tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-91833819601703747032024-02-20T19:16:25.544-08:00Joe KnowsJoeMcCannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800051485002496556noreply@blogger.comBlogger120125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9183381960170374703.post-48995124301505255682013-12-03T20:39:00.004-08:002013-12-03T20:42:33.522-08:00College Football Picks: Week 14In a return to the average last week: <a href="http://joeknows-sports.blogspot.com/2013/11/college-football-picks-week-14.html" target="_blank">7-3 on winners and 5-5 against the spread</a>. Here's to a <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fPlQHYkHEzc" target="_blank">wild finish</a> for Championship Week.<br />
<br />
<b><i>MAC Championship</i></b><br />
<b><u>Bowling Green at #14 Northern Illinois (-3) (Friday)</u></b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.niutoday.info/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/lynch-jordan-11-23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://www.niutoday.info/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/lynch-jordan-11-23.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One last Heisman case for NIU<br />
quarterback Jordan Lynch.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There's a lot on the line for NIU: clinching a BCS bid and maybe even securing a few Heisman votes for Jordan Lynch. I think he's playing for runner-up behind Jameis Winston, but Lynch won't let his team down.<br />
<b>The pick: Northern Illinois 45-33</b><br />
<br />
<b><i>Conference USA Championship</i></b><br />
<b><u>Marshall (-5.5) at Rice</u></b><br />
I pick this because I need to get to 10 games somehow. Vegas says Marshall is almost a touchdown better. Okay.<br />
<b>The pick: Marshall 33-27</b><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<i><b>ACC Championship</b></i><br />
<b><u>#20 Duke vs #1 Florida State (-29)</u></b><br />
Doesn't Florida State have to be challenged? Maybe a little? Just a SLIGHT threat of BCS chaos?<br />
Probably not against Duke. The Blue Devils have been a nice story, but Florida State has crushed every challenger. Jameis Winston will make one closing argument for the Heisman, and this game won't be close.<br />
<b>The pick: Florida State 55-17</b><br />
<br />
<b><i>Big Ten Championship</i></b><br />
<b><u>#2 Ohio State vs #10 Michigan State (+5.5)</u></b><br />
The BCS deserves a little chaos. Ohio State seems like a good candidate to trip up. The Buckeyes face the nation's top defense, and Michigan State is the best team Ohio State has seen in quite a few weeks, maybe all season.<br />
The Buckeyes, though, should have enough offense to survive. Their defense is pretty strong itself, and I'm not sure MSU will have enough offense to win.<br />
<b>The pick: Ohio State 20-17</b><br />
<br />
<b><i>SEC Championship</i></b><br />
<b><u>#5 Missouri vs #3 Auburn (-2)</u></b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://assets.nydailynews.com/polopoly_fs/1.1533732.1385859246!/img/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_635/aptopix-alabama-auburn-football.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="242" src="http://assets.nydailynews.com/polopoly_fs/1.1533732.1385859246!/img/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_635/aptopix-alabama-auburn-football.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Will Auburn need a third miracle to beat Missouri?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It feels weird typing that match-up for the SEC Championship, but that's it. The concern for Auburn is if the Tigers are totally spent after leaving everything on the field in a shocking win over Alabama. Missouri is not the team you want to face when you're not totally dialed in. As the line suggests, this game can go either way. I'll go with the team playing closer to home, the one seems to be a team of destiny after back-to-back miracle finishes.<br />
<b>The pick: Auburn 35-31</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#17 Oklahoma at #6 Oklahoma State (-10)</u></b><br />
I look at this game similar to the OSU team from two years ago: the Brandon Weeden/Justin Blackmon-led squad that was absolutely rolling and just had to dispose of their bitter rivals before a BCS trip. Oklahoma is not very strong this year, and I don't think they'll present the kind of challenge you'd expect from OU, especially not in Stillwater.<br />
Something to watch: if Ohio State and/or Florida State loses and Oklahoma State wins, look for Mike Gundy to make a loud case for his team to be in the national championship game. I wouldn't bet a dime on him getting what he wants, but the Cowboys will present their case.<br />
<b>The pick: Oklahoma State 45-20</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#25 Texas (+13.5) at #9 Baylor</u></b><br />
These two teams enter this game singing "Boomer Sooner," and I know that's bitter for Texas fans. The truth is, though, an Oklahoma win would mean the winner of this game claims the Big 12 title. I haven't been impressed by Baylor the last two weeks, and I think the Longhorns will give them a heck of a fight. Baylor's offense will not be stopped, though.<br />
<b>The pick: Baylor 42-30</b><br />
<br />
<b><i>Pac-12 Championship</i></b><br />
<b><u>#7 Stanford (+3) vs #11 Arizona State</u></b><br />
While Arizona State is the hot team, Stanford still can play like a national championship contender at times. I think the Cardinal lacked motivation last week in a meaningless game against Notre Dame. They'll be dialed in this week and claim the Pac-12.<br />
<b>The pick: Stanford 30-24</b><br />
<b><br /></b><b><u>#16 UCF at SMU</u></b><br />
UCF doesn't need this game to claim the AAC BCS spot, but it does need it to officially claim the title outright. Even with a loss, UCF has the head-to-head tiebreaker over the Louisville-Cincinnati winner. The allure of an outright title, though, will be enough to motivate them against an SMU team missing its quarterback.<br />
<b>The pick: UCF 44-21</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><i>Mountain West Championship</i></b><br />
<b><u>Utah State at #23 Fresno State (-3)</u></b><br />
Fresno State was stunned by San Jose State last week, and that cost the Bulldogs a shot at a BCS bid. They can still claim the conference this week, and I think David Carr, <a href="http://espn.go.com/college-football/player/_/id/484080/derek-carr" target="_blank">who has some pretty amazing statistics</a>, will let it fly in a desperate attempt to get on some Heisman ballots.<br />
<b>The pick: Fresno State 56-24</b>JoeMcCannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800051485002496556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9183381960170374703.post-2526542480429423312013-11-26T21:18:00.000-08:002013-11-26T21:18:02.914-08:00College Football Picks: Week 14I'm thankful for <a href="http://joeknows-sports.blogspot.com/2011/11/let-rivalries-live.html" target="_blank">rivalries</a>... oh, and family and stuff, too. I'm also thankful for <a href="http://joeknows-sports.blogspot.com/2013/11/college-football-picks-week-13.html" target="_blank">going 6-3-1 against the spread last week. Not so thankful for the 4-6 on winners</a>.<br />
<br />
But late November football is about rivalries and teams ruining their hated rivals' championship hopes. That makes this week fun to pick.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Texas Tech at Texas (-4) (Thursday)</u></b><br />
After a 7-0 start, Texas Tech has stumbled with four straight losses. Texas has had a week off, but the Longhorns are still going to be without RB Jonathan Gray and DT Chris Whaley. Even with a banged up Longhorn team, Tech's defense concerns me. Case McCoy gives Mack Brown a win in what may be his last game at Darrell K Royal.<br />
<b>The pick: Texas 35-30</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#3 Ohio State (-12.5) at Michigan</u></b><br />
The only reason to pick Michigan in this game is the "it's a rivalry and anything can happen" philosophy. Ohio State is more talented at every position and has everything to play for. Given the chance, the Buckeyes will run up the score to try to steal a few votes from Florida State. Although, I think that battle is futile at this point. Alabama or Florida State has to lose for Ohio State to play for a title. They'll do their best to humiliate Michigan this week.<br />
<b>The pick: Ohio State 45-17</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#24 Duke (+6) at North Carolina</u></b><br />
The legendary rivalry means a lot on the football field this year instead of just the basketball court. A RANKED Duke team can clinch a berth in the ACC Championship Game here. And the Dukies are a touchdown underdog? Heck no. Give me the Fightin' Cutcliffes for the big road win.<br />
<b>The pick: Duke 31-28</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>Georgia (-3) at Georgia Tech</u></b><br />
What a bummer for Georgia to lose Aaron Murray to an ACL injury, but I guess that falls right in line with the rest of their season. It'll be up to Hutson Mason to defeat the Ramblin' Wreck in this annual grudge match. Pro tip, Hutson: give it to Todd Gurley. A lot.<br />
<b>The pick: Georgia 28-24</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#21 Texas A&M at #5 Missouri (-4.5)</u></b><br />
I put too much faith in Johnny Football and his Aggies last week. I won't make the mistake this week. He may be spectacular against Missouri, but A&M's defense will not stop Mizzou enough. With James Franklin back, Missouri will be just fine at home and (I can't believe I'm saying this) clinch the SEC East.<br />
<b>The pick: Missouri 49-42</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#1 Alabama at #4 Auburn (+10.5)</u></b><br />
Perhaps the most meaningful Iron Bowl Ever? The winner goes to the SEC Championship with BCS title dreams. It would be very interesting to see how how Auburn would climb with a win. Over Ohio State? Over Florida State?? We'll see.<br />
Or maybe we won't. Alabama is due to be challenged, and the Tide will be. I fully expect A.J. McCarron and Nick Saban to come through though. They always do.<br />
<b>The pick: Alabama 27-24</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#9 Baylor (-13) at TCU</u></b><br />
I expect Baylor to come out flat after getting their souls crushed in Stillwater last week. However, over the course of 60 minutes, I fully expect Baylor to pull away from TCU. Expect it to be ugly at half, but comfortable for Baylor by day's end.<br />
<b>The pick: Baylor 44-20</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#6 Clemson (+5) at #10 South Carolina</u></b><br />
It's a great rivalry game, and both teams have their eyes on the BCS. Clemson has a good chance to be in with a win while South Carolina needs a Missouri loss to get to the SEC Championship Game. I'll take the points on Clemson in this one. Winning on the road will be tough, but I still think Clemson's offense should be able to escape with a W.<br />
<b>The pick: Clemson 35-31</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#22 UCLA at #23 USC (-3.5)</u></b><br />
While I've been on the UCLA bandwagon all year, I'm jumping off this week. That's mainly because I've learned to stay away from teams that don't have much to play for. UCLA blew its opportunity to win the Pac-12 South last week. USC, on the other hand, is surging. Could this be the win that convinces the USC brass to keep Ed Orgeron in charge?<br />
<b>The pick: USC 35-30</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#25 Notre Dame at #8 Stanford (-14)</u></b><br />
The only hope Notre Dame has is if Stanford takes the week off mentally because this game really means nothing to the Cardinal. They have clinched the Pac-12 North and have zero hope of getting into the national championship game with two losses. I don't think Stanford will play so casually, however, that they'll let Notre Dame sneak up on them. Stanford is much better and should coast.<br />
<b>The pick: Stanford 42-20</b>JoeMcCannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800051485002496556noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9183381960170374703.post-39030527236517671502013-11-19T20:32:00.001-08:002013-11-19T20:35:06.784-08:00College Football Picks: Week 13<a href="http://joeknows-sports.blogspot.com/2013/11/college-football-picks-week-12.html" target="_blank">It was another strong wee</a>k: 8-2 on winners and 7-3 against the spread. Of course, one of my losers was what I thought was the lock of the week. Good job, Jayhawks. It was the second <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M7FIvfx5J10" target="_blank">most impressive thing I saw last week.</a><br />
<br />
On to this week...<br />
<br />
<b><u>Northern Illinois (-2.5) at Toledo (Wednesday)</u></b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cbschicago.files.wordpress.com/2012/11/151117976.jpg?w=300" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://cbschicago.files.wordpress.com/2012/11/151117976.jpg?w=300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Like it or not, Jordan Lynch and Northern Illinois<br />
are closing in on another BCS berth.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Love 'em or hate 'em, Northern Illinois has plenty of talent to keep charging through the MAC and get into the BCS. They'll take care of business in Toledo.<br />
<b>The pick: Northern Illinois 40-30</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>Pitt at Syracuse (+1)</u></b><br />
The only thing I can say about this matchup is it makes me miss the old Big East... the basketball version. Forget football.<br />
Two 5-5 teams scrapping to get into a bowl game here. I'll take the team with the better running game.<br />
<b>The pick: Syracuse 31-28</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>Michigan State (-7.5) at Northwestern</u></b><br />
Poor Northwestern. The slide continues as they lost the Free Fall Bowl to Michigan last week. It won't get any better against the top defense in the Big Ten.<br />
<b>The pick: Michigan State 30-10</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#17 Arizona State at #14 UCLA (+2.5)</u></b><br />
I'm stunned to see UCLA a home 'dog. Yes, Arizona State could clinch the Pac-12 South with a win, but don't forget UCLA's two losses were to Oregon and Stanford. The Sun Devils were spared a date with the Ducks. UCLA will outgun ASU at home, setting up a showdown with resurgent rival USC for the Pac-12 South next week<br />
<b>The pick: UCLA 35-33</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#12 Texas A&M (+4) at #22 LSU</u></b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.ftw.usatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/USATSI_7461824-1024x682.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://images.ftw.usatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/USATSI_7461824-1024x682.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Manziel will remind you why he's the Heisman favorite.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Johnny Football needs a few big moments to remind Heisman voters that he's the guy this year. His best game came in a losing effort to Alabama. A&M's defense will give up plenty of points, but I predict Manziel will pull out a dramatic win to secure a few more Heisman votes.<br />
<b>The pick: Texas A&M 51-49</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>BYU at Notre Dame (+1)</u></b><br />
The Irish were embarrassed last time out in a loss to Pitt - maybe only the school's second<a href="http://espn.go.com/ncb/boxscore?gameId=400499978" target="_blank"> most embarrassing loss this month</a>, though. They've had two weeks to figure things out. I'll give them the edge because they're at home and the defense should get a few guys back. Like most Irish wins this year, though, it won't be pretty.<br />
<b>The pick: Notre Dame 23-20</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#4 Baylor at #10 Oklahoma State (+10)</u></b><br />
Yes, Baylor is surging. Ten points, though, is a lot to give on the road, especially in Stillwater. Even RG3 played poorly against the Pokes. Baylor's ridiculous offense should put enough points on the board to stay unbeaten, but it's not going to be easy against an OSU team that has been just as hot as they have.<br />
<b>The pick: Baylor 49-45</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>SMU (-4) at South Florida</u></b><br />
Under-the-radar story in college football the last month or so: Garrett Gilbert putting it together. In his last five games: 17 touchdowns, 1 pick, averaging 420 yards per game. Say what you want about the competition, the Gilbert of years past struggled against most opponents. He's at least earned himself a chance to work out for NFL teams.<br />
I think he'll close this season strong and maybe even get SMU into a bowl game. It starts with a comfortable win over USF.<br />
<b>The pick: SMU 35-20</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><u>#8 Missouri at #24 Ole Miss (+3)</u></b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/437486/McNeese37-Franklin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/437486/McNeese37-Franklin.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">James Franklin is back just in time to help Mizzou secure<br />
the SEC East and get a shot at Alabama and the SEC title.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Missouri gets James Franklin back this week, which is obviously huge. The Rebels' three losses have all come to teams currently in the BCS top 12. Their recruiting class was much-heralded coming in, and it may be time for the young rebels to get a signature win in their debut season.<br />
<b>The pick: Ole Miss 33-30</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><u>#20 Oklahoma (+3.5) at Kansas State</u></b><br />
In typical Bill Snyder fashion, Kansas State has been quietly solid. The Wildcats have played top Big 12 contenders Baylor, Oklahoma State and Texas as tough as anyone. They crushed Texas Tech and got by everyone else in the league.<br />
Then there are the inconsistent Sooners. Talented (I think), but inconsistent. Because the game is in Manhattan, I'll go with the well-coached Fightin' Snyders in a close one.<br />
T<b>he pick: Kansas State 30-27</b><br />
<br />JoeMcCannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800051485002496556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9183381960170374703.post-81399290495567665912013-11-13T20:18:00.003-08:002013-11-13T20:18:57.223-08:00College Football Picks: Week 12Is this a little hot streak after an October swoon? <a href="http://joeknows-sports.blogspot.com/2013/11/college-football-picks-week-11.html" target="_blank">I went 8-2 last week on winners, and more importantly 6-3-1 against the spread</a> to get me back above the .500 mark against the wise guys. Time to stay there.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Georgia Tech at #8 Clemson (-10.5) (Thursday)</u></b><br />
Georgia Tech needs this game to clinch a share of the ACC Coastal division. Clemson cannot win the Atlantic, but the Tigers can keep themselves in position for an at-large BCS bid with a win here. While Clemson is a clear level below Florida State, the Tigers are a clear step above the rest of the ACC. They'll have an impressive showing.<br />
<b>The pick: Clemson 45-28</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>Washington at #13 UCLA (-2.5) (Friday)</u></b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://l.yimg.com/bt/api/res/1.2/sUczz760F3.ww7BCaWtYGg--/YXBwaWQ9eW5ld3M7cT04NTt3PTYzMA--/http://media.zenfs.com/en/blogs/sptusncaafexperts/Myles-Jack-USA-Today-Sports.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://l.yimg.com/bt/api/res/1.2/sUczz760F3.ww7BCaWtYGg--/YXBwaWQ9eW5ld3M7cT04NTt3PTYzMA--/http://media.zenfs.com/en/blogs/sptusncaafexperts/Myles-Jack-USA-Today-Sports.jpg" width="228" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Freshman Myles Jack is emerging<br />as a two-way star for the Bruins.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Vegas still doesn't want to give UCLA's opponents very many points. They were only 1-point favorites last week at Arizona and now less than a field goal favorite at home. The Bruins still have a good shot at the BCS. Washington is squarely middle of the pack in the Pac-12 right now. They're way better than Colorado and Cal, but they're a clear level below Stanford and Oregon. UCLA is closer to those elite teams than Washington, and the Bruins are at home.<br />
<b>The pick: UCLA 49-33</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#23 Miami at Duke (+3)</u></b><br />
The ACC Coastal division is wide open, and both of these teams need this win to stay in the mix. While the talent on paper points to a Miami win, I've got a weird feeling that Duke is hitting is just starting to get. Miami has struggled in its last two games (although everyone struggles against Florida State). I'll take Duke in a nice upset win at home to make the ACC very interesting.<br />
