Offense: B
I was pleased with the offensive performance on the ground. With Boom, Hyde, and Miller all eclipsing the 100 yard mark, the running game was clearly working. I believe OSU had 7.6 yards per carry which is just stupid good. However, the offense also includes the passing game which was pedestrian to below average. Miller missed some open targets, but more worrisome, he was sacked by Indiana at least 6 times. This is unacceptable. I will also say those sacks are on him. The O-Line was giving him FOREVER to find his targets but he was slow in his decision making. That may become an issue vs. a better defense in PSU. Offensive line blocked very well; running game was awesome; decision making was sub par, as was the receiver play (key drop by Philly when Miller hung in the pocket and got popped).
Defense: D
Yikes...what was that? This was a pathetic performance from the Bullets against a really bad team. Yes, the Hoosier offense is the better half of the team....but it's still Indiana. Hankins and Simon were driving over the offensive line, but the option was run away from them leaving them tackling a non-ball carrier. The secondary was atrocious going up against receivers who have no business hanging around in Ohio Stadium. Howard made a nice interception to seal the game, but let's be honest, Ohio State being up a TD in the 4th quarter is unacceptable versus IU. Roby made a bunch of misreads after a stellar game vs. the Badgers. Bryant has been a disappointment all year. The mobile QB curse with the Buckeyes always looms large. Thankfully, we only have 1 left in Ann Arbor.
Special Teams: B
Nothing of note here. Punts were fine, kicks were fine, returns were fine, coverage was fine. Can't go to an A because no big plays or clutch kicks, but they were solid enough. Can't even say more because they did their job.
Coaching: C-
Say it with me: "Fire Jim Bollman". How do you continually call deep pass plays with a QB who can't make decisions quick enough and eschew the running game that is absolutely destroying the Hooisers? All the dumb fans keep saying he needs to be 'balanced' and throw the ball more; that is just wrong. You play to your strengths. We are Ohio State. We should be able to look at Indiana, tell them where we are running, and dare them to stop us--they can't. The only team that could have defeated OSU on Saturday in the Shoe was in scarlet and gray--and the playcalling tried to make it happen. Practice passing is well and good....when the game is in hand. That game wasn't in hand until late due to the poor defensive play, but even so, more running plays would have led to over 500 yards rushing--yeah, I believe that. The defensive coaching was not much better with soft zones against the option, but the black mark was on the offensive coaching staff. I'd say the defensive failure was due to lackadaisical play by the players and the offensive drive stalling was due to coaching. Run until they prove they can stop it (sure you can pepper a few passes in to keep them honest, I'm not that dumb). The athletes on this team suggest a 75-25 split of run to pass, and that's not bad.
Sunday, November 06, 2011
Tuesday, November 01, 2011
Week 10 Picks--ARMAGEDDON
LSU Tigers @ Alabama Crimson Tide
Draper: It's finally here. The game of the year between the best teams in the country. Neither of these teams have even seriously been tested this year. LSU has played the better schedule (mostly due to Oregon--WVU is not good), but Bama has the home field advantage which I believe will be the difference--that and the severe coaching advantage with Nick Saban. Both teams have been just awesome on defense, and even though the Crimson Tide haven't played a great offense, I think they're pretty evenly matched with the Honey Badger's crew. Jarrett Lee has been a pleasant surprise for the Tigers but they don't have a game changer on offense. Trent Richardson provides the Tide spark on offense to overcome the mediocre QB play--and makes a serious bid for the Heisman. Les Miles makes a late coaching mistake (shocker!) that costs his team the game. LSU: 16--Bama: 17Auer: LSU's penchant for success in night games has been one that should amaze all, 30-1 since 2001 in all games starting after 6:00pm... insane. Richardson has been a beast all year long, and on this Saturday night, he will certainly book his trip to NYC, along with the Crimson Tide all but clinching their spot in the BCS National Championship game. The Mad Hatter will strike again... but not in a winning fashion. LSU: 10--Bama: 21
Hoying: Hard to say which team has an edge in this contest. Bama has started slowly in a few of their contest this season but I have trouble believing this squad will buckle if they find themselves in an early hole. When analyzing a big game against evenly matched teams, the advantage goes to the group with the better playmakers. Both teams feature boatloads of defensive stars, but LSU lacks the go-to guy to carry the offense if needed. Bama features the better QB and RB, which should be enough to put the Tide on top. Nevertheless, expect Les Miles to pull out a few tricks that Saban wouldn't dream of running, to try to give his Tigers a chance. However, Bama is too well-disciplined to be fooled by goofy flashy plays. Go with the home team. LSU: 9--Bama:17Schweinfurth: These two teams are clearly the two best in the country. Jarrett Lee has done a more than capable job at managing a methodical LSU offense. Unfortunately for the Tigers, they are going up against a nasty Tide defense. The same can be said about Heisman candidate Trenton Richardson going up against a very good LSU defense. I feel like LSU is the more tested team but Alabama has the better coach. LSU has given up a lot of yards lately and the trend continues in Tuscaloosa. Richardson has a BIG day and Les Miles chokes on boogers and grass. LSU: 17 -- Bama: 24
Kansas State Wildcats @ Oklahoma State Cowboys
Draper: I've been riding the Pokes all year and I'm not jumping off the bandwagon. Weeden and Blackmon are terrific as always, but a running game with Randle is exploding on the scene. The offense is unstoppable and while the defense has been questioned, they've been quietly playing pretty darn well. Stillwater will be rocking and KSU will be stunned by another quality opponent. The Wildcats are remembering what it's like playing real teams. KSU: 20--OSU: 52Auer: After the KSU loss to Oklahoma, the shine has quickly worn off of the Wildcats. OSU is just too talented and KSU's defense is just too shoddy.
Hoying: Oh, K-State. You had a HUGE opportunity to come up with a statement win at home against a vulnerable Sooner squad and you played like the Kansas State of the last 5 years. You have failed me for the last time. KSU:17--OSU:55Schweinfurth: The Wildcats showed that there is a big deficiency on defense and was exposed by Oklahoma last week. It doesn't get any easier this week with the Wildcats rolling into Stillwater. This game will be Blackmon, Blackmon, and more Blackmon. KSU: 21 -- OSU: 45
South Carolina Gamecocks @ Arkansas Razorbacks
Draper: Another game that will be overshadowed due to the showdown in Tuscaloosa, but it is a top 10 matchup. While Arkansas should have been snakebitten by Vandy last week, I think they will take the win over an injured South Carolina. This would have been a spectacular game if the Gamecock stud, Marcus Lattimore, was playing, but without him, Tyler Wilson and the Razorbacks should win comfortably, especially at home. USC: 20--Ark: 38Auer: Had no clue USC was ranked in the top 10... wow. Arkansas is coming off of a sure-fire loss... that they somehow won. They should be ready to play when the 'Cocks come to town. USC: 17--Ark: 34
Hoying: Who wants to be the 3rd best team in the SEC? South Carolina has had the good fortune of rampaging through the weak sauce SEC East, but they failed in their one test against a decent West team (Auburn). Without Marcus Lattimore, this team will not win another significant matchup (no, Florida next week doesn't count). Bulldogs take control of the East with a big Ar-kansas win. USC: 13--Ark: 31Schweinfurth: Arkansas is very lucky to have only one loss after narrowly escaping Nashville last week with a win. It could be that the Razorbacks were looking forward to this match up with the Gamecocks. South Carolina, without Marcus Lattamore is obviously not the same team they were to start the season. I'll take the Razorbacks (HBC is looking forward to the golf course later that night). USC: 17 -- Ark: 35
Texas A&M Aggies @ Oklahoma Sooners
Draper: This game is on the list for preseason expectations. We've seen the traditional Sooner bounceback and the A&M continued suck. OU returns to Norman to pay the fans back for the crap they saw 2 weeks ago. Jones to Broyles will be crazy good and Tannehill won't be able to solve a 'return to form' OU defense. Sooners big. TAMU: 17--OU: 45Auer: Oklahoma will continue to prove the Texas Tech home loss was a fluke, it won't do much good this weekend when all eyes are on the Tigers-Crimson Tide match-up. This week the Sooners take care of business at home. TAMU: 7--OU: 51
Hoying: Everyone's favorite overrated team, Texas A&M, has a chance for redemption after falling to a mediocre Missouri squad. Unfortunately, they face an Oklahoma team that for some reason everyone has decided should still be in the BCS title discussion. OU has too much to play for to lay another egg at home. Jones outduels Tannehill for a commanding Sooner win. TAMU: 17--OU: 38Schweinfurth: The Aggies continue their final romp through the Big 12 and are quietly having a very good season. The Sooners, meanwhile, were having a national championship season until that stumble at Texas Tech. The Sooners win this one and slowly try to work their way up the BCS rankings. TAMU: 25 -- OU: 42
Indiana Hoosiers @ THE Ohio State Buckeyes
Draper: After the high-octane October schedule and the huge upset in the Shoe, we get .... Indiana. Letdown possibility? No. OSU is riding on cloud nine after taking down the Badgers and they will continue to play ever game as if it's their season. IU had to hate watching tape this week as the Buckeyes are playing like a team possessed. The OSU defensive lines is one of the best in the country and will absolutely destroy the Hoosier O-Line. I almost feel sorry for the IU QB as Simon introduces him to the turf....almost. Bucks roll in another statement. IU: 3--OSU: 41Auer: The best news of this week should be that the Buckeyes are bowl eligible after a win over the Hoosiers. After an epic win last week over the Badgers, many will expect some sort of let down, surely they will be sluggish during the first half, but Boom Herron will help power the Bucks to another big win. IU: 17--OSU: 38
Hoying: Minnesota beat Iowa last week, so anything's possible, right? Not quite. What's that thing that Ohio State does really well? Run the ball. What's that thing that Indiana likes to let their opponents do without resistance? Run the ball. Joe Bauserman could run the option all day and the Bucks would still cruise. Another Indiana game, another laugher. IU: 0--OSU: 38Schweinfurth: All hail Braxton Miller!!! The performance he put on last week against the Badgers was something to behold. Look for Buckeye offense continue to improve this week against a young, but energetic Hoosier team. The Silver Bullets should win this one easily. John Simon, now playing the Leo position, has a big day. Game is close through the 1st quarter (a little bit of a big win hangover) but the Bucks pull away late. IU: 7 -- OSU: 41
Upset Special:
Draper: Texas Tech over Texas and Iowa over Michigan
Auer: Northwestern over Nebraska, Iowa over Michigan
Hoying: Louisville over West VirginiaSchweinfurth: Louisville over West Virginia
Draper: It's finally here. The game of the year between the best teams in the country. Neither of these teams have even seriously been tested this year. LSU has played the better schedule (mostly due to Oregon--WVU is not good), but Bama has the home field advantage which I believe will be the difference--that and the severe coaching advantage with Nick Saban. Both teams have been just awesome on defense, and even though the Crimson Tide haven't played a great offense, I think they're pretty evenly matched with the Honey Badger's crew. Jarrett Lee has been a pleasant surprise for the Tigers but they don't have a game changer on offense. Trent Richardson provides the Tide spark on offense to overcome the mediocre QB play--and makes a serious bid for the Heisman. Les Miles makes a late coaching mistake (shocker!) that costs his team the game. LSU: 16--Bama: 17Auer: LSU's penchant for success in night games has been one that should amaze all, 30-1 since 2001 in all games starting after 6:00pm... insane. Richardson has been a beast all year long, and on this Saturday night, he will certainly book his trip to NYC, along with the Crimson Tide all but clinching their spot in the BCS National Championship game. The Mad Hatter will strike again... but not in a winning fashion. LSU: 10--Bama: 21
Hoying: Hard to say which team has an edge in this contest. Bama has started slowly in a few of their contest this season but I have trouble believing this squad will buckle if they find themselves in an early hole. When analyzing a big game against evenly matched teams, the advantage goes to the group with the better playmakers. Both teams feature boatloads of defensive stars, but LSU lacks the go-to guy to carry the offense if needed. Bama features the better QB and RB, which should be enough to put the Tide on top. Nevertheless, expect Les Miles to pull out a few tricks that Saban wouldn't dream of running, to try to give his Tigers a chance. However, Bama is too well-disciplined to be fooled by goofy flashy plays. Go with the home team. LSU: 9--Bama:17Schweinfurth: These two teams are clearly the two best in the country. Jarrett Lee has done a more than capable job at managing a methodical LSU offense. Unfortunately for the Tigers, they are going up against a nasty Tide defense. The same can be said about Heisman candidate Trenton Richardson going up against a very good LSU defense. I feel like LSU is the more tested team but Alabama has the better coach. LSU has given up a lot of yards lately and the trend continues in Tuscaloosa. Richardson has a BIG day and Les Miles chokes on boogers and grass. LSU: 17 -- Bama: 24
Kansas State Wildcats @ Oklahoma State Cowboys
Draper: I've been riding the Pokes all year and I'm not jumping off the bandwagon. Weeden and Blackmon are terrific as always, but a running game with Randle is exploding on the scene. The offense is unstoppable and while the defense has been questioned, they've been quietly playing pretty darn well. Stillwater will be rocking and KSU will be stunned by another quality opponent. The Wildcats are remembering what it's like playing real teams. KSU: 20--OSU: 52Auer: After the KSU loss to Oklahoma, the shine has quickly worn off of the Wildcats. OSU is just too talented and KSU's defense is just too shoddy.
