Woke up yesterday morning to find that my laptop had developed a death rattle. Something is grinding in there and I'm pretty sure it's not good so this will be brief in hopes that she can hold for a few posts more...
And, my picks aren't doing much better.
Mississippi St. @ Arkansas (-11)
Let's just ride this Croom thing out.
Boston College @ Clemson (-7.5)
I don't typically give BC a lot of credit, but they're not typically playing Clemson.
Iowa State @ Kansas (-26.5)
For a half, the Cyclones are going to render all that KU/BCS talk irrelevant.
Duke @ Notre Dame (-6)
Why not? Somebody has to win the least interesting game to ever appear on national television.
Ohio State @ Michigan (+4)
The Rose Bowl is on the line you say? I'm glad that's all, the Big 10 is awful.
LSU @ Ole Miss (+19)
I know I've been an Ole Miss sucker all year long, but this is Orgeron's Super Bowl.
Kent State @ Temple (Pick)
So yeah, there's not a whole lot of interesting games this week. If I'm going to take Duke for the first time, why not Temple?
Miami @ Virginia Tech (-16.5)
The Hurricanes aren't as bad as they looked last week and VT simply isn't that good.
Bowling Green @ Buffalo (+1)
Might as well throw Buffalo in there as well. It would be nice for Nebraska fans if they could actually see Turner Gill coach once or twice before he takes the job.
Missouri @ Kansas State (+7)
Hmmm. Kansas State just got embarrassed, Missouri just fought it out with A&M and has an outside shot at the national title. Seems like just the sort of game the Tigers can lose, but I'll ride with them for a week.
Last Week: 4-6
Year to Date: 55-52-3
Showing posts with label HPSWBT. Show all posts
Showing posts with label HPSWBT. Show all posts
11.08.2007
The Terps Come out at Night - HPSWBT Week 11
The end is nigh and even though I want Nebraska's season to be over as quickly as possible, college football itself could go on for at least two more months in my mind. Technically it does, but I'm talking about full Saturday's of football. What am I supposed to do all day on December 8?
At least the Celtics will be exciting this winter.
TCU @ BYU (-7)
Provo is a nasty place to be on a Thursday night. Well, at least for Provo. The Cougars are 11-4 on Thursday night games since 1993 and I really love watching games at Lavell. It's generally cold and there's that giant mountain overseeing everything. Good times.
Louisville @ West Virginia (-16)
Now Morgantown, that's really a place you don't want to be on a Thursday night. West F'n Virginia, indeed. This should be another fun game to watch and, like that BYU game, I don't really like the home favorite by that much but I have to have a rooting interest. Let's just go out there and play.
Florida @ South Carolina (+6.5)
Head Ball Coach keeps burning me but I won't stop believing. This one means a little more to Steve and he's getting points at home. Maybe that will help him overcome the fact that he can't seem to find a competent QB.
Kansas @ Oklahoma State (+6)
Welcome to primetime KU. Thanks to blowing a big lead against Texas last week the Cowboys have to have this one if they want to stay in the Big 12 South race. Seeing Nebraska score 39 points against the Jayhawks with their back-up QB gives me pause here.
Arkansas @ Tennessee (PK)
Houston Nutt on the road straight-up? Yes please.
Navy @ North Texas (+15)
The Mean Green has one win and has lost every game by at least 10 points. The Middies can score and they will. Often.
Texas Tech @ Texas (-6.5)
This one should be fun. I'm not convinced the Longhorns can stop anyone through the air and that's pretty much all Tech does. Now, can the Raiders stop Texas' running game? Probably not which means time of possession is going to be key. Perhaps the Longhorns won't realize that for three quarters and throw early like they've done the past two weeks. Guns Up!
Boston College @ Maryland (+6.5)
Like every other year, BC lost late and they're once again ordinary. However, the past two weeks they've looked much worse than ordinary and I like the Terps at night. Since I'll have to watch this game rather than KU-OSU I figured I should have a vested interest.
UConn @ Cincinnati (-6.5)
This is me still not believing in the Huskies.
Kansas St. @ Nebraska (+7.5)
Kansas State shouldn't embarrass Nebraska like the rest of the Big 12 has thus far, but we will have to deal with Josh Freeman winning at Memorial Stadium. What's one more hardship to endure? I think this one will be close, but a few Nebraska turnovers fuel K-State.
And because I have to start prepping myself for basketball season: welcome to Kentucky, Billy Gillispie.
Last Week: 4-5-1
Year to Date: 51-46-3
At least the Celtics will be exciting this winter.
TCU @ BYU (-7)
Provo is a nasty place to be on a Thursday night. Well, at least for Provo. The Cougars are 11-4 on Thursday night games since 1993 and I really love watching games at Lavell. It's generally cold and there's that giant mountain overseeing everything. Good times.
Louisville @ West Virginia (-16)
Now Morgantown, that's really a place you don't want to be on a Thursday night. West F'n Virginia, indeed. This should be another fun game to watch and, like that BYU game, I don't really like the home favorite by that much but I have to have a rooting interest. Let's just go out there and play.
Florida @ South Carolina (+6.5)
Head Ball Coach keeps burning me but I won't stop believing. This one means a little more to Steve and he's getting points at home. Maybe that will help him overcome the fact that he can't seem to find a competent QB.
Kansas @ Oklahoma State (+6)
Welcome to primetime KU. Thanks to blowing a big lead against Texas last week the Cowboys have to have this one if they want to stay in the Big 12 South race. Seeing Nebraska score 39 points against the Jayhawks with their back-up QB gives me pause here.
Arkansas @ Tennessee (PK)
Houston Nutt on the road straight-up? Yes please.
Navy @ North Texas (+15)
The Mean Green has one win and has lost every game by at least 10 points. The Middies can score and they will. Often.
Texas Tech @ Texas (-6.5)
This one should be fun. I'm not convinced the Longhorns can stop anyone through the air and that's pretty much all Tech does. Now, can the Raiders stop Texas' running game? Probably not which means time of possession is going to be key. Perhaps the Longhorns won't realize that for three quarters and throw early like they've done the past two weeks. Guns Up!
Boston College @ Maryland (+6.5)
Like every other year, BC lost late and they're once again ordinary. However, the past two weeks they've looked much worse than ordinary and I like the Terps at night. Since I'll have to watch this game rather than KU-OSU I figured I should have a vested interest.
UConn @ Cincinnati (-6.5)
This is me still not believing in the Huskies.
Kansas St. @ Nebraska (+7.5)
Kansas State shouldn't embarrass Nebraska like the rest of the Big 12 has thus far, but we will have to deal with Josh Freeman winning at Memorial Stadium. What's one more hardship to endure? I think this one will be close, but a few Nebraska turnovers fuel K-State.
And because I have to start prepping myself for basketball season: welcome to Kentucky, Billy Gillispie.
Last Week: 4-5-1
Year to Date: 51-46-3
11.01.2007
Storytime - HPSWBT Week 10
I can't figure out this college football season. Another middlin' week, 5-4-1, provides further proof so I'm switching it up a bit here. I'm not looking for my ten favorite picks this week, I'm going with the ten biggest storylines heading in to the week. Well, nine storylines and Nebraska. Can't do any worse can I?
Rutgers @ UConn (-2.5) -- UCONN IS FOR REAL
I'm not sold yet. Before beating a USF squad whose offense looks more suspect by the week, the Huskies big performance was a one-point loss against Virginia. Yeah, the ACC Coastal leader who has been beaten by Wyoming and NC State.
Florida State @ Boston College -- THE EAGLES ARE A REAL NAT'L TITLE THREAT
I'll buy it for another week. The Eagles weren't very impressive for 57 minutes against VT last week--the Hokies have a tendency to ugly things up against anyone--but they did still gut out a win in rainy primetime on the road. However...
Arizona St @ Oregon -- THE SUN DEVILS ARE GETTING SHORT CHANGED
They are. If both BC and ASU should finish the season undefeated it would be an outright travesty if the Sun Devils didn't get the nod over the Eagles after getting through the Pac-10 unscathed. Should it happen, we might have our best argument yet for ditching the preseason rankings, but I have feeling it will be a moot point after this week. The Sun Devils season essentially starts now and with Carpenter's status up in the air, it would take a miracle for ASU to walk out of Autzen still in the hunt.
Wisconsin @ Ohio State (-15.5) -- THE BUCKEYES ARE UNQUESTIONABLY #1
Based on the unwritten rules of human polling they are, but I don't think OSU would be favored over Oklahoma, Oregon or LSU right now on a neutral field. The Buckeyes will beat Wisconsin but the Badgers should be physical enough to hang around and ultimately lose by 10 or 14 meaning OSU is still the cheap speed for another week.
Michigan @ Michigan St. (+4) -- CARR HAS SALVAGED HIS SEASON
Nonsense! Lloyd Carr started playing against the Big 10. Michigan is unquestionably the 2nd best team in the conference and we all know their resume has some big home-loss holes so what does that say about everyone else? I'm not sure which is more disturbing that a) all OSU has to do is beat Michigan and they're likely in the national championship game or b) that Michigan is currently ranked 15th in the country.
UCLA @ Arizona (+2.5) -- KARL DORRELL IS A DEAD MAN WALKING
Absolutely. As bad as it's been as a Nebraska fan at least our decline has been slow, steady and logical. Bruins fans have to be all over the map each week. The Wildcats have quietly been getting better (or at least closer) as Mike Stoops fights for his job.
Kansas State @ Iowa State (+14) -- THE CYCLONES WON'T WIN A CONFERENCE GAME
Well, they've already lost to Nebraska and they don't play Baylor meaning their best chance is probably this week. After seeing the Wildcats crush the Bears I'm not buying it but I will give the Cyclones credit for their last home game against the Sooners so let's say they'll cover. It's not all bad State fans, if you could only have one win this season wouldn't you have chosen the Iowa game?
Navy @ Notre Dame (-3.5) -- THE STREAK STOPS HERE
I sure the hell hope so, especially if Paul Johnson is to become the next head coach at Nebraska. Now, that hasn't happened in 43 years but Notre Dame hasn't really been this bad in that time span. Anchors Aweigh!
LSU @ Alabama (-7) -- SABAN STRIKES BACK
I'm not saying he'll lose here but does anyone else feel like maybe Miles has used up all his luck this season? Seems too perfect not to happen.
Nebraska @ Kansas (-18.5) -- KANSAS IS IN THIS THING
You gotta think the Jayhawks would love nothing more than to put a hurtin' on the Huskers. Sure they did that last time Nebraska visited Lawrence but this time, for the first time really, Kansas is the bully. Nebraska will usher in the Joe Ganz era and I expect that to give them a little spark, but Kansas has a national title to play for...no really.
Last Week: 5-4-1
Year to Date: 47-41-2
Rutgers @ UConn (-2.5) -- UCONN IS FOR REAL
I'm not sold yet. Before beating a USF squad whose offense looks more suspect by the week, the Huskies big performance was a one-point loss against Virginia. Yeah, the ACC Coastal leader who has been beaten by Wyoming and NC State.
Florida State @ Boston College -- THE EAGLES ARE A REAL NAT'L TITLE THREAT
I'll buy it for another week. The Eagles weren't very impressive for 57 minutes against VT last week--the Hokies have a tendency to ugly things up against anyone--but they did still gut out a win in rainy primetime on the road. However...
Arizona St @ Oregon -- THE SUN DEVILS ARE GETTING SHORT CHANGED
They are. If both BC and ASU should finish the season undefeated it would be an outright travesty if the Sun Devils didn't get the nod over the Eagles after getting through the Pac-10 unscathed. Should it happen, we might have our best argument yet for ditching the preseason rankings, but I have feeling it will be a moot point after this week. The Sun Devils season essentially starts now and with Carpenter's status up in the air, it would take a miracle for ASU to walk out of Autzen still in the hunt.
Wisconsin @ Ohio State (-15.5) -- THE BUCKEYES ARE UNQUESTIONABLY #1
Based on the unwritten rules of human polling they are, but I don't think OSU would be favored over Oklahoma, Oregon or LSU right now on a neutral field. The Buckeyes will beat Wisconsin but the Badgers should be physical enough to hang around and ultimately lose by 10 or 14 meaning OSU is still the cheap speed for another week.
Michigan @ Michigan St. (+4) -- CARR HAS SALVAGED HIS SEASON
Nonsense! Lloyd Carr started playing against the Big 10. Michigan is unquestionably the 2nd best team in the conference and we all know their resume has some big home-loss holes so what does that say about everyone else? I'm not sure which is more disturbing that a) all OSU has to do is beat Michigan and they're likely in the national championship game or b) that Michigan is currently ranked 15th in the country.
UCLA @ Arizona (+2.5) -- KARL DORRELL IS A DEAD MAN WALKING
Absolutely. As bad as it's been as a Nebraska fan at least our decline has been slow, steady and logical. Bruins fans have to be all over the map each week. The Wildcats have quietly been getting better (or at least closer) as Mike Stoops fights for his job.
