Wednesday, November 30, 2011

NCAA Football - Week 14 Predictions

Ringer's Record
Last Week ATS: 5-11
Last Week SU: 15-1

Season ATS: 136-106 (56%)
Season SU: 203-50 (80%)

SEC Championship in Atlanta, GA
1 LSU (-12.5) vs. 13 Georgia
I'm not sure that there is too much at stake for LSU in this game. Their grasp on a top 2 spot and an invite to the BCS National Championship seems like a lock. Even with a loss to Georgia, a rematch with Alabama seems inevitable. For Georgia, a win means in all likelihood that a 3rd SEC team will go to a BCS bowl, with the Bulldogs headed to the Sugar Bowl. One may think that LSU will be lacksidasical with not much to play for. But LSU wants to win the SEC title on their way to a national title. They will beat yet another ranked school on Saturday.

Prediction - LSU 34 Georgia 17

10 Oklahoma (+3.5) at 4 Oklahoma St.
There is no Big 12 Championship Game this year, but in a way there is. They just changed the name to "Bedlam" this year. The winner of this heated rivalry game will win the Big 12 and probably be headed to the Fiesta Bowl. Both teams blew their chances at a BCS title shot with a loss a couple weeks ago. The Pokes have been very good in recent years, but always seem to get to the end of the season with a shot at a BCS bowl only to lose to Oklahoma. The Sooners haven;t been the same without Ryan Broyles, but they always have OK State's number. I'll take Oklahoma in a mild upset.

Prediction - Oklahoma 42 Oklahoma St. 38

ACC Championship in Charlotte, NC
5 Virginia Tech (-7.5) vs. 20 Clemson
The only thing that is prohibiting Virginia Tech from playing in the school's 2nd ever BCS title game is a 23-3 loss to Clemson earlier in the year. The Hokies haven't lost since. Clemson has since lost 3 times. These teams are certainly headed in different directions. Though Virginia Tech hasn't lost since their game at Clemson, they have had their fair share of close calls. They are playing much better than Clemson, so it is hard to think the Tigers get their 1st ACC Championship win, but they should keep it close.

Prediction - Virginia Tech 28 Clemson 24

Conference USA Championship
23 Southern Miss (+14.5) at 6 Houston
The Houston Cougars have a great chance to become the 1st team from Conference USA to ever get a BCS bid if they are able to knock off Southern Miss at home this Saturday.  Houston will look to remain undefeated behind the arm of Heisman contending QB Case Keenum. The Cougars have one of the nation's most explosive offenses and an underrated defense. Southern Miss is no slouch though. The Golden eagles are having one of their finest seasons. They won;t have enough to stop Houston from going BCS bowling.

Prediction - Houston 48 Southern Miss 31

New Mexico (+49.5) at 8 Boise St.
It is Senior Day in Boise and Kellen Moore and his teammates are looking to go out winners one more time. This should be one of the easier wins the class will have in their tenure at the school. The Broncos welcome New Mexico to the blue turf as a near 50-point favorite. With the expectation that Boise will beat the Lobos, it will be up to Southern Miss to knock off Houston if they wantt o return to the BCS.

Prediction - Boise St. 52 New Mexico 7

Pac-12 Championship
UCLA (+30.5) at 9 Oregon
The 1st ever Pac-12 Championship has a 30-point spread, thanks to a bad UCLA squad backing their way in. It doesn't help that this game isn't played at a neutral field, but instead is played at the higher ranked team. That team is Oregon where they are even more potent in Eugene. The Ducks have one of the most explosive offense in the country. The Bruins do not. UCLA lost to USC 50-0 last week. That forced the administration at UCLA to fire Rick Neuheisel. There's too much going on with the Bruins to give them a chance in this game.

Prediction - Oregon 45 UCLA 13

Big Ten Championship in Indianapolis, IN
11 Michigan St. (+9.5) vs. 14 Wisconsin
When these teams met in the regular season, it was possibly the best game of the year so far. Wisconsin was rolling over teams at the time and many thought that they would do the same against the Spartans. Sparty had other plans. Michigan State controled most of the game, and when Wisocnsin tied the game late, they had one more trick up their sleeve. MSU won on a Hail Mary on the game's final play. Now Wisconsin is rolling again and Michigan State is heavy underdogs again. I expect Wisconsin to get the job done this time.

Prediction - Wisconsin 34 Michigan St. 21

Iowa St. (+11.5) at 16 Kansas St.
Nobody thought that these teams would have the season that they are having. You always expect K-State to mbe competitive when Bill Snyder is patrolling the sidelines, but 10 wins would have been a stretch. Well they are a win away from reaching that point, and possibly a BCS bowl. The Wildcats would need some things to go their way to crack the BCS but it's a possibility. Iowa State is bowl eligible and ruined Oklahoma State's chance at perfection. That is a successful season in their eyes - no need to add to it.

Prediction - Kansas St. 35 Iowa St. 21

25 Texas (+2.5) at 17 Baylor
Baylor is already having their best season since joining the Big 12. A win over Texas this weekend would be icing on the cake. They will need Robert Griffin III to play the Heisman candidate that he is in order to do that. Texas has one of the best defenses in the conference and will want to keep Griffin III from having a Heisman moment in the season finale. RG3 was knocked out of last week's game and should get knock around some more this week. I'll take Texas to win a close one.

Prediction - Texas 30 Baylor 27

UNLV (+40.5) at 18 TCU
TCU is going out on top of the Mountain west regardless of what happens this weekend. They should be able to run the table in the conference for the 3rd straight season. They enter this game as a 40-point favorite over UNLV. The conference's most dominant team should finish off their tenure in the Mountain West with a 23-game conference winning streak.

Prediction - TCU 45 UNLV 10

22 West Virginia (E) at South Florida
The West Virginia Mountaineers can still win the Big East and head to the BCS - but they need some help. First and foremost, WVU needs to beat a struggling South Florida squad on Thursday night. Then they will Cincinnati to beat UConn on Saturday to force a 3-way tie with Louisville. The tiebreaker would go to highest BCS rank and with West Virginia the only Big East school ranked in the Top 25 they should get the nod. The Mountaineers will hold up their end of the deal.

Prediction - West Virginia 31 South Florida 24

Sunday, November 27, 2011

NCAA Football Bowl Projections

Nothing changed with this week's BCS projections as all of the teams projected in the BCS bowls last week took care of business. We head into Championship Weekend with conference titles up for grabs. At this point it looks inevitable that we will see an LSU-Alabama rematch. Even if Georgia were to knock off LSU, I don't think they would fall below #2. We will see though. Later in the week when I put out my predictions for Week 14's matchups, I will include my last Bowl Projections based off of those picks. Here is where your team could be headed if the season ended today.

December 17
New Mexico (Albuquerque, NM) - Wyoming vs. Utah St.
Famous Idaho Potato (Boise, ID) - Louisiana Tech vs. Toledo
New Orleans (New Orleans, LA) - Louisiana-Lafayette vs. Western Michigan

December 20
Beef O'Brady's (St. Petersburg, FL) - Purdue vs. Florida International

December 21
Poinsettia (San Diego, CA) - San Diego St. vs. Nevada

December 22
Maaco (Las Vegas, NV) - 8 Boise St. vs. Cal

December 24
Hawaii (Honolulu, HI) - Hawaii vs. Marshall

December 26
Independence (Shreveport, LA) - 18 TCU vs. North Carolina

December 27
Little Caesar's Pizza (Detroit, MI) - Illinois vs. Ohio
Belk (Charlotte, NC) - Virginia vs. Cincinnati

December 28
Military (Washington, DC) - Wake Forest vs. Air Force
Holiday (San Diego, CA) - 17 Baylor vs. Utah

December 29
Champs Sports (Orlando, FL) - 24 Florida St. vs. Notre Dame
Alamo (San Antonio, TX) - Texas vs. Washington

December 30
Armed Forces (Dallas, TX) - BYU vs. SMU
Pinstripe (Bronx, NY) - Rutgers vs. Texas A&M
Music City (Nashville, TN) - NC State vs. Vanderbilt
Insight (Tempe, AZ) - 21 Penn St. vs. Missouri

December 31
Meineke Car Care (Houston, TX) - Iowa vs. Iowa St.
Sun (El Paso, TX) - Georgia Tech vs. Arizona St.
Liberty (Memphis, TN) - 23 Southern Miss vs. Mississippi St.
Kraft Fight Hunger (San Francisco, CA) - UCLA vs. Northwestern
Chick-Fil-A (Atlanta, GA) - 20 Clemson vs. Florida

January 2
Ticket City (Dallas, TX) - Ohio St. vs. Tulsa
Capital One (Orlando, FL) - 7 Arkansas vs. 14 Wisconsin
Gator (Jacksonville, FL) - 13 Georgia vs. 19 Nebraska
Outback (Tampa, FL) - 12 South Carolina vs. 15 Michigan

January 6
Cotton (Arlington, TX) - 16 Kansas St. vs. Auburn

January 7
BBVA Compass (Birmingham, AL) - Louisville vs. Temple

TBD
Godaddy.com (Mobile, AL) - Arkansas St. vs. Northern Illinois

BCS Bowls

January 2
Rose (Pasadena, CA) - 9 Oregon vs. 11 Michigan St.

