Draper Index Week 11

Sorry for the late updating. It's been a hectic week. Not much change from last week. The only real problems (as I see it) are Bama and Florida (and to a lesser extent Utah) being ranked too high due to carryover from last year and LSU and Wisconsin being a little low. The Iron Bowl can catapult Auburn into the top 2, but a Bama win cements them (most likely) in the top 2 which will make for the 2nd year in 10 that my index doesn't predict the championship game participants (assuming Saban doesn't kill every other team above him to let him into the NC game).

Draper Index Top 25
1) TCU
2) Alabama
3) Oregon
4) Auburn
5) Boise State
6) Oklahoma State
7) Ohio State
8) LSU
9) Nebraska
10) Oklahoma
11) Wisconsin
12) Stanford
13) Virginia Tech
14) Michigan State
15) Iowa
16) Florida
17) Utah
18) Arkansas
19) Missouri
20) Nevada
21) USC
22) Miami (FL)
23) Florida State
24) South Carolina
25) Arizona

Week 11 Picks--Back to work

Kansas State Wildcats @ Missouri Tigers

Gomer: Basking in the afterglow of beating Texas, the KSU Wildcats are due for a slip-up, and there isn't a better chance than in Columbia this weekend. Missouri has taken a tumble since the upset of the #1 ranked Sooners a couple weeks ago, and now Mizzou will seize their chance to get back on track. KSU: 14--Mizzou: 35

Chief: Here's everything I know about these teams.... that's it, but it's a ranked matchup so it should be here. I had the upset of KSU over the Longhorns last week in Manhattan but in Mizzou's house, they're tough to beat (ask OU). I think Blaine Gabbert gets it done at home because all their woes came on the road. Great run for Bill Snyder with an average team, but not enough. KSU: 20--Mizzou: 31

Georgia Bulldogs @ Auburn Tigers

Gomer: The Bulldogs have had a rough season so far, but a lot of that could be rectified with a big win over "rival" Auburn. Auburn and Cam Newton have some major issues within the team and athletic department that could be major distractions. With all the issues off-field, it's hard to deny the talent of Cam Newton who will surely carry Auburn to a win. UGA: 21--Aub: 40

Chief: This should be a great game. The Tigers still hold the number one spot but the allegations are flying around Cam Newton. UGA has been slowly improving with the return of A.J. Green and should make this game much closer than the experts think. Problem is, Auburn gets them at home....again. Talk about a favorable schedule. Look out for the Tide but this will be a major wakeup call with Reggie Bush....I mean Cam Newton pulling out a tight win. UGA: 31--Aub: 34

Mississippi State Bulldogs @ Alabama Crimson Tide

Gomer: The real question is "has Alabama given up?". I think the Crimson Tide still have what it takes to make a push this month and earn a BCS bid, but it will take nearly flawless play the rest of the way. MSU is, in my opinion, very overrated and will again be outclassed by the Tide. MSU: 13--Bama: 34

Chief: Let it be known that this college football analyst also called the monster upset of MSU over UF in the Swamp earlier this year. This Tide team is not the Gators. I think they're going to come out extremely angry and fired up. Saban's bunch has dropped 2 which is unacceptable with their talent. I see a HUGE game from Ingram and a big Tide return to glory in Tuscaloosa. MSU: 10--Bama: 38

South Carolina Gamecocks @ Florida Gators

Gomer: Florida is not the better team in this year's Spurrier vs. Meyer Bowl. Urban Meyer's squad has improved as the season has progressed, and the Gamecocks have not been without a healthy amount of success so far either. Based on team rankings, this should be a pretty good game with plenty of action, but I have a feeling the Gators are clicking right now and will make life painful for the real USC. SC: 16--UF: 35

Chief: So it happens again. As with 2006, Spurrier entered the Swamp with dreams of an upset crushed by a blocked field goal as time expired (we won't mention what happened in the bowls that year). This is the Gamecocks only chance to take the SEC East. Florida stinks, UGA stinks, Tennessee...still stinks. It's there for the taking, but they need to take this head to head vs. the Gators. Seems the Cocks get up for the big games (Alabama) and struggle in the others (Kentucky). They'll get ready to rock this Saturday and will get a program changing win to take the SEC East title (essentially). SC: 38--UF: 27



Penn State Nittany Lions @ The Ohio State University Buckeyes

Gomer: The Buckeyes typically don't lose in November, and I don't expect anything but the norm to continue this Saturday in the Shoe. Yeah yeah, JoePa won 400 games, but really, how can you count anything since the crapping of his pants in 2006 vs. Ohio State? I mean, the guy doesn't even wear the headphones on the sideline, he is a figurehead who is putting himself ahead of the University at this point, and his ego above all. Woody would be ashamed. Buckeyes blast the Lions. PeeSU: 13--OSU: 45

