hokies have been shutting down the terrible teams they've faced. Georgia Tech chokes away another big game at home, and the Hokies take the inside track to a rematch with Clemson. VT: 20--GT: 17Schweinfurth: Virginia Tech (basketball and football) is this team that always seems to be right on the brink of being good. That said, the triple option offense of Paul Johnson is problematic for anyone. Believe it or not the Yellow Jacket offense can be very quick strike and a night game in the ATL will be the difference in this one. VT: 24 -- GT: 28
Oregon Ducks @ Stanford Cardinal
Draper: Here comes the Cardinal's one real roadblock on the year. Last year, I was on the Stanford bandwagon and they let me down in the second half. While Luck is going to win the Heisman, he hasn't had a great year. The Ducks have been rolling since that turnover fest in Jerryworld. This is statement game for the winner and a death knell for the loser. With the ineptitude of the Pac12, the winner of this game will most likely be the winner of the North, who will most likely be the winner of the conference, who has a real chance of being in the National Championship. I think the crazy running attack will outduel Andrew Luck for a HUGE road win. UO: 41--Stan: 30
Auer: Homefield advantage shouldn't mean too much in this one as the Ducks are used to big crowds, and Stanford doesn't always bring their A-game... unless there band does something crazy. Anyway, Luck will be without some of his top weapons, possibly two TE's and a WR (Owusu). This Oregon squad hasn't had the pizazz of previous teams, and Stanford will assert themselves as the true class of the Pac12. UO: 35--Stan: 52
Hoying: Since losing a tough game to the best team in the country, the Ducks have had a 2009-esque year, tearing through a slate of squishy west coast defenses on the way to one of the most important games of the 2011 college football season. Stanford, meanwhile, was exposed in a big way in Los Angeles as a feisty USC team nearly knocked them off. The winner of this game will be the one who learned the most from these tough games. When in doubt, go with experience. Andrew Luck will be the difference maker as Stanford takes care of business at home. Stanford stays alive in the lottery to get slaughtered by LSU. UO: 38--Stan: 42Schweinfurth: I feel like this will be the game of the week. This is two high powered offenses that can go off for 50+ any given game. This will be a flat shootout. Andrew Luck will have his way with the Ducks defense that lost a ton from last year. Stanford's defense will also have it's hands full with the Ducks offense especially with TheMicheal healthy and ready to romp. This will be a fun one to watch with tons of points. UO: 52 -- Stan: 49
Nebraska Cornhuskers @ Penn State Nittany Lions
Draper: With everything happening in Happy Valley, will they rally around JoePa or be absolutely devastated by the allegations? I can't imagine the Lions will be able to play with these horrible events surrounding them this week. While I feel bad for the seniors and the current players, this will be a very tough situation from which to fight back. Nebraska comes off being upset at home by Northwestern and they will foaming at the mouth. Penn State has football issues as well that will be exposed against a better offense. The off-the-field issues are way to much to overcome even with the winningest coach on the sideline (Editor's Note: JoePa was fired after this was written). Neb: 31--PSU: 10
Auer: Prayers to the children and families of those children. The rest of you... HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA. Neb: 41--PSU: 7
Hoying: Word is there's a football game in Pennsylvania this Saturday. If the coaching staff is still there, the game is an abomination. If they're gone, the Lions have no chance to keep it together. Not much needs to be said here. Neb: Win--PSU: DoneSchweinfurth: At this point, this game is a sideshow with all that is going on in Happy Valley. JoPa announcing his retirement may spark the Lions to play a bit higher, but the distractions will be way too much. Nebraska is upset after losing to Northwestern last week and the Blackshirts smell the blood in the water. Penn State has played way over their heads so far this year and, with the distractions, is about to come crashing down. This one is ugly early. Neb: 35 -- PSU: 3
Auburn Tigers @ Georgia Bulldogs
Draper: Titanic forces collide in another SEC showdown....in other words, yawn. The SEC is a joke outside of the top 3. Auburn continually squeaks the dregs while Georgia seems reborn after an 0-2 start. UGA should get it done between the hedges simply because Auburn isn't that good. The home crowd and the QB advantage lead me to lean Bulldogs. Aub: 13--UGA: 24
Auer: The momentum of the UGA win over Florida is going to go a long way. It might even save Mark Richt's job. Gene Chizik continues to prove his success was a flash in the pan. Aub: 7--UGA: 31
Hoying: Someone has to win the SEC East so the charade of an SEC championship can take place, and Georgia has seized control late in the season. Problem is, they still have an SEC West team standing in their championship path. Auburn has seriously overachieved this season, falling to three quality teams and taking care of business against the rest, most notably two other SEC East teams: South Carolina and Florida. Will Georgia provide a stiffer challenge? Not really. The Dawgs are still too inconsistent on offense to hang with a spurting Auburn squad. SEC Least falls again. Aub: 28--UGA:21Schweinfurth: This is the classic over achieving team versus the under achieving team. Auburn, somehow, continues to win close games against teams that should be blowing them out. Georgia got off to a terrible start this year and has quietly turned things around. The Bulldogs are still playing for Richt's job and Auburn just isn't that talented. Aub: 10 -- UGA: 17
Miami Hurricanes @ Florida State Seminoles
Draper: I put this on here because it means something to me. Miami continues to sleepwalk while waiting for the hammer to drop from the NCAA (who knows if anything will happen with the ineptitude of the organization) while FSU is quietly rebounding from the Oklahoma loss and subsequent losses due to injured QB. I will still take a minor miracle for FSU to make/win the ACC title game, but I believe they are the most talented team in the conference. EJ Manuel beats up on Clemson if he wasn't hurt (only 7 point loss at Death Valley without him). That being said, Miami has been blah and will continue. How do you salvage a season when the preseason title hopes are dashed? Annihilate your rivals. First up are the Canes. Welcome to Doak. UM: 13--FSU: 30
Auer: Didn't know they still played football in the Sunshine State. Doak will surely be fired up for this annual clash with their cross-state rival. Miami has been very hit-or-miss this season and might have a few tricks up their sleeves in the one remaining game that matters for the Hurricanes. UM: 23--FSU: 21
