Week 14 - Championship Saturday

Oregon Ducks @ Oregon State Beavers

Gomer: It will take a major miracle for the Beavers to pull this upset. Even in Corvallis the Beavers have little chance of slowing down the Ducks attack. The Ducks have looked sluggish in recent first halves, but guess what, they came on strong to win each of those games. Oregon will have to absolutely shoot themselves in the foot if the Beavers are to have any chance. UO: 48--OSU: 16

Chief: Upsets are usually fun...but this is really, really unlikely. Everyone was big on Oregon State and the sad truth is that they just plain suck. Oregon is a well-oiled machine on offense. The Beavers got beat by WSU (perhaps the worst team ever). This won't be close. The Ducks move on to the title where they have a chance to pick up their first quality win (as long as they don't play TCU)--no, no Stanford doesn't count. They haven't beaten anyone either. UO: 52--OSU: 23


Auburn Tigers vs. South Carolina Gamecocks

Gomer: While during the regular season the Gamecocks had a chance to pull the upset and fumbled it away late in the game. Steve Spurrier's game-plan with quarterbacks seems to be "mess up as late in the game as possible". If Gamecocks' QB Garcia can avoid the stupid mistakes he's sure to make, the 'Cocks may pull off the upset and lock-in a Sugar Bowl appearance against the Buckeyes. Cam Newton's presence will be enough to help the Tigers lock up a spot in the BCS National Championship and a soon to be redacted Heisman Trophy. AU: 27--USC: 17

Chief: Sticking with what I said immediately after the Iron Bowl: Take it to the bank, South Carolina wins. The Tigers were DESTROYED in the 1st half by the Tide but the Tide in the 2nd half could have been beaten by a Pop Warner squad. This game was all about Auburn taking advantage of stupid Bama play. The Head Ball Coach doesn't mess around. This is the ONLY chance for USC to win the SEC and I think they get it done. I had the Cocks winning in Jordan-Hare and it came down to an epic collapse in the 4th to blow it. Spurrier will stick with Garcia and Lattimore will run away from Fairley to the win. The Cam Newton NCAA ruling joke will remain a cloud over Auburn and it will cost their preparation. AU: 20--USC: 21


Florida State Seminoles vs. Virginia Tech Hokies

Gomer: If the 'Noles win this it will put yet another average team in the BCS.... the worst team coming out of the Big East. After losing the opening two games, the Hokies went on a tear winning 10 straight and helping lock up the divisional title and a spot in the ACC title game. A loss means no BCS, win and a trip to the Orange Bowl awaits. Look for Christian Ponder to give the Hokies the ACC Title. FSU: 22--VT: 31

Chief: My preseason predictions had VT vs. FSU in this game (count it!). I had VT winning in the preseason even over the alma mater, but then they lost to Boise and JMU. Yeah it was in the beginning and they're certainly rolling, but how can I pick against a team that SMOKED the Gaytors last week. Heart over brain! GO NOLES!! FSU: 31--VT: 27


Oklahoma Sooners vs. Nebraska Cornhuskers

Gomer: Put on your tin foil hats boys and girls, the Sooners and the Big 12 look to send the 'Huskers packing to the Big Ten, and will probably go to any length to make sure it happens that way. Of course, it won't take much conspiring if Taylor Martinez isn't playing 100%. The Sooners offensive prowess should prove too much for Nebraska in this potentially last match-up between Oklahoma and Nebraska. OU: 37--UN: 28

Chief: Let's look into the vault for my preseason predictions again. I had...OU vs. Neb (lock it up!). OU has been sneaking around with no one paying attention after the midseason losses to Mizzou and TAMU. Landry Jones has been playing well and the Sooners seem to be getting better as the season progressed to the end. Nebraska has been dropping off the map. Taylor Martinez has had his issues with the coach and injuries so I'm not seeing the Big Ten getting a third BCS team this year. Boomer..... OU: 41--Neb: 24


Other Games:

Rutgers @ West Virginia: Gomer: WVU Chief: who cares...I mean WVU
Utah State @ Boise State: Gomer: BSU Chief: really?!? WHO CARES!! Boise
Nevada @ Louisiana Tech: Gomer: Nev Chief: stretching for games...Nev
Connecticut @ South Florida: Gomer: UConn Chief: Yikes....USF
USC @ UCLA: Gomer: UCLA Chief: USC

Draper Index Post Week 13 (11/30)

It will be interesting how things work out in the last week. The poll is based on gaining (or losing) points for each game rather than winning percentage so teams with games to come (Oregon, Auburn, OU) will have opportunities to make some movement. I expect if Oregon and Auburn arise victorious, they will jump TCU for 1 and 2 but we'll see.

