Grading the Bucks: Week 4--FAMU

Let's list the bad things that happened

1) Kenny G threw an ill advised pass intercepted in the endzone which FAMU promptly returned

2) Kickoff out of bounds

3) Um....Kenny missed a read or 2 but...who cares

That's about it.

There is absolutely NO reason to take anything from this game.  

Offense: A (Kenny G in the record books with 6 TD passes--in a half)

Defense: A+ (They never crossed the 50)

Special Teams: A (2 blocked punts?!?)

Coaching: A- (Still don't understand going for 2.  Yes, it's a real game, but come on.)

Overall: A

I'd give an A+ but consider the opponent.  There is just no reason to talk more about this.  Let's focus on Wisconsin.  Go Bucks!

Week 4: Woof...these games suck

Standings
1) Draper             10-2      (1-2 upset)
1) Schweinfurth    10-2      (1-2 upset)
2) Hoying             8-4       (1-2 upset)

*Let it be known that Draper is challenging the Wisconsin/ASU result as the Pac12 has officially stated the officials screwed up the end of the game (thus preventing him from going 4-0 and losing 2 game lead)


Michigan State Spartans @ Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Draper: The Irish squeak by a hapless Purdue after getting beat in Ann Arbor before they head back home for the battle with the Spartans.  Dantonio's club has a good defense and....well, they have a good defense.  Notre Dame has not impressed me at all on either side of the ball.  The home field will be nice, but I want to see if the stout Spartan D can beat a team with a pulse.  Walrusball strikes with a vengeance and it won't be enough...to cost the Spartans the game.  Plant the flag with shut down D.  MSU: 13--ND: 10
Hoying: After witnessing Michigan's fine athletic program procure a convincing win over Akron, it would appear that either A) the Irish aren't as good as we (ok, I) thought, or B) their mystic hangover powers can stun a team in future games.  After all, Temple lost to Houston and Fordham after playing the Irish, so maybe the leprechaun's magic is still good for something.  I don't even know what that means.  Anyway, this week, the Irish meet the Spartans, their 4th or 5th most important rival (still ahead of Michigan).  Michigan State finally seems to have decided on a QB, sophomore Connor Cook, who shredded the stout Youngstown State defense for 4 TDs (don't laugh, Kirk Cousins never threw 4 TD passes), but Notre Dame's defense may be a bit harder puzzle to solve than the Penguins' (ok, you can laugh now).  Honestly, both of these teams feel like a complete mirage.  I suppose in situations like this, it's better to rely on the proven playmakers.  For better or worse, Tommy Rees is the #1 playmaker in this game.  Look for his successes to barely make up for his mistakes.  Like Curious George.  MSU: 17--ND: 20
Schweinfurth: One really has to wonder how good Notre Dame really is.  The Irish lost to a Michigan team that barely squeaked by AKRON(!) last week.  Yes, Notre Dame has a decent enough offense but that defense still looks like it is trying to tackle fake dead girlfriends.  Michigan State is the opposite.  The Spartan defense is very good but the offense is run by a walrus.  Michigan State has been putting up points on defense, but again walrus calling the offensive plays.  This has all the makings of a derp fest and you always take the home team in those.  MSU: 10--ND: 16

Arizona State Sun Devils @ Stanford Cardinal
Draper: Oh boy...ASU returns after getting a gift win over the Badgers from the officials (still bitter).  This is the marquee game of the which should adequately explain the horrible nature of this week's slate.  Stanford was a sexy pick, but no one really knows why.  They have no star players and run a very blah system (return of Tresselball?).  That being said, the Sun Devils didn't impress with the 'win'.  Stanford is better than Wisconsin and they are at home.  Don't expect much of a game.  ASU: 17--Stan: 34
Hoying: How good is Arizona State?  Good enough to hang with Wisconsin, possibly even good enough to beat them.  However, no brain fart is going to deliver them from defeat this week. True, Pac-12 refs will still be officiating this game, but I think if a Stanford player does something on the field as boneheaded as what Joel Stave did, he gets expelled from the university for academic issues.  How good is Stanford?  This is an untested squad (that stumbled over a Black Knight pop quiz) that many picked to take the Pac-12 for a second straight year.  Home field advantage may come into play here, but a wise and cultured Cal sports writer informed me that Stanford fans don't pack their stadium as full as Buckeye fans pack Cal's.  Look for the hot hand of ASU QB Taylor Kelly to cool off against the Cardinal defense as Stanford keeps pace with the Quack Attack.  ASU: 20--Stan: 31
Schweinfurth: Arizona State got lucky last week in the fact that A.) Wisconsin still doesn't understand end of game clock management and B.) the officials working that game were dumb (delay of game much?).  Stanford is clearly one of the two best teams in the PAC-12.  Arizona State will move the ball on Stanford for sure but the Stanford D prevails.  ASU: 27--Stan: 35

