5 Things We've Learned (Week 2)

Here's another weekly installment I'm hoping to add to the blog. Keep checking in weekly for these installments (tell your friends!). Expect to see 'Grading the Bucks', '5 Things We've Learned', and 'Picks' on a weekly basis but I haven't decided when to post. Here we go!

1) Boise State is screwed....or are they
After the enormous resume building win in DC over Virginia Tech, Boise appeared to have dispatched their main opponent and positioned themselves in prime position to sneak into the Championship game (if they finish undefeated). Someone forgot to tell Frank Beamer how important VA Tech's future success was to Boise's resume. The Hokies paid the Broncos back by laying a monster early season egg (wait, I think I've seen this one before...) and dropping a home game to FCS James Madison U. This certainly hurts Boise's perception and will as the season goes on, but let's look at the polls. Boise is still 3 in the poll that matters and the computer impact will be minimal. If VA Tech rebounds (which they probably will) and makes a run at the ACC title (no reason they can't), the resume builder returns. Before you jump down my throat, I believe this should kill the Boise momentum, but the coaches pretty much ignore the actual games and vote based on win/loss. Let's face it, if Bama, OSU, and Boise gone undefeated, no matter the spread, Boise is left out. This hurts Boise's argument vs. big conference (Big 10, SEC) 1 loss team, and I think that regardless of the VT outcome, Boise was left out unless there are no major undefeated teams--and probably still out vs. a 1-loss OSU, 1-loss Bama or 1-loss Oklahoma.

2) Those sanctions REALLY hurt USC
In week 1, USC showed an explosive offense under Lane Kiffin but the Monte Kiffin's defense couldn't even slow a mediocre Hawaii team. Major concerns on the defense, but it appeared the offense under Matt Barkley and Ronald Johnson would pick up the slack. Week 2 gave a different story with the Trojans squeaking out a 3 point win at home vs. a BAD Virginia team. The defense only gave up 14 (still a bit much with a missed FG), but the offense couldn't move the ball! The trojans are standing on the brink of mediocrity. I know they're 2-0, but it's a very precarious and nerve-wracking start in LA.

3) Is Michigan back....again (Same story different year)
Let me tell you a story about the Wolverines. Here's a team that had tough times the previous year, but a new QB emerged to lead an explosive UM offense to the next level in a big win in Week 1. Week 2 followed close behind with the Irish in which this 'savior of the Blue nation' scored a go ahead touchdown in the final minute to lead Michigan to a 2-0 start. Of course, I'm referring to 2009 and Tate Forcier. Wait, the same thing just happened this year. Sign me up for the bandwagon because 2009 ended successfully for the Blue! Wait...bowlless...again. Granted, Denard Robinson has been super explosive and exciting to watch in the first 2 weeks, but UConn is in the Big East (bad) and Notre Dame lost Jimmy Clauson from a mediocre team last year (bad). Not denying the excitement in Ann Arbor, but let's sit back and make sure this year is for real before we hand out the Heisman and take the Buckeyes from the Big Ten pedestal. To be honest, a winning season is a major victory. A 5-0 start isn't out of the question, but last year started 4-0 in Michigan. Let's see how they finish.

4) No love for Oklahoma
I was big on OU in the preseason due to the second year for Landry Jones's stache and a little less competition in the Big 12 with Texas taking a step back. I was also guilty of jumping back after their week 1 stinker vs. Utah State but they rebounded in a huge way against my boys from Tallahassee. Let's be honest, this FSU isn't the FSU of the 90s, but it is indeed a pretty good team that the Sooners throttled at home. I circled this game in the preseason as a likely Nole loss due to the Sooners home dominance, but week 1 game me hope for the upset...oops. After being dropped in the polls for squeaking by a bad Utah State team (lookahead maybe...I mean, absolutely), there was no rebound for smoking the Noles. I'm all for coaches and media being very flexible week to week with the schedule (they are WAY to rigid in that losses seem to be the only way for some teams to drop regardless of score), but if you punish the Sooners for a close win over a bad team, reward them for a big win over a good team.

5) Chip Kelly can coach offense
Oregon went on the road into vaunted SEC country (overrated) to fight the Vols on their turf. Granted, the Volunteers are a work in progress (come on, the coach had to teach the players how to shower), but they were SMOKED in Neyland stadium when the Ducks found their stride. I never really thought UT would win the game, but Oregon was able to run all over them (SEC defense what?). Let's not forget that Oregon lost their big play QB Masoli when he was kicked off the team for a felony (naturally, he ended up in the SEC. Where felons go) and big time punching back Blount and they still dominated the Vols offensively. LaMichael James threw his hat in the Heisman race by putting on a performance like that on the road in a really tough environment.

