Mid-Season All-American Team

If you're a hardcore college football fan, you'll know why each person is at each position, but still, I will offer some notes.
QB Colt McCoy, Texas- Shouldn't need much explanation. Has been arguably the best QB on the best team in the country. Honorable mention: 2nd Team Chase Clement, Rice 3rd Team Sam Bradford, Oklahoma Honorable Mention: Nate Davis, Ball St.
RB Miquale Lewis, Ball St. & Donald Brown, UConn- First off, Lewis has a 100-yard game in every contest except the opener (Northeastern) where a lot of the starters rested. He's also 6th in yards total, has more yards than in his 2 previous years and only one player has more TD runs. Brown is 2nd nationally in yards, 3rd in TDs, and 2nd in carries. He's been the heart & soul of the UConn offense in some tough games. 2nd Team Javon Ringer, Michigan State & Tyrell Fenroy, Louisiana-Lafayette 3rd Team Evan Royster, Penn State & Knowshon Moreno, UGa Honorable Mention: Shun White, Navy and Vai Taua, Nevada (filled in nicely for Luke Lippincott)
WR Jarrett Dillard, Rice and Michael Crabtree- These two speak for themselves on the field and are quiet off it; both in the top 11 nationally in receiving yards, TD catches and receptions. 2nd Team Aldrick Robinson, SMU and Eric Decker, Minnesota 3rd Team Austin Collie, BYU & Dez Bryant, Oklahoma Honorable Mention: Casey Fitzgerald, North Texas & Jordan Shipley, Texas
TE Mark Hafner, Houston- It was between him and Chase Coffman, but arguably Hafner doesn't have as good a WR to play off of as Coffman does with Maclin. In the top 10 in TD catches. 2nd Team Chase Coffman, Missouri 3rd Team Dennis Pitta, BYU Honorable Mention: Eddie Williams, Idaho
Ts Dallas Reynolds, BYU & Rylan Reed, Texas Tech- I went based on pure stats here and both tackles have kept their QBs virtually untouched. Max Hall of BYU had been sacked once before the TCU game and Graham Harrell once as well for TT. 2nd Team Michael Oher, Mississippi and Andre Smith, Alabama 3rd Team Alex Boone, Ohio State & Phil Loadholt, Oklahoma Honorable Mention: Sam Young, Notre Dame & Adam Ulatoski, Texas
Gs Cedric Dockery, Texas & Herman Johnson, LSU- Johnson has a huge responsibility protecting two unproven QBs for LSU, while Dockery is helping to provide huge holes for previously unproven Longhorn runners (including McCoy). 2nd Team Duke Robinson, Oklahoma & Steve Rehring, Ohio State 3rd Team Jeff Byars, USC & Seth Olsen, Iowa (have you seen TB Shonn Greene's numbers?) Honorable Mention: Jeremy Perry, Oregon State and John Jerry, Ole Miss
C Antoine Caldwell, Alabama- Helps in keeping John Parker Wilson safe and is providing the backbone for a strong Crimson Tide running game. 2nd Team AQ Shipley, Penn State 3rd Team Ryan McDonald, Illinois Honorable Mention: Jon Cooper, Oklahoma

DEFENSE
DE Brian Orakpo, Texas and Aaron Maybin, Penn State- Maybin has been great at getting to the QB and is leading a ferocious Nittany Lions' D. Orakpo may be the best defender in the country, getting to the QB at will and blowing up opponents RBs in the backfield. 2nd Team William VanDeSteeg, Minnesota & Paul Kruger, Utah 3rd Team Nick Reed, Oregon and Jake Paulson, Air Force (nation's leader in sacks through 7 weeks) Honorable Mention: Alex Carrington, Arkansas St. & Phillip Hunt, Houston
DT Cody Moore, TCU & Roy Miller, Texas- Moore has 7.5 TFL already this season and anchor's the nation's leading defense. Miller, meanwhile, anchors maybe the DL in college football and along with Orakpo has helped UT dominate all season. 2nd Team Sen'Derrick Marks, Auburn & Ryan Baker, Purdue 3rd Team Vance Walker, GT & Ted Laurent, Ole Miss Honorable Mention: Clinton McDonald, Memphis & Peter Tverdov, Rutgers
OLB Sean Weatherspoon, Missouri & Clint Sintim, Virginia- Weatherspoon has been the lone bright spot on an otherwise atrocious Mizzou offense, averaging nearly 2 TFL per game. Sintim has 7.5 TFL (through week 7) and has been a key senior leader on a UVa team searching for leaders. 2nd Team- Navarro Bowman, Penn State (8.5 TFL) & Quentin Davie, Northwestern 3rd Team Joe Henderson, UAB & Sergio Kindle Honorable Mention: Derek Burrell, Kent State (fifth in the nation in tackles per game) & Travis Lewis, Oklahoma
MLB Brit Miller, Illinois- Has 12.5 TFL (through 7 weeks, tied for 1st), 61 tackles and 4 sacks. FR for TD and INT while taking over for Illinois icon J Leman. 2nd Team- Scott McKillop, Pitt 3rd Team Derek Nicholson, Florida State Honorable Mention: Mike Tauiliili, Duke
CB Alphonso Smith, Wake Forest and Vontae Davis, Illinois- Smith has 3 INTs despite the fact no one will throw to him while Davis is an all-around great player (53 tackles, 5.5 TFL, 7 PBU, 3 FF) 2nd Team- Jairus Byrd, Oregon (top 2 in pass breakups and passes defended, 3 INTs) & Syd'Quan Thompson, Cal (3 INTs) 3rd Team- Anthony Gaitor, FIU & Kyle Wilson, Boise St. Honorable Mention: Malcolm Jenkins, Ohio St. & Victor "Macho" Harris, VA Tech
SS Eric Berry, Tennessee- Is he the best DB in the country? If not, he's close. 5 INTs for 175 yards (1 TD) 4.5 TFL, 2 sacks and 44 tackles. Team leader (as a sophomore) on a struggling Vols defense. 2nd Team Otis Wiley, Michigan St. 3rd Team- Trimane Goddard, UNC Honorable Mention: Brian Lainhart, Kent State (65 tackles, 2 FF, 4 INTs)
FS Daniel Charbonnet, Texas Tech- 42 tackles, 4 INTs (tied for nation's lead through week 7) and 5 passes broken up on a bend-but-don't-break Red Raider defense. 2nd Team Louis Delmas, Western Michigan (4 INTs for 98 yards and 1 TD) 3rd Team- Steven Coleman, TCU Honorable Mention: Taylor Mays, USC
K Josh Arauco, Arkansas St.- Is 12-for-12 so far on FGs and all 4 were important against Texas A&M in the Red Wolves huge upset. Brett Swenson, Michigan St. (15-for-16 FGs) 3rd Team Dustin Keys, VA Tech His FGs in 4th quarter were the difference against both GT and UNC. Honorable Mention: Jonathon Phillips, Florida
P Don't need one, this is a man's All-America team.

Week 7 Preview

Alright, we're going hardcore this week, more picks than ever before. But first, some random observations about the season and the upcoming games this weekend.
I really didn't believe in Vanderbilt until last week. As I said, Nickson had to limit mistakes for them to win, and after falling behind 13-0, Mackenzi Adams comes in and leads the victory with smart decision-making. Don't expect them to lose to Mississippi St. this weekend, even though the Bulldogs will be a tough road test.

TCU, who's only blemish is to a very good Oklahoma squad on the road, best be careful at Colorado St. this week. Gartrell Jenkins is a very productive TB and HB/FB/TE Kory Sperry is one of the best in the hybrid role.

If it's on anywhere in your area, check out Buffalo vs. Western Michigan because Tim Hiller, Naaman Roosevelt, Drew Willy and Jamarko Simmons should help put a lot of points on the board. This isn't quite Rice/Tulsa offensive potential from last weekend, but I'd put the over under at about 65 or 70. Should be a fun game to watch.

New Mexico St. at Nevada should be interesting because the Aggies can get their season on track and it would be a vital win in their quest for bowl eligibility. If you had asked me before the season, the Aggies would have no chance, but that's before Luke Lippincott decided not to play this year. As good as Colin Kaepernick is in the versatile QB role, Chase Holbrook is maybe even better as a precision passer for the Aggies.

The teams who really need to turn around their seasons and have chances to do it this weekend; Virginia at home against ECU. UCLA on the road at Oregon. Arizona State at USC (yeah right for Sun Devils fans), Arkansas at Auburn and Purdue at Ohio State. I think only the Cavaliers have a good shot at winning their game, they looked impressive last week vs. Maryland. Ok, onto the picks. I'm 14-4 on the season so far, so let's hope that keeps up.

Clemson at #21 Wake Forest- I know I'll probably regret this later because Thursday night games dictate that an upset will happen. However, is it really an upset if Clemson wins? No, not really, they were supposed to be a top 10 team before the season and besides, WF knows how to win these close games. Besides, the Demon Deacons want revenge for last year's 44-10 shellacking. Just remember, that loss against Navy was an aberration, the Demon Deacons may not lose the rest of the year. WF 24 Clemson 20

Minnesota at Illinois- Illini CB Vontae Davis vs. Gophers' WR Eric Decker, now that's an elite matchup. Too bad it won't determine the entire game. Here's what we know; the Illini have had a brutal early schedule, a better running game than Minnesota and more experience in important games. This is where Illinois can make a statement, by proving the Gophers are frauds. Will they? Yes, but it won't be easy from the first whistle, but talent and experience will prevail. Illinois 37 Minnesota 28

South Carolina at Kentucky- Was the Ole Miss defense really that bad last weekend? I mean come on, even Wofford didn't allow the Gamecocks to score 30 points. This is a tough game because the Gamecocks often times have trouble scoring and moving the ball, but looked good last week, while UK was just the opposite last week. Kentucky's good offense looked horrible vs. Alabama and saved itself with a late TD. I'm taking the Gamecocks because I think their offense is finally healthy and they may be ready to play some decent football (I'm nuts for this pick). South Carolina 20 Kentucky 14

#5 Texas vs. #1 Oklahoma- Oh no, can't we delay this game, like, until after the national championship game has been played. The Longhorns don't have much of a shot. The Sooners have a balanced offense, a good defense, and all the intangibles. UT has well, two good WRs and Colt McCoy. The young, but talented UT secondary isn't ready for Iglesias and Johnson on the outside, and if they can somehow contain them, who will stop TE Gresham. Unless McCoy channels his inner Vince Young, this game will be over by the start of the 4th quarter. Oklahoma 42 Texas 27

Nebraska at #7 Texas Tech- Ha! If Nebraska couldn't stop Missouri, why will they do it against Texas Tech? I only mention this game because my nephews and their dad will be at the game, die-hard 'Huskers fans that they are, it's their first game. Too bad it won't be a fun experience. Set low expectations Nebraska fans. Texas Tech 56 Nebraska 33

