Welcome to Championship Week at TNG. We're going to break down the premier matchups in all the land this week, as well as the dogshit the PAC 12 is calling a title game. So hold on and pick like we pick, because like Jim Boeheim, we stand behind our picks completely, and if you disagree with us, you're a moneygrubber, until proven otherwise.
PAC 12
UCLA @ Oregon -31.5
BIG 12
Iowa State @ Kansas State -11.5
Oklahoma @ Oklahoma State -3.5
Texas @ Baylor -3.5
SEC
Georgia vs. LSU -13.5 (Atlanta)
WAC
Idaho @ Nevada -20
BYU @ Hawaii -7.5
Utah State -13 @ NMSU
Fresno State @ SDSU -8
MWAC
Wyoming -6 @ Colorado State
UNLV @ TCU -38.5
New Mexico @ Boise State -49
Kyle says...
New Mexico @ Boise State -49
Raise your hand if you thought Boise would be playing this game without a (realistic) shot at the MWC title? Nobody? Right. My first inkling was that the Broncos would come out somewhat flat and fail to cover such a gargantuan line because of some residual sadness. But then I took a look at UNM's average margin of defeat and changed my tune. The moribund Lobos gave it up like Robert E. Lee this year, losing by an average of 49 to the five high-performing offenses it faced this season: Air Force, Arkansas, Texas Tech, TCU and Nevada. Exactly none of those teams can match Kellen Moore and crew for output, as the Broncos put up 43-plus points per game. Look for New Mexico to catch a stomping on the smurf turf as Boise covers.
UCLA @ Oregon -31.5
The Bruins backed into the title game and get the reward of playing an Oregon team that is the class of the PAC 12, even if it isn't as good as everyone thought it would be. There's just no way the Bruins with their 88th ranked passing attack can keep up with the Ducks, whose offensive accomplishments read like a record book at most other schools: 45.9 ppg on the season, average margin of victory of nearly 23 points and 25 touchdowns out of its duo of running backs. Oregon covers in the PAC 12's inaugural title matchup Friday in Eugene.
Georgia vs. LSU -13.5 (in Atlanta)
Georgia could save us all from the special kind of hillbilly Hell that will be an Alabama- LSU title matchup. That's probably not going to happen, though. The Bulldogs are hot, having won 10 straight against a collection of high-functioning high school teams and Auburn. They'll have an advantage playing an effective home game, but let's not go giving the Dogs a bone quite yet. LSU is a powerhouse, the 2nd ranked defense in the land, with a running game that is making up for a bullshit passing attack. They're not about to start losing now, and Les Miles is going to be a great coach and cover this weekend.
Oklahoma @ Oklahoma State -3.5
Bedlam pits the two best passing offenses not run by Case Keenum against each other Saturday in what's almost assured to be the matchup of the weekend. Brandon Weeden and Justin Blackmon look to get past Ryan Broyles and Landry Jones in a probable shootout. OU has the defensive edge, as the Sooners are a Stoops-led squad giving up the 28th fewest points in the nation this year. But, the Cowboys have faired well against stingy defenses and are still very much in the national title hunt. I'd look for the Cowboys to win, but the Sooners to cover. Hang on for a wild one.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Week 13: The picks are in!
100% of the blog staff had a great time in Downtown Kalamazoo last night. We definitely kept our eye on the games as LSU cemented themselves as the clear #1, Louisville kept pace in the Big East race and Nebraska took out Iowa. We're getting down to the final weeks here, with the blog picks running through Week 14. Wisconsin - Penn State, Auburn - Alabama, Michigan - Ohio State, and Stanford - ND all headline the day. Enjoy some football as you mix in a salad and water to recover from feast week. Let's get to the picks!
Marcus Says...
Michigan -8 vs. Ohio State
Marcus Says...
Northwestern +6 vs. Michigan State
The game means more to Northwestern, but look for Dantonio to have Sparty ready to play. The money is coming on the Wildcats as the line has moved to 6. I'm taking Northwestern and the points, but expect an MSU win.
Michigan -8 vs. Ohio State
The line is up to 8 and the Wolverines will come in confident. Ohio State may have a 'let's win one for coach' attitude, but it won't matter. I'm taking UM to cover.
Wisconsin -14.5 vs. Penn State
The line has eased a little bit to 14.5, but clearly Wiscy is expected to roll here and punch their card for the Big Ten championship. I like the Badgers to win in Madison today, but think that Penn State's defense will keep them in the game. Take PSU and the points.
