Today is the final part in my series previewing the entire bowl season. today, I will cover the BCS bowls along with two games I accidentally missed along the way.
December 28
8 PM - Holiday Bowl
Matchup: California (7-5) vs. Texas (7-5)
What to watch for: California is a mediocre team with a mediocre record. They do not have a signature win on their resume and are 47th in the country in scoring offense and 52nd in scoring defense. Zach Maynard has thrown for 2800 yards, but only completes 57% of his passes. While Georgia was able to rebound from a losing season in 2010, Texas was not. The Longhorns looked great to start the year, but then got crushed in back to back games to Oklahoma and Oklahoma State. They dropped a game to Missouri in which they only scored 5 points. Texas's defense was decent this year and should get better in the future.Texas employs a two young quarterbacks in Case McCoy and David Ash. I think the horns take this one to get back to 8 wins.
The pick: Texas - 29 points
December 29
9 PM - Alamo Bowl
Matchup: Washington (7-5) vs. Baylor (9-3)
What to watch for: This will probably be the final college football game for Heisman winner Robert Griffin III. I could take time to preview Washington or talk about the improvements Baylor has made, but I won't. The reason to watch this game is RGIII.
The pick: Baylor - 30 points
January 2
5 PM - Rose Bowl
Matchup: Wisconsin (11-2) vs. Oregon (11-2)
What to watch for: A classic Rose Bowl matchup between the champions of the Big Ten and Pac-12. Both teams feature running games that can rack up yards and points in a hurry. I would love to save that Russell Wilson and Montee Ball can help Wisconsin score enough to keep up with the Ducks. But I just don't see it. LaMichael James will close out his college career in style as the Ducks send the Badgers home as Rose Bowl losers for the second straight year.
The pick: Oregon - 13 points
8 PM - Fiesta Bowl
Matchup: Stanford (11-1) vs. Oklahoma State (11-1)
What to watch for: Offense. You've got the best quarterback in the country against the oldest quarterback in the country. Andrew Luck is the best college quarterback I have ever seen. He looks like an NFL QB the way he commands the line of scrimmage. If he played at USC, Texas, or Alabama, those schools would have gone undefeated. He has taken Stanford, I repeat Stanford, to two straight BCS bowls. As good as luck is, he does not have the supporting class to beat the Cowboys. Oklahoma State proved they are that good by thumping Oklahoma. Justin Blackmon is Julio Jones with better hands. Lots of points will be scored here.
The pick: Oklahoma State - 11 points
January 3
8 PM - Sugar Bowl
Matchup: Michigan (10-2) vs. Virginia Tech (11-2)
What to watch for: Two teams that had solid years but will be much better next year. Denard Robinson is a fun player to watch, but I still think he is too risky with the football. He made so many risky throws against Notre Dame, yet somehow they won. We know Michigan has a solid defense, but winning this game will be on Denard Robinson. Virginia Tech looked impressive when I saw them play...except against Clemson. Logan Thomas is going to be a very good college QB and I loved watching him get 8 yards a pop on QB sneaks against Tech. David Wilson is fast, and the key for him is getting to the edge against a large Wolverine line. I have no clue who wins this one, this is my least confident pick.
The pick: Virginia Tech - 1 point
January 4
8 PM - Orange Bowl
Matchup: West Virginia (9-3) vs. Clemson (10-3)
What to watch for: Dana Holgerson's passing attack is fun to watch. Unfortunately, it is all they have got. I expect the Wolverines will come out looking strong, but eventually Clemson will shut them down like LSU did. Sammy Watkins will have a field day against the West Virginia secondary. Unless Clemson plays like they did against Georgia Tech.
The pick: Clemson - 20 points
January 9
8 PM - BCS National Championship
The matchup: LSU(13-0) vs. Alabama(11-1)
What to watch for: The rematch. Alabama may be one of the most complete teams I have seen in years. But, LSU beat them at their place. Yes, Bama missed 4 field goals. But, LSU has actually played even better since that game. After seeing the Tigers in person, I know what they can do when they get rolling. If Bama wants to win, they will need to win the second half of the game. That is when LSU bludgeoned Georgia and Arkansas. I can't see the Tigers playing as well as they did in the SEC Championship losing to Bama.
The pick: LSU - 2 points
So that's it. Are you ready for bowl season, I sure am.
GO DAWGS!!!
Showing posts with label Predictions. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Predictions. Show all posts
Friday, December 16, 2011
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Streit's Bowl Mania Part 3 - January Bowls
today, I preview all the bowls that will take place in January (with the exception of the BCS). I will also preview the Pinstripe Bowl which I accidentally forgot to cover yesterday. Tomorrow, we'll wrap up the Bowl preview.
December 30
3PM - Pinstripe Bowl
Matchup: Rutgers (8-4) vs. Iowa State (6-6)
What to watch for: You can tell how excited I am for this game, I forgot it in yesterday's previews. Rutgers is basically playing a home game in Yankee Stadium. They have the 12th best scoring defense in the country at 18.8 points and nearly won the Big East. The Scarlett Knights are led by the leading receiver in the country, Mohamed Sanu, who has 109 catches for 1144 yards this year. Iowa State pulled the biggest upset of the season when they knocked off Oklahoma State to keep them out of the National Championship game. Freshman quarterback Jared Barnett has played well since taking over mid-season, but Rutgers defense should get the job done.
The pick: Rutgers - 3 points
January 2
12 PM - Ticket City Bowl
Matchup: Houston (12-1) vs. Penn State (9-3)
What to watch for: Houston appeared to be head to the BCS on the arm of record setting quarterback Case Keenum…until they got destroyed by Southern Miss in the Conference USA championship. Houston sports the #1 passing attack in the country at almost 445 yards per game. They have a pair of solid running backs as well. Penn State has gone through more adversity this season than any team in the country, but still finished with a solid 9-3 season. Their offense is not good, with only bright spot being running back Silas Redd. Their defense, on the other hand, has been fantastic for most of the season. They have 5th rated scoring defense in the NCAA and defensive tackle Devon Still is one of the best in the country at making big plays in the back field. After watching Southern Miss shut down the Cougars offense, I think Penn State will be able to do the same.
The Pick: Penn State - 10 points
1 PM - Outback Bowl
Matchup: Georgia (10-3) vs. Michigan State (10-3)
What to watch for: I'll have much more on this game in the coming weeks. This is a solid matchup between two teams coming off losses in their conference title games. Expect great defense from both squads, but you know I'm taking the Dawgs in this one.
The Pick: Georgia - 15 points
1 PM - Capital One Bowl
Matchup: South Carolina (10-2) vs. Nebraska (9-3)
What to watch for: South Carolina's defense has been great all season relying on the strength of the defensive line led by Melvin Ingram and Jadaveon Clowney. The Gamecocks were able to keep it together after losing Marcus Lattimore and Connor Shaw has gotten better and better. Nebraska also relies heavily on its defense to keep them in games. Runningback Rex Burkhead had another great season this year and Taylor Martinez continued to be Taylor Martinez. If the Gamecocks shut down Burkhead, the Huskers will be in trouble.
The Pick: South Carolina - 22 points
1 PM - Gator Bowl
Matchup: Florida (6-6) vs. Ohio State (6-6)
What to watch for: So may subtitles for this game: The Urban Bowl, The Lowered Expectations Bowl, or the How the Mighty Have Fallen Bowl. Neither team is good on offense and decent on defense. Braxton Miller will be a great player under Urban Meyer, but right now he still plays for Luke Fickell. I'd like to see Muschamp send John Brantley out a winner for making him take a tremendous amount of punishment this fall. Florida fans will get to laugh at Urban on this day…but Urban will remember and it is going to be a big deal!
The Pick: Florida - 14 points
January 6
8 PM - Cotton Bowl
Matchup: Kansas State (10-2) vs. Arkansas (10-2)
What to watch for: This game matches up two school that should be in the BCS in my opinion. Arkansas scores with the best in the country on the strength of its passing attack that features quarterback Tyler Wilson and a great group of receivers. Joe Adams is one of the most exciting players in all of football and the Wildcats would be wise to not kick him the ball. Kansas State, on the other hand, gets things done using a ground game. They rarely pass (109th in the country) but their quarterback is the star of the offense. Collin Klein has been responsible for 38 touchdowns this year, 1745 yards passing, and 1099 yards rushing. But their defense gives up too many points and the Hogs will score at will.
The Pick: Arkansas - 32 points
January 7
1 PM - Compass Bowl
Matchup: Southern Methodist (7-5) vs. Pittsburgh (6-6)
What to watch for: The Pony Express is back in a bowl for the second year in a row. June Jones tried to leave to take the Arizona state job, but he is now back on the sideline. The offense was not nearly as successful as last year, with Kyle Padron benched in favor of JJ Mcdermot early in the season. SMU's best victory was a defeat of TCU, but overall, this season ahs been a disappointment. Pittsburgh lost its first year coach yesterday, so who knows
The pick: Pitt - 23 points
January 8
9 PM - goDaddy.com Bowl
Matchup: Arkansas State (10-2) vs. Northern Illinois (10-3)
What to watch for: Arkansas State lost their coach to an SEC school and immediately replaced him with a coordinator from an SEC school. They won the Sun Belt Conference this year by scoring a lot of points and going undefeated in conference play. Quarterback Ryan Aplin threw for 3,235 yards and receiver Dwayne Frampton caught 90 passes for 1,125 yards. Northern Illinois won the MAC by coming back against Ohio to win 23-20 in the MAC Championship. Chandler Harnish was absolutely amazing this year, passing for almost 3,000 yards and running for almost 1400. That is an amazing feat, and for that, I am giving the edge to the Wolves.
The pick: Northern Illinois - 7 Points
December 30
3PM - Pinstripe Bowl
Matchup: Rutgers (8-4) vs. Iowa State (6-6)
What to watch for: You can tell how excited I am for this game, I forgot it in yesterday's previews. Rutgers is basically playing a home game in Yankee Stadium. They have the 12th best scoring defense in the country at 18.8 points and nearly won the Big East. The Scarlett Knights are led by the leading receiver in the country, Mohamed Sanu, who has 109 catches for 1144 yards this year. Iowa State pulled the biggest upset of the season when they knocked off Oklahoma State to keep them out of the National Championship game. Freshman quarterback Jared Barnett has played well since taking over mid-season, but Rutgers defense should get the job done.
