College Football: Week 5

Well last week was fun wasn’t it?  I was off to a HOT start in the picks, but my Upset Pick of the Week was WAY off and even the game nobody cares about was wrong.  I ended up 4-3.  That UGoTW is tough though.  This week promises to be a great one in college football.  We have tons of marquee match ups that will have major bowl and championship implications, here are the ones I will be watching:

Arkansas vs. Texas A&M (in Arlington):  Both teams had GIGANTIC games last week, and both were on the losing end.  Everyone is seeing this as a “future SEC match up” but I am seeing it as two teams who are desperately trying to get back in the win column.  Even though this one is at 11 am, it might just be the best game of the day.  As always, the defenses will be the key to the game.
My Pick:  Arkansas 36  A&M 31

Mississippi State @ Georgia:  When you get to the SEC playing each other, it is always fun.  While saying teams that are 2-2 are facing off is a fun match up seems a little odd, this game will be.  Georgia is still trying to make a name for themselves in the SEC and MSU is trying to do the same.  This one could be ugly, but entertaining.
My Pick:  Georgia 20  Mississippi State 16 

Auburn @ South Carolina:  Oh man, ANOTHER great SEC game.  Auburn’s amazing win streak ended a couple of weeks ago in Clemson, but this team is still in the conference crown hunt.  South Carolina is undefeated, but they have not been that impressive the last two weeks on the offensive side of the ball.  Marcus Lattimore is a complete stud that will give the Tigers D fits, but Auburn will be able to counter with super soph Michael Dyer.  This will come down to the end….
My Pick:  Auburn 30  South Carolina 29 

Baylor @ Kansas State:  Someone will leave with their first loss of the season.  Will it be Baylor who has knocked off TCU and blasted two other teams or Kansas State who is coming off an impressive/statement win over Miami.  KSU is ranked #6 in total defense and will not back down against a high powered Bear offense.  This is your “under the radar great game of the day” game.  RGIII is FUN to watch, if you haven’t seen him, tune in.
My Pick:  Baylor 27  Kansas State 23 

Alabama @ Florida:  This game was much better a few years ago, but it still promises to one to watch.  Florida has made Gator fans forget an awful 2010, starting off 4-0 this season.  Coach Muschamp may not know what a Padawan is, but he sure does know defense.  The Gators have the 5th ranked defense in the nation and a speedy offense.  We all know about Bama.  Great defense with a hard nosed and sneaky good offense.  Could it be “upset” time in The Swamp?  I think I may go there.
My Pick:  Florida 33  Alabama 31 

Nebraska @ Wisconsin:  The new guys vs the defending champs.  Sounds like a Disney movie waiting to happen…or not.  QB Russell Wilson has been great with the Badgers so far, having them thinking of a national title shot.  Nebraska has been winning games, but the defense is not great, and will be challenged by a really good Wisconsin offense.  Russell Wilson and the strong Badger running game will be too much for the Huskers.
My Pick:  Wisconsin 35  Nebraska 29 

Upset Pick of the Week:  Clemson 28  Virginia Tech 24-  This is a game to watch, and probably won’t be considered too big of an upset.

Game Nobody Cares About:  CSU-Pueblo 40  Chadron State 20-  The only reason I picked this game is because CSU-P’s mascot is the Thunderwolves.  THUNDERWOLVES!

 

College Football: Week 4

Really?  Week 4?  Before you know it we will be arguing who should playing in the BCS title game and getting ready for MLB Spring Training….what happened to the time?  I have not had a Saturday in which I have been able to just veg out in front of the t.v., but I have enjoyed this season so far.  This weekend is just another great weekend for college football, I just need the weather to start turning a BIT cooler.  Here are the games I am watching out for:

UCF @ BYU:  What?  THIS game?  Yeah, sure.  BYU got dominated by Utah last week (didn’t see that coming), but they are a well coached team that plays hard, and hits hard.  UCF is the #2 rated total defensive team in the country, the COUNTRY.  Unbelievable that they lost to FIU last week.  If you have nothing else to do on Friday night, watch this game, should be gritty gutty.
My Pick:  BYU 23  UCF 21

North Carolina @ Georgia Tech:  Did you know that Georgia Tech once beat Cumberland 222-0?  Well, the #1 offense in the country hasn’t scored QUITE that many this season, but they have put up 178 points total in three games.  Thats impressive.  North Carolina is undefeated, but it hasn’t been pretty.  Should be a great early ACC match up, but look for the offense to keep clicking for the Ramblin Wreck.
My Pick:  Georgia Tech 38  North Carolina 24

Arkansas @ Alabama:  You know how you turn on CBS on Saturdays, and you expect to hear Verne Lundquist spew his love for Tim Tebow and the SEC conference?  Well, this one is one of those games.  And for good reason.  Strengths match up, with the #11 offense in the country (Arkansas) vs. the #3 total defense in the country (Alabama).  My mama always told me, “boy, good defenses are hard to beat, and don’t hit your sister”.  Well, I think she is right again.