Virginia +5 vs. Virginia Tech
The battle for the ACC Coastal Division is on in Charlottesville today. While Virginia has been a great story and a win here would certainly go down in school history, I think the Hokie defense will be strout. Tech covers.
Kyle says...
South Carolina -4 vs. Clemson
South Carolina covers.
Stanford -7.5 vs. Notre Dame
Take the Irish and the points.
Kansas +26 vs. Missouri
Mizzou covers.
Auburn +21 vs. Alabama
Bama covers.
Thursday, November 24, 2011
Week 13: FEAST!
Welcome back to Thanksgiving week here at TNG. We hope you're enjoying your day of feast, and once you get done with the NFL matchups, flip on over to ESPN and check out the showdown in the Lone Star State, where Texas and A&M take one another on for little more than pride. Game on!
BIG 12
Texas @ Texas A&M -8
Iowa St. @ Oklahoma -28.5
Missouri -24 @ Kansas
Texas Tech @ Baylor -13
Independent
Notre Dame @ Stanford -7
SEC
Arkansas @ LSU -11.5
Georgia -6 @ Georgia Tech
Tennessee -7.5 @ Kentucky
Vanderbilt -1.5 @ Wake Forest
Alabama -21 @ Auburn
Florida State -2 @ Florida
Ole Miss @ Miss. St. -17
Clemson @ S. Carolina -4
PAC 12
Colorado @ Utah -22
Cal @ Arizona State -6
Oregon State @ Oregon -28
La. Lafayette @ Arizona OFF
Washington State @ Washington -8.5
UCLA @ USC -14.5
MWAC
Wyoming @ Boise St. -32.5
Air Force -16.5 @ Colorado State
SDSU -16 @ UNLV
WAC
Nevada @ Utah State -1.5
New Mexico State @ La. Tech -20.5
SJSU @ Fresno State -6.5
Tulane @ Hawaii -17
Clemson @ S. Carolina -4
Clemson heads to Columbia to take on a South Carolina team trying to prove they're not the most fraudulent team in the top 25. They've been unable to get their running game going in losses to Georgia Tech and NC State, and SC specializes in stopping the run and offenses in general as the 15th ranked defense in the land. For as maligned as this SC team has been, they've won all the games they've needed to, and though they can't pass, the Cocks still have a solid run game, averaging 174.5 yards per game. Look for the Cocks to cover at home.
Arkansas @ LSU -11.5
You know who feels left out of the whole Alabama-LSU debate? The third-ranked Hogs. They'll be gunning for the Tigers and looking to make a statement this weekend in the Bayou. After a 38-14 shellacking at the hands of 'Bama, Arkansas is averaging 39.5 ppg in 7 wins, including three ranked opponents. LSU's record doesn't need to be rehashed. The No. 2 defense in the land is giving up 10 ppg and scoring 38. I'm thinking the Tigers win, again, but Arkansas comes out gunning and covers.
Notre Dame @ Stanford -7
This is the Super Bowl for the Irish, their chance to go 9-3 and qualify for a worthwhile bowl and 8-4, a significant step back in the Kelly era. Stanford squeaked past Cal after a gut-check loss to Oregon, and didn't exactly play like a team still very much in the title hunt. The Irish seem to have more to play for, and I look for them to cover in Palo Alto
Texas @ Texas A&M -8
The Thanksgiving Day matchup in the Lone Star State promises to be oddly competitive. Two high-powered rushing games (UT 15th and A&M 18th in the nation) collide at Kyle Field in a game with no national or conference ramifications. A&M is 0-2 against ranked opponents at home this season, and UT, surprisingly, has only lost one road contest this season. I'd look for the Horns to cover in this one, even if they don't win out. Happy Turkey Day!