#23 Michigan St. at Northwestern- Possibly the most intriguing game of the weekend for serious college football fans. Javon Ringer has been a beast, and easily the Heisman candidate getting the least amount of respect (besides BYU QB Max Hall). Can he help the Spartans win at Northwestern, especially with QB Brian Hoyer and WR Mark Dell not living up to their abilities on offense for MSU? I think common sense says the Spartans are more talented, and usually heart and determination only get you so far, but with Wildcats' TB Tyrell Sutton, I think this is a special season. Along with an underrated defense, smart QB CJ Bacher and efficient WRs, the Wildcats pull off the upset. Northwestern 26 Michigan St. 23

Notre Dame at #22 North Carolina- Two teams that had all the potential to be surprise picks in their own right, going from young squads that lost a lot of close games to serious bowl contenders. Jimmy Clausen has been on fire, and people around the country love Golden Tate for the Irish. Me, I love the Tar Heels heart, coming back against Miami (FL) and just obliterating UConn last week (who was always overrated by the way) after losing their starting QB. Plus, ND is not on NBC this week, so that spells doom for the Irish. UNC 31 Notre Dame 28

#6 Penn St. at Wisconsin- I'll go with the easy pick of the night games first. The Nittany Lions will not give up an undefeated season in Madison just because the Badgers have an incredible home record in Big 10 play recently. Besides, the Badgers choked away a win against a true freshman QB last weekend (albeit Terrelle Pryor, no ordinary freshman). Evan Royster will carry the load for PSU and QB Daryll Clark will spread the ball around to his bevy of weapons at WR and TE. Clark is averaging 9.0 yards per attempt, in a non-passing offense, that's crazy. Michael Robinson anyone? Penn St. 34 Wisconsin 24

#17 Oklahoma St. at #3 Missouri- I can't wait until everyone calls this a statement win for Missouri. No, that will come, if it happens, against either Texas or Kansas during the season, and the Big XII South winner in the championship game (I'll go out on a limb and say that will be Oklahoma). Chase Daniel will go off, which sucks because I play him in fantasy this week, while Zac Robinson finds out what life is like playing catch-up and your favorite WR, Dez Bryant, can't get open because 6 and 7 DBs are out on the field. Missouri 62 Oklahoma St. 38

#4 LSU at #11 Florida- Logic says Florida is pissed after losing to LSU last year in a very close game at Baton Rouge. Logic also states that Florida rarely loses two home games in a season. Also, LSU decided to give the Gators some bulletin board material by saying they wanted to take out Tim Tebow. I think the main question here is whether or not the Tigers can stop the Gators explosive weapons on offense; Percy Harvin is a blur when he's in the open field and Chris Rainey can take it the distance any time, while the RB spot has more options than any time in recent memory for the Gators. However, the Tigers have tons of experience, albeit not at QB. Then again, Jarrett Lee learned on the road at Auburn and came away big in the clutch. Will he do it a 2nd time this season? Logic says no, but I disagree. LSU 29 Florida 27

Ok, enjoy the games. Go Vols against UGa, even though they won't win. Also, go San Jose St., which should be easy against Utah St. Also, EMU at Army may be a guilty pleasure game for me this weekend; a game I shouldn't be watching, neither have good bowl hopes, but they are two offenses coming together and I think it will be a fun game. ESPN Classic, 1:00 EST. tune in. Eagles' TB Terrence Blevins is a future NFL player in my book. He may be on a bad team but he can make broken plays, or plays blown up in the backfield into positive yardage and even TDs. See all of you next week.

Week 6 Preview

Ok, sorry I missed last week, there was a lot to do with college classes, so, I kind of got behind and didn't want to make picks the day before. However, let's get to business for this week. First off, no Oregon State will not upset Utah and Pitt should get destroyed at South Florida. That's all for the pre-Saturday games.

Some fun matchups to watch out for include Duke at GA Tech in an early game. If the Blue Devils really want to establish themselves in the ACC, a win over the good Yellow Jackets triple-option offense would go a long way in proving the doubters wrong. Indiana can make up for a home loss to Michigan State by pounding Minnesota in the Metrodome. All things considering, I doubt the Gophers will shut down Kellen Lewis. Penn State also needs to stay awake against Purdue as the Boilermakers have a good TB in Kory Sheets and a pair of fantastic WRs in Desmond Tardy and Greg Orton. Their defense just needs to step it up a notch. Arizona State at Cal is the overrated Pac-10 game of the week as neither team is that good, even though the winner be hyped as "back on track" with a win.

For the mid-afternoon games we have many subplots; Florida State couldn't have asked for a worth spot than to travel to Miami needing a win. The 'Canes won't let that happen. Texas Tech should roll over Kansas State in a game where neither is expected to play much defense. Heck KSU could barely stop Louisiana-Lafayette. For the night games, Maryland needs to be careful at Virginia, as usually rivalry games produce surprise outcomes, no matter how inept one offense may be. Texas A&M could keep coach Sherman off the hotseat with a win at Oklahoma State, but I think the Cowboys will be too focused and have too many weapons on offense. Nonetheless, should be an entertaining game. Let's get to my picks of the week...

South Carolina at Ole Miss- This is the perfect letdown game for Ole Miss after a huge win on the road against Florida. However, I think being at home takes the pressure off and Rebels' QB Jevan Snead will do just fine. Besides that pressure, have you seen how horrible the Gamecocks are offensively? There's no way they win, even if their defense will keep it close. Ole Miss 26 South Carolina 14

Stanford at Notre Dame- I can't pick because I hate the Irish too much. I would never root for ND to win so I can be right. I think ND wins, but go Stanford.

Illinois at Michigan- The Illini have not many things going for them; they still need a dominant RB to produce and their offense is just finding itself after transitioning to more of a spread passing game instead of option. The balance will prove to be a good thing next year, when a lot of their key players have another year of experience. I still think this game could make or break both team's season. The winner is still in the hunt for a Big 10 title. I would say Michigan has momentum and the home-field advantage, but their lack of a passing game makes the Illini a slight favorite. Illinois 21 Michigan 17

#13 Auburn at #19 Vanderbilt- Nobody will taking the Commodores lightly this season, not after they beat South Carolina and have now become ranked in the top 20. That's the bad news for them, considering their biggest wins in the SEC have come from teams underestimating them. Auburn will not do that here. I know Auburn's offense is really bad, and has trouble establishing the run, which should be their strength. However, I just don't think the Commodores will be able to put enough points on the board against that tough Tigers' D. Commodores QB Chris Nickson is the key; if he can scramble for good yardage and make good choices in the passing game, with no turnovers, Vandy wins. I'd love to see Vandy win, but... Auburn 13 Vandy 7

#24 UConn at North Carolina- I love how the Huskies play ball; a smash-mouth running style combined with an effective passing game and a defense that can score points at any time and make big plays. However, losing their starting QB, Lorenzen, is not a good sign. UNC just saved their season last with a gigantic win at Miami, in comeback fashion no less. The momentum is so far on the Tar Heels side that I think it swings a pick 'em game into their favor. Hakeem Nicks will have a huge game I think, and while Donald Brown may have a big game rushing for the Huskies, it won't be enough. Surprisingly high-scoring here... UNC 34 UConn 30

#23 Oregon at #9 USC- Let's see, a freshman QB on the road, a passing game that rarely goes anywhere and a defense that was blasted at home by Boise State. These aren't good signs for the Ducks. If the Trojans aren't focused in this game, after losing to the "other Oregon" football team, then they don't deserve to be ranked, period. Blount and Johnson are great TBs for Oregon, heck even TE Ed Dickson and WR Jaison Williams are great weapons. However, their QB just isn't experienced enough to pull this off. USC 45 Oregon 28

#14 Ohio State at #18 Wisconsin- The Badgers seem like they should pull this game off. The Buckeyes are starting a true freshman at QB in one of the toughest places to play in college football. The only thing is, this is the LeBron James of freshman football players. And I promise you Buckeyes fans, this frosh won't turn out like Maurice Clarett. Terrelle Pryor will use his stable of RBs and his quick feet to move the ball early, then use play action to Robiskie and Hartline and it will be smooth sailing. The Badgers have no threats on offense. PJ Hill is a good, bruising TB, but you won't beat the Buckeyes in a ground-it-out, smash-mouth Big 10 game this season. The Buckeyes can score now that Boeckman is benched and this isn't your Woody Hayes/John Cooper OSU squad. The Buckeyes jump out early and the Badgers play catchup with little results. OSU 38 Wisconsin 28

Also, ranked Big 12 teams will face stiff competition on the road; Oklahoma plays at Baylor and the Bears have a phenomenal freshman QB, but the Sooners need not worry, their depth and talent will eventually win out. The Longhorns travel to Boulder, CO and will crash the Buffs. Missouri also goes on the road to Lincoln where the Huskers are ripe for getting blown out. Like I would trust that 'Huskers defense to stop a Mizzou offense that's averaging 600 total yards and 54 points per game. Enjoy the games everyone.

Three Greatest Div I-A Teams of the Modern Era

Here we go, the greatest teams of the modern era, from 1988-2007. After USC's resounding victory a few weeks ago over Ohio State, everyone in the country, and not just media outlets, even some diehard, knowledgeable fans were ready to give the Trojans all-time status. After all, they have a competent QB, young RBs who could start for any major college program, and a fantastic defense. However, the success got to their heads and they felt invincible. This team should have been on a mission in 2008 after being snubbed for the national title game when some people felt they were much better than Ohio State. Georgia, on the other hand, seems to be on that mission in 2008 because they had a tough game against South Carolina, a conference rival, on the road (sound familiar? Oregon State last night) but pulled out a narrow victory. Anyways, we shall see how the rest of the season plays out because it will be mighty fun as usual.

Now, onto the criteria for selecting the greatest and most dominant teams in the recent era. The teams had to follow this criteria; players advancing to the NFL, they were not in danger of losing during the regular season, and had both a great offense and great defense. Also, a dominating bowl performance against a very good team, which is a given for the top 2 teams because the Bowl Alliance had been established for one team, while the other had the BCS in place. Now, some teams who didn't quite make the cut and the reasons why...

#7 1988 Notre Dame A fantastic squad, led by all sorts of future NFL studs and some magical moments. However, should they have beaten Miami (FL) in South Bend, IN on that mid-October day. First off, Cleveland Gary never fumbled at the 1-yard line, it should have been either a TD or incomplete pass, look it up. They could have lost that game, plus the close calls with Michigan and Pittsburgh mean they are out.

#6 Alabama 1992 This team just couldn't score enough points, nor did they really have to, their defense was so good. But Gene Stallings was not an offensive coach, so its not like it's his fault. They do however have a very impressive feat of not allowing a single team to score more than 21 points. They also beat Tennessee, Florida, and Ole Miss, all who won their bowl games, and Mississippi State, who lost their bowl game and went 7-5. Plus, they destroyed the defending national champion Miami (FL) Hurricanes 34-13 in the national championship game, aka Sugar Bowl.