My Pick:  Alabama 30  Arkansas 20 

Oklahoma State @ Texas A&M:  This game has me confused.  Here’s why….Oklahoma State ALWAYS has a high powered offense but can’t really stop a pee wee football team from putting up at least 20 points.  A&M is the same way lately, pretty good offense and a porous defense.  Well, looking at the numbers, the aggie defense is ranked #18 overall, which is a LITTLE skewed because of the quality of opponents.  Oklahoma State?  They are ranked #92 in total defense….whoa.  Horrible.  This game will be high scoring no matter what, but the home crowd will give A&M the edge.
My Pick:  Texas A&M 41  Oklahoma State 38 

LSU @ West Virginia:  I am not falling for this again.  West Virginia starts the season off well, beating teams they should beat, but the rankings always put them higher up than they should.  LSU (sorry to say) is playing great defense, and seems to be a team that won’t lose until sometime late in the year in conference play.  West Virginia has a new coach who emphasizes offense, but the team hasn’t been that impressive on that side of the ball.  This game COULD be a blowout in favor of the Tigers.  We’ll see, but I WON’T be fooled again.
My Pick:  LSU 27  West Virginia 20 

Upset Pick of the Week:  Arizona 40  Oregon 38- The Wildcats haven’t been that great this season, but their early season schedule has been one of the toughest in the country.  Criner and Foles get it going in the upset.  (Of course, this really could be Oregon 57-20…hah)

Game Nobody Cares About:  Urbana University 40  Walsh University 20:  The Blue Knights are too much for the Cavaliers.  Unfortunate.

 

Baseball Awesome Rankings: The Final Poll

Well, this is it.  I have taken a few weeks off getting ready for football season and watching the baseball races heat up.  Here are the final rankings before the playoffs start.  We have seen surprises (Arizona, Tampa Bay) and we saw the old stand bys come through (Yankees and Phillies).  Here is the list:

1.  Detroit Tigers (89-64):  Surprised?  Well, don’t be.  The Tigers have the best pitcher in baseball, Justin Verlander, and have clinched the division before anyone else in the American League.  The pitching staff is great, and if the hitter can keep hitting, this team is VERY dangerous come playoff time, which is soon.  8-2 over their last 10.

2.  Philadelphia Phillies (98-53):  The best team in baseball, well, record wise.  They did almost just get swept by the Astros (more later), but the Phillies have been the best team throughout the whole season.  No one is surprised they have the best record in baseball, and no one would be surprised if they made it to the World Series.

3.  New York Yankees (92-60):  What do you know, the Yankees have taken a 5.5 game lead in the AL East.  Not too surprised, although I did pick them to win the Wild Card and not the division.  Thanks to the sliding Red Sox, the Yankees are in prime position to win ANOTHER East title.  Curtis Granderson could be the AL MVP.

4.  Milwaukee Brewers (90-63):  Only 5-5 over their last 10, the Brewers have a fairly comfortable lead in the NL Central over the Cardinals who are 6.5 games behind.  Yes, the Cardinals.  Anyway, the Brewers are done playing the Cards and should roll into the playoffs featuring a great pitching staff and a wonderful 1-2 punch in Fielder and Braun.

5.  Texas Rangers (88-65):  As a fan, maybe I am hard on the Rangers.  Truth is, this is a good team that has potential to be VERY dangerous in October.  They haven’t had a complete lineup in quite some time with injuries to Beltre and Cruz coming at bad times.  If the starting pitching can shake off the “iffy” starts, the Rangers have a chance to win at least one series in the playoffs.

6.  Arizona Diamondbacks (88-65):  Same record as the Rangers, but I think the Texas team has a bit more parts.  Watching Arizona stay in the race this year has been fun, but they need to watch out for the Giants who are a mere 5 games back, sounds like a lot, but they have three games left with the defending world champs.

7.  Tampa Bay Rays (85-67):  What an amazing story.  Just when you thought there was NO WAY for the Rays to make the playoffs, they are one and a half games back of the Red Sox for the Wild Card spot.  To be honest, I think the BoSox hold on.

