I guess most of you thought I was done. Not so fast.
I've got time for one more blog in 2017.
I'm going to pick the final 18 bowl games, beginning with Thursday's games.
This is a high-risk move, but then I'm a high-risk type of guy.
A Championship Weekend record of 5-4-1 pushed me one game over .500 for the season. So, it's all on the line with these final 18 games.
As always, all picks are against the spread and for entertainment purposes only.
Here are the selections.
Camping World Bowl
Virginia Tech vs. Oklahoma State -4.0 -- Oklahoma State head coach Mike Gundy flirted with Tennessee. Virginia Tech head coach Justin Fuentes was mentioned for a couple of jobs. But both managed to stay put. It has been a disappointing season for the Cowboys and a surprising season for Virginia Tech. Hokie defensive coordinator Bud Foster will cook something up for Okie State, but I believe the Cowboys have too many weapons. Pick -- Oklahoma State
Military Bowl
Virginia vs. Navy -1.5 -- Virginia played better down the stretch. Navy did not. This game will be determined by Virginia's ability to control Navy's running game. The Midshipmen do not believe in the forward pass. Take the Cavaliers. Pick -- Virginia
Alamo Bowl
Stanford vs. TCU -2.5 -- TCU got torched twice by Oklahoma. Stanford lost a heart breaker to Southern Cal in the Pac 12 Championship game. This one is definitely a Who Wants It More Game. Pick -- Stanford
Holiday Bowl
Washington State vs. Michigan State -1.5 -- Since the game is being played on the West Coast, I am going to take the Cougars. A second reason to pick the Cougars is they have Mike Leach, the most quotable head coach in the country. Pick -- Washington State
Belk Bowl
Wake Forest vs. Texas A&M +3.0 -- I like the way the Deacons play. I don't think three points is enough for the Aggies. Pick -- Wake Forest
Sun Bowl
N.C. State vs. Arizona State +6.5 -- N.C. State started the season in Charlotte by choking away a game to South Carolina. How did that happen? The Wolfpack has been a wobbling mess since losing to Clemson. I see more disappointment in Charlotte for the Wolfies. At least they will get a shopping spree at Belk's. Pick -- Arizona State
Music City Bowl
Kentucky vs. Northwestern -7.5 -- Nashville will be full of blue-clad fans screaming Cats, Cats, Cats. I don't think it will matter. Big 10 Wildcats slap SEC Wildcats. Pick -- Northwestern
Arizona Bowl
New Mexico State vs. Utah State -4.0 -- I don't know a thing about this game, and I don't care. Pick -- Utah State
Cotton Bowl
Southern Cal vs. Ohio State -7.5 -- This is the most interesting of the non-playoff match ups. I can't believe the Rose Bowl did make a call and offer to trade Oklahoma-Georgia for this game. I have said all season Ohio State is a fraud. I am going to continue to say it. Fight on! Pick -- Southern Cal
Taxslayer Bowl
Louisville vs. Mississippi State +6.5 -- Next thing you know they're going to name a bowl the CPA Bowl. Because of the recent tax cuts in Washington this should have been renamed the Trump Bowl. Louisville has shifty quarterback Lamar Jackson, who can lead the Cardinals to points in a hurry. Mississippi State lost Dan Mullen to Florida and lost its starting quarterback to an ankle injury in the Ole Miss game. I think the Cardinals roll. Pick -- Louisville
Liberty Bowl
Iowa State vs. Memphis -3.5 -- High-scoring Memphis is a home in its own stadium for a bowl game. Lay up. Pick -- Memphis
Fiesta Bowl
Washington vs. Penn State -2.5 -- Penn State's dreams of a Big 10 title did not materialize. I think the Nittany Lions will end the season on a high note. Pick -- Penn State
Orange Bowl
Wisconsin vs. Miami +6.0 -- On Championship Saturday, both of these teams had opportunities to reach the College Football Playoff. Both failed. Miami seems to play with more vigor at home at Hard Rock Stadium. I think Miami's speed will be the difference in the game. Pick -- Miami
Outback Bowl
Michigan vs. South Carolina +7.5 -- This is the Offensively Challenged Bowl. Certainly Coach Khaki Pants can rise up and slam Coach Boom. Right? Hail to the victors. Pick -- Michigan
Peach Bowl
Central Florida vs. Auburn -9.5 -- Central Florida is undefeated and can score. Central Florida hasn't seen anything that resembles Auburn's defense. Will Auburn be excited about another trip to Atlanta? In my mind, Auburn's excitement level will determine the outcome. Pick -- Auburn
Citrus Bowl
Notre Dame vs. LSU -3.0 -- Cajuns vs. Catholics. That's got a ring to it. Let's make a t-shirt and make some cash. This was a nice turnaround season for Brian Kelly and his Irish. Shake down the thunder from the sky. Pick -- Notre Dame
Rose Bowl
Georgia vs. Oklahoma +2.0 -- Oklahoma has Heisman Trophy winner Baker Mayfield. Mayfield is a nice player, but he has shown he has a screw loose and that he will take chances, way too many chances. Georgia has something rarely seen by Oklahoma in the Big 12 -- a big-time defense. Dawgs pull the upset to earn yet another trip to Atlanta. Pick -- Georgia
Sugar Bowl
Alabama vs. Clemson +3.0 -- Two classics in two years.Will there be a third? Alabama opened as a favorite and the spread has continued to rise. I don't know what it is going to take to make the boys in the desert to believe in Clemson. I think this game is easy to figure out -- Both teams have excellent running quarterbacks and lots of powerful running backs. Good news for Clemson -- Bama tight end O.J. Howard is in the NFL. Bad news for Bama -- Clemson wide receiver Hunter Renfrow is still with the Tigers. I promise you Renfrow will get the Tide's full attention. That should open up some opportunities for Clemson's other wideouts. Whoever runs the ball the best and whoever stops the run will win. Pick -- Clemson
Last Week -- 5-4-1
For The Season -- 69-68-2
Wednesday, December 27, 2017
Thursday, November 30, 2017
It's Championship Weekend
We have reached championship weekend.
As we approach the biggest games of the season, the College Football Playoff top four are Clemson, Auburn, Oklahoma and Wisconsin. If all four win Saturday, the CFP committee can kick back and drink lots of coffee Sunday morning.
I personally believe Alabama is out and should be out. Even Alabama head coach Nick Saban has said a team that does not win its conference should not play for the national championship. The Tide didn't even win the Western Division. But Saturday chaos could open the door for the Tide, which would be a shame in my opinion. Bama's resume is weak, really weak. The Tide simply isn't deserving this year.
The ACC and SEC championship games are essentially quarterfinal playoff games. If TCU beats Oklahoma and Ohio State manages to beat Wisconsin, the situation will get dicey late Saturday night.
Last week was another 5-5 week to push the season record to 64-64-2.
As always, all picks are against the spread and for entertainment purposes only.
Here are this week's selections.
Friday
Stanford vs. Southern Cal -4.0 at Santa Clara, Calif. -- Most of the national talk has the Pacific 12 already out of the College Football Playoff picture. Southern Cal has two losses, Stanford has three. But a victory by the Trojans and some Saturday chaos could put Southern Cal in the Sunday morning discussion. Stanford is led by Heisman Trophy candidate Bryce Love, who has rushed for more than 100 yards in nine games this season. After 12 straight weeks, Southern Cal had last week off. While the Trojans were resting, Stanford was running over Notre Dame. Southern Cal beat Stanford, 42-24 on Sept. 9. Stanford is traditionally strong late in the season. I am going to take the Cardinal in the rematch. Pick -- Stanford
Saturday
Georgia vs. Auburn -2.5 at Atlanta -- Auburn has done something no other team has ever done -- beaten two No. 1 teams in a three-week period. This is not the same Auburn team that lost at Clemson. The key to this game is Auburn running back Kerryon Johnson, who was banged up in the Iron Bowl victory over Alabama. Johnson is a key part of Auburn's offense, which has really started to hum. Most reports say Johnson will be a game-time decision. Georgia's running game got stuffed in the first meeting. The Bulldogs will have to get more on the ground if they want to get revenge. I am expecting a pro-Georgia crowd for the first SEC title game in the Mercedes-Benz Dome. I thing the Dawgs will pull it off. Pick -- Georgia
Miami vs. Clemson -9.5 at Charlotte, N.C. -- One more step and the Tigers will make it a remarkable three College Football Playoffs in a row. Mark Richt, the ACC Coach of the Year, has done a terrific job in Miami. The dumpster fire at South Beach has been extinguished. The Hurricanes have lived off their defense and take a lot of pride in the Turnover Chain. Ball security will be job No. 1 for Clemson. Miami is down a couple of play makers on offense because of injuries, so I expect the Hurricanes to fight an uphill battle most of the night against Clemson's defense. Clemson quarterback Kelly Bryant will be tested, but I believe he will pass the test. Pick -- Clemson
North Texas at Florida Atlantic -11.5 -- FAU head coach Lane Kiffin has spent more time tweeting and trolling Tennessee than worrying about his team this week. Kiffin has directed a quick turnaround for the Owls. The Owls will take down the Mean Green for the Conference USA title. Pick -- Florida Atlantic
Memphis at Central Florida -7.0 -- This will be a wide-open, which-team-has-the-ball-last affair. Rumors are swirling that Central Florida head coach Scott Frost is headed back to Nebraska soon. Will the constant rumors regarding Frost's departure affect the Knights? Pick -- Central Florida
TCU vs. Oklahoma -7.0 at Arlington, Tx. -- Oklahoma won the first meeting 38-20 on Nov. 11. If package-grabbing Oklahoma quarterback Baker Mayfield wins this game, he will have more Big 12 titles (3) than conference losses (2) in his career. For TCU to have a chance, the Frog defense will have to play better and quarterback Kenny Hill will have to play much bigger than he did in the first game. I just don't think TCU has enough firepower to stay with Oklahoma. Pick -- Oklahoma
Ohio State vs. Wisconsin +6.5 at Indianapolis -- This one will not be 59-0. That game is most certainly burned into Wisconsin's memory. The underdog Badgers are undefeated. Wisconsin is still searching for respect. I think the Badgers will finally find that respect Saturday. Pick -- Wisconsin
Akron vs. Toledo -21.5 at Detroit -- Toledo quarterback Logan Woodside tossed five touchdown passes in the Rockets' 48-21 victory over Akron on Oct. 21. I am expecting much the same result the second time around. Rockets take the MAC. Pick -- Toledo
Fresno State at Boise State -8.5 -- The Mountain West Conference championship game features one of the most weird situations of the weekend. Fresno beat Boise at home 28-17 last Saturday. A week later, the two teams will meet in Boise for the title. There is a reason Boise is favored by more than a touchdown. Take the Broncos on the smurf turf. Pick -- Boise State
Furman at Wofford -- This is a second-round game in the FCS playoffs. In the first meeting, Wofford won by one point when Furman missed a two-point conversion late in the game. Both teams stay on the ground, so this will be a quick game. I think the second meeting will go to the Paladins. Pick -- Furman
Last Week -- 5-5
For The Season -- 64-64-2
As we approach the biggest games of the season, the College Football Playoff top four are Clemson, Auburn, Oklahoma and Wisconsin. If all four win Saturday, the CFP committee can kick back and drink lots of coffee Sunday morning.
I personally believe Alabama is out and should be out. Even Alabama head coach Nick Saban has said a team that does not win its conference should not play for the national championship. The Tide didn't even win the Western Division. But Saturday chaos could open the door for the Tide, which would be a shame in my opinion. Bama's resume is weak, really weak. The Tide simply isn't deserving this year.
