1. Florida
2. Texas
3. Alabama
4. TCU
5. Cincinnati
6. Ohio State
7. Oregon
8. Boise State
9. Georgia Tech
10. Iowa
11. Oklahoma State
12. USC
13. Pittsburgh
14. Utah
15. Penn State
16. Virginia Tech
17. BYU
18. California
19. LSU
20. Nebraska
21. Oregon State
22. Oklahoma
23. Texas Tech
24. Clemson
25. Miami (FL)
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Friday, November 20, 2009
Week 12 - Michigan Week
A few important games this week, but none is more important than 106th Edition of The Game held in Ann Arbor this year...
#25 California vs. #17 Stanford
Gomer: Stanford has bun the Pac-10's juggernaut as of late slamming both Oregon and USC in two straight weeks. After the recent output the Cardinal is certainly due for a let down. Stanford has made huge strides under Jim Harbaugh, who will not be at Michigan any time soon, but I am going to call for a let down game this week against the Bears. Cal: 34--Stanford:27
Chief: Stanford is the hottest team in America right now with Toby Gerhart toting the rock and bringing hope to young white RBs everywhere. Freshman QB Andrew Luck has also been a major component of the Cardinal success. Cal jumped back into relevance after taking down Arizona (yeah, that made them important) with star Jahvid Best sidelined. Even though Cal made a push last week, Stanford is on a role and will keep chugging along. Jim Harbaugh is sent to Michigan with another big win in this 'The Game'. Hopefully, he doesn't bring it to our 'Big Game'. Stanford: 41--Cal: 24
#11 Oregon vs. Arizona
Gomer: Oregon looks to continue their march to the first non-USC Pac-10 title in 8 years. Arizona is a decent team but was unimpressive in their recent loss to Cal. Oregon has been just plain impressive on offense. With Gameday in town the Tuscon faithful will be in full force, but Oregon is just a better team. UO: 35--UA: 18
Chief: Welcome back to earth Wildcats of Arizona. Everyone was jumping on the 1st Arizona Rose Bowl, but it's just not going to happen. Yes, Arizona is steadily improving year in and year out, but Oregon is too tough to drop this game. While Arizona is quite balanced, Oregon will put on a rushing clinic with LaMichael James and quite literally run away with the game. Maybe Legarotte Blout will get to throw a few punches in this one. OU: 48--Zona: 17
#10 Ohio State vs. Michigan
Gomer: Staring the 2nd straight losing season in the face along with another bowl-less season will have the Wolverines whipped into a frenzy. While Michigan is facing another rough off-season the Buckeyes are coming off of clinching their first Rose Bowl under Jim Tressel and look to assure themselves of another outright Big Ten Title. While technically this game has no baring on OSU winning the Big Ten or the Rose Bowl, it means everything to the seniors who don't want to leave with a sour taste. Michigan's offense will find a way to score a few, but the Buckeye defense will prove to be too much. OSU: 41--UM: 14
Chief: And we come to the finale. It may look and feel different, but it's still Ohio State vs. Michigan. The Buckeyes enter the unfriendly confines of Ann Arbor to face Dick Rod in his home for the first time. I'm a little concerned about a letdown from Pryor in this game as the Bucks only have pride on the line, but Tressel knows the import of this game regardless of the records. The Seniors will be playing out of there minds and will simply overwhelm the hapless Wolverines. Forcier is too banged up and while Brandon Graham is a very good defender for the Wolverines, he's playing with 10 nobodies. It won't be enough to keep Tressel from 6 straight and an ungodly 7-1 record. GO BUCKS, BEAT BLUE!! OSU: 45--scUM: 10
Other Games:
Minnesota vs. #13 Iowa: Gomer: Iowa Chief: Iowa
#4 TCU vs. Wyoming: Gomer: TCU Chief: TCU
#14 Penn State vs. Michigan State: Gomer: PSU Chief: PSU
#16 Wisconsin vs. Northwestern: Gomer: NW Chief: Wisconsin
Purdue vs. Indiana: Gomer: PU Chief: PU
#25 California vs. #17 Stanford
Gomer: Stanford has bun the Pac-10's juggernaut as of late slamming both Oregon and USC in two straight weeks. After the recent output the Cardinal is certainly due for a let down. Stanford has made huge strides under Jim Harbaugh, who will not be at Michigan any time soon, but I am going to call for a let down game this week against the Bears. Cal: 34--Stanford:27
Chief: Stanford is the hottest team in America right now with Toby Gerhart toting the rock and bringing hope to young white RBs everywhere. Freshman QB Andrew Luck has also been a major component of the Cardinal success. Cal jumped back into relevance after taking down Arizona (yeah, that made them important) with star Jahvid Best sidelined. Even though Cal made a push last week, Stanford is on a role and will keep chugging along. Jim Harbaugh is sent to Michigan with another big win in this 'The Game'. Hopefully, he doesn't bring it to our 'Big Game'. Stanford: 41--Cal: 24
#11 Oregon vs. Arizona
Gomer: Oregon looks to continue their march to the first non-USC Pac-10 title in 8 years. Arizona is a decent team but was unimpressive in their recent loss to Cal. Oregon has been just plain impressive on offense. With Gameday in town the Tuscon faithful will be in full force, but Oregon is just a better team. UO: 35--UA: 18
Chief: Welcome back to earth Wildcats of Arizona. Everyone was jumping on the 1st Arizona Rose Bowl, but it's just not going to happen. Yes, Arizona is steadily improving year in and year out, but Oregon is too tough to drop this game. While Arizona is quite balanced, Oregon will put on a rushing clinic with LaMichael James and quite literally run away with the game. Maybe Legarotte Blout will get to throw a few punches in this one. OU: 48--Zona: 17
#10 Ohio State vs. Michigan
Gomer: Staring the 2nd straight losing season in the face along with another bowl-less season will have the Wolverines whipped into a frenzy. While Michigan is facing another rough off-season the Buckeyes are coming off of clinching their first Rose Bowl under Jim Tressel and look to assure themselves of another outright Big Ten Title. While technically this game has no baring on OSU winning the Big Ten or the Rose Bowl, it means everything to the seniors who don't want to leave with a sour taste. Michigan's offense will find a way to score a few, but the Buckeye defense will prove to be too much. OSU: 41--UM: 14
Chief: And we come to the finale. It may look and feel different, but it's still Ohio State vs. Michigan. The Buckeyes enter the unfriendly confines of Ann Arbor to face Dick Rod in his home for the first time. I'm a little concerned about a letdown from Pryor in this game as the Bucks only have pride on the line, but Tressel knows the import of this game regardless of the records. The Seniors will be playing out of there minds and will simply overwhelm the hapless Wolverines. Forcier is too banged up and while Brandon Graham is a very good defender for the Wolverines, he's playing with 10 nobodies. It won't be enough to keep Tressel from 6 straight and an ungodly 7-1 record. GO BUCKS, BEAT BLUE!! OSU: 45--scUM: 10
Other Games:
Minnesota vs. #13 Iowa: Gomer: Iowa Chief: Iowa
#4 TCU vs. Wyoming: Gomer: TCU Chief: TCU
#14 Penn State vs. Michigan State: Gomer: PSU Chief: PSU
#16 Wisconsin vs. Northwestern: Gomer: NW Chief: Wisconsin
Purdue vs. Indiana: Gomer: PU Chief: PU
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Week 11 - All the Marbles
Friday Night Special!