January 3
Sugar (New Orleans, LA) - 6 Houston vs. 10 Oklahoma

January 4
Orange (Miami, FL) - 5 Virginia Tech vs. 22 West Virginia

January 5
Fiesta (Glendale, AZ) - 3 Stanford vs. 4 Oklahoma St.
January 9
BCS National Championship (New Orleans, LA) - 1 LSU vs. 2 Alabama

NCAA Football Top 25 - Week 14

Week 13
1. LSU (12-0) W Ark 41-17
2. Alabama (11-1) W Aub 42-14
3. Arkansas (10-2) L LSU 17-41
4. Stanford (11-1) W ND 28-14
5. Oklahoma St. (10-1) Idle
6. Virginia Tech (11-1) W UVA 38-0
7. Houston (12-0) W Tulsa 48-16
8. Boise St. (10-1) W Wyo 36-14
9. Oregon (10-2) W Ore St 49-21
10. Oklahoma (9-2) W ISU 26-6
11. Michigan St. (10-2) W NW 31-17
12. South Carolina (10-2) W Clem 34-13
13. Georgia (10-2) W GT 31-17
14. Wisconsin (10-2) W PSU 45-7
15. Michigan (10-2) W OSU 40-34
16. Kansas St. (9-2) Idle
17. Clemson (9-3) L SC 13-34
18. Penn St. (9-3) L Wis 7-45
19. Baylor (8-3) W TT 66-42
20. TCU (9-2) Idle
21. Nebraska (9-3) W Iowa 20-7
22. Notre Dame (8-4) L Stan 14-28
23. West Virginia (8-3) W Pitt 21-20
24. Virginia (8-4) L VT 0-38
25. Georgia Tech (8-4) L UGA 17-31
Auburn (7-5) L Bama 14-42
Rutgers (8-4) L Uconn 22-40
BYU (8-3) Idle
Southern Miss (10-2) W Mem 44-7
Florida St. (8-4) W Fla 21-7
Tulsa (8-4) L Hou 16-48
Iowa St. (6-5) L Okla 6-26
Texas (7-4) W TAM 27-25
Cincinnati (8-3) W Syr 30-13
Utah (7-5) L Col 14-17
 
 
Week 14

1. LSU
2. Alabama
3. Stanford
4. Oklahoma St.
5. Virginia Tech
6. Houston
7. Arkansas
8. Boise St.
9. Oregon
10. Oklahoma
11. Michigan St.
12. South Carolina
13. Georgia
14. Wisconsin
15. Michigan
16. Kansas St.
17. Baylor
18. TCU
19. Nebraska
20. Clemson
21. Penn St.
22. West Virginia
23. Southern Miss
24. Florida St.
25. Texas
Notre Dame
BYU
Georgia Tech
Cincinnati
Virginia
Arkansas St.
Auburn
Northern Illinois
Missouri
Rutgers
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Thursday, November 24, 2011

NFL - Week 12 Predictions

Ringer's Record
Last Week ATS: 8-5
Last Week SU: 11-2

Season ATS: 82-76-1 (52%)
Season SU: 106-53 (67%)

Green Bay (-6.5) at Detroit
Finally! The Lions are playing in a relevant Thanksgiving Day game. The undefeated Packers come to town looking to improve to 11-0. This is one of the most anticipated games in Ford Field history. The fact that it's the annual Thanksgiving game, makes it even more anticipated. The last time the Lions won on the holiday was 2003. Fans will be ecstatic with a victory. I don't think it happens though. The Pack will pull away in the end.

Prediction - Green Bay 33 Detroit 20

Miami (+7.5) at Dallas
Both of these teams are trending in the right direction as they head into the annual Thanksgiving game in Dallas. Miami has won 3 straight after an 0-7 start, while the Cowboys have also won 3 in a row to claim the top spot in the NFC East. The QBs for both teams have been largely responsible for their respective turnarounds. Whoever plays better between Matt Moore and Tony Romo should get the win on Thursday. I'm going with Romo.

Prediction - Dallas 28 Miami 17

San Francisco (+3.5) at Baltimore
This is the Har Bowl. John and Jim Harbaugh will coach against each other for the 1st time on Thanksgiving night. What a holiday it will be for the family. Aside from the historic matchup of brothers, both of these teams have Super Bowl aspirations. San Francisco is 9-1 on the year and undefeated on the road. Baltimore is 7-3 and undefeated at home. Something has got to give. The 49ers have a tough task traveling to the east coast on a short week. That's why I like the Ravens.

Prediction - Baltimore 20 San Francisco 16

Minnesota (+9.5) at Atlanta
The Falcons are on the outside looking in of the NFC playoff hunt at the moment. This is a perfect time to welcome in a struggling Minnesota squad that just lost Adrian Peterson to injury. Atlanta has been up and down throughout the season, but remain in the thick of things for both a division title and a wild card spot. Minnesota is just looking to get their young rookie QB, Christian Ponder, some valuable experience. Ponder will continue to experience losing in the NFL this week.

Prediction - Atlanta 28 Minnesota 14

Cleveland (+7.5) at Cincinnati
The Battle of Ohio goes down in Cincinnati on Sunday. These teams met in Cleveland on opening day and the Bengals surprised everyone by winning 27-17. Cincy has continued to surprise as they currently stand at 6-4 and holding on to a wild card position. For as bad as the Browns have been this year, a win here would get them to 5-6 and technically alive in the wild card race. The Browns don;t cover the spread very often though, and coming off a win I don;t think they can get it done 2 weeks in a row.

Prediction - Cincinnati 20 Cleveland 12

Carolina (-3.5) at Indianapolis
Cam Newton is evidence of what a franchise QB can do to turn a team around. Sure the Panthers are only 2-8 on the year, but they have been competitive every week and certainly appear to be on the rise. The Colts will be lead by a franchise QB one way or another next year. It will either be Peyton Manning or Andrew Luck. Indy will almost certainly be drafting 1st in the 2012 draft. They are trying to avoid being just the 2nd team ever to go 0-16. I don;t think they get into the win column this week.

Prediction - Carolina 28 Indianapolis 17

Houston (-3.5) at Jacksonville
Matt Leinart is back in the limelight. After years of stardom at USC, Leinart did not perform well as the starting QB in Arizona and was shipped to Houston. Now with Matt Schaub appearing to be out for the rest of the year, the Texans fate lies with Leinart. It will fall on his shoulders to lead Houston to their 1st playoff berth in franchise history. Luck for him, his reign as starting QB in Houston starts with the Jags. The Jags are a bad team simply put. I like Leinart to lead the Texans to victory.

Prediction - Houston 20 Jacksonville 14

Buffalo (+8.5) at NY Jets
Neither of these teams are playing the best football. The Bills started hot and have quickly faded. The Jets have been up and down all season. One of them will get a win this week and be in the middle of the playoff race. It will be difficult for the Bills to do that without their best playmaker, Fred Jackson. Buffalo has averaged just 9 points a game during their current 3-game losing streak. The Jets haven't been explosive offensively either, but they won't need to be in this game.

Prediction - NY Jets 17 Buffalo 10

Arizona (+3.5) at St. Louis
John Skelton was enjoying a 2-game winning streak as the QB of the Arizona Cardinals until his miserable performance last week put that streak to an end. It appears that he will get a chance to bounce back this week, as Kevin Kolb is doubtful to play. The Cards beat the Rams a few weeks ago when Patrick Peterson returned a punt 99 yards for a TD in OT. They will look for the season sweep in St. Louis where they have won the last 7 meetings. Make that 8.

Prediction - Arizona 23 St. Louis 17

Tampa Bay (+3.5) at Tennessee
This is a game that Tennessee has to win. Due to Matt Schaub's injury in Houston, this is the Titans chance to make a move in the AFC South. Tampa Bay on the other hand, is one loss away from being completely out of the NFC playoff race. Matt Hasselbeck was banged up this week but is expected to play. He has played in plenty of big games in his lengthy NFL career. I expect him to get the job done at home.

Prediction - Tennessee 23 Tampa Bay 21

Chicago (+4.5) at Oakland
Outside of Green Bay, there is no team playing better football than the Chicago Bears. Unfortunately for them, they will now have to do it without Jay Cutler under center. Cutler had to undergo surgery on his thumb and will likely be out the reminder of the regular season. That means Caleb Hanie will be at the helm for Chicago. His 1st start will come at the "Black Hole". The Raiders are looking to get some separation in the AFC West and could use a win. They get it against Hanie and the Bears.

Prediction - Oakland 21 Chicago 16

Washington (+4.5) at Seattle
The Redskins have been awful over the last 2 months. After beginning the year 3-1. they have now lost 6 in a row. Now they head cross country to face an improving Seattle team. The Seahawks have won consecutive games for the 1st time this season and are looking to continue their winning streak. Neither of these teams are capable of making big plays in the passing game, so it will come down to who can run the ball more effectively. Marshawn Lynch should aid in sending Washington to their 7th loss in a row.

Prediction - Seattle 24 Washington 14

Denver (+6.5) at San Diego
When John Fox decided to let Tim Tebow guide his team, Denver was 1-4 and San Diego was 4-1. Fast forward to today and Denver is 5-5 and San Diego is 4-6. Tebow certainly has not been magnificent but he is finding a way to get the job done. Phillip Rivers on the other hand, is adding to the legacy he has built of not living up to expectations. Rivers and the Chargers are too talented to lose a 6th game in a row. I'm not sure why I'm going against Tebow, but I'll take San Diego.

Prediction - San Diego 24 Denver 17

New England (-3.5) at Philadelphia
At the beginning of the season, this was thought to be a potential "Game of the Year". That doesn't seem to be the case now as Philly is just 4-6. The Eagles could be lead by Vince Young for the 2nd straight week. Young lead Philly to victory over the Giants last week, which they hope will revive their playoff hopes. The Patriots go on the road during a short week, which is never any easy task. This game should be competitive. I see Tom Brady making the Eagles blow yet another 4th quarter lead.

Prediction - New England 28 Philadelphia 27

Pittsburgh (-10.5) at Kansas City
The Chiefs are looking to make a move in the AFC West. They are hoping that the move they made to acquire Kyle Orton will aid in that. After Tyler Palko was abysmal on Monday night, Kansas City didn't feel comfortable sending him out on the field against his hometown team. Orton will have little time to prepare for one of the NFL's best defenses. The Steelers defenders will probably be smelling blood in the water. Look for a dominating defensive performance from Pittsburgh.

