Standings:
1.) Draper 17-7 (1-5 upset)
1.) Hoying 17-7 (1-5 upset)
3.) Schweinfurth 15-9 (3-3 upset)
3.) Seeberg 15-9 (1-5 upset)
Life is good in Buckeye Nation. Ohio State is 6-0 (bowl eligible!) and one of Wisconsin and Michigan has to lose this week. I would advise you all to savor this, but let's be real, there's virtually a zero percent chance that anything takes a turn for the worse (tempting fate) until at least the release of the first playoff rankings on October 30. You can start savoring then, when the Buckeyes debut at #2 (behind you-know-million).
#2 Georgia Bulldogs @ #13 Louisiana State Tigers
Draper: LSU took the surprising L in Gainsville, but I they are a solid team with an absolutely brutal schedule. Coach O has actually turned the team into a contender this year. Georgia has been quite impressive this year...against the Little Sisters of the Poor. Regardless, I have faith that the Dawgs are the better team (and they only need to get up for 2 games a year--bonus!). The Tigas are a tough out in Death Valley, but Kirby Smart has Jake Fromm State Farm playing extremely efficiently. The environment will be rocking, but the Dawgs will quiet the Bayou and prepare for Bama (in 7 weeks). UGA: 21--LSU: 17
Hoying: Yes, yes, we know that [team you hate in the playoff chase] ain't played nobody yet, but I, as a dispassionate observer of the game, am here to inform you that it is in fact Georgia that has played nobody to date. South Carolina? Snore. Vanderbilt? Not so much. LSU, in contrast, been through the wringer already during the first half of the season, and they've performed more or less admirably. Unfortunately, now begins a brutal three game home stand featuring the #1 and #2 teams in the country, and Mississippi State. Preparing for Bama will be no problem (just steel yourself for losing by a million), so the Tigers can turn their full attention on upgrading their signature win of the year from Mark Richt's new team to his old one. Too bad they're not quite good enough to get the job done. UGA: 28 -- LSU: 21
Schweinfurth: LSU's best wins right now are against Miami and Auburn. Both of which have shown to be meh. Georgia has played??? To be honest, I am not sold on either of these teams. Everyone seems very high on Burrow, and he has been alright, but he is not starting at Ohio State for a reason. In reality, I like Jake Fromm to lead his team better than Burrow. Sorry Tigers, but you are looking at dropping three in a row (including Bama next week). UGA: 35--LSU: 24
Seeberg: Off a loss, playing at home, The LSU Burreauxs will be highly motivated in this one, which they'll need against Bama East. I realize the Swamp is still a semi-intimidating place to play, but only putting up 19 points against the Gators is a bad sign as Georgia has too much skill to be held beneath the high 20s/low 30s. Sadly, Joey doesn't have enough talent around him to match that type of scoring. UGA: 31--LSU: 20
#7 Washington Huskies @ #17 Oregon Ducks
Draper: The Ducks are getting a ton of love from the national media...but I don't really know why. I'm hearing people are talking about Justin Herbert as the #1 pick...again, I don't know why. After the stinker of a game the Huskies put up in week 1 (it was close but a boring game), they've been playing just fine. I actually have faith in their defense (huh?). Jake Browning and Chris Peterson march into Autzen and take a firm stranglehold on the Pac12 North. UW: 41--Ore: 27
Hoying: Is it time to write the Pac-12 out of the playoff already? The only teams in the league with fewer than two losses are Colorado (no), Washington State (lol), and Oregon and Washington. One of them is getting knocked out of the chase on Saturday, and if the other one's Oregon, they're probably going to skid to a few more losses in the weeks ahead. Yes, losing to Stanford was fluky garbage, but so is Stanford itself these days. And don't blame the loss of Bryce Love; if you're Stanford and your brand is smash mouth big boy football, you'd better have at least one backup running back. And I didn't see Mr. Love making many leaping catches while the Cardinal were storming back in the second half in Eugene. The bottom line: Jake Browning is going to shred a suspect Duck secondary and Oregon won't score enough against a tough Husky D to keep up. The Pac-12 survives for another week to be the smelly kid at the CFP dance that nobody wants to be stuck with. UW: 34--Ore: 24
Schweinfurth: The Pac-12 as a whole right now is a joke with the exception of Washington. A tough week one matchup will have any team reeling. Oregon has shown themselves to be mentally weak. Seriously, how do you blow that lead to Stanford? This is the last ride for Jake Browning and company and Gary Peterson knows it. Washington wins and reminds everyone where the Ducks belong. UW: 42--Ore: 28
Seeberg: This is a matchup of who I truly believe are the two best teams in the Pac-12, minus 1.5 horrendous quarters from the Ducks against Stanford a few weeks back. Remember, Stanford still needed overtime to pull that one out, but the home-field advantage in Autzen isn't what it used to be for Highlighter Jersey U. The Ducks did manage to right the ship last week at Cal, but unfortunately Cal is essentially Washington Lite: They score it well, just not as well as the Huskies, and their defense is a level or two more mediocre than Washington's as well. It smells like lots of points, but the Ducks just don't have the confidence to close it out. Huskies late. UW: 38--Ore: 31
#15 Wisconsin Badgers @ #12 Michigan Wolverines
Draper: This is a major clash of top 15 foes...and I don't really care. I don't see either of these teams making any noise in a playoff run (mostly because they aren't named Bama). Wisconsin is the usual brooding fat guy team with Jonathan Taylor smashing it up the middle and Michigan just sucks (on offense). The Michigan defense will be the difference under the lights (barf) in Ann Arbor (double barf). This is definitely the game in which I want them both to lose, but the Wolverines are just a little better top to bottom. UW: 14 -- UM: 17
Hoying: Last year the Badgers had a pretty easy walk to 12-0 and a spot in the B1G Championship, missing Ohio State and Penn State and getting a depleted Michigan team to visit Camp Randall. Not so this year; the Wolverines are back and as nasty as ever, and a trip to Happy Valley follows as well, not to mention the BYU juggernaut that out-Badgered the Badgers back in September. I don't foresee John O'Korn popping up for Michigan anytime this weekend, although the only reason he played last year in this game was that Wisconsin knocked Peters out of the game. I'm not saying that I'm rooting for Shea Patterson to get injured, but that may be the only hope UW has in this one. Jonathan Taylor will struggle to find room to run, the Michigan D will choke the life out of the Wisconsin O, and Michigan will score just enough to get by. UW: 17--UM: 24
Schweinfurth: Are either of these teams good? Well, both defenses are good. The two offenses are just power run teams that are going to bash each other's heads in. The Wolverine offense still doesn't have much of an identity and wont' use Shea Patterson to his full capability. I'm okay with that because the offense is simple and not very dynamic. We all know what the Badgers are. Harbaugh is pretty good against ranked teams at home, but I just don't think Michigan's offense can make enough plays. This is an ugly, ugly game. UW: 13--UM: 7
Seeberg: I just...I just don't know if I can take either of these squads seriously yet. Or, for that matter, if a win over the other makes the victorious team worthy of serious consideration. Either way though it's a step in the right direction. At the beginning of the year I would've taken the Badgers by two scores, but combining Jonathan Taylor's sophomore slump with Shea Patterson's legitimately competent QB play and things flip. Plus I absolutely cannot pick a team that lost to BYU at home when ranked in the top five. You know, the same BYU that got destroyed by four touchdowns at Washington. Wolverines win a less-than-appealing game to watch. UW: 13--UM: 20
Minnesota Golden Gophers @ #3 THE Ohio State University Buckeyes
Draper: Da Gophers roll into the Shoe with ideas of upset...well, not really...let's say, keeping it close in their heads. PJ Fleck and Co. had some high expectations but a steady dose of reality slams the door quickly. Haskins needs to continue to sling the rock, but not falter under pressure. The good news is that I don't anticipate a ton of pressure. This is a nice get-right stretch upcoming for the O-line and the Buckeye ground game. Keep scheming to the talents of the team and we'll be fine, but use this time to refine the game. Defense certainly needs to shore up that secondary, and again, Minnesota, Purdue (sort of), and Nebraska provide the 'get-right' opportunity. What is needed is a nod back to the Tulane game. Step on the throat and never look back. I expect the Bucks to make quick work and move on. Minnesota isn't nothing...but they're close. UM: 17--OSU:48
Hoying: After a semi-impressive 3-0 start, PJ has rowed the boat ashore (hallelujah) over the last two weeks, getting waxed by Iowa and...Maryland?...as the injuries continue to pile up. It's a genuine shame that Antoine Winfield's son won't get to suit up and take the field in Ohio Stadium, but also a bullet dodged. Not that Haskins needs any help in a year that would see him as a Heisman frontrunner if a certain Hawaiian cyborg weren't spraying TDs all over the field for everyone's favorite inevitable doomsday machine. OK, so the Buckeye defense may have a few lapses from time to time. Doesn't matter; Minnesota doesn't score. Slightly more worrying is that the Gophers are no slouches on run D. Hopefully the Buckeyes work on getting Dobbins into a groove so this team can produce something resembling offensive balance. Don't worry about padding Dwayne's Heisman stats; that's a fool's chase unless the Buckeyes can start finding a way to win games by more than a million. Shore up your week points, get the W, and get ready to move on to West Lafayette for ABC's prime time game of the week (???????). UM: 10--OSU: 52
Schweinfurth: Row, row, row your boat, gently into Ohio Stadium to get your rear end handed to you. I think the biggest intrigue is the 400 lb monster the Gophers are starting at left tackle. Welcome to the B1G, meet Chase Young. This game shouldn't be close, and should never be in doubt. The Buckeyes are two weeks away from that emotional Penn State game and should be more rested and focused. I really believe that was 90% of the issues we saw last week. This is the game to work on the secondary, tackling, and the run game. Haskins will get his numbers, but watch for Weber and Dobbins to get 200+ this week. I really do think there will be a concerted effort to run the ball. Win the game, don't get hurt, and move on. UM: 13--OSU: 49
Seeberg: After weeks of pushing for our beloved Buckeyes to FINALLY establish a run game, I've given up. Get Haskins 500 yards every 3 quarters and get him that beautiful stiff-arm trophy. In any case, this game was much more worrisome a few weeks ago before the injury bug decimated the Gophers, who are down their starting RB, playing a walk-on freshman QB, and their best player period in Antoine Winfield, Jr. is also out. Would love to see the D limit the big plays this week and the offense to get over half-a-hundo again. I expect both to happen as this squad hasn't played a complete game this side of Rutgers (which barely counts) all year. Bucks early, Bucks often. UM: 17: OSU: 56
Upset Special
Draper: Vanderbilt over Florida
Hoying: Baylor over Texas
Schweinfurth: Tennessee over Auburn
Seeberg: Memphis over UCF
Friday, October 12, 2018
Tuesday, October 09, 2018
Grading the Bucks: Week 6 -- Indiana
Calm. Down. Seriously: Calm. Down. Buckeye Nation is in a tizzy after a 23 point win over Indiana. Was the game ugly for much of it? Sure. Have we played significantly better football against better and worse opponents? Of course. But these games happen and you just work through it. Clearly the defense has issues that will persist (more later) and the offensive line has a few problems, but the team is just fine. No, the Buckeyes aren't the wagon that Bama is, but we're far from in disaster territory. Take it from a Seminole fan who won the National Championship the year before the Buckeyes: they'd kill to be in our shoes. We are whining about being in the 2nd tier (Bama stands alone...for now) with a great shot at the playoff and a title. Fix the problems and march on.
Offense: B+
MVP: Dwayne Haskins, QB
Not a great showing, but not awful. The running game just isn't working (a big concern), but the passing game is healthy as ever. The O-line was the cause of the fluky INT's and that certainly needs cleaning, but the WR have been progressing nicely. The TD by Victor is one of the nicest TDs you'll see this year (college or pro). I wonder if the return of Brandon Bowen (coming soon) will lead to more success on the ground. Buckeye Nation needs to remember that the success of the run game in year's past was due in major part to Joe Thomas Barrett IV. The threat of the running QB in an Urban offense is lethal, but Haskins doesn't have that dimension. His passing makes up for it (nearly breaking the OSU passing yardage in a game record), but the lack of ability to convert a 3rd or 4th and 1 is very concerning for the offensive line (JT hid a lot of warts in that area). Many Buckeye fans hated the simplistic QB Power that was run on EVERY 3rd and short last year, but he always converted....that dimension is conspicuously absent. This means success on 1st and 2nd down is of more paramount importance. No room for falling behind the sticks.
Defense: D+
MVP: eh.....Pete Werner, LB
On the plus side, the linebackers didn't suck...too much. Missed tackles were incredibly frustrating earlier on but that improved as the game progressed. There is certainly a concern about the health of Malik Harrison and Jonathan Cooper. The pass rush didn't get home which is a major concern for the young secondary, but I attribute that in part to the refs. Chase Young looked was being manhandled on every snap (fistfuls of jersey everywhere) and nary a call to be had (almost felt like we were playing Wisconsin!). Kudos to IU for the game plan of 'can't beat em, holdem and hope the refs don't catch you (or care)'. It was tough on the line to consistently get pressure but be denied due to uncalled fouls. Regardless, the secondary was simply poor on most dimensions. Once Pryor got into the groove in the 2nd half (after the bogus targeting call vs. Penn State) he started playing pretty well. There will be growing pains in the secondary all year, but I see flashes (sadly flashes of failure too). This team will be featured in shootouts most week so it's time to grin and bear it.
Special Teams: B
Nothing to note here. No missed kicks and only 2 punts (net average 41). Fine, but nothing special.
Coaching: C
The team didn't seem prepared on either side of the ball either. They were outschemed on both sides as well. As most Buckeye games, the talent wore down the opposition and the Bucks pulled away, but I was disappointed with the lackluster playcalling, the confusion on defense, and the relatively small improvement as the game progressed. After getting punched in the mouth early, I thought the defense would man-up and play with some pride, but they seemed sleepy in the secondary until midway through the second half. The coaches need to get these players fired up. The upcoming schedule is blah upcoming so lack of motivation is the enemy.
