Week 4 - Big Ten Football

Ole Miss vs. South Carolina

GOMER: The Gamecocks seem to be the year in, year out, team that always disappoints. With Spurrier as the coach everyone's expectations were extremely high, and they haven't gotten much of they expected. Tonight I think they do. Ole Miss has 16 returning starters but looked shaky in a blowout of Memphis, yes that sounds funny, but they struggled to pull away from a bad team. Jevan Snead is good, but not great, the SC defense is all around outstanding and should be able to take care of business at home and at night. Ole Miss: 17--USC: 21

CHIEF: Ole Miss was the sexy pick in the SEC this year as the return a sizeable portion of the only team to defeat UF last year. The Rebels have been revived by Houston Nutt and Jevon Snead is one of the best pro prospects in the league. Their schedule is spongy soft as all the tough teams in the SEC West come to Oxford and they miss the Gators this year. This is why this is a perfect reason why they'll drop this one to the Gamecocks. I thought I'd be the only one picking this upset, but apparently it's rampant. The Cocks are tough at home and have shown that they can score (against UGA) and play defense (against NCState). Tonight, they put it together and stun the number 4 team in the country. OleMiss: 24--USC: 34

California vs. Oregon

Gomer: Frankly I don't think Oregon is very good, the same reasoning could be said for arguing against the Cal Bears. Oregon was looked at to me a high-flying offense with lots of power, and they've come out of the rut after the clunker against the Smurf Turf Boys. Cal's offense has been nearly unstoppable, considering they have the most talented RB in the land (Jahvid Best) they better be unstoppable. The underrated aspect of Cal is their defense, while they allowed 21 points at Minnesota last weekend, they have come up big when necessary. The Bears will win this surprisingly good game. Cal: 31--UO: 27

Chief: I believed this would be a telling game for the Pac 10 that would determine a likely champion. Oregon may have lost Blount and been embarassed in week one, but they'll bounce back. Going to Autzen is a tall order for any team, but the loss of Blount is going to be just enough for Riley to overcome the Ducks. UO will load the box to slow Jahvid Best, and even though he'll get his yards, he won't win the game. The game rides on the Bear's QB. Tedford's QBs are always solid once they mature and this will be his defining moment (before the SC game). Big road win by a hair to keep the Best Heisman candidacy alive. Cal: 38--UO:31

Miami vs. Virginia Tech

Gomer: So far Miami has proven themselves on the road at FSU and against the triple option attack of GT. Jacory Harris has been the pleasant surprise of the season thus far helping to lead the Hurricanes when they need it most. Virginia Tech was controlled and subdued against the Crimson Tide and needed last second heroics to come out on top against Nebraska. Really, I'm not impressed with VT, Tyrod Taylor has not been the QB the Hokies have needed. I think this is when Miami asserts its control over the ACC Coastal division and takes another big step towards the BCS Championship Game. UM: 19--VT: 13

Chief: Miami has rocketed to the top of many polls with their electric 2-0 start. I expected them explode out of the gate, but they're very quickly being blown into the next great thing. While VT has been unimpressive to say the least, I think they bring the Canes down to earth. Let's not forget that the Canes are one dropped pass from being 1-1 and an also-ran. The Cane defense will hold a mediocre Hokie squad under wraps, but Jacory Harris shows some chinks and his youth by committing a few key turnovers. I just can't bring myself to pick the Canes. F-the U. UM: 17--VT: 20

Illinois vs. Ohio State

Gomer: We looked good last week, without a doubt. There are still some serious lingering issues though. When is TP going to become the QB we all have expected and looked for the last year? His bone-headed picks blow my mind, but the Silver Bullets have done an outstanding job helping the turnover's not destroy the Bucks chances each game. If you think I'm just going after Pryor, he's thrown 4 TD's and 4 INT's this season (at least 1 per game) whereas last season he threw 4 INT's ALL SEASON. I believe in the Buckeye D, and if they are successful stopping Juice Williams and Daniel Dufrene this year, I will officially be sold on them. I expect to be investing in the OSU Defense this week. UI: 18--OSU: 33

Chief: Not a lot to say here. The Buckeyes exploded last week as I expected. No carryover from the painful loss. Time to move forward and they did in a big way. I don't take a lot of information out of the offense as Toledo's defense is atrocious, but the Bullets completely shackled the number 1 offense in the nation and pitched the shutout. Because the Illini don't have their main guys healthy (like Benn), I don't think they can score enough on this defense to make a difference. Time for Pryor to continue to mature and learn that running is OK. The line can't block for the backs, but Pryor can still run. A few questionable throws last week, but the defense wins this one. Hey, Jimmy T realized the QB sneak is legal last week!! So we got that going for us. UI: 10--OSU: 31

Missouri vs. Nevada: Gomer: Mizzou Chief: Mizzou
North Carolina vs. Georgia Tech: Gomer: GT Chief: GT
Indiana vs. Michigan: Gomer: UM Chief: UM
TCU vs. Clemson Gomer: Clem Chief: Clem
Pittsburgh vs. NC State Gomer: Pitt Chief:Pitt
Arizona State vs. Georgia Gomer: UGA Chief: UGA
Iowa vs. Penn State Gomer: PSU Chief: PSU (close)
Notre Dame vs. Purdue Gomer: ND Chief: ND

Texas Tech vs. Houston Gomer: TT Chief: TT(by a hair--could be the best game of the weekend)