Hoying: Oh, K-State. You had a HUGE opportunity to come up with a statement win at home against a vulnerable Sooner squad and you played like the Kansas State of the last 5 years. You have failed me for the last time. KSU:17--OSU:55Schweinfurth: The Wildcats showed that there is a big deficiency on defense and was exposed by Oklahoma last week. It doesn't get any easier this week with the Wildcats rolling into Stillwater. This game will be Blackmon, Blackmon, and more Blackmon. KSU: 21 -- OSU: 45
South Carolina Gamecocks @ Arkansas Razorbacks
Draper: Another game that will be overshadowed due to the showdown in Tuscaloosa, but it is a top 10 matchup. While Arkansas should have been snakebitten by Vandy last week, I think they will take the win over an injured South Carolina. This would have been a spectacular game if the Gamecock stud, Marcus Lattimore, was playing, but without him, Tyler Wilson and the Razorbacks should win comfortably, especially at home. USC: 20--Ark: 38Auer: Had no clue USC was ranked in the top 10... wow. Arkansas is coming off of a sure-fire loss... that they somehow won. They should be ready to play when the 'Cocks come to town. USC: 17--Ark: 34
Hoying: Who wants to be the 3rd best team in the SEC? South Carolina has had the good fortune of rampaging through the weak sauce SEC East, but they failed in their one test against a decent West team (Auburn). Without Marcus Lattimore, this team will not win another significant matchup (no, Florida next week doesn't count). Bulldogs take control of the East with a big Ar-kansas win. USC: 13--Ark: 31Schweinfurth: Arkansas is very lucky to have only one loss after narrowly escaping Nashville last week with a win. It could be that the Razorbacks were looking forward to this match up with the Gamecocks. South Carolina, without Marcus Lattamore is obviously not the same team they were to start the season. I'll take the Razorbacks (HBC is looking forward to the golf course later that night). USC: 17 -- Ark: 35
Texas A&M Aggies @ Oklahoma Sooners
Draper: This game is on the list for preseason expectations. We've seen the traditional Sooner bounceback and the A&M continued suck. OU returns to Norman to pay the fans back for the crap they saw 2 weeks ago. Jones to Broyles will be crazy good and Tannehill won't be able to solve a 'return to form' OU defense. Sooners big. TAMU: 17--OU: 45Auer: Oklahoma will continue to prove the Texas Tech home loss was a fluke, it won't do much good this weekend when all eyes are on the Tigers-Crimson Tide match-up. This week the Sooners take care of business at home. TAMU: 7--OU: 51
Hoying: Everyone's favorite overrated team, Texas A&M, has a chance for redemption after falling to a mediocre Missouri squad. Unfortunately, they face an Oklahoma team that for some reason everyone has decided should still be in the BCS title discussion. OU has too much to play for to lay another egg at home. Jones outduels Tannehill for a commanding Sooner win. TAMU: 17--OU: 38Schweinfurth: The Aggies continue their final romp through the Big 12 and are quietly having a very good season. The Sooners, meanwhile, were having a national championship season until that stumble at Texas Tech. The Sooners win this one and slowly try to work their way up the BCS rankings. TAMU: 25 -- OU: 42
Indiana Hoosiers @ THE Ohio State Buckeyes
Draper: After the high-octane October schedule and the huge upset in the Shoe, we get .... Indiana. Letdown possibility? No. OSU is riding on cloud nine after taking down the Badgers and they will continue to play ever game as if it's their season. IU had to hate watching tape this week as the Buckeyes are playing like a team possessed. The OSU defensive lines is one of the best in the country and will absolutely destroy the Hoosier O-Line. I almost feel sorry for the IU QB as Simon introduces him to the turf....almost. Bucks roll in another statement. IU: 3--OSU: 41Auer: The best news of this week should be that the Buckeyes are bowl eligible after a win over the Hoosiers. After an epic win last week over the Badgers, many will expect some sort of let down, surely they will be sluggish during the first half, but Boom Herron will help power the Bucks to another big win. IU: 17--OSU: 38
Hoying: Minnesota beat Iowa last week, so anything's possible, right? Not quite. What's that thing that Ohio State does really well? Run the ball. What's that thing that Indiana likes to let their opponents do without resistance? Run the ball. Joe Bauserman could run the option all day and the Bucks would still cruise. Another Indiana game, another laugher. IU: 0--OSU: 38Schweinfurth: All hail Braxton Miller!!! The performance he put on last week against the Badgers was something to behold. Look for Buckeye offense continue to improve this week against a young, but energetic Hoosier team. The Silver Bullets should win this one easily. John Simon, now playing the Leo position, has a big day. Game is close through the 1st quarter (a little bit of a big win hangover) but the Bucks pull away late. IU: 7 -- OSU: 41
Upset Special:
Draper: Texas Tech over Texas and Iowa over Michigan
Auer: Northwestern over Nebraska, Iowa over Michigan
Hoying: Louisville over West VirginiaSchweinfurth: Louisville over West Virginia
Five Thoughts from the week that was--Week 9
1) You can't change a tiger's stripes. Different year, same teams.
Ok everyone. The story remains the same year in year out and we always expect a different outcome. Clemson riding high and undefeated; Sparty grabbing hold of the B1G; OU clobbering everyone in their path; Michigan starting a nice healthy 5-0. Then, say it with me, the same thing always happens. Clemson turns up their flaky meter and gets smoked; MSU chokes big time; Oklahoma drops a game they have no business at all losing; Michigan plays a real team/defense and remembers they can't play football. Why are we always surprised? Yes, there's the occasional aberration, but the norm is rarely diverted. Stop being surprised when the flaky teams do what they do every year, be surprised if these teams ever buck the choke trend.
2) Home field advantage is palpable in college football.
Who really thought OSU was going to beat Wisconsin? Neb over MSU? Homefield advantage is greatly overrated in many sports (NFL, MLB, NHL--pro sports not locked out), but in college, it's truly magical. The fans have so much invested, the band/cheerleaders are there, the location is familiar, and the stadiums are built for sound and craziness. Also, the tickets are hoarded and only a small percentage are sold to the opponents. Remember, when Wisky smashed Nebraska and looked like world beaters then got beaten by MSU and OSU. MSU loses to Nebraska once they left the friendly confines of East Lansing. Stanford squeaked by USC when no one really thought the Trojans had a chance. Home field isn't all there is, but it's does make a difference.
3) The reports of Ohio State's death are greatly exaggerated.
So OSU has 3 losses before November. While the streak of dominance (6 straight conference titles) may appear in jeopardy, the huge upset over the Badgers puts the Buckeyes one additional PSU loss away from controlling their destiny. Buckeye Nation is slowly recovering from TatGate and fearing potential additional sanctions, but while the rest of the B1G saw an opportunity to steal a title, the Buckeyes won't go away. In fact, they should be highly favored in all their remaining games until the Game vs. the hated Wolverines. Imagine the hatred if the Buckeyes can take all the slings and arrows and still emerge victorious. In all honesty, I imagine this to be a 50-50 shot. OSU should steamroll Indiana, PSU (at home), and Purdue, but the Wolverines may provide a challenge for the first time in years. I feel good about the game because I believe UM is the same overrated team of old (although not as bad in previous years), but it will be more competitive. I will say this: no one is looking forward to facing the Buckeyes as they remembered they are Ohio State and the title goes through them.
4) Filling the early schedule with creampuffs can be dangerous.
Wisconsin started the season with a series of horrid opponents and was touted as a national title contender due to the absolute havoc they wreaked on their foes. After a blasting of Nebraska, it appeared Wisconsin was running to the Rose Bowl (or maybe the National Title). Then, real defenses shook them back to earth. Stanford warmed up with no one....and was almost tagged in their first test in LA (I'm sure the Ducks are chomping at the bit). Yes, there are downsides as FSU threw everything at the Sooners and injuries/let down cost them the next 2 games (and most likely the ACC), but OSU, LSU, Bama (PSU isn't bad), and Oregon were tested early and look more poised than those who coasted. It's not a hard and fast rule, but it seems those tested early are more prepared for the key conference matchups.
5) S-E-Crap
Quick, name the 3rd best team in the SEC! If you answered: 'the team that just squeaked by Vanderbilt by a late comeback', you'd be correct. Yeah....Vanderbilt. Arkansas pops in at 3 in most opinions, but after the 2 world beaters of LSU and Bama, there's not a whole lot of meat. Can we stop talking about the SEC as if it was the AFC North? I will openly and honestly admit that LSU and Alabama are the 2 best teams in the country. Best at the top does not imply best top to bottom. Arkansas is ok but is living off the SEC name. South Carolina was good as a one man team but no Lattimore spells trouble. Auburn and Georgia are ok but nothing special (same level as PSU, GT, ASU, OSU, etc.). The next tier includes UF and UT but Florida lost every game in Oct. and Tennessee has faded fast. The bottom feeders are there like every conference (MSU, Ole Miss, Vandy, UK) and don't give me the worst of the SEC is the middle of other conferences. They just plain suck. SEC is the elite...at the top, but the middle is not as hefty as the B1G or the Big12 middle and the bottom is sufficiently plump.
Ok everyone. The story remains the same year in year out and we always expect a different outcome. Clemson riding high and undefeated; Sparty grabbing hold of the B1G; OU clobbering everyone in their path; Michigan starting a nice healthy 5-0. Then, say it with me, the same thing always happens. Clemson turns up their flaky meter and gets smoked; MSU chokes big time; Oklahoma drops a game they have no business at all losing; Michigan plays a real team/defense and remembers they can't play football. Why are we always surprised? Yes, there's the occasional aberration, but the norm is rarely diverted. Stop being surprised when the flaky teams do what they do every year, be surprised if these teams ever buck the choke trend.
2) Home field advantage is palpable in college football.
Who really thought OSU was going to beat Wisconsin? Neb over MSU? Homefield advantage is greatly overrated in many sports (NFL, MLB, NHL--pro sports not locked out), but in college, it's truly magical. The fans have so much invested, the band/cheerleaders are there, the location is familiar, and the stadiums are built for sound and craziness. Also, the tickets are hoarded and only a small percentage are sold to the opponents. Remember, when Wisky smashed Nebraska and looked like world beaters then got beaten by MSU and OSU. MSU loses to Nebraska once they left the friendly confines of East Lansing. Stanford squeaked by USC when no one really thought the Trojans had a chance. Home field isn't all there is, but it's does make a difference.
3) The reports of Ohio State's death are greatly exaggerated.
So OSU has 3 losses before November. While the streak of dominance (6 straight conference titles) may appear in jeopardy, the huge upset over the Badgers puts the Buckeyes one additional PSU loss away from controlling their destiny. Buckeye Nation is slowly recovering from TatGate and fearing potential additional sanctions, but while the rest of the B1G saw an opportunity to steal a title, the Buckeyes won't go away. In fact, they should be highly favored in all their remaining games until the Game vs. the hated Wolverines. Imagine the hatred if the Buckeyes can take all the slings and arrows and still emerge victorious. In all honesty, I imagine this to be a 50-50 shot. OSU should steamroll Indiana, PSU (at home), and Purdue, but the Wolverines may provide a challenge for the first time in years. I feel good about the game because I believe UM is the same overrated team of old (although not as bad in previous years), but it will be more competitive. I will say this: no one is looking forward to facing the Buckeyes as they remembered they are Ohio State and the title goes through them.
4) Filling the early schedule with creampuffs can be dangerous.