The pick: Rutgers - 3 points
January 2
12 PM - Ticket City Bowl
Matchup: Houston (12-1) vs. Penn State (9-3)
What to watch for: Houston appeared to be head to the BCS on the arm of record setting quarterback Case Keenum…until they got destroyed by Southern Miss in the Conference USA championship. Houston sports the #1 passing attack in the country at almost 445 yards per game. They have a pair of solid running backs as well. Penn State has gone through more adversity this season than any team in the country, but still finished with a solid 9-3 season. Their offense is not good, with only bright spot being running back Silas Redd. Their defense, on the other hand, has been fantastic for most of the season. They have 5th rated scoring defense in the NCAA and defensive tackle Devon Still is one of the best in the country at making big plays in the back field. After watching Southern Miss shut down the Cougars offense, I think Penn State will be able to do the same.
The Pick: Penn State - 10 points
1 PM - Outback Bowl
Matchup: Georgia (10-3) vs. Michigan State (10-3)
What to watch for: I'll have much more on this game in the coming weeks. This is a solid matchup between two teams coming off losses in their conference title games. Expect great defense from both squads, but you know I'm taking the Dawgs in this one.
The Pick: Georgia - 15 points
1 PM - Capital One Bowl
Matchup: South Carolina (10-2) vs. Nebraska (9-3)
What to watch for: South Carolina's defense has been great all season relying on the strength of the defensive line led by Melvin Ingram and Jadaveon Clowney. The Gamecocks were able to keep it together after losing Marcus Lattimore and Connor Shaw has gotten better and better. Nebraska also relies heavily on its defense to keep them in games. Runningback Rex Burkhead had another great season this year and Taylor Martinez continued to be Taylor Martinez. If the Gamecocks shut down Burkhead, the Huskers will be in trouble.
The Pick: South Carolina - 22 points
1 PM - Gator Bowl
Matchup: Florida (6-6) vs. Ohio State (6-6)
What to watch for: So may subtitles for this game: The Urban Bowl, The Lowered Expectations Bowl, or the How the Mighty Have Fallen Bowl. Neither team is good on offense and decent on defense. Braxton Miller will be a great player under Urban Meyer, but right now he still plays for Luke Fickell. I'd like to see Muschamp send John Brantley out a winner for making him take a tremendous amount of punishment this fall. Florida fans will get to laugh at Urban on this day…but Urban will remember and it is going to be a big deal!
The Pick: Florida - 14 points
January 6
8 PM - Cotton Bowl
Matchup: Kansas State (10-2) vs. Arkansas (10-2)
What to watch for: This game matches up two school that should be in the BCS in my opinion. Arkansas scores with the best in the country on the strength of its passing attack that features quarterback Tyler Wilson and a great group of receivers. Joe Adams is one of the most exciting players in all of football and the Wildcats would be wise to not kick him the ball. Kansas State, on the other hand, gets things done using a ground game. They rarely pass (109th in the country) but their quarterback is the star of the offense. Collin Klein has been responsible for 38 touchdowns this year, 1745 yards passing, and 1099 yards rushing. But their defense gives up too many points and the Hogs will score at will.
The Pick: Arkansas - 32 points
January 7
1 PM - Compass Bowl
Matchup: Southern Methodist (7-5) vs. Pittsburgh (6-6)
What to watch for: The Pony Express is back in a bowl for the second year in a row. June Jones tried to leave to take the Arizona state job, but he is now back on the sideline. The offense was not nearly as successful as last year, with Kyle Padron benched in favor of JJ Mcdermot early in the season. SMU's best victory was a defeat of TCU, but overall, this season ahs been a disappointment. Pittsburgh lost its first year coach yesterday, so who knows
The pick: Pitt - 23 points
January 8
9 PM - goDaddy.com Bowl
Matchup: Arkansas State (10-2) vs. Northern Illinois (10-3)
What to watch for: Arkansas State lost their coach to an SEC school and immediately replaced him with a coordinator from an SEC school. They won the Sun Belt Conference this year by scoring a lot of points and going undefeated in conference play. Quarterback Ryan Aplin threw for 3,235 yards and receiver Dwayne Frampton caught 90 passes for 1,125 yards. Northern Illinois won the MAC by coming back against Ohio to win 23-20 in the MAC Championship. Chandler Harnish was absolutely amazing this year, passing for almost 3,000 yards and running for almost 1400. That is an amazing feat, and for that, I am giving the edge to the Wolves.
The pick: Northern Illinois - 7 Points
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Streit's Bowl Mania Part 2 - The Tweener Bowls
Today, I preview the bowl games that take place between Christmas and New Year's. There are some good matchups in here.
December 26
5 PM - Independence Bowl
Matchup: Missouri (7-5) vs. North Carolina (7-5)
What to watch for: This is a pretty good matchup between two mediocre teams. The two teams are tied at 43rd in the country in points allowed per game. North Carolina started out strong, charging out to a 5-1 start. But they lost 4 of their last 6, including a 13-0 loss to NC State. The winner of this game will be determined by whether North Carolina can stop Missouri's running game. The Tigers are 11th in the nation in running with mobile quarterback James Franklin, but are missing running back Henry Josey. If North Carolina quarterback Bryn Renner gets hot, the Tar Heels could pull the upset.
The Pick: Missouri - 17 point
December 27
4PM - Little Caesars Bowl
Matchup: Western Michigan (7-5) vs. Purdue (7-5)
What to watch for: Can a strong Western Michigan passing attach, led by quarterback Alex Carder, lead the MAC to a victory over the Big 10? Western Michigan receiver Jordan White leads the nation in receiving yards and total receptions and they also have MAC defensive player of the year, Drew Norak. Purdue is a very average Big 10 team whose best win was beating 6-6 Ohio State. They do not sport any crazy statistics and even lost to Rice. But they should have just enough to beat a middle team from the MAC.
The pick: Purdue - 5 points
8PM - Belk Bowl
Matchup: Louisville (7-5) vs. NC State (7-5)
What to watch for: Louisville was very close to winning a Big East Championship in its second season under Charlie Strong. The Cardinal defense improved to 14th in the country in points allowed per game this year, holding opponents to only 19.2 points per game. They are especially strong against the run, allowing under 100 yards per game. Freshman quarterback Teddy Bridgewater has definitely shown signs that he will be a future star. NC State quarterback Mike Glennon is definitely the leader for the Wolf Pack and he passed for almost 2800 yards and 28 touchdowns this year. The NC State defense is solid overall, but struggles against the pass. Louisville's defense is stronger, and should be the difference in this game.
The pick: Louisville - 8 points
December 28
4 PM - Military Bowl
Matchup: Toledo (8-4) vs. Air Force (7-5)
What to watch for: Toledo's offense is extremely high powered, 29th in the country in passing and 14th in rushing. Their 42.3 points per game is good for 8th in the country. They have scored at least 44 points seven times so defense (89th in the country in scoring) is not too much of a concern. Air Force runs the option and I just don't see them being able to keep up.
The pick: Toledo - 4 points
December 29
5 PM - Champs Sports Bowl
Matchup: FSU (8-4) vs. Notre Dame (8-4)
What to watch for: Many people predicted this would be a BCS matchup. Both of these teams underperformed this fall. Florida State is as talented on defense as any team in the country. Greg Reid may be small, but is one of the best play makers in the country. Brian Kelly hasn't named a starting QB for the game yet, but whoever starts, FSU will only have one goal on defense: stop Michael Floyd. If the Noles shutdown Floyd, Notre Dame has no chance.
The pick: FSU - 9 points
December 30
12 PM - Armed Forces Bowl
Matchup: BYU (9-3) vs. Tulsa (8-4)
What to watch for: BYU returned to being an independent this year and had a successful 9-3 campaign against a pretty easy schedule. The Cougars only faced one team (TCU) that finished in the top 25 and suffered an embarrassing 54-10 loss to in state rival Utah. BYU also changed quarterbacks this year, as once highly touted signal caller Jake Heaps lost the starting job to riley Nelson (and Heaps is now transferring). Nelson found great success as starter, throwing 16 TDs with only 5 picks and helping BYU win 8 of their last 9 games. Tulsa won every game it was supposed to this year, but went 0-4 against ranked teams (and all of those teams finished the season ranked in the top 25, including two in the top 5). They feature a strong passing game and a balanced running attack that saw two backs (Ja'Terian Douglas and Trey Watts) go for over 800 yards each on the ground. Tulsa can score (24th in the country) but their defense isn't up to par. BYU is the better overall team, despite the flashy stats from Tulsa.
The pick: BYU - 21 points
6 PM - Music City Bowl
Matchup: Miss State (6-6) vs. Wake Forest (6-6)
What to watch for: Coming off a 9-4 season, big things were expected in Starkville this fall. But a 6-6 record is not what they expected. I think MSU was really hurt by Manny Diaz leaving for the DC position at Texas. Mississippi State's strength is still its defense, as Chris Relf could not find the success he did a year ago. Vick Ballard had another nice season for the Dogs, rushing for over 1000 yards and 8 scores. Wake Forest was a surprise in the ACC this year, going 5-3. They also played well against ranked opponents, knocking off Florida State and nearly defeating eventual ACC Champ Clemson. Sophomore QB Tanner Price had a great season, throwing for nearly 3000 yards and 20 touchdowns while only throwing 6 interceptions. I see this as a low scoring affair where Mississippi State grinds out a victory in the second half.
The pick: Miss State - 16 points
10 PM - Insight Bowl
Matchup: Iowa (7-5) vs. Oklahoma (9-3)
What to watch for: Oklahoma was the pre-season #1 team and was on a tear until a surprising upset at Texas Tech on October 22. After losing All-American Ryan Broyles, the sooners lost 3 of their last 6 games and found themselves outside of the BCS. This season seems eerily similar to the one suffered by Georgia in 2008 that included a loss to their in state rival who they had recently dominated. Oklahoma still sports the #4 passing attack in college football and Landry Jones will look to get back on track against an Iowa defense that was only 67th in the country against the pass. Kirk Ferentz team averaged 28.7 points per game, but that will not be enough to keep up. Oklahoma, pissed off about their crummy season, blows them out.
The pick: Oklahoma - 34 points
December 31
12 PM - Texas Bowl
Matchup: Texas AM (6-6) vs. Northwestern (6-6)
What to watch for: Texas A&M was one of the best teams in the country in the first half of games, but probably the worst in the second half. The high powered Aggies should have had a much better record this year. This is their last game as a member of the Big XII. Northwestern's Dan Persa is good, but A&M will be motivated to head to the SEC on a victorious note. Plus, I can't see Texas A&M not scoring at least 35 points against the Wildcats defense.
