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.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
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.
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
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
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
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