Prediction - Pittsburgh 31 Kansas City 13

NY Giants (+7.5) at New Orleans
Some things never change. The Giants are preparing for the annual 2nd half of the season meltdown. After going 6-2 in the 1st half of the season, they have dropped their 1st 2 games of the 2nd half. It won;t get any easier on Monday night when they head to the Superdome to face New Orleans. The Saints are one of the league's top Super Bowl contenders again and will look to make a statement against the slumping Giants. Drew Brees should have a big game and hand the Giants another loss.

Prediction - New Orleans 31 NY Giants 23

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

NCAA Football - Week 13 Predictions

Ringer's Record
Last Week ATS: 10-11
Last Week SU: 15-8

Season ATS: 131-95 (58%)
Season SU: 188-49 (79%)

3 Arkansas (+12) at 1 LSU
LSU has had a few weeks to prepare for their annual rivalry game with the Arkansas Razorbacks. Sure they've played games, but they were against teams that shouldn't be on the same field as the #1 Tigers. This week should be much tougher. Arkansas has won 7 consecutive games since their loss to Alabama, and now have themselves in the thick of the BCS title race. The winner of this game should have the inside track to New Orleans. LSU is at home and has played in big games all year. They will handle business yet again.

Prediction - LSU 30 Arkansas 17

2 Alabama (-20.5) at Auburn
A win by Alabama will make it very likely that the winner of the Iron Bowl will be appearing in the BCS title game for the 3rd consecutive season. The inner-state rivals have traded having the pressure of a championship run each of the last 2 years, and it will be the Tide's turn again this year. Throw out all records when these 2 meet. These teams hate each other, and nothing would make Auburn players and fans happier than ruining Alabama's season. I don't think it will happen.

Prediction - Alabama 27 Auburn 14

22 Notre Dame (+6.5) at 4 Stanford
Stanford is still alive in the quest for a National Championship. It may take another wild weekend for the Cardinal to get there, but there remains hope. They welcome in a talented Notre Dame squad that has been playing some good football. Notre Dame has won 4 in a row and will not be intimidated by Stanford. Both teams can score in bunches, so it will likely come down to whose defense can get a big stop. Eventhough Stanford hasn't covered their last 2 spreads, I'm riding them for another week.

Prediction - Stanford 35 Notre Dame 26

6 Virginia Tech (-5.5) at 24 Virginia
Football fans in Virginia should love this. Virginia Tech travels to Charlottesville to take on UVA with a trip to the ACC Championship on the line. The Cavaliers kept their hopes alive by squeaking past Florida State 14-13 in Tallahassee last week. It was the school's 1st win ever in Tallahassee. Virginia Tech suddenly finds themselves with an outside chance at a National Championship. They need a big win over their inner-state rival to keep that dream afloat. The Hokies should win, but not without a scare.

Prediction - Virginia Tech 28 Virginia 23

7 Houston (-3.5) at Tulsa
The Houston Cougars are 1 win away from finishing off a perfect regular season. Houston comes in ranked 7th in the country, and in the Top 10 for the 1st time since the early 1990. Coincidentally, that was also the last time the school had a Heisman candidate. QB Case Keenum could very well receive an invite to New York with another solid performance this weekend. Tulsa is no slouch though. The Golden Hurricane also boast a perfect C-USA record. Something has to give. Houston will win a close one.

Prediction - Houston 42 Tulsa 39

Wyoming (+32.5) at 8 Boise St.
It's not every week that you see conference rivals with the same conference record meet in late November and one of them is favored by 30+ points. Such can only be the case with Boise State. The Broncos head back to the blue turf for the 1st time since their stunning loss to TCU. The Broncos need a win to keep them in the mix for a BCS bowl bid. Wyoming has quietly went 7-3 and 4-1 in the Mountain West. They will not be an easy out.

Prediction - Boise St. 42 Wyoming 21

Oregon St. (+28.5) at 9 Oregon
The Civil War lost some of its luster with Oregon's loss to USC last week. The Ducks now have no hopes at returning to the BCS National Championship, but can still clinch the Pac-12 North and a spot in the inaugural Pac-12 Championship with a win. Oregon State has underachieved severely this year. It would help salvage the season by knocking off their biggest rival. The Ducks have far too much fire power for the Beavers to be able to compete this year. Oregon should win this big.

Prediction - Oregon 42 Oregon St. 13

Iowa St. (+28.5) at 10 Oklahoma
Iowa State played a significant role in this week's shake up in the BCS standings. The Cyclones knocked off Oklahoma State who was ranked #2. This gave Oklahoma a chance to move up in the rankings. The Sooners blew that chance. RG3 and Baylor virtually ended any championship hopes that Oklahoma had. Iowa State will now look to complete a sweep of the Oklahoma schools. That is going to be too tough of a task for them to handle.

Prediction - Oklahoma 37 Iowa St. 20

11 Michigan St. (-6.5) at Northwestern
Michigan State clinched a spot in the 1st ever Big Ten Championship with a win over Indiana last week. The Spartans are still waiting to see who they will play. They have a tune up game at Northwestern this week. The Wildcats became bowl eligible last week with their win over Minnesota. That means that neither team has a ton to play for. The more talented team tends to win these types of games. That team is Sparty.

Prediction - Michigan St. 26 Northwestern 24

17 Clemson (+4.5) at 12 South Carolina
What could have been? That is the question that the Clemson players and fans are asking themselves this week. In a week when 3 of the 6 teams ranked ahead of Clemson lost, the Tigers also lost. Has Clemson taken care of business against NC State, they would be in the thick of the National Championship race. But they got their doors blown off. Now they take on their in-state rival, South Carolina. The Gamecocks are looking for a solid 10-win season. They won't get it this week.

Prediction - Clemson 26 South Carolina 23

13 Georgia (-6.5) at 25 Georgia Tech
Georgia finished off their SEC schedule with their 7th straight conference win and their 9th overall. This gave the Bulldogs a berth in the SEC Championship. Now they step out of conference to take on Georgia Tech. The Yellow Jackets will bring their spread option attack with their eyes set on ending Georgia's winning streak. Georgia has one of the nation's top ranked defenses, but this is an offense they have yet to see this year. These games are usually close and this year should be no different.

Prediction - Georgia 28 Georgia Tech 26

18 Penn St. (+14.5) at 14 Wisconsin
It is hard to believe that Penn State is in position to play for the Big Ten title. After all of the scandal and turmoil going on in State College, nobody would have been surprised had the Nittany Lions packed it in. But PSU got a huge win in Columbus last week and have them in a win and in scenario this weekend. Unfortunately, they head to Madison where the Badgers have been unstoppable. Wisconsin seizes the top spot from Penn State with a win. Montee Ball and Russell Wilson will be too much for Penn State to match.

Prediction - Wisconsin 34 Penn St. 17

Ohio St. (+8.5) at 15 Michigan
All signs point towards this being Luke Fickell's last game as Head Coach at The Ohio State University. Fickell took over in the wake of an NCAA probe that saw the school dismiss Jim Tressel as coach. After a tumultuous season, it appears that Urban Meyer will bring his 2 National Championship rings to Columbus and take over the Buckeyes. Can anyone have the success Tressel did? Tressel went 9-1 against Michigan in what is college football's biggest rivalry. The Wolverines haven't won this game since 2003. They finally get it done this year.

Prediction - Michigan 28 Ohio St. 17

Texas Tech (+12.5) at 19 Baylor
Baylor got their 1st win over Oklahoma ever last week. Robert Griffin III reintroduced himself to the Heisman race in the mean time. Griffin III was spectacular in leading Baylor to a 45-38 win. They take on Teaxs Tech this week, who is the other team to beat the Sooners this season. The Red Raiders haven't fared too well since that game though. I don't think it will get better any time soon, as they will not go bowling with a loss in this one.

Prediction - Baylor 37 Texas Tech 31

Iowa (+9.5) at 21 Nebraska
Nebraska was eliminated from Big Ten title contention with their blow out loss in Michigan last week. Many thought that the Cornhuskers could win the Big Ten in their 1st season, but inconsistent play on both sides of the ball didn't allow that. They play a team that could become the new rival of Nebraska. At least it makes sense geographically for Iowa to become a rival. Both teams are trying to enhance their bowl position. Nebraska gets it done in a close one.

Prediction - Nebraska 24 Iowa 23

Pittsburgh (+7) at 23 West Virginia
The Big East race is wide open, and the Backyard Brawl is going to play a big part in deciding the conference champion. This is as bitter a rivalry as the Big East has, and it will most likely be the last time the two schools play for awhile. WVU will head to the Big 12 next season and would love nothing than to go out on top of the Big East and leave Pitt in the dust while doing it. This game is usually a slugfest. I think the Mountaineers are the more talented team and will get it done in MoTown.

Prediction - West Virginia 31 Pittsburgh 21

Tuesday, November 22, 2011

NCAA Football Bowl Projections

The BCS got flipped upside down last week. There were some fantastic finishes which lead to BCS chaos. This is the time of year when the picture needs to become clearer, not foggier. Here is a look at where your favorite team could be headed.

December 17
New Mexico (Albuquerque, NM) - Wyoming vs. Florida International
Famous Idaho Potato (Boise, ID) - Utah St. vs. Toledo
New Orleans (New Orleans, LA) - Louisiana-Lafayette vs. Eastern Michigan

December 20
Beef O'Brady's (St. Petersburg, FL) - South Florida vs. Ball St.

December 21
Poinsettia (San Diego, CA) - San Diego St. vs. Nevada

December 22
Maaco (Las Vegas, NV) - 8 Boise St. vs. Washington

December 24
Hawaii (Honolulu, HI) - Louisiana Tech vs. Western  Michigan

December 26
Independence (Shreveport, LA) - 20 TCU vs. North Carolina

December 27
Little Caesar's Pizza (Detroit, MI) - Illinois vs. Northern Illinois
Belk (Charlotte, NC) - 24 Virginia vs. Rutgers

December 28
Military (Washington, DC) - Wake Forest vs. Air Force
Holiday (San Diego, CA) - 19 Baylor vs. Utah

December 29
Champs Sports (Orlando, FL) - 22 Notre Dame vs. Florida St.
Alamo (San Antonio, TX) - Texas vs. Cal

December 30
Armed Forces (Dallas, TX) - BYU vs. SMU
Pinstripe (Bronx, NY) - Pittsburgh vs. Missouri
Music City (Nashville, TN) - NC State vs. Syracuse
Insight (Tempe, AZ) - 21 Nebraska vs. Iowa St.

