Let me put it straight forward for you. In a season of upsets and surprises one thing remains the same Ohio State once agiain made it to the national title game and LSU the preseason number 2 is now in the title game too.
Thanks to who you ask. Well a Missouri Oklahoma game that isn't even worth writing a whole bunch about as the final score ended up being 38-17. Although it was tied 14-14 at half time the Sooners quickly took charge in the second half and ran up the score against the Tigers. Which unfortunately for the Big 12 North leaves them unrepresented in the title game.
West Virginia was also upset by Pitt in the backyard brawl. As Pitt won 13-9. In a game very similar to Oregon's loss to Arizona where Dennis Dixion was out. West Virginia's Pat White left early injured and in result West Virginia's high powered offense wasn't so high powered.
Alright now what you've all been waiting for the Playoff I'll be running on NCAA 08. I'll be announcing the top 16 teams in my poll and in their respective games.
First we'll start with the 8th v. 9th ranked teams...
We have 8. Hawaii who will be hosting the number 9. Florida Gators. My take on the match up a good offensive match up here. But in less Hawaii plays flawless or has some pretty impressive homefield advantage this one won't be a cinderella story.
My prediction: Florida 31 Hawaii 28
7th v. 10th....
7. West Virginia will be playing host to number 10 Kansas. Well nothing more simple to this one then offense v. offense so it seems. But what more can I say both teams had great seasons. Just a bummer neither got to the top.
My prediction: WVU 35 Kansas 27
6th v. 11th....
6. Oklahoma the Big 12 champs will get to play host to a surprising Arizona State Sundevil team. If I was a Sooner I'd watch out for these number 11 Sundevils.
My predicition: Sundevils 19 Sooners 14
5th v. 12 th...
5. Missouri gets to host the shock team this playoff that's right BYU. Who would have thought it eh?
My Predicition: Missouri 38 BYU 20
The last 4 match ups will be announced tomorrow.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Week 13 picks
The ACC Atlantic game is up for grabs
One team is expected to be in this situation as Virginia Tech comes in. But the other is quite the surprise as at 9-2 Virginia has a shot at playing for the ACC championship. Virginia who has been lead by their defense to this point. They also expect to lead them through the game into the ACC championship game against Boston College. Of course we will want to watch out for the Cavalier’s Sewell as he could tuck the ball and run at any point. Also he will be looking for revenge against the Hokies since they have won 3 straight years in this 89 year rivalry. It will take 60 straight minutes of good play for Virginia to win this game, this year.
Beamer and his Hokies plan to keep that from happening though. With “Beamer” ball in play watch out for some impressive special teams. Yet a defense that will be looking to keep Virginia from scoring. As neither team is really prepared for any kind of shoot out. Need less to say the Hokies, or the Cavaliers wouldn’t mind to be able to make this game into a blow out. If either team scores 30 points they win most likely no matter how good either teams offense is, or special teams. A little ACC mix up is perhaps in the making here today?.. Or perhaps the expected looms.
Virginia Tech 21 Virginia 20
115 years of playing have never been this important
If I were asked what was more important the first 115 times these teams have played or this one game, I’d have to say it would be this game. Missouri and Kansas both are in the National title hunt. As either team just has to win here and then beat the Big 12 south opponent in the championship to get into the national title game. Seeing as LSU lost to Arkansas now there is no way either team should or could be counted out. Kansas is 11-0 and looking at their best season in for ever. They also have a shot to be the only BCS team to go undefeated this season. As Hawaii is also undefeated but not a BCS team.
Two of the nation’s top offenses and quarterbacks are coming into this game. As both Daniels and Reesing have thirty touchdowns. Also to many the winning team’s quarterback should be shot up into the Heisman picture. The question remains which teams defense will step up. Kansas’s defense has looked better recently. But can they step up the challenge this week. Neither teams’ offense can really be expected to be totally relied on. Which may give the upper hand to the Tigers as they have deadly return man, Jeremy McLain. If you have a heart condition this may not be the game for you.
Kansas 53 Missouri 49Don’t count the Big East out this week.
Could this be the year. Could this finally be the season that they step up and make it into the national title game. Well plenty in West Virginia hope so. But to do so they’ll have to survive this week against the surprise team of the Big East in Connecticut. Who would like to win the conference. As this game will decide. But can the Huskies keep playing as they have been. Or will this be the year for the Mountaineers. Who haven’t lost since they fell to South Florida. Of course all the pressure is on at home now that LSU fell. A win and they get to keep in the title race a loss and all of the sudden the Buckeyes are sitting in an almost automatic national title spot.
The Huskies hope that their defense which has been playing well will step up and be able to contain Steve Slaton and Pat White. Though U-Conn’s fourth season in the Big East has been amazing, some still say that they’ve been lucky with opponents making mistakes that they cash in on. But the Huskies will have to prove other wise if they want to win this game today. 60 minutes of football separates one of these teams from a Big East Championship. Don’t expect a whole lot in this game, it is just another crazy one.
U-Conn 23 West Virginia 20
One team is expected to be in this situation as Virginia Tech comes in. But the other is quite the surprise as at 9-2 Virginia has a shot at playing for the ACC championship. Virginia who has been lead by their defense to this point. They also expect to lead them through the game into the ACC championship game against Boston College. Of course we will want to watch out for the Cavalier’s Sewell as he could tuck the ball and run at any point. Also he will be looking for revenge against the Hokies since they have won 3 straight years in this 89 year rivalry. It will take 60 straight minutes of good play for Virginia to win this game, this year.
Beamer and his Hokies plan to keep that from happening though. With “Beamer” ball in play watch out for some impressive special teams. Yet a defense that will be looking to keep Virginia from scoring. As neither team is really prepared for any kind of shoot out. Need less to say the Hokies, or the Cavaliers wouldn’t mind to be able to make this game into a blow out. If either team scores 30 points they win most likely no matter how good either teams offense is, or special teams. A little ACC mix up is perhaps in the making here today?.. Or perhaps the expected looms.
Virginia Tech 21 Virginia 20
115 years of playing have never been this important
If I were asked what was more important the first 115 times these teams have played or this one game, I’d have to say it would be this game. Missouri and Kansas both are in the National title hunt. As either team just has to win here and then beat the Big 12 south opponent in the championship to get into the national title game. Seeing as LSU lost to Arkansas now there is no way either team should or could be counted out. Kansas is 11-0 and looking at their best season in for ever. They also have a shot to be the only BCS team to go undefeated this season. As Hawaii is also undefeated but not a BCS team.