#5 2004 USC They had a fantastic offense, a good defense and all the pizazz you could want, but they loved to live dangerously. A questionable pass interference call against VA Tech is what some people felt cost the Hokies in the opening game of the season, a very tough contest. Also, Stanford and UCLA both had very good chances to beat them in the 4th quarter, as well as a very tough game with Oregon State. Their BCS championship game victory over Oklahoma is good enough to get them at #5.

#4 2005 Texas The Longhorns get punished for 2 reasons. First off, they had to survive the greatest college football game ever played, the 2006 Rose Bowl against USC, so no matter how good Vince Young was, it still wasn't a truly dominant bowl performance. They also had to make a miraculous comeback against Oklahoma State and they had to overcome very close contests with Texas A&M and Ohio State. Their national championship game is really what gives the #3 team the edge, even as impressive as the Longhorns victory over the Trojans was.

Now, onto the top 3.
#3 1991 Washington Their biggest strength was without question their defense, but let's get real about the Huskies and what made them so great. #22 in passing offense, #3 in pass efficiency defense, #2 in turnover margin, #2 in scoring offense and scoring defense, #17 in rushing offense, #2 in rushing defense, #7 in total offense, #2 in total defense. They had at least 10 players on defense who played in the NFL, and one of those who didn't, All-American CB Walter Bailey, was 9th nationally in INTs with 7 returned for 114 yards and 2 TDs. Both of their QBs would see significant time in the NFL, Billy Joe Hobert and Mark Brunell (both were Rose Bowl MVPs at UW). Hobert was 11th in the nation in passing efficiency while his favorite target, Mario Bailey, caught 62 passes for 1037 yards and 17 TDs. His 102 points ranked him 6th nationally. Two of their TBs, Napoleon Kaufman and Beno Bryant, would go on to play in the NFL, but Bryant was always hampered by knee injuries. Their 3rd RB, and 2nd leading rusher, Jay Barry, scored 68 points off of 11 TDs and would author the season's key signature moment for the Huskies. Two TEs (Aaron Pierce and Mark Breuner) and 5 offensive lineman would also play in the NFL for this UW team.

In Lincoln, the 9th ranked Nebraska Cornhuskers had a shot to end the Huskies national championship dreams early, with a 21-9 3rd quarter lead. However, Bryant scored a TD, and Hobert scored a TD rushing and passing. Then, with the lead and just under 6 minutes left to play, Barry went 81 yards for the clinching TD. The game wasn't really close in the 4th quarter as the Huskies sealed the game with their dominant defense and superb speed on offense. Their lone close game came against Cal in Berkeley, where the undefeated and #7 Cal Bears played them to a 17-17 tie going into the 4th quarter. However, Bryant would proceed to dash 65 yards for a TD at the beginning of the 4th, ending any hopes of a Bears' upset. Then, in the Rose Bowl, #4 Michigan had no shot, even with Heisman Trophy winner Desmond Howard at FL/KR/PR. Note that Howard was in the top 15 in receiving yards and receptions per game, but had 1 catch for 35 yards. Mario Bailey put the icing on the cake with a diving TD catch in the 4th quarter and mocked Desmond Howard's infamous Heisman pose by striking one of his own. Tyrone Wheatley scored a 53 yard TD run late in the 4th quarter, which helped the Wolverines save face and they only lost 34-14. Michigan had 72 yards rushing overall, so that long TD run was the bulk of it. Nobody could match the Huskies all year, and thus, they finish #3 on this list.

#2 2001 Miami (FL) If we did this purely on who produced the most NFL talent, this Hurricanes squad would be very hard to beat. 19 of their 22 regular starters made the NFL, including 3 backup RBs, a backup TE, and a backup LB and DT. Now I call that depth. RBs Clinton Portis, Frank Gore and Willis McGahee combined for 2076 yards rushing and Portis had 11 TDs overall. Their TE, Jeremy Shockey, led the team in receiving, while SE Andre Johnson had 37 rec. for 682 yards and scored 10 TDs on the season. Ken Dorsey was a fantastic QB, throwing for over 2600 yards and 23 TDs. The real stars on offense however were the O-line led by Ts Bryant McKinnie and Joaquin Gonzalez and C Brett Romberg. On defense depth was everywhere with DL Jerome McDougle, William Joseph and Vince Wilfork. At LB, two 2nd year players, DJ Williams and Jonathan Vilma, were ball-hawking players who knew where to be at all times. The defense allowed only 9 points per game while giving up 13 TDs, and amazingly enough, the team scored 11 non-offensive TDs, so that almost washes out. Also, #13 Syracuse lost 59-0, and then #11 Washington got beat 65-7, the largest combined margin ever for a program over back-to-back ranked opponents. Now, onto the signature moments for this Miami squad.

Ed Reed could have been a good candidate for the 2nd defensive player ever to win the Heisman as he made the two biggest plays of the season. First, in an extremely close game at Boston College, the Eagles drove deep into 'Canes territory with under a minute to play. DT Matt Walters made an INT off of Eagles' QB Brian St. Pierre and went 10 yards, but then Reed stole the ball and went 80 yards for the decisive TD in an 18-7 win. In fact, here's the play... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=02fppIV9pik
Also, in another tough contest against Virginia Tech, the Hokies final two drives ended on INTs by Reed, to give him 21 for his career at Miami and a school record. Sure, a drop by Hokies' WR Ernest Wilford on a 2-point conversion helped the 'Canes escape with a 26-24 victory in Blacksburg, but Miami had not won there since 1992, so it had become a house of horrors, and this team overcame it. Also, Miami had jumped out to a 20-3 halftime lead, so it was really only a lack of focus as to why the game was as close as it was. The 'Canes should get points taken away for beating one of the worst BCS championship game teams in history, the Nebraska Cornhuskers led by QB Eric Crouch, but that was the computer's fault, not Miami's. Johnson was the true star for the 'Canes with 7 rec. for 199 yards and a 49 yard TD that gave Miami a 7-0 lead. Then, Portis scampered 39 yards for another TD, followed by a 47 yard INT for a TD by S James Lewis. Shockey then caught a TD pass and Johnson followed up with his 2nd of the 1st half as the 'Canes needed 15 plays to score 4 offensive TDs. Miami eventually won 37-14 and had an easy 2nd half where the 'Huskers never got within 20 points.

#1 1995 Nebraska They were #4 in scoring defense and #2 in rushing defense, while leading the nation in rushing (399.8 yards per game), scoring (52.8 points per game) and #2 in total offense (556.3 yards per game). It was the offense that most people remember, led by perhaps the greatest option QB of all time, Tommie Frazier, and his backup Brook Berringer, who tragically died in a plane crash shortly after the season. Frazier threw for 1362 yards and 17 TDs while also scoring 14 TDs on the season and rushing for 604 yards. IB Ahman Green ran for 1086 yards and scored 16 TDs on the season while Lawrence Phillips, in his final, oft-controversial career at Nebraska, finished 547 yards (on just 71 carries, over 7 yards per carry). Even the receivers were dangerous, as WB Clester Johnson and SE Reggie Baul combined for 39 receptions for 671 yards, and over 17 yards per catch. Mark Gilman and Tim Carpenter were good TEs, but clearly they had depth at that position, as freshman Sheldon Jackson would later play in the NFL. On the offensive line, Ts Adam Treu and Chris Dishman would go on to the NFL, as would C Aaron Graham (all would play at least 7 years in the NFL). However, the real depth lie on defense. 6 defensive lineman would make the NFL eventually, including starters Jason and Christian Peter, and DEs Grant Wistrom and Jared Tomich. Also, backups Chad Kelsay and Mike Rucker would go on to fine NFL careers. The LB corps was a rotating bunch that liked to stay fresh and starters Jay Foreman, Doug Colman and Terrell Farley were outstanding (only Farley didn't make the NFL). Even backups at this position made the pros as Jamel Williams and Jon Hesse eventually got their shots. Another 6 DBs would also make the NFL as Michael Booker and Tyrone Williams were fantastic shut-down CBs and Tony Veland and Mike Minter were outstanding safeties. Eric Stokes and Eric Warfield, two future NFL guys only added to the amazing depth. That's 16 out of 22 players on the 2-deep chart who made the NFL, and that's just on defense. Ok, onto the big games and signature moments for Nebraska.

The only time the 'Huskers ever trailed during the regular season was against Washington State, and they pulled away in the 2nd half to win 35-21. Frazier threw for 148 yards and 4 TDs in a 49-25 beat-down of previously undefeated #8 Kansas State. #7 Colorado was at home for the 'Huskers the following week, but Frazier went to the Shotgun this time and threw TD passes to WBs Johnson and Abdul Mohammed. A 44-21 victory gave Nebraska the #1 spot in the AP poll the following day. The #10 Kansas Jayhawks at 8-1 hosted the 'Huskers two weeks later, but were dismantled after only rushing for 72 yards. WB Jon Vedral recovered a fumbled punt in the end zone, Frazier ran for 2 scores and threw for another and in the 4th quarter, DB Mike Fullman raced 86 yards for the clinching score in a 41-3 demolition. Keep in mind that at the end of the year Colorado would end up #5 in the country, Kansas St. 7, and Kansas 9, so its not like Nebraska's conference had all cupcakes. Even Iowa State wasn't completely pitiful as they had the first 2,000 yard rusher not to win the Heisman in Troy Davis, but the Cyclones got killed 73-14. To end the regular season, Nebraska shut out Oklahoma 37-0 to mercifully end the Howard Schnellenberger era in Norman. Then came the Fiesta Bowl and the showdown with #2 Florida.

I'm sorry, but this deserves its own paragraph as the Gators were undefeated, had the nation's leader in pass efficiency in Danny Wuerffel and four good receivers; Jacquez Green, Reidel Anthony, Chris Doering, and Ike Hilliard. They even had a three-headed monster of future NFL RBs who combined for over 1900 yards in Terry Jackson, Fred Taylor and Elijah Williams. Although their defensive stats weren't impressive, they had 4 future NFL LBs and a few in their secondary. Only Florida State and Auburn had really tested the Gators all season. Frazier got the 'Huskers an early 6-3 lead with a TD pass to IB Phillips, but Wuerffel sneaked in for a TD as the Gators regained the lead, 10-6. Then the 'Huskers came to life and were merciless. Phillips went 42 yards for a TD run and then Jamel Williams blitzed and sacked Wuerffel for a safety, 15-6 Nebraska. Freshman Green scored a TD after a long Frazier run and then Booker had a 43 yard INT returned for a TD. K Kris Brown added some FGs for a 35-10 lead at halftime. Frazier then tooka QB Draw 35 yards for a TD and then added his signature moment late in the 3rd quarter by breaking numerous tackles, bouncing off Gators like a pinball machine before being unleashed into the open field. He raced 75 yards for a TD and even looked back near the end of his run, making sure he had not just ignored a whistle, thinking the play had been blown dead since no one was near him. You could see his wide-eyed, ear-to-ear grin through the facemask as he was enjoying this coronation. The Gators would end up with minus-28 yards rushing and lose 62-24, the 2nd largest defeat for a team in a #1 vs. #2 matchup, the most being Army's 48-0 victory over Notre Dame in 1948. With their victory Nebraska became not only the first back-t0-back national champions since the 1970s and Bear Bryant's Alabama squad, but the greatest team of the modern era.