Week 3 - The Long and Winding Road

Georgia Tech vs. Miami

Gomer: Georgia Tech has won the last 4 meetings of these two ACC contenders and both teams have a real chance to take a firm grasp on the Division lead. GT is coming off a Thursday night thriller where the Yellow Jackets blew a huge lead in momentum and score to let Clemson retake the lead, only to escape with a win in the end. The Hurricanes have been able to rest and recover since the slugfest with the Seminoles on Labor Day night. I really like both of these teams as sleepers to make their way to the BCS National Championship game, and from what I've seen I have a hard time deciding which has the better defense. I trust Paul Johnson's coaching ability a little more than Randy Shannon's and I'll look for the option attack to manage the game and escape Miami with a win. GT: 24--UM: 20

Chief: This is the toughest game of the week to pick. Miami looked very good against FSU, but FSU seemed inept the following week against lowly Jacksonville State. I believe Jacory Harris will show up in this game, but I have to keep riding the Jacket wagon. The U requested this game to be on a Thursday to 'pay the Jackets back' for last years loss, but GT's option was unstoppable vs. Miami last year. Many say that Miami will work to stop the run exclusively, unfortunately, that's easier said than done. Nesbitt/Dwyer outscore Harris/Cooper in a photo finish. GT: 31--UM:30

Nebraska vs. Virginia Tech

Gomer: Too bad this isn't a night game, because this would be worth the trip to Blacksburg on a weekend lacking a premiere match-up. A night game is a must-see when the VT faithful get jacked up and they definitely will be for this game trying to make amends in the national spotlight for the game they had against Alabama. This will be Nebraska's Quarterback's first road start and that could spell bad news for the Huskers. Tech will roll in this one with conference pride helping push them to a strong showing for the natives. UN: 20--VT: 42

Chief: Beamer looks to bring his team back to the national stage after dropping a close one to Bama in the opener (closer than the score would seem). VT has a stellar ground game, but very little passing game. I don't think that will hurt them this weekend. The Hokies will rely on the defense and Tyrod Taylor's running ability to take care of the Huskers in Blacksburg. While the Cornhuskers are certainly improving following the Bill Callahan era, they're not there yet. The Hokies keep the Huskers in Bo Pelini land as they roll to victory. UN: 16--VT: 34

Florida State vs. Brigham Young

Gomer: The once proud Seminoles were to be on the upward swing this season, but the offense has been inconsistent at best making me seriously question the hiring of "coach-in-waiting" Jimbo Fisher. I would definitely prefer to see FSU get the win here, but the defensive pressure the Cougars bring will be too much for Christian Ponder and the 18-game home win streak for BYU will prove too much in their home opener. FSU: 14--BYU: 31

Chief: Oh my Noles... They looked very sharp (not perfect) against a very underrated UM squad on Labor Day only to struggle with garbage on Saturday. Perhaps it was the lull game between the two huge games. I think the Noles show up to fight here, but Max Hall led BYU has certainly been firing on all cylinders lately. I don't think BYU beats OU with Bradford, but it's still very close. They rolled last week, but it's time for the midmajor to show they're a midmajor--can they handle the pressure of success. The Noles wake up and take care of business. Ponder breaks out and leads the Noles to steal one over Mendenhall and the Cougs in a close one. FSU: 31--BYU: 30

Cincinnati vs. Oregon State

Gomer: So far this season Cincinnati has been unstoppable destroying Rutgers and I-AA Opponent SE Missouri State. On the other side of the ball Oregon State has looked average beating up on Portland State and scraping by at UNLV. Both teams are young, but the key to this game will be the location... very very far away from southwestern Ohio. Cincy has lost their last 6 road games to non-conference BCS schools by an average of 21ppg. Another interesting stat: in the 2nd home game the Beavers have come up BIG, they have won 4 straight 2nd home games with an average score of 39-14... yes that does look like some stupid random stat, but I'll tell you why its important, 2 of the 4 victories have come against USC and Boise State, got your attention now? This might be the most underrated game of the weekend. UC: 29--OSU: 33

Chief: UC has looked phenomenal in their quick start (granted against questionable competition--but that's their whole schedule in the Big East). The Beavers have always played well at home but Jacquizz is a little banged up. The last time I saw the Beavers, they were in the biggest snoozer of a bowl game ever (3-0 victory in the Sun Bowl). Lyle Moevao and the Rodgers brothers are very good, but I think Tony Pike and the Bearcats continue their run. Two teams with little to no defense but a heck of a lot of offense. Ohio's only Orange Bowl losing team comes away victorious. UC: 42--OSU: 38

Tennessee vs. Florida

Gomer: I would peg this game as highest potential to be a laugher this weekend. Florida is favored by 28.5 and I would not be surprised if they won by more than that. Of course a Florida victory means another round of hearing how great Tim Tebow is especially after beating up on the vaunted Tennessee Defense, the same vaunted defense that was unable to secure a win against a lowly Pac 10 team like UCLA. Florida will win, by a lot, and Tebow will have 6 touchdowns. UT: 9--UF: 62

Chief: I wanted to talk about this one because it's going to happen. Everyone has been talking about how Urban Meyer, Tim Tebow, and 'Gaytor Nation' have circled this game as revenge to take out Lane Kiffin. Not so fast my friend! Kiffin in his eminent wisdom, threw the game vs. UCLA to lull the gators into a false sense of security. Crompton will toss all over that 'vaunted defense' for 5 TDs while the Monte Kiffin defense shows the nation the Eric Berry is clearly the best defensive player in the nation and knocks Tebow out of the Heisman race. Wait...the Vols are terrible. UT: 6--UF: 42

Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Toledo Rockets

Gomer: The Bucks could be in for a real big emotional let down this week. I don't need to re-hash the offensive struggles from last week's heart-breaker, but if the Terrelle Pryor led offense isn't clicking, the Bucks will still win, but it could mean bad news bears down the road in the Big Ten. The other worry here is that the Rockets could expose some sort of weakness in the pass defense, because they will move the ball, but it will be a matter of when the Bucks force a turnover or other big defensive stop. Toledo won't be out of the game until late unless the Bucks come up with some early quick strikes, it'll be a better game than anyone expects. OSU: 39--UT: 20