Auburn Tigers @ LSU Tigers
Draper: Someone had to be the fourth game...this is seriously the best.  I'm going with the Tigers (ohohoho--I see what I did there).  LSU should expose undefeated Auburn for the mirage they are and the commentators will just explain this away as SEC speed (ignoring the fact that Auburn is in the SEC). Another beat down. Aub: 16--LSU: 34
Hoying: Well, we have to pick 4 games each week, so say hello to the 4th least crappy showdown across the mound of garbage of this week's games.  Then again, the last time I said that, Miami beat Florida, so perhaps we shouldn't write this game off so quickly.  Auburn's seeming pillow fight season-opening win against Washington State has matured nicely in this young season after the Cougars' win over USC, and the Tigers' comeback win over Mississippi State has finally snapped their horrendous conference losing streak at 10.  LSU is still LSU, cruising past a couple of cupcakes and notching a season-opening win over TCU that's not maturing so nicely.  Zach In-N-Outburger looks better than ever, and while LSU's defense may have taken a small step backward, the only danger here is looking forward to a huge matchup at Georgia next week.  Tigeouxrs whomp Tigers.  Aub: 13--LSU: 34
Schweinfurth:  I really don't know much about Auburn this year and don't care about LSU.  With that said, LSU is better and this is a beat down.  Aub: 9--LSU: 35

Florida A&M Rattlers @ THE Ohio State University Buckeyes
Draper: Stop. Scheduling. FCS. Teams.  If you're Toledo, go for it.  If you're OSU, Bama, Oregon, etc., stop it.  These are like preseason games in the NFL--profit monger for the schools for a terrible product.  The Rattlers have no chance.  I'll say this, fire Urban if this is close.  FAMU: 6--OSU: 60
Hoying: Finally, the game everyone's been looking forward to.  Unless you're an Ohio State fan.  Or a FAMU fan.  Or a college football fan.  At least TBDBITL will still be there, even if the Marching 100 isn't coming.  Seriously, what can be said about a game like this?  The Rattlers are BAD, even for an FCS team.  Ohio State is GOOD, even for an FBS team.  The spread is currently at 50, which is the highest ever for an Ohio State game.  Oddly, the spread for the Miami (FL) - Savannah State game is currently at 60.  Do these seem off, comparatively, to anyone else?  True, the SSU Tigers were outscored by an average of 65.5 in their two losses to FCS teams, but still...
Blah blah Braxton's back blah blah Carlos Hyde blah blah easy win.  FAMU: 6--OSU: 63
Schweinfurth:  When this game was announce after Vandy backed out I rolled my eyes.  This is nothing but a paid beat down.  Essentially, the Bucks are going to play Miller enough to get his timing down with the backs and receivers, so just about a quarter.  I expect no less than 600 yards of offense from OSU.  The Silver Bullets will dominate and maybe a special teams TD thrown in.  Take a nap after the first two Ohio State drives.  This one gets super ugly quick.  FAMU: 0--OSU: 70

Upset Special
Draper: Indiana over Missouri
Hoying: NC State over Clemson
Schweinfurth:  Kansas St. over Texas

Grading the Bucks--Week 3: California

Offense: A
No Braxton, no problem.  Kenny G was masterful (granted, against a horrid Cal defense) and Hall was above average.  I'm still not sold on Jordan Hall up the middle/breaking tackles (enter Carlos Hyde), but he has good vision.  Wilson was spectacular as usual.  The only complaint I have is that the QB sneak is a legal play. Going for it on 4th and inches is fine, but these shotgun sweep plays are super frustrating.  There is simply too much chance for a negative play.  Back on Guiton, he was running the option (on the few plays that it was called) flawlessly.  I have the highest faith in Kenny G and expect him to be a viable threat in Urban's arsenal after Braxton returns.

Defense: C-
Not. Good. Enough.  Cal has a very good offense with some explosive playmakers, but our defense was out of position and missed way too many tackles.  Roby had a horrid game which cannot happen going forward.  The linebackers are often overpursuing and missing tackles. The defensive line has been a positive in my mind, but they need to shut the door to prevent exposure of the secondary.  If Roby doesn't return to form of a shut down corner, we better hope the O keeps chugging.  Bryant and Barnett improved on the tackling front, but are still not starring in any 'how to tackle' films.  The scoring defense needs to tighten up.

Special Teams: A-
Nothing bad, but nothing good.  I honestly don't remember much about our special teams this week (which is usually a good thing).  No missed kicks/blocked kicks so I'll take it.

Coaching: B
I would have given an easy A, but I can't get the shotgun on 4th an inches out of my mind.  QB sneak for 99% of the teams out there will give you a yard every time.  If you're OSU vs. Cal...100% success rate.  I was completely comfortable with the choices to go for it on 4th down, but go with the higher percentage play.  Practice a few plays under center.  Diversity in playcalling is important (even if that isn't your base package).

Overall: B+
Let's be honest: Cal sucks.  Defense needs to improve and offense needs to keep it up.  What we really learned was Buckeye Nation is crazy supportive.  That was a clear home crowd (around 60/40 OSU advantage) 2000 yards away from Columbus.  Well done.