8.  San Francisco Giants (83-70):  Quick, who’s the hottest team in baseball?  Well, of course its the Giants or I wouldn’t be writing this here.  Winners of eight in a row, the Giants are making ONE last effort to catch the D-Backs.  Oh, they are only four out of the NL Wild Card race too.

9.  St Louis Cardinals (83-69):  Just 3.5 games out in the NL Wild Card race.  It is a good story, but I think the Giants would be the team to get the WC before the Cardinals….if that makes sense.

10.  Boston Red Sox (87-66):  Wow, a really struggling team.  I almost didn’t put them here, but they ARE in the playoff hunt, and it made sense to put them here.  Dangerous lineup, questionable pitching.  I would definitely be surprised if this team did not make the playoffs.

 

Bottom Four:

Houston Astros (52-100):  The FIRST to 100!!  Losses.  Not a surprise.

Minnesota Twins (59-93):  29.5 games out, 1-9 in their last 10.  Awful.

Baltimore Orioles (63-89):  I don’t even know what to say.

Colorado Rockies (70-82):  My pick to win it all, hahahahahaahhaha.

College Football: Week 3

Got this post written a bit too late to provide a LSU vs. Mississippi State blurb, but it went like I thought it would.  Rarely does MSU play well against better teams.  With that said, there are plenty of games to keep us busy this weekend.  Here are the good ones:

Last Week:  5-3 

Auburn @ Clemson:  Somehow the Auburn version of the Tigers are undefeated.  Won a close one against a ho hum Utah State team and survived against a tough Mississippi State team in week two.  Clemson is undefeated, but games against Troy and Wofford are nothing to write home about.  This game will be a good one, and I think Auburn SOME HOW wins again.

My Pick:  Auburn 33  Clemson 20

Tennessee vs. Florida:  This is a very intriguing game.  Tennessee is 2-0 after wins against Montana and Cincinnati, and the offense is ranked in the top 25 in the nation.  QB Tyler Bray has the Vols fans excited about what he can do with the football and his leadership abilities.  Bray’s 400+ yard, 4 TD performance against the Bearcats has led to big time expectations for the sophomore QB.  The Gators have an offense that statistically is even with the Volunteers, but the defense has been great, giving up just 3 points in two games.  Watch for this one to be back and forth all game, with the athletes from Florida pulling away at the end.

My Pick:  Florida 27  Tennessee 23

Texas @ UCLA:  Last year, this is where the wheels starting falling off for the Longhorns.  Revenge, payback, whatever you want to call it is on the mind for the young Longhorn team.  Garrett Gilbert is gone, and McAsh (McCoy and Ash) is taking over.  The Bruins lost their first game of the season against a high powered Houston team, but rebounded in week two against San Jose State.  This game will be close, but UCLA will be able to stay close with the not so high powered Texas offense.  If the Bruins are able to gain 175+ yards of rushing offense, it could be a long day for Texas.  Defense is the name of the game this time.

My Pick:  Texas 24  UCLA 23

Ohio State @ Miami:  ”The Probation Bowl”.  Nevin Shapiro will definitely be interested in this one and will probably watch from his jail cell.  Is he in jail?  Anyway, Jacory Harris is off suspension and will start for the Hurricanes against an Ohio State team that struggled with Toledo last week.  I think both teams have weaknesses, but Ohio State has less.  Miami lost their opener to a gaudy Maryland team, and hopes it can get a marquee win before their conference schedule really takes off.  The Buckeyes bring in the #10 total defense in the country, which could make a long day for the Hurricanes.

My Pick:  Ohio State 23  Miami 17

Oklahoma @ Florida State:  The BIG one of the week.  I am not a fan of Oklahoma, but they are definitely a good team.  Who knew Landry Jones would turn out to be as good as he is?  I sure didn’t.  Florida State is a team on a mission, knowing this win will vault them into the elite level of programs once again.  Even though Oklahoma has one of the top offenses in the country, I have a feeling this one could be a little more low scoring,….of course, it could be 50-45 type score.  The matchup of the #3 defense (FSU) and the #2 offense (OK) has me all giddy.  EJ Manuel, the Florida State QB is a darkhorse Heisman candidate, and this game could go a long way in winning that award.  I think this one lives up to the hype if Florida State can stay away from dumb mistakes.  Last year, they made them and were dominated.  This is a different year though, and they are at home.  It will be fun, and I am sticking with my pre-season pick.