Two of the nation’s top offenses and quarterbacks are coming into this game. As both Daniels and Reesing have thirty touchdowns. Also to many the winning team’s quarterback should be shot up into the Heisman picture. The question remains which teams defense will step up. Kansas’s defense has looked better recently. But can they step up the challenge this week. Neither teams’ offense can really be expected to be totally relied on. Which may give the upper hand to the Tigers as they have deadly return man, Jeremy McLain. If you have a heart condition this may not be the game for you.
Kansas 53 Missouri 49Don’t count the Big East out this week.
Could this be the year. Could this finally be the season that they step up and make it into the national title game. Well plenty in West Virginia hope so. But to do so they’ll have to survive this week against the surprise team of the Big East in Connecticut. Who would like to win the conference. As this game will decide. But can the Huskies keep playing as they have been. Or will this be the year for the Mountaineers. Who haven’t lost since they fell to South Florida. Of course all the pressure is on at home now that LSU fell. A win and they get to keep in the title race a loss and all of the sudden the Buckeyes are sitting in an almost automatic national title spot.
The Huskies hope that their defense which has been playing well will step up and be able to contain Steve Slaton and Pat White. Though U-Conn’s fourth season in the Big East has been amazing, some still say that they’ve been lucky with opponents making mistakes that they cash in on. But the Huskies will have to prove other wise if they want to win this game today. 60 minutes of football separates one of these teams from a Big East Championship. Don’t expect a whole lot in this game, it is just another crazy one.
U-Conn 23 West Virginia 20
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Week 12 Poll
McConkey Poll
Week 12
Rob McConkey
Rank Last Week AP Team Record Point Avg.
1 2 1 LSU 10-1 .707
2 3 2 Kansas 11-0 .676
3 5 5 Ohio St. 11-1 .675
4 8 4 West Virginia 9-1 .674
5 6 3 Missouri 10-1 .672
6 1 9 Oregon 8-2 .671
7 4 7 Arizona St. 9-1 .670
8 9 6 Georgia 9-2 .662
9 17 15 Boston College 9-2 .647
10 11 13 Texas 9-2 .645
11 13 12 Florida 8-3 .644
12 10 16 Virginia 9-2 .639
13 14 14 Hawaii 10-0 .638
14 15 8 Virginia Tech 9-2 .638
15 7 10 Oklahoma 9-2 .634
16 16 17 Boise St. 10-1 .627
17 20 19 Tennessee 8-3 .626
18 21 18 Illinois 9-3 .616
19 25 23 BYU 8-2 .613
20 19 20 Connecticut 9-2 .612
21 23 11 USC 8-2 .609
22 12 24 Cincinnati 8-3 .609
23 24 NR south Florida 8-3 .606
24 18 21 Clemson 8-3 .591
25 NR 22 Wisconsin 9-3 .574
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Week 12 in Review
Well two more top 5 teams went down. But to make this more fun for me I'm not going to tell you who yet. Mean while a defensive showdown was brewing in Ann Arbor and perhaps a retirement stewing. While the SEC had a game no one is proud of. Then a thriller in East Lansing and a game that means absolutely nothing in South Bend.
So number 1 LSU had to travel to Ole Miss. This game should definetely be a blow out right? Well the score was in some what in agreement but the offenses weren't. As the Rebels actually managed to out gain the Tigers offensively. But the Tiger's defense would help them keep the Rebels from scoring. In a game that seemed to have potential to develop into a great game. As the scoring started off back and forth for the first quarter as the Tigers jumped out on top 7-0 but then Green's punt return made the score 7-7. From there the Tigers would score the last points of the half. As the score at the end of the first quarter and the first half would be 14-7. Not the easy game we were expecting. Well Tiger fans wouldn't have to worry much longer. As the 2nd half started LSU put together a 54 yard drive for a touchdown adding the score up to 21-7. Then Ole Miss looking to keep this crazy season going along managed to get a field goal but the Tigers wouldn't take long to respond with a field goal of their own before the end of the third quarter. As the differnce remained 14, 24-10. So now Ole Miss was looking to muster some sort of miracle, although hopes were bleak since they are the only remaining SEC team with no shot of becoming bowl eligible. Another long LSU drive would lead to a field goal so now it was 27-10. But not so fast Ole Miss was quick to respond and make it 27-17. Unfortunately for those calling for an upset the Tigers were quick to score too. Making it 34-17 and then although Ole Miss would score so would LSU making the final 41-24. LSU now controls their own destiny for the national title. With two games remaining as they have to play Arkansas who has been a dissapointment with Darren McFadden not the all star he was speculated to be. Then they have either Tennessee or Georgia in the SEC title game. Tennessee just needs to win or Georgia loses for a Tennessee LSU game for the conference title. LSU doesn't have a sure national title shot since either game could result in a loss.
Lets hear about the number 2 team in the nation, Oregon. Well a Thursday night game, and coming off a bye. So Oregon should be able to win this game right? Well they have to get through the loud Arizona fans and the Wildcat's team. Oregon came out looking like a #2 team as they jumped up to a 8-0 lead on a 2 and a half minute, 70 yard drive. But Arizona didn't just leave they responded with a touchdown of their own making the score 8-7. Then with back and forth field goals the score at the end of the first quarter would be 11-10. But then it happened, Oregon quarterback Dennis Dixon went to the turf in pain. A twisted knee costing him a shot at the heisman and even more the rest of the season. The fall of Dixon would turn the tide of the game. As to start the 2nd quarter the Wildcats would pick off the replacement and take it back for a touchdown. Making the score 17-11. But this was only the start in a shocker. Next time the Wildcats touched the ball. A long 46 yard pass which would be run in for a touchdown and a 24-11 lead over the nations number 2 team. This wasn't it either. They would also score another touchdown on a punt return making the score 31-11. Oregon would get a field goal to make it 31-14. But this game was already over or so it seems. In the third Oregon failed to do anything but get a field goal to make it 31-17. But a touchdown with 7 and a half remaining would making the score 31-24. But the Wildcats would control for a majority of the remaining time and kick a field goal and lead us to our final score of 34-24. This would open up the #2 spot for the Big 12 teams.