#25 West Virginia vs. #5 Cincinnati
Gomer: I'll go ahead and admit it; Cincinnati is pretty good. Do I think they'd hang with "the big boys", probably not, but we should get to find out sometime in early January. West Virginia has quietly put themselves in position to win the Big East if they win out, but the national attention has been on the Bearcats. Since the tandem of Pat White and Steve Slaton left the Mountaineers, they really haven't been the same team, or received the same amount of attention. Noel Devine has been able to dazzle from time to time, but unless WVU QB Jarrett Brown is a threat as well, it could be a long night for the WVU offense and another night of passing and running at will for the Bearcats. WVU: 28--UC: 41
Chief: I really want UC to take a dive, but I don't think WVU (especially with a banged up Noel Devine) can stop them. The UC offense is hitting on all cylinders (when playing Big East defenses), but the defense is mediocre at best. Last week was way too difficult against a subpar UConn team at home at night to inspire confidence in this team. Regardless, the UC offense should be more than good enough to take the Mountaineers out. Watch out for Pitt next week. Kelly should be very distracted with the calls from South Bend and Ann Arbor rolling in. WVU: 31 UC: 45
Saturday's Games
#16 Utah vs. #4 TCU
Gomer: My defense of TCU all season has been just that, their defense. As many wise coaches have said too: Defense wins championships. The TCU defense has been outstanding in wins @ Virginia, @ Clemson, and @ BYU. They look to get revenge for last year's loss to the Utes and claim a spot in the BCS. I'm not going to throw a bunch of names and opinions out here when I really don't know a ton about other team other than watching their premiere games from earlier in the season. I like TCU a lot and frankly don't think that Utah has the horses on offense to offset that mismatch. Utah: 19--TCU: 28
Chief: Utah was the team of the year last year and even with the 1-loss record, everyone is expecting a big upset this week. Not so fast my friend. TCU has been destroying teams since the near miss at Air Force. I think Jerry Highes and the Frog defense smother the Ute attack while Andy Dalton (TCU QB) racks up some solid numbers as he's been under the radar. TCU rolls toward the BCS. Utah: 10--TCU: 31
Stanford vs. #9 USC
Gomer: Let's see, USC is coming off a tough win in Tempe while the Cardinal are coming off of a massive upset and offensive explosion against the Oregon Ducks. USC has been up and down this year, not really knowing week to week which team will show up. Stanford will look to repeat the huge upset they pulled two years ago in Los Angeles, but Pete Carroll's boys will be ready to roll and hope that someone else can pull an upset or two over the Ducks to get back in the BCS. Stan: 14--USC:31
Chief: This game is very interesting as Stanford has quietly put together a great team behind the arm of freshman QB Andrew Luck and the white lightning RB Toby Gerhardt. USC always wins these type of games historically even given the recent struggles. I don't know if this Trojan team is as solid as the past editions, but the revenge factor is strong in this one. Remember, the Cardinal upset the Trojans 2 years ago on their turf. I honestly wouldn't be surprised with a Stanford upset that caps the USC stranglehold on the Pac-10, but I think they come just short in a must see game. I'd love for the Cardinal to end the Trojans hopes, but we'll see. Stan: 23--USC: 24
#10 Iowa vs. #11 Ohio State
Gomer: Well I was thankfully wrong with last week's pick. The Lions proved to be a hollow shell, and TP didn't make mistakes that let PSU stay in the game. Kudos to the whole team. Iowa comes in reeling after going 9-0 and losing to Northwestern at home. It should be noted that the Hawkeyes not only lost the game, but starting QB Ricky Stanzi AKA Mr. Clutch. James Vandenberg came in relief and played as expected in his first ever game action... not good. He should be improved this week, but it won't show against the outstanding Buckeye D. As with last week's game, if TP does not turn the ball over to an underrated Hawkeye defense the Bucks should be able to control this one and celebrate with Roses in hand afterwards. Iowa: 10--OSU: 27
Chief: Now that's what I'm talking about. There's the Buckeye team we've been waiting for. TP comes up with the most important stat of his career on the road vs. the Lions: 0 turnovers. Iowa limps into the Shoe with a Rose Bowl berth on the line, but they are just too banged up to take advantage. OSU is firing like mad with the defense playing at a whole new level. The freshman QB of Iowa has not played significantly on the road and was awful at home vs. a mediocre NU defense...uh oh. The Bullets fire to completely shut down teh Hawkeye O. While the Iowa D is stout, they will not be able to overcome the bad position they're put in time and time again by the defense. Iowa will force at least one turnover and turn it into points, but it won't be enough to keep Tressel from his first Rose Bowl berth. GO BUCKS!!! Iowa: 6--OSU: 24
The Leftovers
Michigan vs. Wisconsin: Gomer: UW Chief: UW
Michigan State vs. Purdue: Gomer: PU Chief: MSU
Miami vs. North Carolina: Gomer: Miami Chief: UNC
Auburn vs. Georgia: Gomer: AU Chief: UGA
Notre Dame vs. Pittsburgh: Gomer: Pitt Chief: Pitt
Arizona vs. California: Gomer: Cal Chief: Arizona
#25 West Virginia vs. #5 Cincinnati
Gomer: I'll go ahead and admit it; Cincinnati is pretty good. Do I think they'd hang with "the big boys", probably not, but we should get to find out sometime in early January. West Virginia has quietly put themselves in position to win the Big East if they win out, but the national attention has been on the Bearcats. Since the tandem of Pat White and Steve Slaton left the Mountaineers, they really haven't been the same team, or received the same amount of attention. Noel Devine has been able to dazzle from time to time, but unless WVU QB Jarrett Brown is a threat as well, it could be a long night for the WVU offense and another night of passing and running at will for the Bearcats. WVU: 28--UC: 41
Chief: I really want UC to take a dive, but I don't think WVU (especially with a banged up Noel Devine) can stop them. The UC offense is hitting on all cylinders (when playing Big East defenses), but the defense is mediocre at best. Last week was way too difficult against a subpar UConn team at home at night to inspire confidence in this team. Regardless, the UC offense should be more than good enough to take the Mountaineers out. Watch out for Pitt next week. Kelly should be very distracted with the calls from South Bend and Ann Arbor rolling in. WVU: 31 UC: 45
