Yes, it sucks to start the season on the road, but just be thankful Kevin Wilson's reunion tour with the Scarlet and Gray isn't kicking off with one of those neutral-site abominations plaguing the remainder of the sport this week.
Michigan Wolverines vs. Florida Gators
Draper: Well, this game is my personal hell. No clue what to expect here. Michigan came out firing on all cylinders last year but all those studs are in the NFL now. I truly believe they are supremely overrated....but...Florida seems to be the definition of mediocrity this year (and the recent past). I don't think the Wolverines can make a statement for the CFP this year, they do have a returning QB who was pretty good last year and a coach that just seems to get results (maybe because his players are scared he'll eat them). I'll lean Michigan just barely as their uniforms blind the Gators. UM: 24--UF: 20
Hoying: I wish I could write something intelligent about this game but Michigan refuses to release their roster and Florida won't name a starting QB. So I'll have to say something mindless instead. Did you see those new uniforms that the Maize and...well, Maize are wearing this Saturday? On the positive side, I don't think they'll burn out my eyes like UM's awful yellow-on-yellow b-ball jerseys, but this one's going to be ugly. And it could be a blowout, too. UM: 20--UF: 10
Schweinfurth: The headline for this game should be "Have you seen what TTUN is wearing?" This could be one of the worst uniforms ever (and I bet they break them out against the Buckeyes too). I really don't know what to expect from either team. Florida is suspending everyone and TTUN lost a ton of talent last year. Don't let Harbooger fool you, Speight will start and lead the offense to a one score win, making TTUN even more overrated than they already are. UM: 21--UF: 17
Seeberg: Ugh, this is the college football equivalent of the Mayweather-McGregor fight where I hoped the pay-per-view cut out completely and both guys lost because neither got paid (admit it, you would've laughed your arse off if that happened). At any rate, TTUN rolls their uniforms in cat urine and trots down south to take on the Gators. I don't expect it to be a particularly pretty matchup as the Wolverines are replacing about as many starters as OSU was last year while Florida is, well, Florida: Very good defense, middling offense, expectations always just a notch or two above any realistic outcomes. Malik Zaire actually gives them a credible QB threat...if he starts over highly touted freshman Feleipe Franks. Either way there won't be a lot of points, which is just how both teams prefer it. In crunch time, I have to go with a proven commodity at QB and Speight makes just enough plays to, sadly, pull it out for the maize and more maize. UM: 20--UF: 16
Florida State Seminoles vs. Alabama Crimson Tide
Draper: Bama has been starting with a big boy for the past few years (USC, PSU, etc.), but this is a real challenge. The Noles are primed to make a run this year, but it can come crashing down (sort of) in week 1. Honestly, this game is a perfect scenario for both teams. The winner vaults to number 1 and is a prohibitive favorite for the playoff and the loser...is still right there in the running. I wonder what kind of strides DeAndre Francois and the Noles have made this offseason. Beating last year's UM team in the Orange Bowl was a nice feather in their cap, but Bama is a juggernaut that seems to be unstoppable (unless your name is Dabo). Definitely a little heart in this pick, but I'll call for the upset. Bama is a factory, but they have to run a little lower on talent when their roster is playing on Sundays, right...RIGHT!?! Either way, I just hope it's not the traditional early season stomp by the Tide. Go Noles! FSU: 31--Bama: 27
Hoying: The other day, I was listening to the good people at 97.1 The Fan try to list their top coaches of college football today. After the obvious top two (Nick and Urban), they filled out the second tier with Chris Petersen and Dabo Swinney, notably placing Jimbo Fisher somewhere down the line. It's hard to argue with recent results, with Clemson going to 2 straight national championships and claiming a win over Alabama. Florida State now has a golden opportunity to make a statement and regain their status as standard-bearer for the ACC. Can they do it? Probably not. Alabama has shown no signs of slowing down, they excel on the big stage, and they are pissed after gagging away a possible second straight national title. Florida State has lost the bulk of their receiving corps and their dynamic running back, Dalvin Cook. The good news for the Noles is that nobody on the committee will hold this loss against them (just don't get wrecked by 46 like USC did last year). FSU: 24--Bama: 31
Schweinfurth: Oh look, Bama playing a marquee matchup at a neutral site. Heaven forbid Saban actually has to play on someone else's home field. DeAndre Francois looked like a solid first year QB last season. Jalen Hurts on the other hand looked like a dynamic runner but throwing the ball was an issue. Yes, 'Bama reload every year, blah blah blah. So do the 'Noles. I'm excited for this game as it should be much better then the last few kickoff games. I got the 'Noles giving Saban two (!) losses in a row. FSU: 27--Bama: 24
Seeberg: Make no mistake about this game kids, Alabama is the better football team. There is a caveat, however. Both have sophomore star-in-the-making QBs hoping to take a big leap forward this season. Both lost a truckload of talent to the NFL. However, Jalen Hurts is the less-skilled of the two QBs and he is forced to learn a new, NFL-complicated offense. If this game were in about week 6 or later, it would be at least a two-possession win for the Tide, but right now, JUST right now, I trust the Seminoles a tad more. FSU: 27--Bama: 20
West Virginia Mountaineers vs. Virginia Tech Hokies
Draper: And now we come to the 'oh yeah, there's other games happening' portion. The crazy coach often comes out the victor Harbaugh, Saban, Fisher, Dabo, etc. and they don't get much crazier that Dana Holgorson. West Virginia will come out trying to drop a hundo but the lunch pail defense will prevent that....but not enough to win. Burn those couches as WVU gets an early jump on that 8-4 record (don't worry Hokies, you'll get there too) WVU: 48--VT: 38
Hoying: Is it mid-October yet? No? Then I don't see West Virginia's annual slide starting anytime soon. WVU: 44--VT: 31
Schweinfurth: I don't know what to think of this game. I saw some pundits picking Virginia Tech as a sleeper (sounds like basketball). Bud Foster can give teams nightmares but I don't think VaTech has the offense to keep up. WVU: 45--VT: 35
Seeberg: Despite Bud Foster still being at the defensive helm for the Hokies, this isn't your older brother's Frank Beamer Va Tech team. They can score it, and score it relatively often. Unfortunately, recruiting is down in Blacksburg and Foster isn't getting the premium talent he had during Beamer Ball's heyday. Meanwhile, West Virginia is getting offensive talent from everywhere...and scoring was never really an issue there anyhow. Expect the antithesis of the UM-Fla game (read: actually fun to watch) with the Mountaineers pulling away late. WVU: 48--VT: 33
THE Ohio State Buckeyes @ Indiana Hoosiers
Draper: I'm really excited about this year's Buckeye squad, particularly under center. I truly believe that having actual live QB Coaches and offensive coordinators will do wonders for JT. The Hoosiers simply won't be the same with one of their more successful coaches of the past 20 years now championing the OSU offense. The speed offense and short passing game is what JT's (and quite frankly, Urban's) offense is designed for, and Kevin Wilson runs it extremely well. Here's hoping Ryan Day improved JT's mechanics and we should see fireworks. Let's not forget how studly Mike Weber was last year not to mention some criminally under-utilized receiving corps talent. While so far I've only mentioned offense, the defense (particularly the line) should be the bread and butter of this team. Bosa, Hubbard, Sprinkle, Lewis, Jones, and Holmes will likely all be playing on Sundays in the near future. The front seven is loaded but there are a few question marks in the secondary. IU actual provides a really nice tune up for the Sooners. I don't anticipate this to be close. The Buckeyes are hungry after last year's embarrassment. Time to suit up. OSU: 59--IU: 10
Hoying: So, what do you do if you're Indiana? What is there to do when your offensive wizard of a coach is chased out after restoring your program to a semblance of respectability? Come roaring back with a new defensive identity. Unfortunately, it probably won't matter when the team you're facing has picked up that offensive wizard to call plays for them. The Buckeye O, while more or less effective over the last two seasons, has slowed a bit since JT's sensational freshman campaign, and their championship chances will largely rest on his development over his final year under Coach Wilson's steady hand. Having some competent receivers might not be a bad idea, either. OSU: 52--IU: 24
Schweinfurth: So many questions coming into this game: What will the offense look like? Can J.T. complete an intermediate pass? Can the receivers get open down field? What will the secondary look like? Can a Buckeye kicker make a damn field goal? Will there be a kickoff out of bounds in this game? (The answer to the last one is yes). The addition of Kevin Wilson and Ryan Day to the offensive staff can't be overlooked. It's been 2 years since J.T. had an actual QB coach and his mechanics and reads should be much better. I am worried about rotating 6 receivers. It almost sounds like the coaching staff is saying, "We don't know who is going to step up so everyone plays." The D-line play will be fun to watch. Schiano changed up the defensive front a bit so expect more sacks and domination up front. Ohio State will win this game, but we really need some of those questions answered. OSU: 49--IU: 28
Seeberg: Okay, I saved the jubilation for here, but COLLEGE FOOTBALL IS (INSERT FAVORITE EXPLETIVE OR STRING OF EXPLETIVES HERE) BACK!!! Despite the name on the opponent's jersey (and the laughable resume that accompanies it) this is quite the intriguing matchup. The Hoosiers offense has given the Buckeyes fits in recent years, keeping games close despite a wide talent disparity between the two programs except, somehow, at running back where Hoosier alum Tevin Coleman is currently running amok in the NFL akin to Zeke. However, the alleged mastermind of said offense now works for the scarlet and gray. Oops. Yes the Buckeyes have a lot of weaknesses, like a secondary made up of...yeah, if you're reading this you don't know either. But the front 4/6/19 studs that rotate in and out will wreak havoc upon opposing QBs so even if receivers are getting open they won't have the time to find them. I expect a bit of rust, a bit of adrenaline, and, most importantly, a dominant OL and DL. With those two pieces, everything else has a way of *cough 2014 cough* falling into place. Enjoy everyone, Buckeye football is upon us again! OSU: 45--IU: 17
Upset Special
Draper: App State over Georgia
Hoying: Rutgers over Washington
Schweinfurth: Georgia Tech over Tenn
Seeberg: Youngstown State over Pitt
Showing posts with label Virginia Tech. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Virginia Tech. Show all posts
Wednesday, August 30, 2017
Tuesday, September 08, 2015
Grading the Bucks-- Week 1: Virginia Tech
Decent performance in week 1, but I'm going to be honest, I will be a very tough grader this year. This team isn't vying for a conference championship...they're trying to be an all-time great. If you want to be the best, criticism is needed.
Let me be clear, I think Urban made the incorrect decision concerning the starting QB, but that is NOT the purpose of this weekly post. I will grade based on the on-field performance (sans coaching).
Offense: B+
Coming out like gangbusters with the tough grading. Cardale was...good, but I expected more from an accuracy standpoint. The interception wasn't an issue (fantastic play by VT), but some of the decisions baffled me (the decision to throw late over the middle on the pick was bad). 12 Gauge continues to show the absolute jaw-dropping strength to casually flip the ball 40 yards while jumping backwards. Forgetting about accuracy, that arm strength is astounding. The passing game was fine but Cardale let a few passes go that he never should have attempted (and one was a TD). When you have a backup H-back making a diving catch while being interfered with, there just aren't words... Jones running was OK, but the option is not his game. The QB power is his strength so use it! Cardale will be fine, but his decision making still needs work.
Zeke was in midseason form from the first run, but Urban clearly didn't see the need to wear him out. More carries for the bell-cow would be nice, but the Oline needs some work. VT has a really good Dline and it showed here. Hard to knock the Oline that gave up 0 sacks and produced 300+ rushing yards, but Cardale's raw physicality kept the sack number round and the ball carriers were simply the top of the game. Price and Boren need to pick up their play to be an all-timer team.
JT comes in and immediately runs for 40 and throws a gorgeous touch pass for 26 for a TD to the next big star Mike Thomas. I loved the way the offense flowed effortlessly under JT. It was the style and panache to Cardale's muscle.
Finally, the biggest story was the forgotten Braxton Miller. What a fantastic resurgence! There aren't words for how amazing he must feel for reminding Buckeye Nation what he brings to the table. I think he's found a home position that will earn him a nice chunk at the next level and push the Bucks to another title. I thought he'd be ok as a WR, but I never expected the hands to supplement the raw athleticism.
