Week 1: On the Road Again

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

Week 5 - B1G East Battle

Standings
1) Seeberg               14-5    (0-4 upset)
2) Draper                 13-6    (3-1 upset) 
2) Schweinfurth     13-6    (1-2 upset)
4) Hoying                11-8    (1-3 upset)

What a difference a year makes. After the end of nonconference play last season, the only undefeated B1G team was Penn State. This year, 5 out of the 29 remaining undefeated teams call the Big Ten their home. But only two meet this week as conference play kicks off in earnest.

West Virginia Mountaineers @ Oklahoma Sooners
Draper: Another Oklahoma game...where is it? Norman? These are the games Stoops usually wins.  Oklahoma has been tested in Knoxville (how good are the Vols? Don't know) but WVU has played the Little Sisters of the Poor.  I don't know how good either of these teams are, but I'll lean Perine and the Sooners in Norman.  WVU: 27 -- OU: 34
Hoying: You thought Bert and the 'Backs had a tough schedule? Try West Virginia. The Mountaineers kick off the first of 4 ranked matchups in October with a visit to Norman. Oklahoma had a nice comeback win against Tennessee, but last week the Gators showed us that any washed-up has-been former power can do the same. Meanwhile, West Virginia doesn't seem to be missing QB Clint Trickett, with Skyler Howard stepping in to lead one of the nation's top passing attacks. Beating West Virginia requires competent defense, and after Oklahoma gave up 38 to Tulsa, I'm not sure they can do it. The Sooners enter a land of confusion, and West Virginia gets a victory against all odds. WVU: 34--OU: 31
Schweinfurth: I feel like Oklahoma has fallen into the Big 12 trap of good offense, no defense. West Virginia has been doing that dance for years and are used to putting up big offensive numbers. I also feel that the Sooners are still settling into this new Air Raid system and are not running the ball enough. I give the edge to WVU, but they have a rough next few weeks. WVU: 42-OU: 38
Seeberg:  Not likely to see a whole lot of "D" in this one.  Oklahoma's win over the Vols has been cheapened by their second unconscionable 4th-quarter collapse against Florida last week, but that doesn't mean Oklahoma isn't still the better team in this matchup.  The Sooners are historically woeful on the road in any early-season matchup of consequence, but they got that monkey off their back by taking down rocky top, and back at home you can expect a better performance.  I like WVU and think they're a bit underrated personally, and in Morgantown I might give them the edge, but not in Norman.  Boomer Sooner survives a shootout  WVU: 42--OU: 45

Iowa Hawkeyes @ Wisconsin Badgers
Draper:  Are either of these teams any good? Iowa is undefeated after a long FG to beat Pitt while Wisconsin's 'feather in the cap' is losing to Bama.  Who do I trust more? I don't really like either of these teams, but Kirk Ferentz has had too many bad to mediocre years to give any credence to until I have more evidence.  In Madison? Edge Badgers.  Iowa: 14--Wisconsin: 24
Hoying: Remember when Nebraska ran Bo Pelini out on a rail for winning no fewer than 9 games for 7 straight seasons? Iowa hasn't won 9 games since 2009, but the Hawkeyes may be poised to make a run this year. Iowa swept their nonconference slate for the first time in 6 years, and they drew powerhouses Indiana and Maryland from the BEast this year. But if they want to face our beloved Bucks under the lights in Indy, they'll have to get by a Wisconsin team that doesn't run the ball. That's as confusing as, well, Iowa still being relevant in October. Paul Chryst's growing pains continue as Kirk steals one in Madison. Iowa: 17--Wisc: 16
Schweinfurth: Iowa got past Iowa State for the first time in ever a few weeks ago. I still don't trust the Hawkeyes. This game is going to be a fight in the trenches and Wisconsin typically has the bulls to win that fight. Iowa: 14--Wisc: 17
Seeberg:  Iowa's unbeaten?  Color me shocked.  The Hawkeyes even have 2 wins over power 5 opponents, though a 3-point home win against Pitt barely qualifies.  (Man, I hope Mark May reads that).  The Badgers are struggling to find an identity on offense but have given up a measly 3 points in their last 3 games combined.  If my math skills serve me right, that's only an extra point per contest.  Iowa broke out offensively last week against North Texas but, well, that's North Texas.  Bucky reestablishes himself as the mascot to beat out west.  IOWA: 13--WISC: 24

Alabama Crimson Tide @ Georgia Bulldogs
Draper:  The streak of 6 straight years of Nick Saban and the Tide being favorites has come to an end.  Will the Bulldogs further dethrone the Bad Boys of the SEC? Will UGA ever not disappoint in the big game under Richt? There will be some fantastic running back play in this play with Nick Chubb and Derrick Henry.  The question is: Will Lane Kiffin remember Henry is on the team? I think we're seeing a decline in the Bama juggernaut and Georgia gets the win at home (only to crap it away in a few weeks). Ala: 27 -- UGA: 31
Hoying: In order to beat Crimson Tide under Nick Saban, you either need to play a near-perfect game or be a near-perfect team (or play them in his first year there, but that ship sailed 8 years ago). We saw the former in the Tide's second consecutive loss to Ole Miss (no, the Rebels aren't going to the playoff this year). Is Georgia the latter? The Bulldogs certainly look the part, riding Nick Chubb and an elite ground game to 4 blowout wins over teams that Bret Bielema would complain about and then lose to. The passing game isn't spectacular, but it's better than the hot mess brewing behind center in Tuscaloosa. If Lane Kiffin can finally learn to trust his stud RBs and stop throwing the ball, Alabama will come away with a victory. Never bet against Lane. Ala: 31--UGA: 24
Schweinfurth: Georgia can run the ball and Nick Chubb is a beast. For some reason, Lane Kiffin has a allergy to running the ball. Oh wait, he is Lane Kiffin. In Saban's last two losses, his team has just been beaten up front. I think Georgia is the more physical team and Mark Richt finally gets the Saban monkey off his back. Ala: 20--UGA: 28
Seeberg:  I hate to disagree with my colleague Mr. Hoying, but I intentionally bet against Lane last week and it worked out.  JUST GIVE DERRICK HENRY THE BLEEPING BALL.  Will he figure it out this week?  I honestly don't know.  What I do know is that Greyson Lambert has only attempted 17 throws per game in Georgia's 4-0 start because Nick Chubb and Co. are ramming the running game down everyone's throat.  As good as their ground attack is I have trouble believing that much one-dimensionality can cause sustained problems for the Bama D.  Despite a 7:0 TD-int ratio this year, Lambert for his career is just 18:13.  I think Bama's D will rattle him and make a couple plays to bail out Kiffin's consistently head-scratching play calling and, unfortunately, put the Crimson Tide back in the hunt to be beaten in the playoff again.  ALA: 28--UGA: 23