Chief: Congrats to Joe Pa for getting number 400. Don't expect 401 this week. Honestly, PSU has gotten better from week to week this entire season. Royster has starting running like in past years and it looks like they're happy with McGloin at QB. Coming to the Shoe is a lot different from facing NW and Michigan at home. Expect a stellar performance on defense as the Bucks had 2 weeks to prepare. The only worry is the look ahead to the big test in Iowa City, but Tress should have Pryor and company focused since PSU is no longer under the radar. Hopefully, the Bullets will knock them out quickly so no one gets hurt. An 18 point spread is a bit much, but OSU should win easily (maybe some garbage points). PSU: 13--OSU: 27



Other Games to Pick

Ind @ Wis: Gomer: Wis Chief: Wis

Iowa @ NW: Gomer: Iowa Chief: Iowa

Miami @ GT: Gomer: Miami Chief: GT

Minn @ Ill: Gomer: Ill Chief: Ill

Cinn @ WVU: Gomer: WVU Chief: WVU

Mich @ Pur: Gomer: UM Chief: UM

Utah @ ND: Gomer: Utah Chief: Utah

TAMU @ Baylor: Gomer: Baylor Chief: Baylor

VT @ UNC: Gomer: UNC Chief: VT

Oreg @ Cal: Gomer: UO Chief: UO

OkSt @ Tex: Gomer: UT Chief: OkSt

USC @ Zona: Gomer: USC Chief: Zona

Draper Index Week 10

After a week of interesting results, I thought the rankings would realign...unfortunately, I'm more convinced that I need to shrink the rankings more from year to year. Alabama's incredible lead from last year is still too much such that they remain in the top 2. It's tough to blame them for 2 tough losses on the road to top opponents when they played, but they did lose which needs to cause a drop. Still a learning process but here's what I got for this week.

Draper Index 11/07/10
1) TCU (sizeable lead for now)
2) Alabama (razor thin margin--still shouldn't be here)
3) Oregon
4) Auburn
5) Boise State
6) LSU
7) Nebraska
8) Oklahoma State
9) Ohio State
10) Utah
11) Iowa
12) Florida (yeesh--started too high/also affected Bama)
13) Oklahoma
14) Michigan State
15) Wisconsin
16) Stanford
17) Virginia Tech
18) Arkansas
19) Missouri
20) Arizona
21) Nevada
22) Penn State
23) USC
24) Florida State
25) Miami (FL)

Week 10 Picks--Bye Bye

TCU Horned Frogs @ Utah Utes

Gomer: I'm not going to sit here and act like I know much about either team. The Horned Frogs dominated Utah last year, but this year the game is in Salt Lake... even ESPN Gameday will be in attendance. I have a bit of an affinity for TCU (probably all the hot chicks they show on TV), but also for a team that emphasizes defense. The loser of this game is COMPLETELY out of the BCS Championship picture, while the winner could be vaulted to the coveted top 2. TCU: 48--Utah: 26

Chief: Sad week when this is the premier game. The Horned Frogs are entering Salt Lake on a high but Utah boasts the nations longest active home winning streak. Problem for the Utes is that this TCU team is much better than the competition they've faced thus far. Utah has one good win against Pitt but it was at home, in overtime. I expect the Frogs to make a 'statement' and bury Boise State's hopes with a big win. TCU: 38--Utah: 17

Baylor Bears @ Oklahoma State Cowboys

Gomer: Never have I ever written a game preview involving the Baylor Bears. This is definitely bizarro world, as my comrade points out, but this won't be bizarre as the OSU Cowboys make things somewhat normal and have not problems with Bears. Bay: 23--OSU: 45

Chief: Baylor is one of the two ranked teams in Texas--let me say that again: Baylor is ranked and Texas, Texas Tech, Texas A&M are not. Now Baylor has finally defeated the 500 lb gorilla in room in the Longhorns under Robert Griffin, but the Pokes are chugging like always on offense. Look for a shootout with another solid Orange Power victory. Bay: 31--OkSt: 51

Alabama Crimson Tide @ Louisiana State Tigers

Gomer: LSU will once again remind everyone that Les Miles is lucky to have a job (for now) as they embarrass themselves against the Crimson Tide. Alabama will surely get back to the run game after a week off. With the talent in the Bama backfield, it's an embarrassment of riches that Nick Saban should be criticized for not using more effectively. Bama: 20--LSU: 6

Chief: Look out, it's another 'marquee' SEC matchup. LSU finally took one on the chin vs. Auburn but looked bad against UF and a horrible Volunteer team. I think this is where Bama makes a BIG national statement by pounding a perceived power in a truly difficult environment. More bad news for Boise (and TCU) as the Tide starts to Roll back to the top 3. Bama: 27--LSU: 13

