Legion World Forums LEGION COMPANION The Anywhere Machine LegionWorld College Game Week 2009

It's that time of year, football fans! The temps are getting crisper (someplace anyway ) And the sound of shoulder pads smacking shoulder pads is about to fill air.

That's right, college football marks its triumphant return this weekend to the relief and great anticipation of college football fans everywhere.

Will the Gators win another National Championship in Tebow's final year at Gainesville? Will Notre Dame finally have a season worthy of the hype it always generates? (sorry Cobie! ) Who will be the Cinderella team this year?

It's time to find out!

Hopefully I'll have time to preview the various conferences in the coming days but lets get things rolling right off the bat with this weeks 10 games to predict.

1. South Carolina @ NC State - THURSDAY
2. Oregon (16)@ Boise State (14)- THURSDAY
3. Georgia (13) @ Oklahoma State (9)
4. BYU (20) @ Oklahoma (3)
5. Alabama (5) @ Virginia Tech (7)
6. Maryland @ California (12)
7. Missouri @ Illinois
8. Mississippi @ Memphis - SUNDAY
9. Cincinnati @ Rutgers - MONDAY
10. Miami(FL) @ Florida State - MONDAY

Good luck and be sure to get your predictions in before the start of the first game (9 pm eastern on Thursday)

Lifelong Gamecock fan. Actually sitting here in a Gamecock shirt. Hoping that they will win. But the wolfpack will be tough if Spurrier hasn't prepared the team well.

My picks for this week are as follows:

1. South Carolina @ NC State - THURSDAY ~ Tough choice but I'm going to pick South Carolina on the road. Let's hope I don't have to eat Spurrier's visor!

2. Oregon (16)@ Boise State (14)- THURSDAY ~ Another tough call but I'm going against the odds and picking Boise State to prevail at home and upset Oregon on their way to a BCS bid this year.

3. Georgia (13) @ Oklahoma State (9) ~ I always worry about the Bulldogs but I think the OSU Cowboys have what it takes to win at home and live up to their pre-season hype.

4. BYU (20) @ Oklahoma (3)~ Although this game isn't really at "home" for Okalhoma (The Sooners are playing in the new Dallas Cowboys Stadium in Artlington Texas this game) I don't think it will matter. Oklahoma by at least 10.

5. Alabama (5) @ Virginia Tech (7) ~ This should be an old fashioned slugfest but it's in Blacksburg so I'll give the nod to VTech to survive the Tide.

6. Maryland @ California (12) ~ Cal just might be a contender for the Pac 10 this year so they should easily handle Maryland in their opening game.

7. Missouri @ Illinois ~ New QB at Mizzou versus new offense at Illinois and they look pretty evenly matched on paper. I'm partial to Missouri so I'll pick them to win a squeaker.

8. Mississippi @ Memphis - SUNDAY ~ No question in my mind that Ole Miss takes this one easily although Memphis has made some major improvements.

9. Cincinnati @ Rutgers - MONDAY ~ Both these team are considered contenders for the Big East Title and appear to be fairly evenly matched as well. Since the game is in NJ, I'll take the Rutgers Scarlet Knights.

10. Miami(FL) @ Florida State - MONDAY ~ Everyone is going with the logical pick and selecting FSU at home. Makes sense since the Seminoles are formidable in Tallahassee but I'm a Hurricane through and through so I'm taking the Canes in an upset win.

Poor Sooners. Get that kid a razor.

Missouri beat Illinois but it was hardly a squeaker.

Carolina won, but it highlighted the poor offense. Spurrier said he will be involved more with it this week. My question is, knowing that it was in rough shape before the game the last couple of weeks, why wasn't he more involved THEN?

We keep getting these guys that either haven't proven themselves anywhere else, or are on the downslide and think they are going to bring up the Gamecocks' game, and that isn't the way it works.

They got on Garcia for bailing out of the pocket, but if you looked, there wasn't the best pass protection from the O line. Wasn't all bad, but they weren't stopping penetration before he could finish his progressions.

And then, when he ran, he tried to act like a running back. I though he would get a call at one point for lowering his head.

Love my Gamecocks, but they really need to get their $#!+ together. Tired of them being also rans. They cannot blame it on the fact that they haven't spent enough for players like the other big boys, the stadium sells out each home game.

Congrats, Vee--awesome game! Not particularly a Miami fan, but I definitely hate me some Noles! I was afraid that squib kick would cost the 'Canes. Luckily, FSU's receiver didn't have the best hands.

Don't give up on posting picks...I'll do my damndest to participate next week. Plus, Cobester should also be back and rarin' to go, I'd imagine.

Wow! If anyone missed the Miami/FSU game, you missed one of the best college football games in a long time. Both QBs had tremendous games, there were 6 or 7 lead changes during the game and the final two minutes were amazing with the game being decided on the final second in a nailbiter play the results of which had to be reviewed!!!

That was a classic Canes v Noles battle!

I must admit to being pleased with my results this week. 7 of 10 with some of the against the odds picks I made is a result I'll take anytime. Anyway, here are this weeks 10 games. Hope some others decide to play as well or this could get a little bit boring.

Clemson @ GA Tech (15) - THURSDAY
Iowa (22) @ Iowa State
East Carolina @ West Virginia
Notre Dame (23) @ Michigan
UCLA @ Tennessee
Miss State @ Auburn
South Carolina @ Georgia (13)
USC (4) @ Ohio State (6)
North Carolina @ UConn
Purdue @ Oregon (16)

Lots of lopsided contests this week so it was tough coming up with 10 games that were challenging. Good luck everyone!

I'm back and will try to get some picks in. Saw that Miami / FS game. Wow, one of the best games I've seen in awhile and a helluva way to start the season.

Sucks about the Sooners.

We need Kippers here--the Tide looks ferocious this year.

Week 1 had the typical lopsided powerhouse vs. easy win games that I dislike. This week seems equally off-kilter but I hope we'll see some upsets.