Week 3 Picks: Revenge or Statement

Standings
1) Draper             7-1      (1-1 upset)
1) Schweinfurth    7-1      (0-2 upset)
2) Hoying             6-2      (1-1 upset)

Alabama Crimson Tide @ Texas A&M Aggies
Draper: Revenge...time to pay for your indiscretions Johnny Football.  Nick Saban has the knife at the puppy's throat threatening his Tide.  I expect the week to prepare and the better overall level of talent leads to a tough road win in College Station.  Examine TAMU.  They have 1 player.  Their defense has looked super questionable.  VTech had a much better defense.  Bama will shore up mistakes and cause Johnny to spend some of that money on medical bills Bama: 31--TAMU: 17
Hoying: Last year was no fluke; A&M was the better team on the field that day.  How have the teams changed since then?  The Aggies' defense seems to have taken a step backwards, but Manziel seems as sharp as ever.  Meanwhile, other than exceptional special teams and pass defense, it's hard to tell just how good this 'Bama squad is.  Kyle Field will be crumbling under the fans' feet, but that will have little effect; the Tide haven't lost a road game since 2010.  Everyone points to the 2 weeks of preparation allotted to Nick Saban, but c'mon, it's not like Texas A&M had to do a lot to be ready for Sam Houston State.  Look for Manziel to break out another jerkass celebration move as he revels in a shootout win over the Dark Lord.  Bama: 34--TAMU: 40
Schweinfurth: Nick Saban hates to lose.  When he does lose, he reminds his players about that loss.  Last year's game has been plastered all over 'Bama's football facility since the loss.  Oh, and Saban has had two weeks to prepare for this game.  Meanwhile, A&M has been dealing with distraction after distraction regarding Johnny Manziel.  This finally comes back to bite the Aggies.  I can't wait to see Saban do the "money" sign in Manziel's face.  'Bama: 35--TAMU: 20

UCLA Bruins @ Nebraska Cornhuskers
Draper: Oh Blackshirts...you are just terrible.  Just offensive to all five senses.  This is a huge game for the Bruins on the road in Lincoln.  UCLA is not terribly good, but Brett Hundleycan keep the offense rolling.  Nebraska will score some points, but will it be enough to overbalance the horrid defense.  I say...no.  UCLA wins a nailbiter and ESPN has a field day making fun of the B1G...again. UCLA: 48--Neb: 45 
Hoying: About this time last year, Nebraska's terrible terrible defense cast the B1G into second tier of AQ conferences (looking at you, ACC, and no, AAC, you don't count).  This year, Nebraska still has terrible terrible defense.  However, there's about 1270 miles difference between this year's game and last year's.  Only a fool picks the Huskers to lose in Lincoln or win...just about anywhere else.  Corn Nation will give the Bruins a nasty welcome, and Nebraska wins this Arena Football League matchup.  UCLA: 45--Neb: 49
Schweinfurth: So about that Blackshirt defense, yea not good.  Nebraska may be 2-0 and the offense humming along, but that defense is just woof.  This game was a one score game last year, and I have no reason to believe this one will be any different.  Look for UCLA to score but Taylor Martinez will put some points up as well.  Time for the Big 10 to make a B1G statement! UCLA: 42--Neb: 45

Wisconsin Badgers @ Arizona State Sun Devils
Draper: Honestly don't know much about these teams.  Badgers have yet to allow a point (neither have the Sun Devils), but I could have started at QB at their first 2 opponents (or ASU's opponent).  Going out west is never a good thing for teams, but Wisconsin's running focus shortens the game.  ASU has looked good thus far, but ditto on the opponent.  I'll give the B1G a big road win here (that won't be talked about).  Wisky defense makes a late stop.  Wisc: 27--ASU: 20
Hoying: The bakers leave the cupcake factory for the second-most interesting game of this weekend's slate of mini-Rose Bowls.  Wisconsin Gary Anderson is one of two B1G coaches to be undefeated in his current tenure (can't remember who the other one is...) but ASU may be a tougher test.  May be.  This was a mediocre squad last year, and while Wisconsin was short of stellar, their running game doesn't seem to have suffered a great deal from losing star RB Monteay Ball.  Too bad performances against UMass and Tennessee Tech don't indicate any level of future success.  Eh...whom to pick?  Uhhh....new coach, road game, burning hatred for Wisconsin...we'll go with the Devils. Wisc: 16--ASU: 24
Schweinfurth: This game was my original upset special and I am sticking to it.  Wisconsin can run the ball and I still have no faith in Stave to be competent passer against a legitimate team.  I mean seriously, the Badgers have played absolutely no one.  Now Arizona State hasn't exactly played anyone either, but I trust a high powered spread offense at home and on the west coast no less.  The Badgers let the B1G down.  Wisc: 21--ASU:28