The pick: TAMU - 31 points
2 PM - Sun Bowl
The matchup: Georgia Tech (8-4) vs. Utah (7-5)
What to watch for: Utah has two things going for them in this game: a stroing scoring defense that only allowed 19.7 points per game and running back john White who rushed for over 1400 yards. But their offense is anemic and against a school like Georgia Tech, you definitely need to score points. The key to beating Tech is getting a lead and forcing them to pass. Utah won't make this happen. Tech's running back group of Orwin Smith, Roddy Jones, and David Sims will have big days. Tech scores atleast its season average of 35 points in this one.
The pick: Georgia Tech - 25 points
3 PM - Liberty Bowl
The matchup: Cincinnati (9-3) vs. Vanderbilt (6-6)
What to watch for: Cincinnati (technically) won a share of the Big East championship this fall. They may have easily won it outright if not for the loss of their starting quarterback, Zack Collaros. After losing Collaros in the first half of the West Virginia game, the Bearcats lost by 3 to the Mountaineers and then lost at Rutgers the following week. Without the injury, Cincy may have been a 10 or 11 win team. They sport a solid scoring offense (28th) and a good defense (20 points per game). Vanderbilt has been heaped with praise under first year head coach Tony Franklin. He may have done a good job, but he is a jack ass. Vandy was the dirtiest team Georgia played all year. Jordan Rodgers had a decent season, but he's not his brother. The most impressive player for Vanderbilt is running back Zach Stacy, who was not even supposed be the starter this year. Vanderbilt is really bad in pass defense, and I think Cincinnati will exploit this. Just like many other Vandy games this season, the Commodores will lose a close one in the fourth quarter.
The pick: Cincinnati - 19 points
3 PM - Fight Hunger Bowl
The Matchup: Illinois (6-6) vs. UCLA (6-7)
What to watch for: Two lame duck coaches against each other in a bad bow game. Because of their loss in the Pac-12 Championship, UCLA is playing in a bowl game with a losing record. I think these are two bad, underperforming teams and I really don't care who wins. I'll take Illinois just because I know the Zooker recruits good players.
The pick: Illinois - 18 points
7 PM - Chick-Fil-A Bowl
The matchup: Virginia (8-4) vs. Auburn (7-5)
What to watch for: The defending national champions against one of the surprise teams in college football this season. Auburn has five losses, but all of them came at the hands of teams who finished the season ranked in the top 25. Losing Michael Dyer hurts, but they should still have enough fire power to get past the Cavaliers. Ontarion McCalebb averaged over 5 yards a carry this year and will handle the bulk of the carries for the tigers. Virginia sports the 30th ranked defense in the country, not bad, but not great. They have two solid running backs (Perry Jones and Kevin Parks) who combined for over 1,500 yards this year. Michael Rocco and Kris Burd are one of the better QB and receiver tandems in the country. But in the end, the Tigers will be able to physically beat Virginia down. Whoever players quarterback may have a career day.
The pick: Auburn - 24 points
December 26
5 PM - Independence Bowl
Matchup: Missouri (7-5) vs. North Carolina (7-5)
What to watch for: This is a pretty good matchup between two mediocre teams. The two teams are tied at 43rd in the country in points allowed per game. North Carolina started out strong, charging out to a 5-1 start. But they lost 4 of their last 6, including a 13-0 loss to NC State. The winner of this game will be determined by whether North Carolina can stop Missouri's running game. The Tigers are 11th in the nation in running with mobile quarterback James Franklin, but are missing running back Henry Josey. If North Carolina quarterback Bryn Renner gets hot, the Tar Heels could pull the upset.
The Pick: Missouri - 17 point
December 27
4PM - Little Caesars Bowl
Matchup: Western Michigan (7-5) vs. Purdue (7-5)
What to watch for: Can a strong Western Michigan passing attach, led by quarterback Alex Carder, lead the MAC to a victory over the Big 10? Western Michigan receiver Jordan White leads the nation in receiving yards and total receptions and they also have MAC defensive player of the year, Drew Norak. Purdue is a very average Big 10 team whose best win was beating 6-6 Ohio State. They do not sport any crazy statistics and even lost to Rice. But they should have just enough to beat a middle team from the MAC.
The pick: Purdue - 5 points
8PM - Belk Bowl
Matchup: Louisville (7-5) vs. NC State (7-5)
What to watch for: Louisville was very close to winning a Big East Championship in its second season under Charlie Strong. The Cardinal defense improved to 14th in the country in points allowed per game this year, holding opponents to only 19.2 points per game. They are especially strong against the run, allowing under 100 yards per game. Freshman quarterback Teddy Bridgewater has definitely shown signs that he will be a future star. NC State quarterback Mike Glennon is definitely the leader for the Wolf Pack and he passed for almost 2800 yards and 28 touchdowns this year. The NC State defense is solid overall, but struggles against the pass. Louisville's defense is stronger, and should be the difference in this game.
The pick: Louisville - 8 points
December 28
4 PM - Military Bowl
Matchup: Toledo (8-4) vs. Air Force (7-5)
What to watch for: Toledo's offense is extremely high powered, 29th in the country in passing and 14th in rushing. Their 42.3 points per game is good for 8th in the country. They have scored at least 44 points seven times so defense (89th in the country in scoring) is not too much of a concern. Air Force runs the option and I just don't see them being able to keep up.
The pick: Toledo - 4 points
December 29
5 PM - Champs Sports Bowl
Matchup: FSU (8-4) vs. Notre Dame (8-4)
What to watch for: Many people predicted this would be a BCS matchup. Both of these teams underperformed this fall. Florida State is as talented on defense as any team in the country. Greg Reid may be small, but is one of the best play makers in the country. Brian Kelly hasn't named a starting QB for the game yet, but whoever starts, FSU will only have one goal on defense: stop Michael Floyd. If the Noles shutdown Floyd, Notre Dame has no chance.
The pick: FSU - 9 points
December 30
12 PM - Armed Forces Bowl
Matchup: BYU (9-3) vs. Tulsa (8-4)
What to watch for: BYU returned to being an independent this year and had a successful 9-3 campaign against a pretty easy schedule. The Cougars only faced one team (TCU) that finished in the top 25 and suffered an embarrassing 54-10 loss to in state rival Utah. BYU also changed quarterbacks this year, as once highly touted signal caller Jake Heaps lost the starting job to riley Nelson (and Heaps is now transferring). Nelson found great success as starter, throwing 16 TDs with only 5 picks and helping BYU win 8 of their last 9 games. Tulsa won every game it was supposed to this year, but went 0-4 against ranked teams (and all of those teams finished the season ranked in the top 25, including two in the top 5). They feature a strong passing game and a balanced running attack that saw two backs (Ja'Terian Douglas and Trey Watts) go for over 800 yards each on the ground. Tulsa can score (24th in the country) but their defense isn't up to par. BYU is the better overall team, despite the flashy stats from Tulsa.
The pick: BYU - 21 points
6 PM - Music City Bowl
Matchup: Miss State (6-6) vs. Wake Forest (6-6)
What to watch for: Coming off a 9-4 season, big things were expected in Starkville this fall. But a 6-6 record is not what they expected. I think MSU was really hurt by Manny Diaz leaving for the DC position at Texas. Mississippi State's strength is still its defense, as Chris Relf could not find the success he did a year ago. Vick Ballard had another nice season for the Dogs, rushing for over 1000 yards and 8 scores. Wake Forest was a surprise in the ACC this year, going 5-3. They also played well against ranked opponents, knocking off Florida State and nearly defeating eventual ACC Champ Clemson. Sophomore QB Tanner Price had a great season, throwing for nearly 3000 yards and 20 touchdowns while only throwing 6 interceptions. I see this as a low scoring affair where Mississippi State grinds out a victory in the second half.
The pick: Miss State - 16 points
10 PM - Insight Bowl
Matchup: Iowa (7-5) vs. Oklahoma (9-3)
What to watch for: Oklahoma was the pre-season #1 team and was on a tear until a surprising upset at Texas Tech on October 22. After losing All-American Ryan Broyles, the sooners lost 3 of their last 6 games and found themselves outside of the BCS. This season seems eerily similar to the one suffered by Georgia in 2008 that included a loss to their in state rival who they had recently dominated. Oklahoma still sports the #4 passing attack in college football and Landry Jones will look to get back on track against an Iowa defense that was only 67th in the country against the pass. Kirk Ferentz team averaged 28.7 points per game, but that will not be enough to keep up. Oklahoma, pissed off about their crummy season, blows them out.
The pick: Oklahoma - 34 points
December 31
12 PM - Texas Bowl
Matchup: Texas AM (6-6) vs. Northwestern (6-6)
What to watch for: Texas A&M was one of the best teams in the country in the first half of games, but probably the worst in the second half. The high powered Aggies should have had a much better record this year. This is their last game as a member of the Big XII. Northwestern's Dan Persa is good, but A&M will be motivated to head to the SEC on a victorious note. Plus, I can't see Texas A&M not scoring at least 35 points against the Wildcats defense.
The pick: TAMU - 31 points
2 PM - Sun Bowl
The matchup: Georgia Tech (8-4) vs. Utah (7-5)
What to watch for: Utah has two things going for them in this game: a stroing scoring defense that only allowed 19.7 points per game and running back john White who rushed for over 1400 yards. But their offense is anemic and against a school like Georgia Tech, you definitely need to score points. The key to beating Tech is getting a lead and forcing them to pass. Utah won't make this happen. Tech's running back group of Orwin Smith, Roddy Jones, and David Sims will have big days. Tech scores atleast its season average of 35 points in this one.
The pick: Georgia Tech - 25 points
3 PM - Liberty Bowl
The matchup: Cincinnati (9-3) vs. Vanderbilt (6-6)
What to watch for: Cincinnati (technically) won a share of the Big East championship this fall. They may have easily won it outright if not for the loss of their starting quarterback, Zack Collaros. After losing Collaros in the first half of the West Virginia game, the Bearcats lost by 3 to the Mountaineers and then lost at Rutgers the following week. Without the injury, Cincy may have been a 10 or 11 win team. They sport a solid scoring offense (28th) and a good defense (20 points per game). Vanderbilt has been heaped with praise under first year head coach Tony Franklin. He may have done a good job, but he is a jack ass. Vandy was the dirtiest team Georgia played all year. Jordan Rodgers had a decent season, but he's not his brother. The most impressive player for Vanderbilt is running back Zach Stacy, who was not even supposed be the starter this year. Vanderbilt is really bad in pass defense, and I think Cincinnati will exploit this. Just like many other Vandy games this season, the Commodores will lose a close one in the fourth quarter.