Yes, I was particularly impressed with Florida v Charleston Southern of the mighty Big South Conference.

Good to see you back Cobie! Now get your picks posted!

Note: strikes though the losers

Clemson @ <strike>GA Tech (15)</strike> - THURSDAY
If I were impartial, I'd pick GT, but I won't pick against my Tigers here. I do feel we should have a good shot with our defense and C.J. Spiller at running back.

Iowa (22) @ <strike>Iowa State</strike>
Absolutely no preference, here. I'll go with rank and Iowa's impression after thumping South Carolina in last year's Outback Bowl.

<strike>East Carolina</strike> @ West Virginia
Hard choice here, but I'll go with what I think is the superior program, albeit one in its uncertain post-Rich Rodriguez era.

Notre Dame (23) @ <strike>Michigan</strike>
Very tough pick! Neither played a premier team last week, so I don't really know their identities yet. Both could be huge flops or BCS contenders! I'll go with Notre Dame and their retuning starters. Plus, I kinda want ND to matter again some, as a college football fan.

UCLA @ <strike>Tennessee</strike>
Can't stand Lane Kiffin! I'd like nothing more than to see him get a black eye from UCLA this weekend!

Miss State @ <strike>Auburn</strike>
Auburn made a huge mistake canning Tommy Tuberville.

<strike>South Carolina</strike> @ Georgia (13)
Neither team looked good last week, but SC's offense was PITIFUL! SC's D will keep it close, but it won't be enough.

USC (4) @ <strike>Ohio State (6)</strike>
Pete Carroll's USC team always rises to the occasion in the biggest games. When they lose, it's the one you don't expect. USC will win.

North Carolina @ <strike>UConn</strike>
I'm hoping UNC will help show that the ACC has good football teams that can win.

<strike>Purdue</strike> @ Oregon (16)
I think Oregon will bounce back from last week's upset loss.

Here I go (in brief, damn work taking up my time):

(1) Georgia Tech over Clemson – I kind of route for Clemson now because of Lardy (like I root for the Crimson Tide, Penn State and the Sooner for some other friends or posters), but I think GT is a good team and they’ll want to do what it takes to win this one.

(2) Iowa over Iowa State – I have the feeling Iowa is the better team but I think this one will be closer than analysts will predict. If Iowa State pulled this off, I wouldn’t be shocked.

(3) West Virginia over East Carolina – West Virginia has been really good these last few years and I think that will continue this year albeit to a lesser degree. Still strong enough to bump off East Carolina though.

(4) Notre Dame over Michigan – Vee knows that if he puts in ND or UCONN I will pick them even if they have bad seasons . However, I do think ND will have a good season this year and I desperately want them to beat Michigan to set the tempo.

(5) Tennessee over UCLA – I actually think this will be Lane Kiffin’s big debut game this year, and even though its not Oakland, its still a CA team he’s playing. I feel like this game will matter to him personally and he’ll be pushing

(6) Auburn over Miss State – this is the hardest one for me to pick, but I’m going Auburn.

(7) Georgia over South Carolina – Georgia will eventually be playing as good as they are this year but South Carolina always gives them a tough game. Should be close.

(8) USC over Ohio State – I have no great love for USC, and in fact, usually root for them to lose, but I like Ohio State even less. I feel like Ohio State is going to get a beating by USC in this one. BTW, great analysis Lardy about USC always losing when you don’t expect it. Also, I hope Penn State beats Ohio State soon after this game.

(9) UCONN over NC – Per Vee’s devious plan, I’ll probably lose this one, but I’m hoping UCONN pulls off an upset and smacks around NC. Especially since NC’s “big win” over the Citadel last week came as no surprise to anyone and that 40-6 score deserves revenge.

(10) Oregon over Purdue – I think Oregon has something to prove after last week and needs to do it NOW.

Other Random Thoughts
- I’d love it if Wyoming upset Texas to get Texas as messed up as Oklahoma is right now.
- Syracuse has something to prove after their loss last week but I don’t think they’ll do it against Penn State.
- A lot of eyes will be on Oklahoma to see how they do without Bradford. I think they’ll likely beat Idaho St.

Dooooooohhhhh! Cobie finally figured out my nefarious scheme!

Clemson @ GA Tech (15) - THURSDAY ~ This si always a tough game but I think Georgia Tech has the advantage this year.

Iowa (22) @ Iowa State ~ Iowa is definitely a strong team this year but the Cyclones always give them a tussle. Since it's at Iowa State I'm going out on a limb and calling for an upset by the Cyclones this week.

East Carolina @ West Virginia ~ The Mountaineers have a new coach but still have a great deal of talent. I don't think the Pirates can beat them in Morgantown.

Notre Dame (23) @ Michigan ~ Hate to say it ( ) but I think the irish have a real shot this year and Michigan still looks a bit confused. Yes Cobie, i picked Notre Dame!

UCLA @ Tennessee ~ Both teams had high expectations last year and failed to live up to them so both will be looking to get back on track. I think home field advantage will be the determining factor in this one so I'm taking the Vols.

Miss State @ Auburn ~ Miss State has really improved over the past few years. I'm taking them over Auburn because I think they have the better team.

South Carolina @ Georgia (13) ~ After last week's games, both teams have a lot to prove. Georgia has more talent on both sides of the field so shoul be able to pull this one off.

USC (4) @ Ohio State (6) ~ Can I just quote Cobie here? "I have no great love for USC, and in fact, usually root for them to lose, but I like Ohio State even less." Guess I have to say "Go Trojans!"

North Carolina @ UConn ~ As Cobie well knows, I've been a big fan of UConn for quite some time. If this were in Chapel Hill I would grudgingly pick UNC but it's in Stors so I'm going with the Huskies.

Purdue @ Oregon (16) ~ Oregon got embarrassed on national TV last week. The Boilermakers better look out because the Ducks will be loaded for bear and I doubt Purdue can handle them.