THE Ohio State Buckeyes @ Cal Golden Bears
Draper: Another opponent on our schedule...yawn.  Many are circling this game due to the travel.  I'm not worried.  Braxton's health is the only real concern, and I still don't see it hurting us here.  Kenny can handle Cal and I expect another year of experience on D will prevent the stupid explosive plays we gave up last year.  Looks like another 'jump out to an early lead and take a nap' type game.  Take note everyone else, this is the last game you'll see Carlos Hyde on the sideline.  Be afraid.  OSU: 48--Cal: 20
Hoying: The Buckeyes, like the Reds, don't traditionally do well on the west coast (2-5 at Pac-12 teams since 1986), but Pac-12 teams don't traditionally suck as bad as Cal either.  Thanks to skinny little twig Jared Goff at QB, the Bears offense has come to life a bit, but surrendering 30 points to Portland State and almost losing the game doesn't bode well for your chances against an elite team.  If the Buckeyes can stop 3rd-string running backs from making 80-yard scoring plays (by WRAPPING BALL CARRIERS THE F UP) this one shouldn't be close.  Braxton plays a series or two, Buckeye running backs do the heavy lifting, and Roby takes a wobbling duck back for a TD of his own.  Bucks win comfortably.  OSU: 38--Cal: 16
Schweinfurth: Braxton's health is an issue with this Buckeyes team (as it has been since he was in high school) but Kenny G's emergence last week was huge for the offense.  Guiton doesn't have all the tools Braxton has but he is a very good game manager.  Cal's defense is struggling quite a bit and whom ever is running this offense is going to put up some quality numbers.  On defense, the Bucks have looked like the Silver Bullets we are used to.  The Bears are going to employ those wonderful dink and dunk passes to get the ball out early.  I expect the Bears to move the ball but stall out a few times inside the 30.  Cal's offense will keep it close, but the Bucks pull away late.  OSU: 45--Cal: 24


Upset Special
Draper: UTSA over Arizona (sorry the games all suck)
Hoying: Illinois over Washington (and 3 freaking upsets above)
Schweinfurth: Texas Tech over TCU

Grading the Bucks--Week 2: San Diego State

Not a whole lot to take away from a game of this caliber...but here we go.

Offense: B+
The Bucks stepped on the throat of the inferior opponent from the start, even with their backup QB.  I love Kenny Guiton and I do believe that he is a top 4 QB in the entire B1G (maybe top 2), but pump the brakes.  This team needs Braxton--not against SDSU, but in the future.  Kenny G looked great, but he just doesn't have the reps to be confident against better competition (in all fairness, that only means NW, Wisc, and Mich from our schedule).  The only real downgrade is due to the let down in the second half.  I know the game was over, but 7 points in the half is a little disappointing.  It was a mental check-out...no biggie here, but Kenny needs to take every game rep as important.  RBs and WRs looked fine.  On to the next one.

Defense: A-
Pretty much ditto here for the defense, but even their second rate effort was almost enough to preserve the shutout.  The return of Roby was very nice and allowed Armani Reeves to look competent (on the second/third receiver).  SDSU had 37 total yards with about a minute left in the half.  That's enough to summarize the effort.

Special Teams: B+
Overall, pretty good effort, but you CANNOT commit a stupid penalty on a punt.  The roughing was another stupid penalty that won't hurt us here but may going forward.  Also, my "favorite" player (sarcasm alert), Christian Bryant, would really benefit from a Pop Warner introduction to tackling.  This is valid in the defense section but the one big return by the Aztecs was clearly aided by the standard 'kill-shot' levied by Bryant (that of course failed).  Get off the field and help the defense by preventing a good return.

Coaching: A-
I had no real problem with the playcalling, but substitutions were a little questionable.  Braxton is clearly the number one QB but has major problems staying healthy.  Kenny G is a more-than-serviceable backup, but after that...yeah.  With the game in hand and the Bucks checked out, why not preserve Kenny as he will almost surely be needed again and get the 3rd and 4th string QBs some game experience.  At most school's, this is no big deal, but the injury prone Miller makes this an important consideration.

Overall: A-
Big win.  Not terribly concerned about the lack of a monster blowout (even though a 35 point victory is nothing to sneeze at) due to the clear desire to finish the game quickly and go home.  Ont to the next one.

Week 2 Picks: UGA should fire the football scheduler

Standings
1) Draper              4-0      (1-0 upset)
1) Hoying             4-0      (0-1 upset)
1) Schweinfurth    4-0      (0-1 upset)

South Carolina Gamecocks @ Georgia Bulldogs
Draper: The Gamecocks always seem to have Mark Richt's number.  This is a very interesting game which can help answer the eternal question about scheduling big games.  Will the Dogs be banged up after the clash in Clemson or will the experience help push them to victory?  South Carolina was somewhat lackluster in their opener, but Clowney should step up on the big stage.  I saw something from Todd Gurley that leads me to have faith in the home team this week.  The Cocks didn't look particularly impressive against UNC, but they'll step up.  The hedges make the difference. SoCar: 17--UGA: 20
Hoying: Last year I picked Georgia to win and they got flattened, courtesy of Clowney & Co. thoroughly disrupting the Bulldog offense.  Marcus Lattimore isn't around anymore to anchor the Gamecock rushing attack, but most of the other pieces are still in place for both teams, minus a great deal of Georgia's personnel on defense.  Someday, Bulldog QB Aaron Murray will have a shining moment to justify the hype he receives, but it can't happen with the entire South Curalina line pounding him between the hedges.  SoCar: 27--UGA: 16
Schweinfurth: Man did Georgia get beat up by Clemson last week or what? That game took a lot out of the Bulldogs and this will make the game interesting.  Georgia has the superior offense and Gurley is a magne. Clowney will have a bit more success this week with maybe a sack or two.  After seeing him gassed on the sideline, one has to wonder if Clowny can stand up to a big time offensive line.  SoCar: 20--UGA: 28