Wisconsin started the season with a series of horrid opponents and was touted as a national title contender due to the absolute havoc they wreaked on their foes. After a blasting of Nebraska, it appeared Wisconsin was running to the Rose Bowl (or maybe the National Title). Then, real defenses shook them back to earth. Stanford warmed up with no one....and was almost tagged in their first test in LA (I'm sure the Ducks are chomping at the bit). Yes, there are downsides as FSU threw everything at the Sooners and injuries/let down cost them the next 2 games (and most likely the ACC), but OSU, LSU, Bama (PSU isn't bad), and Oregon were tested early and look more poised than those who coasted. It's not a hard and fast rule, but it seems those tested early are more prepared for the key conference matchups.
5) S-E-Crap
Quick, name the 3rd best team in the SEC! If you answered: 'the team that just squeaked by Vanderbilt by a late comeback', you'd be correct. Yeah....Vanderbilt. Arkansas pops in at 3 in most opinions, but after the 2 world beaters of LSU and Bama, there's not a whole lot of meat. Can we stop talking about the SEC as if it was the AFC North? I will openly and honestly admit that LSU and Alabama are the 2 best teams in the country. Best at the top does not imply best top to bottom. Arkansas is ok but is living off the SEC name. South Carolina was good as a one man team but no Lattimore spells trouble. Auburn and Georgia are ok but nothing special (same level as PSU, GT, ASU, OSU, etc.). The next tier includes UF and UT but Florida lost every game in Oct. and Tennessee has faded fast. The bottom feeders are there like every conference (MSU, Ole Miss, Vandy, UK) and don't give me the worst of the SEC is the middle of other conferences. They just plain suck. SEC is the elite...at the top, but the middle is not as hefty as the B1G or the Big12 middle and the bottom is sufficiently plump.
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Draper Index--Week 9
Draper Index Post Week 7
1) LSU
2) Bama
3) OU (win over undefeated KSU was huge)
4) OSU
5) Stanford
6) Boise State
7) Oregon
8) Clemson
9) Nebraska
10) Arkansas
11) Auburn (just wait...)
12) South Carolina
13) Virginia Tech
14) Penn State
15) TCU
16) Michigan State
17) USC
18) Wisconsin
19) Kansas State
20) Ohio State (rankings are unbiased, I swear)21) Michigan (In the words of Zalensky: 'Gahd, I love that')
22) Washington
23) Georgia Tech
24) West Virginia
25) Houston
I'm pleased with the rankings overall. Remember, the purpose of my computer rankings is to mirror the BCS and I think it's doing a bang-up job. The winner of the LSU/Bama game will have some major separation after this epic classic on Sat and the loser won't be hurt too much. Let's just hope it's a good game.
Notes:
--OSU over Michigan is reflecting how they entered the season but more importantly the strength of schedule. UM's best opponent was MSU and then....Notre Dame?....yeah. Not that big of a surprise after the upset in Columbus
--Auburn is riding high because all losses were against top 10 teams. Wait until Georgia and Bama
--Clemson's loss in Atlanta wasn't year ending as GT is in the rankings
--Houston gets NO LOVE but they've played NO ONE
--OU was seriously hurt by the traditional hiccup, but a beatdown in Manhattan was just what the doctor ordered. Not to mention big wins in Tally and Dallas. Look out for Bedlam!
--PSU is living off the dregs...give it time
--UGA isn't ranked but they have no good wins (UF is an ok win, but nothing special). They'll be ranked if they keep winning (currently 26)
--There are clear breaks after 2 and after 4 which is not surprising.
If I had a vote, here's my ballot:
1) LSU
1a) Bama (yeah, they're tied until Sat)3) Oklahoma State
4) Stanford
5) Boise State (tenuous)
6) Oklahoma
7) Oregon
8) Arkansas
9) Nebraska
10) Clemson
11) South Carolina
12) Virginia Tech
13) Michigan State
14) Arizona State
15) USC
16) Kansas State
17) Michigan
18) Auburn
19) Ohio State
20) Penn State
21) Georgia
22) Florida State
23) Houston
24) Georgia Tech
25) West Virginia
Notes:
--Yeah, I'm giving love to my Alma Maters, but I think it's deserved. OSU got some huge wins (beat number 15 back to back) and they look tough to beat now that schedule eases. FSU is far better than their record but left everything in Tally vs. OU. Should have (would have with EJ) beaten Clemson and Wake Forest.
--No love for bad schedules--looking at you KSU, PSU, Michigan, Boise, Georgia, Houston, Big East
--The top 7 are separated from the pack in my opinion. Look out for Nebraska to build on some momentum, but no chance vs. the top 5.
BCS predictions--pecking order for at large picks is Fiesta, Sugar, Orange
BCS Championship: Bama vs. Oklahoma State (yeah, I flipped on the LSU/Bama winner)
Rose: Nebraska vs. Oregon
Fiesta: Oklahoma vs. Stanford
Sugar: LSU vs. Boise
Orange: Clemson vs. West Virginia
The B1G champ vs. Pac 12 champ is locked into the Rose. Clemson is locked into the Orange. The Sugar replaces Bama with LSU without blinking an eye. Fiesta gets 2 quick picks to replace Ok State and select the 1st at large. OU is the easy first pick with no doubt. While Boise/OU is the sexy rematch from 2006 in the Fiesta, I think the resurgence of Stanford, and more importantly, Andrew Luck will drive the Fiesta to select the Cardinal for TV ratings. Neither Boise nor Stanford will pull a large amount of money to the area so go with the better TV game. The Sugar grabs Boise to avoid the Big East flop even though Boise doesn't have a huge fan base. The game will be watched for Cinderella appeal but LSU will romp the Broncos. The Orange gets stuck with the last pick (aka the Big East Champ). This will hopefully be the last year of their auto-bid due to conference implosion.
1) LSU
2) Bama
3) OU (win over undefeated KSU was huge)
4) OSU
5) Stanford
6) Boise State
7) Oregon
8) Clemson
9) Nebraska
10) Arkansas
11) Auburn (just wait...)
12) South Carolina
13) Virginia Tech
14) Penn State
15) TCU
16) Michigan State
17) USC
18) Wisconsin
19) Kansas State
20) Ohio State (rankings are unbiased, I swear)21) Michigan (In the words of Zalensky: 'Gahd, I love that')
22) Washington
23) Georgia Tech
24) West Virginia
25) Houston
I'm pleased with the rankings overall. Remember, the purpose of my computer rankings is to mirror the BCS and I think it's doing a bang-up job. The winner of the LSU/Bama game will have some major separation after this epic classic on Sat and the loser won't be hurt too much. Let's just hope it's a good game.
Notes:
--OSU over Michigan is reflecting how they entered the season but more importantly the strength of schedule. UM's best opponent was MSU and then....Notre Dame?....yeah. Not that big of a surprise after the upset in Columbus
--Auburn is riding high because all losses were against top 10 teams. Wait until Georgia and Bama
--Clemson's loss in Atlanta wasn't year ending as GT is in the rankings
--Houston gets NO LOVE but they've played NO ONE
--OU was seriously hurt by the traditional hiccup, but a beatdown in Manhattan was just what the doctor ordered. Not to mention big wins in Tally and Dallas. Look out for Bedlam!
--PSU is living off the dregs...give it time
--UGA isn't ranked but they have no good wins (UF is an ok win, but nothing special). They'll be ranked if they keep winning (currently 26)
--There are clear breaks after 2 and after 4 which is not surprising.
If I had a vote, here's my ballot:
1) LSU
1a) Bama (yeah, they're tied until Sat)3) Oklahoma State
4) Stanford
5) Boise State (tenuous)
6) Oklahoma
7) Oregon
8) Arkansas
9) Nebraska
10) Clemson
11) South Carolina
12) Virginia Tech
13) Michigan State
14) Arizona State
15) USC
16) Kansas State
17) Michigan
18) Auburn
19) Ohio State
20) Penn State
21) Georgia
22) Florida State
23) Houston
24) Georgia Tech
25) West Virginia
Notes:
--Yeah, I'm giving love to my Alma Maters, but I think it's deserved. OSU got some huge wins (beat number 15 back to back) and they look tough to beat now that schedule eases. FSU is far better than their record but left everything in Tally vs. OU. Should have (would have with EJ) beaten Clemson and Wake Forest.
--No love for bad schedules--looking at you KSU, PSU, Michigan, Boise, Georgia, Houston, Big East
--The top 7 are separated from the pack in my opinion. Look out for Nebraska to build on some momentum, but no chance vs. the top 5.
BCS predictions--pecking order for at large picks is Fiesta, Sugar, Orange
BCS Championship: Bama vs. Oklahoma State (yeah, I flipped on the LSU/Bama winner)
Rose: Nebraska vs. Oregon
Fiesta: Oklahoma vs. Stanford
Sugar: LSU vs. Boise
Orange: Clemson vs. West Virginia
The B1G champ vs. Pac 12 champ is locked into the Rose. Clemson is locked into the Orange. The Sugar replaces Bama with LSU without blinking an eye. Fiesta gets 2 quick picks to replace Ok State and select the 1st at large. OU is the easy first pick with no doubt. While Boise/OU is the sexy rematch from 2006 in the Fiesta, I think the resurgence of Stanford, and more importantly, Andrew Luck will drive the Fiesta to select the Cardinal for TV ratings. Neither Boise nor Stanford will pull a large amount of money to the area so go with the better TV game. The Sugar grabs Boise to avoid the Big East flop even though Boise doesn't have a huge fan base. The game will be watched for Cinderella appeal but LSU will romp the Broncos. The Orange gets stuck with the last pick (aka the Big East Champ). This will hopefully be the last year of their auto-bid due to conference implosion.
Grading the Bucks--Week 9 Wisconsin
WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!! Just had to get that out.
Offense: B+
Braxton looked terrific under the lights but the star of the show remains Boom Herron and the O-line. Boom was running like a man possessed looking to carry the team. With that being said, Braxton really matured into a leader. When Wisky took that late lead, he was super-confident and composed to lead the Buckeyes to an ENORMOUS win with all on the table (great adjustment on that last pass to keep his eyes downfield and find the wide open receiver to crush the Badger's spirit!!). I can't say enough about the heart of the offense with some very questionable play calls. The option was run to perfection but the dive inside on every goal line play wasn't happening. Why no A? Braxton and Boom need to run North and South and hit the hole more consistently. I know that's nit-picking but it needs to be said. I question the lack of Carlos Hyde in the goal line situation and the insistence of using Jordan Hall in the backfield, but that's for the coaching section. The WRs need to catch the easy ones as Stoneburner and Philly Brown dropped some big ones (but Philly made up for it with some nice catches). Oh yeah, the key stat: 0 turnovers by the offense. HUGE PLUS!!
Defense: B+
This unit gets a straight up A for the heart and poise they showed....until those last few drives where they pulled a Houdini disappearing act. Christian Bryant made one key stop on a 3rd down, but was constantly missing important tackles (going for the pick on the first Badger TD, whiffing on key 3rd downs and going to sleep in the last 4 minutes). The secondary still has a LONG way to go but the good news is we don't play anyone for the rest of the year that can throw. Now to the excellent. The D-Line played possessed. Big Hank is a force that draws double teams on every single play and he still disrupts the play and John Simon will play at the next level without a doubt. The bigger plus is the fact that the Left Tackle (#58) as well as the remainder of the offensive line for Wisconsin was HOLDING ON EVERY PLAY!! With the occurring, John Simon was still a beast making key hurries, sacks, and ending Russell Wilson's Heisman run. If the comeback didn't happen in the last 4 minutes, I'd go with an A, but you can't give an A no matter how awesome the first 56 minutes were when you give up a 12 point lead in 4 minutes. Secondary is young, but played their hearts out. Look out for the defensive line next year. They will be among the best in the country (if they aren't already without Nate Williams).
Special Teams: B+
Another unit deserving an A+ if it weren't for one enormous brain fart. Basil was perfect (close but it still counts) on FGs and while the kickoff coverage was lax late (I don't think they started beyond the 20 until the 4th quarter), there were no huge game changers. In fact, the MVP of the special teams was Drew Basil for the 2 textbook tackles he had on kickoffs late (watch the replay, he looked better than Bryant and probably saved a TD!). Jordan Hall's fumble/turnover was a turning point that was the only thing that OSU could do to give the Badgers hope....can't do that. I don't care if he lost 20 yards on the return....catch the ball. He did redeem himself with an absolute MUST of a kickoff return at the end of the game, but it wouldn't have been needed without the muff. I love that he came back from adversity to save it but you need to know the situation. Buchanan was great on punts as he has been most of the year. Picky, but that's how I roll.