Re: Clemson/GT

...ugh...

'nuff said

Toledo beat Colorado??!!!! Wow!

Now that's got to be the upset of the week

I'm watching college game day and was reminded about last year's Miss State /Auburn game that was 3-2. Man that was bad. I expect this game to be more high-flying.

...and Central Michigan just beat Michigan State in a great game.

As I recall, Week 2 last year saw a number of major upsets. Wonder if this year will follow form.

Man, I had an abysmal Week 2 with my picks! I should know that Notre Dame will always do me wrong!

After two weeks here are the standings:

Cobie 70% (7/10)
Lardy 70% (7/10
Vee 60% (12/20)

Grats to both Cobie and Lardy for a good week.

Here are the AP Top 25 after Week 2...

* 1.Florida (56)
* 2.Texas (1)
* 3.USC (1)
* 4.Alabama (2)
* 5.Penn St.
* 5.Mississippi
* 7.BYU
* 8.California
* 9.LSU
* 10.Boise St.
* 11.Ohio St.
* 12.Oklahoma
* 13.Virginia Tech
* 14.Georgia Tech
* 15.TCU
* 16.Oklahoma St.
* 17.Cincinnati
* 18.Utah
* 19.Nebraska
* 20.Miami (FL)
* 21.Houston
* 22.Kansas
* 23.Georgia
* 24.North Carolina
* 25.Michigan

And here are the 10 games for Week 3.

Georgia Tech @ Miami - THURSDAY
Louisville @ Kentucky
Boston College @ Clemson
Michigan State @ ND
Utah @ Oregon
Nebraska @ Virginia Tech
Florida State @ BYU
West Virginia @ Auburn
Georgia @ Arkansas
Texas Tech @ Texas

This promises to be a much better week as far as much ups with some pretty interesting games. Please make sure to get your picks in before game time for the Georgia Tech-Miami game on Thursday.

<strike>Georgia Tech</strike> @ Miami
If Miami's really for real, they've gotta win this one. I'm guessing they will. Tech was lucky to get by Clemson after blowing that huge lead. I think Clemson exposed Tech's weaknesses for their opponents to exploit.

<strike>Louisville</strike> @ Kentucky
Both teams are kinda off the radar so far this year, so I don't have a feel for them yet...don't even know their records. I'll go with the home team and the SEC over the Big East by default.

<strike>Boston College</strike> @ Clemson
BC ain't what they were. Their best players have left for the NFL. Hopefully, Clemson won't eff this one up!

<strike>Michigan State</strike> @ ND
Home game should be what the doctor ordered for ND after that heartbreaking loss last week. With what happened to the Spartans last week, if the Irish lose this one, Chuck Weiss is not long for his job.

Utah @ <strike>Oregon</strike>
Utah had an unimpressive win last week, but ya gotta figure the chaps who kicked the crap outta 'Bama last January have got a little somethin'-somethin' for the reeling Ducks.

<strike>Nebraska</strike> @ Virginia Tech
Gotta think Beamer and the Hokies will circle the wagons on the 'Huskers at home.

<strike>Florida State</strike> @ BYU
Will the Noles drop to a rare -2 start? Why yes they will to the red-hot BYU team still out to prove themselves to the world!

<strike>West Virginia</strike> @ Auburn
Well, maybe the Tuberville-less Tigers got a little somethin' after all!

<strike>Georgia</strike> @ Arkansas
I think home field was all that saved the Bulldogs last week. If Petrino's worth his salt, he'll exploit all the weaknesses that were exposed last week. Could be a looong year for Georgia fans!

<strike>Texas Tech</strike> @ Texas
I'd like to see Colt McCoy contend for a national championship this year. Gotta roll over the Red Raiders first.

Hmm. Hopefully, my dominantly home team inclinations this week won't come back to bite me in the ass! (most worried about Arkansas, ND & especially Clemson for obvious reasons! )

Georgia Tech @ Miami - THURSDAY ~ Miami at home should carry the day.

Louisville @ Kentucky ~ These intrastate rivals all go all out when facing each other. Lopsided victories against Indiana State and Miami (Ohio) respectively don't really tell us much about either team. I'm going with Kentucky at home.

Boston College @ Clemson ~ Not sure which way to go with this pick. Clemson had a tough loss last week against Georgia Tech but BC has yet to be face a decent team. My gut tells me BC will pull this one out so I'll go with that.

Michigan State @ ND ~ Ugh, ND lost a heart breaker against Michigan last week but the Spartans' loss to the Central Michigan Chippewas was even worse. However, ND always messes me up when I pick them so I'll take the Spartans in an upset at South Bend.

Utah @ Oregon ~ Oregon has failed to impress me this year and Utah continues to roll. Utah wins.

Nebraska @ Virginia Tech ~ Nebraska has had an easy run so far facing Florida Atlantic and Arkansas State while VA Tech has been facing Alabama and Marshall. The Huskers will get taken to the woodshed in Blacksburg.

Florida State @ BYU ~ This game should tell us which of these teams is for real. FSU lost a great game against Miami in the opener and BYU beat Oklahoma by 1. Since the game is in Utah, I'm taking BYU at home.

West Virginia @ Auburn ~ Auburn has won me over and should be able to beat WVU at home.

Georgia @ Arkansas ~ This could be a tough game but I really think the 'Dogs will prevail on the road.

Texas Tech @ Texas ~ This was one of the best games of the season last year but Texas Tech lost much more to the pros in the draft and will be hard pressed to beat Texas. Texas wins at home.

Miami tonight, will do others when have a moment. I feel pike this is Miami's year to return to the elite after that game vs FSU.

I'm literally running a million miles a minute at work, so I'll have to be brief:

Kentucky

Boston College (sorry Lardy)

ND - you did this to me on purpose Vee . The Spartans have never EVER let me down when I pick them. But if ND wins and I didn't pick them, I'd be a traitor *and* a loser; can't have that. Lets see it Irish.