Thank you all for reading.

Week 4 Review

Dammit Boise St., you ruined my prediction and any hope of a big Pac-10 game down the line this year, such as Oregon vs. USC. Can we all agree now that the Pac-10 is horrible? I'm sure it's shocking since oh let's see, the last team to win a national title from that conference besides USC was... anyone? Washington in 1991. Before that I believe it's UCLA in 1954, but anyways, let's get on to the helmet stickers.

1. Clutch teams- Some of the big boys are showing their mettle and why they are among the best teams in the country. For starters, LSU won a great game in the prairie against Auburn thanks to freshman Jarrett Lee and some great play-calling. I had a feeling they wouldn't give up their national title without a fight, and that appears to be the case. Even though Florida State was horrible overrated going into last weekend, Wake Forest still had to go on the road and beat the Seminoles. The Demon Deacons defense looks great and will only look better against the rest of the ACC. Utah went on the road and beat a tough Air Force squad with seriously high hopes in the MWC. Is there any doubt the Falcons could be the 3rd best team outside of Utah and BYU at the end of the year in that conference? This is one of the few times when both teams should move up in the rankings after the game because neither side deserved to lose. And finally, we have Georgia who went into Sun Devil Stadium and burned Arizona State. Moreno and Stafford may make up the best backfield on their own. With all of the teams mentioned above, it just goes to show how important staying focused and taking care of business is on the road, and not just in conference play.

2. Just climb on my back, I'll take you home- That's right, a few certain RBs over the weekend basically told their teams to give them the ball, make a few blocks, and sit back and enjoy the ride. Good RBs just know how to take over and that is certainly what Javon Ringer did for Michigan State against Notre Dame. Ringer had 39 carries for 201 yards and 2 TDs and bruised and battered a supposedly good Irish defense. Here's the real key though, Brian Hoyer didn't have a chance to throw horrible INTs for MSU, which is just as important for the Spartans' success. From a big Big Ten winner to a Big Ten loser. The Indiana Hoosiers had no answer for MiQuale Lewis of Ball State this past weekend, as the oft-injured Lewis had 166 yards and 4 TDs on 29 carries. The key now is to use Lewis properly with the loss of superstar WR Dante Love for Ball State. This may have been a very costly win for the Cardinals. In other news, Terrell Fenroy of ULL (the Ragin' Cajun) had a monster day with 68 yards receiving and 194 yards and 3 TDs total. While his QB Michael Desormeaux had 403 yards rushing and passing, it was Fenroy's first TD that gave ULL a lead they wouldn't relinquish and his last TD put the game out of reach against Kent State in a 44-27 win. The biggest one man show in Div I-A however may be Donald Brown of UConn who had 150 yards and 2 TDs on 34 carries in a close scare against Baylor Friday night. Brown is averaging 28 carries for 178 yards and 2 1/2 TDs per game over the season. Who knows how long the productivity will last, but as long as it does, the Huskies have a realistic shot at another Big East title.


3. The Injury Bug- Sometimes one injury can cost a team a shot a national title, conference title, or even an easy trip to a bowl game. Dante Love's injury for Ball State was already mentioned, and that could be the costliest one of all as the Cardinals had a manageable regular season and a possible undefeated season within reach. For North Carolina the season was going quite well until TJ Yates limped off against VA Tech, and now, the Tar Heels may go from ACC title contender to hoping for bowl eligibility. Yates is only out 6 weeks and games against Virginia, Notre Dame and BC may be winnable, but it will take a huge emotional response from the team. Another team looking to establish respectability is the Northwestern Wildcats who can only hope do-it-all TB Tyrell Sutton will be healthy the rest of the year. I think the Wildcats can scratch and claw their way past Iowa this Saturday and then they get a bye week, but after that, the Big Ten gets tough with Michigan State and Purdue no pushovers at home, and a final 3 of Ohio State, Michigan, and Illinois. Yikes! NC State lost a starting QB and LB to injury, but sorry, I didn't see much hope for that program anyways. That East Carolina game may have been an aberration as the Pirates put a major bullseye on their back beating West Virginia and VA Tech. I mean heck, ECU barely beat Tulane the week before, so they weren't THAT good.

Well, that's all for now, soon the week 5 preview should be up and running. On a final note, congratulations to Vanderbilt for cracking the top 25 for the first time in 24 years. It would be great to see them make another bowl. Take care everyone, go Illinois this weekend.

Week 4 Preview

At first glance I thought this weekend might be horrible. No Illinois, no Duke (Cinderella?), Oklahoma, USC. So many good teams are off I initially thought there wouldn't be enough high-profile matchups. However, how wrong I was. As usual, a few ramblings and observations before the weekend.

Louisville vs. Kansas State should be extremely high scoring at first glance, but who knows. The Cardinals were dreadful against Kentucky and I still don't trust their offense. Who the heck can predict this game? K-State loves to start strong and then be a letdown, so we'll continue monitoring them.

Northwestern RB Tyrell Sutton's stock should have never dropped after an ok season last year. This is one of the best dual-purpose backs in the country. He may only be 5'9 but he's on his way to easily surpass 4,000 yards rushing for his career. With decent WRs and a QB in Bacher who can limit mistakes when he's focused, Northwestern is a dark horse in the Big 10. They could finish in the top half easily.

Who hooked Chris Nickson of Vandy up to the "juvenation machine?" His career has been reborn after fighting with Mackenzi Adams and Richard Kovalcheck the last few years for the starting QB role. Is he throwing for big yards? No, but he's limiting his mistakes and has no INTs so far, just what his team needs if they are to survive a brutal SEC schedule.

Find your favorite friend, or someone you barely know, doesn't matter, and make sure they have the Big 10 Network because you won't want to miss Indiana vs. Ball State at 6:00 PM (CST). These two QBs, Kellen Lewis of IU, and Nate Davis of Ball State, should put up huge numbers and it could be a very close game until the end. One, Lewis loves to run and throw, while Davis just needs to fine tune his delivery and he could be a very high draft pick. And they're both juniors, so we should get to enjoy them for one more season after this.

The battle for #8- Idaho at Utah State. This won't be a great game, but luckily, whoever wins could be the team that escapes the cellar in the WAC (and finishes 8th). I expect the Vandals to pull off the road win thanks to Deonte' Jackson, their highly-talented TB, but really, this is a crapshoot. Is there anything harder to do than pick between bad teams who's going to win? I'd argue that takes more luck than skill.

Cupcake Central- I know this isn't an unreasonably high number, but 11 Div I-AA schools are traveling to face the big boys. Watch out Syracuse, who hosts Northeastern, and Washington State, who plays Portland State, this may be your only chance to win a game all season, so make the most of it. Watch out for Wofford against South Carolina, will be interesting to see how that Wishbone offense of the Terriers does against Spurrier's boys. The Terriers actually beat 3-time National Champ Appalachian State last year, and gave the Gamecocks a run for their money in 2006.

The game I can't pick due to a conflict of interest, Florida at Tennessee. If I pick Florida, I know I'll be right, but I don't want to get credit for picking against my Vols, and picking UT would hurt my W-L pick 'em record. Let me go on record however by saying right now that the Jonathan Crompton era will not work. He was horrible against UCLA. It's time to give Nick Stephens the reigns and let him learn on the job, or hand over the keys to true freshman, and VHT Casey Kelly. Its better to groom along a QB who could be great and take your lumps for one season and reap the awards in the future. Case in points; Nebraska did this with Tommie Frazier in 1992 when they realized Mike Grant wouldn't work and eventually played in 3 national championship bowl games at QB. I believe Frazier is the only player ever to do that, but someone feel free to correct me if I'm wrong. Same scenario with Chris Leak and Florida in 2003, and they won a national title. Oklahoma did it with Jamelle Holieway in 1985 when it was obvious Troy Aikman wasn't a Wishbone QB (and they went 33-3 over 3 years with Holieway and a national championship). Houston turned around their entire program in 2003 thanks to Kevin Kolb, so did Illinois with Juice Williams in 2006. Missouri even did it with Corby Jones in 1995 and had back-to-back winning seasons in '97 and '98, the first time since '82-83. Which brings me to my next point...

Schools that should abandon ship and hand the keys to young QBs or freshman for the good of the program; Texas A&M, it's time for the Jerrod Johnson era. Arkansas better do this with Ryan Mallett next year when he's eligible because they have no other options. Virginia Tech and Tyrod Taylor because the only way he'll learn to be a better passer is through experience. Ohio State and Terrelle Pryor for reasons obvious to anyone who saw the game at USC last week. Rutgers and DC Jefferson because Mike Teel is absolutely horrific. What is this, the Mike McMahon era all over again? Seriously, is McMahon the worst 4-year starter in NCAA history? I'm including all divisions here. He didn't complete 50% of his passes for his career, could barely beat Richmond and Villanova, and was 1-3 against Temple (f'ing Temple!!!). You know, Temple, the school that was so bad they got kicked out of the Big East, not good times.