BIG 12
Texas @ Texas A&M -8
Iowa St. @ Oklahoma -28.5
Missouri -24 @ Kansas
Texas Tech @ Baylor -13
Independent
Notre Dame @ Stanford -7
SEC
Arkansas @ LSU -11.5
Georgia -6 @ Georgia Tech
Tennessee -7.5 @ Kentucky
Vanderbilt -1.5 @ Wake Forest
Alabama -21 @ Auburn
Florida State -2 @ Florida
Ole Miss @ Miss. St. -17
Clemson @ S. Carolina -4
PAC 12
Colorado @ Utah -22
Cal @ Arizona State -6
Oregon State @ Oregon -28
La. Lafayette @ Arizona OFF
Washington State @ Washington -8.5
UCLA @ USC -14.5
MWAC
Wyoming @ Boise St. -32.5
Air Force -16.5 @ Colorado State
SDSU -16 @ UNLV
WAC
Nevada @ Utah State -1.5
New Mexico State @ La. Tech -20.5
SJSU @ Fresno State -6.5
Tulane @ Hawaii -17
Clemson @ S. Carolina -4
Clemson heads to Columbia to take on a South Carolina team trying to prove they're not the most fraudulent team in the top 25. They've been unable to get their running game going in losses to Georgia Tech and NC State, and SC specializes in stopping the run and offenses in general as the 15th ranked defense in the land. For as maligned as this SC team has been, they've won all the games they've needed to, and though they can't pass, the Cocks still have a solid run game, averaging 174.5 yards per game. Look for the Cocks to cover at home.
Arkansas @ LSU -11.5
You know who feels left out of the whole Alabama-LSU debate? The third-ranked Hogs. They'll be gunning for the Tigers and looking to make a statement this weekend in the Bayou. After a 38-14 shellacking at the hands of 'Bama, Arkansas is averaging 39.5 ppg in 7 wins, including three ranked opponents. LSU's record doesn't need to be rehashed. The No. 2 defense in the land is giving up 10 ppg and scoring 38. I'm thinking the Tigers win, again, but Arkansas comes out gunning and covers.
Notre Dame @ Stanford -7
This is the Super Bowl for the Irish, their chance to go 9-3 and qualify for a worthwhile bowl and 8-4, a significant step back in the Kelly era. Stanford squeaked past Cal after a gut-check loss to Oregon, and didn't exactly play like a team still very much in the title hunt. The Irish seem to have more to play for, and I look for them to cover in Palo Alto
Texas @ Texas A&M -8
The Thanksgiving Day matchup in the Lone Star State promises to be oddly competitive. Two high-powered rushing games (UT 15th and A&M 18th in the nation) collide at Kyle Field in a game with no national or conference ramifications. A&M is 0-2 against ranked opponents at home this season, and UT, surprisingly, has only lost one road contest this season. I'd look for the Horns to cover in this one, even if they don't win out. Happy Turkey Day!
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Week 13: The Thanksgiving edition of Big Ten and ACC previews.
Happy Thanksgiving TNG Nation!
While the NFL takes center stage on Turkey Day, there are some good college football games to look forward to this weekend. The Big Ten Leaders division will be decided in Madison, while the annual Buckeye - Wolverine clash takes place in Ann Arbor. The Virginia Cavaliers are playing for a spot in the ACC title game and Louisville tries to keep pace in the Big East race. Safe travels everyone!
B1G-
Nebraska -9.5 vs. Iowa
Northwestern +7 vs. Michigan State
Michigan -7.5 vs. Ohio State
Indiana +7.5 vs. Purdue
Minnesota +10.5 vs. Illinois
Wisconsin -15 vs. Penn State
ACC-
Miami (FL) -14 vs. Boston College
NC State -13 vs. Maryland
North Carolina -12.5 vs. Duke
Virginia +5 vs. Virginia Tech
Florida +2 vs. Florida State
BIG EAST-
South Florida -3 vs. Louisville
West Virginia -7 vs. Pitt
UConn +3 vs. Rutgers
Syracuse +2.5 vs. Cincinnati
MAC-
Western Michigan -28 vs. Akron
Northern Illinois -19.5 vs. Eastern Michigan
Temple -17 vs. Kent State
Buffalo -2 vs. Bowling Green
Ball State +14 vs. Toledo
SUN BELT-
Western Kentucky -5.5 vs. Troy
MTSU +8.5 vs. FIU
FAU +5 vs. UAB
Marcus says...
Northwestern +7 vs. Michigan State
Sparty has clinched their spot in the Big Ten title game, while Northwestern would like one more win to help their bowl candidacy. Northwestern is riding a 4 game win streak, including their victory over Minnesota last week. MSU clinched the division with a beat down of Indiana, while getting a little help from arch-rival Michigan, who knocked off Nebraska. MSU’s Captain Kirk Cousins is 2 TD passes from standing alone in the Spartan record books and will need to continue his mistake-free play in order for MSU to see Pasadena in January. The game also features the conferences top defense against the second ranked offense. Based on the history of close games, I’m inclined to take the hometeam Wildcats and the points but do expect Sparty to pull out the W.