My Pick:  Florida State 37  Oklahoma 35

 

Upset Pick of the Week:  Temple 27  Penn State 24:  The Nittany Lions were beat up against Alabama last week, and may not be ready for Temple’s good ground game.

 

Game Nobody Cares About:  Fond du Lac Tribal & Community College 20   Rochester Community & Technical College  17:  I don’t even know.

College Football: Week 2

Well, last week was ugly.  I went 3-4 in my picks, including the Game Nobody Cares about.  That is ridiculous.  This week we have some good match ups as week #2 of the NCAA football season gets under way.  Here are some games I will be watching:

Arizona @ Oklahoma State (Thursday night):  Both teams are 1-0 after fairly easy games in week one.  Oklahoma State looked pretty “iffy” on the defensive side of the ball giving up 34 points, but the offense is legit once again.  Sounds familiar.  The Wildcats have one of the most underrated players in the country in QB Nick Foles.  Foles may have had the best opening week of anyone in the country, going for 400+ yards and 5 tds.  Look for no defense and TONS of points.  Good thing this one is in Stillwater.

My Pick:  Oklahoma State 48  Arizona 39

 

Mississippi State @ Auburn:  The Bulldogs took Cam Newton and the eventual National Champs to the wire last year, losing 17-14.  I think it will be different this year.  Auburn BARELY survived a “ho hum” Utah State team and Mississippi State is finally starting to turn the corner on the way to becoming a legitimate SEC team.  This one should be fun, but I think the Bulldogs pull it out.

My Pick:  Mississippi State 23  Auburn 20

 

Alabama @ Penn State:  I’m not sure this one will be close, but it is always fun to see these two teams square off.  Well, let me think about this….the Tide won fairly easily on opening weekend, but the QB situation is still not squared away.  McCarron threw 2 picks and only 1 touchdown and Heisman hopeful Trent Richardson only ran for 37 yards.  That will have to change to beat a tough Penn State team.  Granted, the Nittany Lions QB situation is not great either.  Watch for the Tide to get out to an early lead, but Penn State will fight to keep it close.  Richardson will break 100 yards for the first time this year.

My Pick:  Alabama 35  Penn State 20

 

South Carolina @ Georgia:  What a bad week for Georgia.  The Bulldogs had a chance to show that they belonged in the SEC elite with a marquee win over Boise State.  Didn’t happen.  Not only did they lose, they had the second worst uniforms of the weekend.  South Carolina won in week 1, but had to hold off a scrappy East Carolina team.  Watch for this one to be the game of the weekend.  The two best young RB’s in the SEC face off with Lattimore against Crowell.  Things get VERY uncomfortable for Mark Richt after this week.

My Pick:  South Carolina 31  Georgia 27

 

BYU @ Texas:  This game is a DEFINITE trap game for Texas.  BYU didn’t look great against Ole Miss last weekend, but they are a well coached team that can prove troublesome to teams or are young or not well coached.  Texas showed signs of life and excitement against Rice last week with wild formations and different looks that will help confuse Big 12 defensive coordinators.  This showdown will be a great measuring stick to show where the Longhorns are at this season.  Oh, and Texas has NEVER beaten BYU.  (0-2)

My Pick:  Texas 30  BYU  20

 

Notre Dame @ Michigan:  The first night game in the Big House?  Is that what someone said?  Hard to believe.  Anyway, both teams are coming off rain soaked games that ended with different outcomes.  Notre Dame lost to South Florida and changed QB’s in the process.  Michigan beat Western Michigan in a rain shortened game.  I think Denard Robinson will help Michigan control the tempo of the game with his ability to extend plays (and make them) with his feet.  Notre Dame is a good team, but I think the Big House crazies will be distracting enough to help the Wolverines pull off a big win.  Irish go to 0-2.

My Pick:  Michigan 33  Notre Dame 30

 

Upset Pick of the Week:  Indiana 27  Virginia 24:  While this may not make the front page of the papers, Indiana has been horrible lately.  This would be the first “big win” of the Kevin Wilson era.

Game Nobody Cares About:  Kentucky Wesleyan 40  Pikeville 21

 

College Football: Week 1

I was so busy this week, I didn’t get the picks in before the Thursday games.  I apologize.  I WOULD have picked Baylor of TCU, I mean it.  Remember, they were by dark dark dark horse National title contender.  Haha.  Here are my picks for Week 1 of the greatest time of the year!

South Florida @ Notre Dame:  This COULD be my upset pick of the week, but I may have something else up my sleeve.  The Bulls are a good team with a lot of speed and good players in key positions.  Notre Dame is looking to get the season off on the right foot before their big week two showdown with Michigan.  This game will be close throughout, with Notre Dame pulling away at the end.