Ok, so we're almost done, now let's get onto the picks for all the major games this week. Since the "Schwam" can do it on ESPN during his two-minute drill predictions, so can I. The tally so far, 6-1. We're not picking against the spread here people, just out and out winners.
Boise St. at #17 Oregon- There isn't a big game to be had until mid-afternoon when the Broncos travel to the ever-dangerous Autzen Field. I originally thought this game was in Boise, which had me convinced they would win. Now that I realize its in Eugene, go Ducks! How could I not support LeGarrette Blount and Jeremiah Johnson at TB for Oregon? Johnson has quickness and some power, while Blount is a burner who can decimate any defense. Sure, OU has no QB, but that won't stop this team because well, the Broncos don't have a decent QB either. Oregon 30 Boise St. 21

Notre Dame at Michigan St.- Since I downright refuse to pick Tennessee-Florida, I'll give you this game as an added bonus. The Irish are coming off two not-so-impressive wins, while the Spartans are just about ready for their mid-season downfall. The Spartans the last 3 years; 2005, start 4-0, end up 5-6, 2006, start 3-0, end up 4-8, last year, start 4-0, end up 7-6. Who do they think they are, Virginia in the early 90s? Anyways, Javon Ringer may just be a ringer, are we sure he's eligible at the college level because this guy has been blowing up opposing defenses. Couple that with WR Mark Dell and you have one of the nation's best combos. I am not impressed with Notre Dame stopping two horrific offenses thus far, and expect a high-scoring blowout. Michigan St. 44 Notre Dame 28

#18 Wake Forest at #24 Florida St.- What does it take to get ranked if you're the Seminoles, why just beat two non Div I-A schools and you're in. Very impressive. The 'Noles defense looked very good in its first two games, but look who they were playing against. The Demon Deacons looked shaky against Ole Miss two weeks ago, but Jevan Snead has been on a tear for the Rebels so they get a pass. I like Riley Skinner this year, I think he just suffered from the same thing Colt McCoy did, a sophomore jinx (is Herschel Walker the only player ever to avoid that?). As I said earlier this year, DJ Boldin is a stud at WR for WF, but they need to establish more of a running game. Can they do that in Tallahassee? The 'Noles do have a new QB running the show this year, so its debatable how much one can trust that offense. A lot of the evidence suggests the hometown 'Noles would pull out a victory, especially with WF's lack of a running game, but I like the minor upset. Wake Forest 20 Florida St. 17

#3 Georgia at Arizona St.- This game seems like a gimme for the Bulldogs considering their lackluster performance against South Carolina and they will be out to prove something against a good opponent on the road. However, if the Sun Devils have any semblance of a heart, they will play UGa tough. Knowshon Moreno will do what he does best, and that is shred the Sun Devils front 7 and take it to another level, possibly getting 200 yards or more. I also like ASU QB Rudy Carpenter to have a great day passing, but I'm predicting, the same as what happened to the Gamecocks last week, a last-second INT by the Bulldogs to seal the deal. Georgia 35 Arizona State 28

#6 LSU at #10 Auburn- This is by far the toughest game of the weekend to pick, hence why I saved it for last. Let's look at matchups. Auburn should do what LSU loved to do last year and that is just run the football all day and night. They have the horses with Ben Tate, Brad Lester, Tristan Davis and Mario Fannin. LSU can counter that with the likes of Trindon Holliday, Charlie Scott, Richard Murphy and Keiland Williams. While Auburn has a slight edge at QB due to more experience, the Bayou Bengals have a slightly better receiving corps with Demetrius Byrd and Brandon LaFell. This game has been too predictable in recent memory with the home team owning the series. I would love to pick the War Eagles because of their great defense, but something in my gut says LSU will win. I don't think these defending national champs are ready to give up their crown just yet. A big special teams play will decide this one, such as a Holliday KR/PR or a late FG for Auburn. LSU 24 Auburn 23

Week 3 Review

Some random thoughts and observations before we get on with giving out the usual helmet stickers.

First off, Michigan's offense sucks. Plain and simple, Rich Rodriguez needs time because the last time he took over a school they went 3-8 (WV, 2001). Also, the spread may seem crazy at Michigan, even though this is a school that loves to run, but its a far cry from Bo Schembechler and the 70s and 80s ground it out style. Of course, any man who can lead Tulane to an undefeated season can achieve anything.

USC's win means nothing to me. Just like all those wins Miami (FL) and Florida State used to have over each other in the first 2 weeks of the season, teams don't start to gel until week 5 or 6. They are still usually working the kinks out this early, just ask Tennessee after their debacle at UCLA.

Knowshon Moreno is for real. He's not too big for his size (Adrian Peterson) to where his body will break down on him eventually, nor is he too small to be a consistently great back at the NFL (Ken Simonton from Oregon State, (2001 class). Moreno has the vision, the speed, the cockiness needed, but not too much, and the agility to be one of the best. Ok, it's helmet sticker time. As usual, there are only 3, so let's delegate them wisely.

1. The MWC- I mean, who else deserves a helmet sticker after a weekend like that? UNLV pulled off a classic late-night win in the desert over yet another highly overrated Arizona State squad. Remember a few years ago when the Sun Devils had Sam Keller and Rudy Carpenter coming back at QB and it was supposed to be an embarrassment of riches, only a colossal screw-up could mess up that team? Anyways, props to the Rebels and Omar Clayton who showed tremendous poise for a sophomore leading his team to the victory. Also, BYU hammered UCLA, no surprise there. Too many weapons on offense for the Cougs and an experienced QB exposed the Bruins defense. New Mexico finished off Arizona, which is quite sad for Wildcats' fans. I don't care what anyone says, that preseason ranking of #4 in 1999 was what killed the program. They got cocky and became soft after being known for that vicious "Desert Swarm" defense. Anyways, great job Donovan Porterie and TB Rodney Ferguson of the Lobos. TCU owning Stanford couldn't have surprised too many considering the Horned Frogs always beat BCS conference opponents when they get a decent opportunity. Wyoming eeked out a victory over North Dakota State, which isn't that impressive, but considering they went into Minnesota and beat the Gophers last year, and as I said in my preview special, had won 22 of their previous 24 games, is excusable for the Cowboys. Learning from other's mistakes, like Minnesota's loss last year, is a good sign. Air Force also beat the sleeper picks from most "experts" in C-USA, the Houston Cougars, 31-28, after the game had been moved. The Falcons didn't even complete a pass. When was the last time a major college football team did that? I think it was Baylor in 1993 with J.J. Joe (or '92) against Rice when they ran Grant Teaff's veer formation I offense combo. Where's ESPN with the ruling on this one because they didn't have one? The only horrible thing for the MWC is Colorado State and San Diego State.

2. Great defenses stepping up- UGA has a lot of critics right now who will say that this South Carolina team lost to Vanderbilt, so how can the 'Dawgs be taken seriously? Well, for one, they won a road game in the SEC which is NEVER easy, and they made a huge goalline stop by forcing a fumble at the 1-yard line and the Gamecocks about to score. Then they made an INT inside the 10 with under :30 left to play. USC destroyed Ohio State, I think enough said on that one, although the Buckeyes didn't have Beanie Wells, but like that would have made a difference. OSU, start Terrell Pryor more, you'll thank me later. Iowa consistently shut down Iowa State in the red zone when the Cyclones had numerous chances to win the game/take the lead late. Thanks for ruining my upset special Iowa. BYU blanking UCLA because a shutout is always impressive, even if Kevin Craft is at QB. Vanderbilt for limiting Chase Clement, Jarrett Dillard and James Casey of Rice just enough to move to 3-0. I think that Owls trio of talented players is the best set of offensive weapons outside of the BCS conferences, anyone else agree? Auburn and Mississippi State get props for turning a great SEC football matchup into a baseball score, and finally, Wisconsin for doing what oh so few Big 10 Teams can do, go to California and win a game. You do realize Wisconsin's the only Big 10 team to win a Rose Bowl in the last 10? The rest is 0-5. And, the Badgers won twice.

3. Offensive shootouts- While big defenses were on display for some teams, not everybody was happily shutting down teams and making a claim for the top 10. Cal-Maryland played a game where the losing QB threw for 423 yards! Granted, it was all because Cal had fallen so far behind and had to try and come back, but still. Also, Temple and Buffalo couldn't stop each other, as evidenced by the final play of the game, when that gorgeous (albeit lucky) Hail Mary fell into the arms of Naaman Roosevelt as the Bulls won. Duke beat Navy 41-31, and for the Blue Devils, that is a major shootout. The Dukies have scored 40 points 3 teams, not including this one, since 2004, and one was against VMI so, come on, not an offensive juggernaut here. Kansas and South Florida played a thriller that wasn't decided until the last second, surprising for me considering how good these two defenses have been in recent memory. Western Michigan and Idaho put up 79 total respectively, not bad for 2 mid-majors. And, last but not least, Purdue and Oregon, who woke up from an early slumber to have a thrilling OT game. That punt return for Oregon was awesome, as was Kory Sheets, the Purdue TB who had 246 yards all-purpose on 35 touches, and 2 TDs.

Anyways, that's all for me kiddos, be back hopefully by Wednesday for the week 4 preview. A lot of teams seem to be off this week, hopefully that won't make for a boring slate of games.

Week 3 Preview

Ok, there's no time to break this down into categories, except for the final part where I will predict the big games for the weekend. I'm gonna ramble, bear with me...

If you want to see some running and different offenses at play, try Louisiana-Lafayette at Illinois. The Illini will use Daniel Dufrene and Juice Williams, along with super soph Arrelious Benn on FL sweeps and options. The Ragin' Cajun have a great offense on the ground, led by QB Michael Desormeaux and big, strong RB Tyrell Fenroy. This one won't be that close, but both offenses can rack up the points.

Let me just sum up this next game like this; if Rice scored 56 on SMU, what do you think Texas Tech will do to the Ponies. What should we call them, the Mustangs or Ponies? I like Ponies better myself because of the old "Pony Express" days of Eric Dickerson and Craig James. Then again, "pony" is what you buy your daughter to love you if your Homer Simpson, not very manly.

We should be allowed to deduct points for Syracuse and Tulane's offense. They can't score, and now they play Penn State and ECU respectively. Even at home for both sides, this will get ugly.

Upset Alert: North Dakota St. at Wyoming The Cowboys better not look past the Bison after they went in and dominated the Golden Gophers last year, in the Metrodome. Did you know NDSU is 22-2 in their last 24 games, with one loss coming to Minnesota? Yeah, not a shabby program, let's get them and Montana moved up to Div I-A, sometimes I think I-AA is too easy for those programs.

The Compass game, which team will head south, and which will head north towards a possible bowl game; Navy at Duke. In theory, the Midshipmen should roll thanks to amazing TB Shun White, but they have a horrible defense (Ball St. QB Nate Davis proved that last week). Just remember, in theory Communism works (thanks once again Homer J. Simpson). I expect Navy to win this game, but the Blue Devils have slowly been getting better, so anything's possible.

Nevada at Missouri Will this be a repeat of IL-MO where the two schools couldn't be slowed down and we nearly had half a hundred hung up on the board? I don't quite think so, not after the Wolfpack couldn't score a bunch of points against Texas Tech last week. Then again, with that Pistol offense, who knows. Prediction, MO 55 NV 38

Not an upset, no matter what your "experts" tell you. I have the gratest of faith in Austen Arnaud, the young QB at Iowa St. He will march into Iowa City and pull off the biggest theft since Heidi from "The Hills"first music CD. A bevy of capable RBs, check. Good WRs who can catch the ball and run well, check. Decent defense, with lots of experience, check. Yep, it's all there, go Cyclones!!

Why are we discussing this game for even 5 seconds? Georgia at South Carolina will not be close. NOT BE CLOSE!! I hope you people understand me, sure the Gamecocks will score some points, but Moreno, Stafford, et al will roll right over that weak defense. If Jared Hawkins and Vandy could march all over SC, why do I expect it to be different this week for a far superior squad? Oh, GA may be looking ahead to Arizona State. Yeah, if they sucked and weren't focused. This team may be young, but they know what's on the line.