Those are my thoughts and let me leave you with a question: Is parity in college football dead? This past week in college football featured a multitude of premier matchups...and the big boys all cruised. When I speak to parity, I ask if anyone can get into the title talk that didn't start in the top 10? I don't think they'll be left out due to the voting process, I just argue that those in the top 10 at the beginning of the year (except VT) are a clear step above the rest.

It's looking like the championship will contain 2 of the following (because I don't see anyone 'joining the party'): Bama, OSU, Boise, TCU, Oklahoma, Iowa, Wisconsin, Texas, Florida, Oregon, maybe Nebraska, maybe South Carolina). Any arguments?

Grading the Bucks (week 2--U Miami)

I felt that this would be a fun new addition to the blog. Following each game, I will grade the 3 main aspects of the Buckeye football team and the coaches. Spending so much time in the stands/recliner being the coach/commentator/etc., I think I should pass on the wealth of knowledge. Warning: I will be a tough grader because THE Ohio State University needs to be held to a higher standard.

Offense: B
Hard to complain too much after putting up 36 points on a top 15 team, but this is Ohio State. Pryor had a great game running the ball but the passing game held him back a bit. Granted, he made a few beautiful passes (Posey and TD to Saine), but way too many bad misses (most to the big TE Stoneburner). The primary detractor from the offensive grade is the red zone performance. I believe OSU was held to a field goal in 4 or 5 drives inside the 20...that just doesn't get it done. Finally, the running game never got going (except with Pryor). Herron ran well but not exceptional and Saine had a bad ground day. Good day but not enough.

Defense: A-
Here's my 'jerk professor'. This defense played a great game, but there were a few too many yards given up and bend don't break. I'd go A without the TD and A+ were it not for the TD and drive inside the 10. The first half was a solid A+ in which the defense gave up a FG after a 15 yard drive. 4 INTs, no matter how they come, is a huge victory. I thought Harris had too much time to sit in the pocket on most plays. Again, the Bullets only gave up 2 significant drives (one ending on a TD and the other with the spectacular Cam Heyward INT and 'sprint' 80 yards) so a great day at the ball park, but still a few things to shore up on the D-Line.

Special Teams: D
And we come to the negative. The special teams would have a solid F were it not for Jamaal Berry, Jordan Hall, and Devin Barclay. This is the worse kick coverage (two straight games) I've seen in the Tressel era. Yesterday was the first time in OSU history the opponent returned a punt and kick in the same game (both with horrible coverage). The bright spot was the OSU kick return game that could actually improve the grade more if Berry didn't trip on his own feet (bad) and Hall didn't get run down by the KICKER (Citgo). Let's not forget Barclay almost broke Nugent's record if he didn't go shankapotamus on his 6th field goal. Without the miss, I might have improved the grade because 5 field goals (even though they were short) certainly made a difference. Tressel certainly has work to do with kick/punt coverage and field goal kicking (never ok to miss a short one...never).

Coaching: B
Overall, the schemes were very good, but I can't give an A to a group that can't convert in the red zone. I like the option being mixed in and the designed runs with TP because that's been completely missing from this offense. A key factor offensively that was missing was Stoneburner. When Pryor threw to him, he missed badly. With a huge target like that, I really believe the OSU coaches need to target him far more. Overall, the run/pass mix was pretty solid. Defensively, the play calling was ok, but again, they let Harris get way to comfortable in the pocket. Harris showed that he had an NFL caliber arm with some beautiful touch passes. To counter that, rush him and force him into quick decisions...I felt we sat back too much.

Again, hard to be this tough on a team with a double digit win over a team ranked 12, but you need to expect perfection at OSU. Great week, big win, but still work to do (every coach's dream). On to the next one!

2010 Week 2--National Championships anyone?

After last week whet your whistle for college football, time to jump right in to the main course. This early week features an astounding FOUR national championship rematches--and it's only week 2! So many great games this week, it's hard to figure out where to turn your attention. We missed week 1, but there was nothing going on last week so let's get to work.