Utah

Virginia Tech - Nebraska is one of those teams always given credit than they deserve every year out of nostalgia for the past; hopefully that will change--but not this year.

BYU - I think we're all hoping something special happens with Brigham Young this year.

Auburn

Georgia

Texas - I also wish Texas Tech would upset them but they lost so many players from last year that it probably won't happen now. But I expect the Red Raiders to be dangerous again within a season or two.

Yay! I'm 7-3 again, but I'm especially stoked about my Tigers taking down BC! In your face, fellas!!!

One lesson learned for all of us, however: Don't fall in love with the Cinderella teams of Utah--that carriage has officially turned into a pumpkin!

And regarding the NCAA's marquee upset this week, let us be reminded of some sage words we heard last week:

Yuh-HUH!

Yea, that USC loss was a plesant surprise.

How 'bout that ND game? What a great game! What a great win! A hard fought victory, indeed. Bring on USC in a few weeks

After three weeks here are the standings:

Cobie 70% (14/20)
Lardy 70% (14/20)
Vee 60% (18/30)

Damn ND screws with me again!

Grats Cobie and Lardy with another 7-3 week each!

And here are the newest rankings...

AP Top 25

* 1.Florida (55)
* 2.Texas (2)
* 3.Alabama (3)
* 4.Mississippi
* 5.Penn St.
* 6.California
* 7.LSU
* 8.Boise St.
* 9.Miami (FL)
* 10.Oklahoma
* 11.Virginia Tech
* 12.USC
* 13.Ohio St.
* 14.Cincinnati
* 15.TCU
* 16.Oklahoma St.
* 17.Houston
* 18.Florida St.
* 19.BYU
* 20.Kansas
* 21.Georgia
* 22.North Carolina
* 23.Michigan
* 24.Washington
* 25.Nebraska

Miami moved up to 9th after defeating FSU and Georgia Tech in the first two games but now must face Virginia Tech (11) and then Oklahoma (10 in the next two weeks. Talk about a tough schedule to open the season!

Sure seems like Washington should have been ranked higher that 24 after taking out USC.

USC fell all the way to 12th.

South Florida QB Matt Grothe, a terrific player that's led that team to extraordinary success over the past two seasons, including a #2 ranking at one point last year, suffered a sever ACL tear in his left knee and will be out for the rest of the year. This was his senior year and sadly the injury came in the second quarter of a meaningless game against Charleston Southern. Sad news.

I'll post this weeks ten games later.

And here are the ten games for this week...

1. Mississippi @ South Carolina ~ THURSDAY
2. Michigan State @ Wisconsin
3. LSU @ Miss State
4. North Carolina @ Georgia Tech
5. UCF @ East Carolina
6. Miami @ Virginia Tech
7. Cal @ Oregon
8. Arkansas @ Alabama
9. Iowa @ Penn State
10. Washington @ Stanford

I hope everyone who's viewed this topic knows that they can jump in, make picks and comment all they want to. This thread's open to everyone!

Yep, the more the merrier!

Here are my picks for this week. Don't forget to post your picks before the start of the game on Thursday!

1. Mississippi @ South Carolina - THURSDAY ~ All the odds I've seen show Mississippi losing to South Carolina by about 3 points which makes some sense sine it is on the Gamecocks' home turf. And yet, I think Ole Miss is a much better team than SC, so I'm picking the Rebels.

2. Michigan State @ Wisconsin ~ Michigan State is coming off two tough losses, first against Central Michigan in a week 2 shocker and then a close one last week against Notre Dame. Wisconsin has yet to face a top notch team but they are playing at home. I'll go with a the Spartans looking for redemption.

3. LSU @ Miss State ~ I'm not a big fan of LSU but I think they should be able to handle this road game aginst Miss State.

4. North Carolina @ Georgia Tech ~ After the loss to Miami on national TV, the Yellow Jackets should be loaded for bear. Although the Tar Heels beat East Carolina last Saturday, they struggled for a big part of the game against what should have been an easy opponent for them. With the game in Atlanta, I'll give the edge to Georgia Tech.

5. UCF @ East Carolina ~ UCF has yet to face an opponent of the Pirates' caliber. Both teams open up their Conf USA schedule with this game and ECU has something to prove after the disappointing loss to UNC last weekend. I'll be rooting for UCF but betting on the Pirates to win.

6. Miami @ Virginia Tech ~ Game 3 of a 4 game gauntlet like no one else has faced this season. Miami is looking to keep it's win streak and Top 20 ranking alive but must do it against ACC rival Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, never friendly territory for the Canes. Of the first four games, this is the one that worried me miost before the start of the season when I said I would be happy to go 2-2 in this stretch. Gotta take Miami though. Go Canes!

7. Cal @ Oregon ~ The Bears are coming off fairly easy win at Minnesota while the Ducks found redemption last week by beating a highly ranked Utah team. Although I believe Cal has the better talent, they could very well be looking ahead to their next game against USC and may be caught flatfooted against Oregon. I'll take the Ducks to pull out a close one at home.

8. Arkansas @ Alabama ~ Although the razorbacks have been impressive, Alabama is as tough as they come and this game is at home for the Tide. I'll take 'Bama.

9. Iowa @ Penn State ~ Although I think the Nittany Lions will win, I think Iowa will give them a real battle. Penn State at home for the win.

10. Washington @ Stanford ~ The Huskies showed that they can play in the big leagues last week by upsetting USC. Now they have to play an equally dangerous team that's been flying under the radar. Whoever wins this game takes sole possiession of the top spot in the Pac 10 and I'm afraid Washington may still be enjoying their win against the Trojans instead of worrying about the Cardinal. I'll tale Stanford at home.

1. <strike>Mississippi</strike> @ South Carolina
Last year, the Gamecocks spoiled Ole Miss's afterglow the week after the Rebs had beaten Florida. I think they'll have an even tougher time at Williams-Brice despite the high ranking.