Kansas State Wildcats @ Oklahoma State Cowboys
Draper: Has anyone actually seen a K-State game this year?  All I know about these teams is the the Pokes squeaked out a close win in Austin last week so I feel more confident with them.  Bill Snyder is known for scheduling (through Kansas State) cupcakes to start the year, so 4-0 is never a shock. The undefeated season comes to a halt in Stillwater.  KSU: 20--OSU: 34
Hoying: I apologize for putting this game on the list, but K-State is still undefeated after a classic Bill Snyder non-conference slate: South Dakota, UTSA, and Louisiana Tech. Oklahoma State almost faceplanted against a bad Texas team and need to find their footing if they're going to keep pace in a deep Big XII. OSU QB Mason Rudolph leads a Cowboy offense that has sputtered at time, failing to reach 40 (I'm a man!) in 3 of their 4 games. I think they'll again have trouble hitting that mark, but an improved defense should keep the Wildcats at bay. KSU: 20--OSU: 31
Schweinfurth: Not sure how this one plays out due to the fact that I only know who the coaches of these teams are. I do know that Mike Gundy typically has a pretty good offense, so I'll pick the Cowboys out of my hat. KSU: 21--OSU: 30
Seeberg:  Tough to figure this one out.  Kansas State has taken the mantle from Baylor as the most pathetic nonconference schedule known to man to get to 3-0.  Okla State looked rough against a Texas team that can suddenly score the ball a little, but squeaked out the W to stay unbeaten as well.  Ironically, the Big 12's OSU has had a similar arc to our beloved Buckeyes this year:  Highly touted offense that has struggled at times, but a D with question marks that has actually played half-decent.  Add that to the fact that K-State gave up 33 at home to Louisiana Tech and you've got yourself a 5-0 Cowboys squad by Saturday's end.  KSU: 24--OSU: 34

Ole Miss Rebels @ Florida Gators
Draper: Ole Miss is going to tout that win over Bama forever...even though they got super lucky and we don't know if Bama is 'world beater' of the recent past.  That being said...Florida? Really? Yeah, they're undefeated but you spell mirage G-A-T-O-R-S.  The game will be shockingly close in the 3rd but the Rebs pull away late.  Miss: 28 -- UF: 16
Hoying: Is Florida a historically mediocre program buoyed by two all-time great coaches: Spurrier and Meyer? Or are they a top-tier mainstay that only incompetent hacks like the Zooker and big dumb Will Muschamp can wreck? The post-Muschamp Gators have yet to lose a game, but the competition ramps up in a hurry. The Rebels, the hottest team east of Utah, are looking to avoid the post-Alabama meltdown that wrecked their playoff hopes last season. That quest will end eventually, but not this week, no matter how loud Jim McElwain screams. Miss--31--UF: 13
Schweinfurth: Florida is still rebuilding and Ole Miss looks like the class of the SEC right now. Miss: 35--UF: 20
Seeberg:  Really?  A last-minute win over a we-forget-games-have-four-quarters Tennessee squad is enough to put the Gators in the top 25?  Ridiculous.  Thankfully that will be a short-lived issue as the Rebels come to town sporting the only team in the top ten in both offensive and defensive efficiency- even after meeting the overlord Bama.  Rebels make quick work of this one.  MISS: 45--FLA: 17

Notre Dame Fighting Irish @ Clemson Tigers
Draper: Did I say mirage? That is the theme of this game.  I believe both of these teams may be mirages, but Notre Dame's claim to fame was taking down the Jackets...who subsequently lost to Duke.  This is when the Irish rubber meets the road and Clemson's Death Valley is the 3rd loudest stadium I've ever been to (behind the Swamp and the Shoe).  Dabo tries to blow it, but this is the game in which the Domers fall from glory.  Clemson's day will come, but it will not be this day.  ND: 21 -- Clemson: 31
Hoying: When will Notre Dame's injuries finally catch up with them? The crew at Let's Go Bucks! unanimously picked the Irish to crash and burn against GT after losing Malik Zaire, but the Jackets rambled and wrecked their way to a loss in South Bend. ND's fate may change as they leave the friendly confines and enter "Death Valley." Clemson has 3 okay wins against 3 bad teams, but they have all of 2 home losses in the last 4 years. Notre Dame doesn't travel particularly well, and they don't have the horses to move the ball on an improved Tiger defense. Pick the home team. ND: 20--Clem: 35
Schweinfurth: At some point, all of these injuries have to catch up with the Irish. I think it is this week. Both offenses move the ball well and neither team plays great defense. Time for a shootout in Death Valley. ND: 42--Clem: 49
Seeberg:  I've actually been very impressed with Clemson this year.  They seem to be playing a reasonable facsimile of...oh crap what's the word?  Oh yeah.  DEFENSE.  Though their offense struggled against the only 1-A opponent they've played to date, the Golden Domer D is more porous than in recent years.  And quite frankly, I just don't like them either; however, I thoroughly enjoy the Tiger Rag, so I gotta go with #soybeanwind (it's an anagram for Dabo Swinney that I sadly cannot take credit for, but if you aren't watching Last Week Tonight clips on youtube the following day like everybody not fortunate enough to have HBO then SHAME ON YOU...and go watch it!).  ND: 20--CLEM: 31