Kansas State @ Iowa State (+14) -- THE CYCLONES WON'T WIN A CONFERENCE GAME
Well, they've already lost to Nebraska and they don't play Baylor meaning their best chance is probably this week. After seeing the Wildcats crush the Bears I'm not buying it but I will give the Cyclones credit for their last home game against the Sooners so let's say they'll cover. It's not all bad State fans, if you could only have one win this season wouldn't you have chosen the Iowa game?
Navy @ Notre Dame (-3.5) -- THE STREAK STOPS HERE
I sure the hell hope so, especially if Paul Johnson is to become the next head coach at Nebraska. Now, that hasn't happened in 43 years but Notre Dame hasn't really been this bad in that time span. Anchors Aweigh!
LSU @ Alabama (-7) -- SABAN STRIKES BACK
I'm not saying he'll lose here but does anyone else feel like maybe Miles has used up all his luck this season? Seems too perfect not to happen.
Nebraska @ Kansas (-18.5) -- KANSAS IS IN THIS THING
You gotta think the Jayhawks would love nothing more than to put a hurtin' on the Huskers. Sure they did that last time Nebraska visited Lawrence but this time, for the first time really, Kansas is the bully. Nebraska will usher in the Joe Ganz era and I expect that to give them a little spark, but Kansas has a national title to play for...no really.
Last Week: 5-4-1
Year to Date: 47-41-2
10.24.2007
Waltz Across Texas - HPSWBT Week 9
You can attribute today's brevity to either a) last night's World Series game or b) the fact that I am so ashamed of last week's 3-7 performance. Also in play, this college football season is a Wookie. It makes no sense so why even try?
Any of those is fine by me.
Boston College @ Virginia Tech (-3)
This goes against everything I believe in as BC's traditional swoon typically hits right about now, but I cannot pick a VT team that is #8 in the country by default.
Kansas @ Texas Ag. & Mech. (+2.5)
South Carolina @ Tennessee (-3)
Home, away, it doesn't matter. Spurrier loves beating him some Vols.
Southern Cal @ Oregon (-3)
Mexican mouthpiece or not--that story warmed my heart, really--I'm liking Oregon more and more as a national title contender.
Iowa St. @ Missouri (-28)
Baylor @ Kansas St. (-25)
Cal @ Arizona St. (-3)
When you see a spoiler this year, take it.
Ohio St. @ Penn St. (-4)
I'd love if it someone, anyone, in the Big 10 could beat The OSU. Problem is I don't see that team here or anywhere.
Virginia @ NC State (+3)
Both the Virginia teams are overrated for lack of better options. Difference here is that the Pack is that bad.
Nebraska @ Texas (-20.5)
Why the hell not? If Bill Callahan can think he's done an "excellent job" then I can think Nebraska will magically find some way to do something well and keep this thing under 3 TDs. Also, I'll be in attendance for this game so I'm just trying to pump myself up a bit.
I've thought a lot about what my response will be to the "Man, ya'll suck" comments I'm sure to receive this Saturday and I think the only response is: "Thank you, I know."
Or maybe, "No question." Would that be lost on Texas fans?
Last Week: 3-7
Year to Date: 42-37-1
Any of those is fine by me.
Boston College @ Virginia Tech (-3)
This goes against everything I believe in as BC's traditional swoon typically hits right about now, but I cannot pick a VT team that is #8 in the country by default.
Kansas @ Texas Ag. & Mech. (+2.5)
South Carolina @ Tennessee (-3)
Home, away, it doesn't matter. Spurrier loves beating him some Vols.
Southern Cal @ Oregon (-3)
Mexican mouthpiece or not--that story warmed my heart, really--I'm liking Oregon more and more as a national title contender.
Iowa St. @ Missouri (-28)
Baylor @ Kansas St. (-25)
Cal @ Arizona St. (-3)
When you see a spoiler this year, take it.
Ohio St. @ Penn St. (-4)
I'd love if it someone, anyone, in the Big 10 could beat The OSU. Problem is I don't see that team here or anywhere.
Virginia @ NC State (+3)
Both the Virginia teams are overrated for lack of better options. Difference here is that the Pack is that bad.
Nebraska @ Texas (-20.5)Why the hell not? If Bill Callahan can think he's done an "excellent job" then I can think Nebraska will magically find some way to do something well and keep this thing under 3 TDs. Also, I'll be in attendance for this game so I'm just trying to pump myself up a bit.
I've thought a lot about what my response will be to the "Man, ya'll suck" comments I'm sure to receive this Saturday and I think the only response is: "Thank you, I know."
Or maybe, "No question." Would that be lost on Texas fans?
Last Week: 3-7
Year to Date: 42-37-1
10.18.2007
Another New Number One? - HPSWBT Week 8
I would like to personally thank Mr. Martin Rucker of Missouri for taking what looked like an impossible TE Screen and carrying a man into the end zone for a late touchdown, resulting in a cover for the Tigers.
That's the stuff of dreams right there.
HPSWBT got back on track a bit with a 7-3 record but, to be frank, this week's lines don't offer a whole lot to look at.
USF @ Rutgers (+2)
In a season that makes no sense, I've gotta go with the computers and they love the Bulls. Last time I saw USF play I came away mighty impressed with their defense. I suspect that love will be renewed tonight.
Arkansas @ Ole Miss (+5)
One of these days, it's gonna happen for you Ole Miss and I want you to remember who has been there for you week in and week out. I'm tired of moral victories and straight covers at home--ok, not really--and you should be too.
Florida @ Kentucky (+6.5)
I'll ride this Wildcat train for another week. I fully understand that the Gators are probably the class here but a touchdown seems like a lot to cover.
Miami @ Florida St. (-5.5)
Remember when the college football universe used to stop for this game? One team, Miami, can't throw it. The other can't run it. I'll take the former every time.
Kansas @ Colorado (+3.5)
Win this one KU and I'll fully be on board. Folsom Prison is a vile, awful place and I suspect you haven't been favored on the road in the Big 12 in any game not involving Baylor. Enjoy it, but don't forget to show up.
Ohio State @ Michigan St. (+17)
Number one in the country is not the place you want to be this year. Seventeen points is a lot against almost anyone on the road, but this is a State squad that showed some spunk early on. Rece Davis' insistence on referring to Michigan State as Sparty is maddening and to voice my displeasure with the practice, I'm predicting an outright win for the Spartans.
Oregon @ Washington (+11)
The white helmets are here! Maybe. It hasn't been confirmed whether or not these "ghost-flamed" beauties will make their debut, but I'll be tuning in to see. I love Oregon, but I do not love laying 11 on the road, especially in a tough stadium.
Miss. St. @ West Virginia (-24.5)
Umm, hasn't this Bulldog squad looked game in every SEC game they've played thus far minus their season opener at LSU? I realize it's in West F'n Virginia but I'm rolling with Croom.
Texas Technical @ Missouri (-3.5)
As good as Crabtree has been, that drop against Okie State could end up haunting the Red Raiders if their current run in the Big 12 keeps up. Chase Daniel, the eyes of Blain Gabbert are upon you. Please show him that you have no intention of, or reason to, leave Mizzou.
Texas Ag. & Mech. @ Nebraska (-2)
I have no idea how this past week will affect the Cornhuskers. Could fire them up, could beat them down. I don't know, but Tom's home and I'll believe again.
Last Week: 7-3
Year to Date: 39-30-1
That's the stuff of dreams right there.
HPSWBT got back on track a bit with a 7-3 record but, to be frank, this week's lines don't offer a whole lot to look at.
USF @ Rutgers (+2)
In a season that makes no sense, I've gotta go with the computers and they love the Bulls. Last time I saw USF play I came away mighty impressed with their defense. I suspect that love will be renewed tonight.
Arkansas @ Ole Miss (+5)
One of these days, it's gonna happen for you Ole Miss and I want you to remember who has been there for you week in and week out. I'm tired of moral victories and straight covers at home--ok, not really--and you should be too.
Florida @ Kentucky (+6.5)
I'll ride this Wildcat train for another week. I fully understand that the Gators are probably the class here but a touchdown seems like a lot to cover.
Miami @ Florida St. (-5.5)
Remember when the college football universe used to stop for this game? One team, Miami, can't throw it. The other can't run it. I'll take the former every time.
Kansas @ Colorado (+3.5)
Win this one KU and I'll fully be on board. Folsom Prison is a vile, awful place and I suspect you haven't been favored on the road in the Big 12 in any game not involving Baylor. Enjoy it, but don't forget to show up.
Ohio State @ Michigan St. (+17)
Number one in the country is not the place you want to be this year. Seventeen points is a lot against almost anyone on the road, but this is a State squad that showed some spunk early on. Rece Davis' insistence on referring to Michigan State as Sparty is maddening and to voice my displeasure with the practice, I'm predicting an outright win for the Spartans.
Oregon @ Washington (+11)
The white helmets are here! Maybe. It hasn't been confirmed whether or not these "ghost-flamed" beauties will make their debut, but I'll be tuning in to see. I love Oregon, but I do not love laying 11 on the road, especially in a tough stadium.
Miss. St. @ West Virginia (-24.5)
Umm, hasn't this Bulldog squad looked game in every SEC game they've played thus far minus their season opener at LSU? I realize it's in West F'n Virginia but I'm rolling with Croom.
Texas Technical @ Missouri (-3.5)
As good as Crabtree has been, that drop against Okie State could end up haunting the Red Raiders if their current run in the Big 12 keeps up. Chase Daniel, the eyes of Blain Gabbert are upon you. Please show him that you have no intention of, or reason to, leave Mizzou.
Texas Ag. & Mech. @ Nebraska (-2)
I have no idea how this past week will affect the Cornhuskers. Could fire them up, could beat them down. I don't know, but Tom's home and I'll believe again.
Last Week: 7-3
Year to Date: 39-30-1
10.11.2007
This requires something superhuman - HPSWBT Week 7
Starting to feel the effects of parity. Can't quite pick right. Must get back to 62%...Florida State @ Wake Forest (+6)
I'm not quite ready to buy the Seminoles just yet, but they should be plenty fiery after Wake went to their place last year and shut 'em out.
Alabama @ Ole Miss (+6.5)
I can't stop picking Ole Miss. I want an Ole Miss hat. I want them to be good more than I want Kentucky to be good. I need a unique rooting interest in the SEC and cute and cuddly Coach O is it. One of these days the Rebels are going to break through and what better time than now against their grumbling eastern neighbors?
New Mexico @ Wyoming (-3.5)
I'm sorry Wyoming for picking against you last week. It ended in a push so it's not as bad as it could've been, but here I am asking for a second chance to jump on the bandwagon that is your 8th-ranked defense. Go Big Brown!
South Carolina @ North Carolina (+7)
Before the season, HBC specifically instructed Gamecock fans to use the cheer "WE ARE...Carolina!" This angered Tar Hell fans who claim the right to drop the direction from their name as exclusively theirs. Why not just invent a new rivalry trophy awarding the word "Carolina" to the winner? We may have seen a Tar Heel pulse last week, but USC is ranked in the top 10 and very much in the national title mix. I like Spurrier in those situations.
TCU @ Stanford (+5.5)
What have you done for me lately, Stanford? Did you like beating USC? Well, how do you like being a home pooch to a rapidly regressing team from the Mountain West? I'm hoping your answer is "not very much."
Texas Ag. & Mech. @ Texas Technical (-8.5)
The Red Raiders have won 4 of the last 5 in this series and the last six straight in Lubbock. I know this because earlier this fall I claimed that Tech rides behind A&M and Texas in the Texas football derby, which is true in terms of national cache. However, a number of Raiders took their finger guns down long enough to e-mail in and call me an idiot. I think we were both right.
LSU @ Kentucky (+9.5)
The spotlight is on LSU now and they don't have to share it with anyone. How do they respond to that? The top has been a bad place to be this season and that otherworldly Tiger defense probably won't face a smarter QB all year. This one should be delightful to watch.
Missouri @ Oklahoma (-10.5)
Putting Nebraska on life-support is one thing, but beating Oklahoma is another and Gary Pinkel is going to have to earn it this week by out-coaching Bob Stoops. Or maybe he won't. The Sooners haven't looked like the juggernaut of the first four weeks of the season lately, but the Tigers look to be getting better. I'll take OU to win at home, but give me Mizzou to cover.
Oregon State @ Cal (-14)
This is a pretty fascinating week as Cal, like LSU, now has to deal with the onus of being a national title favorite. Can they be perfect? They'll be good enough to win here but the toothy Beaver defense should keep them in it.
Oklahoma State @ Nebraska (-4)
This game opened at four and, shockingly, it's stayed at four. Hell, I'm just hoping Nebraska can win straight-up, forget laying points. In theory Nebraska should be able to move the ball on just about any defense in the Big 12. Problem is they can't a) get on the field, or b) stay on the field long enough thanks to mental breakdowns on both sides of the ball. Oklahoma State can't seem to stop anyone but Nebraska has yet to ask any team to stop them.
I've got a bad feeling about the fact that the '97 Huskers will be back in Lincoln this weekend (Exhibit A, Exhibit B) but I'll save that breakdown for tomorrow.