Chief: After throwing all they had emotionally, physically, and mentally against the Trojans and coming up short (due to horrendous playcalling), the Bucks look to rebound against a surprising Toledo Rocket team. The Silver Bullets returned last week and I believe are here to stay. This is a major turning point game for the season...lie down and take it or stand and fight. I believe the Buckeyes have too much pride to quit now. I saw the pride last week and I think they fire out of the gate this week. Toledo smashed Colorado and put some points up on Purdue (while giving up a ton). OSU will put the hammer down in this one early. At first, I thought the letdown would keep it close, but the pride of the Buckeyes will not allow a fallback. Bucks continue to roll against Ohio teams. OSU: 41--UT: 10

Other games...

Boise State vs. Fresno State: Gomer: Boise Chief: Boise
USC vs. Washington: Gomer: USC Chief: USC
Michigan State vs. Notre Dame: Gomer: ND Chief: ND
Arizona vs. Iowa: Gomer: Iowa Chief: Iowa (close)
Navy vs. Pittsburgh: Gomer: Pitt Chief: Navy
Northwestern vs. Syracuse: Gomer: Syr Chief: NW
Texas Tech vs. Texas: Gomer: UT Chief: UT (BIG)

Week 2 - Put up or Shut Up

Clemson vs. Georgia Tech

Gomer: In the power conference that is the ACC, Clemson, without a doubt, has been the biggest disappointment year in and out for the last 2-4 seasons. Whether it was misused talent or poor coaching, they have been the perennial let down (but not as publicly as Ohio State or Oklahoma). However, it doesn't take a long look through the history books to see that the Ramblin' Wreck was exactly the same mess a few years ago too (Remember Reggie Ball trying to pass to Calvin Johnson?). Until watching this past Monday night's classic between Miami and FSU, I was ready to go with my gut and call the ACC for VT, but that game certainly threw a wrench in my expectations, much as I think this game will do too. I like Paul Johnson's crew to get it done. Clem: 21--GT: 38

Chief: In a battle of 2 ACC teams that actually won last week, we might actually have a good Thursday night game on our hands. Clemson is lead by C.J. Spiller and hopes to get back some respect after falling on their faces last year when hopes abounded. Unfortunately, the Jackets (my ACC preseason pick) have used the triple option extremely well. Jonathan Dwyer will lead Paul Johnson's antiquated attack and his 2 TD 150+ yard performance will be the difference. Clemson should show up (tonight and this year), but the Jackets have another great year while defense struggle to figure out how to stop the option. Clem: 13--GT: 24

UCLA vs. Tennessee :

Gomer: I really like the attitude and swagger that is back with the Vols after the firing of Fat Phil and hiring of Lane Kiffin. But I like Neuheisel and what he's done with UCLA even more. Last season the Bruins were not good, but somehow pulled off the upset of the Volunteers in Westwood. I look for the more experienced Bruin squad to bull a mild upset here and stop the "SEC" chanting for at least one game. UCLA: 27--UT: 24

Chief: Ah, the game of last year that was meant to be so much and led to so little. Don't expect more this year. Lane Kiffin had the Vols firing last Saturday against the coolest mascot ever (Big Red from WKU if you had to ask), and I don't see the Bruins providing much of a problem. I had high hopes for the Pac 10, but UCLA was not included. UT better get a win this week because is Florida time next week. UCLA: 17--UT: 31

Notre Dame vs. Michigan

Gomer: Suddenly this game is intriguing with a dominating win by Big Blue in week one and a surprisingly big win by the Irish in a game many expected an upset. Yes this is one of those games where we root for a stadium to collapse, but I've got to go with conference pride in this one, the Big Ten has taken a huge beating for the last three years, and if there's any hope in regaining some swagger, it begins here on Saturday afternoon. Rich Rod, love him or hate him, is turning Michigan around. I for one am thankful for the health of the conference and the Rivalry. Without a huge tangent here, I believe a competent and successful Michigan team is imperative to retaining all the importance The Game has held over the years. Go Blue!!! ND: 34--UM: 44

Chief: An extremely intriguing game enters Ann Arbor this weekend. I don't think these programs are "back", but they certainly are taking giant steps forward. The Wolverines played with more energy than I've seen up there in nearly 3 years (aside from Capitol One Bowl vs. UF) against a nobody MAC school and Notre Dame looked to wake up the echoes against a terrible pass defense. I still think Notre Dame is further along and stopping Colin Kaepernik was a good start. UM jumps on top early but emu-boy Jimmy Clauson takes the pressure and sends Dick Rod home crying. Weis just wants to know what's for dinner. ND: 27--UM: 21

USC vs. Ohio State

Gomer: USC's gameplan is simple; run, run, and run some more. The O-Zone writer "BCast" had an excellent article saying that in the last 7 games the Trojans have lost the common denominator is shutting down the running game. Over those 7 losses the Trojans average roughly 84 ypg on the ground. It really comes down to 2 things, do you trust our D to shut down the Trojan O and subsequently running attack and how does Pryor perform when all the weight is squarely on his shoulders. I for one am not overly optimistic about the chance of a Buckeye victory, our D-line, as good as it is, is not better than the USC O-line protecting Barkley and allowing McKnight and company to have a field day running over the Buckeyes. If Pryor is forced to be one dimensional either all running or all passing, and as much as it pains me to types this... without a perfect storm in OSU's favor, there is no way the Bucks can prevail in this match-up. USC: 25--OSU: 19