Defense: C+
Secondary looked pretty darn good (other than Apple getting juked by a fullback...C'mon Man!). The concern is in the front seven. Bosa will certainly shore up the pass rush, but the interior line wasn't as dominant as I'd like. More concerning was the inconsistent play of the LBs. Lee, Perry, and McMillan made some nice plays, but were out of position on just as many plays. Hopefully, it was first game jitters, but that unit has a history to live up to. The biggest positive was the young guns. Hubbard, while not Bosa, filled in quite well and Conley was fantastic (other than a baaaad DPI). The downgrade is because I have no belief that VT is good on offense. Brewer was moving the ball comfortably when VT got the momentum. That shouldn't happen. It wasn't easy, but it wasn't hard. Final Note: The throwback TD was defended pretty well (options 1-4 were covered). When it comes to goalline defense, you need to sell out on a few options and hope for the best. The only realistic way to stop the throwback is to get to the QB (which we didn't).
Special Teams: Butt
Oh boy, here we go again. Let's see: kickoff out of bounds (check), hold on a punt that wasn't fielded (check), muffed punt (check), missed FG (check). Come on guys. There is simply no excuse here. I know Zeke isn't normally a punt returner...so don't make him return punts. Honestly, while Jalin Marshall provides home run potential, I'm not more confident that he won't fumble. Get. Better.
Coaching: C
The playcalling was very questionable. While Cardale was the starter, it sure seemed like the playcalling was optimized for JT's game. JT runs the option (read and/or speed) better than pretty much anyone in the game, but speed option isn't in Cardale's repertoire. The lack of the slant game still baffles me, and honestly, VT was giving Cardale single coverages all day. Why didn't we take more shots downfield? I don't understand the gameplan. Props to the coaches for preparing Braxton and making us completely forget about the suspensions.
Overall: B-
Good start, but I want more. If Brewer didn't go down, would the game have been different? I don't think so, but the question bears consideration. The defense needs to turn up to the level at which they finished the title run. The offense is going to be next level and we just scatched the surface. Let's not forget: the best player in college football (arguably), the number 1 punt returner, and 2 key receivers/Hbacks have yet to play...and we dominated a decent team in a tough environment. Check that, the score says dominated, but I don't give them that description...yet. We saw the flashes of all-time greatness. This entire season is about the chase for history. It has begun.
Let me be clear, I think Urban made the incorrect decision concerning the starting QB, but that is NOT the purpose of this weekly post. I will grade based on the on-field performance (sans coaching).
Offense: B+
Coming out like gangbusters with the tough grading. Cardale was...good, but I expected more from an accuracy standpoint. The interception wasn't an issue (fantastic play by VT), but some of the decisions baffled me (the decision to throw late over the middle on the pick was bad). 12 Gauge continues to show the absolute jaw-dropping strength to casually flip the ball 40 yards while jumping backwards. Forgetting about accuracy, that arm strength is astounding. The passing game was fine but Cardale let a few passes go that he never should have attempted (and one was a TD). When you have a backup H-back making a diving catch while being interfered with, there just aren't words... Jones running was OK, but the option is not his game. The QB power is his strength so use it! Cardale will be fine, but his decision making still needs work.
Zeke was in midseason form from the first run, but Urban clearly didn't see the need to wear him out. More carries for the bell-cow would be nice, but the Oline needs some work. VT has a really good Dline and it showed here. Hard to knock the Oline that gave up 0 sacks and produced 300+ rushing yards, but Cardale's raw physicality kept the sack number round and the ball carriers were simply the top of the game. Price and Boren need to pick up their play to be an all-timer team.
JT comes in and immediately runs for 40 and throws a gorgeous touch pass for 26 for a TD to the next big star Mike Thomas. I loved the way the offense flowed effortlessly under JT. It was the style and panache to Cardale's muscle.
Finally, the biggest story was the forgotten Braxton Miller. What a fantastic resurgence! There aren't words for how amazing he must feel for reminding Buckeye Nation what he brings to the table. I think he's found a home position that will earn him a nice chunk at the next level and push the Bucks to another title. I thought he'd be ok as a WR, but I never expected the hands to supplement the raw athleticism.
Defense: C+
Secondary looked pretty darn good (other than Apple getting juked by a fullback...C'mon Man!). The concern is in the front seven. Bosa will certainly shore up the pass rush, but the interior line wasn't as dominant as I'd like. More concerning was the inconsistent play of the LBs. Lee, Perry, and McMillan made some nice plays, but were out of position on just as many plays. Hopefully, it was first game jitters, but that unit has a history to live up to. The biggest positive was the young guns. Hubbard, while not Bosa, filled in quite well and Conley was fantastic (other than a baaaad DPI). The downgrade is because I have no belief that VT is good on offense. Brewer was moving the ball comfortably when VT got the momentum. That shouldn't happen. It wasn't easy, but it wasn't hard. Final Note: The throwback TD was defended pretty well (options 1-4 were covered). When it comes to goalline defense, you need to sell out on a few options and hope for the best. The only realistic way to stop the throwback is to get to the QB (which we didn't).
Special Teams: Butt
Oh boy, here we go again. Let's see: kickoff out of bounds (check), hold on a punt that wasn't fielded (check), muffed punt (check), missed FG (check). Come on guys. There is simply no excuse here. I know Zeke isn't normally a punt returner...so don't make him return punts. Honestly, while Jalin Marshall provides home run potential, I'm not more confident that he won't fumble. Get. Better.
Coaching: C
The playcalling was very questionable. While Cardale was the starter, it sure seemed like the playcalling was optimized for JT's game. JT runs the option (read and/or speed) better than pretty much anyone in the game, but speed option isn't in Cardale's repertoire. The lack of the slant game still baffles me, and honestly, VT was giving Cardale single coverages all day. Why didn't we take more shots downfield? I don't understand the gameplan. Props to the coaches for preparing Braxton and making us completely forget about the suspensions.
Overall: B-
Good start, but I want more. If Brewer didn't go down, would the game have been different? I don't think so, but the question bears consideration. The defense needs to turn up to the level at which they finished the title run. The offense is going to be next level and we just scatched the surface. Let's not forget: the best player in college football (arguably), the number 1 punt returner, and 2 key receivers/Hbacks have yet to play...and we dominated a decent team in a tough environment. Check that, the score says dominated, but I don't give them that description...yet. We saw the flashes of all-time greatness. This entire season is about the chase for history. It has begun.
Wednesday, September 02, 2015
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
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
Tuesday, September 09, 2014
Grading the Bucks: Week 2--Virginia Tech
Oof...that one hurt. This team has some serious gaps (paging the offensive line), but give credit to the Hokies. They brought their A game with a solid transfer QB and a relentless pass rush. I was impressed with them...but that was not a good day for the Bucks.
Offense: D+
Let's nip this in the bud right away--J.T. Barrett was not the problem. He wasn't perfect, but that line was a dumpster fire. He showed his youth with his quick abandonment of looking downfield, but he had good reason. The line is a train wreck. No QB would have had a chance in that situation. If they don't improve, it will be a rough season. The silver lining is that the Bucks won't face anyone near the quality of VT until MSU, but they have serious retooling work ahead of them. In addition, the WR corps needs to get better (Corey Smith? I'm talking about you). A freshman QB delivered a giftwrapped TD and he became Greg Little. There is no excuse for that at OSU. Running game? Where were you? JT ran well, but it's not his job! Tom Herman needs to utilize his athletes and sprinkle in quick slants/screens with some runs to keep that crazy pass rush honest. The Oline couldn't stop my grandma...
Defense: B-
Watching the game, I saw a lot of hate being lumped on the defense. I'll be honest, I thought they looked markedly better than last year. They are not world beaters by any stretch of the imagination, but it appears that the stud line was harrassing and the secondary prevented the big play. The main knock (giant elephant in the room) is the inability to get off the field on third down. That being said, Brewer played like a polished veteran and looked fantastic. I'm not convinced that was due to our defense as much as to VT having a competent QB. The secondary was improved, but still not there. I maintain that Darron Lee is a man but the other linebackers need work. Again, the silver lining is a nice soft schedule before PSU (which shouldn't be too bad).
Special Teams: F-
While the offensive line was offensive, the special teams was special. 2 missed kicks (including a 27 yarder!?!), a kick out of bounds, and a shanked punt? This cannot stand. I was impressed in week 1with the freshman kicker, but this is unacceptable. Yeah, he's young and the stage was huge, but we need consistent play in that aspect. I have a feeling the mystique of VT special teams created more havoc than the actual special teams. Tech was fine on special teams, but not any better than any other team. OSU let themselves down without much pressure.
Coaching: B-
The coaching wasn't horrific in this game other than some questionable playcalling. When the pressure turned up, it's time to start looking for quick throws. I don't like an offense based on flanker screens, but they can be involved in the gameplan. Also, maybe a HB screen or a FREAKING QUICK SLANT would relax some of the pressure on the QB from the revolving door Oline. The defensive gameplan was fine in my opinion, but Brewer just had a great game. Is the lack of usage of a power running game an artefact of a) a horrid Oline, b) no good backs, or c) a refusal to run between the tackles. a) I can understand, but we didn't keep the defense honest, so they pinned their ears back and attacked.
Overall: D
I want to give an F for failing when all that matters is winning, but I can't forget about Barrett playing at a non-F level and the defense showing up. This was a game the Buckeyes needed and they didn't show up. Credit to the Hokies for a superior gameplan that exploited the weakness in the O-line. At the end of the day, a loss is a loss and there are some serious holes that need plugging. You have a month to get better Bucks. Time to get to work. (Anyone seeking to play O-line for the Bucks should contact Urban ASAP).
Offense: D+
Let's nip this in the bud right away--J.T. Barrett was not the problem. He wasn't perfect, but that line was a dumpster fire. He showed his youth with his quick abandonment of looking downfield, but he had good reason. The line is a train wreck. No QB would have had a chance in that situation. If they don't improve, it will be a rough season. The silver lining is that the Bucks won't face anyone near the quality of VT until MSU, but they have serious retooling work ahead of them. In addition, the WR corps needs to get better (Corey Smith? I'm talking about you). A freshman QB delivered a giftwrapped TD and he became Greg Little. There is no excuse for that at OSU. Running game? Where were you? JT ran well, but it's not his job! Tom Herman needs to utilize his athletes and sprinkle in quick slants/screens with some runs to keep that crazy pass rush honest. The Oline couldn't stop my grandma...
Defense: B-
Watching the game, I saw a lot of hate being lumped on the defense. I'll be honest, I thought they looked markedly better than last year. They are not world beaters by any stretch of the imagination, but it appears that the stud line was harrassing and the secondary prevented the big play. The main knock (giant elephant in the room) is the inability to get off the field on third down. That being said, Brewer played like a polished veteran and looked fantastic. I'm not convinced that was due to our defense as much as to VT having a competent QB. The secondary was improved, but still not there. I maintain that Darron Lee is a man but the other linebackers need work. Again, the silver lining is a nice soft schedule before PSU (which shouldn't be too bad).
Special Teams: F-
While the offensive line was offensive, the special teams was special. 2 missed kicks (including a 27 yarder!?!), a kick out of bounds, and a shanked punt? This cannot stand. I was impressed in week 1with the freshman kicker, but this is unacceptable. Yeah, he's young and the stage was huge, but we need consistent play in that aspect. I have a feeling the mystique of VT special teams created more havoc than the actual special teams. Tech was fine on special teams, but not any better than any other team. OSU let themselves down without much pressure.
Coaching: B-
The coaching wasn't horrific in this game other than some questionable playcalling. When the pressure turned up, it's time to start looking for quick throws. I don't like an offense based on flanker screens, but they can be involved in the gameplan. Also, maybe a HB screen or a FREAKING QUICK SLANT would relax some of the pressure on the QB from the revolving door Oline. The defensive gameplan was fine in my opinion, but Brewer just had a great game. Is the lack of usage of a power running game an artefact of a) a horrid Oline, b) no good backs, or c) a refusal to run between the tackles. a) I can understand, but we didn't keep the defense honest, so they pinned their ears back and attacked.
Overall: D
I want to give an F for failing when all that matters is winning, but I can't forget about Barrett playing at a non-F level and the defense showing up. This was a game the Buckeyes needed and they didn't show up. Credit to the Hokies for a superior gameplan that exploited the weakness in the O-line. At the end of the day, a loss is a loss and there are some serious holes that need plugging. You have a month to get better Bucks. Time to get to work. (Anyone seeking to play O-line for the Bucks should contact Urban ASAP).
Thursday, September 04, 2014
Week 2 - B1G Chances for Redemption
Standings
1) Schweinfurth 3-1 (1-0 upset)
1) Draper 3-1 (1-0 upset---WEAK)
1) Hoying 3-1 (0-1 upset)
1) Seeberg 3-1 (0-1 upset- I should get .5 for mine, FCS team loses by 1 b/c of miraculous 2 TD comeback?? C'MON MAN!)
