Week 8 - It's Not Like Next Week Is Any Better

Standings
1) Seeberg              29-8    (0-7 upset)
2) Draper                26-11    (4-3 upset) 
2) Hoying               26-11    (1-6 upset)
2) Schweinfurth     26-11    (1-6 upset)

Hope you enjoyed last week, college football fans. These games suuuuuuuuck. At least we get to see the Buckeyes again before their Halloween bye.

#19 California Bears @ UCLA Bruins
Draper: Cal has been rising quickly under Sonny Lubick and his fast paced offense.  Jared Goff seeks to be the next great Cal QB, albeit quite different from A.A.Ron Rodgers.  UCLA had the crazy hype after a quick start but the Bruins and freshman 'sensation' Josh Rosen have slowly disappeared from memory like a fart in the wind.  The game is in the Rose Bowl but all the west coast fans have leapt off the band wagon and now are focused on...well, all sports kinda suck out there now....Golden State? Bears of the Golden variety triumph in a high scoring affair. Cal: 45--UCLA: 34
Hoying: Welcome to Rivalry Week. California vs. California. Bears vs. Bears. Blue and Gold vs. Blue and Gold. Are you excited yet? Yeah, me neither. Still, this is the wacky Pac-12, where almost every team (sorry, Oregon State and Colorado) is still chasing a berth at Sinkhole Stadium at season's end. Cal still controls its own destiny, and it remains undefeated in games in which QB Jared Goff doesn't throw 5 interceptions. UCLA is reeling after getting blown out in back-to-back games. The Bruins' defense just can't stop anyone, giving up 56 points to a Stanford team that racked up all of 6 against Northwestern. Expect the Bear O to go Goff on the Bruin D, and watch UCLA QB Josh Rosen crumble under the pressure yet again. Cal: 40--UCLA: 27
Schweinfurth: Ahh yes, another PAC-12 game. I don't have a bias against the PAC-12, I just hate that they all play after I go to bed. With that said, I really don't know much about either team and I'll just make a pick. Cal: 38--UCLA: 35
Seeberg:  Not 100% sure what to make of this game.  UCLA has a defense like a steel sieve, but the last time we saw Jared Goff he was a turnover machine in a narrow loss to Utah.  Should I be impressed that Cal had 5 INTs and only lost to Utah by 6?  I don't know, because I still don't fully trust that the Utes are that good.  My educated guess is that the loss of Myles Jack in the UCLA defense was bigger than anyone realized at the time, and with two weeks to prep, a Cal team looking to re-establish itself after the Utah loss will be too much offensively for the Bruins to handle.  Cal: 42--UCLA: 34

#15 Texas A&M Aggies @ #21 Ole Miss Rebels
Draper: Ole Miss returns to the Grove after losing to perennial championship contender Memphis.  Memphis may be really good, but Ole Miss is supposed to be one of the premier programs in the premier league.  The loss of Robert Nkemdiche led to a meltdown.  This week will test the intestinal fortitude of the Rebels.  How do you respond to a blowout loss to Florida in the Swamp and a surprising loss to an undefeated but supposedly overmatched foe?  A&M was beat fairly soundly at home by the all and powerful Bama, but other than that blip, they have been quite good.  I expect a rebound game for Ole Miss.  Yeah, they could crash and burn, but returning home to the crazy fans, I expect the Rebels to play for their lives.  TAMU: 24--Miss: 31
Hoying: Is Memphis a legitimate playoff contender, or is Ole Miss just a complete mirage? After spotting Ole Miss a quick 14-0 lead, the Tigers dominated the Rebels at home last Saturday. The Landsharks were shredded through the air, particularly after superstar DL Robert Nkemdiche left the game with a concussion. That's bad news with Kyle Allen and the Aggies coming to town. This isn't the Alabama secondary that's going to return 3 Allen throws for TDs. The Rebels are going to have to outscore A&M, and that's tough without a running game, no matter how good Ole Miss QB Chad Kelly has been. Memphis would love Ole Miss to run the table and win the SEC, legitimizing their big win, but the wheels have fallen off and the cart is about to crash. TAMU: 38--Miss: 34
Schweinfurth: How is Ole Miss still ranked? Because they beat Bama? Memphis put a beat down on the Rebels last week and the Landshark defense is reeling after losing Nkemdiche (probably for a few weeks too). Be prepared for a long game with all the passing (this one may take over 4 hours). I'll take A&M in the marathon. TAMU: 42--Miss: 31
Seeberg:  This is a matchup of two oddly similar teams.  Both have solid QBs but no running game.  Both have legit chances to win the SEC West but are coming off of stinging losses.  Both have one conference loss so this is essentially an elimination game (though the Rebels' loss to Memphis may have them out of CFP contention anyway).  I think the combination of Robert Nkemdiche potentially being out (no word yet as of Wednesday afternoon as I type this) and Memphis torching the Rebels through the air provide the perfect blueprint for Sumlin to get his Aggies back on track.  TAMU: 34--Miss: 28