2. <strike>Michigan State</strike> @ Wisconsin
Is Mich. State really that bad this year? Here's where we find out. I think the home team takes it.

3. LSU @ <strike>Miss State</strike>
LSU's on the way back up. I think they take it to Miss State.

4. <strike>North Carolina</strike> @ Georgia Tech
BIG matchup in the ACC, for sure. I like the Ramblin' Wreck at home.

5. <strike>UCF</strike> @ East Carolina
No clear preference here, so the home team gets the nod.

6. Miami @ <strike>Virginia Tech</strike>
Here's where Miami proves it's really back.

7. <strike>Cal</strike> @ Oregon
Should be a good game, but home field will give the Ducks the intangibles they need to pull another upset.

8. <strike>Arkansas</strike> @ Alabama
The Tide will drown the Razorbacks. It won't even be close.

9. <strike>Iowa</strike> @ Penn State
Home field's too big of an advantage for PSU here.

10. Washington @ <strike>Stanford</strike>
Washington will prove it wasn't a one-week wonder.

This week could really put me in the toilet! The only pick I feel really solid on is Alabama. We'll see how the Gamecocks will set the tone for me Thursday...

This week looks like the one that'll knock me for a loop. Here I go:

1. Ole Miss over South Carolina - this is one I think can go 50/50. I love Old Miss and their traditions so I'm going with them, though I'm not sure they deserve that high ranking. But I'm not sure South Carolina is good enough to prove it otherwise.

2. Michigan State over Wisconsin – The Spartans are a tough team and way better than how they look on paper right now. After a tough loss last week, its time to remind everyone that.

3. LSU over Miss State – LSU should win this one, and I’m predicting they do so big.

4. Georgia Tech over North Carolina – I think GT is just the better team here and they’re playing in their house, but this should be a good game.

5. East Carolina over UCF – This is another one with teams I’m not all that knowledgeable this year, so go with home team.

6. Miami over Virginia Tech – I’m buying into the Hurricanes gravy train, and am excited they might make a run for it. VT won’t be a pushover though, so I actually hope I can find this one on television.

7. Oregon over Cal – Cal is one of those teams that has all the talent but I think just gets more credit they deserve. On the other hand, the Ducks have to fight for every single inch of respect they get, and I like that about them. I’d like to see them continue from last week.

8. Alabama over Arkansas – ROLL TIDE!!! (for you, Kippers!)

9. Penn State over Iowa – not only do I have my good friends who work for Penn State, I have my old roommate and her boyfriend going to be there this weekend for College Gameday. Should be awesome, and I expect Penn State to beat them and beat them hard, after last year’s upset. Trust me, they have not forgot it and won’t shut up about it for the last year.

10. Stanford over Washington – Yet another I could easily be wrong about, but I’m gong with Stanford. I like Washington’s victory over USC last week—actually was cheering for them—but I feel they won’t be riding high much longer.

Carolina beat #4 at home. OH HELL YEAH WITH A SUGAR COATED LOLLIPOP!

GO COCKS!

YEAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH BABYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!

Well that's a poor start to my selections this week. Oh well, 1 down, 9 to go.

Grats to Lardy for picking the Gamecocks and to rickshaw for a fun win for his team. I'll bet that was a nerve racking 4th quarter to watch. Almost as if a completely different Rebel team came out onto the field for the last 15 minutes.

Yeah, I put my neck out their for the Cocks, and they didn't let me down! They finally nearly played up to their potential on both sides of the ball, especially defensively.

I went to Clemson, and they're number one with me. But I always root for the Cocks unless the two teams are playing each other. This goes back to high school when I struggled over which school to attend. It was a close decision then, and I have never forgotten that.

That said, I didn't pick Carolina just as a homer call at all. I knew they could beat Ole Miss (as they did last year) if they played as well as they could. Plus, I felt the Rebs were definitely ranked to high for what they've proven so far, which was nothing!

Now, I'm hoping the same plays out with Clemson and TCU Saturday. Though Vee didn't pick this matchup, I feel it should be a good one. I feel like Clemson should win this one just as Carolina should have won (and did win) tonight.

Yeah, it did seem like a different team showed up in the fourth, but I have to say that even though that little fellow for Ole Miss was fast, our defense got their second wind at exactly the right time.

Lardy, Yeah, Sweeney should have Clemson ready for TCU. But they should be a pretty tough team none the less.

Sorry bout Clemson, Lardy. I pull for them when they aren't playing USC. I thought they had a chance against TCU but they really stalled out at the end.

After three weeks here are the standings:

Cobie 67% (20/30)
Lardy 70% (21/30)
Vee 60% (24/40)

And here are the newest rankings...

AP Top 25

* 1.Florida (55)
* 2.Texas (1)
* 3.Alabama (3)
* 4.LSU
* 5.Boise St.
* 6.Virginia Tech
* 7.USC
* 8.Oklahoma
* 9.Ohio St.
* 10.Cincinnati
* 11.TCU
* 12.Houston
* 13.Iowa
* 14.Oklahoma St.
* 15.Penn St.
* 16.Oregon
* 17.Miami (FL)
* 18.Kansas
* 18.Georgia
* 20.BYU
* 21.Mississippi
* 22.Michigan
* 23.Nebraska
* 24.California
* 25.Georgia Tech

I know Carolina isn't in the top 25, but I can't find a ranking for them anywhere.

Rick, South Carolina comes in at 28th in the AP poll (Missouri & Auburn are 26 & 27) and they are 29th in the USA Today Poll (behind Georgia Tech, South Florida, and Auburn)

The ten games for Week 5 are as follows:

Clemson @ Maryland
East Carolina @ Marshall
Michigan @ Michigan State
UCLA @ Stanford
NC State @ Wake Forest
LSU @ Georgia
Penn State @ Illinois
Auburn @ Tennessee
Oklahoma @ Miami
USC @ California

Please be sure to get your picks in before the start of the first game on Saturday.