The ACC and SEC championship games are essentially quarterfinal playoff games. If TCU beats Oklahoma and Ohio State manages to beat Wisconsin, the situation will get dicey late Saturday night.
Last week was another 5-5 week to push the season record to 64-64-2.
As always, all picks are against the spread and for entertainment purposes only.
Here are this week's selections.
Friday
Stanford vs. Southern Cal -4.0 at Santa Clara, Calif. -- Most of the national talk has the Pacific 12 already out of the College Football Playoff picture. Southern Cal has two losses, Stanford has three. But a victory by the Trojans and some Saturday chaos could put Southern Cal in the Sunday morning discussion. Stanford is led by Heisman Trophy candidate Bryce Love, who has rushed for more than 100 yards in nine games this season. After 12 straight weeks, Southern Cal had last week off. While the Trojans were resting, Stanford was running over Notre Dame. Southern Cal beat Stanford, 42-24 on Sept. 9. Stanford is traditionally strong late in the season. I am going to take the Cardinal in the rematch. Pick -- Stanford
Saturday
Georgia vs. Auburn -2.5 at Atlanta -- Auburn has done something no other team has ever done -- beaten two No. 1 teams in a three-week period. This is not the same Auburn team that lost at Clemson. The key to this game is Auburn running back Kerryon Johnson, who was banged up in the Iron Bowl victory over Alabama. Johnson is a key part of Auburn's offense, which has really started to hum. Most reports say Johnson will be a game-time decision. Georgia's running game got stuffed in the first meeting. The Bulldogs will have to get more on the ground if they want to get revenge. I am expecting a pro-Georgia crowd for the first SEC title game in the Mercedes-Benz Dome. I thing the Dawgs will pull it off. Pick -- Georgia
Miami vs. Clemson -9.5 at Charlotte, N.C. -- One more step and the Tigers will make it a remarkable three College Football Playoffs in a row. Mark Richt, the ACC Coach of the Year, has done a terrific job in Miami. The dumpster fire at South Beach has been extinguished. The Hurricanes have lived off their defense and take a lot of pride in the Turnover Chain. Ball security will be job No. 1 for Clemson. Miami is down a couple of play makers on offense because of injuries, so I expect the Hurricanes to fight an uphill battle most of the night against Clemson's defense. Clemson quarterback Kelly Bryant will be tested, but I believe he will pass the test. Pick -- Clemson
North Texas at Florida Atlantic -11.5 -- FAU head coach Lane Kiffin has spent more time tweeting and trolling Tennessee than worrying about his team this week. Kiffin has directed a quick turnaround for the Owls. The Owls will take down the Mean Green for the Conference USA title. Pick -- Florida Atlantic
Memphis at Central Florida -7.0 -- This will be a wide-open, which-team-has-the-ball-last affair. Rumors are swirling that Central Florida head coach Scott Frost is headed back to Nebraska soon. Will the constant rumors regarding Frost's departure affect the Knights? Pick -- Central Florida
TCU vs. Oklahoma -7.0 at Arlington, Tx. -- Oklahoma won the first meeting 38-20 on Nov. 11. If package-grabbing Oklahoma quarterback Baker Mayfield wins this game, he will have more Big 12 titles (3) than conference losses (2) in his career. For TCU to have a chance, the Frog defense will have to play better and quarterback Kenny Hill will have to play much bigger than he did in the first game. I just don't think TCU has enough firepower to stay with Oklahoma. Pick -- Oklahoma
Ohio State vs. Wisconsin +6.5 at Indianapolis -- This one will not be 59-0. That game is most certainly burned into Wisconsin's memory. The underdog Badgers are undefeated. Wisconsin is still searching for respect. I think the Badgers will finally find that respect Saturday. Pick -- Wisconsin
Akron vs. Toledo -21.5 at Detroit -- Toledo quarterback Logan Woodside tossed five touchdown passes in the Rockets' 48-21 victory over Akron on Oct. 21. I am expecting much the same result the second time around. Rockets take the MAC. Pick -- Toledo
Fresno State at Boise State -8.5 -- The Mountain West Conference championship game features one of the most weird situations of the weekend. Fresno beat Boise at home 28-17 last Saturday. A week later, the two teams will meet in Boise for the title. There is a reason Boise is favored by more than a touchdown. Take the Broncos on the smurf turf. Pick -- Boise State
Furman at Wofford -- This is a second-round game in the FCS playoffs. In the first meeting, Wofford won by one point when Furman missed a two-point conversion late in the game. Both teams stay on the ground, so this will be a quick game. I think the second meeting will go to the Paladins. Pick -- Furman
Last Week -- 5-5
For The Season -- 64-64-2
Wednesday, November 22, 2017
Entering Final Week Of The Regular Season, Overall Record Is All Even
First things first. Happy Thanksgiving to everyone. I hope however you have your bird cooked that it is tasty. I am amazed this blog has received more than 100 hits per week. Thanks for reading. As an ex-sportswriter, this is my one outlet, my one weekly deadline to meet. I am sure most of the clickers are just in search of comic relief.
After a dull and lackluster week last week where I had to make up a couple of point spreads, this week is much different. This week is the opposite end of the spectrum.
The is rivalry week. The Egg Bowl. The Commonwealth Clash. Clean Old Fashioned Hate. The Palmetto Bowl. The Iron Bowl. Most are recognized by college football fans. Some of the games will make or break seasons for the teams involved. Most are play-in games to the College Football Playoff. Some teams will drop by the wayside.
This stands to be the most difficult week of picks this season because of the emotions and what is on the line. Even though it has a great resume, the national media just can't stay off of Clemson's back. With South Carolina in Columbia and Miami in Charlotte left on the schedule, the Tigers are either going to earn their way into the CFP or crap out.
Alabama travels to Auburn for its stiffest test of the season. Surrounding the Iron Bowl is the drama of Auburn head coach Gus Malzahn's possible return to the state of Arkansas. Rumors are swirling that the University of Arkansas is interested in Malzahn, who coached high school football in Arkansas for several years. The winner of the Iron Bowl will go to Atlanta, rip Georgia, and then advance to the CFP. If Auburn beats Alabama and then beats Georgia for a second time in less than a month, the Tigers will have an extremely strong case to be the first two-loss team in the history of the CFP.
Miami better not sleep on Pittsburgh Friday. Weather could be a factor. With the exception of the Notre Dame game, every week has been a high-wire act for the Hurricanes.
Last week was a stinker for me at 4-6. The overall record for the season is now square at 59-59-2.
All selections are against the spread and for entertainment purposes only.
Here are this week's selections.
Ole Miss at Mississippi State -16.0 -- The Egg Bowl also has some backstage drama. Dan Mullen, who has done a more than respectable job at Mississippi State, is a possible candidate at Tennessee. Mississippi State simply has a more solid team than Ole Miss. I believe the Bulldogs will cover. Pick -- Mississippi State
Miami at Pittsburgh +14.0 -- My gut has been telling me for a couple of weeks that this is a possible upset. It could be a hunch. It could be something I ate. Pressure is mounting week after week on Miami, which moved to No. 2 in this week's CFP poll. Pittsburgh has had a bad season, but the Panthers are capable of causing problems. Most of Miami's games have been close. I expect this one to be the same. Don't be surprised if Pitt wins outright. Pick -- Pittsburgh
Virginia Tech at Virginia +7.0 -- For the first time in years, this game might be competitive. Virginia, which gave Miami all it wanted last week, has the due factor. Wahoo Wa. Pick -- Virginia
Texas Tech at Texas -10.0 -- When hot seats are talked about on national shows, Kliff Kingsbury needs to be mentioned. Not only is Texas Tech losing, the Red Raiders have stopped scoring. I would much prefer this Thanksgiving night game be Texas-Texas A&M, but I will take what I can get so I don't have to watch the National Felons League. Hook 'em. Pick -- Texas
Georgia at Georgia Tech +11.0 -- Georgia Tech flat out sucked in Durham last week. It was an embarrassing effort, the type of game that gets coaches fired. Even though the game is in Atlanta, it will be a pro-Georgia crowd at Grant Field. There are just way more rednecks than there are nerds. As much as I would like to see Tech rise up and ruin Georgia's season, I just don't think the Yellow Jackets are capable of bouncing back from last week's meltdown. I think Tech is done. Pick -- Georgia
Clemson at South Carolina +14.0 -- We now know Chickens have lips because South Carolina has been flapping their gums all week leading up to the game. Never again. Clemson is not that better than us. Clemson's linebackers aren't as good as last year. We are going to get even for them calling that late time out last season and disrespecting us. I'm sick of Clemson. Clemson has said all the right things. There is a quiet determination in Tigertown. If Clemson has all hands on deck on defense, expect the Tigers to wreck South Carolina's Jake Bentley like they did last year. South Carolina will play with emotion early, but then talent will take over. Clemson is a terrible cover team, but I think the Tigers will find a way Saturday night. Pick -- Clemson
Louisville at Kentucky +10.0 -- Kentucky destroyed Lamar Jackson last season. Can the Wildcats do it two years in a row? I think 10 points at home is too much to turn down. Pick -- Kentucky
Ohio State at Michigan +11.5 -- My hope is Michigan will rise up, whip Ohio State, and end any thoughts the national media has about the Buckeyes making the college football playoff. I have said all year Ohio State is a fraud. Interesting note -- Entering Saturday's game, both Ohio State and Michigan have 402 all-time victories in the Big Ten. Jim Harbaugh is way over due to win a big game. But I don't think it is going to happen. Pick -- Ohio State
Florida State at Florida +5.0 -- Can we just flip a coin? Do we really have to watch this mess. Florida is finished, done, kaput. Florida State scored a bunch of points last week to build some confidence going to Gainesville. Of the two, I think Florida State still has a pulse. Pick -- Florida State
Alabama at Auburn +4.5 -- The game of the weekend. Maybe the game of the year. Interesting note -- Nick Saban has never beaten Auburn when it has recorded at least nine victories (0-3 at LSU, 0-3 at Alabama). The Tigers are 9-2 entering Saturday's game. Auburn has the defense to hang with Bama, and I think Bama's injury issues at linebacker will get exposed. Winner goes to Atlanta to face Georgia for the SEC Championship. I think there is going to be an upset. Pick -- Auburn
Last Week -- 4-6
For The Season -- 59-59-2
After a dull and lackluster week last week where I had to make up a couple of point spreads, this week is much different. This week is the opposite end of the spectrum.
The is rivalry week. The Egg Bowl. The Commonwealth Clash. Clean Old Fashioned Hate. The Palmetto Bowl. The Iron Bowl. Most are recognized by college football fans. Some of the games will make or break seasons for the teams involved. Most are play-in games to the College Football Playoff. Some teams will drop by the wayside.
This stands to be the most difficult week of picks this season because of the emotions and what is on the line. Even though it has a great resume, the national media just can't stay off of Clemson's back. With South Carolina in Columbia and Miami in Charlotte left on the schedule, the Tigers are either going to earn their way into the CFP or crap out.
Alabama travels to Auburn for its stiffest test of the season. Surrounding the Iron Bowl is the drama of Auburn head coach Gus Malzahn's possible return to the state of Arkansas. Rumors are swirling that the University of Arkansas is interested in Malzahn, who coached high school football in Arkansas for several years. The winner of the Iron Bowl will go to Atlanta, rip Georgia, and then advance to the CFP. If Auburn beats Alabama and then beats Georgia for a second time in less than a month, the Tigers will have an extremely strong case to be the first two-loss team in the history of the CFP.
