Picks of the Week

 

Last week was horrible.  Just atrocious.  The kind of week that makes it virtually impossible to have a winning season no matter how many winning weeks I put together.  The type of week that would make a lessser man give up making picks forever, or at least for the rest of the year.  I am not that lesser of a man, especially after I eat Thanksgiving meal where I will literally be more of a man.  So, Happy Thanksgiving to all.

I am making my picks for the entire weekend, but I reserve the right to change my mind should a key injury occur before then, or if a key player doesn't play and that player factored into my decision.  But, for the most part, I am going to just let it roll.

For those that are new to this site, I will select every game against the spread.  I will be selecting one big bet at $250 per, whereas everything else will be $100.  Winners count as winners, whereasv, losses will be calculated including a 10% vig to make the math that much simpler.  On to the picks.

Detroit Lions +3 v. Chicago Bears

I wish this pick was as simple as selecting the home team on a short week, but there is much, much more involved.  Matt Nagy has lost the team, and the team has made that clear to management.  Then, apparently on Tuesday, ownership representatives met with Nagy to inform him that he was fired after today's game no matter what.  Then, Charles McCaskey holds a presser to say he specifically told Nagy that he would not be fired.  So, who to belive?  What to believe?  What I believe is that this team does not want to play for Nagy, and the backslide by ownership probably hurts more than helps.  And, Detroit has played tough for the most part.  #FireMattNagy

Dallas Cowboys -7 1/2 v. Las Vegas Raiders

The Raiders have lost 3 games in a row coming out of their bye week.  Included in that stretch is a loss to the Giants, and giving up 41 and 32 in the last 2 games.  Dallas averages just under 30 per game.  They should win handily, even without Amari Cooper.  Oh yeah, and home team on a short week.

New Orleans Saints +6 1/2 v. Buffalo Bills

So this is the one game out of the three that the automatic home team on a short week is not an obvious pick.  But, Buffalo has lost 2 out of 3, salvaging a blowout of the Jets between a miserable 9-6 loss to Jacksonville and last week's annihilation at the hands of the Colts.  The Saints have the 10th best defense in terms of yards and points, which should be enough to keep this game close.  Unless, of course, the Bills team that we though existed shows up.

Jacksonville Jaguars +2 v. Atlanta Falcons

This might be the worst game on the slate, so give me the points.  Jacksonville has the 17th ranked rush offense and rush defense, and those are the two highest ranked units in this game.  Ugh!

Houston Texans -2 1/2 v. New York Jets

This might be the worst game on the slate if not for the Jacksonville-Atlanta matchup.  So, not only did Houston ruin everyone's weeks last week by beating the Titans (and knocking Adrian Peterson off the Titans roster, and perhaps out of the league forever), but they are also 2-1 in games in which Tyrod Taylor starts and finishes this year.  Taylor actually can play a little.

New England Patriots -6 1/2 v. Tennessee Titans

I'll admit that I don't like this spread.  I feel like it should be more around the 4 range, but, New England is hitting its stride and is now the 6th leading scorer in the NFL, and the best scoring defense in the NFL.  And Tennessee's problems extend whell beyond just missing Derrick Henry.

Philadelphia Eagles -3 1/2 at New York Giants

Competing algorithms in this one:  never give up points on the road in the division, and don't pick teams on a short week.  But the Giants, who had been playing well, broke themselves by going for it on the rushed 4th and 1 on Monday night (at least if you want to go for it there, call timeout instead of rushing the play).  It also broke Jason Garrett as he was fired.  Philly is on a two game winning streak putting up 30 against Denver and 40 against New Orleans.

Cincinnati Bengals -4 1/2 v. Pittsburgh Steelers

This is a difficult game to pick because Cincinnati might be the most Jeckyll and Hyde team in the NFL.  So, admittedly, this pick is based a lot on feel.  And that feeling is that Pittsburgh is not the same team with Ben Roethlisberger, in a bad way.

Indianapolis Colts +3 v. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Is Jonathan Taylor the MVP so far this year?  Yes.  Will Tom Brady win the award over Taylor?  Also yes.  The Colts have scored over 40 in two of the last three games, and have won 3 in a row.  Tampa needed a boneheaded decision and play on 4th down by the Giants on Monday night to help the cruise to an easy victory from what was a close game.  Oh yeah, and Tampa played Monday night.

Miami Dolphins +2 v. Carolina Panthers

Another difficult decision.  My rationale is taking points at home in what should be a short game, but really is based upon the fact that this team looks way better with Tuanigamanuolepola Tagovailoa at the helm.  And yes, that is his full name.

Denver Broncos +2 1/2 v. Los Angeles Chargers

Should be a tough, close game so I will take the points.  Denver has the 3rd best scoring defense in the NFL, and 9th in total defense.  And, in a super-surprise stat of the day, Teddy Bridgewater has a higher quarterback rating than Justin Herbert (98.8 to 98.4 - negligible to be fair) (and a better nickname, "Teddy Two Gloves").

San Francisco 49ers -3 v. Minnesota Vikings

Both Minnesota and San Francisco have won two in a row to bring themselves into the playoff discussion.  Kirk Cousins is probably playing the best football of his life (106.3 rating with only 2 interceptions and 21 TDs).  But, San Francisco has the 6th best defense - 3rd against the pass), and Minnesota's team is grappling with the Everson Griffen situation.

Green Bay Packers +1 v. Los Angeles Rams

So, the Packers are 9-2 against the spread this year, but Covid-toe Aaron Rodgers is 0-1 against the spread, meaning this pick is probably the wrong way to go.  But, whenever Rodgers has something to prove, he is very dangerous - with apologies to Baker Mayfield.

Cleveland Browns +3 1/2 at Baltimore Ravens

And speaking of Baker Mayfield ... Tyler Huntley - that is all.

Washington Football Team -1 1/2 v. Seattle Seahawks

No team has confounded me more in the past few years than the WFT.  If Taylor Heinicke can keep down the turnovers, they could win on Monday night.

Big Bet

Houston Texans -2 1/2 v. New York Jets

This might be the worst game on the slate if not for the Jacksonville-Atlanta matchup.  So, not only did Houston ruin everyone's weeks last week by beating the Titans (and knocking Adrian Peterson off the Titans roster, and perhaps out of the league forever), but they are also 2-1 in games in which Tyrod Taylor starts and finishes this year.  Taylor actually can play a little.