Thanks Vee. 'preciate it. Couldn't find it anywhere. Not as bad as I thought, not as good as I hoped. Watching panthers lose right now, unfortunately.

Clemson @ Maryland- clemson over terps
East Carolina @ Marshall- Marshall over pirates
Michigan @ Michigan State- Michigan
UCLA @ Stanford- UCLA
NC State @ Wake Forest- NC state
LSU @ Georgia- LSU
Penn State @ Illinois- Penn
Auburn @ Tennessee- Auburn
Oklahoma @ Miami- Oklahoma
USC @ California- Gonna go with Cal

Welcome to the game rickshaw! Good luck

Clemson @ Maryland ~ I'll take Clemson even though the game is in College Park. Maryland has been disappointing this year and Clemson is the tougher squad.

East Carolina @ Marshall ~ I've been a fan of Marshall for some time. They are one of those teams that fly under the radar. Marshall at home for the win over the Pirates.

Michigan @ Michigan State ~ I wish I knew which version of both of these teams will be playing this Saturday. That being said, I'll take Michigan State at home and cross my fingers.

UCLA @ Stanford ~ The Bruins have had an off week to preapre and the Cardinal are coming off their big victory against Washington. Tough call but I'll take UCLA.

NC State @ Wake Forest ~ Highest rank ACC offense (WF) against best ACC defense (NCState) plus two great QBs should make for a fun game to watch. I'll take Riley Skinner & the Deamon Deacons at home to barely outlast the Wolfpack attack.

LSU @ Georgia ~ The Bulldogs been very very good to me I'll stick with them against the Bengal Tigers.

Penn State @ Illinois ~ The Fightin Illini are a tough, tough team but I can't see Paterno's boys lossing two in a row to Iowa and Illinois. I'll take PSU.

Auburn @ Tennessee ~ Auburn comes into the game 4-0 while Tennessee is an average 2-2. I believe Auburn is the better team but you have to be alot better to survive playing in Knoxville. I'll take the Vols at home.

Oklahoma @ Miami ~ Bradford will not play the say but the backup QB at Oklahome may be just as good. Still, I believe my Hurricanes will prevail against the Sooners.

USC @ California ~ Tough call. Both suffered surprising losses while ranked in the top 5. Who will handle it better? Your guess is as good as mine. I'll take USC to win.

Clemson @ <strike>Maryland</strike>
Hopefully, this isn't the point where Friedgen rallies his team with their backs against the wall.

East Carolina @ <strike>Marshall</strike>
Not familiar with Marshall this year, but ECU's been very game with bigger programs recently. I'll give them the edge.

Michigan @ <strike>Michigan State</strike>
The Spartans may very well win this one, but they haven't shown much of anything thus far.

<strike>UCLA</strike> @ Stanford
No clue! I'll go with the home team here as you never know what UCLA team is gonna show!

<strike>NC State</strike> @ Wake Forest
Wake isn't quite the same team from the past few years, but I gotta think they'll have something in store for the Wolfpack.

<strike>LSU</strike> @ Georgia
Georgia has strengthened after a shaky start, and I think LSU's not as good as their ranking and undefeated record might indicate.

<strike>Penn State</strike> @ Illinois
The Illini under Zook have come up with a few home upsets. I think we'll see another here, especially since I think PSU's overrated.

<strike>Auburn</strike> @ Tennessee
Should be a really good game and a chance to see what both teams are made of. I think Lane's dad Monty's D will have something for the Tigers O.

<strike>Oklahoma</strike> @ Miami
Another 'what they're made of' game. I think the Canes will be too strong at home for the Bradford-less Sooners. If not, I may not pick the Canes again after this!

USC @ <strike>California</strike>
Cal proved they're overrated last week. I expect USC to show up and serve notice like they always do in big games.

Tryin to get this in after traveling all week:

Clemson

Marshall

michigan state

stanford

Wake forest

LSU

Penn State

Auburn

Oklahoma

USC

Yeehaw!

Go Canes!

To have gone 3-1 in the first four games this season is quite an accomplishment. Many predicted Miami could be 0-4 at this point and I would have been satisfied to have us come out of this at 2-2.

It's all about the "U"!

After five weeks here are the standings:

Cobie 67% (27/40)
Lardy 65% (26/40)
rickshaw1 30% (3/10)
Vee 58% (29/50)

And here are the newest rankings...

AP Top 25

* 1.Florida (54)
* 2.Texas (1)
* 3.Alabama (5)
* 4.LSU
* 5.Virginia Tech
* 6.Boise St.
* 7.USC
* 8.Cincinnati
* 9.Ohio St.
* 10.TCU
* 11.Miami (FL)
* 12.Iowa
* 13.Oregon
* 14.Penn St.
* 15.Oklahoma St.
* 16.Kansas
* 17.Auburn
* 18.BYU
* 19.Oklahoma
* 20.Mississippi
* 21.Nebraska
* 22.Georgia Tech
* 23.South Florida
* 24.Missouri
* 25.South Carolina

Here are the ten games for this week.

Nebraska (23) @ Missouri ~ THURSDAY
Boston College @ Virginia Tech (5)
Connecticut @ Pitt
Alabama (3) @ Mississippi (21)
West Virginia @ Syracuse
Wisconsin @ Ohio State(9)
Maryland @ Wake Forest
Utah @ Colorado State
Florida (1) @ LSU (4)
Michigan (22) @ Iowa (13)

Please note that there is a Thursday night game in the group this week so make sure that you get your selections posted before the start of the game on Thursday evening (9pm eastern)

Good luck all!

And now you know why I don't bet on games, lol. I was guessing on most and the Clemson game...I shoulda known.

So,

Nebraska
Virginia
Pitt
Alabama
Syracuse
Ohio State
Maryland
Utah
Florida
Iowa

Note, these may be revised before thurs.