The B1G actually had a pretty decent week 1, going 12-2 with Ohio State, Penn State, and Rutgers scoring decent road wins, and no team falling flat on its face against a garbage opponent. However, all anyone will remember is Wisconsin's 2nd-half collapse against LSU, so it's up to the conference to notch a win against a top-level opponent to save face. Fortunately, three such opportunities present themselves in week 2.
Michigan State Spartans @ Oregon Ducks
Draper: This is a litmus test for both teams. Did MSU take a step back from the magical 2013? Is Oregon the juggernaut on offense they always claim to be? I'm expecting a pretty good game here in which the Spartans lay it all on the line...but fall just short in Autzen. The losses in MSU's secondary are just too much when going up against Marcus Mariota. I know he's not an exceptional passer, but with all the weapons on the ground, that pulls bodies out of pass protection. MSU looks good, but Oregon is no Jacksonville State (and MSU is no South Dakota). MSU: 24--Ore: 27
Hoying: Welcome to Part II of the B1G vs. Pac-12 Challenge. After B1G linchpin Rutgers dispatched Washington State last week, the stakes skyrocket in this showdown of presumptive conference favorites. Neither team will be out of the playoff hunt after a loss, but the loser will have to take care not to drop a conference game as well. Oregon is plenty flashy as always, rolling up 62 points against South Dakota, but the Ducks usually struggle against solid-tackling, defensive-minded squads (see 2011 LSU, 2010 Auburn, 2009 Ohio State and Boise State). MSU QB Connor Cook will have to continue his upward trend, but the Spartans should be bursting with confidence after their victory over last year's Pac-12 champ, Stanford, in the Rose Bowl. Remember, the Spartans need this win so that it's even more embarrassing when they lose to Indiana or Wyoming or whoever. MSU: 31--Ore: 27
Schweinfurth: Boy does the B1G need some love after Wisconsin choked (and that is putting it kindly). Everyone is talking about Michigan State's defense, and for good measure. They held Braxton and El Guapo in check for most of the B1G Championship Game and looked impressive doing it. Oregon runs a similar type of spread; run to set up the pass, short passing game, and a mobile and explosive QB. The difference here is that Mariota is a better passer than Miller. MSU challenged Braxton to throw across the middle of the field and he couldn't do it. Mariota can. This will likely be the Spartans' gameplan against a fast spread team like the Ducks. Combine that with the loss of Dennard and you have one MSU loss. Sorry Sparty, I just can't buy in. Prove me wrong. MSU: 24--Ore: 35
Seeberg: Time to put on the big boy pants and see who's who. MSU's offense is likely to be much improved, though we learned next to nothing about them against theSouth Carolina Jacksonville State Gamecocks (seriously? There are TWO Gamecock mascots? Still not as bad as a community college in Arizona, the Scottsdale Community College Fighting Artichokes- I kid you not). Likewise, we learned nothing about Oregon's supposedly vaunted offense against the likes of South Dakota. I get the sense that MSU cannot let Oregon get rolling early or it could get ugly, much like Seabiscuit retraining to break first in his match race against War Admiral (look it up). Bottom line? The two strongest units on the field will be Oregon's O and MSU's D, and sadly I trust Oregon's O a bit more. Let the B1G bashing commence. MSU: 20--Ore: 28
Michigan Wolverines @ Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Draper: Does the winner of this game get the ever present 'They're back!' label? Seems to be a recurring tradition between these two historical juggernauts that just haven't lived up to consistent expectations in the recent past. The Irish are sporting their revamped Everett Gholston (apparently, he's smart now!), but have serious questions from the academic issues that hit near the end of the offseason. Michigan is on cloud nine after evening their record with the powerhouse Mountaineers, and I think they keep it going. Gardner and Devin Funyons will be too much for the Domers to contain on offense. They're BACK! (until next week) UM: 31--ND: 24
Hoying: Say it ain't so! Notre Dame's fifth most important rivalry is about to go on hiatus for the fifth time. Both of these historically superlative but contemporarily mediocre programs are missing major offensive performers from last season, the Wolverines losing RB Fitz Toussaint and the Irish losing QB Tommy Rees. Then again, neither player was actually any good, so don't expect these units to break stride from where they ended last year. Michigan has been in a total nosedive since firing Lloyd Carr 7 years ago, but since it's still September, a win is within the realm of possibility. Notre Dame is still missing a few players for being too dumb to play college football, but there's hope: QB Everett Golson has finally found his way back onto campus after a similar problem last season. Too bad he won't do well enough to overcome the Gardner & Co. sporadic juggernaut. UM: 38--ND: 24
Schweinfurth: This is a rivalry game that I am sad to see get put off by conference politics. And by sad I mean I just like to watch both teams bumble all over the field. Yes, Everett Golson is back. Yes, Devin Gardner is back. To acknowledge that this game will blow anyone's doors off would insinuate that both QBs were competent in the first place. I really don't care who wins this game, but I think scUM's defense is better, but not by much. This game will be close as always. UM: 24--ND: 21
Seeberg: Ah yes, the annual "can they just play to a hideously contested 3-3 tie because I despise both teams?" game. Both dispatched lousy opponents with ease last week, but TTUN's offense was surprisingly, well, surprising, in that the play-calling was marginally less predictable than usual. Assuming there are more wrinkles reserved for their first real game, I expect UM to meet little resistance offensively en route to a double-digit win, thereby gratefully removing the perenially overrated Irish from the rankings, silencing the echoes yet again. UM: 34--ND: 20
USC Trojans @ Stanford Cardinal
Draper: I don't know what to think about these Pac 12 foes. Both teams crushed vastly inferior opponents last week but we really have no clue what to expect in an actual game. Sark has the SC history with him, but the roster isn't quite like the Leinhart and Bush days. I think the Trojans are on an upswing, but this is a doozy of a game on the road this early. Stanford has a nice consistent product that doesn't have the flash, but should come up with the meat of the sandwich to come out with a win. Blue collar boys slow down the flash...just enough. USC: 24--Stan: 27
Hoying: Now that the Lane Kiffin dumpster fire in Los Angeles has been extinguished, the Trojans are dreaming of regaining their Pac-12 supremacy status. Unfortunately, the conference isn't the one-team laugher it was back in the 2000's, and the Cardinal aren't keen to see their Rose Bowl streak ended at 2. Both teams feature great quarterbacks and untested running backs, most notably Stanford sophomore RB Barry Sanders, Jr. I'm tempted to give Stanford a slight edge due to the home field advantage, but that would require some fans to actually show up. This one will come down to whether the Cardinal play "Stanford football." I'm guessing...no. USC: 28--Stan: 27
Schweinfurth: I really don't know much about these teams, and honestly, haven't paid much attention other than the RB drama at SC. USC is still breaking in a new offense and that Stanford D is usually pretty nasty. Stanford with a senior QB at home? Yup, the Cardinal move on. USC: 17--Stan: 28
Seeberg: I...I just don't know. This is a flip of the coin for me. It's strength on strength similar to MSU's D against Oregon's offense (USC O vs. Stanford D). I would like to think the score will stay in the 20s and Stanford has the advantage. Then again, USC proved it can win a low scoring game against the Cardinal, eking out a 20-17 win just last year. Stanford appears a bit less 1-dimensional this year however, trusting their senior QB to throw to people other than the tight ends. They'll need a play or two from the wideouts, and they'll get just enough to get some payback on the Trojans. Dance ugly tree, dance. USC: 20--Stan: 24
Virginia Tech Hokies @ THE Ohio State University Buckeyes
Draper: Bucks look a little iffy out of the gate but settled down quickly. I really like what I saw out of Barrett when the kid gloves were removed, but the O-Line is a concern. With Bud Foster's defense bringing the lunch pail, the Bucks need to get to work. I actually think this game sets up nicely for a strong Buckeye win. VT is a very traditional football team and the Bucks are designed to take on a traditional football team. Add in the lights in the Shoe, and it's a recipe for a coming out party. Dontre takes one to the house and the defense steps up their game. Bucks roll. VT: 17--OSU: 38
Hoying: I'm not sure what to make of this Virginia Tech team. Like the Buckeyes, they're breaking in new starters at QB and RB. However, the Bucks are a bit more battle-tested after taking Navy's best shot in Baltimore. Were this a road game, I'd be extremely nervous, but Barrett and (insert Buckeye RB here) should get a nice boost from the home atmosphere. This game should give us some opportunities to finally see if the Buckeye D has made any strides in the offseason (or in the last week). Expect some mistakes on both sides of the ball, but Ohio State should squeak out a close win and move on to next week's breather against Kent State. VT: 24--OSU: 27 (OT)
Schweinfurth: I am sooooooo glad to be done with Navy. I respect our troops, but as Draper likes to say, "Why do you ever schedule a service academy?!" We really didn't learn much about the Bucks revamped defense, and that may be a good thing. VaTech has no film to go on with regards to the Silver Bullets and that is a big advantage. What concerns me is that offensive line. They now have one game under their belt. The talent is there, the communication just needs to be fixed and this unit will start providing better protection. I think J.T. has earned the right to throw down field a bit more. Urban and Herman need to try and take the top of that defense off if they want to run the ball against a very well coached Bud Foster defense. I also think we see more Curtis Samuel, that dude is gonna be a good one. I can really see this game playing out much like the Navy game; close going into the 4th quarter and then the talent gap shows up. VT: 20--OSU: 35
Seeberg: This game is likely the Bucks' biggest challenge until a late October trip to Happy Valley. It is that fact that buoys my middling confidence in the Buckeyes. D-line was gashed too often for a unit that was supposed to be our strength on that side of the ball, but some second-half adjustments helped. Barrett looked pretty impressive, showing nice touch on many throws. When pressured, however, he took too many sacks that seemed preventable, and of course the one horrible INT near the goal line was painfully foreseeable. Freshman mistakes will happen, but you can be sure VT will be bringing the heat against that unproven line. However, that unproven line may have been lackluster in the pass game, but it was opening some pretty consistent holes in the run game, and a heavy dose of Elliot, Wilson and Co. is in order. The Bucks will use the crowd, get up early, and VT is not much more built to come from behind than Navy was. VT: 16--OSU: 27
Upset Special
Draper: Iowa State over Kansas State
Hoying: San Diego State over North Carolina
Schweinfurth: Western Kentucky over Illinois
Seeberg: Middle Tennessee over Minnesota
1) Schweinfurth 3-1 (1-0 upset)
1) Draper 3-1 (1-0 upset---WEAK)
1) Hoying 3-1 (0-1 upset)
1) Seeberg 3-1 (0-1 upset- I should get .5 for mine, FCS team loses by 1 b/c of miraculous 2 TD comeback?? C'MON MAN!)
The B1G actually had a pretty decent week 1, going 12-2 with Ohio State, Penn State, and Rutgers scoring decent road wins, and no team falling flat on its face against a garbage opponent. However, all anyone will remember is Wisconsin's 2nd-half collapse against LSU, so it's up to the conference to notch a win against a top-level opponent to save face. Fortunately, three such opportunities present themselves in week 2.