Notre Dame Fighting Irish @ Michigan Wolverines
Draper: Historically, this game was of huge importance, but it's still not back to close to the level of the past.  Devin Taylor looked good in week 1 as did Tommy Rees but they were against subpar teams.  I really don't know how this game will turn out as these teams are fairly well matched.  Therefore, I'll lean to the home team.  Expect a shootout.  ND: 34--UM: 38
Hoying: How sad that such a fantastic rivalry will have to go on hiatus after next year's matchup.  Notre Dame and Michigan will only have, like, 26 rivals apiece now.  It's hard to see Corn and Blue blowing this one at home without Shoelace the Invisible Oatmeal Muncher tossing his usual 3 picks.  However, Irish QB Tommy Rees has the potential to carve up a SEVERELY overrated Wolverine secondary if he remembers not to suck.  Too bad he won't.  Fred beats Barney and reclaims his Fruity Pebbles.  ND: 20--UM: 28
Schweinfurth: Hey look, it's the rivalry Mark May grew up watching (or not). Brian Kelly stirred up the natives by going John Cooper on the rivalry between these too.  In a way, this will be a proving grounds for both teams.  Is Devan Gardner the real deal and is Tommy Rees still an interception machine.  Both quarterbacks will play well and both will throw a few picks.  This one goes back and forth.  ND: 35--UM: 38



Florida Gators @ Miami Hurricanes
Draper: This game is simply on the list to round out the games.  Florida is the far superior team and it shouldn't be close.  Miami is still trying to get back to prominence, but they still have a ways to go.  Florida had a solid week one win over Toledo, but I don't expect a whole lot out of them this year.  Driscoll will lead the Gators to an easy instate win.  UF: 38--UM: 17
Hoying: The greatest property of games like this is the necessary loss by one of these teams.  The 'Canes dodged a major bullet in the offseason due to the NCAA bungling their investigation, but they still haven't recovered from their falI from the ranks of the elite at the hands of our beloved Bucks 11 years ago.  I have the feeling we'll all be gradulating the Gators for being the finer athletic school by the time this laugher is over. UF: 24--UM: 13
Schweinfurth: I honestly don't know much about either team outside of Muschamp's personal vendetta against Urban Meyer and the U got off easy.  Florida has the better defense so I'll let it ride on them. UF: 24--UM: 7

San Diego State Aztecs @ THE Ohio State University Buckeyes
Draper: Last week was a convincing win, but there is still much work to be done.  The Aztecs, on the other hand, had a complete disaster losing to Eastern Illinois.  SDSU was certainly looking forward to OSU, but there is no excuse.  Braxton will continue to improve, but the focus of the game will be watching the defense and the impact of having a full roster.  The return of Roby and full time Shazier will be very important to the future.  This should be another blowout that tells us nothing. SDSU: 10--OSU: 55
Hoying: Coming into the season, some looked at Ohio State's Wisconsin-esque non-conference slate and pointed to this weekend as the trap game to watch out for.  Look out, Buckeyes, it's everybody's second-favorite too-good-for-the-AAC team, the team that pushed Ohio State to the brink of defeat in 2001 and 2003. . . and then they got blasted at home by a BAD 1-AA school.  This game is more properly characterized as a nice tune-up for Cal (although, do we really need to tune-up for Cal and their skinny twig QB?).  Roby and Barnett will get a chance to energize the Silver Bullets against a team that threw 63 passes and 4 INTs last week, and we might just learn whether Khalil Mack was really that good or if Taylor Decker is really that hapless.  Buckeyes win BIG or Buckeye Nation gets restless. SDSU: 9--OSU: 63
Schweinfurth: Everyone is talking about a lackluster performance last week.  In reality, the Bucks just went to sleep and got conservative after the first quarter (why show your playbook when the game isn't in doubt).  Taylor Decker did struggle a bit at right tackle, but not as bad as what was initially perceived). With that said, I expect Urban to send a message that taking the foot off the gas pedal is unacceptable.  Braxon will have more called runs this week.  The addition of Roby will be big for Bullets.  I expect this one to be over by the end of the first quarter and we get some sweet Kenny G in the fourth quarter. SDSU: 13--OSU:48

Upset Special
Draper: Buffalo over Baylor
Hoying: BYU over Texas
Schweinfurth: Western Kentucky over Tennessee

Five Thoughts from the Week that Was

1) The days of the big boys shutting out the little sisters of the poor are rapidly diminishing.
Offenses have evolved such that it is nearly impossible to hold anyone to fewer than 10 points, no matter the discrepancy in talent.  The dink-and-dunk offense has led to nullifying great defensive line play and the penalties are such in favor of the offense, the shutouts have left us (for the most part).  Yes, Wisconsin got one this weekend...against a team that just joined FBS and they still needed some luck).  Oregon held 'powerhouse' Nicholls State to 3, but that was a lower level team.  Look at the bevy of FCS schools that took down FBS teams (even a ranked one).  This was unthinkable 5-10 years ago (except for Michigan).  The playing field is starting to be leveled, not to the point of equality, but definitely to the point of less embarrassment.