December 31
Meineke Car Care (Houston, TX) - Iowa vs. Texas A&M
Sun (El Paso, TX) - 25 Georgia Tech vs. Arizona St.
Liberty (Memphis, TN) - Southern Miss vs. Louisville
Kraft Fight Hunger (San Francisco, CA) - UCLA vs. Northwestern
Chick-Fil-A (Atlanta, GA) - 17 Clemson vs. Florida

January 2
Ticket City (Dallas, TX) - Ohio St. vs. Tulsa
Capital One (Orlando, FL) - 3 Arkansas vs. 14 Wisconsin
Gator (Jacksonville, FL) - 13 Georgia vs. 18 Penn St.
Outback (Tampa, FL) - 12 South Carolina vs. 15 Michigan

January 6
Cotton (Arlington, TX) - 16 Kansas St. vs. Auburn

January 7
BBVA Compass (Birmingham, AL) - Cincinnati vs. Temple

TBD
Godaddy.com (Mobile, AL) - Arkansas St. vs. Ohio

BCS Bowls

January 2
Rose (Pasadena, CA) - 9 Oregon vs. 11 Michigan St.

January 3
Sugar (New Orleans, LA) - 7 Houston vs. 10 Oklahoma

January 4
Orange (Miami, FL) - 6 Virginia Tech vs. 23 West Virginia

January 5
Fiesta (Glendale, AZ) - 4 Stanford vs. 5 Oklahoma St.
January 9
BCS National Championship (New Orleans, LA) - 1 LSU vs. 2 Alabama

NCAA Football Top 25 - Week 13

Week 12
1. LSU (11-0) W Miss 52-3
2. Oklahoma St. (10-1) L ISU 31-37 2OT
3. Alabama (10-1) W Ga So 45-21
4. Oregon (9-2) L USC 35-38
5. Oklahoma (9-2) L Bay 38-45
6. Arkansas (10-1) W Miss St 44-17
7. Stanford (10-1) W Cal 31-28
8. Clemson (9-2) L NCSU 13-37
9. Virginia Tech (10-1) W UNC 24-21
10. Houston (11-0) W SMU 37-7
11. Boise St. (9-1) W SDSU 52-29
12. Nebraska (8-3) L Mich 17-45
13. Michigan St. (9-2) W Ind 55-3
14. South Carolina (9-2) W Cit 41-20
15. Georgia (9-2) W Ky 19-10
16. Wisconsin (9-2) W Ill 28-17
17. Michigan (9-2) W Neb 45-17
18. Kansas St. (9-2) W Tex 17-13
19. Penn St. (9-2) W OSU 20-14
20. TCU (9-2) W CSU 34-10
21. Southern Miss (9-2) L UAB 31-34
22. Florida St. (7-4) L UVA 13-14
23. Notre Dame (8-3) W BC 16-14
24. Baylor (7-3) W Okla 45-38
25. Cincinnati (7-3) L Rut 3-20
Texas (6-4) L KSU 13-17
West Virginia (7-3) Idle
Georgia Tech (8-3) W Duke 38-31
Virginia (8-3) W FSU 14-13
Auburn (7-4) W Sam 35-16
Rutgers (8-3) W Cin 20-3
BYU (8-3) W NMSU 42-7
Tulsa (8-3) W UTEP 57-28
Ohio St. (6-5) L PSU 14-20
Utah (7-4) W WSU 30-27 OT
 
 
Week 13

1. LSU
2. Alabama
3. Arkansas
4. Stanford
5. Oklahoma St.
6. Virginia Tech
7. Houston
8. Boise St.
9. Oregon
10. Oklahoma
11. Michigan St.
12. South Carolina
13. Georgia
14. Wisconsin
15. Michigan
16. Kansas St.
17. Clemson
18. Penn St.
19. Baylor
20. TCU
21. Nebraska
22. Notre Dame
23. West Virginia
24. Virginia
25. Georgia Tech
Auburn
Rutgers
BYU
Southern Miss
Florida St.
Tulsa
Iowa St.
Texas
Cincinnati
Utah
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Thursday, November 17, 2011

NFL - Week 11 Predictions

Ringer's Record
Last Week ATS: 8-8
Last Week SU: 8-8

Season ATS: 74-71-1 (51%)
Season SU: 95-51 (65%)

NY Jets (-4.5) at Denver
This game is currently in progress.

Prediction - NY Jets 20 Denver 14

Cincinnati (+7.5) at Baltimore
It is hard to figure out the Baltimore Ravens. In some weeks they have looked to be the elite team in the AFC and a sure fire contender for the Super Bowl. In other weeks they have looked as bad as any team in the AFC. Last week was one of their underwhelming performances against one of the league's doormats. They return home where they are 4-0 for a pivotal AFC North matchup. The Bengals are getting into the meat of their schedule and need a win to prove their worth. Which Ravens team shows up? I say the one closer to elite status.

Prediction - Baltimore 23 Cincinnati 16

Jacksonville (-1.5) at Cleveland
I don't know how much longer Browns fans can take it. They have been bad for the last 13 years. Now they haven't scored a TD at home in the last 8 quarters. They lost to the lowly Rams this week, and welcome another bad football team into Cleveland this week. With 5 games remaining against Pittsburgh, Baltimore, and Cincinnati, this may be the last chance for the home crowd to see a win - and maybe even a TD. The Jags can't score either, but have a solid D. That means that Cleveland fans are in for another snoozer. Give me the Browns by a FG.

Prediction - Cleveland 13 Jacksonville 10

Carolina (+7.5) at Detroit
The Lions were brought back down to earth a bit last weekend. Detroit went into Chicago and were beat down by the Bears. They return home to face a struggling Carolina team this week. The Panthers D has been inept all season, and should provide a chance for the Lions to regain their explosiveness. So much praise has been heaped on Cam Newton but the Panthers record is not improving much over last year. Chalk up another loss for the Panthers.

Prediction - Detroit 31 Carolina 22

Tampa Bay (+14.5) at Green Bay
The last team the Bucs want to play this week is the Packers. Of course with the way the Pack has been playing they are probably the last team anyone would want to face. Tampa Bay has lost 3 straight, while Green Bay is looking to remain perfect and move to 10-0. The Bucs have difficulty scoring and that is not a good that probably spells disaster against an Aaron Rodgers lead offense.

Prediction - Green Bay 34 Tampa Bay 14

Buffalo (+2.5) at Miami
Don't look now but the Miami Dolphins are playing good football. After opening the year 0-7, Miami has won their last 2 games. The Bills are headed in the opposite direction. They surprised many with their hot start but are in danger of dropping to .500 with a loss this week. This game means a lot more to the Bills in terms of a potential playoff run, but the Dolphins have dug deep and found something inside them. I like The Fins to make it 3 in a row.

Prediction - Miami 24 Buffalo 21

Oakland (-1.5) at Minnesota
The 1st place Oakland Raiders are heading to Minnesota this weekend. You read that right, I said the 1st place Oakland Raiders. As the only team above .500 in the AFC West, the Raiders sit atop the division. Carson Palmer put together his best performance since being traded to the Bay. Minnesota is coming off a short week and a drubbing at the hands of Green Bay. It will be too difficult for the Vikings to bounce back this week.

Prediction - Oakland 28 Minnesota 20

Dallas (-7.5) at Washington
The Cowboys have found new life since inserting DeMarco Murray into the starting lineup. They now sit at 5-4 and are creeping right behind the New York Giants in the NFC East. They head to the nation's capital this week to face a reeling Redskins squad. Washington has lost 5 straight and things aren't looking pretty. I expect them to get uglier this weekend. Give me the Cowboys easily.

Prediction - Dallas 27 Washington 10

Arizona (+9.5) at San Francisco
Critics have doubted the validity of the 49ers record all season. It is getting harder and harder to doubt. The 9ers took care of business against one of the NFC's better teams last week and moved to 8-1 on the year. Don't for get that they play in a weak division and they have 5 more games to play against those teams. Arizona is one of those teams. The Cards have won 2 straight, but look for that to end this weekend. San Francisco is clearly the class of the NFC West and they should clinch the division very soon.

Prediction - San Francisco 27 Arizona 13

Seattle (+2.5) at St. Louis
It's hard to believe that these 2 teams played for a playoff birth on the last week of the season last year. Neither team has a prayer of getting into the playoffs this year. They are both coming off a win though and looking to generate some momentum as we head toward the home stretch. This is one of the worst games of the weekend, but someone's got to win, so I'll go with the home team.

Prediction - St. Louis 23 Seattle 17

Tennessee (+6.5) at Atlanta
Mike Smith took a huge gamble last week and it didn't pay off. The Falcons had the opportunity to seize control of the NFC South last week, but they decided to go for it on 4th and 1 at their own 29 in OT against the Saints. They did not get it. Now they need a win to remain in the thick of the Wild Card hunt. Tennessee is in the same boat. The Titans also stand at 5-4 and need a win to stay relevant on the playoff chase. The Falcons won't lose 2 in a row in the Georgia Dome.

Prediction - Atlanta 27 Tennessee 17

San Diego (+3.5) at Chicago
The Chicago Bears have turned the corner and are headed back toward the upper echelon of the NFL. Their defense has been playing spectacularly. And their offense has been getting better every week thanks to an improving offensive line. Matt Forte and Jay Cutler have looked significantly better with the O-Line's improvement. Words can't describe the disappointment that Phillip Rivers and the Chargers have been this season. Unfortunately for them, they head to Chicago at the wrong time.