THE Ohio State University Buckeyes @ Indiana Hoosiers
Draper: Will the Buckeye offense ever figure it out? This is the (fifth straight) week in which they should.  Let's be real here.  IU has an offense.  Sudfeld is a good QB and Kevin Wilson can coach offense, but the Hoosier defense is a steaming pile of cow dung.  117th in the country in total defense after the murderer's row of Southern Illinois, FIU, Western Kentucky, and Wake Forest.  If the Bucks don't break 50, I'll be extremely disappointed. While the D gives up more than most will be comfortable with, Cardale hits some of those bombs he missed last week and the Bucks keep it going.  OSU: 62 -- IU: 30
Hoying: For the fourth time this year, the Bucks enter a battle of unbeatens. But this game is a really, really, B1G deal. You may have seen that Ohio State and Indiana haven't faced each other unblemished since 1954. What you probably don't know is that that was the season opener! The Buckeyes and Hoosiers haven't met with both teams better than 1-0...EVER. Ohio State doesn't lose to Indiana often, but the wins have not come easily under Urban Meyer. Letting Tevin Coleman run all over you is understandable, but allowing Xander Diamont to have success throwing the ball is not. This year, the Hoosiers have Nate Sudfeld back and might lead the best offense the Bullets will face this regular season. Don't expect Cardale to struggle against another vintage Indiana defense, but the Hoosiers have just enough weapons to make this one interesting. The good news is, there's no reason at all for Ohio State to be looking ahead. On to 5-0. OSU: 42--IU: 24
Schweinfurth: Laugh at this all you want, but I think the Western Michigan game was a great tune up for Indiana. Both teams like to throw quick passes to the outside and then run inside zone from a wide open spread. This exposed the Buckeye interior defense, but I expect this coaching staff to make the adjustment. Now that the QB situation is finally settled, Cardale can get all the reps in practice and lock those deep bombs in. The receivers had separation last week and they should be able to get behind the leaky Hoosiers' secondary. It's B1G season so it's time to hammer Zeke and stop getting cute with the "Globetrotter Offense." OSU: 49--IU: 21
Seeberg:   The good from last week:  The offense looked better, the special teams improved as well.  The bad?  The D looked worse.  Getting into conference play, I fear the Huskies may have exposed some weaknesses.  Specifically, teams can score on us if centers don't shoot their teams in the foot.  In any event, Indiana can typically score it well the past few years, and they give up points equally well.  This should be a matchup that will test the Silver Bullets but allow the offense to begin to hit its stride.  What's a Hoosier anyway?  OSU: 45--IU: 20

Upset Special
Draper: CLANGA over Texas A&M
Hoying: Minnesota over Northwestern
Schweinfurth: Texas Tech over Baylor
Seeberg:  Air Force over Navy

Week 10 - The Playoff Eliminator

Standings

1) Draper               27-14    (4-5 upset)

1) Seeberg              27-14    (1-8 upset)
3) Hoying               26-15    (3-6 upset)
4) Schweinfurth     24-17    (3-6 upset)

Even after a few more upsets last week, only one Power 5 team, Minnesota, made the dreaded drop from 1 to 2 losses, essentially falling out of playoff contention. Eighteen Power 5 teams are sitting on fewer than 2 losses, but this week's slate guarantees the demise of at least 2 more.

#5 Auburn Tigers @ #6 Ole Miss Rebels

Draper: Auburn has kind of become the forgotten team in the SEC West after the loss to Mississippi State.  Let's not forget they played for the Championship last year.  Nick Marshall runs Gus Malzahn's system extremely well and they are a truly solid team.  But...Ole Miss finally got Bad Bo and faceplanted against a so-so LSU team.  Granted, it was in Death Valley, but LSU is not as good as it's been in the recent past.  Now the tables turn as the Rebels get the Tigers on their home field where memories of the big Bama win still echo.  I'm sticking with the home team taking care of business.  Good Bo returns and more importantly, the landsharks defense holds Malzahn to a modest game.  Aub: 20--Ole Miss: 24
Hoying: Even though these two teams share a division (the ALMIGHTY INVINCIBLE SEC WEST), they share only one common opponent, LSU. Ole Miss puffed and sputtered all over Death Valley on the way to a puzzling 10-7 loss, while Auburn steamrolled the Tigers 41-7 at Jordan-Hare. Is there a huge gap between these teams, or is home field really a monster factor in the SEC? After all, Ole Miss upset Bama and home and obliterated every other visitor to Oxford, and Auburn's road trips led to a squeaker over Kansas State and a solid loss to Mississippi State. Auburn QB Nick Marshall has 0 INTs in 5 home games and 3 INTs in 2 road games. That's not a good weakness to expose to the nation's top defense. Tonight's forecast: a FREEZE is coming! Aub: 24--Ole Miss: 28
Schweinfurth: Ah yes, two teams from the most overrated division in college football.  Ole Miss is reeling from that loss to LSU last week and is highly ranked based on a win over Alabama (who has really beaten no one).  Auburn runs the ball, and does it well with Nick Marshall.  I'm not sure that the Land Shark D can stop that run game. I also believe that Ole Miss was exposed last week and drops another one here.  Aub: 31--Ole Miss 17
Seeberg:  This game, already huge, has suddenly become even bigger as both teams are in the top four of the inaugural playoff era poll (it will be 16 teams by 2030, mark my words).  Auburn waxed LSU at home, scoring 34 more than the Rebels managed in Death Valley.  The Ole Miss D, however, is still allowing a measly 10.5 ppg and Auburn struggled to score in its only other road game of consequence.  I believe the Tigers will be forced to throw more than they would like, and the Rebels will get back on track after that debacle INT at the end of last week's game.  Aub: 13--Ole Miss: 21

#4 TCU Horned Frogs @ #16 West Virginia Mountaineers
Draper: Don't want to be a couch in Morgantown these days.  WVU is rolling with former Nole Clint Trickett slinging the rock around like Larry Fine/Phil Collins/Dana Holgorson likes.  Kevin White has been a stud at wide receiver keeping up with the likes of Amari Cooper.  TCU, since suffering the horrible meltdown in Waco, has done nothing but destroy.  Last week's beatdown was just ridiculous with Boykin breaking records left and right.  The atmosphere will be nuts, but TCU is a sound football team that has their eyes on the prize.  Expect the Mountaineers to take an early lead and TCU just slowly take control away after momentum dies down.  TCU: 38--WVU: 27
Hoying: If not for a bizarre 24 point 4th quarter collapse at Baylor, TCU would be sitting at 7-0 and have a serious case to be #1 in the rankings. Instead they travel to the Baylor-slaying Mountaineers to face possibly the nation's hottest player, QB Clint Trickett, and the terrific West Virginia offense. Unfortunately for the home team, TCU's offense is even more formidable, averaging more than 50 points a pop and showing no signs of slowing down. Thank goodness poor Chris Spielman isn't calling this one, or he'd be retching in the studio by the end of the first quarter. TCU: A WHOLE BUNCH--WVU: STILL A LOT BUT NOT AS MUCH
Schweinfurth: What in the world is going on in the Big 12?  TCU put up 82 points last week?!? Who could have predicted that in any game.  That Horned Frog offense is something to marvel at but WVU isn't a slouch either.  Unfortunately for the Mountaineers, you have to be able to make at least ONE stop a game to win. I'm gonna take Trevon Boykin and the Frogs.  You may want to divert your eyes if you are a fan of defensive football.  This score is going to look like a video game.  TCU: 70--WVU: 63
Seeberg:  This one should be a very interesting watch.  WVU may have shaken their habit of playing down to their competition, handling Oklahoma State easily.  Maybe feeding off the confidence of the Baylor win?  TCU, meanwhile, dropped 82 points- no that's not a typo- last week, equaling their men's BASKETBALL team from a year ago who also managed just one game above 80 points.  West Virginia should use a Baylor-esque game plan to put some significant points on the board, but TCU is too good across the board to let another collapse happen to a team they need to (and should) beat.  TCU: 41--WVU: 34