<b>The pick: Duke 24-21</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>Florida at #10 South Carolina (-13.5)</u></b><br />
Florida is in freefall and may even be without Tyler Murphy. The win for South Carolina should be easy against this struggling offensive team. I like SC to cover as well.<br />
<b>The pick: South Carolina 33-13</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>Michigan (+2.5) at Northwestern</u></b><br />
It's the Free Fall Bowl! These two teams have been in a downward spiral for weeks. Northwestern's can partly be blamed on injuries, but I'm not sure what Michigan's excuse is. While I'm tempted to pick Michigan to keep tumbling, there's just little reason to pick Northwestern. The Wildcats are 0-5 in the Big Ten. I think it goes to 0-6.<br />
<b>The pick: Michigan 20-17</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>West Virginia (-6.5) at Kansas</u></b><br />
Picking Kansas to not stay within a touchdown of anyone has to be the easiest call of the week.<br />
<b>The pick: West Virginia 35-10</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#25 Georgia at #7 Auburn (-3.5)</u></b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://wbma.images.worldnow.com/images/23871782_BG1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="244" src="http://wbma.images.worldnow.com/images/23871782_BG1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">If Tre Mason and Auburn can handle Georgia this week,<br />that would set up an potentially epic Iron Bowl in 2 weeks.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Georgia has rebounded a little after some tough injuries early on, but Auburn has been rolling. While Georgia is holding out hope to somehow win the SEC East, Auburn is playing for the BCS. The Bulldogs just don't have the horses to go into Jordan-Hare and slow down or outscore War Eagle.<br />
<b>The pick: Auburn 33-28</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#12 Oklahoma State (-3) at #24 Texas</u></b><br />
The winner of this game immediately starts thinking about with Baylor: Oklahoma State hosts next week while Texas visits Waco December 7. We'll wait to call either one a Big 12 championship game.<br />
It's been a fun ride for Mack Brown and his Texas Longhorns, but I think they run out of magic this week. The injuries have piled up, and the loss of RB Jonathan Gray and DT Chris Whaley will really hurt this week. I'll pick Oklahoma State to win the turnover battle end the 'Horns Fiesta Bowl dreams.<br />
<b>The pick: Oklahoma State 38-30</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#16 Michigan State (-6.5) at Nebraska</u></b><br />
This game has huge implications on who wins the Big Ten Legends division. While it's a bit early to say that the winner definitely takes the Legends, it's close. I'll take the Spartans' third-ranked defense to shut down Nebraska. With just Northwestern and Minnesota left, Sparty fans could start pricing hotels in Indianapolis.<br />
<b>The pick: Michigan State 17-9</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#4 Stanford (-3.5) at USC</u></b><br />
Vegas must be really impressed by USC's blowout of 1-8 Cal to make the Trojans only a 3.5-point underdog against Stanford. This seems like the lock of the week to me. USC has played better under Ed Orgeron, but Stanford is really hitting its stride. Cardinal will win this one by a lot more than 3.5<br />
<b>The pick: Stanford 38-17</b>JoeMcCannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800051485002496556noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9183381960170374703.post-1914876412643194502013-11-04T21:46:00.001-08:002013-11-04T21:46:18.733-08:00College Football Picks: Week 11While <a href="http://joeknows-sports.blogspot.com/2013/10/college-football-picks-week-10.html" target="_blank">last week was very mediocre on winners (6-4), I had my best week this year against the spread at 7-3</a> to get me close to the .500 mark there. I was also one point away from nailing the Georgia-Florida score exactly. So, there's that.<br />
<br />
Maybe that gives me some momentum heading into a critical week in the national championship chase. By the way, why do we have to have two top-ten showdowns on a Thursday night?<br />
<br />
<b><u>#10 Oklahoma (+14) at #6 Baylor (Thursday)</u></b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/photo/2013/1003/petty_bryce_g_mr_640.jpg&w=640&h=360" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/photo/2013/1003/petty_bryce_g_mr_640.jpg&w=640&h=360" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bryce Petty steps into prime time this week. Can he deliver?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Oklahoma may seem a tad overrated at 10, but the Sooners will challenge Baylor like no one else has this year. Baylor's non-conference schedule was a joke, and the Bears were fortunate to start Big 12 play with the four of the five worst teams in the league. While I still think Baylor wins, the Sooners were not get embarrassed.<br />
<b>The pick: Baylor 45-35</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#3 Oregon at #5 Stanford (+10.5) (Thursday)</u></b><br />
Oregon obviously needs this not only to stay alive in the BCS championship hunt, but to also get a quality win to perhaps leap Florida State for that two spot. Meanwhile, Stanford could solidify its position as the best one-loss team in America. A win over Oregon might even leap Stanford past Ohio State, which would cause quite an uproar in Columbus.<br />
Oregon is explosive as it always is, but Stanford is physical and disciplined. The Cardinal might come up short, but I expect Oregon to do something it hasn't had to do yet this year: battle until the final minute.<br />
<b>The pick: Oregon 38-34</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>Kansas State at #25 Texas Tech (-2.5)</u></b><br />
Yes, Texas Tech has been humbled by Oklahoma and Oklahoma State, but I think the Red Raiders are more than a field goal better than Kansas State, especially at home. Texas Tech bounces back this week.<br />
<b>The pick: Texas Tech 49-24</b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<b><u>SMU (+9.5) at Cincinnati</u></b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://l2.yimg.com/bt/api/res/1.2/_m6lKKZu3OvTL6XHyKPA.g--/YXBwaWQ9eW5ld3M7cT04NTt3PTYzMA--/http://media.zenfs.com/en/blogs/sptusncaafexperts/153375601.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://l2.yimg.com/bt/api/res/1.2/_m6lKKZu3OvTL6XHyKPA.g--/YXBwaWQ9eW5ld3M7cT04NTt3PTYzMA--/http://media.zenfs.com/en/blogs/sptusncaafexperts/153375601.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Garrett Gilbert MIGHT just be finally emerging as a college QB.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Don't look now, but Garrett Gilbert might be finally getting it together. The former five-star prospect has been great in his last three games: 11 total touchdowns to just 1 pick with an average of 448 yards per game with a completion percentage of 65.7. Not bad at all.<br />
Will it be enough to get a win in Cincy? I don't believe so, but he will keep the Mustangs close.<br />
<b>The pick: Cincinnati 34-28</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>BYU at #24 Wisconsin (-7.5)</u></b><br />
As a Marquette grad, I don't like to say this, but it's true: Wisconsin deserves a little more respect. Despite two losses, the Badgers are very talented and they played Ohio State as close as anyone will this year. Look for Wisconsin to not only win, but try to put a few extra points on the board to try to get up in the polls a little. They have the guys on defense to slow down BYU's rushing attack, especially at home.<br />
<b>The pick: Wisconsin 41-24</b><br />
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<b><u>Texas (-7) at West Virginia</u></b><br />
Maybe this is the Oliver Luck Bowl? Texas is reportedly hot after WVU's athletic director, but they dare not announce anything before this game. West Virginia has struggled this year, but they did squeak out a win at TCU last week, which isn't saying all that much.<br />
Don't look now, but Texas has an honest shot at the Big 12 title, but this is the likely the last game in which Texas will be favored as three ranked teams remain. Texas has to take care of business this week.<br />
<b>The pick: Texas 28-20</b><br />
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<b><u>Nebraska (+7) at Michigan</u></b><br />
This is a hate pick more than anything. I'm done picking Michigan to do well against anyone except Notre Dame. I keep thinking they'll get it together, but they haven't. The team had -48 yards rushing against Michigan State, a good defense and all, but... negative 48. Yikes. They might be a little better than that against Nebraska, but I think Michigan is just going to keep falling.<br />
<b>The pick: Nebraska 27-24</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#9 Auburn (-7.5) at Tennessee</u></b><br />
It's time to respect Auburn as a legit BCS contender. That means winning by more than a touchdown at a very average Tennessee team. If Auburn loses, we can go back to overlooking them.<br />
<b>The pick: Auburn 35-24</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><u>#13 LSU (+12.5) at #1 Alabama</u></b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i2.cdn.turner.com/si/dam/assets/130901024043-zach-mettenberger-single-image-cut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="217" src="http://i2.cdn.turner.com/si/dam/assets/130901024043-zach-mettenberger-single-image-cut.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">If Mettenberger plays well, LSU could shake up the BCS.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There were a couple years there when this game had the feel of a national semifinal. Even earlier this year, LSU had the look of a team that could challenge Alabama. Now, I'm not so sure. Bama looks as strong as ever while LSU has some questions marks. I want to believe the Tigers will be dialed in and give Alabama a game because the talent is there for the Tigers. Alabama should still win with very little drama, but I'll say LSU barely covers.<br />
<b>The pick: Alabama 33-21</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><u>#19 UCLA (-1.5) at Arizona</u></b><br />
When I saw this line, I check to see if UCLA had some significant injuries that I didn't know about. Then I see that maybe Arizona is a little better than I thought. The Wildcats are 12th in the nation in rushing yards and have the country's 26th-ranked scoring defense. Not bad, but I still believe UCLA is the third best team in the Pac-12 behind BCS-quality squads Oregon and Stanford. They'll give the one point because I don't believe they'll need it.<br />
<b>The pick: UCLA 38-30</b><br />
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I'm a little worried because I have way too many losers covering. Oh well...JoeMcCannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800051485002496556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9183381960170374703.post-44317233149725079862013-10-30T20:28:00.001-07:002013-10-30T20:28:36.097-07:00College Football Picks: Week 10Okay, I finally got back on track a little. <a href="http://joeknows-sports.blogspot.com/2013/10/college-football-picks-week-9.html" target="_blank">8-2 on winners last week and a modest 5-4-1 against the spread</a>, but hey that's above .500. I'll take it.<br />
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<b><u>USC at Oregon State (-4.5)</u></b><br />
While Oregon State was humbled last week against a strong Stanford team, USC has been humbled all year. The Trojans offense will have trouble keeping up with the nation's leading passer, Sean Mannion.<br />
<b>The pick: Oregon State 36-24</b><br />
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<b><u>Virginia Tech (-5) at Boston College</u></b><br />
After a stunning loss to Duke last week, I'll take the Hokies to regroup against BC.<br />
<b>The pick: Virginia Tech 24-17</b><br />
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<b><u>Pittsburgh at Georgia Tech (-9.5)</u></b><br />
Yeah, I guess you can tell I'm not putting much effort in this week. Busy week at work. Tech wins. Sure.<br />
<b>The pick: Georgia Tech 31-21</b><br />
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<b><u>Tennessee at #9 Missouri (-11)</u></b><br />
After the Vols were crushed by Alabama, Tennessee offensive lineman Tiny Richardson said "We'll beat Missouri. I promise you that."<br />
Forgive me if I don't agree. Yes, Mizzou is coming off another <a href="http://sports.yahoo.com/news/ncaaf--missouri-cursed-north-end-zone-shaw-shank-loss-to-south-carolina-062017582.html" target="_blank">all-too-familiar soul-crushing loss</a>. The Tigers, however, still control their own destiny as far as the SEC East is concerned. They won't let that opportunity come crashing down at home to a Tennessee team that will be starting a freshman QB in Joshua Dobbs who has thrown 12 passes all season, all of them last week. Missouri may have another soul-crushing loss coming, but I don't think it's this week.<br />
<b>The pick: Missouri 35-17</b><br />
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<b><u>West Virginia (+13) at TCU</u></b><br />
I don't mean to sound like I'm bashing TCU, because I have been down on (and right about) them lately. But the Frogs being a 13 point favorite with their struggles on offense is surprising to me. With Casey Pachall back, maybe they find some rhythm, but I don't think it will be enough to light up the scoreboard. They should win, but I don't expect it to be easy.<br />
<b>The pick: TCU 23-14</b><br />
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<b><u>Georgia (-2.5) vs Florida (in Jacksonville, FL)</u></b><br />
Two teams that are struggling on offense: one is missing its quarterback and the other is missing everyone except its quarterback. Considering where they were in September, it's hard to believe these two are unranked. This one won't be pretty, but I think Florida's offensive problems are slightly worse. Todd Gurley might return for Georgia, and he would make a huge difference.<br />
<b>The pick: Georgia 24-20</b><br />
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<b><u>#7 Miami at #3 Florida State (-22)</u></b><br />
Florida State already destroyed one top ten team, and that was on the road. The Seminoles know they need style points to jump Oregon, and they will take the chance to run up the score if they can. I can't go against this team at all at home.<br />
<b>The pick: Florida State 49-24</b><br />
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<b><u>#21 Michigan (+4.5) at #22 Michigan State</u></b><br />
While I hesitate to go with this inconsistent Michigan team, the Wolverines should be fresh after a week off. MSU has gained some momentum with wins against the lower half the Big Ten, and this is their toughest game so far. For what it's worth (and that's not much), Michigan rolled over Notre Dame while the Spartans struggled in a 17-13 loss. While Michigan looks uninterested against Akron and Connecticut, the Wolverines will get up for their rivals.<br />
<b>The pick: Michigan 33-30</b><br />
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<b><u>#11 Auburn (-9.5) at Arkansas</u></b><br />
Auburn hits the road for a trap game with Arkansas. Auburn has survived tough games with Texas A&M and Ole Miss in the SEC to stand at 3-1 while Arkansas sits at 0-4. Yes, the Hogs have had a tough slate (A&M, Florida, South Carolina, Alabama), but the Hogs were clearly a step behind the SEC's best. I think they will be again this week.<br />
<b>The pick: Auburn 35-24</b><br />
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<b><u>#18 Oklahoma State (+1.5) at #15 Texas Tech</u></b><br />
The Red Raiders came up short in a chance to prove themselves last week in Norman. They get a shot to stay in the Big 12 race this week at home. While the Cowboys have played very well against Tech in recent years, those weren't Kliff Kingsbury's teams. Despite the fact that both teams are juggling quarterbacks, they both score a lot. Look for a lot of points in this one, but I just have a little more faith in OSU.<br />
<b>The pick: Oklahoma State 42-41</b><br />
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<br />JoeMcCannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800051485002496556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9183381960170374703.post-85116865263751577682013-10-21T20:48:00.002-07:002013-10-21T20:48:28.765-07:00College Football Picks: Week 9It was Upset Saturday. And I was pretty upset. <a href="http://joeknows-sports.blogspot.com/2013/10/college-football-picks-week-8.html" target="_blank">3-7 on winners AND against the spread</a>. Awful. I'm at the point where I feel like if I pick the Denver Broncos to cover 14 points against UConn, the Huskies would win in overtime. I guess the silver lining is that 3-7 against the spread was an improvement from the previous week.<br />
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So, take these picks, do<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cKUvKE3bQlY" target="_blank"> the opposite</a> in Vegas, and you'll have a great weekend.<br />
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<b><u>Boise State at BYU (-7) (Friday)</u></b><br />
I'm still not a buyer on the Broncos. In a Friday night road game, I'm even less inclined to believe. They're simply a decent team in the Mountain West. Not much more. I'll take BYU's rushing attack.<br />
<b>The pick: BYU 31-21</b><br />
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<b><u>#9 Clemson (-13) at Maryland</u></b><br />
Both of these teams know what it's like to be absolutely embarrassed by Florida State: a combined 104-14 destruction. Northwestern and Washington have shown me the last two weeks that teams don't play well after crushing losses. Will I learn my lesson with Clemson?<br />
Nope. Come on, Clemson's too good to completely tank... right? Right??<br />
<b>The pick: Clemson 38-24</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#21 South Carolina at #5 Missouri (-3)</u></b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://kbiasportsextra.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/matymaukscrambles.jpg?w=630&h=483" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="245" src="http://kbiasportsextra.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/matymaukscrambles.jpg?w=630&h=483" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mizzou just keeps winning. A win over South Carolina<br />this weekend almost locks up the SEC East for them.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Alright, Mizzou. I give up. I'm out of reasons to doubt this team. Maty Mauk was impressive filling in for James Franklin, and now the Tigers have a home game against South Carolina, a team that may or may not be without QB Connor Shaw. Mizzou will stay interesting in the SEC. A win here wouldn't clinch the SEC East for the Tigers, but it would mean only a horrible collapse would keep them out of Atlanta.<br />
<b>The pick: Missouri 38-30</b><br />
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<b><u>#12 UCLA at #3 Oregon (-21)</u></b><br />
Back-to-back road games at Oregon and Stanford shouldn't be allowed, but that's what UCLA is faced with. The Bruins were humbled last week at UCLA, and now they have to somehow rally and slow down the nation's most exciting team. The line seems about right. Oregon should win easily, but maybe UCLA finds a way to stay within three touchdowns.<br />
<b>The pick: Oregon 42-23</b><br />
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<b><u>Utah (+7) at USC</u></b><br />
Can the team that upset Stanford go into L.A. and defeat the Trojans? Maybe. USC's offense looked pretty bad last week, and it's not getting any better this season. USC should still win, but I predict it will be ugly.<br />
<b>The pick: USC 20-17</b><br />
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<b><u>#10 Texas Tech (+6.5) at #15 Oklahoma</u></b><br />
Texas Tech has scored a lot of points against some mediocre opponents. The offense is impressive. No doubt about that. Can they take down the inconsistent Sooners in Norman? Oklahoma didn't look so great last week. If OU can control the clock and run the ball, then the Tech offense won't be able to light up the scoreboard. The Red Raiders will stay close, though.<br />
<b>The pick: Oklahoma 30-28</b><br />
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<b><u>Texas (+1.5) at TCU</u></b><br />
Case McCoy had the line of the week. When asked why TCU is favored, he replied, "I guess because I'm playing quarterback, right?"<br />
As much as people (myself included) rip on McCoy for mediocre and sometimes awful play, he has come through in some huge games, most notably this year's win over Oklahoma and the<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9UFJ3XNg3Uc" target="_blank"> big finale against Texas A&M</a>. This game isn't THAT big, but it would keep Texas tied for first in the Big 12.<br />