Prediction - Chicago 27 San Diego 21

Philadelphia (+4.5) at NY Giants
The Dream Team's playoff hopes diminished with their inexcusable home loss to the Arizona Cardinals. They will likely be without Michael Vick this week now. That means that their chances of playing spoiler to the New York Giants division lead diminished as well. Dallas is now on the Giants' heels, so this is a huge game on Sunday Night. The D-Line of the Giants should be able to dominate and harass which ever QB is on the field for Philly.

Prediction - NY Giants 26 Philadelphia 17

Kansas City (+14.5) at New England
The Patriots got a huge win over the New York Jets last weekend. They dominated in a 37-16 victory to reestablish their role as favorite in the AFC East. Now they welcome in a Kansas City team that will have Tyler Palko making his 1st career start at QB. I don't think Bill Belechick will take it easy on him. Palko may need to sit on the sideline and learn from Tom Brady before he attempts to make it in the big time.

Prediction - New England 30 Kansas City 13

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

NCAA Football - Week 12 Predictions

Ringer's Record
Last Week ATS: 8-11
Last Week SU: 13-6

Season ATS: 121-84 (59%)
Season SU: 173-41 (81%)

1 LSU (-29.5) at Ole Miss
LSU continues its break in the schedule with a trip to Oxford, Mississippi. This is not to down play the talent of Ole Miss, but they did just lose at home to Louisiana Tech last week. The Louisiana school they face this week is just a little bit tougher. This should be a nice tune up game for LSU as they get ready to play Arkansas on Thanksgiving weekend. Look for LSU to toy with the Rebels early and pull away late.

Prediction - LSU 42 Ole Miss 13

2 Oklahoma St. (-26.5) at Iowa St.
The Pokes reached 10-0 for the 1st time in school history last week as they demolished Texas Tech 66-6 in Lubbock. Now they head to Ames to take on the Cyclones of Iowa State. Oklahoma State is just 2 wins away from competing in the BCS National Championship Game, while the Cyclones need a win to get bowl eligible. This one will be played under the Friday Night lights. I don't think the Pokes will take it lightly.

Prediction - Oklahoma St. 51 Iowa St. 17

Georgia Southern (NL) at Alabama
The Crimson Tide's defense showed up again last week. They limited Mississippi State to just 1 TD. I bet they will make it extremely difficult for Georgia Southern to get into the end zone as well. Georgia Southern is one of the best teams in the FCS, but they will be no match for 'Bama. The Tide will use this game to gear up for redemption in this year's Iron Bowl.

Prediction - Alabama 52 Georgia Southern 6

USC (+14.5) at 4 Oregon
The Oregon Ducks are hitting their stride at the right time. As we roll into the end of the season and approach bowl season, Oregon is playing their best football. They went into Stanford last week and rolled over a team that had been crushing teams. They welcome USC into the hostile environment of Autzen Stadium this week. USC was the only other team to hang with Stanford this year. the Trojans have been playing well too, but they are running into Oregon at the wrong time.

Prediction - Oregon 48 USC 28

5 Oklahoma (-14.5) at 24 Baylor
Oklahoma has a tough task at hand to try and stay in the BCS Championship picture. Thanks to losses from Stanford and Boise last week, the Sooners remained relevant in the title chase. They head to Waco to face RG3 and Baylor on Saturday. Oklahoma has never lost to Baylor, but this could be the year. This is Baylor's most talented team since joining the Big 12 and the Sooners could be looking ahead to Bedlam. I don't think Baylor gets them this year, but they will put a scare into Sooner Nation.

Prediction - Oklahoma 42 Baylor 31

Mississippi St. (+13.5) at 6 Arkansas
Many people don't realize it, but Arkansas is actually very much alive in the SEC race and potentially even the National Championship race. The Hogs would need a lot to go their way, but it is not completely unfathomable that they could play in the BCS National Championship Game. They must take care of business on Saturday first. They host a Mississippi State squad that has underachieved this year. The Bulldogs were ranked to begin the year but are just 5-5 on the year. They should drop to 5-6 this week.

Prediction - Arkansas 35 Mississippi St. 17

Cal (+19.5) at 7 Stanford
Stanford saw their National Championship dreams dashed last week, as Oregon came into their house and ran all over them. It was their 1st loss in 17 games. Now they have to try to bounce back against their bitter rival, Cal in what is simply know as The Big Game. Andrew Luck needs a big performance to reestablish himself as the Heisman favorite. I fully anticipate Luck to put up big numbers.

Prediction - Stanford 38 Cal 17

8 Clemson (-7.5) at NC State
Clemson has already sewed up a spot in the ACC Championship game. It may be easy for Dabo Swinney's team to overlook this one. But that's no how Dabo's team rolls this year. This Clemson team is different from those of years past. The Tigers got a scare from wake last week, but pulled it out in the end. NC State is a team that has underachieved to an extent this season. They are another team that is just looking to become bowl eligible. They won;t accomplish that feat this week.

Prediction - Clemson 30 NC State 20

North Carolina (+10.5) at 9 Virginia Tech
The Hokies could clinch the spot opposite Clemson in the ACC Championship with a win and a Virginia loss this weekend. North Carolina looked like they were going to be a factor in the ACC race earlier in the season, but have played poorly of late. Frank Beamer always has his team ready to play. I expect them to be even more prepared for this one because they don't want the finale versus Virginia to be for all the marbles.

Prediction - Virginia Tech 28 North Carolina 16

SMU (+19.5) at 10 Houston
Houston has hit the big time. They have reached the Top 10 in the rankings, and now they welcome College Gameday to town for the 1st time ever. With Boise State's loss last week, it is very possible that the Cougars find themselves in a BCS game at the end of the regular season. They play host to their C-USA rival, SMU this week. The Mustangs will be given the duty of stopping Case Keenum. Keenum is ona mission and should keep the Cougars undefeated this week.

Prediction - Houston 48 SMU 28

11 Boise St. (-18.5) at San Diego St.
Boise lost in stunning fashion to TCU on the blue turf last week. Needing an extra point to tie the game, the Horned Frogs elected to go for 2 and punched it in for a 36-35 lead. It was a bad case of deja vu for the Broncos when they saw a potential game-winning FG sail outside the uprights to end their undefeated season for the 2nd straight year. They need to bounce back in San Diego against the Aztecs this week. Boise doesn't lose consecutive games.

Prediction - Boise St. 42 San Diego St. 21

12 Nebraska (+3.5) at 17 Michigan
This is the type of matchup that the Big Ten had in mind when they decided to offer Nebraska a spot in the Big Ten conference. Two traditional powers meet in the Big House on Saturday. Both teams need some help in order to overtake Michigan State in the Legends Division, but both are still alive to play in the inaugural Big Ten Championship. These teams are very similar and will probably come down to whose QB plays better. I'm taking Denard Robinson to outduel Taylor Martinez.

Prediction - Michigan 28 Nebraska 23

Indiana (+28.5) at 13 Michigan St.
It is possible that Michigan State could clinch a spot in the Big Ten Championship on Saturday. If they take care of business against lowly Indiana, the Spartan fans will be pulling for their in-state rivals Michigan. If Sparty wins and Michigan can knock off Nebraska, Michigan State will be Legends Division champs. The Hoosiers have been dreadful this year, so I don't foresee an issue with MSU holding up their end.

Prediction - Michigan St. 45 Indiana 13

The Citadel (NL) at 14 South Carolina
South Carolina concluded their SEC schedule last week with a 6-2 record in the conference. Unfortunately for them, their SEC title fate lies in the hands of Kentucky. They must depend on the Wildcats to pull a big upset of Georgia to get South Carolina in the SEC Championship for the 2nd consecutive year. Nonetheless, the Gamecocks should have an opportunity to get their struggling offense on track against FCS The Citadel.

Prediction - South Carolina 42 The Citadel 6

Kentucky (+30.5) at 15 Georgia
Everyone was calling for Mark Richt's head after Georgia began the season 0-2. Now the Bulldogs have reeled off 8 straight wins and are a win over Kentucky from representing the SEC East in the SEC Championship. Aaron Murray is throwing the excellently and has this offense clicking on all cylinders. Kentucky will not stand in their way to Atlanta.

Prediction - Georgia 48 Kentucky 14

16 Wisconsin (-14.5) at Illinois
When Wisconsin lost to Michigan State and Ohio State in back to back weeks, their chances at a Big Ten title looked bleak. Now here they are in control of their own destiny. With wins over Illinois and Penn State to finish the season, the Badgers will punch a ticket to Indianapolis. Illinois on the other hand, has lost 4 in a row since beginning the year 6-0. I think the bleeding will continue for the Illini.

Prediction - Wisconsin 34 Illinois 17

18 Kansas St. (+9.5) at Texas
K-State bounced back from losses to the Oklahoma schools, by winning a thrilling 4OT game against Texas A&M. Bill Snyder's team knows how to win games. They haven't beaten every team on their schedule that isn't contending for a National Championship. They head to Austin this week, to face a Longhorns team that struggled mightily at Missouri this week. Injuries are standing in Texas' way, and it could be a difficult finish to the season for Mack Brown.

Prediction - Kansas St. 28 Texas 21

19 Penn St. (+6.5) at Ohio St.
The road to Indy stays tough for Penn State. In the wake of the Jerry Sandusky scandal, and the firing of Joe Paterno, the Nittany Lions are facing their 3 toughest Big Ten games of the season. A week after losing to Nebraska in an emotional game, they head to Columbus where they have won only once since joining the conference. The Buckeyes have struggled this year, but I just don't see how Penn State maintains focus and goes on the road to win this game.

Predciction - Ohio St. 17 Penn St. 10

Colorado St. (+32.5) at 20 TCU
This could be a sweet farewell to the Mountain West for TCU. They went into Boise and did what no other team has been able to do in almost a decade, and that is beat Boise State on their own turf. A 36-35 TCU win gives them complete control in their final season in the Mountain West. Casey Pachall has been on fire lately, and he should be able to slice up the Colorado State defense.