Miami better not sleep on Pittsburgh Friday. Weather could be a factor. With the exception of the Notre Dame game, every week has been a high-wire act for the Hurricanes.
Last week was a stinker for me at 4-6. The overall record for the season is now square at 59-59-2.
All selections are against the spread and for entertainment purposes only.
Here are this week's selections.
Ole Miss at Mississippi State -16.0 -- The Egg Bowl also has some backstage drama. Dan Mullen, who has done a more than respectable job at Mississippi State, is a possible candidate at Tennessee. Mississippi State simply has a more solid team than Ole Miss. I believe the Bulldogs will cover. Pick -- Mississippi State
Miami at Pittsburgh +14.0 -- My gut has been telling me for a couple of weeks that this is a possible upset. It could be a hunch. It could be something I ate. Pressure is mounting week after week on Miami, which moved to No. 2 in this week's CFP poll. Pittsburgh has had a bad season, but the Panthers are capable of causing problems. Most of Miami's games have been close. I expect this one to be the same. Don't be surprised if Pitt wins outright. Pick -- Pittsburgh
Virginia Tech at Virginia +7.0 -- For the first time in years, this game might be competitive. Virginia, which gave Miami all it wanted last week, has the due factor. Wahoo Wa. Pick -- Virginia
Texas Tech at Texas -10.0 -- When hot seats are talked about on national shows, Kliff Kingsbury needs to be mentioned. Not only is Texas Tech losing, the Red Raiders have stopped scoring. I would much prefer this Thanksgiving night game be Texas-Texas A&M, but I will take what I can get so I don't have to watch the National Felons League. Hook 'em. Pick -- Texas
Georgia at Georgia Tech +11.0 -- Georgia Tech flat out sucked in Durham last week. It was an embarrassing effort, the type of game that gets coaches fired. Even though the game is in Atlanta, it will be a pro-Georgia crowd at Grant Field. There are just way more rednecks than there are nerds. As much as I would like to see Tech rise up and ruin Georgia's season, I just don't think the Yellow Jackets are capable of bouncing back from last week's meltdown. I think Tech is done. Pick -- Georgia
Clemson at South Carolina +14.0 -- We now know Chickens have lips because South Carolina has been flapping their gums all week leading up to the game. Never again. Clemson is not that better than us. Clemson's linebackers aren't as good as last year. We are going to get even for them calling that late time out last season and disrespecting us. I'm sick of Clemson. Clemson has said all the right things. There is a quiet determination in Tigertown. If Clemson has all hands on deck on defense, expect the Tigers to wreck South Carolina's Jake Bentley like they did last year. South Carolina will play with emotion early, but then talent will take over. Clemson is a terrible cover team, but I think the Tigers will find a way Saturday night. Pick -- Clemson
Louisville at Kentucky +10.0 -- Kentucky destroyed Lamar Jackson last season. Can the Wildcats do it two years in a row? I think 10 points at home is too much to turn down. Pick -- Kentucky
Ohio State at Michigan +11.5 -- My hope is Michigan will rise up, whip Ohio State, and end any thoughts the national media has about the Buckeyes making the college football playoff. I have said all year Ohio State is a fraud. Interesting note -- Entering Saturday's game, both Ohio State and Michigan have 402 all-time victories in the Big Ten. Jim Harbaugh is way over due to win a big game. But I don't think it is going to happen. Pick -- Ohio State
Florida State at Florida +5.0 -- Can we just flip a coin? Do we really have to watch this mess. Florida is finished, done, kaput. Florida State scored a bunch of points last week to build some confidence going to Gainesville. Of the two, I think Florida State still has a pulse. Pick -- Florida State
Alabama at Auburn +4.5 -- The game of the weekend. Maybe the game of the year. Interesting note -- Nick Saban has never beaten Auburn when it has recorded at least nine victories (0-3 at LSU, 0-3 at Alabama). The Tigers are 9-2 entering Saturday's game. Auburn has the defense to hang with Bama, and I think Bama's injury issues at linebacker will get exposed. Winner goes to Atlanta to face Georgia for the SEC Championship. I think there is going to be an upset. Pick -- Auburn
Last Week -- 4-6
For The Season -- 59-59-2
Thursday, November 16, 2017
Time To Celebrate A 7-3 Week
I broke out of the doldrums with a 7-3 week last week. The big hit was Auburn's romp over Georgia. I wish I had bet the ranch because I saw that one coming. The big miss was Miami's destruction of Notre Dame.
This is a difficult week because many of the games will not be competitive. Many Power Five schools are participating in glorified scrimmages this Saturday before Rivalry Week.
As always, picks are against the spread and for entertainment purposes only.
Let's get to this week's selections.
The Citadel at Clemson +40 -- There is no line listed line for this game. The Bulldogs have had a disappointing season. They wrapped up Southern Conference play last Saturday by losing at Furman by 36 points. The Tigers will rest several starters in an attempt to heal some bumps and bruises for the final push. Clemson's MO lately has been to get a two-touchdown lead and then sit on it. I think Dabo will call the dogs off the Dogs before it gets out of control. Pick -- The Citadel
Georgia Tech at Duke +6.5 -- As predicted, the Yellow Jackets had their backs against the wall last week and came out swinging against Virginia Tech. It is tradition for Duke to give Tech fits, but I think the Jackets will take care of business at Wallace Wade Outdoor Stadium. Pick -- Georgia Tech
Kentucky at Georgia +21.5 -- Georgia got exposed last week. We all knew once the Bulldogs faced a team that could stuff the run, the Bulldogs were in trouble. Kentucky has won seven games, but nobody in the Bluegrass State cares because basketball season has started. Kentucky is fourth in the SEC in rushing defense at 121.9 per game. The Cats are capable of putting up a fight. The Dawgs should win, but I believe the spread is too high. Pick -- Kentucky
Kansas State at Oklahoma State -20.5 -- With some help, the Cowboys can still reach the Big 12 Championship game. But to keep that slim dream alive, OSU has to beat K-State. Spread is high, but I believe the Pokes can cover. Pick -- Oklahoma State
Wofford at South Carolina +28 -- No line listed line for this game. The Gamecocks have a bigger challenge than Clemson this week. Wofford, the Southern Conference champion, is 9-1. The short-haired Dogs can be a handful with their baffling wingbone offense. South Carolina will be looking forward to Clemson. Wofford is looking forward to the FCS playoffs. Tough call, but I think the Terriers will stay inside the 28. Pick -- Wofford
Michigan at Wisconsin -7.5 -- Wisconsin finally faces a team with a pulse. Home field is the difference. Pick -- Wisconsin
Virginia at Miami -19.0 -- Looking for a Miami letdown here after last week's stunning victory over Notre Dame. Virginia is not good enough to beat Miami, but I believe the Cavaliers will stay inside the number. Pick -- Virginia
Syracuse at Louisville -13.0 -- This should be an interesting shootout. Maybe one of those last-team-to-have-the-ball type games. I think Syracuse's offensive pace with give Louisville's mediocre defense a lot of problems. Pick -- Syracuse
N.C. State at Wake Forest -1.5 -- The Wolfpack might have its paws full. Wake scored 40 points in the second half last week on its way to a 64-43 victory over Syracuse. Wake is averaging 47.6 points per game in its last three games. Last Saturday, N.C. State, licking its wounds from the loss to Clemson, had to battle to get out of Boston alive. Take the Deacons. Pick -- Wake Forest
UCLA at Southern Cal -16.0 -- Southern Cal, with two losses, is still talking playoffs. To keep those slim hopes alive, the Trojans must get by an inconsistent UCLA team. Pick -- Southern Cal
Last Week -- 7-3
For The Season -- 55-53-2
This is a difficult week because many of the games will not be competitive. Many Power Five schools are participating in glorified scrimmages this Saturday before Rivalry Week.
As always, picks are against the spread and for entertainment purposes only.
Let's get to this week's selections.
The Citadel at Clemson +40 -- There is no line listed line for this game. The Bulldogs have had a disappointing season. They wrapped up Southern Conference play last Saturday by losing at Furman by 36 points. The Tigers will rest several starters in an attempt to heal some bumps and bruises for the final push. Clemson's MO lately has been to get a two-touchdown lead and then sit on it. I think Dabo will call the dogs off the Dogs before it gets out of control. Pick -- The Citadel
Georgia Tech at Duke +6.5 -- As predicted, the Yellow Jackets had their backs against the wall last week and came out swinging against Virginia Tech. It is tradition for Duke to give Tech fits, but I think the Jackets will take care of business at Wallace Wade Outdoor Stadium. Pick -- Georgia Tech
Kentucky at Georgia +21.5 -- Georgia got exposed last week. We all knew once the Bulldogs faced a team that could stuff the run, the Bulldogs were in trouble. Kentucky has won seven games, but nobody in the Bluegrass State cares because basketball season has started. Kentucky is fourth in the SEC in rushing defense at 121.9 per game. The Cats are capable of putting up a fight. The Dawgs should win, but I believe the spread is too high. Pick -- Kentucky
Kansas State at Oklahoma State -20.5 -- With some help, the Cowboys can still reach the Big 12 Championship game. But to keep that slim dream alive, OSU has to beat K-State. Spread is high, but I believe the Pokes can cover. Pick -- Oklahoma State
Wofford at South Carolina +28 -- No line listed line for this game. The Gamecocks have a bigger challenge than Clemson this week. Wofford, the Southern Conference champion, is 9-1. The short-haired Dogs can be a handful with their baffling wingbone offense. South Carolina will be looking forward to Clemson. Wofford is looking forward to the FCS playoffs. Tough call, but I think the Terriers will stay inside the 28. Pick -- Wofford
Michigan at Wisconsin -7.5 -- Wisconsin finally faces a team with a pulse. Home field is the difference. Pick -- Wisconsin
Virginia at Miami -19.0 -- Looking for a Miami letdown here after last week's stunning victory over Notre Dame. Virginia is not good enough to beat Miami, but I believe the Cavaliers will stay inside the number. Pick -- Virginia
Syracuse at Louisville -13.0 -- This should be an interesting shootout. Maybe one of those last-team-to-have-the-ball type games. I think Syracuse's offensive pace with give Louisville's mediocre defense a lot of problems. Pick -- Syracuse
N.C. State at Wake Forest -1.5 -- The Wolfpack might have its paws full. Wake scored 40 points in the second half last week on its way to a 64-43 victory over Syracuse. Wake is averaging 47.6 points per game in its last three games. Last Saturday, N.C. State, licking its wounds from the loss to Clemson, had to battle to get out of Boston alive. Take the Deacons. Pick -- Wake Forest
UCLA at Southern Cal -16.0 -- Southern Cal, with two losses, is still talking playoffs. To keep those slim hopes alive, the Trojans must get by an inconsistent UCLA team. Pick -- Southern Cal
Last Week -- 7-3
For The Season -- 55-53-2
Thursday, November 9, 2017
The CFP Poll Should Get Some Shake Up This Week
Through two weeks of the College Football Playoff poll, the top four remain the same -- Georgia, Alabama, Notre Dame, Clemson.
I expect some shake up this week.