Ok, so I have 4 marquee games circled, let's get started.

UCLA at #18 BYU- Please, like I'm buying Kevin Craft's resurrection in the 2nd half of that game against Tennessee. He sucked at SD State, he sucks now. One good game does not a QB make. Who's going to cover Austin Collie? Dennis Pitta? Will they lose focus on the underrated running game of the Cougars and Harvey Unga? No one, ditto and maybe. This will be close for a half or so, but then the Cougs roll. BYU 34 UCLA 16

#16 Oregon at Purdue- I know this game isn't getting enough hype, but it should be getting some. The Boilermakers always do well thanks to the spread passing game Drew Brees nearly perfected. The Ducks may be starting a QB, but take my word for it, they don't have one. The good news, Ross-Ade Stadium isn't that intimidating. Neither is West Lafayette. Purdue will do fine on offense with Greg Orton, a good TE and a decent running game, but I just don't trust QB Curtis Painter in a big game. Oregon 30 Purdue 24

#10 Wisconsin at #21 Fresno State- PJ Hill, Travis Beckum (assuming he's finally healthy), Tom Brandstater, Ryan Matthews. All this offensive firepower sounds great, like it should be a very high-scoring affair, especially with offenses where you think the run sets up the pass. Generally those games produce unexpected big numbers. Unfortunately, not the case here. Fresno loves to play anyone, anywhere, and granted, Allan Evridge isn't the first guy you'd trust handling your team on the road, but I like this Badgers' defense. They know how to get key stops, are solid at all 3 levels and will help them pull out the slightest of victories. Wisconsin 19 Fresno St. 17

#5 Ohio State at #1 USC- Hmm, when was the last time the Buckeyes under Jim Tressel were huge underdogs against the #1 team in the country? Oh that's right, they beat the Miami (FL) Hurricanes in the Fiesta Bowl. That would be a nice pipe dream for this Buckeyes squad, but it won't happen in LA. Pride should keep the Buckeyes close, that and a fantastic defense. The Trojans will try and establish the run, but that won't work, so they'll balance it out with some passing and we'll have a nice stalemate at halftime, like 10 or 17 all. It will be a clunky, unorganized first half, like how did these teams score any points. Then, USC's O-Line will finally begin to dominate and they will slowly pull away. The Buckeyes will look respectable, but everyone will know who the better team was in the end. USC 31 Ohio State 27

Enjoy the games everyone. If that damn Hurricane knocks out my satellite I'll be heading on over to Champps and hopefully I can get all the games there. It should be a great college football day.

Week 2 Review

So, some minor things we learned over the weekend. Texas Tech won't throw for 500+ yards every game. Ohio State needs to get healthy and fast if they want to finish with 1 loss or fewer and make another national title game. Iowa State can roll over easy cupcakes like SD State and Kent State. Arkansas has trouble beating teams that were Division I-AA less than 20 years ago (one still is). Anyways, let's get on to our helmet stickers.

1. Undervalued and Underappreciated- The two teams that aren't getting enough credit may just meet in the Conference USA title game, Rice and East Carolina. Chase Clement did not have a good day throwing 2 INTs, but he did come through when it mattered the most against Memphis. First, he hit Jarrett Dillard for an easy TD and then James Casey for 2 points. Then, on a tremendous drive that went over 90 yards and with less than 3 minutes left, Clement scrambled for the game-tying TD. After a short drive by Memphis, Chris Jammer stepped in front of a Tigers' receiver and housed it, 69 yards for the winning score. David Bailiff may have a heart attack by the end of the year if his team has to score 29 points in the 4th quarter every week to win. Also, ECU's win over West Virginia pretty much speaks for itself. The Pirates have played the Mountaineers tough before, but never dominated them like this. Remember when last week people were talking about Pat White and the new WV passing offense? Well, I certainly didn't see it this past week, but I did see a consistent and balanced offense from the Pirates, and a team that made few mistakes. Forcing 2 turnovers and committing none, while also going 50% on 3rd downs will win you a lot of games. However, the most underrated team is Wake Forest, who with a few lucky breaks could easily go undefeated. They have tough matchups at Miami (FL), a home game with Clemson and after a bye week this week, a key tussle at Florida State next week. If they can get past those 3 opponents, going undefeated should be a breeze. Having a very experienced defense and maybe the most dominant cover corner in college football, Alphonso Smith should help. The key for the Demon Deacons is how well Josh Adams and Kevin Harris produce on the ground against tougher foes because I believe WRs DJ Boldin and Chip Brinkman should move the chains in the passing game consistently every week. DJ is the younger brother of Anquan so you know he has the pedigree of a great WR.

2. The MAC- I was going to give it to all the mid-major conferences, but they are generally too top heavy. I mean, Fresno State and Boise St. are good in the WAC, but Utah St., San Jose St. and Idaho have not been that impressive. Same goes for the Mountain West with BYU and Utah being dominant, but Colorado St. and San Diego St. are not very good. The Sun Belt was impressive with Middle Tennessee's win over Maryland and Louisiana-Monroe playing Arkansas very close but Florida International and North Texas are still dreadful, especially on offense. Now, onto the MAC. Temple did a fantastic job in the game against UConn, which they should have won, but committed too many mistakes near the end. Ball State looked rather dominant against Navy as did Akron against Syracuse, who are among the 5 worst teams in Division I-A. Ohio looked very good against Ohio St., but perhaps the Buckeyes were looking past the Bobcats. Whether that's the case or not, Ohio still acquitted themselves nicely. Miami (OH) also gave Michigan fits as the game was close in the 4th quarter, and Kent St. was great against Iowa St., keeping it 28-21 at halftime. RB Eugene Jarvis of the Golden Flashes was fantastic with 199 yards of total offense and may be the most underrated dual-purpose back in college football. Central Michigan looked rather pedestrian against Georgia, but that's to be expected as the Bulldogs had something to prove after losing their #1 ranking.

3. QB Redemption- Ever since his arrival in Austin a few years ago, Jevan Snead has been overlooked as the man who couldn't beat out Colt McCoy and had to transfer to a lower-tier SEC West squad, Ole Miss. However, in the opening win against Memphis and a good performance against Wake Forest (a game that shouldn't have been as close as it was), Snead is proving to be a good college QB. John Parker Wilson of Alabama doesn't get props for last week's win against Tulane, but he does get credit for his demolition of Clemson in week 1. We'll check back and see how he's doing in week 5 after their trip to Athens (and I don't mean Greece). Juice Williams at Illinois got some blame for the Illini losing close games as he still wasn't a polished passer, he's too short and Rashad Mendenhall carried that team at key points down the stretch in '07. However, even after a high-scoring loss to Missouri in week 1, all the media could talk about was how good of a passer Juice has turned into. That's because of good receivers, a more wide-open offense and maturity. The Illini should redshirt Eddie McGee right now so he can have 2 full years to be a starter after Juice graduates. Riley Skinner of Wake Forest is bouncing back nicely after throwing more INTs than TDs last year, after a superb freshman season. Brian Johnson of Utah is showing that his team may not lose at all this year up until their huge conference finale against BYU. Johnson has been a star-in-the-making ever since he arrived, but the Utes can't rely on potential anymore, nor can they win much with another 11-to-10 TD-to-INT ratio like Johnson had last season.

Alright, a few negatives from last week since this can't all be positive. The state of Colorado, you need to get your act together. I remember saying when he first arrived that Dan Hawkins wouldn't win anything at Boulder and that's becoming more obvious after barely beating Eastern Washington last week. Colorado St., who lost to the 'Buffs last week weren't any more impressive sneaking past Sacramento St. Is Air Force the best team in the state? Probably, they should do fine in the MWC. Also, dear lord, what is going on at Syracuse, getting massacred at home to Akron. No wonder the Carrier Dome doesn't provide A/C, the fans are probably chilly enough getting the cold shoulder from their players and coaches every week. They are worse off than Temple. They should be kicked out of the Big East for football. Period. Not even Duke looked this pathetic during their down years. Arkansas, Bobby Petrino is not the answer, neither is Casey Dick at QB. Rebuild and go with a bunch of freshman, especially VHT RB De'Anthony Curtis. Florida State, you deserve some short of shaming for starting off your schedule with a bye week and then 2 Div I-AA opponents (although it will help my fantasy team).

Well, that's all, I'm tapped out. Comments, suggestions, etc., please let me know. I should be back tomorrow with your week 3 preview. Take care everyone.

Week 2 Preview

There are 5 things you need to watch out for and be aware of this weekend in college football. So, let's break them down scientifically and then predict the 3 big games for the weekend.

1. Bounce back games: 5 programs who will have it very rough this weekend. Eastern Illinois for starters, who has to travel to Champaign and get whooped by an Illinois squad who will be sure to focus on their spread offense passing game and get Dufrene and Ford plenty of reps on the ground. Texas State, who has to play at SMU and June Jones' offense will be fine tuned and ready to roll with their true freshman QB. The Citadel, who pulled off a great effort on the road in Madison last year against a highly-ranked Wisconsin squad. Can they do that again against Clemson, probably not. Cullen Harper, Aaron Kelly and the dynamic duo of Davis and Spiller who should put up 60 points or more. Tennessee Tech has to play at Louisville, and after the Cardinals got embarrassed on national TV against an arch-rival, they should fire the ball all over the field and scoring at will. Lastly, SE Louisiana, who could stay competitive at Mississippi State if the rains come pouring down like the weatherman predicts. However, even though Sylvester Croom's offense isn't designed for 50+ points a game, this should still be a blowout.

2. Revenge Games Georgia Tech vs. BC The Yellow Jackets were off to a hot start last year but ran into the unlikely ACC buzzsaw known as Matt Ryan and the BC Eagles who destroyed them, 24-10 (much worse than the score indicates). Now, with the new triple-option offense, I think Dwyer and the Ramblin' Wreck could get it done, but we shall see.
Northwestern vs. Duke The Blue Devils snapped a 22-game skid last year in Evanston against the Wildcats and you know superstar TB Tyrell Sutton of NU didn't take that very well, not with his seat on the bench thanks to an injury. Duke is looking to rebuild in a horrible ACC while Northwestern has a soft early schedule and a chance to sneak in the backdoor. I take the Wildcats for the win, although it will be close.
Connecticut at Temple This is the one game last year that proved 100% that replay doesn't always work. Bruce Francis easily had a TD catch in the end zone overruled and it would've capped a colossal upset over the eventual Big East co-champions. The stats were dead even last year, so let's not just assume UConn will rule. I think this game would be huge for a Temple program that is on the rise in the MAC under Al Golden.