Michigan State Spartans @ Oregon Ducks
Draper: This is a litmus test for both teams. Did MSU take a step back from the magical 2013? Is Oregon the juggernaut on offense they always claim to be? I'm expecting a pretty good game here in which the Spartans lay it all on the line...but fall just short in Autzen. The losses in MSU's secondary are just too much when going up against Marcus Mariota. I know he's not an exceptional passer, but with all the weapons on the ground, that pulls bodies out of pass protection. MSU looks good, but Oregon is no Jacksonville State (and MSU is no South Dakota). MSU: 24--Ore: 27
Hoying: Welcome to Part II of the B1G vs. Pac-12 Challenge. After B1G linchpin Rutgers dispatched Washington State last week, the stakes skyrocket in this showdown of presumptive conference favorites. Neither team will be out of the playoff hunt after a loss, but the loser will have to take care not to drop a conference game as well. Oregon is plenty flashy as always, rolling up 62 points against South Dakota, but the Ducks usually struggle against solid-tackling, defensive-minded squads (see 2011 LSU, 2010 Auburn, 2009 Ohio State and Boise State). MSU QB Connor Cook will have to continue his upward trend, but the Spartans should be bursting with confidence after their victory over last year's Pac-12 champ, Stanford, in the Rose Bowl. Remember, the Spartans need this win so that it's even more embarrassing when they lose to Indiana or Wyoming or whoever. MSU: 31--Ore: 27
Schweinfurth: Boy does the B1G need some love after Wisconsin choked (and that is putting it kindly). Everyone is talking about Michigan State's defense, and for good measure. They held Braxton and El Guapo in check for most of the B1G Championship Game and looked impressive doing it. Oregon runs a similar type of spread; run to set up the pass, short passing game, and a mobile and explosive QB. The difference here is that Mariota is a better passer than Miller. MSU challenged Braxton to throw across the middle of the field and he couldn't do it. Mariota can. This will likely be the Spartans' gameplan against a fast spread team like the Ducks. Combine that with the loss of Dennard and you have one MSU loss. Sorry Sparty, I just can't buy in. Prove me wrong. MSU: 24--Ore: 35
Seeberg: Time to put on the big boy pants and see who's who. MSU's offense is likely to be much improved, though we learned next to nothing about them against the
Michigan Wolverines @ Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Draper: Does the winner of this game get the ever present 'They're back!' label? Seems to be a recurring tradition between these two historical juggernauts that just haven't lived up to consistent expectations in the recent past. The Irish are sporting their revamped Everett Gholston (apparently, he's smart now!), but have serious questions from the academic issues that hit near the end of the offseason. Michigan is on cloud nine after evening their record with the powerhouse Mountaineers, and I think they keep it going. Gardner and Devin Funyons will be too much for the Domers to contain on offense. They're BACK! (until next week) UM: 31--ND: 24
Hoying: Say it ain't so! Notre Dame's fifth most important rivalry is about to go on hiatus for the fifth time. Both of these historically superlative but contemporarily mediocre programs are missing major offensive performers from last season, the Wolverines losing RB Fitz Toussaint and the Irish losing QB Tommy Rees. Then again, neither player was actually any good, so don't expect these units to break stride from where they ended last year. Michigan has been in a total nosedive since firing Lloyd Carr 7 years ago, but since it's still September, a win is within the realm of possibility. Notre Dame is still missing a few players for being too dumb to play college football, but there's hope: QB Everett Golson has finally found his way back onto campus after a similar problem last season. Too bad he won't do well enough to overcome the Gardner & Co. sporadic juggernaut. UM: 38--ND: 24
Schweinfurth: This is a rivalry game that I am sad to see get put off by conference politics. And by sad I mean I just like to watch both teams bumble all over the field. Yes, Everett Golson is back. Yes, Devin Gardner is back. To acknowledge that this game will blow anyone's doors off would insinuate that both QBs were competent in the first place. I really don't care who wins this game, but I think scUM's defense is better, but not by much. This game will be close as always. UM: 24--ND: 21
Seeberg: Ah yes, the annual "can they just play to a hideously contested 3-3 tie because I despise both teams?" game. Both dispatched lousy opponents with ease last week, but TTUN's offense was surprisingly, well, surprising, in that the play-calling was marginally less predictable than usual. Assuming there are more wrinkles reserved for their first real game, I expect UM to meet little resistance offensively en route to a double-digit win, thereby gratefully removing the perenially overrated Irish from the rankings, silencing the echoes yet again. UM: 34--ND: 20
USC Trojans @ Stanford Cardinal
Draper: I don't know what to think about these Pac 12 foes. Both teams crushed vastly inferior opponents last week but we really have no clue what to expect in an actual game. Sark has the SC history with him, but the roster isn't quite like the Leinhart and Bush days. I think the Trojans are on an upswing, but this is a doozy of a game on the road this early. Stanford has a nice consistent product that doesn't have the flash, but should come up with the meat of the sandwich to come out with a win. Blue collar boys slow down the flash...just enough. USC: 24--Stan: 27
Hoying: Now that the Lane Kiffin dumpster fire in Los Angeles has been extinguished, the Trojans are dreaming of regaining their Pac-12 supremacy status. Unfortunately, the conference isn't the one-team laugher it was back in the 2000's, and the Cardinal aren't keen to see their Rose Bowl streak ended at 2. Both teams feature great quarterbacks and untested running backs, most notably Stanford sophomore RB Barry Sanders, Jr. I'm tempted to give Stanford a slight edge due to the home field advantage, but that would require some fans to actually show up. This one will come down to whether the Cardinal play "Stanford football." I'm guessing...no. USC: 28--Stan: 27
Schweinfurth: I really don't know much about these teams, and honestly, haven't paid much attention other than the RB drama at SC. USC is still breaking in a new offense and that Stanford D is usually pretty nasty. Stanford with a senior QB at home? Yup, the Cardinal move on. USC: 17--Stan: 28
Seeberg: I...I just don't know. This is a flip of the coin for me. It's strength on strength similar to MSU's D against Oregon's offense (USC O vs. Stanford D). I would like to think the score will stay in the 20s and Stanford has the advantage. Then again, USC proved it can win a low scoring game against the Cardinal, eking out a 20-17 win just last year. Stanford appears a bit less 1-dimensional this year however, trusting their senior QB to throw to people other than the tight ends. They'll need a play or two from the wideouts, and they'll get just enough to get some payback on the Trojans. Dance ugly tree, dance. USC: 20--Stan: 24
Virginia Tech Hokies @ THE Ohio State University Buckeyes
Draper: Bucks look a little iffy out of the gate but settled down quickly. I really like what I saw out of Barrett when the kid gloves were removed, but the O-Line is a concern. With Bud Foster's defense bringing the lunch pail, the Bucks need to get to work. I actually think this game sets up nicely for a strong Buckeye win. VT is a very traditional football team and the Bucks are designed to take on a traditional football team. Add in the lights in the Shoe, and it's a recipe for a coming out party. Dontre takes one to the house and the defense steps up their game. Bucks roll. VT: 17--OSU: 38
Hoying: I'm not sure what to make of this Virginia Tech team. Like the Buckeyes, they're breaking in new starters at QB and RB. However, the Bucks are a bit more battle-tested after taking Navy's best shot in Baltimore. Were this a road game, I'd be extremely nervous, but Barrett and (insert Buckeye RB here) should get a nice boost from the home atmosphere. This game should give us some opportunities to finally see if the Buckeye D has made any strides in the offseason (or in the last week). Expect some mistakes on both sides of the ball, but Ohio State should squeak out a close win and move on to next week's breather against Kent State. VT: 24--OSU: 27 (OT)
Schweinfurth: I am sooooooo glad to be done with Navy. I respect our troops, but as Draper likes to say, "Why do you ever schedule a service academy?!" We really didn't learn much about the Bucks revamped defense, and that may be a good thing. VaTech has no film to go on with regards to the Silver Bullets and that is a big advantage. What concerns me is that offensive line. They now have one game under their belt. The talent is there, the communication just needs to be fixed and this unit will start providing better protection. I think J.T. has earned the right to throw down field a bit more. Urban and Herman need to try and take the top of that defense off if they want to run the ball against a very well coached Bud Foster defense. I also think we see more Curtis Samuel, that dude is gonna be a good one. I can really see this game playing out much like the Navy game; close going into the 4th quarter and then the talent gap shows up. VT: 20--OSU: 35
Seeberg: This game is likely the Bucks' biggest challenge until a late October trip to Happy Valley. It is that fact that buoys my middling confidence in the Buckeyes. D-line was gashed too often for a unit that was supposed to be our strength on that side of the ball, but some second-half adjustments helped. Barrett looked pretty impressive, showing nice touch on many throws. When pressured, however, he took too many sacks that seemed preventable, and of course the one horrible INT near the goal line was painfully foreseeable. Freshman mistakes will happen, but you can be sure VT will be bringing the heat against that unproven line. However, that unproven line may have been lackluster in the pass game, but it was opening some pretty consistent holes in the run game, and a heavy dose of Elliot, Wilson and Co. is in order. The Bucks will use the crowd, get up early, and VT is not much more built to come from behind than Navy was. VT: 16--OSU: 27
Upset Special
Draper: Iowa State over Kansas State
Hoying: San Diego State over North Carolina
Schweinfurth: Western Kentucky over Illinois
Seeberg: Middle Tennessee over Minnesota
Wednesday, November 06, 2013
Week 11: Clear the Path to a Buckeye Title
The Buckeyes, sadly, are not in action this Saturday. However, 3 undefeated teams face huge tests against highly ranked opponents. A day of inaction might be able to do what 2 blowout wins couldn't for OSU.
Standings
1) Schweinfurth 29-13 (3-7 upset)
2) Draper 28-14 (2-8 upset)
3) Hoying 27-15 (1-9 upset)
Oregon Ducks @ Stanford Cardinal
Draper: Is Stanford really as good as people think? Can Oregon smash a team with a pulse? This game will answer a lot of questions (or will it?) and for some unknown reason, it's hidden on a Thurs. night. Mariota has been fantastic against subpar...ok, bad...defenses. Stanford is overrated in my opinion, but still the best team the Ducks have faced by far. Kevin Hogan has quietly had a nice 'game-manager' type season and keeps the Cardinal in the discussion. Stanford ruined the dream for the Ducks last year and I see the Ducks returning the favor in Palo Alto. Stanford's offense will score...but so will Oregon. UO: 41--Stan:31
Hoying: Forget Florida State - Clemson and Florida State - Miami; this might be the premier non-bowl matchup of the year. The Cardinal offense hasn't been wowing anybody (where oh where have you gone, Toby Gerhart and Andrew Luck), and they suffered a puzzling loss in Rice-Eccles Stadium, but their defense is probably tops in the conference. That's good news, because it'll take a stellar defense and a good deal of luck to slow down Super Mariota and the mighty Duck juggernaut. Oregon hasn't forgotten about Stanford wrecking their dream season last year in Eugene, and they'll be itching to prove to the nation that they belong in the BCS's coveted #2 slot. One potential X-factor: Stanford's battle toughness. The Cardinal have been tested again and again this season and have 4 pretty good wins to show for it. Are the Ducks tough enough to come out of Palo Alto victorious? I hope not, but I think so. UO: 31--Stan: 24
Schweinfurth: Everyone keeps saying that Stanford is the team that will knock Oregon off their perch (out of their pond?). Look, Stanford plays a really tough style that has been Oregon’s kryptonite. The difference is, this Cardinal team isn’t that good. Stanford still doesn’t have legitimate weapons on the outside on offense and Kevin Hogan is doing a lot with very little. You have to score points and get turnovers to beat Oregon and I don’t think this Cardinal team has it in them. Sad day for the Buckeyes ORE: 38--Stan: 20
Oklahoma Sooners @ Baylor Bears
Draper: This is essentially a do or die game for Big Game Bob and Sooners. Win and you're right in the mix...lose and good night. Baylor has been scoring at will with Seastrunk and Petty, but my high school plays better defense than their opponents. Can Baylor survive the spotlight without RGIII? I'm going to say no. They will score, but the big game experience of the Sooners (I can't believe I'm saying that), will carry them to a very close win. Waco will be in a frenzy, but the big boy coming to town signals the clock striking midnight. OU: 35--Baylor: 31