In this weird year, yes, I am taking the Texans a a big bet.

Bye Week:  Arizona Cardinals, Kansas City Chiefs

Last Week's Record:  5-10

Last Week's Big Bet:  1-0
Year-to-Date Record:  84-81

Big Bet Year-to-Date:  4-7
Last Week's Winnings (Losses): ($450)

Year to Date's Winnings (Losses):  ($1,065) 

The Ole College Try

Florida made a HUGE statement in the Swamp defeating formally undefeated Auburn in a sloppy, turnover-ridden game.  Good start for the Gators to the toughest four-game stretch of any team in the company, culminating in Jacksonville against Georgia.  Jonathan Taylor also made a huge statement, and definitely cemented himself as the best running back in college. 

Since I still like this format better than the "Fake-Heisman" format for updating college football games, I am going to keep it, at least for awhile.

Game of the Week

Virginia Tech 42 - Miami - 35. This game certainly did not start out as the Game of the Week as Virginia Tech rushed out to a 28-0 lead behind 3 interceptions and a fumble recovery in Miami's first four drives.  Then, Miami made the change at quarterback to N'Kosi Perry, who went 28-47 for 422 yards and 4 touchdowns.  Miami's Perry threw a 25 touchdown to Jeff Thomas, followed by a 2 point conversion run by Deejay Dallas to close Virginia Tech's lead to 35-29.  On Miami's next possession, Dallas scored on a 62 yard touchdown run to tie the game at 35.  Bubba Baxha then missed the extra point, taking the wind out of the sails of Miami's contest.  Virginia Tech furthered Miami's despair by scoring at touchdown with 1:03 remaining to take a touchdown lead.  Miami drove down the field, and had two chances from the Hokie 10 yard line to tie the game, but both Perry's passes fell incomplete.

Best Team Performance

Florida Gators. Florida, hosting then number 6 ranked Auburn, defeated the previously undefeated Tigers (Plainsmen, War Eagle?) at home 24-13, solidifying themselves as a top ranked team that could challenge for the SEC championship.  Florida's defense is a true force, and if the offense can be consistent and not turn the ball over, this team could be good.

Least Impressive Team Performance

Iowa Hawkeyes.  I would love to place UCF here as they fell to Cincinnati for their second loss of the season, but Iowa scored 3 points for their first loss of the season in a 10-3 defeat at the hands of the Michigan Wolverines.  The Big 10 still has a number of players at the national level, but Iowa is no longer one of them.

Most Impressive Individual Performance (Offense)

Jonathan Taylor, RB - Wisconsin.  Yes, it was in a 48-0 blanking of Kent State, but Taylor rushed for 186 yards and 4 TDs on 19 carries, and gained 29 yards and scored another TD on 3 catches.

Most Impressive Individual Performance (Defense)

Kwity Paye, DL - Michigan Wolverines. Paye's 2 1/2 sacks against Iowa, was the most of the Wolverines' 8 sacks on the day, to go with 3 interceptions.  Each of the sacks and forced turnovers were important because the Wolverines offense could only muster 10 points in the 10-3 victory over previously-undefeated Iowa Hawkeyes. 

Most Impressive Individual Performance (Special Teams)

Blanton Creque, K - Louisville Cardinals.  His 41 yard field goal with 1:02 left in the game secured the final margin of Louisville's 41-39 win.

Goat of the Week (Player Edition)

Jarren WIlliams, QB - Miami Hurricanes.  Williams was 4-7, with 3 interceptions against Virginia Tech, as the Hokies opened up a 28-0 lead on the Hurricanes, resulting in Williams being pulled for N'Kosi Perry.

Goat of the Week (Coach Edition)

Manny Diaz - Miami Hurricanes.  Still cannot figure out Miami's quarterback situation, and now the defense seems less aggressive too.

Breakthrough Performance

Freddie Swain, WR - Florida Gators. The Gators wide receiver was seemingly missing from the offense with Feleipe Franks under center, only to now have been found by Kyle Trask.  His 6 catches for 146 yards and a TD have allowed the Sultan to breakthrough this year.

Finally

Khalil Tate, QB - Arizona Wildcats.  Tate, the oft-injured dynamic QB for the Wildcats, was outstanding, throwing for 404 yards and 3 TDs with a 75% completion rate in Arizona's 35-30 victory over the Colorado Buffaloes.

Impact Injury

Kyle Trask, QB - Florida Gators.  Injured his knee, but returned against Auburn. If he is hobbled at all against LSU, this Florida offense is a completely different team.

Team Rising

Florida Gators - Just rose two spots in the rankings, but they have risen a ton in the minds of the experts as a possible SEC champion.  At LSU, at South Carolina, and in Jacksonville against Georgia for their next three games.

Team Falling

Iowa Hawkeyes - It would be easy to conversely select the Auburn Tigers here after the loss to Florida, except Auburn could - not likely, but it could happen, defeat LSU and Alabama to make the SEC Championship game.  Iowa, on the other hand, literally showed no offense in a 10-3 loss to the Michigan Wolverines to not only fall from the land of the unbeatens, but to also fall 4 or 5 spots in the rankings.

Player(s) to Watch

Cam Akers, RB - Florida State Seminoles.  After the first few games I wanted to start a "Free Cam Akers" Campaign.  However, Florida State has been playing better the last two games (this week was a bye), and most of that is because of Akers.  Florida State could eventually help determine the ACC title, even if they are not involved in the title race themselves. 

My New Favorite Player

Jett Duffey, QB - Texas Tech Red Raiders.  The junior quarterback, who was given the reins in the Oklahoma loss, made the most of his opportunity against the 21st ranked Oklahoma State Sooners.  Duffey went 26-44 for 424 yards and 4 TDs, and, HIS NAME IS JETT DUFFEY.

Players of the Week (Just Week 2)

5.  Joe Burrow, QB - Louisiana State Tigers - Burrow was 27-38 for 344 yards and 5 TDs, in LSU's 42-6 win over Utah State.