Last Week: 4-5-1
Year to Date: 32-27-1
10.03.2007
On the Road Again - HPSWBT Week 6
Like many others I suspect, the HPSWBT took an absolute beating over the weekend that was, posting a 3-7 record. I'll blame this solely on Mississippi. Not the school but the state. For three quarters each it looked like my Magnolia State parlay was going to pay off with two wins. Didn't happen. If not for Auburn, the week would've been a total loss.
Alas, another week begins anew and we've got work to do...
Kentucky @ South Carolina (-3.5)
The Wildcats have never beaten the Head Ball Coach but Kentucky's major questions seem to be on the defensive side of the ball but that's a good place to have them when facing the Gamecocks. Rich Brooks dream season will lose a little of its luster over the next three weeks but I don't think it will be here.
Arizona St. @ Washington St. (-9)
I'm officially the last person on the Sun Devil bandwagon. Over the past two weeks I've chastised friends of mine for taking ASU but they keep rolling along and Wazzu is some kind of awful. The Cougars have given up 95 points in two Pac-10 games.
NC State @ Florida St. (-18)
The Pack has one win this year. Against Wofford. But I'm not certain that Florida State can score 18 points, much less win by that much. Despite their struggles NC State has been able to put up at least two scores in each game this season. The Seminoles have topped 28 only once.
Kansas @ Kansas St. (-3)
"Bounce" is one of the most difficult things to predict in horse racing so trying to apply it to football, especially in 2007, is doubly absurd but I'll be real interested to see how the Wildcats come off their shocking win over Texas. Kansas seems to have the most at stake here with a nation full of disbelievers.
Florida @ LSU (-9)
Somewhat lost in last week's shock and awe is the fact that LSU slept through the first half of their game against Tulane. In my mind, USC was much more impressive against Washington than the Tigers were against the Green Wave. This is the SEC after all, the conference where everybody beats everybody. I'm not ready to call an outright win for Florida but it wouldn't surprise me.
Georgia @ Tennessee (-2)
The Bulldogs are the Jack Kerouac of college football. They do their best work on the road.
Virginia @ Middle Tennessee St. (+10)
After an absolute debacle in Laramie to open the season, Wahoo Wah could be one of the top teams in the admittedly abysmal ACC. Should probably mention here that the Blue Raiders lost to Florida Atlantic.
TCU @ Wyoming (-3)
Love the Cowboys defense but they can't really be the class of the Mountain West can they? Subquestion: I'm not really going to take 10 road teams this week, am I....
Oklahoma v. Texas ( +11)
...no, I'm not because there is no road team at the State Fair. The difference here, besides the four games prior to last week's shocking results, is that Oklahoma gave their game away. Texas got straight punched in the mouth. Sooners are still the class of the Big 12.
Nebraska @ Missouri (-7)
I'm going to have a lot to say about this game tomorrow but for now it comes down to three keys for the Cornhuskers: 1) Can the defense find some answers? If they can't now, with the Tigers running their mouths, they won't this year. 2) Can Nebraska run the ball? I don't feel like Lucky has gotten his due when you consider that for two games, USC and Ball St., Nebraska had to abandon the run entirely. 3) Can Sam Keller stop turning the ball over? The Surgeon has been the rock for Nebraska so far this year, but he's only one INT short of tying Zac Taylor's total from all of last year.
Last week: 3-7
Year to Date: 28-22
Alas, another week begins anew and we've got work to do...
Kentucky @ South Carolina (-3.5)
The Wildcats have never beaten the Head Ball Coach but Kentucky's major questions seem to be on the defensive side of the ball but that's a good place to have them when facing the Gamecocks. Rich Brooks dream season will lose a little of its luster over the next three weeks but I don't think it will be here.
Arizona St. @ Washington St. (-9)
I'm officially the last person on the Sun Devil bandwagon. Over the past two weeks I've chastised friends of mine for taking ASU but they keep rolling along and Wazzu is some kind of awful. The Cougars have given up 95 points in two Pac-10 games.
NC State @ Florida St. (-18)
The Pack has one win this year. Against Wofford. But I'm not certain that Florida State can score 18 points, much less win by that much. Despite their struggles NC State has been able to put up at least two scores in each game this season. The Seminoles have topped 28 only once.
Kansas @ Kansas St. (-3)
"Bounce" is one of the most difficult things to predict in horse racing so trying to apply it to football, especially in 2007, is doubly absurd but I'll be real interested to see how the Wildcats come off their shocking win over Texas. Kansas seems to have the most at stake here with a nation full of disbelievers.
Florida @ LSU (-9)
Somewhat lost in last week's shock and awe is the fact that LSU slept through the first half of their game against Tulane. In my mind, USC was much more impressive against Washington than the Tigers were against the Green Wave. This is the SEC after all, the conference where everybody beats everybody. I'm not ready to call an outright win for Florida but it wouldn't surprise me.
Georgia @ Tennessee (-2)
The Bulldogs are the Jack Kerouac of college football. They do their best work on the road.
Virginia @ Middle Tennessee St. (+10)
After an absolute debacle in Laramie to open the season, Wahoo Wah could be one of the top teams in the admittedly abysmal ACC. Should probably mention here that the Blue Raiders lost to Florida Atlantic.
TCU @ Wyoming (-3)
Love the Cowboys defense but they can't really be the class of the Mountain West can they? Subquestion: I'm not really going to take 10 road teams this week, am I....
Oklahoma v. Texas ( +11)
...no, I'm not because there is no road team at the State Fair. The difference here, besides the four games prior to last week's shocking results, is that Oklahoma gave their game away. Texas got straight punched in the mouth. Sooners are still the class of the Big 12.
Nebraska @ Missouri (-7)
I'm going to have a lot to say about this game tomorrow but for now it comes down to three keys for the Cornhuskers: 1) Can the defense find some answers? If they can't now, with the Tigers running their mouths, they won't this year. 2) Can Nebraska run the ball? I don't feel like Lucky has gotten his due when you consider that for two games, USC and Ball St., Nebraska had to abandon the run entirely. 3) Can Sam Keller stop turning the ball over? The Surgeon has been the rock for Nebraska so far this year, but he's only one INT short of tying Zac Taylor's total from all of last year.
Last week: 3-7
Year to Date: 28-22
9.27.2007
Clothes Make the Man - HPSWBT Week 5
Confession: I'm a uniform geek. UniWatch is gospel and I'll frequently be more excited for a random game between Miami and Florida State to see what color pants will be worn than to see the actual games. (In recent years, this has been about the only reason to watch that game actually.)
It's been a busy week on that front. What you see above is Iowa State's new logo and helmet for 2008. I like the helmet quite a bit and the logo, with it's prominent display of "State," is endearingly traditional but I'll be interested to see how it works on basketball jerseys and the such. It looks great on a helmet but it could be a bit wordy for a pair of shorts.
Here (away, away alt) is what the new uniforms will look like if they're simply painted on top of their old jerseys. (C'mon ISU. You telling me that Nike couldn't whip up three prototypes for the big unveiling?) The new togs are a definite improvement but very USCesque.
--With the spread for LSU-Tulane sitting around the 40-point mark, you many not think there's much reason to wake up Saturday morning and tune in to ESPN2. Not so fast. Both teams will be wearing Katrina specials for the game, featuring this vaguely cool pelican as phoenix logo. No shots yet of the Tulane jersey, but LSU's ensemble is pretty easy on the eyes.
--And finally, New Mexico State is "tough enough to wear pink." Really looking forward to seeing this.
What does all this have to do with my Week 5 picks? Nothing, but if I get in a pinch this week I won't be afraid to go to the color method. This will actually be the first week of the season where I'll be home for the entire day doing nothing but watching football. Onward...
West Virginia @ USF (+7)
I love South Florida. Really I do, but minus a first half hiccup against Marshall the Mountaineers have rolled through the first four and they have a good bit of revenge on their mind following a home loss to the Bulls in 06. Could be the best game of the weekend.
Clemson @ Georgia Tech (+3)
Given the fact that UVA is 3-0 in the conference, it might be wise to avoid the ACC all together but there's nothing like kicking a tam while they're down. Simply put, Gerogia Tech has been a wreck the past two weeks and their only real win came against Notre Dame. This one will be close but there's too much Tiger in the backfield for the Jackets.
Ohio State @ Minnesota (+23.5)
Until further notice, Ohio State is the best team in the Big 10. Again. Until Minnesota beats a BCS conference team, they're one of the worst in the country. Simple, see.
Kansas State @ Texas (-14.5)
Let the Big 12 South's annual dominance of the North begin! Texas needs an impressive win with the Red River Shootout (didn't get that memo) up next. They'll get it at home.
Auburn @ Florida (-18.5)
Ohmygawd! Tim Tebow! The guy's great but even Leonard Nimoy can't inspire the sort of sweaty, fan-boy worship we've seen thus far in 2007. Why Auburn here? I don't know because they basically have to beat two QBs in this game: Florida's and their own. Still, I expect something fluky to happen--blocked punt, big INT--to keep Auburn closer than they have any right to be.
Cal @ Oregon (-5.5)
This one should be fun and, if both coaches play it right, the most garishly colorful game in history. (I'm hoping for a gold versus green match-up with those motorcycle helmets Oregon wore for their bowl game last year.) There's little to choose between these teams so I'll just bet on Autzen Stadium.
Miss. St. @ South Carolina (-14)
Never thought I would pick Sylvester Croom over the HBC, but with a new quarterback guiding an already anemic offense the Bulldogs could be in the hunt for their second SEC win of the season. Jasper Brinkley is out for the season and that's bad for the Gamecocks and bad for all of us, really. College football could use more Jaspers.
Michigan State @ Wisconsin (+7)
It doesn't feel like it, but Wisconsin has the nation's longest winning streak at 13 games. This is a classic Big 10 slugfest which means I will not be watching it, but I'd take the Spartans straight-up if I had to. MSU leads the country in sacks and, while passing attempts should be few, that's more than Wisconsin can say.
Ole Miss @ Georgia (-15)
Was last week an aberration or a sign of life for Coach O? I'm going, hoping really, with the latter. The Dawgs could be a better road team than home team and this is the SEC in year with two clear-cut favorite and a mass of speed an athleticism underneath. Anything can happen.
Iowa State @ Nebraska (-21)
I'm still shocked by this line. It's essentially the same spread as Ball State last week and you have to figure that, after allowing 610 yards of offense, the number started a good measure lower than it would have had Nebraska won in even ho-hum fashion. Is Iowa State that bad? Is Nebraska? The Cyclones have some talent at the skill positions and at this point I have no idea what to expect out of the Cornhuskers. In terms of the conference race and waning confidence, this is a must win for Bill Callahan. He will, but it won't be by three touchdowns.
Last Week: 7-3
YTD: 25-15
It's been a busy week on that front. What you see above is Iowa State's new logo and helmet for 2008. I like the helmet quite a bit and the logo, with it's prominent display of "State," is endearingly traditional but I'll be interested to see how it works on basketball jerseys and the such. It looks great on a helmet but it could be a bit wordy for a pair of shorts.Here (away, away alt) is what the new uniforms will look like if they're simply painted on top of their old jerseys. (C'mon ISU. You telling me that Nike couldn't whip up three prototypes for the big unveiling?) The new togs are a definite improvement but very USCesque.
--With the spread for LSU-Tulane sitting around the 40-point mark, you many not think there's much reason to wake up Saturday morning and tune in to ESPN2. Not so fast. Both teams will be wearing Katrina specials for the game, featuring this vaguely cool pelican as phoenix logo. No shots yet of the Tulane jersey, but LSU's ensemble is pretty easy on the eyes.
--And finally, New Mexico State is "tough enough to wear pink." Really looking forward to seeing this.
What does all this have to do with my Week 5 picks? Nothing, but if I get in a pinch this week I won't be afraid to go to the color method. This will actually be the first week of the season where I'll be home for the entire day doing nothing but watching football. Onward...
West Virginia @ USF (+7)
I love South Florida. Really I do, but minus a first half hiccup against Marshall the Mountaineers have rolled through the first four and they have a good bit of revenge on their mind following a home loss to the Bulls in 06. Could be the best game of the weekend.
Clemson @ Georgia Tech (+3)
Given the fact that UVA is 3-0 in the conference, it might be wise to avoid the ACC all together but there's nothing like kicking a tam while they're down. Simply put, Gerogia Tech has been a wreck the past two weeks and their only real win came against Notre Dame. This one will be close but there's too much Tiger in the backfield for the Jackets.
Ohio State @ Minnesota (+23.5)
Until further notice, Ohio State is the best team in the Big 10. Again. Until Minnesota beats a BCS conference team, they're one of the worst in the country. Simple, see.
Kansas State @ Texas (-14.5)
Let the Big 12 South's annual dominance of the North begin! Texas needs an impressive win with the Red River Shootout (didn't get that memo) up next. They'll get it at home.
Auburn @ Florida (-18.5)
Ohmygawd! Tim Tebow! The guy's great but even Leonard Nimoy can't inspire the sort of sweaty, fan-boy worship we've seen thus far in 2007. Why Auburn here? I don't know because they basically have to beat two QBs in this game: Florida's and their own. Still, I expect something fluky to happen--blocked punt, big INT--to keep Auburn closer than they have any right to be.