Penn State @ Alabama:

Gomer: As my career as a music educator has really become all-encompassing, I feel it necessary to let everyone know that I don't keep track of as many pre-season things as I used to. Be that as it may, those who know me, know that I always have an opinion to share about a sporting event. All that said, PSU just doesn't strike fear into anyone's hearts... well except maybe Jim Tressel's when the 'Nits come to Ohio Stadium at night... But seriously, PeeSU doesn't stand much of a chance in this one. The Tide could be missing their entire first string, and still beat the Lions. As much as I'd like to see the Big Ten pull an upset, not gonna happen. PSU: 9 Bama: 37

Chief: The bluebloods meet in Tuscaloosa in a rematch of the 1979 Sugar Bowl goalline stand. Unfortunately for those in Happy Valley, I don't envision this being much of a battle. PSU has a true freshman at QB for the first time in the program's history...and Bama is not exactly a simple test. The defending champions should make easy work of the Lions with the Nick Saban defense and the bevy of backs. Royster gets some yards for the Blue and White, but not nearly enough. PSU: 13 Bama: 31

Michigan @ Notre Dame:

Gomer: The game in which no one should be able to win. I hate Michigan. I HATE Notre Dame. Maybe it's former coach, wise-ass Charlie Weiss and the golden boy (aka overrate) Brady Quinn/Jimmy Clausen/insert big-name recruit here. Michigan shouldn't have a problem moving the ball against ND, but ND shouldn't have a problem moving the ball against Michigan. This is one of the few days of the year where I will gladly tell any "friend" who cheers for Michigan, "GO BLUE!" UM: 39 ND: 33

Chief: The battle of the programs that "are back"...but not really. Michigan is led by dynamic QB Denard Robinson who had a field day running the ball in week 1 vs. UConn, and I was actually surprised by the lack of offense in the ND opener vs. Purdue. Even with the week 1 performances, I don't think either of these programs are ready to go to the next level. Robinson will run, but the Irish will score (Michigan capitalized on too many turnovers last week). Too many blows will knock Denard out of a key late series in which the Irish will hold at home to take the game. Mich: 24--ND: 27

Florida State @ Oklahoma:

Gomer: Florida State is in a position to really disappoint it's fans. OU looked awful against Utah State and the Seminoles looked sharp against SAMFORD. Not really sure what to expect, I think Oklahoma's program is in better shape than FSU's, and well, Bob Stoops can do some weird stuff from time-to-time. FSU: 24 OU: 31

Chief: 2000 National Championship remix (OU 13-2). Going into the year, I felt this was a sure loss due to the historic performance of Oklahoma in Norman, but the defensive embarassment last week gives me great hope. Christian Ponder was spectacular last week (granted against Samford) and is probably the best QB no one is talking about (outside Heisman shot?). The Sooner defense struggled against a horrible USU team but the Noles got a little swagger to start out the Jimbo era in Tallahassee. I'm going with the upset with a late Ponder TD scramble to end the Sooner championship hopes! FSU: 38--OU: 34

Georgia @ South Carolina:

Gomer: SEC SEC SEC SEC.... blahhhhh. Neither of these teams will make it to the BCS National Championship game, but that doesn't mean it won't be interesting. Spurrier is trying to show he knows how to coach an offense somewhere other than with Florida, and Richt is busy adopting kids. 'Cocks find a way to win. UGA: 13 USC: 37

Chief: Spurrier got the hopes of Cocky nation up last week with an impressive week 1 win over Southern Miss and Georgia comes in with a bit of disappointment with the loss of stellar wide out AJ Green. With Spurrier, the focus is always on the offense, but the defense at South Carolina was a major bright spot last year. This is a huge game in the SEC East that no one is looking at. The Years of the Gators are coming to an end. Who will pick up the reins? GO COCKS with the home field advantage. UGA: 20--USC: 24

Miami @ Ohio State:

Gomer: 2,808 days... wow. That's how long it's been since Ohio State won it's most recent national championship over the unbeatable Miami Hurricanes. It's been beaten like a dead horse, but this game isn't about what happen that glorious day in the desert, when I was a week freshman in college, but it's about how the fans of both teams perceived the win. For the Buckeyes it was a sigh of relief and the sign of an exciting era of OSU football. For the 'Canes, it was the sign of the "end times" for their program as they have been on a downward spiral for years. Randy Shannon is the right coach for Miami, but he hasn't had enough time to build and give Tressel's crew his best shot. 'Da U': 13 OSU: 38