Arkansas Razorbacks @ South Carolina Gamecocks

Gomer: Gotta go with the better coached team in this one. Arkansas hasn't been impressive to me, and this is the SEC, where Steve Spurrier is (kinda) king. Ryan Mallet has been a bit of a disappointment this year and Arkansas didn't do much under his leadership through the years. Ark: 13--SCAR: 20

Chief: Quick, name something Arkansas has done this year worth talking about. Beat UGA--so has everyone...Lose close to Bama--whoop de doo...Lose a shootout to Auburn--giving up 60???? This Razorback team may be the most overrated in the country because all the pro people are drooling over Mallet. South Carolina is inconsistent but very good when on (ask Alabama). I think Mallet is out but either way, Columbia is a tough environment in which to go. I like the Cocks to land another blow on the Hogs. Maybe someone will realize that they aren't that good... Ark: 14--SoCar: 24

Illinois Fighting Illini @ Michigan Wolverines

Gomer: Well, Michigan's defense is still bad, and Illinois is a pretty solid team. This game should be a blowout for the Illini but I'm starting to feel that somehow, someway, Michigan might pull it out. This is legitimately their last chance to clinch a bowl bid, especially in the Big House, but this should be a much closer game than it has been in recent years. Ill: 41--UM: 40

Chief: Another roadbump in the quest for the Maize and Blue to attempt to become bowl eligible. Rich Rod has just been given a third year of probation for the extra practice (wouldn't know it from the results) and I think it just keeps getting worse. Purdue next week is the best opportunity to win, but this is the second best chance. I still think Mike LeShore will get it done in the Big House. The defense is putrid in Ann Arbor. Rich Rod will still be searching for the bowl eligibility after Sat. Ill: 34--UM: 24

Arizona Wildcats @ Stanford Cardinal

Gomer: For the Pac-10, this should be a pretty good game. Andrew Luck is a great QB and has a chance to make a big statement against a typically stingy Arizona defense. Zona: 17--Stanford: 28

Chief: I still believe that Stanford may be the best team in the Pac 10. I know, I know, Oregon beat them, but it was in Autzen at night. I give credit to the Ducks for fighting back from a huge deficit, but Stanford choked. Arizona is the only team in the Pac 10 that plays defense so Stoops might make this interesting. I believe Nick Foles is still out so Andrew Luck won't have to score much to tip the scales. Cardinal win at home in a close one (Arizona is a good team and might give the Ducks a scare). Zona: 13--Stanford: 17

Other Games to pick

Wisc @ Pur: Gomer: Wisc Chief: Wisc

Minn @ MSU: Gomer: MSU Chief: MSU

Iowa @ Ind: Gomer: Iowa Chief: Iowa

NCSt @ Clem: Gomer: Clem Chief: Clem

Haw @ Boise: Gomer: Boise Chief: Boise

UNC @ FSU: Gomer: FSU Chief: FSU

NW @ PSU: Gomer: NW Chief: PSU

Texas @ KSU: Gomer: Texas Chief: KSU

First Release of the Draper index 2010

Here are my computer ranking for the 2010 season after the games of Week 9. Before you go crazy, please realize that this is a work in progress. Things will adjust. I also realize that I must adjust the normalizer because Alabama had such a HUGE lead last year, they maintained a large lead (even under normalization). This will be fixed...although it may not be that crazy to have Bama where they are. Here we go! Enjoy!

Draper Index Top 25 11/2/10
1) Alabama
2) TCU
3) Oregon
4) Auburn
5) Boise State
6) Oklahoma
7) Ohio State
8) Utah
9) Nebraska
10) LSU
11) Iowa
12) Oklahoma State
13) Florida
14) Michigan State
15) Wisconsin
16) Missouri
17) Stanford
18) Arizona
19) Virginia Tech
20) Florida State
21) Texas
22) Arkansas
23) South Carolina
24) Mississippi State
25) Nevada

Here's how I would have voted:
1) Auburn
2) Oregon
3) Alabama
4) Boise State
5) TCU
6) Utah
7) Wisconsin
8) Ohio State
9) Nebraska
10) Stanford
11) Oklahoma
12) Iowa
13) Arizona
14) LSU
15) Michigan State
16) Missouri
17) Virginia Tech
18) South Carolina
19) Oklahoma State
20) Mississippi State
21) Baylor
22) NC State
23) Florida State
24) Arkansas
25) Nevada

Grading the Bucks Week 9--Minnesota

Another snoozer...but anything less would have been a problem.