4.  Khalil Tate, QB - Arizona Wildcats.  See above.

3. Jett Duffey, QB - Texas Tech Red Raiders. See above.

2.  N'Kosi Perry, QB - Miami Hurricanes.  See above.

1. Jonathan Taylor, RB - Wisconsin Badgers.  See above.

Predicted Playoffs/Championship Match Ups

Alabama (1) v. Clemson (4)/ (2) Ohio State v. (3) Oklahoma

I have switched Oklahoma and Ohio State, which does not affect the matchups one bit.  This is how I feel things are now, not a prediction on the future, especially since the SEC West is a loaded gauntlet for anyone, even Alabama.  LSU/Georgia are threats, and in fact, one of them could make the playoffs easily, even if one of the other three (Clemson, Ohio State and Oklahoma) does not falter.

Remaining Unbeatens

Alabama, Appalachian State, Baylor, Boise State, Clemson, Florida, Georgia, LSU, Memphis, Minnesota, Ohio State, Oklahoma, Penn State, SMU, Wake Forest, Wisconsin

Remaining Winless Teams

Akron, New Mexico State, Rice

Rant(s) of the Week

I hate fans that yell-and-scream to argue about something when they do not know the rules and are absolutely wrong in their argument because of their ignorance.

Last Week's Trivia Answer

The question(s) was/were:  Alabama's Tua Tagavailoa broke the Alabama career record for TDs responsible for when he hit 80 this week against Mississippi (he since flew past that mark in the game).  Whose record at 80 TDs responsible for did he break?  Bonus question, who is third in Alabama history?

The answer is A.J. McCarron.  Bonus answer is the current starting quarterback at Oklahoma, Jalen Hurts 

Match up(s) to Watch

6.  San Jose State v. Nevada - Now, this may not seem like an important game this weekend, but boy should it be fun.  San Jose State has a prolific air attack behind quarterback Josh Love, and Malik Henry, formerly of Florida State and Last Chance U fame will make his first start for Nevada.

5. Florida State v. Clemson - Ordinarily this game looks like a mis-match, but Florida State has played much better in its last two games and comes into this game off a bye, whereas Clemson has looked less than stellar the last few weeks, as well.  This could be interesting, at least.

4.  Appalachian State v. Louisiana - This game is tonight, between unbeaten Appalachian State and 4-1 Louisiana.  Appalachian has an opportunity to challenge Boise State as the best team outside of the Power 5 if they can stay undefeated.

3.  Cornell v. Harvard - Harvard attempts to start its Ivy campaign off 2-0.

2.  Oklahoma v. Texas - The Red River Rivalry is Texas, and Sam Ehrlinger's chance to prove they are a good team, and spoil Oklahoma's chance for the playoffs.

1.  Florida v. LSU - If it is good enough for ESPN's GameDay, it is good enough for me - at least given that only one of these teams can come out unscathed, while both have the chance to show us if they are for real or not.  I wrote this last week about Auburn-UF, and it applies equally to this game.  Except, we know LSU's offense is way more prolific than Auburn's.  If the Gators can slow down Burrows and company, this game could vault Florida in everyone's minds.  If LSU can keep Burrows protected, it could be a long day for Florida.

Trivia Question of the Week

This week's question comes to me from Ryen Russillo on the SVP podcast by way of Sinickal:  What was the most recent college football champion to win its first championship, and what year was it?

The Ole College Try

This season is starting to get interesting, especially as teams enter the heart of their conference schedules.  Auburn-Texas A&M, Kentucky-Mississippi State, UCLA-Washington State and many other important battles as teams vie for rankings within their power conferences.  Add a little Georgia-Notre Dame on top for good measure, and we had a great week of college football.  And UCF learned a bit about how hard it is to play in a real conference and having to play solid teams week-in-and-week out (more on this later).

I am scrapping the "fake" Heisman watch method of reporting about last week's college football season, as even I tired of me making fun of how tiring it is listening to talking heads talk about the Heisman.  I am going to try out my pro-football recap format with some more college related topics as well.

Game of the Week

UCLA 67 - Washington State 63. This game was not just the game of the week because of the high score and the fact that it was close, but it was how the game progressed.  Washington State raced to a 35-17 halftime lead, and UCLA came storming back by scoring 50 points - IN THE SECOND HALF.  Anthony Gordon threw for 570 yards and 9 TDs, including 4 to receiver Easop Winston, Jr. - AND LOST!  Bruin receiver Chase Cota gained 147 yards receiving, AND DIDN'T EVEN LEAD HIS OWN TEAM!  Thirteen different players entered the endzone, including a kick return and punt return for UCLA.

Best Team Performance

Wisconsin Badgers. They thoroughly dominated the Michigan Wolverines at home, as they raced to a 35-0 lead against the higher ranked Wolverines.  Jonathan Taylor rushed for 203 yards on 23 carries, pacing a 399 team rushing performance that reminded Michigan's defense of, well, Army.  Wisconsin cemented itself as the toughest competition for Ohio State in the Big 10, not Michigan.

Least Impressive Team Performance

Arkansas. The easy answer would have been Tennessee, and I saw their decrepit performance live at Florida field as they laid a 34-3 egg against the Gators.  It was so bad that walking down the street after the stadium, a group of Tennessee fans that were waiting until the last possible minute to leave a tailgate parking facility (presumably to let traffic calm down and not to keep drinking), were cheering and taunting Florida fans that the Gators actually gave up a field goal, including a pantomine of the kick.  Brilliant self-trolling.  But alas, along came fellow SEC member Arkansas, who then lost, at home mind you, 31-24 to San Jose State, and this was even though Arkansas scored 14 points in the fourth quarter to cut into the Spartans lead.  Arkansas gave up 402 passing yards to Josh Love. What do you think Tua, Joe Burrow and Kelly Bryant are thinking?  Forget thinking I am sure they are salivating!  To make matters worse, the Razorbacks paid San Jose State $1.5 million to play this game.

Most Impressive Individual Performance (Offense)

Jonathan Taylor, RB - Wisconsin Badgers.  The aforementioned Taylor rushed for 203 yards on only 23 carries, and scored 2 TDs early against the Wolverines, to basically take their soul as Wisconsin rushed, literally, to a 35-0 lead.  Because the award is QB-centric and because of the likes of Jalen Hurts, Tua Tagavailoa and Trevor Lawrence, Taylor may not win the Heisman, but he is better than all of them.