Michigan -7.5 vs. Ohio State
The game certainly doesn’t mean as much to the country as it once did, but don’t tell that to the folks in Ann Arbor and Columbus. Michigan is playing it’s best football of the season, coming off a dismantling of Nebraska in Ann Arbor last week. The Wolverine defense is currently ranked 6th in the nation coupled with the 12th ranked rushing offense led by QB Denard Robinson. Ohio State’s season has taken a turn in the other direction, losing two straight games against Purdue and last week against Penn State. Luke Fickell can’t feel comfortable with the Urban Meyer rumors flying and with a QB under center that can’t seem to eclipse 100 yards passing. Early feeling is UM covers.
Wisconsin -15 vs. Penn State
This is clearly the game of the week in the B1G with the winner getting a date with Sparty in Indianapolis on December 3. Penn State took care of business against Ohio State last week to keep themselves in position to win the division. The Nittany Lions won despite their inept offense which featured a QB that threw for 88 yard and 1 INT. Luckily, Ohio State had a similarly poor performance from their signal caller. Wisconsin has won 3 straight after stumbling mid-season, including a win at Illinois last week. QB Russell Wilson had a down game, but RB Montee Ball exploded 224 yards and 2 TDs. Wilson may be getting the attention but Ball is having a monster year with 1466 rushing yards and 25 rushing TD. Wisconsin is at home and Penn State will have a hard time stopping the offense. I see a Badger win, but am considering PSU and the points.
Virginia +5 vs. Virginia Tech
The battle for Commonwealth supremacy means something this year given the resurgence of the Virginia Cavaliers. The Cavaliers were 4-8 just a year ago, but with a win against the Hokies would be representing the Coastal division in the ACC title game. The Cavaliers in the BCS? It could happen. Virginia Tech, who is no stranger to being in the hunt for the ACC title and the BCS, will be looking to avoid the upset in Charlottesville. QB Logan Thomas is maturing and is starting to look like the next dual threat Hokie QB. The key to the game will be Virginia’s ability, or lack thereof, to the move the ball against the stout Va Tech defense. Leaning towards Virginia Tech win and cover in this one.
Nebraska -9.5 vs. Iowa
Northwestern +7 vs. Michigan State
Michigan -7.5 vs. Ohio State
Indiana +7.5 vs. Purdue
Minnesota +10.5 vs. Illinois
Wisconsin -15 vs. Penn State
ACC-
Miami (FL) -14 vs. Boston College
NC State -13 vs. Maryland
North Carolina -12.5 vs. Duke
Virginia +5 vs. Virginia Tech
Florida +2 vs. Florida State
BIG EAST-
South Florida -3 vs. Louisville
West Virginia -7 vs. Pitt
UConn +3 vs. Rutgers
Syracuse +2.5 vs. Cincinnati
MAC-
Western Michigan -28 vs. Akron
Northern Illinois -19.5 vs. Eastern Michigan
Temple -17 vs. Kent State
Buffalo -2 vs. Bowling Green
Ball State +14 vs. Toledo
SUN BELT-
Western Kentucky -5.5 vs. Troy
MTSU +8.5 vs. FIU
FAU +5 vs. UAB
Marcus says...
Northwestern +7 vs. Michigan State
Sparty has clinched their spot in the Big Ten title game, while Northwestern would like one more win to help their bowl candidacy. Northwestern is riding a 4 game win streak, including their victory over Minnesota last week. MSU clinched the division with a beat down of Indiana, while getting a little help from arch-rival Michigan, who knocked off Nebraska. MSU’s Captain Kirk Cousins is 2 TD passes from standing alone in the Spartan record books and will need to continue his mistake-free play in order for MSU to see Pasadena in January. The game also features the conferences top defense against the second ranked offense. Based on the history of close games, I’m inclined to take the hometeam Wildcats and the points but do expect Sparty to pull out the W.
Michigan -7.5 vs. Ohio State
The game certainly doesn’t mean as much to the country as it once did, but don’t tell that to the folks in Ann Arbor and Columbus. Michigan is playing it’s best football of the season, coming off a dismantling of Nebraska in Ann Arbor last week. The Wolverine defense is currently ranked 6th in the nation coupled with the 12th ranked rushing offense led by QB Denard Robinson. Ohio State’s season has taken a turn in the other direction, losing two straight games against Purdue and last week against Penn State. Luke Fickell can’t feel comfortable with the Urban Meyer rumors flying and with a QB under center that can’t seem to eclipse 100 yards passing. Early feeling is UM covers.