2) Home field is so important in college
Look at the Georgia/Clemson game.  Talent was reasonably comparable, and the difference was a botched snap on a gimme field goal. Death Valley is an extremely tough place to play (3rd loudest I've been to--1) Swamp, 2) Shoe) and it showed under the lights.  Pro football just doesn't have the same ridiculous atmosphere.  When in doubt, go with the home team.

3) Todd Gurley, Khalil Mack, Jadaveon Clowney, Teddy Bridgewater...some are NFL ready before 3 years. 
I hate suggesting reducing the requirement for college players, but it may be time.  Not because they need money (you know my opinion on that), but because some are ready to compete at the next level.  How Khalil Mack ended up in Buffalo still stuns me.  Bridgewater may not be bulky enough, but Clowney would compete in the NFL right now.  Also, Todd Gurley is certainly no 'girly-man' after what I saw against Clemson.  Maybe it's time to consider the number of years removed from high school for the NFL draft and reduce it to 2 (it will never go away).  All the football camps and the higher level of high school football leads to earlier maturation in a football sense.  They aren't mature enough (physically or emotionally) when leaving high school, but the football acumen is maturing more quickly.

4) Jameis Winston is good....really good.
It was one game, but Winston is a ball player.  My biggest takeaway was that he wasn't afraid to 'throw his receiver open'.  This is a skill that separates the elite from the very good.  Of course, he's not Tom Brady at this point, but the level of trust with his receivers and confidence in his arm is off the charts for a freshman.  Compare him to Terrelle Pryor.  Pryor had more physical gifts, but he always avoided throws until his receiver broke open.  This is why he was never considered a great passer.  Winston won't complete every pass all year and this mentality leads to more interceptions, but he's going to be fun to watch for the next couple years.

5) Johnny Manziel will screw up again...and soon. 
The focus is on Johnny Manziel thumbing his nose at the NCAA and being a symbol for defiant skill.  While many cower at the specter of Johnny Football and what he may do to the system, we need to remember who we're dealing with: an entitled spoiled brat that thinks he's untouchable.  What does this mean? He's about to screw up....again.  This is a pattern of behavior that doesn't show any signs of slowing.  Just wait, he'll shoot himself in the foot.

Grading the Bucks--Week 1: Buffalo

Offense: B+
OSU started the 2013 season with an explosive first quarter in which the offense was clicking on all cylinders.  Then the wall was hit. Don't get me wrong, Khalil Mack is an absolute beast that will play on Sunday, but I felt there was a complete let down after the first quarter.  Miller's passes looked crisp and much improved, but he was quick to escape the pocket (and not run downfield) when pressure loomed. Jordan Hall looked very strong, but the interior offensive line blocked very well.  Taylor Decker needs to get a lot better (even though Bell was most of his issue).  The interception was a total brainfart on Miller's part and the fumble by Wilson was a growing pain, but the turnovers were second to the subexplosive burst after the first quarter.  I'd like to see more of Devin Smith in the passing game as well.  Buffalo couldn't defend the deep pass...go to the well.

Defense: B
For how green this defense was, it was not that bad.  For most of the day, the defense had one returning starter (Bryant--Shazier was out for a good portion).  Overall, they did fine against the dink and dump offense.  This dump off offense is the great equalizer which Buffalo utilized fairly well.  Nuetz is a very good receiver that just pushed Armani Reeves around.  That will happen with the youth.  The defense gave up 13 points...not that bad, especially with the short field given up by the questionable coaching decisions.

Special Teams: B
Philly Brown woke up some echoes of Ray Small (not a good thing).  He couldn't seem to catch the ball cleanly which was so frustrating.  Wilson looked very explosive on his big kick return which leads to great thoughts for the future.  No missed kicks.  The punter needs a little more distance, but the hangtime was fantastic. 

Coaching: B-
Most love it, but I hate it...no reason to go for 2, 2x against Buffalo.  Stop it.  The ONLY argument is to get it on film and try it in a real game.  Still, it's Buffalo.  More frustrating was the 4th down call on our side of the field with a solid lead.  Going for it is fun and exciting, but sometimes, it's just not the right call.  That was one of those times.  Offense is exciting, but the defensive players have to be angry about being put behind the eight ball with the lead.  I know that I'm contradicting myself since it's Buffalo and we should beat them off the ball, but that's asking a lot, especially with Mack on the other side of the ball.

Overall: B
Solid win; plenty of teachable moments; exactly what a coach desires.  The Bucks will be fine, but don't pretend we've learned anything of real value yet.  Lots of season remains.