#1 Utah Utes @ USC Trojans
Draper:  This is the one.  SC could be in complete disarray after the Sark disaster, but they acquitted themselves quite well in South Bend when there was nothing positive to play for.  Utah has a nice win against Michigan at home that has aged well, a close win over Cal that is nice...but at home, a good win over ASU...at home, and a blowout of Oregon in Eugene.  Normally, that last would be incredibly valuable but not as much this year.  The Trojans have an incredible amount of talent and this is the week in which it shows.  They won't break any records this year, but they'll screw with some Utah hopes.  I'm surprised SC is favored, but I lean with Vegas.  Utah: 28--USC: 31
Hoying: No coach? Check. No great wins to date? Check. Favored to beat a team with a legitimate case to be ranked #1? Chec.....what??? A week after Utah handled the only team with a winning record USC's beaten (Arizona State) and USC lost by multiple scores to "eh" team Notre Dame, the bookies are giving Utah more than a field goal in this matchup. What gives? Cody Kessler has been pretty good...against crap, but the Trojans looked completely lost against Washington 2 weeks ago and I don't think the middle of a coaching change is the time for USC to start solving tough defenses. Remember that the Utes forced 6 turnovers to grind out a win against Cal. Kessler has thrown 4 INTs himself in the Trojans' last 2 losses. Uh oh. I'm not drinking the Kool-Aid (or anything Sark offers me). Utah preserves the Pac-12's hope for an unbeaten champion. Utah: 28--USC: 20
Schweinfurth: Utah has looked good all season and USC is in bad shape without a head coach. Utah: 31--USC: 17
Seeberg:  I have to be honest- I assumed my colleagues had gone blind in one eye and had that milky film over the other eye in reporting that Utah was an underdog, yet somehow, they're right.  I admit I don't fully trust the Utes yet, but there's no reason to think a 3-3 team should be favored over the Utes...or is there?  The Trojans looked more than competent under 5-day head coach and presumably more sober than his predecessor Clay Helton in a 10-point loss at Notre Dame.  They've got talent for days...or at least hours, but no serviceable depth and no RB that has even 400 yards through 6 games.  Cody Kessler is good but he just can't do it by himself.  The Trojans find themselves in too many 2nd and 9s and 3rd and 10s to overcome and Utah stays perfect.  Utah: 34--USC: 28

#3 THE Ohio State University Buckeyes @ Rutgers Scarlet Knights
Draper: When I heard the news, I felt like Big Mike after saving the Buy More.  Joe Thomas Barrett IV returns under center to bring a sense of command and precision to the Buckeye offense.  Captain Smooth directs the offense like a symphony with dashing runs, precision passes, and an overall presence that the team can look to for solace.  The O-line certainly upped their game last week when JT returned and the seas parted as the magical misdirection returned.  Zeke found fewer defenders to deal with (JT had to be accounted for), the WR's blocked harder, and when needed, the short to intermediate passing game was very sharp.  Rutgers his never a team to strike hearts in the fears of men, but they are coming off a huge comeback over the Hoosiers...but now the Bucks have returned to form.  This won't be close.  My only request is that the defense stops giving up a few explosive plays a game. Show the nation what the Defending National Champs look like. OSU: 56--Rutgers...more like Buttgers: 9
Hoying: We've been asking for it, and it's finally arrived: Just Touchdowns Barrett is back. What will a defense do given a full week to prepare for him? The two-headed monster has (probably) been a nightmare to prepare for, but now DCs can full their full attention towards stopping the read option. I don't expect any slowdown this week, since Rutgers is surrendering up almost 30 points a game (and 1/3 of their opponents were Kansas and Norfolk State). If you're desperate for something to hold your attention, watch how the Ohio State passing game develops. Will JT finally be on the same page as his receivers, or at least close enough to keep the drives alive? Will Ohio State even try to throw the ball after racking up over 300 yards on the ground against a pretty good Penn State defense? Will Cardale see more action in garbage time than during his starting duties the last 2 weeks? How long until Stephen Collier gets to hand the ball off to Bri'onte Dunn? Does Ohio State have a greater chance of losing this weekend or next? OSU: 49--Rut: 17
Schweinfurth: Rutgers has one player: Leonte Carroo. Rutgers QB? Not mobile and they have some meh RBs. I'm not real worried about the Silver Bullets this week. Yes, there are lots of injuries, but this game should be some good experience for the young Bucks. On offense, it's time to get into a rhythm. Expect lots of up tempo with JT at the helm. Barrett is a good distributor of the ball and should get Thomas and Miller in some short/medium routes as the defense sucks up to stop the run. This is going to be a rout and we should be able to get some important guys rest early. OSU: 56--Rutgers: 13
Seeberg:  OK first and foremost, the jerseys alone are great.  The all-black look?  We looked like Oregon State.  Wrong OSU to be emulating.  Not a good call.  All that aside, I STILL don't know what to make of the QB situation.  Is J.T. that much better?  Maybe...but probably not.  I am going to review the game play by play tomorrow but watching it live in the stadium I am about 90% certain Cardale did not even attempt one throw between the hashes, and he may not have even attempted one to someone inside the NUMBERS (or at least to a receiver that started inside the numbers except super-wide swing passes to Zeke).  It's as if the play callers are so enamored with his strong arm to stretch the field horizontally that they are forgetting to stretch the field vertically.  No crossing routes, no inside slants, no in routes, no posts, NOTHING anywhere near the middle of the field, and it didn't look as if Penn State was doing anything special to shut that area of the field off.  In any case, the red zone O is still clicking, and Zeke is getting more north and south runs finally.  The D was gashed again by some big runs.  Rutgers has a reasonably effective RB by committee attack, but no one special RB that will consistently give the Silver Bullets problems (unless Joshua Perry is out, heal up quick #37!).  I expect a pretty similar game to the blackout.  The best part of 7-0?  The chance to go 8-0.  OSU: 45--RUT: 13

Upset Special
Draper: Washington over Stanford
Hoying: Texas Tech over Oklahoma
Schweinfurth: Tennessee over Alabama
Seeberg:  I canNOT get one of these, ugh.  Let's try Boston College over Louisville.

Week 7 - That Rivalry Up North

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Week 1 - Title Defense Mode

Welcome back to Ohio State's sport: college football. We're still a few days away from seeing the Bucks take the field but there's plenty of action in the meantime, starting with the enemy heading out west for a revenge game of their own. 

Here are our thoughts on the best five games of the week. Maybe. It's Week 1; who knows where any of these teams will end up?