Most Impressive Individual Performance (Defense)

Evan Weaver, ILB - California Bears. This one wasn't even close.  Weaver made 22 tackes, including 11 solo (out of a total of 79!).  In that total was 1/2 sack, 2 QB hurries, and, oh yeah - a goal line stop as time expired to preserve the 28-20 victory at Mississippi!  This is the single most impressive defensive performance since Buffalo's Khalil Mack in a losing effort at Ohio State in 2013.  

Most Impressive Individual Performance (Special Teams)

James Stefanou, K - Colorado Buffaloes.  Stefanou's field goal with 2:02 left gave Colorado a 34-31 lead they would not relinquish, to help lead the Buffaloes to their first win over a ranked opponent in 17 years.  Stefanou's kick was necessary, as Colorado was being depleted by injury, after losing their best two players in the first quarter, and various other players as the game progressed.  I am not sure they would have lasted through overtime.

Goat of the Week

Aaron Mathews, WR and Kenny Pickett, QB - Pittsburgh Panthers.  Mathews threw a touchdown pass to quarterback Pickett on a "Pitt Special" version of the "Philly Special" to defeat the two-time defending national champions and undefeated UCF Knights (Please note sarcasm.)  How are they goats?  Well, as much as I hate that uppity Knight fans legitimately think their team is a top-notch level championship contender, this Pitt Special took away the argument that they are not.  And, although I love being proved right, part of sports is that we get to argue, and that argument is no over.  On the other hand, UCF fans did learn what it is like to play in a good conference, where even the average teams prove tough, especially at home, when you have to play them week-in-and-week-out.  Coming off an impressive performance at home over Stanford, UCF traveled to Pittsburgh only to get beat.  This is what it is like in a real conference, even though Stanford is way down by its standards and Pittsburgh is just a good team (almost beat Penn State).  Imagine say, being in the SEC West where Alabama, LSU, Auburn, Texas A&M, and Mississippi State call home.  Even Mississippi gave undefeated Cal a run.  This is what you should aspire to UCF, but you are not there yet.  Your skill position players can play with anyone; you do not have the strength in the trenches or the depth - yet.  You are on your way, though.

Breakthrough Performance

Michael Pittman, Jr., WR - USC Trojans. We have seen flashes from Pittman, but nothing like this against a quality opponent.  Ten catches, for 232 yards and 1 TD in the Trojans 30-23 defeat of #10 Utah.  Pittman's yards were much needed as USC's team rushing total for the entire game was 13 yards.

Finally

A.J. Dillon, RB - Boston College Eagles,  We have seen this before from potential All-American Dillon, but I have been waiting for him to just take control of a game.  He did that in BC's 30-16 victory over Rutgers by carrying the ball 32 times for 150 yards and 2 TDs.  Dillon's toughness are going to determine which bowl game BC attends, and which ACC teams they Eagles can upset.

Impact Injury

Zack Moss, RB - Utah Utes.  Moss, a potential All-American, injured his shoulder and the effects of this injury were shown immediately, as Utah missed his presence in a 30-23 loss to USC. Moss, usually the feature back in Utah's offense, left after only 6 carries.  If he misses significant time, this could effect the entirety of the Pac-12, as Utah, then ranked 10th in the country, was one of the few teams that could challenge the other Big Five teams for a college football playoff spot.

Team Rising

California Bears - Undefeated at 4-0, and beating a tough (although not great) SEC team on the road.  They look to rise several spots from their previous ranking of 24, aw Chase Gerbers looks to make a name for himself among some very good Pac-12 quarterbacks.

Team Falling

Michigan Wolverines - Michigan, Michigan, Michigan; falling, falling, falling.  It isn't THAT they lost to an excellent Wisconsin team in Madison; but rather that they were thoroughly annihilated.  This was the kind of loss that turns murmurs about firing a coach into actual talk.  Michigan State and Ohio State are now salivating.  Of course, if Wisconsin goes on to do this to Ohio State AND Michigan State, then we may understand that Wisconsin is more than excellent.  But, until that point...

Goat of the Week (Player Edition)

Being at the Florida-Tennessee game honestly meant that I could not see much of a lot of other games, so no goat of the week for the players this year as I cannot adequately assess this category.

Goat of the Week (Coach Edition)

Jim Harbaugh - Michigan.  It is possible that Michigan just doesn't have the talent to run with Wisconsin.  But, from the standpoint of watching the game and its outcome, Michigan just wasn't ready, and a lot of that blame has to rest with the coach.

Player(s) to Watch

Anthony Gordon - QB - Washington State Cougars.  Yes they lost 67-63, but Gordon threw for 570 yards and 9 TDs!  For the season, Gordon has passed for 1,894 yards and 21 TDs in ONLY 4 GAMES.  As a senior, it is interesting to see how the quarterback he replaced, Gardner Minshew, II, is performing as the starter for the Jacksonville Jaguars, which is pretty well.  Could the NFL be in Gordon's future?

My New Favorite Player

D'Eriq King, QB - Houston Cougars.  Partly because of the trivia question, this week, and partly because this multi-talented dual-threat quarterback is hard to contain, even though the Houston offense is lacking in playmakers besides King.  But, mostly because King, a senior, is taking the rest of the season off after a 1-3 start in order to redshirt and come back with a hopefully more productive roster next year after he has graduated.  The you can play 4 games and redshirt rule is so that young players don't waste a season of eligibility just because of a 1 game injury to an upperclassman and so coaches can play some freshman sparingly just to give them some action without losing a year of eligibility.  But, King is taking full advantage of this rule on the back-end of his college career when his senior year is not going as planned, and I commend him for it.

Players of the Week (Just Week 2)

5.  Kellen Mond, QB - Texas A&M Aggies - A more than commendable 31-49 for 335 ad 2 TDs in the Aggies loss to Auburn.

4.  Michael Pittman, Jr., WR - USC Trojans.  See above.

3. Evan Weaver, ILB - California Bears.  See above.Dillon Gabriel - QB - UCF - Gabriel had a phenomenal game as UCF soundly defeated Stanford.  Gabriel was 22-30 for 347 yards and 4 TDs.