Welcome back! Week 1 Picks

Georgia Bulldogs @ Clemson Tigers

Draper: This is really the only marquee game of the week.  UGA enters with Heisman hopeful Aaron Murray and a vaunted SEC defense.  There are huge hopes in Athens this year in which they're eying more than just Atlanta and the SEC Championship.  However, I've been to a big game at Death Valley (at Clemson), and that place is crazy.  Clemson is explosive on offense with Tajh Boyd and Sammy Watkins.  I think this game will live up to the hype and Clemson will forget to start Clemsoning this early in the season.  The SEC finally takes a hit in one of the years best games.  UGA: 31--Clemson: 34
Hoying: Thank the football gods for this game, breaking up the otherwise blah Week 1 matchups.  After stellar 2012 campaigns, both teams enter the season with legitimate hopes for the final BCS championship. (After all, Georgia was 5 yards away from having the chance to obliterate Notre Dame for the title last season).  Both starting QBs are among the best in the country, so expect a high-scoring affair, even with an SEC DEFENSE on one side of the field.  Georgia will miss LB Jarvis Jones more than they'd like, and Clemson will extend their SEC win streak to 2.  Also, watch out for Georgia looking ahead to South Carolina and Clemson looking ahead to South Carolina...State.  UGA: 27--Clemson: 35
 Schweinfurth: It's always fun to have games like this early in the season.  I really see these teams as almost equals.  However, Clemson has Tajh Boyd and that is enough for me.  Sprinkle in some Sammy Watkins and you have a very good offense.  While Georgia's offense is no slouch, I just don't think they can score with Clemson.  The defenses will keep it somewhat low scoring early (first game slop will help as well) but Clemson pulls away late. UGA: 21--Clemson: 38

Alabama Crimson Tide vs. Virginia Tech Hokies

Draper: Much ado about nothing.  Bama reenters the season as another juggernaut with nothing but a 'reload'.  McCarron and Yeldon will have the offense churning and the defense is always ridiculous under Saban.  VTech has been mediocre at best for the last few years.  Michael Vick ain't walking through that door.  Bama: 27--VT: 13
Hoying: The good news for Alabama is that it doesn't matter if they win this game or not; the BCS is always willing to spot them a loss and still place them in the championship.  Meanwhile, the Hokies are coming off their worst season in 20 years, thanks to a weak offense and uncharacteristically poor special teams play.  Is this game where Beamerball gets back on track?  Maybe, but it won't matter.  The Tide are still a juggernaut and it'll take a lot more than QB Logan Thomas (who?) and his band of turkeys to end Bama's reign.  Bama: 34--VT: 6
Schweinfurth: As much billing as this game will get from the WWL, this one will be ugly.  VaTech just isn't the team they used to be and Alabama is a machine.  The only question for 'Bama is how the offensive line looks.  Regardless, this one is over at half time and Nick Saban will still go looking for his box of puppies.  Bama: 42--VT: 3

LSU Tigers vs. TCU Horned Frogs

Draper: SEC gets another 'big-game' in week 1.  I'll give the Tigers credit for scheduling this one because most powerhouses duck the middle programs.  That being said, LSU should take care of business.  TCU is no longer the Cinderella.  They're not snake-biting anyone.  The defense of the Tigers will keep the Horned Frogs in check in a low scoring affair.  'Should be suspended for arrest' RB Hill will score a TD and no one will comment on why he is playing.  LSU: 20--TCU: 10
Hoying: Another SEC juggernaut against another mediocre team.  TCU's first season in the Big XII (7-6) served as a nice reminder to the mid-majors that going 12-0 against the Little Sisters of the Poor doesn't translate into being able to hang with the big boys week in and week out (see also: Utah).  Les Miles still prowls the sidelines at LSU, and as long as he doesn't have to make any late-game clock management decisions (*cough* Clemson *cough*), the Tigers will stay on track in their hunt for Les's 2nd title.  LSU: 24--TCU:9
Schweinfurth: TCU doesn't sneak up on anyone any more and that tends to happen when you play in one of the power conferences.  I still think that TCU's defense is very good and LSU still has Mettenberger (who is just bad).  Both of these factors keep this score pretty low, but LSU has more talent.  LSU: 14--TCU: 10

Buffalo Bulls @ THE Ohio State University Buckeyes

Draper: Unlike most of the fans in Columbus, I believe this team is not one of the greatest in history (or even the past 10 years).  That being said, it's a very talented group that should steamroll the joke of a schedule.  If we take a loss, I'm guessing it will come from a team no one suspects.  And that team is Buffalo...just kidding.  This should be over by the end of the 1st quarter.  Urban won't call off the dogs as the Bucks make a statement offensively.  The Bulls are horrendously mismatched in this game.  Braxton throws for 3 TDs and runs for 1.  OSU RBs combine for 3 TDs of their own.  The only interest is watching the cohesiveness of the front 7 defensively and whether the WRs have improved.  Buff: 13--OSU: 58
Hoying: I seem to say this every year, but it merits repeating: this game will tell us nothing about how good this year's Ohio State squad is.  Buffalo is a garbage opponent from a garbage conference, and with the fully armed and operational Urban offense in place, there'll be no one to stop us this time.  Use this game as an opportunity to watch the new defensive starters in action and try to memorize OSU's extensive list of captains.  (Seriously?  8 captains?  If we get any more we'll need a team Major...) Buff: 9--OSU: 45
Schweinfurth: This offense is very, very good.  Miller has been improving this offseason (or so we have heard) and the addition of Diontre Wilson and Ezikiel Elliot will just add to the home run threats.  The lack of Hyde and Smith won't show up too much in this game as the offense rolls for about 500 yards.  The defense is what I am worried about.  The young front seven need some game experience and this game will surely allow them to tip toe into the season.  No slow starts this year and Urban plays his young guys for an appreciable amount of time.  Buff: 17--OSU: 63