Michigan Wolverines @ Utah Utes
Draper: Harbaugh, Harbaugh, Harbaugh....blah, blah, blah.  The Wolverines had a decent roster last year and limped to a 5-7 record.  Is the coach enough to turn this team around in a snap? I just don't see it.  They'll be improved, but I think the national media is giving far to much credit to the coach.  Harbaugh is also nuts so let's pump the brakes.  I think Michigan ends the season with 8 wins, but this isn't one of them.  UM: 20-Utah: 24
Hoying: How bad was Maize and Blue Satan last year, really? The defense was quite good, the running game was passable, and What What Jake Butt was enough by himself to bail out any semi-competent QB. Except...they didn't have a competent QB, and there's nobody swooping in to take the job. Any improvement will have to come from the top down, but fortunately for You Know Who, Harbaugh excels at developing QBs. Not everyone can take a 3rd string QB and guide him to a win over a 41-point favorite. What difference does a stellar head coach make? Ask 2011 and 2012 Ohio State.  UM: 27--Utah: 20
Schweinfurth: I can't wait for this game to kick off just so I don't have to hear about Harbaugh.  Yes, the QB situation at TTUN isn't ideal, but the defense is a bit underrated. I think this game is close to the end with the Utes kicking a last second field goal for the win. UM: 21--Utah: 24
Seeberg:  Last year, Utah's victory over TTUN was a big deal.  Except it shouldn't have been.  Utah was the better team last season and, at least early on, it's likely to be the better team again.  Remember, Utah should've been up 14-0 on Oregon going into the second quarter last year if it weren't for that whole "who needs to actually carry the ball over the goalline" issue.  The Khaki Eclipse gets off to a rocky start out west.  UM: 23- Utah: 31

Wisconsin Badgers vs. Alabama Crimson Tide
Draper:  I'll be honest, I know very little about these teams.  I do know Bama tends to have a revolving door of good players and they usually come out like gangbusters in these early season games.  Wisconsin was overrated last year and most of their offense now plays for the Chargers.  I'm banking on the Tide reloading.  Wisc: 16--Bama: 31
Hoying: Oh boy, another marquee non-conference game for Wisconsin. Wisc: 13--Bama: 27
Schweinfurth: I really don't know what to think of Wisconsin. Paul Chryst did a great job as a coordinator but Pitt was meh with him as head coach. Both teams lost a lot of talent but Bama has the (oversigned) talent to restock. This is the first game of, what I think will be, a long season for Wisconsin. Wisc: 10--Bama: 35
Seeberg:  This is likely to be a defensive battle as both squads return solid units on that side of the ball but have lost Heisman finalists in Melvin Gordon and Amari Cooper.  Wisconsin will have to rely on Stave and/or McEvoy to make some plays which is a dicey prospect at best.  The best offensive player on either team is easily Derrick Henry, who torched the Buckeyes in last year's Sugar Bowl (and probably should have gotten the ball more often in that game).  He will make enough plays to keep the Badgers in passing situations which is the kiss of death for the Wisconsin offense.  Wisc: 13- Bama: 27

Texas Longhorns @ Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Draper:  Are these teams ready to burst back onto the big stage? Texas hasn't really been the same since the Colt McCoy injury in the National Title game vs. Bama and the Irish had a brief resurgence the following year before crashing back to earth.  While Notre Dame seems to be the media darling to return to prominence, I don't think they're ready for big time yet...that being said, neither is Texas.  Charlie Strong is working to improve things in Austin, but we aren't back to the VY era yet.  Here come the Irish.  UT: 21--ND: 31
Hoying: Can the Irish survive without Everett Golson? After Golson's precipitous drop last year, which resulted in him...transferring to the team that beat him, the Irish now turn to Malik Zaire (Congo?). The sky's the limit for Malik, but Texas knows that they still have butt at QB, where the ineffective Tyrone Swoopes still holds handoff duties. The Longhorns can't keep getting worse, but a road game in South Bend is not the place to turn their fortunes around. UT: 13--ND: 28
Schweinfurth: I honestly don't know much about either team. While both teams are typically media darlings, I just don't see much in either team.  I do know that Notre Dame has more talent and should win this game. UT: 17--ND: 35
Seeberg:  Ah yes, the age-old question:  How overrated is Notre Dame this season?  In years past, an opening game against powerhouse Texas might have answered that question immediately.  Not so much recently.  Texas just hasn't gotten back to Mack Brown levels since, well, Mack Brown.  Charlie Strong just can't get any offense going to supplement his typically solid D.  Notre Dame's strength is it's offense so those possessions will be interesting, but the Texas O versus Notre Dame D confrontations might set the game back a generation or two.  Sadly, the golden domers should prevail, allowing the hype to continue a while longer.  UT: 13- ND: 24

Arizona State Sun Devils vs. Texas A&M Aggies
Draper:  No clue.  ASU was sneaky good last year and A&M is always tough to pin down.  The Sun Devils should be a factor in the Pac 12 (along with most of the crowd out west).  The Aggies love the flash from Manziel and then Kenny Trill (for a few games last year) but I think the Sun Devils' more blue collar mentality will lead to a close win.  Kyle Field is a bear to deal with, but the creepy boom mike Todd Graham emerges victorious. ASU: 40--TAMU: 35
Hoying: Here we see two teams heading in different directions. The Aggies have fallen off a bit after storming their way into the SEC in 2012, while the Sun Devils were a touchdown away from playing in the Pac-12 championship game for a second consecutive year. A&M isn't going to turn anything around without some solid QB play, and I need to see more from Kyle Allen (or Kenny Trill) before I buy in. SEC QBs should be BAD this year, and A&M sadly should be no exception. ASU: 38--TAMU: 24
Schweinfurth: ASU looked good last year, and I think that momentum will carry over into this year. The Aggies just seem to be going the other way since Johnny Football left.  Yes, A&M looked good and surprised everyone to start the year last year, but I just don't see it this year.  ASU: 42--TAMU: 31
Seeberg:  If I were a betting man (and I am- but only when I actually have money to bet, which means currently I'm not), I'd wager this one will be high-scoring.  Both teams return most pieces from good offensive units and lackluster defensive squads.  A&M's new D-coordinator, John Chavis, may help- but he was hired almost as much to stop thwarting A&M's offense as he was to improve their defense.  The Sun Devils have a decent shot to make some noise in the Pac-12 and a big win against the now-slightly-less-vaunted SEC could slingshot them to a third-straight 10-win season.  ASU: 45- TAMU- 35