3. If You're So Good, Prove It BYU can take a major step forward by crushing Tyrone Willingham and his Washington Huskies in Seattle. The weather will be gorgeous and the Cougars have a dynamic offense which they can put on display against a respectable BCS team (hey, it's not like UW is Syracuse). Both Ole Miss and Wake Forest have something to prove this weekend playing against each other. The Demon Deacons may be the class of the ACC, which isn't saying much, and Texas transfer Jevan Snead wants to prove he belongs with Tebow and Stafford among the best QBs in the SEC. Penn State needs to prove themselves against a top-flight foe, and they have just the opponent in Oregon State this weekend, who is getting overlooked because of a bad loss to a hard-to-predict Stanford squad. The Beavers will be just fine in the long run with all those weapons on offense and now the Nittany Lions can showcase that highly-touted defense on national TV (ABC 3:30 ET). Do I get paid for that plug? Anyways, onto Texas Tech at Nevada, which should be a feeeee-nomenal game. Colin Kaepernick, Luke Lippincott, Marko Mitchell, Graham Harrell, Crabtree, Lewis and Morris at WR for TT!!! Do you know how many teams had double-digit INTs from their defense last year? How about 100. And out of those 100, Nevada wasn't one of them, Phil Steele had their pass defense ranked #79 thanks to his complicated formula which factors in yards per play, TD passes, INTs, and how many yards per game the opposing offense averaged all season. I set the over/under at 84, and trust me, take the over.

4. Underrated Games you should be paying attention to: San Jose St. at Nebraska Don't blame Cal transfer Kyle Reed for his genius head coach Dick Tomey not inserting his best QB into the game until the 2nd half. Also, Reed had no running game to help him, he was the leading rusher. The Spartans have a ton of good WRs and Nebraska can fling it all over the field, should be high-scoring and entertaining.
Rice at Memphis You should watch any game where Jarrett Dillard is playing and his #1 QB, Chase Clement is healthy because they will move the ball downfield and scare the hell out of opposing defenses. It's on CSTV, and Dillard is the most underrated player in all of college football. Just watch, trust me.
Eastern Michigan at Michigan State Since the Big Ten Network needs to show about 5 games from noon (ET) to 3:30, there is always bound to be one game where the severely overmatched MAC, or lower-conference team keeps the game close, and this is it. Andy Schmitt is an underrated QB (14-to-6 TD to INT ratio last year) and has good weapons at WR, with all 4 returning starters in the secondary. I'm not saying the Eagles will win, they will just keep it close for awhile.
San Diego State at Notre Dame Just so you can see how bad these two offenses really are and laugh maniacally at all the money NBC has wasted on its TV contract with the Golden Domers. That's what the Irish get for being racist (see current UW head coach).
Navy at Ball State If this lives up to the hype, both defenses won't show up and Nate Davis will go insane. Also, Shun White had a great game against Towson (the overlooked performance of the week) and the contrast in offenses will be interesting.

5. Upsets Sure to go Wrong: I'm picking these games more because I'd like to see the upset happen, and all of these teams do have a chance.
South Carolina at Vanderbilt The Commodores aren't as bad as everyone thinks, and the Gamecocks only have a good WR (McKinley) and a workhorse, but not great RB, Mike Davis. Vandy meanwhile needs to run more of an Illinois type spread offense, especially with Jeff Jennings at TB and Chris Nickson a versatile weapon at QB when he's on. If DJ Moore can lock up on McKinley and contain him, the 'Dores have an upset in their midst.
New Hampshire at Army I don't need to know much more than what I saw against Temple last week. The Cadets are that bad, and last year's game against Rhode Island is proof of their offensive ineptitude. By changing to a more run-based, option offense, Army didn't do their offenses any favor.
Buffalo at Pittsburgh Naaman Roosevelt is a very good WR who torched UTEP last year and James Starks is one of those, gets a lot of press from the experts, but is still "underrated" to the masses. Also, Drew Willy's maturation has come along quite nicely, so the Bulls could easily take this game, even though it's at Pitt and they will be on alert after losing to Bowling Green last week.
Arkansas at Louisiana-Monroe The Warhawks had only one really bad offensive game last year and that was against Tulsa, but even then RB Calvin Dawson had 150 yards. Dawson is a good dual-purpose tailback and Kinsmon Lancaster has plenty of weapons to throw to, so the Razorbacks should be on their best behavior, especially after the near loss to Western Illinois last week, so much like Pitt they will be aware of a potential upset.

Now it's time for our four major matchups and how each game should play out.
West Virginia vs. East Carolina The marquee game, which ESPN should be thankful for, considering ECU's win over Virginia Tech garnered a lot more press than it deserved. I mean, let's be honest, Glennon isn't really a great QB, he had no weapons, and the defense had what, 4 returning starters? If it wasn't for good coaching by Beamer, the Hokies would have gotten demolished. Noel Devine, Pat White and Jock Sanders will run wild on the Pirates. Sure, ECU will get some points themselves, but after a close-fought first half, WV will roll. West Virginia 37 East Carolina 28
Central Michigan at Georgia Stafford, Moreno and Mohamed Massaquoi will be clicking on offense all year for the Bulldogs, and that's just the start of their offensive firepower. The defense is a little overrated and won't hold up all year, not under their schedule at least. The main point here is, do the Bulldogs step on the gas and make a statement for being dropped from #1 in the polls and roll over the Chippewas, or can Dan LeFevour (the MAC's version of Tim Tebow) keep his team competitive? I think CMU is in the ECU role here, they keep it close, but lose out in the end thanks to superior talent on the opposite side of the field. Georgia 48 CMU 30
Miami (FL) vs. Florida Good returning players on defense, great depth at RB, a stud WR in Sam Shields, but no proven QB. What does this all add up to for the Hurricanes? How about a massive butt-kicking in the Swamp. I wish I could give the 'Canes more credit, seeing as how I hate Florida, but Harvin or not, FL is still way too talented. This is easy. Florida 40 Miami (FL) 13

Ok wow, I'm tapped out, that was long. I guess I will see you all next week for the helmet stickers and game balls for outstanding performances, not to mention kick myself for a few horrible picks. Enjoy the games everybody.

College Football Review Week 1

Stolen straight from ESPN in Bristol, CT and the ever beloved cast of College Gameday Final, it's time for week 1 of the Helmet Stickers (3 per week). It was a crazy weekend in college football, just ask the ACC who was absolutely dreadful. I haven't seen a performance that bad since the last time I saw Halle Berry try to act. You gotta love Hollywood, pay for a nice set of breasts and you're all of a sudden a good actress. Baring all in one movie (for half a million $$) and a wild sex scene in another doesn't hurt her cause either, but I digress. I am really impressed at how this blogspot kept my writing up even after the power went out and I had not yet saved it. Anyhow, onto the stickers, game balls and then random thoughts.

1. This one goes out to all the little guys who fought the good fight against those evil-doers from the larger conferences. Some teams go to Gainesville (Hawaii) or Reno (Grambling) just for a paycheck, while others go to win football games. Delaware and McNeese State fought really hard against Maryland and UNC, two schools with affiliations to that horrifyingly bad ACC. Oh, and for anyone wondering, McNeese and Delaware have strong football traditions, so keeping things close shouldn't have been too much of a shock. Western Illinois also came close against Arkansas, but you know the Leathernecks fans were cursing the opposing QB going, "Man, what a dick," referring to Casey Dick, the Arkansas QB who threw for 318 yards and scored the winning run on a TD. We also have We also have UC Davis, who came so close against San Jose St, but alas, fell 13-10 in the end. Sad, but I believe Rolf Benirschke, former SD Chargers kicker and short-lived host of the syndicated Wheel of Fortune, would be quite proud. What do Chuck Liddell, John Madden and baseball HOFer Ozzie Smith have in common? They should all be celebrating their alma mater's victory over the hopelessly pathetic San Diego State Aztecs. Oh, Marshall Faulk, Darnay Scott and even Dan McGwire (brother of Mark), where have you gone. I'm handing out dual Player of the Game awards to Ramses Braden, who had 7 receptions for 161 yards and a TD, and to K Andrew Gardner, who kicked 2 FGs, one as time expired, to win the game. But, our #1 team has to be Arkansas State, who not only broke in a new school nickname, but Texas A&M's behymen in their 18-14 win in College Station. Aggies you're a disgrace, I don't care if you've beaten the Longhorns a few years in a row, your football program is still a joke.

2. Ok the second sticker goes out to schools that have figured out the most important position in college football, and football in general; QB. When did Vanderbilt have their best year in the last 20? When Jay Cutler was at the helm. Well, now Illinois, who had a massive turnaround with Juice Williams, and Kellen Lewis, a souped up version of Antwaan Randle El (former Hoosier), finally took IU to a bowl game as well. Nate Davis' passing proficiency (and great supporting cast) has turned around Ball State, while Adam DiMichele appears to be doing the same at Temple. Even Chase Clement got Rice to a long awaited bowl game 2 years. Rice!!!!! The team that never wins, even with Trevor Cobb and will-'o-the-wisp QB Bert Emanuel in the 90s. Anyhow, if you want to win, in any major conference, find a good dual-purpose QB. Hell, Seneca Wallace took Iowa State to a bowl game and forced Dan McCarney to abandon his outdated I-option scheme with mediocre talent. Austen Arnaud I believe will do the same before his career is over. Other young studs to watch at this position; Riley Skinner at Wake Forest, who's so much like Jay Barker was at Alabama during his run in the early-to-mid 90s. Both QBs relied on a solid ground game, hard-hitting defense and timely bombs to a dual-purpose FL (David Palmer at 'Bama and Kenny Moore for WF last year). Also, we have TJ Yates, who's just a sophomore at UNC, Donovan Porterie, a talented Jr. at New Mexico, Shea Smith at Air Force, who will run that option to near perfection, Jarod Bryant at Navy (ditto), Andy Schmitt at Eastern Michigan, Kinsmon Lancaster at Louisiana-Monroe, and Michael Desormeaux at Louisiana-Lafayette.

3. Heisman candidates who showed up, even if it were against almost minor league opposition. Stephen McGee, I hope your listening, this is why you'll never be a decent QB. Playing with heart and guts against UT once a year doesn't mean you're good or great. Any crackhead or druggie can stay focused and get enough money to keep his drug habit going, you know what I'm saying? Even losers can find a way to get motivated once in awhile. Anyways, Knowshon Moreno, Beanie Wells (I hope he's ok), Graham Harrell, Michael Crabtree to a small extent, Sam Bradford, Pat White, Tim Tebow, Chase Daniel (who is horribly overrated, just a gimmicky offense), and Matthew Stafford all did well against far inferior opposition. I know I threw Daniel in there, but Illinois didn't have much of a chance of winning that game, not while the officials were fixing it. You had 2 stoppages of play in the first half for no reason that bailed Mizzou out of penalties that would have ended drives or cost them a shot at scoring. Did David Stern all of a sudden take charge of NCAA football. Oh yeah, I forgot PJ Hill, he had a marvelous game against Akron as well.