The four top teams in the poll all have challenges this week. Georgia travels to The Plains to renew the Deep South's oldest rivalry against Auburn. Auburn's defense is good enough to force Georgia to throw, something the Dawgs haven't had to do all season. Alabama, suffering from a rash of injuries at linebacker, travels to Stark-Vegas to tangle with Mississippi State. Do the Bulldogs have enough firepower to take advantage of the Tide's problems? Notre Dame travels to undefeated Miami to renew one of college football's nastiest rivalries. This is the Saturday we find out if the Hurricanes are for real. Clemson plays host to wounded Florida State. The Tigers have been a poor cover team all season. Is this finally the year the Tigers finally blow out the Seminoles?
My picks continue to be worse than pedestrian. With Clemson's push at N.C. State, last week was yet another losing week at 4-5-1. The season record is now two games below .500 -- 48-50-1.
As always, picks are against the spread and for entertainment purposes only.
Let's get to this week's selections.
Washington at Stanford +6.0 -- I look at this spread and I just don't believe it. I don't believe in Washington. The Pac 12 is officially eliminated from the CFP. Pick -- Stanford
Florida at South Carolina -7.0 -- Florida sucks. Enough said. Pick -- South Carolina
Oklahoma State at Iowa State +6.5 -- Both of these teams suffered deflating losses last week. The Pokes got beat again by Oklahoma, while Iowa State got knocked off by West Virginia. The Pokes are depressed. Iowa State is really good at home. Pick -- Iowa State
Virginia Tech at Georgia Tech -3.0 -- Georgia Tech is sliding. The Jackets are at .500. That means it is time for Paul Johnson's troops to rise up. Pick -- Georgia Tech
Georgia at Auburn +2.5 -- This is Georgia's first serious test of the season. I don't believe they will survive it. Pick -- Auburn
Florida State at Clemson -16.0 -- Clemson survived a fist fight in Raleigh last week. The local experts say Florida State has no/zero/nada chance to win this game. I say it is Florida State. I remember the severe beatings the Seminoles have put on the Tigers in the past -- 57-0, 48-0, 54-7, 51-14. It is still Florida State. The Seminoles still have good players. I think this will be closer than the experts think. Pick -- Florida State
Michigan State at Ohio State -15.5 -- The Luckeyes laid a big egg at Iowa last week. Time to rebound. Pick -- Ohio State
Alabama at Mississippi State +14.0 -- National chatter is Alabama has a lot of injuries. Nobody feels sorry for the Crimson Tide. Every injury just means they plug in another four- or five-star player. I believe the Bulldogs will give the Tide all they want, but Bama will escape. Pick -- Mississippi State
Notre Dame at Miami +3.0 -- The end of Miami's undefeated run. The Irish are just too powerful. Pick -- Notre Dame
TCU at Oklahoma -6.5 -- Oklahoma plays indoor football. The Sooners score at will and give up points like crazy. This is a play-in game for the CFP. I believe home field will be the difference. Pick -- Oklahoma
Last Week -- 4-5-1
For The Season -- 48-50-1
I expect some shake up this week.
The four top teams in the poll all have challenges this week. Georgia travels to The Plains to renew the Deep South's oldest rivalry against Auburn. Auburn's defense is good enough to force Georgia to throw, something the Dawgs haven't had to do all season. Alabama, suffering from a rash of injuries at linebacker, travels to Stark-Vegas to tangle with Mississippi State. Do the Bulldogs have enough firepower to take advantage of the Tide's problems? Notre Dame travels to undefeated Miami to renew one of college football's nastiest rivalries. This is the Saturday we find out if the Hurricanes are for real. Clemson plays host to wounded Florida State. The Tigers have been a poor cover team all season. Is this finally the year the Tigers finally blow out the Seminoles?
My picks continue to be worse than pedestrian. With Clemson's push at N.C. State, last week was yet another losing week at 4-5-1. The season record is now two games below .500 -- 48-50-1.
As always, picks are against the spread and for entertainment purposes only.
Let's get to this week's selections.
Washington at Stanford +6.0 -- I look at this spread and I just don't believe it. I don't believe in Washington. The Pac 12 is officially eliminated from the CFP. Pick -- Stanford
Florida at South Carolina -7.0 -- Florida sucks. Enough said. Pick -- South Carolina
Oklahoma State at Iowa State +6.5 -- Both of these teams suffered deflating losses last week. The Pokes got beat again by Oklahoma, while Iowa State got knocked off by West Virginia. The Pokes are depressed. Iowa State is really good at home. Pick -- Iowa State
Virginia Tech at Georgia Tech -3.0 -- Georgia Tech is sliding. The Jackets are at .500. That means it is time for Paul Johnson's troops to rise up. Pick -- Georgia Tech
Georgia at Auburn +2.5 -- This is Georgia's first serious test of the season. I don't believe they will survive it. Pick -- Auburn
Florida State at Clemson -16.0 -- Clemson survived a fist fight in Raleigh last week. The local experts say Florida State has no/zero/nada chance to win this game. I say it is Florida State. I remember the severe beatings the Seminoles have put on the Tigers in the past -- 57-0, 48-0, 54-7, 51-14. It is still Florida State. The Seminoles still have good players. I think this will be closer than the experts think. Pick -- Florida State
Michigan State at Ohio State -15.5 -- The Luckeyes laid a big egg at Iowa last week. Time to rebound. Pick -- Ohio State
Alabama at Mississippi State +14.0 -- National chatter is Alabama has a lot of injuries. Nobody feels sorry for the Crimson Tide. Every injury just means they plug in another four- or five-star player. I believe the Bulldogs will give the Tide all they want, but Bama will escape. Pick -- Mississippi State
Notre Dame at Miami +3.0 -- The end of Miami's undefeated run. The Irish are just too powerful. Pick -- Notre Dame
TCU at Oklahoma -6.5 -- Oklahoma plays indoor football. The Sooners score at will and give up points like crazy. This is a play-in game for the CFP. I believe home field will be the difference. Pick -- Oklahoma
Last Week -- 4-5-1
For The Season -- 48-50-1
Thursday, November 2, 2017
Left October With A Real Stink Bomb
Apparently, my computer wasn't the only thing that blew up last week. I suffered a total picks meltdown by posting the worst week of the season at 3-7. The overall record now stands at 44-45-1.
I was slightly surprised by one selection in the top four of the first CFP poll released Tuesday night. I thought the committee would put Ohio State at No. 4. Georgia and Alabama were definites. No. 3 through No. 7 were a real argument in the committee room.
The committee obviously thinks a lot of Notre Dame. The Irish have lost just once -- by one point to Georgia. The Irish have steamrolled everybody else they have played.
November is going to be interesting. There are playoff games every Saturday beginning this week.
Who you got? Who do you think is going to make it? Who is the sleeper outside the top four who might make a run? My sleeper, of course, is Oklahoma State. But the odds are long against the Pokes. They have to beat Oklahoma this Saturday then probably beat Oklahoma again in the Big 12 Championship game on Dec. 2.
The Alabama-Georgia thing will sort itself out. Georgia still has Auburn and Georgia Tech on the road before meeting Alabama in the Georgia Dome. Alabama still has a trip to Auburn. Auburn may end up being the only team with a pulse Alabama faces the entire regular season.
The mission is simple for Notre Dame and Clemson. Win and you are in in the CFP. Lose and you are out. A Clemson loss in Raleigh would leave just the Palmetto State championship on the Tigers' goal sheet.
Let's get to this week's selections. As always, picks are against the spread and for entertainment purposes only.
Oklahoma at Oklahoma State -2.5 -- They call it Bedlam but it really isn't a rivalry. Oklahoma leads the series, 86-18-7. That's right. 86-18-7. Oklahoma's longest winning streak in the series is 19 games. So, when the Pokes beat the Sooners, it's a big deal. I write this just about every week about Oklahoma State, but I am anticipating a shootout. Oklahoma State's defense has been playing better. Loser is out of the CFP picture. I think the Pokes rise up and get it done. Pick -- Oklahoma State
Georgia Tech at Virginia +10 -- Georgia Tech got shut down in Clemson last week. Virginia got off to a great start but has hit a wall. I think 10 points is too much for the Jackets. Pick -- Virginia
South Carolina at Georgia -24.0 -- There are some South Carolina fans who think they are going to Athens and win. Don't make me laugh. Dawgs in a laugher. Pick -- Georgia
Clemson at N.C. State +7.0 -- This is it for the Tigers. Win and all you have to do is beat wounded Florida State next week to get to the ACC Championship game. A win keeps you in the playoff picture. Lose and it's back to a regular old bowl. A Wolfpack win will most likely send State to Charlotte for the title tilt. State knows it should have won at Clemson last year. Outside of Alabama, the Pack was the most physical team Clemson played in 2016. The Tigers have not been a good cover team and they have developed a bad habit of getting a two-touchdown lead early and then sitting on it. Clemson must be aggressive from the start Saturday and pour it on or the season is done. Pick -- Clemson
Penn State at Michigan State +8.5 -- Penn State choked last week in Columbus, surrendering a double-digit lead in the fourth quarter. The Nittany Lions better be ready this week or their playoff run is finished. Give me the points. Pick -- Michigan State
Iowa State at West Virginia -2.5 -- The Cyclones have victories over Oklahoma and TCU. They are one of the biggest stories in college football this season. West Virginia is a box of chocolates. You never know what you are going to get. This is feeling like a couch burning Saturday. Pick -- West Virginia
Virginia Tech at Miami FL +2.5 -- The Hokies have been on a roll since losing to Clemson. Miami has been a last-minute drama every Saturday. The Hurricanes are still undefeated, but even Miami head coach Mark Richt doesn't know how his team has done it. This one is for the Coastal Division. I like the Hokies. Pick -- Virginia Tech
LSU at Alabama -21.0 -- Step right up LSU and take your beating. Tide keeps rolling to Atlanta. Pick -- Alabama
Arizona at Southern Cal -7.5 -- During its current four-game winning streak, Arizona has scored 45 or more points in all four games. Rich Rodriguez has gone from hot seat to Pac 12 Coach of the Year candidate. Quarterback Khalil Tate has been running RichRod's high-powered offense to near perfection -- 48.8 points and 567 total yards per game in October. Arizona is 3-0 on the road. Southern Cal has been inconsistent. Pick -- Arizona
Syracuse at Florida State -5.0 -- Before the season started, no one would have given the Orange a chance to win in Tallahassee. No one. Even though the Orange isn't favored, I believe Syracuse is the better team. Pick -- Syracuse
Last Week -- 3-7
For The Season -- 44-45-1
Friday, October 27, 2017
Maybe A New Computer Will Change My Luck
Because of computer issues, my first post of this week's blog was directly to Facebook. After getting word Friday afternoon that my computer was on life support, I made a quick trip to Office Depot. Hopefully, the new computer will bring me luck.
Unfortunately, my picks also are on life support. It has been said consistency is the mark of greatness. I don’t think that is true in my case as I suffered through my third consecutive 5-5 week. The overall record remains at three games above .500.
Let’s see if I can break the mediocre streak this week. As always, all picks are against the spread and for entertainment purposes only.
Here are this week’s selections.