While TCU's defense should continue to play well, I still have concerns about the Frogs' offense. I just don't think they can score with the personnel they have now. Texas may not light it up either, but they'll put enough points up to win.<br />
<b>The pick: Texas 28-24</b><br />
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<b><u>#6 Stanford (-5) at #25 Oregon State</u></b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www3.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Sean+Mannion+Wisconsin+v+Oregon+State+r4XBz5taIIyl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="204" src="http://www3.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Sean+Mannion+Wisconsin+v+Oregon+State+r4XBz5taIIyl.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This man leads the nation in passing. Can he beat Stanford?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Everyone forgot about Oregon State after the season opening loss to Eastern Washington. All the Beavers have done since is win six straight and lead the nation in passing yardage. Sean Mannion is a dark horse Heisman candidate with 2,992 yards passing and 29 touchdowns so far. He won't get to New York, though, without winning some big games. This is his chance.<br />
Stanford, though, redeemed itself last week with an impressive defensive showing against UCLA. They'll put the hurt on this high-powered Oregon State offense this week.<br />
<b>The pick: Stanford 35-28</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>Tulsa at Tulane (+3.5)</u></b><br />
Did you know Tulane is tied for first in Conference USA? Can you even name every team in C-USA? Me neither. They're actually a home underdog against a Tulsa team that hasn't been quite as impressive on offense as the TU faithful had hoped before the season. Tulsa' win last week at UTEP gave them some hope. Maybe they'll take another step forward this week, but expect a close game.<br />
<b>The pick: Tulsa 34-31</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>Penn State at #4 Ohio State (-14.5)</u></b><br />
Penn State got a nice win over a struggling Michigan team, but this week they take on a much stronger team on the road. Not only that, Ohio State is probably tiring of hearing how they need at least two teams ahead of them to lose to have any shot at the national title (which is probably true). The Buckeyes might try to run up the score if possible to win style points. I don't think Penn State will let it get that ugly, but I do expect a comfortable Buckeye win.<br />
<b>The pick: Ohio State 38-21</b><br />
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Finally, a game I'm not picking but curious how bad it gets: Baylor is at Kansas this week. That could be 84-0 if Art Briles wants it to be.<br />
<br />JoeMcCannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800051485002496556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9183381960170374703.post-58380437831575481502013-10-16T20:39:00.001-07:002013-10-16T21:04:30.226-07:00College Football Picks: Week 8<a href="http://joeknows-sports.blogspot.com/2013/10/college-football-picks-week-7.html" target="_blank">Last week was pretty disastrous for yours truly</a>. I went 5-5 on winners, and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tie0tz7jGDI" target="_blank">Jim Mora best summed up my performance</a> against the spread: 2-8! Yuck.<br />
<br />
I drop to 52-18 on winners and (gulp) 33-35-2 against the spread. Not good.<br />
<br />
Here comes a bounce back week... I hope.<br />
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<b><u>UCF at #8 Louisville (-12.5) (Friday)</u></b><br />
UCF is a good team with a pretty decent offense, but I stand by my opinion that Louisville is two touchdowns better than anyone else in the AAC. If this game was in Orlando, then maybe it could be a trap for the Cards. It's not.<br />
<b>The pick: Louisville 49-28</b><br />
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<b><u>#5 Florida State at #3 Clemson (+3)</u></b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://static6.businessinsider.com/image/5225da8169beddc650ecaa15/everything-you-need-to-know-about-jameis-winston-the-florida-state-phenom-who-had-a-perfect-game-last-night.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://static6.businessinsider.com/image/5225da8169beddc650ecaa15/everything-you-need-to-know-about-jameis-winston-the-florida-state-phenom-who-had-a-perfect-game-last-night.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can Jameis Winston leap Florida State into the national<br />
title discussion with a win at Clemson?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It's one of the key games that will shape the national championship picture. The winner of this game is likely to be number 3 behind Oregon and Alabama when the first BCS standings come out. Despite how great Jameis Winston has been for the 'Noles, I'm still a little surprised to see Clemson as a home underdog. The Tigers already beat one top five team at home this year, and I think they'll pull it off again.<br />
<b>The pick: Clemson 35-34</b><br />
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<b><u>#16 Texas Tech (-6) at West Virginia</u></b><br />
I'm still not sure how exactly West Virginia beat Oklahoma State, because I don't see much in the Mountaineers' offense. Maybe lightning strikes twice at home and they surprise Texas Tech, but I'll pick the Red Raiders' offense to run away with this one.<br />
<b>The pick: Texas Tech 45-24</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#11 South Carolina (-7.5) at Tennessee</u></b><br />
With Jadeveon Clowney back, South Carolina woke up in a big way at Arkansas. I expect another impressive road win this week as SC has to consider itself right in the mix for the SEC East title now that Georgia is struggling. Plus, South Carolina gets Missouri (without James Franklin) next week and hosts Florida in November.<br />
<b>The pick: South Carolina 38-24</b><br />
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<b><u>#20 Washington (+3) at Arizona State</u></b><br />
So, Washington really got put in its place last week against Oregon. That happens to a lot of teams that play Oregon. After that experience, I ask the same thing I asked about Northwestern after that crushing loss to Ohio State: is this team too heartbroken to rebound or can it move forward? <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G4ev-BtPMM8" target="_blank">I was way off</a> when I said I thought Northwestern would be okay. I hope I'm not wrong on the Huskies. Arizona State is a tough opponent, but I still think Washington is a talented team.<br />
<b>The pick: Washington 31-30</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#22 Florida (-3) at #14 Missouri</u></b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://sicollegefootball.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/james-franklin-blog.jpg?w=600&h=450" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://sicollegefootball.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/james-franklin-blog.jpg?w=600&h=450" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Good news, Missouri: you're leading the SEC East.<br />
Bad news: You have to maintain that lead without Franklin.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Yes, Georgia had injuries, but Missouri's win in Athens was still impressive. The Tigers' offense was clicking, and they made enough plays on defense to win. Unfortunately, Missouri now faces what Georgia did: an important home game against a ranked team while missing a key piece on offense. QB James Franklin is out at least a few weeks, and Florida's defense should take advantage.<br />
<b>The pick: Florida 24-20</b><br />
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<b><u>#6 LSU (-8) at Ole Miss</u></b><br />
Look for a lot of points in this one. LSU's offensive is talented, and Ole Miss is dangerous at home. The Rebels almost took down Texas A&M last week, and they get another tough draw this week. Ole Miss may be a little spent after a tough loss last week, and LSU will get its offense going again after a struggle against Florida.<br />
<b>The pick: LSU 42-31</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>TCU at #21 Oklahoma State (-7.5)</u></b><br />
Blame injuries, off the field stuff, bad luck, whatever. The cold hard fact is that TCU has yet to play really well in the Big 12: 5-7 after a year and a half. That's not awful, but it's worse than the Frogs had hoped for. I think TCU will improve and eventually be a solid team in the conference, but I don't think it happens this week. The defense is pretty talented, but the offense will have a tough time keeping up with Oklahoma State in Stillwater.<br />
<b>The pick: Oklahoma State 42-33</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#9 UCLA (+6) at #13 Stanford</u></b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://optimumscouting.com/images/stories/Brett%20Hundley.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="210" src="http://optimumscouting.com/images/stories/Brett%20Hundley.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brett Hundley could cause a lot of problems for Stanford.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Stanford was stunned at Utah last week. While I still think the Cardinal are BCS good, I also think UCLA may be. Stanford has a great defense, but I'm concerned that offense, while good, may not be explosive enough. On the other side, I love what I see from UCLA's Brett Hundley. I think UCLA gets a big win this weekend and puts themselves in the BCS - and maybe national title - conversation.<br />
<b>The pick: UCLA 31-28</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>USC at Notre Dame (-3)</u></b><br />
It's the first big test for USC interim coach Ed Orgeron, who got a win against Arizona in his debut. While I expect the Trojans to continue to play better with Kiffin gone, I think the challenge in South Bend will prove too much. Notre Dame's defense will make enough plays to hold on for a win.<br />
<b>The pick: Notre Dame 38-34</b><br />
<br />
<br />JoeMcCannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800051485002496556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9183381960170374703.post-91702106915270478942013-10-09T21:16:00.001-07:002013-10-09T21:21:00.189-07:00College Football Picks: Week 7If you want 8 out of 10 football picks, I'm your guy. <a href="http://joeknows-sports.blogspot.com/2013/10/college-football-picks-week-6.html" target="_blank">I went 8-2 for the fourth week in a row on winners</a>. I'm sitting pretty at 47-13 on winners this year.<br />
<br />
If you want great results against the spread, run away. I went a lousy 4-6 there to drop to 31-27-2. Ohio State's wild last second cover against Northwestern cost me a .500 week. <a href="http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1800011-ohio-state-covers-vegas-line-with-miracle-final-play-td" target="_blank">But it cost other people a lot more.</a> Oh well. On to this week's picks.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Arizona at USC (-6) (Thursday)</u></b><br />
After a week off, the Trojans take the field with interim head coach Ed Orgeron. I'm not sure if the former Ole Miss head coach will fix anything or give the team any energy, but I don't think losing Lane Kiffin can hurt USC at all. Arizona at home is a very winnable game, and USC should be fine.<br />
<b>The pick: USC 27-17</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>Texas vs #11 Oklahoma (-14)</u></b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.athlonsports.com/d/18462-1/Mack+Brown+09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://images.athlonsports.com/d/18462-1/Mack+Brown+09.jpg" width="244" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Could this be the end for Mack Brown?<br />
Or could the shock us all with a win?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It's Mack Brown's last stand, and I think everyone knows it. Even Mack. I joked over the weekend that they couldn't set this line high enough for me. They didn't. Texas has had some its worst losses in this game under Brown (and against Stoops, of course): 63-14 in 2000, 65-13 in 2003, 55-17 in 2011 and 63-21 last year.<br />
I think this year's Texas team is worse than any of those teams, and the Longhorns will be without starting quarterback David Ash. I asked a friend recently - a big Texas fan - what has gone so wrong for Mack Brown. He said Brown's biggest sin is that he is routinely outcoached by Stoops in this game and fails to adjust to the new wrinkles Oklahoma annually brings while also failing to bring any new wrinkles of his own. Texas fans are hoping freshman QB <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5XHA3OFYfrA" target="_blank">Tyrone Swoopes</a> could be that x-factor. I don't see it.<br />
OU under Stoops always gets up for this game. Texas under Brown has been hit or miss. Losing this game is one thing. Routinely being embarrassed by your powerhouse neighbors to the north in front of dozens of high-profile recruits is why Texas fans hate this game so much lately.<br />
I fully expect Oklahoma to blow past this reeling Texas team and make Brown's exit from Austin all but guaranteed.<br />
<b>The pick: Oklahoma 56-13</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#9 Texas A&M (-6) at Ole Miss</u></b><br />
There's some upset potential here for A&M, because Ole Miss certainly has some talent. The problem, <a href="http://joeknows-sports.blogspot.com/2013/09/college-football-picks-week-5.html" target="_blank">as we've discussed before</a>, is that their talent is young. Things didn't go well for the Rebels against Alabama, and I don't think they'll go well here. While Ole Miss will score some points at home off that A&M defense, Manziel and the Aggies will pull away for the win.<br />
<b>The pick: Texas A&M 44-31</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#5 Stanford (-9) at Utah</u></b><br />
Possible letdown for Stanford? After escaping Washington last week, the Cardinal hit the road to take on a Utes team that's had a few extra days to prepare after a Thursday game.<br />
That said, I (like many) believe Stanford is BCS-bound. They have some injuries - <a href="http://espn.go.com/college-football/story/_/id/9792737/stanford-cardinal-coach-david-shaw-denies-allegations-players-faked-injuries" target="_blank">real or not</a> - so that may slow them down, but I don't think the Cardinal will have too much trouble with Utah.<br />
<b>The pick: Stanford 38-24</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#25 Missouri at #7 Georgia (-8)</u></b><br />
A fully healthy Georgia team blows out Missouri in Athens, but the Bulldogs have been devastated by injuries recently. <a href="http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaaf/sec/2013/10/06/keith-marshall-justin-scott-wesley-michael-bennett-todd-gurley-georgia-bulldogs-acl-injuries/2933473/" target="_blank">Three key players on offense are now out for the season</a> (two last week plus Malcolm Mitchell), and Todd Gurley is still questionable with that ankle and Michael Bennett is also out for this game.<br />
Georgia's defense, while not outstanding, is not missing the type of personnel that the offense is. Georgia's offense should keep Missouri from blowing up like it did against Vanderbilt last week. The question is if Aaron Murray and the Dawgs will score enough points. I think they will, but it might not be pretty.<br />
<b>The pick: Georgia 31-21</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#17 Florida at #10 LSU (-7)</u></b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://gamedayr.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/tyler-murphy-florida-gators1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="229" src="http://gamedayr.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/tyler-murphy-florida-gators1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tyler Murphy gave Florida a spark. Can he win in Death Valley?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Speaking of SEC teams hurt by injuries, the Gators are missing key players on both sides of the ball, including starting QB Jeff Driskel. Tyler Murphy played well in his place against Arkansas, but this trip to Baton Rouge will really test him and Florida. LSU is one of the top teams in the country, and the Tigers have their eyes on the SEC Championship (even if everyone assumes Alabama will win the SEC West over them and Texas A&M). I'm expecting an impressive effort from an always-improving Zack Mettenberger and LSU.<br />
<b>The pick: LSU 35-17 </b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#2 Oregon at #16 Washington (+14)</u></b><br />
Even in defeat, Washington proved last week that it is a legit threat to get into the BCS. The Huskies went toe-to-toe with one of the nation's elite on the road and almost got a victory. Now, however, they face a critical game with Oregon. They need this win or the BCS is likely out of reach. A 14-point spread against a legit top 15 team at home seems like a lot, but maybe not against a team like Oregon.<br />
The uncertain status of D'Anthony Thomas has me concerned for the Ducks, though. Their high-powered offense should be enough to get a win, but it won't be easy. Physical teams like Stanford and SEC opponents have slowed down Oregon in the past. The Huskies will hang around.<br />
<b>The pick: Oregon 38-31</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#19 Northwestern (+10.5) at Wisconsin</u></b><br />
Speaking of teams who looked great in defeat, Northwestern almost took down mighty Ohio State last week. The question now: are they confident or devastated moving forward? I don't think Pat Fitzgerald will let his guys be mentally weak. Vegas, however, seems to think Northwestern is in for a beating.<br />
I not only think the Wildcats will hang with Bucky at Camp Randall, I'll take the Wildcats for an upset win, which would be their first in Madison in 13 years.<br />
<b>The pick: Northwestern 31-28</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#14 South Carolina at Arkansas (+6)</u></b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://binaryapi.ap.org/fccbc1bca29d456aabd2d60171ed4f76/460x.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="198" src="http://binaryapi.ap.org/fccbc1bca29d456aabd2d60171ed4f76/460x.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Will Clowney be on the field or sideline this week?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
South Carolina should be on upset alert. Going on the road with the <a href="http://www.cbssports.com/collegefootball/eye-on-college-football/24051421/spurrier-wants-to-clear-the-air-on-tremendous-important-clowney-" target="_blank">apparent turmoil surrounding Jadeveon Clowney's willingness to play</a>? Dangerous. Unfortunately for Arkansas fans, I don't think Arkansas is quite good enough to take down this SC team. They may hang around, but South Carolina will win close... and ugly.<br />
<b>The pick: South Carolina 27-24</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#18 Michigan (-2.5) at Penn State</u></b><br />
While the Wolverines had some close calls in September, they are still unbeaten. Penn State isn't, and the Nittany Lions are coming off a rough loss to Indiana. After a couple close calls, Michigan woke up a little and blew past Minnesota. The line seems low to me, and I think Michigan will keep improving leading up to the big rivalry game with Ohio State.<br />
<b>The pick: Michigan 35-27</b><br />
<br />
<br />JoeMcCannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800051485002496556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9183381960170374703.post-7287259725660709222013-10-01T20:24:00.002-07:002013-10-01T20:24:11.914-07:00College Football Picks: Week 6No, my blog hasn't been <a href="http://media1.policymic.com/site/articles/65009/1_photo.jpg" target="_blank">shut down</a>. I'm back at it.<br />
<br />
I'm nothing if not consistent. <a href="http://joeknows-sports.blogspot.com/2013/09/college-football-picks-week-5.html" target="_blank">Another week of 8-2 on winners</a>. That's three in a row. The spread was tricky because Vegas nailed two on the button, resulting in two ties. So, I was 5-3-2 there.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Texas (-9) at Iowa State (Thursday)</u></b><br />
Strange things can happen in Ames, especially at night games. Texas and Mack Brown, though, have their backs against the wall. They hear <a href="http://www.cbssports.com/collegefootball/eye-on-college-football/23929643/earl-campbell-thinks-its-time-for-mack-brown-to-go" target="_blank">the calls for change</a> and that people have lost faith in the program. With Oklahoma looming next week, Texas can't afford to be caught looking ahead. Being a Thursday night game and considering how these two teams have looked this year, I think there's a chance this game is very sloppy. In the end, though, Iowa State should make a few more mistakes and Texas will pull away late.<br />