Overall: B-
The defense can't do this all year. There needs to be more consistent pressure or more sound play in the secondary. Haskins has been great as have the receivers, but the running game and big uglies aren't getting it done consistently. The big snake trap of a game is Purdue at night, but don't overlook the Gophers. The Buckeyes are everyone's Superbowl. No days off but I wouldn't have it any other way.
Offense: B+
MVP: Dwayne Haskins, QB
Not a great showing, but not awful. The running game just isn't working (a big concern), but the passing game is healthy as ever. The O-line was the cause of the fluky INT's and that certainly needs cleaning, but the WR have been progressing nicely. The TD by Victor is one of the nicest TDs you'll see this year (college or pro). I wonder if the return of Brandon Bowen (coming soon) will lead to more success on the ground. Buckeye Nation needs to remember that the success of the run game in year's past was due in major part to Joe Thomas Barrett IV. The threat of the running QB in an Urban offense is lethal, but Haskins doesn't have that dimension. His passing makes up for it (nearly breaking the OSU passing yardage in a game record), but the lack of ability to convert a 3rd or 4th and 1 is very concerning for the offensive line (JT hid a lot of warts in that area). Many Buckeye fans hated the simplistic QB Power that was run on EVERY 3rd and short last year, but he always converted....that dimension is conspicuously absent. This means success on 1st and 2nd down is of more paramount importance. No room for falling behind the sticks.
Defense: D+
MVP: eh.....Pete Werner, LB
On the plus side, the linebackers didn't suck...too much. Missed tackles were incredibly frustrating earlier on but that improved as the game progressed. There is certainly a concern about the health of Malik Harrison and Jonathan Cooper. The pass rush didn't get home which is a major concern for the young secondary, but I attribute that in part to the refs. Chase Young looked was being manhandled on every snap (fistfuls of jersey everywhere) and nary a call to be had (almost felt like we were playing Wisconsin!). Kudos to IU for the game plan of 'can't beat em, holdem and hope the refs don't catch you (or care)'. It was tough on the line to consistently get pressure but be denied due to uncalled fouls. Regardless, the secondary was simply poor on most dimensions. Once Pryor got into the groove in the 2nd half (after the bogus targeting call vs. Penn State) he started playing pretty well. There will be growing pains in the secondary all year, but I see flashes (sadly flashes of failure too). This team will be featured in shootouts most week so it's time to grin and bear it.
Special Teams: B
Nothing to note here. No missed kicks and only 2 punts (net average 41). Fine, but nothing special.
Coaching: C
The team didn't seem prepared on either side of the ball either. They were outschemed on both sides as well. As most Buckeye games, the talent wore down the opposition and the Bucks pulled away, but I was disappointed with the lackluster playcalling, the confusion on defense, and the relatively small improvement as the game progressed. After getting punched in the mouth early, I thought the defense would man-up and play with some pride, but they seemed sleepy in the secondary until midway through the second half. The coaches need to get these players fired up. The upcoming schedule is blah upcoming so lack of motivation is the enemy.
Overall: B-
The defense can't do this all year. There needs to be more consistent pressure or more sound play in the secondary. Haskins has been great as have the receivers, but the running game and big uglies aren't getting it done consistently. The big snake trap of a game is Purdue at night, but don't overlook the Gophers. The Buckeyes are everyone's Superbowl. No days off but I wouldn't have it any other way.
Friday, October 05, 2018
Week 6: What's a Hoosier?
Standings:
1.) Draper 15-5 (1-4 upset)
2.) Hoying 14-6 (1-4 upset)
3.) Schweinfurth 13-7 (2-3 upset)
3.) Seeberg 13-7 (1-4 upset)
Clever Clever Clever
#19 Texas Longhorns vs. #7 Oklahoma Sooners
Draper: I just don't believe Joe Tessitore. I don't think Texas is back. That being said, this game is weird. OU has been the better team for years, but this game there are years when Texas inexplicably has snake bitten them (see Charlie Strong wearing the golden hat). Murray has been fantastic when not suspended for a drive...interesting how that story got zero legs...but I don't see that changing here. The Horns have been hot lately, but I don't buy it. OU restores faith and reassures us that Texas is not back. UT: 28 -- OU: 42
Hoying: I'm tempted to forgo analysis here and just flip a coin. The Red River Shootout is one of the most upset-heavy rivalries in all of college football, and we don't have to reach too deep into the vault to remember unranked Texas knocking off heavily favored OU in 2013 and 2015 and putting a serious scare into the playoff-bound Sooners last season. All of those Texas teams turned out to be mediocre, so you may want to pump the brakes on the "Texas is back" wagon even if the Longhorns find a way to corral Oklahoma this weekend. Texas (like the West Virginia and Texas Tech teams we featured last week) is getting things done on defense, shutting down a terrible USC offense and a pretty good TCU offense to climb back into the rankings after pooping the bed against Maryland. The Sooners have looked pretty good against the civilian teams on their as-yet awful schedule, but they're in for a rude awakening. Texas Tom doesn't often lose as an underdog. UT: 31 -- OU: 27
Schweinfurth: I don't know which team I am sold less on. Texas lost to Maryland. Oklahoma's best win is Army? FAU? Texas has at least beaten a ranked team in USC. To me this is a coin flip. It seems like every time you pick a team in this rivalry, the other one wins. If nothing else, this game is always entertaining. I'm going to take Oklahoma, only because I feel like Texas has become predictable offensively. I also think Kyler Murray is a better QB than Ehlinger. Again, I can see this game going either way but I have to pick one. UT: 35--OU: 42
Seeberg: Luke warm take: The Longhorns aren't "not back". However, I'm not convinced they're all the way back, either. The burnt orange looked good against a tired TCU and a massively overvalued USC squad, but this is a sizable step up in competition. The only real question here is whether they keep it close enough with the Sooners to stay ranked. My guess is yes, through 2.5 quarters at least. Too much boomer sooner pulling the Conestoga wagon away late. UT: 27--OU: 41
#5 Louisiana State Tigers @ #22 Florida Gators
Draper: Florida is ranked? Really? Like, the Gators? Oh well, that's done now that Coach O is coming to town. I'm happy for Coach O and modestly pleased for Joe Burrow, but I'm a little tired of the fawning over Burrow from Buckeye Nation. He left us. Dead. To. Me. LSU = bad (stupid Les Miles in 2007), UF = worse. Looking at 'on the field play', LSU is significantly better at all phases. It's in the Swamp but that place hasn't been the same since Tebow graduated. This game has been really good in the 2000s...when the teams were both super good. I don't think this will have the same cache. LSU: 20 -- UF: 10
Hoying: You can't make me like either one of these teams, even if someone who doesn't play for Ohio State anymore is their quarterback. I was in Glendale in 2007 and New Orleans in 2008 to watch the Buckeyes' title dreams die at the hands of these megafauna (and I was back in Glendale in 2009 to have my heart broken again, thanks, Texas) and we hates them forever, precious. I gave LSU almost enough credit against Auburn but was too afraid to pull the trigger. Now the Tigers are the safe bet against a Gator team that faceplanted against the only really good team they've played, which was...Kentucky? OK, so it's going to be one of those years in the SEC. And by "one of those years" I mean one where Bama wins in a walk (by a million). But we still have to go through the motions on the rest. A UF loss essentially eliminates them from the East chase, while an LSU win puts them a win over Bama away from essentially locking up the West. That won't happen, but we'll continue to delude ourselves until then. LSU: 20--UF: 17
Schweinfurth: Two more teams I am not sold on. LSU has been rewarded for beating a very overrated Miami team and squeaking by Auburn (who I'm not sold on. Mini rant: if you want me to respect your ranking, play a better out of conference schedule). Florida's best win is Mississippi State? Really? They lost to Kentucky. These SEC teams keep getting propped up by playing no one or playing neutral field games against mid level Power 5 teams. Back to this game. I'll take Burrow and the Tigers. Florida isn't back and will drop back out of the top 25 they just squeaked into this week. LSU: 17--UF: 10
Seeberg: Imagine losing to Kentucky (this is football, remember, not basketball) and still being ranked in early October. Crazier things have happened, or so I'm told. Perhaps a second loss will awaken the pollsters. Jeaux Burreaux and Ceaux. should be able to do enough to keep that horrendously annoying chomping motion at bay. We know both teams can play excellent D, and both teams have trouble, at times, scoring. But the Tigers are far less likely to turn the ball over with Burrow at the helm, and turnovers will likely provide the difference. LSU: 20--UF: 13
#6 Notre Dame Fighting Irish @ #24 Virginia Tech Hokies
Draper: The Irish should essentially coast to a playoff berth, but the Hokies believe they have a shot at the historical Goliath. Now, Notre Dame is no ODU so VT has a shot in Blacksburg at night. I don't actually think the Hokies are any good, but they believe they are which might be just the ticket. Notre Dame might faceplant at some time this year, but I don't see it here against a backup QB. The Irish march on. ND: 30 -- VT: 17
Hoying: Don't look now, but the new-look Irish are as close as a lock to make the playoff as any other team in America in this young season. There's not another ranked team left on their schedule after this Saturday, and they've been obliterating their competition since swapping out old and busted Brandon Wimbush for new hotness Ian Book. VT has looked rather smashing themselves other than a puzzling loss to an awful, awful team, but not even the magic of Lane Stadium at night can derail the Irish at this point. ND: 34--VT: 20
Schweinfurth: Notre Dame will not be an underdog the rest of the year. Get used to hearing the phrase Undefeated Notre Dame in the Playoff Picture. I roll my eyes at that too, but it's where we are at. If the Irish win out, they are in the CFP. It would be funny if they get left out to a one loss conference champion. Boy the talking heads would explode. Notre Dame is just playing too well to lose this game. Enter Sandman keeps this close for a half. ND: 38--VT:28
Seeberg: I am not a fan of the new-look Golden Domers, in that they're actually, miraculously, finally competent on both sides of the ball (see: what TTUN is attempting to do). A better-than-average defense is now complimented by a better-than-average offense with Ian Book at the helm...I have no idea what took so long to make that change. With minimal resistance the rest of the way, there's just no chance they let a team who lost to Old-Freaking-Dominion ruin their season. That'll happen later against Syracuse. ND: 31--VT: 16
Indiana Hoosiers @ #3 THE Ohio State University Buckeyes
Draper: The Bucks return home after a monstrous comeback vs. Penn State. What could go wrong? At least we don't face Iowa this week! This should be a nice return to form for the Scarlet and Gray. I don't see Indiana competing in any aspect of the game...which means they'll probably hang around. "Hang around" may be a bit too strong as I don't expect to be worried at all. This should be a 'get right game' for the line and get Haskins back on track. In addition, working on the running game is a must in these games in which we can afford the work. Defensively, this should be another huge showing for Chase Young. As long as the safeties worked on attack angles this week, no problem. IU: 13--OSU: 45
Hoying: Ah, the crisp October air descends on Ohio Stadium as the 5-0 Buckeyes host the 4-1 Hoosiers. Fun fact: the last time the Buckeyes went 5-0 in the month of September, they went undefeated. The previous two times before that, they went to the national championship game. Now, they didn't actually win a title any of those years, but streaks are made to be broken. Except for the streak of OSU beating Indiana, which is now at 23* after last year's Bloomington blowout. A victory on Saturday would set a new longest win streak*, breaking the record set back from 1960 to 1986. Then Earle lost to them and got fired. Then Coop started 1-1-1 against them and didn't get fired. The early Cooper years were weird. I'm sure you know that he started 0-5-1 against Michigan, but did you know that he had an even more dreaded foe during his early tenure in Columbus? You'd never guess it now, but it was Illinois, who beat him during each of his first five seasons. Where was I going with this? Oh yes, the Buckeyes don't lose to crappy teams anymore. And despite Indiana's mirage of a perfect non-conference start to their season, they are still a crappy team that will struggle to make a bowl. And no matter how banged-up the Buckeyes may be at the moment, they aren't going to struggle to paste the Hoosiers. Not as long as Kevin Wilson's still on staff. OSU: 45--IU: 14
Schweinfurth: Ahh Indiana, the B1G Chaos team. Every year this team puts a scare into the Bucks for a half or three quarters. I remember Iowa from last year. The Bucks won an emotional, come from behind game against the Nittany Kittens and then got smoked on the road. The Bucks are coming of an emotional come from behind win against the Nittany Kittens but are at home this time. This shouldn't be close. Yes the Hoosiers are 4-1, but it's still Indiana. Do I expect another 49-42 game? No. The theme of the week should be limiting the big play on defense while pounding the ball on offense. The last three games have had an Ohio State running back demoralizing the Hoosier defense on the regular. I don't expect Weber to get many touches (rest that foot) so Dobbins should get 15+ carries and hopefully over 150. Haskins returns to form after last week. Indiana doesn't have the personnel to blitz every down like Penn State did. Big plays in the passing game will be there. Indiana will probably score in the first half because of an emotional let down this week. The Bucks should still win going away. OSU: 42--IU: 28
Seeberg: Here come the perennial doormat Hoosiers to town- except Rutgers now has that distinction. IU has played respectable ball the last several years, particularly on offense. Remember, this team put up 2 TDs more against Ball State than Notre Dame did (albeit pre-Ian Book). Concerning the local team, injuries are mounting for the first time in a while for the 2018 Buckeyes, especially on the already-less-than-stellar defensive side of the ball. Jones and Arnette are cleared to play, but I hope they only see minimal action as they continue to get healthy- same for Mike Weber. Regardless of the defensive issues, even in a shootout the Buckeyes would win this one comfortably. I expect, sadly, some chunk plays for IU but trouble sustaining long drives. Enjoy your banana, Indiana. OSU: 49--IU: 17