Chief: 2002 National Championship--THERE'S A FLAG!! (OSU: 31--UM: 24/2OT). The two national powers collide for the first time since the epic battle in the desert in 02. Since that year, the Buckeyes have maintained a level of excellence (6 BCS bowls, 6 Big Ten titles, 1 Heisman winner) and the Canes...not so much (1 BCS bowl, 1 Big East title, 0 Heismans). Jacory Harris leads the high powered offense of the Canes but he's been very suspect at times. Star running back Cooper is probably out for the clash in the Shoe (another blow). Both D-Lines are stacked, but Miami's secondary is not as experienced. The Silver Bullet defense came out firing on all cylinders last week (albeit, against Marshall) but were really laying the wood. The offense was spectacular with the Brandon Saine explosive running game opening up a bevy of options for dual-threat QB Terrelle Pryor. I was surprised the line on the game was so high, but I still think the Bucks cover in the craziness of the Shoe. GO BUCKS! 'The U': 17--OSU: 27

Other Picks

Illinois St @ NW Gomer: NW Chief: NW

South Dakota @ Minn Gomer: Minn Chief: Minn

West. Ill. @ Purdue Gomer: Purdue Chief: Purdue

Iowa St. @ Iowa Gomer: Iowa Chief: Iowa

BYU @ AF Gomer: BYU Chief: BYU

Oregon @ Tenn Gomer: Oregon Chief: Oregon

Toledo @ Ohio Gomer: Ohio Chief: Ohio

SIU @ Ill Gomer: SIU Chief: Ill

Stanford @ UCLA Gomer: UCLA Chief: Stan

First major SEC referee gaffe of the year?

I just felt the need to write about this after seeing what I believe is a greivous rule misinterpretation in the Thurs night Aub/Mississippi State game. Please correct me if I'm wrong.

The Bulldogs were going into the endzone for the touchdown (I believe in the late 1st/early 2nd quarter) when the quarterback fumbled the ball at the 1. It was recovered in the endzone by Mississippi State and promptly ruled a touchdown.

Now, please set me straight but I feel like I'm taking crazy pills. An offensive player is not allowed to advance the ball on a fumble. Therefore, the correct ruling (in my opinion) is MSU ball at the 1. Granted, if Auburn had recovered the ball, the ruling would be a touchback. To make matters worse, the play was reviewed and confirmed. Of course, the band of monkeys calling the game (known as Rece Davis, Jesse Palmer, and Craig James) never mentioned the incorrect or at least confusing ruling and spent the time saying Auburn recovered (which they clearly did not).

I would sincerely like confirmation that I'm not crazy on this rule interpretation because it always amazes me how a) paid NCAA officials can so blatently miss a call by incorrectly reading the rule and b) people with the best job ever, watching and analyzing college football, can be so poor at the fundamentals of the game. If Joe Fan (aka, me) can do their job better and would be more appreciative, why don't I have that job? ESPN, I'm waiting to hear back with your job offer soon. I promise, I will have more fun with the position than anyone else (and not sacrifice the quality of commentary--might have less USC/SEC homerism...uh oh, shouldn't have said that...).

TS Poll - Final Results

Well, it's the time of year where everyone looks back at the 2009 college football season and looks forward to what might be next year. With that said, here is a look at the final rankings in the TS Poll. Enjoy!

1. Alabama
2. Texas
3. Florida
4. Boise State
5. Ohio State
6. Cincinnati
7. Iowa
   
8. TCU
9. Oregon
10. Penn State
11. Georgia Tech
12. Virginia Tech
13. BYU
14. Pitt
15. Central Michigan
16. Nebraska
17. Miami (Fl)
18. Houston
19. LSU
20. Wisconsin
21. USC
22. Clemson
23. Texas Tech
24. Navy
25. Utah
    

The end of year conference rankings look like this:

1. SEC
2. Big East
3. Pac 10
4. Big 12
5. Big Ten
6. ACC
7. Mt. West
8. WAC
9. C-USA
10. MAC
11. Sun Belt
    

Draper Index post week 12

1. Florida
2. Texas
3. Alabama
4. TCU
5. Cincinnati
6. Ohio State
7. Oregon
8. Boise State
9. Georgia Tech
10. Iowa
11. Oklahoma State
12. USC
13. Pittsburgh
14. Utah
15. Penn State
16. Virginia Tech
17. BYU
18. California
19. LSU
20. Nebraska
21. Oregon State
22. Oklahoma
23. Texas Tech
24. Clemson
25. Miami (FL)

Week 12 - Michigan Week

A few important games this week, but none is more important than 106th Edition of The Game held in Ann Arbor this year...