<b>The pick: Texas 27-17</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#12 UCLA (-5) at Utah (Thursday)</u></b><br />
I know Utah can be a tough place to play, but this line seems really low to me. UCLA looks like a legit top 15 team to me, and Utah seems kind of "middle of the pack in the Pac-12." The Bruins should be just fine on this trip... I think. Thursday night games are tricky. Still going with my gut.<br />
<b>The pick: UCLA 35-17</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>Georgia Tech at #14 Miami (-5.5)</u></b><br />
Miami looks to be the top contender to win the ACC Coastal division. This is a chance to prove it. Georgia Tech was not impressive last week at home against a Virginia Tech team that I assumed had taken a big step back. Maybe I was wrong about VT, and maybe I'm wrong about Miami; but I think the Hurricanes will make a solid statement at home.<br />
<b>The pick: Miami 38-21</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#6 Georgia (-10.5) at Tennessee</u></b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cdn.newsday.com/polopoly_fs/1.6159917.1380412457!/httpImage/image.JPG_gen/derivatives/display_600/image.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="245" src="http://cdn.newsday.com/polopoly_fs/1.6159917.1380412457!/httpImage/image.JPG_gen/derivatives/display_600/image.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After one of the biggest wins of his career, Aaron Murray<br />needs to avoid a letdown this week at Tennessee.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There is some serious letdown potential here for Georgia: going on the road after escaping a tough (yet overall successful) first month of the season. Georgia now appears to have a very manageable road to Atlanta, where a win in the SEC Championship may mean a ticket to the National Championship Game.<br />
But they still have to win every game between now and then. The Bulldogs may be without Todd Gurley, who is day to day with an ankle injury. Even without him, Georgia's offense is explosive and loaded with talent. I don't think Tennessee, even at home, will be able to keep up.<br />
<b>The pick: Georgia 42-21</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>TCU (+10.5) at #11 Oklahoma</u></b><br />
Although it was against a bad SMU team, TCU looked to finally hit its stride last week. Unfortunately for them, Oklahoma is also getting better. Blake Bell's confidence is growing, and it may continue at home.<br />
TCU, though, won't get embarrassed. The Frogs will play well in this game, so I'll take the 10.5 points. I just think Oklahoma is one possession better.<br />
<b>The pick: Oklahoma 31-24</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>Missouri at Vanderbilt (-2)</u></b><br />
It's the last time we can say it: James Franklin vs. James Franklin. The Missouri QB is a senior, and... well... with USC (and maybe Texas) being open, who knows how long Vanderbilt will have its coach. Believe it or not, Mizzou is the only unbeaten team in the SEC East, but this is the Tigers' first SEC game of the season. While Mizzou has a future NFL receiver in Dorial Green-Beckham, Vanderbilt's Jordan Matthews looks pretty tough to me. He may outshine the highly-touted DGB in this one. I'll take the home squad.<br />
<b>The pick: Vanderbilt 42-35</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#15 Washington at #5 Stanford (-7)</u></b><br />
While most people assume the Stanford/Oregon winner will win the Pac-12, this is a huge opportunity for Washington to make us rethink that. It's the beginning of a brutal back-to-back for the Huskies: at Stanford this week and home for Oregon next week. Two wins will have people in Seattle talking BCS. Two losses will keep the Huskies a notch behind the two elite programs out west.<br />
Stanford just looks so tough to me, and I think the Cardinal will get better and better. We even got a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wQsykbQXVRA" target="_blank">glimpse of Barry J. Sanders</a> last week. Washington will play well, but Stanford will play better.<br />
<b>The pick: Stanford 40-31</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>Notre Dame vs. #22 Arizona State (-5.5) (in Arlington, TX)</u></b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://nbcirish.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/shamrock-series.jpg?w=272" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://nbcirish.files.wordpress.com/2013/08/shamrock-series.jpg?w=272" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Notre Dame will be rocking some fancy Shamrock<br />Series uniforms in Texas. How will the offense look?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Arizona State put the final nail in Lane Kiffin's coffin at USC, and it's no surprise to see that offense as a favorite against Notre Dame. The Irish offense has yet to look all that impressive. We did see Andrew Hendrix play more at QB last week, and I think that's just the beginning of Brian Kelly's moves at quarterback.<br />
<a href="http://collegespun.com/acc/notre-dame/former-irish-de-kapron-lewis-moore-goes-on-epic-tirade-about-notre-dame-fans" target="_blank">In Tommy Rees's defense</a>, it's not all his fault. The defense definitely misses the seniors from a year ago.<br />
I'm excited for this game, though, because I'll be there. I'll be tailgating - <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SwHsm4-yDW8" target="_blank">peacefully </a>- and I'm hoping to see a good game. I'm trying to come up with a logical reason why Notre Dame will win. I'm struggling to come up with one. Barring a breakthrough on both sides of the ball for the Irish, I think Arizona State's offense will be too much.<br />
<b>The pick: Arizona State 38-31</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>West Virginia (+27.5) at Baylor</u></b><br />
After looking like they might finish right down there with Kansas in the Big 12, West Virginia showed signs of life last week with a nice win over Oklahoma State. The Mountaineers may have found their QB in Clint Trickett.<br />
Baylor's offense is explosive and has put up video game numbers this year. The Bears' competition, however, has been lousy. This is step up, but I'm not sure how much.<br />
Look for WVU to be efficient on offense and keep that Baylor offense on the sideline, but it won't be enough. The Bears will win at home, but not by four touchdowns.<br />
<b>The pick: Baylor 42-24</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>Ohio State at Northwestern (+7)</u></b><br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RDXeAbi-fhY" target="_blank">Northwestern fans</a> have had this game circled on the calendar, and so have <a href="http://www.awfulannouncing.com/images/markmay2.jpg" target="_blank">fans who don't like Ohio State</a>. This and the Michigan game are the only two games left in which there's a decent chance Ohio State could lose. College GameDay will be in campus, and Northwestern fans will be in a frenzy. I think Pat Fitzgerald's guys will play a spirited game and be in it all night. I just think Ohio State's talent will rip their hearts out at the end.<br />
<b>The pick: Ohio State 31-27</b>JoeMcCannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800051485002496556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9183381960170374703.post-3978562926736008152013-09-25T21:00:00.000-07:002013-09-25T21:18:09.797-07:00College Football Picks: Week 5The recent trend continues, as <a href="http://joeknows-sports.blogspot.com/2013/09/college-football-picks-week-4.html" target="_blank">I did well on winners</a> (8-2) but was once again .500 against the spread. Overall, it was a big week for chalk: 57 of 59 FBS games were won by the favorites. The only two losers: Arkansas State and BYU. Yep, both picked by me.<br />
<br />
It might not get much better this week as there are a few-head scratching lines that could make or break me this week... probably break.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Virginia Tech at Georgia Tech (-7) (Thursday)</u></b><br />
In the past, I've always given Virginia Tech the benefit of the doubt despite slow starts. I always think the Hokies will be in the ACC title mix, but I'm not so sure this year. VaTech has looked very sluggish so far. Georgia Tech, meanwhile has looked very impressive with the nation's fourth-ranked rushing attack (albeit against a modest schedule).<br />
Since they're on the road, I think the frustrating downhill slide continues for the Hokies.<br />
<b>The pick: Georgia Tech 31-21</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>Iowa at Minnesota (+1)</u></b><br />
I'm picking this game because why not. I'll take a one-point home 'dog. Minnesota has played a pretty weak schedule, but the Gophers are 4-0 and have run the ball well. I'll take them over a team that will likely finish in the middle of the Big Ten with them.<br />
<b>The pick: Minnesota 24-21</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#6 LSU at #9 Georgia (-3)</u></b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://aug-cdn.com/sites/default/files/imagecache/superphoto/12526990.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="232" src="http://aug-cdn.com/sites/default/files/imagecache/superphoto/12526990.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Todd Gurley and the Bulldogs face their third top ten team.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This is the toughest game of the week for me to call. LSU's offense is better than it has been in recent years, although maybe the defense may be a step behind. Not much, though.<br />
Zach Mettenberger (who first enrolled at Georgia before being kicked off the team) looks like he may have turned a corner for LSU, but his hot-and-cold play in 2012 still makes me a little nervous for the Tigers.<br />
Georgia plays so well at home, and that offense can score on anyone. The pressure is really on Georgia here, though. They want a national title, and this is the end of a brutal first month for them. If they can somehow get a win, their schedule gets really soft after this. Georgia could realistically expect to finish the regular season 11-1, which means they'll win the SEC East and have a shot to win the league. Lose this game, though, and it's almost impossible for a two-loss team to play in the national championship game.<br />
On a neutral field, I think LSU might be a shade better. In Athens, I'll take the Dawgs.<br />
<b>The pick: Georgia 35-31</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>Arizona at #16 Washington (-7.5)</u></b><br />
It's two 3-0 teams in the Pac-12 opening up conference play. Granted, their schedules haven't been that outstanding, but both of these teams are in the top ten in the nation in rushing yards and scoring defense (Arizona is 5th and 3rd, respectively, while Washington is 9th and 8th). Washington is at home, and the Huskies' impressive dismantling of Boise State definitely makes me agree with Vegas.<br />
<b>The pick: Washington 35-27</b><br />
<br />
#<b><u>21 Ole Miss at #1 Alabama (-17)</u></b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gannett-cdn.com/-mm-/a6f8ad19b8d810f979cc406231584ccc321cbd3d/c=0-58-3582-2754&r=x404&c=534x401/local/-/media/USATODAY/test/2013/09/20/1379690870000-USATSI-7427400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://www.gannett-cdn.com/-mm-/a6f8ad19b8d810f979cc406231584ccc321cbd3d/c=0-58-3582-2754&r=x404&c=534x401/local/-/media/USATODAY/test/2013/09/20/1379690870000-USATSI-7427400.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nkemdiche and the young Rebels face their biggest test yet.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Ole Miss brought in a star-studded recruiting class so it could compete with the big boys of the SEC. So far, the young kids have looked really good, but this is a big step up from Vanderbilt and those struggling Longhorns.<br />
If this was Alabama's first game right after Texas A&M, I'd say there would be some letdown potential here. But, it's not. So, I won't. The Ole Miss freshmen might get a little wide-eyed in Tuscaloosa, and Alabama will be dialed in.<br />
<b>The pick: Alabama 42-21</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>USC at Arizona State (-6)</u></b><br />
I can keep this short: USC has yet to look impressive. Arizona State looks like it should be competitive in the Pac-12 (albeit a clear step behind Stanford and Oregon). The Sun Devils are at home and should be able to outscore the inconsistent USC offense.<br />
<b>The pick: Arizona State 27-17</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#10 Texas A&M (-3) at Arkansas</u></b><br />
This is the head-scratching line of the week. The wise guys in the desert must know something I definitely don't. Texas A&M is one of the best teams in America, and Arkansas lost to Rutgers last week. I don't see how this is a three-point game. I was thinking more like a three-possession game. We'll see, but I'm going with my gut: A&M is way, way better.<br />
<b>The pick: Texas A&M 45-21</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#14 Oklahoma (-3.5) at #22 Notre Dame</u></b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.rantsports.com/ncaa-football/files/2013/01/blake-bell.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://www.rantsports.com/ncaa-football/files/2013/01/blake-bell.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blake Bell has a chance to shine for the Sooners in South Bend.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This line also looks a little low to me. Notre Dame has not looked impressive through four games. Oklahoma, coming off a bye, may be hitting its stride. The Sooners unleashed Blake Bell two weeks ago against Tulsa and discovered that he actually can pass the ball quite well. I saw a friend make this point on Twitter: Collin Klein couldn't throw well, yet he dominated the Big 12. Blake Bell can be successful if he's not restricted, and I think Oklahoma has discovered that. Bell's mobility will cause a lot of problems for Notre Dame, and I think Tommy Rees will have a really tough time against the Sooners' defense. Will this be the game that forces Brian Kelly to look at another quarterback? Maybe, maybe not. I do, believe, however, that the Sooners will win this game with relative ease.<br />
<b>The pick: Oklahoma 35-20</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#12 South Carolina (-7) at UCF</u></b><br />
This line also looks a tad low. The 12th-ranked team in the country, an SEC team at that, going up against an AAC team? Sure, UCF may be one of the better teams in the AAC, but I can't imagine they'd stay within a touchdown of South Carolina by the end of the day.<br />
<b>The pick: South Carolina 35-24</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#23 Wisconsin (+7) at #4 Ohio State</u></b><br />
This is one of the few games on Ohio State's schedule in which the Buckeyes will truly be tested. Wisconsin's running game has proven to be very strong, and Melvin Gordon may be a star in the making in Madison. The Badgers' running game should keep the Buckeyes' offense on the sideline more than they're used to. The game will be close, but Ohio State will survive.<br />
<b>The pick: Ohio State 24-21</b><br />
<br />
Hopefully, I finally snap this funk against the spread. After all, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3HAQt2sKC_E" target="_blank">all bad things must come to an end</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />JoeMcCannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800051485002496556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9183381960170374703.post-33517948087108364072013-09-18T20:29:00.003-07:002013-09-18T20:29:18.778-07:00College Football Picks: Week 4Good news: It was <a href="http://joeknows-sports.blogspot.com/2013/09/college-football-picks-week-3.html" target="_blank">another solid week on winners</a> as I went 8-2.<br />
Bad news: Still struggling against the spread: 5-5.<br />
<br />
But at least I didn't <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qycehfCvBTc" target="_blank">insult </a>my readers.<br />
<br />
It's a very underwhelming slate of games this week, but I'll give it a shot.<br />
<br />
<u><b>Boise State at Fresno State (-3.5) (Friday)</b></u><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/3894485/20120915_lbm_se9_505.0_standard_352.0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/3894485/20120915_lbm_se9_505.0_standard_352.0.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Friday night is a good chance to watch Derek Carr of<br />Fresno State if you haven't seen him yet. Pretty good QB.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There should be plenty of points in this one. While Boise State's offense has been always been successful under Chris Petersen, Fresno State's Derek Carr is off to a nice start for Fresno State (661 yards, 8 TD, 1 INT). I did say earlier this season that the Boise State "magic" is gone, but this game isn't about magic. They're two pretty evenly matched teams. I do like the Bulldogs at home, though.<br />
<b>The pick: Fresno State 38-31</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>Tennessee (+17) at #19 Florida</u></b><br />
Tennessee is coming off a crushing blowout loss at Oregon, but that happens to a lot of teams who go to Eugene. While Florida should absolutely win this game, a three-possession spread seems like a lot for a team with a struggling quarterback. Jeff Driskel has looked very average, and maybe a bye week will help him get back on track.<br />
Florida's running game and defense should be enough to get the win, but I think Tennessee will keep it close.<br />
<b>The pick: Florida 24-14</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>North Carolina at Georgia Tech (-6)</u></b><br />
Georgia Tech may quietly be a contender in the ACC. While Florida State and Clemson duke it out for the Atlantic Division, the Yellow Jackets are just as likely as anyone to win the Coastal. Granted, they've only played two games (against Elon and Duke), but still: 356 yards rushing per game and just 14 total points allowed are two very nice stats.<br />
They may allow more than 14 in this game, but that rushing attack is really clicking, and I think Tech wins again.<br />
<b>The pick: Georgia Tech 30-17</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>Utah (+7) at BYU</u></b><br />
As long as both teams are competent, I like to pick rivalry games to be close. BYU had an amazing showing against a bad Texas run defense two weeks ago, and the Cougars had last week off to get ready for this one. Utah will come with a much more balanced attack while BYU will run the ball, although unlikely with as much success as in the Texas game.<br />
I'll take the Cougars' running game in a close one.<br />
<b>The pick: BYU 34-31</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>Utah State at USC (-6.5)</u></b><br />
I'm down on USC as much as everyone else is, but 7 points still seems like a low number against Utah State. Even if the Aggies did put up 122 points in their last two games (52 on Air Force and 70 on Weber State), this should be a little bit of a different challenge. I expect USC's defense to play well, and the offense will build on last week's performance against Boston College.<br />
<b>The pick: USC 34-24</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>Michigan State at #22 Notre Dame (-6.5)</u></b><br />
What to make of Notre Dame after a nail-biting win at Purdue? The offense clearly isn't as versatile with Rees as it was with Golson, and the losses of Manti Te'o and Kapron Lewis-Moore apparently have hurt the defense a lot more than I anticipated. The Irish are simply a top 25 team (maybe), not a top 10 team.<br />
Can a top 25 team beat Michigan State by a touchdown at home? Probably. Connor Cook was recently named the MSU starter after giving the offense a spark last week. I don't think he'll outscore Notre Dame, though.<br />
<b>The pick: Notre Dame 30-21</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>Arkansas State (-4) at Memphis</u></b><br />
Poor Memphis is still building. Despite having a QB who is easy to cheer for in <a href="http://msn.foxsports.com/collegefootball/story/jacob-karam-memphis-plays-piano-for-young-cancer-patient-singer-072613" target="_blank">Jacob Karam</a>, the Tigers just can't put a lot of points on the board right now. Bryan Harsin's Red Wolves can. They should be able to get at least a touchdown more than the Tigers.<br />