The pick: Cincinnati - 19 points
3 PM - Fight Hunger Bowl
The Matchup: Illinois (6-6) vs. UCLA (6-7)
What to watch for: Two lame duck coaches against each other in a bad bow game. Because of their loss in the Pac-12 Championship, UCLA is playing in a bowl game with a losing record. I think these are two bad, underperforming teams and I really don't care who wins. I'll take Illinois just because I know the Zooker recruits good players.
The pick: Illinois - 18 points
7 PM - Chick-Fil-A Bowl
The matchup: Virginia (8-4) vs. Auburn (7-5)
What to watch for: The defending national champions against one of the surprise teams in college football this season. Auburn has five losses, but all of them came at the hands of teams who finished the season ranked in the top 25. Losing Michael Dyer hurts, but they should still have enough fire power to get past the Cavaliers. Ontarion McCalebb averaged over 5 yards a carry this year and will handle the bulk of the carries for the tigers. Virginia sports the 30th ranked defense in the country, not bad, but not great. They have two solid running backs (Perry Jones and Kevin Parks) who combined for over 1,500 yards this year. Michael Rocco and Kris Burd are one of the better QB and receiver tandems in the country. But in the end, the Tigers will be able to physically beat Virginia down. Whoever players quarterback may have a career day.
The pick: Auburn - 24 points
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Streit’s Bowl Mania Part 1: Pre-Christmas Bowls
Bowl season is just 4 days away. Can you believe it?!? Over the next few days I will preview all of this year's bowl game, provide my pick, and rank each one (1-35) on my confidence in that pick. It should be fun.
December 17
2 PM - New Mexico Bowl
Matchup: Temple (8-4) vs. Wyoming (8-4)
What to watch for: Temple's rushing offense is ranked 7th in the country averaging 256 yards per game. The leader of their rushing attack is Bernard Pierce, who has over 1300 yards and 25 touchdowns this fall. The Owls blew out Maryland 38-7 and played well in a 14-10 loss to Penn State. Their passing offense is horrible, but against Wyoming's 115th ranked rushing defense, they shouldn't need to throw it much.
The pick: Temple - 26 points
5 PM - Idaho Potato Bowl
Matchup: Ohio (9-4) vs. Utah State (7-5)
What to watch for: Ohio is coming off a MAC Championship loss in which they had a 20 point lead at halftime. The Bobcats are led by quarterback Tyler Tettlton who accounted for over 3,600 total yards and 35 touchdowns, but he did throw three picks in the last game. Utah State had defending champion Auburn on the ropes on opening day, only to see an onside kick and a couple of quick scores ruin their upset bid. Despite the early disappointment, they won their final 5 games and finished runner up in the WAC conference. They are led by running back Robert Turbin, who rushed for 1,416 yards and scored 23 total touchdowns this fall. This game will come down to defense, where Ohio is giving up only 22 points per game (while Utah State averages 28). The bobcats win this in a close contest.
The pick: Ohio - 6 points
9 PM - New Orleans Bowl
Matchup: San Diego State (8-4) vs. Louisiana Lafayette (8-4)
What to watch for: Both teams are 8-4, but I do not expect this to be a close game. Lafayette reeled off 6 straight wins early in the season, but went just 2-3 down the stretch. Their defense is weak, giving up 30 points a game and almost 400 yards of offense. The Cajuns junior quarterback, Blane Gautier, led the Sun Belt in passing but it will not be enough. San Diego State senior quarterback Ryan Lindley is a four year starter with over 12,000 career passing yards and 87 touchdown passes. Sophomore running back Ronnie Hillman has rushed for 1,656 yards and 19 touchdowns this year. I don't see Lafayette being able to stop this duo. Plus, the Aztec defense has only given up 72 second half points all year.
The pick: San Diego State - 28 points
December 20
8 PM - St. Petersburg Bowl
Matchup: Florida International (8-4) vs. Marshall (6-6)
What to watch for: We are..not winning this game. FIU had their best year in school history, including its first ever win over a BCS conference school (against Louisville in September). Receiver TY Hilton has nearly 1000 yards receiving this year. Marshall barely made it to a bowl game by defeating East Carolina and Memphis to close the season. Their best player is defensive end Vinny Curry, who had 11 sacks and 21 tackles for a loss.
The pick: Florida International - 12 points
December 21
8 PM - Poinsettia Bowl
Matchup: TCU (10-2) vs. Louisiana Tech (8-4)
What to watch for: This is a matchup of two conference champions, as TCU won the Mountain West while Louisiana Tech won the WAC. But lets be honest, Louisiana Tech only won the Wac because that conference is really horrible and Boise State is now in the MWC. TCU should have been back in the BCS, in my opinion. They lost to Baylor to open the season in a crazy game but 10-1 the rest of the way, despite replacing almost all of their major players from last year's Rose bowl squad. TCU will win, we don't even need to talk details. This is my highest confidence pick.
The pick: TCU - 35 points
December 22
8PM - Las Vegas bowl
Matchup: Arizona State (6-6) vs. Boise State (11-1)
What to watch for: This will be the final game for Boise State quarterback Kellen Moore. The senior who has rewritten the NCAA record books should lead his squad out with a victory. Arizona State was a popular pick to win the Pac-12 South, but they failed to live up to the hype and recently fired Coach Dennis Erickson. If Boise State plays anywhere close to how I saw them play against the Dawgs in September, this one isn't close.
The pick: Boise State - 33 points
December 24
8 PM - Hawaii Bowl
Matchup: Nevada (7-5) vs. Southern Miss (11-2)
What to watch for: Southern Miss is one of the hottest teams in the nation after knocking off previously undefeated Houston to win the conference USA Championship. This will be coach Larry Fedora's last game before he moves on to take the job at North Carolina. Two early season losses to Marshall and UAB are the only blemishes on the Golden Eagles' record. They have a strong defense that has intercepted 18 passes this year and only gives up 21 points per game. Linebacker Jamie Collins had 94 tackles, in 19.5 tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks. They also boast the 14th ranked scoring offense in the country, led by senior QB Austin Davis. Nevada does not have the same potent offense as the 2010 WAC Championship team did, but they did finish 8th in the country in rushing. Unfortunately, their defense gives up over 30 points a game against bowl teams.
The pick: Southern Miss - 27 points
I'll be back with Part 2, the 'tweener games, tomorrow!
December 17
2 PM - New Mexico Bowl
Matchup: Temple (8-4) vs. Wyoming (8-4)
What to watch for: Temple's rushing offense is ranked 7th in the country averaging 256 yards per game. The leader of their rushing attack is Bernard Pierce, who has over 1300 yards and 25 touchdowns this fall. The Owls blew out Maryland 38-7 and played well in a 14-10 loss to Penn State. Their passing offense is horrible, but against Wyoming's 115th ranked rushing defense, they shouldn't need to throw it much.
The pick: Temple - 26 points
5 PM - Idaho Potato Bowl
Matchup: Ohio (9-4) vs. Utah State (7-5)
What to watch for: Ohio is coming off a MAC Championship loss in which they had a 20 point lead at halftime. The Bobcats are led by quarterback Tyler Tettlton who accounted for over 3,600 total yards and 35 touchdowns, but he did throw three picks in the last game. Utah State had defending champion Auburn on the ropes on opening day, only to see an onside kick and a couple of quick scores ruin their upset bid. Despite the early disappointment, they won their final 5 games and finished runner up in the WAC conference. They are led by running back Robert Turbin, who rushed for 1,416 yards and scored 23 total touchdowns this fall. This game will come down to defense, where Ohio is giving up only 22 points per game (while Utah State averages 28). The bobcats win this in a close contest.
The pick: Ohio - 6 points
9 PM - New Orleans Bowl
Matchup: San Diego State (8-4) vs. Louisiana Lafayette (8-4)
What to watch for: Both teams are 8-4, but I do not expect this to be a close game. Lafayette reeled off 6 straight wins early in the season, but went just 2-3 down the stretch. Their defense is weak, giving up 30 points a game and almost 400 yards of offense. The Cajuns junior quarterback, Blane Gautier, led the Sun Belt in passing but it will not be enough. San Diego State senior quarterback Ryan Lindley is a four year starter with over 12,000 career passing yards and 87 touchdown passes. Sophomore running back Ronnie Hillman has rushed for 1,656 yards and 19 touchdowns this year. I don't see Lafayette being able to stop this duo. Plus, the Aztec defense has only given up 72 second half points all year.
The pick: San Diego State - 28 points
December 20
8 PM - St. Petersburg Bowl
Matchup: Florida International (8-4) vs. Marshall (6-6)
What to watch for: We are..not winning this game. FIU had their best year in school history, including its first ever win over a BCS conference school (against Louisville in September). Receiver TY Hilton has nearly 1000 yards receiving this year. Marshall barely made it to a bowl game by defeating East Carolina and Memphis to close the season. Their best player is defensive end Vinny Curry, who had 11 sacks and 21 tackles for a loss.
The pick: Florida International - 12 points
December 21
8 PM - Poinsettia Bowl
Matchup: TCU (10-2) vs. Louisiana Tech (8-4)
What to watch for: This is a matchup of two conference champions, as TCU won the Mountain West while Louisiana Tech won the WAC. But lets be honest, Louisiana Tech only won the Wac because that conference is really horrible and Boise State is now in the MWC. TCU should have been back in the BCS, in my opinion. They lost to Baylor to open the season in a crazy game but 10-1 the rest of the way, despite replacing almost all of their major players from last year's Rose bowl squad. TCU will win, we don't even need to talk details. This is my highest confidence pick.
The pick: TCU - 35 points
December 22
8PM - Las Vegas bowl
Matchup: Arizona State (6-6) vs. Boise State (11-1)
What to watch for: This will be the final game for Boise State quarterback Kellen Moore. The senior who has rewritten the NCAA record books should lead his squad out with a victory. Arizona State was a popular pick to win the Pac-12 South, but they failed to live up to the hype and recently fired Coach Dennis Erickson. If Boise State plays anywhere close to how I saw them play against the Dawgs in September, this one isn't close.