Cal @ Oregon (-5.5)
This one should be fun and, if both coaches play it right, the most garishly colorful game in history. (I'm hoping for a gold versus green match-up with those motorcycle helmets Oregon wore for their bowl game last year.) There's little to choose between these teams so I'll just bet on Autzen Stadium.
Miss. St. @ South Carolina (-14)
Never thought I would pick Sylvester Croom over the HBC, but with a new quarterback guiding an already anemic offense the Bulldogs could be in the hunt for their second SEC win of the season. Jasper Brinkley is out for the season and that's bad for the Gamecocks and bad for all of us, really. College football could use more Jaspers.
Michigan State @ Wisconsin (+7)
It doesn't feel like it, but Wisconsin has the nation's longest winning streak at 13 games. This is a classic Big 10 slugfest which means I will not be watching it, but I'd take the Spartans straight-up if I had to. MSU leads the country in sacks and, while passing attempts should be few, that's more than Wisconsin can say.
Ole Miss @ Georgia (-15)
Was last week an aberration or a sign of life for Coach O? I'm going, hoping really, with the latter. The Dawgs could be a better road team than home team and this is the SEC in year with two clear-cut favorite and a mass of speed an athleticism underneath. Anything can happen.
Iowa State @ Nebraska (-21)
I'm still shocked by this line. It's essentially the same spread as Ball State last week and you have to figure that, after allowing 610 yards of offense, the number started a good measure lower than it would have had Nebraska won in even ho-hum fashion. Is Iowa State that bad? Is Nebraska? The Cyclones have some talent at the skill positions and at this point I have no idea what to expect out of the Cornhuskers. In terms of the conference race and waning confidence, this is a must win for Bill Callahan. He will, but it won't be by three touchdowns.
Last Week: 7-3
YTD: 25-15
9.19.2007
Home field advantage - HPSWBT Week 4
Look at that, we're already at the quarter-pole in the 2007 BCS Stakes. In brief: LSU, USC, Florida...good; Syracuse, Auburn, Notre Dame...bad. Oklahoma? Looked good but I need to see a bit more.
After 10 days on the road, canvassing five states and seeing an ugly Nebrask win and an ugly Nebraska loss, I'm finally back on my home turf. And, while I didn't struggle as badly with my picks while on the road in past years, I wasn't writing home about my 10-10 record either. You tread water for too long and the gators will eventually get ya.
Alas, every Thursday the agony and ecstasy begins anew. It's a pretty pathetic slate of games to round out the non-conference portion of the schedule and all the good action is in the SEC. Of course, many people will tell you this is always the case.
Texas Ag. & Mech @ Miami (-2.5)
Not often you get a non-conference battle as good as this on a Thursday night. After looking ugly against Montana State and surviving Fresno State, the Aggies finally found a team to pound on in UL-M, but this Miami game marks the beginning of a brutal schedule from here on out. Ag. & Mech. needs a win here in what looks a lot like a toss-up. Do you want Franchione under those circumstances? On the road? I don't. Miami's defense will do enough to give their offense time to get cranking.
Oklahoma @ Tulsa (+23)
It's a great week for Big 12 weeknight games. Props to Oklahoma for going on the road against an in-state school. The Sooners earth-movers are too dominant for Tulsa to give them real fits, but the Golden Hurricanes can put some points of their own and, with a jacked Friday night lights crowd, I think they sneak in under the number.
Georgia @ Alabama (-3.5)
I've ridden the Saban express for the past two weeks but this is my stop. The win against Arkansas was nice but you can't overlook the fact that the Tide lost a three touchdown lead twice. The Dawgs have struggled in Tuscaloosa of late, but Richt won his only trip and I've got a feeling that the notion of starting 0-2 in the SEC will be enough to motivate UGA.
Georgia Tech @ Virginia (+3.5)
No shame for the Ramblin' Wreck in a loss to Boston College last week. The Eagles just might be the class of the ACC. Meanwhile, Virginia has swept Tobacco Road over the past two weeks, barely, but the last time I checked that didn't really earn you anything on the gridiron.
South Carolina @ LSU (-16.5)
I have four very strong thoughts on this game: 1) I fully expect LSU to win, 2) If I had to choose one coach to go in and win a conference game in Baton Rouge it would be Steve Spurrier, 3) South Carolina is not the 12th best team in the land, and 4) that said, 16.5 seems like a helluva lot of points a good Gamecock defense. Head Ball Coach loves to win games he shouldn't by uglying things up and that should be the case here. I doubt Blake Mitchell, who needs a permission slip just to audible, will be able to handle Bo Pelini's blitzes but USC's defense is nothing to scoff at either. It won't be the prettiest game of the weekend but it should be the most fun.
Kentucky @ Arkansas (-6)
I loved what Kentucky did last week and if they win here I'll be positively ecstatic, but I have a feeling that Darren McFadden has other ideas. The boss hawg had a huge game against 'Bama only to miss Arkansas' crucial offensive series with tweetie birds circling his head. Darren McFadden hates that crap. Expect him to take it out on the Wildcats.
Oregon @ Stanford (+16.5)
The Ducks have finally looked as flashy as their uniforms thus far in 2007. I rolled with the spunky Jim Harbaugh in week one against UCLA and the Cardinal got creamed. Then UCLA got creamed. Not Stanford gets creamed again.
Northwestern @ Ohio State (-22.5)
Northwestern should have beat Duke last week in the big conference brainiac bowl outgaining the Blue Devils 509 to 306, but they didn't, ensuring their school will live on in terms of major conference futility. Out west, Ohio State took a couple shots from Washington but won on the road. Don't look now, but the Buckeyes could be your Big 10 favorite, because...
Penn State @ Michigan (-3)
...I'm not sure the Lions have enough roar. The Big 10 needs Penn State to win here. Wisconsin is an underwhelming 3-0, nobody outside of Ohio wants to see the Buckeyes in the mix again and if Michigan can win the conference, well, start printing your Appy State - Big 10 Champions shirts. That leaves Penn State. The fate of the conference is in your hands. If the Nittanies can win here they're the legitimate front-runner. I don't think they can. Michigan's been exposed up the middle but now they're playing somebody more their speed and flavor (i.e. vanilla). If the Wolverines open 0-3 at the Big House I suggest it be repossessed.
Ball State @ Nebraska (-22.5)
This is not a motivational pick. I'm not picking against Nebraska for the first time this season to light a metaphorical fire under any metaphorical asses. Sadly, I'm not sure the Cornhuskers read this blog so I'd just be throwing a pick away if that was my motivation. It's not. I'm fairly certain Nebraska will win here. That's the Callahan way. Get embarrassed against the good teams and roll it up on teams you're physically better than by running the football. Ball State, to quote my favorite piece of scouting ever to come out of Indiana, is a bunch of mites, but mites are notoriously annoying and hard to contain. The Cardinals can score enough to keep this closer than three touchdowns and, if they get much closer than that, seats could get real hot in Lincoln. BSU is dangerous, but Nebraska has a lot to prove after last week.
Last Week: 5-5
Year to Date: 18-12
After 10 days on the road, canvassing five states and seeing an ugly Nebrask win and an ugly Nebraska loss, I'm finally back on my home turf. And, while I didn't struggle as badly with my picks while on the road in past years, I wasn't writing home about my 10-10 record either. You tread water for too long and the gators will eventually get ya.
Alas, every Thursday the agony and ecstasy begins anew. It's a pretty pathetic slate of games to round out the non-conference portion of the schedule and all the good action is in the SEC. Of course, many people will tell you this is always the case.
Texas Ag. & Mech @ Miami (-2.5)
Not often you get a non-conference battle as good as this on a Thursday night. After looking ugly against Montana State and surviving Fresno State, the Aggies finally found a team to pound on in UL-M, but this Miami game marks the beginning of a brutal schedule from here on out. Ag. & Mech. needs a win here in what looks a lot like a toss-up. Do you want Franchione under those circumstances? On the road? I don't. Miami's defense will do enough to give their offense time to get cranking.
Oklahoma @ Tulsa (+23)
It's a great week for Big 12 weeknight games. Props to Oklahoma for going on the road against an in-state school. The Sooners earth-movers are too dominant for Tulsa to give them real fits, but the Golden Hurricanes can put some points of their own and, with a jacked Friday night lights crowd, I think they sneak in under the number.
Georgia @ Alabama (-3.5)
I've ridden the Saban express for the past two weeks but this is my stop. The win against Arkansas was nice but you can't overlook the fact that the Tide lost a three touchdown lead twice. The Dawgs have struggled in Tuscaloosa of late, but Richt won his only trip and I've got a feeling that the notion of starting 0-2 in the SEC will be enough to motivate UGA.
Georgia Tech @ Virginia (+3.5)
No shame for the Ramblin' Wreck in a loss to Boston College last week. The Eagles just might be the class of the ACC. Meanwhile, Virginia has swept Tobacco Road over the past two weeks, barely, but the last time I checked that didn't really earn you anything on the gridiron.
South Carolina @ LSU (-16.5)
I have four very strong thoughts on this game: 1) I fully expect LSU to win, 2) If I had to choose one coach to go in and win a conference game in Baton Rouge it would be Steve Spurrier, 3) South Carolina is not the 12th best team in the land, and 4) that said, 16.5 seems like a helluva lot of points a good Gamecock defense. Head Ball Coach loves to win games he shouldn't by uglying things up and that should be the case here. I doubt Blake Mitchell, who needs a permission slip just to audible, will be able to handle Bo Pelini's blitzes but USC's defense is nothing to scoff at either. It won't be the prettiest game of the weekend but it should be the most fun.
Kentucky @ Arkansas (-6)
I loved what Kentucky did last week and if they win here I'll be positively ecstatic, but I have a feeling that Darren McFadden has other ideas. The boss hawg had a huge game against 'Bama only to miss Arkansas' crucial offensive series with tweetie birds circling his head. Darren McFadden hates that crap. Expect him to take it out on the Wildcats.
Oregon @ Stanford (+16.5)
The Ducks have finally looked as flashy as their uniforms thus far in 2007. I rolled with the spunky Jim Harbaugh in week one against UCLA and the Cardinal got creamed. Then UCLA got creamed. Not Stanford gets creamed again.
Northwestern @ Ohio State (-22.5)
Northwestern should have beat Duke last week in the big conference brainiac bowl outgaining the Blue Devils 509 to 306, but they didn't, ensuring their school will live on in terms of major conference futility. Out west, Ohio State took a couple shots from Washington but won on the road. Don't look now, but the Buckeyes could be your Big 10 favorite, because...
Penn State @ Michigan (-3)
...I'm not sure the Lions have enough roar. The Big 10 needs Penn State to win here. Wisconsin is an underwhelming 3-0, nobody outside of Ohio wants to see the Buckeyes in the mix again and if Michigan can win the conference, well, start printing your Appy State - Big 10 Champions shirts. That leaves Penn State. The fate of the conference is in your hands. If the Nittanies can win here they're the legitimate front-runner. I don't think they can. Michigan's been exposed up the middle but now they're playing somebody more their speed and flavor (i.e. vanilla). If the Wolverines open 0-3 at the Big House I suggest it be repossessed.
Ball State @ Nebraska (-22.5)
This is not a motivational pick. I'm not picking against Nebraska for the first time this season to light a metaphorical fire under any metaphorical asses. Sadly, I'm not sure the Cornhuskers read this blog so I'd just be throwing a pick away if that was my motivation. It's not. I'm fairly certain Nebraska will win here. That's the Callahan way. Get embarrassed against the good teams and roll it up on teams you're physically better than by running the football. Ball State, to quote my favorite piece of scouting ever to come out of Indiana, is a bunch of mites, but mites are notoriously annoying and hard to contain. The Cardinals can score enough to keep this closer than three touchdowns and, if they get much closer than that, seats could get real hot in Lincoln. BSU is dangerous, but Nebraska has a lot to prove after last week.
Last Week: 5-5
Year to Date: 18-12
9.12.2007
Quick Picks - HPSWBT Week 3
It always hits the fan when I'm away for a football Saturday. After starting 8-2 in Week 1, HPSWBT kissed its sister in Week 2 at 5-5. Using spotty airport Internet service, I will now attempt to make 10 picks before my computer craps out...
TCU @ USAFA (+8) - Hell hath no fury like a Horned Frog scorned.
West Virginia @ Maryland (+16.5) - A bonus IDGOOSBITC pick! Here's hoping Freidgen remembers the pasting WV put on the Terps last year on Thursday.
Arkansas @ Alabama (-3) - Saban's first big test and I'll give him the benefit of the doubt at home. Be prepared to hear from a lot of 'Bama fans if they win here.
Boston College @ Georgia Tech (-7) - It's unfortunate that the two best teams in the ACC have to meet in Week 3. I like the Jackets quite a bit but something seems to be brewing with this Eagles team.
Louisville @ Kentucky (+6.5) - There might not be a more fun game to watch this Saturday. If the Wildcats are serious about contending this year they need to beat a Cardinals team that looked more than vulnerable last week.
USM @ ECU (+1) - Pirates come crashing back to earth after their first win over UNC in 30 years.
FSU @ Colorado (+4) - Are these programs headed in different directions? I don't see any reason to take the 'Noles here especially on the road.