<b>The pick: Arkansas State 28-17</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#23 Arizona State at #5 Stanford (-7.5)</u></b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://assets.nydailynews.com/polopoly_fs/1.1231214!/img/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_635/stanford.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://assets.nydailynews.com/polopoly_fs/1.1231214!/img/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_635/stanford.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kevin Hogan and the Cardinal begin Pac-12 play this week.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Arizona State was <a href="http://espn.go.com/college-football/story/_/id/9676982/wisconsin-badgers-fall-arizona-state-sun-devils-bizarre-final-play" target="_blank">beyond lucky to escape with a win against Wisconsin last week</a>. A trip to Palo Alto against a team that could play for the BCS championship will not be quite as forgiving. Stanford hasn't been quite as dominant offensively as some predicted, but I'm confident the Cardinal will get better and better as the season goes along. Stanford will take care of business at home.<br />
<b>The pick: Stanford 33-24</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>Missouri (-5) at Indiana</u></b><br />
Missouri should have enough talent to go to Indiana and win, but Kevin Wilson's offense is starting to click a little bit. The Hoosiers dropped 42 on a respectable Bowling Green squad and sit at 2-1 on the season. I keep waiting for that monster game from Missouri's Dorial Green-Beckham, and I think it's coming soon. He was the top overall recruit in America coming out of high school, and he'll break out sooner or later. Maybe he gets in the endzone a couple times to help Mizzou get comfortable road win.<br />
<b>The pick: Missouri 38-27</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>Kansas State (+5.5) at Texas</u></b><br />
Can it get worse for Mack Brown? Oh yeah, especially when the Longhorns' nemesis, Kansas State visits. Even in down years, Kansas State always gives Texas tough time. While Texas is reeling, I think the athleticism of Texas will be enough to beat a Wildcats team that is lacking some punch, although K-State's offense has come around against some weaker opponents. They'll run the ball and frustrate Texas by hanging around, but Texas really needs a win at home.<br />
<b>The pick: Texas 27-24</b><br />
<br />
May the jinx of my picks not affect your favorite team. Enjoy the weekend.JoeMcCannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800051485002496556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9183381960170374703.post-4798950462510094092013-09-09T21:14:00.000-07:002013-09-09T21:21:55.005-07:00College Football Picks: Week 3It was a so-so showing <a href="http://joeknows-sports.blogspot.com/2013/09/college-football-picks-week-2.html" target="_blank">last week</a>: 7-3 on winners, but I <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8UUD3zyu7Ek" target="_blank">watched in horror</a> as I went just 5-5 against the spread. I was grumpier than Thayer Evans at an Oklahoma State pep rally.<br />
<br />
So, my week wasn't great, but I can think of <a href="http://sports.cbsimg.net/u/photos/football/college/img23545256.jpg" target="_blank">one </a>or <a href="http://sports.cbsimg.net/u/photos/football/college/img23545259.jpg" target="_blank">two</a> guys who had worse ones. Let's hope this week goes better.<br />
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<b><u>#24 TCU (-3.5) at Texas Tech (Thurs)</u></b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://sports.cbsimg.net/u/photos/football/college/img23510446.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://sports.cbsimg.net/u/photos/football/college/img23510446.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baker Mayfield has been impressive for Texas Tech.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Very disappointing news for TCU over the weekend as Casey Pachall's season (and TCU career) may be in jeopardy. He suffered a broken (non-throwing) forearm and may miss eight weeks. Even if he returns, Trevone Boykin may be entrenched as the starter and Pachall may have to settle for spot playing time.<br />
Texas Tech has a little bit happier QB situation: freshman walk-on Baker Mayfield has been outstanding. Yes, the competition has been bad, but 780 yards, 7 TD and completing over 71% is solid work.<br />
Doing that against TCU's defense will prove much more difficult. Getting all the first team reps in practice should benefit Boykin, albeit in a short week. That part has me a little concerned, but I'll pick the Frogs to get a nice road win.<br />
<b>The pick: TCU 34-28</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#7 Louisville (-13) at Kentucky</u></b><br />
I include this game because it's the only remote possibility, in my opinion, that Louisville loses before December (at Cincinnati to close out the season). The schedule gets really soft in the American Athletic Conference after this. Louisville may win every game in October and November by 20+ points. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gs-kSY-DfJw" target="_blank">Not that there's anything wrong with that</a>.<br />
This is a rivalry game on the road against an SEC team... an SEC team that lost to Western Kentucky. Louisville shouldn't be worried.<br />
<b>The pick: Louisville 40-14</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>Iowa at Iowa State (+2.5)</u></b><br />
Well, it's a rivalry, but neither team has looked all that impressive so far. Iowa is 1-1 after losing to Northern Illinois and getting by Missouri State. Iowa State lost to Northern Iowa to begin the season.<br />
With a bye week to prepare, I'll put a little faith in Paul Rhoades. This game may not be much to watch, but I'll take the home team.<br />
<b>The pick: Iowa State 17-14</b><br />
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<b><u>#16 UCLA (+4.5) at #23 Nebraska</u></b><br />
UCLA is playing with heavy hearts after wide receiver Nick Pasquale was killed in a car accident last week.<br />
Tragedy aside, I do like this UCLA team. I think Jim Mora is doing a nice job, Anthony Barr is a difference maker on defense, and there are plenty of talented players on that offense. The Bruins have had an extra week to prepare for a road trip to Lincoln, and I think they'll really get after Taylor Martinez.<br />
Nebraska will do fine in Big Ten play, but I think this may be the toughest opponent on their schedule (Michigan the other contender there. Nebraska does not play Ohio State in the regular season).<br />
UCLA will go to Lincoln and get an impressive, hard-fought win.<br />
<b>The pick: UCLA 31-30</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>Boston College (+14.5) at USC</u></b><br />
USC is a two-touchdown favorite. That seems like a lot for a team that didn't even score two touchdowns against Washington State. The USC offense is a mess, and I can't help but wonder how long it will be before Lane Kiffin tries taking the redshirt of freshman <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LNbvJDSSM_E" target="_blank">Max Browne</a> and throws him in at QB. While Browne may be a star one day, I don't think he would fix everything this year. On the other hand, he couldn't be less productive than the guys USC has been playing.<br />
The Trojans should still win at home against an average Boston College team, but I'll take my chances with those 14.5 points.<br />
<b>The pick: USC 27-14</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#1 Alabama (-7.5) at #6 Texas A&M</u></b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.dallasnews.com/incoming/20121110-20121110_jdm_sx1_023_28246917_904588.jpg.ece/BINARY/w620x413/20121110_jdm_sx1_023_28246917_904588.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://www.dallasnews.com/incoming/20121110-20121110_jdm_sx1_023_28246917_904588.jpg.ece/BINARY/w620x413/20121110_jdm_sx1_023_28246917_904588.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can Manziel take down the giant again? I don't think so.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I had this as my <a href="http://joeknows-sports.blogspot.com/2013/08/college-football-2013-top-10-games-to.html" target="_blank">most anticipated game</a> entering the season, and I still basically feel that way. Thank goodness (for the fans' sake) Manziel is playing. It's what everyone has wanted to see: if lightning strikes twice and Manziel takes down mighty 'Bama again... or if Saban gets his revenge.<br />
Unfortunately, I don't think this game will live up to the hype. Saban has had an extra week to prepare (forget the time he spent in the offseason). A&M's defense has had its question marks against Rice and Sam Houston State, and I think the Tide will move the ball very well. Manziel will have his moments, and the Aggies won't get embarrassed. In the end, though, A&M will have a tough time stopping Alabama.<br />
<b>The pick: Alabama 44-31</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>Georgia Tech (-8) at Duke</u></b><br />
While I sang the praises of Duke as a slowly rising program last week (and they came through for me), that was against Memphis. This frustrating rushing attack of Georgia Tech presents a different challenge. Duke may hang around and get the home crowd excited, but I think Tech will quiet them in the fourth quarter.<br />
<b>The pick: Georgia Tech 41-31</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#4 Ohio State (-15) at Cal</u></b><br />
While I definitely think Cal has a rising star in QB Jared Goff, he won't be enough against these Buckeyes. Whether Braxton Miller plays or not, Ohio State should have no trouble scoring. Kenny Guiton has looked just as effective in relief. Goff may be a star eventually, but he may be in for a rough day against the Buckeyes' D. Ohio State will be just fine on their west coast trip.<br />
<b>The pick: Ohio State 35-17</b><br />
<br />
<u><b>Ole Miss (+4.5) at Texas</b></u><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cbssports.com/images/collegefootball/Taysom-Hill-BYU-Texas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://cbssports.com/images/collegefootball/Taysom-Hill-BYU-Texas.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Texas could not make a tackle against BYU last Saturday.<br />
How much will Greg Robinson help in just a week?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Breaking news/expert analysis: the Texas defense is pretty awful. I thought Texas wouldn't get truly exposed until the Oklahoma game, but the downfall of Mack Brown has started early this season. He "reassigned" (a fancy way of saying fired) defensive coordinator Manny Diaz after the BYU loss, but how much will Greg Robinson fix in a week?<br />
I think the athletes on that Ole Miss offense could have a field day against Texas. Yes, the Rebels "only" won 31-13 against Southeast Missouri State, but they were up 31-0 and took their foot off the gas at halftime.<br />
If you saw their opener against Vanderbilt, you know how explosive Ole Miss can be. Texas may be able to score a little, but it won't be enough. And the grumbling gets louder in Austin.<br />
<b>The pick: Ole Miss 38-31</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#21 Wisconsin at Arizona State (-5.5)</u></b><br />
These two teams have combined to destroy three lousy opponents 145-0 in the first two weeks of action. So this is the first legitimate game for both, making it hard to judge how good either team is. I lean towards the home team that has probably <a href="http://cbssports.com/images/collegefootball/Pat-Tillman-Arizona-State-Tunnel.jpeg" target="_blank">the most inspiring tunnel in college football</a>.<br />
<b>The pick: Arizona State 31-24</b><br />
<br />
Finally, I will keep an eye on the Oklahoma State game. Not because they're a 47-point favorite at Lamar, but by Saturday, a <a href="http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaaf/big12/2013/09/09/oklahoma-state-ad-holder-very-concerned-of-si-allegations/2788931/" target="_blank">scathing Sports Illustrated report</a> will be out. I'm sure OSU fans will proudly wear their orange and support the players, but a lot of questions will be asked. I'm curious what Mike Gundy says, whether his name is all over the report or not.<br />
<br />
The game will be the easy part, but it will be a long week in Stillwater.<br />
<br />JoeMcCannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800051485002496556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9183381960170374703.post-52929450192508401332013-09-03T21:18:00.001-07:002013-09-03T21:18:33.791-07:00College Football Picks: Week 2It was a respectable 2013 debut as I went <a href="http://joeknows-sports.blogspot.com/2013/08/college-football-picks-week-1.html" target="_blank">8-2 on winners and 7-3 against the spread</a>. Going out on a limb for Cal cost me, but overall <a href="http://i.imgur.com/Wx9MQ.gif" target="_blank">I was content with the effort</a>.<br />
<br />
Three quick takeaways from the first weekend (possibly topics to expand on in future blogs):<br />
<br />
<b><u>1. Attack of the FCS</u></b> - The artists formerly known as I-AA had quite a showing: 8 wins over FBS schools, including Eastern Washington taking down #25 Oregon State, North Dakota State stunning Kansas State in Manhattan, and McNeese State blowing out South Florida. Was this an anomaly or is the gap between FCS and FBS closing?<br />
<br />
<b><u>2. Faking injuries</u></b> - College football fans may not want to hear this, but faking injuries is becoming as much a part of their game as it is in soccer. Just as <a href="http://thechive.files.wordpress.com/2011/08/bhf4a0.gif?w=496&h=284" target="_blank">soccer players routinely dive and roll around in agony</a> to draw a yellow card, college football players are now being instructed by their coaches to pretend to be hurt to disrupt offensive tempo. It's as troublesome as flopping in the NBA. It's brutal to watch, but it's here and I'm not sure it can be stopped. I wish I had a good solution to this. Maybe I will in a future blog.<br />
<br />
<b><u>3. Ejections</u></b> - I'm all for player safety, but the NCAA may have gone a step too far with this rule that makes officials eject players for what they deem to be targeting. Some of these <a href="http://www.californiagoldenblogs.com/cal-vs-northwestern-2013/2013/9/2/4684520/cal-vs-northwestern-chris-mccain-ncaa-targeting" target="_blank">calls are so borderline</a>, and it seems extreme to toss a guy out for what MIGHT be targeting. Some of these guys are just hitting the way they have been taught for about 10 years. If it's a blatant attempt to decapitate a player, sure throw that guy out, but I think a hit like the one we saw in the Cal/Northwestern game should not be ejection-worthy. An unfair ejection is going to cost a top 10 team a huge game at some point this season, and there are going to be riots among those fans.<br />
<br />
Takes done. On to this week's picks:<br />
<br />
<b><u>#12 Florida (-3) at Miami (FL)</u></b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cmsimg.pensacolanewsjournal.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?Site=DP&Date=20130901&Category=SPORTS&ArtNo=309010023&Ref=AR&MaxW=640&Border=0&No-10-Florida-upends-Toledo" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="226" src="http://cmsimg.pensacolanewsjournal.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?Site=DP&Date=20130901&Category=SPORTS&ArtNo=309010023&Ref=AR&MaxW=640&Border=0&No-10-Florida-upends-Toledo" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">If Mack Brown is productive, Florida is a dangerous team.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
While the Gators were a little sluggish against Toledo, Florida has to be happy with Mack Brown. The former blue chip prospect may be finally ready for a breakout season. If he and freshman phenom Kelvin Taylor (son of Gators great Fred Taylor) can help Florida control the clock, that means Jeff Driskel has to do a lot less to help Florida escape Miami with a win. I'll take the SEC talent on a top-12 team, even on the road in a rivalry game.<br />
<b>The pick: Florida 24-20</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>Houston (-3) at Temple</u></b><br />
An overall uninspiring week two slate has me picking a game from this brutal American Athletic Conference. Temple was vulnerable to the big play against Notre Dame, and it had trouble moving the ball. To be fair, I think a lot of teams will have trouble against that ND defense. Houston's offense put up 62 on an overwhelmed Southern team. They'll have a tougher time in Philadelphia, but not significantly tougher. Big plays should lead Houston to a win.<br />
<b>The pick: Houston 42-34</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>Cincinnati (-8) at Illinois</u></b><br />
After blowing out a team in the bottom half of the Big Ten last week, Cincinnati goes on the road this week to take on another one. Illinois barely escaped becoming the ninth FBS team last week to lose to an FCS team as it defeated Southern Illinois 42-34.<br />
Tommy Tuberville has an above average team on his hands, and I'm sure he has Cincy talking BCS since the Bearcats are probably the second best team (behind Louisville) in the otherwise very weak American Athletic Conference. His squad will get it done on the road.<br />
<b>The pick: Cincinnati 31-21</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#6 South Carolina at #11 Georgia (-3)</u></b><br />
Georgia's brutal first month continues. After <a href="http://ftw.usatoday.com/2013/09/georgia-fan-clemson-loss-crying-radio/" target="_blank">an upsetting opener</a> at Clemson, now the Bulldogs come home to try to stop the most feared player in college football, Jadeveon Clowney. Despite the loss, Georgia's offense looked explosive, and I don't see that changing at home. The loss of Malcolm Mitchell hurts, but the offense scored 35 points without him last week. They may not score quite that many this week, but they may not have to. South Carolina did have 406 yards of offense against UNC, but it relied mostly on big plays to score its points. Those may be harder to come by between the hedges. Georgia rebounds from a tough loss.<br />
<b>The pick: Georgia 27-21</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>Duke (-6) at Memphis</u></b><br />
I wish this was a basketball game. Duke, though, is viewed by many as a slowly rising team in the ACC. The Blue Devils are not going to win a championship any time soon, but they could become a regular bowl team for the league. Duke is getting better, and Memphis has quite a bit of work to do. Even on the road, I think Duke wins by more than one possession.<br />
<b>The pick: Duke 38-28</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>Syracuse at #19 Northwestern (-12)</u></b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.sesp.northwestern.edu/files/images/news/2012/pat-fitzgerald.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.sesp.northwestern.edu/files/images/news/2012/pat-fitzgerald.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pat Fitzgerald and the Wildcats should<br />comfortably win the "Prose Bowl."</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Cleverly dubbed the Prose Bowl, it features two schools known for producing quality journalists, particularly sports journalists... although there's <a href="http://diederich.marquette.edu/" target="_blank">another school</a> out there that I think is just as good. Maybe I'm biased.<br />
Northwestern pulled out a 42-41 thriller last year as Ryan Nassib led Syracuse on a furious late-game rally to take the lead before the Wildcats scored in the final minute. Nassib is now a New York Giant, and Syracuse does not have an NFL QB on its roster now.<br />
Northwestern, on the other hand is building and looked pretty good in a tricky west coast opener against Cal. The Wildcats should be quite comfortable at home, and all of its journalist alumni should have a comfortable win to write about.<br />
<b>The pick: Northwestern 42-24</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#15 Texas (-7) at BYU</u></b><br />
Texas has struggled in recent years, but people sure are quick to pile on when things don't go perfectly. Twitter was ready to fire Mack Brown at halftime when UT got off to a slow start and trailed New Mexico State 7-0. Then Texas won 56-7 like it was supposed to.<br />
BYU, on the other hand, started slowly and finished slowly at Virginia in a 19-16 loss. While I'm not ready to jump on the "Texas is back" bandwagon until after the Oklahoma game, the 'Horns should have way too much for BYU.<br />
<b>The pick: Texas 35-17</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>Colorado State (+10) at Tulsa</u></b><br />
Ten points seems to be a big number for a team that looked as sluggish as Tulsa did last week. It's hard to judge Colorado State after just one game, a two-touchdown defeat to rival Colorado (another rebuilding program). The Tulsa offense was expected to be a lot more explosive, and I don't think it will be quiet two weeks in a row. However, the problems from last week might not be completely fixed in a week. The Rams might hang around, but TU will get a win.<br />