2.  Anthony Gordon , QB - Washington State Cougars.  See above.

1. Jonathan Taylor, RB - Wisconsin Badgers.  See above.

Predicted Playoffs/Championship Match Ups

Alabama (1) v. Clemson (4)/ (2) Ohio State v. (3) Oklahoma

I have shuffled the rankings, but still have the same four teams.  This is how I feel things are now, not a prediction on the future, especially since the SEC West is a loaded gauntlet for anyone, even Alabama.  Georgia is also lurking in the east.  Wisconsin is looking strong, also.

Remaining Unbeatens

Alabama, Appalachian State, Auburn, Baylor, Boise State, California, Clemson, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Kansas State, LSU, Memphis, Minnesota, Navy, Ohio State, Oklahoma, Penn State, SMU, UAB, Virginia, Wake Forest, Wisconsin

Remaining Winless Teams

Akron, New Mexico State, UMass, Rice, Vanderbilt

Rant(s) of the Week

Targeting. Still targeting.  Listen, I am not opposed to this penalty in general.  I am not a "this is not real football" person.  But, we have to somehow better define this rule.

Last Week's Trivia Answer

The question was:  With Tagovailoa returning to college after finishing second in the Heisman Trophy race in 2018, how many players have finished second for the Heisman Trophy returned to win the Heisman the following year?  Name them.

The answer is 4:  Tom Harmon (Michigan - 1939); Glenn Davis (Army - 1945); O.J. Simpson (USC 1967): and Herschel Walker (Georgia 1981).  Interestingly, Glenn Davis finished second in 1943 AND 1944.

Match up(s) to Watch

6.  Brown v. Harvard - Harvard starts its campaign toward the Ivy League crown after a tough cross-country defeat at San Diego.  Brown comes off a narrow 35-30 victory over Bryant.

5. Navy v. Memphis - The winner remains undefeated and takes control of the American Conference (not UCF - for now).

4.  Arizona State v. California - Only a last minute field goal by Colorado has kept this from becoming a battle of undefeateds as Herman Edwards brings his team to Berkeley to take on a tough Bears football team hot off their win at Mississippi.

3. Mississippi State v. Auburn - Mississippi State is coming off its win against Kentucky, which looked tough the week before against Florida.  Auburn is undefeated after beating a tough Texas A & M squad.

2.  USC v. Washington - Another big Pac-12 matchup as the #21 ranked Trojans travel to UW to take on the #17 ranked Huskies.

1.  Virginia v. Notre Dame - The 18th ranked Cavaliers travel to South Bend to face off against the Fighting Irish, still ranked #10 after their close defeat at Georgia last week.  Virginia is certainly for real if they pull this game off (the are a very good team regardless).

Trivia Question of the Week

On Saturday during Houston's 38-31 loss to Tulane, Cougars' quarterback D'Eriq King set an NCAA record with 15 straight games with both a passing and a rushing touchdown, breaking whose record?

The Ole College Try

Lots of upsets, as ranked teams went down to unranked foes.  And, a couple of more survived upset bids themselves.  It is too soon for the college football season to be this exciting, isn't it? NO - not at all.

For those that don't remember, I write this column as if every player is a Heisman Trophy candidate. Why? Because it is ridiculously ludicrous that the networks, including the World Wide Leader, nay, especially the World Wide Leader, emphasize the Heisman Trophy race all season at the expense of everything else.  Consider this my sarcastic homage to stupid reporting.

Heisman Watch

Quarterback Edition

Favorite - Jalen Hurts -Oklahoma - He is 12th in the NCAA in passing yards AND 6th in the NCAA in rushing yards (tied).  Oklahoma pummeled UCLA this week, putting up only 48 points, which is down from the 59.5 they were averaging.

Rising - Tuanigamanuolepola Tagovailoa - Alabama - Not sure you can consider "Tua", "rising", but I just didn't have him as a favorite last week.  He cemented his place in consideration (probably in second right now), with 444 yards and 5 TDs in a 47-23 victory over SEC foe South Carolina.  Plus, I just wanted to type his full name.

Sleeper - Anthony Gordon - Washington State - The Cougar quarterback leads the NCAA in passing yards - by over 200 yards (202 to be exact).  If Mike Leach can somehow keep Washington State competitive in the Pac-12 North, and maybe into a Pac-12 championship game, Gordon could rise up the charts.

Falling - Feleipe Franks - Florida - Believe it or not, some people thought that he would be a darkhorse coming into this season.  By suffering an ankle injury against Kentucky, thus ending his season prematurely, and then seeing Kyle Trask come in and lead Florida to a come-from-behind victory, any and all thoughts of this occurring have not just fallen - they have ended.

Running Back Edition

Favorite - Jonathan Taylor - Wisconsin - Best running back in college football.  Has a statement game against Michigan this weekend.

Rising - J.K. Dobbins - Ohio State - They say Ohio State is only going to go as far as Justin Fields takes them, but this is not true.  Their fate lies with running back J.K. Dobbins, who has already gained 425 yards this season, good for 4th in the NCAA.

Falling - D'Andre Swift - Georgia - As good as any runner (including Taylor and Etienne), but is a victim of his team's success.  Georgia is annihilating teams, and because of that, Swift is not getting many touches - just 9 rushes last week in the Bulldogs' 55-0 defeat of Arkansas State.

Sleeper - Zack Moss - Utah - Moss, a WeMakeItRain pre-season All-American would never ordinarily qualify as a "sleeper", except he plays for Utah.  So far Moss is tied for 6th in rushing yards in the NCAA with 373, and Utah has risen to 10th in the rankings.  If Utah somehow manages its way into the college football playoffs, Moss could get some Heisman love.  Moss also isn't suffering from overuse, as he only ran the ball 10 times (for 106 yards) last week.

Wide Receiver Edition

Favorite - Jerry Jeudy - Alabama - Because of the glut of talent present on Alabama, Jeudy is not going to have those "WOW" stats that lead the NCAA, but he will have those "WOW" plays.  His 24 catches are tied for 5th in the NCAA.

Rising - DeVonta Smith - Alabama - He made 8 catches for 136 yards and 2 TDs in Alabama's win over South Carolina.  Will ultimately be hindered because he lines up next to Jeudy.

Falling - Rondale Moore - Purdue - Moore is suffering from the injury to his quarterback Elijah Sindelar, but 3 catches for 25 yards last week against TCU is not going to cut it as a Heisman favorite.