Hoying: Two weeks ago I made a bold prediction that undefeated Texas Tech was about to take a nosedive after finally facing the meat of the Big 12 schedule. This weekend the Bears find themselves in their own put-up-or-shut-up moment in front of a national Thursday night audience. The Sooners are no stranger to big games this season (that win over Notre Dame looks better every week) but they haven't seen anyone as sharp or as hungry as Baylor. QB Bryce Petty has been shredding terrible terrible defenses for 18 TDs and only 1 INT, and the ground game headed by Lache Seastrunk (might as well be Bismo Funyuns) is no slouch either. Oklahoma might still be the better squad, but I don't trust Big Game Bob outside of Norman. Baylor announces their official BCS candidacy with a win over Boomer Sooner. OU: 34--Baylor: 35
Schweinfurth: Have you figured out who I think is the best team in the Big XII yet? Hint: It’s one of these two teams. Baylor has been just flat rolling teams the past two years and has done so quietly. Bear QB Bryce Petty stepped into RGIII’s shoes and then broke the scoreboard. This offense is operating with more explosiveness than Ohio State and Oregon. The Sooners will have their hands full in this one. Baylor won’t jump Ohio State when they win, but that gap will sure close. OU: 35--Bay: 63
BYU Cougars @ Wisconsin Badgers
Draper: All I really remember of the Cougars are them blowing Texas out of the water. The Badgers are just sneaking around with their '2' losses (stupid Pac12 refs). I don't see Camp Randall being particularly kind to the visiting Cougs. Melvin Gordon and James White will run all over them. The Badger D is also pretty darn good. Wisky rolls and keeps the dream of the BCS alive. BYU: 20--Wisc: 34
Hoying: What an oddity the Cougars are. One week they're losing to awful Virginia, the next they're crushing Texas. BYU has been cruising under the radar for some time now, quietly stringing together a nice chain of wins over Utah State, Georgia Tech, Houston, and Boise State. Now they've had two weeks to prepare for a Wisconsin squad that seems to be consistently improving as the season goes on. All you old-timers should enjoy this game: a couple of brand-name programs battling while probably combining to throw for 150 yards. Don't forget, this is the same BYU team that ran for 550 yards against Texas, and Wisconsin didn't get any last-minute recruits from NC State to shore up their passing game this year. Poor Abbie Doobie. Bucky won't need you to dispatch the Cougs. BYU: 17--Wisc: 24
Schweinfurth: Look, BYU has been playing well, but Wisconsin is (debatably) the second best team in the B1G right now. The Badgers are just going to give the Cougars a steady dose of Melvin Gordon and James White. And true to Bucky fashion, will be overly successful with it. Remember that Bert doesn’t coach this team any longer and Gary Anderson will actually stick with a game plan that works. BYU: 10--Wisc: 35
Virginia Tech Hokies @ Miami Hurricanes
Draper: I suppose this argument comes down to 'Which loss of/to Duke is worse?' The Hokies are faceplanting every week it seems after a promising start that made Bama look good. Losing to Duke....in football...what? Then there's the Hurricanes who kept squeaking by until they were annihilated by the Noles. Oh yeah, they lost their best player in Duke Johnson for the year. Stephen Morris and logan Thomas are very similar QBs in their complete lack of consistency. Normally, I'd go with the home team....but Miami's home field advantage is like a dentist's office in West Virginia--nonexistent. Miami's loss of Duke is more painful. Hokies win to stay alive in the Coastal race. VT: 24--UM: 17
Hoying: Oh-ee-ay! Tail Spin! Oh-ee-oh! Tail Spin! After very promising starts, these two teams are in danger of falling to the middle of the ACC Coastal pack (leaving the door open for the Dukies baby!). One ship will be righted this weekend, while the other will, I suppose, count themselves lucky that they don't have to play Florida State at season's end. So who has the edge? Virginia Tech's defense looked special before being exposed at the hands of Boston College RB Andre Williams. Unfortunately, Miami's super RB Duke Johnson is out indefinitely, and the Hurricanes' suddenly one-dimensional offense won't be able to move the ball this weekend. Always a shame to see the 'Canes lose. VT: 20--UM: 13
Schweinfurth: Miami is a decent (not great) ACC team who got their tails whipped by an elite team. We can all proclaim that the “U” is not back. To me, however, Virginia Tech has turned into an also ran in the ACC. Gone are the days of a manageable offense with stout D and Beamerball. These days Virginia Tech seems to slog their way on offense. Miama has a formula to win games like this and it’s called “give Duke Johnson the ball.” They will and they will win because of it. Poster note: Tyler clearly didn't see that Duke Johnson has a broken ankle. Giving him the ball is not recommended VT: 13--UM: 20
Louisiana State Tigers @ Alabama Crimson Tide
Draper: LSU's best game this year....a loss to UGA. As the Oracle would say: That's a great game...in 2011. The Tigeauxrs have done nothing this year of note. Their living on name alone. Mettenberger has looked strong, but against Bama...I'll stick with Saban. The Tide have 1 big win, but have smothered everyone else. Roll Tide at home, y'all. This is payback for 2011 (even though they go revenge when it counted). McCarron for Heisman? He's number 4 for me. LSU: 16--Bama: 34
Hoying: Every time I see this game on the schedule, I'm reminded of the abomination that was the 2011 season (never forget). There's a bit more separation between these two teams than we've seen in previous years. In particular, LSU's defense has taken a significant step backwards. Don't look for a 9-6 overtime thriller this year. LSU under Les Miles is capable of snakebiting any opponent, but Saban has had 4 weeks to get ready for this one. Y'all are Tide bait. LSU: 13--Ala: 27
Schweinfurth: This isn’t your LSU teams of the past. They can actually move the ball but that defense is meh (and don’t give me this “it’s the SEC” BS). Alabama has been quietly efficient and that defense has been outstanding outside of letting Johnny sign my Football run wild. Alabama is still coached by Saban and LSU by a moron. LSU does enough to stay close but Bama pulls away late. LSU: 17--Bama: 27
Upset Special
Draper: Arizona over UCLA
Hoying: Houston over UCF
Schweinfurth: Pitt over Notre Dame
Standings
1) Schweinfurth 29-13 (3-7 upset)
2) Draper 28-14 (2-8 upset)
3) Hoying 27-15 (1-9 upset)
Oregon Ducks @ Stanford Cardinal
Draper: Is Stanford really as good as people think? Can Oregon smash a team with a pulse? This game will answer a lot of questions (or will it?) and for some unknown reason, it's hidden on a Thurs. night. Mariota has been fantastic against subpar...ok, bad...defenses. Stanford is overrated in my opinion, but still the best team the Ducks have faced by far. Kevin Hogan has quietly had a nice 'game-manager' type season and keeps the Cardinal in the discussion. Stanford ruined the dream for the Ducks last year and I see the Ducks returning the favor in Palo Alto. Stanford's offense will score...but so will Oregon. UO: 41--Stan:31
Hoying: Forget Florida State - Clemson and Florida State - Miami; this might be the premier non-bowl matchup of the year. The Cardinal offense hasn't been wowing anybody (where oh where have you gone, Toby Gerhart and Andrew Luck), and they suffered a puzzling loss in Rice-Eccles Stadium, but their defense is probably tops in the conference. That's good news, because it'll take a stellar defense and a good deal of luck to slow down Super Mariota and the mighty Duck juggernaut. Oregon hasn't forgotten about Stanford wrecking their dream season last year in Eugene, and they'll be itching to prove to the nation that they belong in the BCS's coveted #2 slot. One potential X-factor: Stanford's battle toughness. The Cardinal have been tested again and again this season and have 4 pretty good wins to show for it. Are the Ducks tough enough to come out of Palo Alto victorious? I hope not, but I think so. UO: 31--Stan: 24
Schweinfurth: Everyone keeps saying that Stanford is the team that will knock Oregon off their perch (out of their pond?). Look, Stanford plays a really tough style that has been Oregon’s kryptonite. The difference is, this Cardinal team isn’t that good. Stanford still doesn’t have legitimate weapons on the outside on offense and Kevin Hogan is doing a lot with very little. You have to score points and get turnovers to beat Oregon and I don’t think this Cardinal team has it in them. Sad day for the Buckeyes ORE: 38--Stan: 20
Oklahoma Sooners @ Baylor Bears
Draper: This is essentially a do or die game for Big Game Bob and Sooners. Win and you're right in the mix...lose and good night. Baylor has been scoring at will with Seastrunk and Petty, but my high school plays better defense than their opponents. Can Baylor survive the spotlight without RGIII? I'm going to say no. They will score, but the big game experience of the Sooners (I can't believe I'm saying that), will carry them to a very close win. Waco will be in a frenzy, but the big boy coming to town signals the clock striking midnight. OU: 35--Baylor: 31
Hoying: Two weeks ago I made a bold prediction that undefeated Texas Tech was about to take a nosedive after finally facing the meat of the Big 12 schedule. This weekend the Bears find themselves in their own put-up-or-shut-up moment in front of a national Thursday night audience. The Sooners are no stranger to big games this season (that win over Notre Dame looks better every week) but they haven't seen anyone as sharp or as hungry as Baylor. QB Bryce Petty has been shredding terrible terrible defenses for 18 TDs and only 1 INT, and the ground game headed by Lache Seastrunk (might as well be Bismo Funyuns) is no slouch either. Oklahoma might still be the better squad, but I don't trust Big Game Bob outside of Norman. Baylor announces their official BCS candidacy with a win over Boomer Sooner. OU: 34--Baylor: 35
Schweinfurth: Have you figured out who I think is the best team in the Big XII yet? Hint: It’s one of these two teams. Baylor has been just flat rolling teams the past two years and has done so quietly. Bear QB Bryce Petty stepped into RGIII’s shoes and then broke the scoreboard. This offense is operating with more explosiveness than Ohio State and Oregon. The Sooners will have their hands full in this one. Baylor won’t jump Ohio State when they win, but that gap will sure close. OU: 35--Bay: 63
BYU Cougars @ Wisconsin Badgers
Draper: All I really remember of the Cougars are them blowing Texas out of the water. The Badgers are just sneaking around with their '2' losses (stupid Pac12 refs). I don't see Camp Randall being particularly kind to the visiting Cougs. Melvin Gordon and James White will run all over them. The Badger D is also pretty darn good. Wisky rolls and keeps the dream of the BCS alive. BYU: 20--Wisc: 34
Hoying: What an oddity the Cougars are. One week they're losing to awful Virginia, the next they're crushing Texas. BYU has been cruising under the radar for some time now, quietly stringing together a nice chain of wins over Utah State, Georgia Tech, Houston, and Boise State. Now they've had two weeks to prepare for a Wisconsin squad that seems to be consistently improving as the season goes on. All you old-timers should enjoy this game: a couple of brand-name programs battling while probably combining to throw for 150 yards. Don't forget, this is the same BYU team that ran for 550 yards against Texas, and Wisconsin didn't get any last-minute recruits from NC State to shore up their passing game this year. Poor Abbie Doobie. Bucky won't need you to dispatch the Cougs. BYU: 17--Wisc: 24
Schweinfurth: Look, BYU has been playing well, but Wisconsin is (debatably) the second best team in the B1G right now. The Badgers are just going to give the Cougars a steady dose of Melvin Gordon and James White. And true to Bucky fashion, will be overly successful with it. Remember that Bert doesn’t coach this team any longer and Gary Anderson will actually stick with a game plan that works. BYU: 10--Wisc: 35
Virginia Tech Hokies @ Miami Hurricanes
Draper: I suppose this argument comes down to 'Which loss of/to Duke is worse?' The Hokies are faceplanting every week it seems after a promising start that made Bama look good. Losing to Duke....in football...what? Then there's the Hurricanes who kept squeaking by until they were annihilated by the Noles. Oh yeah, they lost their best player in Duke Johnson for the year. Stephen Morris and logan Thomas are very similar QBs in their complete lack of consistency. Normally, I'd go with the home team....but Miami's home field advantage is like a dentist's office in West Virginia--nonexistent. Miami's loss of Duke is more painful. Hokies win to stay alive in the Coastal race. VT: 24--UM: 17