Wisconsin -15 vs. Penn State
This is clearly the game of the week in the B1G with the winner getting a date with Sparty in Indianapolis on December 3. Penn State took care of business against Ohio State last week to keep themselves in position to win the division. The Nittany Lions won despite their inept offense which featured a QB that threw for 88 yard and 1 INT. Luckily, Ohio State had a similarly poor performance from their signal caller. Wisconsin has won 3 straight after stumbling mid-season, including a win at Illinois last week. QB Russell Wilson had a down game, but RB Montee Ball exploded 224 yards and 2 TDs. Wilson may be getting the attention but Ball is having a monster year with 1466 rushing yards and 25 rushing TD. Wisconsin is at home and Penn State will have a hard time stopping the offense. I see a Badger win, but am considering PSU and the points.
Virginia +5 vs. Virginia Tech
The battle for Commonwealth supremacy means something this year given the resurgence of the Virginia Cavaliers. The Cavaliers were 4-8 just a year ago, but with a win against the Hokies would be representing the Coastal division in the ACC title game. The Cavaliers in the BCS? It could happen. Virginia Tech, who is no stranger to being in the hunt for the ACC title and the BCS, will be looking to avoid the upset in Charlottesville. QB Logan Thomas is maturing and is starting to look like the next dual threat Hokie QB. The key to the game will be Virginia’s ability, or lack thereof, to the move the ball against the stout Va Tech defense. Leaning towards Virginia Tech win and cover in this one.
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Week 12: The picks are in! The picks are in!
Whew.... filing these just in time for kickoff today. Our jaws dropped when Iowa State beat Oklahoma State last night. Just goes to show you, there's no such thing as a truly "safe" bet. Onto the picks...
Michigan State -28 vs. Indiana
Indiana is playing better and there could be an argument here that MSU will look past them. I don’t see D’Anotonio letting that happen and the Spartans have superior talent on both sides of the ball. 28 is a big number however and the only teams Sparty has beaten by that margin are Central Michigan and Florida Atlantic. Take Indiana and the points, but expect MSU to win the game.
Michigan -3.5 vs. Nebraska
The game is big for either team to have a shot at the Big Ten title game. Michigan defense continues to be the story and expect them to keep the Husker running game in check. Michigan wins by 7 and covers.
Ohio State -7 vs. Penn State
OSU is 5-1 at home compared to 1-3 on the road. Braxton Miller has the talent to be the next big Buckeye QB but has been awfully inconsistent. Expect Penn State to be emotionally drained after last week. The Horseshoe will be kind to the Buckeyes and I expect them to pull it out by a FG. Take PSU and the points.
NC State +8 vs. Clemson
Clemson barely got by Wake Forest last week and I imagine Coach Swinney put them through a tough week of practice. QB Tajh Boyd will protect the ball as Clemson seeks to keep pace in the ACC. Clemson covers here.
Kyle says...
Indiana is playing better and there could be an argument here that MSU will look past them. I don’t see D’Anotonio letting that happen and the Spartans have superior talent on both sides of the ball. 28 is a big number however and the only teams Sparty has beaten by that margin are Central Michigan and Florida Atlantic. Take Indiana and the points, but expect MSU to win the game.
Michigan -3.5 vs. Nebraska
The game is big for either team to have a shot at the Big Ten title game. Michigan defense continues to be the story and expect them to keep the Husker running game in check. Michigan wins by 7 and covers.
Ohio State -7 vs. Penn State
OSU is 5-1 at home compared to 1-3 on the road. Braxton Miller has the talent to be the next big Buckeye QB but has been awfully inconsistent. Expect Penn State to be emotionally drained after last week. The Horseshoe will be kind to the Buckeyes and I expect them to pull it out by a FG. Take PSU and the points.
NC State +8 vs. Clemson
Clemson barely got by Wake Forest last week and I imagine Coach Swinney put them through a tough week of practice. QB Tajh Boyd will protect the ball as Clemson seeks to keep pace in the ACC. Clemson covers here.
Kyle says...
