Oklahoma @ Florida State
Auer: Lacking a signature win like this would be, the FSU Seminoles will be highly motivated to pull out a W against Bob Stoops' boys. The problem lies in experience. Last year in Norman, FSU was embarrassed and it was clear who the most talented team on the field was that night. As exciting as the atmosphere will be in Tallahassee on Saturday night, the Noles just don't have the horses to hang with the extremely talented and experienced Sooners. OU: 38--FSU: 30
Draper: Head or heart? Gotta be a homer. Perhaps Doak Campbell Stadium can get the Noles' swagger back. The stadium isn't the most intimidating in the country, but the crowd will be rabid for the night game against a number 1 team. OU had 2 weeks to prepare, but anyone following college football knows that the Sooners are COMPLETELY different away from Norman. The Noles will be playing with a chip on their shoulder and flying around the field. Big Game Choke Artist Bob will make a key coaching error to bring the win back to Tallahassee. Jimbo gets the first big win to win back the fans and bring the swagger of the 90s back. GO NOLES! OU: 24--FSU: 27
Michigan State @ Notre Dame
Auer: If the Fighting Irish lose another close one, it'll be hard to dispute the existence of a curse on Brian Kelly. Last year's game was an absolute classic with one of the greatest finishes I've ever witnessed. As was seen last week, Notre Dame's defense is absolute trash and won't be able to stop MSU, yet again. Mark Dantonio should continue to prove he's the most underrated coach in the Big Ten. MSU: 23--ND: 9
Draper: Alright Notre Dame. I picked the upset by USF in week one but thought you could beat a hapless Michigan team and you crushed me by forgetting your defense in South Bend. This is your last chance. I think Rees will play a great offensive game just like the last 2 weeks but avoid the turnovers for once. MSU is sneaking around the B1G chicken coop with no talk, but I think they'll come into Notre Dame expecting a win. The Irish will play as if a cornered badger and will finally get their first win...even though they'll still give up a ton. The Spartans lost too many starters on defense to stop Rees. This is going out on a limb, but this is your last chance Brian Kelly. MSU: 31--ND: 34
Ohio State @ Miami
Auer: If you watched last week's game against the Rockets, there are many reasons to worry about the Buckeyes. If you watched Miami play the Maryland Terrapins on Labor Day, you're worrying should probably subside. The Buckeyes and Hurricanes are both doing a bit of soul searching and it's hard to be convinced that the Bucks could lose this one. I'm expecting a further reliance on the running game and Joe Bauserman to take advantage of the suspect Miami secondary. OSU: 35--UM: 20
Draper: In the game for the ESPiN ages, the Buckeyes invade South Beach. Except the over-under of references to some sort of improprieties to be set at 1038234028 (I'd take the over). Jacory Harris makes his inspired return to the Canes much to the exultation of the Buckeyes. More importantly for the Buckeyes, Jordan Hall, Corey Brown, and Travis Howard are back in the line up. Hall will improve the running game immensely but the biggest impact will come in the secondary. UM was pretty pathetic against Maryland as was OSU against Toledo. That being said, I think the Buckeyes are in prime position to take this game comfortably. Miami will attempt to run a pro offense which the Bullets are known for shutting down. They'll key off of Toledo's screens late, but it will be too late. I expect a huge improvement from a look ahead last week (and the first made Drew Basil FG!). GO BUCKS! OSU: 38--UM: 20
Upset Special:
Auer: Illinois over Arizona State, Toledo over Boise State
Draper: Tennessee over Florida, Washington over Nebraska--I wanted Toledo over Boise but don't think they have enough left in the tank
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Grading the Buckeyes--Toledo Yikes!
The Bucks of 2011 get their first real scare of the season against the Rockets and much of the worry can be attributed to the lines. There were a lot of injuries, but the Buckeyes let themselves get pushed around way too much. Toledo is much better than people think (Herbie even went as far to suggest that they may be better than the Hurricanes), but OSU shouldn't have to sweat that game out at home. That being said, I will say today that Toledo will finish with more wins than Wisconsin's first 2 opponents (UNLV and Oregon State) combined.
Offense: C+
Joe Bauserman took a lot of heat for the offensive struggles but I'm not convinced it was all deserved. The O-Line was getting routinely beaten up front by the smaller Rocket line which was the real scare. I would have liked Bauserman to look downfield a little more but he checked down to the running back routinely which led to many questions to the receivers separation (I couldn't see if the receivers got open or not on television). If Joe can hang in the pocket and give his receivers a bit more time, I think they'd be a bit more explosion. The running game also struggled with a low average yard per carry. Getting Jordan Hall back from suspension in Week 3 will certainly help but it also falls on the O-Line. The O-Line needs to get stronger and nastier and the backs need to hit the hole rather than the backs of the blockers. Carlos Hyde has been serviceable but the extremely costly turnovers of Rod Smith will definitely limit his playing time. No Braxton Miller is a topic for the coaching section.
Defense: B-
The Bullets were flying around like crazy in Week 1, knocking heads off while shutting out the hapless Zips. Week 2 brought a new beast and the Buckeyes looked a little stunned. The underneath routes were destroying the OSU defense and Eric Page couldn't be covered. The biggest disappointment were the D-Line (until John Simon went crazy at the end) and the failure to adjust to the underneath crossing patterns (Toledo couldn't throw downfield if their lives depended on it. I raised the grade to a low B due to the stop at the end but we saw the depth of the D-Line is not a deep as before. When Simon went out with cramps and Williams sidelined for bruises, no pressure was generated. Thankfully, John Simon showed why he's an All-American candidate by single handedly disrupting the Toledo upset bid. Getting Howard back at CB will help with depth issues in the secondary next week. The long run by Page was a combination of a great athlete and a bad angle by the safety. Those issues need to be fixed right away.
Special Teams: C
This unit would certainly deserve it's standard D or F rating if not for the punt return by our 3rd string punt returner Fields. The return by Fields was huge and well blocked which totally shifted the momentum going into halftime. The punt block was inexcusable with an unblocked defender coming off the edge. That is how upset bids are made and the Buckeyes allowed it. The kick coverage and return teams were so-so but the blocked punt laid the ground work for the potential upset. The other problem on special teams was the lack of a field goal made this year. Drew Basil is not a bad kicker, but he has been put in bad situations many times. His attempts have all been outside 40 and the kick Sat was 50+. When he can get some confidence on a shorter kick, he'll be fine. We always expect Nuge and Janikowski but that's not realistic. He'll get it together but definitely not there yet.
Coaching: C-
Fickell is getting a full dose of what it means to be the guy at OSU. A win is not enough. Let's give him credit because Tressel routinely had this close game in the opening weeks with a full complement of athletes (no suspensions), but OSU expects blowouts every week no matter the opponent (fair or not). The playcalling was pedestrian and the jet sweep was continually run even with little to no success. Bauserman wasn't looking down field and the adjustment was made on the sidelines. Defensively, the adjustments to the short hit passes weren't apparent and Page wasn't doubled on the crucial plays. The biggest question surrounded freshman Braxton Miller. Everyone expected the peppering of Miller throughout but he never entered the game. I'll be honest, I like Bauserman. I think he's paid his dues and is more mentally prepared and unflappable than Miller. I would start Joe B. without a doubt and give him 80% of the snaps. That being said, the coaches showed in Week 1 that Miller will see time but refused to pepper him in for a change of pace. I would have given a play here or there just to keep Toledo guessing (more specifically, I might have let him run the 2-pt conversion to totally mess with them). Use him or don't. He's not the starter or even your QB, but he is a weapon.