Chief: Here we go again. After falling flat on our faces last year, it's come down to this. Don't let last week fool you, Navy is a very good team who will win 9-10 games this season. Defending the triple option is tough for any normal defense (ask the ACC), but OSU cannot struggle on the O-Line this week as they did last week. The embarrassment of the day was the ineptitude of the OSU O-Line. While the O-line was scary bad, the D-Line was scary good. I think OSU's defense will rattle Matt Barkley (even though he says it won't matter) and the USC stellar running game will be slowed, but if there is no protection, it could be a long day. Pryor needs to have a huge statement game passing and running. Yes, USC handle perennial doormat San Jose State, but this is Ohio State and it's time to make a statement. You knew I wasn't picking the Trojans didn't you. USC: 17--OSU: 20

South Carolina vs. Georgia: Gomer: UGA Chief: UGA
Purdue vs. Oregon: Gomer: UO Chief: UO
North Carolina vs. UConn: Gomer: UNC Chief:UNC
Fresno State vs. Wisconsin Gomer: Wisconsin Chief:Wisconsin
Iowa vs. Iowa State: Gomer: Iowa Chief: Iowa
Texas vs. Wyoming: Gomer: Texas Chief: Texas
BYU vs. Tulane: Gomer: BYU Chief: BYU
East Carolina vs. West Virginia: Gomer: WVU Chief: WVU

Week 1...It Begins

Gomer's pregame:
As I sit at home on a Wednesday night and start to think, "Crap, I don't have anything here to eat for dinner" I take a drive to pick-up some food and on the way to and fro, I have a few minutes to listen to the pre-season talk about the UC Bearcats. They aren't talking about a big game necessarily, or big players, but more just complaining about the fact that the Big East Champs are forced to start their title defense on the road in New Jersey against Rutgers... it seems any time I hear or read something about the Buckeyes little brothers in the Southwest corner of the state, its either negative towards OSU or just plain negative. But it does remind me one thing, college football starts tomorrow night!

I will fully admit that I have strayed from the sport that I have followed the longest for my newest fave, the National Hockey League. But unlike pro sports the NCAA competition gives you athletes who will never make a career of their respective sport or complain about not getting enough money this season (that only happens in the NFL and NBA anyways), or face lockouts for various reasons. NCAA Football will always hold a special place in my heart, especially since I was born into it and have bled Scarlet and Gray since the day I was born.Here are the picks and maybe some sort of explanation to the madness...

Chief's pregame:
I have written an elogated preseason prediction. I'll try to post it up here soon.

Oregon vs. Boise State (Late Thursday)

Gomer: The Ducks will be looking to break in a decent amount of new starters and not to mention a new head coach, while the Broncos and the Smurf Turf will more than likely make it an unpleasant opening night while breaking in a few new faces of their own. Boise has only won 3 times against Pac-10 opponents, but those 3 wins have all come against Oregon. I think this could be an ugly game for the ugliest uniforms in sports, especially considering the lack of coherent defense in the Pac-10. UO: 24 - BSU: 52
Chief: The Ducks were perhaps the most impressive team in their bowl as they ran all over the Oklahoma State in the Holiday Bowl. I believe this game is a true statement for the big conferences. While Boise State should have a stellar season, I think Jeremiah Masoli and Euguene Blount will lead the Quackers to a revenge victory. A win for the Broncos doesn’t bury the Ducks but an Oregon win could mean serious problems for the smurfs. UO: 45—BSU: 31

Georgia vs. Oklahoma State
Gomer: For a minute I was afraid that I would not be able to watch this game because it is set to be a ABC/ESPN2 Regional game, but thank goodness I've got DirecTV to save the day this time. I really like OSU in this game for multiple reasons, a couple of them being the skill position trio of QB Zac Robinson, RB Kendall Hunter and WR Dez Bryant as well as the Pokes impressive home opener record (13 in a row) and 15 straight non-conference wins all by an average margin of 33ppg. The Bulldogs on the other hand are going to have a hard time responding after losing Moreno and Stafford to the NFL this past spring. The Dogs do hold an undefeated record against against the Cowboys, and yes we know... "S-E-C, S-E-C, S-E-C!!" UGA: 24 - OSU: 38
Chief: Oklahoma State is another of my surprise teams for 2009. UGA lost so much offensive talent (most in the leaper Knowshon Moreno), but OSU returns all the videogame prowess of last year. The trio of Zac Robinson, Kendall Hunter, and Dez Bryant will outscore the Dawgs. The Pokes defense was awful last year, but if they can stop the opposing team once or twice, that should be enough. UGA: 27—OSU: 45

Alabama vs. Virginia Tech
Gomer: This match-up has the potential to be either awesome or crap. It deserves mention that it will be played in Atlanta, it also should be mentioned that the Tide are 10-1 all time against the Hokies. The Hokies are returning 16 starters and are coming off of a surprising ACC Title and BCS Bowl win. Alabama lost a decent load of talent and but did make it to the SEC title game. The more I write, the more I'm willing to call this one a must-see. 'Bama: 17 - VT: 21
Chief: Here’s hoping this year kick-off classic is better than the clunker between Bama and Clemson last year. I really liked VT to be a major contender this year, but the loss of running back Daniel Evans really hurts. Tyrod Taylor is going to have to run the offense and hopefully he’s up to the task. The Tide returns many pieces of a stalwart defense (including 2000 lb Mount Cody), but the Hokie defense is always very opportunistic and stingy. VT has more experience under center which makes the different in a low scoring game. Bama: 10—VT: 13