Oklahoma -16 @ Baylor
OU brings their high-flying offense into Waco to face Baylor's offensive attack—led by RGIII. I look for Baylor to beat the spread in a loss and I don't expect we'll see a hell of a lot of the punter today. Also, take the over.
USC @ Oregon -15
Oregon's title chances rocketed up when the Cowboys dropped last night at Iowa State. You'd better believe Chip Kelly is going to want to pad his margin of victory as he lobbies for a rematch with LSU, and nobody is going to call you a dick for doing it against Lane Kiffin's crew. Look for Oregon to cover big in Eugene tonight.
Kansas State @ Texas -7.5
This line tightened by two points over the course of the week as people are losing faith in Texas' ability to win, especially within the rather quiet confines of Royal Stadium. Still, I think the shift benefits the horns, who, if nothing else, have a running game that will gash the Wildcats. UT covers.
Cal @ Stanford -18
After dropping a heartbreaking loss to Oregon, ruining the Cardinal's title hopes, Cal comes to the South Bay today. That's unfortunate for the Bears, who are struggling on offense this season and won't be able to keep up with the Stanford attack. Cardinal cover.
Season Standings:
Kyle - 22-20-2
Marcus - 21-22-1
Season Standings:
Kyle - 22-20-2
Marcus - 21-22-1
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Week 12: A look at the B1G and ACC Pressure Cooker
Hope you have been enjoying your weeknight MAC games again this week TNG nation! This week we watch the B1G and ACC division races wind down with only 1 week to go after this. Sparty needs to avoid a let down and there's a big game in Ann Arbor. Let's get to it...
B1G-
Michigan State -28 vs. Indiana
Northwestern -15.5 vs. Minnesota
Michigan -3.5 vs. Nebraska
Illinois +14.5 vs. Wisconsin
Purdue +3 vs. Iowa
Ohio State -7 vs. Penn State
ACC-
Virginia Tech -11 vs. North Carolina
Duke +11 vs. Georgia Tech
Wake Forest -10.5 vs. Maryland
South Florida +1 vs. Miami (FL)
NC State +8 vs. Clemson
Florida State -17.5 vs. Virginia
BIG EAST-
UConn -1 vs. Louisville
Rutgers +3 vs. Cincinnati
MAC-
Miami (OH) +1.5 vs. Western Michigan
Bowling Green +7 vs. Ohio
Central Michigan +14 vs. Toledo
Buffalo -11.5 vs. Akron
Temple -14 vs. Army
Kent State -3 vs. Eastern Michigan
SUN BELT-
MTSU OFF vs. Arkansas State
Troy OFF vs. FAU
LA-Monroe OFF vs. FIU
North Texas OFF vs. Western Kentucky
Marcus says...
Michigan State -28 vs. Indiana
Sparty avenged their 2010 demons and then some on Saturday in Iowa City, dominating the Hawkeyes for a convincing win. MSU still controls their own destiny in the Big Ten Legends Division. With a win over the Hoosiers and a Wolverine win over Nebraska, Michigan State will secure the division. A Husker win along with a Spartan win, will require MSU to win at Northwestern to finish the season. Kirk Cousins was on top of his game with 260 yds/3 TDs and Le’Veon Bell went for over 100 yards rushing and a score. The defense turned the Hawkeyes over 3 times and his currently ranked 8th in the country, only giving up 16.5 points per contest. Freshmen QB Tre Roberson has taken over for IU, who is 0-6 in Big Ten play. Expect a Sparty win, but consider taking the Hoosiers at the points.
Michigan -3.5 vs. Nebraska
Nebraska won in State College last week, in what had to be one of the weirdest scenes in college football history. Martinez and Burkhead got loose on the ground and pulled the win 17-14. UM knocked off Illinois as RB Fitzgerald Toussaint broke out with 192 yards and a TD. Wolverine Nation got to see sophomore Devin Gardner take some meaningful snaps when Denard Robinson went down with a mild injury. The sophomore played well and I’d expect to see him get on the field against Nebraska considering Robinson’s inability to consistently pass the ball. Coach Brady Hoke has to be happy with his top 5 defense and I expect them to control the Husker offense. Nebraska is a different team on the road and Michigan is better than Penn State. UM covers.