Toledo projected win total: 10 (MAC champions)
Offense: C+
Joe Bauserman took a lot of heat for the offensive struggles but I'm not convinced it was all deserved. The O-Line was getting routinely beaten up front by the smaller Rocket line which was the real scare. I would have liked Bauserman to look downfield a little more but he checked down to the running back routinely which led to many questions to the receivers separation (I couldn't see if the receivers got open or not on television). If Joe can hang in the pocket and give his receivers a bit more time, I think they'd be a bit more explosion. The running game also struggled with a low average yard per carry. Getting Jordan Hall back from suspension in Week 3 will certainly help but it also falls on the O-Line. The O-Line needs to get stronger and nastier and the backs need to hit the hole rather than the backs of the blockers. Carlos Hyde has been serviceable but the extremely costly turnovers of Rod Smith will definitely limit his playing time. No Braxton Miller is a topic for the coaching section.
Defense: B-
The Bullets were flying around like crazy in Week 1, knocking heads off while shutting out the hapless Zips. Week 2 brought a new beast and the Buckeyes looked a little stunned. The underneath routes were destroying the OSU defense and Eric Page couldn't be covered. The biggest disappointment were the D-Line (until John Simon went crazy at the end) and the failure to adjust to the underneath crossing patterns (Toledo couldn't throw downfield if their lives depended on it. I raised the grade to a low B due to the stop at the end but we saw the depth of the D-Line is not a deep as before. When Simon went out with cramps and Williams sidelined for bruises, no pressure was generated. Thankfully, John Simon showed why he's an All-American candidate by single handedly disrupting the Toledo upset bid. Getting Howard back at CB will help with depth issues in the secondary next week. The long run by Page was a combination of a great athlete and a bad angle by the safety. Those issues need to be fixed right away.
Special Teams: C
This unit would certainly deserve it's standard D or F rating if not for the punt return by our 3rd string punt returner Fields. The return by Fields was huge and well blocked which totally shifted the momentum going into halftime. The punt block was inexcusable with an unblocked defender coming off the edge. That is how upset bids are made and the Buckeyes allowed it. The kick coverage and return teams were so-so but the blocked punt laid the ground work for the potential upset. The other problem on special teams was the lack of a field goal made this year. Drew Basil is not a bad kicker, but he has been put in bad situations many times. His attempts have all been outside 40 and the kick Sat was 50+. When he can get some confidence on a shorter kick, he'll be fine. We always expect Nuge and Janikowski but that's not realistic. He'll get it together but definitely not there yet.
Coaching: C-
Fickell is getting a full dose of what it means to be the guy at OSU. A win is not enough. Let's give him credit because Tressel routinely had this close game in the opening weeks with a full complement of athletes (no suspensions), but OSU expects blowouts every week no matter the opponent (fair or not). The playcalling was pedestrian and the jet sweep was continually run even with little to no success. Bauserman wasn't looking down field and the adjustment was made on the sidelines. Defensively, the adjustments to the short hit passes weren't apparent and Page wasn't doubled on the crucial plays. The biggest question surrounded freshman Braxton Miller. Everyone expected the peppering of Miller throughout but he never entered the game. I'll be honest, I like Bauserman. I think he's paid his dues and is more mentally prepared and unflappable than Miller. I would start Joe B. without a doubt and give him 80% of the snaps. That being said, the coaches showed in Week 1 that Miller will see time but refused to pepper him in for a change of pace. I would have given a play here or there just to keep Toledo guessing (more specifically, I might have let him run the 2-pt conversion to totally mess with them). Use him or don't. He's not the starter or even your QB, but he is a weapon.
Toledo projected win total: 10 (MAC champions)
Monday, September 12, 2011
5 things we learned (Week 2)
1) No one is good
This is the easy one with which to start because people are all over the place while trying to crown a champion in September. Compared to last year (and the year before, and the year before, and the year before..... you get the picture), there is not a single team that has exploded on my radar as the proverbially 'team to beat'. LSU has had the best performance of the year but Oregon couldn't get out of it's own way. Oklahoma and Alabama have been crowned but OU has beaten powerhouse Tulsa (at home) and Bama beat hapless Kent State and an overrated PSU without the semblance of a competant offense. We'll find out about OU this week and Bama soon enough (their offense is soooooo bad). I've seen more parity this year in the sport than in any other because there is NO clear favorite. All teams have myriad flaws so let's sit back and enjoy the ride before we crown a champion.
2) Defense is a lost art
What is happening in football? The advent of the spread and the run-and-shoot offenses have seemed to relegate a fairly important part of the game to the back burner. I'm speaking of defense. I can count on my fingers the number of teams thus far that have played defense this year (Bama, PSU, OSU--1 game, Wisconsin--no real opponent, ...um I'm sure there are more but...). I felt sick after watching the ND-Michigan game, not only because the Wolverines won, but also because it was one of the most horribly played games defensively EVER (Note: horribly played doesn't mean not exciting). The pendulum has swung to offensive football and my offensively focused mind likes that but not when no one is trying to stop you. It's time for a team to rise from the ashes by shutting down the explosion rather than the glitz and flash.
3) Notre Dame is closer to being back than Michigan (but unknown if they will achieve it)
While the game under the lights in the Big House had the makings of an all-time classic for the first night game in Ann Arbor, it was clear the better team didn't win. So many have crowned Denard Robinson the Heisman winner (again) when anyone with a brain can see that this team will struggle mightily. Robinson was credited with 3 picks but most of his deep balls (including the TDs) are easy pickings for a defense with a pulse. I was stunned the Irish didn't come away with AT LEAST 5 interceptions with the glorious arm punts that were lofted. With that being said, it was clear to me that:
a) Notre Dame's offense is actually really good if they can avoid the turnovers
b) Michigan is so-so offensively with Denard still being handcuffed in the pro-style offense
c) These teams have never seen a defensive playbook in their lives
The game was thrilling and literally down to the last 2 seconds, but let's stop someone. Notre Dame's problems are easier to correct in the near future on offense, but Michigan still needs athletes to run the system--the spread the field athletes are not ready for this pro offense. On defense, blow both teams up and start over (sans maybe Mante Teo on ND).