Upset Special
Draper: Florida State over Miami (I had to)
Hoying: Maryland over Michigan
Schweinfurth: Miss. St. over Auburn
Seeberg: Boston College over NC State
1.) Draper 15-5 (1-4 upset)
2.) Hoying 14-6 (1-4 upset)
3.) Schweinfurth 13-7 (2-3 upset)
3.) Seeberg 13-7 (1-4 upset)
Clever Clever Clever
#19 Texas Longhorns vs. #7 Oklahoma Sooners
Draper: I just don't believe Joe Tessitore. I don't think Texas is back. That being said, this game is weird. OU has been the better team for years, but this game there are years when Texas inexplicably has snake bitten them (see Charlie Strong wearing the golden hat). Murray has been fantastic when not suspended for a drive...interesting how that story got zero legs...but I don't see that changing here. The Horns have been hot lately, but I don't buy it. OU restores faith and reassures us that Texas is not back. UT: 28 -- OU: 42
Hoying: I'm tempted to forgo analysis here and just flip a coin. The Red River Shootout is one of the most upset-heavy rivalries in all of college football, and we don't have to reach too deep into the vault to remember unranked Texas knocking off heavily favored OU in 2013 and 2015 and putting a serious scare into the playoff-bound Sooners last season. All of those Texas teams turned out to be mediocre, so you may want to pump the brakes on the "Texas is back" wagon even if the Longhorns find a way to corral Oklahoma this weekend. Texas (like the West Virginia and Texas Tech teams we featured last week) is getting things done on defense, shutting down a terrible USC offense and a pretty good TCU offense to climb back into the rankings after pooping the bed against Maryland. The Sooners have looked pretty good against the civilian teams on their as-yet awful schedule, but they're in for a rude awakening. Texas Tom doesn't often lose as an underdog. UT: 31 -- OU: 27
Schweinfurth: I don't know which team I am sold less on. Texas lost to Maryland. Oklahoma's best win is Army? FAU? Texas has at least beaten a ranked team in USC. To me this is a coin flip. It seems like every time you pick a team in this rivalry, the other one wins. If nothing else, this game is always entertaining. I'm going to take Oklahoma, only because I feel like Texas has become predictable offensively. I also think Kyler Murray is a better QB than Ehlinger. Again, I can see this game going either way but I have to pick one. UT: 35--OU: 42
Seeberg: Luke warm take: The Longhorns aren't "not back". However, I'm not convinced they're all the way back, either. The burnt orange looked good against a tired TCU and a massively overvalued USC squad, but this is a sizable step up in competition. The only real question here is whether they keep it close enough with the Sooners to stay ranked. My guess is yes, through 2.5 quarters at least. Too much boomer sooner pulling the Conestoga wagon away late. UT: 27--OU: 41
#5 Louisiana State Tigers @ #22 Florida Gators
Draper: Florida is ranked? Really? Like, the Gators? Oh well, that's done now that Coach O is coming to town. I'm happy for Coach O and modestly pleased for Joe Burrow, but I'm a little tired of the fawning over Burrow from Buckeye Nation. He left us. Dead. To. Me. LSU = bad (stupid Les Miles in 2007), UF = worse. Looking at 'on the field play', LSU is significantly better at all phases. It's in the Swamp but that place hasn't been the same since Tebow graduated. This game has been really good in the 2000s...when the teams were both super good. I don't think this will have the same cache. LSU: 20 -- UF: 10
Hoying: You can't make me like either one of these teams, even if someone who doesn't play for Ohio State anymore is their quarterback. I was in Glendale in 2007 and New Orleans in 2008 to watch the Buckeyes' title dreams die at the hands of these megafauna (and I was back in Glendale in 2009 to have my heart broken again, thanks, Texas) and we hates them forever, precious. I gave LSU almost enough credit against Auburn but was too afraid to pull the trigger. Now the Tigers are the safe bet against a Gator team that faceplanted against the only really good team they've played, which was...Kentucky? OK, so it's going to be one of those years in the SEC. And by "one of those years" I mean one where Bama wins in a walk (by a million). But we still have to go through the motions on the rest. A UF loss essentially eliminates them from the East chase, while an LSU win puts them a win over Bama away from essentially locking up the West. That won't happen, but we'll continue to delude ourselves until then. LSU: 20--UF: 17
Schweinfurth: Two more teams I am not sold on. LSU has been rewarded for beating a very overrated Miami team and squeaking by Auburn (who I'm not sold on. Mini rant: if you want me to respect your ranking, play a better out of conference schedule). Florida's best win is Mississippi State? Really? They lost to Kentucky. These SEC teams keep getting propped up by playing no one or playing neutral field games against mid level Power 5 teams. Back to this game. I'll take Burrow and the Tigers. Florida isn't back and will drop back out of the top 25 they just squeaked into this week. LSU: 17--UF: 10
Seeberg: Imagine losing to Kentucky (this is football, remember, not basketball) and still being ranked in early October. Crazier things have happened, or so I'm told. Perhaps a second loss will awaken the pollsters. Jeaux Burreaux and Ceaux. should be able to do enough to keep that horrendously annoying chomping motion at bay. We know both teams can play excellent D, and both teams have trouble, at times, scoring. But the Tigers are far less likely to turn the ball over with Burrow at the helm, and turnovers will likely provide the difference. LSU: 20--UF: 13
#6 Notre Dame Fighting Irish @ #24 Virginia Tech Hokies
Draper: The Irish should essentially coast to a playoff berth, but the Hokies believe they have a shot at the historical Goliath. Now, Notre Dame is no ODU so VT has a shot in Blacksburg at night. I don't actually think the Hokies are any good, but they believe they are which might be just the ticket. Notre Dame might faceplant at some time this year, but I don't see it here against a backup QB. The Irish march on. ND: 30 -- VT: 17
Hoying: Don't look now, but the new-look Irish are as close as a lock to make the playoff as any other team in America in this young season. There's not another ranked team left on their schedule after this Saturday, and they've been obliterating their competition since swapping out old and busted Brandon Wimbush for new hotness Ian Book. VT has looked rather smashing themselves other than a puzzling loss to an awful, awful team, but not even the magic of Lane Stadium at night can derail the Irish at this point. ND: 34--VT: 20
Schweinfurth: Notre Dame will not be an underdog the rest of the year. Get used to hearing the phrase Undefeated Notre Dame in the Playoff Picture. I roll my eyes at that too, but it's where we are at. If the Irish win out, they are in the CFP. It would be funny if they get left out to a one loss conference champion. Boy the talking heads would explode. Notre Dame is just playing too well to lose this game. Enter Sandman keeps this close for a half. ND: 38--VT:28
Seeberg: I am not a fan of the new-look Golden Domers, in that they're actually, miraculously, finally competent on both sides of the ball (see: what TTUN is attempting to do). A better-than-average defense is now complimented by a better-than-average offense with Ian Book at the helm...I have no idea what took so long to make that change. With minimal resistance the rest of the way, there's just no chance they let a team who lost to Old-Freaking-Dominion ruin their season. That'll happen later against Syracuse. ND: 31--VT: 16
Indiana Hoosiers @ #3 THE Ohio State University Buckeyes
Draper: The Bucks return home after a monstrous comeback vs. Penn State. What could go wrong? At least we don't face Iowa this week! This should be a nice return to form for the Scarlet and Gray. I don't see Indiana competing in any aspect of the game...which means they'll probably hang around. "Hang around" may be a bit too strong as I don't expect to be worried at all. This should be a 'get right game' for the line and get Haskins back on track. In addition, working on the running game is a must in these games in which we can afford the work. Defensively, this should be another huge showing for Chase Young. As long as the safeties worked on attack angles this week, no problem. IU: 13--OSU: 45
Hoying: Ah, the crisp October air descends on Ohio Stadium as the 5-0 Buckeyes host the 4-1 Hoosiers. Fun fact: the last time the Buckeyes went 5-0 in the month of September, they went undefeated. The previous two times before that, they went to the national championship game. Now, they didn't actually win a title any of those years, but streaks are made to be broken. Except for the streak of OSU beating Indiana, which is now at 23* after last year's Bloomington blowout. A victory on Saturday would set a new longest win streak*, breaking the record set back from 1960 to 1986. Then Earle lost to them and got fired. Then Coop started 1-1-1 against them and didn't get fired. The early Cooper years were weird. I'm sure you know that he started 0-5-1 against Michigan, but did you know that he had an even more dreaded foe during his early tenure in Columbus? You'd never guess it now, but it was Illinois, who beat him during each of his first five seasons. Where was I going with this? Oh yes, the Buckeyes don't lose to crappy teams anymore. And despite Indiana's mirage of a perfect non-conference start to their season, they are still a crappy team that will struggle to make a bowl. And no matter how banged-up the Buckeyes may be at the moment, they aren't going to struggle to paste the Hoosiers. Not as long as Kevin Wilson's still on staff. OSU: 45--IU: 14
Schweinfurth: Ahh Indiana, the B1G Chaos team. Every year this team puts a scare into the Bucks for a half or three quarters. I remember Iowa from last year. The Bucks won an emotional, come from behind game against the Nittany Kittens and then got smoked on the road. The Bucks are coming of an emotional come from behind win against the Nittany Kittens but are at home this time. This shouldn't be close. Yes the Hoosiers are 4-1, but it's still Indiana. Do I expect another 49-42 game? No. The theme of the week should be limiting the big play on defense while pounding the ball on offense. The last three games have had an Ohio State running back demoralizing the Hoosier defense on the regular. I don't expect Weber to get many touches (rest that foot) so Dobbins should get 15+ carries and hopefully over 150. Haskins returns to form after last week. Indiana doesn't have the personnel to blitz every down like Penn State did. Big plays in the passing game will be there. Indiana will probably score in the first half because of an emotional let down this week. The Bucks should still win going away. OSU: 42--IU: 28
Seeberg: Here come the perennial doormat Hoosiers to town- except Rutgers now has that distinction. IU has played respectable ball the last several years, particularly on offense. Remember, this team put up 2 TDs more against Ball State than Notre Dame did (albeit pre-Ian Book). Concerning the local team, injuries are mounting for the first time in a while for the 2018 Buckeyes, especially on the already-less-than-stellar defensive side of the ball. Jones and Arnette are cleared to play, but I hope they only see minimal action as they continue to get healthy- same for Mike Weber. Regardless of the defensive issues, even in a shootout the Buckeyes would win this one comfortably. I expect, sadly, some chunk plays for IU but trouble sustaining long drives. Enjoy your banana, Indiana. OSU: 49--IU: 17
Upset Special
Draper: Florida State over Miami (I had to)
Hoying: Maryland over Michigan
Schweinfurth: Miss. St. over Auburn
Seeberg: Boston College over NC State
Tuesday, October 02, 2018
Grading the Bucks: Week 5 -- Penn State
Oh yeah...that's the stuff. Not only did the Buckeyes rip the heart out of the Penn State faithful, we substantially increased our empire in the College Football Imperialism Map. The map that started at the beginning of the 2017 season shows the immense influence of Buckeye Nation. THE KING IN THE NORTH commands respect!
Offense: B
MVP: K.J. Hill, WR
Overall, this was a very blase performance by the Buckeye offense. Haskins was pedestrian (and in no way deserved B1G Player of the Week) but effective enough. The running game simply could not get churning. In the first half, the line play was atrocious but there was a marked improvement as the game progressed (conditioning?). Major credit to the coaches to dial up the screen game as the line wasn't protecting long enough to allow for deep downfield looks. The WR were all pretty good in this game from Victor to Hill to Campbell. Obviously, Penn State is one of the stronger defenses we'll face this year, but there were a few chinks that TCU exposed that PSU picked at. Still room to improve.
Defense: B+
MVP: Chase Young, DE
Honestly, the defense played quite well. Yes, McSorley was gashing the Bullets on the ground, but the were able to contain the explosive Nittany Lion offense to a reasonable performance in an insanely crazy environment. The linebackers are still not good...but they are improving. Harrison, Werner, and Boreland are consistently getting better every week. I'm very concerned with the speed and awareness of the safeties. The long TD pass was an embarrassment. Pryor took an atrocious angle and was simply not fast enough to make up for his mistake. The lack of speed in the deep secondary has been an issue in a few games this year. Chase Young made a few plays (primarily the earlier 4th down bat down) that were simply amazing. If Bosa gets back, the two top DEs in football are wearing scarlet and gray (been saying it all year--they're monsters).
Special Teams: A
MVP: Drue Chrisman, P
Other than Chase Young, Drue Chrisman was the best player in Scarlet and Gray Saturday. He was excellent at flipping the field in all cases. The punt coverage (and for that matter, the kick coverage) teams were also exceptional. A major boon in a hostile road environment.
Coaching: A-
The preparation for the game was a little questionable. The Buckeyes appeared to be lost at times early on and there was no synchronicity on offense (or defense). The second half adjustments (primarily moving to the screen game) were fantastic. Defensively, the coaches realized if we played a little softer (gave up a few yards to prevent the big play) we were in better shape. The main reason we could afford to not be as aggressive is that the line is so good that they can get home without help...so long as those helpers assist in coverage. The decisions to go on 4th down were pretty solid, but the playcall...eh. Remember all you JT haters that we always knew the call on 4th and 1...but we'd always convert. I wasn't thrilled with the call/execution on 4th down, but the decisions were solid.
Overall: A-
Went into Happy Valley and left with a win. The vaunted 'white-out' now has a losing record. It's an insane environment, but the talent of the Bucks is too much. The biggest goal now is to avoid going all 'Iowa'. I think we learned our lesson. The Bucks will be heavy favorites for the remainder of the year, but let's take it one game at a time.