<b>The pick: Tulsa 27-20</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>Western Kentucky (+14) at Tennessee</u></b><br />
Could Bobby Petrino make it back-to-back wins in the state of Tennessee over SEC teams? WKU defeated Kentucky in Nashville last week. This should be a step up in competition certainly, and I'd be stunned if the Hilltoppers won in Knoxville. Petrino intrigues me, though. While, he may make some <a href="http://cdn.bleacherreport.net/images_root/article/media_slots/photos/000/396/720/jessica-dorrell-bobby-petrino1_original.jpg?1334505532" target="_blank">poor decisions</a> off the field, he can coach. He'll put together a game plan that will make Vols fans sweat, but Tennessee won't lose at home.<br />
<b>The pick: Tennessee 34-21</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#14 Notre Dame (+3.5) at #17 Michigan</u></b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://a.espncdn.com/photo/2011/0903/ncf_g_rees11_576.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://a.espncdn.com/photo/2011/0903/ncf_g_rees11_576.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tommy Rees made some nice throws against Temple.<br />
Those won't be as easy to come by in the Big House.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Notre Dame's win over Temple was about what I expected: convincing but not spectacular. Tommy Rees looked great, but he had all day to throw. He won't have all day in the Big House. Amir Carlisle, though, could be a big factor in this game if he can get enough touches. He had 68 yards rushing on just seven carries and looked very explosive.<br />
Michigan crushed a clearly overmatched Central Michigan team. Notre Dame's defense will be a much stiffer test for Devin Gardner and company. Despite the 59-9 blowout, Michigan's passing game was not outstanding: 14-of-21 for 221 yards, 1 TD and 3 picks between Gardner and freshman Shane Morris. The running game will have to control the game if Michigan wants to win this one. Freshman Derrick Green could shine.<br />
<a href="http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaaf/2013/09/03/notre-dames-brian-kelly-backpedals-on-rivalry-jab-at-michigan/2758875/" target="_blank">Debate about whether or not this is a "historic" rivalry if you want</a>, I think it's a good one. It's two of the winningest programs in the sport. They first met in 1887, and I know there are huge gaps in the rivalry (they only played twice between 1910 and 1978). I've been on this earth for 33 football seasons, and these two teams have met in 27 of them. From the Rocket to Desmond Howard to Shoelace, there have been some great games that I remember. To me, it's a traditional rivalry that I look forward to each year, and I hate that it's going away soon.<br />
These two played a wild shootout under the lights in Ann Arbor two years ago that Michigan won in the final seconds. I think this time around will be a little different: a low-scoring rock fight that goes to the home team. It will be close, but I think the road atmosphere and Michigan's defense will be too much for the Irish.<br />
<b>The pick: Michigan 14-13</b><br />
<br />
Finally, the curious line of the week to me: Kansas is a 23-point favorite over FCS opponent South Dakota, a team that was 1-11 last year. Yes, that's a bad team visiting Lawrence, but Kansas hasn't beaten anyone by that many points in three years. I'm not rooting against Charlie Weis and I think he has a promising QB in Jake Heaps, but that just seems like a big number next to Kansas for any opponent.<br />
<br />
Enjoy week two, and <a href="http://pac-12.com/videos/outtakes-ronnie-lott-falls-postgame-report-set" target="_blank">watch out for that top step</a>.JoeMcCannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800051485002496556noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9183381960170374703.post-38561287609510530582013-08-26T20:43:00.001-07:002013-08-28T20:44:32.164-07:00College Football Picks: Week 1<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IwrstxuicZk" target="_blank">Rejoice</a>. My picks blog - <a href="http://images5.fanpop.com/image/photos/31100000/Lucille-Winking-animated-gif-arrested-development-31133148-245-245.gif" target="_blank">for entertainment purposes only</a> - is back. For those new to the program, I pick ten games of interest every week, both winners and against the spread.<br />
<br />
The season is here! So, <a href="http://i.huffpost.com/gen/1318268/thumbs/o-WILL-SMITH-MILEY-CYRUS-570.jpg?6" target="_blank">feast your eyes</a> on a fresh round of picks.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Utah State at Utah (-3) (Thursday)</u></b><br />
It's a rivalry game, and the first college football game on Fox Sports 1. Utah State took this game last year in overtime and went on to have an outstanding 11-2 season. Then Coach Gary Andersen left for Wisconsin.<br />
Utah was a disappointing 5-7 a year ago, but I'll pick the Pac-12 program to win a rivalry game at home.<br />
<b>The pick: Utah 21-17</b><br />
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<b><u>North Carolina at #6 South Carolina (-11) (Thursday)</u></b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://firstroundgrade.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/clowney1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://firstroundgrade.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/clowney1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jadeveon Clowney is about to be let loose on college football.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="http://cdn.wl.uproxx.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/Clowney_vs_Clobbered.gif" target="_blank">Unleash the Clowney</a>. The top NFL prospect in college football begins unleashing his terror on opposing quarterbacks. I can't remember a defensive prospect being hyped this much for the Heisman before a game has been played, and there's no reason to doubt that he's worthy of the hype. He's looked like an NFL player since <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=92mvtG0kPCY" target="_blank">he was in high school</a>.<br />
Besides Clowney, South Carolina has plenty of talent and SEC title dreams. I don't expect them to have any trouble at home against UNC.<br />
<b>The pick: South Carolina 33-13</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>Texas Tech (-5.5) at SMU (Friday)</u></b><br />
Did you know that Garrett Gilbert is still in college? The freshman who replaced an injured Colt McCoy in the BCS title game once open a time has one year of eligibility left, and he's back at SMU. While I'd like to see the kid break through and have a big season, I'm not sure it's happening.<br />
Texas Tech should feature an exciting offense under Kliff Kingsbury, and Red Raider fans are thrilled to see it. I think they'll throw it all over the field on an overmatched SMU defense.<br />
<b>The pick: Texas Tech 38-24</b><br />
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<b><u>Mississippi State vs #13 Oklahoma State (-12.5) (in Houston, TX)</u></b><br />
Ever since Oklahoma State barely missed out on a chance to play in the BCS title game two years ago, OSU fans have been dying to get a shot at the SEC. Well, here you go... kind of. Mississippi State isn't exactly the cream of the crop in the SEC, but MSU is no bottom-feeder either.<br />
I saw a cute stat today from a press release. It said Mike Gundy is 8-1 in his last nine games against "current SEC teams." Of course, seven of those wins are against Missouri and pre-Sumlin Texas A&M. Adorable stat, but I'm going with 1-1 in his last two games against actual SEC teams (a win over Georgia and loss to Ole Miss in the Cotton Bowl).<br />
The Cowboys appear to be going with a two-quarterback system of Clint Chelf and J.W. Walsh. That isn't official, but Gundy hasn't named a starter yet. I expect to see some of both, though. Regardless of who is at quarterback, OSU has plenty of talent to go around on offense, even if they're not household names yet. While the Bulldogs' SEC talent may keep them in it for a while, I think OSU will pull away and win comfortably.<br />
<b>The pick: Oklahoma State 38-21</b><br />
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<b><u>Temple (+30) at #14 Notre Dame</u></b><br />
Why pick this game? Well, research shows 50% of my readership is Notre Dame football fans. Know your audience, folks. (Hi, Dad. Hi, <a href="https://twitter.com/StasiuJetLife" target="_blank">Stan</a>.)<br />
The Irish begin this season still probably licking their wounds after being destroyed in the BCS title game by Alabama. The question is if the defense can replace the playmaking of Manti Te'o and the offense can replace the production of Everett Golson. I don't think victory should be in doubt, but Notre Dame tended to play down to lower competition quite a bit last year, although the opener against Navy was the exception.<br />
The Irish should win easily, but I think asking a Tommy Rees-led offense to outscore someone by 30 is asking a lot.<br />
<b>The pick: Notre Dame 35-9</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#1 Alabama (-19.5) vs Virginia Tech (in Atlanta)</u></b><br />
The champs are here! We get our first look at the defending national champions and overwhelming favorites to do it again. While I always pick Virginia Tech to make some noise and be a player in the ACC, I can't have any faith in them against Nick Saban when he's had seven months to prepare. I don't care how many NFL players Alabama lost, the next crop steps in now.<br />
<b>The pick: Alabama 35-3</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#5 Georgia (-1.5) at #8 Clemson</u></b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www3.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Tajh+Boyd+Auburn+v+Clemson+lxxf20j2ca9l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="205" src="http://www3.pictures.zimbio.com/gi/Tajh+Boyd+Auburn+v+Clemson+lxxf20j2ca9l.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tajh Boyd could start a 2013 Heisman campaign against<br />
a young... but talented... Georgia defense.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Georgia fans are talking SEC and national title. If that's going to happen, it starts here. This the beginning of a brutal first month for Georgia that also includes South Carolina and LSU (both at home though). I think Tajh Boyd could emerge as the best NFL QB prospect in this year's class, and I expect a big game from him against a rebuilt Georgia defense.<br />
Georgia's offense, though, is stacked: a seasoned veteran quarterback in Aaron Murray and <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgknwU38Saq2Nxd5y6XHMcUyl53mjqruiCJq2IdYNyNtXGnoOU7GouU3QBuhzNTTKalOBi6RKCmd4S3qudaDhjOidxLOmDhGhtqrNMyDTx3NKMirk_PWooNCfI-CgF7sqnrqjKp30HtS2T5/s320/GURSHALL.jpg" target="_blank">two dynamite running backs</a>. I think the Dawgs will put up a lot of points in a shootout win.<br />
<b>The pick: Georgia 45-42</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#12 LSU (-4) vs #20 TCU (in Arlington, TX)</u></b><br />
I like this game almost as much as Georgia-Clemson, but for different reasons. Not many people are picking LSU to win the SEC, and I think the Tigers love to be able to play the "no respect" card, something they haven't been able to play much under Les Miles. TCU, meanwhile, gets Casey Pachall back at quarterback after drug issues cost him most of his 2012 season. It's not a lock that he's starting, though. Gary Patterson has yet to say whether he's starting Pachall or Trevone Boykin (last year's starter). When he's right, Pachall can be a very good player, maybe the best in the Big 12. But, I have no idea what to expect from him after a year away. What really hurts TCU in this game is the suspension of Devonte Fields on the defensive line.. at least it should. <a href="http://www.star-telegram.com/2013/08/26/5109300/suspended-tcu-de-devonte-fields.html" target="_blank">It's almost looking like Fields may play after all</a>. If he does indeed sit out, I expect LSU to take advantage and move the ball just fine. TCU is playing close to home and won't get embarrassed, but I think the Tigers will have too much.<br />
What I would love to see, though: LSU down 4 with a few seconds left, facing a fourth-and-goal on the one... and Patterson sweating bullets as he thinks long and hard about sending Fields into the game.<br />
<b>The pick: LSU 24-17</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#19 Boise State (+3.5) at Washington</u></b><br />
This is the annual "Boise State tries to prove something out of conference" game. It's not exactly a top ten opponent, but it's obviously a challenge seeing as how Washington is a slight favorite. While I still think Chris Petersen is a fantastic coach, I think some of that Boise State magic that helped them win marquee games against Virginia Tech and Georgia has faded. Washington won't be taken by surprise at home.<br />
Gus Johnson is calling the game, though. The Rule of Gus tells me it will be close.<br />
<b>The pick: Washington 24-23</b><br />
<br />
<b><u>#22 Northwestern at California (+6)</u></b><br />
What's a picks blog without an upset pick? Northwestern has been getting a fair amount of preseason hype, and the Wildcats are becoming a nice program under Pat Fitzgerald. Cal is looking to rebuild under new coach Sonny Dykes, and they have an exciting freshman quarterback in <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BNy-Ne-KEok" target="_blank">Jared Goff</a> taking over the offense. While Northwestern looks pretty legit and should compete in the Big Ten, I just see this as a trap: a west coast trip against a team unveiling a new wide-open offense. Upset.<br />
<b>The pick: Cal 31-30</b><br />
<br />
Finally, the ridiculous line of the week: Oregon is -59 against Nicholls State. I feel for the Colonels because I covered them when I got my first job down on the bayous of Louisiana. I hope it doesn't get that bad, but I fear it might be. Good luck, NSU.<br />
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College football is back, everybody. Let's enjoy the ride. We'll be <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sc27MWBkq7k" target="_blank">arguing about BCS standings</a> before you can blink.JoeMcCannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800051485002496556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9183381960170374703.post-3988722218600409042013-08-25T15:23:00.000-07:002013-08-25T20:02:40.610-07:00College Football 2013: Top 10 Games to WatchThe <a href="http://joeknows-sports.blogspot.com/2013/08/college-football-freshmen-to-watch.html" target="_blank">rebirth of my blog</a> continues with the list of the top ten college football games I already have circled on my calendar... is that expression outdated? How about, the top ten games I have set an alert for on my phone? There we go.<br />
<br />
<b><u>10. LSU vs TCU, August 31</u></b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://collegesportsblog.dallasnews.com/files/2013/08/CASEY_PACHALL-620x413.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://collegesportsblog.dallasnews.com/files/2013/08/CASEY_PACHALL-620x413.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Casey Pachall returns for TCU after sitting out 2012.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I love great non-conference games right out of the gate. I'm curious to see what LSU looks like. The Tigers are usually at the top of the SEC, but aren't necessarily picked as a top three contender this year. TCU won't have suspended defensive end Devonte Fields, but I am curious to see how Casey Pachall plays after sitting out last season with drug issues. A win against a top SEC team would be a huge boost for TCU.<br />
<br />
<b><u>9. Georgia at Clemson, August 31</u></b><br />
Another outstanding non-conference game the first weekend, and this one is between a pair of top ten teams. There's a chance this could be the eventual SEC champion against the eventual ACC champion. We have a long way to go there, but it should be great to see Aaron Murray and Tajh Boyd try to match each other throw-for-throw. It is, perhaps, the first showdown of the season between two Heisman contenders.<br />
<br />
<b><u>8. Texas A&M at LSU, November 23</u></b><br />
I'm putting this game on the list under the assumption that Johnny Manziel is playing for A&M. Johnny Football in Death Valley? Yes, please.<br />
<br />
<b><u>7. Texas vs Oklahoma, October 12</u></b><br />
I look forward to this game every year, as it's usually an early indicator of who the team to beat in the Big 12 is. Texas should expect to go into this game 5-0 (New Mexico State, at BYU, Ole Miss, Kansas State, at Iowa State). Oklahoma, on the other hand will either enter this game reeling or on fire. The Sooners are at Notre Dame then host TCU the two weeks before this game. If Oklahoma enters this game 5-0, they will certainly be a top ten team. The winner of this game vs. Oklahoma State instantly becomes my next game to watch in the Big 12, as that may decide the champion. OSU visits Texas November 16 and then hosts Bedlam December 7.<br />
<br />
<u><b>6. LSU at Alabama, November 9</b></u><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://a.espncdn.com/photo/2011/1204/ncf_u_miles_gb1_600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://a.espncdn.com/photo/2011/1204/ncf_u_miles_gb1_600.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LSU vs Alabama has become a regular must-see game.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This has been the must-see game in college football the past two years. LSU may not be picked quite as high as some other SEC teams, but make no mistake about it: the Tigers are very talented. When this game happens, LSU will be the best team Alabama has seen in almost two months.<br />
<br />
<b><u>5. Notre Dame at Michigan, September 7</u></b><br />
How good are the Irish without Manti Te'o and Everett Golson? We'll find out early with a visit to the Big House. Michigan may have a few questions themselves, but Devin Gardner has been getting a lot of praise as he's taken over as the leader of that offense. Notre Dame's last game against Stanford could be very interesting depending what the teams' records are, but let's make sure the Irish are legit first. This game will be a nice early indicator.<br />
<br />
<b><u>4. South Carolina at Georgia, September 7</u></b><br />
How brutal is Georgia's early schedule? After visiting Clemson, the Dawgs host South Carolina the next week then get a breather against North Texas before LSU visits. Even with the home games, that's as tough as a first month gets. All eyes will be on Jadeveon Clowney and how much he terrorizes Murray.<br />
<br />
<b><u>3. Ohio State at Michigan, November 30</u></b><br />
Another game I look forward to every year. Ohio State's schedule is not all that daunting, as the Buckeyes' most significant road games before this one are at Cal and Northwestern. There's a good chance Ohio State enters the Big House 11-0 with a national championship berth on the line. Popcorn is ready.<br />
<br />
<b><u>2. Oregon at Stanford, November 7</u></b><br />
Stanford has been getting some well-deserved press as the team to beat in the Pac-12. Getting this game at home helps. What LSU/Alabama has been to the SEC the past couple years, that's what this game is out west. The winner likely wins its division and a berth in the conference title game while the loser will have to hope for help.<br />
<br />
<b><u>1. Alabama at Texas A&M, September 14</u></b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://dy.snimg.com/story-image/4/80/4308238/127780-650-366.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://dy.snimg.com/story-image/4/80/4308238/127780-650-366.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can Johnny Manziel take down Alabama again?<br />
Better question: will he get the chance to?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I don't care what Johnny Manziel may or may not have done off the field, please let him play in this game. Don't college football fans deserve to see Johnny Football get another shot to take down the mighty Crimson Tide? If he doesn't play, this game might drop out of my top ten. If he does play, it's must-see TV. Besides the obvious drama of the game, this is by far the toughest game on Alabama's schedule. <a href="http://espn.go.com/college-football/team/_/id/333/alabama-crimson-tide" target="_blank">Look at it.</a> I don't see another game before LSU in which Alabama will be favored by less than a touchdown. Yes, it's still the SEC and things happen, but Alabama has a very modest schedule by SEC standards and is likely to coast to the LSU game. That's why this game is so interesting: the unpredictability of College Station and Johnny Football could knock the Tide down a peg.<br />
<br />