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

For the most part, I agree pretty strongly with the rankings. I don't feel too many teams are significantly underrated (Wisconsin, Ark--maybe, Texas A&M) but some are overrated (Bama, Utah, Florida, Iowa)

Week 13 - End of an Era

LSU Tigers @ Arkansas Razorbacks

Gomer: The Mad Hatter has had the Tigers getting by week after week by the skin of their teeth, and finally, hopefully, (I'm praying) Ryan Mallet gets the monkey off his back and puts up big numbers in a big game. The Razorbacks will probably in turn jump Ohio State... so that'd be great, maybe we don't want Arkansas to win... I dunno. This will be an interesting game between two coaches nobody likes with some very poor clock management. LSU: 16--Ark: 23

Chief: LSU has been living on the edge all year, and I've been knocking the Hogs since day one. I still think both of these teams are overrated, but the home field might swing things. I'm hoping for the crowd in Fayetteville to get it going and rattle the "quarterbacks" of the Tigers. Mallet converts a key late 3rd down and the Hogs roll to a big upset. LSU: 20--Ark: 21

Auburn Tigers @ Alabama Crimson Tide

Gomer: Probably the most relevant Iron Bowl in recent history, and Bama has the chance to ruin Auburn's shot at the title, Cam Newton's Heisman (to later be rescinded), and to make the fans of Boise and TCU very happy. While Auburn is coming off of a bye week, Bama is coming off of a schellaking of a 1-AA opponent. There is no reason for this to not be one of the best games of the year and thank goodness it's not smack dab in the middle of our own big game. Aub: 28--Bama: 38

Chief: The epic showdown for the Iron Bowl is bigger than ever but the team on the visiting sideline is the one with everything to lose. Everyone expected Auburn to come in hoping to spoil the Tide season but the situation is flipped. The Tide look to end the undefeated run of questionable Cam Newton and the Tigers. I think they pull it off in Bryant-Denny. Auburn has been stellar on offense but mediocre at best on defense. If Bama sticks to their Heisman RB and ground game, they should be able to pull off the 'upset' (not in Vegas). Auburn has the last laugh by going to the SEC Championship, but this is enough to help the Tide feel better about their subpar (by their standards) season. Aub: 24--Bama:31

Arizona Wildcats @ Oregon Ducks

Gomer: As nice as it would be, I really don't see the Ducks losing this weekend, or next, or even in the potential BCS National Championship game. They've become a juggernaut on offense, and showed that yes, they can indeed play some defense if necessary. Arizona has struggled to get over the hump for years now it seems and a win here would be nice, but I just don't see it happening in Autzen. Zona: 7--UO: 39

Chief: The Wildcats are the one team in the Pac 10 that actually plays defense. I expected this to mean a lot more early on but injuries have hurt Arizona with a few weak losses. Oregon was chugging on offense until they hit Cal. Did Cal present the blueprint on how to beat them? Maybe some hints, but I don't think Zona's offense can hang with Oregon (even if they're slowed down). More importantly for the Ducks, it's in Autzen....not good for baby Stoops. Ducks win again and look to the Civil War (but it will be reasonably close). Zona: 17--UO: 27

Michigan Wolverines @ The Ohio State University Buckeyes

Gomer: The Buckeyes are going for 7 straight victories over TSUN, a feat I never even dreamed I would witness. Senator Tressel has put the focus on the Wolverines, where it should be, and has yet to let his players overlook this always important game. Michigan's defense will be the key in this one, because if they can make key stops and force a few turnovers, it could be a lot closer than anyone expects. The Buckeyes must simply avoid shooting themselves in the foot, much like Purdue 2009. There is some talent on the scUM roster, but not enough to pull an upset. Enjoy the last ever REAL Ohio State vs. Michigan game, because after this year there will always be one more game to play in the regular season. UM: 19--OSU: 52

