| Author |
Messages |
|
wscsuperfan
Posts:230
 |
| 09/13/2007 9:18 AM |
 Alert
|
BIG 12 GAME OF THE WEEK
USC (1-0) at Nebraska (2-0)
7:00 p.m. - ABC
In 2003, the Huskers went 10-3 with an Alamo Bowl win over Michigan State. After that regular season, head coach Frank Solich, who coached his team to the national title game just two years earlier, was fired, mainly because the higher-ups had a sense that Nebraska football was slipping overall and needed a change to be among the elite of the elite of the elite. To many, this was the equivalent of Tiger Woods completely revamping his golf swing despite being the number one player in the world. To others, the idea of scrapping the devastating Nebraska rushing offense for some newfangled spread thing was like messing with their religion. Oh sure, playing in the Big 12 Championship last year was an important step, but this is bigger. Much bigger. This is to finally announce that Nebraska deserves to be considered a top program again, and a loss to USC, especially if it's not pretty, would be devastating in the development. For USC, it's another day, another end-of-the-world game for someone else. The nation's number one team now has some serious challengers after LSU and Oklahoma made their statements in big games. Now the Trojans have to do the same or risk possibly falling to third. This is only the fourth time the two powerhouses have played. USC is 2-0-1 with the last victory coming last season in Los Angeles.
Why USC might win
USC has become the nation's top superpower by being in the national title hunt every year, and it got to that point under head coach Pete Carroll by winning almost every big non-conference road game. In 2006 it was USC 50, Arkansas 14. In 2005 USC 34, Notre Dame 31. In 2004 USC 24, Virginia Tech 13. In 2003 USC 23, Auburn 0. and in 2002 the Trojans beat Colorado 40-3 (but the Trojans lost the next week at Kansas State). The program thrives off the big road game and is hardly going to be fazed by Lincoln, Nebraska. On the field, USC should be able to keep QB John David Booty upright and clean. The Husker pass rush has been mediocre and inconsistent over the first two games, and to get to Booty, it's going to have to do something funky. That's what USC wants. Booty is good, but not Leinart-like, when it comes to making the right reads, and he's had two weeks to prepare for this.
Why Nebraska might win
Is USC battle tested? This is a relatively young team, even by USC's standards, that only had one tune up game against Idaho before getting two weeks off to prepare. While it might seem like a plus to have all the time off to work, there's history working against the Trojans. USC has lost a mere three regular season games in the last four years, and two of them (Oregon State last year and Cal in 2003) came on the road after a two-week layoff. This hardly appeared to be a razor-sharp team against the Vandals in week one as it went through the motions on the way to the easy win. It's asking a lot, even for USC, to just turn it on and be USC with little time to work. Nebraska is coming into the game after getting two games of the best offensive line play seen under Callahan, while the secondary has been terrific so far. If the Huskers can consistently protect Sam Keller, and keep Booty from bombing away, the running game should be able to take over. Last year's Husker team wasn't quite ready for primetime when it lost 28-10 to the Trojans. This year's team, especially after a tougher-than-you-think win at Wake Forest, appears to be ready, and all the parts seem to be working, with the possible exception of.....
Who to Watch
Sam Keller. The former Arizona State Sun Devil knows all too well what's it's like to play USC, and his past sins could come back to be a major plus in the game's preparation. In 2005 against the Trojans, he was red hot as he led ASU to a 21-3 halftime lead. LenDale White and the USC running game took over in the second half, Keller was picked off six times, and ASU lost 38-28. Going into the locker room at halftime, Keller gave a cocky interview that all but made it sound like ASU had already won. He's not going to make the same mistake twice. Even if Nebraska gets up early, Keller will have to keep the foot on the gas, but he can't force plays that aren't there. The running game has been the focal point so far, but even with the help, Keller has thrown three interceptions and two touchdown passes. Now he has to be mistake-free for the Huskers to pull this off.
What Will Happen
This is where all the bumps and bruises will come back to haunt USC. Safety Josh Pinkard is out for the year with a torn ACL, WR Patrick Turner is still getting over a shoulder injury, star OT Sam Baker has a rib problem, top RB Chauncey Washington has a sprained shoulder, and the list goes on. Of course USC has depth to spare, but it needs all its starters healthy and jelled to handle the jacked up Huskers. Nebraska isn't faster than USC, but it'll play with a bit more bounce in its step on the way to a decent early lead, and then will hang on late as Booty's final drive to win the game comes up just short.