Hoying: Oh-ee-ay! Tail Spin! Oh-ee-oh! Tail Spin! After very promising starts, these two teams are in danger of falling to the middle of the ACC Coastal pack (leaving the door open for the Dukies baby!). One ship will be righted this weekend, while the other will, I suppose, count themselves lucky that they don't have to play Florida State at season's end. So who has the edge? Virginia Tech's defense looked special before being exposed at the hands of Boston College RB Andre Williams. Unfortunately, Miami's super RB Duke Johnson is out indefinitely, and the Hurricanes' suddenly one-dimensional offense won't be able to move the ball this weekend. Always a shame to see the 'Canes lose. VT: 20--UM: 13
Schweinfurth: Miami is a decent (not great) ACC team who got their tails whipped by an elite team. We can all proclaim that the “U” is not back. To me, however, Virginia Tech has turned into an also ran in the ACC. Gone are the days of a manageable offense with stout D and Beamerball. These days Virginia Tech seems to slog their way on offense. Miama has a formula to win games like this and it’s called “give Duke Johnson the ball.” They will and they will win because of it. Poster note: Tyler clearly didn't see that Duke Johnson has a broken ankle. Giving him the ball is not recommended VT: 13--UM: 20
Louisiana State Tigers @ Alabama Crimson Tide
Draper: LSU's best game this year....a loss to UGA. As the Oracle would say: That's a great game...in 2011. The Tigeauxrs have done nothing this year of note. Their living on name alone. Mettenberger has looked strong, but against Bama...I'll stick with Saban. The Tide have 1 big win, but have smothered everyone else. Roll Tide at home, y'all. This is payback for 2011 (even though they go revenge when it counted). McCarron for Heisman? He's number 4 for me. LSU: 16--Bama: 34
Hoying: Every time I see this game on the schedule, I'm reminded of the abomination that was the 2011 season (never forget). There's a bit more separation between these two teams than we've seen in previous years. In particular, LSU's defense has taken a significant step backwards. Don't look for a 9-6 overtime thriller this year. LSU under Les Miles is capable of snakebiting any opponent, but Saban has had 4 weeks to get ready for this one. Y'all are Tide bait. LSU: 13--Ala: 27
Schweinfurth: This isn’t your LSU teams of the past. They can actually move the ball but that defense is meh (and don’t give me this “it’s the SEC” BS). Alabama has been quietly efficient and that defense has been outstanding outside of letting Johnny sign my Football run wild. Alabama is still coached by Saban and LSU by a moron. LSU does enough to stay close but Bama pulls away late. LSU: 17--Bama: 27
Upset Special
Draper: Arizona over UCLA
Hoying: Houston over UCF
Schweinfurth: Pitt over Notre Dame
Thursday, August 29, 2013
Welcome back! Week 1 Picks
Georgia Bulldogs @ Clemson Tigers
Draper: This is really the only marquee game of the week. UGA enters with Heisman hopeful Aaron Murray and a vaunted SEC defense. There are huge hopes in Athens this year in which they're eying more than just Atlanta and the SEC Championship. However, I've been to a big game at Death Valley (at Clemson), and that place is crazy. Clemson is explosive on offense with Tajh Boyd and Sammy Watkins. I think this game will live up to the hype and Clemson will forget to start Clemsoning this early in the season. The SEC finally takes a hit in one of the years best games. UGA: 31--Clemson: 34
Hoying: Thank the football gods for this game, breaking up the otherwise blah Week 1 matchups. After stellar 2012 campaigns, both teams enter the season with legitimate hopes for the final BCS championship. (After all, Georgia was 5 yards away from having the chance to obliterate Notre Dame for the title last season). Both starting QBs are among the best in the country, so expect a high-scoring affair, even with an SEC DEFENSE on one side of the field. Georgia will miss LB Jarvis Jones more than they'd like, and Clemson will extend their SEC win streak to 2. Also, watch out for Georgia looking ahead to South Carolina and Clemson looking ahead to South Carolina...State. UGA: 27--Clemson: 35
Schweinfurth: It's always fun to have games like this early in the season. I really see these teams as almost equals. However, Clemson has Tajh Boyd and that is enough for me. Sprinkle in some Sammy Watkins and you have a very good offense. While Georgia's offense is no slouch, I just don't think they can score with Clemson. The defenses will keep it somewhat low scoring early (first game slop will help as well) but Clemson pulls away late. UGA: 21--Clemson: 38
Hoying: Thank the football gods for this game, breaking up the otherwise blah Week 1 matchups. After stellar 2012 campaigns, both teams enter the season with legitimate hopes for the final BCS championship. (After all, Georgia was 5 yards away from having the chance to obliterate Notre Dame for the title last season). Both starting QBs are among the best in the country, so expect a high-scoring affair, even with an SEC DEFENSE on one side of the field. Georgia will miss LB Jarvis Jones more than they'd like, and Clemson will extend their SEC win streak to 2. Also, watch out for Georgia looking ahead to South Carolina and Clemson looking ahead to South Carolina...State. UGA: 27--Clemson: 35
Schweinfurth: It's always fun to have games like this early in the season. I really see these teams as almost equals. However, Clemson has Tajh Boyd and that is enough for me. Sprinkle in some Sammy Watkins and you have a very good offense. While Georgia's offense is no slouch, I just don't think they can score with Clemson. The defenses will keep it somewhat low scoring early (first game slop will help as well) but Clemson pulls away late. UGA: 21--Clemson: 38
Alabama Crimson Tide vs. Virginia Tech Hokies
Draper: Much ado about nothing. Bama reenters the season as another juggernaut with nothing but a 'reload'. McCarron and Yeldon will have the offense churning and the defense is always ridiculous under Saban. VTech has been mediocre at best for the last few years. Michael Vick ain't walking through that door. Bama: 27--VT: 13
Hoying: The good news for Alabama is that it doesn't matter if they win this game or not; the BCS is always willing to spot them a loss and still place them in the championship. Meanwhile, the Hokies are coming off their worst season in 20 years, thanks to a weak offense and uncharacteristically poor special teams play. Is this game where Beamerball gets back on track? Maybe, but it won't matter. The Tide are still a juggernaut and it'll take a lot more than QB Logan Thomas (who?) and his band of turkeys to end Bama's reign. Bama: 34--VT: 6
Schweinfurth: As much billing as this game will get from the WWL, this one will be ugly. VaTech just isn't the team they used to be and Alabama is a machine. The only question for 'Bama is how the offensive line looks. Regardless, this one is over at half time and Nick Saban will still go looking for his box of puppies. Bama: 42--VT: 3
Hoying: The good news for Alabama is that it doesn't matter if they win this game or not; the BCS is always willing to spot them a loss and still place them in the championship. Meanwhile, the Hokies are coming off their worst season in 20 years, thanks to a weak offense and uncharacteristically poor special teams play. Is this game where Beamerball gets back on track? Maybe, but it won't matter. The Tide are still a juggernaut and it'll take a lot more than QB Logan Thomas (who?) and his band of turkeys to end Bama's reign. Bama: 34--VT: 6
Schweinfurth: As much billing as this game will get from the WWL, this one will be ugly. VaTech just isn't the team they used to be and Alabama is a machine. The only question for 'Bama is how the offensive line looks. Regardless, this one is over at half time and Nick Saban will still go looking for his box of puppies. Bama: 42--VT: 3
LSU Tigers vs. TCU Horned Frogs
Draper: SEC gets another 'big-game' in week 1. I'll give the Tigers credit for scheduling this one because most powerhouses duck the middle programs. That being said, LSU should take care of business. TCU is no longer the Cinderella. They're not snake-biting anyone. The defense of the Tigers will keep the Horned Frogs in check in a low scoring affair. 'Should be suspended for arrest' RB Hill will score a TD and no one will comment on why he is playing. LSU: 20--TCU: 10
Hoying: Another SEC juggernaut against another mediocre team. TCU's first season in the Big XII (7-6) served as a nice reminder to the mid-majors that going 12-0 against the Little Sisters of the Poor doesn't translate into being able to hang with the big boys week in and week out (see also: Utah). Les Miles still prowls the sidelines at LSU, and as long as he doesn't have to make any late-game clock management decisions (*cough* Clemson *cough*), the Tigers will stay on track in their hunt for Les's 2nd title. LSU: 24--TCU:9
Schweinfurth: TCU doesn't sneak up on anyone any more and that tends to happen when you play in one of the power conferences. I still think that TCU's defense is very good and LSU still has Mettenberger (who is just bad). Both of these factors keep this score pretty low, but LSU has more talent. LSU: 14--TCU: 10
Hoying: Another SEC juggernaut against another mediocre team. TCU's first season in the Big XII (7-6) served as a nice reminder to the mid-majors that going 12-0 against the Little Sisters of the Poor doesn't translate into being able to hang with the big boys week in and week out (see also: Utah). Les Miles still prowls the sidelines at LSU, and as long as he doesn't have to make any late-game clock management decisions (*cough* Clemson *cough*), the Tigers will stay on track in their hunt for Les's 2nd title. LSU: 24--TCU:9
Schweinfurth: TCU doesn't sneak up on anyone any more and that tends to happen when you play in one of the power conferences. I still think that TCU's defense is very good and LSU still has Mettenberger (who is just bad). Both of these factors keep this score pretty low, but LSU has more talent. LSU: 14--TCU: 10
Buffalo Bulls @ THE Ohio State University Buckeyes
Draper: Unlike most of the fans in Columbus, I believe this team is not one of the greatest in history (or even the past 10 years). That being said, it's a very talented group that should steamroll the joke of a schedule. If we take a loss, I'm guessing it will come from a team no one suspects. And that team is Buffalo...just kidding. This should be over by the end of the 1st quarter. Urban won't call off the dogs as the Bucks make a statement offensively. The Bulls are horrendously mismatched in this game. Braxton throws for 3 TDs and runs for 1. OSU RBs combine for 3 TDs of their own. The only interest is watching the cohesiveness of the front 7 defensively and whether the WRs have improved. Buff: 13--OSU: 58
Hoying: I seem to say this every year, but it merits repeating: this game will tell us nothing about how good this year's Ohio State squad is. Buffalo is a garbage opponent from a garbage conference, and with the fully armed and operational Urban offense in place, there'll be no one to stop us this time. Use this game as an opportunity to watch the new defensive starters in action and try to memorize OSU's extensive list of captains. (Seriously? 8 captains? If we get any more we'll need a team Major...) Buff: 9--OSU: 45
Schweinfurth: This offense is very, very good. Miller has been improving this offseason (or so we have heard) and the addition of Diontre Wilson and Ezikiel Elliot will just add to the home run threats. The lack of Hyde and Smith won't show up too much in this game as the offense rolls for about 500 yards. The defense is what I am worried about. The young front seven need some game experience and this game will surely allow them to tip toe into the season. No slow starts this year and Urban plays his young guys for an appreciable amount of time. Buff: 17--OSU: 63
Upset Special
Draper: Washington over Boise State
Hoying: California over Northwestern
Schweinfurth: Hawaii over USC
Hoying: I seem to say this every year, but it merits repeating: this game will tell us nothing about how good this year's Ohio State squad is. Buffalo is a garbage opponent from a garbage conference, and with the fully armed and operational Urban offense in place, there'll be no one to stop us this time. Use this game as an opportunity to watch the new defensive starters in action and try to memorize OSU's extensive list of captains. (Seriously? 8 captains? If we get any more we'll need a team Major...) Buff: 9--OSU: 45
Schweinfurth: This offense is very, very good. Miller has been improving this offseason (or so we have heard) and the addition of Diontre Wilson and Ezikiel Elliot will just add to the home run threats. The lack of Hyde and Smith won't show up too much in this game as the offense rolls for about 500 yards. The defense is what I am worried about. The young front seven need some game experience and this game will surely allow them to tip toe into the season. No slow starts this year and Urban plays his young guys for an appreciable amount of time. Buff: 17--OSU: 63
Upset Special
Draper: Washington over Boise State
Hoying: California over Northwestern
Schweinfurth: Hawaii over USC
Thursday, August 30, 2012
Week 1 Picks: A New Era
Welcome back to the most wonderful time of the year: college football season. We return this year to make some inspired game picks and perhaps we can keep track this year. The expectations in Columbus are through the roof with the advent of the Urban Meyer era even without the hope of postseason play. The first few weeks have very few games of interest, but we're here to present you with our opinions and thoughts on the biggest games of the week. Stay tuned and GO BUCKS!