Kansas? Could they survive the upset minded Cyclones of Iowa State. Well let 45-7 explain it and a 4 touchdown performance by Reesing. Thanks to the the Jayhawks are now 11-0 with their first 11 win season in school history. But could Oklahoma keep pace? With the Big 12 championship coming up surely they wouldn't lose any ground against a team like Texas Tech. After Oklahoma came out and went out on top 7-0 the game really started. But because Sam Bradford went down, sounds like the Oregon Ducks now doesn't it, well the Red Raiders would put up 13 points in the first quarter to make it 13-7. But it really was the Harrell show for Texas Tech, as he would throw the ball over 40 times in the first half. But not in a failing way either as he threw 2 straight touchdowns in the second quarter to make it a 27-7 game and really make it look like it was over. All Oklahoma could do before the half was kick a field goal and make it a 17 point game going into the locker room. But it was really put away in the third quarter as the Red Raiders would score again to make it 34-10. Although the Sooners did manage a field goal before the end of the quarter. So with only fifteen minutes left the Red Raiders just had to hold on to a big 21 point lead for another 15 minutes. But would they be able to do it? Half way through the fourth the Sooners would manage a touchdown to make it 34-20. But the Sooners wouldn't get into the endzone again until there was only 34 seconds left in the game. After that they wouldn't see the endzone again and that would be the difference as the final of this game was 34-27 in favor of the Raiders. Well now their isn't even certainty in the Big 12 championship game. As Missouri and Kansas go head to head next week and then Oklahoma could lose it's bid if it loses to Oklahoma State. What this really opens up for the rest of the nation is for other 1 loss teams. Since now a Big 12 South team could knock off the Big 12 north winner and allow a 1 loss team to jump up. Missouri if you were wondering would beat Kansas State 49-32. Although Kansas State had the lead at one point it really ended up becoming the Chase Daniel show.
So it was that time of year again. When those two teams who hate each other more than anything else get together. They go at it for usually a Big 10 championship. As Michigan and Ohio State had the battle in the Big House this year. In a game that was wet and cold could Michigan's senoirs pull out the win, their last chance. Well in the first quarter it actually seemed like the hope was their the passion. As they put together 40 rushing yards and a few successful drives on way to a 3-0 lead at the end of the first quarter. But then it became the Beenie Wells show. As he would help the Buckeyes score a touchdown to make it 7-3 relatively early in the 2nd quarter. Henne left for a while in the second but when Mallett came in the problems would seem to be gone but then quickly re appear with a sack. So in all honesty an injured Henne and Hart and recievers who weren't giving any help as they weren't able to hold on to a pass at all. Leading to a 7-3 game at the half. Although Michigan would get a pick in Ohio State territory at the end of the first half but un able to connect on the field goal. But then the first time Ohio State touched the ball in the second half they would score a 68 yard rushing touchdown. From that point on Michigan's defense was decisive and knew what they wanted. Unfortunately for the Wolverines they just seemed un able to score anything. As either the recievers dropped the balls or Hart couldn't get any help or Henne got pressured. Leading up to what would end up being a 14-3 final. As Michigan's rushing yardage actually went down through out the last 3 quarters. They also failed to get over 100 yards. So the outcome? Ohio State will be going to the Rose Bowl in less they manage to get enough help to go to the national title. Meanwhile Michigan will either be playing a game in the Citrus, Outback or Alamo bowl. Based on who picks them. Seeing as Illinois has a more impressive win over Ohio State and a better overall record. Then Wisconsin also beat Michigan head on head and then is better at traveling so the Outback may take them. Although Michigan is #2 in the Big Ten they may fall all the way to the Alamo Bowl. The other speculation is that a press conference this upcoming Monday could be to announce Lloyd Carr's retirement. Which would lead some to wonder what next for Michigan. Les Miles? LSU's coach perhaps. Or would it be somebody else... perhaps the Cincinnati coach.
West Virginia would keep the Bearcats of Cincinnati at bay 28-23. Keeping their title hopes alive. With all that has happened they'd be the first to get in if LSU or both Big 12 north teams fall at least it seems.
Then in East Lansing the Spartans got to play Penn State. Although the Spartans went up 7-0 early. They wouldn't manage to keep pace with the Nittany Lions for a while. As the Nittany Lions would score and then score a few more before half to make it 17-7 going into the locker room. Not exactly what Michigan State was looking for with 10 Big 10 teams bowl eligible. They really need this win and they stepped up?? Well Penn State would make a strong point as they would score on a fake field goal to make it 24-7. But from their it really became the Michigan State hurrah. As they would score two straight touchdowns to make it 24-21. But Penn State wasn't done either as they came back and scored a touchdown themselves. Though they looked to have momentum back on their side Michigan State's Caulcrick had other ideas. AS he would help lead the Spartans to a touchdown with 11 minutes left in the game making the score 31-28. But then he would also score a huge touchdown with 4 minutes left in the game making the score 35-31. Well Penn State failed to do anything with the ball the first time they got it. Then they managed to get it back with very little time left in the game. But because the quarterback scrambled and then threw it to the center of the field the time ran out. Giving the Spartans their 7th victory this season 35-31. So results of this one? Well now Michigan State should definetly go to a bowl game. Whether or not it is the Motor City bowl or Insight bowl, or Sun Bowl I'm not sure. Depends on how it shakes out. No matter what it is better than the 2-9 Notre Dame Irish who managed their second win against Duke 28-7.
Poll coming on Tuesday!!