Saturday's Games
#16 Utah vs. #4 TCU
Gomer: My defense of TCU all season has been just that, their defense. As many wise coaches have said too: Defense wins championships. The TCU defense has been outstanding in wins @ Virginia, @ Clemson, and @ BYU. They look to get revenge for last year's loss to the Utes and claim a spot in the BCS. I'm not going to throw a bunch of names and opinions out here when I really don't know a ton about other team other than watching their premiere games from earlier in the season. I like TCU a lot and frankly don't think that Utah has the horses on offense to offset that mismatch. Utah: 19--TCU: 28
Chief: Utah was the team of the year last year and even with the 1-loss record, everyone is expecting a big upset this week. Not so fast my friend. TCU has been destroying teams since the near miss at Air Force. I think Jerry Highes and the Frog defense smother the Ute attack while Andy Dalton (TCU QB) racks up some solid numbers as he's been under the radar. TCU rolls toward the BCS. Utah: 10--TCU: 31
Stanford vs. #9 USC
Gomer: Let's see, USC is coming off a tough win in Tempe while the Cardinal are coming off of a massive upset and offensive explosion against the Oregon Ducks. USC has been up and down this year, not really knowing week to week which team will show up. Stanford will look to repeat the huge upset they pulled two years ago in Los Angeles, but Pete Carroll's boys will be ready to roll and hope that someone else can pull an upset or two over the Ducks to get back in the BCS. Stan: 14--USC:31
Chief: This game is very interesting as Stanford has quietly put together a great team behind the arm of freshman QB Andrew Luck and the white lightning RB Toby Gerhardt. USC always wins these type of games historically even given the recent struggles. I don't know if this Trojan team is as solid as the past editions, but the revenge factor is strong in this one. Remember, the Cardinal upset the Trojans 2 years ago on their turf. I honestly wouldn't be surprised with a Stanford upset that caps the USC stranglehold on the Pac-10, but I think they come just short in a must see game. I'd love for the Cardinal to end the Trojans hopes, but we'll see. Stan: 23--USC: 24
#10 Iowa vs. #11 Ohio State
Gomer: Well I was thankfully wrong with last week's pick. The Lions proved to be a hollow shell, and TP didn't make mistakes that let PSU stay in the game. Kudos to the whole team. Iowa comes in reeling after going 9-0 and losing to Northwestern at home. It should be noted that the Hawkeyes not only lost the game, but starting QB Ricky Stanzi AKA Mr. Clutch. James Vandenberg came in relief and played as expected in his first ever game action... not good. He should be improved this week, but it won't show against the outstanding Buckeye D. As with last week's game, if TP does not turn the ball over to an underrated Hawkeye defense the Bucks should be able to control this one and celebrate with Roses in hand afterwards. Iowa: 10--OSU: 27
Chief: Now that's what I'm talking about. There's the Buckeye team we've been waiting for. TP comes up with the most important stat of his career on the road vs. the Lions: 0 turnovers. Iowa limps into the Shoe with a Rose Bowl berth on the line, but they are just too banged up to take advantage. OSU is firing like mad with the defense playing at a whole new level. The freshman QB of Iowa has not played significantly on the road and was awful at home vs. a mediocre NU defense...uh oh. The Bullets fire to completely shut down teh Hawkeye O. While the Iowa D is stout, they will not be able to overcome the bad position they're put in time and time again by the defense. Iowa will force at least one turnover and turn it into points, but it won't be enough to keep Tressel from his first Rose Bowl berth. GO BUCKS!!! Iowa: 6--OSU: 24
The Leftovers
Michigan vs. Wisconsin: Gomer: UW Chief: UW
Michigan State vs. Purdue: Gomer: PU Chief: MSU
Miami vs. North Carolina: Gomer: Miami Chief: UNC
Auburn vs. Georgia: Gomer: AU Chief: UGA
Notre Dame vs. Pittsburgh: Gomer: Pitt Chief: Pitt
Arizona vs. California: Gomer: Cal Chief: Arizona
Draper Index Week 10
There are 2 polls listed below--the first is constructed with bowl games and conference championships included and the second without (so as to not punish teams for earning a bowl bid or reward teams for lower level matchups). The poll itself is based on past year rankings so this does indeed have an effect.
Draper Index Top 25 (Bowls included)
1. Florida
2. Texas
3. Alabama
4. Cincinnati
5. USC
6. TCU
7. Georgia Tech
8. Boise State
9. Ohio State
10. Oregon
11. Iowa
12. Utah
13. Pittsburgh
14. LSU
15. Oklahoma State
16. Virginia Tech
17. Penn State
18. BYU
19. Oklahoma
20. Houston
21. Miami (FL)
22. Oregon State
23. Texas Tech
24. West Virginia
25. Wisconsin
Draper Index Top 25 (Bowls not included)
1. Alabama
2. Florida
3. Texas
4. Cincinnati
5. Georgia tech
6. Boise State
7. TCU
8. Ohio State
9. USC
10. Iowa
11. Oregon
12. Pittsburgh
13. Utah
14. LSU
15. Oklahoma State
16. Penn State
17. BYU
18. Virginia Tech
19. Oklahoma
20. Miami (FL)
21. Houston
22. Wisconsin
23. Texas Tech
24. Boston College
25. Oregon State
Notice in the first poll teams with high bowl success rate (like USC) are higher ranked. Overall, I believe the poll that includes bowls is more accurate. Only USC appears to stick out as an outlier in the "bowl poll".
Draper Index Top 25 (Bowls included)
1. Florida
2. Texas
3. Alabama
4. Cincinnati
5. USC
6. TCU
7. Georgia Tech
8. Boise State
9. Ohio State
10. Oregon
11. Iowa
12. Utah
13. Pittsburgh
14. LSU
15. Oklahoma State
16. Virginia Tech
17. Penn State
18. BYU
19. Oklahoma
20. Houston
21. Miami (FL)
22. Oregon State
23. Texas Tech
24. West Virginia
25. Wisconsin
Draper Index Top 25 (Bowls not included)
1. Alabama
2. Florida
3. Texas
4. Cincinnati
5. Georgia tech
6. Boise State
7. TCU
8. Ohio State
9. USC
10. Iowa
11. Oregon
12. Pittsburgh
13. Utah
14. LSU
15. Oklahoma State
16. Penn State
17. BYU
18. Virginia Tech
19. Oklahoma
20. Miami (FL)
21. Houston
22. Wisconsin
23. Texas Tech
24. Boston College
25. Oregon State
Notice in the first poll teams with high bowl success rate (like USC) are higher ranked. Overall, I believe the poll that includes bowls is more accurate. Only USC appears to stick out as an outlier in the "bowl poll".
Monday, November 09, 2009
The TS Poll - Week 11
Here is my computer poll for week 11.