Prediction
Nebraska 27, USC 23
===================================================
Oklahoma State (1-1) at Troy (0-2)
7:00 p.m. - ESPN2
The last time a team from the Big 12 traveled to Troy to play an apparent nationally televised blowout game, Missouri was stunned in a 24-14 loss. While that was 2004, this is still a decent Trojan team that should be in the thick of the Sun Belt title hunt again. It hasn't been a smooth start, going 0-2 against Arkansas and Florida, but the offense hasn't been bad and the overall team appears to be in place to give the Cowboys a run. OSU is on the second leg of a Sun Belt tour after blasting Florida Atlantic 42-6. With one of the nation's most exciting offenses, OSU should put on a good show if it's not looking ahead to the Big 12 opener at Texas Tech.
Why Oklahoma State might win
Troy hasn't even been remotely close to stopping the run so far. The OSU ground game hasn't taken off and been the explosive juggernaut it's expected to become, but that's because it had good offensive balance against FAU and had to throw it to try to get back in the Georgia game. For Troy to win this game, it has to keep the chains moving and be effective on third downs. That could be a problem considering QB Omar Haugabook has only completed 46% of his passes. Fortunately for the Trojans ...
Why Troy might win
... the Cowboy secondary has been mediocre. Georgia was able to throw on OSU without a problem, mainly because the defensive line didn't generate enough pressure. On the other side of the ball, the OSU O line has struggled in pass protection and hasn't done enough for the running game. Basically, all the parts haven't started to click yet, so if Troy plays a sharp, mistake-free game, it should have a chance to take this deep into the second half.
Who to Watch
Part of OSU's problem (and it's all relative considering the Cowboys just blew out FAU) has been injuries. Top RB Dantrell Savage has a bad groin injury, and good backup Julius Crosslin has a sprained knee, meaning sophomore Keith Toston has to carry the workload when he's been used to splitting time. The bigger question mark is at quarterback, where Bobby Reid has had knee and ankle problems. The injuries have opened the door for sophomore Zac Robinson, who completed 14 of 20 passes for 250 yards and three touchdowns, with an interception, against FAU. Both will likely see time.
What Will Happen
Troy will catch OSU napping for about a half, and then the Cowboy passing game will take over. The Trojans won't have the firepower to keep up in the end, but they'll make this a fun game to watch.
Prediction
Oklahoma State 31, Troy 20
======================================================
Western Michigan (0-2) at Missouri (2-0)
1:00 p.m.
This couldn't have been a more disappointing start to the season for Western Michigan. Now on a six-game losing streak, one of the early favorites in the MAC race hasn't been able to run the ball, hasn't played defense, and has been blasted by a combined score of 99 to 51 in losses to West Virginia and Indiana. The last thing the Broncos need is to face a hot offense, but that's what it's getting against a Missouri team that's cranked out 78 points and 977 yards in its first two games. Mizzou can take breather after this game with Illinois State up next, but it needs to keep preparing for the showdown with Nebraska in two weeks.
Why Western Michigan might win
If games were just three quarters, Missouri might be in the hunt for the national title. No team does a better job of starting out hot, and inexplicably fading, than the Tigers, so if WMU can somehow keep it close and then let the passing game take over for the last 20 minutes or so, it might be equipped to pull off the upset in the final minutes. The Broncos, averaging 38.5 yards per kick, have a huge edge in the punting game over Mizzou and its 24.5-yard average.
Why Missouri might win
The Tiger defensive line can pack a suitcase and a sleeping back because it'll be camped out in the WMU backfield all game long. The Broncos have been abysmal in pass protection, and while the quarterbacks have been productive, they've had to do it under fire. The extra pressure should mean more turnovers, which is the last thing the Broncos need. Mizzou is seventh in the nation in turnover margin, while WMU is 110th.
Who to Watch
Finally, after an entire off-season of speculation and battling, WMU has finally, absolutely settled on its quarterback ... for now. Tim Hiller has been the team's best option so far, and despite the team's overall struggles and several misfires, he's made decent decisions and has made the passing game go. One of the key reasons WMU is 16th in the nation in passing, beyond having to play catchup, has been junior Jamarko Simmons, who followed up a 14-catch, 144-yard, two touchdown day against West Virginia with a 14-catch, 158-yard, one touchdown day against Indiana.
What Will Happen
Missouri will use more offensive balance to try to play a full sixty minutes. The defense will do its part with at least five sacks and three takeaways.