Coaching: B+
Nice job, Luke. Don't think it's enough to keep Meyer away, but I'll give credit for the gameplan and execution this week. Bollman called a pretty good game but the goalline offense was pedestrian (QB SNEAK IS ALLOWED!!!) and the choice of Hall in the backfield was a huge gaffe. The 4th and goal decision to go for it was very risky in my mind after the 3 straight failures up the gut but it worked (not saying a bad decision but tough call). I don't like punting from the opposing 38 when you have 3rd and 2. Run the ball twice instead of a bomb then punt. Again, it worked ok (pinned them deep and forced a punt), but I disagree with the decision. Hard to argue with success but I didn't like that one at all. Defensive fire and intensity was maintained all game even in the scary moments which is a credit to the coaches. I will question (as I do every week) the lack of screen and slant passes. It gives the QB confidence and it's EASY!! Especially when the defense was playing 20 yards off the line. Those plays MUST be instituted as we move forward considering we seriously have a chance of winning the B1G. Love the heart and focus from the team, love the execution for the most part, and....happier but not all the way with the playcalling. More short routes, more QB draws, more options, and more Boom. Less bombs, less Iso, less Dave....don't think that last will ever happen. Overall, great job beating the Badgers. Anytime they lose, a child smiles!
Offense: B+
Braxton looked terrific under the lights but the star of the show remains Boom Herron and the O-line. Boom was running like a man possessed looking to carry the team. With that being said, Braxton really matured into a leader. When Wisky took that late lead, he was super-confident and composed to lead the Buckeyes to an ENORMOUS win with all on the table (great adjustment on that last pass to keep his eyes downfield and find the wide open receiver to crush the Badger's spirit!!). I can't say enough about the heart of the offense with some very questionable play calls. The option was run to perfection but the dive inside on every goal line play wasn't happening. Why no A? Braxton and Boom need to run North and South and hit the hole more consistently. I know that's nit-picking but it needs to be said. I question the lack of Carlos Hyde in the goal line situation and the insistence of using Jordan Hall in the backfield, but that's for the coaching section. The WRs need to catch the easy ones as Stoneburner and Philly Brown dropped some big ones (but Philly made up for it with some nice catches). Oh yeah, the key stat: 0 turnovers by the offense. HUGE PLUS!!
Defense: B+
This unit gets a straight up A for the heart and poise they showed....until those last few drives where they pulled a Houdini disappearing act. Christian Bryant made one key stop on a 3rd down, but was constantly missing important tackles (going for the pick on the first Badger TD, whiffing on key 3rd downs and going to sleep in the last 4 minutes). The secondary still has a LONG way to go but the good news is we don't play anyone for the rest of the year that can throw. Now to the excellent. The D-Line played possessed. Big Hank is a force that draws double teams on every single play and he still disrupts the play and John Simon will play at the next level without a doubt. The bigger plus is the fact that the Left Tackle (#58) as well as the remainder of the offensive line for Wisconsin was HOLDING ON EVERY PLAY!! With the occurring, John Simon was still a beast making key hurries, sacks, and ending Russell Wilson's Heisman run. If the comeback didn't happen in the last 4 minutes, I'd go with an A, but you can't give an A no matter how awesome the first 56 minutes were when you give up a 12 point lead in 4 minutes. Secondary is young, but played their hearts out. Look out for the defensive line next year. They will be among the best in the country (if they aren't already without Nate Williams).
Special Teams: B+
Another unit deserving an A+ if it weren't for one enormous brain fart. Basil was perfect (close but it still counts) on FGs and while the kickoff coverage was lax late (I don't think they started beyond the 20 until the 4th quarter), there were no huge game changers. In fact, the MVP of the special teams was Drew Basil for the 2 textbook tackles he had on kickoffs late (watch the replay, he looked better than Bryant and probably saved a TD!). Jordan Hall's fumble/turnover was a turning point that was the only thing that OSU could do to give the Badgers hope....can't do that. I don't care if he lost 20 yards on the return....catch the ball. He did redeem himself with an absolute MUST of a kickoff return at the end of the game, but it wouldn't have been needed without the muff. I love that he came back from adversity to save it but you need to know the situation. Buchanan was great on punts as he has been most of the year. Picky, but that's how I roll.
Coaching: B+
Nice job, Luke. Don't think it's enough to keep Meyer away, but I'll give credit for the gameplan and execution this week. Bollman called a pretty good game but the goalline offense was pedestrian (QB SNEAK IS ALLOWED!!!) and the choice of Hall in the backfield was a huge gaffe. The 4th and goal decision to go for it was very risky in my mind after the 3 straight failures up the gut but it worked (not saying a bad decision but tough call). I don't like punting from the opposing 38 when you have 3rd and 2. Run the ball twice instead of a bomb then punt. Again, it worked ok (pinned them deep and forced a punt), but I disagree with the decision. Hard to argue with success but I didn't like that one at all. Defensive fire and intensity was maintained all game even in the scary moments which is a credit to the coaches. I will question (as I do every week) the lack of screen and slant passes. It gives the QB confidence and it's EASY!! Especially when the defense was playing 20 yards off the line. Those plays MUST be instituted as we move forward considering we seriously have a chance of winning the B1G. Love the heart and focus from the team, love the execution for the most part, and....happier but not all the way with the playcalling. More short routes, more QB draws, more options, and more Boom. Less bombs, less Iso, less Dave....don't think that last will ever happen. Overall, great job beating the Badgers. Anytime they lose, a child smiles!
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Week 9 Picks--Shakeups?
Michigan State Spartans @ Nebraska CornhuskersDraper: I've gone back and forth, but I've decided this is going to be the traditional 'Sparty' game. Don't get me wrong. I think MSU is a far better team than Nebraska. In fact, I truly believe that the Huskers are supremely overrated, but the omens all point to an upset. MSU comes off of back to back high energy wins (UM and Wisc) including the epic Hail Mary on the last second. Now they head to Lincoln with the total confidence (cockiness?) to steamroll the Legends. Remember that Nebraska was the preseason favorite and they can play some football. I expect a matchup much like MSU/OSU with low scoring blah football but Taylor Martinez breaks one big play at home to shakeup the B1G even more. MSU: 17--Neb: 20
Auer: The stout defense of the Spartans must come to play against a schizophrenic Nebraska team that looks to make a statement in the Big Ten. Kirk Cousins should be able to have a field day against the iffy Blackshirts, and send an even bigger message to the college football world. MSU: 31--Neb: 10
Hoying: Michigan State continues to build momentum after consecutive victories over Ohio State, Michigan, and Wisconsin, but another disturbing trend has been lurking: this team plays like GARBAGE on the road. MSU came to Columbus and faced an Ohio State team with a severely broken offense, and still only won by 3. Before that, they faced a mediocre Notre Dame team in South Bend and got hammered. Now they face an environment they have never seen before. Let's not forget, the Huskers still control their own destiny and they are looking for the statement win that has eluded them so far. Taylor Martinez has his work cut out for him against an excellent Spartan front, but recent media darling Kirk Cousins will make more mistakes as Nebraska pulls out the win. MSU: 13 -- Neb: 21Schweinfurth: Ahh Sparty, we can always count on you once a year for a let down game. As Corso would say "Not so fast my friend." Michigan State does an excellent job shutting down mobile quarterbacks who can't throw (see Robinson, Denard) and even the woeful Ohio State offense moved the ball on Nebraska. The Spartans get William Gholston back this week, making that front four that much better. Nebraska will get one, maybe two drives in and State rolls on. MSU: 24 -- Neb: 10
Oklahoma Sooners @ Kansas State WildcatsDraper: Is Kansas State for real? Every week, we (and by we I mean I) expect the collapse but they just keep winning. I think it ends here. OU was embarrassed at home by Texas Tech in a game in which all the chips were on the table. The defense was exposed by a pass happy offense, but I don't think Colin Klein has the weapons needed. Also, Oklahoma will come in desperate for a rebound after that debacle. Landry Jones creeps back into Heisman runner-up contention with a big day and Bill Snyder finally takes a hit against a good team. OU: 48--KSU: 24
Auer: Oklahoma lived up to their nickname last week. They will make up for it against a definite pretender. OU: 49--KSU: 17
Hoying: Apocalypse indicator #34: Oklahoma lost at home to an inferior opponent. This Sooner team is going to be severely rattled following the collapse of their national title hopes. The last thing they need is a road game against a legitimate threat. Kansas State kicks off a murderer's row of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Texas A&M, and Texas over the next four weeks, and it's hard to believe they'll escape the slate unscathed. But this week they still have a full head of steam, and their rushing attack will be just good enough to deal the swooning Sooners a momentous blow. OU: 34--KSU: 35Schweinfurth: Who saw Oklahoma losing to Texas Tech? Who saw K-State undefeated until this point? Oklahoma rebounds this week. (Sorry there isn't more, I just don't know enough about Kansas State). OU: 42 -- KSU: 17
Georgia Bulldogs vs. Florida GatorsDraper: The World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party (yeah, I said it, big whoop wanna fight about it?) is for....nothing really. The winner of this game has an inside track to get crushed in the SEC title game (assuming South Carolina disappears without Lattimore), but that's about it. Georgia really isn't that good despite all the SEC apologists out there. Of course, neither is Florida, but they have the playmakers. A lot will depend on John Brantley (not promising for UF), but I think he'll be healthy enough to do what he does best: get the ball to Demps and Rainey. Let's not forget that UF owns this rivalry of late. They win again and in the process, really hurt Boise (by beating their only 'quality' win). UGA: 17--UF: 24
Auer: With the return of Demps and Brantly, UF will probably fare a lot better than expected. The Bulldogs started off with two rough losses, and now have rattled off 5 straight wins. UF has suffered a lot due to injuries, and will get back on track with the return of their QB. UGA: 20--UF: 29
Hoying: Another storied rivalry game falls by the wayside. The battle for the Who Cares? division of the SEC features two teams headed in very different directions. Georgia has overcome a weak start to feast on a slate of 5 terrible teams in a row, while Florida's once-potent offense has gone out the window after losing John Brantley and facing 3 teams with a pulse. However, the only trend that will reverse this Saturday is Florida's 18 wins in the last 21 Parties. Hey Bulldog! UGA: 28 -- UF: 13Schweinfurth: This is one of the least hyped Cocktail Parties in recent memory. Georgia has been very quiet this year after losing to Boise early. Will Muschamp has also had a pretty quiet season at Florida, especially after Brantley went down with an injury. All said, the Gators are the better team. Look for Demps and Rainey to have a big day. UGA: 14 -- UF: 35
Stanford Cardinal @ USC TrojansDraper: TRAP GAME!!! TRAP GAME!!! Andrew Luck and the Cardinal haven't played a real opponent until last week (and even that was a stretch), but they have DEMOLISHED everyone. USC has very quietly been stockpiling wins and would be a factor in the Pac 12 (if not the BCS) were they not still on probation. This is their bowl game as they don't get the Ducks and they will throw all they have at the Cardinal to avenge the last few embarrassing losses to Stanford including 'What's your deal?' and the 41 point underdog upset (only a few years passed surprisingly). While this points to a potential upset, I think too many factors have the Cardinal on their toes. Yes, USC is down, but they're still the pretty boys in LA. Look for Luck to lock up the Heisman in his first real test of the year. Stanford: 31--USC: 20
Auer: USC is NOT the USC that everyone used to fear. The Trojans are riding high after a win on the road in South Bend, but really, how good is Notre Dame? I say not so good. Stanford and Andrew Luck will continue their win streak and make a mess of the Trojans. Stanford: 38--USC: 14
Hoying: Remember 4 years ago? USC, riding a #1 and a 35-game home win streak, was already being discussed as the greatest team of all time (idiotic) and Stanford waltzed in with their 3rd string quarterback and pulled the shocker. Anyone recognize those teams now? That being said, the Trojans' win last week in South Bend was way, way more impressive than anything Stanford has done this season (no, Washington, you're not relevant) and the men of Troy seem to be getting better each week. USC has no hope of achieving any kind of title this year, so THIS GAME is their season. Stanford has been flashy but they haven't seen a passing attack as effective as Barkley to Woods (no, Washington, you're not that special). Stanford stumbles. Stanford: 38 -- USC: 41Schweinfurth: Okay, so USC surprised me last week by beating Notre Dame (quitters). The Stanford D is relatively unknown and a big question mark for this team. However, USC may be with out Robert Woods and Marc Tyler. If that's the case, this one could get ugly. It's a big stage for Andrew Luck and he won't disappoint. Stanford in a close one. Stanford: 24 -- USC: 21
Wisconsin Badgers @ Ohio State Buckeyes
Draper: Wisconsin comes off a devastating loss to Sparty and will be seeking blood over the mighty (yet down) Buckeyes. Buckeyes have had two weeks to prepare, but is that enough? Heart or head? Heart or head? I have to maintain journalistic integrity and go with my head. Braxton Miller explodes onto the scene with his best passing performance of the season and compiles a school record 7 total TDs (4 passing, 3 rushing). Boom and Hyde both eclipse the 200 yards mark but settle for 2 TDs each. Bauserman enters in mop up duty in the third quarter to mass applause and cheers and begins with a picture perfect 90 yard TD pass. He is removed late 3rd after his 3th TD for Guiton who takes a knee on every snap (including 4th downs) in a taunting fashion for the whole 4th quarter. Oh yeah, OSU goes for 2 after every TD and got them all--Basil threw for 4 2-pt conversions. The Bullets return 2 Russell Wilson interceptions for scores but are crushed by allowing a late TD. Fickell, in a rage over the Wisky TD in the final seconds, rushes over and chokes out Bielema as the clock reaches zero. The Badgers limp out of Columbus, with half of the team injured and Bielema rushed to the hospital where they can't figure out if he has suffered brain damage or is really that dumb. GO BUCKS! UW: 6 (PAT blocked)--OSU: 128
Auer: With the Senator walking the sidelines, this game might go differently. The Bucks are coming off a bye, and lord only knows what Fickell and that staff have messed up... I mean added to the already amazing offense of the Bucks. Remember when Tress couldn't win a game after the Bucks had a bye week? Maybe, just maybe, Fickell and friends have found something to surprise us all... an actual game plan. No realistic reason, but the Bucks are gonna find a way in front of 105,000 frantic fans. UW: 30--OSU: 34
Hoying: We saw in the Illinois game that the Bucks aren't giving this season up yet, and they are improving each week. However, this is no schedule-inflated Illini squad. Last year, the Buckeyes were embarrassed on every side of the ball by a Wisconsin team giving the performance of their lives. The Badgers will probably not be able to match that intensity, especially after such a deflating loss. Even so, this game can be boiled down to 3 questions:
1. Is Ohio State more talented than they were last season?..................................No
2. Is Wisconsin less talented than they were last season?.....................................No
3. Is Ohio State better led and more poised than they were last season?...........No
Barring Wisconsin letting MSU beat them two weeks in a row, this one won't be close. The Bucks get plowed. UW: 27 -- OSU: 9Schweinfurth: The question floating around Columbus is, "Can the Bullets stop Russel Wilson?" In reality it should be "Can the Bullets stop Montee Ball." Ball is a beast and has shown he can run through weak arm tackles. The Bucks are gonna be amped for this game. Ohio State is tough to beat at night, in the 'Shoe. Fickell has had two weeks to get the troops ready to go. Miller has a breakout game and Bielema starts crying (again) on the sideline. UW: 17 -- OSU: 28
Upset Special:Draper: Georgia Tech over Clemson, Tennessee over South Carolina
Auer: Ohio State over Wisconsin, Florida over Georgia, Illinois over PSU
Hoying: Georgia Tech over Clemson, Baylor over Oklahoma StateSchweinfurth: Illinois over Penn St.