Oklahoma State at West Virginia +7.0 – The Pokes struggled against an improving Texas team last week but managed to pull out a victory in a strange way – with their defense. This week is going to be different because West Virginia throws it all over the lot. My gut tells me couches are in danger in Morgantown this weekend. Pick – West Virginia
Georgia vs. Florida -13.5 – I don’t care what the administrations at both schools say this will always be known as The World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party. Bourbon is the most popular liquid of the weekend. Georgia is undefeated and talking College Football Playoff. Florida is just talking. The Gators say it’s Georgia and Florida beats Georgia. There is some recent truth to that statement. Georgia’s offense lives by the run, while Florida is just trying to find a way to score. I think the Dawgs will pull it out, but the spread is too high. Pick – Florida
Vanderbilt at South Carolina -7.0 – Vanderbilt’s shipwreck limps into Williams-Brice and will take several more broadsides. Pick – South Carolina
Georgia Tech at Clemson -14.0 – Weather could be a major factor in Death Valley. Rain and the coolest temperatures of the season are predicted for Saturday night. The last two seasons Brent Venables’ defense has totally shut down the Yellow Jackets’ triple option. Most observers believe rain favors the team that runs the ball, but I believe the weather will effect Tech’s ball handling. Pick – Clemson
Louisville at Wake Forest +3.0 – Wake has played tough but has received nothing but losses for its efforts. Lamar Jackson continues to be the only thing Louisville has on the roster. If Jackson can’t run, the Cardinals are in trouble. Don’t take these Deacons lightly in Winston-Salem. Pick – Wake Forest
Penn State at Ohio State -6.5 – I just look at this spread and shake my head. I simply don’t believe in the Buckeyes. If quarterback J.T. Barrett is forced to throw, the Buckeyes are helpless. Penn State is spewing confidence and still remembers Ohio State was picked for the College Football Playoff last season even though the Nittany Lions won the Big 10 title. Give me those points. Pick – Penn State
N.C. State at Notre Dame -7.0 – Raise your hand if you thought in August this game would have major implications for the College Football Playoff? I thought so. The Wolfpack had last week off, while the Irish were smashing Southern Cal. The winner is still alive for the CFP. Even with a loss, the Wolfpack is still in control of the Atlantic Division. I think the moment will be too big for the Wolfpack. Pick – Notre Dame
Mississippi State at Texas A&M +1.5 – An interesting game between two teams doing a nice job of holding their seasons together despite taking some hits. I think the 12th Man will be the difference. Pick – Texas A&M
Houston at South Florida -11.0 – I like the way Charlie Strong has quickly resurrected his career in Tampa after the disaster in Austin. The Bulls have scored 30 or more points in 24 consecutive games, a record for the AP poll era. The Bulls are averaging 41.6 points per game. Houston allowed Memphis 42 points in one half. I am going to run with the Bulls. Pick – South Florida
Miami at North Carolina +20.0 – The Step Right Up And Beat The Hell Out Of North Carolina tour continues. Larry Fedora, it may be time to call a real estate agent. Pick – Miami
Last Week – 5-5
For The Season – 41-38-1
For The Season – 41-38-1
Thursday, October 19, 2017
Mediocre Again, Time To Break Out
Another ho-hum 5-5 week kept the overall season record on hold at three games above .500.
My warning to Clemson came true as the Tigers were more worried about facing Off Week than Syracuse. The 22-point dog Orange beat the Tigers straight up and put Clemson's playoff hopes on a week-by-week watch. The most shocking part of the game was the way Syracuse pushed Clemson around and the lack of response from the Tigers. One more lack of effort similar to that one and the Tigers will not make the playoff field.
Georgia won big but did not cover and South Carolina managed to put several more For Sale signs in Tennessee head coach Butch Jones' front yard.
As always, all picks are against the spread and for entertainment purposes only.
Let's get to this week's selections.
Oklahoma State at Texas +7 -- Since a shocking opening day loss to Maryland, Texas has shown a pulse. The Longhorns have suffered close losses to Southern Cal and Oklahoma. This will be an offensive shootout. I think the Pokes will survive because they have more weapons. Pick -- Oklahoma State
Wake Forest at Georgia Tech -6.5 -- The Jackets got beat at the buzzer in Miami last week. Wake got off to a great start but has hit a rough patch. Wake's defense recorded 17 tackles for loss against Florida State. I think the Deacons' quick defensive front will be able to disrupt the Jackets. Pick -- Wake Forest
Louisville at Florida State -6.5 -- Last season, Louisville ran up the score against FSU, setting a record for points against the Seminoles. The Seminoles certainly have long memories. This is Lamar Jackson vs. FSU's solid defense and FSU's mediocre offense against Louisville's mediocre defense. The Cardinals are a dumpster fire after losing at home to Boston College. I think the Seminoles will set the dumpster on fire. Pick -- Florida State
Boston College at Virginia -7.0 -- Boston College pulled off an upset in Louisville. But there will be no upset in Charlottesville. Virginia's surprising season continues. Pick -- Virginia
Tennessee at Alabama -34.5 -- I remember the days when Tennessee could actually compete with Alabama. Almost everyone looked forward to the third Saturday in October, the traditional date for the game. Man, that's a lot of points. But Tennessee's offense is putrid and its defense isn't much better. It is always difficult to take that many points, but I think the Tide will roll. Pick -- Alabama
LSU at Ole Miss +6.5 -- LSU head coach Ed Orgeron (aka The Cookie Monster -- just listen to the man talk) returns to The Grove where he once was the head coach. Asked if he still had any connections at Ole Miss, he said he hoped the Exxon station was still cooking chicken on a stick. LSU has recovered nicely since losing to Troy. I think the Bayou Bengals get it done. Pick -- LSU
North Carolina at Virginia Tech -21.0 -- The Larry Fedora Farewell tour continues. Pick -- Virginia Tech
Central Florida at Navy +7.5 -- The Midshipmen will try and sink the Knights. Anchors aweigh. Pick -- Navy
Michigan at Penn State -9.5 -- This will not be a game. Michigan is a mess on offense. Khaki pants takes a beating in Happy Valley. Pick -- Penn State
Southern Cal at Notre Dame -3.5 -- I really don't want to believe in Notre Dame, but with every week that passes by, the Irish look better and better. Wake up the echoes. Pick -- Notre Dame
Last Week -- 5-5
For The Season -- 36-33-1
My warning to Clemson came true as the Tigers were more worried about facing Off Week than Syracuse. The 22-point dog Orange beat the Tigers straight up and put Clemson's playoff hopes on a week-by-week watch. The most shocking part of the game was the way Syracuse pushed Clemson around and the lack of response from the Tigers. One more lack of effort similar to that one and the Tigers will not make the playoff field.
Georgia won big but did not cover and South Carolina managed to put several more For Sale signs in Tennessee head coach Butch Jones' front yard.
As always, all picks are against the spread and for entertainment purposes only.
Let's get to this week's selections.
Oklahoma State at Texas +7 -- Since a shocking opening day loss to Maryland, Texas has shown a pulse. The Longhorns have suffered close losses to Southern Cal and Oklahoma. This will be an offensive shootout. I think the Pokes will survive because they have more weapons. Pick -- Oklahoma State
Wake Forest at Georgia Tech -6.5 -- The Jackets got beat at the buzzer in Miami last week. Wake got off to a great start but has hit a rough patch. Wake's defense recorded 17 tackles for loss against Florida State. I think the Deacons' quick defensive front will be able to disrupt the Jackets. Pick -- Wake Forest
Louisville at Florida State -6.5 -- Last season, Louisville ran up the score against FSU, setting a record for points against the Seminoles. The Seminoles certainly have long memories. This is Lamar Jackson vs. FSU's solid defense and FSU's mediocre offense against Louisville's mediocre defense. The Cardinals are a dumpster fire after losing at home to Boston College. I think the Seminoles will set the dumpster on fire. Pick -- Florida State
Boston College at Virginia -7.0 -- Boston College pulled off an upset in Louisville. But there will be no upset in Charlottesville. Virginia's surprising season continues. Pick -- Virginia
Tennessee at Alabama -34.5 -- I remember the days when Tennessee could actually compete with Alabama. Almost everyone looked forward to the third Saturday in October, the traditional date for the game. Man, that's a lot of points. But Tennessee's offense is putrid and its defense isn't much better. It is always difficult to take that many points, but I think the Tide will roll. Pick -- Alabama
LSU at Ole Miss +6.5 -- LSU head coach Ed Orgeron (aka The Cookie Monster -- just listen to the man talk) returns to The Grove where he once was the head coach. Asked if he still had any connections at Ole Miss, he said he hoped the Exxon station was still cooking chicken on a stick. LSU has recovered nicely since losing to Troy. I think the Bayou Bengals get it done. Pick -- LSU
North Carolina at Virginia Tech -21.0 -- The Larry Fedora Farewell tour continues. Pick -- Virginia Tech
Central Florida at Navy +7.5 -- The Midshipmen will try and sink the Knights. Anchors aweigh. Pick -- Navy
Michigan at Penn State -9.5 -- This will not be a game. Michigan is a mess on offense. Khaki pants takes a beating in Happy Valley. Pick -- Penn State
Southern Cal at Notre Dame -3.5 -- I really don't want to believe in Notre Dame, but with every week that passes by, the Irish look better and better. Wake up the echoes. Pick -- Notre Dame
Last Week -- 5-5
For The Season -- 36-33-1
Thursday, October 12, 2017
Blip On The Screen
The three-week winning streak got interrupted last week with a mediocre 5-5 record.
Alabama and Clemson both failed to cover and Louisville got upset in Raleigh under a full moon. The moon will be full again on Nov. 4 when Clemson travels to N.C. State. Just saying.
As predicted, Michigan failed to cover and Michigan State won outright in a driving rain storm in the Big House.
This week, Clemson plays at Syracuse on Friday night. I am not a fan of Friday night college football and will never will be a fan. If the colleges want to play on Thursday night, that's ok -- as long as both teams get the previous Saturday off. Friday nights are for high school football. Period. I think the National Felons League should return to Sunday and Monday and leave Thursdays to the colleges. And the colleges should leave Fridays to the preps.
As always, selections are against the spread and for entertainment purposes only.
Here are this week's selections:
Clemson at Syracuse +22.5 -- One last outing for the Tigers before a much-needed off-week. Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney says quarterback Kelly Bryant, who tweeked an ankle in the victory over Wake Forest, will play. Two years ago at the Carrier Dome, the Orange surprised the Tigers with some triple option and the Tigers had to fight to survive. The Orange likes to play fast, really fast, and has two of the best wide receivers in the country in Steve Ismael (No. 1 in the country in receiving yards) and Ervin Phillips (No. 31 in the country in receiving yards). Be careful Tigers. Be very careful. I am going to take the points. Pick -- Syracuse
South Carolina at Tennessee -2.5 -- After a big victory over Arkansas, the Gamecocks take some new-found confidence up the mountain to Ob-knoxville. Struggling Tennessee will start redshirt freshman Jarrett Guarantano at quarterback. The Vols needed to do something to try and jump start their putrid offense. Tennessee head coach Butch Jones has one foot out the door. Tennessee looks disinterested and lost. I think the Gamecocks will get a road win. Pick -- South Carolina
Georgia Tech at Miami -6.5 -- When he was at Georgia, Mark Richt owned Georgia Tech. His ownership continues when the Yellow Jackets visit South Beach. Pick -- Miami
Baylor at Oklahoma State -25.5 -- Pokes celebrate homecoming with a serious Bear hunt. Bear rugs for everybody. Pick -- Oklahoma State
Missouri at Georgia -30.5 -- Not only is Missouri a 10-alarm dumpster fire, the Tigers don't even have a dumpster anymore. Not enough points. Not even close. Dawgs roll on to the Cocktail Party. Pick -- Georgia
Auburn at LSU +6.5 -- Auburn has gained momentum every week since leaving Clemson with an eight-point loss. A victory will label the Tigers the No. 1 challenger to Alabama in the SEC West. Pick -- Auburn
Oklahoma vs. Texas in Dallas +7.5 -- Oklahoma crapped in its own nest last week with a home loss to 30-point underdog Iowa State. Much like Ohio State, who the Sooners beat in Columbus earlier this season, Oklahoma talks a good game but can't produce results. Texas has pulled some surprises in the Red River Rivalry in the past. I think the Longhorns have got the Sooners right where they want them. Pick -- Texas
Navy at Memphis -4.0 -- This might be the best game this weekend. Navy's high-powered option against Memphis' high-flying passing attack. Home field will be the difference. Pick -- Memphis
Texas A&M at Florida -3.0 -- Florida is wearing the ugliest uniform in the history of college football for this game. If you have not seen it, Google it. But don't eat before you look at the picture. A&M can score. Florida can't. Swamp gets drained. Uniforms get burned. Pick -- Texas A&M
Boise State at San Diego State -7.0 -- The Aztecs are one of the big stories in college football this season. Since this one isn't on the blue turf, I'm taking SD. Pick -- San Diego State
Last Week -- 5-5
For The Season -- 31-28-1
Thursday, October 5, 2017
Recent Run Of Success Continues
Three winning weeks in a row and two consecutive weeks at 70 percent have pushed the overall season record to the positive side by three games.