Boise State Broncos @ Michigan State Spartans
Draper: I like the Spartans as a 'surprise' front runner in the B1G. Michigan has the flash, Wisconsin has the recent history, and the Bucks are ineligible. This is the time for the Spartans to forget who they are and actually break through. A new QB in green and white has a very nice security blanket in Le'veon Bell toting the rock. Boise burns me on this 1st game every year but this is a true road game and the smurfs don't have that special QB leading the way. MSU makes a statement by beating up the traditional "David". BSU: 17--MSU: 31
Hoying: Finally, the Bluegrass Boys get an out-of-conference opponent that will really challenge them. Michigan State has been on the rise over the past few seasons, and the boys in green and white would love a chance to make a statement to kick off what they hope is a Big Ten Championship season. Both of these have some questions, with both losing star senior QB's and Boise State missing practically all of last year's defense. The Spartans still have some playmakers, like RB Le'Veon Bell and DE William Gholston, but Bronco coach Chris Petersen lives for match-ups like this. Must be nice not to have to prepare for anyone else all year now that TCU's out of the Mountain West. Expect the whole bag of Bronco tricks to spill out as Boise shocks Sparty in East Lansing. BSU: 28--MSU: 27
Schweinfurth: This is Boise State's season this year. The one big match up that the Broncos look forward to. Like normal, I know nothing about Boise State coming into the season except that Keelen Moore is gone. Even with a "green" (yes, pun intended) QB under center, I think Michigan State is just the flat out better team. Only Ohio State has a better front 7 in the B1G and they have their way with the Broncos. Go State! BSU: 10--MSU: 35
Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets @ Virginia Tech Hokies
Draper: ACC Coastal powers collide...sort of. I like the Hokies in the division but the Yellow Jackets option attack is ridiculously pesky. That being said, I don't know any of the backs at Tech. The option is tough to adjust to, but the lack of the absolute stud may be an issue. Logan Thomas is a great QB and should have a fantastic year as a dual threat. This is the start of his campaign. Blacksburg is always tough so advantage VT. GT: 17--VT: 27
Hoying: Why do teams play conference games in week 1? Too much at stake for early season jitters. Well, one Tech will start the season in a nice big hole. On paper, this looks like an easy win for VT. They beat the Yellow Jackets last year, the defense should continue to be impressive, the players are still all pissed off about ending last season with 2 miserable performances, and the game is in Blacksburg at night. So.....they win. GT: 10--VT: 27
Schweinfurth: These early season rivalry games are always a wild one and any night game in Blacksburg is bound to be insane. Georgia Tech's offense is always fun to watch with all of the pre-snap movement and triple option. Unfortunately for the Yellow Jackets, the ACC is starting to catch up to "gimmiky" offense. Virgina Tech "Beamer Balls" their way to a win in this one. GT: 7--VT: 20
Michigan Wolverines vs. Alabama Crimson Tide
Draper: Everyone's huge matchup of week one features the winningest college program of history vs. defending National Champion (with a history that's not too shabby). The Michigan defense is being lauded for their major 'strides' last year. If you watched the games, you'd realize that the defensive improvement is fools' gold. Yes, they've improved, but the defense is still soft (OSU went nuts on them and we sucked!). Robinson is electric but Bama is going to break him. Denard will try to throw for the win, but he just doesn't have the skill while running for his life. Bama wins solidly and the SEC chants echo into the night. Mich: 13--Bama: 27
Hoying: Two of the greatest football programs of all time square off in the premier matchup of kickoff Saturday. Alabama has been king of the college football landscape over the last few seasons, helped by that abomination of a do-over they got in last year's title game, while Corn and Blue are trying to prove they are back among the ranks of the elite. ScUM QB Denard Robinson has never seen a defense this dominant, not even when he got shut down by...nobody...in some beatdown in Columbus that apparently never happened. Look for Shoelace to throw a few picks before getting broken in half, while Tide QB AJ McCarron and friends expose the overrated Big Blue D. Not this year, Michigan. Not this year. UM: 13--Bama: 31
Schweinfurth: This game is a severely overrated team versus the defending national champs. Denard may be the most electrifying player in college football, but that Alabama defense is just down right nasty. In all honesty, I expect to see Robinson playing more wide receiver as the game rolls on, Gardner is just a better passer. TTUN lost a lot off that defense from last year as well and they will be exposed as a still building team. Alabama "rolls" in this one. TTUN: 6--Bama: 33
Miami (OH) Redhawks @ THE Ohio State Buckeyes
Draper: And we're back. After a tumultuous year, the Bucks look to forget 2011 ever happened, make a statement in 2012, and, most importantly, use this as a springboard into 2013. The team is stacked on defensive line; so much so that every QB facing the Scarlet and Gray will spend most of the game in a fetal position. Miller is ready to break out under Meyer's system (so long as he stays healthy--but Guiton is ready in the wings). The running attack will be just fine, but the WR corps is a little weak. This game, this season, is all about Urban saying hello and putting the fear of God into the rest of the conference/nation. Sorry Redhawks.... MU: 10--OSU: 48
Hoying: Indiana State over Indiana
Schweinfurth: Ohio over Penn State (I promise I didn't copy Draper)
Boise State Broncos @ Michigan State Spartans
Draper: I like the Spartans as a 'surprise' front runner in the B1G. Michigan has the flash, Wisconsin has the recent history, and the Bucks are ineligible. This is the time for the Spartans to forget who they are and actually break through. A new QB in green and white has a very nice security blanket in Le'veon Bell toting the rock. Boise burns me on this 1st game every year but this is a true road game and the smurfs don't have that special QB leading the way. MSU makes a statement by beating up the traditional "David". BSU: 17--MSU: 31
Hoying: Finally, the Bluegrass Boys get an out-of-conference opponent that will really challenge them. Michigan State has been on the rise over the past few seasons, and the boys in green and white would love a chance to make a statement to kick off what they hope is a Big Ten Championship season. Both of these have some questions, with both losing star senior QB's and Boise State missing practically all of last year's defense. The Spartans still have some playmakers, like RB Le'Veon Bell and DE William Gholston, but Bronco coach Chris Petersen lives for match-ups like this. Must be nice not to have to prepare for anyone else all year now that TCU's out of the Mountain West. Expect the whole bag of Bronco tricks to spill out as Boise shocks Sparty in East Lansing. BSU: 28--MSU: 27
Schweinfurth: This is Boise State's season this year. The one big match up that the Broncos look forward to. Like normal, I know nothing about Boise State coming into the season except that Keelen Moore is gone. Even with a "green" (yes, pun intended) QB under center, I think Michigan State is just the flat out better team. Only Ohio State has a better front 7 in the B1G and they have their way with the Broncos. Go State! BSU: 10--MSU: 35
Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets @ Virginia Tech Hokies
Draper: ACC Coastal powers collide...sort of. I like the Hokies in the division but the Yellow Jackets option attack is ridiculously pesky. That being said, I don't know any of the backs at Tech. The option is tough to adjust to, but the lack of the absolute stud may be an issue. Logan Thomas is a great QB and should have a fantastic year as a dual threat. This is the start of his campaign. Blacksburg is always tough so advantage VT. GT: 17--VT: 27
Hoying: Why do teams play conference games in week 1? Too much at stake for early season jitters. Well, one Tech will start the season in a nice big hole. On paper, this looks like an easy win for VT. They beat the Yellow Jackets last year, the defense should continue to be impressive, the players are still all pissed off about ending last season with 2 miserable performances, and the game is in Blacksburg at night. So.....they win. GT: 10--VT: 27
Schweinfurth: These early season rivalry games are always a wild one and any night game in Blacksburg is bound to be insane. Georgia Tech's offense is always fun to watch with all of the pre-snap movement and triple option. Unfortunately for the Yellow Jackets, the ACC is starting to catch up to "gimmiky" offense. Virgina Tech "Beamer Balls" their way to a win in this one. GT: 7--VT: 20
Michigan Wolverines vs. Alabama Crimson Tide
Draper: Everyone's huge matchup of week one features the winningest college program of history vs. defending National Champion (with a history that's not too shabby). The Michigan defense is being lauded for their major 'strides' last year. If you watched the games, you'd realize that the defensive improvement is fools' gold. Yes, they've improved, but the defense is still soft (OSU went nuts on them and we sucked!). Robinson is electric but Bama is going to break him. Denard will try to throw for the win, but he just doesn't have the skill while running for his life. Bama wins solidly and the SEC chants echo into the night. Mich: 13--Bama: 27
Hoying: Two of the greatest football programs of all time square off in the premier matchup of kickoff Saturday. Alabama has been king of the college football landscape over the last few seasons, helped by that abomination of a do-over they got in last year's title game, while Corn and Blue are trying to prove they are back among the ranks of the elite. ScUM QB Denard Robinson has never seen a defense this dominant, not even when he got shut down by...nobody...in some beatdown in Columbus that apparently never happened. Look for Shoelace to throw a few picks before getting broken in half, while Tide QB AJ McCarron and friends expose the overrated Big Blue D. Not this year, Michigan. Not this year. UM: 13--Bama: 31
Schweinfurth: This game is a severely overrated team versus the defending national champs. Denard may be the most electrifying player in college football, but that Alabama defense is just down right nasty. In all honesty, I expect to see Robinson playing more wide receiver as the game rolls on, Gardner is just a better passer. TTUN lost a lot off that defense from last year as well and they will be exposed as a still building team. Alabama "rolls" in this one. TTUN: 6--Bama: 33
Miami (OH) Redhawks @ THE Ohio State Buckeyes
Draper: And we're back. After a tumultuous year, the Bucks look to forget 2011 ever happened, make a statement in 2012, and, most importantly, use this as a springboard into 2013. The team is stacked on defensive line; so much so that every QB facing the Scarlet and Gray will spend most of the game in a fetal position. Miller is ready to break out under Meyer's system (so long as he stays healthy--but Guiton is ready in the wings). The running attack will be just fine, but the WR corps is a little weak. This game, this season, is all about Urban saying hello and putting the fear of God into the rest of the conference/nation. Sorry Redhawks.... MU: 10--OSU: 48
Hoying: Well, Buckeye fans, our nightmare is half over. Even though this season will end with no championship and no bowl (and no bowl trip, sad face), Urban and the Buckeyes have plenty to prove to the world after the wretched 2011 campaign. And they get a nice squishy opponent to pound on! Much like last year's opener against Akron, which featured a nearly flawless thrashing by the Scarlet and Gray, this game will tell us nothing. Miami is a cupcake team from a cupcake conference, who will take their check and their bruises and go back on the Paul Ryan campaign trail. Buckeyes get their first win since Indiana on November 5. MU: 6--OSU: 41
Schweinfurth: The Urban Renewal is upon us friends. 2011 was one of the worst years in recent memory to be a Buckeye fan. A returning, more mature Braxton Miller (with free run of the offense and confidence of the coaches) is ready for a breakout season. It all starts Saturday. I expect the offense to have a monster day on the poor, hapless Red Hawks. Braxton and Hyde both have big days and the Hawks only cross the 50 once against a nasty and angry Buckeye D. Urban will show no mercy on any opponent this year. The Silver Bullets are back!!! Miami (OH) at Oxford: 3--OSU:56
Upset Special
Draper: Ohio over Penn StateHoying: Indiana State over Indiana
Schweinfurth: Ohio over Penn State (I promise I didn't copy Draper)
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Week 14 Picks--Championship Week
B1G--Michigan State Spartans vs. Wisconsin Badgers
Draper: The first of many rematches....why championship games suck. I expect something very different as the Spartans are totally different when not at home. Wisconsin is the better team and that will be shown here. Bielema will try to feed Ball the ball to get some more Heisman love, but the Spartans will slow him down. Then comes Russell Wilson who will be the difference. Kirk Cousins won't be able to hang around. MSU: 13--UW: 27
Auer: The Spartans found a way to capitalize on the Badgers mistakes, as well as took some serious risks in their surprising win over Wisconsin. Face it, MSU was lucky to win the initial game, and Wiscy has had quite the run of bad luck for being such a talented team. The Badgers win the the inaugural Big Ten Championship Game in style. MSU: 24--UW: 38
Hoying:Let's see, Michigan State has the best conference record in the B1G and a head-to-head win over Wisconsin...the most sensible course of action would be to make them play again! I foresee another classic in this matchup. In such a close contest, the edge goes to the biggest playmaker, which, in this case, is Wisconsin RB Montee Ball, possibly the most outstanding player in college football this season. The Spartan defensive front is talented, but Rex Burkhead was able to have success and the Wisconsin running game is clicking too well. Please let me be wrong. MSU: 27--UW:34
Schweinfurth: Well, it looks like we got the rematch some of the talking heads wanted. The last time these two squared off, it was an epic battle that came down to one of the most exciting finishes in recent memory. This one will not be as close but will have the same result. Last time these two played, Spartan defensive end William Gohlston was suspended. This time he is ready to knock some heads. It will be a tough go for Montee Ball and the Badger offense. MSU: 24 -- UW: 10
Pac 12--UCLA Bruins vs. Oregon Ducks
Draper: 31.5 point favorites are the Ducks...in the championship game...and smart money is probably on them. UCLA is only in this game because USC is ineligible. The Trojans are the only viable candidate in the South. The Bruins will play hard for their recently fired coach, but it won't be enough to overcome the talent of the Ducks. Ducks roll to the Rose Bowl. UCLA: 13--UO: 41
