Picking all 34 bowl games

19 12 2009

Bowl season gets underway Saturday with the first of 34 bowl games.  Damn, that’s 68 bowl bids.  I guess when a team loads up on FCS and Sun Belt teams in the nonconference, being bowl eligible doesn’t mean much.  But here we are anyway, and I’ll attempt to pick all 34, though I will likely only watch about half of them.

New Mexico Bowl – Fresno State vs Wyoming
Fresno finished strong with a dramatic overtime win over Illinois in Champaign.  A loaded schedule included losses to Wisconsin, Cincinnati and Boise State, but that should have them ready.  Props for Dave Christensen for getting Wyoming back to a bowl in his first season.
Pick:  Fresno State

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s Bowl – Central Florida vs Rutgers
When Rutgers lost by 32 at home to Cincinnati in week one, things weren’t looking good.  But the Scarlet Knights pulled it together and finished 8-4 in a surprisingly competitive Big East.  However, Central Florida basically has a home game here, and containing Tim Brown’s big play ability will be key.  Rutgers’ D ranks 99th.
Pick:  Central Florida

New Orleans Bowl – Southern Mississippi vs Middle Tennessee State
Sub Belt runner-up Middle Tennessee’s lone conference loss was to Troy, and 9-3 should be considered a success.  Al logic says pick the Blue Raiders, but I’m going against my logic on this.  Southern Mississippi had some heartbreaking losses against good teams, which will ultimately have them prepared for this game.
Pick:  Southern Mississippi

Las Vegas Bowl – Oregon State vs BYU
The Beavers were just a few plays away from playing Ohio State in the Rose Bowl.  Instead, they settle for Vegas and a great matchup with BYU.  The Beavers played five teams in the top 25, while the Cougars played just two.  Max Hall should have fun with the Beaver defense, but Oregon State will win a high-scoring game.
Pick:  Oregon State

Poinsettia Bowl – Utah vs California
Jahvid Best should be ready for this game, but how well he will do coming back from the concussion is unknown.  The Golden Bears, ranked as high as #6 earlier this year, fell after back to back blowout losses mid-season.  Utah’s defense is #20 in the country, while Cal ranks at #70.
Pick:  Utah

Sheraton Bowl – Nevada vs SMU
SMU will snap its 25 year bowl drought when it takes the field in Honolulu on Christmas Eve to play Nevada.  The Wolfpack got hot at the end of the season, winning eight of their final nine after an 0-3 start.  SMU will be happy to be here.  Nevada isn’t leaving without a win.
Pick:  Nevada

Little Caesars Bowl – Marshall vs Ohio
One of only two bowls north of the Mason Dixon line takes place in Detroit between two virtually equal teams.  Marshall is 6-6 but has played a tougher schedule.  Ohio is 9-4 after a MAC Championship loss to Central Michigan.  Ohio did play Tennessee and UConn tough.
Pick:  Ohio

Meineke Car Care Bowl – Pittsburgh vs North Carolina
Like Oregon State, Pittsburgh has to be crushed knowing that an Orange Bowl date with Georgia Tech was probably one or two plays away.  After a heartbreaking loss to Cincinnati, the Panthers settle for a “neutral” site game in Charlotte with the Heels.  Carolina’s defense will keep it close, but the ‘Heels just can’t score.
Pick:  Pittsburgh

Emerald Bowl – Boston College vs USC
I’m really entertained to see what the line on this game will turn out to be.  Right now it’s USC -9, and I’ll take the Trojans to cover.  Boston College has a terrible offense, and USC’s defense can be good despite some poor games.  This is a weird bowl to see USC playing in, and you know they are peeved about it.  Watch out BC.
Pick:  USC

Music City Bowl – Kentucky vs Clemson
Clemson, suffering from the Pitt/Oregon State virus, will have to watch their team take on a -not-as-good-as-their-record Kentucky team.  I’ve thought the ‘Cats were overrated all year, and Clemson has a chance to prove me right.  Kentucky’s rush D is ranked #100.  C.J. Spiller will have a field day.
Pick:  Clemson

Independence Bowl – Texas A&M vs Georgia
The interesting matchup here is Georgia’s fairly good defense against Texas A&M’s explosive offense.  The Aggies lit up Texas’ third ranked D and can do it again when they play the Bulldogs.  But the Aggie defense is awful, and Georgia should have its chances to score as well.
Pick:  Georgia

EagleBank Bowl – UCLA vs Temple
Games like this are the toughest to pick.  UCLA is 6-6, but with the #11 schedule in the nation.  Temple is 9-3, but had the sixth easiest schedule.  UCLA’s offense is ranked #88.  Temple’s is #89.  UCLA’s defense is #39, Temple’s is #37.  I’ll take the Bruins because of the schedule.
Pick:  UCLA

Champs Sports Bowl – Miami vs Wisconsin
Another game with no distinct advantage is a good one which features two 9-3 teams.  Wisconsin’s loss to Northwestern cost them their shot at a New Year’s Day bowl game despite a better overall record than the Wildcats.  Jacory Harris will make enough plays to push the ‘Canes to victory in their home state.
Pick:  Miami

Humanitarian Bowl – Bowling Green vs Idaho
Idaho fans were on a roller coaster early this season with the team’s 6-1 start.  But that vanished after the Vandals lost four of their final five, and they limp into Boise, where they lost on the same field by 38.  This time, Tyler Sheehan and Bowling Green are the opponents.  Limiting Sheehan’s big plays will be key for Idaho.
Pick:  Idaho

Holiday Bowl – Arizona vs Nebraska
Geographically, Arizona has the edge, but Husker fans will travel to watch their near Big 12 champions play.  Both defenses are really good, which is why I think 17 points may be enough.  The difference is that Arizona can score, and has, against good teams.  The Huskers haven’t shown consistent offense all season.
Pick:  Arizona

Armed Forces Bowl – Houston vs Air Force
The Armed Forces have their team, the Falcons, in this game.  Awaiting the Falcons is the #1 offense in the nation – the Houston Cougars.  Case Keenum and James Cleveland will be faced with its toughest task of the season with the Falcons’ #10 defense.  It’s Keenum’s chance to prove he deserved an invite to New York.
Pick:  Houston

Sun Bowl – Oklahoma vs Stanford
How about this high-profile matchup?  Last year, the final score of the Sun Bowl was 3-0.  This year Heisman runner-up Toby Gerhart and the Cardinal will need more than that to beat the Sooners.  Gerhart will look to add to his nation-best 26 touchdowns against the seventh ranked Sooner rush defense.
Pick:  Stanford

Texas Bowl – Navy vs Missouri
Missouri became the first team in college football history to scout its bowl opponent in a live game, as the Army/Navy game took place after the bowl selection process.  It’s Navy’s fourth ranked rush attack vs Missouri’s #12 rush defense.  Navy’s only chance is if they can find a way to pass.
Pick:  Missouri

Insight Bowl – Minnesota vs Iowa State
The Insight Bowl took the Cyclones, who are bowling for the first time since 2001.  That decision makes for a good game.  Neither team’s offense or defense is any good, but the Gophers at least have a respectable defense.  Iowa State can’t stop anyone.
Pick:  Minnesota

Chick-fil-A Bowl – Virginia Tech vs Tennessee
Here’s a game that I don’t think will be close.  Virginia Tech has an outstanding defense, and Tennessee doesn’t do much to move the ball.  The Vols defense may keep it respectable for a while, but eventually Virginia Tech, who was ranked as high as number four even after the ‘Bama loss, will pull away.
Pick:  Virginia Tech

Outback Bowl – Northwestern vs Auburn
Would you believe me if I told you Auburn has played seven top 30 teams?  That’s right, seven.  The Tigers won three of those games, but it’s more about the fact that they played those games that has them prepared for this New Year’s Day dandy.  Northwestern played well at the end of the year and won’t go down without a fight.
Pick:  Auburn