Offense: B
MVP: K.J. Hill, WR
Overall, this was a very blase performance by the Buckeye offense. Haskins was pedestrian (and in no way deserved B1G Player of the Week) but effective enough. The running game simply could not get churning. In the first half, the line play was atrocious but there was a marked improvement as the game progressed (conditioning?). Major credit to the coaches to dial up the screen game as the line wasn't protecting long enough to allow for deep downfield looks. The WR were all pretty good in this game from Victor to Hill to Campbell. Obviously, Penn State is one of the stronger defenses we'll face this year, but there were a few chinks that TCU exposed that PSU picked at. Still room to improve.
Defense: B+
MVP: Chase Young, DE
Honestly, the defense played quite well. Yes, McSorley was gashing the Bullets on the ground, but the were able to contain the explosive Nittany Lion offense to a reasonable performance in an insanely crazy environment. The linebackers are still not good...but they are improving. Harrison, Werner, and Boreland are consistently getting better every week. I'm very concerned with the speed and awareness of the safeties. The long TD pass was an embarrassment. Pryor took an atrocious angle and was simply not fast enough to make up for his mistake. The lack of speed in the deep secondary has been an issue in a few games this year. Chase Young made a few plays (primarily the earlier 4th down bat down) that were simply amazing. If Bosa gets back, the two top DEs in football are wearing scarlet and gray (been saying it all year--they're monsters).
Special Teams: A
MVP: Drue Chrisman, P
Other than Chase Young, Drue Chrisman was the best player in Scarlet and Gray Saturday. He was excellent at flipping the field in all cases. The punt coverage (and for that matter, the kick coverage) teams were also exceptional. A major boon in a hostile road environment.
Coaching: A-
The preparation for the game was a little questionable. The Buckeyes appeared to be lost at times early on and there was no synchronicity on offense (or defense). The second half adjustments (primarily moving to the screen game) were fantastic. Defensively, the coaches realized if we played a little softer (gave up a few yards to prevent the big play) we were in better shape. The main reason we could afford to not be as aggressive is that the line is so good that they can get home without help...so long as those helpers assist in coverage. The decisions to go on 4th down were pretty solid, but the playcall...eh. Remember all you JT haters that we always knew the call on 4th and 1...but we'd always convert. I wasn't thrilled with the call/execution on 4th down, but the decisions were solid.
Overall: A-
Went into Happy Valley and left with a win. The vaunted 'white-out' now has a losing record. It's an insane environment, but the talent of the Bucks is too much. The biggest goal now is to avoid going all 'Iowa'. I think we learned our lesson. The Bucks will be heavy favorites for the remainder of the year, but let's take it one game at a time.
Friday, September 28, 2018
Week 5: Come to Penn Staaaate!
Standings:
1.) Draper 10-5 (1-3 upset)
1.) Hoying 10-5 (1-3 upset)
2.) Schweinfurth 9-6 (2-2 upset)
2.) Seeberg 8-7 (1-3 upset)
That Team Up North may still, as always, be Ohio State's one true rival, but that team out east (no, not you Rutgers) has been the Bucks' best matchup over the last two seasons. Now the non-rivalry is renewed, and this time with no stupid alternate uniforms (although I'm not sure that's a good thing: Ohio State is 4-0 against Penn State over the last 5 seasons when wearing stupid alternates, and 0-1 when not).
#12 West Virginia Mountaineers @ #25 Texas Tech Red Raiders
Draper: Will Grier is the Heisman flavor of the month not named Tu'a or Dwayne (honestly, it's the distant 3rd but you know...). I expect this to be another shootout as we're accustomed to with the Big 12 standards. Dana Holgorson should be able to keep the scoreboard ticking up in quick fashion while Kliff "Gosling" Kingsberry finally has a little spark of life in Lubbock. Lean on the Neers at this point because the Red Raiders are more likely the bigger mirage. WVU will crash and burn soon enough, but Tech is flying a bit too close to the sun. WVU: 48 -- TT: 28
Hoying: Ah, classic Big 12, getting it done on...defense? Yes, the #1 scoring defense in the country can be found in Morgantown, WV after the 'Neers shut down Kansas State, Youngstown State, and Tennessee. And one week after surrendering 49 points to the Houston Cougars, Tech went into Stillwater and stonewalled the Cowboys, holding them to 17 points and zero (!) in the second half. Of course, they had the luxury of facing first-year starter Taylor Cornelius instead of OkSU institution Mason Rudolph, but now Will Grier is coming to town with a bit more formidable attack. Should we expect the dams to burst this Saturday? One would hope so; Tech is putting up over 50 a game and Grier is aspiring to Haskins-esque QB play. But Ole Miss was able to slow down the Red Raiders a bit in week 1 and WVU will do it again. WVU: 41--TT: 34
Schweinfurth: The Red Raiders have taken residence in their normal 20-25 ranking range. Unfortunately, I have not had enough time to watch the Big 12 outside of the TCU game. I do know that WVU has looked like a legitimate Big 12 championship contender (and the WVU/OU game will be fun). Will Grier is tearing it up and I just don't think Texas Tech has the defense to slow him down. WVU: 45--TT: 28
Seeberg: Ah yes, Texas Tech has entered the rankings after beating Oklahoma State on the road. A solid win to be sure, but now they face what is essentially OkSt version 2.0 in West Virginia. Will Grier and Co. are lighting it up as usual, and one week of solid defense per season is typically all any Big 12 squad can muster. Back to Earth, Red Raiders. WVU: 42-- TTU: 27
#7 Stanford Cardinal @ #8 Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Draper: Stanford won a game they had no business winning with super boring football that lulled the opponent to sleep? You don't say! It's almost like we've seen this story before. Now, is Notre Dame for real? I'm honestly not sure. They beat Michigan which is a nice win, but not spectacular and looked pedestrian in their other games. I'd like to go for boring David Shaw but this is exactly the game that Stanford loses that kicks them out of the national spotlight. Actually, it seems that whenever ND or Stanford get some steam, this is the game that crushes them. Notre Dame has plenty of time to face plant, but Stanford and the weak Pac 12 offers fewer opportunities. The Irish are BACK (for another week) while the Cardinal spends the next 7 games whining that they deserve a chance. Stan: 17--ND: 27
Hoying: I told you the Cardinal would win last week. Never a doubt (at least once they got back to playing Stanford football). Now they're tasked with stopping the new-look Irish O featuring Ian Book (5 yards) behind center. Lost in Book's coming out party was the fact that ND gave up 27 to Wake Forest, a team that scored all of 23 against Tulane a few weeks ago. Not that the Stanford offense poses much a threat; the run game has gone bye-bye even with Heisman once-hopeful Bryce Love leading the fold. The safe pick would be Notre Dame but I have an odd feeling that they're due for a clunker. Stan: 24 -- ND: 21
Schweinfurth: I went to bed last Saturday and Oregon was handling Stanford. That was apparently a mistake. That was a great comeback by a very good football team. The question I have, how much did that comeback take out of the Cardinal. That was an emotional conference game. This game, while it has emotion, means more for Notre Dame than the Cardinal. A loss here by the Irish and you can kiss any talk of the playoffs good bye. (Want a better chance? Join a freaking conference!) I wish this game was earlier so I could watch. Until Brian Kelly proves he can win a game like this, I'll take the other team. Stan: 28--ND: 24
Seeberg: Another week, another "I have no clue what to make of this Pac-12 team" game. Stanford was dead to rights against Oregon before the Ducks shrank on the national stage- again- like a wool sweater in the dryer. Notre Dame, like Stanford, has a formidable D, but the Ducks shredded that D for nearly three quarters. Suddenly, the golden domers might be able to score it as well, benching Wimbush in favor of Ian Book, who posted a tidy 325 passing yards in hanging more than half a hundred on a reasonably competent Wake Forest defense. That plus home field advantage is enough for me to believe the Irish will keep on pretending to be a CFP contender. Stan: 20--ND: 28
#20 Brigham Young Cougars @ #11 Washington Huskies
Draper: It was fun watching BYU beat Wisconsin....really fun. But Washington has an actual semblance of an offense. I think both teams will score, but Washington is simply the better team. Browning is a head case, but I expect him to perform at home. The Cougs weren't fazed in Madison, but the lack of a consistent Badger passing game was a huge boon. Washington has better athletes to pull away late. BYU: 24 -- UW: 38
Hoying: After scraping by Arizona in week 1 and being edged by California in week 2, BYU's conference tour continues in Seattle. I don't really think BYU is any good; their reputation is entirely founded on catching a super-overrated Wisconsin team napping. Yes, yes, I know there's another overrated UW team right in front of them, but the Huskies won't be fooled. BYU: 17 -- UW: 31
Schweinfurth: Which one of these teams is for real? BYU is still riding high after out muscling Wisconsin. Washington looked pretty good against what appears to be a decent Auburn team. Jake Browning has more experience in big games like this so I'll take the Huskies. BYU: 27--UW: 35
Seeberg: BYU is ranked. This is fool's gold kids. Hornibrook always plays like hot garbage against one inferior opponent each year, and this time it bit the Badgers where it hurts. The Huskies are still the Pac-12's best chance at a CFP berth, and they won't get caught napping after the Cougars' win last week. U-Dub big. BYU: 17--UW: 38
#19 Oregon Ducks @ #24 California Golden Bears
Draper: I saw a little of Oregon last week and they looked pretty solid...until they crapped themselves. I haven't seen Cal but QB-U (2 NFL starters!) has been putting points on the board. I think points will be had in spades here, but the Ducks are more talented. Quack. Ore: 48 -- Cal: 38
Hoying: OK, sometimes you get a bad beat. Sometimes you kick a pylon and then stretch for a yard you don't really need, and everyone inexplicably second-guesses your decision not to take a knee when you can't really run out the clock yet. It doesn't make you a bad team. Is Cal a bad team? I don't know; as stated above, they did beat BYU. And they even have a win over a Power 5 team: North Carolina! The Tar Heels looked pretty good this week, right? The Ducks are away from home for this one, but the home fans don't really pack the house in the Bay area. As long as Oregon doesn't let the Stanford bungling beat them two weeks in a row, they should be fine. Ore: 45--Cal: 27
Schweinfurth: Oregon had a rough week last week. I don't see this offense going dormant for the second half again like last week. They are just too talented. I haven't watched any of Cal this year, but from what I understand, this game should be a shootout. Ore: 45--Cal: 38
Seeberg: Ah yes, Oregon, take two. After botching their chance to re-enter national legitimacy last week, they're likely to stomp whomever they play next. Those highlighter jersey combos have to stay in the national discussion somehow. Ore: 45--Cal: 31
#4 THE Ohio State University Buckeyes @ #9 Pennsylvania State University Nittany Lions
Draper: Take the over...of course when you think that, it usually means the opposite but here we are! Another game in which points will be scored in droves, not necessarily due to bad defense but moreso because of good offense. Last week was very odd as PSU almost pooped the bed against Illinois before an explosion of points occurred in the 4th. I don't read too much into that (on either side) except that OSU will be able to put up points and yards in this one. It comes down to the Buckeyes ability to stop the run up the middle (poor thus far) and get to McSorley before he chucked the 500 balls deep. The loss of Bosa looms large, but it's not as bad as everyone thinks. Cooper and Young are both fantastic edge rushers and Jones wreaks havoc at tackle. Unfortunately, they need support from the linebackers to stop the run in this game. I have no true worries concerning Haskins and the Buckeye offense. Yeah, this is Haskins first true road start but he got some great experience in Ann Arbor last year that will serve him well. Hope that Weber is at full speed to continue the 2-headed RB approach. No doubt in my mind that OSU is the better team. Can they escape Happy Valley with a win? I think it will be (surprisingly) comfortable. OSU: 52 -- PSU: 38
Hoying: Remember the 90's? When it seemed like the home team won this game every year (unless you're taking Bobby Hoying and Eddie George on the road in 1995)? Happy Valley hasn't been quite as intimidating lately. Yes, there was the block heard round the world in 2016 announcing Penn State's return to relevance, and yes, the 2014 game went to double OT, but one has to look back all the way to 2005 to find Ohio State's last loss in State College before 2016. And 2016 was a total fluke: Penn State got a few touchdowns on some deep jump balls but McSorley had an awful day and the PSU offense struggled in general to get anything going. Lost in last year's thrilling comeback was the dirty secret that the Lions couldn't really move the ball in Columbus, either, relying once again on jump balls that could have just as easily been ruled interceptions (and some early literal and figurative fumbles by the Gray and Gray). I'm looking for reasons not to pick the Bucks in this one and I just don't see them. The LB play has continued to be poor but I don't put any greater faith in the Penn State D. Haskins isn't going to be a deer in the headlights after staying frosty up in last year's comeback in Ann Arbor. Even if Weber is tweaked, Dobbins has been fine and will run wild if the Nits key on Dwayne. Stupid fluky crap is always a possibility, but the odds say go with the road team. OSU: 31 -- PSU: 24
Schweinfurth: Win special teams. Please. If there is a punt or FG block, it needs to happen by the Buckeyes. If there is a kick returned for a TD, it needs to happen by a Buckeye. Don't believe me? Look at the last two years. I put myself through the misery of watching the 2016 game. Ohio State DOMINATED that game until the Lions blocked a punt. With that said, this Buckeye team is much more talented than that 2016 team. This Penn State team is not. Everyone is making a big deal about Penn State's explosive offense. Please take into account that these numbers have come against App St., Pitt, Kent St. and Illinois. Those are some juggernaut defenses there. Yes, Ohio State's numbers came against Oregon St., Buttgers, Tulane, oh and a very good TCU team. Here's the thing, McSorely's deep ball is very interceptable and Ohio State actually has guys that can run with the Lion's receivers. Ohio State's D-Line is the best Penn St. will see all year and I'm still not sold on their offensive line. Beaver Stadium is one of the most intimidating atmospheres I have ever witnessed and that impact is real. Add to the fact that weird things always happen in this game. I think this one goes similar to the TCU game where Penn St. keeps it close for 3 quarters, but Dobbins and Weber are going to grind that defense into a fine white powder. OSU: 42--PSU: 31
Seeberg: Every time I think about this game, a new angle tries to coerce me into picking a different team. "The Buckeyes can't really stop anybody" "Yeah but neither can Penn State!" "Our rushing attack has dwindled significantly in recent weeks" "Yeah but Penn State can barely kick a field goal". Here's a terrifying stat: Ohio State's starting linebackers made EXACTLY ZERO TACKLES last week. That should be literally impossible. I also find it amusing that, in the breakdown of this game, the local paper gave the QB edge to Penn State, not the team with a QB who is currently the second betting favorite to win the Heisman. If Haskins plays as well as he did against TCU- and there's no reason to think he won't, considering TCU's defense is better- we should score enough points to put this one to bed when combined with turnover-prone McSorley. IF McSorley keeps the ball in the navy and white's hands, we may be in trouble, but I just don't see it. Bucks get a solid statement win in not-so-happy valley. OSU: 38--PSU: 28
Upset Special
Draper: Kansas State over Texas
Hoying: Ole Miss over LSU
Schweinfurth: Syracuse over Clemson
Seeberg: Pitt over UCF
1.) Draper 10-5 (1-3 upset)
1.) Hoying 10-5 (1-3 upset)
2.) Schweinfurth 9-6 (2-2 upset)
2.) Seeberg 8-7 (1-3 upset)
That Team Up North may still, as always, be Ohio State's one true rival, but that team out east (no, not you Rutgers) has been the Bucks' best matchup over the last two seasons. Now the non-rivalry is renewed, and this time with no stupid alternate uniforms (although I'm not sure that's a good thing: Ohio State is 4-0 against Penn State over the last 5 seasons when wearing stupid alternates, and 0-1 when not).