Chief: Another "Game", another Buckeye victory. The Bucks look for 7 straight over their hated rival and 6 straight Big Ten titles. This is a ridiculous streak that will in some year, but not now. UM has an explosive offense that can strike in a hurry, but they couldn't stop me and 10 of my friends (let alone Terrelle Pryor and Co.) from scoring with them. Denard will make a fancy play of two, but Brian Rolle will kill him in the 2nd quarter. Look for the Wolverines to start fast with a quick score and a surprising stop or two, but it won't last. Bucks win again and head to the BCS. For all those that say this rivalry means less with Michigan not being as good, you are wrong. Beating your rival into the ground and stomping on their soul is ALWAYS good regardless of record or ability. Enjoy this while it lasts and show no mercy! GO BUCKS! BEAT MICHIGAN!! UM: 21--OSU: 45


Other Games:

Texas A&M @ Texas: Gomer: UT Chief: TAMU
Boise State @ Nevada: Gomer: Boise Chief: Boise
Michigan State @ Penn State: Gomer: MSU Chief: PSU
Northwestern @ Wisconsin: Gomer: Wisc Chief: Wisc
Florida @ Florida State: Gomer: UF Chief: FSU
Iowa @ Minnesota: Gomer: Iowa Chief: Iowa
South Carolina @ Clemson: Gomer: SoCar Chief: SoCar
Oklahoma @ Oklahoma State: Gomer: OU Chief: OkSt
Notre Dame @ USC: Gomer: USC Chief: USC

NCState @ Mary: Gomer: NCState Chief: MARY (GO TERPS!!!)

Week 12 Picks--The fight for Big Ten Supremacy?

Nebraska Cornhuskers @ Texas A&M Aggies

Gomer: Who knew that A&M was good this year? I sure didn't, especially with the typical attention given to OU, plus the slump of the Longhorns, little news has escaped the Big 12 so far this year. The Aggies have a chance to win the South, the Huskers the North, methinks that the Huskers take hold of the North even with the bum ankle of Taylor Martinez. Neb: 24--TAMU: 14

Chief: A big time rematch of the Cornhuskers vs. a team in Texas...wait, not the Longhorns? Well, this one might be better since the Longhorns are hapless this year. Johnson has played well for the Aggies and Kyle Field is always a tough place to go to, but the Huskers have a goal of a Big 12 Championship and I don't see any let up here. I don't think any team except the Oklahoma teams can stop them now. Neb: 31--TAMU: 20

Arkansas Razorbacks @ Mississippi State Bulldogs

Gomer: Ryan Mallet has been nothing been nothing but a disappointment when the spotlight has been on him this season. With MSU coming off a tough loss I look for the Bulldogs who have extra motivation to make the supposed super star look pedestrian again. Ark: 27--MSU: 30

Chief: I'm still not a buyer of Arkansas. Nice team but too much talk on the UM transfer Mallet. He's a nice QB, but I'm not a believer...especially on the road. The Bulldogs couldn't take care of the Crimson Tide after the tragic loss of their player Nick Bell, but I think they play with a fire under the thunderous cowbells in Starksville. I see Mullen's boys with another big win. Ark: 20--MSU: 24

Virginia Tech Hokies @ Miami Hurricanes

Gomer: The Hurricanes are struggling to live up to the seasons expectations and have a unique chance to make a statement against the Hokies. Freshman QB Morris has improved with each start and will help lead the Canes to a HUGE upset of the perennially strong Hokies. VT: 28--UM: 31

Chief: Talk about a game that looked to be the epic stinker after both teams limped out of the gate, but now it's a true ACC battle. Virginia Tech still has the ACC title and a BCS bowl in front of them after an ATROCIOUS start, but the Hurricanes have a sliver of hope. Problem is they're still riding a backup QB. Sun Life Stadium doesn't exactly inspire fear anymore so I see the Hokies rolling in and putting up a performance like their alum (or at least former player), Michael Vick. Hokies roll to the ACC title game. VT: 37--UM: 17

The Ohio State University Buckeyes @ Iowa Hawkeyes

Gomer: Had the 'Hawks done their job last week in Evanston, the Bucks may have had the chance at jumping the Badgers in the BCS rankings with a win this week in Iowa. Instead the Hawkeyes are going to be another 4 loss Big Ten team, and another failure by Kirk Ferentz to capitalize with a talented team. It's really to bad to think what might have been this season had the coaches realized how good a running game the Bucks could have if Boom was better utilized from the beginning. There's no question what will happen this Saturday, even in front of amped-Kinnick Stadium. OSU: 38--Iowa: 24