So number 1 LSU had to travel to Ole Miss. This game should definetely be a blow out right? Well the score was in some what in agreement but the offenses weren't. As the Rebels actually managed to out gain the Tigers offensively. But the Tiger's defense would help them keep the Rebels from scoring. In a game that seemed to have potential to develop into a great game. As the scoring started off back and forth for the first quarter as the Tigers jumped out on top 7-0 but then Green's punt return made the score 7-7. From there the Tigers would score the last points of the half. As the score at the end of the first quarter and the first half would be 14-7. Not the easy game we were expecting. Well Tiger fans wouldn't have to worry much longer. As the 2nd half started LSU put together a 54 yard drive for a touchdown adding the score up to 21-7. Then Ole Miss looking to keep this crazy season going along managed to get a field goal but the Tigers wouldn't take long to respond with a field goal of their own before the end of the third quarter. As the differnce remained 14, 24-10. So now Ole Miss was looking to muster some sort of miracle, although hopes were bleak since they are the only remaining SEC team with no shot of becoming bowl eligible. Another long LSU drive would lead to a field goal so now it was 27-10. But not so fast Ole Miss was quick to respond and make it 27-17. Unfortunately for those calling for an upset the Tigers were quick to score too. Making it 34-17 and then although Ole Miss would score so would LSU making the final 41-24. LSU now controls their own destiny for the national title. With two games remaining as they have to play Arkansas who has been a dissapointment with Darren McFadden not the all star he was speculated to be. Then they have either Tennessee or Georgia in the SEC title game. Tennessee just needs to win or Georgia loses for a Tennessee LSU game for the conference title. LSU doesn't have a sure national title shot since either game could result in a loss.
Lets hear about the number 2 team in the nation, Oregon. Well a Thursday night game, and coming off a bye. So Oregon should be able to win this game right? Well they have to get through the loud Arizona fans and the Wildcat's team. Oregon came out looking like a #2 team as they jumped up to a 8-0 lead on a 2 and a half minute, 70 yard drive. But Arizona didn't just leave they responded with a touchdown of their own making the score 8-7. Then with back and forth field goals the score at the end of the first quarter would be 11-10. But then it happened, Oregon quarterback Dennis Dixon went to the turf in pain. A twisted knee costing him a shot at the heisman and even more the rest of the season. The fall of Dixon would turn the tide of the game. As to start the 2nd quarter the Wildcats would pick off the replacement and take it back for a touchdown. Making the score 17-11. But this was only the start in a shocker. Next time the Wildcats touched the ball. A long 46 yard pass which would be run in for a touchdown and a 24-11 lead over the nations number 2 team. This wasn't it either. They would also score another touchdown on a punt return making the score 31-11. Oregon would get a field goal to make it 31-14. But this game was already over or so it seems. In the third Oregon failed to do anything but get a field goal to make it 31-17. But a touchdown with 7 and a half remaining would making the score 31-24. But the Wildcats would control for a majority of the remaining time and kick a field goal and lead us to our final score of 34-24. This would open up the #2 spot for the Big 12 teams.
Kansas? Could they survive the upset minded Cyclones of Iowa State. Well let 45-7 explain it and a 4 touchdown performance by Reesing. Thanks to the the Jayhawks are now 11-0 with their first 11 win season in school history. But could Oklahoma keep pace? With the Big 12 championship coming up surely they wouldn't lose any ground against a team like Texas Tech. After Oklahoma came out and went out on top 7-0 the game really started. But because Sam Bradford went down, sounds like the Oregon Ducks now doesn't it, well the Red Raiders would put up 13 points in the first quarter to make it 13-7. But it really was the Harrell show for Texas Tech, as he would throw the ball over 40 times in the first half. But not in a failing way either as he threw 2 straight touchdowns in the second quarter to make it a 27-7 game and really make it look like it was over. All Oklahoma could do before the half was kick a field goal and make it a 17 point game going into the locker room. But it was really put away in the third quarter as the Red Raiders would score again to make it 34-10. Although the Sooners did manage a field goal before the end of the quarter. So with only fifteen minutes left the Red Raiders just had to hold on to a big 21 point lead for another 15 minutes. But would they be able to do it? Half way through the fourth the Sooners would manage a touchdown to make it 34-20. But the Sooners wouldn't get into the endzone again until there was only 34 seconds left in the game. After that they wouldn't see the endzone again and that would be the difference as the final of this game was 34-27 in favor of the Raiders. Well now their isn't even certainty in the Big 12 championship game. As Missouri and Kansas go head to head next week and then Oklahoma could lose it's bid if it loses to Oklahoma State. What this really opens up for the rest of the nation is for other 1 loss teams. Since now a Big 12 South team could knock off the Big 12 north winner and allow a 1 loss team to jump up. Missouri if you were wondering would beat Kansas State 49-32. Although Kansas State had the lead at one point it really ended up becoming the Chase Daniel show.
So it was that time of year again. When those two teams who hate each other more than anything else get together. They go at it for usually a Big 10 championship. As Michigan and Ohio State had the battle in the Big House this year. In a game that was wet and cold could Michigan's senoirs pull out the win, their last chance. Well in the first quarter it actually seemed like the hope was their the passion. As they put together 40 rushing yards and a few successful drives on way to a 3-0 lead at the end of the first quarter. But then it became the Beenie Wells show. As he would help the Buckeyes score a touchdown to make it 7-3 relatively early in the 2nd quarter. Henne left for a while in the second but when Mallett came in the problems would seem to be gone but then quickly re appear with a sack. So in all honesty an injured Henne and Hart and recievers who weren't giving any help as they weren't able to hold on to a pass at all. Leading to a 7-3 game at the half. Although Michigan would get a pick in Ohio State territory at the end of the first half but un able to connect on the field goal. But then the first time Ohio State touched the ball in the second half they would score a 68 yard rushing touchdown. From that point on Michigan's defense was decisive and knew what they wanted. Unfortunately for the Wolverines they just seemed un able to score anything. As either the recievers dropped the balls or Hart couldn't get any help or Henne got pressured. Leading up to what would end up being a 14-3 final. As Michigan's rushing yardage actually went down through out the last 3 quarters. They also failed to get over 100 yards. So the outcome? Ohio State will be going to the Rose Bowl in less they manage to get enough help to go to the national title. Meanwhile Michigan will either be playing a game in the Citrus, Outback or Alamo bowl. Based on who picks them. Seeing as Illinois has a more impressive win over Ohio State and a better overall record. Then Wisconsin also beat Michigan head on head and then is better at traveling so the Outback may take them. Although Michigan is #2 in the Big Ten they may fall all the way to the Alamo Bowl. The other speculation is that a press conference this upcoming Monday could be to announce Lloyd Carr's retirement. Which would lead some to wonder what next for Michigan. Les Miles? LSU's coach perhaps. Or would it be somebody else... perhaps the Cincinnati coach.
West Virginia would keep the Bearcats of Cincinnati at bay 28-23. Keeping their title hopes alive. With all that has happened they'd be the first to get in if LSU or both Big 12 north teams fall at least it seems.