#19 Utah Utes @ #14 Arizona State Sun Devils
Draper: Utah loves living on the edge.  They squeak out victories vs. USC, UCLA, and Oregon State, but they defeat that Wolverine 'juggernaut' by a billion.  ASU has also lived on the edge with the Hail Mary victory over USC and the closer than the score would indicate win over Washington.  That being said, the Sun Devils return to Tempe and have looked pretty good at home (other than the UCLA debacle.  Todd Graham should go back to Berkovici in my opinions but either way, I expect a Sun Devil victory. Utah: 21--ASU: 31
Hoying: Although these two teams currently lead the Pac-12 South, the only thing that comes to mind when I think about either of them is "borrowed time." Utah has squeaked by good teams in 3 consecutive weeks after a head-scratching home loss to Washington freaking State, while Arizona State beat one LA team on a Hail Mary and got plastered by the other. At least the Sun Devils can be forgiven for breaking in a backup QB, Mike Bercovici, who has become ASU's J.T. Barrett. We'll know more after Sparky hosts the Irish next week, but Arizona State stays alive in the South hunt, barreling toward a season-ending showdown in Tucson. Utah: 13--ASU: 31
Schweinfurth: I'm really not to sure about either team, mostly because Pac 12 games are played after 10PM and I like my sleep.  Just for kicks, I'll take the home team (and higher ranked) team in ASU. Utah: 20--ASU: 35
Seeberg:  Anybody have this game circled on their schedules in the preseason?  Not likely.  The Sun Devils have looked particularly impressive since their aberrational beatdown at the hands of UCLA by winning at USC and scoring a whopping 26 points against the defensive juggernaut of Stanford.  Utah, meanwhile, went on the road and beat UCLA and just squeaked out a home win over that same USC squad.  Utah runs it a ton, but they may become even more one-dimensional as their senior star wideout Dres Anderson- who has over 2,000 yards receiving in his career- is out the rest of the year with a knee injury.  Look for Utah to try to shorten the game by keeping it on the ground, but obvious passing downs will become virtual locks for the Sun Devil D.  Gotta love those tridents on the helmets!  Utah: 17--ASU: 27

Illinois Fighting Illini @ #15 THE Ohio State University Buckeyes
Draper: Alert the presses! Illinois won a conference game! JT Barrett is hurt so we're ripe for an upset....wait, it's in the Shoe...at night? Nevermind.  Illinois CRASHES hard back to earth as the Buckeye's reassert their case for B1G supremacy and national attention.  Barrett will be somewhat coddled for the knee so expect a heavy dose of Zeke (please, Tom).  The D-Line is looking forward to beating the Illini down.  Can the defense keep the momentum from the PSU performance? I think so.  The offense will be somewhat pedestrian as Urban protects the QB and keeps some in his pocket for East Lansing.  Take it easy, get the win, and make next week count.  Ill: 13--OSU: 41
Hoying: FINALLY, the B1G basement dwellers are starting to rise above 1-11 or 2-10 status. For the first time since the conference expanded beyond 11 teams, each member is going to finish with at least 3 wins, including our beloved rivals, the Fighting Illini. Somehow, Illinois lost the dynamic leader of its offense and got better, rising up to snakebite Minnesota in Champaign. The Orange and Blue were actually outgained by a significant margin, but used turnovers to stay in the game until they could pull off the upset with a late score. Sound a bit similar to another game from last weekend? The good news: Illinois doesn't feature one of the nation's top run defenses, or a great defense at all, or even a bad defense. They won't capture lightning in a bottle twice, as long as J.T. can avoid pick sixes and daydreams of sweet revenge against that other team up north. Ill: 17--OSU: 59
Schweinfurth: I really don't know who this Ohio State team is, and I think that is a product of the schedule.  I think the Bucks roll to a 20+ point victory last week if not for the pick 6, but that offensive line...come on man!  I thought you guys had it fixed.  Run blocking? No problem.  Pass protection...very hit or miss.  As for this week, it's another feel good game before the Sparty showdown next week.  I expect to see very few J.T. runs out of the offense and it won't really be needed.  I don't need to say anything about the Silver Bullets (yea, they are real close to being back) as they have looked aggressive and talented this year.  Bucks roll, bring on Sparty!! Ill: 13--OSU: 52
Seeberg:  Well, last week went as scripted- for two quarters at least.  Apparently our massively paid offensive coaching staff has never heard of a 'Plan B' as the offense sputtered when J.T. tweaked his knee.  Luckily, Joey Bosa is an absolute beast, and we get mediocre Illinois off a surprising win against Minnesota that will likely keep them fat and happy for a couple weeks at least.  Get ahead early, keep J.T. healthy, and pray Michigan State isn't using their bye week well (I still think a conspiracy theory is afoot with that scheduling).  Ill: 13--OSU: 38

Upset Special
Draper: Iowa State over Oklahoma
Hoying: Louisville over Florida State
Schweinfurth: Arkansas over Mississippi State (CHAOS!!!)
Seeberg:  Pitt over Duke

Week 9 - The Return of Boring

Standings

1) Draper               25-12    (4-4 upset)

1) Seeberg              25-12    (1-7 upset)
3) Hoying               24-13    (3-5 upset)
4) Schweinfurth     22-15    (3-5 upset)

There's no big, sexy game on this week's slate, but there are a few worthy distractions to keep you occupied until the white-out at 8 P.M. (7 Central) Saturday night.