Auer: The stout defense of the Spartans must come to play against a schizophrenic Nebraska team that looks to make a statement in the Big Ten. Kirk Cousins should be able to have a field day against the iffy Blackshirts, and send an even bigger message to the college football world. MSU: 31--Neb: 10
Hoying: Michigan State continues to build momentum after consecutive victories over Ohio State, Michigan, and Wisconsin, but another disturbing trend has been lurking: this team plays like GARBAGE on the road. MSU came to Columbus and faced an Ohio State team with a severely broken offense, and still only won by 3. Before that, they faced a mediocre Notre Dame team in South Bend and got hammered. Now they face an environment they have never seen before. Let's not forget, the Huskers still control their own destiny and they are looking for the statement win that has eluded them so far. Taylor Martinez has his work cut out for him against an excellent Spartan front, but recent media darling Kirk Cousins will make more mistakes as Nebraska pulls out the win. MSU: 13 -- Neb: 21Schweinfurth: Ahh Sparty, we can always count on you once a year for a let down game. As Corso would say "Not so fast my friend." Michigan State does an excellent job shutting down mobile quarterbacks who can't throw (see Robinson, Denard) and even the woeful Ohio State offense moved the ball on Nebraska. The Spartans get William Gholston back this week, making that front four that much better. Nebraska will get one, maybe two drives in and State rolls on. MSU: 24 -- Neb: 10
Oklahoma Sooners @ Kansas State WildcatsDraper: Is Kansas State for real? Every week, we (and by we I mean I) expect the collapse but they just keep winning. I think it ends here. OU was embarrassed at home by Texas Tech in a game in which all the chips were on the table. The defense was exposed by a pass happy offense, but I don't think Colin Klein has the weapons needed. Also, Oklahoma will come in desperate for a rebound after that debacle. Landry Jones creeps back into Heisman runner-up contention with a big day and Bill Snyder finally takes a hit against a good team. OU: 48--KSU: 24
Auer: Oklahoma lived up to their nickname last week. They will make up for it against a definite pretender. OU: 49--KSU: 17
Hoying: Apocalypse indicator #34: Oklahoma lost at home to an inferior opponent. This Sooner team is going to be severely rattled following the collapse of their national title hopes. The last thing they need is a road game against a legitimate threat. Kansas State kicks off a murderer's row of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Texas A&M, and Texas over the next four weeks, and it's hard to believe they'll escape the slate unscathed. But this week they still have a full head of steam, and their rushing attack will be just good enough to deal the swooning Sooners a momentous blow. OU: 34--KSU: 35Schweinfurth: Who saw Oklahoma losing to Texas Tech? Who saw K-State undefeated until this point? Oklahoma rebounds this week. (Sorry there isn't more, I just don't know enough about Kansas State). OU: 42 -- KSU: 17
Georgia Bulldogs vs. Florida GatorsDraper: The World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party (yeah, I said it, big whoop wanna fight about it?) is for....nothing really. The winner of this game has an inside track to get crushed in the SEC title game (assuming South Carolina disappears without Lattimore), but that's about it. Georgia really isn't that good despite all the SEC apologists out there. Of course, neither is Florida, but they have the playmakers. A lot will depend on John Brantley (not promising for UF), but I think he'll be healthy enough to do what he does best: get the ball to Demps and Rainey. Let's not forget that UF owns this rivalry of late. They win again and in the process, really hurt Boise (by beating their only 'quality' win). UGA: 17--UF: 24
Auer: With the return of Demps and Brantly, UF will probably fare a lot better than expected. The Bulldogs started off with two rough losses, and now have rattled off 5 straight wins. UF has suffered a lot due to injuries, and will get back on track with the return of their QB. UGA: 20--UF: 29
Hoying: Another storied rivalry game falls by the wayside. The battle for the Who Cares? division of the SEC features two teams headed in very different directions. Georgia has overcome a weak start to feast on a slate of 5 terrible teams in a row, while Florida's once-potent offense has gone out the window after losing John Brantley and facing 3 teams with a pulse. However, the only trend that will reverse this Saturday is Florida's 18 wins in the last 21 Parties. Hey Bulldog! UGA: 28 -- UF: 13Schweinfurth: This is one of the least hyped Cocktail Parties in recent memory. Georgia has been very quiet this year after losing to Boise early. Will Muschamp has also had a pretty quiet season at Florida, especially after Brantley went down with an injury. All said, the Gators are the better team. Look for Demps and Rainey to have a big day. UGA: 14 -- UF: 35
Stanford Cardinal @ USC TrojansDraper: TRAP GAME!!! TRAP GAME!!! Andrew Luck and the Cardinal haven't played a real opponent until last week (and even that was a stretch), but they have DEMOLISHED everyone. USC has very quietly been stockpiling wins and would be a factor in the Pac 12 (if not the BCS) were they not still on probation. This is their bowl game as they don't get the Ducks and they will throw all they have at the Cardinal to avenge the last few embarrassing losses to Stanford including 'What's your deal?' and the 41 point underdog upset (only a few years passed surprisingly). While this points to a potential upset, I think too many factors have the Cardinal on their toes. Yes, USC is down, but they're still the pretty boys in LA. Look for Luck to lock up the Heisman in his first real test of the year. Stanford: 31--USC: 20
Auer: USC is NOT the USC that everyone used to fear. The Trojans are riding high after a win on the road in South Bend, but really, how good is Notre Dame? I say not so good. Stanford and Andrew Luck will continue their win streak and make a mess of the Trojans. Stanford: 38--USC: 14
Hoying: Remember 4 years ago? USC, riding a #1 and a 35-game home win streak, was already being discussed as the greatest team of all time (idiotic) and Stanford waltzed in with their 3rd string quarterback and pulled the shocker. Anyone recognize those teams now? That being said, the Trojans' win last week in South Bend was way, way more impressive than anything Stanford has done this season (no, Washington, you're not relevant) and the men of Troy seem to be getting better each week. USC has no hope of achieving any kind of title this year, so THIS GAME is their season. Stanford has been flashy but they haven't seen a passing attack as effective as Barkley to Woods (no, Washington, you're not that special). Stanford stumbles. Stanford: 38 -- USC: 41Schweinfurth: Okay, so USC surprised me last week by beating Notre Dame (quitters). The Stanford D is relatively unknown and a big question mark for this team. However, USC may be with out Robert Woods and Marc Tyler. If that's the case, this one could get ugly. It's a big stage for Andrew Luck and he won't disappoint. Stanford in a close one. Stanford: 24 -- USC: 21
Wisconsin Badgers @ Ohio State Buckeyes
Draper: Wisconsin comes off a devastating loss to Sparty and will be seeking blood over the mighty (yet down) Buckeyes. Buckeyes have had two weeks to prepare, but is that enough? Heart or head? Heart or head? I have to maintain journalistic integrity and go with my head. Braxton Miller explodes onto the scene with his best passing performance of the season and compiles a school record 7 total TDs (4 passing, 3 rushing). Boom and Hyde both eclipse the 200 yards mark but settle for 2 TDs each. Bauserman enters in mop up duty in the third quarter to mass applause and cheers and begins with a picture perfect 90 yard TD pass. He is removed late 3rd after his 3th TD for Guiton who takes a knee on every snap (including 4th downs) in a taunting fashion for the whole 4th quarter. Oh yeah, OSU goes for 2 after every TD and got them all--Basil threw for 4 2-pt conversions. The Bullets return 2 Russell Wilson interceptions for scores but are crushed by allowing a late TD. Fickell, in a rage over the Wisky TD in the final seconds, rushes over and chokes out Bielema as the clock reaches zero. The Badgers limp out of Columbus, with half of the team injured and Bielema rushed to the hospital where they can't figure out if he has suffered brain damage or is really that dumb. GO BUCKS! UW: 6 (PAT blocked)--OSU: 128
Auer: With the Senator walking the sidelines, this game might go differently. The Bucks are coming off a bye, and lord only knows what Fickell and that staff have messed up... I mean added to the already amazing offense of the Bucks. Remember when Tress couldn't win a game after the Bucks had a bye week? Maybe, just maybe, Fickell and friends have found something to surprise us all... an actual game plan. No realistic reason, but the Bucks are gonna find a way in front of 105,000 frantic fans. UW: 30--OSU: 34
Hoying: We saw in the Illinois game that the Bucks aren't giving this season up yet, and they are improving each week. However, this is no schedule-inflated Illini squad. Last year, the Buckeyes were embarrassed on every side of the ball by a Wisconsin team giving the performance of their lives. The Badgers will probably not be able to match that intensity, especially after such a deflating loss. Even so, this game can be boiled down to 3 questions:
1. Is Ohio State more talented than they were last season?..................................No
2. Is Wisconsin less talented than they were last season?.....................................No
3. Is Ohio State better led and more poised than they were last season?...........No
Barring Wisconsin letting MSU beat them two weeks in a row, this one won't be close. The Bucks get plowed. UW: 27 -- OSU: 9Schweinfurth: The question floating around Columbus is, "Can the Bullets stop Russel Wilson?" In reality it should be "Can the Bullets stop Montee Ball." Ball is a beast and has shown he can run through weak arm tackles. The Bucks are gonna be amped for this game. Ohio State is tough to beat at night, in the 'Shoe. Fickell has had two weeks to get the troops ready to go. Miller has a breakout game and Bielema starts crying (again) on the sideline. UW: 17 -- OSU: 28
Upset Special:Draper: Georgia Tech over Clemson, Tennessee over South Carolina
Auer: Ohio State over Wisconsin, Florida over Georgia, Illinois over PSU
Hoying: Georgia Tech over Clemson, Baylor over Oklahoma StateSchweinfurth: Illinois over Penn St.