Then in East Lansing the Spartans got to play Penn State. Although the Spartans went up 7-0 early. They wouldn't manage to keep pace with the Nittany Lions for a while. As the Nittany Lions would score and then score a few more before half to make it 17-7 going into the locker room. Not exactly what Michigan State was looking for with 10 Big 10 teams bowl eligible. They really need this win and they stepped up?? Well Penn State would make a strong point as they would score on a fake field goal to make it 24-7. But from their it really became the Michigan State hurrah. As they would score two straight touchdowns to make it 24-21. But Penn State wasn't done either as they came back and scored a touchdown themselves. Though they looked to have momentum back on their side Michigan State's Caulcrick had other ideas. AS he would help lead the Spartans to a touchdown with 11 minutes left in the game making the score 31-28. But then he would also score a huge touchdown with 4 minutes left in the game making the score 35-31. Well Penn State failed to do anything with the ball the first time they got it. Then they managed to get it back with very little time left in the game. But because the quarterback scrambled and then threw it to the center of the field the time ran out. Giving the Spartans their 7th victory this season 35-31. So results of this one? Well now Michigan State should definetly go to a bowl game. Whether or not it is the Motor City bowl or Insight bowl, or Sun Bowl I'm not sure. Depends on how it shakes out. No matter what it is better than the 2-9 Notre Dame Irish who managed their second win against Duke 28-7.
Poll coming on Tuesday!!
Friday, November 16, 2007
Week 12 picks
The Bulldogs look to keep pace against the Wildcats.
Well the Bulldogs are here again this week. They play another good team but yet they still sit there with two losses regretting both of them. A win over Tennessee and perhaps right now instead of just hoping to keep pace in the race for the SEC East. They’d be playing for a national title bid. But that’s a could have, would have sort of thing. Too late now. All they have to hope for now is a Tennessee loss and that’s only if they keep winning. But beating Kentucky will be either a challenge or a walk through.
Kentucky has proven their ability to win with the game against LSU earlier this season. Georgia would like that same opportunity in the SEC title game but to get it they’ll have to be able to stop Andre Woodson. Who was once a heisman candidate, now is just a quarterback with really good numbers. But on the flip side Stafford has really good numbers too. But the running back for Georgia may end up being the difference. As Moreno helped them run away last week against Auburn this week he’ll look to repeat that. This game won’t be a walk over for either team but it definitely is a game to pay attention too. Redemption meets pace.
Georgia 34 Kentucky 23
What was the game last year is once again this year.
Well one of these two teams is playing to get into the Rose Bowl. The other perhaps the Outback or Citrus bowl. Ohio State may be able to lose and make a BCS bowl. Both of these teams want to get into the Rose Bowl to redeem their embarrassing bowl games last year. As Ohio St. will travel to Ann Arbor and the Big House to take on Michigan. This game will show who wants the game, Big Ten more. Either team wins they’ll have the outright Big Ten championship. Once again proving their dominance over the rest of the conference.
Michigan will be looking to play seniors Chad Henne and Mike Hart who would help their cause. As that would make their offense much more compatible to the offense that beat Ohio St. last week. I think if Michigan wants to win this game they’ll have to be able to get the Ohio St. defense on its heels. Then go over the top. While Ohio St. will be looking to beat up on the Michigan defense that has been questionable this season. Maurice Wells will be looking to get the Ohio St. dominance over the last few years out and running early. Yet what is it that I smell, I think I fell times are a changing and the sweater vest may lose a little oomph.
Michigan 30 Ohio St. 21
Expect a shoot out that shakes the Big East.
Well with a Big East title on the line and almost all of the teams still in the race, who isn’t to say that this game could make or break it. One team is looking to keep their national title hopes alive. But to do that they’ll have to beat the other team which has home field advantage and is looking to make a run at a Big East Championship. The powerful West Virginia offense will look to keep tearing teams up. As Pat White and Steve Slaton look to keep the duo threat alive. But with a national title hopes all of the sudden a lot more likely with an Oregon loss… it seems all the more likely they are to lose.
Cincinnati is coming off wins against South Florida and Connecticut they look to keep that play alive against West Virginia. As their fans will be making a lot of noise. But the question is how much noise does the defense want to make. If it decides not to make much this won’t be funny. I don’t care that Cincinnati’s offense is in the top 20 but West Virginia’s is even better. So can they play keep up or will their defense be able to make the noise. They’ll get plenty of help from the fans at the game who will be all in red and black looking for some of that Tuscon Magic.
West Virginia 37 Cincinnati 31
Week 12 in Review coming Sunday
Well the Bulldogs are here again this week. They play another good team but yet they still sit there with two losses regretting both of them. A win over Tennessee and perhaps right now instead of just hoping to keep pace in the race for the SEC East. They’d be playing for a national title bid. But that’s a could have, would have sort of thing. Too late now. All they have to hope for now is a Tennessee loss and that’s only if they keep winning. But beating Kentucky will be either a challenge or a walk through.
Kentucky has proven their ability to win with the game against LSU earlier this season. Georgia would like that same opportunity in the SEC title game but to get it they’ll have to be able to stop Andre Woodson. Who was once a heisman candidate, now is just a quarterback with really good numbers. But on the flip side Stafford has really good numbers too. But the running back for Georgia may end up being the difference. As Moreno helped them run away last week against Auburn this week he’ll look to repeat that. This game won’t be a walk over for either team but it definitely is a game to pay attention too. Redemption meets pace.
Georgia 34 Kentucky 23
What was the game last year is once again this year.
Well one of these two teams is playing to get into the Rose Bowl. The other perhaps the Outback or Citrus bowl. Ohio State may be able to lose and make a BCS bowl. Both of these teams want to get into the Rose Bowl to redeem their embarrassing bowl games last year. As Ohio St. will travel to Ann Arbor and the Big House to take on Michigan. This game will show who wants the game, Big Ten more. Either team wins they’ll have the outright Big Ten championship. Once again proving their dominance over the rest of the conference.