The pick: Boise State - 33 points
December 24
8 PM - Hawaii Bowl
Matchup: Nevada (7-5) vs. Southern Miss (11-2)
What to watch for: Southern Miss is one of the hottest teams in the nation after knocking off previously undefeated Houston to win the conference USA Championship. This will be coach Larry Fedora's last game before he moves on to take the job at North Carolina. Two early season losses to Marshall and UAB are the only blemishes on the Golden Eagles' record. They have a strong defense that has intercepted 18 passes this year and only gives up 21 points per game. Linebacker Jamie Collins had 94 tackles, in 19.5 tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks. They also boast the 14th ranked scoring offense in the country, led by senior QB Austin Davis. Nevada does not have the same potent offense as the 2010 WAC Championship team did, but they did finish 8th in the country in rushing. Unfortunately, their defense gives up over 30 points a game against bowl teams.
The pick: Southern Miss - 27 points
I'll be back with Part 2, the 'tweener games, tomorrow!
Friday, December 2, 2011
SEC Championship - Prediction
Unfortunately, I had to go out of town this week for a funeral and this did not allow me to provide much preview for the game. At this point, you have all seen a million break downs so I will leave you with a preview.
No matter what happens, this has been a great season for the Dawgs. I honestly feel we are headed in the right direction and will be a contender for the national championship next year. But as much as this team has improved, LSU has been amazing all season long. The Dawgs will put up a fight and it will not be easy like some think. But depth in the fourth quarter will help the Tigers pull the victory.
LSU 24, Georgia 17
Friday, November 25, 2011
QuickTech Preview
The Dawgs take on Tech tomorrow for state bragging rights. Georgia has won 9 games in a row and has bigger fish to fry with the SEC Championship next week, while Tech has had a nice season at 8-3, but for every good win (defeating top 5 Clemson) they have a stupid loss (against Virginia). Georgia's defense is awesome, especially against the run. Tech's option attack is a well-oiled machine in year 4 under Paul Johnson.
Here's what I think will happen. The Dawgs will be able to move the ball effectively on Tech. Who ever runs the ball will have big holes like we saw when Georgia played Auburn. Success in the run will lead to success in the passing game. Georgia Tech, on the other hand, will also be able to move the ball. Their offense is very tricky and despite superior athletes on the Georgia side, Tech will break off a few big plays like they do every game. The difference will be Georgia keeping Tech out of the end zone. While Tech will move the ball, I think the Georgia D will step up on their own side. The key for the Dawgs is to get an early lead. If they can build it to 2 touchdowns in the third quarter, Tech will be in trouble. The Dawgs win a the game that will be a lot closer than the score will indicate.
Georgia 34, Georgia Tech 23
Here's what I think will happen. The Dawgs will be able to move the ball effectively on Tech. Who ever runs the ball will have big holes like we saw when Georgia played Auburn. Success in the run will lead to success in the passing game. Georgia Tech, on the other hand, will also be able to move the ball. Their offense is very tricky and despite superior athletes on the Georgia side, Tech will break off a few big plays like they do every game. The difference will be Georgia keeping Tech out of the end zone. While Tech will move the ball, I think the Georgia D will step up on their own side. The key for the Dawgs is to get an early lead. If they can build it to 2 touchdowns in the third quarter, Tech will be in trouble. The Dawgs win a the game that will be a lot closer than the score will indicate.
Georgia 34, Georgia Tech 23
Friday, November 18, 2011
The Charge Continues: The Kentucky Preview
If you have ever been around a bunch of Kentucky fans watching the Wildcats play basketball, you will know that they have a pretty passionate fan base. Two years ago, I was sitting in the now gone Wild Wing cafe in downtown Athens before the nigh contest between Georgia and Kentucky. Kentucky was playing basketball that afternoon against some small school (I can't remember exactly which one, maybe it was Liberty or Lehigh). They were up like 40 points in the second half and these crazy Kentucky fans were swearing at the top of their lungs when their walk-ons took a bad shot or there was a foul call. A little annoying, but I understand the love. Luckily for us, Kentucky's football team this year is horrible and our shot at the SEC East is not against the (#2 ranked) Kentucky basketball team.
Georgia goes for its 9th win in a row tomorrow and chance to secure a trip to the SEC Championship for the first time since 2005 (note: this is technically not our first SEC East Division championship since then, however. In 2007, we technically won a share of the division. I know this may seem stupid to point out, but if we were in the Big 10 that year, we could have called our selves conference champs and that whole argument about not winning your conference would have gone out the window). The Dawgs are playing the best football I have seen them play since the stretch run in 2007. And while that team was known for the offensive power of Moreno and Stafford, this team is known for the defensive tenacity of Jones and Rambo. While most of us are still on the high from destroying Auburn at home last week, I hope the team is ready to go for the early kick tomorrow.
Kentucky should not be a problem. In what I have seen out of Kentucky this year, they are the worst Kentucky team I have seen in quite a few years (and since they are pretty bad normally, that is saying something). I listed some statistics the other day, so I won't cover them again. Kentucky's bad defense will be missing two starters on Saturday and their offense is on their third or fourth tailback. Morgan Newton has lost his starting job at quarterback. They lost to Vanderbilt by 30 points last week. Georgia should not lose to this game.
I expect the Dawgs to come out hot on offense once again. A little more rushing in the first half than last week. Crowell goes over 100 and Thomas may too. Hopefully, we get Murray out of the game in the second half and give Mason some more reps. Georgia wins big and will be headed to Atlanta for the next two weekends!
Georgia 48, Kentucky 10
Georgia goes for its 9th win in a row tomorrow and chance to secure a trip to the SEC Championship for the first time since 2005 (note: this is technically not our first SEC East Division championship since then, however. In 2007, we technically won a share of the division. I know this may seem stupid to point out, but if we were in the Big 10 that year, we could have called our selves conference champs and that whole argument about not winning your conference would have gone out the window). The Dawgs are playing the best football I have seen them play since the stretch run in 2007. And while that team was known for the offensive power of Moreno and Stafford, this team is known for the defensive tenacity of Jones and Rambo. While most of us are still on the high from destroying Auburn at home last week, I hope the team is ready to go for the early kick tomorrow.
Kentucky should not be a problem. In what I have seen out of Kentucky this year, they are the worst Kentucky team I have seen in quite a few years (and since they are pretty bad normally, that is saying something). I listed some statistics the other day, so I won't cover them again. Kentucky's bad defense will be missing two starters on Saturday and their offense is on their third or fourth tailback. Morgan Newton has lost his starting job at quarterback. They lost to Vanderbilt by 30 points last week. Georgia should not lose to this game.
I expect the Dawgs to come out hot on offense once again. A little more rushing in the first half than last week. Crowell goes over 100 and Thomas may too. Hopefully, we get Murray out of the game in the second half and give Mason some more reps. Georgia wins big and will be headed to Atlanta for the next two weekends!
Georgia 48, Kentucky 10
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Final Thoughts and Prediction
Unfortunately, a busy work schedule that had me on the road a few days this week has prevented me from doing further analysis on this week's game. I will be leaving for Jacksonville in the morning, but here are my final thoughts:
Georgia 30, Florida 20
Dear god, I hope I am right on this one!
GO DAWGS!!!
- Throw the series history to the wind. If there was ever a chance for Georgia to right the ship, now is the time. Florida has a new coach and is not the juggernaut they were during the Tebow years. Georgia needs to win to get some momentum going.
- Brantley will help the Gators, but not that much. On a gimpy ankle, Brantley will be immobile. If Florida wins on Saturday, I do not think it will be because of Brantley. Rainey and Demps will need big days.
- Missing Geathers and Williams will hurt in the first half, but will be great in the second. If the Dawgs keep it close in the first, I think they can wear Florida down like LSU did.
- Crowell needs a big day. If Aaron Murray has to try and win the game, I am afraid we will lose. For their struggles, the Gators defense still allows less points per game than Georgia's does.
- The most important match up is the Georgia line against the Florida front 7. If they can keep Murray upright and create holes, the Georgia offense should move.
Georgia 30, Florida 20
Dear god, I hope I am right on this one!
GO DAWGS!!!
Friday, October 14, 2011
Vanderbilt Preview
Things Vanderbilt does well:
Georgia 34, Vanderbilt 7
- Produce major league pitchers
- Shoot three pointers
- Being really smart
- Churning out future CEOs
- Run the football
- Pass the football
- Score points on offense
- Win games in the SEC
Georgia 34, Vanderbilt 7
Friday, October 7, 2011
Tennessee Prediction
The question for the Georgia Bulldogs this week is do they continue to climb the mountain back towards national prominence or do they fall all the way down Rocky Top back to mediocrity. Predictions have been across the board and with the Vegas line at only a 1.5 point Georgia favorite, it appears this game is a toss up.
I think Georgia has come a long way from the sad looking team we saw in the Dome to start the season. The defense has played at a such high level that I cannot see a Volunteer team that is so one dimensional putting up a lot of points. That being said, this will be a night game on the road in Neyland. I think the Dawgs come out with a win here, but it will be close until the end.
Georgia 27, Tennessee 17
I think Georgia has come a long way from the sad looking team we saw in the Dome to start the season. The defense has played at a such high level that I cannot see a Volunteer team that is so one dimensional putting up a lot of points. That being said, this will be a night game on the road in Neyland. I think the Dawgs come out with a win here, but it will be close until the end.
Georgia 27, Tennessee 17
Friday, September 23, 2011
10 Things About Ole Miss and This Week's Prediction
Georgia will be in Oxford tomorrow to take on the lowly Rebels of Mississippi. Is it fair to call them lowly? When you just got drubbed 30-7 by Vanderbilt and you don't play in division 1-AA or the WAC, then yes. Here are 10 things to know about Ole Miss:
1. Their mascot is now the Ole Miss Black Bear. This is after they got rid of Colonel Reb and they had students vote on who the new mascot should be. The bear won over the likes of the land shark. They should have went with Admiral Ackbar (damn you George Lucas!)
2. They haven't won a conference championship since 1963. That is a long time for a team that some consider to be a good football school.
3. They replaced Coach O with Houston Nutt and after winning back to back Cotton Bowls after the 2008 and 2009 seasons, the Rebels have looked terrible. Maybe they should have kept Coach O and the wild boyz.
4. While I have never been to the Grove, I have heard it is amazing. Too bad the campus administrators took away Georgia's only area that was even remotely close (North Campus).