Prediction - TCU 41 Colorado St. 17

21 Southern Miss (-23.5) at UAB
Southern Miss just barely escaped the upset bid of UCF last week, keeping their win streak in tact with a 30-29 victory. They can clinch a spot in the Conference USA Championship with a win this week. A win would also give them 10 wins for the 1st time since Brett Favre was enrolled there. UAB has had a bad season, but a win here could ease some of their pain. I don;t see it happening though.

Prediction - Southern Miss 41 UAB 21

Virginia (+17.5) at 22 Florida St.
Florida State is the ranked team in this matchup, but Virginia is the team that controls their own destiny in the ACC. FSU finds themselves in the rankings for the 1st time since a mid-season slump saw them drop 3 in a row. Virginia has surprised many this year getting to 7-3. With wins in their last 2 games they will find themselves playing in the ACC Championship for the 1st time. That won;t be easy, as the Seminoles have found their groove.

Prediction - Florida St. 31 Virginia 21

Boston College (+24.5) at 23 Notre Dame
Notre Dame is another historically rich school that has gotten back into the Top 25 after a long layoff. The Irish have been playing outstanding football and now they welcome fellow Catholic school, Boston College, into South Bend. BC has struggled mightily this year and it won;t get easier this week. Look for Notre Dame to dominate their 2nd consecutive ACC school after thumping Maryland last week.

Prediction - Notre Dame 37 Boston College 10

25 Cincinnati (-3) at Rutgers
Surprisingly, this a huge game in the Big East race. Cincinnati lost their 1st conference game of the season last week to WVU, but they remain in 1st in the awful Big East. Rutgers has just 2 conference losses and are off to a 7-3 start. Cincy lost Zach Callaros last week, but they have other weapons, mainly Isaiah Pead. The Bearcats will look to use a power running game a stingy D to establish complete control in the Big East.

Prediction - Cincinnati 24 Rutgers 17

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

NCAA Football Top 25 - Week 12

Week 11
1. LSU (10-0) W WKU 42-9
2. Stanford (9-1) L Ore 30-53
3. Oklahoma St. (10-0) W TT 66-6
4. Alabama (9-1) W Miss St 24-7
5. Boise St. (8-1) L TCU 35-36
6. Oregon (9-1) W Stan 53-30
7. Oklahoma (8-1) Idle
8. Arkansas (9-1) W Tenn 49-7
9. Clemson (9-1) W Wake 31-28
10. Virginia Tech (9-1) W GT 37-26
11. Houston (10-0) W Tulane 73-17
12. Penn St. (8-2) L Neb 14-17
13. Nebraska (8-2) W PSU 17-14
14. Michigan St. (8-2) W Iowa 37-21
15. South Carolina (8-2) W Fla 17-12
16. Georgia (8-2) W Aub 45-7
17. Wisconsin (8-2) W Minn 42-13
18. Cincinnati (7-2) L WVU 21-24
19. Texas (6-3) L Mizz 5-17
20. Michigan (8-2) W Ill 31-14
21. Kansas St. (8-2) W TAM 53-50 4OT
22. Georgia Tech (7-3) L VT 26-37
23. TCU (8-2) W Boise 36-35
24. Southern Miss (9-1) W UCF 30-29
25. Auburn (6-4) L UGA 7-45

Ohio St. (6-4) L Pur 23-26 OT
Florida St. (7-3) W Mia 23-19
Notre Dame (7-3) W Md 45-21
Arizona St. (6-4) L WSU 27-37
Iowa (6-4) L MSU 21-37
Baylor (6-3) W Kan 31-30 OT
West Virginia (7-3) W Cin 24-21
Illinois (6-4) L Mich 14-31
Virginia (7-3) W Duke 31-21
Washington (6-4) L USC 17-40
 
 
Week 12
1. LSU
2. Oklahoma St.
3. Alabama
4. Oregon
5. Oklahoma
6. Arkansas
7. Stanford
8. Clemson
9. Virginia Tech
10. Houston
11. Boise St.
12. Nebraska
13. Michigan St.
14. South Carolina
15. Georgia
16. Wisconsin
17. Michigan
18. Kansas St.
19. Penn St.
20. TCU
21. Southern Miss
22. Florida St.
23. Notre Dame
24. Baylor
25. Cincinnati

Texas
West Virginia
Georgia Tech
Virginia
Auburn
Rutgers
BYU
Tulsa
Ohio St.
Utah
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

2012 NCAA Tournament Projections

East Regional - Boston

Greensboro
1 Duke vs. 16 Weber St./Mississippi Valley St.
8 Notre Dame vs. 9 Arkansas

Portland
5 Texas vs. 12 VCU
4 Wisconsin vs. 13 Utah St.

Nashville
6 Xavier vs. 11 Illinois
3 Florida vs. 14 North Texas

Columbus
7 Texas A&M vs. 10 Creighton
2 Louisville vs. 15 Boston U

East Regional - Round of 32

Greensboro
1 Duke vs. 8 Notre Dame

Portland
4 Wisconsin vs. 5 Texas

Nashville
3 Florida vs. 6 Xavier

Columbus
2 Louisville vs. 10 Creighton

East Regional - Sweet 16

1 Duke vs. 4 Wisconsin
2 Louisville vs. 6 Xavier

East Regional - Elite 8

2 Louisville vs. 4 Wisconsin

South Regional - Atlanta

Greensboro
1 North Carolina vs. McNeese St./Tennessee St.
8 West Virginia vs. 9 Temple

Portland
5 Marquette vs. 12 Cal
4 Gonzaga vs. 13 Iona

Nashville
6 Missouri vs. 11 Miami
3 Pittsburgh vs. 14 Kent St.

Louisville
7 Purdue vs. 10 New Mexico
2 Vanderbilt vs. 15 Oral Roberts

South Regional - Round of 32

Greensboro
1 North Carolina vs. 9 Temple

Portland
5 Marquette vs. 13 Iona

Nashville
3 Pittsburgh vs. 6 Missouri

Louisville
2 Vanderbilt vs. 7 Purdue

South Regional - Sweet 16

1 North Carolina vs. 5 Marquette
2 Vanderbilt vs. 6 Missouri

South Regional - Elite 8

1 North Carolina vs. 2 Vanderbilt

Midwest Regional - St. Louis

Louisville
1 Kentucky vs. 16 UNC-Asheville
8 Cincinnati vs. 9 Butler

Albuquerque
5 Michigan vs. 12 George Mason/Marshall
4 Baylor vs. 13 Harvard

Omaha
6 Arizona vs. 11 Drexel
3 Michigan St. vs. 14 Davidson

Columbus
7 Alabama vs. 10 UNLV
2 UConn vs. 15 Bucknell

Midwest Regional - Round of 32

Louisville
1 Kentucky vs. 8 Cincinnati

Albuquerque
4 Baylor vs. 5 Michigan

Omaha
3 Michigan St. vs. 11 Drexel

Columbus
2 UConn vs. 10 UNLV

Midwest Regional - Sweet 16

1 Kentucky vs. 4 Baylor
2 UConn vs. 3 Michigan St.

Midwest Regional - Elite 8

1 Kentucky vs. 3 Michigan St.

West Regional - Phoenix

Pittsburgh
1 Ohio St. vs. 16 Hampton
8 Florida St. vs. 9 St. John's

Albuquerque
5 UCLA vs. 12 San Diego St./BYU
4 Villanova vs. 13 Belmont

Omaha
6 Memphis vs. 11 Virginia
3 Kansas vs. 14 Long Beach St.

Pittsburgh
7 Washington vs. 10 St. Mary's
2 Syracuse vs. 15 Long Island

West Regional - Round of 32

Pittsburgh
1 Ohio St. vs. 8 Florida St.

Albuquerque
5 UCLA vs. 13 Belmont

Omaha
3 Kansas vs. 6 Memphis

Pittsburgh
2 Syracuse vs. 7 Washington

West Regional - Sweet 16

1 Ohio St. vs. 13 Belmont
2 Syracuse vs. 6 Memphis

West Regional - Elite 8

1 Ohio St. vs. 6 Memphis

2012 Final Four - New Orleans

1 North Carolina vs. 1 Ohio St.
1 Kentucky vs. 2 Louisville

2012 National Championship - New Orleans

1 Kentucky vs. 1 Ohio St.

The Ohio State Buckeyes are my pick to win the National Championship. They were fortunate that Jared Sullinger returned for his Sophomore season and he will team up with William Buford and Aaron Craft to form a terrific trio. North Carolina is loaded, but I'm not sure that they have a bona fide leader. Kentucky has their annual McDonald's All-American team but they will lack leadership as well. That is why I'm giving the nod to the Buckeyes to help some of the faithful in Columbus forget about the football season.

Saturday, November 12, 2011

2011-2012 NCAA Basketball Preview

College hoops tipped off this week as many of the teams around the country got underway. The week culminated with the historical Carrier Classic last night, where North Carolina and Michigan State played outdoors on the USS Carl Vinson on a Navy base in San Diego. That was just one historical event in what is sure to be a memorable season. All eyes will be on NCAA Basketball this year as the NBA is stuck in a lockout. Below is how I see the season shaking out, with complete predictions for the 6 power conferences and NCAA Tournament team listed for the other conferences. (Bold indicates an NCAA Tournament team)

ACC
1. North Carolina
2. Duke
3. Florida St.
4. Virginia
5. Miami
6. Virginia Tech
7. Clemson
8. Boston College
9. Maryland
10. Georgia Tech
11. NC State
12. Wake Forest

Big East
1. Syracuse
2. UConn
3. Louisville
4. Pittsburgh
5. Villanova
6. Marquette
7. Cincinnati
8. Notre Dame
9. West Virginia
10. St. John's
11. Georgetown
12. Seton Hall
13. Rutgers
14. Providence
15. South Florida
16. DePaul

Big 12
1. Kansas
2. Baylor
3. Texas
4. Missouri
5. Texas A&M
6. Kansas St.
7. Oklahoma St.
8. Texas Tech
9. Iowa St.
10. Oklahoma

Big 10
1. Ohio St.
2. Michigan St.
3. Wisconsin
4. Michigan
5. Purdue
6. Illinois
7. Minnesota
8. Indiana
9. Northwestern
10. Nebraska
11. Penn St.
12. Iowa

Pac-12
1. UCLA
2. Arizona

3. Washington
4. Cal
5. Oregon
6. USC
7. Oregon St.
8. Washington St.
9. Stanford
10. Colorado
11. Utah
12. Arizona St.

SEC
1. Kentucky
2. Vanderbilt
3. Florida
4. Alabama
5. Arkansas
6. Mississippi St.
7. Tennessee
8. Georgia
9. Ole Miss
10. South Carolina
11. LSU
12. Auburn

Conference USA
1. Memphis
2. Marshall

Atlantic-10
1. Xavier
2. Temple

Mountain West
1. New Mexico
2. UNLV
3. San Diego St.