Navy vs. Ohio State
Gomer: There has been a massive campaign to "stand up and cheer the Navy football team as they enter Ohio Stadium" on Saturday. While I think this is extremely respectful and a nice gesture, I don't support it. Now, this isn't saying "boo the crap out of Navy" but more of a let’s not be friendly and welcoming. Having a stadium as imposing as The Shoe, fans should never be told to "back down", I think that this goes against what home games are about, winning, and protecting the home field. This does not equate to being un-sportsmanlike and inappropriate to men and their families who will at some point be defending our country. Anyway, this game could be much closer than expected, especially with last year's injury of Beanie Wells in the opener that cost the Buckeyes any chance in the USC game. Navy: 15 - OSU: 27
Chief: I agree with Gomer on this issue of cheering Navy. I support the troops, but I will not cheer for Navy to win just because I feel guilty. That being said, this game has some trap implications. Navy is not the pushover academy like most think. They’ve been in multiple bowls in recent years and could conceivably win up to 10 games this year. For the Bucks, they’re back for blood after a disappointing 3 loss season. Terrelle Pryor should lead the offense to a win, but the key matchup is to see how the young defense handles the option attack. I think Navy fights valiantly, but get beat out by superior athletes in the end. Navy: 13—OSU: 31

South Carolina vs. NC State (Thursday)- Gomer: NCST Chief: NCST
Cincinnati vs. Rutgers (Monday)- Gomer: RUTG Chief: Cincinnati
Miami vs. Florida State (Monday)- Gomer: FSU Chief: FSU
Nevada vs. Notre Dame- Gomer: ND Chief: ND (closer than the experts think)
Brigham Young vs. Oklahoma- Gomer: OU Chief: OU
Kentucky vs. Miami (OH)- Gomer: UK Chief: UK
Western Michigan vs. Michigan- Gomer: UM Chief: UM (close)
LSU vs. Washington- Gomer: LSU Chief: LSU
Missouri vs. Illinois- Gomer: UI Chief: UI

Last to Sign?

Troy Smith was the last to sign in the 2002 recruiting class, the class featured stars like Bobby Carpenter, Doug Datish, TJ Downing, Roy Hall, AJ Hawk, Santonio Holmes, Nick Mangold, Quinn Pitcock, Joel Penton, Jay Richardson, and Nate Salley.

Today Ohio State landed 3-star QB Ken Guiton out of Aldine, Texas. Guiton is listed as a "dual-threat quarterback" at 6' 2", 178lbs, and a 3.13 gpa. Guiton was also offered by Rice, Kansas, Iowa State, and Houston. 3 of the 4 of those gives some reassurance to the Buckeyes going after this kid, Rice, Houston, and Kansas have had outstanding quarterbacks recently and obviously saw something in this kid.

Here's ESPN.com Insider's write-up on the kid:

Guiton is a smooth, athletic dual-threat quarterback that when operating the spread can be very dangerous as a runner and passer. Is a tall, flexible athlete with long legs and good overall movement skills. So much so that he could be a WR candidate at the next level too if a position change were necessary. He is probably a better runner than passer at this stage, but he does shows a quick release, live little arm in the short and intermediate areas of the field and he is capable of showing patience in the pocket and also throwing on the move which is when he is at his best. Possesses very good presence and initial quickness in the pocket, feels the rush, will buy time, move around and if he breaks contain he can create problems as a run/pass threat. Throws well on the move to either side. Footwork is solid and he has good feet in his drops and set up. Works out of the shotgun primarily and would like to see him work through progressions while having to drop from center. As athletic as he is, he needs to develop technically as a passer in terms of mechanics and refine his methods, become more crisp in the passing game. Must be careful not to take off and run too quickly, sit in the pocket and be an athletic passer, not just an athlete playing QB. Arm strength is solid, but not elite and he may not be able to drive the ball vertically on a consistent basis. Overall, Guiton is a quality prospect with good overall skills and upside to be a dangerous dual-threat in time.

Only time will tell if he will be the unsung hero of the class of 2009...

Back from the Dead

I have a big gripe following the college football bowl season.

While Ohio State has struggled the last few years in bowl games, they finally were respectable in this year's BCS match-up with Texas, but that didn't stop Penn State from dragging the conferences name through the mud.

I have a quick fix on how to begin repairing the Big Ten's further tarnished name. Stop accepting the 2nd BCS bowl bid. What this does is shift everyone else in the conference up a game putting them in, theoretically, more difficult match-ups. I know you have to "play the best to be the best", but look at the records and reputations of the ACC and Pac10. The ACC went 4-6 and got a whopping 10 teams into the money games and only one of those in the BCS. The Pac10 is really where it's at with the usual USC in the BCS and 4 others in winnable match-ups. Get Oregon State in as the Auto-Bid and USC in as an At-Large and things could get interesting.

Here were the Big Ten's match-ups this season:
Champs Sports Bowl: Wisconsin (B10) 13 - Florida State (ACC) 42
Alamo Bowl: Missouri (B12) 30 - Northwestern (B10) 23 OT
Insight Bowl: Kansas (B12) 42 - Minnesota (B10) 21
Outback Bowl: South Carolina (SEC) 10 - Iowa (B10) 31
Capital One Bowl: Georgia (SEC) 24 - Michigan State (B10) 12
Rose Bowl: Penn State (B10) 24 - USC (Pac10) 38
Fiesta Bowl: Ohio State (B10) 21 - Texas (Big12) 24

The Regular Tie-ins are as follows (low to high):
Motor City Bowl: Big Ten #7 vs. MAC #1
Insight Bowl: Big Ten #6 vs. Big 12 #6
Champs Sports Bowl: Big Ten #4/5 vs. ACC #4
Alamo Bowl: Big Ten #4/5 vs. Big 12 #4/5
Outback Bowl: Big Ten #3 vs. SEC #3/4
Capital One Bowl: Big Ten #2 vs. SEC #2
Rose Bowl: Big Ten #1 vs. Pac 10 #1

Since Penn State was out of the BCS Championship discussion with a loss to Iowa, it is easy to see where we all would've played this year:

Wisconsin vs. Central Michigan (winnable)
Minnesota vs. Kansas (loss)
Northwestern vs. Florida State (toss-up)
Iowa vs. Missouri (toss-up)
Michigan State vs. South Carolina (winnable)
Ohio State vs. Georgia (winnable)
Penn State vs. USC (loss)

Championship Week!