As we know, as the season goes along, other games will pop up as critical while some of these could fade in significance as they approach. Whatever happens, let's get college football going already.<br />
<br />JoeMcCannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800051485002496556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9183381960170374703.post-26174077663203273232013-08-22T20:42:00.000-07:002013-08-22T20:42:45.366-07:00College Football Freshmen to WatchAfter being basically in hibernation for the summer, I've decided to revive my blog for college football season. I'll get it going by cross-promoting with my day job, producing a show called <a href="http://www.sportsstarsoftomorrow.com/" target="_blank">Sports Stars of Tomorrow</a>.<br />
<br />
The show focuses on rising high school stars who hope to be big names on the college and pro levels. In the past, the show has featured guys like <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=92mvtG0kPCY" target="_blank"><b>Jadeveon Clowney</b></a> and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2HknHcPOOE8" target="_blank"><b>Andrew Luck</b></a>.<br />
<br />
For this post, I'll run down ten players we featured last year (my first on the show) who I think will make an impact in college football sooner rather than later.<br />
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LEoISn60SPw" target="_blank"><b>10. Sefo Liufau, Colorado</b></a> - The QB from Bellarmine Prep in Tacoma, WA, is my sleeper of this group. He may not have gotten a lot of hype in high school and won't get much more at Colorado, but I think he has the tools to be a very good college QB. He might start this season as a backup, but I think he'll be starting in Boulder soon enough.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=soxWhWSIcRQ" target="_blank"><b>9. Dymonte Thomas, Michigan</b></a> - The Wolverines brought in a strong class that included <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zas00iF4_jQ" target="_blank">Shane Morris</a> and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q20DuGcMQ-Q" target="_blank">Ben Gedeon</a>, but Thomas may be the guy who makes the earliest impact. The defensive back is working his way up Michigan's depth chart, and I think he'll see the field pretty early.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.trbimg.com/img-52085497/turbine/lat-usc-la0010806557-20130808/600/600x390" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="208" src="http://www.trbimg.com/img-52085497/turbine/lat-usc-la0010806557-20130808/600/600x390" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's unclear how soon he'll play, but Max Browne will be a star.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LNbvJDSSM_E" target="_blank"><b>8. Max Browne, USC</b></a> - The only reason I don't have the 2012 Gatorade High School Football Player of the Year higher is because he's in a crowded QB situation. Browne has all the talent to start under center for the Trojans, and I'm sure he eventually will for at least two seasons. He's a smart, well-spoken kid with leadership skills and a great arm.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IzqzIXnXfWo" target="_blank"><b>7. Joey Bosa, Ohio State</b></a> - The son of an NFL player, Bosa has out-of-this-world athleticism for his size (6'5" 270). I'm not sure how much he'll play as a freshman on a national title contender like the Buckeyes, but I can't imagine there are too many guys on the roster with higher ceilings than Bosa. If Bosa adjusts quickly to the demands of the college game, he could play a decent role this year. I fully expect he'll be a household name among Buckeye fans before his days in Columbus are done.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EQGxBh8Hqc4" target="_blank"><b>6. Greg Bryant, Notre Dame</b></a> - For all the talk about the Irish losing QB Everett Golson and LB Manti Te'o, don't forget the Irish graduated their two leading rushers: Cierre Wood and Theo Riddick. The window is wide open for a five-star back like Bryant to contribute early and often. Also watch for fellow freshman <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5cNZrDzIyGc" target="_blank">Jaylon Smith</a>, who could help fill the void left by Te'o at linebacker. Insert your own joke about the void of Lennay Kekua.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BNy-Ne-KEok" target="_blank"><b>5. Jared Goff, California</b></a> - The freshman has already won the starting quarterback job for the Bears. His high school coach confidently called him an NFL quarterback. Maybe he's right. Goff has an NFL frame (6'4, 205) and has been praised for his accuracy.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6s99PsjFNn4" target="_blank"><b>4. Derrick Henry, Alabama</b></a> - The record-breaking running back from Yulee, FL, will just be the next NFL back to come through Nick Saban's program. Ingram, Richardson, Lacy, and Yeldon have all played key roles in Alabama's three titles under Saban. This huge, powerful back will follow in their footsteps and do an outstanding job.<br />
<br />
<b><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GfkvVNES6Lw" target="_blank">3. Robert Nkemdiche, Ole Miss</a> </b>- Everyone is picking this guy to be a star, and so am I. He's the next big thing at defensive end. After Clowney is done terrorizing SEC QB's, Nkemdiche may be the most feared pass rusher in college football.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://i.usatoday.net/sports/_photos/2012/09/18/all-usa-performers-weekx-large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i.usatoday.net/sports/_photos/2012/09/18/all-usa-performers-weekx-large.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I see big things ahead for Thomas Tyner at Oregon.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WfIzyU52y58" target="_blank"><b>2. Thomas Tyner, Oregon</b></a> - Here's where I go out on a limb a little, putting Tyner ahead of guys like Henry and Nkemdiche. The blazing fast running back from Aloha, OR, is a perfect fit for the Ducks. He may be behind De'Anthony Thomas and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jQJI5A3DYnw" target="_blank">Byron Marshall</a> on the depth chart, but that system has room for lots of athletes. I think Tyner is too talented to keep on the sideline too long. He'll earn his spot and make some plays as a freshman before eventually becoming a star in Eugene.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TgoXx4DUSpE" target="_blank"><b>1. Su'a Cravens, USC</b></a> - The do-everything star from Vista Murrieta, CA, will play defensive back at USC. The Trojans are hurting for depth due to sanctions, and talented freshmen like Cravens should see the field early and often. Cravens looks like a future NFL corner to me, and I think he'll play very well as a freshman.<br />
<br />
Journalists are supposed to be unbiased, but of course I pull for the kids I have the pleasure of meeting while producing Sports Stars. Good luck to all the players who have been on the show.<br />
<br />
I'll be back soon with a look at my games to watch for 2013.JoeMcCannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800051485002496556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9183381960170374703.post-86679961660292151052013-07-07T21:05:00.003-07:002013-07-07T21:05:55.188-07:00Yasiel Puig and the All-Star GameDoes Dodgers rookie phenom Yasiel Puig belong in the All-Star Game? Well, before I decide, I guess I still have to figure out what the MLB All-Star Game is.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.insidesocal.com/dodgers/files/2013/03/Yasiel-Puig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="205" src="http://www.insidesocal.com/dodgers/files/2013/03/Yasiel-Puig.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dodgers rookie phenom Yasiel Puig has been amazing<br />
in a month on the job, but should he be an All-Star?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Major League Baseball delivers quite a mixed message with its All-Star Game. Is it an exhibition? Because, it lets fans pick the starters and top pitchers still skip the game if they have a start the Sunday before the game.<br />
<br />
Or does it "count?" We're still letting this game decide home field in the World Series, right? Sigh. That's long been a<a href="http://joeknows-sports.blogspot.com/2011/07/changing-all-star-game.html" target="_blank"> point of contention for me</a>, but I'm trying to let it go.<br />
<br />
Whether it's about the fans or about the World Series, my conclusion is the same: Puig should be in the game.<br />
<br />
If it's all about the fans and who they want to see, it's pretty clear they want to see Puig. That will be made clear when he runs away with the game's "Final Vote." There's a buzz about this kid, and it's not just media hyping him up. He's been terrific. Hitting over .400 in his first month in the big leagues, he is a legit five-tool star who has in the inside track to the NL Rookie of the Year. Just like Bryce Harper last year, he's a phenom who the fans want to see.<br />
<br />
If it's about getting home field in the World Series, then I think it's hard to argue that the NL team is better without him. If this is an important game that counts, do you or do you not want the hottest hitter in baseball on your roster? For the same reason that useful utility players like Ben Zobrist and Omar Infante can make the team, a red-hot hitter like Puig should be there if all you want to do is win.<br />
<br />
Am I being a bit sarcastic with this blog? Maybe. I'm obviously leaving out what the All-Star game selections <i>should </i>be about: rewarding the most deserving players in baseball with an All-Star selection. Based on that and that alone, does Puig deserve to be there? That's tough to say, as there are some very good players who have been good for three months instead of one. I think it would be more fair to give the nod to one of those guys.<br />
<br />
But there are other factors at play here. Whether it's the fans who want to see him or the NL team just trying to win the game, Puig should be in New York to satisfy them both.JoeMcCannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800051485002496556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9183381960170374703.post-17910056396858695182013-04-17T20:47:00.001-07:002013-04-17T20:56:22.769-07:00The Smart DecisionI salute and respect Marcus Smart of Oklahoma State. He went against the trend of one-and-dones and is returning to the Cowboys, <a href="http://www.newson6.com/story/22006168/ht/story/22003453/breaking-osu-trio-of-smart-nash-and-brown-returning" target="_blank">much to the delight of Stillwater</a>.<br />
<br />
Some people ripped him for passing up on the millions of guaranteed dollars, which is ironic since so many complain about the one-and-dones. I didn't rip him, but I certainly would have advised him to go pro since he was projected as a top three pick, if not number one.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gannett-cdn.com/media/USATODAY/USATODAY/2013/02/16/marcus-smart1-4_3_r536_c534.jpg?1b79b3da202957124496e3768cfb7b67cdb10c81" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://www.gannett-cdn.com/media/USATODAY/USATODAY/2013/02/16/marcus-smart1-4_3_r536_c534.jpg?1b79b3da202957124496e3768cfb7b67cdb10c81" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">College basketball fans should applaud Marcus Smart.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
But, it was Smart's decision to make. College basketball fans should applaud and support him, because he's making the game they love better.<br />
<br />
I was watching the ESPN 30 for 30 film <i>Survive and Advance</i> the other day. One thing that stood out to me early on in the film was the quality of college basketball in the 1980's, when everyone stayed in school. Ralph Sampson, Michael Jordan, Patrick Ewing, and Akeem Olajuwon all stayed in school for at least three years. Today, guys like that are almost all gone after a year.<br />
<br />
I was jealous watching that. College basketball was much better in the 1980's because players kept returning to school instead of jumping too early to the NBA. We'll never get back to that, but it is refreshing to see a player like Smart stay in school, stay committed to the coach and program who gave him a free education, and to continue to improve at the college level before he's absolutely ready to be a pro.<br />
<br />
Is it the right decision? Is it wrong? I don't know. Time will tell. All I know is it was Smart's choice, and I think he knows what he can handle. Even if he takes a step back as a sophomore (which I doubt, barring injury), he has two years after that to get back where he wants to be. Plus, I'm sure he'll have some insurance policy (like college football players often get) if disaster strikes and he suffers a horrible injury.<br />
<br />
As loaded as the 2014 class is, I really think Smart could still be a top three pick next year. That's assuming, of course, he comes out next year. Maybe he stays in Stillwater even longer, and I think that would be awesome for college basketball.<br />
<br />
My opinion really means nothing, but for what it's worth, I think most college players should stay the full four years like they did in the '80's, and only leave if they are projected as lottery picks (like Smart is). However, the decisions are theirs, not mine. Opinions like that mostly come off as selfish. As fans, sure, we want our teams to be good, so we want kids to stay in school.<br />
<br />
If a kid thinks going pro early is the best for him, then good luck to him. I understand striking while the iron is hot. I just hope kids who leave early are listening to the right people. A lot of times, they aren't.<br />
<br />
As far as Smart goes, I'll definitely never blast a kid for staying in school. Smart will get his money one day, and I think he'll make a lot of it in the NBA when he is ready.<br />
<br />
Oklahoma State is not my favorite team, but Smart is one of my favorite players. I love his heart, his fire, and how he selflessly helps his team win. Friends told me about how great he was in <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dGuDxpx4bMs" target="_blank">high school</a>, and I was excited to see what he brought to the college level. He did not disappoint. When he's not playing one of my favorite teams, I pull for him to do well. I will especially do that next year, as he will be the one of the faces of college hoops. He'll raise the game's profile, and people will want to tune in to watch him every week.<br />
<br />JoeMcCannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800051485002496556noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9183381960170374703.post-23531645985700512422013-04-03T16:55:00.001-07:002013-04-03T16:56:04.270-07:00Brittney Griner in the NBA? Nice thought, but noDallas Mavericks' owner Mark Cuban loves to stir things up, and he sure did that this week when <a href="http://espn.go.com/dallas/nba/story/_/id/9127664/mark-cuban-give-brittney-griner-opportunity-dallas-mavericks" target="_blank">he said he would consider giving Baylor women's star Brittney Griner a chance to make the Mavs</a>.<br />
<br />
Cuban is a smart guy, always looking to market his team and his league and open it up to new fans. I think this is mostly a marketing stunt, and he is just dipping his toes in the "Griner in the NBA" waters to see how it is received before he really moves forward with this. I don't think he or any other NBA person thinks Griner could make it in the NBA.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://thegrio.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/brittney-griner-grio.jpg?w=650" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://thegrio.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/brittney-griner-grio.jpg?w=650" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Could Griner make an NBA team? I say no way.<br />
But, if an NBA team wants to let her try, go for it.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I certainly can't see her playing in that league. Does that make me a sexist? To some, maybe. I prefer to think of myself as a realist.<br />
<br />
First, let's clarify how we answer "can she play?"<br />
<br />
Could Brittney Griner make a small contribution? Maybe. Could she go around a screen, catch the ball with a little space and make a layup? Of course she could. There are several players in the WNBA who could do that: go into an NBA game, execute one play (drawn up for her) and make a wide open shot.<br />
<br />
That's not what I'm talking about, though, when I ask "can she play?"<br />
<br />
I'm not talking about executing one play and getting a basket. I'm talking about the next play, and the next one, and the next one. Could she defend? Could she take over a game? Could she get to a point where an NBA team says, "we could not have won this game without Brittney?" I say absolutely not.<br />
<br />
I'm not knocking Griner's ability to play the game. I'm just calling for a little more respect for the guys who are in the NBA and for those in the D-League and college who are trying to make it. Griner is the most dominant women's player I've ever seen, but she would be in for a rude awakening if she took the floor against NBA players.<br />
<br />
Think of the last player on the bench on any given NBA team. That guy was a star at his college, likely an all-conference player if not an All-American. He just can't crack an NBA lineup because there are more talented former college All-Americans ahead of him. That guy, though, is on the roster because his NBA team thinks he could be a contributor eventually and because he helps the team in practice. There are dozens more just like him in the D-League begging for a shot. Plus, there are hundreds more in college and overseas that are entering the 2013 NBA Draft. They all have more NBA potential than Griner.<br />
<br />
Let's talk a little more logistics about Brittney Griner on an NBA roster: what would her position be? At 6'8", she is obviously a center in the women's game and a dominant one. She's not playing center in the NBA at 6'8". I think even playing power forward would be a stretch, because she's obviously thin compared to a 6'8" NBA player. She would have trouble fighting for space down low. The shot-blocking and rebounding that make her a great women's player would not even be a factor in the men's game.<br />
<br />
So, does that mean you put her on the wing as a 3? Guys like LeBron James and Kevin Durant live out there. To be fair, I'll go a little farther down the NBA depth chart at the 3: guys like Gerald Wallace, Rudy Gay, and Kawhi Leonard live out there, too. Griner is not quick enough to guard those guys or create her own shot against them. Sorry. She just isn't.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://espn.go.com/womens-college-basketball/tournament/2013/story/_/id/9130719/geno-auriemma-pans-mark-cuban-suggestion-drafting-brittney-griner" target="_blank">UConn women's coach Geno Auriemma agrees with me</a>. He called the idea of Griner in the NBA "absolutely ludicrous." It's not a knock on Griner, but if you want to put her up against the best athletes in the world, she simply isn't going to be half as great as she is playing against other women.<br />
<br />
Now, back to my earlier point: Cuban is about marketing, and he's pretty open-minded. Would letting Griner take the floor for 10 minutes in a summer league game be a travesty? Probably not. She would sell tickets. People would watch out of curiosity. She'd probably have a tough time, and then say thanks for the opportunity and get ready to play in the WNBA. Let's be honest, that's where she will truly become a star and become the most marketable.<br />
<br />
You'll notice Cuban chose his words carefully: "invite her to try out," not "sign her." He said "if she's the best player on the board," he would draft her. She will never be the best player on the board of a two-round NBA Draft.<br />
<br />
If Griner doesn't mind being the center of a marketing ploy to sell summer league tickets and wants to see exactly how good NBA players are, go for it. After the tickets are sold and Griner sees exactly where she stands, she'll go to a league that needs her way more the NBA summer league: the WNBA.JoeMcCannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800051485002496556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9183381960170374703.post-51614057888496454752013-02-28T20:37:00.000-08:002013-02-28T20:37:07.845-08:00The Big East is Dead... Long Live the Big East<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://acc.blogs.starnewsonline.com/files/2012/11/Big_East_Conference1.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://acc.blogs.starnewsonline.com/files/2012/11/Big_East_Conference1.gif" width="200" /></a></div>