#25 California vs. #17 Stanford
Gomer: Stanford has bun the Pac-10's juggernaut as of late slamming both Oregon and USC in two straight weeks. After the recent output the Cardinal is certainly due for a let down. Stanford has made huge strides under Jim Harbaugh, who will not be at Michigan any time soon, but I am going to call for a let down game this week against the Bears. Cal: 34--Stanford:27

Chief: Stanford is the hottest team in America right now with Toby Gerhart toting the rock and bringing hope to young white RBs everywhere. Freshman QB Andrew Luck has also been a major component of the Cardinal success. Cal jumped back into relevance after taking down Arizona (yeah, that made them important) with star Jahvid Best sidelined. Even though Cal made a push last week, Stanford is on a role and will keep chugging along. Jim Harbaugh is sent to Michigan with another big win in this 'The Game'. Hopefully, he doesn't bring it to our 'Big Game'. Stanford: 41--Cal: 24

#11 Oregon vs. Arizona
Gomer: Oregon looks to continue their march to the first non-USC Pac-10 title in 8 years. Arizona is a decent team but was unimpressive in their recent loss to Cal. Oregon has been just plain impressive on offense. With Gameday in town the Tuscon faithful will be in full force, but Oregon is just a better team. UO: 35--UA: 18
Chief: Welcome back to earth Wildcats of Arizona. Everyone was jumping on the 1st Arizona Rose Bowl, but it's just not going to happen. Yes, Arizona is steadily improving year in and year out, but Oregon is too tough to drop this game. While Arizona is quite balanced, Oregon will put on a rushing clinic with LaMichael James and quite literally run away with the game. Maybe Legarotte Blout will get to throw a few punches in this one. OU: 48--Zona: 17




#10 Ohio State vs. Michigan
Gomer: Staring the 2nd straight losing season in the face along with another bowl-less season will have the Wolverines whipped into a frenzy. While Michigan is facing another rough off-season the Buckeyes are coming off of clinching their first Rose Bowl under Jim Tressel and look to assure themselves of another outright Big Ten Title. While technically this game has no baring on OSU winning the Big Ten or the Rose Bowl, it means everything to the seniors who don't want to leave with a sour taste. Michigan's offense will find a way to score a few, but the Buckeye defense will prove to be too much. OSU: 41--UM: 14
Chief: And we come to the finale. It may look and feel different, but it's still Ohio State vs. Michigan. The Buckeyes enter the unfriendly confines of Ann Arbor to face Dick Rod in his home for the first time. I'm a little concerned about a letdown from Pryor in this game as the Bucks only have pride on the line, but Tressel knows the import of this game regardless of the records. The Seniors will be playing out of there minds and will simply overwhelm the hapless Wolverines. Forcier is too banged up and while Brandon Graham is a very good defender for the Wolverines, he's playing with 10 nobodies. It won't be enough to keep Tressel from 6 straight and an ungodly 7-1 record. GO BUCKS, BEAT BLUE!! OSU: 45--scUM: 10


Other Games:

Minnesota vs. #13 Iowa: Gomer: Iowa Chief: Iowa
#4 TCU vs. Wyoming: Gomer: TCU Chief: TCU
#14 Penn State vs. Michigan State: Gomer: PSU Chief: PSU
#16 Wisconsin vs. Northwestern: Gomer: NW Chief: Wisconsin
Purdue vs. Indiana: Gomer: PU Chief: PU

Week 11 - All the Marbles

Friday Night Special!

#25 West Virginia vs. #5 Cincinnati

Gomer: I'll go ahead and admit it; Cincinnati is pretty good. Do I think they'd hang with "the big boys", probably not, but we should get to find out sometime in early January. West Virginia has quietly put themselves in position to win the Big East if they win out, but the national attention has been on the Bearcats. Since the tandem of Pat White and Steve Slaton left the Mountaineers, they really haven't been the same team, or received the same amount of attention. Noel Devine has been able to dazzle from time to time, but unless WVU QB Jarrett Brown is a threat as well, it could be a long night for the WVU offense and another night of passing and running at will for the Bearcats. WVU: 28--UC: 41

Chief: I really want UC to take a dive, but I don't think WVU (especially with a banged up Noel Devine) can stop them. The UC offense is hitting on all cylinders (when playing Big East defenses), but the defense is mediocre at best. Last week was way too difficult against a subpar UConn team at home at night to inspire confidence in this team. Regardless, the UC offense should be more than good enough to take the Mountaineers out. Watch out for Pitt next week. Kelly should be very distracted with the calls from South Bend and Ann Arbor rolling in. WVU: 31 UC: 45