The final week the regular season is here. It has been a long and interesting season, not nearly as exciting as last year, but NCAA football just has something special about it that makes every game somewhat intersting and special. Chief has a signifcant lead on me in the standings and even if I picked every game opposite of him today, and won them all, would I have a chance of upsetting him. Oh well, it's all in fun and games.

Boston College vs. Virginia Tech
Gomer: Another rematch from 2007's classic game. These two teams have played each other close every time they hook up on the battle field. The severe lack of ticket sales, combined with mediocre teams shows us a few things; the ACC has the most parity of the BCS conferences, the ACC doesn't necessarily deserve an auto-bid (I'm looking at you too Big East), thing is very few people care about this game and the arguement about the existence of a Conference Championship game comes in. It certainly is a debate as to whether these teams need to prove themselves again. BC: 28 - VT: 24

Chief: In a rematch of last year’s ACC title, these old Big East toppers see each other for the 4th time in 2 years. While VT has underachieved this season, they find themselves where they wanted to be. Conversely, the Eagles had no real hopes of repeating as ACC Atlantic champions, yet a nice streak in conference has opened new doors. These 2 teams are very similar with tenacious defenses and questionable offenses. I like the Hokies due to their slight offensive advantage at QB. Senior Sean Glennon and athlete Tyrod Taylor will split time for VT while Dominick Davis is asked to step in after the injury to Chris Crane. The ACC has been a deadlock all year so this should be a great battle. VT: 23—BC: 20

Alabama vs. Florida
Gomer: Biggest game of the day, if not the year. According to some "experts" there's a chance that UF could win and not make the BCSNCG, I for one do not believe that. The pollsters will make sure it does happen. Since when does and idle Big 12 team not get jumped by Pretty Boy Tebow and the SEC Juggernaut? Basically this game is to determine who plays in the naitional champsionship and I think this game will be much more defensively minded than expected. The team with the superior defence is definitely the Tide and I expect them to shutdown the one dimensional Florida attack. As they say, Defense Wins Championships! Florida is a great team, but without Superman #2 (Percy Harvin) who accounts for 13 TDs, the Tide will only have to key on Tebow. Goodbye Heisman, goodbye SEC championship, goodbye national championship, hello raping somebody in the Sugar Bowl (Ohio State? Cincinnati?). Bama: 30 - UF: 23

Chief: This is easily the best matchup of the day and being referred to as a defacto semi-final for the National Championship. The Gators have been touted as the hottest/best team in the country for months, but no one seems to say anything about the undefeated Crimson Tide. Saban has returned Bama to the national stage in only his 2nd year with a stalwart defense and a steady running game (Glen Coffee). Florida was supposed to be here, but I urge everyone not to forget that while they’ve been on fire since Ole Miss, they did lose to Ole Miss…in the Swamp. Regardless, I think I have to stick with Florida even with the potential for playmaker Percy Harvin on the sideline. I hate both of these teams (Florida more so), but I have to pick someone. I think Bama will keep this extremely close, but Florida doesn’t make mistakes. Coffee and Bama will control the ball, but the explosive Gator offense (Tebow) makes the difference. Bama: 20—UF: 24

Missouri vs. Oklahoma
Gomer: This game may be tougher than anticipated for the Sooners. Isn't this the same Missouri team that was ranked in the top 5 and has put up big numbers throughout the season? Chokelahoma has come up with big clunkers when it really matters and I don't think they deserve to play in the national championship. Unfortunately Oklahoma is clicking right now, and Missouri is coming off a disappointing loss to Kansas. Sam Bradford wins the Heisman today. Mizzou: 38 - OU: 48

Chief: The Big 12 championship features an OU team that ‘snuck in’ to the title and a Missouri team with huge expectations that never materialized. No arguments about the South representative here even though I think Texas is probably better. That’s the system; that’s the rule; live with it and move on (I still like McCoy for Heisman). Here is the last shot for Chase Daniel to make a statement that last year wasn’t a fluke. The loss to Kansas last week hurts, but all is forgotten if they can pull off the monster upset and keep OU out of the national title (just like the Sooners did to them last year). Sadly, the Sooner offense is too solid and the Tiger defense is too porous. OU’s defense is nowhere near as good as the Longhorns’, but they’ll come up with a few more stops than Mizzou. Stoops crew give up a bundle…and still win going away. Mizzou: 34—OU: 60

Cincinnati vs. Hawaii, Gomer: Hawaii - Chief: Cincy
Arizona St. vs. Arizona, Gomer: UA - Chief: UA
Navy vs. Army, Gomer: Navy - Chief: Navy
USC vs. UCLA, Gomer: USC - Chief: USC

Rankings

These rankings are comprised of the old BCS formula, with one minor tweak of my own, I add in Collegefootballnews.com rankings. Something to note about their rankings, unlike AP and Coaches, CFN looks at how the team is playing, not necessarily how they could end up.