Ok, game balls go out to my satellite provider, who gave me, hmm, let's see here, 10 games all at the same time (the 11 AM-2:30 PM time frame, prime football viewing; you're not quite stuffed from lunch or snacks, if you like to drink you're not drunk, beautiful stuff). The Big 10 Network had 4 alternate channels going, I mean, how can you pass up an opportunity to see Iowa QB Jake Christensen look horribly average against a Maine Black Bears defense? By the way, I swear he will get a tryout in the NFL because he's white, slow, and therefore a pocket passer. Kellen Lewis and Juice Williams meanwhile will probably be converted into WRs or RBs and KRs. So unfair, damn you racists, work on the kid's accuracy, don't just look at the color of his skin and how fast he is and go, "Oh, you're a QB. Damn son, if you grew up right you'd know blacks don't play QB." Tell that to McNair, McNabb, Culpepper for his great season, Doug Williams and countless others. Also, I love ESPN's coverage, they're always amazing, but CBS please, give up the tennis coverage, we need SEC football on in the afternoon, even if it's Vandy at Ole Miss or some crappy game. I need more football dammit. Anyways, enjoy week 2, take care everyone.
Jon

Preseason CFB Awards

So, since we're about a month away from the start of the college football season, let's hand out some awards. These aren't your usual preseason Heisman, conference champions or major national title contenders, that's too formulaic and easy. Onto the awards...

The Homer Simpson Memorial "Are We There Yet? Are We There Yet? Are We There Yet?" Award- Pat White, QB, West Virginia I love the guy, he's a special talent and will rank among the all-time NCAA leaders for rushing yards by a QB. However, since his amazing freshman season he has been picked as a darkhorse Heisman contender on a team that is always picked as a possible national championship winner. Is this the year Mountaineer fans finally get their prayers answered. The fans have been getting their hopes up and maybe now that Steve Slaton and most of the defense is gone they can put together. It may not make much season, but neither have losses in 2 straight years to unranked teams at home when championships were at stake.

The Hunter Hearst Helmsley Memorial Award- Riley Dodge, QB, North Texas For those that don't know, Helmsley (HHH), of WWE/F fame has been getting heat for years that he only wins major titles because he married the boss' daughter. Well, nepotism always has a place in sports. Enter North Texas, who benefited by getting a top 10 HS QB recruit, Riley Dodge, because his dad coaches at NT. While nothing is 100% yet, he is a mortal lock to be the starting QB on a team that was 2-10 last year and returns superstar wideout Casey Fitzgerald. This reeks worse than the Mitch Mustain era at Arkansas, but who knows, maybe it will work out.

The "Maniac Cop Award"- Ben Mauk, QB, Cincinnati For anyone who has seen these horrible B-horror movies on Showtime, or any other low-budget cable channel at night, you know what I'm talking about. The cop just wouldn't die, and neither will Mauk, who apparently feels he will have to be forcibly removed from the college game before he officially ends his career. I know he's a better-than-average QB, but let's be honest, he screwed himself over by initially enrolling at Wake Forest. I mean, please, he had to have known that was career suicide, lol. Did he learn nothing from CJ Leak? On a personal note, I felt bad for CJ when he blew out his knee at WF, especially with his brother Chris' success at Florida, but still, it's like LeBron James going to college and playing for Akron.

The "Gee, Where Have I Heard That Before?" Award- This goes to 2 talented players, PJ Hill, RB, Wisconsin and Chris "Beanie" Wells, RB, Ohio State I'm tired of people always wanting to compare RBs from these two schools to Ron Dayne or Eddie George. Let's just face facts, these two schools produce RBs that put up a lot of yards; Michael Wiley, Pepe Pearson, Antonio Pittman, Anthony Davis, Michael Bennett. Ok, these schools usually have backs that put up a ton of yards, we get it, but Northern Illinois, Oregon, West Virginia and other schools have been doing the same, they just don't get their players overhyped every year.

The Halle Berry in "Catwoman" Lifetime Achievement Award- This goes to Missouri, Texas Tech and to a lesser extent, Oregon The Halle Berry mentions goes to the fact that sometimes one performance, either memorably bad, or so horribly heartbreaking that the stigma of it can never be erased. I'm sorry but some programs are so used to choking in big games that they just cannot change who they are. I don't care if Missouri has a ton of talent and returning starters, they will get beaten by one of the above A) Illinois in week 1, B) Texas, October 18th C) November 29th vs. Kansas or D) No, not all of the above but, Oklahoma, Texas or whoever they face in the Big 12 title game (assuming they make it there). I know Missouri and I know they couldn't win a big game to save their lives. They are not national title contenders. Texas Tech is good and will always make a bowl game while Mike Leach is coach thanks to their amazingly effective gimmick offense, but they won't ever unseat OU or Texas as Big 12 title contenders. They couldn't do it in a much weaker SWC and they won't now, even with all the hype. Lastly, Oregon, I hate to put them in here, they are such a consistent program, but with Dennis Dixon's injury last year, they are just never meant to be a legitimate national title contender. Dixon should have won the Heisman, faced Ohio State and possibly won the BCS title, but fate intervened. And that's what is going against these programs, fate, see Missouri in 1997 and having to face OU in the Big 12 title game rematch last year for proof.

Ok, we're done for now, maybe we'll present some more later, but those are the select, special few that get preseason awards for the moment. All the other nominees who didn't get selected, enjoy your consolation prizes.

My Surprise Teams

Ok, so last year I got pretty lucky just picking 3 teams. They all made bowl games and all seemed like pretty obvious choices as breakout teams. Indiana was a squad that just needed a few breaks to finally get to their first bowl since 1993. It felt odd picking 2 Big 10 teams, but the Illini had too much talent not to pick them with their highly favorable schedule. Oklahoma State should have been the true breakout squad, but they had some ups and downs and ultimately crushed the Hoosiers in the bowl game.

This year I only have 4 squads who I think could be true breakout squads that I don't see many people picking as making a run at .500 or even bowl games. Some teams I'm picking not because I think they can win their conference or division title in some cases, but merely because I think they are underrated and with the right breaks (see Indiana last year) could make a bowl game. I excluded New Mexico State from consideration because unless they beat New Mexico at home, they should start 1-3 and probably won't make a bowl game. Wake Forest seemed like a sensible pick, but they recently made a BCS bowl, so, I took them out of the running as well. SMU I like, but with June Jones now on board that seems like a bandwagon pick. Anyways, onto the picks...

#4 Temple Owls- I think this is a program that made the right choice by switching to the MAC and playing a relatively easy schedule. They should have beaten UConn last year, had officials made the right call on a TD pass in the end zone; even with replay proving the WRs foot was in bounds, they still missed it. Nonetheless, with Adam DiMichele at QB, this team is finally on the way to respectability. He has all his receivers back, as the team only loses 2 letterman collectively. With Bruce Francis, Jason Harper (moving from RB) and KR specialist Travis Shelton, this team will finally be able to put up points. I only see one truly winnable non-conference game at Army, but UConn at home could be an upset special since they should have beaten them last year. Everything depends on the progression of the defense. Ohio, Akron and Buffalo should be wins in conference play. Also, Miami OH and Eastern Michigan are susceptible and could help pull their record to 6-6, 7-5 with some lucky breaks. This team won't garner any top 25 votes, but a 6-6 record would be considered a major victory for a program on life support recently.

#3 Rice Owls- What is it with the Owls and defense? Rice is very weak defensively, but with 7 returning starters they could pull a 3-9 record up to 7-5, maybe even 8-4 with a road upset (like at UTEP or Vanderbilt). The Owls do have one bright spot on defense, a veteran secondary, and with Ja'Corey Shepard hopefully returning to his regular form, they could surprise many folks in C-USA. And, a good pass defense will be vital with SMU, Tulsa and Houston roaming around in their division. The offense is solid with maybe the best WR in the country in Jarett Dillard catching lots of TDs from Chase Clement. Dillard had 15 straight games with a TD and the attention he commands will only help players like James Casey and Toren Dixon improve every game. Now, if only the running game can find any life, they will be C-USA title contenders. CJ Ugokwe and Justin Hill have talent, but they need to be more consistent. Clement leading the team in rushing again won't help them much in their search for a 2nd bowl in 3 years. The schedule looks tough but beating SMU in week 1 at home could be crucial as the Mustangs adjust to their new offense. Then, 3 straight road games isn't easy, but they should beat Memphis, Vandy is ripe for an upset, and beating North Texas could put them at 3-2 or 4-1 if they're lucky. Coming out with a winning record would mean smooth sailing for a bowl.

#2 Iowa State Cyclones- This pick sounds insane, but it's not like I'm predicting them to win the Big XII North from Kansas or Missouri. I merely have a hunch that they could vault to bowl eligibility thanks to a very easy non-conference schedule. I know they lost to Kent State, but with more focus that shouldn't happen two years in a row. South Dakota St. will be a W, they beat Iowa last year, but probably won't be as easy since they play in Iowa City this year. Another road game at UNLV should put them at 3-1, possibly 4-0 then they get a bye week. Baylor will be an easy W and I think Colorado is on par talent wise. Texas A&M could also be vulnerable since it's homecoming for the Cyclones. I think with Austen Arnaud taking over and being a versatile dual-threat QB they will take off offensively. Marquis Hamilton and RJ Sumrall are underrated, veteran WRs who are capable of big plays. They're 3-deep at RB with JJ Bass, Alexander Robinson and Jason Scales and could help them win a few games they shouldn't. This is a matter of experience breeding success. They have all 4 starters returning in the secondary so they should be solid there, and as long as the LB corps develops nicely, they will be good enough defensively. I know it's a stretch, and probably out of the realm of possibility, but I see their easy schedule early on giving them enough confidence to barely make bowl eligibility.

#1 Ball State Cardinals- This was a team that really broke out last year against Nebraska, beat Navy and played Indiana and Illinois tough late in the season. I don't see why many people are picking them 3rd in the MAC West. Granted, Central Michigan has a ton of talent and should win the division, but the Cardinals could easily hop over Western Michigan for 2nd. All 11 starters return from one of the best offenses anywhere. Nate Davis is an amazing talent at QB who will only get better with Dante Love and TE Darius Hill returning. If HB MiQuale Lewis can return to form from an ACL injury last year they will be even better shape. Once again we encounter a team who's strength is in the secondary as their 3 best players return, accounting for 14 INTs combined. Their LB corps is good enough and with DE Brandon Crawford (8 sacks) they can rush the passer effectively. With their P returning, Ian McGarvey emerging as a solid K and Dante Love an effective KR, even the special teams is well above average. I see games at Central Michigan and Indiana as their toughest tests, along with a home game against Navy (whom they beat last year). I see as many as 10 wins for this mid-major power.

Have a fun year everyone. Enjoy all the games you can watch.
Jon