4) The new uniform craze HAS to go
Of all the sports in the country, tradition is deepest in college football. This is, in my opinion, the simplest argument of all. The rivalries, the passion, the hatred, the pride, the fight songs, the band; tradition is rampant in the sport. Another aspect that is inherent to the deep-rooted tradition is the uniforms. The numbers on the Bama helmet, the Princeton....I mean Michigan wings on the helmet, the white of PSU, the Silver Bullets of OSU all epitomize the history and tradition of the sport. Then along comes Nike and tries to reinvent the wheel. First, Oregon is used as a fashion model changing week to week with each uniform trying to be more outrageous than the last then Nike gets greedy and tries to reinvent the tradition of everyone with their 'pro-combat' unis. They've gotten out of hand. OSU saying they're wearing 'throwbacks' when in reality it is a simple ploy for the almighty dollar. Teams don't even wear school colors in the pro combat uniform any more (FSU wearing black for example). Then, to push the envelope of competition further, Under Armour creates even more outrageous (and ugly) uniforms for Maryland to rival Nike. The warmup uniforms were different and just as bad. It's time to get back to football and tradition rather than all the fashion talk. I don't care what you wear, just line up and play. Blood and mud look the same no matter how pretty you look.
5) The little guys believe.
Big Bad Ohio State gets a bigger scare from the Ohios, Toledos, and Navys of the world than they have from Michigan in the last few years. This is because the scrappy, David vs. Goliath mantra is starting to find hope in the little schools. Don't get me wrong, I think Toledo is vastly underrated, but they threw EVERYTHING at the Buckeyes on Sat (as usual) but this was slightly different...they almost won. In the past, a recruit would kill to ride the pine at Notre Dame, Texas, Michigan, or OSU rather than start at the MAC or Big East schools. The time have changed where players seek to get on the field now so more higher level recruits seek the school that will let them show their talents as soon as possible. This better breed of athlete at the lower tier schools has led to some new dynasties (Boise, TCU, etc.) as well as the real upset potential every week. It's not the Big Boys suffering; it's better coaches and players on the little sisters of the poor that know these games are their one big shot to shock the world. They know no one cares about or remembers the Little Caesars/Microcenter/Best Buy/Your Name Here for $100000 Bowl but everyone will remember the school that beats Ohio State. Quick: Who won last year's Liberty Bowl? No clue? Ok, what 1-AA school beat Michigan in the Big House in 2007? Go Appalachian State! These players know this is the chance for immortality and are stepping up to the plate. Look out Auburn, OSU, PSU, Michigan, USC, Alabama, Texas, Oklahoma, etc. here comes Utah State, Toledo, Temple, App State, Utah, Tulane, Rice, Tulsa.
Of all the sports in the country, tradition is deepest in college football. This is, in my opinion, the simplest argument of all. The rivalries, the passion, the hatred, the pride, the fight songs, the band; tradition is rampant in the sport. Another aspect that is inherent to the deep-rooted tradition is the uniforms. The numbers on the Bama helmet, the Princeton....I mean Michigan wings on the helmet, the white of PSU, the Silver Bullets of OSU all epitomize the history and tradition of the sport. Then along comes Nike and tries to reinvent the wheel. First, Oregon is used as a fashion model changing week to week with each uniform trying to be more outrageous than the last then Nike gets greedy and tries to reinvent the tradition of everyone with their 'pro-combat' unis. They've gotten out of hand. OSU saying they're wearing 'throwbacks' when in reality it is a simple ploy for the almighty dollar. Teams don't even wear school colors in the pro combat uniform any more (FSU wearing black for example). Then, to push the envelope of competition further, Under Armour creates even more outrageous (and ugly) uniforms for Maryland to rival Nike. The warmup uniforms were different and just as bad. It's time to get back to football and tradition rather than all the fashion talk. I don't care what you wear, just line up and play. Blood and mud look the same no matter how pretty you look.
5) The little guys believe.
Big Bad Ohio State gets a bigger scare from the Ohios, Toledos, and Navys of the world than they have from Michigan in the last few years. This is because the scrappy, David vs. Goliath mantra is starting to find hope in the little schools. Don't get me wrong, I think Toledo is vastly underrated, but they threw EVERYTHING at the Buckeyes on Sat (as usual) but this was slightly different...they almost won. In the past, a recruit would kill to ride the pine at Notre Dame, Texas, Michigan, or OSU rather than start at the MAC or Big East schools. The time have changed where players seek to get on the field now so more higher level recruits seek the school that will let them show their talents as soon as possible. This better breed of athlete at the lower tier schools has led to some new dynasties (Boise, TCU, etc.) as well as the real upset potential every week. It's not the Big Boys suffering; it's better coaches and players on the little sisters of the poor that know these games are their one big shot to shock the world. They know no one cares about or remembers the Little Caesars/Microcenter/Best Buy/Your Name Here for $100000 Bowl but everyone will remember the school that beats Ohio State. Quick: Who won last year's Liberty Bowl? No clue? Ok, what 1-AA school beat Michigan in the Big House in 2007? Go Appalachian State! These players know this is the chance for immortality and are stepping up to the plate. Look out Auburn, OSU, PSU, Michigan, USC, Alabama, Texas, Oklahoma, etc. here comes Utah State, Toledo, Temple, App State, Utah, Tulane, Rice, Tulsa.
Wednesday, September 07, 2011
Week 2 Picks: Yawn
Last week had some exciting games but little actual movement. Auburn snagged victory from the jaws of defeat vs. Utah State, LSU was impressive without their starting QB but Oregon couldn't get out of their own way, and Baylor upset the 'back-to-normal' TCU with no defense to speak of.