1. Oklahoma
2. Texas
3. Alabama
4. Florida
5. Texas Tech
6. Utah
7. USC
8. Penn State
9. Boise State
10. Ohio State
11. TCU
12. Ball State
13. Oklahoma State
14. Cincinnati
15. Georgia Tech
16. Georgia
17. Boston College
18. Missouri
19. Brigham Young
20. Oregon
21. Michigan State
22. Pittsburgh
23. Florida State
24. Oregon State
25. Mississippi

A few notes:
-Oklahoma still gets the edge over Texas using the old system, it will be interesting to see what happens after the Sooners defeat Missouri this weekend.
-Penn State will be the Big Ten Auto-Bid, Cincinnati will be the Big East Auto-Bid, USC will be the Pac-10 Auto-Bid after defeating UCLA. Utah gains the non-BCS Conference Berth
-Virginia Tech faces Boston College for the ACC Title and Orange Bowl Berth
-Florida faces Alabama for the SEC Title and bid in the BCS National Championship
-Texas faces Missouri for the Big 12 Title and bid in the BCS National Championship
-Things only get interesting if OU loses the Big 12 Title game, which has happened (see 2003)

Based on these old BCS rankings, here are the games if they were selected today:

Rose Bowl (Big Ten vs. Pac-10)
Penn State vs. USC

Sugar Bowl (SEC)
Florida vs. Ohio State

Fiesta Bowl (Big 12)
Alabama vs. Utah

Orange Bowl (ACC)
Virginia Tech vs. Cincinnati

BCS Championship (#1 vs. #2)
Oklahoma vs. Texas

Texas-Oklahoma re-match? It seems very possible because unlike the OSU-Michigan conundrum 2 years ago, they don't play on the last weekend. Florida-OSU re-match would be nice, PSU-USC will be better than expected, as will VT-Cincy.

Here is the 4 team "play-off"

#1Oklahoma vs. #4 Florida... Should be the real national championship game
#2 Texas vs. #3 Alabama... Traditional powers collide

#5 Texas Tech vs. #6 Utah... Probably better than the experts expect

#7 USC vs. #8 Penn State... Can Penn State return to early season form?

#9 Boise State vs. #10 Ohio State... Close because Tressel is too conservative

Georgia Tech vs. Georgia

Gomer: UGA Chief: GT

Florida vs. Florida State

Gomer: UF Chief: FSU

Oregon vs. Oregon State

Gomer: OSU Chief: OSU

Oklahoma vs. Oklahoma State

Gomer: OU Chief: OU

Notre Dame vs. USC

Gomer: USC Chief: USC

Auburn vs. Alabama

Gomer: Bama Chief: Bama

Maryland vs. Boston College

Gomer: BC Chief: Maryland

South Carolina Clemson

Gomer: SCAR Chief: SCAR

"Real" BCS Standings

1. Alabama
2. Texas
3. Oklahoma
4. Florida
5. USC
6. Utah
7. Texas Tech
8. Penn State
9. Boise State
10. Ohio State
11. Georgia
12. Oklahoma State
13. Missouri
14. TCU
15. Ball State
16. Cincinnati
17. Oregon State
18. BYU
19. Michigan State
20. Florida State
21. Boston College
22. Georgia Tech
23. Oregon
24. Northwestern
25. Pittsburgh

A few thoughts
-First off, people who complain about Texas being #2 and not Oklahoma need to shut up. Oklahoma lost to Texas earlier this season 45-35 and both have identical records against relatively the same opponents. Texas Tech beat Texas, but lost to Oklahoma, who lost to Texas. It's a wonderful "love" triangle.
-Florida is sitting pretty to beat FSU and Alabama to vault into the BCS NCG and probably pummel whoever they meet there.
-Utah is definitely a dark horse to make it to the championship game, as well as USC. While Utah's regular season is complete, USC has two easy games left before the regular season is done.
-There could be an argument for Oklahoma vs. Texas in the BCS NCG if both win out, maybe if Florida loses to FSU then beats Alabama. It could get interesting in these last two weeks.

Rankings

These rankings are comprised of the old BCS formula, with one minor tweak of my own, I add in Collegefootballnews.com rankings. Something to note about their rankings, unlike AP and Coaches, CFN looks at how the team is playing, not necessarily how they could end up.

1. Texas
2. Oklahoma
3. Alabama
4. Florida
5. Texas Tech
6. Utah
7. USC
8. Penn State
9. Ohio State
10. Georgia
11. Boise State
12. Oklahoma State
13. Missouri
14. TCU
15. Cincinnati
16. Oregon State
17. Ball State
18. Michigan State
19. Florida State
20. Georgia Tech
21. Boston College
22. Brigham Young
23. Pittsburgh
24. Oregon
25. Mississippi

A few notes:
-The bowl picture is starting to sharpen and will be even closer to complete after Thanksgiving weekend.
-Penn State and Cincinnati have clinched BCS Bowl Berths, but here we kinda ignore that.

Based on these "fake" BCS rankings, here are the games if they were selected today:

Rose Bowl (Big Ten vs. Pac-10)
Penn State vs. Oregon State

Sugar Bowl (SEC)
Cincinnati vs. Alabama

Fiesta Bowl (Big 12)
USC vs. Florida

Orange Bowl (ACC)
Utah vs. Florida State

BCS Championship (#1 vs. #2)
Oklahoma vs. Texas

Texas-Oklahoma re-match? It seems very possible because unlike the OSU-Michigan conundrum 2 years ago, they don't play on the last weekend. USC-Florida is a VERY sexy match-up, other than that, a bunch of snoozers.

#1Texas vs. #4 Florida... Another sexy match-up
#2 Oklahoma vs. #3 Alabama... Traditional powers collide

#5 Texas Tech vs. #6 Utah... Probably better than the experts expect

#7 USC vs. #8 Penn State... Can Penn State return to early season form?

#9 Ohio State vs. #10 Georgia... Very good potential match-up

Week 13...