5. That being said, why the hell do Ole Miss fans hang chandeliers under the tents at tailgates. It just seems strange.
6. Eli Manning was better than college than he has been in the NFL, but in college they couldn't win a conference championship, let alone a national title. In the NFL, Eli helped the Giants beat the undefeated Patriots.
7. Dexter McCluster and Patrick Willis are two of my favorite SEC players of all time. I loved watching Willis club people with the cast on his hand during his senior year.
8. Ole Miss has put up horrible numbers on both offense and defense this year against pathetic competition. They are probably better than the numbers indicate. But Georgia's defense is also much better than the statistics indicate (especially scoring defense).
9. I can't name a single current Ole Miss player off the top of my head right now. That is how bad they are.
10. Georgia should not lose this game. This would be about on the level of losing to Colorado last year.
Georgia 41, Ole Miss 20
1. Their mascot is now the Ole Miss Black Bear. This is after they got rid of Colonel Reb and they had students vote on who the new mascot should be. The bear won over the likes of the land shark. They should have went with Admiral Ackbar (damn you George Lucas!)
2. They haven't won a conference championship since 1963. That is a long time for a team that some consider to be a good football school.
3. They replaced Coach O with Houston Nutt and after winning back to back Cotton Bowls after the 2008 and 2009 seasons, the Rebels have looked terrible. Maybe they should have kept Coach O and the wild boyz.
4. While I have never been to the Grove, I have heard it is amazing. Too bad the campus administrators took away Georgia's only area that was even remotely close (North Campus).
5. That being said, why the hell do Ole Miss fans hang chandeliers under the tents at tailgates. It just seems strange.
6. Eli Manning was better than college than he has been in the NFL, but in college they couldn't win a conference championship, let alone a national title. In the NFL, Eli helped the Giants beat the undefeated Patriots.
7. Dexter McCluster and Patrick Willis are two of my favorite SEC players of all time. I loved watching Willis club people with the cast on his hand during his senior year.
8. Ole Miss has put up horrible numbers on both offense and defense this year against pathetic competition. They are probably better than the numbers indicate. But Georgia's defense is also much better than the statistics indicate (especially scoring defense).
9. I can't name a single current Ole Miss player off the top of my head right now. That is how bad they are.
10. Georgia should not lose this game. This would be about on the level of losing to Colorado last year.
Georgia 41, Ole Miss 20
Friday, September 16, 2011
Friday, September 2, 2011
Game On
When the Georgia Bulldogs take the field at the Georgia Dome tomorrow night, it will have been 8 months and 4 days since their last game. The horrible ending to the 2010 campaign left a bad taste in the mouth of Bulldog Nation. An excellent recruiting class mixed with an apparent change in attitude in Athens has given us hope. Now we find out if things are really changing.
But let me clarify. Should the Dawgs lose tomorrow, it does not mean that the season is over and nothing has changed. Let's not take anything away from Boise State who has come a long way for the team that the Dawgs crushed in Athens in 2005. If the Dawgs stay competitive, don't appear to tire, and don't make many of the stupid mistakes that have plagued them in the past, then I think things will be headed in the right direction.
As for my prediction, this is a really tough one to call. I think the Dawgs will split this tough two game set to open the season, but I am not sure which game will be the win and which one will be the loss. I feel Boise State with their crazy formations and Heisman candidate quarterback are a steep challenge for the Georgia defense. I can honestly see this one close late into the game. If I have to pick, I think the Dawgs win game 2 at home against Carolina more than I think they will win tomorrow.
It will be a close game, but I think the Dawgs are going to come up just short. It pains me to write this.
Boise State 31, Georgia 27
But let me clarify. Should the Dawgs lose tomorrow, it does not mean that the season is over and nothing has changed. Let's not take anything away from Boise State who has come a long way for the team that the Dawgs crushed in Athens in 2005. If the Dawgs stay competitive, don't appear to tire, and don't make many of the stupid mistakes that have plagued them in the past, then I think things will be headed in the right direction.
As for my prediction, this is a really tough one to call. I think the Dawgs will split this tough two game set to open the season, but I am not sure which game will be the win and which one will be the loss. I feel Boise State with their crazy formations and Heisman candidate quarterback are a steep challenge for the Georgia defense. I can honestly see this one close late into the game. If I have to pick, I think the Dawgs win game 2 at home against Carolina more than I think they will win tomorrow.
It will be a close game, but I think the Dawgs are going to come up just short. It pains me to write this.
Boise State 31, Georgia 27
Friday, October 29, 2010
Will Jacksonville kill the season...again?
"A long ride back from Jacksonville,
500 miles from a game we should have won,
Man we ought to burn down that stadium."
-Corey Smith
Georgia's annual trip to Jacksonville has turned into a nightmare over the last 20 years. A series that the Dawgs once dominated by Georgia has now completely swung in the other direction. With the Gators taking 17 of the last 20, many Georgia fans have become accepting of the fact that this game is a loss on the schedule every year. But in a series that has been this lopsided, the games are usually pretty close...until the last two years.
Florida has absolutely waxed the Dawgs the last two years. In 2008, the Georgia team that was preseason #1 kept it close until late in the first half, but seemed to give up in the second. Hell, the only touchdown came late in the fourth quarter on a touchdown by Joe Cox. Last year, clearly the Gators were more talented than the Dawgs and once again sent the Dawgs north with a bad loss. But this year, things may be different.
While Georgia struggled in the early part of the season they have gotten it together lately. Scoring over 40 plus in three straight SEC games, even if they are bad teams, is still an accomplishment. Throw in the fact that the defense is also playing better and things are looking pretty bright for the Dawgs. With the best receiver in the country and a star in the making at QB, Georgia has some weapons similar to what they had back in 2007.
Florida has struggle all season long, not just in their last 3 losses. If they were not playing the likes of Miami(OH) and South Florida in their first games, they may have more losses than the Dawgs right now. John Brantley has not been the answer they thought, their receivers have really struggled, and Florida fans are left questioning the ability of offensive coordinator Steve Addazio.
For once, everything appears to be set up in Georgia's favor. But history tells us that Florida will make the changes needed to beat the Dawgs. While their offense has been bad, the Florida defense has been solid. I don't expect the Dawgs to walk up and down the field like they have the last few weeks. The return of the criminal texter, Chris Rainey, and a healthy Jeff Demps will also provide a spark to the Florida offense. I'm not expecting the Florida team from last year to be back on Saturday, but I certainly expect a better one than we have seen this season.
Mark Bradley of the AJC wrote a column yesterday entitled, "What if Richt DOESN'T beat these Gators?" What kind of question is that? Yes, Florida is struggling, but they are still a team filled of 4 and 5 star players with a two-time national champion coach. If the Dawgs lose on Saturday, then it is another Georgia loss and the 2010 season will go on. The Dawgs may miss a bowl game for the first time in forever, but that is about the worst of it. No one is getting fired if we lose on Saturday. Nothing is worse than the Colorado loss this year, even if we lose by 50 on Saturday.
Do I think the Dawgs can win tomorrow? Hell yeah. Are we going to win? I may not be so enthusiastic, but it just seems like this Georgia team is playing harder right now. If they win, we may have a return trip to Jacksonville in January for the Gator Bowl.
Dawgs 23, Florida 21
GO DAWGS!!!
500 miles from a game we should have won,
Man we ought to burn down that stadium."
-Corey Smith
Georgia's annual trip to Jacksonville has turned into a nightmare over the last 20 years. A series that the Dawgs once dominated by Georgia has now completely swung in the other direction. With the Gators taking 17 of the last 20, many Georgia fans have become accepting of the fact that this game is a loss on the schedule every year. But in a series that has been this lopsided, the games are usually pretty close...until the last two years.
Florida has absolutely waxed the Dawgs the last two years. In 2008, the Georgia team that was preseason #1 kept it close until late in the first half, but seemed to give up in the second. Hell, the only touchdown came late in the fourth quarter on a touchdown by Joe Cox. Last year, clearly the Gators were more talented than the Dawgs and once again sent the Dawgs north with a bad loss. But this year, things may be different.
While Georgia struggled in the early part of the season they have gotten it together lately. Scoring over 40 plus in three straight SEC games, even if they are bad teams, is still an accomplishment. Throw in the fact that the defense is also playing better and things are looking pretty bright for the Dawgs. With the best receiver in the country and a star in the making at QB, Georgia has some weapons similar to what they had back in 2007.
Florida has struggle all season long, not just in their last 3 losses. If they were not playing the likes of Miami(OH) and South Florida in their first games, they may have more losses than the Dawgs right now. John Brantley has not been the answer they thought, their receivers have really struggled, and Florida fans are left questioning the ability of offensive coordinator Steve Addazio.
For once, everything appears to be set up in Georgia's favor. But history tells us that Florida will make the changes needed to beat the Dawgs. While their offense has been bad, the Florida defense has been solid. I don't expect the Dawgs to walk up and down the field like they have the last few weeks. The return of the criminal texter, Chris Rainey, and a healthy Jeff Demps will also provide a spark to the Florida offense. I'm not expecting the Florida team from last year to be back on Saturday, but I certainly expect a better one than we have seen this season.
Mark Bradley of the AJC wrote a column yesterday entitled, "What if Richt DOESN'T beat these Gators?" What kind of question is that? Yes, Florida is struggling, but they are still a team filled of 4 and 5 star players with a two-time national champion coach. If the Dawgs lose on Saturday, then it is another Georgia loss and the 2010 season will go on. The Dawgs may miss a bowl game for the first time in forever, but that is about the worst of it. No one is getting fired if we lose on Saturday. Nothing is worse than the Colorado loss this year, even if we lose by 50 on Saturday.
Do I think the Dawgs can win tomorrow? Hell yeah. Are we going to win? I may not be so enthusiastic, but it just seems like this Georgia team is playing harder right now. If they win, we may have a return trip to Jacksonville in January for the Gator Bowl.
Dawgs 23, Florida 21
GO DAWGS!!!
Friday, September 10, 2010
About tomorrow...
South Carolina has talent, there is no denying it. But every year is supposed to be "the year" in Columbia and it continues to not happen. Georgia has lost to the Gamecocks 3 times in the last 10 years, the last time being in 2007 and I just don't see that number changing this week. Georgia has better depth and while the SC offense looks improved from last, the defense does not. Eric Noorwood is gone and they will be without their leading tackler.