Ole Miss Rebels @ Louisiana State Tigers

Draper: For some reason, I'm thinking this might actually be a game.  LSU has looked terrible most of the year, but I feel Les pulls one out of this butt every year.  I don't think he'll have quite enough to stop Dr. Bo and Mr. Nkemdiche.  Don't get me wrong, Ole Miss is the superior team, but a night game Death Valley gives me a little pause.  Not enough to pull the trigger, but the booger eater makes it close.  Ole Miss: 31--LSU: 28

Hoying: After their coming-out party against the Tide (THE DYNASTY IS NOT OVER) and their follow up win against some overrated Lone Star team, the Rebels suffered a bit of a letdown against SEC Least foe Tennessee...for about 10 minutes. Even after their slow start, Ole Miss still managed to paste the Volunteers, surging past struggling Stanford to claim the title of nation's top defense. What does this mean for LSU? The Tigers posted all of 7 points against Auburn and were sitting on 16 points against Mississippi State until the Bulldogs' bizarre 4th-quarter collapse. LSU can't decide which terrible quarterback to play on any given down (oh where have you gone, Zach WarrenBurger), and good luck trying to run on this Rebel front. Ole Miss completes the Mississippi sweep in Death Valley. Ole Miss: 30--LSU: 17

Schweinfurth: LSU has not looked great this year (It took an injury to one of the nation's rushing leaders to beat Wisconsin among other games).  This team just does not have the snarl and talent it did just a few short years ago.  Ole Miss is riding on a big wave of momentum and has looked good so far.  As long as  horrendous Bo doesn't show up, Ole Miss wins fairly easy. Ole Miss: 35--LSU: 14

Seeberg:  It's remarkable to think just how, at least for this season, the fortunes of these two teams have flip-flopped.  LSU is a huge second-half comeback against Wiscy away from being a 3-loss team while Ole Miss has only had one serious threat all season.  Ole Miss gives up barely 10 points a game, and LSU struggles on the offensive side of the ball, which is clearly a recipe for disaster along the same lines of the OSU-PSU game (see below).  LSU feeds off the night crowd energy early, but can't score enough to stay in it much past halftime.  Ole Miss: 27--LSU: 10

USC Trojans @ Utah Utes

Draper: The Utes have quietly put together a nice little season, albeit living on the edge.  Can they spring the upset at home? Would it be an upset with the sporadic play of the Trojans?  I believe the Trojans are the better team but still in the process of 'finding themselves'.  Utah knows who they are and they're a mid-level football team.  SC opened the floodgates last week letting Kessler sling the ball for a record 7 TDs, but Utah is certainly better than the hapless Buffs.  The road game makes USC a little shaky, but they have the better talent and will pull off the win by a TD--assuming they can stop the Hail Mary this time.  USC: 38--Utah: 31

Hoying: Is USC finally back? Seems like a silly question to ask after a bizarre loss to Boston College and terrible Hail Mary defense against Arizona State, but when you think about the Trojan dynasty from the early 2000's, what comes to mind? Elite QB play, embodied by Carson Palmer, Matt Leinart, and Mark Sanchez. After a 7 passing TD display against Colorado, Cody Kessler is angling for inclusion on this list (don't laugh, how many of you remember Carson Palmer's junior season?). More questionable is whether a middling USC defense can handle a great Utah rushing attack led by RB Devontae Booker. After all, BC only ran for about 450 YARDS against the Trojan front. In the end, I think Kessler will do enough to make up for what his front seven lacks. Fight on. USC: 31--Utah: 27

Schweinfurth: I really like what Steve Sarkisian has done at USC already.  That offense is tough to stop when they play ahead of the chains and go no-huddle. The defense isn't a slouch either.  They seem to bring guys from every angle and do a very good job confusing QBs.  While Utah will be able to move the ball on the ground, I really think that Sark's offense will be the difference in this game. USC: 24--Utah: 20

Seeberg:  Utah actually has the best win of the two teams, a narrow victory at then-top-10 UCLA.  Unfortunately, they followed with a near-disaster against Oregon State, escaping in double OT.  USC struggles to stop the run- which is what Utah does well- but can score a lot to compensate, and it's difficult to picture the Utes shutting down USC's wide receiving corps.  I think USC makes just enough fixes on D to go on the road and get a suddenly critical conference win.  USC: 35--Utah: 28

West Virginia Mountaineers @ Oklahoma State Cowboys

Draper: I thought OSU was a pretty good team but the faceplant last week didn't help.  WVU is really knocking it up a notch with Clint Trickett (former Nole) flourishing under Larry Fine's (get it? Holgerson looks like Larry from the Stooges! I know this is a sad state of affairs that I need to explain this...) offensive scheme.  The Pokes are REALLY tough to beat in Stillwater, but while their speed may match WVU, their execution does not.  Stickin' with the Mountaineers begrudgingly as I love the Pokes. Expect fireworks. WVU: 41--OSU: 38

Hoying: How about that great Cowboy win against...erm...well...how about their game last wee...uh...they sure played FSU tough a couple months ago, didn't they? Okie State doesn't really do anything well, except post unimpressive victories against total cream puffs. In contrast, West Virginia QB Clint Trickett leads arguably the best pass attack outside of Pullman, Washington, tossing for over 300 yards in each game so far this season. Bafflingly, the Mountaineers also violated school tradition by playing actual defense against a blazing Baylor attack last weekend. This is a clear mismatch, no matter what Vegas tells you.  They have the Pokes favored, but it's garbage, and the oddsmaker who let it come out is garbage! WVU: 34--OSU: 27

Schweinfurth: I don't know if there is a more surprising team to me than West Virginia.  I was impressed by WVU's losses this year if only because they were supposed to get trounced in both. It seems as though Dana Hogerson does know how to coach a defense.  That is a dangerous combo with the offense the Mountaineers roll out there.  Oklahoma State runs a fairly similar offense to Baylor and we all know how that turned out last week.  Mountaineers win and keep proving they are no longer a one trick pony. WVU: 45--OSU: 24