Capital One Bowl – Penn State vs LSU
The best bowl game of the season is in Orlando.  LSU played Florida and Alabama tough, but Penn State will be a monstrous challenge as well.  The Lions’ D is eighth best in the country, and LSU has the twelfth worst offense in the nation.  It’s going to be tough for the Tigers to score.
Pick:  Penn State

Gator Bowl – West Virginia vs Florida State
How ironic is it that Bobby Bowden’s last game is against the team he used to coach?  As fun as the Bowden storyline should be, the Seminoles have no business being in this game.  Other ACC schools (Clemson, Miami) have to be peeved about the ‘Noles getting the Gator bid.
Pick:  West Virginia

International Bowl – South Florida vs Northern Illinois
Sophomore quarterback Chandler Harnish has been very efficient for Northern Illinois, but they haven’t played a team nearly as good as South Florida since a week one loss to Wisconsin.  The Bulls played tough in a good Big East conference.  The only bowl not played in the U.S. should be a fun one.
Pick:  South Florida

Papajohns.com Bowl – South Carolina vs Connecticut
Middle-of-the-pack teams clash in the only bowl named for a pizza.  UConn lost all five games by four points or fewer, which is quite unbelievable when you think about it.  A few bounces going the other way could make this team 12-0.  Four of South Carolina’s five losses came by double digits.
Pick:  Connecticut

Cotton Bowl – Oklahoma State vs Mississippi
Both of these teams started the season in the top 10 and had national championship aspirations.  Jevan Snead was supposed to win the Heisman and go #1.  Zac Robinson, Kendall Hunter and Dez Bryant were supposed to combine to form the best offense in the country.  This is a game of disappointment.
Pick:  Mississippi

Liberty Bowl – Arkansas vs East Carolina
The Pirates were awfully impressive in capturing their second straight Conference USA championship by knocking off Houston.  Their reward is a date with Arkansas.  Ryan Mallett had a heck of a year that went unnoticed because the Hogs lost five games.
Pick:  Arkansas

Alamo Bowl – Michigan State vs Texas Tech
Everyone knew this would be a down year for Texas Tech following the losses of Graham Harrell and Michael Crabtree, but 8-4 is surprisingly respectable for the Red Raiders.  First year starter Taylor Potts threw for more than 3,000 yards, and he’ll have another big game against the Spartans.
Pick:  Texas Tech

GMAC Bowl – Central Michigan vs Troy
Central Michigan’s turnaround led to a MAC championship.  Now Butch Jones is bolting for Cincinnati to fill the void left by Brian Kelly.  Coach or no coach, the Chippewas should have no trouble moving the ball at will against Troy.  Troy has the offense to keep it close, so look for a high-scoring game.
Pick:  Central Michigan

Rose Bowl – Ohio State vs Oregon
Jeremiah Masoli and the Ducks could have folded after losing to Boise State to open the season.  Instead, the Ducks won 10 of 11, dethroned USC to win the Pac 10, and earned a Rose Bowl berth.  Ohio State is on the other end, making this the best BCS game on this year’s slate.
Pick:  Oregon

Sugar Bowl – Cincinnati vs Florida
Tim Tebow lost the game he wanted to win more than anything.  Now he plays his last college game against a team without a coach.  Cincinnati has scored a lot of points on a lot of people, but they haven’t faced a defense like Florida’s.  Tebow won’t let the Gators lose this one.
Pick:  Florida

Fiesta Bowl – Boise State vs TCU
We can talk all we want about the fact that these are two non-BCS teams playing each other, or about them both being undefeated, or about them playing in the national championship game.  But the matchup is what it is, and it should be entertaining.  TCU won last year, and they’ll repeat this year.
Pick:  TCU

Orange Bowl – Iowa vs Georgia Tech
The Hawkeyes were an overtime loss away from winning the Big Ten, but they’ll take their first BCS bowl game since the era began.  Awaiting Iowa and its #11 defense is Georgia Tech’s second ranked rush offense, led by Jonathan Dwyer and Josh Nesbitt.
Pick:  Georgia Tech

BCS National Championship – Alabama vs Texas
Which Texas team will show up?  The Horns that blew out Okie State in Stillwater?  It better be.  The team that “beat” Nebraska?  Stay home.  We know the Tide and Heisman winner Mark Ingram will be there.  Both teams have good enough defenses to keep from getting blown out.  Bottom line: roll Tide.
Pick:  Alabama


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Categories : Sports

Football rankings and bowl projections

10 11 2009

There goes Iowa.  One week after I touted the Big Ten cinderella story, they lose their trap game to Northwestern.  The Hawkeyes can’t play for a national championship now, and will likely lose out on a BCS game after Ohio State punishes them this week.  Hawkeye fans can say it was because Ricky Stanzi got hurt.  I can fire back by saying he’s played mediocre at best this year.  Northwestern was able to stop an offense not known for its quarterback play, so how big a loss was Stanzi?  The point is, Iowa is now in a must-win situation against Ohio State in Columbus if they want a BCS game.  Otherwise it’s likely back to the Outback Bowl for the Hawkeyes.

Speaking of bowls, it’s time for me to make my first BCS bowl projections, so that will follow my rankings.

1)  Alabama Crimson Tide (9-0) – Every week they seem like they play a big game, and every week they win.  The schedule has been brutal, yet they are unbeaten.  They outgained LSU by 199 yards and had 11 more first downs.

2)  Florida Gators (9-0) – It’s official.  With their wins this weekend, the Gators and Tide have secured trips to the SEC championship game.  Florida did it with their usual defense, holding Vanderbilt to under 200 yards of total offense.

3)  Texas Longhorns (9-0) – The past few weeks, the Longhorns have looked more like themselves, holding their past three opponents to a combined 17 points.  The offense is revamped, and Jordan Shipley was simply amazing against UCF.

4)  Cincinnati Bearcats (9-0) – Is there a quarterback controversy in Cincinnati?  Because there should be.  Since Tony Pike’s injury, backup Zach Corallos is 79-89 with 1,100 and eight touchdown passes.  West Virginia is next.

5)  Boise State Broncos (9-0) - The Broncos aren’t impressing the BCS with their margins of victory, and it happened to them again Tuesday.  With the rise of TCU, Ohio State, Georgia Tech and USC, Boise may not see a BCS game without help.

6)  TCU Horned Frogs (9-0) – Here’s another team with a lot to prove over the past few weeks, and boy have they stepped up.  They’ve won their past four games by scores of 38, 31, 41 and 43 points.  They are getting closer to Boise every week.

7)  Iowa Hawkeyes (9-1) – The Northwestern loss was bad, but this team still has nine wins with two games to go and can earn a Rose Bowl date against Oregon with a win over the Buckeyes in Columbus.  But the last time that happened?  1959.

8)  Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (9-1) – Surprisingly, it’s Georgia Tech, not Miami or Virginia Tech, that has taken control of a competitive Coastal division.  The Jackets needed overtime to knock off Wake Forest despite 412 rushing yards.

9)  Pittsburgh Panthers (8-1) – This may be the quietest team in the nation.  But Pitt is 8-1, 5-0 in the Big East and have their eyes on an Orange Bowl berth.  Two tough games stand between them and the showdown with Cincinnati on Dec. 5.

10)  Houston Cougars (8-1) – It’s hard to talk about the Cougars without bringing up Case Keenum.  He already has more than 3,800 yards to go with his 28 touchdown passes.  And his team is 8-1.  He’s got my vote for Heisman.

11)  LSU Tigers (7-2) – LSU’s two losses are to Florida and Alabama, so how far can they really drop?  They put up a good fight against both teams, but didn’t have the offense to make the plays at the end to win either game.

12)  Oregon Ducks (7-2) – Well on their way to the Rose Bowl, Oregon stumbled back into the Pac 10.  We’ve seen this before.  A team beats USC, then stumbles, allowing the Trojans to win the conference.  See 2008.  Or 2007.

13)  Miami Hurricanes (7-2) – The ‘Canes are this high because of the wins against Oklahoma and Georgia Tech, even if the Virginia Tech loss looks worse now.  A contending Virginia team came into Coral Gables and got embarrassed by 35.