Depsite the absence of AJ Green, we get Washaun and TK back to help an offense that could have easily scored 60 last week (we did nothing butrun the ball up the middle with the fullback the entire 4th quarter). It should be quite a battle, but the best special teams in the country will be the difference.
Georgia 27, South Carolina 21
GO DAWGS!!!
Depsite the absence of AJ Green, we get Washaun and TK back to help an offense that could have easily scored 60 last week (we did nothing butrun the ball up the middle with the fullback the entire 4th quarter). It should be quite a battle, but the best special teams in the country will be the difference.
Georgia 27, South Carolina 21
GO DAWGS!!!
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Week 1 in the SEC: Cupcakes and Quarterbacks
It’s week one of the college football season and that means out of conference match ups and cupcake blowouts. South Carolina continues to act like an ACC school by kicking off the season at home on a Thursday night. The other major story around the SEC seems to be the QB position: Arkansas has a Heisman candidate in Ryan Mallett; Jordan Jefferson looks to finally live up to his potential at LSU; new quarterbacks at Georgia, Auburn, and Florida; Spurrier’s lack of faith in Stephen Garcia; and I still have no clue who will be under center at Tennessee. Here’s our take on this week’s games around the SEC:
Southern Mississippi at South Carolina
Spread: Carolina by 14
Story Lines: Lots of people have asked whether this will be the year that Steve Spurrier finally gets South Carolina over the hump. He’ll head into his first game without a clear picture at quarterback and missing his All-SEC tight end, Weslye Saunders. Southern Miss went 7-6 last season, but won’t have enough to beat the Cocks at home.
Prediction: South Cackalacky 38, Southern Miss 21
Miami (OH) at #4 Florida
Spread: Florida by 35
Story Lines: John Brantley replaces Jesus, I mean Tim Tebow, at quarterback for the Gators. The talented Florida team will have no trouble putting Ben Rothlisberger’s alma matter faster than he put down a drunk sorority in Milledgeville last summer.
Prediction: Florida 62, Miami 10
Kentucky at Louisville
Spread: Kentucky by 3
Story Lines: Both teams have new head coaches as the bluegrass state rivalry renews once again. Charlie Strong brought in a lot of recruits that should help turn around the Cardinals program over the next few years, but Joker Phillips has my new least favorite player in the SEC: Randall Cobb. Kentucky wins a close one.
Prediction: Kentucky 27, Louisville 21
Jacksonville State at Ole Miss
Spread: No line
Story Lines: It looks like it is back to the drawing board for Houston Nutt after Jeremiah Masoli was ruled ineligible on Tuesday. Ole Miss catches a break playing a 1-AA school in week one and should not be threatened.
Prediction: Ole Miss 42, Jacksonville State 17
Tennessee-Martin at Tennessee
Spread: No Line
Story Lines: Derek Dooley will get to beat up a directional school at home for his first game on the sidelines in Knoxville. Tennessee typically likes to put up as many points as humanly possible in its cupcake openers, so expect them to score often. Plus, their bench is so shallow, there are not a lot of back ups to actually put in the game in the second half (I’m kidding!).
Prediction: Tennessee 56, UT-Martin 10
Arkansas State at Auburn
Spread: Auburn by 31
Story Lines: New Auburn quarterback Cam Newton takes the helm with high expectation from the War Tiger faithful. Gus Malzahn’s offense put up a lot of points last fall, but Auburn fans hope for an improved defense in 2010. Newton should have a field day and put up huge stats and the Tigers will cover the spread…barely.
Prediction: Auburn 55, Arkansas State 23
Tennessee Tech at Arkansas
Spread: No line
Story Lines: Arkansas takes the field as the 2010 version of Ole Miss, with high expectations on the offense and quarterback Ryan Mallett. As Georgia fans saw last fall, Tennessee Tech is not just a 1-AA school but a bad 1-AA school. Petrino leaves Mallett in the game until the fourth but the Arkansas defense continues to give up too many yards to bad teams.
Prediction: Arkansas 63, Tennessee Tech 20
San Jose State at Alabama
Spread: Alabama by 37
Story Lines: Alabama opens its title defense without Heisman winner Mark Ingram, but it won’t matter. Crimson Tide fans have been saying that Trent Richardson is a better overall back anyway so now is the time to prove it. The Tide celebrate their championship and open the title defense with a big victory. Look for a solid day from quarterback Greg McElroy as well.
Prediction: Alabama 48, San Jose State 3
Memphis at Mississippi State
Spread: Mississippi State by 21.5
Story Lines: Memphis has not been very good since Deangelo Williams left a few years ago. People keep saying Mississippi State is on the rise under Coach Dan Mullen. We’ll see how they have improved. I expect a Bulldog victory, but not the blowout everyone expects.
Prediction: Mississippi State 34, Memphis 24
Northwestern at Vanderbilt
Spread: Northwestern by 5.5
Story Lines: After a narrow loss to Auburn in the Outback Bowl, Northwestern looks for its third straight winning season under Pat Fitzgerald. The Wildcats must replace star quarterback Mike Kafka and his 3000+ passing yards from a year ago. Vanderbilt enters the season with new coach Robbie Caldwell after the surprising resignation of Bobby Johnson. The line is close, but I see Northwestern winning this one easily.
Prediction: Northwester 35, Vanderbilt 21
LSU vs. North Carolina (at the Georgia Dome)
Spread: Line not released
Story Lines: North Carolina was expected to have one of the best defenses in the country this year with NFL caliber talent at many positions. But Agentgate threw a wrench in those plans. Throw in recent allegations of academic fraud and Butch Davis’ team that was so highly regarded is now covered in shadows. On the flip side, many think Les Miles may be finally leaving LSU after this season to take the Michigan job he should have taken back in 2007. The typically stout LSU defense was horrible in ’09, but should be more experienced this fall. Patrick Petersen may be the best defensive player in the SEC. Look for a close game, but if Jordan Jefferson can find a rhythm, LSU may win this rather easily.
Prediction: LSU 27, North Carolina 17
Louisiana-Lafayette at Georgia
Spread: Georgia by 28
Story Lines: The debut of Todd Grantham’s 3-4 defense and redshirt freshman quarterback Aaron Murray highlight Georgia’s 2010 season opener. The Dawgs will be without running back Washaun Ealey and receiver Tavarres King, which will only result in more yards for Caleb King and AJ Green. Georgia should have a field day with the Ragin’ Cajuns, a mid level team from the Sun Belt Conference. Look for Marlon Brown and Kris Durham to also have big receiving days for the Dawgs and the debut of junior college transfer Jakar Hamilton at safety.
Prediction: Georgia 52, Louisiana-Lafayette 17
Happy week 1. GO DAWGS!!!
Southern Mississippi at South Carolina
Spread: Carolina by 14
Story Lines: Lots of people have asked whether this will be the year that Steve Spurrier finally gets South Carolina over the hump. He’ll head into his first game without a clear picture at quarterback and missing his All-SEC tight end, Weslye Saunders. Southern Miss went 7-6 last season, but won’t have enough to beat the Cocks at home.
Prediction: South Cackalacky 38, Southern Miss 21
Miami (OH) at #4 Florida
Spread: Florida by 35
Story Lines: John Brantley replaces Jesus, I mean Tim Tebow, at quarterback for the Gators. The talented Florida team will have no trouble putting Ben Rothlisberger’s alma matter faster than he put down a drunk sorority in Milledgeville last summer.
Prediction: Florida 62, Miami 10
Kentucky at Louisville
Spread: Kentucky by 3
Story Lines: Both teams have new head coaches as the bluegrass state rivalry renews once again. Charlie Strong brought in a lot of recruits that should help turn around the Cardinals program over the next few years, but Joker Phillips has my new least favorite player in the SEC: Randall Cobb. Kentucky wins a close one.
Prediction: Kentucky 27, Louisville 21
Jacksonville State at Ole Miss
Spread: No line
Story Lines: It looks like it is back to the drawing board for Houston Nutt after Jeremiah Masoli was ruled ineligible on Tuesday. Ole Miss catches a break playing a 1-AA school in week one and should not be threatened.
Prediction: Ole Miss 42, Jacksonville State 17
Tennessee-Martin at Tennessee
Spread: No Line
Story Lines: Derek Dooley will get to beat up a directional school at home for his first game on the sidelines in Knoxville. Tennessee typically likes to put up as many points as humanly possible in its cupcake openers, so expect them to score often. Plus, their bench is so shallow, there are not a lot of back ups to actually put in the game in the second half (I’m kidding!).
Prediction: Tennessee 56, UT-Martin 10
Arkansas State at Auburn
Spread: Auburn by 31
Story Lines: New Auburn quarterback Cam Newton takes the helm with high expectation from the War Tiger faithful. Gus Malzahn’s offense put up a lot of points last fall, but Auburn fans hope for an improved defense in 2010. Newton should have a field day and put up huge stats and the Tigers will cover the spread…barely.
Prediction: Auburn 55, Arkansas State 23
Tennessee Tech at Arkansas
Spread: No line
Story Lines: Arkansas takes the field as the 2010 version of Ole Miss, with high expectations on the offense and quarterback Ryan Mallett. As Georgia fans saw last fall, Tennessee Tech is not just a 1-AA school but a bad 1-AA school. Petrino leaves Mallett in the game until the fourth but the Arkansas defense continues to give up too many yards to bad teams.
Prediction: Arkansas 63, Tennessee Tech 20
San Jose State at Alabama
Spread: Alabama by 37
Story Lines: Alabama opens its title defense without Heisman winner Mark Ingram, but it won’t matter. Crimson Tide fans have been saying that Trent Richardson is a better overall back anyway so now is the time to prove it. The Tide celebrate their championship and open the title defense with a big victory. Look for a solid day from quarterback Greg McElroy as well.
Prediction: Alabama 48, San Jose State 3
Memphis at Mississippi State
Spread: Mississippi State by 21.5
Story Lines: Memphis has not been very good since Deangelo Williams left a few years ago. People keep saying Mississippi State is on the rise under Coach Dan Mullen. We’ll see how they have improved. I expect a Bulldog victory, but not the blowout everyone expects.
Prediction: Mississippi State 34, Memphis 24
Northwestern at Vanderbilt
Spread: Northwestern by 5.5
Story Lines: After a narrow loss to Auburn in the Outback Bowl, Northwestern looks for its third straight winning season under Pat Fitzgerald. The Wildcats must replace star quarterback Mike Kafka and his 3000+ passing yards from a year ago. Vanderbilt enters the season with new coach Robbie Caldwell after the surprising resignation of Bobby Johnson. The line is close, but I see Northwestern winning this one easily.