Mizz - but the QB will throw his first interception (side bet? )

Virginia Tech

UCONN - Pitt is the team I hate the most of all UCONN's enemies

Alabama

West Virginia- toss up for UCONN's enemies but I think West Virginia is better, even away

Ohio State

Wake Forest - just like Kirk Herbstreet, I'm really big on Wake Forest. I like these guys and their program has come a long away, just like UCONN's, another basketball school.

Utah - both teams are pretty unimpressive thus far, but Utah looks better. Home advantage won't come into play here as much as in other places.

LSU - this is the hardest one to pick of course, but a few things: night game at Tiger Stadium; no Tebow; Florida needs to get a loss out of the way anyway as I doubt any major team will go undefeated this year. Still, should be a really great game.

Iowa - I watched that Penn State game and Iowa is pretty damn good. Better than they get credit for, and they're actually getting a good amount of credit. Meanwhile, Michigan isn't terrible, but they're not exactly a premier team again yet. That Michigan name always gives them more leeway but even though they beat ND, they didn't look spectacular. Plus, I want Iowa to kick their asses so they lose two in a row.

Ummm, heard on ESPN sports where Meyers is saying Tebow is good to go. Don't know if the docs have cleared him yet, but they are banking on it from what I can tell.

I was thinking bout changing the Mary/Wake game, its why I was not setting it completely yet, but I think I am gonna stick with the terps. Don't ask me why. I just think that the Clemson win is gonna pull them together a little more, and for all its improvement, wake is still a small college football program. Don't know if its ready for prime time yet.

Local sports stations are reporting that Tebow dressed for practice yesterday but they still have not allowed him to take part in contact drills.

Urban Meryes would be foolish to play him agianst LSU on Saturday, IMO. He's already taken a great deal of heat for having him in the game that late as it is. God forbid he puts him in too early and Tebow gets hurt again.

Fact is, Tebow is unlikely to be 100% recovered and while he might be good enough to play, he won't be Tebow. Urban would probably rather have the excuse that Tebow didn't play if they lose than lose with Tebow in the game and have to admit that he wasn't ready to come back yet.

Nebraska (23) @ Missouri - THURSDAY ~ I still think Nebraska is living off of their rep more than they deserve. I'll take Mizzou at home.

Boston College @ Virginia Tech (5) ~ I'll be rooting every week for someone in the ACC to beat VTech but I don't think it will be BC in Blacksburg. I'll have to take the Hokies at home.

Connecticut @ Pitt ~ As much as I like UConn, Pitt is much improved and I think they'll prevail against the Huskies.

Alabama (3) @ Mississippi (21) ~ Tough call. Ole Miss has really impressed me this year but I think 'Bama is still too tough for them.

West Virginia @ Syracuse ~ Syracuse still has a long way to go. WVU will take this one fairly easily I think.

Wisconsin @ Ohio State(9) ~ I wish this game was at Wisconsine but at Ohio State I'll have to pick the Buckeyes.

Maryland @ Wake Forest ~ Wake Forest is the better team with the better offense & QB. Maryland has been too inconsistent. I'll take WF for the win.

Utah @ Colorado State ~ The Rams are always tough at home and always manage a few upsets but I think the Utes will carry the day.

Florida (1) @ LSU (4) ~ Whether or not Tebow plays, there have been too many distractions in Gainesville because of his injury and speculation conerning whether he'll play or not. LSU has the talent to match up with Florida. I'll take LSU in an upset.

Michigan (22) @ Iowa (13) ~ After seeing Iowa in two games, I think they have enough skill to beat anyone in the conference. Michigan just isn't up to par yet so I'll take the Hawkeyes at home.

Nebraska (23) @ <strike>Missouri</strike>
This was actually the toughest for me to pick. I don't know much about Mizzou in the post-Chase Daniel era. Mostly I'm going by my lingering memory of the 'Huskers' victory against my Tigers in the Gator Bowl last season as my gut feeling.

<strike>Boston College</strike> @ Virginia Tech (5)
It won't even be close.

Connecticut @ <strike>Pitt</strike>
Not impressed at all with Pitt under Wannstadt.

Alabama (3) @ <strike>Mississippi (21)</strike>
The Tide is the superior team here by a mile.

West Virginia @ <strike>Syracuse</strike>
Things are looking up for the Orange somewhat, but the Mountaineers should pull it off. This could end up a signature win for the 'Cuse, though.

<strike>Wisconsin</strike> @ Ohio State(9)
Wisconsin could very well take this one. It might be close, but I think the Buckeyes' home field advantage will pull them through.[/i]

<strike>Maryland</strike> @ Wake Forest
Yeah, they beat my Tigers last week, but the Terps should have their hands full away against the Deacs.

Utah @ <strike>Colorado State</strike>
If the Utes wanna have any credibility left, they gotta take care of this team.

<strike>Florida (1)</strike> @ LSU (4)
Tebow's status is still in the air. If he plays will he really be Tebow? If not, what's his backup got? Either way, I don't think the offense will click as well. I like LSU at home for the upset.

<strike>Michigan (22)</strike> @ Iowa (13)
The Wolverines are much improved over last year, but the Hawkeyes are better and have home field to put them over the top.

EDITED DUE TO ERRORS IN CLARIFYING PICKS--Lardy

Congrats to all the participants this week for such tremendous results!

rickshaw1 - 80%
Lard Lad - 80%
Vee - 80%
Cobie - 70%

After six weeks here are the standings:

Cobie 74% (37/50)
Lardy 68% (34/50)
rickshaw1 55% (11/20)
Vee 62% (37/60)

I'll post the newest AP ranking as soon as they are announced

Here are the latest rankings. I'll get the ten games of the week up later tonight or tomorrow.


AP Top 25
* 1.Florida (50)
* 2.Alabama (10)
* 3.Texas
* 4.Virginia Tech
* 5.Boise St.
* 6.USC
* 7.Ohio St.
* 8.Cincinnati
* 9.Miami (FL)
* 10.LSU
* 11.Iowa
* 12.TCU
* 13.Oregon
* 14.Penn St.
* 15.Nebraska
* 16.Oklahoma St.
* 17.Kansas
* 18.BYU
* 19.Georgia Tech
* 20.Oklahoma
* 21.South Florida
* 22.South Carolina
* 23.Houston
* 24.Utah
* 25.Notre Dame

Here are the ten games for this week. Good luck to all. This is going to be a difficult week with tough match ups and significant games.