Sleeper - David Duvernay - Texas - He already leads the NCAA in receptions with 27 (three-way tie).  Since he plays for Texas, he is going to get to play against a lot of Big 12 defenses, which means statistically, Duvernay's season is limitless.

Defensive Edition

5.  Jace Whittaker - CB - Illinois - His 3 interceptions lead the NCAA(well tied for the lead).

4.  David Reese III - LB - Florida - Finished last week's game against Kentucky with 16 total tackles, 13 of them solo.

3.  Oluwole Betiku, Jr. - DE - Illinois - Leads the NCAA with 6 sacks, despite opposing teams having to game plan for basically only him, and running the ball a ton in the second half.

2.  Ethan Aguayo - LB - San Jose State - Off a bye week, he no longer leads the NCAA with his 34 total tackles, but his per game pace leads me to believe he will have that lead back soon.

1.  Evan Weaver - LB - California - Leads the NCAA with 40 total tackles.

Player(s) to Watch

Jamie Newman - QB - Wake Forest - With the glut of talent at the QB position in college, Newman is going to be overlooked, but this kid can play. So far this year he has a 69% completion percentage, a 7-1 TD/INT ratio and supplements his throwing with an ability to run - 78 yards rushing against North Carolina.  Plus, Wake Forest is 3-0.

My New Favorite Player

Kyle Trask - QB - Florida - Only because he is not Feleipe Franks.

Players of the Week (Just Week 2)

5.  Khalil Herbert - RB - Kansas - He rushed for 187 yards and 1 TD on only 1 carry as Kansas defeated Boston College 48-24.

4.  J.K. Dobbins - RB - Ohio State - Making his second straight appearance, as he gained 193 yards on 22 carries and 1 TD in Ohio State's 51-10 victory.

3. Dillon Gabriel - QB - UCF - Gabriel had a phenomenal game as UCF soundly defeated Stanford.  Gabriel was 22-30 for 347 yards and 4 TDs.  No word yet on whether UCF fans are already giving themselves the championship this season.

2.  Anthony Gordon - QB - Washington State - Gordon was 36-48 for 440 yards and 3 TDs as the Cougars of Washington State defeated the Cougars of Houston 31-24.  I smell reality series ...

1. Tua Tagovailoa - QB - Alabama - What cane we say? 28-36 for 444 and 5 TDs.

Goat of the Week (Player Edition)

Chance Poore - K - Kentucky - Actually, the award should go to his parents as this is a terrible name for a kicker, but Poore missed a 35 yard field goal with 53 seconds left which would have given Kentucky the lead, and possibly its second straight defeat over Florida. Hopefully it doesn't affect this red-shirt freshman's career too much.

Goat of the Week (Coach Edition)

Willie Taggert - Florida State - Taggert's second straight appearance, as he completely mis-managed the clock and time in the 4th quarter during Florida State's 31-24 defeat at the hands of Virginia.  Not that this was an upset as the ranked Cavaliers were favored to win, but instead of having a chance at a last-second play, Taggert's mismanagement led to no play for FSU.  Taggert may not make it through the season.

Predicted Playoffs/Championship Match Ups

Alabama (1) v. Ohio State (4)/ (2) Clemson v. (3) Oklahoma

Again, still way too early to tell as tons of teams are still alive.  LSU is looking especially interesting, as is Georgia.  Can a Pac-12 team stay unbeaten?

Final Unbeatens

Still too many to list right now.  May commence this section in another week or two.

Rant(s) of the Week

Targeting.  Now, I am not one of those "in my day football was manly" type of people.  I fully support the safety of the players and targeting as a penalty.  But, we have to clarify what the rules are, especially in one particular instance, when the ball carrier and/or receiver is hit by someone else first causing their body - and most importantly their head - to change positions.  The officials called targeting on Kentucky's T.J. Carter for a hit on Florida quarterback Kyle Trask.  The problem, as Carter was attacking Trask another Wildcat defender had hit Trask from the back so Trask started falling forward.  Carter did hit Trask helmet-to-helmet, but, without the split second timing problem on the initial hit, Carter's shoulder would have hit Trask in the chest - textbook tackling.  The targeting penalty - and accompanying ejection - gave Florida an additional 15 yards and an automatic first down, instead of a 3rd and 29 from their side of the field.  Florida went on to score a touchdown on the drive.

Under Performance of the Week

Michigan State - They fall 10-7 to Arizona State at home. Arizona State is a solid program so this isn't like Tennessee losing to Georgia State, but the lackluster play and the 12 men on the field penalty which occurred as the Spartans were kicking the game-tying field goal are standard symptoms of an under-performance.

Last Week's Trivia Answer

As a reminder, the question was:

We will start off easy:  There are five active NCAA head coaches that have won NCAA titles as head coaches.  Name them.

The answers are: Mack Brown, Jimbo Fisher, Les Miles, Nick Saban and Dabo Swinney.

Trivia Question of the Week

With Tagovailoa returning to college after finishing second in the Heisman Trophy race in 2018, how many players have finished second for the Heisman Trophy returned to win the Heisman the following year?  Name them.

Match up(s) to Watch

5. Harvard at San Diego - It is the start of the Ivy League non-conference season, as the Crimson, with conference title hopes, start their year on the west coast.

4.  Tennessee v. Florida - Only ranked this high because I am going to be there.

3. Michigan v. Wisconsin - A huge Big 10 game this early in the year. This is a must if either of these teams think they have a chance to make the college football playoff with a conference championship.

2.  Auburn v. Texas A & M - A huge early season SEC matchup between schools with ideas of breaking into the Alabama-LSU duopoly atop the SEC west.

1.  Notre Dame v. Georgia - The biggest game of the week as two top 10 ranked teams play each other for the right to gain much needed style points for the committee when they select the college football playoff participants.  Georgia, with the opportunity to defeat Alabama or LSU in an SEC championship game, can absorb a loss much easier than Notre Dame can.

The Ole College Try

So the college football season is in full swing, with three weeks of games down, even though we just finished Week 2.  It must be that new math.  Here is the recap of the season to date, with an emphasis on last week's games.  For those that don't remember, I write this column as if every player is a Heisman Trophy candidate. Why? Because it is ridiculously ludicrous that the networks, including the World Wide Leader, nay, especially the World Wide Leader, emphasize the Heisman Trophy race all season at the expense of everything else.  Consider this my sarcastic homage to stupid reporting.