Toledo @ Kansas (-21.5) - The Jayhawk juggernaut keeps on rolling. Toledo gave up 52 points to Central Michigan last week. The Chippewas gave up 52 points to Kansas the week before that, therefore KU 104 Toledo 0.
Wyoming @ Boise State (-12.5) - Getting back to the wild blue yonder will mark the beginning of another streak for the Broncos.
USC @ Nebraska (+10) - Biased? Absolutely but I have to believe.
Last week: 5-5
Year to Date: 13-7
TCU @ USAFA (+8) - Hell hath no fury like a Horned Frog scorned.
West Virginia @ Maryland (+16.5) - A bonus IDGOOSBITC pick! Here's hoping Freidgen remembers the pasting WV put on the Terps last year on Thursday.
Arkansas @ Alabama (-3) - Saban's first big test and I'll give him the benefit of the doubt at home. Be prepared to hear from a lot of 'Bama fans if they win here.
Boston College @ Georgia Tech (-7) - It's unfortunate that the two best teams in the ACC have to meet in Week 3. I like the Jackets quite a bit but something seems to be brewing with this Eagles team.
Louisville @ Kentucky (+6.5) - There might not be a more fun game to watch this Saturday. If the Wildcats are serious about contending this year they need to beat a Cardinals team that looked more than vulnerable last week.
USM @ ECU (+1) - Pirates come crashing back to earth after their first win over UNC in 30 years.
FSU @ Colorado (+4) - Are these programs headed in different directions? I don't see any reason to take the 'Noles here especially on the road.
Toledo @ Kansas (-21.5) - The Jayhawk juggernaut keeps on rolling. Toledo gave up 52 points to Central Michigan last week. The Chippewas gave up 52 points to Kansas the week before that, therefore KU 104 Toledo 0.
Wyoming @ Boise State (-12.5) - Getting back to the wild blue yonder will mark the beginning of another streak for the Broncos.
USC @ Nebraska (+10) - Biased? Absolutely but I have to believe.
Last week: 5-5
Year to Date: 13-7
9.05.2007
Ahead of the Game - HPSWBT Week 2
The HPSWBT compiled an 8-2 record in Week 1, Nebraska looked dominant in their opener and Michigan is out of the Top 25. All is right with the world.
Due to work conflicts I wasn't able to watch as much football as I would've liked last Saturday, but has that ever stopped me from throwing out a pick or two? Never. The good news is I'm heading for the hills for this weekend's Wake-Nebraska match-up then meandering over the next week to Lincoln for USC-Nebraska. Starting on Friday, it's nothing but college football which, really, is the way it should always be.
And, for the record, the goalposts won't come down after Nebraska beats the Trojans. Not on my watch. I can't even believe we're talking about this. Act like you've been there before. (Fair warning, that last link is an audio link so have your volume adjusted accordingly.)
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Oregon St. @ Cincinnati (+3.5)
The very definition of the IDGOOSBITC pick is to generate a rooting interest for a game in which you have none. Do I really like Oregon State here? Not really, but in a seeming toss-up I'll take a team that can run the ball even on the road. Sure Cincinnati has former Demon Deacon Ben Mauk spreading things out and throwing for 300 yards last week but the Bearcats also gave up 175 yards rushing to FCS SEMO. Should be a tight game, but I think Oregon State can control the ball so that's where I'm going. Look at that, I have a rooting interest come Thursday. Go Beavers!
Alabama @ Vanderbilt (+3.5)
I could be very wrong but I'm making a Saban play here. I'm not willing to believe in Alabama simply after a 52-6 win over Western Carolina, not yet, but they have a lot less history to overcome than Vanderbilt does. The talent deficit at Alabama will be their ultimate undoing down the road in the SEC this year but this weekend is not that week.
Boise State @ Washington (+3)
Can we officially invite Boise State to the Pac-10 now? They're favored on the road against U-Dub. Everybody is high on Jake Locker after 265 total yards last week. Of course, that was against Syracuse, perhaps the worst BCS conference team in the country. Still, I'm willing to take Ty Willingham with a promising yet unproven QB and the points at home.
Virginia Tech @ LSU (-12.5)
This number is going down?! How? Sean Glennon looked awful against ECU last week so how is he going to fare against Bo Pelini's marauders? I'll be everything I have that VT doesn't score an offensive touchdown.
Fresno St. @ Texas Ag. & Mech (-17)
This isn't the Fresno State of three or four years ago, but they still have Pat Hill and the Aggies were still out gained on offense last week by FCS Montana State (i.e. D1-AA...see, I'm trying to adapt to the times). Dennis Franchione had this to say after the game, "We're not Michigan tonight." Does that inspire confidence in anyone? Me neither.
TCU @ Texas (-9)
The worst thing to happen to the Frogs last week was Texas looking unimpressive against Arkansas State. Does anyone really think that the Longhorns 21-13 win last week exposed some major deficiencies? Not yet. Not in week two. TCU is a quality squad with a salty defense that should only get stronger with the probable return of Tommy Blake but I can't believe Mack Brown will let the eyes of Texas wander off his Longhorns for long.
California @ Colorado State (+14)
Forget for a moment the home field advantage. How is Cal, clearly the superior team in the Pac-10, less of a favorite against CSU than Arizona State is over a Colorado team that just beat the Rams? The Golden Bears defense will be good enough again in the foothills. Good enough against USC? That remains to be seen.
Missouri @ Ole Miss (+6)
For one half Ole Miss looked pretty decent. Defensively, Missouri never looked decent. If not for Pig Brown and some fortuitous turnovers courtesy of the Illini the Tigers would've been looking at a long road and a must-win against Nebraska to crack the Top 25. Now they're supposed to win in the SEC? I don't care if it's the Rebels, I don't see any reason to lay the points on the road.
La. Tech @ Hawaii (-28)
I normally hate these huge spread games but I don't really see a better one on the board. Hawaii should be up 21 points by the time Louisiana Tech steps off the plane. Colt Brennan and his Hawaii head will take care of the rest.
Nebraska @ Wake Forest (+8)
This early in the season, my fortunes will ride with my team. Add in the fact that Riley Skinner likely won't be there and Nebraska did nothing to dissuade me with their performance against Nevada and I'll be rooting for more than a win Saturday in Winston-Salem.
Last Week: 8-2
Year to Date: 8-2
___________________________________________________________
Further Reading: There are a number of intriguing lines this week that I can't quite bring myself to take a stand on. I'm still not sure how the Sun Deveils are two touchdown favorites against a Colorado team that everyone says was way better than 2-10 last year...I'm not certain Miami is quite ready to go into Norman and win, but Sam Bradford will find the going considerably tougher against the Hurricanes...Jimmy Clausen may not survive Saturday's game against Penn State, but something is still holding me back from hammering the Nittanies, namely their offense...South Carolina didn't win anyone over with last week's performance against the Ragin' Cajuns, but on the road against Georgia seems like the sort of situation Head Ball Coach lives for...Is South Florida really a touchdown better than K-State right now? According to the wise-guys they are. I'd love to take the Bulls here...we'll find out what Kentucky is made off this week against Kent State; historically aren't Lexington and Ames about equal when it comes to football?
Due to work conflicts I wasn't able to watch as much football as I would've liked last Saturday, but has that ever stopped me from throwing out a pick or two? Never. The good news is I'm heading for the hills for this weekend's Wake-Nebraska match-up then meandering over the next week to Lincoln for USC-Nebraska. Starting on Friday, it's nothing but college football which, really, is the way it should always be.
And, for the record, the goalposts won't come down after Nebraska beats the Trojans. Not on my watch. I can't even believe we're talking about this. Act like you've been there before. (Fair warning, that last link is an audio link so have your volume adjusted accordingly.)
___________________________________________________________
Oregon St. @ Cincinnati (+3.5)
The very definition of the IDGOOSBITC pick is to generate a rooting interest for a game in which you have none. Do I really like Oregon State here? Not really, but in a seeming toss-up I'll take a team that can run the ball even on the road. Sure Cincinnati has former Demon Deacon Ben Mauk spreading things out and throwing for 300 yards last week but the Bearcats also gave up 175 yards rushing to FCS SEMO. Should be a tight game, but I think Oregon State can control the ball so that's where I'm going. Look at that, I have a rooting interest come Thursday. Go Beavers!
Alabama @ Vanderbilt (+3.5)
I could be very wrong but I'm making a Saban play here. I'm not willing to believe in Alabama simply after a 52-6 win over Western Carolina, not yet, but they have a lot less history to overcome than Vanderbilt does. The talent deficit at Alabama will be their ultimate undoing down the road in the SEC this year but this weekend is not that week.
Boise State @ Washington (+3)
Can we officially invite Boise State to the Pac-10 now? They're favored on the road against U-Dub. Everybody is high on Jake Locker after 265 total yards last week. Of course, that was against Syracuse, perhaps the worst BCS conference team in the country. Still, I'm willing to take Ty Willingham with a promising yet unproven QB and the points at home.
Virginia Tech @ LSU (-12.5)
This number is going down?! How? Sean Glennon looked awful against ECU last week so how is he going to fare against Bo Pelini's marauders? I'll be everything I have that VT doesn't score an offensive touchdown.
Fresno St. @ Texas Ag. & Mech (-17)
This isn't the Fresno State of three or four years ago, but they still have Pat Hill and the Aggies were still out gained on offense last week by FCS Montana State (i.e. D1-AA...see, I'm trying to adapt to the times). Dennis Franchione had this to say after the game, "We're not Michigan tonight." Does that inspire confidence in anyone? Me neither.
TCU @ Texas (-9)
The worst thing to happen to the Frogs last week was Texas looking unimpressive against Arkansas State. Does anyone really think that the Longhorns 21-13 win last week exposed some major deficiencies? Not yet. Not in week two. TCU is a quality squad with a salty defense that should only get stronger with the probable return of Tommy Blake but I can't believe Mack Brown will let the eyes of Texas wander off his Longhorns for long.
California @ Colorado State (+14)
Forget for a moment the home field advantage. How is Cal, clearly the superior team in the Pac-10, less of a favorite against CSU than Arizona State is over a Colorado team that just beat the Rams? The Golden Bears defense will be good enough again in the foothills. Good enough against USC? That remains to be seen.
Missouri @ Ole Miss (+6)
For one half Ole Miss looked pretty decent. Defensively, Missouri never looked decent. If not for Pig Brown and some fortuitous turnovers courtesy of the Illini the Tigers would've been looking at a long road and a must-win against Nebraska to crack the Top 25. Now they're supposed to win in the SEC? I don't care if it's the Rebels, I don't see any reason to lay the points on the road.
La. Tech @ Hawaii (-28)
I normally hate these huge spread games but I don't really see a better one on the board. Hawaii should be up 21 points by the time Louisiana Tech steps off the plane. Colt Brennan and his Hawaii head will take care of the rest.
Nebraska @ Wake Forest (+8)
This early in the season, my fortunes will ride with my team. Add in the fact that Riley Skinner likely won't be there and Nebraska did nothing to dissuade me with their performance against Nevada and I'll be rooting for more than a win Saturday in Winston-Salem.
Last Week: 8-2
Year to Date: 8-2
___________________________________________________________
Further Reading: There are a number of intriguing lines this week that I can't quite bring myself to take a stand on. I'm still not sure how the Sun Deveils are two touchdown favorites against a Colorado team that everyone says was way better than 2-10 last year...I'm not certain Miami is quite ready to go into Norman and win, but Sam Bradford will find the going considerably tougher against the Hurricanes...Jimmy Clausen may not survive Saturday's game against Penn State, but something is still holding me back from hammering the Nittanies, namely their offense...South Carolina didn't win anyone over with last week's performance against the Ragin' Cajuns, but on the road against Georgia seems like the sort of situation Head Ball Coach lives for...Is South Florida really a touchdown better than K-State right now? According to the wise-guys they are. I'd love to take the Bulls here...we'll find out what Kentucky is made off this week against Kent State; historically aren't Lexington and Ames about equal when it comes to football?
8.30.2007
Tumbling Dice - HPSWBT Week 1 Picks
It's the day I've waited almost all of 2007 for: the reconvening of the Hi-Plains Sports Wagering Brain Trust (HPSWBT). It's a small group of like-minded individuals, visionaries really, who like matching wits with the best college odds makers in the world. Right now it's just me, the ghost of Steve McQueen in character as the Cincinnati Kid, and that Canadian dude that Philip Seymour Hoffman played in that movie. Phil Steele continues to apply and continues to be rejected.This is the third year of HPSWBT and for those of you unfamiliar with our method you can find a full explanation here or just read the abbreviated version below:
- We're not very fond of working. Research? That's not gambling. We're gamblers and we eternally have hunches.
- That said, no money ever actually changes hands. Entertainment and pride purposes only.
- Each week we pick 10 games that look intriguing from a spread perspective. They may not be the 10 biggest games, but the 10 best games to (theoretically) wager on.
- I always try to avoid the Nebraska game but never do.
Let's get started...
LSU @ Miss. St. (+17.5)
Why wait to take a Thursday night game you really don't like but want a rooting interest? I really want to take the Bulldogs here with the points at home, but I can't quite make myself do it. Maybe if Croom made the Tigers wear purple (psychological advantage!) I could but, unable to confirm that, I think Mississippi State might actually be this bad.