#12 West Virginia Mountaineers @ #25 Texas Tech Red Raiders
Draper: Will Grier is the Heisman flavor of the month not named Tu'a or Dwayne (honestly, it's the distant 3rd but you know...). I expect this to be another shootout as we're accustomed to with the Big 12 standards. Dana Holgorson should be able to keep the scoreboard ticking up in quick fashion while Kliff "Gosling" Kingsberry finally has a little spark of life in Lubbock. Lean on the Neers at this point because the Red Raiders are more likely the bigger mirage. WVU will crash and burn soon enough, but Tech is flying a bit too close to the sun. WVU: 48 -- TT: 28
Hoying: Ah, classic Big 12, getting it done on...defense? Yes, the #1 scoring defense in the country can be found in Morgantown, WV after the 'Neers shut down Kansas State, Youngstown State, and Tennessee. And one week after surrendering 49 points to the Houston Cougars, Tech went into Stillwater and stonewalled the Cowboys, holding them to 17 points and zero (!) in the second half. Of course, they had the luxury of facing first-year starter Taylor Cornelius instead of OkSU institution Mason Rudolph, but now Will Grier is coming to town with a bit more formidable attack. Should we expect the dams to burst this Saturday? One would hope so; Tech is putting up over 50 a game and Grier is aspiring to Haskins-esque QB play. But Ole Miss was able to slow down the Red Raiders a bit in week 1 and WVU will do it again. WVU: 41--TT: 34
Schweinfurth: The Red Raiders have taken residence in their normal 20-25 ranking range. Unfortunately, I have not had enough time to watch the Big 12 outside of the TCU game. I do know that WVU has looked like a legitimate Big 12 championship contender (and the WVU/OU game will be fun). Will Grier is tearing it up and I just don't think Texas Tech has the defense to slow him down. WVU: 45--TT: 28
Seeberg: Ah yes, Texas Tech has entered the rankings after beating Oklahoma State on the road. A solid win to be sure, but now they face what is essentially OkSt version 2.0 in West Virginia. Will Grier and Co. are lighting it up as usual, and one week of solid defense per season is typically all any Big 12 squad can muster. Back to Earth, Red Raiders. WVU: 42-- TTU: 27
#7 Stanford Cardinal @ #8 Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Draper: Stanford won a game they had no business winning with super boring football that lulled the opponent to sleep? You don't say! It's almost like we've seen this story before. Now, is Notre Dame for real? I'm honestly not sure. They beat Michigan which is a nice win, but not spectacular and looked pedestrian in their other games. I'd like to go for boring David Shaw but this is exactly the game that Stanford loses that kicks them out of the national spotlight. Actually, it seems that whenever ND or Stanford get some steam, this is the game that crushes them. Notre Dame has plenty of time to face plant, but Stanford and the weak Pac 12 offers fewer opportunities. The Irish are BACK (for another week) while the Cardinal spends the next 7 games whining that they deserve a chance. Stan: 17--ND: 27
Hoying: I told you the Cardinal would win last week. Never a doubt (at least once they got back to playing Stanford football). Now they're tasked with stopping the new-look Irish O featuring Ian Book (5 yards) behind center. Lost in Book's coming out party was the fact that ND gave up 27 to Wake Forest, a team that scored all of 23 against Tulane a few weeks ago. Not that the Stanford offense poses much a threat; the run game has gone bye-bye even with Heisman once-hopeful Bryce Love leading the fold. The safe pick would be Notre Dame but I have an odd feeling that they're due for a clunker. Stan: 24 -- ND: 21
Schweinfurth: I went to bed last Saturday and Oregon was handling Stanford. That was apparently a mistake. That was a great comeback by a very good football team. The question I have, how much did that comeback take out of the Cardinal. That was an emotional conference game. This game, while it has emotion, means more for Notre Dame than the Cardinal. A loss here by the Irish and you can kiss any talk of the playoffs good bye. (Want a better chance? Join a freaking conference!) I wish this game was earlier so I could watch. Until Brian Kelly proves he can win a game like this, I'll take the other team. Stan: 28--ND: 24
Seeberg: Another week, another "I have no clue what to make of this Pac-12 team" game. Stanford was dead to rights against Oregon before the Ducks shrank on the national stage- again- like a wool sweater in the dryer. Notre Dame, like Stanford, has a formidable D, but the Ducks shredded that D for nearly three quarters. Suddenly, the golden domers might be able to score it as well, benching Wimbush in favor of Ian Book, who posted a tidy 325 passing yards in hanging more than half a hundred on a reasonably competent Wake Forest defense. That plus home field advantage is enough for me to believe the Irish will keep on pretending to be a CFP contender. Stan: 20--ND: 28
#20 Brigham Young Cougars @ #11 Washington Huskies
Draper: It was fun watching BYU beat Wisconsin....really fun. But Washington has an actual semblance of an offense. I think both teams will score, but Washington is simply the better team. Browning is a head case, but I expect him to perform at home. The Cougs weren't fazed in Madison, but the lack of a consistent Badger passing game was a huge boon. Washington has better athletes to pull away late. BYU: 24 -- UW: 38
Hoying: After scraping by Arizona in week 1 and being edged by California in week 2, BYU's conference tour continues in Seattle. I don't really think BYU is any good; their reputation is entirely founded on catching a super-overrated Wisconsin team napping. Yes, yes, I know there's another overrated UW team right in front of them, but the Huskies won't be fooled. BYU: 17 -- UW: 31
Schweinfurth: Which one of these teams is for real? BYU is still riding high after out muscling Wisconsin. Washington looked pretty good against what appears to be a decent Auburn team. Jake Browning has more experience in big games like this so I'll take the Huskies. BYU: 27--UW: 35
Seeberg: BYU is ranked. This is fool's gold kids. Hornibrook always plays like hot garbage against one inferior opponent each year, and this time it bit the Badgers where it hurts. The Huskies are still the Pac-12's best chance at a CFP berth, and they won't get caught napping after the Cougars' win last week. U-Dub big. BYU: 17--UW: 38
#19 Oregon Ducks @ #24 California Golden Bears
Draper: I saw a little of Oregon last week and they looked pretty solid...until they crapped themselves. I haven't seen Cal but QB-U (2 NFL starters!) has been putting points on the board. I think points will be had in spades here, but the Ducks are more talented. Quack. Ore: 48 -- Cal: 38
Hoying: OK, sometimes you get a bad beat. Sometimes you kick a pylon and then stretch for a yard you don't really need, and everyone inexplicably second-guesses your decision not to take a knee when you can't really run out the clock yet. It doesn't make you a bad team. Is Cal a bad team? I don't know; as stated above, they did beat BYU. And they even have a win over a Power 5 team: North Carolina! The Tar Heels looked pretty good this week, right? The Ducks are away from home for this one, but the home fans don't really pack the house in the Bay area. As long as Oregon doesn't let the Stanford bungling beat them two weeks in a row, they should be fine. Ore: 45--Cal: 27
Schweinfurth: Oregon had a rough week last week. I don't see this offense going dormant for the second half again like last week. They are just too talented. I haven't watched any of Cal this year, but from what I understand, this game should be a shootout. Ore: 45--Cal: 38
Seeberg: Ah yes, Oregon, take two. After botching their chance to re-enter national legitimacy last week, they're likely to stomp whomever they play next. Those highlighter jersey combos have to stay in the national discussion somehow. Ore: 45--Cal: 31
#4 THE Ohio State University Buckeyes @ #9 Pennsylvania State University Nittany Lions
Draper: Take the over...of course when you think that, it usually means the opposite but here we are! Another game in which points will be scored in droves, not necessarily due to bad defense but moreso because of good offense. Last week was very odd as PSU almost pooped the bed against Illinois before an explosion of points occurred in the 4th. I don't read too much into that (on either side) except that OSU will be able to put up points and yards in this one. It comes down to the Buckeyes ability to stop the run up the middle (poor thus far) and get to McSorley before he chucked the 500 balls deep. The loss of Bosa looms large, but it's not as bad as everyone thinks. Cooper and Young are both fantastic edge rushers and Jones wreaks havoc at tackle. Unfortunately, they need support from the linebackers to stop the run in this game. I have no true worries concerning Haskins and the Buckeye offense. Yeah, this is Haskins first true road start but he got some great experience in Ann Arbor last year that will serve him well. Hope that Weber is at full speed to continue the 2-headed RB approach. No doubt in my mind that OSU is the better team. Can they escape Happy Valley with a win? I think it will be (surprisingly) comfortable. OSU: 52 -- PSU: 38
Hoying: Remember the 90's? When it seemed like the home team won this game every year (unless you're taking Bobby Hoying and Eddie George on the road in 1995)? Happy Valley hasn't been quite as intimidating lately. Yes, there was the block heard round the world in 2016 announcing Penn State's return to relevance, and yes, the 2014 game went to double OT, but one has to look back all the way to 2005 to find Ohio State's last loss in State College before 2016. And 2016 was a total fluke: Penn State got a few touchdowns on some deep jump balls but McSorley had an awful day and the PSU offense struggled in general to get anything going. Lost in last year's thrilling comeback was the dirty secret that the Lions couldn't really move the ball in Columbus, either, relying once again on jump balls that could have just as easily been ruled interceptions (and some early literal and figurative fumbles by the Gray and Gray). I'm looking for reasons not to pick the Bucks in this one and I just don't see them. The LB play has continued to be poor but I don't put any greater faith in the Penn State D. Haskins isn't going to be a deer in the headlights after staying frosty up in last year's comeback in Ann Arbor. Even if Weber is tweaked, Dobbins has been fine and will run wild if the Nits key on Dwayne. Stupid fluky crap is always a possibility, but the odds say go with the road team. OSU: 31 -- PSU: 24
Schweinfurth: Win special teams. Please. If there is a punt or FG block, it needs to happen by the Buckeyes. If there is a kick returned for a TD, it needs to happen by a Buckeye. Don't believe me? Look at the last two years. I put myself through the misery of watching the 2016 game. Ohio State DOMINATED that game until the Lions blocked a punt. With that said, this Buckeye team is much more talented than that 2016 team. This Penn State team is not. Everyone is making a big deal about Penn State's explosive offense. Please take into account that these numbers have come against App St., Pitt, Kent St. and Illinois. Those are some juggernaut defenses there. Yes, Ohio State's numbers came against Oregon St., Buttgers, Tulane, oh and a very good TCU team. Here's the thing, McSorely's deep ball is very interceptable and Ohio State actually has guys that can run with the Lion's receivers. Ohio State's D-Line is the best Penn St. will see all year and I'm still not sold on their offensive line. Beaver Stadium is one of the most intimidating atmospheres I have ever witnessed and that impact is real. Add to the fact that weird things always happen in this game. I think this one goes similar to the TCU game where Penn St. keeps it close for 3 quarters, but Dobbins and Weber are going to grind that defense into a fine white powder. OSU: 42--PSU: 31
Seeberg: Every time I think about this game, a new angle tries to coerce me into picking a different team. "The Buckeyes can't really stop anybody" "Yeah but neither can Penn State!" "Our rushing attack has dwindled significantly in recent weeks" "Yeah but Penn State can barely kick a field goal". Here's a terrifying stat: Ohio State's starting linebackers made EXACTLY ZERO TACKLES last week. That should be literally impossible. I also find it amusing that, in the breakdown of this game, the local paper gave the QB edge to Penn State, not the team with a QB who is currently the second betting favorite to win the Heisman. If Haskins plays as well as he did against TCU- and there's no reason to think he won't, considering TCU's defense is better- we should score enough points to put this one to bed when combined with turnover-prone McSorley. IF McSorley keeps the ball in the navy and white's hands, we may be in trouble, but I just don't see it. Bucks get a solid statement win in not-so-happy valley. OSU: 38--PSU: 28
Upset Special
Draper: Kansas State over Texas
Hoying: Ole Miss over LSU
Schweinfurth: Syracuse over Clemson
Seeberg: Pitt over UCF
Thursday, September 27, 2018
Grading the Bucks: Week 4--Tulane
I'll be honest, it's tough to grade and evaluate the game when you are in Shoe. It's also tough to truly evaluate that kind of a game when the teams are mismatched. Since I'm also slammed at work, this will be incredibly brief. Don't judge this column on this particular post.