South Carolina @ Georgia
Draper: This is an absolute MUST win for Mark Richt after getting picked apart by Kellen Moore. The Cocks looked iffy under Connor Shaw but came back to beat down the ECU upset bid under Stephen Garcia. Hint to the Ole Ball Coach: Start Garcia. He is better. UGA will fight like mad between the hedges but Marcus Lattimore will throw his hat in the ring for the Heisman by running for 3-4 TDs in a booming start to the repeat bid for the SEC East champs. USC: 41--UGA: 30
Auer: After proving last week that the Dawgs are once again an overrated team, UGA will be in full desperation mode to win this week against the Cocks. Mark Richt is 7-2 in this series and should his defense find even a little bit of mojo, it should be a knock-down, drag-out type of game. Not to mention, Steve Spurrier is a douche. USC: 13--UGA: 21
Notre Dame @ Michigan
Draper: In my opinion, this is the most intriguing game of the weekend. Brian Kelly freaked on the sideline in the upset special by yours truly and swapped Crist for a 10 year old boy in Tommy Rees at QB. Michigan got 2 defensive TDs (yeah I'm stunned too) which led to a win over WMU that was much closer than the score indicated. Miscues killed WMU and ND last week. Look for the Irish to clean up their act this week. Without the turnovers, Wolverines can't score enough with Robinson running a pro-style offense. He'll try to carry the team but will end just short in the first night game in the Big House. ND: 33--UM: 31
Auer: After watching a decent chunk of last week's mostly rain-interrupted UM and ND games, it's clear that one of these teams has quickly regained some long-lost swagger, and the other still seems to be searching for direction. Losing at home on opening day to the South Florida Bulls is unacceptable and laughable for all who don a Notre Dame sweater in the falls. Brady Hoke looks to have UM back on the right track, with a solid offensive showing and a defense that just doesn't stand there when the other team has the ball. Both teams deserve to die a slow death, but I'm going with Big Blue as usual in this historical rivalry. ND: 17--UM: 41
Alabama @ Penn State
Draper: Just put this on here because it's a ranked non-conference matchup, but this should be a blow out (just like last year). Bama is too tough on defense for PSU to score consistently. While the Tide isn't going to wow the world on offense (5 turnovers vs. Kent State), they still scored 48. I expect the Paternos to hang for a half or so but it won't be close. Saban will congratulate JoePa on the win to make him happy (even though he lost by 30). Bama: 38--PSU: 13
Auer: As much as PeeSU is a hated Big Ten Rival, it would be oh so awesome to see the Crimson Tide of the Ess Eee Cee go down in flaming fashion. Unfortunately the Lions just don't have the horses to hang with 'Bama, and this one won't be as close as I would like it to be. The Tide's running game will carry them through this sure-to-be fired up atmosphere. Bama: 31--PSU: 9
Toledo @ Ohio State
Draper: The Bucks looked very strong versus the completely mismatched Zip squad but Toledo is a definite step up (although not world beaters). I loved what I saw from the Bullets last week and expect much of the same. The growth of Miller will continue while Bauserman continues his Krenzel game management. Joe B. looked solid last week reminding people that he was recruited to be more than a backup. I look to see if Jordan Hall will step back into the running back starter role after impressive performances from Smith and Hyde. Drew Basil will get on the right track with 2 field goals and will ease the special teams worries. Bucks win solidly. Toledo: 9--OSU: 34
Auer: The Bucks will come out again and show they are worthy or a higher ranking. Despite how poor of a challenge Akron was, I believe this year's Buckeye team is legitimate. Toledo does have recent wins over scUM and Purdon't, but I'm sorry, the silver bullets won't let them get close. Toledo: 6--OSU: 47
Upset Special: Draper: (ranking upset) ASU over Missouri and (betting upset) Utah over USC
Auer: Oregon State over Wisconsin
South Carolina @ Georgia
Draper: This is an absolute MUST win for Mark Richt after getting picked apart by Kellen Moore. The Cocks looked iffy under Connor Shaw but came back to beat down the ECU upset bid under Stephen Garcia. Hint to the Ole Ball Coach: Start Garcia. He is better. UGA will fight like mad between the hedges but Marcus Lattimore will throw his hat in the ring for the Heisman by running for 3-4 TDs in a booming start to the repeat bid for the SEC East champs. USC: 41--UGA: 30
Auer: After proving last week that the Dawgs are once again an overrated team, UGA will be in full desperation mode to win this week against the Cocks. Mark Richt is 7-2 in this series and should his defense find even a little bit of mojo, it should be a knock-down, drag-out type of game. Not to mention, Steve Spurrier is a douche. USC: 13--UGA: 21
Notre Dame @ Michigan
Draper: In my opinion, this is the most intriguing game of the weekend. Brian Kelly freaked on the sideline in the upset special by yours truly and swapped Crist for a 10 year old boy in Tommy Rees at QB. Michigan got 2 defensive TDs (yeah I'm stunned too) which led to a win over WMU that was much closer than the score indicated. Miscues killed WMU and ND last week. Look for the Irish to clean up their act this week. Without the turnovers, Wolverines can't score enough with Robinson running a pro-style offense. He'll try to carry the team but will end just short in the first night game in the Big House. ND: 33--UM: 31
Auer: After watching a decent chunk of last week's mostly rain-interrupted UM and ND games, it's clear that one of these teams has quickly regained some long-lost swagger, and the other still seems to be searching for direction. Losing at home on opening day to the South Florida Bulls is unacceptable and laughable for all who don a Notre Dame sweater in the falls. Brady Hoke looks to have UM back on the right track, with a solid offensive showing and a defense that just doesn't stand there when the other team has the ball. Both teams deserve to die a slow death, but I'm going with Big Blue as usual in this historical rivalry. ND: 17--UM: 41
Alabama @ Penn State
Draper: Just put this on here because it's a ranked non-conference matchup, but this should be a blow out (just like last year). Bama is too tough on defense for PSU to score consistently. While the Tide isn't going to wow the world on offense (5 turnovers vs. Kent State), they still scored 48. I expect the Paternos to hang for a half or so but it won't be close. Saban will congratulate JoePa on the win to make him happy (even though he lost by 30). Bama: 38--PSU: 13
Auer: As much as PeeSU is a hated Big Ten Rival, it would be oh so awesome to see the Crimson Tide of the Ess Eee Cee go down in flaming fashion. Unfortunately the Lions just don't have the horses to hang with 'Bama, and this one won't be as close as I would like it to be. The Tide's running game will carry them through this sure-to-be fired up atmosphere. Bama: 31--PSU: 9
Toledo @ Ohio State
Draper: The Bucks looked very strong versus the completely mismatched Zip squad but Toledo is a definite step up (although not world beaters). I loved what I saw from the Bullets last week and expect much of the same. The growth of Miller will continue while Bauserman continues his Krenzel game management. Joe B. looked solid last week reminding people that he was recruited to be more than a backup. I look to see if Jordan Hall will step back into the running back starter role after impressive performances from Smith and Hyde. Drew Basil will get on the right track with 2 field goals and will ease the special teams worries. Bucks win solidly. Toledo: 9--OSU: 34
Auer: The Bucks will come out again and show they are worthy or a higher ranking. Despite how poor of a challenge Akron was, I believe this year's Buckeye team is legitimate. Toledo does have recent wins over scUM and Purdon't, but I'm sorry, the silver bullets won't let them get close. Toledo: 6--OSU: 47
Upset Special: Draper: (ranking upset) ASU over Missouri and (betting upset) Utah over USC
Auer: Oregon State over Wisconsin
Saturday, September 03, 2011
College Football Week 1 Picks
Welcome to another exciting College Football Year. Here's hoping for as much excitement of Fri.'s game between TCU and Baylor. (I know this is late but I want to get back into this).
LSU vs. Oregon (Dallas)
Draper: The suspensions will prove very costly for the Bayou Bengals but 400 year old backup Jarrett Lee will prove serviceable. LSU will hang around with raw talent and relatively weak Duck defense (not to mention the virtual home crowd), but Oregon will prove too much late by keeping the tempo high for 60 minutes. LSU: 25--Oregon: 31
Boise St. vs. Georgia (Atlanta)
Draper: Boise is not the same team as last year. Kellen Moore is a definite game changer, but losses of Titus Young and Austin Pettis will really hurt the Bronco attack and lead to more fields rather than TDs--FGs won't be enough. Georgia is in a do-or-die year and I expect the usual 8-9 win campaign but a great start with an upset over Boise will help Richt keep his job. Boise St: 23--UGA: 27
Akron @ Ohio St.