Ohio State -7 vs. Penn State
The first road trip in the post-Paterno era is bound for Columbus and the Horseshoe. The Nittany Lions largely handled the emotions of last week well, but came up short in the end dropping their first Big Ten game. Things don’t get easier with a date with the Buckeyes followed by a trip to Wisconsin to finish out the season. PSU is still in control of the Big Ten Leaders division, but the sentiment is that the Badgers will be in the title game. Ohio State has been difficult to figure out as they lost in OT in West Lafayette last week. The Buckeye offense’s inability to score has led to their inconsistent season. The good news for OSU is that Penn State can relate to inconsistent offense. I wouldn’t be surprised to see a OSU win here, but I like PSU and the points.
NC State +8 vs. Clemson
The 7th ranked Tigers bounced back from their only loss of the season, with a narrow win over Wake Forest. The win locked up the ACC Atlantic Division for the Tigers who still have their sights set on a BCS payday. QB Tajh Boyd threw for 343 yds/2 TDs, but kept the Deacons in the game with his 2 INTs. NC State lost to lowly Boston College last week and has been a tough team to figure out. In this one though, it won’t matter which Wolfpack team shows up as Clemson will roll.
Michigan State -28 vs. Indiana
Northwestern -15.5 vs. Minnesota
Michigan -3.5 vs. Nebraska
Illinois +14.5 vs. Wisconsin
Purdue +3 vs. Iowa
Ohio State -7 vs. Penn State
ACC-
Virginia Tech -11 vs. North Carolina
Duke +11 vs. Georgia Tech
Wake Forest -10.5 vs. Maryland
South Florida +1 vs. Miami (FL)
NC State +8 vs. Clemson
Florida State -17.5 vs. Virginia
BIG EAST-
UConn -1 vs. Louisville
Rutgers +3 vs. Cincinnati
MAC-
Miami (OH) +1.5 vs. Western Michigan
Bowling Green +7 vs. Ohio
Central Michigan +14 vs. Toledo
Buffalo -11.5 vs. Akron
Temple -14 vs. Army
Kent State -3 vs. Eastern Michigan
SUN BELT-
MTSU OFF vs. Arkansas State
Troy OFF vs. FAU
LA-Monroe OFF vs. FIU
North Texas OFF vs. Western Kentucky
Marcus says...
Michigan State -28 vs. Indiana
Sparty avenged their 2010 demons and then some on Saturday in Iowa City, dominating the Hawkeyes for a convincing win. MSU still controls their own destiny in the Big Ten Legends Division. With a win over the Hoosiers and a Wolverine win over Nebraska, Michigan State will secure the division. A Husker win along with a Spartan win, will require MSU to win at Northwestern to finish the season. Kirk Cousins was on top of his game with 260 yds/3 TDs and Le’Veon Bell went for over 100 yards rushing and a score. The defense turned the Hawkeyes over 3 times and his currently ranked 8th in the country, only giving up 16.5 points per contest. Freshmen QB Tre Roberson has taken over for IU, who is 0-6 in Big Ten play. Expect a Sparty win, but consider taking the Hoosiers at the points.
Michigan -3.5 vs. Nebraska
Nebraska won in State College last week, in what had to be one of the weirdest scenes in college football history. Martinez and Burkhead got loose on the ground and pulled the win 17-14. UM knocked off Illinois as RB Fitzgerald Toussaint broke out with 192 yards and a TD. Wolverine Nation got to see sophomore Devin Gardner take some meaningful snaps when Denard Robinson went down with a mild injury. The sophomore played well and I’d expect to see him get on the field against Nebraska considering Robinson’s inability to consistently pass the ball. Coach Brady Hoke has to be happy with his top 5 defense and I expect them to control the Husker offense. Nebraska is a different team on the road and Michigan is better than Penn State. UM covers.
Ohio State -7 vs. Penn State
The first road trip in the post-Paterno era is bound for Columbus and the Horseshoe. The Nittany Lions largely handled the emotions of last week well, but came up short in the end dropping their first Big Ten game. Things don’t get easier with a date with the Buckeyes followed by a trip to Wisconsin to finish out the season. PSU is still in control of the Big Ten Leaders division, but the sentiment is that the Badgers will be in the title game. Ohio State has been difficult to figure out as they lost in OT in West Lafayette last week. The Buckeye offense’s inability to score has led to their inconsistent season. The good news for OSU is that Penn State can relate to inconsistent offense. I wouldn’t be surprised to see a OSU win here, but I like PSU and the points.