Five Thoughts on the week that was--Week 8
1) Oklahoma upset was HUGE
Everyone is swooning over the Hail Mary MSU win over Wisconsin and what that means to the future, but that is but a drop in the bucket to the storm that erupted in Norman. Let's make this clear: Oklahoma does NOT lose in Norman. They play so much better at home than on the road, they never play Texas at home, and they just own the rest of the country when they come to their house. Texas Tech was a nice little upstart, but they shouldn't have had a prayer with all on the line in the Sooner's house. The OU defense was befuddled by Doege and even though they put up points, no one expected them to need a comeback to make it close. This loss is HUGE for the shakeup of the BCS (much much bigger than the Wisconsin loss) and will also haunt Bob Stoops. Big game Bob showed the 'Chokelahoma' moniker is more deserved.
2) Don't forget about Oregon
With all the hype around the SEC matchup in 2 weeks and all the other top 5 upsets, people are forgetting about the Ducks sneaking around the chicken coop. Yes, they lost to LSU at a 'neutral site' in Jerry world because they nicely handed the ball to LSU many times, but since then, they are trouncing everyone. I know the competition is much much weaker, but I'm not sold that Stanford can take the Ducks this year. If LSU dominates Bama, we may have to face the possibility that the Ducks are the 2nd best team in the country. Perhaps they deserve a rematch against LSU in a more neutral location in the national championship....wait....it's in New Orleans? Crap.
3) B1G is an absolute mess
Is there a team (outside of Indiana or Minnesota--maybe Purdue) in the B1G that you can say is out of the race? The answer is no. Why? OSU is down. There is no National Title contender in the conference (as I said preseason) and the conference contains a bunch of mid-level teams for this season. The clear favorites for the B1G Conference Title Game is Wisconsin v. MSU, but pretty much every other team (more or less) controls their destiny. Let's be honest. When this Ohio State team is 1 additional Penn State loss from controlling their destiny, this conference has issues. Perhaps this is the B1G basketball year!
4) Wisconsin faced a defense and....
They were exposed. The Wisconsin offense put some points up, but the unstoppable force was not so impressive in East Lansing. The game turned into a shootout and Wilson couldn't quite hang on. Let's recall that OSU gave up 10 points to the Spartans. This Wisconsin team is pretty good, but certainly not elite. They have been feasting off the dregs in Madison and weren't ready for a real test. They come into Columbus this week to face another defense with some bite and an offense that.....well the defense is good. It's not that big of a stretch to think that Wisconsin was all bark no bite.
5) BCS teams are more or less fixed right now
Can anyone imagine a situation in which a team other than those listed below will make a BCS game?
Big 12: OU/OSU
Pac 12: Stanford/Oregon
SEC: LSU/Bama
B1G: Champ (Wisc or MSU probable)
Big East: Champ (who cares)
ACC: Champ (Clemson probable)
At-Large: Boise
In my opinion, this will be the slate and I would be surprised with anything else. Yeah, Oklahoma could die off, but I'm not seeing it. One loss also does Boise in, but can anyone on their schedule beat them. Again, the excitement is somewhat tempered with the lack of top contenders. My midseason BCS Bowl predictions are:
Rose: Oregon vs. MSU
Fiesta: Oklahoma vs. Boise State
Sugar: Alabama vs. Stanford
Orange: Clemson vs. WVU
BCS Title: LSU vs. Oklahoma State
Pretty good matchups (except for the Orange....)
Everyone is swooning over the Hail Mary MSU win over Wisconsin and what that means to the future, but that is but a drop in the bucket to the storm that erupted in Norman. Let's make this clear: Oklahoma does NOT lose in Norman. They play so much better at home than on the road, they never play Texas at home, and they just own the rest of the country when they come to their house. Texas Tech was a nice little upstart, but they shouldn't have had a prayer with all on the line in the Sooner's house. The OU defense was befuddled by Doege and even though they put up points, no one expected them to need a comeback to make it close. This loss is HUGE for the shakeup of the BCS (much much bigger than the Wisconsin loss) and will also haunt Bob Stoops. Big game Bob showed the 'Chokelahoma' moniker is more deserved.
2) Don't forget about Oregon
With all the hype around the SEC matchup in 2 weeks and all the other top 5 upsets, people are forgetting about the Ducks sneaking around the chicken coop. Yes, they lost to LSU at a 'neutral site' in Jerry world because they nicely handed the ball to LSU many times, but since then, they are trouncing everyone. I know the competition is much much weaker, but I'm not sold that Stanford can take the Ducks this year. If LSU dominates Bama, we may have to face the possibility that the Ducks are the 2nd best team in the country. Perhaps they deserve a rematch against LSU in a more neutral location in the national championship....wait....it's in New Orleans? Crap.
3) B1G is an absolute mess
Is there a team (outside of Indiana or Minnesota--maybe Purdue) in the B1G that you can say is out of the race? The answer is no. Why? OSU is down. There is no National Title contender in the conference (as I said preseason) and the conference contains a bunch of mid-level teams for this season. The clear favorites for the B1G Conference Title Game is Wisconsin v. MSU, but pretty much every other team (more or less) controls their destiny. Let's be honest. When this Ohio State team is 1 additional Penn State loss from controlling their destiny, this conference has issues. Perhaps this is the B1G basketball year!
4) Wisconsin faced a defense and....
They were exposed. The Wisconsin offense put some points up, but the unstoppable force was not so impressive in East Lansing. The game turned into a shootout and Wilson couldn't quite hang on. Let's recall that OSU gave up 10 points to the Spartans. This Wisconsin team is pretty good, but certainly not elite. They have been feasting off the dregs in Madison and weren't ready for a real test. They come into Columbus this week to face another defense with some bite and an offense that.....well the defense is good. It's not that big of a stretch to think that Wisconsin was all bark no bite.
5) BCS teams are more or less fixed right now
Can anyone imagine a situation in which a team other than those listed below will make a BCS game?
Big 12: OU/OSU
Pac 12: Stanford/Oregon
SEC: LSU/Bama
B1G: Champ (Wisc or MSU probable)
Big East: Champ (who cares)
ACC: Champ (Clemson probable)
At-Large: Boise
In my opinion, this will be the slate and I would be surprised with anything else. Yeah, Oklahoma could die off, but I'm not seeing it. One loss also does Boise in, but can anyone on their schedule beat them. Again, the excitement is somewhat tempered with the lack of top contenders. My midseason BCS Bowl predictions are:
Rose: Oregon vs. MSU
Fiesta: Oklahoma vs. Boise State
Sugar: Alabama vs. Stanford
Orange: Clemson vs. WVU
BCS Title: LSU vs. Oklahoma State
Pretty good matchups (except for the Orange....)
Draper Index Week 8
Draper Index Week 8 (bowls included)
1) LSU
2) Alabama
3) Oklahoma State
4) Oklahoma
5) Boise State
6) Clemson
7) Oregon
8) Stanford
9) Arkansas
10) Auburn
11) Virginia Tech
12) Michigan State
13) USC
14) Wisconsin
15) Nebraska
16) South Carolina
17) Kansas State
18) Penn State
19) Texas A&M
20) TCU
21) Michigan
22) Washington
23) Ohio State
24) Texas Tech
25) Houston
Were I to have a vote, this is my ballot
Draper Ballot
1) LSU
2) Bama
3) Ok St
4) Stanford
5) Clemson
6) Boise State
7) Oregon
8) Oklahoma
9) Michigan State
10) Kansas State
11) Arkansas
12) Wisconsin
13) South Carolina
14) Texas A&M
15) Virginia Tech
16) Nebraska
17) Houston
18) USC
19)Georgia
20) Penn State
21) Arizona State
22) Michigan
23) Florida State
24) Miami
25) Florida
1) LSU
2) Alabama
3) Oklahoma State
4) Oklahoma
5) Boise State
6) Clemson
7) Oregon
8) Stanford
9) Arkansas
10) Auburn
11) Virginia Tech
12) Michigan State
13) USC
14) Wisconsin
15) Nebraska
16) South Carolina
17) Kansas State
18) Penn State
19) Texas A&M
20) TCU
21) Michigan
22) Washington
23) Ohio State
24) Texas Tech
25) Houston
Were I to have a vote, this is my ballot
Draper Ballot
1) LSU
2) Bama
3) Ok St
4) Stanford
5) Clemson
6) Boise State
7) Oregon
8) Oklahoma
9) Michigan State
10) Kansas State
11) Arkansas
12) Wisconsin
13) South Carolina
14) Texas A&M
15) Virginia Tech
16) Nebraska
17) Houston
18) USC
19)Georgia
20) Penn State
21) Arizona State
22) Michigan
23) Florida State
24) Miami
25) Florida
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Week 8 Picks---Look's like it's a bye week...FROM GOOD GAMES!!! BAZING!!
Wisconsin Badgers @ Michigan State Spartans
Draper: This is BY FAR, the game of the week. Sparty enters on a huge high after beating the hated rival...again, and Wisconsin comes in following their cream puff schedule. MSU has been playing with huge heart and has been the best defense in the B1G but Wisconsin is another story. I think Wisconsin will start slow as they're not ready for the defensive talent from Sparty, but the overall edge still rests with the Badgers. I see MSU jumping out to a quick lead but the lack of offensive talent will allow Wisconsin to slowly take back control of the game. UW: 24--MSU: 17
Auer: Michigan State has proven week after week that their defense is legit. Luckily the Buckeyes loss to the Spartans looks better and better, but how does MSU's loss to the Golden Domers look now? There's no way Wisconsin is going to be looking ahead to next week's night game at the 'Shoe, but me-thinks the Spartans are in for a let-down after another win over "big brother". I think UW is on the fast track to the BCS National Championship game after a big win in East Lansing. UW: 17--MSU:9
Hoying: A week after these teams were established as the clear Legends and Leaders...uh...leaders (no, Penn State, you don't count), the two meet for what is probably the Big Ten clash of the year. Thanks to the new division format, this game will probably not play too heavily into the final B1G standings, but Wisconsin is hoping to stay in the national title chase and MSU needs to build up their resume if they're fighting for a second BCS spot. Wisconsin FINALLY gets to face a superior defense and I think the Badgers will have their hands full, but Russell Wilson is no Braxton Miller or Denard "Notorious I.N.T." Robinson. Notre Dame threw all over Sparty's defense, so this will be the week we find out just how good Wilson is. My guess is just good enough. UW: 21--MSU: 20
Schweinfurth: Ahh, the only game I am looking forward to this week. The big news out of this game will be the absence of William Gholston. Gholston is one of the main anchors for that nasty Spartan D and against the power running game (and containment of Russell Wilson), he will be sorely missed. This one will be old school B1G smash mouth football. The Badgers have one of last true power offenses in the country and they use it to their advantage. This game will be much closer than the experts think, but in the end, Russell Wilson wins the game for the Badgers and the Wilson for Heisman campaign will truly pick up some steam.