Prediction: Northwester 35, Vanderbilt 21
LSU vs. North Carolina (at the Georgia Dome)
Spread: Line not released
Story Lines: North Carolina was expected to have one of the best defenses in the country this year with NFL caliber talent at many positions. But Agentgate threw a wrench in those plans. Throw in recent allegations of academic fraud and Butch Davis’ team that was so highly regarded is now covered in shadows. On the flip side, many think Les Miles may be finally leaving LSU after this season to take the Michigan job he should have taken back in 2007. The typically stout LSU defense was horrible in ’09, but should be more experienced this fall. Patrick Petersen may be the best defensive player in the SEC. Look for a close game, but if Jordan Jefferson can find a rhythm, LSU may win this rather easily.
Prediction: LSU 27, North Carolina 17
Louisiana-Lafayette at Georgia
Spread: Georgia by 28
Story Lines: The debut of Todd Grantham’s 3-4 defense and redshirt freshman quarterback Aaron Murray highlight Georgia’s 2010 season opener. The Dawgs will be without running back Washaun Ealey and receiver Tavarres King, which will only result in more yards for Caleb King and AJ Green. Georgia should have a field day with the Ragin’ Cajuns, a mid level team from the Sun Belt Conference. Look for Marlon Brown and Kris Durham to also have big receiving days for the Dawgs and the debut of junior college transfer Jakar Hamilton at safety.
Prediction: Georgia 52, Louisiana-Lafayette 17
Happy week 1. GO DAWGS!!!
Monday, December 28, 2009
Independence Bowl Preview: Prediction
I ran out of time to write a complete prediction, but I expect both teams to score a lot in this game. Georgia should have superior athletes, particularly on defense, and should help carry the Dawgs to the victory.
Georgia 45, Texas A&M 35
Georgia 45, Texas A&M 35
Friday, December 4, 2009
A Few Predictions for Championship Weekend
Between the victory over Tech, the bowl drama, and the firings, this has been a pretty crazy week. For Georgia fans, this has overshadowed the fact that this week brings us one of the most exciting college football weekends ever. Not only do we have the normal crop of championship games, but the Pac 10 Championship (which Oregon won last night) and the Big East Championship (between Cincy and Pitt) will also be decided. Here are my quick predictions for the games this weekend.
ACC Championship - Georgia Tech vs. Clemson
Both teams are coming off loses to their in-state SEC rivals. Georgia Tech earned a narrow victory on a late field goal when he two teams met earlier this season. It was only after the Jackets had squandered a huge lead. I think Clemson follows the model used by Georgia and gives Tech a healthy dose of All-American CJ Spiller. Look for a high scoring game, with Clemson to get its revenge and take home the ACC crown.
Clemson 34, Georgia Tech 31
Cincinnati vs. Pittsburgh (Winner gets Big East Championship)
The Bear Cats look to lock up their second straight Big East Championship against the Wannstache. I thought Pittsburgh had a good chance to win this game until they lost to West Virginia last weekend. I expect Brian Kelly's club to score fast and often. Cincy wins this one fairly easily.
Cincinnati 42, Pittsburgh 21
Big XII Championship - Texas vs. Nebraska
Fans from TCU, Cincinnati, and Boise State will be strongly behind Nebraska as they hope an upset means they may get a shot at the SEC Champion for the national championship. Nebraska has a great defense and has a 9-3 record in Bo Pelini's second year. The defense should be able to keep Colt McCoy from having the type of night he had on Thanksgiving, but the question is can Zach Lee and the Cornhuskers muster enough offense to win. I think this will be a close game, but Texas's offense will be too much in the fourth quarter.
Texas 27, Nebraska 17
SEC Chmpionship - Alabama vs. Florida
It doesn't get much bigger than this. Last year, the two teams met with a National Championship berth on the line and played a great game that ended in a 31-20 Florida victory. Once again this year, the teams are ranked 1 and 2, but this time they are both undefeated. Both teams sport amazing defenses and a Heisman candidate on offense. Many people think the difference in the game will be Tim Tebow, but I disagree. We know Tebow will play solid, he always does in big games. The difference will most likely be the running game of Alabama and Mark Ingram. Ingram struggled against Auburn and was injured late in the game, but Alabama was able to get by with a late touchdown. If Ingram and the Bama run game is shut down, I don't think Greg McElroy can be expected to carry the Tide to victory. No matter what the final outcome, this will be one hell of a battle.
In an upset, I'm taking Alabama.
Alabama 30, Florida 28
ACC Championship - Georgia Tech vs. Clemson
Both teams are coming off loses to their in-state SEC rivals. Georgia Tech earned a narrow victory on a late field goal when he two teams met earlier this season. It was only after the Jackets had squandered a huge lead. I think Clemson follows the model used by Georgia and gives Tech a healthy dose of All-American CJ Spiller. Look for a high scoring game, with Clemson to get its revenge and take home the ACC crown.
Clemson 34, Georgia Tech 31
Cincinnati vs. Pittsburgh (Winner gets Big East Championship)
The Bear Cats look to lock up their second straight Big East Championship against the Wannstache. I thought Pittsburgh had a good chance to win this game until they lost to West Virginia last weekend. I expect Brian Kelly's club to score fast and often. Cincy wins this one fairly easily.
Cincinnati 42, Pittsburgh 21
Big XII Championship - Texas vs. Nebraska
Fans from TCU, Cincinnati, and Boise State will be strongly behind Nebraska as they hope an upset means they may get a shot at the SEC Champion for the national championship. Nebraska has a great defense and has a 9-3 record in Bo Pelini's second year. The defense should be able to keep Colt McCoy from having the type of night he had on Thanksgiving, but the question is can Zach Lee and the Cornhuskers muster enough offense to win. I think this will be a close game, but Texas's offense will be too much in the fourth quarter.
Texas 27, Nebraska 17
SEC Chmpionship - Alabama vs. Florida
It doesn't get much bigger than this. Last year, the two teams met with a National Championship berth on the line and played a great game that ended in a 31-20 Florida victory. Once again this year, the teams are ranked 1 and 2, but this time they are both undefeated. Both teams sport amazing defenses and a Heisman candidate on offense. Many people think the difference in the game will be Tim Tebow, but I disagree. We know Tebow will play solid, he always does in big games. The difference will most likely be the running game of Alabama and Mark Ingram. Ingram struggled against Auburn and was injured late in the game, but Alabama was able to get by with a late touchdown. If Ingram and the Bama run game is shut down, I don't think Greg McElroy can be expected to carry the Tide to victory. No matter what the final outcome, this will be one hell of a battle.
In an upset, I'm taking Alabama.
Alabama 30, Florida 28
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
UGA Leading the Way for CFN's September Buzz
The guys over at CollegeFootballNews.com have an interesting Tuesday roundtable today...which program is getting no attention today, but will by the end of September?
Two votes for UGA (Pete Fiutak/CFN and Hunter Ansley/DraftZoo.com) and a picture of Rennie Curran says the roundtable likes the Dawgs.
Two votes for UGA (Pete Fiutak/CFN and Hunter Ansley/DraftZoo.com) and a picture of Rennie Curran says the roundtable likes the Dawgs.
Proving that BNE can post a picture of Rennie Curran too...with the ball...take that CFN
Fiutak: Am I too much of a wuss if I take Georgia? I have a gnawing feeling that Mark Richt has the type of team good enough to hold Oklahoma State in check in the season opener, beat South Carolina, Arkansas and Arizona State to be a strong 4-0 at the end of September and be ranked fifth in the nation going into the LSU showdown.
Ansley: ...But the team that will be back in the national spotlight after losing three major offensive stars to the NFL is Georgia. Somehow this team gets overlooked every time they lose a few players to the next level. When David Greene left Athens, no one expected DJ Shockley to lead them to the SEC title, but he did. There weren’t huge expectations in 2007 when the Dawgs found their way to a Sugar Bowl blowout. And here we are again, with Georgia likely to find a home in the middle to lower half of the first preseason polls. But a solid season shouldn’t be surprising. Georgia always seems to thrive when they fly under the radar. This is a team that has won 10 or more games in six of the last seven seasons.
Richard Cirminiello of CFN likes Arkansas in September and I can't say that I disagree with him. I think Bobby Petrino will find success in Fayetteville and that usually begins in the second year for good college coaches. Of course, Georgia travels there on September 19 after tough games against Oklahoma State and South Carolina, while Arkansas is coming off a bye week after opening with a cupcake. In other words, Arkansas is preparing for Georgia right now.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Bubba 'N Earl's NCAA Tournament Picks
Who is going to cut down the nets this year?Let the Madness begin!
The NCAA Men's Basketball Championship Tournament kicks off today and we here at Bubba N' Earl have filled out our brackets. Here's a look at our picks for the Final Four, the Championship Game, and who we think will take home the trophy.
Bubba's Picks:
Final Four: Louisville, Missouri, UCLA, UNC
Championship Game: Louisville vs. UNC
Champion: Louisville
(Side note: Bubba would also like to include his Final Four picks for the NIT: Davidson, UAB, Florida, and Virginia Tech - These were made before UAB lost its opening round game)
Earl's Picks:
Final Four: Kansas, Memphis, Villanova, North Carolina
Championship Game: Memphis vs. North Carolina
Champion: Memphis
Championship Game: Memphis vs. North Carolina
Champion: Memphis
Bulldawg Josh's Picks:
Final Four : Louisville, Pitt, Syracuse, Memphis
Championship Game : Louisville vs. Pitt
Champion : Louisville
Streit's Picks:
Final Four: Louisville, Memphis, Villanova, North Carolina
Championship Game: Louisville vs. North Carolina
Champion: Louisville
Championship Game: Louisville vs. North Carolina
Champion: Louisville
BFR's Picks
Final Four: Louisville, Memphis, Pitt, North Carolina
Championship Game: North Carolina vs. Memphis
Champion: North Carolina
(Disclaimer: The real world keeps calling on BFR so his picks are based on 4 and 1/3 minutes of actual bracketology consideration and a full season of ignoring college basketball (with the exciting exception of Georgia's unexpected first conference win of the season over the Hated Gators of Gainesville)
The Bubba N' Earl Sittin' on the 50 pick for the 2009 NCAA Men's Basketball Champion is Louisville.
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