Draper: The Buckeyes just look to get back to football and get away from the off-field troubles. I expect Fickell to have the team laser-focused on football and that's bad news for the hapless Zips. The additional suspensions of Hall, Howard, and Brown would hurt...if it wasn't Akron. Look for a simple solid game from Bauserman (Krenzel-esque) and Carlos Hyde and Rod Smith to show that the dropoff from RB 1 to RB 3-4 is not too steep. They will make their statement early. The Bullets will make this a statement by using the chip on their shoulders to knock the head off the Zips. GO BUCKS! Akron: 13--OSU: 41
Upset Special: Draper: USF over Notre Dame
LSU vs. Oregon (Dallas)
Draper: The suspensions will prove very costly for the Bayou Bengals but 400 year old backup Jarrett Lee will prove serviceable. LSU will hang around with raw talent and relatively weak Duck defense (not to mention the virtual home crowd), but Oregon will prove too much late by keeping the tempo high for 60 minutes. LSU: 25--Oregon: 31
Boise St. vs. Georgia (Atlanta)
Draper: Boise is not the same team as last year. Kellen Moore is a definite game changer, but losses of Titus Young and Austin Pettis will really hurt the Bronco attack and lead to more fields rather than TDs--FGs won't be enough. Georgia is in a do-or-die year and I expect the usual 8-9 win campaign but a great start with an upset over Boise will help Richt keep his job. Boise St: 23--UGA: 27
Akron @ Ohio St.
Draper: The Buckeyes just look to get back to football and get away from the off-field troubles. I expect Fickell to have the team laser-focused on football and that's bad news for the hapless Zips. The additional suspensions of Hall, Howard, and Brown would hurt...if it wasn't Akron. Look for a simple solid game from Bauserman (Krenzel-esque) and Carlos Hyde and Rod Smith to show that the dropoff from RB 1 to RB 3-4 is not too steep. They will make their statement early. The Bullets will make this a statement by using the chip on their shoulders to knock the head off the Zips. GO BUCKS! Akron: 13--OSU: 41
Upset Special: Draper: USF over Notre Dame
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Basketball talk anyone
I don't know if anyone ever reads this stuff, but I'm going to start a writeup of every Buckeye basketball game from here on out. I meant to start this a long time ago, but I kept putting it off. Expect a writeup on the close Northwestern game later today!
Monday, December 06, 2010
Draper Index Final Result 2010
Another year, another success for the Draper Index. National Championship is correctly predicted for (I believe) the 8th of the 9 years. Yes, this one was easy, but I had it much closer than most. Match of the BCS is pretty darn good. Major differences are OU at 4 and Stanford at 10 (I actually feel this is more accurate since OU beat FSU, Neb, and OSU whereas Stanford beat.....yeah). Also, Wisconsin checks in below OSU which may seem strange but the win at Wisconsin is not enough to overcome everything--loss at MSU and nailbiter win over a BAD ASU (even though I'd had Wisky slightly over the Bucks if I voted). Without further ado, here are the final results.
Draper Index Final 2010
1. Oregon
2. Auburn
3. TCU
4. Oklahoma
5. Ohio State
6. Alabama
7. Boise State
8. Virginia Tech
9. Wisconsin
10. Stanford
11. Oklahoma State
12. LSU
13. Arkansas
14. Michigan State
15. Nebraska
16. Utah
17. Nevada
18. Missouri
19. Florida State
20. South Carolina
21. Florida
22. Texas A&M
23. West Virginia
24. Iowa
25. USC
*Big East BCS representative UConn checks in at 34
Draper Index Final 2010
1. Oregon
2. Auburn
3. TCU
4. Oklahoma
5. Ohio State
6. Alabama
7. Boise State
8. Virginia Tech
9. Wisconsin
10. Stanford
11. Oklahoma State
12. LSU
13. Arkansas
14. Michigan State
15. Nebraska
16. Utah
17. Nevada
18. Missouri
19. Florida State
20. South Carolina
21. Florida
22. Texas A&M
23. West Virginia
24. Iowa
25. USC
*Big East BCS representative UConn checks in at 34
Thursday, December 02, 2010
Week 14 - Championship Saturday
Oregon Ducks @ Oregon State Beavers
Gomer: It will take a major miracle for the Beavers to pull this upset. Even in Corvallis the Beavers have little chance of slowing down the Ducks attack. The Ducks have looked sluggish in recent first halves, but guess what, they came on strong to win each of those games. Oregon will have to absolutely shoot themselves in the foot if the Beavers are to have any chance. UO: 48--OSU: 16
Chief: Upsets are usually fun...but this is really, really unlikely. Everyone was big on Oregon State and the sad truth is that they just plain suck. Oregon is a well-oiled machine on offense. The Beavers got beat by WSU (perhaps the worst team ever). This won't be close. The Ducks move on to the title where they have a chance to pick up their first quality win (as long as they don't play TCU)--no, no Stanford doesn't count. They haven't beaten anyone either. UO: 52--OSU: 23
Auburn Tigers vs. South Carolina Gamecocks
Gomer: While during the regular season the Gamecocks had a chance to pull the upset and fumbled it away late in the game. Steve Spurrier's game-plan with quarterbacks seems to be "mess up as late in the game as possible". If Gamecocks' QB Garcia can avoid the stupid mistakes he's sure to make, the 'Cocks may pull off the upset and lock-in a Sugar Bowl appearance against the Buckeyes. Cam Newton's presence will be enough to help the Tigers lock up a spot in the BCS National Championship and a soon to be redacted Heisman Trophy. AU: 27--USC: 17
Chief: Sticking with what I said immediately after the Iron Bowl: Take it to the bank, South Carolina wins. The Tigers were DESTROYED in the 1st half by the Tide but the Tide in the 2nd half could have been beaten by a Pop Warner squad. This game was all about Auburn taking advantage of stupid Bama play. The Head Ball Coach doesn't mess around. This is the ONLY chance for USC to win the SEC and I think they get it done. I had the Cocks winning in Jordan-Hare and it came down to an epic collapse in the 4th to blow it. Spurrier will stick with Garcia and Lattimore will run away from Fairley to the win. The Cam Newton NCAA ruling joke will remain a cloud over Auburn and it will cost their preparation. AU: 20--USC: 21
Florida State Seminoles vs. Virginia Tech Hokies
Gomer: If the 'Noles win this it will put yet another average team in the BCS.... the worst team coming out of the Big East. After losing the opening two games, the Hokies went on a tear winning 10 straight and helping lock up the divisional title and a spot in the ACC title game. A loss means no BCS, win and a trip to the Orange Bowl awaits. Look for Christian Ponder to give the Hokies the ACC Title. FSU: 22--VT: 31