14)  USC Trojans (7-2) – Pete Carroll’s defense gave up 27 against Notre Dame, 36 against Oregon State and 47 against Oregon.  When the defense does play well, as it did against Arizona State the offense doesn’t show up.  They’re inconsistent.

15)  Ohio State Buckeyes (7-2) – Amazingly, this team is once again in the driver’s seat for a conference title.  The Iowa loss didn’t matter, but a huge win in Happy Valley sure did.  The Buckeyes racked up 228 rushing yards in the win.

16)  Penn State Nittany Lions (7-2) – Penn State’s two losses have come to Ohio State and Iowa, and they didn’t play Wisconsin this year.  That means their best win is at Northwestern.  Their offense looks lost when they play good defenses.

17)  Utah Utes (8-1) – After an early season loss to Oregon, Utah has battled their way back by beating up on the bottom of the Mountain West.  Now they take their 5-0 conference record to Fort Worth, where an upset gives them the conference.

18)  Oklahoma State Cowboys (7-2) - I can’t get behind a team that gave up 45 and 41 points to the only two ranked teams they’ve played all season.  It’s pretty sad that Dez Bryant is still the second leading receiver on this team.

19)  Arizona Wildcats (6-2) – Guess who can go to the Rose Bowl by winning its next four games? Yep. Arizona is a half game back in the Pac 10. To win four straight though, the ‘Cats need wins at Cal, against Oregon, at Arizona State and at USC.

20)  Wisconsin Badgers (7-2) – Living on the edge is working this year for Wisconsin.  Five of their seven wins have come by one possession, and their two losses came to the teams playing for the conference championship Saturday.

21)  South Florida Bulls (6-2) - The Bulls have two losses – to Cincinnati and Pittsburgh.  Other than that they are 6-0.  B.J. Daniels and Moise Plancher are combining to average more than five yards per carry.  They go to Rutgers Thursday.

22)  West Virginia Mountaineers (7-2) - West Virginia has shown signs that they are a good team, but haven’t played consistent enough.  To win the Big East they’ll need November wins over Cincinnati and Pittsburgh, starting Friday in Ohio.

23)  BYU Cougars (7-2) – BYU bounced back from a tough loss to TCU with a 52-0 smacking of Wyoming.  Max Hall threw four touchdown passes for the Cougars, who now need a win over Utah and some help to claim the Mountain West.

24)  Auburn Tigers (7-3) – Give credit to Gene Chizik for coming in and turning this program around.  In his first year, he has knocked off West Virginia, Mississippi and Tennessee.  Two tough games remain with Georgia and Alabama left.

25)  Stanford Cardinal (6-3) – Stanford had a great win over a red-hot Oregon team Saturday.  They racked up more than 500 yards of offense and put up 51 on the Ducks.  They go to USC Saturday, and we all remember how the last trip there went.

BCS Bowl Projections

Rose Bowl – Oregon vs Ohio State
Fiesta Bowl – Boise State vs TCU
Orange Bowl – Georgia Tech vs Pittsburgh
Sugar Bowl – Alabama vs USC
National Championship – Florida vs Texas


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Categories : Uncategorized

College football rankings – Oct. 26

26 10 2009

Longhorn fans, hate me all you want.  Your team is now #4 in the most prestigious rankings in the country.  This despite a 34 point blowout road win.  Gator fans, hate me all you want.  Your team is still #2, despite Alabama’s near collapse against the Vols.  Bronco fans, hate me now.  Your team is #6, despite a blowout win on the island.  Yes, my rankings may make your head scratch and your forehead wrinkle.  But there’s justification here.  Boise State hasn’t played anybody, prompting Iowa to jump them.  Alabama has still played better teams than Florida.  And I’ll explain the Texas setback in a blog post tomorrow, for it is the one that could mean the most come Dec. 6.

1)  Alabama Crimson Tide (8-0) – I picked the Vols to win, and they probably should have.  But they didn’t.  Alabama’s defense was stiff enough in another quality win.  They get a bye week to prepare for LSU’s trip to Tuscaloosa.

2)  Florida Gators (7-0) – Something is off with the offense.  Playing a relatively weak SEC schedule, they have broken 30 just once in five conference games.  Red zone offense has been a problem.  In 35 trips, they have only 16 touchdowns.

3)  Iowa Hawkeyes (8-0) – The Hawkeyes are 8-0 for the first time ever after beating a hot Michigan State team in East Lansing.  It’s not pretty, but this team finds ways to win.  The offense, ranked #87 in the country, needs to play better.

4)  Texas Longhorns (7-0) – Colt McCoy is closing in on the all time FBS wins record after an impressive 41-7 win against Missouri.  It’s Texas’ first well-played game in the conference, and it comes just in time.  They go to Stillwater next.

5)  Cincinnati Bearcats (7-0) – Can we still say Cincinnati is flying under the radar?  They are blowing teams out while making their best case for a title shot.  After Syracuse, things get tough with games against UConn, West Virginia and Pitt.

6)  Boise State Broncos (7-0) – If the Broncos want any prayer of playing for a national championship, they’ll need four teams ahead of them on this list to lose.  They are winning by similar margins against much worse teams – simple as that.

7)  LSU Tigers (6-1) – LSU came off the bye week by throttling Auburn.  Their only loss is Florida, and they’ve allowed 20+ points just twice.  They go to Alabama in two weeks and can still control their own destiny to a conference championship.

8)  Oregon Ducks (6-1) – The Ducks continue to roll.  Jeremiah Masoli came back this week to throw for 157 yards and a touchdown, and added two rushing touchdowns too.  If they beat USC Saturday, The Trojans will miss a BCS game.

9)  Penn State Nittany Lions (7-1) – Hammering Michigan by 25 in the Big House will get you back on track.  Penn State’s defense is the reason they are beating teams up.  They are #3 in the nation, allowing just 240 yards per game.

10)  TCU Horned Frogs (7-0) – The Horned Frogs’ four biggest wins have come on the road.  After blowing out BYU in Provo, TCU should finish 12-0.  Will the BCS take both them and an undefeated Boise State team?

11)  Oklahoma State Cowboys (6-1) – The Texas A&M win looks better after A&M blew out Texas Tech in Lubbock, but otherwise it hasn’t been much of a schedule for the Cowboys.  A win this week puts them in control of the south.

12)  USC Trojans (6-1) - Maybe my expectations are too high for this team, but I just don’t think one possession wins are good enough against the Pac 10.  Matt Barkley’s two interceptions are concerning, as is the defense all of a sudden.

13)  Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (7-1) – Virginia was the only remaining unbeaten in the ACC until Georgia Tech crushed them.  With the Miami loss, the Yellow Jackets are now in line to win the Coastal if they can beat Wake and Duke.

14)  Houston Cougars (6-1) – It’s time to start seriously considering Case Keenum for Heisman.  He leads the nation in total offense, completions per game, passing yards per game and is second in touchdown passes.

15)  Pittsburgh Panthers (7-1) – A solid win over South Florida topped with a lot of one loss teams going down bumps Pitt up to 15.  They now enter a stretch in which they play just two games in 33 days.  The showdown with Cincy is Dec. 5.

16)  Virginia Tech Hokies (5-2) – The Hokies still have that bitter taste in their mouths from the Georgia Tech loss, but can still win the ACC with some help.  Ryan Williams averages six yards per carry and has 10 touchdowns already.

17)  Miami Hurricanes (5-2) – The ‘Canes just couldn’t shake Clemson, and eventually lost the game in overtime.  An uncharacteristic defense gave up 410 yards, and Jacory Harris threw three interceptions for Miami.

18)  Ohio State Buckeyes (6-2) – Terrelle Pryor needed a huge game after the Purdue meltdown, and he delivered.  Pryor went 13-25 for 239 yards and two touchdowns.  He also ran for 104 yards and a score in the win over Minnesota.