THE Ohio State University Buckeyes @ Virginia Tech Hokies
Draper: I didn't see it last year...and I really don't see it this year.  OSU will have the bullseye on their back all year...but if they will be amped for any game this year, this is it.  Revenge is a dish best served cold.  Yes, suspensions surround the team, but I can't believe Urban is terribly concerned.  Michael Brewer had the game of his life last year and the Buckeyes folded.  This time, they will rain fire and brimstone on their opponents from the first down.  There are far too many weapons on this team to breed concern.  Zeke dominates the lunch box defense and the huge question at QB...is rendered moot after a beat down.  OSU: 45--VT: 20
Hoying: Why did the Buckeyes lose this game last year? The undermanned Hokies counted on an inexperienced offensive line that couldn't handle a relentless blitzing front, and a QB that couldn't make the right reads under tremendous pressure. VT will have neither luxury this year; it'll be their personnel vs. ours. Anyone who watched Tech carefully last season (including this gem) shouldn't be too worried. Look for the Buckeyes to come out a little too excited (especially the backups for our boneheaded dopers), gagging away some early opportunities on both sides of the ball, but ths one shouldn't be in doubt in the second half. Hopefully. OSU: 38--VT: 20
Schweinfurth: The Hokies defense absolutely mugged the Buckeyes offense last year.  That was a very inexperienced offensive line and a guy making his second career start. I just don't foresee the Buckeyes being underprepared and not ready for whatever Bud Foster has to throw at the offense. The loss of Bosa for this will be felt by the defense, but the Hokie offense is okay not great. I think we see a heavy dose of Zeke, a few slants to Thomas, and Braxton catches a bomb for a TD. This game is only close because of the suspensions. OSU: 35--VT: 21
Seeberg:  Ah yes, redemption time (and also brag time:  I have 35-yard line seats for this one!).  This felt like a relatively open and shut game before the one-game suspensions were levied against the Buckeyes.  Despite the fact that three were offensive, the loss of Bosa may be the most critical (see my post on preseason predictions).  The Hokies will be amped up for this game as well and even under Tressel I would've been nervous for this one.  The key is Urban, no doubt.  The grind for nine will get tougher the longer the season wears on- manufacturing motivation to play the likes of Purdue and Maryland.  That won't be an issue September 7th.  'Zeke runs well, J.T. Jones runs and throws and Braxton scares the crap out of 11 other defensive coordinators.  The Grind for Nine starts with a revenge win.  VT: 27- OSU: 38


Upset Special
Draper: Minnesota over TCU (get lucky)
Hoying: Louisville over Auburn
Schweinfurth: Northwestern over Stanford
Seeberg:  North Carolina over South Carolina

Week 7 - From SEC West Supremacy to a B1G East Race to the Bottom

Standings

1) Draper               20-9    (3-3 upset)

2) Schweinfurth     18-11    (3-3 upset)

2) Hoying               18-11    (3-3 upset)

2) Seeberg              18-11    (0-6 upset) Seriously, you picked Michigan?  HEY...they covered, sheesh.

Now that the dust has settled on a wild week 6, the madness ramps up again with another week of SEC West matchups, a battle of Lone Star undefeateds out in the Big 12, and another bye week for our beloved Bucks in this long playoff chase.

Oh, and Penn State travels to Michigan with the inside track to last place in the B1G East on the line, but you'll have to read about that elsewhere.

Auburn Tigers @ Mississippi State Bulldogs

Draper: I've been big on Mississippi State all year and down on Auburn.  While the Tigers have been very impressive, their resume is fairly spartan.  MSU's win at LSU is becoming less and less impressive, but Dak Prescott is having a fantastic year (with Gurley and Jameis all but eliminated by missing a game, he's leading the Heisman race by a fairly sizable margin).  I remember in the early 2000s when Starkville was a place to be feared and I think it's coming to that again.  I don't think MSU is an all-timer of a team, but I think they are more battle-tested and up to the challenge.  I don't expect an undefeated season, but CLANGA CLANGA CLANGA strikes again in a nailbiter.  CLANGA! Aub: 31--MSU: 34

Hoying: Can Mississippi State handle success? Two years ago, the Bulldogs started 7-0 feasting on a cupcake schedule including Kentucky, Tennessee, and...Auburn (post-Cam Newton), then proceeded to get blasted three weeks in a row by Alabama, Texas A&M, and LSU. Last week's dominating win over the Aggies seems to be more impressive than anything MSU has done since I've been watching college football, but the jury's still out how just how good A&M is this year (oooh, you beat South Carolina, just like...everybody else). At any rate, Bulldog QB Dak Prescott has blasted his way into SEC MVP and Heisman discussions, throwing for at least 2 TDs in every game except a garbage matchup against South Alabama, and rushing for nearly 500 yards in 5 games. Auburn's strength continues to be running the ball, but Mississippi State does it better. The only question for the Bulldogs is whether they can finish games strong. In their last two games, MSU gave up 19 and 14 unanswered points when it looked like the game was over. Auburn has the firepower to make the Bulldogs pay if they're caught sleepwalking, but I think they'll keep their eye on the prize this week: a possible #1 ranking. Aub: 21--MSU: 34

Schweinfurth:  I keep thinking that both of these will lose.  On that fact, for once, I'm right.  I still don't think either of these teams are top 10 worthy but they are both undefeated.  Still no one has been able to stop the Auburn rushing attack.  Combine that with the position the Bulldogs are in and I think Mississippi State is primed to fail.  Aub: 35--MSU: 31