My Pick:  Notre Dame 30  South Florida 24 (What really happened:  South Florida pulled a nice upset after long rain delays, 23-20)

East Carolina vs. South Carolina (in Charlotte):  I don’t really think this one will be close, but East Carolina has surprised some top ranked teams before in the early season.  The Pirates have some good players, including “go to” receiver Lance Lewis, but the Gamecock defense will be too much.  Anyone else excited to see Jadeveon Clowney play?  I am.  South Carolina coach Steve Spurrier has already pulled a surprise, naming Connor Shaw as the starter over Stephen Garcia.

My Pick:  South Carolina 40 East Carolina 20  (What really happened:  South Carolina won 56-37.  The defense was unimpressive)

LSU vs. Oregon:  THE big matchup of the day, depending on who you like I guess.  The Ducks are coming off a great season in which they lost in the BCS title game against Auburn.  LSU is coming off some turmoil off the field that could serve as a distraction for the actual game.  Jordan Jefferson, the Tigers starting QB is out, and Jarrett Lee is in.  It will be interesting to see what the Ducks do to pressure Lee.  I guess I have to stick with my pre-season prediction (Oregon winning it all), but I do think this will be a great game.  LSU has TONS of talent, Oregon has TONS of speed.

My Pick:  Oregon 27  LSU 23  (What really happened:  Oregon made too many mistakes and a talented LSU team made them pay.  40-27)

Tulsa @ Oklahoma:  The pre-season #1 team takes on in state foe Tulsa.  Most would say this would be a sever blowout, but Tulsa has an explosive offense led by GJ Kinne.  This one will be close for awhile, but Oklahoma’s talent will be too much for the Hurricane.  Look for Sooner fans to be a LITTLE worried during the first half.

My Pick:  Oklahoma 45  Tulsa 20  (What really happened:  Oklahoma looked great.  The passing game is second to none.  Won 47-14)

Boise State vs. Georgia (in Atlanta):  Another great early season matchup for Boise State.  It seems like they do it every year, take on a “bigger and better” team and take that team to the woodshed.  Well, they have that chance again against a Georgia team that is looking to turn the corner.  The Bulldogs will feature Aaron Murray at QB and one of the most hyped running backs in a long time, Isaiah Crowell.  Georgia coach Mark Richt has been on the hot seat for some time, and a win over Boise State would really do a lot to help save his job and improve his teams confidence.

My Pick:  Georgia 35  Boise State 31  (What really happened:  Boise made another early season statement, pounding Georgia 35-21.)

Upset Pick of the Week:

SMU vs. Texas A&M:  The Aggies are a top 10 team for the first time in 50 years and…oh wait, not that long but they have made themselves into a pretty good team.  SMU is a team to watch out for.  QB Kyle Padron leads the Mustangs high powered offense which could and should give the Aggies defense headaches.  Yes, I am a Longhorn fan, but I think this one could be another surprise in the state of Texas, just like the Baylor win over TCU last night.  This one will be wild.

My Pick:  SMU 40  Texas A&M 39  (What really happened:  I was way off.  The Aggies dominated the Mustangs, 46-14)

Game No One Cares About:  Johns Hopkins 31  Merchant Marine Mariners 17- The Blue Jays don’t just have great doctors, they can play football too!  (What really happened:  Johns Hopkins dominated the Mariners with surgical precision.  Won 45-14)

College Football 2011.

It is here.  College football.  The first game of the NCAA season?  Murray State vs. Louisville.  While that isn’t a marquee matchup, the rest of the season promises some great games (here are the ones I am going to watch this year) and will feature some great players.  Here is my look at the upcoming season, as well as my pick to win it all and the Heisman winner.

Who Will Win The ACC?

I think this race comes down to two main teams, Florida State and Virginia Tech.  While those two are the top teams in the conference, they will have some competition against teams like North Carolina, Clemson and a short handed Miami.  I would be surprised if the Seminoles lost a game in conference play this season.  The matchup against Oklahoma is HUGE.  Give me the ‘Noles to win the conference over Virginia Tech.

Will The Sooners Go Wire to Wire and Win The Whole Thing?

Short answer, no.  While I think Oklahoma has a good team with an explosive offense, the Sooners will stumble somewhere along the way.  I mentioned the matchup with Florida State and don’t forget the two biggest rivalry games with Oklahoma State and Texas. Landry Jones will have another big year, so watch for him in New York for the Heisman ceremony.