19)  West Virginia Mountaineers (6-1) - The Mountaineers are quietly playing well since the Auburn loss and are undefeated in the Big East.  They still have Cincinnati, Pittsburgh and Rutgers, but first is a trip to South Florida.

20)  Utah Utes (6-1) – Here’s a team that has lost to the only good team it has played, yet sits at #19 at 6-1.  Utah is doing all the right things to win, as they showed in overtime against Air Force.  They still go to Provo and Fort Worth.

21)  South Carolina Gamecocks (6-2) – Steve Spurrier is eking out wins, but he’ll tell you that against the SEC, winning is all that matters.  They outgained Vanderbilt by 158 yards and were turnover-free, yet needed a late TD to hold on.

22)  BYU Cougars (6-2) – I don’t think anyone saw that coming.  BYU failed to show up against TCU, leaving them all but out of the Mountain West championship hunt.  Five TCU players scored in a game that was over after the first quarter.

23)  Wisconsin Badgers (5-2) – Despite not having won since Oct. 3, the Badgers are back in the rankings after a few two loss teams fell this week.  For Wisconsin, 10-2 is a legitimate possibility, although this season, who knows?

24) Kansas Jayhawks (5-2) – Two weeks ago they looked like they could challenge for a BCS game.  Now they’re thinking bowl eligibility and maybe a north title after OU blows them out.  Kansas fans should be looking toward basketball.

25)  Central Michigan (7-1) – Why not?  Butch Jones has the Chippewas at 7-1 going into the showdown at Boston College.  They have a win at Michigan State and played Arizona tough in the desert.  They’ve also won seven in a row.


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Categories : Sports

College football rankings – Oct. 19

19 10 2009

Same $***, different week.

That’s about all I can say after finding out that the coaches inexcusably ranked Florida #1 despite a dreadful performance in Gainesville against inferior Arkansas.  They must not know about Alabama, the team with the number one defense in America.  The team that has held four of its past five opponents to 7 points or fewer.  The team with road wins against Kentucky and Ole Miss, a neutral site victory against Virginia Tech, and wins against South Carolina, and that same Arkansas team by 28.  Florida’s only good win has been LSU, and they could still lose three more times.  Point is, it should be the AP guys who have BCS influence.  They got it right.  Again.  The coaches aren’t paying attention.  Good thing I am.  On to the rankings…

1)  Alabama Crimson Tide (7-0) – It was foolish of me not to have them #1 last week, but they left no doubt with a dominating 20-6 win over South Carolina.  All of a sudden, Florida can’t score on Arkansas.  How will they score on Alabama?

2)  Florida Gators (6-0) – Gator fans are sending personalized thank you cards to Alex Tejada after he single-handedly kept Florida unbeaten Saturday.  The Razorbacks had plenty of chances, but couldn’t close.  The Hogs recorded six sacks.

3)  Texas Longhorns (6-0) – Here’s another team I’m not sure about.  In a down year for the Big 12, Texas has sleepwalked through its first three games.  Outgained by OU 311-269, the ‘Horns need to figure out what’s wrong with “O” before OSU.

4)  Cincinnati Bearcats (6-0) - The Bearcats were very impressive in a 34-17 win in Tampa.  Ask West Virginia or Kansas about playing in South Florida during the week.  It’s not easy.  A bigger issue for Cincinnti is the health of QB Tony Pike.

5)  Boise State Broncos (6-0) – Boise State has played two pretty bad games in a row, and the BCS is laughing.  They won’t have to feel obligated to put the Broncos in the discussion if they keep winning by seven points with this schedule.

6)  Iowa Hawkeyes (7-0) – I’m sold.  I had this team pegged for three losses by now, but they just keep winning ugly.  They held Wisconsin to 230 yards of offense, controlled the clock and scored 20 unanswered points after falling behind 10-0.

7)  Miami Hurricanes (5-1) – The ‘Canes enjoyed their second breather in a row, cruising to a 27-7 win at Central Florida.  They should have a third cupcake this week with Clemson, but have to go to Wake, UNC and South Florida this year.

8)  LSU Tigers (5-1) – The Tigers enjoyed the week off in preparation for Auburn.  They’ve already beaten three BCS conference schools on the road – all by one possession – and still go to Ole Miss and Alabama this season.  Trouble.

9)  USC Trojans (5-1) – What is the love affair with USC?  Fourth?  Really?  Remember, this is the same team that lost to Washington, a team that is 3-4 now.  I will give them credit for road wins against Ohio State, California and Notre Dame.

10)  Oklahoma State Cowboys (5-1) – The loss by Oklahoma leaves Oklahoma State and Texas as the only two unbeaten teams in Big 12 play.  Assuming both take care of business this weekend, it should make for an epic showdown in Stillwater.

11)  Oregon Ducks (5-1) – The Ducks get two weeks to prepare for their trip up north to face Washington.  If they win, then comes a chance at virtually eliminating USC from Rose Bowl contention.  My my, if it wasn’t for that Boise State game…

12)  Penn State Nittany Lions (6-1) – The Iowa loss looks more legit every week.  So does this team’s defense, holding opponents to 7 or fewer in five of seven games.  They still need to win out and get some help if they want to smell roses.

13)  TCU Horned Frogs (6-0) – After taking a few weeks off, TCU finally showed up against Colorado State.  They outgained CSU 499-182 in the 38 point blowout.  The game of the week this week is a Mountain West game as TCU heads to Provo.

14)  Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (6-1) - The Jackets put three SEC schools on the schedule this year and finish with 11 straight against BCS conference teams.  The huge win over Virginia Tech put them back in discussion for a BCS bowl.

15)  BYU Cougars (6-1) – Oklahoma and Florida State have been down, so the schedule hasn’t been as impressive as the Cougars would have hoped.  Still, the TCU game Saturday should put them in the national spotlight again.

16)  Houston Cougars (6-1) – It’s hard to believe that a one-loss Conference USA team could be ranked this high just halfway through the season.  But they’ve earned it after playing three BCS conference teams and winning them all.

17)  Kansas Jayhawks (5-1) – Right behind the number one offense in America is number two.  Reesing, Brizcoe and Meier did their part against Colorado, but the defense played really bad again.  It’s a Big 12 loss KU couldn’t afford to have.

18)  Virginia Tech Hokies (4-2) – Um, run defense?  Virginia Tech forgot to bring theirs to Atlanta, giving up 309 yards on the ground to Georgia Tech.  The Hokies’ schedule gets easier as they chase another ACC crown.  UNC is next.

19)  Pittsburgh Panthers (6-1) – Dion Lewis is going to be a Heisman candidate before his college career is over.  The freshman ran for 180 yards and two touchdowns in Pitt’s win at Rutgers.  He is up to third in the nation in rushing.

20)  Ohio State Buckeyes (5-2) – Purdue was just 1-5 on the year before pulling off the Ohio State upset, leaving Illinois has the only Big 12 winless team.  For the Buckeyes, winning out still gives them the conference title and a Rose Bowl berth.

21)  Texas Tech Red Raiders (5-2) – Since losing back to back road games in their home state, the Red Raiders have outscored opponents 142-52.  In their first game out of the state, new QB Steven Sheffield ripped the ‘Huskers for three TDs.

22)  Nebraska Cornhuskers (4-2) – Nebraska got absolutely embarrassed by Texas Tech at home, and failed to take advantage of a Kansas loss in the process.  The normally stout defense allowed 31 points after allowing just 40 all year.

23)  West Virginia Mountaineers (5-1) – After the Auburn loss, it didn’t look like the Mountaineers were going to be very good.  But they’ve managed a 5-1 start thanks to Noel Divine’s 6.4 yards per carry.  Nothing but Big East games remain.

24)  Utah Utes (5-1) - I’m still not convinced that this team can play with anyone in the top 25, but they’ve won the games they’re supposed to win.  They have road games against TCU and BYU two of the final three weeks of the season.