Seeberg:  I...I just don't know about this game.  Auburn handled LSU easily, but the Bayou Tigers are down a bit this year.  The same can be said about the Bulldogs' defeat of a largely unproven Texas A&M team.  I think this game will come down to 3rd down conversions.  Dak Prescott is a better on obvious passing downs, and Auburn's vaunted rushing attack is just too one-dimensional to score enough in Starkville.  Aub: 20--MSU: 31

Oregon Ducks @ UCLA Bruins

Draper: Oregon always craps the bed at some point in the season (usually somewhat inexplicably).  After the loss, they almost always demolish their next foe.  UCLA has played with fire all year (except vs. ASU), but it bit them last week as the Utes took them down.  I'm leaning toward Oregon righting the ship because some things can be fixed or ignored as a one-off, but UCLA's offensive line cannot be ignored.  Hundley is getting sacked left and right (more like Houston Texans David Carr...amirite?).  Ducks quack their way back into the national spotlight with a big win.  Ore: 41--UCLA: 24 (just looked at Seeberg's score--DANGIT)

Hoying: It's tempting to say that this game has become a lot less interesting after both teams choked at home last week. However, in the playoff era, it's no longer the drop between undefeated and one loss that's devastating, it's the drop between one loss and two. With the balance in the Pac-12 this season, the loser could still win out and probably take the conference title, but they'd run a terrible risk of being the #5 Power 5 champion in a four-team playoff world. So what happened last week? Oregon's O-line couldn't stop anybody from getting through, and UCLA's O-line...also couldn't stop anybody. It's going to be open season on elite quarterbacks this Saturday, and the key will likely be which D-line can take advantage of the opportunity. Oregon has 16 sacks on the season, while UCLA has only 7. Oregon has 38 TFLs; UCLA has 26. Do the math. Ore: 37--UCLA: 30

Schweinfurth: I keep going back and forth on this one.  Then I looked at the highlights of UCLA.  That offensive line...woof.  Yup that will be the difference here (even though Oregon's D can look like Swiss cheese at times).  It'll still be a fun one to watch. Ore: 45--UCLA: 38

Seeberg:  Well, Oregon went all, uh, Oregon last week, scoring a measley 24 points at home against a team that gave up 45 points to Cal.  UCLA's sieve-like offensive line finally caught up to them in an equally unimpressive loss against Utah.  I expected both teams to be undefeated heading into this game and would have given the slight edge to UCLA given home field and Brett Hundley.  In this scenario, however, I trust Mariotta more to get his squad to bounce back.  Ore: 41--UCLA: 24

TCU Horned Frogs @ Baylor Bears

Draper: Are the Horned Frogs for real? After dispatching OU at home in one of the many ridiculous games last weekend, TCU gets no favors as they head to Waco to face the Bears.  Baylor has been very quiet this year with Bryce Petty's being banged-up and such.  No one is talking about the #5 team in the country...until now.  Baylor has been waiting for their oppotunity to explode onto the scene and I think this is their chance.  Yeah, defense wins championships....blah blah blah.  This isn't a championship.  This is a big time game after TCU pulled out all the stops to beat OU at home in a huge emotional win.  Baylor is ready to leave it all out there this weekend and will overwhelm the drained Frogs.  TCU: 24--Baylor: 34

Hoying: Another year, another few games of Baylor crushing a few garbage opponents to open the season. The Bears feature the top scoring margin in the country, even ignoring a 70-6 dismantling of Northwestern State. However, coming it at #3 on the same list is TCU. You might counter that TCU certainly didn't beat Oklahoma by any grand margin, but last week reveals something even more troubling about Baylor. Playing a bad Texas team, Bear QB Bryce Petty played like garbage. Barely 100 yards passing, 31% completion rate awful. This is the same Texas secondary that let UCLA's backup QB beat them. Yes, the Oklahoma win was at home, and yes, traveling to Waco is a different animal, but TCU is just a better team, and dual-threat QB Trevone Boykin should keep the Horned Frogs in the thick of a tight Big 12 championship race. TCU: 34--Bay: 27

Schweinfurth: TCU had a nice little win over Oklahoma.  The big question is, can they shut down another Heisman candidate in Bryce Petty?  I'm not so sure, but then again, the Bear defense is just horrendous.  I think TCU can make at least one stop in this game and it will be enough.  TCU: 42--Baylor: 38

Seeberg:  And suddenly this game got WAY more interesting after TCU's upset last week.  (Side note:  Anyone, even 5 years ago, who tells you they KNEW that Baylor and TCU would be the best two teams in Texas is a lying sack of manure).  Baylor has been steamrolling opponents until they hit the Longhorns, only scoring 28, and it's hard to imagine that offense laying an egg two weeks in a row.  Then again, Bryce Petty struggled and was beaten in his last game of consequence against UCF in the Fiesta Bowl.  Still, Baylor scored 42 in that contest, and that should be enough points to get them a win at home.  TCU: 34--Baylor: 42

Ole Miss Rebels @ Texas A&M Aggies

Draper: TAMU has been living on a win over South Carolina in the opener that hasn't matured at all (in fact, it's rotted).  I haven't understood the hype they've been getting which is why I jumped on the CLANGA bandwagon last week.  Now the Rebels come in after the biggest win in school history.  Dr. Bo had a really nice game against the Tide and Nkemdiche and the Ole Miss defense was just nasty.  All signs point to Ole Miss keeping it rolling. But... As soon as last week ended, the Rebels acted like they had just won the Championship.  It looked like they emptied the chambers to get their signature win.  Bama isn't the Bama of the last 5 years.  Ole Miss has a great team, but Dr. Bo is ready for a faceplant. Kyle Field is the place.  I have NO faith that A&M is really any good....but I think they're good enough at HOME to take down another 'spent' team.  If the Rebels limit mistakes, they should take the win, but I don't think they will.  Ole Miss: 24--TAMU: 27