1. Cincinnati (8) @ South Florida (21) - THURSDAY
2. Pittsburgh @ Rutgers - FRIDAY
3. Wake Forest @ Clemson
4. Iowa (11) @ Wisconsin
5. Oklahoma (20) @ Texas (3)
6. South Carolina (22) @ Alabama (2)
7. USC (6) @ Notre Dame
8. California @ UCLA
9. Texas Tech @ Nebraska (15)
10.Virginia Tech (5) @ Georgia Tech (19)

Hmmm, Okay...


1. Cincinnati (8) @ South Florida (21) Goin with Cin Update Cin won
2. Pittsburgh @ Rutgers - Ill take Pitt Update Pitt won
3. Wake Forest @ Clemson Woof...Dabo's last shot Update Clemson won
4. Iowa (11) @ Wisconsin --Iowa Update Iowa Won
5. Oklahoma (20) @ Texas (3) Ouch...Gimme Texas Update Texas won
6. South Carolina (22) @ Alabama (2) --Damn...Alabama...c'mon SC, prove me wrong please
7. USC (6) @ Notre Dame --USC easily
8. California @ UCLA ---Gimme Cal
9. Texas Tech @ Nebraska (15) Neb's livin on the edge, gimme TT Update TT wins
10.Virginia Tech (5) @ Georgia Tech (19)--Ginnie Tech over Peaches

Dabo and Clemson...this guy is on the hot seat. Even if they manage a win over SC it wont help them if they cannot stop the lower tier programs like Wake. Much of Iptay did not want him, they wanted a proven winner and seat filler. It looks like Sweeney wasn't really ready for the big time, and his coaching core isn't either.

1. Cincinnati (8) @ South Florida (21) - THURSDAY ~ Tough game to pick. Both schools are having great seasons. This one could go either way. While I'll be rooting for the Bulls however, I think the Bearcats will pull this one out.

2. Pittsburgh @ Rutgers - FRIDAY ~ Pitt seems to be the cream of the Big East crop. I'll take Pitt over Rutgers.

3. Wake Forest @ Clemson ~ Clemson could really use this win but I don't think it will happen against Wake Forest, even at home.

4. Iowa (11) @ Wisconsin ~ Should be a great game but I'm officially on the Hawkeye's train.

5. Oklahoma (20) @ Texas (3) ~ A classic rivalry game. Bradford v McCoy. Great game, tough pick. I'm taking Texas to pull this one out.

6. South Carolina (22) @ Alabama (2) ~ Alabama is too tough and they get to play this one at home. I'll take 'Bama for the win.

7. USC (6) @ Notre Dame ~ I would love for ND to pull off the upset but USC has their one loss already this year. USC for the win.

8. California @ UCLA ~ Cal has fallen from the heights it inhabited earlier this season. I think they keep falling after this weekend. I'm taking UCLA at home.

9. Texas Tech @ Nebraska (15) ~ I would love to see the Red Raiders win this one but it's at Nebraska so I'll grudgingly take the Huskers.

10.Virginia Tech (5) @ Georgia Tech (19) ~ My Canes really need VTech to lose this one in order to have a shot at the ACC championship but I just don't think the Yellowjackets are up to the task this year. This is the one I really hope I get wrong but I'll take Va Tech.

1.<strike> Cincinnati (8)</strike> @ South Florida (21)
Big test for both teams in terms of gaining credibility. My gut tells me the home team has the advantage here.

2. <strike>Pittsburgh</strike> @ Rutgers
[i]Still not feeling any love for Pitt.

3. <strike>Wake Forest</strike> @ Clemson
Argh! I knew Vee would put this one in the mix! I'm hoping my Clemson team will pull this one out with their backs up against the wall. If I were objective, I would definitely pick Wake here.

4. Iowa (11) @ <strike>Wisconsin</strike>
I'm still liking Iowa.

5. <strike>Oklahoma (20)</strike> @ Texas (3)
Texas's chance to establish themselves firmly as the top contender. Should be a terrific game.

6. <strike>South Carolina (22)</strike> @ Alabama (2)

Good as Carolina is, they just don't have the experience to dethrone Bama. Maybe next year.

7. USC (6) @ <strike>Notre Dame</strike>
Though I really think Clausen is a legitimate Heisman contender, USC just never drops these kinds of games.

8. <strike>California</strike> @ UCLA
When 2 huge disappoinments clash, bet on the home team.

9. <strike>Texas Tech</strike> @ Nebraska (15)
Sticking with the Huskers after they came through for me last week.

10.Virginia Tech (5) @ <strike>Georgia Tech (19)</strike>

The Hokies are the more consistent and more complete team.

Cincinnati tonight...at airport on phone, will do rest of picks tomorrow

Cincinati beat South Florida. Thats one for me and Vee. Lardi went with SF.

Had Cinci in there too

My picks (too busy to post any analysis):

Pitt
Wake
Iowa
Oklahoma - Boomer Sooner, Texas is getting their loss now
'Bama
USC - but man, I hope I'm way off; Lardy's logic is dead-on here about USC in these kind of games
UCLA
Nebraska - home advantage is the key here
Virginia Tech - no doubt, they're damn good this year

Cobie didn't take Notre Dame! What's this world coming to?

I can't make risky picks like the Sooners over the Longhorns if I keep picking ND and Uconn every week Still, I'd be thrilled if I'm wrong and USC gets bamboozled.

Damn, have to rethink my strategy of always putting UConn & ND in the mix now.

It's all part of *my* strategy to throw you off your game for a week

It's all part of *my* strategy to throw you off your game for a week