Will The New Look Pac-12 Be Competitive This Year?

Oh yes, it will.  Oregon looks like the favorite to repeat as champs, but this is a new season.  There will a conference championship game which could derail some teams hopes.  Oregon is missing some key players from last year, but does bring back Darron Thomas and Heisman hopeful LaMichael James.  Stanford is another team to watch out for, mainly because of future #1 pick Andrew Luck.  Don’t overlook the Cardinal defense, they are solid.  Arizona will be competitive, Arizona State will be competitive and don’t forget about USC.  This is a strong conference up and down, including new members Colorado and Utah.  Just for kicks, I think the first Pac-12 Champ will be Oregon.  They are hungry after losing in the BCS title game last season.

The Big 12 Is Dying, Or Already Dead.  What Will Happen?

I honestly have no idea.  Texas A&M vowed to stay in the Big 12 not too long ago to help it out, but now they are leaving.  I think that if the Big 12 Conference does not add some big name programs (BYU or Notre Dame) then teams like Texas, Oklahoma and Oklahoma State should look elsewhere.  The name Pac 16 sounds nice doesn’t it?  I like the idea of a Super Conference, but wouldn’t be surprised to see Texas go independent either.  I will say this, I don’t think they need to reform the SouthWest Conference.  Teams like Houston, TCU and SMU do not make this into a dominate conference.

Who Will Be THE Surprise Player of 2011?

I already have a post about “This Years Shoelace”, referring to Denard Robinson’s coming out party last year.  This  year, there are plenty of candidates ready to step up.  One of the players not mentioned in the early post is Virginia Tech Quarterback Logan Thomas.  The Hokies have had some great college QB’s lately (Vick, Taylor) and hope that Thomas can reach his potential.  While he isn’t as mobile as those guys, he is a BEAST at 6’6″ and 250 lbs.  Think Daunte Culpepper or Byron Leftwich.  If Thomas stays away from “rookie” mistakes, he will have the Hokies in position for the ACC crown and maybe more.

Another pick would be Tyler Wilson from Arkansas.  He was featured in my earlier post, but he really has a chance to shine in Fayetteville.  With the best WR in the SEC (maybe the country) Wilson will have plenty of opportunities to to put up HUGE numbers.

Who Will Be The Most Disappointing Team in 2011?

Last year the team that disappointed the most was either Texas or Florida.  Take your pick.  This year I think it will be Texas A&M.  Starting in the top 10 in most polls gives this team a chance to be “disappointing”.   I don’t think the Aggies are “distracted” by the leaving the conference talk, but they have a tough schedule.  Sure, A&M is a good team, but I would NOT be surprised if they went 1-3 in their first four games.  Surprised?  Don’t be.  SMU (first game) has some key parts coming back and loves to throw the football.  The third game of the season is against Oklahoma State, and the fourth game is Arkansas.  Don’t forget about games against Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas and Baylor.  I wouldn’t be surprised to see the Aggies only win 7 games this season.  Of course, they could win 10 or 11.

Who Will Be The Surprise Team of 2011?

Last year some would say it was Auburn who actually won it all.  This year?  A team like South Carolina sure does look good on paper, but it is ranked fairly high in the pre-season polls.  In that case, give me Texas.  There is no where to go but up for the Horns who had MAJOR changes in the off season.  I predicted 9 wins for Texas this season, which would be a major surprise, or would it?

Who Will Win The Heisman Trophy?

I have gone out on a limb the past few years and picked some dark horse candidates to be in the Heisman race.  That is dumb.  We all know it is usually the best player on the best teams.  So here are my Heisman finalists:

1.  Trent Richardson, RB, Alabama

2.  Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford

3.  LaMichael James, RB, Oregon

4.  Kellen Moore, QB, Boise State

5.  Landry Jones, QB, Oklahoma

There are a few others that I would consider putting here, but these 5 are the pre-season front runners.  My pick to win it?  LaMichael James.  The Ducks LOVE using James as often as they can, and they will be in the BCS title hunt all season.

Who Will Win The National Title?

I think we should have a playoff, but that is for another day.  My pick to play in the title game:

Oregon vs. Florida State (Oregon will win it all)

Dark Horse National Title Pick:  Georgia.  They play in the SEC and have some good talent to go around some key returning players.  Mark Richt won’t get many more chances.

Dark Dark Dark Horse National Title Pick:  Baylor.  You NEVER know what can happen, and I don’t think this will, but Robert Griffin sure is fun to watch.

 

NFL Picks.