Hoying: Whom has Texas A&M beaten this season? South Carolina, the team that just lost to Kentucky? Winless SMU? Arkansas (in overtime)? The Aggies were exposed last week in Starkville as a less-than-serious SEC competitor in the brutal West division, but they can earn a quick redemption with a win over one of America's hottest teams, the Ole Miss Rebels. The Rebs' win over Alabama was no accident: Ole Miss features a punishing defense the likes of which the SEC hasn't seen in a couple of years. And shhhhh....but QB Bo Wallace might be just as good as A&M gunslinger Kenny Hill. The outstanding recruiting is finally paying off; Ole Miss is a genuinely elite team and not to be taken lightly. I don't think the Aggies are good enough to stop them. Ole Miss: 31--TAMU: 17

Schweinfurth: Ole Miss can't really be a top 5 team right?  Seriously I'm not buying.  What I am buying is the upset hangover they will have coming into this game.  The Aggies have a better offense than Alabama and will surely test that defense.  Ole Miss: 35--TAMU: 42

Seeberg:  As the season has progressed, A&M's "signature" dismantling of South Carolina looks less like a John Hancock and more like an outright forgery.  They only scored 17 meaningful points against Mississippi State last week and Ole Miss's D is likely even better.  What's more, even if the A&M offense shows up and competes, their defense just doesn't have the playmakers to make Bo Wallace pay for the 2-3 head-scratching throws he typically (ignoring last week) makes in a given game.  The college football world will indeed remain Mississippi-centric.  Ole Miss: 38--TAMU: 21

Upset Special

Draper: USC over Zona

Hoying: Washington State over Stanford

Schweinfurth: Arkansas over Alabama

Seeberg:  Toledo over Iowa State

Week 6 - The Season Has Finally Arrived

Standings

1) Draper               15-6    (3-2 upset)

1) Schweinfurth     15-6    (2-3 upset)

1) Seeberg              15-6    (0-5 upset)

4) Hoying               14-7    (2-3 upset)

Following the most boring week ever at Let's Go Bucks!, in which each of us picked the favorite in every game and they all won, Week 6 finally provides a terrific slate of ranked and undefeated matchups, including 3 from the seemingly untouchable SEC West. Since there are so many, the write-ups will each be a bit shorter this week, but the "quantity over quality" mentality has never failed us before.

Arizona Wildcats @ Oregon Ducks
Draper: RichRod has the offense rolling in Zona and capped it off with a Hail Mary win over Cal, but the Ducks are not the Bears.  The Ducks have looked great all year and they get another stage vs. an undefeated Cats squad (although they are a bit overrated).  Mariota grabs hold of the Heisman frontrunner position with another big game as the Autzen crowd is too much for RichRod and company.  High scoring, but not particularly close.  Zona: 34--Ore: 52

Hoying: If you (like me) don't get the Pac-12 Network or (unlike me) don't stay up until 2 AM ET to watch college football, you may have missed Arizona's ridiculous comeback against Cal to push the 'Cats to 4-0, the best game of the year so far. Arizona hasn't beaten anyone of note, and they haven't looked impressive doing it. Speed bump against Washington State aside, Oregon has. Could this be a week Brady Hoke picks up a win on DickRod? Zona: 27--Ore: 48

Schweinfurth: Rich Rod has the Wildcats at 4-0!?! I guess TTUN should have given that non-Michigan Man more time (at least he doesn't play concussed QBs).  But I digress.  This game is going to be a straight up shoot-out.  Both teams have very potent offenses and pretty much meh defenses.  I fully expect this to come down to the last possession but this game is in Eugene.  The Ducks do not lose in Eugene. Zona: 42--Ore: 49

Seeberg:  This one should be an enjoyable watch.  Michigan State scored nearly 30 against Oregon at their place and their offense is not nearly as prolific as the one the Wildcats possess.  However, MSU's D is far superior to Arizona's, and it is likely that Oregon will be scoring at will.  Needing a 36-point fourth quarter against Cal?  Doesn't sound like a team capable of springing the upset.  Quack on.  Zona: 31--Ore: 55

Texas A&M Aggies @ Mississippi State Bulldogs

Draper: Texas A&M has captured the nation's eye with wins over South Carolina (overrated) and Arkansas (eh...) but MSU went into Death Valley and took down the Bayou Bengals.  Dak Prescott has Dan Mullen's team churning and I expect more of the same against an overrated A&M defense.  The Aggies showed some vulnerability to the run vs. the Razorbacks.  Let's not forget that Starkville used to be one of the toughest places to play with those cowbells.  Kenny Hill still runs a nice offense under Kevin Sumlin, but they came a little bit back down to earth last week.  I'm going with CLANGA! TAMU: 20--MSU: 27

Hoying: Bert "Karma" Bielema's Razorbacks put a scare into A&M last week, while Mississippi State was still at home celebrating a rare road win at LSU. The Bulldogs can run the ball almost as well as Arkansas, and MSU QB Dak Prescott is coming along nicely as a sleeper Heisman pick in this young season. I said last week that a one-dimensional team wasn't going to beat the Aggies, but Mississippi State has just the right offensive formula, along with a D that punished LSU for three quarters until they realized they weren't supposed to win. Hey Bulldog! TAMU: 24--MSU: 27

Schweinfurth: Is there a more overrated team than Mississippi State?  I really don't think so.  That win over LSU was nice but the hype the Dogs are getting is a bit much (SEC bias much).  As far as A&M goes, I don't trust their defense but that offense is some kind of machine.  Look for Kenny Hill to keep up this tear he is on.  This one may be close for a half but A&M will just flat outscore the Bulldogs.  TAMU: 42--MSU: 31