Michigan will be looking to play seniors Chad Henne and Mike Hart who would help their cause. As that would make their offense much more compatible to the offense that beat Ohio St. last week. I think if Michigan wants to win this game they’ll have to be able to get the Ohio St. defense on its heels. Then go over the top. While Ohio St. will be looking to beat up on the Michigan defense that has been questionable this season. Maurice Wells will be looking to get the Ohio St. dominance over the last few years out and running early. Yet what is it that I smell, I think I fell times are a changing and the sweater vest may lose a little oomph.
Michigan 30 Ohio St. 21
Expect a shoot out that shakes the Big East.
Well with a Big East title on the line and almost all of the teams still in the race, who isn’t to say that this game could make or break it. One team is looking to keep their national title hopes alive. But to do that they’ll have to beat the other team which has home field advantage and is looking to make a run at a Big East Championship. The powerful West Virginia offense will look to keep tearing teams up. As Pat White and Steve Slaton look to keep the duo threat alive. But with a national title hopes all of the sudden a lot more likely with an Oregon loss… it seems all the more likely they are to lose.
Cincinnati is coming off wins against South Florida and Connecticut they look to keep that play alive against West Virginia. As their fans will be making a lot of noise. But the question is how much noise does the defense want to make. If it decides not to make much this won’t be funny. I don’t care that Cincinnati’s offense is in the top 20 but West Virginia’s is even better. So can they play keep up or will their defense be able to make the noise. They’ll get plenty of help from the fans at the game who will be all in red and black looking for some of that Tuscon Magic.
West Virginia 37 Cincinnati 31
Week 12 in Review coming Sunday
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
McConkey Poll 11
McConkey Poll
Week 11
Rob McConkey
Rank Last Week AP Team Record Point Avg.
1 1 2 Oregon 8-1 .711
2 2 1 LSU 9-1 .710
3 4 4 Kansas 10-0 .688
4 7 9 Arizona St. 9-1 .674
5 3 7 Ohio St. 10-1 .673
6 8 6 Missouri 9-1 .670
7 5 3 Oklahoma 9-1 .669
8 9 5 West Virginia 8-1 .668
9 12 8 Georgia 8-2 .655
10 13 16 Virginia 9-2 .643
11 17 12 Texas 9-2 .640
12 19 21 Cincinnati 8-2 .640
13 16 14 Florida 7-3 .638
14 14 13 Hawaii 9-0 .634
15 15 10 Virginia Tech 7-2 .634
16 11 17 Boise St. 9-1 .631
17 6 18 Boston College 8-2 .630
18 20 15 Clemson 8-2 .626
19 10 25 Connecticut 8-2 .614
20 NR 19 Tennessee 7-3 .612
21 NR 20 Illinois 8-3 .609
22 23 22 Kentucky 7-3 .606
23 NR 11 USC 8-2 .605
24 22 NR South Florida 7-3 .601
25 NR NR BYU 7-2 .599
Predictions for Week 12 will come tomorrow. Also This winter the top 15 teams in my poll will take part in a McConkey Poll Playoff... which will be played out using NCAA football 2008. Daily weather and specific times. The playoff schedule will be released after the season is over and we will have locations, and times. The games will have stats and be posted on here.
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Week 11 in Review
After the first 10 weeks of college football created a big mess. It seemed that perhaps the storm had settled and that the season my be a little more normal. Well week 11 went up in dust too.
Columbus, Ohio, the location of the Horseshoe where #1 Ohio St. is getting a visit from Illinois. Now Ron Zook has a good Illinois team, but there's just no way the Buckeyes will let their title hopes slip away just yet. Especially since they have to travel to the team up north next week. That's right they get to visit Ann Arbor next week for a shot at another title game... but wait Mark May picked them to lose to Illinois and they still have to play before they get the title game spot. Well this game started off as a back and forth game in the first quarter. As Chris Wells got the scoring started for Ohio St. on a 11 yard rush for a touchdown. Making it 7-0. Then Illinois in response had some offense of their own as they marched down the field to make it 7-7. Both of these scoring drives took 3 or less plays and were over 70 yards. So it should give you a pretty good description of what kind of threat these offense are. The next two scoring drives would be longer but leave it 14-14 at the end of the first quarter. Ohio St. isn't able to break away as quickly as some may have thought. Where's the number 1 style of play that they seem to have been showing. Well maybe the second quarter. Illinois would score the only touchdown and the only points of the 2nd quarter. So both teams defenses showed up it seemed leaving the score 21-14. But wait Ohio St is losing at half time? Illinois hasn't lost a game yet this season while leading at half time. But that shouldn't be the same after this week seeing as this game is in the Horseshoe and Ohio State is number 1 in the nation. Well Illinois wouldn't take much time in the second half to score and make it 28-14. Now what is going on? Will Ohio St. stay unbeaten. Well it started looking like they might come back as they scored a touchdown making it 28-21. So it's down to one possession. That would be the score after 3. In the 4th with a little over 8 minutes left Ohio St would throw an interception well no big deal right. They'll just get a three and out and stop. Well 4th and 1 for Illinois they come out to punt, but wait Ohio St calls a time out they aren't ready. Juice Williams convince Ron Zook they can get the first well they go for it and that's what they do. They'd never see another 4th down on their way to knocking off #1 Ohio St. 28-21. This is scary stuff for a team who holds teams to three and outs 44 percent of the time. To allow Illinois to just get first down after first down in an 8 minute drive. Well lets see how the team up north or Michigan did.
Well if Michigan were to win they would have clinched a tie for the big ten. But to do that they'd have to survive Camp Randall. Which as everyone knows the Wisconsin fans have turned into hell for the visiting team. In the first half the stadium was a loud hell for the Wolverines. Who were looking to make the match in Ann Arbor next week a big game. Starting off looking really good was the Michigan offense. But all of that ended as soon as Henne threw a pick and then was pulled for the rest of the game because of the uncertainty of his shoulder. This started the first half destruction. As Wisconsin would score a touchdown taking a 7-0 lead. That would be the score after the first quarter. But then two more scores by the badgers would make the game 17-0. Michigan would then have a successful drive making the score 17-7 but then Wisconson's offense would once again walk on the Wolverine's defense but wouldn't be able to get in the endzone so the score at half was 20-7. But then out of the locker room Michigan would fail to score. Then Wisconsin would take a long 8 minute drive for a field goal and then the score at the end of the third quarter would be 23-7. But then the game actually started getting interesting. As Mallett started looking like a better quarterback. As Manningham cought a pass that he would take 97 yards for the longest touchdown pass in Michigan history making it 23-14. Then after managing to stop the Badgers Mallett led another touchdown drive that ended in a touchdown pass to Arrington making the score 23-21. But then Mallett would throw a pick deep in Michigan territory which would lead to a Badger touchdown making it 30-21. Then Michigan would fail to do anything with the ball the next time they got it and Wisconsin would score another touchdown making it 37-21. Which would be the final. Michigan may have been looking ahead the same with Ohio St. or they just got unlucky because the team they were playing decided it was time to step up and play their best football. The Ohio St. loss would open the door for LSU to take the number 1 spot.