25)  South Florida Bulls (5-1) – The Bulls couldn’t get anything going, specifically in the second half, against Cincinnati.  They’ll have plenty of chances to jump right back in the mix with West Virginia, Pittsburgh and Miami still to come.


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Categories : Sports

College football rankings – Oct. 12

12 10 2009

By this point in the season, every team except two have played a bad game.  I’ve had those two teams ranked 1-2 all season.  The AP finally woke up from a five week coma and put Alabama at #2.  It’s a shame that the Tide and Gators can’t play for the national championship because after those two, there is a distinct dropoff in college football.  Penn State, USC, Texas, Cincinnati and Virginia Tech are the top teams in the other five big conferences, but none of them can touch the top two.  Not right now anyway.  So if you want your true national championship game, tune in Dec. 5 when the Gators and Crimson Tide meet at the Georgia Dome.  But just for giggles, and because I do it every week, I’ll rank 23 other teams too.

1)  Florida Gators (5-0) – The predictable Gators didn’t have Tim Tebow at his best Saturday, but that’s why you have a #1 ranked defense, right?  Florida’s “D” gets an “A” in Baton Rouge.  The game in Columbia Nov. 14 could mean a lot.

2)  Alabama Crimson Tide (6-0) – I read an article on CBS Sports saying ‘Bama should be #1.  I wouldn’t be able to argue that after the ‘Tide truck Ole Miss in Oxford.  They forced four Jevan Snead picks and rushed for 200+ yards.

3)  Texas Longhorns (5-0) – The defense and special teams outscored the offense in a lackluster home win over a terrible Colorado team.  The ‘Horns had just 46 rushing yards on 25 carries.  Play like that again and OU will win Saturday.

4)  Boise State Broncos (5-0) – They are getting no love from the voters, but they are one of the most talented teams in America.  Kellen Moore is second in the nation in pass efficiency and has 13 TDs.  They travel to Tulsa on Wednesday.

5)  Cincinnati Bearcats (5-0) – Tony Pike has completed 66 percent of his passes and is throwing for nearly 300 yards per game.  Their top two rushers are both averaging better than five yards per carry.  My point?  This offense is good.

6)  Virginia Tech Hokies (5-1) – If Alabama ends up being this team’s only loss, then they have a national championship claim.  Since then, they are 5-0 and rolling.  Boston College had no chance as Virginia Tech rolled to a 34-0 halftime lead.

7)  Miami Hurricanes (4-1) – The ‘Canes get the edge over LSU because of wins over Oklahoma and Georgia Tech although the FSU win doesn’t look impressive anymore.  This week was their first breather as they bounced Florida A&M.

8)  LSU Tigers (5-1) – The Tigers couldn’t get anything going against that stout Florida defense, but took advantage of Tebow playing too soon to keep themselves in it.  They can earn a rematch by winning out, including a win in Tuscaloosa.

9)  USC Trojans (4-1) – USC is one of six Pac 10 teams with one loss, and Oregon is undefeated.  Pete Carroll isn’t used to seeing it this bunched up, which should make for an interesting finish.  First up though is a tough trip to South Bend.

10)  Ohio State Buckeyes (5-1) – The Bucks jump KU after an impressive victory over an improved Wisconsin team.  The defense and special teams combined for 21 of the 31 points, but Terrelle Pryor went just 5-13 with 87 yards, a TD and a pick.

11)  Kansas Jayhawks (5-0) – It certainly wasn’t pretty against lowly Iowa State.  Kerry Meier caught 16 passes for 142 yards and two touchdowns to help bail out the Jayhawk D, which allowed 512 yards to the Cyclones.  Colorado is next.

12)  Iowa Hawkeyes (6-0) – Give the Hawkeyes credit.  After all, they spoiled my perfect upset prediction streak.  They also beat a very good Michigan team.  Their three remaining away games are Wisconsin, Michigan State and Ohio State.

13)  Oklahoma State Cowboys (4-1) – The Georgia win doesn’t look impressive anymore, the Rice game was closer than expected, and now OSU nearly loses at Texas A&M.  The banged up Cowboys still have Texas, Texas Tech and Oklahoma.

14)  Oregon Ducks (5-1) – Oregon got it done against UCLA Saturday thanks to a kickoff return and an interception return.  It seems the theme of the week was offenses getting outscored by their defenses and special teams.

15)  Nebraska Cornhuskers (4-1) – After a stagnant first three quarters, the ‘Husker offense exploded for 27 points in the fourth.  The defense is #13 in the country and has allowed just four touchdowns.  A 4-0 Big 12 start looks likely.

16)  Penn State Nittany Lions (5-1) – The Lions finished their joke of a nonconference schedule by beating FCS team Eastern Illinois by 49.  Next week they play their sixth home game of the season already, against Minnesota.

17)  TCU Horned Frogs (5-0) – I grow less impressed with this team every week.  Last week it was a four point win at Clemson.  This week it’s a three point win at Air Force.  I will give them credit for three road wins though.

18)  BYU Cougars (5-1) – Harvey Unga was at it again Saturday, scoring three more touchdowns and rushing for 149 yards.  Unga has rushed for 494 yards and eight touchdowns on the year, averaging 6.8 yards per carry.  Heisman?

19)  Oklahoma Sooners (3-2) – Sam Bradford returned Saturday against Baylor, and Bob Stoops didn’t hesitate to unleash the Heisman winner.  He threw 49 passes, completing 27, for 389 yards and a touchdown in the victory.

20)  Houston Cougars (4-1) – After the Cougars lost to UTEP, the AP and coaches took them out of the rankings.  I left them in, and now they are back in both major polls after beating their third BCS conference team of the year.

21)  South Florida Bulls (5-0) - Both the Bulls and Bearcats have had 12 days to prepare for the Thursday showdown in Tampa.  After Cincinnati, South Florida’s schedule stays tough, as they get Pittsburgh and West Virginia.

22)  Auburn Tigers (5-1) – Despite getting crushed by Arkansas, the Tigers have wins over Mississippi State, West Virginia and Tennessee.  Ben Tate and Onterio McCalebb both average more than six yards per carry and have combined for 1000.

23)  Notre Dame Fighting Irish (4-1) – They may not be great teams, but the Irish have played four BCS conference teams already this year, and have won three.  They got a bye at a good time – they’re about to play a great BCS team.

24)  South Carolina Gamecocks (5-1) – Georgia game aside, South Carolina is finally winning all the close ones.  They’re the only other team with a prayer to win the SEC East, but first they’ll have to go to Alabama and win on Saturday.

25)  Pittsburgh Panthers (5-1) – The Pitt team today is not the same Pitt team we saw in the first three games.  Dion Lewis has slowed down, and the defense is giving up too many points.  The Big East is wide open, and Rutgers is next.


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Categories : Uncategorized

College football rankings – Oct. 5

5 10 2009

Although I got my upset correct for the fifth straight week, I dropped the ball on LSU/Georgia.  Is it time I give the Tigers some credit?  They are 5-0 with four BCS wins, including an impressive victory over Georgia in which they allowed just 13 points to a team that had put up 93 in two games against the SEC before Saturday.  They move up on my list, but will likely drop back next week because…

1)  Florida Gators (4-0) – …the Gators are coming to town.  Tim Tebow still hasn’t been cleared to practice or play, but I think the Gators can still win the game on defense alone.  Win this and it should be a red carpet to the SEC title game.

2)  Alabama Crimson Tide (5-0) – The AP writers and coaches still have Texas at #2, and I don’t know why.  Alabama was impressive yet again in a 38-20 drubbing of Kentucky.  Ole Miss will be a stiff test Saturday in Oxford.

3)  Texas Longhorns (4-0) – A tuneup game against woeful Colorado is a great way for Texas to open the Big 12 season before the Red River Shootout.  With other teams in the conference falling like dominos, the strength of schedule looks weak.

4)  Boise State Broncos (5-0) – It wasn’t the Broncos we had been used to seeing, but rain will slow down any offense.  Still, an 18 point home win over an FCS team is not what this program needs if it wants to get its title shot.