UW: 24 -- MSU -- 17
Auburn Tigers @ LSU Tigers
Draper: News flying on the wire that LSU has 3 players suspended including the 'Honey Badger'. Will it matter?.....No. Auburn doesn't have the horses to hang with the big boys in Death Valley. Jarret Lee or Jordan Jefferson will do enough to get over the 14 point mark that will seal it. Auburn took down the Gators but that was at home. Bayou Bengals win easily even with the suspensions. Aub: 10--LSU: 27
Auer: Auburn really isn't that good, LSU is. The interesting thing is the home team in this series has won 10 of the last 11 games. LSU is coming off of their largest victory ever over the Volunteers, and they'll continue to make things miserable for opponents. Aub: 7--LSU: 35
Hoying: Hmm...LSU in Baton Rouge versus an Auburn team that's struggled to stop anyone but the two SEC East patsies they stumbled upon. Looks like an easy pick at first, but this is a potential trap game for the Tigers (the ugly purple ones). LSU may be looking ahead to the colossal showdown at Tuscaloosa, and Auburn has the right coach to match wits with Les Miles. Expect this game to come down to one team making a last-second stupid decision. That team will inexplicably win. Aub: 14 -- LSU: 16
Schweinfurth: Earlier this week, I would have said this game would be no contest. Granted I still think LSU wins, but the score will be much closer after LSU suspended several players this week. Regardless, LSU is the better team here and I think Auburn sticks around because of Les Miles and because Auburn has a tendency to stick around in games. Tigers win... Aub: 17 -- LSU: 38
Washington Huskies @ Stanford Cardinal
Draper: Here's a ranked matchup that no one is looking at because...no one knows that Washington is ranked. Keith Price has been phenomenal for the Huskies but the lack of national attention has hidden the slight resurgence in Seattle. Luck has been playing well but this is the first team that might actually be able to win the Sun Belt that they have played. Were it in Seattle, I might pull the trigger, but the TEs and the Luck factor in Stanford provide too much. UW: 27--Stan:38
Auer: This game shouldn't be close. Andrew Luck is legit, and will continue to prove it with another huge win over the Huskies. UW: 7--Stan: 41
Hoying: For some reason, the Pac-12 continues to play football, so here's a great match-up of teams that are definitely undeserving of their rankings. Of these teams' combined 11 wins, the best one is probably...Washington's win over 3-3 Cal to start their yearly free-fall. Look for another West Coast shootout, as both teams feature excellent QB's and NO pass defense. Stanford has the edge in both, so they win. UW: 31 -- Stan: 45
Schweinfurth: To be honest, I don't know much about the Pac-12 outside of Arizona State, Oregon, and Andrew Luck. With that said I am just gonna pick a score. UW: 21 -- Stan: 45
USC Trojans @ Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Draper: Remember when this game was relevant? Yes, I know...it's still not important, but this is the best we've got. Kelly's offense has been chugging out tons of yards and should put up points (so long as they quit turning the ball over). USC has been playing pretty well, but they are still suffering from those suspensions. Barkley and Woods have been nice for the Trojan offense, but that's it. Neither defense is worth anything (USC's is still better than ND defensively). Unfortunately for the Trojans, the ND offense is much better than USC (again, without turning the ball over). I like the Irish in a shootout. USC: 27--Irish: 38
Auer: Screw Notre Dame. Go Trojans and dreamy Matt Barkley. USC: 41--ND: 28
Hoying: My report of Notre Dame's death may have been exaggerated. The Irish have put together a decent season since their disaster in Ann Arbor, now that the turnover hemorrhage has dried up, but they face a better-than-expected Trojan team out for revenge after breaking the streak last year. USC, being from the other WAC, has beaten nobody on the way to 5-1, but the passing attack is a legitimate threat and Notre Dame, being Notre Dame, is lacking in pass defense. SC lacks the playmakers on defense to force enough turnovers to make a difference, and the Irish march onward to victory for the 2nd year in a row. USC: 24--Irish 35
Schweinfurth: This is the last chance for for Notre Dame to make a case to play in a BCS game this year and I'm sure this isn't lost on Brian Kelly. Notre Dame's offense is very good (just stay out of the red zone) and this isn't the USC defense of three - four years ago. USC's offense is adequate but the loss of Marc Tyler will hurt. I don't buy into Notre Dame's defense at all so I expect this game to be somewhat high scoring. USC: 28 -- ND: 38
Upset Special:
Draper: Duke over Wake, Northwestern over PSU
Auer: Purdue over Illinois
Hoying: Purdue over Illinois
Schweinfurth: Da U over GT
Draper: This is BY FAR, the game of the week. Sparty enters on a huge high after beating the hated rival...again, and Wisconsin comes in following their cream puff schedule. MSU has been playing with huge heart and has been the best defense in the B1G but Wisconsin is another story. I think Wisconsin will start slow as they're not ready for the defensive talent from Sparty, but the overall edge still rests with the Badgers. I see MSU jumping out to a quick lead but the lack of offensive talent will allow Wisconsin to slowly take back control of the game. UW: 24--MSU: 17
Auer: Michigan State has proven week after week that their defense is legit. Luckily the Buckeyes loss to the Spartans looks better and better, but how does MSU's loss to the Golden Domers look now? There's no way Wisconsin is going to be looking ahead to next week's night game at the 'Shoe, but me-thinks the Spartans are in for a let-down after another win over "big brother". I think UW is on the fast track to the BCS National Championship game after a big win in East Lansing. UW: 17--MSU:9
Hoying: A week after these teams were established as the clear Legends and Leaders...uh...leaders (no, Penn State, you don't count), the two meet for what is probably the Big Ten clash of the year. Thanks to the new division format, this game will probably not play too heavily into the final B1G standings, but Wisconsin is hoping to stay in the national title chase and MSU needs to build up their resume if they're fighting for a second BCS spot. Wisconsin FINALLY gets to face a superior defense and I think the Badgers will have their hands full, but Russell Wilson is no Braxton Miller or Denard "Notorious I.N.T." Robinson. Notre Dame threw all over Sparty's defense, so this will be the week we find out just how good Wilson is. My guess is just good enough. UW: 21--MSU: 20
Schweinfurth: Ahh, the only game I am looking forward to this week. The big news out of this game will be the absence of William Gholston. Gholston is one of the main anchors for that nasty Spartan D and against the power running game (and containment of Russell Wilson), he will be sorely missed. This one will be old school B1G smash mouth football. The Badgers have one of last true power offenses in the country and they use it to their advantage. This game will be much closer than the experts think, but in the end, Russell Wilson wins the game for the Badgers and the Wilson for Heisman campaign will truly pick up some steam.
UW: 24 -- MSU -- 17
Auburn Tigers @ LSU Tigers
Draper: News flying on the wire that LSU has 3 players suspended including the 'Honey Badger'. Will it matter?.....No. Auburn doesn't have the horses to hang with the big boys in Death Valley. Jarret Lee or Jordan Jefferson will do enough to get over the 14 point mark that will seal it. Auburn took down the Gators but that was at home. Bayou Bengals win easily even with the suspensions. Aub: 10--LSU: 27
Auer: Auburn really isn't that good, LSU is. The interesting thing is the home team in this series has won 10 of the last 11 games. LSU is coming off of their largest victory ever over the Volunteers, and they'll continue to make things miserable for opponents. Aub: 7--LSU: 35
Hoying: Hmm...LSU in Baton Rouge versus an Auburn team that's struggled to stop anyone but the two SEC East patsies they stumbled upon. Looks like an easy pick at first, but this is a potential trap game for the Tigers (the ugly purple ones). LSU may be looking ahead to the colossal showdown at Tuscaloosa, and Auburn has the right coach to match wits with Les Miles. Expect this game to come down to one team making a last-second stupid decision. That team will inexplicably win. Aub: 14 -- LSU: 16
Schweinfurth: Earlier this week, I would have said this game would be no contest. Granted I still think LSU wins, but the score will be much closer after LSU suspended several players this week. Regardless, LSU is the better team here and I think Auburn sticks around because of Les Miles and because Auburn has a tendency to stick around in games. Tigers win... Aub: 17 -- LSU: 38
Washington Huskies @ Stanford Cardinal
Draper: Here's a ranked matchup that no one is looking at because...no one knows that Washington is ranked. Keith Price has been phenomenal for the Huskies but the lack of national attention has hidden the slight resurgence in Seattle. Luck has been playing well but this is the first team that might actually be able to win the Sun Belt that they have played. Were it in Seattle, I might pull the trigger, but the TEs and the Luck factor in Stanford provide too much. UW: 27--Stan:38
Auer: This game shouldn't be close. Andrew Luck is legit, and will continue to prove it with another huge win over the Huskies. UW: 7--Stan: 41
Hoying: For some reason, the Pac-12 continues to play football, so here's a great match-up of teams that are definitely undeserving of their rankings. Of these teams' combined 11 wins, the best one is probably...Washington's win over 3-3 Cal to start their yearly free-fall. Look for another West Coast shootout, as both teams feature excellent QB's and NO pass defense. Stanford has the edge in both, so they win. UW: 31 -- Stan: 45
Schweinfurth: To be honest, I don't know much about the Pac-12 outside of Arizona State, Oregon, and Andrew Luck. With that said I am just gonna pick a score. UW: 21 -- Stan: 45
USC Trojans @ Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Draper: Remember when this game was relevant? Yes, I know...it's still not important, but this is the best we've got. Kelly's offense has been chugging out tons of yards and should put up points (so long as they quit turning the ball over). USC has been playing pretty well, but they are still suffering from those suspensions. Barkley and Woods have been nice for the Trojan offense, but that's it. Neither defense is worth anything (USC's is still better than ND defensively). Unfortunately for the Trojans, the ND offense is much better than USC (again, without turning the ball over). I like the Irish in a shootout. USC: 27--Irish: 38
Auer: Screw Notre Dame. Go Trojans and dreamy Matt Barkley. USC: 41--ND: 28
Hoying: My report of Notre Dame's death may have been exaggerated. The Irish have put together a decent season since their disaster in Ann Arbor, now that the turnover hemorrhage has dried up, but they face a better-than-expected Trojan team out for revenge after breaking the streak last year. USC, being from the other WAC, has beaten nobody on the way to 5-1, but the passing attack is a legitimate threat and Notre Dame, being Notre Dame, is lacking in pass defense. SC lacks the playmakers on defense to force enough turnovers to make a difference, and the Irish march onward to victory for the 2nd year in a row. USC: 24--Irish 35
Schweinfurth: This is the last chance for for Notre Dame to make a case to play in a BCS game this year and I'm sure this isn't lost on Brian Kelly. Notre Dame's offense is very good (just stay out of the red zone) and this isn't the USC defense of three - four years ago. USC's offense is adequate but the loss of Marc Tyler will hurt. I don't buy into Notre Dame's defense at all so I expect this game to be somewhat high scoring. USC: 28 -- ND: 38
Upset Special:
Draper: Duke over Wake, Northwestern over PSU
Auer: Purdue over Illinois
Hoying: Purdue over Illinois
Schweinfurth: Da U over GT
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Five Thoughts on the Week that was: Week 7
1) Officials need to slow down their whistles
If you had the ability to stay up for the Oregon/ASU game, congratulations! You were treated to a decent game that started way too late. Late in the game (I believe late 3rd quarter) when the game was still in doubt, another fantastic ref blunder occurred that may have changed the outcome. Oregon's backup QB fumbled the ball on a nice run, an ASU player made a phenomenal diving play to keep the ball in bounds, and ASU recovered it! What a turn of events! But....the official (who didn't have the correct angle on the play) blew the whistle too soon. Upon review, the ball was fumbled and recovered by ASU, but the referee couldn't change the call because of the inadvertent whistle. As I've been trained as an official, I feel free to comment that in football you never blow the whistle until you're SURE you know the play is dead. This is the worst mistake an official can make (trust me, I've made it and seen it made in intramurals and it sucks). There was no way to correct it even though everyone would admit that ASU got hosed. Of course, Oregon was the better team, but who knows what would have happened. Officials must be held accountable.
2) Just. Win. Baby.
I feel the need to comment on this after the passing of Al Davis. To often, the media hype surrounding the game of football (or other sports for that matter) have focused all the spotlight on glitz and flash. The top 10 highlights garner attention and touchdown passes are sexy. Lost in all this are the wins and losses. OSU will be a water cooler joke around the country this week for completing 1 of 4 passes, but I guarantee you the Illini fans won't see it that way. Ask Georgia Tech if they would have enjoyed an 'ugly' win over Virginia rather than a monumental collapse. ESPiN shows you that winning big is all that matters, but ask the players in the losing locker rooms if they'd prefer 10 highlights and a loss to an ugly walrusball style win. I guarantee you that the coaches and players will take the W any day.
3) Last week's slate of games SUCKED
Remember when I said there's no one good. This is when you feel it. The big games last week were
1) Pac12 showdown between a contender and an upstart no one believed had a chance
2) Big 12 showdown between a flashy offensive contender and a big name with little bite
3) SEC showdown between 2 of the last 3 teams to win a title that have fallen reasonably far
4) B1G showdown between Big Blue and little brother than has been the same outcome for 4 straight years...