Offense: B+
52 points and scoring so many ways...always good, but that interception at the goalline was inexcusable, even against Minn. I LOVE the new Offensive line and the spectacular running of Boom Herron that we've been seeing. I know it's against 2 terrible defenses, but Herron looks better than he ever has. When I say "new" offensive line, I refer to the new mentality of attacking that wasn't there early in the year (or vs. Wisconsin). The energy and push is more than just poor defenses. The O-line looks like they've finally got it going and look forward to punch people in the mouth. Pryor was pretty good passing and running, but the interception at the goalline was horrid. Boren broke open immediately and Pryor had him (I was screaming for him to throw right away) but he waited....and waited....and waited...then threw to the breaking safety. I can't reward that decision with an A.

Defense: A-
The first drive was a disaster. Wide open throwing lanes down the middle was a huge problem. Good news for the Buckeyes is they shored up after that drive and shut down the hapless Gophers. Brian Rolle was killing people left and right and completely trucked Weber. Going forward will be scary for the Buckeyes as the secondary is completely mauled by injury. This isn't too big a deal against Minn or PSU but we need these guys back for Iowa. Without the first drive, this was a solid A. Let's not forget the Jon Simon scoop and score.

Special Teams: B
Another solid outing ruined by one major blemish. A beautiful blocked punt for a score (great effort by Domicone on the recovery), spectacular punt return by Hall (ruined by Pryor's mental mistake), a missed FG by Minn (not blocked but still a victory), and ok kick return and kick coverage (not great--still need to shore that up). Can't comment on the punting because I honestly don't remember if we punted. The black mark this week came via Devin Barclay and a gag from 23 yards out. Tressel made the safe (and correct) call to kick a chip shot FG with a 21 point lead and Barclay whiffed. This is unacceptable at any school let alone tOSU. I can't punish the very nice performances in the punt block/return team for Barclay's gaffe...too much.

Coaching: A- -->B+
Not a whole lot of coaching needed in this one, but it was a well called game. Only one play was really questionable--why do you let Pryor throw at the goalline when Herron was gashing them on the ground? In fact, because it was Minn and this was the only real call, I'm downgrading them to a B+. I was right, then wrong about the running game. I said early on that the coaches needed to 'practice' the run game in a live situation early on because it would be a problem in the future. The coaches didn't listen. When Big Ten play started, I thought it was too late to 'learn' to run and we paid for it against Wisconsin. So far, I pat myself on the back, but then the coaches started 'practicing' the run and the O-line stepped it up. I was wrong that it was too late to learn because Boom is a serious threat as of now. Perhaps we can control the clock more when needed in Kinnick.

Week 9 - Minnesota Sleeper Awaits

Oregon Ducks vs. Southern California Trojans

Gomer: If you've watched any part of a USC game this season, chances are you've seen Lane Kiffin try some stupid stuff, today's a day when I'm perfectly okay cheering for the classless Trojans to upset the classless Ducks. Chip Kelly is a great coach, and Lane Kiffin isn't, so this could come back to bite me in the butt, but I'll buy into the ESPN hype of #1 teams being upset every week. UO: 38--USC: 39

Chief: I hate USC with every inch of my body, but I really want to call this one. Problem is, USC's defense is ungodly awful. They have been chugging on offense lately with pretty boy Matt Barkley, but Monte Kiffin hasn't gotten them to stop anyone. The Oregon offense has steamrolled everyone in their path, and USC won't put up much resistance. Only issue is, can the Trojans outscore the Ducks? I hope so, but I just can't do it. The Coliseum is just worthless. UO: 51--USC: 45

Michigan State Spartans vs. Iowa Hawkeyes
Gomer: MSU has shown they are a complete team. From head coach to the punter, they've got everything you need to win a championship. With the clutch, come-from-behind victory over the Wildcats, MSU definitely has the momentum to jump over their last hurdle en route to an outright Big Ten Championship. Go Green! MSU: 24--Iowa: 17

Chief: Ok, Iowa. This is your last chance. The was THE year for you to get over the hump. Veteran everything and every tough conference game (Wisconsin, MSU, and OSU) was at home. And...you failed. Make it up this week. MSU has been making a living on the edge (OSU 2002 anyone?) but no one really believes in them...including me. The Spartans have gone longer without the textbook collapse than usual, but here it comes. Ricky Stanzi won't screw up as horribly as last week and will lead the Hawkeyes to victory over Sparty. Overrated coach Kirk Ferentz defeats underrated coach Mark Dantonio because Adrian Clayborn will kill Cousins (not due to coaching). MSU: 13--Iowa: 23


Missouri Tigers vs. Nebraska Cornhuskers
Gomer: Nebraska is a much better team and with Taylor Martinez at the helm, the Tigers will struggle to stop the Huskers' attack. When Mizzou: 17--Neb: 28
Chief: Congrats to the Tigers and a nice little win over the Sooners. It's just like Boise--beat a good team on a single game and desire to be lumped in with the top. Here is where the comparisons stop because they now have to play a second good team (and this one on the road). The Huskers need to get rolling after being bumped by Texas. This will put them back in the talk when they leave the Tigers in Bo Pelini land. Mizzou: 17--Neb: 31


Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Minnesota Gophers
Gomer: OSU: 37--Minn: 10

Chief: That was more like it. Bullets returned to form. Now it's time to take their talents to Minneapolis. Let's make this clear: Minnesota is AWFUL. There is no excuse for a blowout win here. I expect the Gophers to come out firing, but it just won't matter. The Buckeye running game is getting better each week and Sanzenbacher is becoming the number one receiver (needs to happen!!). The Bucks need to come up with a good road game and Minnesota is the perfect team for this to happen. Convincing win is a must. No chance at a sleeper upset. OSU: 41--UM: 10

Other Games:


Georgia vs. Florida Gomer: UF Chief: UGA

Auburn vs. Mississippi Gomer: Aub Chief: Aub

Oklahoma vs. Colorado Gomer: OU Chief: OU

Arizona vs. UCLA Gomer: UCLA Chief: Zona

Stanford vs. Washington Gomer: Wash Chief: Stan

Florida State vs. NC State Gomer:NCSt Chief: FSU

Michigan @ Penn State Gomer: UM Chief: PSU (toughest game to pick but I want UM to lose)

Purdue vs. Illinois Gomer: Pur Chief: Ill

Grading the Bucks Week 8--Purdue

Great to get back on the smiling side of the scoreboard...in a BIG way

Offense: B
Talk about ramping it up against a terrible defense. The running game under Boom Herron is really starting to develop (I can't believe I'm saying this), but the passing game, and Pryor's complete game is starting to fade which is troubling. Sanzenbacher is proving every week that he is THE receiver, but Pryor still locks onto Posey every play. The scramble seems to have been removed from the playbook as well which could really hurt this team down the stretch, expecially at Iowa. The O-Line is doing better at run-blocking and has stepped up somewhat, but they need to do it consistently. I can't give an A until Pryor gets back on track. I know he threw 2 TDs but those were thanks to a putrid defense.

Defense: A
Talk about a return of the Silver Bullets. A big time shutout (granted it was Purdue) after a total embarassment is HUGE for this defense. I want to give an A+ due to the fact the Purdue hardly scratched onto the Ohio State side of the 50, but the lack of a consistent pass rush is a major concern. As I said last week, Heyward has taken a monster step backward and until we can consistently pressure the quarterback, our banged up secondary will face too much. Injuries are decimating the secondary and a good quearterback will start to pick them apart with this much time. I loved the intensity from the linebackers and safeties but the line needs to get it going. Also, Chekwa has been getting picked on a lot. He needs to plug these gaps in his coverage. Keep an eye on Andrew Sweat who made a big splash starting for the injured Ross Homan.

Special Teams: B-
Well, no kicks returned against us so automatic improvement. Purdue has been horrible returning kicks this year but had minor success against OSU (minor success in that they averaged more yards per return than normal). The kick return unit for the Scarlet and Gray was decent but not spectacular. No missed kicks is always a good thing and the punting was fine this week. If you start at a C, there was little to enact a move up or down.

Coaching: B+
Again, more or less status quo. I give a little boost for the coaches getting these kids ready to play after an embarassing loss in Madison. The team came out with a purpose and delivered. It was clear that Purdue couldn't stop the run so long as we avoided Ryan Kerrigan. Once that was achieved, it was game over. The coaches basically decided to use the KISS method with Pryor (Keep It Simple, Stupid) which seems to be the best strategy. If they keep the intensity rolling, this could be a scary team come January.

Week 8 Picks--D'oh

Oklahoma Sooners @ Missouri Tigers

Gomer: The question is which Oklahoma team will show up in Missouri. Will it be the surprisingly stagnant team that struggled with the Cincinnati Bearcats, or the juggernaut that annihilated my counterpart's Alma Mater? As nice as it would be to see Mizzou introduce a little more chaos to the fun that is college football, the Sooners are a superior team and shouldn't have a problem dispatching the Tigers. OU: 45--Mizzou: 13

Chief: The Missouri Tigers have quietly put together a very nice little season, but let's be honest, name a team they've beaten (same as played).....What? You don't know? That's right. The Tigers have played a BoiseStateesque schedule thus far and gotten fat off it. Oklahoma had a few close scares vs. Utah State and Cincinnati, but they blew FSU out of the water (and the Noles are pretty good) and defeated a better than believed Texas team. I like the Sooners to roll and take full control of the BCS. OU: 38--Mizzou: 20

Louisiana State Tigers @ Auburn Tigers

Gomer: No question that LSU goes down here, it will be great to see the Tigers (LSU) get exposed, FINALLY! Cam Newton is going to make Les Miles with that he had taken the job in Ann Arbor, where they really care about winning. Ohhhh waiiittt. This is Newton's time to claim the Heisman. LSU: 15--AUB: 34