Well, the NFL preseason is entering its last week. Just a few short days until the real season gets underway. Granted, I am MORE interested in the NFL ever since I started playing fantasy football, but there is a reason it is the #1 sport in the US. Here are my picks for each division, as well as my Super Bowl pick:

AFC East:

1. New England Patriots: Definitely one of the most successful franchises the past 10 years, the Patriots look to make the playoffs once again. Problem lately though, they have lost their last three playoff games.  Made big additions (name wise) with Ocho Cinco and Haynesworth, but its Tom Brady that makes this thing run. Watch for rookie Stevan Ridley to have a solid first year.

2. New York Jets: Although they have looked good against the Patriots, the Jets will fall just short of winning the East. The defense is one of the best in the league, but the offense still has a few questions. Can Mark Sanchez become an elite NFL QB? Is the defense getting old?

3. Miami Dolphins: The addition of Reggie Bush has excited Miami fans, but he is not missing part for this team. Can Chad Henne lead the Dolphins or is their QB of the future somewhere else right now? Brandon Marshall is a great weapon for Henne, and he should have a bounce back year.  Defense will keep the games close.

4. Buffalo Bills: The Bills were a competitive team last year, but they just didn’t have the talent to compete in the East. Marcell Dareus, their #1 draft pick will make a difference right away. Steve Johnson is an under-appreciated, very good wide receiver.

AFC North:

1. Pittsburgh Steelers: Love this division, and think it will be one of the most competitive in all of football. The Steelers are once again my pick to win it, but it will be a battle. Ben Roethlisberger is the most over looked super star in the league, and he has tons of weapons. Antonio Brown is a smooth receiver who can make big plays and will have a breakout year. The key, as always this team, is defense. They will be great again.

2. Baltimore Ravens: I really like the Ravens, and struggled to put the Steelers as #1. If Joe Flacco can do more than just manage games, they have a shot at taking this division. The defense is getting a little older, but they are still a top 5 unit. Sergio Kindle, first year guy (not a rookie) from Texas could make a HUGE impact on the pass rush this season. Ray Rice looks to bounce back from a “sub par” year in 2010.

3. Cleveland Browns: As tough as this division is going to be, the decision to put Cleveland 3rd was tougher. I like this team, I like them a lot. They may be 1-2 years away, but they will be a playoff team soon. Colt McCoy is smart, athletic and easy to coach. If he had more weapons, they would be a very serious contender in this division.

4. Cincinnati Bengals: This team could be first, they could be last. You never know what Marvin Lewis’ team is going to do. Rookie QB Andy Dalton hasn’t been great in the pre-season, but it could be his team to lead. I like Cedric Benson at the running back position, and think he will have a solid year, even though he is spending the rest of pre-season in jail.

AFC South:

1. Houston Texans: Surprise pick? Maybe, but this team is DUE. The offense has GREAT weapons, and the defense has a new leader in coordinator Wade Phillips. I don’t think Arian Foster has quite the same season as he did last year (led the league in rushing), but he will be a huge part of this offense once again.  The defense is ranked #1 in pre-season, which means nothing.

2. Indianapolis Colts: Unfamiliar territory for the Colts. Ever since Peyton Manning took over, you just assumed they would win this division. Well, Peyton’s neck still isn’t 100% and the Colts defense is a little shaky, ranking #20 in total defense last year. True, they still have Dwight Freeney, but I think we will see a slip by the Colts this year. Huge first week matchup against the Texans.

3. Jacksonville Jaguars: David Garrard was quite the surprise last year, and so were the Jags. That being said, some people are suggesting that that rookie QB Blaine Gabbert might get the starting nod. I think that would be a mistake. Maurice Jones Drew needs to stay healthy to give this team an outside shot at competing for the division crown.

4. Tennessee Titans: Added Matt Hasslebeck after letting Vince Young and Kerry Collins go, but the fans love rookie Jake Locker. The biggest question is whether or not Chris Johnson will ever sign a deal and suit up for this team again. I think he does. Rookie Akeem Ayers will be a stud in a very short time.

AFC West:

1. Kansas City Chiefs: I am buying the hype, again. I know the Chargers are a good team, but I like the youth of this Chiefs team. If the defense can stop teams from putting up too many points, this team will be dangerous. But again, the defense is key, the offense will be just fine.

2. San Diego Chargers: Another slow start would hurt this team. They have all the pieces to make a big run this season, but I think the Chiefs will surprise everyone. This could be one of the Wild Card teams.