Offense: A-
MVP: Dwayne Haskins, QB
What can you say? Total dominance in the first half and snoozefest in the second half. The 'minus' is simply because I was so bored in the second half, I couldn't pay any attention. The running game was a bit 'eh', but who cares. Tulane wanted to stop the run so we killed them through the air. Haskins was brilliant again.
Defense: A
MVP: Chase Young, DE
Again, this was a total mismatch. The TD given up was a bit bogus as a pick was made on an offsides. Overall, strong performance, but it tells me nothing here. Tulane doesn't provide a valid measuring stick, but the Bucks did what they were supposed to.
Special Teams: I
Did we have any special teams plays? Asking for a friend... The score was 49 on the nice last minute cover, so I guess we made the PATs....yay?
Coaching: A
Haskins hit the pine for the second half. That's the most important move made. Gameplan was fine (yet super easy).
Overall: A
On to Penn State. Need Weber to heal up. Win it for Nick!
Offense: A-
MVP: Dwayne Haskins, QB
What can you say? Total dominance in the first half and snoozefest in the second half. The 'minus' is simply because I was so bored in the second half, I couldn't pay any attention. The running game was a bit 'eh', but who cares. Tulane wanted to stop the run so we killed them through the air. Haskins was brilliant again.
Defense: A
MVP: Chase Young, DE
Again, this was a total mismatch. The TD given up was a bit bogus as a pick was made on an offsides. Overall, strong performance, but it tells me nothing here. Tulane doesn't provide a valid measuring stick, but the Bucks did what they were supposed to.
Special Teams: I
Did we have any special teams plays? Asking for a friend... The score was 49 on the nice last minute cover, so I guess we made the PATs....yay?
Coaching: A
Haskins hit the pine for the second half. That's the most important move made. Gameplan was fine (yet super easy).
Overall: A
On to Penn State. Need Weber to heal up. Win it for Nick!
Friday, September 21, 2018
Week 4: Waiting for Bosa
Standings:
1.) Draper 7-5 (1-2 upset)
1.) Hoying 7-5 (0-3 upset)
2.) Schweinfurth 6-6 (2-1 upset)
2.) Seeberg 6-6 (1-2 upset) (but UNT over Arkansas....really?)
While the Bucks earned a major victory last week over the Frogs that are Horned, they took a major blow with the loss of their best defensive player for an indeterminate period of time. Let's hope that he gets back soon. In the meantime, let's check out the week 4 slate! Of wait...week 4 slate is usually garbage....
#7 Stanford Cardinal @ # 20 Oregon Ducks
Draper: Does anybody really know anything about these teams? Does anybody really care? Chicago asked the question, but we can answer it: No. I feel like the Pac12 will work its way through the season in predictable fashion. Washington loses a key nonconference game early and drops a head-scratcher but wins the conference. Stanford is boringly consistent all year, but loses to Washington and is out of it (although they will scream that they are 'deserving'). Oregon gets lots of hype but fails on the big stage. Welcome to point 3. Stanford: 20 -- Oregon: 17
Hoying: At first glance, this looks like another Stanford defense vs. Oregon offense showdown. Or at least it did before Oregon only put up 35 against San Jose State in a surprisingly tough outing for Duck QB Justin Herbert. Stanford's defense is for real, though; I watched about a quarter of their strangling of USC and fell into a coma so deep I almost missed Mass the next morning. That should probably be enough to get the job done here, because I don't think the Pacific Northwest's revolving door of coaches quite has their act together yet this year. Stan: 24 -- Oregon: 13
Schweinfurth: Pac-12 games are on way past my bed time (yes, I feel old saying that). So, believe me when I say that I don't really watch much Pac-12 football. I'm not sold on Oregon being back at an elite level. Stanford just keeps rolling on. I'll take the dancing trees. Stan: 27--Oregon: 20
Seeberg: As with most of us east of the Mississippi, I'm not entirely sure what to make of this game. Stanford has looked- eh?- this year. Actually, Stanford and Notre Dame might be the least impressive undefeated teams ranked 7 and 8 in history. The golden domers beat Michigan by 7...and Ball State by 8. Stanford shut down USC, and then USC got spanked by Texas. You know Texas as the team that was beaten by Maryland- again- in week one, before narrowly slipping by Tulsa the next week. Regardless, now Stanford has to go on the road to highlighter-jersey U. on Saturday night. Honestly I'm not sold on either squad, but they aren't keeping Justin Herbert and the Ducks in the single digits, and unless Bryce Love 2018 turns back the clock to Bryce Love 2017 this week, it may not go well for the visitors. Ducks late. Stan: 20-- Ore: 27
#22 Texas A&M Aggies @ #1 Alabama Crimson Tide
Draper: I see the line on this game is Bama -26 and that's just ridiculous. Bama has been rolling their opponents early, but A&M is a pretty good team. They pushed Clemson to the brink and showed they're ready for the big time. Tua will crash sometime and this seems like as likely a time as any since they've faced no one of note thus far. I definitely thinking A&M in this one...to cover. Sadly, this will be another comfortable (boring) Bama throat stomping. TAMU: 17 -- Bama: 34
Hoying: Bama by a million. That's just going to be my default pick for every Bama game, that we're going to pick every week here on Let's Go Bucks!, because Bama is going to be #1 every week, and every week they're going to play some poor sucker that's ranked somewhere in the #20s because they're not really that good but they play in the SEC and their record is somewhat OK because they haven't played Bama and lost by a million yet. Bama: A million -- Not Bama: 0.
Schweinfurth: I'm not going to break this down. Bama is sooooo much better than A&M. I'm with Hoying, Bama by a million. TAMU: 9--Bama: 70
Seeberg: Not very often a team enters the rankings after losing a game, but the Aggies put up a solid effort, dropping a close one to Clemson. That game was in College Station, however, where the 12th man seemed to have an impact. Make no mistake, there is minimal talent disparity in this one...across most of the starters. 'Bama has 4 and 5 stars literally everywhere on the depth chart, however, and that depth will grind TAMU down in the second half. Might be nice to actually see Saban have to coach for once though. TAMU: 17-- Bama: 38
Tulane Golden Hurricane @ #4 THE Ohio State University Buckeyes
Draper: What do we want from this game? The Bucks left Dallas with a huge win and a (bigger--no, but close) loss in Nick Bosa. I expect he'll be back sometime this year but not before PSU. Will we notice his absence Sat? No. Cooper and Young will be just fine. I'm hoping to see some strides from the run defense. If Tulane is smart, they'll run the up tempo offense and try to get the ball out quick with a few trap runs up the middle. The major difference is they don't have TCU's athletes. As for the offensive side of the ball, I have no concerns. This should be another stat-padding game for the Bucks O. Look for Tate Martell to get plenty of reps. Urban's return is successful. Enjoy the giant red hoard as the TBDBITL Alumni march down the ramp "One more time." Tul: 10 -- OSU: 59
Hoying: Mmmm...sandwich game. Something about returning from a Texas-sized "neutral site" victory and gearing up to head to Happy Valley for the B1G East championship makes this matchup fizzle a bit. Don't expect the Bucks to fizzle on either side of the ball, though, Tulane is terrible and the boys aren't going to be falling asleep in the middle of Urban's homecoming. The Buckeyes will win by 50 or so and stay at #4 because Clemson doesn't Clemson anymore and Bama will win by a million. Tul: 6 -- OSU: 52
Schweinfurth: This game is like the creamy filling in an Oreo, sandwiched between two HUGE games. To me this is a name your score game. There are a few things I want to see, mostly a full half of the young guys because the Bucks are up by a huge amount. Please don't get anyone hurt and get tuned up for next week. Tul: 10--OSU: 70
Seeberg: Well Buckeye fans, our favorite rush man is out, likely for a month or so, making this tune up game all the more critical, allowing the less-heralded DEs to step up and see what it's like to get extra attention without Baby Bear blowing plays up regularly. Through three games, Bosa has more tackles (14-13), tackles for loss (6-3) and sacks (4-3) than the next five DEs on the depth chart combined. Good luck Chase Young and Co. In any event, I expect to see a lot of Tate Martell in this one after Haskins gets his 275ish and 4ish touchdowns. Would love to see some Weber and Dobbins in the backfield simultaneously to give Penn State's defensive coordinator nightmares as well. Hope they both crack 100 this week. Bring on the rest of the B1G. Tul: 10 -- OSU: 63
Upset Special
Draper: Iowa over Wisconsin
Hoying: Purdue over Boston College
Schweinfurth: Wake Forest over Notre Dame
Seeberg: Indiana over Michigan State
1.) Draper 7-5 (1-2 upset)
1.) Hoying 7-5 (0-3 upset)
2.) Schweinfurth 6-6 (2-1 upset)
2.) Seeberg 6-6 (1-2 upset) (but UNT over Arkansas....really?)
While the Bucks earned a major victory last week over the Frogs that are Horned, they took a major blow with the loss of their best defensive player for an indeterminate period of time. Let's hope that he gets back soon. In the meantime, let's check out the week 4 slate! Of wait...week 4 slate is usually garbage....
#7 Stanford Cardinal @ # 20 Oregon Ducks
Draper: Does anybody really know anything about these teams? Does anybody really care? Chicago asked the question, but we can answer it: No. I feel like the Pac12 will work its way through the season in predictable fashion. Washington loses a key nonconference game early and drops a head-scratcher but wins the conference. Stanford is boringly consistent all year, but loses to Washington and is out of it (although they will scream that they are 'deserving'). Oregon gets lots of hype but fails on the big stage. Welcome to point 3. Stanford: 20 -- Oregon: 17
Hoying: At first glance, this looks like another Stanford defense vs. Oregon offense showdown. Or at least it did before Oregon only put up 35 against San Jose State in a surprisingly tough outing for Duck QB Justin Herbert. Stanford's defense is for real, though; I watched about a quarter of their strangling of USC and fell into a coma so deep I almost missed Mass the next morning. That should probably be enough to get the job done here, because I don't think the Pacific Northwest's revolving door of coaches quite has their act together yet this year. Stan: 24 -- Oregon: 13
Schweinfurth: Pac-12 games are on way past my bed time (yes, I feel old saying that). So, believe me when I say that I don't really watch much Pac-12 football. I'm not sold on Oregon being back at an elite level. Stanford just keeps rolling on. I'll take the dancing trees. Stan: 27--Oregon: 20
Seeberg: As with most of us east of the Mississippi, I'm not entirely sure what to make of this game. Stanford has looked- eh?- this year. Actually, Stanford and Notre Dame might be the least impressive undefeated teams ranked 7 and 8 in history. The golden domers beat Michigan by 7...and Ball State by 8. Stanford shut down USC, and then USC got spanked by Texas. You know Texas as the team that was beaten by Maryland- again- in week one, before narrowly slipping by Tulsa the next week. Regardless, now Stanford has to go on the road to highlighter-jersey U. on Saturday night. Honestly I'm not sold on either squad, but they aren't keeping Justin Herbert and the Ducks in the single digits, and unless Bryce Love 2018 turns back the clock to Bryce Love 2017 this week, it may not go well for the visitors. Ducks late. Stan: 20-- Ore: 27
#22 Texas A&M Aggies @ #1 Alabama Crimson Tide
Draper: I see the line on this game is Bama -26 and that's just ridiculous. Bama has been rolling their opponents early, but A&M is a pretty good team. They pushed Clemson to the brink and showed they're ready for the big time. Tua will crash sometime and this seems like as likely a time as any since they've faced no one of note thus far. I definitely thinking A&M in this one...to cover. Sadly, this will be another comfortable (boring) Bama throat stomping. TAMU: 17 -- Bama: 34
Hoying: Bama by a million. That's just going to be my default pick for every Bama game, that we're going to pick every week here on Let's Go Bucks!, because Bama is going to be #1 every week, and every week they're going to play some poor sucker that's ranked somewhere in the #20s because they're not really that good but they play in the SEC and their record is somewhat OK because they haven't played Bama and lost by a million yet. Bama: A million -- Not Bama: 0.
Schweinfurth: I'm not going to break this down. Bama is sooooo much better than A&M. I'm with Hoying, Bama by a million. TAMU: 9--Bama: 70
Seeberg: Not very often a team enters the rankings after losing a game, but the Aggies put up a solid effort, dropping a close one to Clemson. That game was in College Station, however, where the 12th man seemed to have an impact. Make no mistake, there is minimal talent disparity in this one...across most of the starters. 'Bama has 4 and 5 stars literally everywhere on the depth chart, however, and that depth will grind TAMU down in the second half. Might be nice to actually see Saban have to coach for once though. TAMU: 17-- Bama: 38
Tulane Golden Hurricane @ #4 THE Ohio State University Buckeyes
Draper: What do we want from this game? The Bucks left Dallas with a huge win and a (bigger--no, but close) loss in Nick Bosa. I expect he'll be back sometime this year but not before PSU. Will we notice his absence Sat? No. Cooper and Young will be just fine. I'm hoping to see some strides from the run defense. If Tulane is smart, they'll run the up tempo offense and try to get the ball out quick with a few trap runs up the middle. The major difference is they don't have TCU's athletes. As for the offensive side of the ball, I have no concerns. This should be another stat-padding game for the Bucks O. Look for Tate Martell to get plenty of reps. Urban's return is successful. Enjoy the giant red hoard as the TBDBITL Alumni march down the ramp "One more time." Tul: 10 -- OSU: 59
Hoying: Mmmm...sandwich game. Something about returning from a Texas-sized "neutral site" victory and gearing up to head to Happy Valley for the B1G East championship makes this matchup fizzle a bit. Don't expect the Bucks to fizzle on either side of the ball, though, Tulane is terrible and the boys aren't going to be falling asleep in the middle of Urban's homecoming. The Buckeyes will win by 50 or so and stay at #4 because Clemson doesn't Clemson anymore and Bama will win by a million. Tul: 6 -- OSU: 52
Schweinfurth: This game is like the creamy filling in an Oreo, sandwiched between two HUGE games. To me this is a name your score game. There are a few things I want to see, mostly a full half of the young guys because the Bucks are up by a huge amount. Please don't get anyone hurt and get tuned up for next week. Tul: 10--OSU: 70
Seeberg: Well Buckeye fans, our favorite rush man is out, likely for a month or so, making this tune up game all the more critical, allowing the less-heralded DEs to step up and see what it's like to get extra attention without Baby Bear blowing plays up regularly. Through three games, Bosa has more tackles (14-13), tackles for loss (6-3) and sacks (4-3) than the next five DEs on the depth chart combined. Good luck Chase Young and Co. In any event, I expect to see a lot of Tate Martell in this one after Haskins gets his 275ish and 4ish touchdowns. Would love to see some Weber and Dobbins in the backfield simultaneously to give Penn State's defensive coordinator nightmares as well. Hope they both crack 100 this week. Bring on the rest of the B1G. Tul: 10 -- OSU: 63
Upset Special
Draper: Iowa over Wisconsin
Hoying: Purdue over Boston College
Schweinfurth: Wake Forest over Notre Dame
Seeberg: Indiana over Michigan State
Tuesday, September 18, 2018
Grading the Bucks: Week 3 -- TCU
A big win and a (potential) big loss. Honestly, Buckeye Nation should be incredibly pleased with the performance last Saturday in Jerry World. It wasn't perfect, but the team fought through the first modicum of adversity they saw all year and triumphed. It was by no means a perfect game, but you went into a powerful enemy's home (sort of) and took care of business. The only reason to be mad at the final score is if you had the Bucks -13 (we should have covered). Obviously, the negative was the uncertainty of Mr. Bosa's future for 2018. We shall see.