Auer: Why does this game matter? Oh wait, it doesn't. UCLA: 6--UO: 75
Hoying: Win one for Neuheisel, right? Right? Right? Anyone...? Maybe if UCLA brings their A-game and Oregon is caught sleeping...it won't be over by the end of the 1st quarter. UCLA: 6--UO: 63
Schweinfurth: This game will be an absolute slaughter. TheMichael has a big day and jumps back into the Heisman talk. UCLA: 14 -- UO: 52
SEC--LSU Tigers vs. Georgia Bulldogs
Draper: Can it happen? Can we get some more stupid craziness with a Bulldog win that most likely lets 3 SEC teams into the BCS (barf)? No. It can't. It would be funny, but the only reason Georgia is here over South Carolina is that they haven't faced any of the top 3 teams in the SEC West (LSU, Bama, Arkansas). This will be a rude awakening for the Dawgs who have been feeding off the dregs of the SEC. LSU: 41--UGA: 10
Auer: A meaningless game in the grand scheme of things. Some will use its outcome to praise the BCS, others to justify the importance of switching to a playoff system. Me on the other hand, this game will prove why going back to the old bowl system and ties would make more sense. LSU is better than anyone they've played so far this year, and most people think they deserve a spot in the BCS Championship regardless of outcome. It won't matter because they'll win easily. LSU: 35--UGA: 17
Hoying: There hasn't been a game this unimportant for the BCS's top team since Oklahoma - Kansas State in 2003. This would be a perfect trap game for the Tigeouxrs if the SEC East had a single viable candidate. Georgia has put together a nice 10-game win streak, but the best team they faced was Auburn? Georgia Tech? This one's not as cut and dry as the Pac-12 embarrassment, but Georgia doesn't have the tenacity or the defensive fortitude to pull this one out. LSU: 40 -- UGA: 20
Schweinfurth: All LSU has to do in this game is show up and they will play for the National Title. Marc Richt will have the 'Dogs ready to go. If Georgia can limit the big plays and turnovers, this game will be close. Unfortunately for Georgia, that LSU defense is just too good. LSU: 17 -- UGA: 3
ACC--Virginia Tech Hokies vs. Clemson Tigers
Draper: Rematch of another matchup. The Tigers beat the Hokies in Lane Stadium, but now they need to do it AGAIN at a neutral site. Unfortunately for them, Clemson has reemerged as Clemson. Tajh Boyd and Sammy Watkins are supremely talented, but also supremely inconsistent. The Hokies have beaten NO ONE, but they'll tag Clemson this time to go slaughter the Big East champion. VT: 24--Clem: 17
Auer: VT is the better coached team and it's not even close. I firmly believe the early season loss of the Hokies to the Tigers was a bit of a fluke, but then again, both these teams are a bit flaky. VT wins this one going away. VT: 41--Clem: 20
Hoying: Thanks to Florida State crapping the bed, the Clemson Tigers have been able to skate backwards on their faces into the ACC Championship in a "prove-it" game against their most valiant vanquished opponent. VT, meanwhile, has ridden the cupcake train on the way to crushing the laughable ACC Coastal division. Who wins the rematch? It all depends on whether Clemson decides to be Clemson. They did everything they could in November to escape the Atlantic crown, but fate pushed them to this point. This must be the Tigers' year. VT: 17--Clem: 20
Schweinfurth: Virginia Tech can cap off a very good, albiet quiet, season with yet another ACC Championship. Taj Boyd and Clemson have been a let down (typical for them, I know). I have faith that this is Clemson's year. The Tigers' D is bad, but the offense is explosive. Dabo will get to spout off again. VT: 35 -- Clem: 38
Big 12 (Defacto)--Oklahoma Sooners @ Oklahoma State Cowboys
Draper: Biggest game of the weekend that still means something. If OSU can beat the Sooners soundly, they will (and should) get back in the title talk. I think they can do it. Weeden and Blackmon laid an egg in Ames, but this game surpasses the rest. The Pokes know how to rile the Sooners. This will be hard hitting and really high scoring. Neither defense is worth much, but the Orange Nation in Stillwater tip the offensive scales. A late key turnover sends the Cowboys to the Fiesta at worst and maybe, dare we dream, New Orleans? OU: 45--OSU: 51
Auer: Time for Mike Gundy's team to get off the schnide against OU and beat up on the depleted sooners. This game will come down to turnovers, and OSU's offense will capitalize as they lead the nation in forced turnovers. OU: 28--OSU: 45
Hoying: Who can handle the pressure? Oklahoma State rides in on an 8-game losing streak in the series, but this matchup is potentially the biggest in the history of Cowboy football. Meanwhile, Oklahoma still has a chance to grab their 5th conference title in the last 6 years? Sadly, experience often wins out in such a situation. Big Game Bob and the Sooners are used to these types of clashes, while Okie State's nerves will cause some critical mistakes to doom their title chances and set up the worst. BCS. title. ever. OU: 42--OSU: 38
Schweinfurth: Ahh Bedlam. This game was setting up to be an epic battle of two undefeated only a few weeks ago. Losses to Texas Tech and Baylor have derailed the Sooner Schooner. A loss to Iowa State also knocked the Cowboys out of the national title picture. A win here for OSU would be big and could put them back into the national title game. In true Big 12 fashion, this will be a shootout in Stillwater. OU: 42 -- OSU: 49
CUSA--Southern Miss Golden Eagles @ Houston Cougars
Draper: This was circled as the one game the Cougs could lose, but Southern Miss has recently been exposed as crap after losing to UAB (shocker). Case Keenum will not disappoint and Kevin Sumlin will continue to pad the resume with a BCS game appearance. Let's go 7 TD passes for Keenum just to pad those stats and book a flight to New York....to lose the Heisman to ESPN; I mean Luck. USM: 20--UH:52
Auer: Don't care, not one iota. Houston wins easily in another stat-padding rout. USM:28--UH: 57
Hoying: Hey! Houston is still undefeated! Whoopee! And how about that great Southern Miss win over...SMU...why is this game necessary? USM: 10--UH: 49
Schweinfurth: The Golden Eagles will be the biggest test for the Cougars all year. I expect Case Keenum to continue his tear and score big.
Upset Special:
Draper: Iowa State over Kansas State (not copying Tyler...I swear)
Auer: Texas over Baylor
Hoying: Connecticut over Cincinnati
Schweinfurth: Iowa State over Kansas State
Draper: The first of many rematches....why championship games suck. I expect something very different as the Spartans are totally different when not at home. Wisconsin is the better team and that will be shown here. Bielema will try to feed Ball the ball to get some more Heisman love, but the Spartans will slow him down. Then comes Russell Wilson who will be the difference. Kirk Cousins won't be able to hang around. MSU: 13--UW: 27
Auer: The Spartans found a way to capitalize on the Badgers mistakes, as well as took some serious risks in their surprising win over Wisconsin. Face it, MSU was lucky to win the initial game, and Wiscy has had quite the run of bad luck for being such a talented team. The Badgers win the the inaugural Big Ten Championship Game in style. MSU: 24--UW: 38
Hoying:Let's see, Michigan State has the best conference record in the B1G and a head-to-head win over Wisconsin...the most sensible course of action would be to make them play again! I foresee another classic in this matchup. In such a close contest, the edge goes to the biggest playmaker, which, in this case, is Wisconsin RB Montee Ball, possibly the most outstanding player in college football this season. The Spartan defensive front is talented, but Rex Burkhead was able to have success and the Wisconsin running game is clicking too well. Please let me be wrong. MSU: 27--UW:34
Schweinfurth: Well, it looks like we got the rematch some of the talking heads wanted. The last time these two squared off, it was an epic battle that came down to one of the most exciting finishes in recent memory. This one will not be as close but will have the same result. Last time these two played, Spartan defensive end William Gohlston was suspended. This time he is ready to knock some heads. It will be a tough go for Montee Ball and the Badger offense. MSU: 24 -- UW: 10
Pac 12--UCLA Bruins vs. Oregon Ducks
Draper: 31.5 point favorites are the Ducks...in the championship game...and smart money is probably on them. UCLA is only in this game because USC is ineligible. The Trojans are the only viable candidate in the South. The Bruins will play hard for their recently fired coach, but it won't be enough to overcome the talent of the Ducks. Ducks roll to the Rose Bowl. UCLA: 13--UO: 41
Auer: Why does this game matter? Oh wait, it doesn't. UCLA: 6--UO: 75
Hoying: Win one for Neuheisel, right? Right? Right? Anyone...? Maybe if UCLA brings their A-game and Oregon is caught sleeping...it won't be over by the end of the 1st quarter. UCLA: 6--UO: 63
Schweinfurth: This game will be an absolute slaughter. TheMichael has a big day and jumps back into the Heisman talk. UCLA: 14 -- UO: 52
SEC--LSU Tigers vs. Georgia Bulldogs
Draper: Can it happen? Can we get some more stupid craziness with a Bulldog win that most likely lets 3 SEC teams into the BCS (barf)? No. It can't. It would be funny, but the only reason Georgia is here over South Carolina is that they haven't faced any of the top 3 teams in the SEC West (LSU, Bama, Arkansas). This will be a rude awakening for the Dawgs who have been feeding off the dregs of the SEC. LSU: 41--UGA: 10
Auer: A meaningless game in the grand scheme of things. Some will use its outcome to praise the BCS, others to justify the importance of switching to a playoff system. Me on the other hand, this game will prove why going back to the old bowl system and ties would make more sense. LSU is better than anyone they've played so far this year, and most people think they deserve a spot in the BCS Championship regardless of outcome. It won't matter because they'll win easily. LSU: 35--UGA: 17
Hoying: There hasn't been a game this unimportant for the BCS's top team since Oklahoma - Kansas State in 2003. This would be a perfect trap game for the Tigeouxrs if the SEC East had a single viable candidate. Georgia has put together a nice 10-game win streak, but the best team they faced was Auburn? Georgia Tech? This one's not as cut and dry as the Pac-12 embarrassment, but Georgia doesn't have the tenacity or the defensive fortitude to pull this one out. LSU: 40 -- UGA: 20
Schweinfurth: All LSU has to do in this game is show up and they will play for the National Title. Marc Richt will have the 'Dogs ready to go. If Georgia can limit the big plays and turnovers, this game will be close. Unfortunately for Georgia, that LSU defense is just too good. LSU: 17 -- UGA: 3
ACC--Virginia Tech Hokies vs. Clemson Tigers
Draper: Rematch of another matchup. The Tigers beat the Hokies in Lane Stadium, but now they need to do it AGAIN at a neutral site. Unfortunately for them, Clemson has reemerged as Clemson. Tajh Boyd and Sammy Watkins are supremely talented, but also supremely inconsistent. The Hokies have beaten NO ONE, but they'll tag Clemson this time to go slaughter the Big East champion. VT: 24--Clem: 17
Auer: VT is the better coached team and it's not even close. I firmly believe the early season loss of the Hokies to the Tigers was a bit of a fluke, but then again, both these teams are a bit flaky. VT wins this one going away. VT: 41--Clem: 20
Hoying: Thanks to Florida State crapping the bed, the Clemson Tigers have been able to skate backwards on their faces into the ACC Championship in a "prove-it" game against their most valiant vanquished opponent. VT, meanwhile, has ridden the cupcake train on the way to crushing the laughable ACC Coastal division. Who wins the rematch? It all depends on whether Clemson decides to be Clemson. They did everything they could in November to escape the Atlantic crown, but fate pushed them to this point. This must be the Tigers' year. VT: 17--Clem: 20
Schweinfurth: Virginia Tech can cap off a very good, albiet quiet, season with yet another ACC Championship. Taj Boyd and Clemson have been a let down (typical for them, I know). I have faith that this is Clemson's year. The Tigers' D is bad, but the offense is explosive. Dabo will get to spout off again. VT: 35 -- Clem: 38
Big 12 (Defacto)--Oklahoma Sooners @ Oklahoma State Cowboys
Draper: Biggest game of the weekend that still means something. If OSU can beat the Sooners soundly, they will (and should) get back in the title talk. I think they can do it. Weeden and Blackmon laid an egg in Ames, but this game surpasses the rest. The Pokes know how to rile the Sooners. This will be hard hitting and really high scoring. Neither defense is worth much, but the Orange Nation in Stillwater tip the offensive scales. A late key turnover sends the Cowboys to the Fiesta at worst and maybe, dare we dream, New Orleans? OU: 45--OSU: 51
Auer: Time for Mike Gundy's team to get off the schnide against OU and beat up on the depleted sooners. This game will come down to turnovers, and OSU's offense will capitalize as they lead the nation in forced turnovers. OU: 28--OSU: 45
Hoying: Who can handle the pressure? Oklahoma State rides in on an 8-game losing streak in the series, but this matchup is potentially the biggest in the history of Cowboy football. Meanwhile, Oklahoma still has a chance to grab their 5th conference title in the last 6 years? Sadly, experience often wins out in such a situation. Big Game Bob and the Sooners are used to these types of clashes, while Okie State's nerves will cause some critical mistakes to doom their title chances and set up the worst. BCS. title. ever. OU: 42--OSU: 38
Schweinfurth: Ahh Bedlam. This game was setting up to be an epic battle of two undefeated only a few weeks ago. Losses to Texas Tech and Baylor have derailed the Sooner Schooner. A loss to Iowa State also knocked the Cowboys out of the national title picture. A win here for OSU would be big and could put them back into the national title game. In true Big 12 fashion, this will be a shootout in Stillwater. OU: 42 -- OSU: 49
CUSA--Southern Miss Golden Eagles @ Houston Cougars
Draper: This was circled as the one game the Cougs could lose, but Southern Miss has recently been exposed as crap after losing to UAB (shocker). Case Keenum will not disappoint and Kevin Sumlin will continue to pad the resume with a BCS game appearance. Let's go 7 TD passes for Keenum just to pad those stats and book a flight to New York....to lose the Heisman to ESPN; I mean Luck. USM: 20--UH:52
Auer: Don't care, not one iota. Houston wins easily in another stat-padding rout. USM:28--UH: 57
Hoying: Hey! Houston is still undefeated! Whoopee! And how about that great Southern Miss win over...SMU...why is this game necessary? USM: 10--UH: 49
Schweinfurth: The Golden Eagles will be the biggest test for the Cougars all year. I expect Case Keenum to continue his tear and score big.
Upset Special:
Draper: Iowa State over Kansas State (not copying Tyler...I swear)
Auer: Texas over Baylor
Hoying: Connecticut over Cincinnati
Schweinfurth: Iowa State over Kansas State
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