No way LSU could lose to Louisiana Tech right? Well that would be very accurate. It started off a shaky game. Only up 10-0 at the end of the 1st quarter but then by the end of the half they would be up 27-7. Then it would just keep going from there for the Tigers as they kept going and ended up with a 58-10 victory. Allowing them to move up to the number 1 spot, instead of following the main story line of this season. Then for the sake of Oregon they would have a bye. So they wouldn't have to worry about anything as long as the polls go the right way for them no one would jump them for the number 2 spot. But then the unbeaten Kansas Jayhawks were looking to keep it going and keep their title hopes alive.
Who was the lucky team to play them? Well that would be Oklahoma State who was looking to pull the upset with their high powered offense. They would have the homefield advantage and they would get plenty of chances but this is how it would end up going down... McAnderson, Henry and Reesing would lead the Jayhawks to a 20-14 at the half. As Oklahoma State lead early in the 2nd quarter. But after that they just couldn't keep up in the first half. They were sticking to some peoples thought that it would be close and that perhaps that Oklahoma St would be to much for the Jayhawks. Well Kansas would start running away with two straight touchdowns making it 33-14 if your wondering why they only got 13 points it's because they went for a two point conversion on the second touchdown and failed. But then Oklahoma St wouldn't let it end at that. As they would score two straight making the game 33-28. So now they are only 5 behind. So uh oh perhaps another undefeated team would fall. But Kansas wouldn't have to worry for long as they took it over and wouldn't allow Ok. St. to score again with a final score of 43-28. Unfortunately for the Jayhawks wouldn't be able to get up #3 because the pollsters would vote the Oklahoma Sooners above them who beat Baylor 52-21.
Then for you Michigan St. fans out there this is how the game against Purdue would go. Let me tell you this much I predicted the Spartans would be 5-5 at this point but wouldn't be able to step up against Purdue or Penn State. Well would they prove me wrong well were about to find out. At the end of the first quarter Michigan State would be up 7-0 well no big exciting shoot out so far. The first quarter was just the calm before the storm. Purdue would respond in the second quarter and that was only the start of it. Both teams would score again and make it 14-14. Then State would score again but so would Purdue. So neither team seemed able to seperate themselves as it was 21-21. But then the Spartans stepped up and took over as they would score the final 10 points in the 2nd quarter making it 31-21 at the half. Purdue would make it a touchdown game in the third as that quarter ended at a score of 31-24. But Michigan St. decided to really put the Boilermakers away in the fourth as they went up 41-24 before Purdue would even score again. But Purdue would score again and make it 41-31 but then Michigan State would be the last team to score making the final score at the end of the game 48-31 making Michigan State bowl eligible. The only question is will they get to go if they want to for sure they'll have to beat Penn St. But if they don't it will be a tough position with 10 big ten teams now eligible but only 7 big ten tie ins. The best shot they have at a bowl game is Michigan winning the Big Ten going to the Rose Bowl and then Ohio St. getting an at large bid then hoping that two other bowl games open up with at large bids.
Then a very fun game that was back and forth for a while was the Auburn Gerogia game. This game was for Georgia and Auburn just trying to stay in the race for their divisions. Georgia just waiting for Tennessee to fall and then Auburn is hoping for some help from LSU. Georgia would score a field goal to start this one off. Then Auburn would respond with the same. But then a Georgia touchdown would allow this game to be 10-3 at the end of the first quarter. Then in the second quarter the defenses would really step up although Stafford would throw a touchdown for Georgia and Tate would run one in for Auburn. Making it 17-10 at the end of the first quarter. Then in the 2nd half Auburn would come out blazing as they would quickly take a 20-17 lead. But then Moreno decided that he wouldn't allow Auburn to win. As he lead Georgia to 2 touchdowns making it 31-20 at the end of the 3rd. Then in the 4th quarter it would just continue for Georgia as they would emberass Auburn making the final score of this game 45-20. Unfortunately for the Bulldogs the Volunteers from Tennessee would score a big game over Arkansas 34-13 as they made Darren Mcfadden look real bad.
Look for my poll on Tuesday.
Columbus, Ohio, the location of the Horseshoe where #1 Ohio St. is getting a visit from Illinois. Now Ron Zook has a good Illinois team, but there's just no way the Buckeyes will let their title hopes slip away just yet. Especially since they have to travel to the team up north next week. That's right they get to visit Ann Arbor next week for a shot at another title game... but wait Mark May picked them to lose to Illinois and they still have to play before they get the title game spot. Well this game started off as a back and forth game in the first quarter. As Chris Wells got the scoring started for Ohio St. on a 11 yard rush for a touchdown. Making it 7-0. Then Illinois in response had some offense of their own as they marched down the field to make it 7-7. Both of these scoring drives took 3 or less plays and were over 70 yards. So it should give you a pretty good description of what kind of threat these offense are. The next two scoring drives would be longer but leave it 14-14 at the end of the first quarter. Ohio St. isn't able to break away as quickly as some may have thought. Where's the number 1 style of play that they seem to have been showing. Well maybe the second quarter. Illinois would score the only touchdown and the only points of the 2nd quarter. So both teams defenses showed up it seemed leaving the score 21-14. But wait Ohio St is losing at half time? Illinois hasn't lost a game yet this season while leading at half time. But that shouldn't be the same after this week seeing as this game is in the Horseshoe and Ohio State is number 1 in the nation. Well Illinois wouldn't take much time in the second half to score and make it 28-14. Now what is going on? Will Ohio St. stay unbeaten. Well it started looking like they might come back as they scored a touchdown making it 28-21. So it's down to one possession. That would be the score after 3. In the 4th with a little over 8 minutes left Ohio St would throw an interception well no big deal right. They'll just get a three and out and stop. Well 4th and 1 for Illinois they come out to punt, but wait Ohio St calls a time out they aren't ready. Juice Williams convince Ron Zook they can get the first well they go for it and that's what they do. They'd never see another 4th down on their way to knocking off #1 Ohio St. 28-21. This is scary stuff for a team who holds teams to three and outs 44 percent of the time. To allow Illinois to just get first down after first down in an 8 minute drive. Well lets see how the team up north or Michigan did.