Prediction
Missouri 41, Western Michigan 24
=======================================================
Texas Tech (2-0) at Rice (0-2)
2:00 p.m.
Despite having to break in a slew of new receivers this year, Mike Leach has the high-powered Red Raider passing attack clicking as if it’s already mid-season. QB Graham Harrell is second nationally to only Hawaii’s Colt Brennan in total offense, and those receivers, particularly freshman Michael Crabtree, are catching on just fine. After a slow start versus UTEP last week, it was that aerial assault that fueled a furious second-half comeback and a second win to start the season. With a win over Rice this week, the Raiders will clinch the Conference USA West. For the Owls, last year’s magical season that ended with bowl game must feel like a lifetime ago. With a new coach and the same toothless defense, Rice has begun 2007 with losses to Nicholls State and Baylor. The program was 0-4 out of the gate last year, so some inspiration can be found in the 2006 squad.
Why Texas Tech might win
Running basically the same offense that’s installed in Lubbock, unheralded Baylor QB Blake Szymanski torched the Owls last Saturday for 412 yards and six touchdown passes without throwing a pick. Against this Rice secondary, David Klingler’s single-game passing marks might be in jeopardy if Harrell & Co. stick around for more than three quarters. Making matters worse in Houston, the Owl offense that bailed the team out so often in 2006 has been a no-show through two games.
Why Rice might win
The Red Raiders have new starters everywhere on defense, and it showed last week against UTEP. Tech allowed 431 balanced yards and had just one sack, indications that the young unit will take time to mesh this fall. The key for the Owls will be the play of QB Chase Clement, who’s been a shell of himself this month. If he can tap into last year’s form and hook up regularly with WR Jarett Dillard, the Texas Tech defense can be scored upon.
Who to Watch
If opposing defenses start committing too many resources to Crabtree, Danny Amendola will seamlessly pick up the slack. While not nearly as explosive, he’s a polished pass-catcher from the slot with 22 receptions and two touchdowns already. If Rice doubles up on Crabtree, Amendola will have at least ten grabs for a third game-in-a-row.
What Will Happen
Well-rested after playing two games in the first days of the season, Texas Tech will score at will on the Rice defense. Harrell's capable of going for 500 yards for the second time in his career if Leach keeps him in long enough.
Prediction
Texas Tech 52, Rice 17
========================================================
Utah State (0-2) at Oklahoma (2-0)
2:30 p.m. - ESPN2
If you’re a fan of spinning scoreboards and the old Sooner teams of yesterday, which used to hang half a hundred without breathing hard, then this is the game for you. Oklahoma is averaging 65 points a game, and a visit from the 0-2 Aggies, who have blown two consecutive fourth-quarter leads, isn’t going to hurt that average. The Sooners blasted Miami, 51-13, last week and are now being considered among the nation’s elite, along with USC and LSU, and in the national title hunt. If you thought Appalachian State beating Michigan was a shocker, a Utah State win would be even bigger.
Why Utah State might win
To keep it close, QB Leon Jackson has to use his leg as well as his arm to keep the chains moving, and he has to do everything possible to avoid turnovers. The Sooners have picked off three passes and returned one for a touchdown, and Jackson is going to have to press early on. Running back Curtis Marsh has to solid enough to establish some semblance of a ground game on the opening drive. This is a veteran Aggie team that’s playing far better than it did last year, and if OU is snoozing after the big win over Miami, this might not be too bad until after halftime.
Why Oklahoma might win
Oklahoma’s offense has been outstanding, thanks to redshirt freshman QB Sam Bradford, who is a ridiculous 40-of-48 for 568 yards with eight scores and no picks. He has a deep receiving corps, led by big-play man Malcolm Kelly, and running back DeMarco Murray has 151 yards on the ground and five touchdowns. It’s all stemming from an offensive line that isn’t allowing Bradford to get touched. The Sooner defense hasn’t been overwhelming, but the secondary showed against Miami why it’s among the best in America, while the run defense is allowing just one yard per carry.
Who to Watch
Anybody who wondered whether Bradford was up to the job of running the show doesn’t have too many doubts now. He has been accurate, confident and capable of making the big play down the field. A lot of young QBs are kept in a cocoon and just throw short passes. Not Bradford, who has been able to throw it all over the place without making too many mistakes. Even against Miami, which was supposed to be formidable defensively, he looked in control and produced well.
What Will Happen
The Sooners, won't be as sharp as they've been over the first two games, but they'll score early and often.