Texas Tech @ SMU (+8)
I'm tired of hearing how awful and unevenly split the Big 12 is right now. The conference isn't worse than the Big East (Colin Cowherd). It isn't the 5th or 6th ranked conference in the BCS (Tim Brando). It is, however, the conference with the most intriguing slate of games on opening weekend as you'll soon see. The Red Raiders haven't lost to SMU since Bush Sr. was in office, winning each of the past 11 games by double-digits which, the ghost of Steve McQueen tells me, is more than eight.
Baylor @ TCU (-21)
The Frogs will win this game just not by that much. You have to figure the Bears can score at least twice which should be enough.
CSU v. Colorado (-2.5)
The Buffs need this game with a roadie against ASU and Florida State at Folsom in weeks 2 and 3. Colorado State has 18 returning starters but Dan Hawkins has questions of progress and nepotism to answer which, I believe, is called motivation.
Mizzou v. Illinois (+4.5)
The most shocking line of the week (sorry Hawaii). I know the Illini should be better this year but they're still young and they're still a team that's won eight games in the last four years. Missouri is the fashionable pick for the Big 12 North and, from what I've heard, could average 25 points per game playing only with their tight ends and Chase Daniel on offense. Four and a half points?
Kansas State @ Auburn (-13.5)
The only thing worse than picking Kansas State is having to root for them but given everyones dim view of the Big 12 I think I have to. Few teams have had a more tumultuous fall camp than KSU but I think Prince can ugly this up enough to keep it close against an Auburn squad that should be less than explosive with the ball.
Oklahoma St. @ Georgia (-6)
This line keeps going down, down, down and for good reason. Georgia returns a mere four starters on defense and they're facing a potent Okie State offense. This is a big game for both programs, OSU is on the come and could open some eyes here while Georgia is hearing echoes of being overrated early on. Should be a good one and should be an outright win for OSU.
Tennessee @ Cal (-6)
Erik Ainge's pinky problem only strengthens this play. Asking a team with 11 new starters to go on the road and beat a top 15 foe seems like a bit much. Keeping it close might be a challenge. Kudos to the Vols for scheduling this home and home, however.
Georgia Tech @ Notre Dame (-2.5)
Let the nightmare begin for Notre Dame! That's more wishful thinking on my part than actual prognosis. Part of me thinks Chuck Weis might pull a win out of his hat here, but the part of me that likes to see ND lose is larger.
Nevada @ Nebraska (-21)
I thought this number would be a little lower but what can you do? Under Callahan Nebraska has won their season opener by an average of 32 points but Nevada is easily the best team they've played to start a season thus far. The game plan will be vanilla but Nebraska should be physical enough to dictate play on both sides of the ball.
Football season is upon us...enjoy!
11.25.2005
Feast on These
With our bellies full of turkey meat, mouths glistening, it is time once again to be thankful for the people at BoDog.com who are giving me 4 points with Florida State at the Swamp.
Florida St. @
Florida -4
It's time for Bowden to get on the winning track again after back-to-back losses. Win this game and he sweeps the state of Florida.
Texas @
Texas A&M +29
Sure ATM has had a crap season, but I think that adds extra incentive here. They started the season in the Top 10, now the only thing they can salvage is to beat Texas. Almost 30 points is a lot to give your rival on the road. Louisville is only favored by 35 over Syracuse!
Oklahoma St. @
Oklahoma -19.5
This is a tough one, I thought hard about going the other way, but the Pokes traditionally play tough in this game. Can they do it with less on the line this year? The Sooners are picking up steam.
North Carolina @
Virginia Tech -24
Tech has been haunting me all year. This is my last chance to beat them. Go Heels!
Nebraska @
Colorado -17
I was staying away from this game until the line stared nudging the three score mark. So I'm gonna roll the dice, and that's what it is with this Nebraska team. Nothing makes me think that they can actually win this game. They haven't played well since the Texas Tech game, they can't run the ball, their defense is tired and showing cracks, and Colorado is playing for the Big 12 North title following a thumping by the Cyclones. Sounds like a good game to take, huh?
But maybe, just maybe, and this is where we get in to wishful thinking, the Huskers will give this game the same amount of intensity the Buffs give it. Nebraska has a chance to take a big step here. If they beat Colorado at Folsom Prison it will restore a little faith in Billy C., which will also give a late season push to recruiting. If the guy could get a top 5 recruiting class after a 5-6 season, you have to think that going to a mid-major bowl, which the Bugeaters certainly would with a win over CU, coupled with a high-visibility victory in a nationally televised game would put the staff in a good position to at least equal last seasons crop.
So here's your chance Bill, win today and I'll be back on board, I will believe again. Wow me.
Florida St. @
Florida -4
It's time for Bowden to get on the winning track again after back-to-back losses. Win this game and he sweeps the state of Florida.
Texas @
Texas A&M +29
Sure ATM has had a crap season, but I think that adds extra incentive here. They started the season in the Top 10, now the only thing they can salvage is to beat Texas. Almost 30 points is a lot to give your rival on the road. Louisville is only favored by 35 over Syracuse!
Oklahoma St. @
Oklahoma -19.5
This is a tough one, I thought hard about going the other way, but the Pokes traditionally play tough in this game. Can they do it with less on the line this year? The Sooners are picking up steam.
North Carolina @
Virginia Tech -24
Tech has been haunting me all year. This is my last chance to beat them. Go Heels!
Nebraska @
Colorado -17
I was staying away from this game until the line stared nudging the three score mark. So I'm gonna roll the dice, and that's what it is with this Nebraska team. Nothing makes me think that they can actually win this game. They haven't played well since the Texas Tech game, they can't run the ball, their defense is tired and showing cracks, and Colorado is playing for the Big 12 North title following a thumping by the Cyclones. Sounds like a good game to take, huh?
But maybe, just maybe, and this is where we get in to wishful thinking, the Huskers will give this game the same amount of intensity the Buffs give it. Nebraska has a chance to take a big step here. If they beat Colorado at Folsom Prison it will restore a little faith in Billy C., which will also give a late season push to recruiting. If the guy could get a top 5 recruiting class after a 5-6 season, you have to think that going to a mid-major bowl, which the Bugeaters certainly would with a win over CU, coupled with a high-visibility victory in a nationally televised game would put the staff in a good position to at least equal last seasons crop.
So here's your chance Bill, win today and I'll be back on board, I will believe again. Wow me.
11.09.2005
Piping Hot Picks
I don't even know when they play the games these days. This afternoon, I liked West Virginia -13 at Cincinnati, little did I know that game was tonight! I swear I had it though, just didn't get the blog up in time.
West Virginia @
Cincinnati +13
Boise State @
Fresno State -7.5
The past few years this has been a Clash of the West-Coast-mid-major-good enough to be scary-but not good enough to take the leap-Titans. Things haven't changed much this year, but I feel one of these teams is a bit overvalued and the other is perhaps undervalued. Dogs.
UConn @
Pitt -13
I don't like this game as much as I did initially, but I'll stick with UConn. Pitt showed last week against Louisville that they have made some strides since their horrific start, but I think the Huskies can keep it close.
Tulane @
Rice -2
I know that the boys from Tulane have had a rough go of it, but underdogs to Rice?! C'mon, even FEMA was easier on the state of Louisiana.
Nevada @
New Mexico St. +10
FSU @
Clemson +2
I'm nervous about this one, especially with FSU coming off a loss, but with Clemson getting points at home plus the "Who's Your Daddy" factor for Tommy Bowden I'll go with the Tigers. (Gulp).
Cent. Michigan @
W. Michigan -3
Going back to 1995, the home team has won every game in this series, except for 2002-3, when Western won two straight. Guess who won last year?
BYU @
Wyoming +5
Stanford @
Oregon St. -4
Utah St. @
Hawaii -16.5
The Rainbows, not the Warriors, are nearly unbeatable at home in the jet lag game. Anytime you ask a team from the mainland to start a game after 11pm, you gotta give the edge to the 'Bows.
Sorry for the lack of comments this week, time is short, and I'm unavailable tomorrow as I'll be seeing the son of Waylon Jennings live and in person.
West Virginia @
Cincinnati +13
Boise State @
Fresno State -7.5
The past few years this has been a Clash of the West-Coast-mid-major-good enough to be scary-but not good enough to take the leap-Titans. Things haven't changed much this year, but I feel one of these teams is a bit overvalued and the other is perhaps undervalued. Dogs.
UConn @
Pitt -13
I don't like this game as much as I did initially, but I'll stick with UConn. Pitt showed last week against Louisville that they have made some strides since their horrific start, but I think the Huskies can keep it close.
Tulane @
Rice -2
I know that the boys from Tulane have had a rough go of it, but underdogs to Rice?! C'mon, even FEMA was easier on the state of Louisiana.
Nevada @
New Mexico St. +10
FSU @
Clemson +2
I'm nervous about this one, especially with FSU coming off a loss, but with Clemson getting points at home plus the "Who's Your Daddy" factor for Tommy Bowden I'll go with the Tigers. (Gulp).
Cent. Michigan @
W. Michigan -3
Going back to 1995, the home team has won every game in this series, except for 2002-3, when Western won two straight. Guess who won last year?
BYU @
Wyoming +5
Stanford @
Oregon St. -4
Utah St. @
Hawaii -16.5
The Rainbows, not the Warriors, are nearly unbeatable at home in the jet lag game. Anytime you ask a team from the mainland to start a game after 11pm, you gotta give the edge to the 'Bows.
Sorry for the lack of comments this week, time is short, and I'm unavailable tomorrow as I'll be seeing the son of Waylon Jennings live and in person.
11.03.2005
It's that time again...
Time for some picks.
I wasn't on the ball enough to get it up by Wednesday, but I am counting last night's West Virginia trouncing of UConn as a win. I picked the Mountaineers two weeks ago when they were supposed to play and I would've taken them again. It may be the first time all season I've started 1-0!
Michigan St. @
Purdue +4.5
In previous weeks I had given credit to teams who were picked high in the preseason, figuring their talent had to show up and play at some point. After a couple of NC State and A&M losses, I've had enough of that strategy.
S. Florida @
Rutgers -3.0
I've also been gored by the Bulls a couple of times this season. Time to fight back. Ole!
South Carolina @
Arkansas -4
Did South Carolina not just win IN KNOXVILLE? Somehow the trip to Arkansas seems a lot less daunting.
Wisconsin @
Pennsylvania State -11.5
Sounds a lot less tough when you use the Nittanies full name doesn't it? The Badgers could win this game outright.
Colo. St. @
Texas Christian University -7
Colorado State is playing their first non-Thursday game in 48 years. I bet half of their team showed up at the field ready to go tonight, only to be told they were actually playing with the big boys on Saturday this week. Expect the confusion to be apparent on the field.
Boston College @
North Carolina +4.5
The Heels QB is questionable for this game, meaning Nebraska's favorite QB of the decade, Joe Dailey, could be throwing 10 interceptions on Saturday...except he had to sit out a year due to NCAA transfer rules. This is a good thing because it enables me to pick the Tarheels with confidence, something that could never happen with Dailey at the helm. Thanks Joe!
California @
Oregon -1.5
If Oregon comes out wearing this I reserve the right to void this pick.
Miami @
VT -6.5
My fourth straight week of thinking Virginia Tech isn't as good as advertised.
Iowa @
Northwestern +2
Awwww...why not?
I wasn't on the ball enough to get it up by Wednesday, but I am counting last night's West Virginia trouncing of UConn as a win. I picked the Mountaineers two weeks ago when they were supposed to play and I would've taken them again. It may be the first time all season I've started 1-0!
Michigan St. @
Purdue +4.5
In previous weeks I had given credit to teams who were picked high in the preseason, figuring their talent had to show up and play at some point. After a couple of NC State and A&M losses, I've had enough of that strategy.
S. Florida @
Rutgers -3.0
I've also been gored by the Bulls a couple of times this season. Time to fight back. Ole!
South Carolina @
Arkansas -4
Did South Carolina not just win IN KNOXVILLE? Somehow the trip to Arkansas seems a lot less daunting.
Wisconsin @
Pennsylvania State -11.5
Sounds a lot less tough when you use the Nittanies full name doesn't it? The Badgers could win this game outright.
Colo. St. @
Texas Christian University -7
Colorado State is playing their first non-Thursday game in 48 years. I bet half of their team showed up at the field ready to go tonight, only to be told they were actually playing with the big boys on Saturday this week. Expect the confusion to be apparent on the field.
Boston College @
North Carolina +4.5
The Heels QB is questionable for this game, meaning Nebraska's favorite QB of the decade, Joe Dailey, could be throwing 10 interceptions on Saturday...except he had to sit out a year due to NCAA transfer rules. This is a good thing because it enables me to pick the Tarheels with confidence, something that could never happen with Dailey at the helm. Thanks Joe!
California @
Oregon -1.5
If Oregon comes out wearing this I reserve the right to void this pick.
Miami @
VT -6.5
My fourth straight week of thinking Virginia Tech isn't as good as advertised.