Well if Michigan were to win they would have clinched a tie for the big ten. But to do that they'd have to survive Camp Randall. Which as everyone knows the Wisconsin fans have turned into hell for the visiting team. In the first half the stadium was a loud hell for the Wolverines. Who were looking to make the match in Ann Arbor next week a big game. Starting off looking really good was the Michigan offense. But all of that ended as soon as Henne threw a pick and then was pulled for the rest of the game because of the uncertainty of his shoulder. This started the first half destruction. As Wisconsin would score a touchdown taking a 7-0 lead. That would be the score after the first quarter. But then two more scores by the badgers would make the game 17-0. Michigan would then have a successful drive making the score 17-7 but then Wisconson's offense would once again walk on the Wolverine's defense but wouldn't be able to get in the endzone so the score at half was 20-7. But then out of the locker room Michigan would fail to score. Then Wisconsin would take a long 8 minute drive for a field goal and then the score at the end of the third quarter would be 23-7. But then the game actually started getting interesting. As Mallett started looking like a better quarterback. As Manningham cought a pass that he would take 97 yards for the longest touchdown pass in Michigan history making it 23-14. Then after managing to stop the Badgers Mallett led another touchdown drive that ended in a touchdown pass to Arrington making the score 23-21. But then Mallett would throw a pick deep in Michigan territory which would lead to a Badger touchdown making it 30-21. Then Michigan would fail to do anything with the ball the next time they got it and Wisconsin would score another touchdown making it 37-21. Which would be the final. Michigan may have been looking ahead the same with Ohio St. or they just got unlucky because the team they were playing decided it was time to step up and play their best football. The Ohio St. loss would open the door for LSU to take the number 1 spot.
No way LSU could lose to Louisiana Tech right? Well that would be very accurate. It started off a shaky game. Only up 10-0 at the end of the 1st quarter but then by the end of the half they would be up 27-7. Then it would just keep going from there for the Tigers as they kept going and ended up with a 58-10 victory. Allowing them to move up to the number 1 spot, instead of following the main story line of this season. Then for the sake of Oregon they would have a bye. So they wouldn't have to worry about anything as long as the polls go the right way for them no one would jump them for the number 2 spot. But then the unbeaten Kansas Jayhawks were looking to keep it going and keep their title hopes alive.
Who was the lucky team to play them? Well that would be Oklahoma State who was looking to pull the upset with their high powered offense. They would have the homefield advantage and they would get plenty of chances but this is how it would end up going down... McAnderson, Henry and Reesing would lead the Jayhawks to a 20-14 at the half. As Oklahoma State lead early in the 2nd quarter. But after that they just couldn't keep up in the first half. They were sticking to some peoples thought that it would be close and that perhaps that Oklahoma St would be to much for the Jayhawks. Well Kansas would start running away with two straight touchdowns making it 33-14 if your wondering why they only got 13 points it's because they went for a two point conversion on the second touchdown and failed. But then Oklahoma St wouldn't let it end at that. As they would score two straight making the game 33-28. So now they are only 5 behind. So uh oh perhaps another undefeated team would fall. But Kansas wouldn't have to worry for long as they took it over and wouldn't allow Ok. St. to score again with a final score of 43-28. Unfortunately for the Jayhawks wouldn't be able to get up #3 because the pollsters would vote the Oklahoma Sooners above them who beat Baylor 52-21.
Then for you Michigan St. fans out there this is how the game against Purdue would go. Let me tell you this much I predicted the Spartans would be 5-5 at this point but wouldn't be able to step up against Purdue or Penn State. Well would they prove me wrong well were about to find out. At the end of the first quarter Michigan State would be up 7-0 well no big exciting shoot out so far. The first quarter was just the calm before the storm. Purdue would respond in the second quarter and that was only the start of it. Both teams would score again and make it 14-14. Then State would score again but so would Purdue. So neither team seemed able to seperate themselves as it was 21-21. But then the Spartans stepped up and took over as they would score the final 10 points in the 2nd quarter making it 31-21 at the half. Purdue would make it a touchdown game in the third as that quarter ended at a score of 31-24. But Michigan St. decided to really put the Boilermakers away in the fourth as they went up 41-24 before Purdue would even score again. But Purdue would score again and make it 41-31 but then Michigan State would be the last team to score making the final score at the end of the game 48-31 making Michigan State bowl eligible. The only question is will they get to go if they want to for sure they'll have to beat Penn St. But if they don't it will be a tough position with 10 big ten teams now eligible but only 7 big ten tie ins. The best shot they have at a bowl game is Michigan winning the Big Ten going to the Rose Bowl and then Ohio St. getting an at large bid then hoping that two other bowl games open up with at large bids.
Then a very fun game that was back and forth for a while was the Auburn Gerogia game. This game was for Georgia and Auburn just trying to stay in the race for their divisions. Georgia just waiting for Tennessee to fall and then Auburn is hoping for some help from LSU. Georgia would score a field goal to start this one off. Then Auburn would respond with the same. But then a Georgia touchdown would allow this game to be 10-3 at the end of the first quarter. Then in the second quarter the defenses would really step up although Stafford would throw a touchdown for Georgia and Tate would run one in for Auburn. Making it 17-10 at the end of the first quarter. Then in the 2nd half Auburn would come out blazing as they would quickly take a 20-17 lead. But then Moreno decided that he wouldn't allow Auburn to win. As he lead Georgia to 2 touchdowns making it 31-20 at the end of the 3rd. Then in the 4th quarter it would just continue for Georgia as they would emberass Auburn making the final score of this game 45-20. Unfortunately for the Bulldogs the Volunteers from Tennessee would score a big game over Arkansas 34-13 as they made Darren Mcfadden look real bad.
Look for my poll on Tuesday.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)