Upset Special
Draper: Washington over Boise State
Hoying: California over Northwestern
Schweinfurth: Hawaii over USC

BCS Predictions and Heisman Finalists

The games are listed below with our predictions as to participants.  The projected winners are in bold.

Draper

BCS National Championship Game: Alabama vs. Ohio State

Rose Bowl:  Stanford vs. Michigan

Orange Bowl: Florida State vs. Oregon

Sugar Bowl: South Carolina vs. Louisville

Fiesta Bowl: Texas vs. Clemson

Heisman Finalist in order (projected finish)

1) Braxton Miller (QB--OSU)

2) Jadaveon Clowney (DE--South Carolina)

3) Johnny Manziel (QB--TAMU)

(shoutout to Teddy Bridgewater--QB-UL--for getting an invite to NY)

Schweinfurth

BCS National Championship Game: Ohio State vs. Alabama

Rose Bowl: Stanford vs. Michigan

Orange Bowl: Florida State vs. Louisville

Sugar Bowl: LSU vs. Oregon

Fiesta Bowl: Clemson vs. Texas

Heisman Finalist in order (projected finish)

1) Braxton Miller (QB--OSU)

2) A.J. McCarron (QB--Bama)
3) Jadaveon Clowney (DE--South Carolina)

Hoying

BCS National Championship Game: Alabama vs. Ohio State

Rose Bowl: Oregon vs. Notre Dame

Orange Bowl: Clemson vs. Nebraska

Sugar Bowl: Georgia vs. Stanford

Fiesta Bowl: Texas vs. Louisville

Heisman Finalist in order (projected finish)

1) Braxton Miller (QB--OSU)

2) A.J. McCarron (QB-Bama)
3) Marcus Mariota (QB--Oregon)

Draper Meaningless Preseason Predictions 2013

I have linked my preseason predictions for consumption.  Please feel free to check them out (and have pity, they were written very quickly in a stream of consciousness so they are sure to be laden with grammatical errors).  I feel less informed this year on the gridiron specifics than in past years, but there's some happy reading for my 'loyal followers'--aka friends and family. Also, realize the Johnny Manziel "suspension" was levied after I wrote it.  Everything still applies (more or less).

 Hope you all enjoy.  Feel free to debate me on my rants and/or opinions any time.  Remember, this is all in fun!

Draper Meaningless Preseason Predictions 2013

GO BUCKNOLES!

Final Regular Season Rankings and Heisman Ballots

Final Heisman Ballots and Predictions
Draper Ballot
1. Johnny Manziel (QB--TAMU)
2. Collin Klein (QB--KSU)
3. Marqise Lee (WR--USC)

Draper Prediction
1. Johnny Manziel (QB--TAMU)
2. Manti Te'o (LB--ND)
3. Collin Klein (QB--KSU)

Hoying Ballot
1. Johnny Manziel (QB--TAMU)
2. Collin Klein (QB--KSU)
3. Marqise Lee (WR--USC)

Hoying Prediction
1. Johnny Manziel (QB--TAMU)
2. Manti Te'o (LB--ND)
3. Collin Klein (QB--KSU)

Schweinfurth Ballot
1. Marqise Lee (WR--USC)
2. Johnny Manziel (QB--TAMU)
3. Collin Klein (QB--KSU)

Schweinfurth Prediction
1. Johnny Manziel (QB--TAMU)
2. Collin Klein (QB--KSU)
3. Manti Te'o (LB--ND)

Top 25 Ballots
Draper
1. Notre Dame
2. Ohio State
3. Alabama
4. Florida
5. Stanford
6. Kansas State
7. Oregon
8. Georgia
9. LSU
10. Texas A&M
11. South Carolina
12. Oklahoma
13. Florida State
14. Clemson
15. Oregon State
16. UCLA
17. Nebraska

18. Northwestern
19. Louisville
20. Northern Illinois
21. Texas
22. Utah State
23. Kent State
24. San Jose State
25. Michigan


Hoying
1. Notre Dame
2. Ohio State
3. Alabama
4. Florida
5. Kansas State
6. Stanford
7. LSU
8. Georgia
9. Oregon
10. South Carolina
11. Texas A&M
12. Oklahoma
13. Florida State
14. Oregon State
15. UCLA
16. Nebraska
17. Northwestern
18. Louisville
19. Northern Illinois
20. Clemson
21. Utah State
22. Michigan
23. Texas
24. Kent State
25. San Jose State