Iowa @
Northwestern +2
Awwww...why not?
10.31.2005
Where do we go from here?
Kissed our sister last week at 5-5 and HPBT is having a worse season than a Tennessee booster. But this piece isn't about us, it's about your 2005 edition of the Nebraska Cornhuskers. With eight games under their belt, I, like much of the Cornhusker state, am unsure of how to describe this season. A disappointment? A surprise? The first step? The final straw? It is most likely a bit of all of the above.
Coming in to the season prognosticators had the Rattlesnake Boys picked everywhere from last in the North to first, from 5-6 to 8-3. They had a stellar crop of new recruits, but there were still a lot of questions surrounding Billy C. Could Cosgrove revive the Blackshirts? Could Zac Taylor be a major college quarterback? The frustration lies in the fact that two-thirds of the way through the 05 campaign, we still haven't answered any of those questions, and we likely won't until December rolls around.
The Huskers started dismally, surviving against Maine and Pitt, while looking less than stellar against Wake Forest. However, the defense looked much improved in those first few games, scoring early and often while the WCO looked years away.
Then came the Iowa State game and the offense started to click. For the first time in over a year, Husker fans were optimistic. The near miracle against Texas Tech may have been even more valuable because the Bugeaters showed some heart, which will always win you fans back home no matter your record. Nebraska was 4-1 with one close loss to a Top 25 team. The offense was showing signs of life and Zac Taylor, while not spectacular, showed he had some moxy.
Following a workmanlike effort against Baylor, Brad Smith demolished the Huskers. The season may have turned with that game. A win surely would have landed the Huskers in the Top 25, instead the loss took them out of the running for the Big XII North title and the chance to be executed by Texas.
Then there was the Oklahoma game, which I didn't see a second of, and we're basically back to square one. Nebraska gave up a touchdown on their opening drive for the fourth straight game and dug themselves a 24-3 hole before fighting back to fall just short.
Now, I hate moral victories more than I hate Jim Rome, but at this point in the season, it looks like all we Husker fans have. For every plus there seems to be a minus:
+ The controlled passing game seems to be coming around, and while we were all hopeful that it would happen sooner, we shouldn't be surprised it took a season and a half to do it. It's an intricate system, reliant heavily of timing. Throw a new quarterback in halfway through the transformation and we're probably ahead of where we should be. Still, we seem sorely lacking in big play potential, minus a Corey Ross screen. I would like to see them take some shots downfield.
- Since that Iowa St. game where Taylor set an NU record for passing yards, minus the second half against Baylor, the Husker running game has ground to a halt. For the West Coast Offense to be effective, you have to be able to use the stable of talented backs we have. This is partly due to the fact that we've fallen behind early the past four games, necessitating the pass. But mostly it's due to the fact that our offensive line is about as effective as the U.S.-Mexico border. Even if every record Nebraska compiled in the past 30 years falls by the wayside, and most of them have, I thought I could always count on some big cornfed cow-punchers up front who could push a tractor through a quarter-mile of mud. Of course, it never rains in Nebraska anymore, so maybe it is the effect of drought conditions.
+ Zac Taylor has been solid, but not spectacular. The perfect transition quarterback as Beck waits in the wings. But that's it, he's a stop-gap solution. He has probably played well enough to earn the starting job again next year, but then in two years we're back to a new QB, a big stumbling block for a team that is trying return to the top. Nonetheless, Taylor has to be commended on the job he's done. He takes everything in stride, he's helmed some solid rallies, but that's it. He's close, but he's not there.
- The rest of Nebraska's heralded 04 recruiting class has yet to make an impact. Octavien going down hurt, word is, he's the real deal. Glenn looks like a beast and I think Lucky will prove to be worth the hype, but we need some serious game-breaking wide receivers. Also, if Beck ain't redshirting, we need to see him soon, why burn a year of eligibility?
+ It's tough for me to give any credit to Billy C., but during the good three game stretch (IA St, TT, Baylor) he showed what the WCO is capable of achieving. Nebraska was a nightmare to prepare for after the Baylor game, they may throw the ball 60 times, they may run it 50. If the WCO ever gets its wings, that will be the Bugeaters calling card, unpredictability. A well-rounded team that can beat you a number of ways (see: USC). It's a long way removed from the years of yore, where we, and everyone else, knew exactly what we were going to do. The Huskers were going to line-up and punch you in the mouth until you either fought back or fell down, via con dios. But those days are gone and, if we wanted to attract top tier talent, they had to be.
- You have to attribute Nebraska's slow starts, at least partially but probably majorally, to the coaching staff. The comebacks show that Billy C. can make adjustments at halftime, but why can't we look ready to play at the start? We have yet to come out and set a tone, again never a problem in the past, and while our unpredictability will serve us well in the future, I don't get the feeling that Coach C. knows whether he'll throw 60 times or run 50 when the game starts. Simply unacceptable.
So here we sit, three games left, all apparently winnable, all imminently loseable. The Colorado game at Folsom Prison looms as a major uphill climb, but I have to believe that Nebraska gets a win against one of the Kansases. (Most likely K-State at home, who is owed a good ass-whuppin' after the past few years.) That means the Huskers are headed to Shreveport or Birmingham or some other minor southern city for a bowl game, hopefully against Tennessee, a team also looking for one more win to become bowl eligible. If the Vols continue to struggle, finish third or fourth in the SEC, it could happen. Tell me every small bowl in the country wouldn't want the Vols and Huskers, with their huge, blindly-faithful fan bases, coming to their city.
It's been emotionally exhausting to watch this years team. We hoped they would be improved, and they are, but following the loss to the Red Raiders, I think we thought that maybe this team was ready right now.
They're not.
The Huskers are still a few steps away, which when taken in context, is a few steps ahead of last year. One of ESPN's talking heads said, with feeling, that Nebraska will be back. Nobody was saying that last year. Nobody felt that last year. Sure we didn't make the leap that Oklahoma and USC made in their second year under their current coach, but we did take a minor hop, and I'll take that...begrudgingly.
If Nebraska is able to make it to a bowl game this year and win, then follow that up with a recruiting class close to last year's, don't be surprised if the Huskers start next season in the Top 25. And, on a positive note, that's how it starts, ask OU. A traditional power falls on hard times, gets a new coach and some young talent, gains some confidence and people start to take notice. Then you begin to win games you shouldn't based on fear factor.
It's fitting to ask on Halloween, what's more frightening, a traditional power fighting to stay atop the mountain, or a traditional power, carrying pride and tradition on its shoulders, trying to get back there?
Of course, in this 2005 season, for every plus there's a minus, and that minus is that we're left to compare our program to Oklahoma's. I think I just found a razorblade in my Bit'O'Honey.
Coming in to the season prognosticators had the Rattlesnake Boys picked everywhere from last in the North to first, from 5-6 to 8-3. They had a stellar crop of new recruits, but there were still a lot of questions surrounding Billy C. Could Cosgrove revive the Blackshirts? Could Zac Taylor be a major college quarterback? The frustration lies in the fact that two-thirds of the way through the 05 campaign, we still haven't answered any of those questions, and we likely won't until December rolls around.
The Huskers started dismally, surviving against Maine and Pitt, while looking less than stellar against Wake Forest. However, the defense looked much improved in those first few games, scoring early and often while the WCO looked years away.
Then came the Iowa State game and the offense started to click. For the first time in over a year, Husker fans were optimistic. The near miracle against Texas Tech may have been even more valuable because the Bugeaters showed some heart, which will always win you fans back home no matter your record. Nebraska was 4-1 with one close loss to a Top 25 team. The offense was showing signs of life and Zac Taylor, while not spectacular, showed he had some moxy.
Following a workmanlike effort against Baylor, Brad Smith demolished the Huskers. The season may have turned with that game. A win surely would have landed the Huskers in the Top 25, instead the loss took them out of the running for the Big XII North title and the chance to be executed by Texas.
Then there was the Oklahoma game, which I didn't see a second of, and we're basically back to square one. Nebraska gave up a touchdown on their opening drive for the fourth straight game and dug themselves a 24-3 hole before fighting back to fall just short.
Now, I hate moral victories more than I hate Jim Rome, but at this point in the season, it looks like all we Husker fans have. For every plus there seems to be a minus:
+ The controlled passing game seems to be coming around, and while we were all hopeful that it would happen sooner, we shouldn't be surprised it took a season and a half to do it. It's an intricate system, reliant heavily of timing. Throw a new quarterback in halfway through the transformation and we're probably ahead of where we should be. Still, we seem sorely lacking in big play potential, minus a Corey Ross screen. I would like to see them take some shots downfield.
- Since that Iowa St. game where Taylor set an NU record for passing yards, minus the second half against Baylor, the Husker running game has ground to a halt. For the West Coast Offense to be effective, you have to be able to use the stable of talented backs we have. This is partly due to the fact that we've fallen behind early the past four games, necessitating the pass. But mostly it's due to the fact that our offensive line is about as effective as the U.S.-Mexico border. Even if every record Nebraska compiled in the past 30 years falls by the wayside, and most of them have, I thought I could always count on some big cornfed cow-punchers up front who could push a tractor through a quarter-mile of mud. Of course, it never rains in Nebraska anymore, so maybe it is the effect of drought conditions.
+ Zac Taylor has been solid, but not spectacular. The perfect transition quarterback as Beck waits in the wings. But that's it, he's a stop-gap solution. He has probably played well enough to earn the starting job again next year, but then in two years we're back to a new QB, a big stumbling block for a team that is trying return to the top. Nonetheless, Taylor has to be commended on the job he's done. He takes everything in stride, he's helmed some solid rallies, but that's it. He's close, but he's not there.
- The rest of Nebraska's heralded 04 recruiting class has yet to make an impact. Octavien going down hurt, word is, he's the real deal. Glenn looks like a beast and I think Lucky will prove to be worth the hype, but we need some serious game-breaking wide receivers. Also, if Beck ain't redshirting, we need to see him soon, why burn a year of eligibility?
+ It's tough for me to give any credit to Billy C., but during the good three game stretch (IA St, TT, Baylor) he showed what the WCO is capable of achieving. Nebraska was a nightmare to prepare for after the Baylor game, they may throw the ball 60 times, they may run it 50. If the WCO ever gets its wings, that will be the Bugeaters calling card, unpredictability. A well-rounded team that can beat you a number of ways (see: USC). It's a long way removed from the years of yore, where we, and everyone else, knew exactly what we were going to do. The Huskers were going to line-up and punch you in the mouth until you either fought back or fell down, via con dios. But those days are gone and, if we wanted to attract top tier talent, they had to be.
- You have to attribute Nebraska's slow starts, at least partially but probably majorally, to the coaching staff. The comebacks show that Billy C. can make adjustments at halftime, but why can't we look ready to play at the start? We have yet to come out and set a tone, again never a problem in the past, and while our unpredictability will serve us well in the future, I don't get the feeling that Coach C. knows whether he'll throw 60 times or run 50 when the game starts. Simply unacceptable.
So here we sit, three games left, all apparently winnable, all imminently loseable. The Colorado game at Folsom Prison looms as a major uphill climb, but I have to believe that Nebraska gets a win against one of the Kansases. (Most likely K-State at home, who is owed a good ass-whuppin' after the past few years.) That means the Huskers are headed to Shreveport or Birmingham or some other minor southern city for a bowl game, hopefully against Tennessee, a team also looking for one more win to become bowl eligible. If the Vols continue to struggle, finish third or fourth in the SEC, it could happen. Tell me every small bowl in the country wouldn't want the Vols and Huskers, with their huge, blindly-faithful fan bases, coming to their city.
It's been emotionally exhausting to watch this years team. We hoped they would be improved, and they are, but following the loss to the Red Raiders, I think we thought that maybe this team was ready right now.
They're not.
The Huskers are still a few steps away, which when taken in context, is a few steps ahead of last year. One of ESPN's talking heads said, with feeling, that Nebraska will be back. Nobody was saying that last year. Nobody felt that last year. Sure we didn't make the leap that Oklahoma and USC made in their second year under their current coach, but we did take a minor hop, and I'll take that...begrudgingly.
If Nebraska is able to make it to a bowl game this year and win, then follow that up with a recruiting class close to last year's, don't be surprised if the Huskers start next season in the Top 25. And, on a positive note, that's how it starts, ask OU. A traditional power falls on hard times, gets a new coach and some young talent, gains some confidence and people start to take notice. Then you begin to win games you shouldn't based on fear factor.
It's fitting to ask on Halloween, what's more frightening, a traditional power fighting to stay atop the mountain, or a traditional power, carrying pride and tradition on its shoulders, trying to get back there?
Of course, in this 2005 season, for every plus there's a minus, and that minus is that we're left to compare our program to Oklahoma's. I think I just found a razorblade in my Bit'O'Honey.
10.27.2005
Four More
After a stern reprimand at halftime of my weekly picks by the Yun' Ball Coach, I'm back for four more. And they will all be stretches.
Miami (OH) @
Temple +23
So I couldn't cover against Temple with that other Miami team or Clemson at home, so it only seems fitting that the alma mater of Wally Scamscamziak will get it done. This might be the best realization I made all week! I blocked that gut punch like King Hippo.