Heisman Watch

Quarterback Edition

Favorite - Jalen Hurts -Oklahoma - Led the Sooners to 119 points in 2 games, albeit one was against a traditional patsy, still the other was against Houston, which is not a slouch.  He has thrown for 591 yards and rushed for 237.  Could be the third consecutive Oklahoma quarterback to win the Heisman after transferring from another school.

Rising - Joe Burrow - LSU - The winner of the SEC Offensive Player of the Year for each of the first two weeks has thrown for 749 yards in his two games this year, including 471 against then 9th ranked Texas. He also has 9 touchdowns against only 1 interception so far this year.

Sleeper - Elijah Sindelar - Purdue - He has already thrown for 932 yards and 9 touchdowns in his two games.  A concussion may keep him out of next week's matchup, though.

Falling - Trevor Lawrence - Clemson - He has not exactly lit it up at QB in Clemson's two wins.  Team success, and the inevitable 300 yards in a very big game.  He does already have a Heisman moment on his resume this year, with the touchdown saving tackle after he threw an interception which resulted in zero points for the opposition.

Running Back Edition

Favorite - Jonathan Taylor - Wisconsin - He has only gained 237 yards, but has 5 touchdowns.  His low yard total (by Heisman standards) is largely due to his teams blowout wins over South Florida and Central Michigan, so he has sat for large portions of the game.  Easily the best running back in college, and he has legitimate track speed coming out of the backfield.  Wisconsin's upcoming game against Michigan (9/21) will be telling for Taylor, and the entire Badger team.

Rising - Travis Etienne - Clemson - The only running back in Taylor's class, Etienne has 258 yards and 3 touchdowns in Clemson's two victories.  He should tear up the ACC.

Falling - Cam Akers - Florida State - How can the fourth leading rusher in the NCAA be falling?  Easily, his team, the Florida State Seminoles were beat at home by Boise State and then barely survived a botched extra point to beat the University of Louisiana-Monroe 45-44 in overtime.

Sleeper - Kylin Hill - Mississippi State - The Bulldog running back in second in the NCAA in rushing having amassed 320 yards on the ground. If he can keep this up through SEC play, he could be a contender.  (My hint, he won't).

Wide Receiver Edition

Favorite - Rondale Moore - Purdue - The do-everything All-American candidate has 344 yards receiving on 24 catches already for the surprising Boilermakers.  He will have to come up big for freshman Jack Plummer if Elijah Sindelar is declared out with a concussion this week.

Rising - Tylan Wallace - Oregon State - Only 10 catches, but for 272 yards.  This bodes well since he plays in the Big 12, and will likely be able to have many more big plays due to the lack of defense in the conference.

Falling - DeVonta Smith - Alabama - He has literally done nothing wrong, except for lining up next to Jerry Jeudy.

Sleeper - Omar Bayless - Arkansas State - He has 16 catches for 271 yards (6th and 3rd respectively in the NCAA), but already has 5 touchdowns!  At Arkansas State, he is the ultimate sleeper.

Defensive Edition

5.  Jace Whittaker - CB - Illinois - His 3 interceptions lead the NCAA.

4.  Keandre Jones - LB - Maryland - 4 sacks, 12 tackles and a forced fumble.  Plus, I have to give some love to somebody from Maryland.

3.  Oluwole Betiku, Jr. - DE - Illinois - Leads the NCAA with 5 sacks, but also has 10 total tackles and a fumble recovery.  Only bright spot on this Illini squad.

2.  Ethan Aguayo - LB - San Jose State - He leads the NCAA with 34 total tackles in just two games.

1.  Kenny Willekes - DE - Michigan State - Four sacks, and 12 total tackles, along with 2 fumble recoveries and a TD.  Pretty impressive start to the season for this All-American candidate..

Player(s) to Watch

Jabari Zuniga - DL - Florida - Has the talent and ability, and he plays with the requisite abandon to control every game he plays in from the line of scrimmage.

My New Favorite Player

Steven Montez - QB - Colorado - Montez was 28-41 for 375 and 2 TDs in the comeback win over Nebraska. More importantly, Montez lays claim to the best Hispanic quarterback over Nebraska's Adian Martinez.

Players of the Week (Just Week 2)

5.  JK Dobbins - RB - Ohio State - He gained 141 yards on only 17 carries with 2 TDs in Ohio State's 42-0 drubbing of Cincinnati.

4.  Ryan Hilinski - QB - South Carolina - The freshman, starting in game 2 only because of an injury to starter Jake Bentley, played in his first game after brother Tyler - who played at Washington State - committed suicide in what was later attributed to CTE.  Hilinski finished 24-30 for 282 yards and 2 TDs passing, and added a rushing TD.  He would ordinarily be listed higher except the Gamecocks only played Charleston Southern, defeating them 72-10.

3. Rondale Moore - WR - Purdue - Moore hauled in 13 passes for 220 yards and 1 TD as Purdue defeated Vanderbilt 42-24.

2.  Elijah Sindelar - QB - Purdue - Sindelar was 34-52 for 509 yards and 5 TDs. Most week's he would be first, but ...

1. Joe Burrow - QB - LSU - Burrow finished 31-39 for 471 yards and 4 TDs in LSU's 45-38 victory over Texas.

Goat of the Week (Player Edition)

Secondary - CBs/Ss - Miami - Gave up a successful pass to North Carolina on a 4th and 17 that would have iced the game for Miami, but instead continued the drive for the Tar Heels. Then, they give up the game winning TD pass to conclude the drive.  Miami did have a chance to win it at the buzzer, but Bubba Baxha missed a 50-yard field goal attempt.

Goat of the Week (Coach Edition)

Willie Taggert - Florida State - Just one week after admitting his team was dehydrated and not in shape after a come-from-ahead loss to Boise State, the Seminoles once again gave up a late lead, only to beat Louisiana-Monroe 45-44 in overtime.

Predicted Playoffs/Championship Match Ups

Alabama (1) v. Ohio State (4)/ (2) Clemson v. (3) Oklahoma

Again, still way too early to tell as tons of teams are still alive.  LSU is looking especially intersting.

Final Unbeatens

Too many to list right now.

Rant(s) of the Week

ESPN, take the yellow coloring off the down and distance display at the bottom of the screen (at least on ESPNU).  It looks like a penalty flag is being thrown on every single play.