Chief: My preseason predictions had VT vs. FSU in this game (count it!). I had VT winning in the preseason even over the alma mater, but then they lost to Boise and JMU. Yeah it was in the beginning and they're certainly rolling, but how can I pick against a team that SMOKED the Gaytors last week. Heart over brain! GO NOLES!! FSU: 31--VT: 27
Oklahoma Sooners vs. Nebraska Cornhuskers
Gomer: Put on your tin foil hats boys and girls, the Sooners and the Big 12 look to send the 'Huskers packing to the Big Ten, and will probably go to any length to make sure it happens that way. Of course, it won't take much conspiring if Taylor Martinez isn't playing 100%. The Sooners offensive prowess should prove too much for Nebraska in this potentially last match-up between Oklahoma and Nebraska. OU: 37--UN: 28
Chief: Let's look into the vault for my preseason predictions again. I had...OU vs. Neb (lock it up!). OU has been sneaking around with no one paying attention after the midseason losses to Mizzou and TAMU. Landry Jones has been playing well and the Sooners seem to be getting better as the season progressed to the end. Nebraska has been dropping off the map. Taylor Martinez has had his issues with the coach and injuries so I'm not seeing the Big Ten getting a third BCS team this year. Boomer..... OU: 41--Neb: 24
Other Games:
Rutgers @ West Virginia: Gomer: WVU Chief: who cares...I mean WVU
Utah State @ Boise State: Gomer: BSU Chief: really?!? WHO CARES!! Boise
Nevada @ Louisiana Tech: Gomer: Nev Chief: stretching for games...Nev
Connecticut @ South Florida: Gomer: UConn Chief: Yikes....USF
USC @ UCLA: Gomer: UCLA Chief: USC
Gomer: It will take a major miracle for the Beavers to pull this upset. Even in Corvallis the Beavers have little chance of slowing down the Ducks attack. The Ducks have looked sluggish in recent first halves, but guess what, they came on strong to win each of those games. Oregon will have to absolutely shoot themselves in the foot if the Beavers are to have any chance. UO: 48--OSU: 16
Chief: Upsets are usually fun...but this is really, really unlikely. Everyone was big on Oregon State and the sad truth is that they just plain suck. Oregon is a well-oiled machine on offense. The Beavers got beat by WSU (perhaps the worst team ever). This won't be close. The Ducks move on to the title where they have a chance to pick up their first quality win (as long as they don't play TCU)--no, no Stanford doesn't count. They haven't beaten anyone either. UO: 52--OSU: 23
Auburn Tigers vs. South Carolina Gamecocks
Gomer: While during the regular season the Gamecocks had a chance to pull the upset and fumbled it away late in the game. Steve Spurrier's game-plan with quarterbacks seems to be "mess up as late in the game as possible". If Gamecocks' QB Garcia can avoid the stupid mistakes he's sure to make, the 'Cocks may pull off the upset and lock-in a Sugar Bowl appearance against the Buckeyes. Cam Newton's presence will be enough to help the Tigers lock up a spot in the BCS National Championship and a soon to be redacted Heisman Trophy. AU: 27--USC: 17
Chief: Sticking with what I said immediately after the Iron Bowl: Take it to the bank, South Carolina wins. The Tigers were DESTROYED in the 1st half by the Tide but the Tide in the 2nd half could have been beaten by a Pop Warner squad. This game was all about Auburn taking advantage of stupid Bama play. The Head Ball Coach doesn't mess around. This is the ONLY chance for USC to win the SEC and I think they get it done. I had the Cocks winning in Jordan-Hare and it came down to an epic collapse in the 4th to blow it. Spurrier will stick with Garcia and Lattimore will run away from Fairley to the win. The Cam Newton NCAA ruling joke will remain a cloud over Auburn and it will cost their preparation. AU: 20--USC: 21
Florida State Seminoles vs. Virginia Tech Hokies
Gomer: If the 'Noles win this it will put yet another average team in the BCS.... the worst team coming out of the Big East. After losing the opening two games, the Hokies went on a tear winning 10 straight and helping lock up the divisional title and a spot in the ACC title game. A loss means no BCS, win and a trip to the Orange Bowl awaits. Look for Christian Ponder to give the Hokies the ACC Title. FSU: 22--VT: 31
Chief: My preseason predictions had VT vs. FSU in this game (count it!). I had VT winning in the preseason even over the alma mater, but then they lost to Boise and JMU. Yeah it was in the beginning and they're certainly rolling, but how can I pick against a team that SMOKED the Gaytors last week. Heart over brain! GO NOLES!! FSU: 31--VT: 27
Oklahoma Sooners vs. Nebraska Cornhuskers
Gomer: Put on your tin foil hats boys and girls, the Sooners and the Big 12 look to send the 'Huskers packing to the Big Ten, and will probably go to any length to make sure it happens that way. Of course, it won't take much conspiring if Taylor Martinez isn't playing 100%. The Sooners offensive prowess should prove too much for Nebraska in this potentially last match-up between Oklahoma and Nebraska. OU: 37--UN: 28
Chief: Let's look into the vault for my preseason predictions again. I had...OU vs. Neb (lock it up!). OU has been sneaking around with no one paying attention after the midseason losses to Mizzou and TAMU. Landry Jones has been playing well and the Sooners seem to be getting better as the season progressed to the end. Nebraska has been dropping off the map. Taylor Martinez has had his issues with the coach and injuries so I'm not seeing the Big Ten getting a third BCS team this year. Boomer..... OU: 41--Neb: 24
Other Games:
Rutgers @ West Virginia: Gomer: WVU Chief: who cares...I mean WVU
Utah State @ Boise State: Gomer: BSU Chief: really?!? WHO CARES!! Boise
Nevada @ Louisiana Tech: Gomer: Nev Chief: stretching for games...Nev
Connecticut @ South Florida: Gomer: UConn Chief: Yikes....USF
USC @ UCLA: Gomer: UCLA Chief: USC
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Draper Index Post Week 13 (11/30)
It will be interesting how things work out in the last week. The poll is based on gaining (or losing) points for each game rather than winning percentage so teams with games to come (Oregon, Auburn, OU) will have opportunities to make some movement. I expect if Oregon and Auburn arise victorious, they will jump TCU for 1 and 2 but we'll see.