Colonial
1. Drexel
2. VCU
3. George Mason

West Coast
1. Gonzaga
2. St. Mary's
3. BYU

America East
1. Boston U

Atlantic Sun
1. Belmont

Big Sky
Weber St.

Big South
1. UNC-Asheville

Big West
1. Long Beach St.

Horizon
1. Butler

Ivy
1. Harvard

MAAC
1. Iona

MAC
1. Kent St.

MEAC
1. Hampton

MVC
1. Creighton

NEC
1. Long Island

OVC
1. Tennessee St.

Patriot
1. Bucknell

SoCon
1. Davidson

Southland
1. McNeese St.

Summit
1. Oral Roberts

Sun Belt
1. North Texas

SWAC
1. Mississippi Valley St.

WAC
1. Utah St.

Thursday, November 10, 2011

NFL - Week 10 Predictions

Ringer's Record
Last Week ATS: 8-6
Last Week SU: 7-7

Season ATS: 66-63-1 (51%)
Season SU: 87-43 (73%)

Oakland (+7.5) at San Diego
The winner of this game will have at least a share of 1st in the AFC West. Despite being on top of the division, neither of these teams have been playing well of late. Sand Diego has lost their last 3, and Oakland has lost their last 2. Something has got to give in this Thursday night battle in Southern California. This game could come down to the QB play. Phillip Rivers has struggled mightily all year, as has Carson Palmer since joining the Raiders. I have the Chargers winning a close game to end their losing skid and continue Oakland's.

Prediction - San Diego 26 Oakland 20

New Orleans (-1.5) at Atlanta
This is another game that will give the winner a spot on top of the division. This time in the NFC South. New Orleans has been wildly inconsistent in their 6-3 start. Which Saints team will show up this week? Atlanta started the season slowly, but they are now searching for their 4th straight win. The Falcons are confident that they have their season back on track. They get the Saints in the friendly confines of the Georgia Dome. That is why I like Atlanta to take over the lead in the NFC South.

Prediction - Atlanta 28 New Orleans 24

Tennessee (+3.5) at Carolina
Cam Newton has said recently that he thinks his rookie year is a failure to this point. He says this due to the Panthers 2-6 record. Newton has been spectacular though despite his team only having 2 wins on the year. expect more wins to finish the season. They play host to Tennessee on Sunday. The Titans were once thought to be competitors in the AFC South, but they look to be fading quickly. I like the Panthers to start off the 2nd half of the year with a W.

Prediction - Carolina 26 Tennessee 21

Pittsburgh (-3.5) at Cincinnati
Has anybody realized that the Pittsburgh Steelers currently reside in 3rd place in the AFC North? That is because they trail Baltimore and Cincinnati. The Bengals have been one of the best stories in the entire NFL. Marvin Lewis has his team playing terrific defense, and they have gotten stellar play from the duo of Andy Dalton and AJ Green on offense. Those rookies will face their stiffest test to date against Pittsburgh. the Bengals may be for real, but they will have to prove it another week.

Prediction - Pittsburgh 24 Cincinnati 17

St. Louis (+3.5) at Cleveland
This game has stinker written all over it. St. Louis and Cleveland are undoubtedly 2 of the worst teams in the NFL. The Rams come in at 1-7 and the Browns are 3-5 and playing much worse than their record indicates. Neither offense has any playmakers. Both defenses give up huge chunks of running yards. Cleveland will need to pass the ball to win and keep Steven Jackson out of the end zone. This sure isn't like the college days when Colt McCoy and Sam Bradford  would square off. Give me Colt at home in a doozy.

Prediction - Cleveland 19 St. Louis 16

Buffalo (+5.5) at Dallas
When I see these teams against each other on the schedule I still think back to their Super Bowl battles in the early 90s. Unfortunately for Buffalo they haven't been back to a Super Bowl since their last meeting with Dallas, while the Cowboys went 2 years later and haven;t been back since. The Bills need a win here to prove to themselves and others that they are going to make a run at the playoffs. As do the Cowboys. Dallas gets Buffalo in "Jerry's World" so I like the Cowboys to move above .500.

Prediction - Dallas 26 Buffalo 17

Jacksonville (-3.5) at Indianapolis
This is definitely the Colts best chance to get a win this season. Both of these teams are bad. The Jags have been playing with much more heart though, and still have one of the league's premier runners in Maurice Jones-Drew. Jacksonville is 0-4 on the road this year, so someone will get their 1st win of some variety. Indy has just looked far too dreadful for me to pick them again until I have reason to. Give me the Jags to get a rare victory in Indianapolis.

Prediction - Jacksonville 23 Indianapolis 17

Denver (+3.5) at Kansas City
It is hard to believe that the Denver Broncos are just 1 game out of 1st place in the AFC West. It is also hard to believe that despite playing unbelievably poorly in half of their 8 games, Kansas City is tied at the top of the division at the moment. Time Tebow has revitalized the Broncos and lead them to a 2-1 record with him under center. But he hasn't played in this rivalry game at this stadium. Arrowhead will give Tebow trouble, and the Chiefs will find a way to get it done.

Prediction - Kansas City 23 Denver 17

Washington (+3.5) at Miami
It's the John Beck bowl! Not really, but Beck has managed to go winless as a starter for each of these teams throughout his career. Beck currently plays for the Redskins, who have been brutal since starting the year 3-1. Miami got off the schnide last week by dominating Kansas City. The Dolphins return home where they haven't fared well in recent years. I think Miami rides the momentum of last week and will now get their 1st home win of the year.

Prediction - Miami 24 Washington 17

Arizona (+14.5) at Philadelphia
This was a much anticipated game when the lockout ended and the Eagles dealt Kevin Kolb to Arizona. Many thought that Kolb would go to Arizona and get the Cardinals back into playoff contention. Meanwhile, the Eagles would be soaring through the regular season on their way to a Super Bowl run. Well everyone who thought that was wrong. Instead Kolb is injured and probably won't play as the Cards come in at 2-6. The Eagles have a 3-5 mark and will need to play impeccable football to have a shot at making the playoffs.

Prediction - Philadelphia 28 Arizona 13

Houston (-3.5) at Tampa Bay
Houston is getting contributions from every aspect of their team. They have a dangerous passing game, dominating running game, and hard-hitting defense. You put that all together and you get a team that is very likely to win their division. In Houston's case it would be their 1st playoff appearance in team history. They will play at Tampa Bay on Sunday. The Bucs have been very hot and cold, and will need to be hot if they want to beat a very good Texans team. I don't see it happening.

Prediction - Houston 30 Tampa Bay 21

Baltimore (-7.5) at Seattle
The Ravens got a last second victory over their hated rivals in Pittsburgh last week. That gave Baltimore the season sweep and the inside track to home-field advantage in the AFC. They have had a let down before though. Remember the game at Jacksonville. That is what I fear in this game. Seattle has no business playing with Baltimore. But then again they should have never beat the Giants either. Will there be a case of deja vu for either team? Not this time.

Prediction - Baltimore 28 Seattle 7

Detroit (+3.5) at Chicago
This is a critical game in the NFC playoff race. With Green Bay off to an 8-0 start, these teams are in all likelihood playing for a Wild Card berth. A Chicago win means that both teams stand at 6-3 with 7 games to play. A Detroit win means they have a 2-game lead on the Bears. Chicago hasn't lost a game since the Lions beat them in Detroit a month ago. This should be a very tight game. I will give the Bears a slight advantage because they will be playing outdoors in the Windy City.

Prediction - Chicago 21 Detroit 20

NY Giants (+3.5) at San Francisco
There is a great chance that one of these teams is the 2nd beat team in the NFC behind Green Bay. Nobody saw a 7-1 start coming from the 49ers. Jim Harbaugh has them playing tough hard-nosed football, depending on the running game and defense. The Giants have been getting their wins with a dominating defensive line, elite QB, and key fill-ins in the secondary. Eli will need to continue his stellar play for the Giants to travel cross country and win here. The G-Men keep it close but lose in the end.

Prediction - San Francisco 21 NY Giants 19

New England (+1.5) at NY Jets
This is what I'm talking about. Sunday Night Football will air one of the league's biggest rivalries for the 2nd week in a row. Rex Ryan's squad will want to kick New England while they're down. The Patriots have lost 2 straight and enter this game as an underdog. New England and the Jets are 2 teams heading in opposite directions. The Patriots have had trouble keeping Tom Terrific clean, so you can bet the Jets will be coming after him. I can't believe I'm taking New England to lose their 3rd in a row but I am.

Prediction - NY Jets 23 New England 16

Minnesota (+13.5) at Green Bay
As I gave out my mid-season awards earlier this week, Aaron Rodgers was the unquestioned MVP. He is without a doubt the best QB in the NFL right now. He has this Green Bay offense playing at a sky-high level. Unfortunately for the Packers, their defense has been shaky all year. That D has the task of stopping the league's best RB in Adrian Peterson. The Vikings don't have much else to pair with AP, however. Green Bay will score lots of points and Minnesota won't keep up as the Packers move to 9-0.