Seeberg:  This game is likely to be close as West Virginia has an annoying habit of playing to the level of their competition, for better or worse (close loss to Bama, close win against Maryland, for instance).  Oklahoma State's usually vaunted offense was completely shut down by a good TCU squad, which may have provided some blueprints for other teams.  WVU isn't as talented on D as TCU- except they gave up a whopping 34 points fewer to Baylor.  The Mountaineers make it closer than they should, but get out of  Stillwater with a win.  WVU: 38--OSU: 34

THE Ohio State University Buckeyes @ Penn State Nittany Lions

Draper: PSU looked...ok...early on, but they have looked like they're steadily getting worse....while the Bucks have improved every week.  Happy Valley is always rocking at night, but the team is certainly not like the PSU teams of old.  Hackenburg is a pretty boy QB, but I haven't seen the jaw-dropping talent to which people continue to refer. After their easy win against Rutgers (I mean, who could have picked Rutgers over PSU....what a dumb pick...), they've taken a dive against NW AT HOME!! and vs. a terrible Michigan team.  The Bucks are on such a high, I just see more of the same.  JT continues to carve up opponents, and, while he'll struggle early getting his bearings on the road in a tough environment, he'll recenter and take care of business.  Look for a BIG day from the defensive line.  Bucks roll. OSU: 42--PSU: 24

Hoying: Ah, Penn State, the Vanderbilt of the B1G East, minus the academics. After a 4-0 start, including a shocking stun of Rutgers in Piscataway, the Nittany Lions have lost to two BAD teams, including a homecoming blowout loss to Northwestern. With no time to throw the ball, Christian Pickenberg has become a total non-factor, and his outlook isn't likely to improve with the new and improved Silver Bullet D coming to Happy Valley. Penn State still has a nominally impressive defense, certainly better than any the Buckeyes have seen since Virginia Tech, but Barrett isn't showing any signs of slowing. My concern: after another 4 TD and 350 yard performance on national TV vaults JT into the Heisman discussion, should Braxton consider transferring? OSU: 45--PSU: 13

Schweinfurth: Can anyone point to an offensive line that acts like a sieve more than Penn State?  If Michigan can set up camp in the Lions backfield, what is Joey Bosa going to do to Hackenberg?  Think about that.  Bosa, Bennett, Washington and company are going to have some fun (are you not entertained!?!) this week.  The only concern I have is the OSU offensive line.  They have looked impressive since the Va Tech game but that has also been inferior competition.  While Penn State does have a statistically good defense, again, it's been against inferior competition.  What does that all mean?  Well, Penn State is going to come out in a Bear/Double Eagle front (duh) and J.T. is going to pick it apart.  This game is gonna get ugly.  I really hope they have a "Hackenberg got crushed" counter this week because he will get rocked over and over and over and over... Oh, yea, I think the 50+ streak ends this week but J.T. FOR HEISMAN!!!! OSU: 48--PSU: 17

Seeberg:  Oh fantastic, another night game in not-so-Happy Valley so the locals have 12 hours to enjoy their favorite adult beverages before filing into Beaver Stadium.  Penn State does boast a very respectable D that has kept them in most games, giving up barely 15 points a game.  Their O, however, is equally unrespectable, scoring just 21 a game.  Even if Hackenberg stays upright (not likely), he doesn't have enough weaponry to cause the Silver Bullets enough troubles.  The raucous crowd and scripted opening plays keep the Lions in it early, but too much Barrett and Co. (let's get Heuerman involved some now that he's healthy please!) makes it another solid win.  OSU: 38--PSU: 13

Upset Special

Draper: Cal over Oregon

Hoying: Washington over Arizona State

Schweinfurth: South Carolina over Auburn (why not hope for absolute chaos)

Seeberg:  Washington State over Arizona (see what I did there, Hoying?)

Week 8: Calm before the storm

Standings
 1) Schweinfurth   23-5   (3-4 upset)
 2) Hoying            19-9    (2-5 upset)
 3) Draper             18-10  (2-5 upset--missed 2 pts conv!!)
 4) Auer                15-9    (0-6 upset)

Louisiana State Tigers @ Texas A&M Aggies
Draper: The Aggies have been electric on offense but terrible on defense.  LSU has been the exact opposite.  Were this game in Death Valley, I'd call for a blowout, but the 12th Man evens the playing field a bit.  Manziel has put up stupid good numbers but hasn't faced a defense like this.  Mingo and Montgomery pull LSU solidly back into the national title hunt. LSU:20--TAMU: 10
Auer: A huge game in College Station, a place where LSU has never won. The Tigers missed out on a lot of scoring opportunities last week and still came away with a win over South Carolina. LSU is the real deal and will win a close one. LSU: 34--TAMU: 28
Hoying: Give credit to Texas A&M for a win over a ranked team, but is anyone feeling good about their chances after a WAC opponent took them to the brink of disaster?  LSU's defense won't be giving up 59 points, even to Johnny Football, everyone's newest blip on the Heisman radar.  LSU has a little trouble scoring, but that rarely seems to be a problem for them (anyone remember watching the 2003 Buckeyes?)  The Aggies continue their nasty "Welcome to the SEC tour" as another quality opponent kicks them to the curb.  LSU: 22--TAMU: 16
Schweinfurth: So far this season, Texas A&M have held their own in their first SEC season.  This will be LSU's first trip into Kyle Field, but I think it will matter not.  LSU is the all around better, and oversigned (sorry I couldn't help myself) team. Tigers win close, but that is their identity this year.  LSU: 17--TAMU: 13


South Carolina Gamecocks @ Florida Gators
Draper: The schedulers certainly did South Carolina no favors with back to back road games at Death Valley and the Swamp.  Sometimes, a loss can tell just as much as a win.  LSU is almost unbeatable at home at night, and the Cocks brought it to an onside kick.  Driskell has been very good at QB but no one is blown away by the Gator offense.  Lattimore and Shaw were able to score some on the Tigers but couldn't push it over the edge.  Florida has an excellent defense, but while some predict the Tigers softened the Gamecocks, I think it strengthened their resolve.  Also, I can't pick Florida (they are 4 of my losses I believe). Go Cocks! USC: 20--UF: 13
Auer: USC may be without Lattimore and the Gators are at home... this may get ugly. Factor in a revenge factor of Florida, and this will certainly be another big statement game from the Gainesville Gators. USC: 17--UF: 35
Hoying: South Carolina fans were feeling Cocky after their a big win over Georgia but got a sobering dose of reality at the hands of the punishing LSU defense.  SC QB Connor Shaw is probably better than Florida QB Jeff Driskell, but the Gator D might be even better than LSU's.  Going to the Swamp is no fun for anybody, and the ol' ball coach is going to get another reminder of why he never should have left. USC: 13--UF: 21
Schweinfurth: This game could have been epic if South Carolina could have held on last week.  Both of these teams sport efficient offenses and stout defenses.  I expect the same offensive formula that has worked for the most part from the Gamecocks: Lattimore, Lattimore, and and then Shaw over the top.  Unfortunately I'm not sure if that will be enough.  The Gators get a roughed up USC in Gainsville, which is huge for this game.  The Head Ball Coach throws his visor at the end of this one. USC: 21--UF: 24