The national chatter is college football this week has been -- Can anybody but Clemson play with Alabama? Maybe we are headed to Alabama-Clemson III, but there is a long way to go. Personally, I don't want Alabama-Clemson III. I don't think my heart could take it. There are some possible land mines for Clemson remaining, and Alabama still has to deal with Auburn in the Iron Bowl and possibly Georgia in the SEC Championship game.
As always, picks are against the spread and for entertainment purposes only.
Here are this week's selections:
Louisville at N.C. State +4 -- In a Thursday night special, the Lamar Jackson Show travels to the Wolf Lair in Raleigh. The Cardinals have faced nothing but layups since getting slapped down by Clemson. N.C. State is talented and wildly inconsistent. The Wolfpack has a history of positive results on Thursday nights. But I think the Cardinals will find a way to hand the Pack its first ACC loss. Pick -- Louisville
Wake Forest at Clemson -21.5 -- Wake should have/could have beaten Florida State last week. Clemson beat Virginia Tech to become the first team in the history of the AP poll to beat three top 15 teams in the month of September. Kelly Bryant continues to exceed pre-season expectations at quarterback for the Tigers. And Clemson's nasty defense has shown up every week. Have you ever seen a better pair of defensive ends at the college level? Wake's offense likes to go fast. That will suit the Tigers just fine. Pick -- Clemson
Arkansas at South Carolina +2.5 -- Two teams going no where. The Gamecocks have suffered a couple of frustrating losses to Kentucky and Texas A&M. Who knows what Arkansas is going to bring to Columbia. There is nothing fancy about the Hogs. They will line up and run it at the Gamecocks. Can the Gamecocks stand up to the pounding? I will take the points at home. Pick -- South Carolina
Duke at Virginia -2.5 -- Duke got beat down by Miami last Friday night at Wallace Wade Outdoor Stadium. At 3-1, Virginia has shown some signs of life. Woos your daddy? Pick -- Virginia
LSU at Florida -3.0 -- LSU is a five-alarm dumpster fire. The revolving door at quarterback continues for the Gators. Three points isn't enough. Pick -- Florida
Notre Dame at North Carolina -15.0 -- North Carolina's defense is a 10-alarm dumpster fire. Pathetic is not a strong enough word. What time is your African-American Studies class? When does basketball season start? Pick -- Notre Dame
West Virginia at TCU -13.0 -- I think TCU head coach Gary Patterson has it going again in Fort Worth. Horned Frogs all over the coon skin hats. Pick -- TCU
Miami (Fla.) at Florida State +3.0 -- This is still a great rivalry because of state and conference ties. Rain may play a major factor. The Hurricanes will make the struggling Noles an official candidate for the Pinstripe Bowl. I hear Yankee Stadium is lovely in late December. Pick -- Miami
Alabama at Texas A&M -26.5 -- In the last two games, the Crimson Tide has outscored the opposition, 125-3. That is not a misprint. I guess the SEC just does mean more -- more points by the Tide. Good luck Aggies. You are going to need it. Pick -- Alabama
Michigan State at Michigan -10.0 -- This is the first time this Michigan showdown has been played at night. My gut tells me Michigan wins this game because of home field but won't cover. I would not be surprised if Michigan State wins outright. Pick -- Michigan State
Last Week -- 7-3
For The Season -- 26-23-1
The national chatter is college football this week has been -- Can anybody but Clemson play with Alabama? Maybe we are headed to Alabama-Clemson III, but there is a long way to go. Personally, I don't want Alabama-Clemson III. I don't think my heart could take it. There are some possible land mines for Clemson remaining, and Alabama still has to deal with Auburn in the Iron Bowl and possibly Georgia in the SEC Championship game.
As always, picks are against the spread and for entertainment purposes only.
Here are this week's selections:
Louisville at N.C. State +4 -- In a Thursday night special, the Lamar Jackson Show travels to the Wolf Lair in Raleigh. The Cardinals have faced nothing but layups since getting slapped down by Clemson. N.C. State is talented and wildly inconsistent. The Wolfpack has a history of positive results on Thursday nights. But I think the Cardinals will find a way to hand the Pack its first ACC loss. Pick -- Louisville
Wake Forest at Clemson -21.5 -- Wake should have/could have beaten Florida State last week. Clemson beat Virginia Tech to become the first team in the history of the AP poll to beat three top 15 teams in the month of September. Kelly Bryant continues to exceed pre-season expectations at quarterback for the Tigers. And Clemson's nasty defense has shown up every week. Have you ever seen a better pair of defensive ends at the college level? Wake's offense likes to go fast. That will suit the Tigers just fine. Pick -- Clemson
Arkansas at South Carolina +2.5 -- Two teams going no where. The Gamecocks have suffered a couple of frustrating losses to Kentucky and Texas A&M. Who knows what Arkansas is going to bring to Columbia. There is nothing fancy about the Hogs. They will line up and run it at the Gamecocks. Can the Gamecocks stand up to the pounding? I will take the points at home. Pick -- South Carolina
Duke at Virginia -2.5 -- Duke got beat down by Miami last Friday night at Wallace Wade Outdoor Stadium. At 3-1, Virginia has shown some signs of life. Woos your daddy? Pick -- Virginia
LSU at Florida -3.0 -- LSU is a five-alarm dumpster fire. The revolving door at quarterback continues for the Gators. Three points isn't enough. Pick -- Florida
Notre Dame at North Carolina -15.0 -- North Carolina's defense is a 10-alarm dumpster fire. Pathetic is not a strong enough word. What time is your African-American Studies class? When does basketball season start? Pick -- Notre Dame
West Virginia at TCU -13.0 -- I think TCU head coach Gary Patterson has it going again in Fort Worth. Horned Frogs all over the coon skin hats. Pick -- TCU
Miami (Fla.) at Florida State +3.0 -- This is still a great rivalry because of state and conference ties. Rain may play a major factor. The Hurricanes will make the struggling Noles an official candidate for the Pinstripe Bowl. I hear Yankee Stadium is lovely in late December. Pick -- Miami
Alabama at Texas A&M -26.5 -- In the last two games, the Crimson Tide has outscored the opposition, 125-3. That is not a misprint. I guess the SEC just does mean more -- more points by the Tide. Good luck Aggies. You are going to need it. Pick -- Alabama
Michigan State at Michigan -10.0 -- This is the first time this Michigan showdown has been played at night. My gut tells me Michigan wins this game because of home field but won't cover. I would not be surprised if Michigan State wins outright. Pick -- Michigan State
Last Week -- 7-3
For The Season -- 26-23-1
Thursday, September 28, 2017
Call Him Butter Because He's On A Roll
Two winning weeks in a row? Believe it.
Last week was the best week of the season -- 7-3 -- and I inched within one game of the .500 mark for the season.
But this is no time to relax. I think this week's slate of games is the toughest to date. There are numerous spreads at or above seven points.
As always, all of the picks are against the spread and for entertainment purposes only.
Here are this week's selections:
Miami at Duke +6.5 -- One of the most interesting games of the weekend between two undefeated teams. The last time Miami was in Durham it won the game on a controversial rugby play on the final play of the game. I think Duke is for real. Duke quarterback Daniel Jones, a former walk-on, is one of the biggest surprises in the ACC. The Blue Devils also are playing some defense. I think Duke will cover. Pick -- Duke
Southern Cal at Washington State +3.5 -- Pullman on a Friday night. Southern Cal has got some issues. I think Mike Leach and the Cougars pull off the upset. Pick -- Washington State
Georgia at Tennessee +7.5 -- There is something going on in Athens. Kirby Smart is starting to take hold of the program. The Dawgs had no trouble with Mississippi State last week. Now it is time to take the red-and-black show on the road and head up the mountain. If anyone can figure out Tennessee and Butch Jones, please raise your hand. There will be some initial emotion for the Vols, but I think the Dawgs will get it done and label themselves the team to beat in the SEC East. Pick -- Georgia
South Carolina at Texas A&M -8.5 -- I just don't think the Gamecocks can generate enough points to keep up with the Aggies. It will be a hot time in the old town tonight. Pick -- Texas A&M
Mississippi State at Auburn -9.0 -- Shell-shocked Bulldogs will drop their second in a row. Momentum is building on the Plains. Pick -- Auburn
North Carolina at Georgia Tech -9.5 -- North Carolina's defense is awful. A wet paper towel puts up more resistance. Tech's offense has been running hot early. Pick -- Georgia Tech
Clemson at Virginia Tech +7.5 -- Saturday night in Blacksburg is a tough chore. Tech freshman quarterback Josh Jackson is having some early success for the Hokies. The Tigers always seem to have trouble with a running quarterback. Tech defensive coordinator Bud Foster will have a plan for the Tigers. I am banking on two things -- Jackson hasn't seen a defensive unit as good as Clemson's unit and the bright lights and surroundings of a big game will affect the Hokies in a negative way. Sooner or later, the Tigers are going to lose on the road again. But I don't think it will be this Saturday night. Pick -- Clemson
Ole Miss at Alabama -28.0 -- The SEC has become Alabama's personal playground. Two words. Roll Tide. Pick -- Alabama
Florida State at Wake Forest +7.5 -- Undefeated Wake Forest against 0-2 Florida State. Let that sink in for a second. Can the Deacons move to 5-0 before their road trip to Clemson? I don't think so. Pick -- Florida State
Oklahoma State at Texas Tech +9.5 -- This game might take six or seven hours. Both of these teams are pass happy and score in bunches. The Pokes got tripped up at home last week by TCU. If they aren't careful, the situation could get ugly in Lubbock. I think the Pokes will survive, but I am going to take the Red Raiders and the points. Pick -- Texas Tech
Last Week -- 7-3
For The Season -- 19-20-1
Last week was the best week of the season -- 7-3 -- and I inched within one game of the .500 mark for the season.
But this is no time to relax. I think this week's slate of games is the toughest to date. There are numerous spreads at or above seven points.
As always, all of the picks are against the spread and for entertainment purposes only.