Draper Index Top 25
1. TCU
2. Oregon
3. Auburn
4. Ohio State
5. Alabama
6. Oklahoma
7. Boise State
8. Wisconsin
9. Stanford
10. Oklahoma State
11. LSU
12. Virginia Tech
13. Nebraska
14. Arkansas
15. Michigan State
16. Utah
17. Florida State
18. Missouri
19. Nevada
20. South Carolina
21. Florida
22. Texas A&M
23. Iowa
24. West Virginia
25. Penn State
For the most part, I agree pretty strongly with the rankings. I don't feel too many teams are significantly underrated (Wisconsin, Ark--maybe, Texas A&M) but some are overrated (Bama, Utah, Florida, Iowa)
Draper Index Top 25
1. TCU
2. Oregon
3. Auburn
4. Ohio State
5. Alabama
6. Oklahoma
7. Boise State
8. Wisconsin
9. Stanford
10. Oklahoma State
11. LSU
12. Virginia Tech
13. Nebraska
14. Arkansas
15. Michigan State
16. Utah
17. Florida State
18. Missouri
19. Nevada
20. South Carolina
21. Florida
22. Texas A&M
23. Iowa
24. West Virginia
25. Penn State
For the most part, I agree pretty strongly with the rankings. I don't feel too many teams are significantly underrated (Wisconsin, Ark--maybe, Texas A&M) but some are overrated (Bama, Utah, Florida, Iowa)
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Week 13 - End of an Era
LSU Tigers @ Arkansas Razorbacks
Gomer: The Mad Hatter has had the Tigers getting by week after week by the skin of their teeth, and finally, hopefully, (I'm praying) Ryan Mallet gets the monkey off his back and puts up big numbers in a big game. The Razorbacks will probably in turn jump Ohio State... so that'd be great, maybe we don't want Arkansas to win... I dunno. This will be an interesting game between two coaches nobody likes with some very poor clock management. LSU: 16--Ark: 23
Chief: LSU has been living on the edge all year, and I've been knocking the Hogs since day one. I still think both of these teams are overrated, but the home field might swing things. I'm hoping for the crowd in Fayetteville to get it going and rattle the "quarterbacks" of the Tigers. Mallet converts a key late 3rd down and the Hogs roll to a big upset. LSU: 20--Ark: 21
Auburn Tigers @ Alabama Crimson Tide
Gomer: Probably the most relevant Iron Bowl in recent history, and Bama has the chance to ruin Auburn's shot at the title, Cam Newton's Heisman (to later be rescinded), and to make the fans of Boise and TCU very happy. While Auburn is coming off of a bye week, Bama is coming off of a schellaking of a 1-AA opponent. There is no reason for this to not be one of the best games of the year and thank goodness it's not smack dab in the middle of our own big game. Aub: 28--Bama: 38
Chief: The epic showdown for the Iron Bowl is bigger than ever but the team on the visiting sideline is the one with everything to lose. Everyone expected Auburn to come in hoping to spoil the Tide season but the situation is flipped. The Tide look to end the undefeated run of questionable Cam Newton and the Tigers. I think they pull it off in Bryant-Denny. Auburn has been stellar on offense but mediocre at best on defense. If Bama sticks to their Heisman RB and ground game, they should be able to pull off the 'upset' (not in Vegas). Auburn has the last laugh by going to the SEC Championship, but this is enough to help the Tide feel better about their subpar (by their standards) season. Aub: 24--Bama:31
Arizona Wildcats @ Oregon Ducks
Gomer: As nice as it would be, I really don't see the Ducks losing this weekend, or next, or even in the potential BCS National Championship game. They've become a juggernaut on offense, and showed that yes, they can indeed play some defense if necessary. Arizona has struggled to get over the hump for years now it seems and a win here would be nice, but I just don't see it happening in Autzen. Zona: 7--UO: 39
Chief: The Wildcats are the one team in the Pac 10 that actually plays defense. I expected this to mean a lot more early on but injuries have hurt Arizona with a few weak losses. Oregon was chugging on offense until they hit Cal. Did Cal present the blueprint on how to beat them? Maybe some hints, but I don't think Zona's offense can hang with Oregon (even if they're slowed down). More importantly for the Ducks, it's in Autzen....not good for baby Stoops. Ducks win again and look to the Civil War (but it will be reasonably close). Zona: 17--UO: 27
Michigan Wolverines @ The Ohio State University Buckeyes
Gomer: The Buckeyes are going for 7 straight victories over TSUN, a feat I never even dreamed I would witness. Senator Tressel has put the focus on the Wolverines, where it should be, and has yet to let his players overlook this always important game. Michigan's defense will be the key in this one, because if they can make key stops and force a few turnovers, it could be a lot closer than anyone expects. The Buckeyes must simply avoid shooting themselves in the foot, much like Purdue 2009. There is some talent on the scUM roster, but not enough to pull an upset. Enjoy the last ever REAL Ohio State vs. Michigan game, because after this year there will always be one more game to play in the regular season. UM: 19--OSU: 52
Chief: Another "Game", another Buckeye victory. The Bucks look for 7 straight over their hated rival and 6 straight Big Ten titles. This is a ridiculous streak that will in some year, but not now. UM has an explosive offense that can strike in a hurry, but they couldn't stop me and 10 of my friends (let alone Terrelle Pryor and Co.) from scoring with them. Denard will make a fancy play of two, but Brian Rolle will kill him in the 2nd quarter. Look for the Wolverines to start fast with a quick score and a surprising stop or two, but it won't last. Bucks win again and head to the BCS. For all those that say this rivalry means less with Michigan not being as good, you are wrong. Beating your rival into the ground and stomping on their soul is ALWAYS good regardless of record or ability. Enjoy this while it lasts and show no mercy! GO BUCKS! BEAT MICHIGAN!! UM: 21--OSU: 45
Other Games:
Texas A&M @ Texas: Gomer: UT Chief: TAMU
Boise State @ Nevada: Gomer: Boise Chief: Boise
Michigan State @ Penn State: Gomer: MSU Chief: PSU
Northwestern @ Wisconsin: Gomer: Wisc Chief: Wisc
Florida @ Florida State: Gomer: UF Chief: FSU
Iowa @ Minnesota: Gomer: Iowa Chief: Iowa
South Carolina @ Clemson: Gomer: SoCar Chief: SoCar
Oklahoma @ Oklahoma State: Gomer: OU Chief: OkSt
Notre Dame @ USC: Gomer: USC Chief: USC
Gomer: The Mad Hatter has had the Tigers getting by week after week by the skin of their teeth, and finally, hopefully, (I'm praying) Ryan Mallet gets the monkey off his back and puts up big numbers in a big game. The Razorbacks will probably in turn jump Ohio State... so that'd be great, maybe we don't want Arkansas to win... I dunno. This will be an interesting game between two coaches nobody likes with some very poor clock management. LSU: 16--Ark: 23
Chief: LSU has been living on the edge all year, and I've been knocking the Hogs since day one. I still think both of these teams are overrated, but the home field might swing things. I'm hoping for the crowd in Fayetteville to get it going and rattle the "quarterbacks" of the Tigers. Mallet converts a key late 3rd down and the Hogs roll to a big upset. LSU: 20--Ark: 21
Auburn Tigers @ Alabama Crimson Tide
Gomer: Probably the most relevant Iron Bowl in recent history, and Bama has the chance to ruin Auburn's shot at the title, Cam Newton's Heisman (to later be rescinded), and to make the fans of Boise and TCU very happy. While Auburn is coming off of a bye week, Bama is coming off of a schellaking of a 1-AA opponent. There is no reason for this to not be one of the best games of the year and thank goodness it's not smack dab in the middle of our own big game. Aub: 28--Bama: 38
Chief: The epic showdown for the Iron Bowl is bigger than ever but the team on the visiting sideline is the one with everything to lose. Everyone expected Auburn to come in hoping to spoil the Tide season but the situation is flipped. The Tide look to end the undefeated run of questionable Cam Newton and the Tigers. I think they pull it off in Bryant-Denny. Auburn has been stellar on offense but mediocre at best on defense. If Bama sticks to their Heisman RB and ground game, they should be able to pull off the 'upset' (not in Vegas). Auburn has the last laugh by going to the SEC Championship, but this is enough to help the Tide feel better about their subpar (by their standards) season. Aub: 24--Bama:31