Under Performance of the Week

Tennessee.  Starts off 0-2 after a surprise opening-game loss to Georgia State, falling 38-30 at home (and paying Georgia State $950,000.00).  The Volunteers continued their season with a 29-26 loss to Brigham Young, also at home.  But, they have a good story with the t-shirts! No truth (yet) to the rumor that Smokey has entered the transfer portal.

Last Entry's Trivia Answer (from two seasons ago)

As a reminder, the question was:

Louisville quarterback Lamar Jackson has set the school record for touchdown passes with his 88th TD in last week's game.  Whose record did he break?

The answer is Chris Redman, who interestingly also played in the NFL for the Baltimore Ravens.

Trivia Question of the Week

We will start off easy:  There are five active NCAA head coaches that have won NCAA titles as head coaches.  Name them.

Match up(s) to Watch

5. Chattanooga v. Tennessee - Just to see if Tennessee can start off with 3 upset home losses.

4.  Ohio State v. Indiana - Both teams enter their Big Ten debut 2-0.  Can Indiana provide an early-season upset at home?

3. Stanford v. UCF - It isn't UF, FSU or Miami, but UCF gets a big school to come play in Orlando.  Stanford coming off a big loss to USC last week.  Will that make them down, or more hungry?

2.  Arizona State v. Michigan State - Not your ordinary Pac-12/Big 10 matchup, but both teams are undefeated and Herm Edwards always "plays to win the game".

1.  Florida v. Kentucky - Everybody agrees that UF is not as good as its ranking, while everyone also agrees that Kentucky is much better than its non-ranking.  Can Mark Stoops work a little home-magic?

Are You Ready For Some Football?!!!

It is that time of the year again, time for the start of college football.  And this time, WE START A WEEK EARLY!  Yes, a week 0 matchup between the Miami Hurricanes and Florida Gators live from the football mecca that is - Camping World Stadium?  Well, I should be there with tons of my peeps, but not going to be able to make it this year.  Still will not put a damper on the start of my season.  What would the start of college football be without a preseason All-American list? Once again, I am here to give you my preseason All-Americans. As usual, there will be more than 11 on each side, to account for the different types of formations (spread, three receiver set, 4-3, 3-4, etc). I explain some of my picks, while others I do not. Why? Because I can.  (Starters in capitals).

Offense

QB - TREVOR LAWRENCE, Clemson; Tua Tagavailoa, Alabama; Jalen Hurts, Oklahoma - This is mostly easy when the two of the three best quarterbacks from last year return to college.  Hurts makes it as the last two Heisman Trophy winners have been Oklahoma quarterbacks that transferred from elsewhere, plus, he has won a title already.  The highest rated pro-quarterback, Justin Herbert, doesn't make the cut.

RB - JONATHAN TAYLOR, Wisconsin; D'ANDRE SWIFT, Georgia; Travis Etienne, Clemson; A.J. Dillon, Boston College; Zack Moss, Utah - Taylor - with Lawrence - might be the Heisman favorite heading into the season.  It is Swift's turn to run behind the behemoths at Georgia.  Most pundits have Etienne as first team.  If you have not seen Dillon or Moss run - DO IT.

WR - JERRY JEUDY, Alabama; LAVISKA SHENAULT, JR., Colorado; Tylan Wallace, Oklahoma State, Alabama; Justyn Ross, Clemson; CeeDee Lamb, Oklahoma - Jeudy is the reigning Biletnikoff award winner, and Shenault is right there with him in terms of talent.  So much speed at this position.  So much speed.

TE - ALBERT OGWUEGBUNAM, Missouri; Jared Pickney, Vanderbilt - These two will prove invaluable to their respective quarterbacks in the defensive-speed-laden SEC. 

OL - ANDREW THOMSAS, Georgia (T); WALKER LITTLE, Stanford (T); SHANE LEMIUEX, Oregon (G);  SOLOMON KINDLEY, Georgia (G); TYLER BIADASZ, Wisconson; Mekhi Becton, Louisville (T); Ben Bredesen, Michigan (G): Nick Harris, Washington (C) - Two Georgia stalwarts start for this line which is sure to open huge holes for the running backs as well as keep the QBs protected.  Thomas might be the best player in college football.

Defense

DE - A.J. EPENESA, Iowa; CHASE YOUNG, Ohio State; Raekwon Davis, Alabama; Jonathan Garvin, Miami - Both starters had 10 1/2 sacks last year. The Chef returns after recording 24 solo tackles from the defensive line last year, and Garvin is poised for a monster breakout season - I predict double digit sacks.

DT - DERRICK BROWN, Auburn; KENNY WILLEKES, Michigan State; Leki Fotu, Utah - Brown can be as dominant as his position as anyone can be at theirs in college.  Fotu is 6'5 335 lbs, and is immovable.

LB - DYLAN MOSES, Alabama; PADDY FISHER, Northwestern; ISAIAH SIMMONS, Clemson; K'Lavon Chiasson, LSU; Shaquille Quarterman, Miami - This quintet will likely total about 14,000 tackles this year.

CB - C.J. Henderson, Florida; BRYCE HALL, Virginia; Andre Cisco, Syracuse - With the injuries at the other corner in Florida, Henderson may not even be tested all year.  Cisco finished last season with 10 interceptions, including 3 in the last 4 games.  Hall can cover AND tackle.

S - GRANT DELPIT, Louisiana State; XAVIER MCKINNEY, Alabama; Alohi Gilman, Notre Dame - Delpit continues LSU's run DBU (despite UF's protestations)  McKinney steps into a long-list of talented Alabama safeties.

Special Teams

K - ANDRE SZMYT, Syracuse; Rodrigo Blankenship, Georgia - Szmyt, despite needing to buy a vowel, is the reigning Groza award winner, and could become only the second two time winner behind Sebastian Janikowski.  Blankenship is added because he is good, and looks funny kicking in the glasses.

P - BRADEN MANN, Texas A & M - The returning Ray Guy award winner is the best punter in the country.

RETURNER - ISAIAH WRIGHT, Temple; Rondale Moore, Purdue - Wright returned 5 kicks for touchdowns in his career.  Moore can do everything, as highlighted by his 252 total yards in Purdue's upset of Ohio State last year.