5)  LSU Tigers (5-0) – The Tigers faced their first true test of the season and passed with flying colors, holding Georgia to just 45 rushing yards and controlling the clock.  Maybe I was wrong about them.  Or maybe Florida will prove me right.

6)  Cincinnati Bearcats (5-0) - Moving the Bearcats down is not a penalty; they are just the victim of a weak schedule.  Jacob Ramsey rushed for 103 yards and three touchdowns against Miami-Ohio.  Undefeated South Florida is next.

7)  Virginia Tech Hokies (4-1) – The Hokies survived a major scare in Durham Saturday, escaping with a 34-26 win over Duke.  The ‘Devils found a way to score more points against Tech (26) than Nebraska and Miami combined (22).

8)  Miami Hurricanes (3-1) – Be honest and tell me if you really thought Miami would get through the opening month gauntlet 3-1.  Wins over Florida State, Georgia Tech and Oklahoma make a pretty impressive resume.

9)  USC Trojans (4-1) – They may be the best one loss team in the nation.  Or maybe California is just bad.  Either way, the Trojans looked good in a 30-3 route of the Bears in Berkeley.  Next is a bye week before going to Notre Dame.

10)  Kansas Jayhawks (4-0) – The offense is firing on all cylinders, but Mark Mangino probably wants to improve the D.  They have two gimme games to do so with Iowa State and Colorado as the first two conference opponents.

11)  Ohio State Buckeyes (4-1) – They put the brakes on in Bloomington and still came away with a 33-14 win.  Terrelle Pryor threw three TDs and ran for one.  If they get by Wisconsin Saturday, they should be 8-1 going to Happy Valley.

12)  Oklahoma State Cowboys (3-1) – Oklahoma State has time to make up some ground in the rankings with the Longhorns and Sooners still on the schedule.  But first it’s a trip to College Station to face always pesky Texas A&M.

13)  TCU Horned Frogs (4-0) – TCU rocked SMU 39-14 Saturday.  The defense is in the top 10 in the nation again.  Eight different TCU players ran the ball in the game, making quarterback Andy Dalton’s life very easy.

14)  Iowa Hawkeyes (5-0) – Iowa’s huge win over Penn State was nearly followed by a catastrophic loss to Arkansas State.  Nevertheless, they’re 5-0 headed into a tough stretch against Michigan, Wisconsin and Michigan State.

15)  Oregon Ducks (4-1) – The Ducks are trying to make the disaster in Boise seem like a distant memory.  Oregon ran for 318 yards and six touchdowns in a 52-6 route over Wazzu.  LeGarrette Blount may be reinstated in time for USC.

16)  Penn State Nittany Lions (4-1) – The Lions rebounded from the Iowa loss by spanking Illinois in Champaign.  Unlike previous games, the offense showed up in the fourth quarter, scoring 21 points to put the game away.

17)  BYU Cougars (4-1) – For the second straight week, Harvey Unga had a monster game.  This week he ran for 118 yards and a touchdown as BYU put the clamps down on Utah State.  Next up is a trip to Vegas to face UNLV.

18)  Oklahoma Sooners (2-2) – What a disappointment this season has been for OU and its fans.  Starting #3 in the country, the Sooners are already out of national championship contention, although a third straight Big 12 title is still possible.

19)  Nebraska Cornhuskers (3-1) – Nebraska leads the nation in scoring defense, allowing just seven points per game.  They are also averaging 40.  Combine the two and it’s a dangerous combination.  Big 12 play kicks off Thursday.

20)  Auburn Tigers (5-0) – It’s always tough to win at Tennessee, but Auburn did just that to improve to 5-0 on the year.  The next four games will challenge the Tigers, starting with Saturday’s road test at Arkansas.

21)  Mississippi Rebels (3-1) – Ole Miss rebounded from a tough loss in Columbia with a solid defensive performance in a 23-7 win at Vanderbilt, but Jevan Snead threw three more picks.  He’ll have to step up Saturday when “Bama rolls in.

22)  Houston Cougars (3-1) – Houston gave up 58 points against UTEP.  That won’t win any games.  To make matters worse people probably looked at Case Keenum’s numbers (51-76, 535 yards, 5 TDs) and thought Houston won the game.

23)  Wisconsin Badgers (5-0) – Wisconsin is winning ugly.  What’s new?  The fact is, they are 5-0 and seem to have found offense.  John Clay is averaging 5.2 yards per carry and has rushed for seven touchdowns already.  Ohio State is next.

24)  South Florida Bulls (5-0) – South Florida hasn’t played anybody yet, but they have five wins and look confident.  The one-two punch of B.J. Daniels and Moise Plancher are tearing up the ground game.  They host Cincinnati Oct. 15

25)  Missouri Tigers (4-0) – Like South Florida, the Tigers haven’t had a schedule yet.  But like South Florida, they’re undefeated and gaining confidence.  Blaine Gabbert is fourth in the nation in pass efficiency at 168.67.


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Categories : Sports

College football rankings – Sept. 28

28 09 2009

In a weekend full of upsets, who made out the best?  That’s easy, it’s Boise State.  The Broncos are now one Texas slip away from controlling their own destiny to Pasadena, and I don’t mean for the Rose Bowl.  The Broncos are #5 in the county (higher than that in the poll that matters), and they are guaranteed to pass two of the three SEC teams ahead of them as long as they keep winning.  LSU has Georgia and Florida next.  ‘Bama is losing to Florida in the SEC championship if not sooner.  Texas still has the Red River Shootout, a trip to Stillwater and Kansas twice.  The Broncos could turn into the biggest Sooner fans in the country come Oct. 17.  Meanwhile, Chris Peterson is making everyone on the team write personalized thank you letters to the Penn State offense for leaving Happy Valley after the first play.  On to the rankings…

1)  Florida Gators (4-0) – What’s bigger, #4, 5 and 6 all losing in one weekend, or Tim Tebow getting hurt?  I’ll go with the first one.  Florida doesn’t need Tebow to run the table, although the bye week comes at a perfect time.

2)  Alabama Crimson Tide (4-0) – Saban’s boys look good.  Arkansas put up 41 on Georgia, then did squat against the Tide.  Greg McElroy had three more touchdown passes.  The Virginia Tech win looks huge now.

3)  Texas Longhorns (4-0) – For the first time this season, the ‘Horns put together two good halves of football.  Two really good halves.  The defense gave up just 53 yards and zero points.  No BCS nonconference opponents could hurt them.

4)  Boise State Broncos (4-0) – How good does that win over Oregon look now?  The Broncos have steamrolled everyone since then, and have put themselves in legitimate title contention.  Could this be the year a non-BCS school goes?

5)  Cincinnati Bearcats (4-0) – They aren’t the same ‘Cats we saw put up 115 points the first two weeks, but Cincinnati is winning, and winning against legit opponents.  Fresno is no joke, and they won at Rutgers and at Oregon State.

6)  Oklahoma Sooners (2-1) – I said I wouldn’t move any teams with bye weeks up or down the first four weeks.  Otherwise OU would be #5.  No word on whether Bradford will go against Miami, but it won’t matter.  OU will roll either way.

7)  Virginia Tech Hokies (3-1) – I picked Virginia Tech to beat Miami, but not by 24.  Defensively, the Hokies held Miami to 209 yards, while offensively, they ran it down Miami’s throats.  The rain played right into Va Tech’s style.

8)  Houston Cougars (3-0) – The Cougars have done it again.  For the second time in as many games, Houston knocked off a legitimate Big 12 opponent.  The offense racked up 579 yards against Texas Tech, and Case Keenum threw for 435.

9)  LSU Tigers (4-0) – This team is disgusting.  Another opponent blunder keeps LSU undefeated, but for how long.  They beat Mississippi State by four, Washington by eight and Vanderbilt by 14.  Georgia and Florida are next.

10)  California Golden Bears (3-1) – The Bears were absolutely embarrassed by Oregon.  They were outgained 524-207 in total offense, and Jahvid Best had 16 carries for just 55 yards.  Impressive early season wins keeps them in the top 10.