Chief: Uh oh, Les...a real team. Miles and the Bayou Bengals have stayed undefeated by being more lucky than good against mediocre competition such as Tennessee and UF (called it last week--GO Miss St). Auburn is a different animal. The explosive offense under the watchful eye of Gene Chizik and suprisingly steady hand of Cam Newton will carry the Tigers (of the Auburn variety) to another big win. The Iron bowl looms... Tigers all the way, no doubt. LSU: 13--Aub: 27

Wisconsin Badgers @ Iowa Hawkeyes

Gomer: Well yeahhhhhh the Badgers sure looked good last week didn't they? Well in typical Wisconsin fashion, they will almost certainly lose after experiencing what had to be an awesome high. The Hawks are good when they want to be, but especially when they play at home. UW: 24--Iowa: 35

Chief: Stupid blind squirrel nut theory... The Badgers took a huge one from the number one team last week by feeding off pure emotion. The Buckeyes could have fought back, but instead, cowered in the face of adversity and let themself be pushed around. In Iowa City, the crowd will not be there to power Wisconsin. Expect a hard hitting, low scoring game with Ricky Stanzi scoring a game winning TD late. American flags will drop from the sky and Hulk Hogan will enter the stadium to proclaim Stanzi a "Real American" ans sent the Badgers home crying. UW: 10--Iowa: 17

Nebraska Cornhuskers @ Oklahoma State Cowboys

Gomer: Taylor Martinez may have taken a seat last week, and the entire Cornhusker team fell asleep and allowed a shocking loss to the Longhorns, but Bo Pellini won't allow that to happen twice in a row. The Cowboys have quietly risen to #17 in the nation, but their ranking won't save them to the over-powering attack of the 'Huskers. Neb: 31--OSU: 26

Chief: The Huskers failed their first test on the big stage by falling to their nemeses the Texas Longhorns. They couldn't stop a mediocre (at best) offense in their own house, how will they stop a Gundified offense in the confines of Stillwater. The Pokes and Huskers are similar teams in terms of talent, so I give the edge to the home team with momentum. The Orange Power will rise up and defeat Big Red in what will give the Huskers a fond farewell from the Big 12. Neb: 24--OkSt: 30

Purdue Boilermakers @ The Ohio State University Buckeyes

Gomer: Noon games after a night game have troubled the Buckeyes since the beginning of the decade, regardless of the outcome of the night game held previously. The Buckeyes will probably come out slow and piss off the Ohio Stadium faithful in the early going, it's almost a certainty. Purdue deserves a butt-kicking after last years upset of OSU, but I just don't see it happening, as great as it would be. The Buckeyes will win, but not by as much as everyone expects. PU: 19--OSU: 30

Chief: Revenge is a dish best served cold. The Buckeyes will most likely be serving up large piles of revenge and butt-whoopings on Sat (and they're fresh out of revenge) after teh embarrassment in Madison. The Bullets are horribly banged up, but Purdue just plain stinks. Pryor and the offense will come out firing on all cylinders. The Boilers may sneak a score or 2 on the banged up defense, but the score shouldn't remotely be close. Payback for the embarassment last year on top of the anger from last week spell disaster for Purdue. Pur: 6--OSU: 45

Other Games to Pick

IU @ Ill: Gomer: Ill Chief: Ill

MSU @ NW: Gomer: MSU Chief: MSU

AF @ TCU: Gomer: TCU Chief: AF

ND vs. Navy Gomer: ND Chief: ND

PSU @ Minn: Gomer: PSU Chief: PSU

KSU @ Baylor: Gomer: KSU Chief: Baylor

UNC @ Miami: Gomer: Miami Chief: Miami

Grading the Bucks Week 7--Wisconsin

Well, that certainly sucked. I have never seen an OSU defensive line get dominated like this past Saturday.

Offense: D
The offense was pedestrian the entire game. Terrelle had enough time to do the entire team's taxes in the pocket and still couldn't find an open receiver. The passes were off target, the play calling was horrid, and the execution was awful. The only positive in the game was Boom Herron's running which took a giant leap forward. I would have never imagined we would get back into the game through our runningbacks, but they proved me wrong. When the game was on the line, the unit didn't deliver. Sloppy and disinterested were the words of the day.

Defense: D-/F
Pathetic performance by the Bullets...if you can call them that. The defensive line showed no heart and was pushed all over the field. The first quarter, they couldn't hold Wisconsin (a pedestrian offense at best) to a single play which resulted in less than a 5 yard game. Chekwa was picked on all game and never rose to the challenge. I know Wisconsin has fat O-Linemen, but the Buckeyes let themselves be pushed away and run over. We knew Wisconsin was going to run with Clay and we couldn't stop it. It was strength on strength and we were dominated. The lack of intensity on the defensive side was also painful apparent. A leader must emerge and I don't see one. Cam Heyward has been a major disappointment and has most likely lost millions by not going pro last year. I'm hoping his lack of production is due to constant double-teaming...but I'm not convinced that's it. When the offense woke up and brought the team back into striking distance, the defense couldn't prevent the knockout blow on the final Badger drive...that's where championships are won.