Hoying: Give the Hurricanes credit; they've hung tough in every game they played this season, even against such quality opponents as Virginia Tech and Kansas State (and crappy ones like Maryland). FSU has surged back after a slow start under the steady play of E J Manuel, but all four wins in their current streak have been against low-caliber competition. The important thing to remember is that Jacory Harris is still slinging the ball for the 'Canes, and that means big trouble against the tough Seminole defense. Miami mistakes cue a win for the garnet and gold. UM: 13--FSU:21Schweinfurth: Miami and Florida St. always seems to come down to the last play (or kick as it were). This year will be much different. Florida State is the better team by far. EJ Manuel and Jacory Harris will enjoy throwing to the team wearing garnet and gold. This isn't much of a game with Harris throwing 3+ picks. UM: 17 -- FSU: 35
Ohio State Buckeyes @ Purdue Boilermakers
Draper: Buckeyes slept walked through the game vs. Indiana and it showed. Offensive performance was pretty good but the defense can't play like that again. Thankfully, Purdue sucks. These Buckeye upperclassman will go in fired up to avenge the 'Get Used to It!' game of 2009. Hopefully, we'll see a steady dose of Boom and Hyde and maybe even a slant route (gasp!). Purdue doesn't run the option game like IU and the Bullets shut down standard offensive attacks. Look for a big Buckeye win to keep the train rolling (they'd better since I'm going to be there!). OSU: 31--PU: 16
Auer: Another trap game for the Buckeyes, but the problem is Purdue isn't very good. The Buckeyes cannot sleep walk into this one, or an upset could be in the making. The Bucks need some serious momentum to building heading into rivalry games with PSU and The University of Michigan. OSU: 27--PU: 9
Hoying: Dang, the Boilers can't win the Leaders division anymore. However, the Buckeyes are in prime position to build some momentum going into the season showdown with You Know Who (after they trash a shattered PSU team next week). The Bullets need some confidence after struggling all day with a better-than-advertised Hoosier attack, and the pedestrian Purdue offense is just what the doctor ordered. Run the ball, don't take stupid chances, and move one step closer to that division crown. OSU: 31--PU: 10Schweinfurth: The battle cry for the Bucks this weekend should be "REVENGE!" Especially after Danny Hope went on record and telling OSU fans to "Get used to it." The Silver Bullets had their wake up call against Indiana last week in what was a classic let down game. Purdue, much like the Hoosiers, has a hard time stopping the run. Watch for Boom, Hyde, and Braxton to have big games on the ground. Walrus ball has been working, so don't look for too many passes this week. Bucks win going away. OSU: 38 -- PU: 9
Upset Special
Draper: Wake over Clemson (stretch)
Auer: Florida over South Carolina, Illinois over Michigan
Hoying: Texas A&M over Kansas StateSchweinfurth: TCU over Boise St.
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Grading the Bucks Week 8--Purdue
Great to get back on the smiling side of the scoreboard...in a BIG way
Offense: B
Talk about ramping it up against a terrible defense. The running game under Boom Herron is really starting to develop (I can't believe I'm saying this), but the passing game, and Pryor's complete game is starting to fade which is troubling. Sanzenbacher is proving every week that he is THE receiver, but Pryor still locks onto Posey every play. The scramble seems to have been removed from the playbook as well which could really hurt this team down the stretch, expecially at Iowa. The O-Line is doing better at run-blocking and has stepped up somewhat, but they need to do it consistently. I can't give an A until Pryor gets back on track. I know he threw 2 TDs but those were thanks to a putrid defense.
Defense: A
Talk about a return of the Silver Bullets. A big time shutout (granted it was Purdue) after a total embarassment is HUGE for this defense. I want to give an A+ due to the fact the Purdue hardly scratched onto the Ohio State side of the 50, but the lack of a consistent pass rush is a major concern. As I said last week, Heyward has taken a monster step backward and until we can consistently pressure the quarterback, our banged up secondary will face too much. Injuries are decimating the secondary and a good quearterback will start to pick them apart with this much time. I loved the intensity from the linebackers and safeties but the line needs to get it going. Also, Chekwa has been getting picked on a lot. He needs to plug these gaps in his coverage. Keep an eye on Andrew Sweat who made a big splash starting for the injured Ross Homan.
Special Teams: B-
Well, no kicks returned against us so automatic improvement. Purdue has been horrible returning kicks this year but had minor success against OSU (minor success in that they averaged more yards per return than normal). The kick return unit for the Scarlet and Gray was decent but not spectacular. No missed kicks is always a good thing and the punting was fine this week. If you start at a C, there was little to enact a move up or down.
Coaching: B+
Again, more or less status quo. I give a little boost for the coaches getting these kids ready to play after an embarassing loss in Madison. The team came out with a purpose and delivered. It was clear that Purdue couldn't stop the run so long as we avoided Ryan Kerrigan. Once that was achieved, it was game over. The coaches basically decided to use the KISS method with Pryor (Keep It Simple, Stupid) which seems to be the best strategy. If they keep the intensity rolling, this could be a scary team come January.
Offense: B
Talk about ramping it up against a terrible defense. The running game under Boom Herron is really starting to develop (I can't believe I'm saying this), but the passing game, and Pryor's complete game is starting to fade which is troubling. Sanzenbacher is proving every week that he is THE receiver, but Pryor still locks onto Posey every play. The scramble seems to have been removed from the playbook as well which could really hurt this team down the stretch, expecially at Iowa. The O-Line is doing better at run-blocking and has stepped up somewhat, but they need to do it consistently. I can't give an A until Pryor gets back on track. I know he threw 2 TDs but those were thanks to a putrid defense.
Defense: A
Talk about a return of the Silver Bullets. A big time shutout (granted it was Purdue) after a total embarassment is HUGE for this defense. I want to give an A+ due to the fact the Purdue hardly scratched onto the Ohio State side of the 50, but the lack of a consistent pass rush is a major concern. As I said last week, Heyward has taken a monster step backward and until we can consistently pressure the quarterback, our banged up secondary will face too much. Injuries are decimating the secondary and a good quearterback will start to pick them apart with this much time. I loved the intensity from the linebackers and safeties but the line needs to get it going. Also, Chekwa has been getting picked on a lot. He needs to plug these gaps in his coverage. Keep an eye on Andrew Sweat who made a big splash starting for the injured Ross Homan.
Special Teams: B-
Well, no kicks returned against us so automatic improvement. Purdue has been horrible returning kicks this year but had minor success against OSU (minor success in that they averaged more yards per return than normal). The kick return unit for the Scarlet and Gray was decent but not spectacular. No missed kicks is always a good thing and the punting was fine this week. If you start at a C, there was little to enact a move up or down.