11)  USC Trojans (3-1) – Matt Barkley’s first game back was pretty good.  He went 13 for 22 for 247 yards and two touchdowns without an interception.  But after a 20-0 first quarter, they didn’t do anything against a bad Wazzu team.

12)  Kansas Jayhawks (4-0) – The offense is really good and can score on anyone.  Southern Mississippi is a good team and played tough, but KU had enough to end SMU’s eight game win streak – the second longest in the nation.

13)  Ohio State Buckeyes (3-1) – The Buckeyes haven’t given up points since USC’s winning drive on Sept. 12.  The defense forced three Juice Williams interceptions Saturday in the shutout.  Final score against Penn State: 4-2.

14)  Oklahoma State Cowboys (3-1) – Their only loss was to a good Houston team, and they have a nice win over Georgia, but fans were expecting more from Zac Robinson.  He has just 791 yards and six touchdowns through four games.

15)  Georgia Bulldogs (3-1) – The ‘Dogs have had one of the toughest schedules in the country, and it doesn’t get any easier with LSU in town Saturday.  They’ve played four BCS schools already, and have seven more on the schedule.

16)  Iowa Hawkeyes (4-0) – I’ve been saying Iowa is overrated all year, but after the performance at Penn State, I may have to shut up.  If not for that one point win over Northern Iowa, they may be in my top 10.  They go to the Shoe Nov. 14.

17)  TCU Horned Frogs (3-0) – TCU stayed undefeated – barely – at Clemson this week.  That’s two wins at ACC schools.  The defense looked good again despite not recording a sack for the first time in 27 games.  Things get easier until BYU.

18)  Oregon Ducks (3-1) – The Ducks strung together a very impressive nonconference schedule with Boise State, Purdue and Utah.  Smacking Cal by 39 is a huge boost.  Jeremiah Masoli might be off the hook for now.

19)  Penn State Nittany Lions (3-1) – They are still the favorites to win the Big 10, but a national title is dim after a double digit home loss to Iowa.  The team went to sleep after scoring on the first play, had a punt blocked and gave up a safety.

20)  Miami Hurricanes (2-1) – The rain really hampered Miami’s ability to do anything offensively.  They are not a running team and became predictable when the rain started falling.  It doesn’t get any easier with the Sooners next week.

21)  BYU Cougars (3-1) – Harvey Unga had three rushing touchdowns from inside the five as BYU got back to business in a win over Colorado State.  The Cougars can still sneak into the BCS picture with some help and an 8-0 finish.

22)  Nebraska Cornhuskers (3-1) – This is a scary team, especially defensively.  That Virginia Tech team that put up 31 in the rain against Miami needed a miracle to down the Huskers.  They get a bye week before Big 12 play begins.

23)  Mississippi Rebels (2-1) – I’m not sure what all the fuss about Jevan Snead is.  He has completed fewer than 50 percent of his passes and has just six touchdowns against three unranked teams.  Alabama and LSU are both at home.

24)  Auburn Tigers (4-0) – Gene Chizik has Auburn playing well, though they havent left home yet.  They go to Tennessee and Arkansas thev next two weeks, and after that we’ll have a better idea of how good they are.

25)  Michigan Wolverines (4-0) – Rich Rodriguez has this team off to a 4-0 start – they were just 3-9 last year.  However, an embarrassing near-loss to Indiana should have Michigan fans worried.  The Wolverines travel to East Lansing next.


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Categories : Sports

College football picks – Miami’s streak ends

24 09 2009

Murderers’ row continues for Miami this week with a road trip to Blacksburg, Va. to face the Hokies.  Lost with Miami’s schedule is the fact that Virginia Tech has had a tough road as well, hosting ranked Nebraska last week and opening the season in Atlanta against #3 Alabama.  Don’t think Miami is going to walk all over them.  But I must not give too much away… For the third straight week, I went 4-2 with my picks, so I really have no room to brag.  But I am 3-0 with my upset picks, so if you’re looking for good gambler’s odds, keep reading.

#5 Penn State Nittany Lions 35, Iowa Hawkeyes 0

Texas Tech Red Raiders 37, #17 Houston Cougars 30

#6 California Golden Bears 27, Oregon Ducks 18

Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets 27, #22 North Carolina Tar Heels 21

#11 Virginia Tech Hokies 21, #9 Miami Hurricanes 17

UPSET SPECIAL:  South Carolina Gamecocks 33, #4 Mississippi Rebels 31

Last week:  4-2
Overall:  12-6
Upsets:  3-0


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Categories : Sports

College football rankings – Sept. 21

21 09 2009

Washington should not be in the AP Top 25.  But if you’re still deciding between the AP and Coaches Poll, please choose AP.  The coaches still have USC in the top ten, Georgia as high as #17, North Carolina right behind them at #18, Missouri at #21 and Florida State at #25.  If you want a reason to complain about the BCS, look no further than these goons who somehow get to have a third of the influence in those rankings.  If you want an accurate poll, keep reading.

1)  Florida Gators (3-0) – Okay, so the Gators looked mortal on Saturday and now everyone is up in arms about their legitimacy.  So what if they only won by 10?  It’s the SEC, everyone comes to play.  Their first road game is this week.

2)  Alabama Crimson Tide (3-0) – The Tide rocked North Texas 53-7, but I’m a little concerned because they only rushed for 260 yards.  Were they playing with Swine Flu?  All jokes aside, this team looks good.  SEC play starts Saturday.

3)  Texas Longhorns (3-0) – Colt McCoy looked terrible for much of the game, but the bottom line is a win is a win, especially revenge against Texas Tech.  The offense made some halftime adjustments, and the defense was good enough.

4)  Penn State Nittany Lions (3-0) – The best defense in the nation strikes again.  For the third straight week, the D gave up single digits.  I hate their schedule though.  Four non-league games, all at home against weak teams.  Gross.

5)  California Golden Bears (3-0) – With USC’s loss, Cal takes a stranglehold on the Pac 10.  The offense wasn’t nearly as dominant in Minnesota, but they did enough to win.  Their first three Pac 10 games are against Oregon, USC and UCLA.

6)  Oklahoma Sooners (2-1) – This is the best 2-1 team in the history of college football.  It looks more and more like the Sooners will be fine with Landry Jones.  They’ve outscored their last two opponents 109-0, and have a bye before Miami.

7)  Boise State Broncos (3-0) – I think it’s safe to say they’ve found their offense is back, averaging 49.5 points per game since the ugly Oregon win.  But where was the defense in Fresno?  The Bulldogs put up 507 yards and 34 points.

8)  Mississippi Rebels (2-0) – They may have played well this week, but it was Southeastern Louisiana, so don’t think I’ve forgotten about the Memphis game.  We know they can score, but can the defense hold up against an SEC opponent?

9)  Virginia Tech Hokies (2-1) – Virginia Tech was outplayed by a better Nebraska team and got bailed out by blown coverage.  I don’t think they can hang with most top 25 teams, but for now they have to be here because of the schedule.

10)  LSU Tigers (3-0) - LSU jumps Oklahoma State simply because they’re undefeated, but there’s just something not right about them.  They aren’t explosive offensively, yet they’re winning.  They also beat the team that beat USC.

11)  Cincinnati Bearcats (3-0) – The offense didn’t look nearly as explosive, but they were able to win on the road in the Pac 10.  Tony Pike had another nice day, going 31-49 for 332 yards, and the defense had another strong showing.

12)  USC Trojans (2-1) – I really hate putting USC here because they should be lower after that inexcusable loss.  But they can’t be behind the Buckeyes yet because they won that game, and we all know they’re out for blood now.

13)  Houston Cougars (3-0) – Houston has to love the scheduling gods.  After winning at Oklahoma State, the Cougars got the benefit of a bye week while their opponent this week, Texas Tech, had to go to Austin.