Here are this week's selections:
Miami at Duke +6.5 -- One of the most interesting games of the weekend between two undefeated teams. The last time Miami was in Durham it won the game on a controversial rugby play on the final play of the game. I think Duke is for real. Duke quarterback Daniel Jones, a former walk-on, is one of the biggest surprises in the ACC. The Blue Devils also are playing some defense. I think Duke will cover. Pick -- Duke
Southern Cal at Washington State +3.5 -- Pullman on a Friday night. Southern Cal has got some issues. I think Mike Leach and the Cougars pull off the upset. Pick -- Washington State
Georgia at Tennessee +7.5 -- There is something going on in Athens. Kirby Smart is starting to take hold of the program. The Dawgs had no trouble with Mississippi State last week. Now it is time to take the red-and-black show on the road and head up the mountain. If anyone can figure out Tennessee and Butch Jones, please raise your hand. There will be some initial emotion for the Vols, but I think the Dawgs will get it done and label themselves the team to beat in the SEC East. Pick -- Georgia
South Carolina at Texas A&M -8.5 -- I just don't think the Gamecocks can generate enough points to keep up with the Aggies. It will be a hot time in the old town tonight. Pick -- Texas A&M
Mississippi State at Auburn -9.0 -- Shell-shocked Bulldogs will drop their second in a row. Momentum is building on the Plains. Pick -- Auburn
North Carolina at Georgia Tech -9.5 -- North Carolina's defense is awful. A wet paper towel puts up more resistance. Tech's offense has been running hot early. Pick -- Georgia Tech
Clemson at Virginia Tech +7.5 -- Saturday night in Blacksburg is a tough chore. Tech freshman quarterback Josh Jackson is having some early success for the Hokies. The Tigers always seem to have trouble with a running quarterback. Tech defensive coordinator Bud Foster will have a plan for the Tigers. I am banking on two things -- Jackson hasn't seen a defensive unit as good as Clemson's unit and the bright lights and surroundings of a big game will affect the Hokies in a negative way. Sooner or later, the Tigers are going to lose on the road again. But I don't think it will be this Saturday night. Pick -- Clemson
Ole Miss at Alabama -28.0 -- The SEC has become Alabama's personal playground. Two words. Roll Tide. Pick -- Alabama
Florida State at Wake Forest +7.5 -- Undefeated Wake Forest against 0-2 Florida State. Let that sink in for a second. Can the Deacons move to 5-0 before their road trip to Clemson? I don't think so. Pick -- Florida State
Oklahoma State at Texas Tech +9.5 -- This game might take six or seven hours. Both of these teams are pass happy and score in bunches. The Pokes got tripped up at home last week by TCU. If they aren't careful, the situation could get ugly in Lubbock. I think the Pokes will survive, but I am going to take the Red Raiders and the points. Pick -- Texas Tech
Last Week -- 7-3
For The Season -- 19-20-1
Thursday, September 21, 2017
Finally, A Week Above .500
Last week was a definite improvement versus the first two weeks for one reason -- it was a winning week.
As we say in the South, Clemson "showed out" last Saturday by humiliating Louisville and Lamar Jackson. After that performance, the question has to be asked -- Are the Tigers better than they were last year?
As we say in the South, Clemson "showed out" last Saturday by humiliating Louisville and Lamar Jackson. After that performance, the question has to be asked -- Are the Tigers better than they were last year?
Last week's record was 5-4-1. The big misses were Tennessee, which violated a sacred football fundamental by allowing a Florida wide receiver Tyrie Cleveland behind the secondary on the final play, and South Carolina, which found a way to lose to Kentucky for the fourth year in a row.
The push was Duke's 14-point impressive victory over Baylor.
Clemson provided one of the biggest surprises of the week by dominating Louisville. The previous three games between the Tigers and Cards had gone down to the bitter end. The fourth meeting wasn't even close. The stars seem to be aligning for the Tigers, but there is a lot of ball left to be played.
As always, the selections on the Cobb Blog are against the spread and for entertainment purposes only.
Here are this week's selections:
Pittsburgh at Georgia Tech -7.5 -- Pitt allowed Oklahoma State to score on its first seven possessions and its head coach -- Pat Narduzzi -- is a defensive guy. Paul Johnson has the triple option up and running on The Flats. The Jackets roll. Pick -- Georgia Tech
TCU at Oklahoma State -11.0 -- Interesting early showdown in the Big 12. Oklahoma State quarterback Mason Rudolph, a native of Rock Hill, S.C., has to be considered one of the early leaders for the Heisman Trophy. TCU is beginning to look like a vintage Gary Patterson team. The spread is a little high, but I like the Pokes on their own ranch. Pick -- Oklahoma State
Louisiana Tech at South Carolina -8.5 -- The Yardbirds did their annual early face plant last Saturday against Kentucky. Now South Carolina is faced with the return of Skip Holtz, the former coach-in-waiting, to Williams-Brice. Without Deebo Samuel and the lack of a running game, I expect the Cocks to struggle. Take the points. Pick -- Louisiana Tech
Boston College at Clemson -34.5 -- This would be a trap game if Boston College was bringing anything to Death Valley. The Eagles got mauled at home last week by a Notre Dame team that will be lucky to finish with a winning season. The Tigers were running on all cylinders last Saturday night in Louisville. It will be interesting to see if they can keep it up. Pick -- Clemson
Mississippi State at Georgia -5.0 -- An early-season showdown in the It-Just-Means-More SEC. Mississippi State pulled off a stunner last Saturday night by pounding LSU in Stark-Vegas. The Dawgs continue to live off of their defense and their running game. I think playing between the Hedges will be the difference. Pick -- Georgia
N.C. State at Florida State -13.0 -- Who the hell knows about this game? What is N.C. State? Enough talent to beat just about anybody but doesn't have the ability to hold it together for any length of time. Florida State, which has played just one game this season, will trot out freshman quarterback James Blackman against the Wolfpack. FSU head coach Jimbo Fisher is confident Blackman can handle it. The Wolfpack has been tough on the Seminoles in the past. FSU has a defense but can it generate any points? Who knows? Anybody got a clue? Give me the points. Pick -- N.C. State
Duke at North Carolina +2.5 -- Duke is better coached. North Carolina has better talent. Duke is giving points on the road. When was the last time you saw that? I have seen enough of Duke to believe in the Blue Devils in this one. Duke head coach David Cutcliffe is known as a great developer of quarterbacks, but Duke's defense is pretty good. Pick -- Duke
Alabama at Vanderbilt +18.5 -- Common sense tells you Vanderbilt's party is over. The Commodores are 3-0 after outlasting Kansas State last week. But here comes big bad Bama to Music City to slap Vandy back into reality. Most of America would love to see Vandy pull off the upset. But I don't think it is going to happen. Pick -- Alabama
Michigan at Purdue +10 -- The Michigan defense is for real. The Michigan offense is not. Purdue is vastly improved. I think the Boilermakers have something cooked up for the Wolverines. Pick -- Purdue
Florida at Kentucky +2.5 -- Kentucky is off to its first 3-0 start since 2010. But the Wildcats have lost 30 in a row, yes 30 in a row, to Florida. The Gators' offense is truly offensive. Kentucky's defensive unit is salty. I think the goal posts come down in Lexington Saturday. Pick -- Kentucky
Last Week -- 5-4-1
For The Season -- 12-17-1
Thursday, September 14, 2017
Just Keep Saying To Yourself, It's Early
We're just two weeks into the season, so it is not time to hit the panic button. Yet.
Last week's 3-7 record against the spread dropped the season record to 7-13. Yeah, it's ugly, but there is a lot of ball left to be played.
On the positive side, I told you last week I didn't believe the national hype on Ohio State. Oklahoma went to the Horseshoe and beat down the Buckeyes. I think there are more beatings to come for The Ohio State.
On the negative side, I missed South Carolina again. The Gamecocks are 2-0 and probably will be 4-0 before getting tested again. I thought Penn State would cover against Pitt. It didn't. I picked Boston College at home in a pick'em against Wake Forest, but the Deacons blasted the Eagles.
I don't know the answer, but I thought I would just throw out this observation. When was the last time Duke and Wake Forest were both double-digit favorites on the same Saturday?
Let's move on. As always, 10 games against the spread for entertainment purposes only.
Here are this week's selections.
Oklahoma State at Pittsburgh -14.0 -- Last year's meeting in Stillwater was a shootout the Cowboys won in overtime. This is a much different Pitt team. The Panthers are missing a lot of their offensive pieces from a year ago. The Cowboys can still score and score a lot. Pick -- Oklahoma State
Kentucky at South Carolina -6.0 -- The Gamecocks, off to a surprising 2-0 start, welcome Kentucky to Columbia for their 2017 home opener. Will the Gamecocks stumble? Nope. Pick -- South Carolina
Clemson at Louisville +3.0 -- The dynamic Lamar Jackson meets a Clemson defensive unit that is allowing just 118 total yards per game. Jackson usually gets that much in the first quarter. Something has got to give. What do you do with Jackson? Do you go after him risking flushing him out of the pocket? Or do you drop back and defend and force him to throw? Clemson did a good job against Jackson in the first half last year, but he ran crazy in the second half. The unknown for this game is the Clemson offense. How many points can it produce? Can the Tigers keep the ball and keep Jackson off the field? The Tigers helped the Cardinals last year with five turnovers. That cannot happen Saturday. I am expecting another close one. I am betting the difference is the Tigers have been here before and will handle the spotlight better. Pick -- Clemson
Baylor at Duke -14.0 -- Duke smashed a good Northwestern team last week. Baylor is a five-alarm dumpster fire. Pick -- Duke
Notre Dame at Boston College -13.5 -- Notre Dame is a mess. Boston College is a bigger mess. Pick -- Notre Dame
Tennessee at Florida -5.5 -- Back in the day, this was a highly anticipated game in the SEC and on the national level. But both of these teams have major issues. Florida can't score. Tennessee's defense got torched by Georgia Tech's triple option. Will the hurricane aftermath in the state of Florida have an effect on the Gators? Will Tennessee head coach Butch Jones finally win a game that means something? I don't understand the spread, so I am picking the Vols. Pick -- Tennessee
LSU at Mississippi State +7.0 -- What is LSU? Have the Tigers solved their offensive problems? Mississippi State has beaten Charleston Southern and Louisiana Tech. So what? History tells you to pick LSU. But strange things can happen in Stark-Vegas, especially early in the season. Take the points. Pick -- Mississippi State
Kansas State at Vanderbilt +4.0 -- Kansas State, as always, is a darkhorse in the Big 12 race. This is Vandy's first major test of the season. Pick -- Kansas State
Texas at Southern Cal -15.0 -- Texas bounced back last week after laying an opening egg against Maryland, but Southern Cal is a different type of animal. One Texas isn't ready for at this time. Fight on! Pick -- Southern Cal
Utah State at Wake Forest -13.5 -- Utah State must really be awful. Pick -- Wake Forest
Last Week Against The Spread -- 3-7
For The Season -- 7-13
Last week's 3-7 record against the spread dropped the season record to 7-13. Yeah, it's ugly, but there is a lot of ball left to be played.
On the positive side, I told you last week I didn't believe the national hype on Ohio State. Oklahoma went to the Horseshoe and beat down the Buckeyes. I think there are more beatings to come for The Ohio State.
On the negative side, I missed South Carolina again. The Gamecocks are 2-0 and probably will be 4-0 before getting tested again. I thought Penn State would cover against Pitt. It didn't. I picked Boston College at home in a pick'em against Wake Forest, but the Deacons blasted the Eagles.
I don't know the answer, but I thought I would just throw out this observation. When was the last time Duke and Wake Forest were both double-digit favorites on the same Saturday?
Let's move on. As always, 10 games against the spread for entertainment purposes only.
Here are this week's selections.