NC State +8 vs. Clemson
The 7th ranked Tigers bounced back from their only loss of the season, with a narrow win over Wake Forest. The win locked up the ACC Atlantic Division for the Tigers who still have their sights set on a BCS payday. QB Tajh Boyd threw for 343 yds/2 TDs, but kept the Deacons in the game with his 2 INTs. NC State lost to lowly Boston College last week and has been a tough team to figure out. In this one though, it won’t matter which Wolfpack team shows up as Clemson will roll.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Week 12: Pressure cooker
Welcome to week 12, where we're just coming to terms with the fact that the season is winding down. That doesn't mean the action is, though, on the field or at the book. Sure, the SEC is playing the poor sisters of the blind this week, but there are some hot matchups in the Big 12 and out west. A handful of teams—Oklahoma State, Oklahoma and Oregon— are going to be pressing for big win margins to impress the voters and BCS computers as we come down to the wire in the national championship hunt. We'll see who can handle the pressure, and who struggles with it this week. Onto the picks...
Kyle says...
BIG 12
OSU -27 @ Iowa St.K-State @ Texas -9.5
Kansas @ Texas A&M -31
Texas Tech @ Mizzou -18
Oklahoma -15 @ Baylor
PAC 12
Washington -3 @ OSU
Utah @ Wash. St. -3.5
Colorado @ UCLA -11
USC @ Oregon -15
Arizona @ ASU -10.5
Cal @ Stanford -18.5
SEC
Citadel @ South Carolina OFF
Kentucky @ Georgia -30.5
Samford @ Auburn OFF
Furman @ Florida OFF
Georgia Southern @ Alabama OFF
Mississippi State @ Arkansas -13.5
LSU -29.5 @ Ole Miss
Vanderbilt -1.5 @ Tennessee
MWAC
New Mexico @ Wyoming -24
Colorado State @ TCU -33
UNLV @ Air Force -23.5
Boise State -18 @ SDSU
WAC
Navy -4.5 @ SJSU
LT @ Nevada -7.5
Utah St. -10 @ Idaho
NMSU @ BYU -23
Fresno State @ Hawaii -5.5
Kansas State @ Texas -9.5
KSU comes to Austin as both programs struggle to figure out where they go from here. The Wildcats can score at will and came strong in the second half last week against the Aggies, but the defense is low-grade dog shit, giving up 30 ppg and more to competent offenses. Texas, though, is far from a consistently competent offense, putting up a meager 5 points against Mizzou after averaging more than 45 in its two previous games. The Horns have great ability on defense and a strong running game, however, they don't have the passing prowess to really put it on KSU. The Wildcats cover in a Texas victory.
Oklahoma -15 @ Baylor
In the two games between last week's bye and the loss to Texas Tech, Oklahoma came out like Wisconsin circa 2010, blowing out KSU and A&M by a combined score of 99-42. The Sooners are out for blood, and they know their chances at a title shot only get better if they annihilate the opposition. Landry Jones is leading the nation's third-ranked passing attack against a defense that gives up 36 points per game, looking only slightly better at home than on the road. I don't doubt RGIII's ability to keep up with anyone, though, and I'm not sure OU's defense has seen someone quite like him yet. I think Baylor covers in a shootout loss at home. Look for fireworks.
USC @ Oregon -15
USC's got no problem scoring points, but the thing keeping them from balling with the PAC 12's big boys isn't Matt Barkley and the offense, though. The Trojan defense breaks (hahaha!) against quarterbacks who are A) big and ballsy enough to be able to look far downfield and B) good. Darron Thomas is both of these things, and is aided by the most talented running game not found in Tuscaloosa. While he may not always make the best decisions, Thomas gets plenty
of pass protection and can elude the rush, and big game QBs can work wonders when given time in the pocket. Oregon's very solid defense will corral the USC offensive attack and the offense will blow right past them as the Ducks cover in Eugene.
Vanderbilt -1.5 vs. Tennessee
In a game of brain vs. brawn, I'm leaning toward the brains of Vanderbilt. Playing for bowl eligibility, Vandy has a tough, top-30 defense and a scrappy offense. The D should be more than enough to contain Tennessee, who can't seem to muster a rushing attack no matter who is at QB. Phenom Tyler Bray is set to return this weekend, though he's expected to split time and he's not the kind of guy who can tote it for 100 yards in addition to chucking it around. I look for a tight one in Knoxville, with Vandy's hard-nosed, smart brand of football winning out and the Commodores covering.
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