Not THE Ohio U. @
Buffalo +4
That's what this week has come to...Ohio-Buffalo games. All I know is that Buffalo is perennially one of the worst teams in the EA Sports game and that's good enough for me. C'mon Frankie!!!
UTEP @
Rice +19
Navy was able to roll Rice (sushi anyone?) at home and they're still running an offense from 1945. The Flying Miners should be able to do it even better.
Oklahoma @
Nebraska -1
The Oh-How-the-Mighty-Have-Fallen Bowl. How long has it been since an OU-NU game was between two unranked teams? Here's a better question: Did anyone in the country think that, going in to this season, Nebraska would be favored in this game? I doubt it. This whole game rides on how effective Adrian Peterson can be. If he plays at even 80%, the Sooners pry pull it out, but in a week full of ho-hum games, I'll take the Huskers and either be doubly happy, or doubly sad. (I will chew Doublemint gum regardless.)
Miami (OH) @
Temple +23
So I couldn't cover against Temple with that other Miami team or Clemson at home, so it only seems fitting that the alma mater of Wally Scamscamziak will get it done. This might be the best realization I made all week! I blocked that gut punch like King Hippo.
Not THE Ohio U. @
Buffalo +4
That's what this week has come to...Ohio-Buffalo games. All I know is that Buffalo is perennially one of the worst teams in the EA Sports game and that's good enough for me. C'mon Frankie!!!
UTEP @
Rice +19
Navy was able to roll Rice (sushi anyone?) at home and they're still running an offense from 1945. The Flying Miners should be able to do it even better.
Oklahoma @
Nebraska -1
The Oh-How-the-Mighty-Have-Fallen Bowl. How long has it been since an OU-NU game was between two unranked teams? Here's a better question: Did anyone in the country think that, going in to this season, Nebraska would be favored in this game? I doubt it. This whole game rides on how effective Adrian Peterson can be. If he plays at even 80%, the Sooners pry pull it out, but in a week full of ho-hum games, I'll take the Huskers and either be doubly happy, or doubly sad. (I will chew Doublemint gum regardless.)
Craps
How brutal was last week? So brutal that it's taken me five days to get around to writing about it. I went 2-8 on the week, but even worse was the fact that I did it while in Maine. Therefore, rather than seeing how and why my picks dissolved as easy as ice in the oven, all I had was a string of scores via XM and the Bottom Line later that night. It sort of felt like what I imagine stock brokers felt like watching the tickertape the day the bubble burst and ushering in the Great Depression. (Without the swan dive from 16 floors up on to Wall Street, that is.)
Nevertheless, here I am, battered and fried in hot oil, ready(?) for Week 8. What a horrible string of lines! Going to have to get creative this week.
Cincinnati @
Syracuse -5.5
Syracuse is crap. The Bearcats are crappier, remember they were the first win for Davey and the Boys at Pitt. The Orange's, and how ridiculous does that sound, home field advantage should finally hold up in this one. (Why didn't the higher-ups at SU think about the effect their name change would have on the possessive? It sounds terrible...The Orange's!)
Texas Tech @
Baylor +10.5
So Tech got exposed last week. Not sure if "exposed" is the right word, as we all knew that the Red Raiders were an average team with a great offense. And that's all they'll ever be, good enough for third or fourth overall in the Big XII and a ton of stats. Nevertheless, they are back playing inferior opponents so expect the scoreboard to be ablaze like the Branch Davidian compound in Waco this week.
UCLA @
Stanford +7
Stanford has been improving steadily after the early season set-backs, but UCLA appears to be too good to win EVERY game in the waning moments. Expect them to bounce back from a scare last week and chop some wood in Palo Alto.
Miss. St. @
Kaintuck PK
I have no feelings about this game whatsoever. But, it will be the first true pick'em of the year, so here's the criteria. Kentucky's state quarter is quite lovely, it has a thoroughbred standing behind a fence. Mississippi has a magnolia. I like the Kentuckian's moxy, going with the racing industry, despite the negative connotation associated with gambling and the guts they showed way back when, will finally pay off in this mid-season battle to stay out of the SEC cellar.
South Carolina @
Tennessee -14.5
I told a friend of mine, who is an alumnus of USC, the day they hired Spurrier that the Cocks would beat Tennessee this year. Six months later, I don't believe that, but I have to stick by my guns, so here I am. When you have a record like mine, all you have is your word.
BC @
VT -14
Virginia Tech keeps beating me, but their offense, minus Vick, looked pathetic against Maryland last Thursday. Laying two touchdowns to the number 11 team in the country? Remember, BC is always good for one mid- to late-season upset.
That's six for now, I'll get the other four tonight.
Nevertheless, here I am, battered and fried in hot oil, ready(?) for Week 8. What a horrible string of lines! Going to have to get creative this week.
Cincinnati @
Syracuse -5.5
Syracuse is crap. The Bearcats are crappier, remember they were the first win for Davey and the Boys at Pitt. The Orange's, and how ridiculous does that sound, home field advantage should finally hold up in this one. (Why didn't the higher-ups at SU think about the effect their name change would have on the possessive? It sounds terrible...The Orange's!)
Texas Tech @
Baylor +10.5
So Tech got exposed last week. Not sure if "exposed" is the right word, as we all knew that the Red Raiders were an average team with a great offense. And that's all they'll ever be, good enough for third or fourth overall in the Big XII and a ton of stats. Nevertheless, they are back playing inferior opponents so expect the scoreboard to be ablaze like the Branch Davidian compound in Waco this week.
UCLA @
Stanford +7
Stanford has been improving steadily after the early season set-backs, but UCLA appears to be too good to win EVERY game in the waning moments. Expect them to bounce back from a scare last week and chop some wood in Palo Alto.
Miss. St. @
Kaintuck PK
I have no feelings about this game whatsoever. But, it will be the first true pick'em of the year, so here's the criteria. Kentucky's state quarter is quite lovely, it has a thoroughbred standing behind a fence. Mississippi has a magnolia. I like the Kentuckian's moxy, going with the racing industry, despite the negative connotation associated with gambling and the guts they showed way back when, will finally pay off in this mid-season battle to stay out of the SEC cellar.
South Carolina @
Tennessee -14.5
I told a friend of mine, who is an alumnus of USC, the day they hired Spurrier that the Cocks would beat Tennessee this year. Six months later, I don't believe that, but I have to stick by my guns, so here I am. When you have a record like mine, all you have is your word.
BC @
VT -14
Virginia Tech keeps beating me, but their offense, minus Vick, looked pathetic against Maryland last Thursday. Laying two touchdowns to the number 11 team in the country? Remember, BC is always good for one mid- to late-season upset.
That's six for now, I'll get the other four tonight.
10.20.2005
WIL-MA!!
With Saturday's WV-USF game postponed by the hurricane, I've been forced to scramble out of the pocket looking for a 10th game. Wait? This just happens to be Thursday? How about taking the Terps?
Va. Tech @
Maryland -10.5
Maryland is wearing the black uniforms so I had to take them. I really don't want to start my week at 0-1, but Maryland is a team that in the past has improved week to week and plays its best ball later in the season. They've won three straight and I think they stick closie to the Hokies.
Va. Tech @
Maryland -10.5
Maryland is wearing the black uniforms so I had to take them. I really don't want to start my week at 0-1, but Maryland is a team that in the past has improved week to week and plays its best ball later in the season. They've won three straight and I think they stick closie to the Hokies.
10.19.2005
Yo'leven in Week 7
No coincidence that after the worst week of the year, spurring some questions as to my spot in the Gambling HOF, that we won seven out of eleven games last week. Two lucky numbers, and at 21-24 on the season, I'm on the come to get even on Saturday. Six of the following need to be winners...
Michigan @
Iowa -2.5
It's not easy playing beneath the water tower in Iowa City. I look for the frustratingly uneven season for Michigan to continue when they visit the pink locker room this week. This is not the same Iowa team that lost to the Cyclones.
Virginia @
North Carolina -1
I'll stick with the Hoos after their upset victory over Florida State. UNC got demolished by Lou-a-vull and I don't see them winning here. I would have laid a point here.
NC St. @
Wake Forest +1
With apologies to my sister, a current Demon Deacon, the Pack's superior talent has to rear its head at some point this season, doesn't it? Chuck Amato could be fighting for his job, and the lifetime supply of white Oakleys that go with it. Lose to Wake and this may his last season in ruby red slippers. That's a lot of sartorial incentive.
Tennessee @
Alabama -3.5
After a shocking survival against Ole Miss last week I'm no longer rolling with the Tide. (Thanks for the win against Florida, however.) It's been a frustrating season for the Vols, but I think they can get it together in a rivalry game. With a chance to turn the season around, I think Fulmer and the Rocky Tops come out on top.
Western Mich. @
Bowling Green -25.5
The Broncos were the only team Temple thought they could beat this year. Bowling Green has a veteran quarterback in his ninth consecutive year running the Falcons system. All that and he has dreadlocks.
Navy @
Rice +6
Rice is 0-5 and has given up no fewer than 41 points in each game this season. The Middies are a legitimate bowl team, if it weren't an option offense game, I'd take the over as well.
West Virginia @
USF +1.5
Once again the Bulls figure prominently in my Masterlock Pick of the Week, this time on the other end. Their win against Louisville has stopped ringing in my ears after last week and the Mountaineers, who were scheduled to rebuild this year, look like the class of the Big Least. Whomever comes out of that conference to play in a BCS game should have to wear the Padres sand-colored away unis.
Texas Tech @
Texas -16.5
I will continue to discount Mack Brown and the Longhorns until they win the National Title. 16.5?! This is a game between two Top 10 teams! Tech is a sort of oddity because of their offense, but these West Texas boys can defend and run the ball as well. If Texas wins this game, it's up to Nebraska to get to the Big XII championship and repay the Horns for their 1996 shennanigans.
Nebraska @
Missouri -2.5
I'm pretty apprehensive about this game, but it's a hope pick. I hope Nebraska can win in Columbia because it is essentially the key to the rest of the season. The Bugeaters are playing with a lot of confidence right now. Nonetheless, the past two times the Huskers have visited Faurot Field they've lost and sent their season into a tailspin. This game sets up the exact same way, but as Meatloaf sang, two outta three ain't bad.
Temple @
Clemson -36.5
Might as well kick the Owls while their down. There is no way they go into Death Valley and score more than 10 points. A much deserved cupcake for the Tigers after a season full of nail-biters.
Michigan @
Iowa -2.5
It's not easy playing beneath the water tower in Iowa City. I look for the frustratingly uneven season for Michigan to continue when they visit the pink locker room this week. This is not the same Iowa team that lost to the Cyclones.
Virginia @
North Carolina -1
I'll stick with the Hoos after their upset victory over Florida State. UNC got demolished by Lou-a-vull and I don't see them winning here. I would have laid a point here.
NC St. @
Wake Forest +1
With apologies to my sister, a current Demon Deacon, the Pack's superior talent has to rear its head at some point this season, doesn't it? Chuck Amato could be fighting for his job, and the lifetime supply of white Oakleys that go with it. Lose to Wake and this may his last season in ruby red slippers. That's a lot of sartorial incentive.
Tennessee @
Alabama -3.5
After a shocking survival against Ole Miss last week I'm no longer rolling with the Tide. (Thanks for the win against Florida, however.) It's been a frustrating season for the Vols, but I think they can get it together in a rivalry game. With a chance to turn the season around, I think Fulmer and the Rocky Tops come out on top.
Western Mich. @
Bowling Green -25.5
The Broncos were the only team Temple thought they could beat this year. Bowling Green has a veteran quarterback in his ninth consecutive year running the Falcons system. All that and he has dreadlocks.
Navy @
Rice +6
Rice is 0-5 and has given up no fewer than 41 points in each game this season. The Middies are a legitimate bowl team, if it weren't an option offense game, I'd take the over as well.
West Virginia @
USF +1.5
Once again the Bulls figure prominently in my Masterlock Pick of the Week, this time on the other end. Their win against Louisville has stopped ringing in my ears after last week and the Mountaineers, who were scheduled to rebuild this year, look like the class of the Big Least. Whomever comes out of that conference to play in a BCS game should have to wear the Padres sand-colored away unis.
Texas Tech @
Texas -16.5
I will continue to discount Mack Brown and the Longhorns until they win the National Title. 16.5?! This is a game between two Top 10 teams! Tech is a sort of oddity because of their offense, but these West Texas boys can defend and run the ball as well. If Texas wins this game, it's up to Nebraska to get to the Big XII championship and repay the Horns for their 1996 shennanigans.
Nebraska @
Missouri -2.5
I'm pretty apprehensive about this game, but it's a hope pick. I hope Nebraska can win in Columbia because it is essentially the key to the rest of the season. The Bugeaters are playing with a lot of confidence right now. Nonetheless, the past two times the Huskers have visited Faurot Field they've lost and sent their season into a tailspin. This game sets up the exact same way, but as Meatloaf sang, two outta three ain't bad.
Temple @
Clemson -36.5
Might as well kick the Owls while their down. There is no way they go into Death Valley and score more than 10 points. A much deserved cupcake for the Tigers after a season full of nail-biters.
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