Seeberg:  Mississippi State looked shot out of a cannon last week, jumping out to a big lead before NOT pulling a Wisconsin and hanging on to beat LSU.  The Bulldogs run it well, and A&M is a leaky sieve when it comes to run D.  All signs point to another big MSU win and a top 10 ranking...which is exactly why I'm picking the Aggies.  It's been a long time since Miss St. has played a game of this magnitude, and they're just not quite ready.  A&M scores just enough to outlast Mullen's crew.  TAMU: 38--MSU: 35

Nebraska Cornhuskers @ Michigan State Spartans

Draper: This may the second biggest game in the B1G this year.  Ameer Abdullah has been fantastic this year, but that's about the only plus in Lincoln.  Time for a wakeup call as the Spartans provide some real competition.  Connor Cook and Sparty have been rolling after the loss in Autzen.  I don't think the Huskers have the horses to keep up with MSU in East Lansing.  The Spartans keep it going before the big game vs. the Buckeyes. Neb: 17--MSU: 31

Hoying: This will probably be the meeting of the two highest-ranked teams in the B1G, but it matters so little in the conference scheme. The OSU/MSU winner should take the East, and the Nebraska/Wisconsin winner should represent the West, regardless of the outcome of this game. But I still need to pick a winner, so here we go: Michigan State is still riding the hype from last year's Rose Bowl win. They've blown out their slate of nobodies, but they lost to Oregon by multiple scores. Nebraska is quietly putting together a nice season after the McNeese near-disaster, led by the B1G's best rusher, Ameer Abdullah. AA has 2 100-yard games against Nebraska, and I see no reason why he won't do it again. We've seen what an elite RB can do to the Spartan defense; Husker fans had better hope that Herman-style play calling doesn't take them from sure victory to Bo Pelini Land. Neb: 31--MSU: 27

Schweinfurth: This is a benchmark game for Nebraska.  A win by the Huskers could show that they are one of the top teams in the B1G.  A loss says they are still a second tier team.  Michigan State is going to force Tommy Armstrong to throw the ball, as well they should.  Armstrong can be erratic and only complets just over 50% of his passes.  Connor Cook has done a good job of managing the Spartan offense this year and should continue that trend.  Nebraska keeps it close but Sparty YES! Neb: 17--MSU: 21

Seeberg:  I know this is a "big game", two top 20 teams, potential conference supremacy at stake...but I just don't see it.  Michigan State is better in every phase with the exception of Abdullah trouncing tacklers to save a game against an FCS opponent while MSU hung 73 on a MAC squad.  This one will not be closer than the experts think.  Neb: 13--MSU: 34

Oklahoma Sooners @ Texas Christian Horned Frogs

Draper: TCU has turned into a perennial 'pretty good', but OU looks like a juggernaut this year.  The Sooners are mowing teams down and I don't expect anything different here.  No one has been paying attention to Trevor Knight and company because, you know, SEC, SEC, SEC, but after they 'hung on' to beat UT 34-10 (lolESPN) it's time to keep an eye on the boys from Norman.  OU: 31--TCU: 17
Hoying: How about that TCU win over...Minnesota... The Horned Frogs have been thoroughly mediocre since joining the Big 12 (mod 12) and until they come up with a big win, there's a heavy presumption against believing that they can. Plus, Oklahoma has a win over an SEC team!!!!!!!1!! OU: 41--TCU: 20

Schweinfurth: TCU has played well so far this year, but here comes Big Game Bob and the Sooners.  Trevor Knight is one heck of a QB and has kind of gotten lost in the shuffle.  I'm not sure why we aren't hearing more about this Oklahoma team because they are GOOD.  I'll take that Oklahoma offense all day. OU: 38--TCU: 14

Seeberg:  TCU is undefeated and ranked and, therefore, the best team OU will have played to date, at least in theory.  Tennessee has arguably more talent, though inexperienced talent, and OU coasted to a win over the Volunteers.  TCU, meanwhile, has played nobody (Minnesota), nobody jr. (SMU) and even-nobodys-don't-know-this-guy (Samford).  Not exactly good preparation for Oklahoma.  Sooners roll again.  OU: 31--TCU: 13

Stanford Cardinal @ Notre Dame Fighting Irish

Draper: Notre Dame has looked really good with Everett Golson back under center, and the Cardinal are nearly impossible to figure out.  Stanford should have crushed USC based on the stats, but they couldn't finish.  Under the gaze of Touchdown Jesus, the Irish keep it rolling over a questionable Stanford squad.  It will be ugly, because that's how Stanford wants it, but the Irish will do just enough. Stan: 17--ND: 20
Hoying: Notre Dame has looked impressive so far, but all of their wins are over total bottom-feeders. Meanwhile, the Cardinal stupided a game away against USC and needed everything in the bag to get by Washington last week. Since Stanford's resurgence, Notre Dame has gone 1-4 in this matchup, but that win featured Everett Golson behind center. In Notre Dame's undefeated 2012 regular season, Golson tossed 11 TDs. This year, he has 11 in the first 4 games. Onward to victory. Stan: 13--ND: 14

Schweinfurth: Notre Dame is undefeated and in the top 10!!! Let's take a look shall we?  Notre Dame's best win is against a historically bad Michigan team that puts the fun in dysfunction.  Hmm, sounds like a quality win? Last week, the Domers struggled against Syracuse giving up 5(!) turnovers.  Sanford has the nation's best defense their only loss is a flukey one against USC.  Seems to me that Stanford is better.  They are and they win a low scoring, close one.  Stan: 17--ND: 10

Seeberg:  Another game that, in theory, is a big one.  Notre Dame is still undefeated and in the top 10 despite a schedule that rivals TCU's thus far (see above) with Rice and the decrepit Michigan among their foes.  Stanford, however, struggled at Washington after leading 10-0.  I'd like to think I trust Stanford more, but it will be a nailbiter.  Stan: 27--ND: 20 (OT)