Coaching: B+
Again, more or less status quo. I give a little boost for the coaches getting these kids ready to play after an embarassing loss in Madison. The team came out with a purpose and delivered. It was clear that Purdue couldn't stop the run so long as we avoided Ryan Kerrigan. Once that was achieved, it was game over. The coaches basically decided to use the KISS method with Pryor (Keep It Simple, Stupid) which seems to be the best strategy. If they keep the intensity rolling, this could be a scary team come January.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Week 7 - When Games Count
Thursday Night Special:
#8 Cincinnati vs. #21 South Florida
#8 Cincinnati vs. #21 South Florida
Gomer: Ohio's BCS Team travels to the sunshine state for a showdown with the undefeated Bulls on a Thursday night primetime game. I hate Cincinnati. There, I said it. Ever since they've started experiencing some ounce of success they have been the annoying little step brother that is constantly screaming "LOOK OVER HERE, WE'RE GOOD TOO, WE'RE PROBABLY BETTER THAN YOU, etc." Missing QB Matt Grothe has not been as painful as expected for the Bulls as BJ Daniels has stepped into the starting spot and become an instant success. As we've seen many times over, Thursday night's do not bode well for highly ranked teams. If I were a coach, I would refuse to play on Thursday's especially in the Big East or ACC. Cincinnati will lose in surprising fashion returning their moniker of Ohio's BCS Team to its rightful owners for now. UC: 17--USF: 21
Chief: The biggest Big East game since Rutgers-Louisville in 2006, invades Tampa. The Bulls are quietly lurking at 5-0 with a beatdown of FSU in Tallahassee (albeit against a team that looked like they'd lose to Leon High School that week). Many don't realize that USF didn't have a football program at all until 1999. Jim Leavitt has formed one heck of a program and his backup QB (BJ Daniels) has been phenomenal as a double threat). Brian Kelly has done the same at UC. Led by Heisman contenders Tony Pike (and to a lesser extent Mardy Gilyard), the Bearcats are making serious noise by invading the top 10 again. This is by far the biggest stumbling block for the Cats. I think USF led by monster George Selvie at D-End will hassle the UC offensive line and get Pike a little nervous--just enough to make a few mistakes. UC will have to play from behind for the first time, and while their offense can keep up, I don't think their defense will make enough stops. Big upset in Florida. UC: 27--USF: 30
Saturday's Showdowns:
#20 Oklahoma vs. #3 Texas
Saturday's Showdowns:
#20 Oklahoma vs. #3 Texas
Gomer: The Sooners have had a rough season so far; an opening day loss and losing their Heisman Trophy QB in the same day, a tough loss in a big revenge game against the Hurricanes, and now facing the #3 team in the land in Dallas. Texas has been good, but nothing spectacular thus far, this has allowed Colt McCoy to remain "under the radar" so far, Saturday at high noon, he reminds the country how good he is. OU has looked flat even with Sam Bradford, and now in his second game back is expected to carry the Sooners to a Red River Shootout victory. This game should see lots of scoring, but Oklahoma's lack of success away from Norman and depleted offense should help the Longhorns to a "W". OU: 27--UT: 35
Chief: The Red River Shootout was supposed to be the marquee game of the year pitting two undefeated teams of which the winner is penciled into the National Championship game. Oops... With Sam Bradford going down in week 1 and the Sooners taking 2 losses already, it's lost some luster. Don't let that stop you from tuning in because this is Texas's time to shine. So far, they've played garbage teams and won convincingly. Time to turn up the heat. I think McCoy to Shipley will become like a broken record as McCoy vaults back to the top of the Heisman race and the woes of Norman continue. OU: 24--UT: 30
#6 USC vs. #25 Notre Dame
Gomer: Not no way, not no how, it isn't going to happen. The Irish really are not that good of a team. The only reason they find themselves ranked this week is so that NBC and the rest of the media could try to hype this game a little more than it already is for no good reason. USC is returning to form blowing out Washington State and California over the last two weeks and will continue to do so this week as Matt Barkley continues to improve. It will greatly help the Trojans with ND's tops receiver, Michael Floyd, not in this game. Fight on. USC: 41--ND: 20
Chief: For the first time since the infamous Bush push, Notre Dame enters this game with a chance of winning. Emu-boy Jimmy Clauson has looked surprisingly good this year and is rightfully getting some Heisman talk. Pete Carroll has the Trojans returning to standard form after their annual gag. One thing about the Trojans, they show up on the big stage. I expect nothing less as they move the ball with ease against the Domers. Weis returns to the hotseat after the loss as it only permits 1 more before the BCS hopes are gone. USC: 34--ND: 24
Chief: For the first time since the infamous Bush push, Notre Dame enters this game with a chance of winning. Emu-boy Jimmy Clauson has looked surprisingly good this year and is rightfully getting some Heisman talk. Pete Carroll has the Trojans returning to standard form after their annual gag. One thing about the Trojans, they show up on the big stage. I expect nothing less as they move the ball with ease against the Domers. Weis returns to the hotseat after the loss as it only permits 1 more before the BCS hopes are gone. USC: 34--ND: 24
#4 Virginia Tech vs. #19 Georgia Tech
Gomer: So far this season the Ramblin' Wreck have been my almost "auto-pick" I really like what Paul Johnson has done in a short time in Atlanta, making NCAA FB relevant when they have NFL, NHL, NBA, and MLB teams to contend with, big time kudos. This is no slam on the career that Beamer has had in Blacksburg, where there is almost a cult-like following for the Hokies. I don't believe in VT QB Tyrod Taylor, Beamer says he's like Vick.... I don't agree. That being said, I don't really believe in GT QB Josh Nesbitt, who helped nearly giveaway the early season win against Clemson. VT's defense is good, but GT's offense is prone to confuse even the best defensive mind and will help put the Hokies down in a sizeable upset. VT: 24--GT: 28
Chief: Probably the most important game in the ACC this year. I picked GT to win the conference this year, but that early season loss to the U really hurts now. While the Jacket offense woke up last week (at the worst possible time), the defense went to sleep. One thing about VT is that they are coming into their own. The defense is shutting teams down cold and Tyrod Taylor is becoming a bit of a QB. The Duke game was spotty, but the Hokies dominated BC. Bobby Dodd stadium is not the most imposing place to play. While the GT option will confuse the Hokie defense, VT will post enough points to escape. One key defensive play by the Hokies will be the difference in a barn burner. VT: 23--GT: 21
#7 Ohio State vs. Purdue