Kansas State Wildcats @ West Virginia Mountaineers

Draper: No one is giving Kansas State any credit.  Collin Klein (in my opinion) is the clear frontrunner for the Heisman.  West Virginia is the flash and Wildcars are the grind it out hardworking 'Mericans.  Geno and company will put up points, but the defense can't stop anything.  AARP Bill Snyder's team makes a few stops to win a close one in Morgantown.  KSU: 30--WVU: 28
Auer: I haven't watched KSU play, but WVU was exposed in a big way this past weekend and it makes it very hard to be confident in their ability to win against a real opponent. Then again, I kind of question the legitimacy of the Wildcats. What the hell, I'll call for the home team upset. KSU: 38--WVU: 41
Hoying: West Virginia was exposed in a BIG way last week, both by their dismantling at the hands of Texas Tech and the discrediting of their previous vanquished opponent, Texas.  The Mountaineers seem to have a problem with teams that can play defense.  What's that thing that Kansas State does really well?  It may be old man football, but KSU will pull out a big road win as they finally prove they can handle the spotlight. KSU: 27--WVU: 23
Schweinfurth: Texas Tech showed the world how to beat WVU last week: score and don't let Geno Smith beat you.  While I haven't watched enough (or any) of KSU this year, Bill Snyder is a smart man and has been around the block a few times.  Geno will get at least 2 TDs but Collin Klein busts out and takes the lead in the Heisman race after this one.  KSU: 42--WVU: 21


Purdue Boilermakers @ THE Ohio State University Buckeyes
Draper: Let's be real: we play like last week, we lose.  Thankfully, we're at home and I think last week was a giant notice for the defense (coaches and players).  Purdue can play (sort of), but the Shoe makes the difference here.  The crowd's electricity will prevent apathy from seeping back in.  Purdue has beaten OSU 2 of the past 3 years, but the year we beat them, was an absolute beatdown at home.  I expect a repeat of 2010.  Braxton and Hyde will tear apart the Boilers and the defense, while still not worthy of being called Bullets, will do enough.  Bucks get back on track at home.  PU: 20--OSU: 48
Auer: Another closer than expected game. The defense is still bad, meh. PU: 31--OSU: 44
Hoying: Let's take a step back from the horrendous defense we saw last week.  Before the last 4 minutes of the game, there wasn't an actual fear the Buckeyes were going to lose.  And after the fear set in, Braxton never touched the ball until he ran out the clock.  A consistent pattern has emerged of this Buckeye offense making plays when it has to, and I reiterate that as long as Braxton isn't busted, Ohio State will not lose another game.  (Qualification: he has to be on the field.  Multiple onside kicks void my prediction.)  What about our worthy opponent?  Ehhh, it's Purdue.  We've lost to them once at home in the last 44 years.  Plus they've been exposed in the last two weeks as the mediocre team they are.  Bucks win big.  Probably.  PU: 27--OSU: 44
Schweinfurth: Another week, another spread offense for the Silver Pop Gun.  While Purdue is bad defensively, this is the type of offense that has confounded Luke Fickle and Everett Withers.  The focus this week was on minimizing the big play and it may show up in softer secondary coverages.  Purdue WILL move the ball, and the Boilers WILL score...just not enough.  The Buckeye offense is putting up just sick rushing numbers.  Braxton Miller can become the first Ohio State QB to rush for 1000 yards, and this is only game 8!  Carlos "El Guapo" Hyde has been a beast since Hall went down and I expect nothing less than 150 yards out of him.  Bucks win and put up 50+ for the third week in a row (and I puke over the points given up again, bleh) PU: 38--OSU: 54


Upset Special
Draper: Cal over Stanford
Auer: Virginia Tech over Clemson
Hoying: Baylor over Texas
Schweinfurth: Tennessee over Bama (!!!)
 

Week 6 Picks: SEC!!!!!

Standings
1. Schweinfurth        16-4  (3-2 upset)
2. Draper                  13-7  (2-3 upset)
2. Hoying                 13-7  (2-3 upset)
3. Auer                      9-7   (0-4 upset)

LSU Tigers @ Florida Gators
Draper: Everyone....EVERYONE is going to jump on the Gators this week.  Ben Hill Griffin stadium is the most insane stadium I've ever been in when the Gators are on top, but I just don't see a great Florida team.  They continually prove me wrong, but I'm going for it again.  LSU looked horrid against Towson (who?) but I'm going with that being a look ahead game.  The Tiger D-line is studly.  Their offense is not good but neither is Florida's.  This should be a slugfest but LSU will play their best game of the year to come out with a big road win. LSU: 13--UF: 10
Auer: The Gators are at home, coming off a bye, and Will Muschamp has "made hay while the sun shines" for Florida. LSU hasn't been impressive and hasn't faced the competition that the Gators have. I expect the pretender to be exposed as the Gators' balanced attack gets it done on the home field. LSU: 17--UF: 31
Hoying: I keep picking against the Gators, and I keep getting proven wrong.  Florida has traveled to two of the toughest venues in the game, Kyle Field and Neyland Stadium, and come away with victories.  Meanwhile, the Tigoueauxrs have struggled of late against pedestrian competition.  Florida QB Jeff Driskel is still developing as a passer, but LSU QB Zach Mettenberger has the purple and gold faithful missing the likes of...Jarrett Lee and Jordan Jefferson.  Yikes.  The Swamp will be rocking, and Florida's absence from the ranks of the elite ends Saturday night.  LSU: 17--UF: 20
Schweinfurth: LSU has definitely struggled the last few weeks and, most recently, Towson.  Will Muschamp has shown the ability to make huge adjustments during halftime. Gators QB Jeff Driskel has improved every week and has brought home some big wins in some very difficult environments.  I expect the Tigers to jump out to a modest lead and the Gators to come roaring back in the second half for the win.  LSU: 10--UF: 17