3. Denver Broncos: Rookie Von Miller is a pass rushing stud. I think he makes plays right away and could be named NFL Rookie of the Year. Tim Tebow will not make the field this year, at least not as a QB. Kyle Orton will play well enough to win some games they shouldn’t.

4. Oakland Raiders: Last years surprise team does the complete opposite this year, and finishes last in the division. I like Darren McFadden at running back, but the QB situation in Oakland is awful. They could be a front runner in the “top pick of next years draft” race.

NFC East:

1. Dallas Cowboys: Oh my gosh, did I just type that? I think I did, and I am not really sure why. Is it because I am a fan? Maybe. I just think these guys are DUE. That is a big word this season. Romo is back, he has decent weapons, and Jason Garrett is now the man in charge. Rob Ryan’s defense will play better than last year.

2. Philadelphia Eagles: I bought into the hype earlier this summer, but I think they have a few slip ups this season. Mike Vick won’t play every game (he gets hurt, a lot) and the defense is not as good as you think.

3. Washington Redskins: Yes, a 3rd place finish for the ‘Skins. Either John Beck or Rex Grossman will take advantage of the Kyle Shanahan offense, and play way better than expected. Ryan Torain, Tim Hightower and Roy Helu make quite a three headed monster at running back. Oh, and the defense is going to be ok. Brian Orakpo is a superstar, and Deangelo Hall still can make plays.

4. New York Giants: I don’t really know why I have them last, but its my pick. Eli won’t throw as many picks this year, but he also won’t throw as many TD’s.

NFC North:

1. Green Bay Packers: Kind of like when Neo finds out he is the One on The Matrix, the Packers will be playing with an unbelievable amount of confidence and swagger. While the division is one of the toughest in football, the Packers will fly into the playoffs atop their division. No Wild Card sneak in this year.

2. Detroit Lions: THE hot pick for everyone from New York to Seattle. The Lions have been a good team in the pre-season (uh oh) and they had a great draft. The defense is young, athletic and tough, and the offense has some big time playmakers. If Matt Stafford can stay on his feet, this team WILL fulfill the high expectations.

3. Minnesota Vikings: Donovan McNabb is a great pick up for these guys. He will work well with Peterson and Harvin to make a pretty good offense.

4. Chicago Bears: Magical run last season, but it won’t work out the same this year. The tough division matchups will take their toll on the Bears. The offense just doesn’t do it for me.

NFC South:

1. Atlanta Falcons: One of the best teams in the league last year, that no one really paid attention to. Losing badly to the Packers didn’t help, but this team is good. Rookie Julio Jones will be a fun one to watch, and QB Matt Ryan is becoming an elite NFL leader. This race will be a fun one to watch.

2. New Orleans Saints: The Saints want to rebound after last years embarrassing first round loss to the 7-9 Seahawks. I think Mark Ingram adds a lot to an already dynamic offensive attack.

3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Another surprise team last year, the Bucs will take a step back this year.

4. Carolina Panthers: A team that made some great moves in the off-season, but they are still a few years away from being competitive. I think. If Cam Newton starts, they will have some major headaches. Of course, that goes for Jimmy Clausen as well. Hey, where’s Chris Weinke when you need him?

NFC West:

1. St. Louis Rams: This team was almost a playoff team last year, and Sam Bradford was just a rookie. The Rams added some nice parts including Jerious Norwood, Mike Sims Walker and rookies Austin Pettis and Lance Kendricks that should help out quick.

2. Arizona Cardinals: There’s no doubt that the West is a wide open league, with just about every team in the playoff hunt. The Cardinals had the biggest signing in the division, signing Kevin Kolb in the short offseason. The offense lost some key contributors, including Steve Breaston and Tim Hightower, which won’t help Kolb.

3. San Francisco 49ers: New head coach Jim Harbaugh seems to have his hands full, but again, you never know what will happen out west. The offense was putrid last year, and it may not get much better. Braylon Edwards was signed, which gives Smith one more viable option.

4. Seattle Seahawks: The first team to make the playoffs with a losing record last year, the Seahawks will do more of the same this year. Well, have a losing record at least. Tarvaris Jackson is not a #1 NFL QB, and it will show again this year. Seahawks may actually use the 12th man to play QB at some point this season.

AFC Division Winners: New England, Pittsburgh, Kansas City, Houston
Wildcard Teams: Ravens, Chargers

NFC Division Winners: Dallas, Green Bay, Atlanta, St Louis
Wildcard Teams: New Orleans, Philadelphia

Super Bowl Pick:  San Diego over Green Bay- I honestly have no idea, but I think we will see another Wild Card team (Chargers) make a run to win it all.