Prediction
Oklahoma 48, Utah State 6
=========================================================
Texas (2-0) at Central Florida (1-0)
2:30 p.m. - ESPN2
Cinderella took it on the chin last week, as Boise State, TCU and Southern Miss lost, and Hawaii was taken to overtime by Louisiana Tech. Might UCF be able to fill the void? Although it’ll take a Herculean effort against sixth-ranked Texas, the Knights will be emboldened by an opening day win at NC State and the unveiling of their new on-campus digs, Bright House Networks Stadium. George O’Leary is trying to engineer a rebound from last year’s disappointing 4-8 campaign, and would like nothing more than to knock South Florida from the back page for a weekend. Texas is unblemished through two games, but it hasn’t been easy. The ‘Horns had their hands full with Arkansas State in the opener, and trailed TCU in the second half before pulling away with 27 unanswered points. In two weeks, Texas has slipped behind Oklahoma in the polls and court of public opinion, and would benefit from a wire-to-wire rout.
Why Texas might win
If you can stop Kevin Smith, you’re well on your way to shutting down the UCF offense. The Knights’ star back opened with 217 yards and two touchdowns in Raleigh, but will find very little running room against the stout interior of the Texas defense. Tackles Frank Okam and Derek Lokey will dominate the line of scrimmage, putting intense pressure on QB Kyle Israel and a suspect group of receivers to make plays. The speed and quickness of the Longhorn linebackers is another mountain of a problem that UCF won’t be able to scale.
Why Central Florida might win
Through two weeks, Texas has displayed no consistency on the offensive side of the ball. Against Arkansas State, the ‘Horns had problems moving the ball on the ground. Last week versus TCU, they were picked off twice and shut out for the first 33 minutes of the game. Despite getting good protection, Colt McCoy has thrown more interceptions than touchdowns in 2007, and will get tested by a Knight secondary that features four returning starters.
Who to Watch
Very quietly, Texas RB Jamaal Charles has run for 100 yards in both games, which is once more than he did it last year. The catalyst in last week’s TCU win, he’s averaging over five yards a carry, a luxury for the offense as McCoy works through his early season struggles.
What Will Happen
While there'll be an air of excitement for one of the biggest games in Central Florida history, it won't be enough to spark a Golden Knight upset. Texas will win the battle on the ground, frustrating Smith and springing Jamaal Charles for a couple of crowd-quieting bursts.
Prediction
Texas 35, Central Florida 13
|
|
|
|
|
wscsuperfan
Posts:230
|
| 09/13/2007 9:19 AM |
Alert
|
Toledo (0-2) at Kansas (2-0)
6:00 p.m.
In a perfect world, these two will play a game as good as last year's double overtime Toledo win over Kansas, but with the way 2007 has started for each team, it might just be all about the scoring. Kansas, yes, that Kansas, is averaging 57 points and 519.5 yards per game, while allowing just one touchdown in the first two outings. Meanwhile, Toledo has been consistent, allowing 52 points to both Purdue and Central Michigan. Expect lots of yards, lots of points, and lots of big plays from both attacks in what should be a wild shootout.
Why Toledo might win
It's not like Kansas has been pushed yet, and Toledo has the offensive balance to keep pace for a full sixty minutes. The Rockets finally settled on a quarterback, Aaron Opelt, and he produced 334 yards and two touchdowns in last week's loss. Can this really be a night-and-day different Kansas secondary than the one that was torched by anyone who wanted to throw the ball last year? Opelt will certainly give it a shot.
Why Kansas might win
It's the transitive theory of college football. If Kansas beat Central Michigan 52-7, and Central Michigan beat Toledo 52-31, then the Jayhawks should win in a blowout, right? Of course, things don't always work out that way, but Toledo hasn't come remotely close to stopping anyone on offense, and it's because of the defensive line. Purdue and CMU combined to throw the ball 64 times, but the Rockets have yet to get their first sack and have only produced three tackles for loss. Meanwhile, the run defense has been absent, too. Kansas should be able to pick how it wants to move the ball.
Who to Watch
With the running game rolling without a problem and QB Todd Reesing playing like one of the Big 12's newest stars, all that's needed is a number one receiver to draw attention away from everyone else. KU might have found its man in senior Marcus Henry, a big, physical veteran who's never been able to put it all together. That appears to have changed early on this year with the senior making 12 catches for 222 yards and a touchdown.
What Will Happen
Toledo's offense will be better and KU will finally start to give up some points, but the Jayhawk attack will roll at will. Toledo's defense needs more time and experience up front, and will be a sore spot for a third straight game.