1. Texas
2. Alabama
3. Florida
4. Cincinnati
5. TCU
6. Iowa
7. Boise State
8. Houston
9. Georgia Tech
10. Ohio State
11. Pittsburgh
12. Oregon
13. LSU
14. Virginia Tech
15. USC
16. Penn State
17. Oklahoma State
18. Utah
19. Clemson
20. Miami (Fl)
21. BYU
22. Nebraska
23. Central Michigan
24. Arizona
25. South Florida
1. Texas
2. Alabama
3. Florida
4. Cincinnati
5. TCU
6. Iowa
7. Boise State
8. Houston
9. Georgia Tech
10. Ohio State
11. Pittsburgh
12. Oregon
13. LSU
14. Virginia Tech
15. USC
16. Penn State
17. Oklahoma State
18. Utah
19. Clemson
20. Miami (Fl)
21. BYU
22. Nebraska
23. Central Michigan
24. Arizona
25. South Florida
Friday, November 06, 2009
Week 10 Showdown City
LSU @ Alabama:
GOMER:The Crimson Tide continue their march to a huge SEC title game against the Gators in December. This game will launch Mark Ingram to the front of the Heisman race and expose LSU for the pretenders they are. LSU: 7--Bama: 28
CHIEF: Another SEC battle, but this one could actually mean something. The winner of this game has the inside track to face Florida in the SEC Championship Game. Everyone has been talking of how LSU is primed to win as the Tide squeaked by the Vols, but I haven't seen anything from LSU that has me expecting upset. Young QB Jordan Jefferson has been pretty good but the LSU defense hasn't been that special. I think Greg McElroy gets on track throwing to Julio Jones and keeping the Tide climbing while Mark Ingram continues the Heisman chase. LSU: 10--Bama: 21
Oklahoma @ Nebraska:
GOMER: Somehow the Sooners are still ranked and now they travel to Lincoln in what used to be a huge rivalry game. Nebraska QB Zac Lee has been very good this year while the Sooners can't catch a break when they need it. In a minor upset, Huskers win. OU: 21--NU: 24
CHIEF: There is nothing to talk about this week. OU already has an unheard of 3 losses after the injury to QB Sam Bradford. Landry Jones has stepped in admirably but hasn't been a world stopper. That being said, I don't know if the Huskers can muster enough offense to pull the huge win. Ndamekong Suh, the big DT for Nebraska, will delight the crowd by spending more time in Jones's face than that moustache, but it won't be enough. Nebraska continues to fall while Suh's draft stock rises. OU: 31--NU: 20
CHIEF: There is nothing to talk about this week. OU already has an unheard of 3 losses after the injury to QB Sam Bradford. Landry Jones has stepped in admirably but hasn't been a world stopper. That being said, I don't know if the Huskers can muster enough offense to pull the huge win. Ndamekong Suh, the big DT for Nebraska, will delight the crowd by spending more time in Jones's face than that moustache, but it won't be enough. Nebraska continues to fall while Suh's draft stock rises. OU: 31--NU: 20
OSU @ PSU:
GOMER: I have complete faith in the OSU defense to stand tall today, but where I lack faith is in the offense putting the defense in bad positions. Terrelle Pryor has not progressed once this season and even his big plays against one of the worst teams in the country were ugly defensive breakdowns or throws where he closed his eyes and prayed as he threw the ball. Everyone will criticize PSU for the weak schedule they have played, but frankly OSU's schedule isn't much better (USC really isn't that good). Darryl Clark combined with Evan Royster will be a tough backfield to for the Bucks to completely shut down. However, I look for the defense to stand tall but TP to stay true to form raising further questions about his ability and development. OSU: 15--PSU: 23
CHIEF: The other big game with postseason implications is in Happy Valley. The Bucks have fattened up on some crappy opponents in Minnesota and NMSU so it's hard to draw much, but the defense has been lights out. I know it's the worst offense in the country, but the Bullets didn't let them cross the 50 and only allowed 2 first downs. They did what they had to do, but this is a different animal. I truly believe that this game will be won and lost with Terrelle Pryor, but not with his explosive play. The game will be decided based on Pryor's mistakes. If he can be the cliche ridden game manager aka Craig Krenzel, not remain mistake free, the Bucks will stuff the Lion offense and win. If, however, he gives them a chance with turnovers, it will be a long day. I think the defense holds tough on the road, and Pryor limits the mistakes with one or two difference maker plays. The loss of Pettrey hurts, but hopefully, the scoring drives will end with TDs. Pryor and the Bucks get the first marquee win of the season and keep chugging to Pasadena. OSU: 17--PSU: 13
Other Games:
Virginia@ Miami(FL): Gomer: Miami Chief: Miami
FSU @ Clemson: Gomer: Clemson Chier: FSU
Navy @ Notre Dame: Gomer: ND Chief: ND
Wake Forest @ GA Tech: Gomer: GT Chief: GT
Duke @ UNC: Gomer: UNC Chief: UNC
Oregon@ Stanford: Gomer: Oregon Chief: Quack
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Week 9 - The Home Stretch
Friday Night Special
West Virginia vs. South Florida:
GOMER: Unlike my counterpart, I have not completely given up on the Bulls of South Florida. Yes they were beaten up by the Bearcats, but they are still a good team in the Big East. BJ Daniels of the Bulls and Noel Devin of the Mountaineers are the top talents to watch this game, and it should be a shootout. WVU: 28--USF: 34
CHIEF: I've been big on USF all year, but I think it's time to leave...which of course means I'm wrong. While Selvie is an absolute beast at DE, B.J. Daniels is too erratic at QB. Noel Devine will break contain enough times to cause serious problems for the Bulls. The Mountaineers role and continue to be a factor in the Big East. WVU: 24--USF: 10
Saturday Games
Texas vs. Oklahoma State
GOMER: Texas really has not looked that strong to me this season. They beat a banged up Oklahoma team in the Red River Rivalry, Colt McCoy has not necessarily been something special, but hasn't been terrible either. The teams they've really beat down are not that good, and Oklahoma State without Bryant is in that category. Zac Robinson is good, but I don't think good enough to carry his team to a victory. And by the way, even if Texas is down by 20-30 at half, don't worry because they always make a 2nd half comeback against the Cowboys. UT: 38--OSU: 20
CHIEF: This was a preseason upset of mine, but without Dez Bryant, I just don't know. It seems Kendall Hunter will return to balance the Pokes attack, but Texas should be able to score on a questionable defense. Stillwater will be rocking however, and the Cowboys definitely circle the wagons. This would be the marquee win of the Mike Gundy era, but I believe they come just short of the upset. Colt McCoy has a flawless 2nd half and keeps the Longhorns alive for the Title. (Still...GO POKES!!) UT: 41--OSU:40
USC vs. Oregon
GOMER: Last Saturday the Trojans jumped out to a sizable lead, but relinquished and almost lost the game in the 4th quarter. The USC juggernaut has been slow to wake up this season, but I think against suspect Pac-10 defenses the running game and passing attack will get rolling in what will be a very physical tough match-up for both teams. USC: 41--UO: 30
CHIEF: On this one, I will stay with my preseason pick. Quack Attack for the win. The Pac 10 title game is in the Autzen Zoo and I think Masoli and Lamichael James put on a rushing clinic. More importantly, the Ducks actually will hit some crucial throws downfield to seal the win. The thing about Oregon is everyone knows they're running the ball, but they do it successfully anyway. The Trojans are solid defensively for 2-3 quarters but tend to slip up in one quarter. The Ducks will pounce then. Barkley has won nailbiters on the road in two very tough venues, but the third times the charm for hairgel boy. quack..quack....Quack...Quack...QUACK..QUACK!!! USC: 30--UO: 31
CHIEF: On this one, I will stay with my preseason pick. Quack Attack for the win. The Pac 10 title game is in the Autzen Zoo and I think Masoli and Lamichael James put on a rushing clinic. More importantly, the Ducks actually will hit some crucial throws downfield to seal the win. The thing about Oregon is everyone knows they're running the ball, but they do it successfully anyway. The Trojans are solid defensively for 2-3 quarters but tend to slip up in one quarter. The Ducks will pounce then. Barkley has won nailbiters on the road in two very tough venues, but the third times the charm for hairgel boy. quack..quack....Quack...Quack...QUACK..QUACK!!! USC: 30--UO: 31
New Mexico State vs. Ohio State
GOMER: A closer than expected game mostly for the look-ahead and let-down factors. I think playing this game is a terrible terrible mistake because it gets the team out of the mentality of playing tough competition and outside of needed to perform at their best to win. Yes it will be nice to beat a bad team, but will do nothing to gain back respect lost with the Purdue loss, and in my opinion SEVERELY inhibit the Buckeyes momentum generated by the Minnesota victory. Penn State awaits... NMSU: 10--OSU: 37
CHIEF: It's our game so we have to talk about it. I don't see a Purdue-esque let down against the hapless Aggies. Pryor will look like Troy Smith for the 3 quarters he's in the game, and the defense will be a stonewall all day against the worst offense in the country. The highlight of the game will be undoubtedly the halftime show that I assisted in designing. Come out and enjoy. HAPPY HALLOWEEN!! NMSU: 0--OSU: 48
The Leftovers:
Mississippi vs. Auburn: Gomer: AU Chief: Ole Miss
Georgia vs. Florida: Gomer: UF Chief: Florida
Michigan vs. Illinois: Gomer: UM Chief: UM
Penn State vs. Northwestern: Gomer: PSU Chief: PSU (close in a look ahead game)
Indiana vs. Iowa: Gomer: Iowa Chief: Iowa
Georgia Tech vs. Vanderbilt: Gomer: GT Chief: GT
South Carolina vs. Tennessee: Gomer: UT Chief: USC
Monday, October 26, 2009
The TS Poll - Week 9
Well, I have nothing better to do on a sick day so I will finally post my computer rankings. These are similar to the OHSAA computer rankings. This is the first year for these rankings and are a work in progress. These rakings do not directly see a loss and factor in strenth of schedule, road wins, and point differential (to a maximum of 100 points). Again this is a very light explanation of these rankings. If you would like more information, let me know. And here we go!