Alabama Crimson Tide @ Ole Miss Rebels

Draper:   Dr. Bo has kept the Rebels valid, but Bama is another monster all together.  The Tide defense has remained an immovable object, but Lane Kiffin has a relevant Bama offense with Blake Sims.  Yes, they enter the Grove which can be a tough place to play, but it's not one of the premier locations.  Tide rolls to remain the big dog in the big bad SEC West. Bama: 31--Miss: 20
Hoying: Didn't we see this movie last year? Undefeated Mississippi plays undefeated Alabama, gets blasted, has a good-but-not-great season. Ole Miss has scooped up the garbage they've been dealt so far, but as long as the Tide can avoid the turnovers that let Florida hang around for a half, this one shouldn't be in question. Bama: 27--Miss: 14

Schweinfurth: Ole Miss had done a good job bringing in talent on both sides of the ball.  No whether or not that talent can hang with Bama or not is yet to be seen.  There is a big part of me that likes the Rebles in this game.  Right now it seems that, if you can shut down Amari Cooper and Yeldon, you can shut down the Tide offense.  I think both stay contained and we get more *narrative* on how deep the SEC is.  Bama: 28--Miss: 31

Seeberg:  This one is terrifying to pick.  Both Mississippi schools have top 6, undefeated, divisional foes coming into town.  The odds of both failing is remote.  I truly believe 'Bama will lose at least three games this season, much like their 2010 campaign.  No time like the present to turn the Tide (see what I did there??).  The Grove will be partying into the wee hours Bama: 17--Miss: 27

LSU Tigers @ Auburn Tigers

Draper: Auburn is undefeated, but they simply don't look like the freakish offensive juggernaut from last year.  That being said, LSU has also appeared to take a step back.  Nick Marshall is keeping the offense solid, but the loss of Tre Mason is rearing its head.  The main difference in Auburn is a defense that doesn't have the playmakers from the SEC champion squad of 2013.  Jordan Hare makes the difference as Auburn wins a close one to stay the top Tigers in the SEC. LSU: 24--Aub: 34
Hoying: Y'all is Tiger bait. Auburn's rushing attack continues to roll on behind RB Curtis Artis-Payne and QB Nick Marshall, while LSU is suffering a bit of an offensive identity crisis without Zach Ermahgerd taking snaps. Sure, they crushed New Mexico State, but that doesn't erase an ugly home loss to Mississippi State that a furious comeback can't obscure. Auburn will be looking for revenge after their only SEC blemish of a magical 2013 season, and they'll get it. LSU: 24--Aub: 28

Schweinfurth: It's time for the real Auburn to stand up.  I never looked at Auburn as a great team last year and they got lucky in a few big games.  The nation has had time to see this rushing attack for a few years and it's about time someone figures out how to stop it.  As crazy as Les Miles is, I think he's the guy that cracks the code.  LSU: 24--Aub: 21

Seeberg:  MAN there are a lot of great games this week.  About time!  Except, of course, they're tough to pick.  LSU is angry even after destroying New Mexico State, and Auburn looked pretty pedestrian against their lone opponent of consequence, squeaking out a 20-14 win at Kansas State.  Quite frankly, and superstitiously, I think Jordan Hare has exhausted its magic for this decade.  Time for the SEC West to beat the living daylights out of each other until everyone is tied at 6-2.  LSU: 31--Aub: 23

THE Ohio State University Buckeyes @ Maryland Terrapins

Draper: Welcome to the B1G Maryland.  We'll get you started with the big dog.  The Bucks roll into College Park on a high note after having their way with the Bearcats defense.  The Terps have looked pretty good thus far, but OSU is a different animal.  The pass defense of the Bullets can't give up the big play as they did repeatedly against Gunner Kiel, but I don't think the QB in Maryland (whoever ends up playing) has the chops to make the big throws.  That being said, look out for Stefon Diggs who was targeted by Urban but fell through the cracks to the Terps.  He has some big time talent, but it's not enough.  Barrett continues some stellar QB play and Zeke moves the chains. Bucks win. OSU: 38--Maryland: 20
Hoying: Everyone laughed when the B1G decided to add Maryland and Rutgers, but these two teams are each a late score away from being undefeated atop the B1G East standings. The Terps have been getting it done with great QB play from C.J. Brown, but he sprained is wrist against Indiana and may be limited against Ohio State. Maryland is also missing one of their starting corners, Alvin Hill, so the Buckeyes may enjoy a significant pass game advantage this Saturday. Couple that with EzE's coming out party against Cincinnati and Maryland's over-reliance on the injured Brown's running ability, and you have the ingredients of a solid, though close, Buckeye victory. OSU: 38--Maryland: 27

Schweinfurth: This is another big test for the Ohio State secondary.  Everyone wants to criticize the Buckeye secondary, and I understand that.  Those three plays were BAD.  The good news is that those mistakes are now on film and the coaches can make some adjustments. As for Maryland, Stefon Diggs is the real deal.  The two QBs the Terps are gonna toss out there could cause a bit of confusion.  This Buckeye offense is looking very potent and has put up 50+ the last two games.  Welcome to the B1G Maryland.  This one is close for a quarter. OSU: 42--Maryland: 21

Seeberg:  Hmmm, why are the Bucks playing another out-of-conf...oh yeah, nevermind.  Gonna take some getting used to.  In any event, all appeared to be as expected last week in our dismantling of Cincinnati.  The pass D was suspect, but the Terrapins do not have the same skill level across the board.  Dontre, to his credit, asked politely for more touches in the offense.  Give that man the ball Urban!  Lots of short to intermediate passes, Dontre touches it 17 times, scores twice, and the Bucks roll again.  OSU: 45--Maryland: 17

Upset Special

Draper: Texas Tech over Kansas State

Hoying: Northwestern over Wisconsin

Schweinfurth: Utah over UCLA

Seeberg:  Michigan over Rutgers (no seriously, Rutgers is favored, look it up)