Saturday's Games

#16 Utah vs. #4 TCU

Gomer: My defense of TCU all season has been just that, their defense. As many wise coaches have said too: Defense wins championships. The TCU defense has been outstanding in wins @ Virginia, @ Clemson, and @ BYU. They look to get revenge for last year's loss to the Utes and claim a spot in the BCS. I'm not going to throw a bunch of names and opinions out here when I really don't know a ton about other team other than watching their premiere games from earlier in the season. I like TCU a lot and frankly don't think that Utah has the horses on offense to offset that mismatch. Utah: 19--TCU: 28
Chief: Utah was the team of the year last year and even with the 1-loss record, everyone is expecting a big upset this week. Not so fast my friend. TCU has been destroying teams since the near miss at Air Force. I think Jerry Highes and the Frog defense smother the Ute attack while Andy Dalton (TCU QB) racks up some solid numbers as he's been under the radar. TCU rolls toward the BCS. Utah: 10--TCU: 31

Stanford vs. #9 USC

Gomer: Let's see, USC is coming off a tough win in Tempe while the Cardinal are coming off of a massive upset and offensive explosion against the Oregon Ducks. USC has been up and down this year, not really knowing week to week which team will show up. Stanford will look to repeat the huge upset they pulled two years ago in Los Angeles, but Pete Carroll's boys will be ready to roll and hope that someone else can pull an upset or two over the Ducks to get back in the BCS. Stan: 14--USC:31
Chief: This game is very interesting as Stanford has quietly put together a great team behind the arm of freshman QB Andrew Luck and the white lightning RB Toby Gerhardt. USC always wins these type of games historically even given the recent struggles. I don't know if this Trojan team is as solid as the past editions, but the revenge factor is strong in this one. Remember, the Cardinal upset the Trojans 2 years ago on their turf. I honestly wouldn't be surprised with a Stanford upset that caps the USC stranglehold on the Pac-10, but I think they come just short in a must see game. I'd love for the Cardinal to end the Trojans hopes, but we'll see. Stan: 23--USC: 24

#10 Iowa vs. #11 Ohio State

Gomer: Well I was thankfully wrong with last week's pick. The Lions proved to be a hollow shell, and TP didn't make mistakes that let PSU stay in the game. Kudos to the whole team. Iowa comes in reeling after going 9-0 and losing to Northwestern at home. It should be noted that the Hawkeyes not only lost the game, but starting QB Ricky Stanzi AKA Mr. Clutch. James Vandenberg came in relief and played as expected in his first ever game action... not good. He should be improved this week, but it won't show against the outstanding Buckeye D. As with last week's game, if TP does not turn the ball over to an underrated Hawkeye defense the Bucks should be able to control this one and celebrate with Roses in hand afterwards. Iowa: 10--OSU: 27
Chief: Now that's what I'm talking about. There's the Buckeye team we've been waiting for. TP comes up with the most important stat of his career on the road vs. the Lions: 0 turnovers. Iowa limps into the Shoe with a Rose Bowl berth on the line, but they are just too banged up to take advantage. OSU is firing like mad with the defense playing at a whole new level. The freshman QB of Iowa has not played significantly on the road and was awful at home vs. a mediocre NU defense...uh oh. The Bullets fire to completely shut down teh Hawkeye O. While the Iowa D is stout, they will not be able to overcome the bad position they're put in time and time again by the defense. Iowa will force at least one turnover and turn it into points, but it won't be enough to keep Tressel from his first Rose Bowl berth. GO BUCKS!!! Iowa: 6--OSU: 24

The Leftovers

Michigan vs. Wisconsin: Gomer: UW Chief: UW
Michigan State vs. Purdue: Gomer: PU Chief: MSU
Miami vs. North Carolina: Gomer: Miami Chief: UNC
Auburn vs. Georgia: Gomer: AU Chief: UGA
Notre Dame vs. Pittsburgh: Gomer: Pitt Chief: Pitt
Arizona vs. California: Gomer: Cal Chief: Arizona

Draper Index Week 10

There are 2 polls listed below--the first is constructed with bowl games and conference championships included and the second without (so as to not punish teams for earning a bowl bid or reward teams for lower level matchups). The poll itself is based on past year rankings so this does indeed have an effect.