Top 25: TS Poll
1. Alabama
2. Texas
3. Florida
4. TCU
5. Iowa
6. Cincinnati
7. Boise State
8. USC
9. Oregon
10. Pittsburgh
11. Houston
12. Penn State
13. Ohio State
14. Georgia Tech
15. Oklahoma State
16. LSU
17. Virginia Tech
18. Central Michigan
19. West Virginia
20. Kansas
21. BYU
22. Utah
23. California
24. Ole Miss
25. Oklahoma
Top 25: TS Poll
1. Alabama
2. Texas
3. Florida
4. TCU
5. Iowa
6. Cincinnati
7. Boise State
8. USC
9. Oregon
10. Pittsburgh
11. Houston
12. Penn State
13. Ohio State
14. Georgia Tech
15. Oklahoma State
16. LSU
17. Virginia Tech
18. Central Michigan
19. West Virginia
20. Kansas
21. BYU
22. Utah
23. California
24. Ole Miss
25. Oklahoma
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Week 8 - That Just Happened
#13 Penn State vs. Michigan
Gomer: Penn State's success so far has been mostly against bad teams, so I expect the Wolverine's to pull the "upset" and prove they are not as bad as everyone once thought. PSU: 24--UM: 31
Chief: This game is very interesting to me. For some reason, I can't shake the idea that Michigan has a chance. Everyone is back on the PSU bandwagon with the stunner by OSU last week, but I still haven't seen much. Iowa beat PSU by a decent margin at PSU but squeaked by Michigan at home. In the last 10 years, UM has only lost to Penn State once (last year when they sucked). The Wolverines have the Lions number so why not, I'll call the upset. Even with a terrible defense and slightly concussed Forcier, I'll go with the Blue. If Robinson is the only QB, they have no chance, but the Lions have been very blah this year. PSU: 34--UM:36
#8 TCU vs. #16 Brigham Young
Gomer: I'm not super sure who to take, but ever since the BYU loss to Florida State, I have severely questioned their team. I'll take TCU in a quasi-upset TCU: 28--BYU: 27
Chief: When this is the only big game of the weekend, there's nothing going on. The battle arises for the 'other' BCS buster (assuming Boise State wins out). Given the upsets in recent weeks, TCU has a legitimate chance of making the BCS if they go undefeated even if Boise also makes it. However, I think Max Hall will engineer enough to take down the Horned Frogs. While BYU was stomped by FSU, they've rebounded and are at home. TCU has been underwhelming in the past few weeks. The Frog defense is solid, but Bronco Mendenhall will have the Cougs ready to go. Down goes another BCS buster. TCU: 20--BYU: 24
Minnesota vs. #19 Ohio State
Gomer: Yes we lost to Purdue, yes everyone thinks Pryor sucks, but no, we won't lose to Minnesota. The Defense deserves some time off the field finally, and I think they will get some today. The Bucks will find a way to get something rolling and end this one in the first half. UM: 14--OSU: 38
Chief: Ouch...last week hurts really badly. The Bucks take a painful loss in a game they should have won easily (something that doesn't happen to tOSU much). Pryor was a turnover machine last week with the perfect storm hitting West Lafayette. One plus I saw was the development of the slant route in the final drive--I think this may be the only route he can throw consistantly well...perhaps we should call the play more. The defense played ok, but not the same level (most likely due to being on the field all game like the Wisky game). Minnesota has been bad (worse than Purdue) and the Bucks get back home. I think the ship is righted in a big way -- against a bad team. Look for the Bucks to explode with pure anger. They sucked last week and they need to be on a mission the rest of the year. Offense learns to get a few first downs and outscores the defense (rare occurence this year). Ray Small is finally removed from the punt team and all is well with a big Buck victory. UM: 10--OSU: 31
South Florida vs. #20 Pittsburgh Gomer: Chief: USF
Oklahoma vs. #25 Kansas Gomer: Chief: Kansas (why not?)