What a win for the Catholic 7 this week. The departing Big East basketball schools are apparently not only <a href="http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/9000502/catholic-7-schools-keep-big-east-name-new-league-next-season-according-sources" target="_blank">breaking away in time for the 2013-14 season</a>, but they are <a href="http://www.anonymouseagle.com/2013/2/28/4042244/freed-the-seven-marquette-c7-to-begin-play-under-big-east-banner-next" target="_blank">reportedly getting just about everything they want</a>: the Big East name, a new TV contract, and maybe even Madison Square Garden as the home of its conference tournament. It's great because the Big East name will stay where it belongs: with schools who care most about basketball.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
As I've said before, though, <a href="http://joeknows-sports.blogspot.com/2012/12/ill-miss-big-east.html" target="_blank">I will miss the Big East</a> in its current form, and <a href="http://joeknows-sports.blogspot.com/2011/11/let-rivalries-live.html" target="_blank">I do love rivalries</a>. I hate hearing "this is the last time Georgetown and Syracuse will play." It won't be. At least, it shouldn't be. Once the dust settles, the bitterness fades and the fans clamor for it, the teams should play again.<br />
<br />
I propose a replacement for the Big East-SEC Challenge: The Big East Memorial Challenge. Let's remember the great league the Big East was and keep the rivalries going.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://blog.syracuse.com/today/2009/02/smb_090219_ks_su-gtownfans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="246" src="http://blog.syracuse.com/today/2009/02/smb_090219_ks_su-gtownfans.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fans don't want to see their rivalries go away.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
On one side, you have the Catholic 7, or the new Big East: Georgetown, Marquette, St. John's, Villanova, Providence, DePaul, and Seton Hall<br />
<br />
And in the other corner, the Football Universities... or FU (no hard feelings, right, guys?): Syracuse, Pittsburgh, West Virginia, Louisville, Notre Dame, Connecticut, and Cincinnati<br />
<br />
Seven games, fourteen old conference rivals renewing acquaintances.<br />
<br />
You could even go deeper and have the new schools join the fun. Butler, Xavier, Creighton, Saint Louis and Dayton (assuming they all join) face off with the likes of Rutgers, Boston College, Miami, Temple... and sure, USF, you can play, too.<br />
<br />
Of course, my grand scheme of this challenge likely won't happen. My point is, though, that these teams should try to keep playing in non-conference games. Georgetown should keep playing Syracuse and Connecticut. I'd love to see Marquette continue to play <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nd6ym5IMeuM" target="_blank">Notre Dame</a> and Louisville.<br />
<br />
While I'm excited about the new Big East, I think it would be fun for college basketball fans to have flashes of the old Big East in the seasons to come.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BAV5VLJCAAA85zD.jpg:large" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="159" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BAV5VLJCAAA85zD.jpg:large" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />JoeMcCannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800051485002496556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9183381960170374703.post-37453399324332846902013-02-27T20:05:00.004-08:002013-02-27T20:06:48.686-08:00Desperate Times Call for Desperate TradesIt's pretty easy to laugh at the Chiefs for trading for inconsistent quarterback Alex Smith. My question to those laughing: what would you do if you were the Chiefs? Stick with Matt Cassel or Brady Quinn for another year? I don't think Aaron Rodgers or Drew Brees are available. If someone has a crystal ball and can tell me that Geno Smith or Matt Barkley will be a Pro Bowler, please get it to John Dorsey stat. This trade isn't official until March 12.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My take: the Chiefs had to do something, and they did the best thing they could.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I've <a href="http://joeknows-sports.blogspot.com/2012/12/the-chiefs-qb-dilemma.html" target="_blank">grumbled before about what a lousy offseason the Chiefs faced</a>. There are no great quarterbacks to be had. There is not a wealth of talented free agents. There does not appear to be an Andrew Luck or RG3 in this draft. Some draft analysts don't even have a quarterback worthy of going in the first round.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://img.bleacherreport.net/img/images/photos/001/998/630/hi-res-156511968_crop_exact.jpg?w=650&h=440&q=75" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="216" src="http://img.bleacherreport.net/img/images/photos/001/998/630/hi-res-156511968_crop_exact.jpg?w=650&h=440&q=75" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bitter over his benching, Alex Smith now does what former<br />
49ers QBs like Montana, Bono, and Grbac do: play for KC.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
Quite simply, there is no one available at the quarterback position that will instantly make the Chiefs a playoff team. All Kansas City could do is slightly upgrade. Find someone better than Matt Cassel, who has really struggled with turnovers the last couple years. Whether it's his fault or not, Cassel has not worked in Kansas City. It's time to try something else, something other than Brady Quinn.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Despite his struggles in his first six seasons, I do think Alex Smith is a better quarterback than Matt Cassel. He was actually playing pretty well when he suffered a concussion this season and lost his starting job to Colin Kaepernick. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In typical Smith fashion, though, he was good - not spectacular. In 10 games, completed 70 % of his passes for 1,737 yards and 13 touchdowns. He had 8 turnovers (5 interceptions, 3 fumbles). By comparison, Matt Cassel in 9 games completed 58% of his passes for 1,796 yards and 6 touchdowns and a whopping 18 turnovers (12 picks, 6 fumbles). </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Summary: Smith takes less risks (hence the fewer yards and higher completion percentage) and doesn't turn it over as much.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Make no mistake about it. I do not think Kansas City has acquired a top-flight quarterback. I also think they overpaid to get him - reportedly a second round pick and a mid-rounder next year. San Francisco took advantage of a seller's market and held KC hostage for the "best" quarterback available in a lousy market.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I am, however, willing to give Smith a chance. Heck, I was <a href="http://joeknows-sports.blogspot.com/2012/01/need-new-bandwagon.html" target="_blank">all aboard the Alex Smith bandwagon a year ago</a>. After that dramatic win over New Orleans, I thought he had arrived. If Kyle Williams hadn't mishandled two punts against the Giants, Smith would have had San Francisco in the Super Bowl.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Yes, I know team success doesn't necessarily mean a guy is a great quarterback. Rex Grossman has been to a Super Bowl.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Nevertheless, if Smith can do for the Chiefs what he did in San Francisco the last two years, the Chiefs will be better. I'm not saying 12-4 better, but they'll be a far cry from 2-14. Smith is efficient and hasn't made a lot of mistakes the last two years. If he can just manage games and give the Chiefs some kind of passing game, then Kansas City has upgraded the QB position for 2013. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In this weak QB offseason, that's really all Chiefs fans can ask for.</div>
</div>
JoeMcCannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800051485002496556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9183381960170374703.post-55567126321377462682013-02-16T14:53:00.001-08:002013-02-16T15:11:05.708-08:00It's Time for All Marquette Fans to Appreciate Tom CreanAs Marquette honored the 2003 Final Four team, some great memories resurfaced for me. That was my senior year at Marquette, and following that team and watching them make it to New Orleans was one of the great thrills of my college life. Heck, take "college" out of that last sentence. It was just awesome.<br />
<br />
I appreciated every coach and player who made it happen, especially then-head coach Tom Crean. Some MU fans still boo when his name is mentioned or when he is shown in the pregame video at Marquette games. I think it's time to let it go.<br />
<br />
Crean had a very classy message to Marquette fans before Saturday's game with Pitt.<br />
<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/ANsZfk5G8vA?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
Was I upset when Crean left for Indiana? Sure, we all were. That's the business of sports, though. Coaches do well, get better opportunities, and they move on.<br />
<br />
The simple question I ask is: did Tom Crean leave Marquette basketball in better shape than he found it? The answer is a resounding yes. I think any Marquette fan, no matter how bitter, can admit that.<br />
<br />
If not, let me break it down a little more.<br />
<br />
When Tom Crean took over the Marquette program in 1999, it was a bubble team... for the NIT. I remember one preseason magazine called Marquette one of the least athletic teams in the country. The team wasn't exciting, and the fans had a hard time getting excited about it.<br />
<br />
Imagine if Marquette basketball had stayed that way for another decade. Maybe when the Big East expanded it 2005, it would not have wanted Marquette. MU could still be in Conference USA trying to get excited about battles with Tulane and Houston. All the financial benefits and exposure Marquette has enjoyed from the Big East over the last eight years may be significantly less.<br />
<br />
That part is speculation, of course. Here are some facts:<br />
<br />
Crean led Marquette to its first Final Four since Al McGuire won it all in 1977. The impact of that accomplishment cannot be understated. It's only the third in the school's history. The exposure from that success and the impact on recruiting have been huge.<br />
<br />
Tom Crean coached six of Marquette's top 10 all-time leading scorers: Jerel McNeal (1st), Lazar Hayward (2nd), Dominic James (4th), Travis Diener (6th), Brian Wardle (7th), and Wesley Matthews (10th). Wardle is the only one not signed by Crean. The talent that Crean brought to Milwaukee totally changed the program.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.foxsportsflorida.com/common/medialib/264/738939.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="184" src="http://www.foxsportsflorida.com/common/medialib/264/738939.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Where would Marquette be now if these guys had<br />
never been a part of the program?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
You notice that list doesn't even include Dwyane Wade. With all due respect to Maurice Lucas and other past MU greats, Wade is the best NBA player Marquette has ever produced. Tom Crean rolled the dice on him, and he hit the jackpot.<br />
<br />
There are five Marquette players currently on NBA rosters: Wade, Matthews, Steve Novak, Jimmy Butler and Jae Crowder. Crean signed the first three in addition to McNeal and Hayward, who are both in the D-League. Several more Crean signees like Diener, Joe Chapman, Scott Merritt, and Dan Fitzgerald are playing professionally overseas.<br />
<br />
And for those who like Buzz Williams better, that's totally acceptable. Buzz is Marquette's coach now, and we should like him more. However, don't forget who brought Buzz to Milwaukee. Had Crean not hired him as an assistant in the 2007-08 season, I highly doubt an unknown coach at a struggling University of New Orleans program would have been able to land the Marquette job.<br />
<br />
Looking back on it, Crean left at the perfect time. The strong core of James, McNeal, Matthews and Hayward was there to help Buzz Williams get off to a great start and continue building on the success Crean had enjoyed. The program has not dropped off a bit since Crean left. It may even be a little better, and that's because Crean left a solid foundation for Buzz.<br />
<br />
Beyond the numbers and the recruits, Crean did a great job engaging the fans and letting them know they are appreciated to drum up interest in the program. He's doing the same at Indiana. I remember Crean walking out on senior night in 2003 and holding up a big sign that said "Thank You Seniors." He always came over to the student section after the games and applauded to thank us for being loud.<br />
<br />
I remember on my graduation day in 2003 when Crean was in the lobby of the Bradley Center shaking hands with random seniors and saying congratulations. He shook my hand and my roommate's, and he said congratulations and good luck. It made a great day even better.<br />
<br />
The bottom line: Crean made Marquette better, and we should thank him. I'm not saying we all need to become Indiana fans. We'll always be Marquette fans. I don't expect the MU campus to be crimson and cream if Indiana makes it to the Final Four this year. We don't have to cheer for IU to do well (unless, of course, they're playing Louisville, Wisconsin, or Notre Dame). We can still make little jokes about Crean's tan or maybe even smirk a little when Indiana loses. I just don't root for the guy to fail - because at this point, it's pretty obvious that he's going to be successful.<br />
<br />
All I'm saying is respect the man and what he did for Marquette. Don't boo when people mention his name. The program didn't build itself. Crean put a lot of work in, and it paid off. Enough time has passed, and most bitterness should be gone. Crean still respects and speaks well of Marquette, and I think all MU fans should return the favor.<br />
<br />
<br />JoeMcCannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800051485002496556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9183381960170374703.post-27419686430167094452013-02-05T20:20:00.001-08:002013-02-05T20:20:25.823-08:00Chill Out on Signing DayI've blogged on <a href="http://joeknows-sports.blogspot.com/2012/08/fan-fouls.html">fan fouls</a> before. One thing I didn't include but probably should have is the concept of what I like to call "Twitter heroes." These are people who love to curse out athletes (or writers or celebs) behind the anonymity of a Twitter handle.<br />
<br />
These people are especially prevalent during National Signing Day.<br />
<br />
If you ever want to confirm to yourself that you are not a bad person, <a href="http://www.bloguin.com/runthefloor/2012-articles/december/douchebags-of-twitter-vs-jabari-parker.html">just look at what some people say to a 17-year old kid</a> just because he chose not to attend their favorite school. These people are the absolute worst. Every fan base has a few. Some more than others.<br />
<br />
I'm not sure what they hope to accomplish by calling a teenager a ****ing ****** because he picked School A over University B. Telling him you hope he tears his ACL and dies? Classy.<br />
<br />
It's the kid's choice, folks. They can only attend one school. Let the athletes enjoy a special day with their families. (Forget the fact that <a href="http://www.anonymouseagle.com/2012/9/14/3332382/marquette-golden-eagles-twitter-facebook-recruiting">tweeting at recruits is an NCAA violation anyway</a>.)<br />
<br />
Besides, there's no need to get worked up. As Nick Saban once said at a Signing Day presser, "just because you get the pick of the litter doesn't mean you're going to have the best hunting dogs."<br />
<br />
You don't know how these kids are going to turn out. You may be getting all bent out of shape over a kid who may never play.<br />
<br />
Collin Klein: barely recruited, not even Bill Snyder was sure he wanted him as a quarterback... Heisman finalist<br />
Dayne Crist and Garrett Gilbert: can't miss 5-star prospects.<br />
<br />
You just never know. So, it's fine to check the lists, be happy or disappointed. Talk to your fellow fans about what they think. As far as cursing down a kid, though, just stop.<br />
<br />
If a star prospect doesn't choose your favorite school, do what I do: unfollow him on Twitter. That'll show him.<br />
<br />
<br />JoeMcCannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800051485002496556noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9183381960170374703.post-4105882586268982252013-01-30T20:14:00.003-08:002013-01-30T20:36:49.656-08:00Super Bowl XLVII PredictionsI normally make college football predictions, but it's time to make a prediction for the biggest game of all... and all the hoopla surrounding it.<br />
<br />
<b><u>PREGAME PREDICTIONS</u></b><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.trbimg.com/img-50fd9bc7/turbine/la-sp-sn-harbaugh-brothers-20130121-001/600" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="241" src="http://www.trbimg.com/img-50fd9bc7/turbine/la-sp-sn-harbaugh-brothers-20130121-001/600" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Easy prediction: a Harbaugh will lift the Lombardi Trophy.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
- The debate over whether to call it the "Harbowl" or "Sup-Harbowl" or something else will get old after about 30 seconds.<br />
<br />
- I won't be watching. By Super Bowl Sunday, every pregame angle has been done. Let's play.<br />
<br />
<b><u>COMMERCIAL PREDICTIONS</u></b><br />
<br />
<i>I'm sure I could go somewhere online and see a list of Super Bowl commercials and maybe even watch most of them, but where's the fun in that? I'd rather be in the dark and make predictions. Also note: links are to old commercials, not spoilers.</i><br />
<br />
- Bud Light will deliver some solid humor early on... <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JI3Y1auTFpU">like this</a>.<br />
<br />
- Coke will have an over-produced commercial that will be neither funny nor cute. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fCGRSQXLTaQ">Like this</a><br />
<br />
- GoDaddy will have a <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=phF1ibedivw">steamy commercial (probably with Danica Patrick)</a> that tells you to go online, where it gets even hotter.<br />
<br />
- Everyone who goes to GoDaddy.com to see the "hotter" scene will be very disappointed.<br />
<br />
- <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2NCDYjHtEcU">The Nike spot with Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy was great</a>, and I'm surprised it was released a few weeks ago instead of debuting as a Super Bowl commercial. This makes me think there will be a sequel during the big game.<br />
<br />
- We'll see a commercial with McKayla Maroney being <a href="http://mckaylaisnotimpressed.tumblr.com/">impressed </a>with something. The Olympics ended over five months ago. I'm surprised we haven't seen her cash in on that meme yet, but I think the Super Bowl is the ideal time to do it.<br />
<br />
- Ranking for most-promoted CBS shows that we'll be tired of by the end of the night: 1. The Job, 2. Vegas, 3. Elementary (which, by the way, is a solid show)<br />
<br />
<b><u>IN-GAME PREDICTIONS</u></b><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://a.espncdn.com/media/motion/2013/0124/dm_130124_nfl_debate_kaepernick_trademark/dm_130124_nfl_debate_kaepernick_trademark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://a.espncdn.com/media/motion/2013/0124/dm_130124_nfl_debate_kaepernick_trademark/dm_130124_nfl_debate_kaepernick_trademark.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kaepernick's been on fire. I think he keeps it going.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
- Tom Crean will be there, and I'm setting the over/under on cutaways at 9.5.<br />
<br />
- I'm setting the over/under on Alex Smith cutaways at 11.5.<br />
<br />
- Mentions of the phrase "<a href="http://espn.go.com/nfl/playoffs/2012/story/_/id/8897412/super-bowl-2013-ray-lewis-baltimore-ravens-agitated-denies-using-ped">deer antler</a>" will be set at 1.5.<br />
<br />
- The murders Ray Lewis were linked to in 2000 will not be mentioned. (Yes, I know the charges were dismissed.)<br />
<br />
- We will see three instances of Kaepernicking.<br />
<br />
Let's see, have I left anything out?<br />
<br />
Oh yeah, the game itself.<br />
<br />
I like the 49ers 28-24. Kaepernick has been on fire, and the 49ers' defense will outplay the Ravens' defense.<br />
<br />
- Jim Nantz's clearly scripted line when the game ends: "And the 49ers have struck gold."<br />
<br />
<br />JoeMcCannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07800051485002496556noreply@blogger.com0