Gomer: The OSU offense proved last week that they are being run by a monkey in the back room. They were unimpressive, uninspired, just plain bad. No credit should be given to the Wisconsin defense who ranked in the lower half of the NCAA prior to facing the Bucks. Thankfull Purdue's offense has been bad too, but mostly because they have butterfingers, they average 2+ TO's per game! There will be a large Buckeye contingent on hand that should help push the Bucks over the top. Not to mention, the Buckeye's performance on the Road vs. Home has been night and day, where on the road they are about to match a Big Ten record for consecutive road victories. OSU: 38--PU: 14
Chief: Ahhhhh... After what can only be termed as an absolute clinic defensively and an absolute tragedy offensively vs. Wisconsin, OSU enters a bye week....what? We have a game? Purdue comes in with their lone win over Toledo in a shootout (yes the same Toledo that the Bucks shutout). Purdue has shown some offense with their RB Ralph Bolden, but they haven't seen a defense like the Bullets. Their defense is just what the doctor ordered for Pryor to learn to go through his progressions (his current progression is 1. Posey, 2. Posey, 3. Posey, return to 1). Joe Daniels (OSU QB coach) needs to start getting Pryor to show some improvement or it's time to move on (coaching wise). Bucks win big and keep chugging before the epic schedule to end the season. OSU: 38--PU: 10
#11 Iowa vs. Wisconsin Gomer: Iowa Chief: UW
Arkansas vs. #1 Florida Gomer: UF Chief: UF (closer than the experts think)
Minnesota vs. #14 Penn State Gomer: PSU Chief: PSU
Texas Tech vs. #15 Nebraska Gomer: Nebraska Chief: Nebraska
#22 South Carolina vs. #2 Alabama Gomer: Bama Chief: Bama (closer than the experts think)
Missouri vs. #16 Oklahoma State Gomer: Okie State Chief: OkState
Chief: Probably the most important game in the ACC this year. I picked GT to win the conference this year, but that early season loss to the U really hurts now. While the Jacket offense woke up last week (at the worst possible time), the defense went to sleep. One thing about VT is that they are coming into their own. The defense is shutting teams down cold and Tyrod Taylor is becoming a bit of a QB. The Duke game was spotty, but the Hokies dominated BC. Bobby Dodd stadium is not the most imposing place to play. While the GT option will confuse the Hokie defense, VT will post enough points to escape. One key defensive play by the Hokies will be the difference in a barn burner. VT: 23--GT: 21
#7 Ohio State vs. Purdue
Gomer: The OSU offense proved last week that they are being run by a monkey in the back room. They were unimpressive, uninspired, just plain bad. No credit should be given to the Wisconsin defense who ranked in the lower half of the NCAA prior to facing the Bucks. Thankfull Purdue's offense has been bad too, but mostly because they have butterfingers, they average 2+ TO's per game! There will be a large Buckeye contingent on hand that should help push the Bucks over the top. Not to mention, the Buckeye's performance on the Road vs. Home has been night and day, where on the road they are about to match a Big Ten record for consecutive road victories. OSU: 38--PU: 14
Chief: Ahhhhh... After what can only be termed as an absolute clinic defensively and an absolute tragedy offensively vs. Wisconsin, OSU enters a bye week....what? We have a game? Purdue comes in with their lone win over Toledo in a shootout (yes the same Toledo that the Bucks shutout). Purdue has shown some offense with their RB Ralph Bolden, but they haven't seen a defense like the Bullets. Their defense is just what the doctor ordered for Pryor to learn to go through his progressions (his current progression is 1. Posey, 2. Posey, 3. Posey, return to 1). Joe Daniels (OSU QB coach) needs to start getting Pryor to show some improvement or it's time to move on (coaching wise). Bucks win big and keep chugging before the epic schedule to end the season. OSU: 38--PU: 10
#11 Iowa vs. Wisconsin Gomer: Iowa Chief: UW
Arkansas vs. #1 Florida Gomer: UF Chief: UF (closer than the experts think)
Minnesota vs. #14 Penn State Gomer: PSU Chief: PSU
Texas Tech vs. #15 Nebraska Gomer: Nebraska Chief: Nebraska
#22 South Carolina vs. #2 Alabama Gomer: Bama Chief: Bama (closer than the experts think)
Missouri vs. #16 Oklahoma State Gomer: Okie State Chief: OkState
Friday, October 10, 2008
Week 7
What a thriller! The Buckeyes survived a scary road trip to Camp Randall and rode on the arms and legs of freshman QB Terrelle Pryor. I've started just going with my gut instinct for most games rather than use logic, because hey, it doesn't really matter. Records so far: Gomer (48-22) Chief (50-20)
Texas Longhorns vs. Oklahoma Sooners
Gomer: Bradford vs. McCoy in the Red River Shootout. This game will have a huge impact on the national title picture and the Heisman race. If the Horns are able to pull off the win they will have a lot of momentum heading into the toughest stretch of the schedule (OU, Mizzou, OSU, TT). I have heard a lot of knocks on UT's schedule thus far but looking at who the two teams have played the only major difference is the win over TCU for the sooners. The biggest reason OU should win is their balance on offense, between Bradford and Murray, OU is diverse where they need it. If McCoy gets hot this could get really interesting and vault him to the top of the Heisman list. UT: 24 - OU: 31
Chief: With all the great games this week, the Red River Shootout tops most peoples’ lists. The Big 12 this year has been a bastion of great QB play and this game has 2 of the best in McCoy and Bradford. Both of these QBs should be invited to the Heisman ceremony at year’s end. I like OU in this matchup as the Horns have played no one this year. OU’s schedule is not anything special, but TCU provided a little tune up. While the Horned Frogs will never be mistaken for the Horns, Bradford and Murray will be enough to stop McCoy and….McCoy. Texas doesn’t have the variety of weapons OU has and it will show in Dallas. UT: 20—OU: 38
Oklahoma State Cowboys vs. Missouri Tigers
Gomer: Mike Gundy and the Pokes look to shock the country in probably the most underrated match-up of this weekend. These are two of the very best offenses in the country and two average-ish defenses, so in a sense this should look like a Pac-10 game. The best hope for the Cowpokes is to hope for a Mizzou lookahead to next week's game with the Horns. Both teams will put up ridiculous numbers, Chase Daniel will look good and probably solidify his chances at winning the Heisman (I might kill something or someone if he wins). I just have some funny feeling about the Pokes being the underdog and being nameless to the majority of the nation. OSU: 45 - Mizzou: 42