Wake Forest vs. Navy Gomer: Chief:Navy
#6 Iowa vs. Michigan State Gomer: Chief: MSU (just waiting for a Hawkeye loss)
#1 Florida vs. Mississippi State Gomer: Chief: UF
#3 Texas vs. Missouri Gomer: Chief:Texas
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Week 7 - When Games Count
Thursday Night Special:
#8 Cincinnati vs. #21 South Florida
#8 Cincinnati vs. #21 South Florida
Gomer: Ohio's BCS Team travels to the sunshine state for a showdown with the undefeated Bulls on a Thursday night primetime game. I hate Cincinnati. There, I said it. Ever since they've started experiencing some ounce of success they have been the annoying little step brother that is constantly screaming "LOOK OVER HERE, WE'RE GOOD TOO, WE'RE PROBABLY BETTER THAN YOU, etc." Missing QB Matt Grothe has not been as painful as expected for the Bulls as BJ Daniels has stepped into the starting spot and become an instant success. As we've seen many times over, Thursday night's do not bode well for highly ranked teams. If I were a coach, I would refuse to play on Thursday's especially in the Big East or ACC. Cincinnati will lose in surprising fashion returning their moniker of Ohio's BCS Team to its rightful owners for now. UC: 17--USF: 21
Chief: The biggest Big East game since Rutgers-Louisville in 2006, invades Tampa. The Bulls are quietly lurking at 5-0 with a beatdown of FSU in Tallahassee (albeit against a team that looked like they'd lose to Leon High School that week). Many don't realize that USF didn't have a football program at all until 1999. Jim Leavitt has formed one heck of a program and his backup QB (BJ Daniels) has been phenomenal as a double threat). Brian Kelly has done the same at UC. Led by Heisman contenders Tony Pike (and to a lesser extent Mardy Gilyard), the Bearcats are making serious noise by invading the top 10 again. This is by far the biggest stumbling block for the Cats. I think USF led by monster George Selvie at D-End will hassle the UC offensive line and get Pike a little nervous--just enough to make a few mistakes. UC will have to play from behind for the first time, and while their offense can keep up, I don't think their defense will make enough stops. Big upset in Florida. UC: 27--USF: 30
Saturday's Showdowns:
#20 Oklahoma vs. #3 Texas
Saturday's Showdowns:
#20 Oklahoma vs. #3 Texas
Gomer: The Sooners have had a rough season so far; an opening day loss and losing their Heisman Trophy QB in the same day, a tough loss in a big revenge game against the Hurricanes, and now facing the #3 team in the land in Dallas. Texas has been good, but nothing spectacular thus far, this has allowed Colt McCoy to remain "under the radar" so far, Saturday at high noon, he reminds the country how good he is. OU has looked flat even with Sam Bradford, and now in his second game back is expected to carry the Sooners to a Red River Shootout victory. This game should see lots of scoring, but Oklahoma's lack of success away from Norman and depleted offense should help the Longhorns to a "W". OU: 27--UT: 35
Chief: The Red River Shootout was supposed to be the marquee game of the year pitting two undefeated teams of which the winner is penciled into the National Championship game. Oops... With Sam Bradford going down in week 1 and the Sooners taking 2 losses already, it's lost some luster. Don't let that stop you from tuning in because this is Texas's time to shine. So far, they've played garbage teams and won convincingly. Time to turn up the heat. I think McCoy to Shipley will become like a broken record as McCoy vaults back to the top of the Heisman race and the woes of Norman continue. OU: 24--UT: 30
#6 USC vs. #25 Notre Dame
Gomer: Not no way, not no how, it isn't going to happen. The Irish really are not that good of a team. The only reason they find themselves ranked this week is so that NBC and the rest of the media could try to hype this game a little more than it already is for no good reason. USC is returning to form blowing out Washington State and California over the last two weeks and will continue to do so this week as Matt Barkley continues to improve. It will greatly help the Trojans with ND's tops receiver, Michael Floyd, not in this game. Fight on. USC: 41--ND: 20
Chief: For the first time since the infamous Bush push, Notre Dame enters this game with a chance of winning. Emu-boy Jimmy Clauson has looked surprisingly good this year and is rightfully getting some Heisman talk. Pete Carroll has the Trojans returning to standard form after their annual gag. One thing about the Trojans, they show up on the big stage. I expect nothing less as they move the ball with ease against the Domers. Weis returns to the hotseat after the loss as it only permits 1 more before the BCS hopes are gone. USC: 34--ND: 24
Chief: For the first time since the infamous Bush push, Notre Dame enters this game with a chance of winning. Emu-boy Jimmy Clauson has looked surprisingly good this year and is rightfully getting some Heisman talk. Pete Carroll has the Trojans returning to standard form after their annual gag. One thing about the Trojans, they show up on the big stage. I expect nothing less as they move the ball with ease against the Domers. Weis returns to the hotseat after the loss as it only permits 1 more before the BCS hopes are gone. USC: 34--ND: 24
#4 Virginia Tech vs. #19 Georgia Tech
Gomer: So far this season the Ramblin' Wreck have been my almost "auto-pick" I really like what Paul Johnson has done in a short time in Atlanta, making NCAA FB relevant when they have NFL, NHL, NBA, and MLB teams to contend with, big time kudos. This is no slam on the career that Beamer has had in Blacksburg, where there is almost a cult-like following for the Hokies. I don't believe in VT QB Tyrod Taylor, Beamer says he's like Vick.... I don't agree. That being said, I don't really believe in GT QB Josh Nesbitt, who helped nearly giveaway the early season win against Clemson. VT's defense is good, but GT's offense is prone to confuse even the best defensive mind and will help put the Hokies down in a sizeable upset. VT: 24--GT: 28
Chief: Probably the most important game in the ACC this year. I picked GT to win the conference this year, but that early season loss to the U really hurts now. While the Jacket offense woke up last week (at the worst possible time), the defense went to sleep. One thing about VT is that they are coming into their own. The defense is shutting teams down cold and Tyrod Taylor is becoming a bit of a QB. The Duke game was spotty, but the Hokies dominated BC. Bobby Dodd stadium is not the most imposing place to play. While the GT option will confuse the Hokie defense, VT will post enough points to escape. One key defensive play by the Hokies will be the difference in a barn burner. VT: 23--GT: 21
#7 Ohio State vs. Purdue
Gomer: The OSU offense proved last week that they are being run by a monkey in the back room. They were unimpressive, uninspired, just plain bad. No credit should be given to the Wisconsin defense who ranked in the lower half of the NCAA prior to facing the Bucks. Thankfull Purdue's offense has been bad too, but mostly because they have butterfingers, they average 2+ TO's per game! There will be a large Buckeye contingent on hand that should help push the Bucks over the top. Not to mention, the Buckeye's performance on the Road vs. Home has been night and day, where on the road they are about to match a Big Ten record for consecutive road victories. OSU: 38--PU: 14
Chief: Ahhhhh... After what can only be termed as an absolute clinic defensively and an absolute tragedy offensively vs. Wisconsin, OSU enters a bye week....what? We have a game? Purdue comes in with their lone win over Toledo in a shootout (yes the same Toledo that the Bucks shutout). Purdue has shown some offense with their RB Ralph Bolden, but they haven't seen a defense like the Bullets. Their defense is just what the doctor ordered for Pryor to learn to go through his progressions (his current progression is 1. Posey, 2. Posey, 3. Posey, return to 1). Joe Daniels (OSU QB coach) needs to start getting Pryor to show some improvement or it's time to move on (coaching wise). Bucks win big and keep chugging before the epic schedule to end the season. OSU: 38--PU: 10
#11 Iowa vs. Wisconsin Gomer: Iowa Chief: UW