Special Teams: F
Sorry boys...you suck. Many pundits continue to point to the final score and say "They didn't lose because of the kick return to start the game since they lost by 13." I'm here to say, that's BS. Momentum is HUGE in college sports, especially on the road. OSU came in looking to put the hammer down and prove their superiority. Wisconsin needed to prove to themselves that they had a shot...and the kick return gave them the hope and belief. You could see the energy rise and the drunken multitudes in the stands erupted into a frenzy when the Badgers showed they were here to win not to lose close as well as the deflation and skepticism introduced onto the Buckeye sideline. Let's not also forget the missed field goal in the first half. Had that been converted, the comeback ties the game and puts a whole new spin.

Coaching: C-
The Badgers clearly decided to roll the dice and go reverse of most defenses vs. OSU and stop the pass. They consistently dropped into coverage befuddling Pryor into indecision. I will admit that the coach's decision to move to the ground game in the second half surprised me and was a sound decision (even though I doubted at the time). My main problems were the lack of inspiration and hope the coaches were showing. Every time Wisconsin responded or scored, they looked deflated and defeated...and that was passed on to the team. Perhaps the most glaring coaching deficiency was on the Buckeye's FG drive in the 1st half. 1st and goal inside the 5 led to 3 straight runs (Pryor, Herron, Pryor) to no effect. This is unacceptable from a coach. Wisconsin was handed more momentum and a 4 point greater lead (FG instead of a TD) because Tressel went beyond uber-conservative. Listen, conservative is fine but that drive needed a touchdown. The playcalling wasn't as conservative as it was unimaginative. QB Blast, HB Blast, QB Blast....this isn't UF and Pryor isn't Tebow. The Badger coaches looked as surprised and elated as the Buckeye fans looked befuddled. A roll-out run pass option with one of the best dual threats in the game; a PA fade; a counter run by the halfback...SOMETHING DIFFERENT!! Victory goes to the bold, not the scared.

Week 7 Picks--That was interesting

Iowa Hawkeyes @ Michigan Wolverines

Gomer: The book on stopping Denard Robinson is out... make him pass. Hopefully this doesn't turn into Juice Williams where everyone talks about how bad a passer he is all year long and then he throw's 4 TD's against the Buckeyes. Iowa is fresh off of a bye week and should have no problem dominating the Wolverines this week. Iowa: 28--UM: 7

Chief: This one is a layup. The Wolverines ARE WHO WE THOUGHT THEY WERE! The defense is atrocious and the offense is completely dependent on Denard Robinson. Robinson is no leader and will soon lose his team as he trumpets his own praise more than anyone. I know Pryor is central to the Bucks, but there is still talent around him...not in Ann Arbor. Captain America (Ricky Stanzi) will bring a win back to the heartland. "If you don't love it, leave it. USA number 1!!" Iowa: 38--UM: 17

Texas Longhorns @ Nebraska Cornhuskers

Gomer: Nebraska's Taylor Martinez is going to make the Heisman race very interesting after another strong performance against the Longhorns. Texas hasn't impressed me whenever I've had the chance to watch. The real question is whether Mack Brown sees the writing on the wall, or wants to wait around for the Longhorns to reload.

Chief: Here's the coveted rematch of last year's nailbiter of a Big 12 Championship. Unfortunately, for the Longhorns, Colt is about to be killed in Pittsburgh. The Huskers defense lost a step with the loss of Suh, but the emergence of Martinez and the resurgence of the option attack in Lincoln keep the excitement high. Texas is a shell of what they've been in the last ten or so years. It will take time to get back. UT is falling away and Neb is on the rise...just in time to join the Big Ten. UT: 13--Neb: 27

Arkansas Razorbacks @ Auburn Tigers

Gomer: Look for Ryan Mallett to (re) jump start his Heisman campaign with this game. This has the potential to be a MUCH better game than Ohio State - Wisconsin, but I know I've had enough SEC shoved down my throat by ESPN and CBS in recent weeks. Newton and the Auburn offense will have the home crowd behind them as the Razorbacks manage to pull the upset. Ark: 33--AU: 30

Chief: Second best game of the week. Auburn has been the 'an ugly win is still a win team' which is well and good...so long as you never lose. Arkansas has ridden Mallet to a near upset of Bama and a win over UGA (yawn). I do like Cam Newton in Auburn but they certainly leave a lot to be desired...on the road. With the game in Jordan-Hare, I give the edge to the Tigers. Remember, they beat the Gamecocks at home who then went on the upset Bama. Ark: 24--Aub: 27