Offense: B
MVP: Dwayne Haskins, QB
Pretty solid showing this week, but not as crisp as the last two weeks. Obviously, the Horned Frog defense had much to do with that, but the execution took a slight step back. Austin Mack had a day with the swing of emotions. First, a huge diving catch to get it going in traffic, followed by a bevy of drops. Buckeye faithful need to relax. Mack has been much better this year and he will continue to grow, but Sat was a lower point. He'll get it together. The backfield tandem was solid (not explosive, but solid). I'm continually amazed by the balance of the two backs (especially Dobbins). The footwork and concentration is exceptional. I also love that Haskins finally kept the ball on a read. Yes, he's slower than the StayPuft Marshmallow Man, but we need to keep the threat of the keeper alive. A perfect playcall near the goalline. We do need to mention the points left on the board in the first possession when Haskins swing pass to Berry was batted down. A literal lob is an easy 6 with no one within miles of the TE. Oh yeah, no turnovers :).
Defense: B
MVP: Dremont Jones, DT
This unit is going to be bipolar week in and week out. The line is simply fantastic. They scored 2 TDs for heaven's sake! The back 7....eh. Linebacker play actually improved as the game went on a bit, but there's a ways to go. Arnette has his moments (on both sides) but the secondary is not the high quality we've had in the recent past. Let me be clear: expecting the secondary to be seeded with multiple 1st round NFL draft picks every year may be asking a bit much. The only concern the reared it's ugly head is the run defense once again. The pass rush is just nasty with Bosa (please?), Young, Jones, and Cooper. I feel bad for opposing QB's. However, TCU had a fantastic gameplan to nullify the rush with quick tempo, short passes, and inside runs. Look for many future opponents to try to replicate that.
Special Teams: C
They were the ones to kick a kick off out of bounds! Moving on up Bucks! However, a missed kick by Nuernburger is no bueno. Another average kick/return showing. Another downgrade is the kickoff trickeration that should have worked (had they not thrown it forward). How did no one see that?
Coaching: B
So ends the (first?) tenure of Ryan Day as OSU head coach with an unblemished record. The offensive gameplan was just fine, although I was surprised to see so much Dobbins early when Weber had been the recent hot hand. I'm glad they kept going to the receivers even with the dropsies. The reps help. The defensive gameplan was a little more questionable. I'm surprised the coaches allowed the lack of run stoppers be showcased in this game. The edge rushers of OSU are fantastic and should be the focal point, but when it becomes clear that TCU is using that advantage against us, adjustments need to be made. I think they tried, but the middle of the field defenders are not at the level of the ends and it shows. Maybe some more help in the middle (4 linebackers? Maybe a safety cheating up to aid with the run) would be in order. Also, seriously, how was there not a single coach in the box screaming to the sidelines that there was a TCU player laying on the RED A in the endzone. With all the eyeballs on the game in college football, everyone missing that is very odd. Yes it didn't work, but it should have.
Overall: A-
Lots of nitpicking above (more than is deserved as reflected in my final grade). The Bucks took care of business in a workmanlike fashion. Yes, they got the advantage of defensive scores, but those were a product of the quality defensive play rather than an accident. This game is a big springboard for the season, make no mistake. The only concern still lingering is the abdomen of Nick Bosa. Let's hope he gets right for the Penn State game. He has a meeting (multiple meetings?) planned with Chase Young at Trace McSorley.
Offense: B
MVP: Dwayne Haskins, QB
Pretty solid showing this week, but not as crisp as the last two weeks. Obviously, the Horned Frog defense had much to do with that, but the execution took a slight step back. Austin Mack had a day with the swing of emotions. First, a huge diving catch to get it going in traffic, followed by a bevy of drops. Buckeye faithful need to relax. Mack has been much better this year and he will continue to grow, but Sat was a lower point. He'll get it together. The backfield tandem was solid (not explosive, but solid). I'm continually amazed by the balance of the two backs (especially Dobbins). The footwork and concentration is exceptional. I also love that Haskins finally kept the ball on a read. Yes, he's slower than the StayPuft Marshmallow Man, but we need to keep the threat of the keeper alive. A perfect playcall near the goalline. We do need to mention the points left on the board in the first possession when Haskins swing pass to Berry was batted down. A literal lob is an easy 6 with no one within miles of the TE. Oh yeah, no turnovers :).
Defense: B
MVP: Dremont Jones, DT
This unit is going to be bipolar week in and week out. The line is simply fantastic. They scored 2 TDs for heaven's sake! The back 7....eh. Linebacker play actually improved as the game went on a bit, but there's a ways to go. Arnette has his moments (on both sides) but the secondary is not the high quality we've had in the recent past. Let me be clear: expecting the secondary to be seeded with multiple 1st round NFL draft picks every year may be asking a bit much. The only concern the reared it's ugly head is the run defense once again. The pass rush is just nasty with Bosa (please?), Young, Jones, and Cooper. I feel bad for opposing QB's. However, TCU had a fantastic gameplan to nullify the rush with quick tempo, short passes, and inside runs. Look for many future opponents to try to replicate that.
Special Teams: C
They were the ones to kick a kick off out of bounds! Moving on up Bucks! However, a missed kick by Nuernburger is no bueno. Another average kick/return showing. Another downgrade is the kickoff trickeration that should have worked (had they not thrown it forward). How did no one see that?
Coaching: B
So ends the (first?) tenure of Ryan Day as OSU head coach with an unblemished record. The offensive gameplan was just fine, although I was surprised to see so much Dobbins early when Weber had been the recent hot hand. I'm glad they kept going to the receivers even with the dropsies. The reps help. The defensive gameplan was a little more questionable. I'm surprised the coaches allowed the lack of run stoppers be showcased in this game. The edge rushers of OSU are fantastic and should be the focal point, but when it becomes clear that TCU is using that advantage against us, adjustments need to be made. I think they tried, but the middle of the field defenders are not at the level of the ends and it shows. Maybe some more help in the middle (4 linebackers? Maybe a safety cheating up to aid with the run) would be in order. Also, seriously, how was there not a single coach in the box screaming to the sidelines that there was a TCU player laying on the RED A in the endzone. With all the eyeballs on the game in college football, everyone missing that is very odd. Yes it didn't work, but it should have.
Overall: A-
Lots of nitpicking above (more than is deserved as reflected in my final grade). The Bucks took care of business in a workmanlike fashion. Yes, they got the advantage of defensive scores, but those were a product of the quality defensive play rather than an accident. This game is a big springboard for the season, make no mistake. The only concern still lingering is the abdomen of Nick Bosa. Let's hope he gets right for the Penn State game. He has a meeting (multiple meetings?) planned with Chase Young at Trace McSorley.
Saturday, September 15, 2018
Week 3: It's Actually a Lizard
Standings:
1.) Hoying 5-3 (0-2 upset)
2.) Schweinfurth 4-4 (2-0 upset)
2.) Draper 4-4 (0-2 upset)
2.) Seeberg 4-4 (0-2 upset)
What makes a game site turn neutral? Lust for gold? Power? Or is it just born with a heart full of neutrality? This is your semi-periodic reminder that neutral site games are stupid and terrible and should be changed to home-and-aways (or cancelled) whenever possible. Even ESPN isn't buying this "neutral site" garbage, having College Gameday in Fort Worth AT TCU even though the game's being played all of 20 miles away over in Arlington.
#12 Louisiana State Tigers @ #7 Auburn Tigers
Draper: Pump the brakes Buckeye truthers, Joe Burrow was pedestrian at best last week. However, the Tiguhs looked quite good in a route of daU. The defense was phenomenal but Malik Rosier was always butt. Auburn was eh against Washington, but Washington may be pretty good. This is a tough call because I think both of these teams COULD be really good this year, but I'm guessing one will be a mirage (no clue which one). I'll go with the home team in a close one. Honestly, nothing would surprise me in this game (even Coach O suiting up at halftime. LSU: 17 -- Aub: 20
Hoying: How about that LSU defense and the way they totally ground Miami into fine powder? Then they shut out Nobody FCS State and...oh no...this is that Auburn team that beat Washington in a field goal kicking contest...no, no! Get your penalty kick shootout away from my college football! Please, Joe Burrow, get your act together and deliver us from having to hear about "SEC defense" for another year! LSU: 13--Aub: 16
Schweinfurth: I am not sold on either of these teams, but it will eventually sort itself out. Neither sports a great offense (don't hate Joe Burrow fans, but there is a reason he isn't starting at OSU). Auburn can do a little more than manage the game on offense. LSU pretty much does manage the game on offense. That's the difference. Auburn in a close, ugly game. LSU: 10--Aub: 12
Seeberg: Any traditionalists out there? This game should be right up your proverbial alley. Lots of defense, mostly running the ball, and, oddly enough, two respectable quarterbacks in an SEC game (only because they both transferred from out of conference, obviously). Jeauxy Burreaux and Ceaux looked fabulous out of the gate against the U, but I'm still convinced Auburn is the better team despite struggling against Washington. The home-team TIgers stiffened well in the red zone several times, and I expect red zone conversions (or lack thereof) to be key in this one as well. One more touchdown or one less field goal is likely to be the difference here. Tigers win! #hedgingmybets LSU: 16--Aub: 21
#17 Boise State Broncos @ #24 Oklahoma State Cowboys
Draper: Death, taxes, and points by the Pokes. Honestly, I know absolutely nothing about these teams this year but Mike Gundy's offense is always a treat. Another who knows type early season game but those paddles can be intimidating for those who wander into Stillwater. Temperature may still be a factor for teh boys from Boise so go Pokes. BSU: 38 -- OkSt: 41
Hoying: OK, whew, here's some offense to plow my sidewalk. Maybe a bit too much, actually, seeing as how the boys in blue put up 818 yards against UConn last week in one of the most thorough dismantlings in recent memory. The Pokes have been no slouches themselves, transitioning smoothly from the Mason Rudolph era to the age of Taylor Cornelius, but they'll have their hands full keeping up with Brett Rypien and the Broncos. The Playoff committee hates Group of 5 teams, as shown by national champion UCF's woeful #12 finish, but a win over a real live ranked opponent could put Boise State in the conversation. Let's see where this goes. BSU: 41--OkSU: 35
Schweinfurth: Who likes high scoring games with no defense? Okay, I do like to see some high scoring games, but only because the offenses are that good, not because the defenses are inept. This game feels like the latter. This game is essentially Boise State's season as they should roll through their conference. We've all seen what a motivated little school can do against the big boys. I'll keep that trend. This game may last 5 hours. BSU: 52--OkSU: 45
Seeberg: I'll take "games that should be the polar opposite of LSU/Auburn for 400," Alex. The points will be coming fast and furious in this one. Honestly? Kudos to Okie State for scheduling a big boy from the non-big-boy conferences instead of, you know, ducking a home-and-home (cough TCU cough). Unfortunately, the outcome of this game may display why schools are hesitant to schedule such games. The Broncos have played better competition than the Cowboys and beaten them just as badly, if not worse. Get your popcorn and your abacus ready, this one will be fun to watch. BSU: 49--OkSU: 41
#1 Alabama Crimson Tide @ Ole Miss Rebels
Draper: Finally a game I feel comfortable in picking. Bama has looked really good (as per usual). Tua is that high upside high variance type QB that Saban usually prefers to avoid, but he can't avoid the excitement brought to the table. I truly believe that Tua is setting us up for a monster clunker in a game this season....but not today. I have no faith in the Landsharks to touch this Bama defense. Yeah, yeah, it's in the Grove. I don't care. Bama big. Bama: 38 -- Miss: 6
Hoying: This one's only really here because Mississippi is the only team with two wins over the Tide in the playoff era (and darn near a third). Last year, however, Alabama rolled Ole Miss 66-3, and I don't really see a reason why this one should be any different. You could say "same old invincible Bama," and you'd be wrong, because this year they have one of the top passing attacks in the country with Tua Tagovailoa. "Oh, but Ole Miss is averaging over 60 points a game!" you might say. And then I would slap you over the head because that was against Texas Tech and the Little Sisters of the Poor. Alabama has given up 21 points in two games, all in garbage time (yes, against Alabama, the early third quarter is garbage time). Looks like this is one contest in the south that the Rebels won't win. Ala: 45--Miss: 17
Schweinfurth: I'm not gonna say much about this game. Ole Miss isn't the same team that used to be a thorn in Bama's side. Add to that the Crimson Tide Death Machine has restarted using jet fuel and this one gets ugly. Ala: 49--Miss: 6
Seeberg: Honestly, now that 'Bama has an above average offense to go with their always elite defense, it would be borderline insane to pick against them unless they're on the road (check) in a rivalry-type game (check- at least lately as the Rebels have pulled off a couple Ws) against a legitimate top 20 opponent (oops). Two out of three isn't bad, but it also isn't enough. Bama: 38--Miss: 10
#4 THE Ohio State University Buckeyes "vs." Texas Christian Horned Frogs