Oklahoma State at Pittsburgh -14.0 -- Last year's meeting in Stillwater was a shootout the Cowboys won in overtime. This is a much different Pitt team. The Panthers are missing a lot of their offensive pieces from a year ago. The Cowboys can still score and score a lot. Pick -- Oklahoma State
Kentucky at South Carolina -6.0 -- The Gamecocks, off to a surprising 2-0 start, welcome Kentucky to Columbia for their 2017 home opener. Will the Gamecocks stumble? Nope. Pick -- South Carolina
Clemson at Louisville +3.0 -- The dynamic Lamar Jackson meets a Clemson defensive unit that is allowing just 118 total yards per game. Jackson usually gets that much in the first quarter. Something has got to give. What do you do with Jackson? Do you go after him risking flushing him out of the pocket? Or do you drop back and defend and force him to throw? Clemson did a good job against Jackson in the first half last year, but he ran crazy in the second half. The unknown for this game is the Clemson offense. How many points can it produce? Can the Tigers keep the ball and keep Jackson off the field? The Tigers helped the Cardinals last year with five turnovers. That cannot happen Saturday. I am expecting another close one. I am betting the difference is the Tigers have been here before and will handle the spotlight better. Pick -- Clemson
Baylor at Duke -14.0 -- Duke smashed a good Northwestern team last week. Baylor is a five-alarm dumpster fire. Pick -- Duke
Notre Dame at Boston College -13.5 -- Notre Dame is a mess. Boston College is a bigger mess. Pick -- Notre Dame
Tennessee at Florida -5.5 -- Back in the day, this was a highly anticipated game in the SEC and on the national level. But both of these teams have major issues. Florida can't score. Tennessee's defense got torched by Georgia Tech's triple option. Will the hurricane aftermath in the state of Florida have an effect on the Gators? Will Tennessee head coach Butch Jones finally win a game that means something? I don't understand the spread, so I am picking the Vols. Pick -- Tennessee
LSU at Mississippi State +7.0 -- What is LSU? Have the Tigers solved their offensive problems? Mississippi State has beaten Charleston Southern and Louisiana Tech. So what? History tells you to pick LSU. But strange things can happen in Stark-Vegas, especially early in the season. Take the points. Pick -- Mississippi State
Kansas State at Vanderbilt +4.0 -- Kansas State, as always, is a darkhorse in the Big 12 race. This is Vandy's first major test of the season. Pick -- Kansas State
Texas at Southern Cal -15.0 -- Texas bounced back last week after laying an opening egg against Maryland, but Southern Cal is a different type of animal. One Texas isn't ready for at this time. Fight on! Pick -- Southern Cal
Utah State at Wake Forest -13.5 -- Utah State must really be awful. Pick -- Wake Forest
Last Week Against The Spread -- 3-7
For The Season -- 7-13
Thursday, September 7, 2017
Auburn at Clemson: Will Defense Rule?
Week One is in the books and it was not good.
First time out against a tough slate of games, the record was 4-6.
But that was a just a warm up. There is a lot football left.
As always, all picks are against the spread. And picks are for entertainment purposes only.
Week Two gets even tougher. Let's have at it.
Auburn at Clemson -5.0 -- Clemson won a glorfied scrimmage against a feeble Kent State. Kent State threw up the white flag early and was only interested in collecting the check. Auburn beat a usually pesky Georgia Southern squad. In some ways, these two teams mirror each other -- inexperience on offense, experienced on defense. On paper, this has the makings of a defensive game with both teams throwing haymakers. I think home field will be the difference. Pick -- Clemson
South Carolina at Missouri -2.5 -- The Gamecocks won a shootout in Charlotte by making more plays than the Wolfpack. South Carolina quarterback Jake Bentley made several nice throws, but the Gamecocks still need to find a running game. Missouri dropped 72 on Missouri State. This spread looks strange. I'm taking the home field. Pick -- Missouri
Georgia at Notre Dame -4.0 -- The Dawgs make a rare trip North to tangle with the Irish for just the second time in history. I congratulate both programs. This is a great game for college football. The only other meeting was Georgia's victory in the Sugar Bowl which clinched the 1980 national championship. Georgia has quarterback issues. Notre Dame is trying to bounce back from last seasons's 4-8 egg. There has been trash talking coming out of Athens. Big shock there. Wake up the echoes. Pick -- Notre Dame
Louisville at North Carolina +10 -- Lamar Jackson's run at a second Heisman Trophy got off to a rocky start, but the Cardinals managed to save themselves against lowly Purdue. North Carolina took one step toward talking basketball season by losing at home to California. Louisville will have to play a much cleaner game to cover the spread. This smells like an early must win for the Heels. I expect the Heels to play with a sense of desperation. Pick -- North Carolina
Iowa at Iowa State +2.5 -- The Cyclones are a weak sister in the Big 12. The Hawkeyes have been known to stumble. Pick -- Iowa State
Wake Forest at Boston College Pick'em -- BC 2-0? Believe it. Pick -- BC
Oklahoma at Ohio State -7.5 -- I just don't get the national love for Ohio State. Sure, the Buckeyes have plenty of talent, but their offense is still a mess. Oklahoma head coach Lincoln Riley faces his first big road game as a head coach. Sooner quarterback Baker Mayfield came back to Norman to make a run at a national title. Take the points. Pick -- Oklahoma
Stanford at Southern Cal -6.0 -- Cardinal power versus Trojan flash. I'm going to take the power. Pick -- Stanford
TCU at Arkansas +3.0 -- When has Arkansas head coach Bret Bielema ever won a big game? I'm waiting for your answer. Can Arkansas' ground game keep up with TCU's Big 12 offense? I'm going to take the Frogs. Pick -- TCU
Pittsburgh at Penn State -21.0 -- Pitt beat Penn State last season, a loss that ended up costing the Nittany Lions a trip to the College Football Playoff. Revenge is a dish best served cold. Happy Valley will not be a happy place for the Panthers. Pick -- Penn State.
Last Week Against The Spread -- 4-6
2017 Season -- 4-6
First time out against a tough slate of games, the record was 4-6.
But that was a just a warm up. There is a lot football left.
As always, all picks are against the spread. And picks are for entertainment purposes only.
Week Two gets even tougher. Let's have at it.
Auburn at Clemson -5.0 -- Clemson won a glorfied scrimmage against a feeble Kent State. Kent State threw up the white flag early and was only interested in collecting the check. Auburn beat a usually pesky Georgia Southern squad. In some ways, these two teams mirror each other -- inexperience on offense, experienced on defense. On paper, this has the makings of a defensive game with both teams throwing haymakers. I think home field will be the difference. Pick -- Clemson
South Carolina at Missouri -2.5 -- The Gamecocks won a shootout in Charlotte by making more plays than the Wolfpack. South Carolina quarterback Jake Bentley made several nice throws, but the Gamecocks still need to find a running game. Missouri dropped 72 on Missouri State. This spread looks strange. I'm taking the home field. Pick -- Missouri
Georgia at Notre Dame -4.0 -- The Dawgs make a rare trip North to tangle with the Irish for just the second time in history. I congratulate both programs. This is a great game for college football. The only other meeting was Georgia's victory in the Sugar Bowl which clinched the 1980 national championship. Georgia has quarterback issues. Notre Dame is trying to bounce back from last seasons's 4-8 egg. There has been trash talking coming out of Athens. Big shock there. Wake up the echoes. Pick -- Notre Dame
Louisville at North Carolina +10 -- Lamar Jackson's run at a second Heisman Trophy got off to a rocky start, but the Cardinals managed to save themselves against lowly Purdue. North Carolina took one step toward talking basketball season by losing at home to California. Louisville will have to play a much cleaner game to cover the spread. This smells like an early must win for the Heels. I expect the Heels to play with a sense of desperation. Pick -- North Carolina
Iowa at Iowa State +2.5 -- The Cyclones are a weak sister in the Big 12. The Hawkeyes have been known to stumble. Pick -- Iowa State
Wake Forest at Boston College Pick'em -- BC 2-0? Believe it. Pick -- BC
Oklahoma at Ohio State -7.5 -- I just don't get the national love for Ohio State. Sure, the Buckeyes have plenty of talent, but their offense is still a mess. Oklahoma head coach Lincoln Riley faces his first big road game as a head coach. Sooner quarterback Baker Mayfield came back to Norman to make a run at a national title. Take the points. Pick -- Oklahoma
Stanford at Southern Cal -6.0 -- Cardinal power versus Trojan flash. I'm going to take the power. Pick -- Stanford
TCU at Arkansas +3.0 -- When has Arkansas head coach Bret Bielema ever won a big game? I'm waiting for your answer. Can Arkansas' ground game keep up with TCU's Big 12 offense? I'm going to take the Frogs. Pick -- TCU
Pittsburgh at Penn State -21.0 -- Pitt beat Penn State last season, a loss that ended up costing the Nittany Lions a trip to the College Football Playoff. Revenge is a dish best served cold. Happy Valley will not be a happy place for the Panthers. Pick -- Penn State.
Last Week Against The Spread -- 4-6
2017 Season -- 4-6
Thursday, August 31, 2017
Let's Get It On!
College football is back!
That's means it is time for the Cobb Blog to return.
Fearless football forecasting without a net. For entertainment purposes only.
All picks are against the spread.
Feel free to play along at home and message me your picks.
And away we go.
Kent State at Clemson -39.0 -- The Tigers will start the 2017 season with a warm up. A glorified scrimmage. It will be a feel-good day at Death Valley as Clemson celebrates its 2016 national championship. The Tigers will win, but I believe Dabo Swinney will dial it down before covering. He doesn't want to put a lot on film for Auburn. Pick -- Kent State
Maryland at Texas -18.5 -- Next up to battle the expections at Texas is Tom Herman, who brings his wide-open open from Houston. The Herman era gets off to a good start. Pick -- Texas
N.C. State vs. South Carolina +5.0 at Charlotte -- Will Muschamp got the Gamecocks to a bowl game in Year One. The question is -- Can the Gamecocks make another step up in 2017? Pick -- South Carolina
Michigan vs. Florida +5.0 at Arlington, Texas -- Jim Harbaugh won't release his schedule. Jim McElwain has suspended most of his roster. It didn't take long for this season to get crazy. Pick -- Michigan
Kentucky at Southern Miss +10.5 -- Upset alert for the Wildcats. Hattiesburg can be unkind to visitors. Pick -- Southern Miss
Appalachian State at Georgia -14.5 -- The pressure already is on Kirby Smart. Most experts are picking Georgia to win the SEC East. The Bulldogs could have picked an easier opener. The Mountaineers have a history of making things tough on big boys. But I think the Bulldogs will find a way to cover. Pick -- Georgia
Louisville at Purdue +24.5 -- The new and improved Lamar Jackson begins the '17 season against Big 10 bottom feeder Purdue. Jackson, who crashed and burned in the final three games last season, enters the season with something to prove. The first victim of his crazy legs will be the Boilermakers. Pick -- Louisville
Florida State vs. Alabama -7.0 at Atlanta -- This is my pick for the game of the weekend. The first of a possible three appearances for the Crimson Tide in the new Mercedes-Benz Dome this season. Florida State quarterback Deondre Francois took a real beating last season. If the Seminoles are going to stay in this game, their offensive line will have to hold up against the Tide's ultra-physical defense. I have a feeling FSU is going to be able to hang around. Pick -- Florida State
Brigham Young at LSU -15.5 -- In my humble opinion, this spread is whack. Too many points. Take the Cougars. Pick -- BYU
West Virginia at Virginia Tech -4.0 at Landover, Md. -- Another whack spread. The Hokies have some offensive questions. Hail to West Virginia. Pick -- West Virginia
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