Prediction
Kansas 52, Toledo 30
=============================================================
Texas State (1-1) at Baylor (1-1)
6:00 p.m.
Now that's how it's supposed to work. After monkeying around with a Texas Tech-like wide open passing game, Baylor finally got it right last week in a 42-17 blowout over Rice. The Bear passing game rolled for 423 yards and six touchdowns, and now gets two more tune-up games with Texas State coming into town this week before traveling to Buffalo. The Bobcats shouldn't provide more than a light scrimmage considering it's coming off a stunning 45-27 loss to Division II Abilene Christian. TSU gave Baylor a run in a 24-17 loss in 2004, but in the previous five meetings, BU won all five by a combined score of 220 to 22.
Why Texas State might win
The only way TSU can beat the Bears, or at least come close, is by running the ball and hoping to generate consistent pressure into the backfield. The Bobcats are big up front, and they have a nice back in Stan Zwinggi who tore off 159 yards and four touchdowns on just 16 carries in the opening day win over Cal Poly.
Why Baylor might win
TSU has been awful in pass coverage. While the secondary is full of veterans, and has three senior starters, it has been dinked and dunked on at will over the first few games. Baylor should be able to sharpen up the passing game and hang whatever numbers it wants to, but this could also be a time to get the ground game moving. BU will have its choice. Not helping the Bobcats is their penchant for turning the ball over, giving it away eight times in the first two games.
Who to Watch
While it's not time to put him in the Colt Brennan, Graham Harrell category quite yet, Baylor junior QB Blake Szymanski is coming off one of the greatest passing days in the school's history going 29 of 46 for 412 yards and six touchdowns. There's no chance the Bears will have a regular running game throughout the year, so either Szymanski has to be on every week, or Baylor will lose.
What Will Happen
Szymanski will throw for five scores as the Bears win their second straight laugher.
Prediction
Baylor 48, Texas State 10
=============================================================
Louisiana-Monroe (0-2) at Texas A&M (2-0)
6:00 p.m.
Now that all of Aggieland's hearts have started up again after a thrilling 47-45 three overtime win over Fresno State, the task is to get by a not-that-bad 0-2 UL Monroe team that battled well in losses to Tulsa and Clemson. If you like running games, this one's for you, with the Warhawks, led by Calvin Dawson, coming in with one of the nation's most effective ground teams, and A&M exclusively going with the running attack early on this year. ULM is diving into Sun Belt play next week with a showdown at Troy, while the Aggies are hoping to get hot before traveling to Miami.
Why Louisiana-Monroe might win
ULM has mostly struggled so far against the pass and has been decent against the run. Clemson might have gotten five touchdown passes from QB Willy Korn, but the ground game only managed 184 yards and two touchdowns. Fine, so the Tiger stars had no problems running the ball, with James Davis averaging 9.7 yards per carry and C.J. Spiller averaging 6.3, but the ULM defense won't have to focus at all on the A&M passing and can devote everyone up the line this week. ULM has been good at not beating itself, and it'll have to be mistake-free to have a chance to keep this close.
Why Texas A&M might win
If A&M ever did want to work on it's passing game, this would be the week. Tulsa and Clemson had no problems hitting the short to midrange passes with regularity, and the opportunities will be there all day long for Stephen McGee to throw. ULM has a decent pass rush, but not enough of one to make anyone worry.
Who to Watch
Yes, McGee really can throw the ball. He was an accomplished high school passer who's now been thrust into the role of ring-leader for the devastating ground attack. While A&M has been able to rumble without a problem on just about everyone, it needs to at least threaten to throw it. So far, McGee hasn't been efficient, completing just 52% of his passes for 191 yards and a touchdown. A mediocre receiving corps has had a lot to do with that, but it's time McGee starts to make everyone around him better. For the A&M offense to be humming, McGee needs to connect on well over 60% of his throws and he has to come up with one or two deep shots now and then.
What Will Happen
Louisiana-Monroe will provide far more of a challenge than A&M would like. It's not going to be Fresno State all over again, but the Warhawks will get its yards and points in before the Aggie ground game takes over.
Prediction
Texas A&M 44, Louisiana-Monroe 23
=============================================================
Missouri State (2-0) at Kansas State (1-1)
6:05 p.m.