Prediction - Green Bay 35 Minnesota 20 

NCAA Football - Week 11 Predictions

Ringer's Record
Last Week ATS: 14-4
Last Week SU: 14-4

Season ATS: 113-73 (61%)
Season SU: 160-35 (82%)

Western Kentucky (+41.5) at 1 LSU
The LSU Tigers can finally take a deep breath. They have survived every gauntlet thrown at them to this point in the season, and currently stand at #1 because of it. LSU won a slugfest in Tuscaloosa last weekend, beating Alabama 9-6 in OT. This week they return home to face Western Kentucky. Les Miles and his crew will have no problem disposing of the Hilltoppers and will be 1 week closer to playing in the BCS National Championship game.

Prediction - LSU 44 Western Kentucky 10

6 Oregon (+3.5) at 2 Stanford
This is without a doubt the game of the week. Oregon heads to Stanford in a game with Pac-12, and more importantly National Championship implications. Stanford's only loss of the season in 2010 came at the hands of Oregon, as the Ducks rolled to the BCS National Championship game. The Cardinal have revenge on their minds. Everyone knows that reads this blog knows that I have rolled with Stanford every week, and until they give me a reason not to I am sticking with that.

Prediction - Stanford 34 Oregon 30

3 Oklahoma St. (-17.5) at Texas Tech
When the BCS rankings came out on Sunday, the Oklahoma State Cowboys saw themselves appear at #2. Despite being ranked 3rd in my poll, the Pokes appear to control their own destiny in terms of the National Championship game hunt. They go into Lubbock to play a Texas Tech team that has seen the wheels fall off over the last 2 weeks. After a monumental upset of Oklahoma, the Red Raiders have been blown out in consecutive weeks. Look for that streak to continue.

Prediction - Oklahoma St. 45 Texas Tech 24

4 Alabama (-17.5) at Mississippi St.
Alabama suffered a heartbreaking loss last week at the hands of LSU that could have dashed their National Championship hopes. But there is still hope in Tuscaloosa. The Crimson Tide actually ranked #3 in the BCS standings, ahead of an undefeated Stanford. They are unlikely to remain ahead of Stanford should they beat Oregon, but still have a decent chance of creeping back into the top 2 of the BCS by season's end. They obviously need a win in Starkville to keep the dream alive. They win this week, but won't cover.

Prediction - Alabama 30 Mississippi St. 17

23 TCU (+15.5) at 5 Boise St.
This is the game that everyone wanted to see when Boise State decided to join the Mountain West. Unfortunately this is the only time that the schools will meet as conference foes as TCU prepares to join the Big 12 next season. These 2 schools have been the top teams not playing in a BCS conference over the last 5 years. They are both making their mark this year as well. Boise seems unlikely to make an appearance in the BCS title game, but a win here could go a long way in keeping their hopes up.

Prediction - Boise St. 42 TCU 25

Tennessee (+13.5) at 8 Arkansas
All of the talk in the SEC has revolved around LSU and Alabama this season. There is another school that has been hanging around the Top 10 all year. That school is Arkansas. The Razorbacks host a struggling Tennessee squad this week. The Vols need a win just to help get them bowl eligible. Arkansas has played down to its competition at points, and with a looming game with #1 LSU in a couple weeks, the Hogs could overlook this one. I don;t think Tennessee has the talent to hang around though.

Prediction - Arkansas 35 Tennessee 17

Wake Forest (+16.5) at 9 Clemson
Clemson returns to the field for the 1st time since suffering their only loss of the year at Georgia Tech. They welcome Wake Forest into Death Valley. Both of these teams have been a surprise this season. Clemson was expected to be talented, but nobody saw a lengthy run at a BCS title. Wake on the other hand was expected to be at or near the bottom of the ACC, and Jim Grobe has his team 1 win shy of bowl eligibility. Expect Clemson to win this game, but the Demon Deacons won't make it easy.

Prediction - Clemson 34 Wake Forest 24

10 Virginia Tech (-1.5) at 22 Georgia Tech
The winner of this game will have the inside track to winning the ACC Coastal and playing in the ACC Championship. The Hokies have not been overly impressive this year, but have continued to win and find themselves in the Top 10. Georgia Tech rolled through the 1st half of their schedule before suffering back to back setbacks. They bounced back in a big way by beating a highly ranked Clemson squad that handed Va Tech their only loss. This should be a close one, but the Hokies will do what they do best - win.

Prediction - Virginia Tech 24 Georgia Tech 21

11 Houston (-33.5) at Tulane
The Houston Cougars are on the cusp of reaching the Top 10 of any poll for the 1st time in decades. They have been lead there by the stellar play of QB Case Keenum. Keenum leads his team into New Orleans to take on Tulane this week. Houston is 1 of only 5 teams in the country yet to lose. Tulane does not pose much of a threat. the Cougars should remain perfect for at least another week.

Prediction - Houston 48 Tulane 21

13 Nebraska (-3.5) at 12 Penn St.
Where do I begin? It has been a sad, sad week in Happy Valley. After reports of a sexual abuse scandal broke involving former Defensive Coordinator Jerry Sandusky on Saturday, the Pennsylvania State University has been in complete disarray. There has been days of speculation about what is going to happen to Joe Paterno for not reporting Sandusky to authorities. It all came to a head tonight when Joe Paterno was fired after 46 years of head coach. There is no way the Nittany Lions are ready to play on Saturday.

Prediction - Nebraska 28 Penn St. 17

14 Michigan St. (-2.5) at Iowa
This game has huge Big Ten Championship implications. They are the only 2 teams in the Legends Division that control their own destiny. Michigan State was the clear favorite a couple weeks ago, then they got waxed in Lincoln. They bounced back with a win last week, but had to hang on for dear life against a bad Minnesota team. Iowa on the other hand was left for dead in the Big Ten landscape. After a big win versus Michigan last week, they are right in the thick of things. They will remain there with another win.

Prediction - Iowa 26 Michigan St. 24

Florida (+3.5) at 15 South Carolina
The Ol' Ball Coach welcomes his alma mater into Columbia desperately needing a victory to stay alive in the SEC Championship race. South Carolina needs to win and hope for a Georgia loss in order to have any say in who represents the SEC East in the title game. Florida has lost their last 8 games to ranked opponents. They still need another win just to get to bowl eligibility. I expect their losing streak to ranked teams to extend to 9.

Prediction - South Carolina 24 Florida 17

25 Auburn (+13.5) at 16 Georgia
The Georgia Bulldogs are in complete control of the SEC East, and could inch closer to the SEC Championship Game with a win over the defending SEC and National champions, Auburn. This seemed unlikely after Georgia began the year 0-2 and there were calls for Mark Richt's job. After 7 straight wins, Georgia is feeling good again. That good feeling could come to an end when they face a very talented Auburn team. Auburn won't make anyone think it's last year's team, but they are good and could scare Georgia.

Prediction - Georgia 31 Auburn 23

17 Wisconsin (-27.5) at Minnesota
Wisconsin has dominated this so-called "rivalry" game over the past decade. It doesn't appear that anything will change this year. The Badgers have struggled on the road, losing games at Michigan State and Ohio State. Of course those teams are much better than the Gophers. Although Minnesota nearly upset Sparty last weekend and did upset Iowa 2 weekends ago. I don't see them pulling any sort of upset this week.

Prediction - Wisconsin 44 Minnesota 14

West Virginia (+3.5) at 18 Cincinnati
Coming into the season, West Virginia was the clear favorite to win the Big East. After 2 Big East losses, it appears that the Mountaineers may be forced to play the role of spoiler. Surprisingly, it is Cincinnati who is in control of the Big East race. The Bearcats have made a habit out of coming back to win. They may not want to fall behind to this explosive WVU offense. At any rate West Virginia has just been too inconsistent and too bad defensively for me to pick them here.

Prediction - Cincinnati 33 West Virginia 27

19 Texas (-1.5) at Missouri
The Texas Longhorns have bounced back nicely this season, coming into this week's contest at 6-2 and bowl eligible again after missing out on bowl season a year ago. Missouri could be this year's Texas. Mizzou was expected to be a darkhorse in the Big 12 title race, but instead they find themselves needing 2 more wins to become a bowl team. Both of these teams like to run the ball, and the team that does a better job of that on Saturday will win.

Prediction - Texas 27 Missouri 22

20 Michigan (-1.5) at Illinois
Both of these teams have been somewhat exposed over the last few weeks. Each of them have been ranked in the Top 15 at different points in the season. I don't think that either one of them are legitimately 1 of the 15 best teams in the country. We will find out who is the better of the 2 this week. Denard Robinson has lost some Heisman luster much like he did at the end of last season. He needs a big game and a win against the Illini if he wants any chance to be invited to New York. Don't look for him in the Big Apple.

Prediction - Illinois 28 Michigan 27

Texas A&M (-4.5) at 21 Kansas St.
K-State is looking to rebound after consecutive losses to the Oklahoma schools in the Big 12. The Wildcats have nothing to hang their head about as both of those schools rank in the Top 10. They will be hosting Texas A&M this week. The Aggies were expected to be a Top 10 this year, but have lost 4 games including 2 to the Oklahoma schools. This is an opportunity for K-State to prove they truly are a very good team. I expect them to take advantage of the opportunity.

Prediction - Kansas St. 33 Texas A&M 28

Central Florida (+8.5) at 24 Southern Miss
Southern Miss has made an appearance in the Top 25. They are actually the 2nd Conference USA team to appear in the rankings. Many thought that if there were going to be any Conference USA teams making the Top 25, that it would be Central Florida. UCF has had a difficult time this year. It gets more difficult on Saturday when they travel to Hattiesburg. Look for Southern Miss to remain ranked at week's end.

Prediction - Southern Miss 38 Central Florida 26