Illini Fighting Illini @ Michigan State Spartans

Gomer: The Spartans are ripe for an upset coming off a HUGE, third straight, win, over their arch-nemesis, the University of Michigan. The Illini are coming off a big win at Penn State and have looked strong, even in the loss to the Bucks a couple weeks ago. MSU is a superior team, and has superior coaching, Ron Zook... is Ron Zook. There is no reason for Sparty to lose this one, and they won't. UI: 14--MSU: 34

Chief: This is on here as a warning. I was sooooo close to calling the Illinois upset of PSU last week and wish I had pulled the trigger. MSU pulled a huge emotional win on the road over rival UM last week in a game in which Sparty usually chokes. The Spartans are usually good for half a year then reality sets in. I believe Dantonio has this team far more focused than in the past. Illinois could have snuck this one if they hadn't woken up the green and white by smashing PSU in Happy Valley. MSU keeps it rolling at home, but it will be close. Ill: 17--MSU: 26

The Ohio State University Buckeyes @ Wisconsin Badgers

Gomer: Here comes 7-0. People who are picking the upset just don't get it. Ohio State is the class of the Big Ten, everybody. It isn't even close. The Badgers used to be a thorn in the side of Jim Tressel, but ever since Barry Alvarez left the Badgers, it hasn't been much of an issue. To make this almost certain victory a reality, the Buckeyes must establish the run, and hopefully they will. OSU: 28--UW: 13

Chief: The game of the week is in Madison. Wisconsin had a nice performance against the hapless Gophers but the defense was spotty. The Bucks put together what I considered to be their most complete performance of the year against the Hoosiers. I know it was IU but they're better than most people think (6-6 or 7-5). OSU showed a little problem on the road as the playcalling was super conservative, but I haven't seen anything from the Badger defense that concerns me. Bullets stuff John Clay for 85 yrds and the Bucks exit Madison for Pryor's second win in Camp Randall. OSU: 31--Wisc: 20

Other Games to Pick

OrSt @ Wash--Gomer: Wash Chief: Wash

BC @ FSU--Gomer: FSU Chief: FSU

ArkSt @ Ind--Gomer: Ind Chief: Ind

Minn @ Pur--Gomer: Pur Chief: Pur

EMU @ Ball--Gomer: Ball Chief: Ball

MissSt @ UF--Gomer: UF Chief: MissSt

OkSt @ TT--Gomer: OkSt Chief: OkSt

Grading the Buckeyes Week 6--Indiana

Another game vs. the Hoosiers, another Buckeye win. This might have been the most complete, dominant game by this Buckeye team yet. Very few mistakes and quality football--but it was IU...

Offense: A-
Pryor looked great in the pocket and found the open receiver 9 times out of 10...and they were WIDE OPEN. The run game actually got moving a bit with Boom on the draw as well which is good to see. My favorite part of the gameplan was the move of Brandon Saine to (essentially) a slot receiver. I truly believe that Saine has the better football attributes but he's just not getting it done from running back. He's a steller receiver and showed it this week. I dropped them from an A because of the gameplan. It was blatently clear that Pryor was told running was unacceptable. I understand they wanted to protect him, but he must run next week. Pryor looked great, but some 3rd downs were handed to Pryor on a scramble and he shunned them (definitely called from the coaches). We still converted because IU is awful but take what the defense gives you. Carlos Hyde's fumble at the goalline also hurts, but it was mopup time.

Defense: A-
IU moved the ball very well against the horrid UM defense and they appeared to be pretty solid offensively. This looked like a test for the Bullets after a little shakiness recently, and they took the challenge and blew it up. The defense held the Hoosiers on their side of the field for most of the game, forced turnovers, and totally shut a pretty decent offense down. The secondary played well with a few picks and the pressure worked out well. The garbage TD was a little ugly, but it was backups...but they are still part of the defense.

Special Teams: A-
Nothing heard which makes it a good day. Some will complain about the FG block but I put that on the coaches. No reason to try a 53 yd FG with a kicker who has already shown he can't get the ball up high enough for the bombs. Tough task to ask a freshman kicker to kick a 50+ yarder for his 1st and 2nd attempts. Coverage team looked great, return game was pretty good, and the punting game was very good.

Coaching: B+
I went a little lower because of the FG call...still think that was stupid. Loved the playcalling. Perhaps Tressel read my recommendation of 70-30 passing/running breakdown and he took it to heart. The run blocking is still weak but the draw play worked well (since they can just tell the line it's a pass--o-lineman aren't too bright). Pass blocking, QB vision, WR routes, and RB blocking was excellent (I know it was IU) so utilize it. I wish they let Pryor run a little. IU gave it to him and he didn't take it. I respect keeping him healthy, but he needs to run next week.