Arkansas vs. #1 Florida Gomer: UF Chief: UF (closer than the experts think)
Minnesota vs. #14 Penn State Gomer: PSU Chief: PSU
Texas Tech vs. #15 Nebraska Gomer: Nebraska Chief: Nebraska
#22 South Carolina vs. #2 Alabama Gomer: Bama Chief: Bama (closer than the experts think)
Missouri vs. #16 Oklahoma State Gomer: Okie State Chief: OkState
Chief: Probably the most important game in the ACC this year. I picked GT to win the conference this year, but that early season loss to the U really hurts now. While the Jacket offense woke up last week (at the worst possible time), the defense went to sleep. One thing about VT is that they are coming into their own. The defense is shutting teams down cold and Tyrod Taylor is becoming a bit of a QB. The Duke game was spotty, but the Hokies dominated BC. Bobby Dodd stadium is not the most imposing place to play. While the GT option will confuse the Hokie defense, VT will post enough points to escape. One key defensive play by the Hokies will be the difference in a barn burner. VT: 23--GT: 21
#7 Ohio State vs. Purdue
Gomer: The OSU offense proved last week that they are being run by a monkey in the back room. They were unimpressive, uninspired, just plain bad. No credit should be given to the Wisconsin defense who ranked in the lower half of the NCAA prior to facing the Bucks. Thankfull Purdue's offense has been bad too, but mostly because they have butterfingers, they average 2+ TO's per game! There will be a large Buckeye contingent on hand that should help push the Bucks over the top. Not to mention, the Buckeye's performance on the Road vs. Home has been night and day, where on the road they are about to match a Big Ten record for consecutive road victories. OSU: 38--PU: 14
Chief: Ahhhhh... After what can only be termed as an absolute clinic defensively and an absolute tragedy offensively vs. Wisconsin, OSU enters a bye week....what? We have a game? Purdue comes in with their lone win over Toledo in a shootout (yes the same Toledo that the Bucks shutout). Purdue has shown some offense with their RB Ralph Bolden, but they haven't seen a defense like the Bullets. Their defense is just what the doctor ordered for Pryor to learn to go through his progressions (his current progression is 1. Posey, 2. Posey, 3. Posey, return to 1). Joe Daniels (OSU QB coach) needs to start getting Pryor to show some improvement or it's time to move on (coaching wise). Bucks win big and keep chugging before the epic schedule to end the season. OSU: 38--PU: 10
#11 Iowa vs. Wisconsin Gomer: Iowa Chief: UW
Arkansas vs. #1 Florida Gomer: UF Chief: UF (closer than the experts think)
Minnesota vs. #14 Penn State Gomer: PSU Chief: PSU
Texas Tech vs. #15 Nebraska Gomer: Nebraska Chief: Nebraska
#22 South Carolina vs. #2 Alabama Gomer: Bama Chief: Bama (closer than the experts think)
Missouri vs. #16 Oklahoma State Gomer: Okie State Chief: OkState
Wednesday, October 07, 2009
Week 6 - Midway Already
Nebraska vs. Missouri
Gomer: A rare Thursday night game featuring the Big 12 Conference. It also works out that this is the opening of the conference slate for both the Huskers and Tigers. Last year the Tigers absolutely destroyed the Huskers in Lincoln by a score of 52-17 and was the most that Missouri had scored against Nebraska since 1943! Mizzou has been a team to come up and surprise some good competition so far this season and has really flown under the radar. Nebraska had very high expectations (you are in Bo Pelini Land after all) and faltered in the final seconds in Blacksburg... losing on a last second decision can destroy a team's confidence. With the Huskers weak schedule so far and Missouri's surprising start, I look for the Tigers to win this one and set up a HUGE two weeks when they travel to Oklahoma State and host the Longhorns. NU: 17--MU: 22
Chief: A very interesting game that no one cares about. Mizzou is a surprising 4-0 after losing a bunch of talent last year. The Huskers are a 4th down pass in Blacksburg from being 4-0. Blaine Gabbert has been sensational for the Tigers but Nebraska is a solid defensive team (putting other teams deep into Bo Pelini land). Missouri took it to Nebraska last year in Lincoln, but I think this is where the buck stops for the Tigers. I don't know a lot about these teams, but I think the Huskers steal this one in Columbia. Neb: 25--Mizzou: 21
Michigan vs. Iowa
Gomer: Michigan reminded us all last week how far they've come... or not. They struggled on offense until late when Tate Forcier was forced to pass and they were able to tie it up against rival MSU, but lost in OT. Iowa has had a very strong start, most notably the much bigger than expected win at Penn State. This is a night game at Kinnick and the place should be rockin'. While the Hawks have lost three straight conference home openers, that trend reverses on Saturday. Don't be surprised if Michigan is in this til the very end. UM: 23--UI: 34
Chief: Now that Penn State lost, the obvious favorite in the Big 10 is Iowa (who needs to worry about the 4 time defending champ...). Everyone has jumped on the Hawkeye bandwagon and leapt off the Wolverines after the OT loss last week. Iowa is the standard team to play down to the competition (as seen last week). Everyone slobbers over their defense, but PSU's offense isn't that great. UM does have a good offense and will score. The way to beat the Wolverines is to slow them down, but still score on their awful defense. I don't think Iowa can score enough points. Time for another upset so people can leap back on the Michigan bandwagon. UM: 27--UI: 20
Florida vs. LSU
Gomer: Will He play? Yes. How effective will He be? That is the million dollar question. Frankly, I don't know the true extent of Tebow's concussion, only the doctors, family, and coaching staff, do and that is a card that's being held tightly to the chest. If it is anywhere near dangerous to play him, not only would that be terribly inconsiderate of "Corch Orban Meyers" but greatly jeopardize Tebow's already limited potential in the NFL. I will stand by my statement that LSU is really not that good, but then again, they keep winning. The Mad-hatters will be looking to avenge last year's 30 point loss in the Swamp but they don't have the horses. Interesting fact: Florida has lost to an SEC West team every year since 1999. UF: 38--LSU: 24
Chief: Going into the season, I had the Tigers at home taking down the champs. Now that I've seen the Bayou Bengals, I realize that they aren't very good. They struggled to put up points against an overrated UGA defense and while their defense is ok, it's not going to be enough. Everyone is focused on Tim Tebow. I think it might actually hurt the Gators if he plays because he can't jump back on the horse in a hard hitting game. The doctor's should hold him out and I believe they will--Meyer is just playing mind games with "the Hat". The only hope for the Tigers is the crowd rattling Brantley...which they will for a few picks, but it won't be enough. I hate them so much so I hope this pick is wrong. UF: 34--LSU: 24
Wisconsin vs. Ohio State
Gomer: Believe it or not, the Bucks MUST beat the Badgers. The Badgers run a rough little gauntlet of @ OSU followed up with a home date with the Hawkeyes, and while Wisconsin has made it to 5-0 by the skin of its teeth, the Bucks still need a win here to clinch an all important tie breaker over a team that could finish with just one loss. Much like the Buckeyes, the Badgers are a very balanced team on offense putting up just over 1000 yards on the ground and through the air so far this season. The balance has led the Badgers to a 11th ranked offense overall (Buckeyes ranked 54th). The balance shifts when you look at the defenses, the Buckeyes come in ranked 9th overall and the Badgers are somewhere out of the top 50 (website I usually use is down). Overall I expect a tight game where both coaches want to run the ball a lot. It will come down to which team makes the big turnover happen first. The Badgers could very well win this one, but the Buckeyes are too talented at all positions to let that happen. UW: 20--OSU: 31