Chief: This Big 12 matchup should be one of the most exciting games of the year. Maybe the reason for the political correct change of the Red River Shootout is because the shootout of the week is in Columbia. The Pokes and Tigers has 2 of the most dynamic offenses in the country with Heisman frontrunner Chase Daniel and relative unknown Zac Robinson (also in the top 5 in passer rating), not to mention the stellar highlight reels Jeremy Maclin and Dez Bryant. Remember the Bengals/Browns game from a few years ago where TDs were scored every minute? Don’t blink in this one or you may miss 3 TDs. I like Mizzou for now in a close win because the Cowboys are still fairly unknown. Chase Daniel leads a game winning drive to keep the dream alive. “Get your popcorn ready!” OSU: 48—Mizzou: 52
LSU Tigers vs. Florida Gators
Gomer: Anything I've read speaks to the strength from the Tiger lines on both sides of the ball. While LSU should be able to dominate where it counts the real question is, which Tim Tebow will show up? So far this season we have not seen the Heisman Trophy winner of last year, it's not like he's been bad, but he hasn't been Heisman caliber. This game should be a classic and has huge national title implications because whoever wins will be in the drivers seat to make it to the BCS championship (A 1-loss SEC champion gets in over any other 1-loss team). Another tidbit; under Meyer and Tebow's leadership the Gators have never made a 4th quarter comeback. LSU: 27 - UF: 21
Chief: Does one of these teams have to win??? I would be just fine seeing both lose. This game has huge national title implications as a win for UF puts them back in the hunt and a loss ends all hope. LSU could always use another big road win to solidify their status as Auburn is petering out. Darnell Scott has been getting the hype, but 1 good half by LSU QB Jarrett Lee isn’t enough to make me a believer. For the Gators, look for Tebow to Harvin, Tebow to Harvin, Tebow to Harvin as usual. I’m pulling the trigger here. The Swamp, at night, is a brutal place to play. The Gators will be pumped and Tebow will run the show himself--just enough for an enormous win for Florida. LSU: 17—UF: 20
Penn State Lions vs. Wisconsin Badgers
Gomer: This game could easily be a trap game for the Lions. Wisconsin has fallen from National Title hopes to Rose Bowl hopes to just salvaging the season. Losing to lowly Michigan and a superior Buckeye squad in the final minutes can really do that to you. Is it possible we're looking at the "new MSU"? I don't think Wisconsin will become the team of yearly collapses but they are definitely backed into a corner at 0-2 in conference play staring 0-3 in the face. On the other hand the Lions have roared through their first 6 games but still can't quite crack the top 5 nationally. A win here for JoePa's possibly last squad, will solidify the collision course with 1-loss Ohio State in two weeks. Penn State's D-line will put lots of pressure on Evridge and the Badger running game and this game will not be as close as expected. PSU: 34 - UW: 20
Chief: Yikes…Can I pull it twice? Here’s a game of incredible proportions for these teams for 2 very different reasons. Penn State needs to keep winning to keep the national love affair with Joe Pa alive. Also, they enter a murderer’s row with games at Wisconsin, home vs. Michigan (don’t laugh, PSU hasn’t beaten Michigan since 96) and at Columbus. Wisconsin has become the cornered badger who is by nature going to be extremely dangerous. If Wisconsin learns to run the ball consistently and stops putting the game into Alan Evridge’s hands they have a chance. Bielema needs to circle the wagons and impart the urgency of this game. As the last big game on the schedule, the Badgers need this...but PSU is good when they’re on. I think they do just enough to crush the Badgers hopes for another year. This game will be much closer than the expert’s think, but the Lions put the finishing blow on the Badgers. Deciding factor? PSU’s band will be in Camp Randall. Wisconsin is questionable…God Speed Blue Band! PSU: 24—UW: 23 (Editor's note: PSU's band will not be allowed in the game as of 3:30pm Friday)
(Editor's note: Wisconsin's band WILL BE at the game as of 3:40pm Friday, which means PSU's pep band should be allowed in the game as well)
Purdue Boilermakers vs. Ohio State Buckeyes
Gomer: It's almost a pity that this is Joe Tiller's final hurrah and his team is so terrible. The Boilers benched Senior QB Curtis Painter in last weeks joke against Penn State. The Buckeyes continue to struggle to put meaningful pressure on opposing QB's and will continue to struggle this week, not necessarily because of lack of effort but Painter is really good at getting rid of the ball quickly (for better or for worse). The Buckeyes have given up the most sacks in the Big Ten, even with Pryor, but with Beanie getting limited work and Boom out, this will be closer than expected (Bucks are favored by 19) because of both offensive struggles and JT's unwillingness to send out Tiller with a black eye. PU: 17 - OSU: 31
Chief: After all those great game that should run down to wire, it’s nice to have an easy one. The Bucks come off an epic win in Madison while Purdue continues to be an exercise in futility in West Lafayette. OSU is hitting their stride with the steady Beanie Wells grinding out chunks of yards and the flashy playmaker Terrelle Pryor. At season’s beginning, I had zero expectations of the boy from Jeanette. While the masses were calling for Mr. Pryor on Day 1, I expected no such changing of the guard. Even I have come to the side of the boy wonder. This guy is simply amazing, and with Beanie as another threat (not to mention some receivers who hopefully are prepared to explode), expect OSU to trample the hapless Boiler rush defense (last in the Big 10). It’s gonna be a short game in which the Bucks run, run, run while Painter enjoys the fine turf of Ohio Stadium. Bucks roll. PU: 7—OSU: 38
***On a personal note, if you happen to attend the Clash in Columbus, hang around for halftime as I was privileged enough to assist in the designing of the band’s halftime show—TV Land. See Stewie, Homer, crashing boats, and a salute to the bar where everyone knows your name, and more.***
South Carolina vs. Kentucky - Gomer: UK, Chief: USC
Notre Dame vs. North Carolina - Gomer: UNC, Chief: UNC
Michigan State vs. Northwestern - Gomer: MSU, Chief: MSU
What a thriller! The Buckeyes survived a scary road trip to Camp Randall and rode on the arms and legs of freshman QB Terrelle Pryor. I've started just going with my gut instinct for most games rather than use logic, because hey, it doesn't really matter. Records so far: Gomer (48-22) Chief (50-20)
Texas Longhorns vs. Oklahoma Sooners
Gomer: Bradford vs. McCoy in the Red River Shootout. This game will have a huge impact on the national title picture and the Heisman race. If the Horns are able to pull off the win they will have a lot of momentum heading into the toughest stretch of the schedule (OU, Mizzou, OSU, TT). I have heard a lot of knocks on UT's schedule thus far but looking at who the two teams have played the only major difference is the win over TCU for the sooners. The biggest reason OU should win is their balance on offense, between Bradford and Murray, OU is diverse where they need it. If McCoy gets hot this could get really interesting and vault him to the top of the Heisman list. UT: 24 - OU: 31