Draper: OSU has had two nearly flawless tuneup weeks. This game has been circled for awhile as the first 'true test', but I'm not sure it actually is. TCU was extremely boring and blah last week against SMU, but I won't put too much stock in a Thursday night game before their National Championship game. I do remember the Buckeyes in another National Championship game in Arlington recently and their opponent was none too please. Honestly, I feel very comfortable with the Bucks in this game. Yes, TCU is by far the best defense of the young year OSU has faced, but this offense is simply explosive. I don't think the Horned Frogs can stop the 1-2-3 punch of Bosa, Young, and Jones. I'm feeling like TCU will be seeking out the actual Little Sisters of the Poor after this one. OSU: 41 -- TCU: 17
Hoying: In 1957 and 1961, the Buckeyes were crowned national champions. Both years, they played the TCU Horned Frogs. Both years, they failed to defeat the TCU Horned Frogs (lost in 1957, tied in 1961). What connection do those teams have to this Saturday's opponents? None besides the names, really. Far more interesting is the grudge TCU holds against Ohio State for slipping into the #4 spot in the final 2014 playoff rankings. If Florida State could have done the world a favor and lost one of the 10 or so games they trailed by double digits in the second half, this might have been your 2014 national championship. The Horned Frogs have tailed off a little bit since then, while the Buckeyes have gotten...better? This year's squad was touted before the season as Ryan Day's...er...Urban's most talented ever, and they've lived up to their billing so far (other than the defense falling asleep after the rain delay against Oregon State). They'll face a stiff test this weekend, but nothing they can't handle. TCU's a good rushing team (never seems to matter against Ohio State) and they have some talented receivers (more problematic) but I don't think they can slow down Haskins, Weber, Dobbins (suddenly an afterthought) and a stable of receivers that's finally starting to gain some separation downfield. Bucks win comfortably. OSU: 38--TCU: 20
Schweinfurth: Can the 4-2-5 defense stop the Ohio State offense? That is what TCU is trying to figure out. To me it will be hard to stop the Bucks offensive line with a front 6. Watching the O-line last week, the Slobs were pushing Buttergs front 7 back 3 yards before Dobbins or Weber even took a step forward. Yes, TCU is a step up from the previous two teams, but that is crazy. On the other side of the ball, someone needs to declare the Silver Bullet D-Line illegal before Young and Bosa turn a QB into red mist. I'm not going to call this a blowout because TCU has shown the ability to hang around with elite teams. The talent gap is just so large and the entire Buckeye team is motivated and playing at a level we haven't seen since Cardale Jones took the reins in the 2014 B1G Championship game. The Bucks win, but TCU will put a scare into the Bucks for at least 3 quarters. OSU: 42--TCU: 24
Seeberg: Well, both teams have looked very solid against...well, technically against some form of competition, albeit not all that great. The Horned Frogs have athletes everywhere, including last year's thorn in the Buckeyes' side in an elite kick returner. Despite putting up 77 points against Oregon State in a game the Buckeyes could have come close to the century mark had they tried, the Beavers gashed the silver bullets for several big plays, which will have to happen for TCU to hang around. I suspect they will get two or three chunk plays, but the Bucks are too deep, and too good at Jerry World, to let this one slip away. Best part of 3-0 is a chance to go 4-0...here's hoping Haskins is up to the challenge from a solid D. OSU: 38--TCU: 21
Upset Special
Draper: San Diego State over Arizona State
Hoying: Vanderbilt over Notre Dame
Schweinfurth: Iowa St. over Oklahoma
Seeberg: North Texas over Arkansas (On the record: I wanted Draper's pick. Solid choice)
1.) Hoying 5-3 (0-2 upset)
2.) Schweinfurth 4-4 (2-0 upset)
2.) Draper 4-4 (0-2 upset)
2.) Seeberg 4-4 (0-2 upset)
What makes a game site turn neutral? Lust for gold? Power? Or is it just born with a heart full of neutrality? This is your semi-periodic reminder that neutral site games are stupid and terrible and should be changed to home-and-aways (or cancelled) whenever possible. Even ESPN isn't buying this "neutral site" garbage, having College Gameday in Fort Worth AT TCU even though the game's being played all of 20 miles away over in Arlington.
#12 Louisiana State Tigers @ #7 Auburn Tigers
Draper: Pump the brakes Buckeye truthers, Joe Burrow was pedestrian at best last week. However, the Tiguhs looked quite good in a route of daU. The defense was phenomenal but Malik Rosier was always butt. Auburn was eh against Washington, but Washington may be pretty good. This is a tough call because I think both of these teams COULD be really good this year, but I'm guessing one will be a mirage (no clue which one). I'll go with the home team in a close one. Honestly, nothing would surprise me in this game (even Coach O suiting up at halftime. LSU: 17 -- Aub: 20
Hoying: How about that LSU defense and the way they totally ground Miami into fine powder? Then they shut out Nobody FCS State and...oh no...this is that Auburn team that beat Washington in a field goal kicking contest...no, no! Get your penalty kick shootout away from my college football! Please, Joe Burrow, get your act together and deliver us from having to hear about "SEC defense" for another year! LSU: 13--Aub: 16
Schweinfurth: I am not sold on either of these teams, but it will eventually sort itself out. Neither sports a great offense (don't hate Joe Burrow fans, but there is a reason he isn't starting at OSU). Auburn can do a little more than manage the game on offense. LSU pretty much does manage the game on offense. That's the difference. Auburn in a close, ugly game. LSU: 10--Aub: 12
Seeberg: Any traditionalists out there? This game should be right up your proverbial alley. Lots of defense, mostly running the ball, and, oddly enough, two respectable quarterbacks in an SEC game (only because they both transferred from out of conference, obviously). Jeauxy Burreaux and Ceaux looked fabulous out of the gate against the U, but I'm still convinced Auburn is the better team despite struggling against Washington. The home-team TIgers stiffened well in the red zone several times, and I expect red zone conversions (or lack thereof) to be key in this one as well. One more touchdown or one less field goal is likely to be the difference here. Tigers win! #hedgingmybets LSU: 16--Aub: 21
#17 Boise State Broncos @ #24 Oklahoma State Cowboys
Draper: Death, taxes, and points by the Pokes. Honestly, I know absolutely nothing about these teams this year but Mike Gundy's offense is always a treat. Another who knows type early season game but those paddles can be intimidating for those who wander into Stillwater. Temperature may still be a factor for teh boys from Boise so go Pokes. BSU: 38 -- OkSt: 41
Hoying: OK, whew, here's some offense to plow my sidewalk. Maybe a bit too much, actually, seeing as how the boys in blue put up 818 yards against UConn last week in one of the most thorough dismantlings in recent memory. The Pokes have been no slouches themselves, transitioning smoothly from the Mason Rudolph era to the age of Taylor Cornelius, but they'll have their hands full keeping up with Brett Rypien and the Broncos. The Playoff committee hates Group of 5 teams, as shown by national champion UCF's woeful #12 finish, but a win over a real live ranked opponent could put Boise State in the conversation. Let's see where this goes. BSU: 41--OkSU: 35
Schweinfurth: Who likes high scoring games with no defense? Okay, I do like to see some high scoring games, but only because the offenses are that good, not because the defenses are inept. This game feels like the latter. This game is essentially Boise State's season as they should roll through their conference. We've all seen what a motivated little school can do against the big boys. I'll keep that trend. This game may last 5 hours. BSU: 52--OkSU: 45
Seeberg: I'll take "games that should be the polar opposite of LSU/Auburn for 400," Alex. The points will be coming fast and furious in this one. Honestly? Kudos to Okie State for scheduling a big boy from the non-big-boy conferences instead of, you know, ducking a home-and-home (cough TCU cough). Unfortunately, the outcome of this game may display why schools are hesitant to schedule such games. The Broncos have played better competition than the Cowboys and beaten them just as badly, if not worse. Get your popcorn and your abacus ready, this one will be fun to watch. BSU: 49--OkSU: 41
#1 Alabama Crimson Tide @ Ole Miss Rebels
Draper: Finally a game I feel comfortable in picking. Bama has looked really good (as per usual). Tua is that high upside high variance type QB that Saban usually prefers to avoid, but he can't avoid the excitement brought to the table. I truly believe that Tua is setting us up for a monster clunker in a game this season....but not today. I have no faith in the Landsharks to touch this Bama defense. Yeah, yeah, it's in the Grove. I don't care. Bama big. Bama: 38 -- Miss: 6
Hoying: This one's only really here because Mississippi is the only team with two wins over the Tide in the playoff era (and darn near a third). Last year, however, Alabama rolled Ole Miss 66-3, and I don't really see a reason why this one should be any different. You could say "same old invincible Bama," and you'd be wrong, because this year they have one of the top passing attacks in the country with Tua Tagovailoa. "Oh, but Ole Miss is averaging over 60 points a game!" you might say. And then I would slap you over the head because that was against Texas Tech and the Little Sisters of the Poor. Alabama has given up 21 points in two games, all in garbage time (yes, against Alabama, the early third quarter is garbage time). Looks like this is one contest in the south that the Rebels won't win. Ala: 45--Miss: 17
Schweinfurth: I'm not gonna say much about this game. Ole Miss isn't the same team that used to be a thorn in Bama's side. Add to that the Crimson Tide Death Machine has restarted using jet fuel and this one gets ugly. Ala: 49--Miss: 6
Seeberg: Honestly, now that 'Bama has an above average offense to go with their always elite defense, it would be borderline insane to pick against them unless they're on the road (check) in a rivalry-type game (check- at least lately as the Rebels have pulled off a couple Ws) against a legitimate top 20 opponent (oops). Two out of three isn't bad, but it also isn't enough. Bama: 38--Miss: 10
#4 THE Ohio State University Buckeyes "vs." Texas Christian Horned Frogs
Draper: OSU has had two nearly flawless tuneup weeks. This game has been circled for awhile as the first 'true test', but I'm not sure it actually is. TCU was extremely boring and blah last week against SMU, but I won't put too much stock in a Thursday night game before their National Championship game. I do remember the Buckeyes in another National Championship game in Arlington recently and their opponent was none too please. Honestly, I feel very comfortable with the Bucks in this game. Yes, TCU is by far the best defense of the young year OSU has faced, but this offense is simply explosive. I don't think the Horned Frogs can stop the 1-2-3 punch of Bosa, Young, and Jones. I'm feeling like TCU will be seeking out the actual Little Sisters of the Poor after this one. OSU: 41 -- TCU: 17
Hoying: In 1957 and 1961, the Buckeyes were crowned national champions. Both years, they played the TCU Horned Frogs. Both years, they failed to defeat the TCU Horned Frogs (lost in 1957, tied in 1961). What connection do those teams have to this Saturday's opponents? None besides the names, really. Far more interesting is the grudge TCU holds against Ohio State for slipping into the #4 spot in the final 2014 playoff rankings. If Florida State could have done the world a favor and lost one of the 10 or so games they trailed by double digits in the second half, this might have been your 2014 national championship. The Horned Frogs have tailed off a little bit since then, while the Buckeyes have gotten...better? This year's squad was touted before the season as Ryan Day's...er...Urban's most talented ever, and they've lived up to their billing so far (other than the defense falling asleep after the rain delay against Oregon State). They'll face a stiff test this weekend, but nothing they can't handle. TCU's a good rushing team (never seems to matter against Ohio State) and they have some talented receivers (more problematic) but I don't think they can slow down Haskins, Weber, Dobbins (suddenly an afterthought) and a stable of receivers that's finally starting to gain some separation downfield. Bucks win comfortably. OSU: 38--TCU: 20
Schweinfurth: Can the 4-2-5 defense stop the Ohio State offense? That is what TCU is trying to figure out. To me it will be hard to stop the Bucks offensive line with a front 6. Watching the O-line last week, the Slobs were pushing Buttergs front 7 back 3 yards before Dobbins or Weber even took a step forward. Yes, TCU is a step up from the previous two teams, but that is crazy. On the other side of the ball, someone needs to declare the Silver Bullet D-Line illegal before Young and Bosa turn a QB into red mist. I'm not going to call this a blowout because TCU has shown the ability to hang around with elite teams. The talent gap is just so large and the entire Buckeye team is motivated and playing at a level we haven't seen since Cardale Jones took the reins in the 2014 B1G Championship game. The Bucks win, but TCU will put a scare into the Bucks for at least 3 quarters. OSU: 42--TCU: 24
Seeberg: Well, both teams have looked very solid against...well, technically against some form of competition, albeit not all that great. The Horned Frogs have athletes everywhere, including last year's thorn in the Buckeyes' side in an elite kick returner. Despite putting up 77 points against Oregon State in a game the Buckeyes could have come close to the century mark had they tried, the Beavers gashed the silver bullets for several big plays, which will have to happen for TCU to hang around. I suspect they will get two or three chunk plays, but the Bucks are too deep, and too good at Jerry World, to let this one slip away. Best part of 3-0 is a chance to go 4-0...here's hoping Haskins is up to the challenge from a solid D. OSU: 38--TCU: 21
Upset Special
Draper: San Diego State over Arizona State
Hoying: Vanderbilt over Notre Dame
Schweinfurth: Iowa St. over Oklahoma
Seeberg: North Texas over Arkansas (On the record: I wanted Draper's pick. Solid choice)
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