Arizona Wildcats @ Oregon Ducks
Gomer: As nice as it would be, I really don't see the Ducks losing this weekend, or next, or even in the potential BCS National Championship game. They've become a juggernaut on offense, and showed that yes, they can indeed play some defense if necessary. Arizona has struggled to get over the hump for years now it seems and a win here would be nice, but I just don't see it happening in Autzen. Zona: 7--UO: 39
Chief: The Wildcats are the one team in the Pac 10 that actually plays defense. I expected this to mean a lot more early on but injuries have hurt Arizona with a few weak losses. Oregon was chugging on offense until they hit Cal. Did Cal present the blueprint on how to beat them? Maybe some hints, but I don't think Zona's offense can hang with Oregon (even if they're slowed down). More importantly for the Ducks, it's in Autzen....not good for baby Stoops. Ducks win again and look to the Civil War (but it will be reasonably close). Zona: 17--UO: 27
Michigan Wolverines @ The Ohio State University Buckeyes
Gomer: The Buckeyes are going for 7 straight victories over TSUN, a feat I never even dreamed I would witness. Senator Tressel has put the focus on the Wolverines, where it should be, and has yet to let his players overlook this always important game. Michigan's defense will be the key in this one, because if they can make key stops and force a few turnovers, it could be a lot closer than anyone expects. The Buckeyes must simply avoid shooting themselves in the foot, much like Purdue 2009. There is some talent on the scUM roster, but not enough to pull an upset. Enjoy the last ever REAL Ohio State vs. Michigan game, because after this year there will always be one more game to play in the regular season. UM: 19--OSU: 52
Chief: Another "Game", another Buckeye victory. The Bucks look for 7 straight over their hated rival and 6 straight Big Ten titles. This is a ridiculous streak that will in some year, but not now. UM has an explosive offense that can strike in a hurry, but they couldn't stop me and 10 of my friends (let alone Terrelle Pryor and Co.) from scoring with them. Denard will make a fancy play of two, but Brian Rolle will kill him in the 2nd quarter. Look for the Wolverines to start fast with a quick score and a surprising stop or two, but it won't last. Bucks win again and head to the BCS. For all those that say this rivalry means less with Michigan not being as good, you are wrong. Beating your rival into the ground and stomping on their soul is ALWAYS good regardless of record or ability. Enjoy this while it lasts and show no mercy! GO BUCKS! BEAT MICHIGAN!! UM: 21--OSU: 45
Other Games:
Texas A&M @ Texas: Gomer: UT Chief: TAMU
Boise State @ Nevada: Gomer: Boise Chief: Boise
Michigan State @ Penn State: Gomer: MSU Chief: PSU
Northwestern @ Wisconsin: Gomer: Wisc Chief: Wisc
Florida @ Florida State: Gomer: UF Chief: FSU
Iowa @ Minnesota: Gomer: Iowa Chief: Iowa
South Carolina @ Clemson: Gomer: SoCar Chief: SoCar
Oklahoma @ Oklahoma State: Gomer: OU Chief: OkSt
Notre Dame @ USC: Gomer: USC Chief: USC
NCState @ Mary: Gomer: NCState Chief: MARY (GO TERPS!!!)
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Week 12 Picks--The fight for Big Ten Supremacy?
Nebraska Cornhuskers @ Texas A&M Aggies
Gomer: Who knew that A&M was good this year? I sure didn't, especially with the typical attention given to OU, plus the slump of the Longhorns, little news has escaped the Big 12 so far this year. The Aggies have a chance to win the South, the Huskers the North, methinks that the Huskers take hold of the North even with the bum ankle of Taylor Martinez. Neb: 24--TAMU: 14
Chief: A big time rematch of the Cornhuskers vs. a team in Texas...wait, not the Longhorns? Well, this one might be better since the Longhorns are hapless this year. Johnson has played well for the Aggies and Kyle Field is always a tough place to go to, but the Huskers have a goal of a Big 12 Championship and I don't see any let up here. I don't think any team except the Oklahoma teams can stop them now. Neb: 31--TAMU: 20
Chief: A big time rematch of the Cornhuskers vs. a team in Texas...wait, not the Longhorns? Well, this one might be better since the Longhorns are hapless this year. Johnson has played well for the Aggies and Kyle Field is always a tough place to go to, but the Huskers have a goal of a Big 12 Championship and I don't see any let up here. I don't think any team except the Oklahoma teams can stop them now. Neb: 31--TAMU: 20
Arkansas Razorbacks @ Mississippi State Bulldogs
Gomer: Ryan Mallet has been nothing been nothing but a disappointment when the spotlight has been on him this season. With MSU coming off a tough loss I look for the Bulldogs who have extra motivation to make the supposed super star look pedestrian again. Ark: 27--MSU: 30
Chief: I'm still not a buyer of Arkansas. Nice team but too much talk on the UM transfer Mallet. He's a nice QB, but I'm not a believer...especially on the road. The Bulldogs couldn't take care of the Crimson Tide after the tragic loss of their player Nick Bell, but I think they play with a fire under the thunderous cowbells in Starksville. I see Mullen's boys with another big win. Ark: 20--MSU: 24
Virginia Tech Hokies @ Miami Hurricanes
Gomer: The Hurricanes are struggling to live up to the seasons expectations and have a unique chance to make a statement against the Hokies. Freshman QB Morris has improved with each start and will help lead the Canes to a HUGE upset of the perennially strong Hokies. VT: 28--UM: 31
Chief: Talk about a game that looked to be the epic stinker after both teams limped out of the gate, but now it's a true ACC battle. Virginia Tech still has the ACC title and a BCS bowl in front of them after an ATROCIOUS start, but the Hurricanes have a sliver of hope. Problem is they're still riding a backup QB. Sun Life Stadium doesn't exactly inspire fear anymore so I see the Hokies rolling in and putting up a performance like their alum (or at least former player), Michael Vick. Hokies roll to the ACC title game. VT: 37--UM: 17
The Ohio State University Buckeyes @ Iowa Hawkeyes
Gomer: Had the 'Hawks done their job last week in Evanston, the Bucks may have had the chance at jumping the Badgers in the BCS rankings with a win this week in Iowa. Instead the Hawkeyes are going to be another 4 loss Big Ten team, and another failure by Kirk Ferentz to capitalize with a talented team. It's really to bad to think what might have been this season had the coaches realized how good a running game the Bucks could have if Boom was better utilized from the beginning. There's no question what will happen this Saturday, even in front of amped-Kinnick Stadium. OSU: 38--Iowa: 24
Chief: If the Bucks want to get to a BCS bowl, this is it. Going into the year, OSU had 3 major tests: Miami (passed), @ Wisconsin (fail), and @ Iowa. This is the last hurdle to at least finish above .500 in big games. I love the fire I saw in the 2nd half last week. If that team shows up, they will BLAST Iowa, but by the same token, if that 1st half team gets off the bus, it won't be pretty. Iowa has been pretty pathetic the last 2 weeks, but I expect the Bucks will get their absolute best shot. A fired up Silver Bullets defense take care of the Iowa offense like Ricky Stanzi takes care of the Taliban terrorists, TP will have enough escapability to avoid Clayborn and Sanzenbacher finally gets a pass actually throw to him. Bucks take it on the road. OSU: 24--Iowa:17
Other Games to pick
Wisc @ UM: Gomer: UM Chief: Wis
Pur @ MSU: Gomer: MSU Chief:MSU
PSU @ Ind: Gomer: PSU Chief: PSU
Ill @ NW: Gomer: NW Chief: Ill
Stan @ Cal: Gomer: Stan Chief: Stan
NCSt @ UNC: Gomer: NCSt Chief: NCSt
OU @ Baylor: Gomer: OU Chief: OU
FSU @ Mary: Gomer: FSU Chief: FSU
USC @ OrSt: Gomer: USC Chief: USC
Utah @ SDSU: Gomer: SDSU Chief: SDSU
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
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
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