Michigan State Spartans vs. Penn State Nittany Lions
Gomer: As awesome as it would be to see the Buckeyes earn a berth to the Rose Bowl on Saturday, I just can't see it happening, at least not when it depends on Brian Hoyer. Penn State's defense is superior to Ohio State's especially when it comes to getting pressure on the QB and Brian Hoyer is the type of QB that can, and will, crumble against that kind of defensive pressure. The balanced "Spread HD" attack of Clark and Royster and "do-it-all" Williams will be too much for the Spartans defense. MSU: 16 - PSU: 30

Chief: The battle for a guaranteed share of the Big 10 Championship takes place outside of Columbus this weekend. The Spartans come in with one of their greatest teams in recent history led by stellar back Javon Ringer. PSU also sports one of the best Nittany Lion teams as well that’s strong in all aspects. I like the Lions to take care of Sparty at home fairly decisively. Aaron Maybin will wreak havoc on the backfield and the PSU will stuff the MSU running game just as OSU did. JoePa gets sent off to the retirement home smelling roses. MSU: 17—PSU: 34

Pittsburgh vs. Cincinnati
Gomer: This game is pretty much the Big East championship, although funny things can happen in the waning weeks of the season (ask Rich Rodriguez). I don't really like either of these teams, but Brian Kelly is a superior coach to "The Stache" (Dave Wannstedt) and that in conjunction with the home field will be enough to put Cincy over the edge in this one and send them BCS bowling... although, I don't know a Cincy fan who's about to travel halfway across the country to see the Bearcats, whatevs. Pitt: 7 - UC: 20

Chief: A huge Big East battle in the confines of Nippert Stadium will go a long way to seeing which of these perennial also-rans has a shot at a BCS Bowl. Cincinnati has been a surprise story all year with their multitude of injuries, but they keep chugging along under ‘soon-to-be-elsewhere’ coach Brian Kelly. Pitt seems to go through the motions every week and never look like they’ve turned the corner of mediocrity. A great team wouldn’t have needed 4 OT to dispatch Notre Dame. Go Red, Go Black, Go Bearcats, FIGHT! FIGHT! FIGHT! Pitt: 10—UC: 24

Texas Tech Red Raiders vs. Oklahoma Sooners
Gomer: A true Southwestern shootout looms. This game should be awesome, and a showcase of many future NFL-ers. Sam Bradford and Graham Harrell will be on showcase primarily, and the winner of this game, who makes the least mistakes, will be in the driver's seat for the Heisman Trophy. An OU victory will really throw the BCS into a tizzy, because many pundits, including myself, will not be in favor of OU being ranked ahead of the Longhorns. TTU's defense is far better than I thought, their O-line is outstanding, and the all-around talent is very good. OU has a more balanced offense which is the #1 reason I'm going to pick the Sooners in this marquee match-up. Boomer Sooner! TTU: 34 - OU: 42

Chief: Every week comes with the nation picking against my Red Raiders and every week, they emerge unscathed. TTU will have their hands full trying to enter Norman and take down the Sooners whose record is (something like) 59-2 at home under Stoops. I’m sticking with my boys here and staying with the Red Raider wagon. Both teams are chugging along, but there’s something magical coming out of Lubbock. Look for over 1000 total yards in the game in which 2 (or possibly 3) Heisman finalists take the field. The Texas Texh offensive line again makes the difference as the Raiders start looking to Miami. Harrell to Crabtree over and over while Bradford impresses…but not enough. TTU: 45—OU:41

Michigan vs. Ohio State
Gomer: Wow, wow, wow, the last game of the regular season already. It always amazes me how fast the season goes by, and another one bites the dust. This is the worst Michigan in the history of college football, and that's saying a lot about the ALL-TIME WINNINGEST PROGRAM IN NCAA HISTORY. A Buckeye loss is not only unimaginable, but would be the greatest upset in the history of the rivalry. On the flip side, Ohio State is playing for a share of the Big Ten title, their 4th straight, and an unprecedented 5th straight victory over the state up north. It will be a thrilling day in Ohio Stadium, where we get to see 'Little Animal', Jenkins, Boeckman, Freeman, and (in my opinion) 'Beanie' one last time. The weather will be perfect for a gridiron battle (of spread offenses) where the men will be separated from the boys, and the Men of the Scarlet and Gray will emerge victorious from the trenches after battling the Maize and Blue to a bitter pulp. UM: 20 - OSU: 34

Chief: Throw out the records, it’s still ‘The Game’. Rich Rodriguez comes rolling into Columbus with excuses abounding. Telling his fans to ‘Get a Life’? That tops the list of things you think but don’t say in Ann Arbor. His backup QB is starting, and who knows who starts in the backfield (Minor should be healthy). The Buckeye faithful can’t be caught here looking ahead because this is still Michigan. They have a great defensive line and who knows what could happen if we aren’t prepared. Luckily for us, the sweatervest cares not for any other game and will have the troops fired up. This game is for a share of the Big 10 title and this senior class is looking for the clean sweep (4 straight). It may not be the season they wanted, but it is what it is, and there’s no sweeter way to leave than to send the Wolverines home crying to mama. The Bucks don’t look past (even thought their fans are) and take care of business. Beanie for 150, Laurinitis with 10 tackles, Jenkins with a pick, and close it out with senior captain Todd Boeckman leading a final scoring drive. GO BUCKS!! BEAT BLUE!! UM: 10—OSU: 41

West Virginia vs. Louisville: Gomer:WVU - Chief:WVU
BYU vs. Utah: Gomer:Utah - Chief:Utah
Oregon State vs. Arizona: Gomer:Ariz - Chief:OSU
Iowa vs. Minnesota: Gomer:Minnesota - Chief:Iowa
Florida State vs. Maryland: Gomer:Maryland - Chief:FSU
Illinois @ Northwestern: Gomer:Illinois - Chief:Illinois