14)  Ohio State Buckeyes (2-1) – The Bucks played their first complete game of the season in a 38-0 route at Toledo.  The USC loss looks worse now, but they should be safe until the Nov. 7 showdown in Happy Valley.

15)  Miami Hurricanes (2-0) – Miami impresses me more every week.  Two wins over two ranked opponents have Miami climbing fast.  Jacory Harris and company better be ready.  Virginia Tech is next in Blacksburg.

16)  Oklahoma State Cowboys (2-1) – If teams are supposed to get better every week, Mike Gundy should be furious.  His Cowboys looked good beating Georgia, then lost to Houston and sleepwalked through the Rice game.

17)  Kansas Jayhawks (3-0) – The Jayhawks keep rocking, this time overcoming a slow start to put away Duke.  Todd Reesing has 806 yards with six touchdowns, and Dezmon Briscoe is averaging 20 yards per catch.

18)  TCU Horned Frogs (2-0) – All of a sudden TCU has the Mountain West bullseye after Utah and BYU fell last week.  The Horned Frogs rushed for seven touchdowns against Texas State-San Macros.

19)  Georgia Bulldogs (2-1) – The Bulldogs looked terrible offensively against Oklahoma State, then decided to light off the fireworks en route to a 2-0 SEC start.  The latest victim was Arkansas, who gave up 530 yards to the ‘Dogs.

20)  North Carolina Tar Heels (3-0) – It took a late fourth quarter surge for North Carolina to pull away from East Carolina.  It gets tougher for the ‘Heels now, starting this week at Georgia Tech.

21)  BYU Cougars (2-1) – This team surprised me the most in week three.  As good as the defense has played all year, BYU let an inept FSU team walk into Provo and make them look like a joke.  Bye, bye, BCS.

22)  Pittsburgh Panthers (3-0) – The Pitt Panthers got their third win, but Navy didn’t make it easy.  Nevertheless, Pitt’s 3-0 and playing well.  Dion Lewis is sixth in the nation in rushing at 132 yards per game.

23)  Michigan Wolverines (3-0) – Rich Rod’s team is one win away from eclipsing last season’s win total.  The Wolverines have one more tuneup game this week before two tough road games in East Lansing and Iowa City.

24)  Nebraska Cornhuskers (2-1) – Nebraska dominated Virginia Tech for 59 minutes, then forgot that they were supposed to actually cover Va Tech receivers.  Still, this team is dangerous.  Bo Pelini has them playing Husker football again.

25)  Auburn Tigers (3-0) – This spot is wide open in my rankings, but for now I’m giving it to the Tigers.  Auburn lit up West Virginia for 41 points, and they are one of four SEC West teams without a loss.


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Categories : Sports

College Football Rankings – Sept. 15

15 09 2009

Houston, I have a problem.  My problem is that I feel obligated to rank you after your dominating performance in Stillwater.  Yes I called it.  But now I have to back up my upset special by accurately ranking you among the big boys.  Welcome to the big show.  We’ll see how long you stay.

1)  Florida Gators – The Gators didn’t let a sluggish start keep them from their second straight 50+ point victory.  Tim Tebow threw four touchdowns and ran for another against Troy.  Tennessee is the next victim in the SEC opener.

2)  USC Trojans – The Trojans get the nod here after a gutty performance at the Horseshoe.  I picked Ohio State to win, but USC’s defense got the job done, and Matt Barkley’s last drive was mighty impressive.

3)  Texas Longhorns – I wanted to put Alabama here because they’ve had a more impressive resume to date.  Then Texas actually showed up, outscoring Wyoming 28-0 in the second half on the road.

4)  Alabama Crimson Tide – After the big win in Atlanta, the Tide had a major first half letdown before recovering in a 40-14 win over FIU.  For the second straight week, ‘Bama’s ground game racked up nearly 300 yards.

5)  Penn State Nittany Lions – The offense hasn’t been flashy, but when has that ever been the case?  Penn State shut down Greg Paulus and Syracuse, and four touchdowns was plenty.

6)  Boise State Broncos – Defense!  Defense!  Defense!  That seems to be the new motto this season in Boise following a shutout of Miami-Ohio.  The offense didn’t look too shabby either, putting up 48.

7)  BYU Cougars – In their second straight game played in an NFL stadium, the Cougars carried their momentum over from the OU game and whipped Tulane 54-3.  Florida State comes to Provo next for the home opener.

8)  Oklahoma Sooners – Yea, they’ll be okay.  Idaho State came at the right time on the schedule as Landry Jones got a good tuneup, throwing for 286 yards and three touchdowns in a 64-0 route.

9)  California Golden Bears – Cal looks good.  Jahvid Best ran for 144 more this week as the Bears put up 59 against Eastern Washington.  The USC game could be a battle of unbeatens.

10)  Mississippi Rebels – I have a policy not to move any teams up or down in the rankings this early in the season if they don’t play.  This week should be a breeze before opening the SEC schedule with two raod games.

11)  Virginia Tech Hokies – Va Tech rebounded from a tough loss to ‘Bama with a thrashing of Marshall in the home opener.  Ryan Williams racked up three more rushing touchdowns, giving him five on the year.

12)  Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets – It wasn’t pretty.  At times, it was ugly.  But Georgia Tech sure made it a dramatic finish after blowing a 24 point lead by coming from behind to start the ACC season 1-0.

13)  Houston Cougars – Go ahead, call me ridiculous for putting the Cougars here.  But they did put up five more touchdowns in Stillwater than Georgia did, highlighted by a 21 point fourth quarter.

14)  Oklahoma State Cowboys – I’m honestly not shocked.  The defense looked good against Georgia, but I knew they had holes, and it showed Saturday.  They play in the best division in the NCAA, so there are opportunities to right the ship.

15)  LSU Tigers – For the second straight week, the Tigers scored a lackluster win over a low-level power conference school.  But in a rebuilding year winning is all that matters.  Going to Georgia, Alabama and Ole Miss won’t be easy though.

16)  Cincinnati Bearcats – Forget that it was Southeast Missouri.  The Bearcats put up 70 and are absolutely on fire.  New quarterback Tony Pike has thrown three touchdowns in each of his first two games.

17)  Ohio State Buckeyes – No need to move these guys down too far.  They put up a gutsy fight against USC when many thought they’d get wiped out.  The schedule gets very easy for a while, so they’ll be creeping back up.

18)  TCU Horned Frogs – William and Mary beat Virginia in the opener, so given that, I was expecting more from TCU.  Nevertheless, winning in an ACC stadium is another step in the right direction for the Mountain West.

19)  Kansas Jayhawks – Kansas may be the best team never to crack the top 10 this season.  I’m in love with their offense, and the D showed up in El Paso too.  Winning a Big 12 South game would be a huge step.

20)  Nebraska Cornhuskers – Wherever Kansas is, you can be sure that Nebraska is right behind.  As I said last week, the teams are almost identical.  It could all change next week though when the Cornhuskers go to Virginia Tech.

21)  North Carolina Tar Heels – As impressed as I was with the Heels in week one, I was equally unimpressed with their effort at UConn.  A holding penalty by the Huskies bailed UNC out, but where was the offense?

22)  Georgia Bulldogs – I gave them the benefit of the doubt after losing to Oklahoma State on the road, but they came home and nearly lost to South Carolina.  The Bulldogs showed they can score, but the defense looked terrible.

23)  Pittsburgh Panthers – I’m still trying to figure out how Pitt beat Buffalo by 27.  Buffalo had over 100 more yards, more third down conversions, and more time of possession.  Ah, must have been turnovers.  The Panthers’ defense needs work.

24)  Michigan Wolverines – Freshman Tate Forcier completed 70 percent of his passes for 240 yards and two touchdowns as Michigan downed ranked Notre Dame.  The schedule is pillow soft for a while, so expect this team to rise more.

25)  Miami Hurricanes – They get a bye week after the big win in Tallahassee.  Next up is the home opener against Georgia Tech on Thursday night.  We’ll see if Jacory Harris can repeat the magic against another ACC opponent.


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Categories : Sports