Georgia Bulldogs @ South Carolina Gamecocks 
Draper: Both teams avoided gagging last week on the road to set up what should be a battle for the SEC East.  I expect a very close game in which one big play sways it.  These SEC defenses are superbly overrated but their offenses have been humming.  Aaron Murray has looked like the best QB in the SEC and the UGA defense has shown flashes (of brilliance and crap). Marcus Lattimore is a stud running the ball and Shaw has looked remarkably confident behind Spurrier's tutelage.  I'm so torn on this one because I could see it fall either way.  I'll go with the home team (begrudgingly) in a very close battle. UGA: 24--USC: 27
Auer: Last year South Carolina squeaked out a win over the 'Dogs scoring 4 defensive and special team touchdowns. I don't see them getting that lucky again as the Gamecocks have struggled against subpar competition thus far. UGA: 35--USC: 27
Hoying: The Bulldogs and the Gamecocks have been able to live up to their preseason hype, setting up the biggest matchup of the year so far.  SC QB Connor Shaw has been an absolute beast after recovering from his early injury, and Georgia slinger Aaron Murray has been terrific as well.  If you loved not seeing any defense last weekend, tune into this one, as both squads will be powerless to stop each other's attack.  Ummm...Dawgs win, I guess.  UGA: 49--USC: 42
Schweinfurth: South Carolina looks like the real deal this year.  Marcus Lattimore is an absolute beast as a running back who does a great job taking the pressure off of Connor Shaw.  Georgia looked a little shaky last week and is without one of their top receivers.  Both teams have good offenses, but this will be lower scoring than a lot of people think.  The Gamecocks win on a late field goal.  UGA: 21--USC: 24

West Virginia Mountaineers @ Texas Longhorns
Draper: Everyone loved the scorefest by Geno Smith and the Mountaineers last week, but Baylor's (and WVU's ) defense is...non-existent.  Texas doesn't have a world beater defense, but they are better.  The Neers attack is very good with the Holgo scheme, but Texas at DKR will get just enough key stops.  The Longhorns are humming behind David Ash and the WVU 'defense' shouldn't stop a thing.  Look for another shootout with Bevo taking out the hillbillies. WVU: 34--UT: 41
Auer: Yeah yeah yeah, WVU looked so awesome last week.... wait, you're supposed to actually play defense and cover guys? Frankly I don't think WVU has a chance against a team with a pulse, but that's just me. The Longhorns surprised me with their win against Oklahoma State last week, and will continue to garner attention from the pollsters as they shutdown the Mountaineers. WVU: 21--UT: 42
Hoying: While the media swooned over Geno Smith's performance against Baylor, I watched in horror and wondered how so many scholarships could be wasted on flatfooted defenders.  West Virginia is an offensive juggernaut, but defense wins championships, and there is none to be found in Morgantown.  The good news for WVU is Texas doesn't have much of a defense either, and their attack isn't quite as strong.  No athlete on the field in this matchup is capable of stopping or outdueling Smith.  Texas is improving, but they have reached their ceiling.  WVU: 49--UT: 38
Schweinfurth:  Texas has been sneaky good this year and is quietly undefeated.  However, the Longhorns are still in a rebuilding phase.  The Longhorns play better defense than Baylor, but it's still a Big 12 defense. Geno Smith is good, but I could have hit some of the receivers last week (especially if they don't have a defender within 10 yards).  West Virginia has no defense.  This is the week Geno comes down to earth (and throws for 4 TDs).  WVU: 35--UT: 31

Nebraska Cornhuskers @ THE Ohio State Buckeyes
Draper: Martinez is not a great passer--advantage OSU.  Sad thing is, he may be the best passer left on the Buckeye's schedule.  The run defense was spectacular last week against a traditional attack, but the outside runs (QB and RB) have flustered the Buckeyes of late.  I expect Martinez and Burkhead to exploit the screen game to pick on the weak Buckeye secondary, but Hankins will totally eat up the inside run game.  Look for the turnovers to be cleaned up on offense and a fairly efficient attack as Miller and the Bucks return to the friendly confines.  The crowd will be rocking and will be the deciding factor in a 2 score win.  Neb: 24--OSU: 34
Auer: The Buckeyes come into this one after an unlikely win in East Lansing. For whatever reason night games have been hit or miss for the Bucks, losing 3 of the last 5 home night games, and overall going 5-5 in night games over the last 4 seasons. After the emotional and physical toll the win over Michigan State took out on the Bucks, this could be a bit of a let down for Ohio State. This game will come down to Braxton Miller learning from last week's HORRIBLE reads and some questionable passing decisions. Neb: 35--OSU: 37
Hoying: Revenge!  The Cornhuskers roll into Columbus with a terrific rushing attack but not much in the way of a passing game.  Yeah, Martinez looked great against Southern Miss, Arkansas State, and Idaho State, but he hasn't been able to deliver through the air when it counts.  What happened to the last team of this makeup that faced the Buckeyes?  Make no mistake, the Buckeye secondary is still horrible, but that may not matter the rest of this season.  Last year we learned that the Nebraska can't stop Miller, so once again: as goes Braxton, so go the Buckeyes.  NU: 20--OSU: 31
Schweinfurth: Tackling for the Buckeyes has been an issue and shifty running backs seem to give the Silver Bullets issues.  Enter Nebraska's Abdullah, who is a quick shifty back.  The Buckeyes will need another big game out of Big Hank to control the middle of the line and good gap control by Sabino and Shazier.  On offense, the Huskers couldn't stop Braxton in a very boring, vanilla offense last year.  Only Bauserbombs allowed Nebraska back into the game.  If Braxton stays healthy and plays for more than 2 1/2 quarters, the Buckeyes win easy.  These are not the Blackshirts of old and it's Urban's first night game.  As Jay Cutler says, "Good luck!" NU: 17--OSU: 35

Upset Special
Draper: Purdue over Michigan
Auer: Arizona over Stanford
Hoying: Texas Tech over Oklahoma
Schweinfurth: Washington State over Oregon St.