Yawn. Everything comes down to Oregon/Stanford, Bedlam (OU/OSU), and Bama/LSU. Maybe throw in Wisky/(MSU, OSU) but seriously, where have all the fun intriguing matchups gone?
4) When will some of these contenders be tested?
Of the top 10, there are still 2 teams (3 if you count Boise) that have yet to be tested, and may not be. Stanford hasn't played a team with a pulse and Wisconsin's only 'big' game was against a supremely overrated Nebraska team. These teams may be for real, but looking at their schedules, there's not a lot of chances to prove it. Stanford has USC and Oregon but the remainder of their schedule is akin to the standard Boise State schedule (1 big game a year). This year, Boise doesn't even have that 1 signature game (no, I don't count UGA). Wisconsin has a big one next week in East Lansing, but no one sees Sparty as a complete team. OSU could come from nowhere to bite them but otherwise.... One big issue with no one being good is that it's hard to find proof that these teams touted as contenders are deserving. If Wisconsin wins comfortably in East Lansing, I'll buy. Stanford: Beat Oregon if you're for real, then we'll talk. Boise: sorry but enjoy the kid's table. You may be great, but we'll never know.
5) I don't wanna sound like a broken record but....
Read my last few weeks of ranting.
Refs: fail--see point 1
Commentators: SUPER FAIL--This week, I couln't choose the dumbest crew between Davie and Wischusen attacking Zook for not going for a quick 80 yard score in the last 40 seconds before halftime, Brent clearly hitting the bottle and not watching the game, or Todd Blackledge saying how a QB protected the ball while going down as the video shows a perfect stiff arm of the ground. Oh yeah, then there's Craig James (Remember the 5!) and Jesse 'The Bachelor' Palmer. It's painful to watch anyone but Spielman and Meyer.
Teams: All suck
I keep waiting to be proven wrong, but every week provides more and more fodder for criticism. I love college football, but the media, shoddy officiating, and pure lack of quality teams (sans top 3-4) take away from the experience. In fact, the lack of quality isn't necessarily bad if there were parity but the few rich teams are taking away from the fun. In regards to the commentary, try this: listen to the commentary just to find out how many
a) grammatical errors
b) conceptual errors
c) subject matter mistakes
d) inane chatter that adds nothing to the broadcast
Remove all that and the crickets would take over. Tell me about X's and O's, not 'You have got to make that catch!' That adds nothing that my grandmother couldn't add--and at least she'd be able to explain the ins and outs better.
Bonus: I thought every play was reviewed...
Can we get at least a trained monkey in the booth for replay? Every game I watch, it seems that plays that are incorrectly called are not reviewed quickly enough (see OSU/Ill 25 yard completion) and those that are correctly called (so clearly that even those with radio can tell--yes, that's the joke) are always being reviewed. A Denard Robinson TD run was reviewed (about 2-3 minutes) when everyone at home could see it live. One replay showed it....game over. I'll give ESPiN credit on the replays they show us at home, but will someone explain to me why I can see the definitive replay before the next snap, but the monkeys in the booth are too slow to react--except when it's clearly unnecessary.
If you had the ability to stay up for the Oregon/ASU game, congratulations! You were treated to a decent game that started way too late. Late in the game (I believe late 3rd quarter) when the game was still in doubt, another fantastic ref blunder occurred that may have changed the outcome. Oregon's backup QB fumbled the ball on a nice run, an ASU player made a phenomenal diving play to keep the ball in bounds, and ASU recovered it! What a turn of events! But....the official (who didn't have the correct angle on the play) blew the whistle too soon. Upon review, the ball was fumbled and recovered by ASU, but the referee couldn't change the call because of the inadvertent whistle. As I've been trained as an official, I feel free to comment that in football you never blow the whistle until you're SURE you know the play is dead. This is the worst mistake an official can make (trust me, I've made it and seen it made in intramurals and it sucks). There was no way to correct it even though everyone would admit that ASU got hosed. Of course, Oregon was the better team, but who knows what would have happened. Officials must be held accountable.
2) Just. Win. Baby.
I feel the need to comment on this after the passing of Al Davis. To often, the media hype surrounding the game of football (or other sports for that matter) have focused all the spotlight on glitz and flash. The top 10 highlights garner attention and touchdown passes are sexy. Lost in all this are the wins and losses. OSU will be a water cooler joke around the country this week for completing 1 of 4 passes, but I guarantee you the Illini fans won't see it that way. Ask Georgia Tech if they would have enjoyed an 'ugly' win over Virginia rather than a monumental collapse. ESPiN shows you that winning big is all that matters, but ask the players in the losing locker rooms if they'd prefer 10 highlights and a loss to an ugly walrusball style win. I guarantee you that the coaches and players will take the W any day.
3) Last week's slate of games SUCKED
Remember when I said there's no one good. This is when you feel it. The big games last week were
1) Pac12 showdown between a contender and an upstart no one believed had a chance
2) Big 12 showdown between a flashy offensive contender and a big name with little bite
3) SEC showdown between 2 of the last 3 teams to win a title that have fallen reasonably far
4) B1G showdown between Big Blue and little brother than has been the same outcome for 4 straight years...
Yawn. Everything comes down to Oregon/Stanford, Bedlam (OU/OSU), and Bama/LSU. Maybe throw in Wisky/(MSU, OSU) but seriously, where have all the fun intriguing matchups gone?
4) When will some of these contenders be tested?
Of the top 10, there are still 2 teams (3 if you count Boise) that have yet to be tested, and may not be. Stanford hasn't played a team with a pulse and Wisconsin's only 'big' game was against a supremely overrated Nebraska team. These teams may be for real, but looking at their schedules, there's not a lot of chances to prove it. Stanford has USC and Oregon but the remainder of their schedule is akin to the standard Boise State schedule (1 big game a year). This year, Boise doesn't even have that 1 signature game (no, I don't count UGA). Wisconsin has a big one next week in East Lansing, but no one sees Sparty as a complete team. OSU could come from nowhere to bite them but otherwise.... One big issue with no one being good is that it's hard to find proof that these teams touted as contenders are deserving. If Wisconsin wins comfortably in East Lansing, I'll buy. Stanford: Beat Oregon if you're for real, then we'll talk. Boise: sorry but enjoy the kid's table. You may be great, but we'll never know.
5) I don't wanna sound like a broken record but....
Read my last few weeks of ranting.
Refs: fail--see point 1
Commentators: SUPER FAIL--This week, I couln't choose the dumbest crew between Davie and Wischusen attacking Zook for not going for a quick 80 yard score in the last 40 seconds before halftime, Brent clearly hitting the bottle and not watching the game, or Todd Blackledge saying how a QB protected the ball while going down as the video shows a perfect stiff arm of the ground. Oh yeah, then there's Craig James (Remember the 5!) and Jesse 'The Bachelor' Palmer. It's painful to watch anyone but Spielman and Meyer.
Teams: All suck
I keep waiting to be proven wrong, but every week provides more and more fodder for criticism. I love college football, but the media, shoddy officiating, and pure lack of quality teams (sans top 3-4) take away from the experience. In fact, the lack of quality isn't necessarily bad if there were parity but the few rich teams are taking away from the fun. In regards to the commentary, try this: listen to the commentary just to find out how many
a) grammatical errors
b) conceptual errors
c) subject matter mistakes
d) inane chatter that adds nothing to the broadcast
Remove all that and the crickets would take over. Tell me about X's and O's, not 'You have got to make that catch!' That adds nothing that my grandmother couldn't add--and at least she'd be able to explain the ins and outs better.
Bonus: I thought every play was reviewed...
Can we get at least a trained monkey in the booth for replay? Every game I watch, it seems that plays that are incorrectly called are not reviewed quickly enough (see OSU/Ill 25 yard completion) and those that are correctly called (so clearly that even those with radio can tell--yes, that's the joke) are always being reviewed. A Denard Robinson TD run was reviewed (about 2-3 minutes) when everyone at home could see it live. One replay showed it....game over. I'll give ESPiN credit on the replays they show us at home, but will someone explain to me why I can see the definitive replay before the next snap, but the monkeys in the booth are too slow to react--except when it's clearly unnecessary.
Monday, October 17, 2011
One more thing...Draper Index without Bowls/Championships
As the ranking is a pure system not based on percentages but rather win/losses, this can help or punish those who have extra games (bowls or conf championship games). Surprisingly, this was actually more accurate (TCU/Aub/OSU all overvalued from bowl wins last year). Here they are:
Draper Index (no bowls/championship games)
1) LSU
2) Alabama
3) Oklahoma
4) Oklahoma State
5) Boise State
6) Clemson
7) Oregon
8) Wisconsin
9) South Carolina
10) Stanford
11) Auburn
12) Arkansas
13) Nebraska
14) Virginia Tech
15) Kansas State
16) Michigan State
17) USC
18) Penn State
19) West Virginia
20) Michigan
21) Texas A&M
22) TCU
23) Washington
24) Georgia Tech
25) Ohio State
Draper Index (no bowls/championship games)
1) LSU
2) Alabama
3) Oklahoma
4) Oklahoma State
5) Boise State
6) Clemson
7) Oregon
8) Wisconsin
9) South Carolina
10) Stanford
11) Auburn
12) Arkansas
13) Nebraska
14) Virginia Tech
15) Kansas State
16) Michigan State
17) USC
18) Penn State
19) West Virginia
20) Michigan
21) Texas A&M
22) TCU
23) Washington
24) Georgia Tech
25) Ohio State
Week 7: Draper Index Released
My own personal computer ranking system was developed about 10 years ago (!!) to attempt to mirror the BCS rankings. They have correctly tabbed the two opponents in the BCS championship game all but one year.
This formula is based on 3 components:
1) Win/Loss
2) Strength of Opponent (when the game occurred)
3) Margin of Victory (capped at 21 with considerations for game site and opponent rank)
The rankings are tied to the previous year's ranking for an initial ranking (compressed) which leads to some problems early on but they work themselves out as the season progresses. Also, points are earned or lost for playing games (there are no points shifted during byes---points are based on win/losses not win percentage). With that being said, here we go.
In case you are interested, the worst team is.......New Mexico
Draper Index: Week 7
1) LSU
2) Alabama
3) Oklahoma
4) Oklahoma State
5) Boise State
6) Clemson
7) Oregon
8) Auburn *
9) Wisconsin
10) Stanford
11) South Carolina
12) Arkansas
13) Virginia Tech
14) Nebraska
15) Kansas State
16) USC
17) Michigan State
18) Penn State
19) TCU
20) Washington
21) Michigan
22) West Virginia
23) Texas A&M
24) Ohio State
25) Georgia Tech
Obviously, the biggest hiccup is Auburn at 8 (but there only losses are @ 6 Clemson and @ 12 Arkansas...so maybe not THAT crazy for now) but that's a remnant of the number 1 ranking entering the year. Also, OSU being at 24 and TCU at 19 are clearly too high but the artifact from last year's rankings. I'm pretty pleased considering the top 5 are spot on. Here's to another success.
This formula is based on 3 components:
1) Win/Loss
2) Strength of Opponent (when the game occurred)
3) Margin of Victory (capped at 21 with considerations for game site and opponent rank)
The rankings are tied to the previous year's ranking for an initial ranking (compressed) which leads to some problems early on but they work themselves out as the season progresses. Also, points are earned or lost for playing games (there are no points shifted during byes---points are based on win/losses not win percentage). With that being said, here we go.
In case you are interested, the worst team is.......New Mexico
Draper Index: Week 7
1) LSU
2) Alabama
3) Oklahoma
4) Oklahoma State
5) Boise State
6) Clemson
7) Oregon
8) Auburn *
9) Wisconsin
10) Stanford
11) South Carolina
12) Arkansas
13) Virginia Tech
14) Nebraska
15) Kansas State
16) USC
17) Michigan State
18) Penn State
19) TCU
20) Washington
21) Michigan
22) West Virginia
23) Texas A&M
24) Ohio State
25) Georgia Tech
Obviously, the biggest hiccup is Auburn at 8 (but there only losses are @ 6 Clemson and @ 12 Arkansas...so maybe not THAT crazy for now) but that's a remnant of the number 1 ranking entering the year. Also, OSU being at 24 and TCU at 19 are clearly too high but the artifact from last year's rankings. I'm pretty pleased considering the top 5 are spot on. Here's to another success.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)