Chief: With all the great games this week, the Red River Shootout tops most peoples’ lists. The Big 12 this year has been a bastion of great QB play and this game has 2 of the best in McCoy and Bradford. Both of these QBs should be invited to the Heisman ceremony at year’s end. I like OU in this matchup as the Horns have played no one this year. OU’s schedule is not anything special, but TCU provided a little tune up. While the Horned Frogs will never be mistaken for the Horns, Bradford and Murray will be enough to stop McCoy and….McCoy. Texas doesn’t have the variety of weapons OU has and it will show in Dallas. UT: 20—OU: 38
Oklahoma State Cowboys vs. Missouri Tigers
Gomer: Mike Gundy and the Pokes look to shock the country in probably the most underrated match-up of this weekend. These are two of the very best offenses in the country and two average-ish defenses, so in a sense this should look like a Pac-10 game. The best hope for the Cowpokes is to hope for a Mizzou lookahead to next week's game with the Horns. Both teams will put up ridiculous numbers, Chase Daniel will look good and probably solidify his chances at winning the Heisman (I might kill something or someone if he wins). I just have some funny feeling about the Pokes being the underdog and being nameless to the majority of the nation. OSU: 45 - Mizzou: 42
Chief: This Big 12 matchup should be one of the most exciting games of the year. Maybe the reason for the political correct change of the Red River Shootout is because the shootout of the week is in Columbia. The Pokes and Tigers has 2 of the most dynamic offenses in the country with Heisman frontrunner Chase Daniel and relative unknown Zac Robinson (also in the top 5 in passer rating), not to mention the stellar highlight reels Jeremy Maclin and Dez Bryant. Remember the Bengals/Browns game from a few years ago where TDs were scored every minute? Don’t blink in this one or you may miss 3 TDs. I like Mizzou for now in a close win because the Cowboys are still fairly unknown. Chase Daniel leads a game winning drive to keep the dream alive. “Get your popcorn ready!” OSU: 48—Mizzou: 52
LSU Tigers vs. Florida Gators
Gomer: Anything I've read speaks to the strength from the Tiger lines on both sides of the ball. While LSU should be able to dominate where it counts the real question is, which Tim Tebow will show up? So far this season we have not seen the Heisman Trophy winner of last year, it's not like he's been bad, but he hasn't been Heisman caliber. This game should be a classic and has huge national title implications because whoever wins will be in the drivers seat to make it to the BCS championship (A 1-loss SEC champion gets in over any other 1-loss team). Another tidbit; under Meyer and Tebow's leadership the Gators have never made a 4th quarter comeback. LSU: 27 - UF: 21
Chief: Does one of these teams have to win??? I would be just fine seeing both lose. This game has huge national title implications as a win for UF puts them back in the hunt and a loss ends all hope. LSU could always use another big road win to solidify their status as Auburn is petering out. Darnell Scott has been getting the hype, but 1 good half by LSU QB Jarrett Lee isn’t enough to make me a believer. For the Gators, look for Tebow to Harvin, Tebow to Harvin, Tebow to Harvin as usual. I’m pulling the trigger here. The Swamp, at night, is a brutal place to play. The Gators will be pumped and Tebow will run the show himself--just enough for an enormous win for Florida. LSU: 17—UF: 20
Penn State Lions vs. Wisconsin Badgers
Gomer: This game could easily be a trap game for the Lions. Wisconsin has fallen from National Title hopes to Rose Bowl hopes to just salvaging the season. Losing to lowly Michigan and a superior Buckeye squad in the final minutes can really do that to you. Is it possible we're looking at the "new MSU"? I don't think Wisconsin will become the team of yearly collapses but they are definitely backed into a corner at 0-2 in conference play staring 0-3 in the face. On the other hand the Lions have roared through their first 6 games but still can't quite crack the top 5 nationally. A win here for JoePa's possibly last squad, will solidify the collision course with 1-loss Ohio State in two weeks. Penn State's D-line will put lots of pressure on Evridge and the Badger running game and this game will not be as close as expected. PSU: 34 - UW: 20
Chief: Yikes…Can I pull it twice? Here’s a game of incredible proportions for these teams for 2 very different reasons. Penn State needs to keep winning to keep the national love affair with Joe Pa alive. Also, they enter a murderer’s row with games at Wisconsin, home vs. Michigan (don’t laugh, PSU hasn’t beaten Michigan since 96) and at Columbus. Wisconsin has become the cornered badger who is by nature going to be extremely dangerous. If Wisconsin learns to run the ball consistently and stops putting the game into Alan Evridge’s hands they have a chance. Bielema needs to circle the wagons and impart the urgency of this game. As the last big game on the schedule, the Badgers need this...but PSU is good when they’re on. I think they do just enough to crush the Badgers hopes for another year. This game will be much closer than the expert’s think, but the Lions put the finishing blow on the Badgers. Deciding factor? PSU’s band will be in Camp Randall. Wisconsin is questionable…God Speed Blue Band! PSU: 24—UW: 23 (Editor's note: PSU's band will not be allowed in the game as of 3:30pm Friday)
(Editor's note: Wisconsin's band WILL BE at the game as of 3:40pm Friday, which means PSU's pep band should be allowed in the game as well)
Purdue Boilermakers vs. Ohio State Buckeyes
Gomer: It's almost a pity that this is Joe Tiller's final hurrah and his team is so terrible. The Boilers benched Senior QB Curtis Painter in last weeks joke against Penn State. The Buckeyes continue to struggle to put meaningful pressure on opposing QB's and will continue to struggle this week, not necessarily because of lack of effort but Painter is really good at getting rid of the ball quickly (for better or for worse). The Buckeyes have given up the most sacks in the Big Ten, even with Pryor, but with Beanie getting limited work and Boom out, this will be closer than expected (Bucks are favored by 19) because of both offensive struggles and JT's unwillingness to send out Tiller with a black eye. PU: 17 - OSU: 31
Chief: After all those great game that should run down to wire, it’s nice to have an easy one. The Bucks come off an epic win in Madison while Purdue continues to be an exercise in futility in West Lafayette. OSU is hitting their stride with the steady Beanie Wells grinding out chunks of yards and the flashy playmaker Terrelle Pryor. At season’s beginning, I had zero expectations of the boy from Jeanette. While the masses were calling for Mr. Pryor on Day 1, I expected no such changing of the guard. Even I have come to the side of the boy wonder. This guy is simply amazing, and with Beanie as another threat (not to mention some receivers who hopefully are prepared to explode), expect OSU to trample the hapless Boiler rush defense (last in the Big 10). It’s gonna be a short game in which the Bucks run, run, run while Painter enjoys the fine turf of Ohio Stadium. Bucks roll. PU: 7—OSU: 38