Draper Index Top 25 (Bowls included)
1. Florida
2. Texas
3. Alabama
4. Cincinnati
5. USC
6. TCU
7. Georgia Tech
8. Boise State
9. Ohio State
10. Oregon
11. Iowa
12. Utah
13. Pittsburgh
14. LSU
15. Oklahoma State
16. Virginia Tech
17. Penn State
18. BYU
19. Oklahoma
20. Houston
21. Miami (FL)
22. Oregon State
23. Texas Tech
24. West Virginia
25. Wisconsin

Draper Index Top 25 (Bowls not included)
1. Alabama
2. Florida
3. Texas
4. Cincinnati
5. Georgia tech
6. Boise State
7. TCU
8. Ohio State
9. USC
10. Iowa
11. Oregon
12. Pittsburgh
13. Utah
14. LSU
15. Oklahoma State
16. Penn State
17. BYU
18. Virginia Tech
19. Oklahoma
20. Miami (FL)
21. Houston
22. Wisconsin
23. Texas Tech
24. Boston College
25. Oregon State

Notice in the first poll teams with high bowl success rate (like USC) are higher ranked. Overall, I believe the poll that includes bowls is more accurate. Only USC appears to stick out as an outlier in the "bowl poll".

The TS Poll - Week 11

Here is my computer poll for week 11.

1. Texas
2. Alabama
3. Florida
4. Cincinnati
5. TCU
6. Iowa
7. Boise State
8. Houston
9. Georgia Tech
10. Ohio State
11. Pittsburgh
12. Oregon
13. LSU
14. Virginia Tech
15. USC
16. Penn State
17. Oklahoma State
18. Utah
19. Clemson
20. Miami (Fl)
21. BYU
22. Nebraska
23. Central Michigan
24. Arizona
25. South Florida

Week 10 Showdown City

LSU @ Alabama:

GOMER:The Crimson Tide continue their march to a huge SEC title game against the Gators in December. This game will launch Mark Ingram to the front of the Heisman race and expose LSU for the pretenders they are. LSU: 7--Bama: 28

CHIEF: Another SEC battle, but this one could actually mean something. The winner of this game has the inside track to face Florida in the SEC Championship Game. Everyone has been talking of how LSU is primed to win as the Tide squeaked by the Vols, but I haven't seen anything from LSU that has me expecting upset. Young QB Jordan Jefferson has been pretty good but the LSU defense hasn't been that special. I think Greg McElroy gets on track throwing to Julio Jones and keeping the Tide climbing while Mark Ingram continues the Heisman chase. LSU: 10--Bama: 21

Oklahoma @ Nebraska:

GOMER: Somehow the Sooners are still ranked and now they travel to Lincoln in what used to be a huge rivalry game. Nebraska QB Zac Lee has been very good this year while the Sooners can't catch a break when they need it. In a minor upset, Huskers win. OU: 21--NU: 24

CHIEF: There is nothing to talk about this week. OU already has an unheard of 3 losses after the injury to QB Sam Bradford. Landry Jones has stepped in admirably but hasn't been a world stopper. That being said, I don't know if the Huskers can muster enough offense to pull the huge win. Ndamekong Suh, the big DT for Nebraska, will delight the crowd by spending more time in Jones's face than that moustache, but it won't be enough. Nebraska continues to fall while Suh's draft stock rises. OU: 31--NU: 20

OSU @ PSU:

GOMER: I have complete faith in the OSU defense to stand tall today, but where I lack faith is in the offense putting the defense in bad positions. Terrelle Pryor has not progressed once this season and even his big plays against one of the worst teams in the country were ugly defensive breakdowns or throws where he closed his eyes and prayed as he threw the ball. Everyone will criticize PSU for the weak schedule they have played, but frankly OSU's schedule isn't much better (USC really isn't that good). Darryl Clark combined with Evan Royster will be a tough backfield to for the Bucks to completely shut down. However, I look for the defense to stand tall but TP to stay true to form raising further questions about his ability and development. OSU: 15--PSU: 23

CHIEF: The other big game with postseason implications is in Happy Valley. The Bucks have fattened up on some crappy opponents in Minnesota and NMSU so it's hard to draw much, but the defense has been lights out. I know it's the worst offense in the country, but the Bullets didn't let them cross the 50 and only allowed 2 first downs. They did what they had to do, but this is a different animal. I truly believe that this game will be won and lost with Terrelle Pryor, but not with his explosive play. The game will be decided based on Pryor's mistakes. If he can be the cliche ridden game manager aka Craig Krenzel, not remain mistake free, the Bucks will stuff the Lion offense and win. If, however, he gives them a chance with turnovers, it will be a long day. I think the defense holds tough on the road, and Pryor limits the mistakes with one or two difference maker plays. The loss of Pettrey hurts, but hopefully, the scoring drives will end with TDs. Pryor and the Bucks get the first marquee win of the season and keep chugging to Pasadena. OSU: 17--PSU: 13

Other Games:

Virginia@ Miami(FL): Gomer: Miami Chief: Miami

FSU @ Clemson: Gomer: Clemson Chier: FSU

Navy @ Notre Dame: Gomer: ND Chief: ND

Wake Forest @ GA Tech: Gomer: GT Chief: GT

Duke @ UNC: Gomer: UNC Chief: UNC

Oregon@ Stanford: Gomer: Oregon Chief: Quack

Week 9 - The Home Stretch

Friday Night Special

West Virginia vs. South Florida:

GOMER: Unlike my counterpart, I have not completely given up on the Bulls of South Florida. Yes they were beaten up by the Bearcats, but they are still a good team in the Big East. BJ Daniels of the Bulls and Noel Devin of the Mountaineers are the top talents to watch this game, and it should be a shootout. WVU: 28--USF: 34

CHIEF: I've been big on USF all year, but I think it's time to leave...which of course means I'm wrong. While Selvie is an absolute beast at DE, B.J. Daniels is too erratic at QB. Noel Devine will break contain enough times to cause serious problems for the Bulls. The Mountaineers role and continue to be a factor in the Big East. WVU: 24--USF: 10

Saturday Games

Texas vs. Oklahoma State

GOMER: Texas really has not looked that strong to me this season. They beat a banged up Oklahoma team in the Red River Rivalry, Colt McCoy has not necessarily been something special, but hasn't been terrible either. The teams they've really beat down are not that good, and Oklahoma State without Bryant is in that category. Zac Robinson is good, but I don't think good enough to carry his team to a victory. And by the way, even if Texas is down by 20-30 at half, don't worry because they always make a 2nd half comeback against the Cowboys. UT: 38--OSU: 20

CHIEF: This was a preseason upset of mine, but without Dez Bryant, I just don't know. It seems Kendall Hunter will return to balance the Pokes attack, but Texas should be able to score on a questionable defense. Stillwater will be rocking however, and the Cowboys definitely circle the wagons. This would be the marquee win of the Mike Gundy era, but I believe they come just short of the upset. Colt McCoy has a flawless 2nd half and keeps the Longhorns alive for the Title. (Still...GO POKES!!) UT: 41--OSU:40

USC vs. Oregon

GOMER: Last Saturday the Trojans jumped out to a sizable lead, but relinquished and almost lost the game in the 4th quarter. The USC juggernaut has been slow to wake up this season, but I think against suspect Pac-10 defenses the running game and passing attack will get rolling in what will be a very physical tough match-up for both teams. USC: 41--UO: 30

CHIEF: On this one, I will stay with my preseason pick. Quack Attack for the win. The Pac 10 title game is in the Autzen Zoo and I think Masoli and Lamichael James put on a rushing clinic. More importantly, the Ducks actually will hit some crucial throws downfield to seal the win. The thing about Oregon is everyone knows they're running the ball, but they do it successfully anyway. The Trojans are solid defensively for 2-3 quarters but tend to slip up in one quarter. The Ducks will pounce then. Barkley has won nailbiters on the road in two very tough venues, but the third times the charm for hairgel boy. quack..quack....Quack...Quack...QUACK..QUACK!!! USC: 30--UO: 31

New Mexico State vs. Ohio State

GOMER: A closer than expected game mostly for the look-ahead and let-down factors. I think playing this game is a terrible terrible mistake because it gets the team out of the mentality of playing tough competition and outside of needed to perform at their best to win. Yes it will be nice to beat a bad team, but will do nothing to gain back respect lost with the Purdue loss, and in my opinion SEVERELY inhibit the Buckeyes momentum generated by the Minnesota victory. Penn State awaits... NMSU: 10--OSU: 37

CHIEF: It's our game so we have to talk about it. I don't see a Purdue-esque let down against the hapless Aggies. Pryor will look like Troy Smith for the 3 quarters he's in the game, and the defense will be a stonewall all day against the worst offense in the country. The highlight of the game will be undoubtedly the halftime show that I assisted in designing. Come out and enjoy. HAPPY HALLOWEEN!! NMSU: 0--OSU: 48

The Leftovers:

Mississippi vs. Auburn: Gomer: AU Chief: Ole Miss

Georgia vs. Florida: Gomer: UF Chief: Florida

Michigan vs. Illinois: Gomer: UM Chief: UM

Penn State vs. Northwestern: Gomer: PSU Chief: PSU (close in a look ahead game)

Indiana vs. Iowa: Gomer: Iowa Chief: Iowa

Georgia Tech vs. Vanderbilt: Gomer: GT Chief: GT

South Carolina vs. Tennessee: Gomer: UT Chief: USC