Chief: No one mentions it, but the Bucks keep rolling. Yes the opponents have been bad, but IU put up 33 against UM on the road and was held to 14--(7 in the first 59:57) by the Bullets. The defense showed some chinks last week, but I think they'll shore it up in the Shoe. I like Pryor starting to run, but some passes flew over some wide open receivers--can't happen. The Badgers are surprisingly balanced this year but the Bucks will make them 1-dimensional (I don't think Tolzien can throw on us--so long as we cover the TE). John Clay is a great back, but the Bucks D-Line is special. Look for tOSU to stuff Wisconsin and put up plenty of points with Saine showing why he should start. UW: 13--OSU: 27
Auburn vs. Arkansas: Gomer: R-Kansas Chief: Arkansas
Alabama vs. Mississippi: Gomer: Bama Chief: Bama
Georgia Tech vs. Florida State: Gomer: GT Chief: FSU (have to go with the alma mater)
Purdue vs. Minnesota: Gomer: UM Chief: UM
Gomer: A rare Thursday night game featuring the Big 12 Conference. It also works out that this is the opening of the conference slate for both the Huskers and Tigers. Last year the Tigers absolutely destroyed the Huskers in Lincoln by a score of 52-17 and was the most that Missouri had scored against Nebraska since 1943! Mizzou has been a team to come up and surprise some good competition so far this season and has really flown under the radar. Nebraska had very high expectations (you are in Bo Pelini Land after all) and faltered in the final seconds in Blacksburg... losing on a last second decision can destroy a team's confidence. With the Huskers weak schedule so far and Missouri's surprising start, I look for the Tigers to win this one and set up a HUGE two weeks when they travel to Oklahoma State and host the Longhorns. NU: 17--MU: 22
Chief: A very interesting game that no one cares about. Mizzou is a surprising 4-0 after losing a bunch of talent last year. The Huskers are a 4th down pass in Blacksburg from being 4-0. Blaine Gabbert has been sensational for the Tigers but Nebraska is a solid defensive team (putting other teams deep into Bo Pelini land). Missouri took it to Nebraska last year in Lincoln, but I think this is where the buck stops for the Tigers. I don't know a lot about these teams, but I think the Huskers steal this one in Columbia. Neb: 25--Mizzou: 21
Michigan vs. Iowa
Gomer: Michigan reminded us all last week how far they've come... or not. They struggled on offense until late when Tate Forcier was forced to pass and they were able to tie it up against rival MSU, but lost in OT. Iowa has had a very strong start, most notably the much bigger than expected win at Penn State. This is a night game at Kinnick and the place should be rockin'. While the Hawks have lost three straight conference home openers, that trend reverses on Saturday. Don't be surprised if Michigan is in this til the very end. UM: 23--UI: 34
Chief: Now that Penn State lost, the obvious favorite in the Big 10 is Iowa (who needs to worry about the 4 time defending champ...). Everyone has jumped on the Hawkeye bandwagon and leapt off the Wolverines after the OT loss last week. Iowa is the standard team to play down to the competition (as seen last week). Everyone slobbers over their defense, but PSU's offense isn't that great. UM does have a good offense and will score. The way to beat the Wolverines is to slow them down, but still score on their awful defense. I don't think Iowa can score enough points. Time for another upset so people can leap back on the Michigan bandwagon. UM: 27--UI: 20
Florida vs. LSU
Gomer: Will He play? Yes. How effective will He be? That is the million dollar question. Frankly, I don't know the true extent of Tebow's concussion, only the doctors, family, and coaching staff, do and that is a card that's being held tightly to the chest. If it is anywhere near dangerous to play him, not only would that be terribly inconsiderate of "Corch Orban Meyers" but greatly jeopardize Tebow's already limited potential in the NFL. I will stand by my statement that LSU is really not that good, but then again, they keep winning. The Mad-hatters will be looking to avenge last year's 30 point loss in the Swamp but they don't have the horses. Interesting fact: Florida has lost to an SEC West team every year since 1999. UF: 38--LSU: 24
Chief: Going into the season, I had the Tigers at home taking down the champs. Now that I've seen the Bayou Bengals, I realize that they aren't very good. They struggled to put up points against an overrated UGA defense and while their defense is ok, it's not going to be enough. Everyone is focused on Tim Tebow. I think it might actually hurt the Gators if he plays because he can't jump back on the horse in a hard hitting game. The doctor's should hold him out and I believe they will--Meyer is just playing mind games with "the Hat". The only hope for the Tigers is the crowd rattling Brantley...which they will for a few picks, but it won't be enough. I hate them so much so I hope this pick is wrong. UF: 34--LSU: 24
Wisconsin vs. Ohio State
Gomer: Believe it or not, the Bucks MUST beat the Badgers. The Badgers run a rough little gauntlet of @ OSU followed up with a home date with the Hawkeyes, and while Wisconsin has made it to 5-0 by the skin of its teeth, the Bucks still need a win here to clinch an all important tie breaker over a team that could finish with just one loss. Much like the Buckeyes, the Badgers are a very balanced team on offense putting up just over 1000 yards on the ground and through the air so far this season. The balance has led the Badgers to a 11th ranked offense overall (Buckeyes ranked 54th). The balance shifts when you look at the defenses, the Buckeyes come in ranked 9th overall and the Badgers are somewhere out of the top 50 (website I usually use is down). Overall I expect a tight game where both coaches want to run the ball a lot. It will come down to which team makes the big turnover happen first. The Badgers could very well win this one, but the Buckeyes are too talented at all positions to let that happen. UW: 20--OSU: 31
Chief: No one mentions it, but the Bucks keep rolling. Yes the opponents have been bad, but IU put up 33 against UM on the road and was held to 14--(7 in the first 59:57) by the Bullets. The defense showed some chinks last week, but I think they'll shore it up in the Shoe. I like Pryor starting to run, but some passes flew over some wide open receivers--can't happen. The Badgers are surprisingly balanced this year but the Bucks will make them 1-dimensional (I don't think Tolzien can throw on us--so long as we cover the TE). John Clay is a great back, but the Bucks D-Line is special. Look for tOSU to stuff Wisconsin and put up plenty of points with Saine showing why he should start. UW: 13--OSU: 27
Auburn vs. Arkansas: Gomer: R-Kansas Chief: Arkansas
Alabama vs. Mississippi: Gomer: Bama Chief: Bama
Georgia Tech vs. Florida State: Gomer: GT Chief: FSU (have to go with the alma mater)
Purdue vs. Minnesota: Gomer: UM Chief: UM
Sunday, October 04, 2009
Draper Index Rankings Post Week 5
This is the inaugural post of my top 25 computer rankings. For those who don't know, I created a computer rankings designed to mirror the BCS in 2001. Since it's inception, I have correctly picked the National Title contenders in 7 of the 8 years and usually all but maybe 1 BCS team are in the top 10--not counting conference champion squeakers. The rankings have some flaws for sure, but I like what I'm seeing now. Again, these rankings are meant to 'predict' the BCS, not necessarily pick the best team (although it's a pretty good metric). The rankings are based on win/loss, strength of team played when they played, and margin of victory (capped at 21). This is a barebones explanation so if you're interested in more explanation, let me know.
Top 25: Draper Index
1. Alabama
2. Florida
3. Texas
4. USC
5. LSU
6. Boise State
7. Cincinnati
8. Oregon
9. Ohio State
10. Virginia Tech
11. Iowa
12. Georgia
13. Missouri
14. TCU
15. BYU
16. Auburn
17. Utah
18. Wisconsin
19. Penn State
20. Georgia Tech
21. Oklahoma
22. USF
23. Boston College
24. Kansas
25. Miami (FL)
Top 25: Draper Index
1. Alabama
2. Florida
3. Texas
4. USC
5. LSU
6. Boise State
7. Cincinnati
8. Oregon
9. Ohio State
10. Virginia Tech
11. Iowa
12. Georgia
13. Missouri
14. TCU
15. BYU
16. Auburn
17. Utah
18. Wisconsin
19. Penn State
20. Georgia Tech
21. Oklahoma
22. USF
23. Boston College
24. Kansas
25. Miami (FL)
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