***On a personal note, if you happen to attend the Clash in Columbus, hang around for halftime as I was privileged enough to assist in the designing of the band’s halftime show—TV Land. See Stewie, Homer, crashing boats, and a salute to the bar where everyone knows your name, and more.***
South Carolina vs. Kentucky - Gomer: UK, Chief: USC
Notre Dame vs. North Carolina - Gomer: UNC, Chief: UNC
Michigan State vs. Northwestern - Gomer: MSU, Chief: MSU
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Week 3 of Gomer & Chiefs Picks
More surprises than expected as ECU continues to impress! Last weeks records: Gomer (14-11) Chief (15-10)
Kansas Jayhawks vs. South Florida Bulls
Gomer: I like the Bulls in this BCS Caliber show down on what should be an exciting Friday night. USF seems to be a hornets nest when a big name (err Kansas, big name?) opponent comes to town, even if the visitor has almost every plausible advantage, the crowd seems to truly be an inspiration for the home team. Todd Reesing should be spot on but look for a late turnover to seal the deal for the Big East banner carriers, the USF Bulls. Kansas: 28 – USF: 34
Chief: This is a very interesting matchup. These are two programs that emerged onto the scene last year from relative obscurity. Kansas has been great this year, but their opponents have been the same level as last year’s---awful. USF struggled mightily last week, but they are capable of exploding against anyone. The Jayhawks are coldly efficient but I believe USF was looking ahead last week. Look for George Selvie to get to Reesing early and often to shake the unshakeable QB. The home crowd is the X factor KU: 31—USF: 34
Wisconsin Badgers vs. Fresno State Bulldogs
Gomer: Despite averaging 45 points per game so far this season most “experts” are not giving another “slow” Big Ten team a chance. PJ Hill went nuts in the first week against lowly Akron but was held to only 57 yards this week against Marshall. This week the Badgers get back All-American Tight End Travis Beckum and leading tackler Linebacker Garrett Graham. Both stars return just in time as the Fresno State offense could give them fits with sophomore running back Ryan Matthews running the ball. This game should be a classic or a Badger Blowout. Wisconsin: 45 – Fresno State: 34
Chief: Any other week, this would be the matchup I’d be most interested in. The Bulldogs are looking to be considered among the elite while the Badgers are trying to show they can win on the road. Wisconsin has bigger players, but Fresno plays with a chip on their shoulders. This will be a very physical game that goes down to the wire, but I believe P.J. Hill will be the difference and lead the Badgers to a very close win. Take nothing away from the Bulldogs as the mantra of ‘anyone, anywhere, anytime’ puts fear into the Wisconsin faithful. UW: 24—Fres: 21
Oregon Ducks vs. Purdue Boilermakers
Gomer: I really don’t like Purdue in this game. The Boilers are led through the air by senior QB Curtis Painter and on the ground by RB Kory Sheets but are “starless” on defense. Oregon lost all the big names from last years potent attack, Jonathan Stewart and Dennis Dixon, but still the attack has been potent against below average opponents. This will be a shootout that could really go either way if the defenses are able to generate pressure and make the quarterbacks make mistakes. Oregon: 41 – Purdue: 31
Chief: I’d love to see a Big Ten win for Wilford Brimley…I mean Joe Tiller, but I don’t think they can hang with the second best team in the Pac 10. The Oregon secondary will be the story as I think they will slow down Curtis Painter and the Boiler offense enough for the W. This would be a huge upset win for the big 10, but I don’t see it this time. OU: 31—PU: 17
Michigan Wolverines vs. Notre Dame Irish
Gomer: If you enjoy straight up BAD football, then this game is for you. Of course since the Irish are playing any little thing they do will be looked at as the best, mostly because it’s on NBC and they are stuck with the Irish until something like 2075. Michigan’s defense should dominate this game giving the conservative offense a short field a few times during the afternoon. Total first downs between the two teams? 22 Michigan: 19 – Notre Dame: 7
Chief: Oh how the mighty hath fallen. This epic battle between the 2 most winningest programs in the sport has been relegated to relative obscurity. The Wolverines have shown little for the Big Blue to get excited about. When Michigan has to ‘escape’ Miami of Ohio, there are problems in Ann Arbor. On the other side, Jabba the Weis really needs this win to avoid another horrible season in which his job is in jeopardy. Too bad the Irish have even more to be worried about on both sides of the ball. I think this will indeed be another pillow fight that will really determine which historic program becomes the laughing stock of college football for 2008. I think Notre Dame will maintain that title again—the echoes will remain asleep. UM: 20—ND—10
Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Southern Cal Trojans
The Clash at the Coliseum
Gomer: Will he or won’t he? So much hangs on the status of Beanie Wells, and it rightfully should. Beanie provides the dynamic backfield the Buckeyes need, specifically Todd Boeckman needs. I believe that the true “key to the game” is the play of the defense. I want to see a defense circa 2002/03 that blitzes and mans up, and zones, and you name it, I want to see it. If the Silver Bullets can pressure Sanchez the Bucks could potentially command this game and they really should. USC is inexperienced in many positions, but without getting pressure and preventing the “home run” play, it could be a long night for the Buckeyes. Ohio State: 27 – USC: 21
Chief: This is the matchup for the ages. The two most dominant programs (by far) of the last 7 years meet on the battlefield in SoCal reminiscent of the Rose Bowls of old. Anyone who says they aren’t excited is not a true college football fan. I wish Beanie was healthy for the Buckeyes, but regardless, this will be a game of epic proportions. This game could be a blowout (either way) or a nailbiter and I wouldn’t be surprised. Mark Sanchez looked stellar against UVA, but let’s not forget that the Silver Bullets are a whole different story. Coming into the game, the focus has been on the unstoppable nature of the Trojans offense and the gloom and doom without Beanie for the Bucks, but this game will be a defensive struggle. These teams exhibit the best defenses in the country and it will be a slugfest. I think there will be more NFL caliber talent on this field than the 2002 National Championship. You can call me a homer and I don’t care. I truly believe that even a Beanie-less Buckeye squad is capable of a W. Last week was an aberration; this week will be all that you can ask for. Bring on the Trojans! OSU: 20—USC: 17
Other Games:
NC State @ Clemson Gomer: Clemson Chief: Clemson
Central Michigan @ Ohio Gomer: CMU Chief: Ohio