Chief: If the Bucks want to get to a BCS bowl, this is it. Going into the year, OSU had 3 major tests: Miami (passed), @ Wisconsin (fail), and @ Iowa. This is the last hurdle to at least finish above .500 in big games. I love the fire I saw in the 2nd half last week. If that team shows up, they will BLAST Iowa, but by the same token, if that 1st half team gets off the bus, it won't be pretty. Iowa has been pretty pathetic the last 2 weeks, but I expect the Bucks will get their absolute best shot. A fired up Silver Bullets defense take care of the Iowa offense like Ricky Stanzi takes care of the Taliban terrorists, TP will have enough escapability to avoid Clayborn and Sanzenbacher finally gets a pass actually throw to him. Bucks take it on the road. OSU: 24--Iowa:17

Other Games to pick

Wisc @ UM: Gomer: UM Chief: Wis

Pur @ MSU: Gomer: MSU Chief:MSU

PSU @ Ind: Gomer: PSU Chief: PSU

Ill @ NW: Gomer: NW Chief: Ill

Stan @ Cal: Gomer: Stan Chief: Stan

NCSt @ UNC: Gomer: NCSt Chief: NCSt

OU @ Baylor: Gomer: OU Chief: OU

FSU @ Mary: Gomer: FSU Chief: FSU

USC @ OrSt: Gomer: USC Chief: USC

Utah @ SDSU: Gomer: SDSU Chief: SDSU

Draper Index Week 11

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

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

Week 11 Picks--Back to work

Kansas State Wildcats @ Missouri Tigers

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

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

Georgia Bulldogs @ Auburn Tigers

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

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

Mississippi State Bulldogs @ Alabama Crimson Tide

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

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

South Carolina Gamecocks @ Florida Gators

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

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



Penn State Nittany Lions @ The Ohio State University Buckeyes

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

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



Other Games to Pick

Ind @ Wis: Gomer: Wis Chief: Wis

Iowa @ NW: Gomer: Iowa Chief: Iowa

Miami @ GT: Gomer: Miami Chief: GT

Minn @ Ill: Gomer: Ill Chief: Ill

Cinn @ WVU: Gomer: WVU Chief: WVU

Mich @ Pur: Gomer: UM Chief: UM

Utah @ ND: Gomer: Utah Chief: Utah

TAMU @ Baylor: Gomer: Baylor Chief: Baylor

VT @ UNC: Gomer: UNC Chief: VT

Oreg @ Cal: Gomer: UO Chief: UO

OkSt @ Tex: Gomer: UT Chief: OkSt

USC @ Zona: Gomer: USC Chief: Zona

Draper Index Week 10

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

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

Week 10 Picks--Bye Bye

TCU Horned Frogs @ Utah Utes

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

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

Baylor Bears @ Oklahoma State Cowboys

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

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

Alabama Crimson Tide @ Louisiana State Tigers

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

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

Arkansas Razorbacks @ South Carolina Gamecocks

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

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

Illinois Fighting Illini @ Michigan Wolverines

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

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

Arizona Wildcats @ Stanford Cardinal

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

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

Other Games to pick

Wisc @ Pur: Gomer: Wisc Chief: Wisc

Minn @ MSU: Gomer: MSU Chief: MSU

Iowa @ Ind: Gomer: Iowa Chief: Iowa

NCSt @ Clem: Gomer: Clem Chief: Clem

Haw @ Boise: Gomer: Boise Chief: Boise

UNC @ FSU: Gomer: FSU Chief: FSU

NW @ PSU: Gomer: NW Chief: PSU

Texas @ KSU: Gomer: Texas Chief: KSU

First Release of the Draper index 2010

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

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

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

Grading the Bucks Week 9--Minnesota

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

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

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

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

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

Week 9 - Minnesota Sleeper Awaits

Oregon Ducks vs. Southern California Trojans

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

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

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

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


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


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

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

Other Games:


Georgia vs. Florida Gomer: UF Chief: UGA

Auburn vs. Mississippi Gomer: Aub Chief: Aub

Oklahoma vs. Colorado Gomer: OU Chief: OU

Arizona vs. UCLA Gomer: UCLA Chief: Zona

Stanford vs. Washington Gomer: Wash Chief: Stan

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

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

Purdue vs. Illinois Gomer: Pur Chief: Ill

Grading the Bucks Week 8--Purdue

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

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

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

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

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