East Carolina @ Tulane Gomer: ECU Chief: ECU
Stanford @ TCU Gomer: TCU Chief: TCU
Oklahoma @ Washington Gomer: OU Chief: OU
Bowling Green @ Boise State Gomer: BSU Chief: BSU
Iowa State @ Iowa Gomer: Iowa Chief: Iowa
Georgia @ South Carolina Gomer: UGA Chief: UGA
Georgia Tech @ Virginia Tech Gomer: GT Chief:
More surprises than expected as ECU continues to impress! Last weeks records: Gomer (14-11) Chief (15-10)
Kansas Jayhawks vs. South Florida Bulls
Gomer: I like the Bulls in this BCS Caliber show down on what should be an exciting Friday night. USF seems to be a hornets nest when a big name (err Kansas, big name?) opponent comes to town, even if the visitor has almost every plausible advantage, the crowd seems to truly be an inspiration for the home team. Todd Reesing should be spot on but look for a late turnover to seal the deal for the Big East banner carriers, the USF Bulls. Kansas: 28 – USF: 34
Chief: This is a very interesting matchup. These are two programs that emerged onto the scene last year from relative obscurity. Kansas has been great this year, but their opponents have been the same level as last year’s---awful. USF struggled mightily last week, but they are capable of exploding against anyone. The Jayhawks are coldly efficient but I believe USF was looking ahead last week. Look for George Selvie to get to Reesing early and often to shake the unshakeable QB. The home crowd is the X factor KU: 31—USF: 34
Wisconsin Badgers vs. Fresno State Bulldogs
Gomer: Despite averaging 45 points per game so far this season most “experts” are not giving another “slow” Big Ten team a chance. PJ Hill went nuts in the first week against lowly Akron but was held to only 57 yards this week against Marshall. This week the Badgers get back All-American Tight End Travis Beckum and leading tackler Linebacker Garrett Graham. Both stars return just in time as the Fresno State offense could give them fits with sophomore running back Ryan Matthews running the ball. This game should be a classic or a Badger Blowout. Wisconsin: 45 – Fresno State: 34
Chief: Any other week, this would be the matchup I’d be most interested in. The Bulldogs are looking to be considered among the elite while the Badgers are trying to show they can win on the road. Wisconsin has bigger players, but Fresno plays with a chip on their shoulders. This will be a very physical game that goes down to the wire, but I believe P.J. Hill will be the difference and lead the Badgers to a very close win. Take nothing away from the Bulldogs as the mantra of ‘anyone, anywhere, anytime’ puts fear into the Wisconsin faithful. UW: 24—Fres: 21
Oregon Ducks vs. Purdue Boilermakers
Gomer: I really don’t like Purdue in this game. The Boilers are led through the air by senior QB Curtis Painter and on the ground by RB Kory Sheets but are “starless” on defense. Oregon lost all the big names from last years potent attack, Jonathan Stewart and Dennis Dixon, but still the attack has been potent against below average opponents. This will be a shootout that could really go either way if the defenses are able to generate pressure and make the quarterbacks make mistakes. Oregon: 41 – Purdue: 31
Chief: I’d love to see a Big Ten win for Wilford Brimley…I mean Joe Tiller, but I don’t think they can hang with the second best team in the Pac 10. The Oregon secondary will be the story as I think they will slow down Curtis Painter and the Boiler offense enough for the W. This would be a huge upset win for the big 10, but I don’t see it this time. OU: 31—PU: 17
Michigan Wolverines vs. Notre Dame Irish
Gomer: If you enjoy straight up BAD football, then this game is for you. Of course since the Irish are playing any little thing they do will be looked at as the best, mostly because it’s on NBC and they are stuck with the Irish until something like 2075. Michigan’s defense should dominate this game giving the conservative offense a short field a few times during the afternoon. Total first downs between the two teams? 22 Michigan: 19 – Notre Dame: 7
Chief: Oh how the mighty hath fallen. This epic battle between the 2 most winningest programs in the sport has been relegated to relative obscurity. The Wolverines have shown little for the Big Blue to get excited about. When Michigan has to ‘escape’ Miami of Ohio, there are problems in Ann Arbor. On the other side, Jabba the Weis really needs this win to avoid another horrible season in which his job is in jeopardy. Too bad the Irish have even more to be worried about on both sides of the ball. I think this will indeed be another pillow fight that will really determine which historic program becomes the laughing stock of college football for 2008. I think Notre Dame will maintain that title again—the echoes will remain asleep. UM: 20—ND—10
Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Southern Cal Trojans
The Clash at the Coliseum
Gomer: Will he or won’t he? So much hangs on the status of Beanie Wells, and it rightfully should. Beanie provides the dynamic backfield the Buckeyes need, specifically Todd Boeckman needs. I believe that the true “key to the game” is the play of the defense. I want to see a defense circa 2002/03 that blitzes and mans up, and zones, and you name it, I want to see it. If the Silver Bullets can pressure Sanchez the Bucks could potentially command this game and they really should. USC is inexperienced in many positions, but without getting pressure and preventing the “home run” play, it could be a long night for the Buckeyes. Ohio State: 27 – USC: 21
Chief: This is the matchup for the ages. The two most dominant programs (by far) of the last 7 years meet on the battlefield in SoCal reminiscent of the Rose Bowls of old. Anyone who says they aren’t excited is not a true college football fan. I wish Beanie was healthy for the Buckeyes, but regardless, this will be a game of epic proportions. This game could be a blowout (either way) or a nailbiter and I wouldn’t be surprised. Mark Sanchez looked stellar against UVA, but let’s not forget that the Silver Bullets are a whole different story. Coming into the game, the focus has been on the unstoppable nature of the Trojans offense and the gloom and doom without Beanie for the Bucks, but this game will be a defensive struggle. These teams exhibit the best defenses in the country and it will be a slugfest. I think there will be more NFL caliber talent on this field than the 2002 National Championship. You can call me a homer and I don’t care. I truly believe that even a Beanie-less Buckeye squad is capable of a W. Last week was an aberration; this week will be all that you can ask for. Bring on the Trojans! OSU: 20—USC: 17
Other Games:
NC State @ Clemson Gomer: Clemson Chief: Clemson
Central Michigan @ Ohio Gomer: CMU Chief: Ohio
East Carolina @ Tulane Gomer: ECU Chief: ECU
Stanford @ TCU Gomer: TCU Chief: TCU
Oklahoma @ Washington Gomer: OU Chief: OU
Bowling Green @ Boise State Gomer: BSU Chief: BSU
Iowa State @ Iowa Gomer: Iowa Chief: Iowa
Georgia @ South Carolina Gomer: UGA Chief: UGA
Georgia Tech @ Virginia Tech Gomer: GT Chief:
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