All of a sudden, what should've been viewed as a light scrimmage before a two week layoff to work on Texas has become something for the Wildcats to worry a little bit about. Missouri State has its offense humming, coming off a 51-44 stunner over a FCS ranked UT Martin team. MSU head coach Terry Allen is all too familiar with the Wildcat program, having been the head coach at Kansas for five years. While he never beat KSU while at KU, this might be the most powerful offense he's ever brought to Manhattan. For KSU, it's all about getting everything in place for the showdown with the Longhorns. The running game needs tuning, the turnovers have to stop, and QB Josh Freeman has to keep improving.
Why Missouri State might win
It all has to be kept in perspective when dealing with FCS teams, but MSU hung up 113 points in the first two weeks on Missouri-Rolla and UT-Martin. This is a balanced offense that runs extremely well and bombs away effectively and efficiently when it has to. Of course, this is a step up in competition for the Bears, but if KSU isn't paying attention, it'll get a big number hung on its defense.
Why Kansas State might win
The Bears won't be able to handle the pressure applied by the KSU defensive front seven. The Wildcats have cranked out eight sacks and 18 tackles for loss in two games, doing a fantastic job of disrupting Auburn and San Jose State from getting anything consistently going offensively. Outside of a late rally by the Tigers, the KSU defense hasn't given up much of anything, and should be a brick wall at times for the MSU ground game.
Who to Watch
Kansas State has a huge advantage in the punt return game. MSU's Eric Davis has only returned four punts so far, but he's gone backwards for -21 yards. Meanwhile, KSU's Deon Murphy has averaged a whopping 20.4 yards per return. No, Kansas State isn't going to hold a 40+ yard advantage in punt returns, but it should make a big difference as the game goes on.
What Will Happen
Missouri State will get plenty of yards, but it'll also suffer plenty of losses as Kansas State hangs out in the backfield. This will be the game Kansas State finds its running game.
Prediction
Kansas State 52, Missouri State 19
===============================================================
Florida State (1-1) at Colorado (1-1)
9:00 p.m. - ESPN
In an interestingly odd matchup of two conferences that rarely cross paths, Colorado looks to get the first big name win in the Dan Hawkins era, while Florida State tries to jump-start a season that's started off rocky at best. The Noles showed good heart in coming back late to make a game of it in the loss to Clemson, and then they came out and struggled against an awful UAB team. With Alabama coming up, followed by the meat of the ACC season, the time is now for all the coaching changes, and all the tweaks to the offensive system, to kick in. For Colorado, the key is establishing a little bit of consistency. After opening the season with a win over Colorado State, the Buffs were never in the game in the loss to Arizona State. The offense has to finally start showing some signs of life, and the defense has to play much better than it has to start the year. Florida State won the only time the two played in a 47-7 blasting in 2003.
Why Florida State might win
Colorado can't throw. Cody Hawkins is a great-looking young prospect who should grow into the role over the next few years, but right now, the passing attack hasn't been appreciably better than last year when it was the worst in America. The Seminole secondary has talent, and hasn't been bad over the first two weeks, and it would be a lot better if the defensive front could start to generate a pass rush. If FSU can get up early against the Buffs, like ASU was able to, it could be over. CU doesn't have comeback ability, and the overall explosiveness isn't getting any help with Bernard Jackson, last year's starting quarterback who became a receiver, likely done thanks to academic problems.
Why Colorado might win
It's not all going to be about Hawkins this week as he get some big help returning. RB Hugh Charles missed the ASU game with a hamstring problem and now is back to 100% and ready to roll. Without him, CU rushed for a mere 32 yards against Arizona State and 129 against Colorado State. With a first option to go to in the offense, Hawkins should be more comfortable and shouldn't have to make every play happen on his own.
Who to Watch
What's up with DeCody Fagg? The one-time superstar receiver recruit for the Noles came into the season as one of the team captains, and now he might turn into a reserve after catching just five balls for 34 yards, dropping several key passes, and making a slew of mental mistakes. Also needing to step up and do more is Greg Carr, who came through with a nice day against UAB, but still hasn't developed into a full-time go-to receiver. Will he ever catch more than five passes? The offense likes to spread it around, but with Fagg's problems, Carr quickly has to be the number one target.
What Will Happen
Both teams have major problems, but Florida State has more talent to make up for all the issues. This will be the game the defensive line finally starts to play like the Florida State offensive line, and while Hawkins will have a decent game, he won't get the passing game going quickly enough to jump out to a desperately needed early lead.
Prediction
Florida State 31, Colorado 20
=============================================================
Iowa (2-0) at Iowa State (0-2)
12:30 p.m. - VERSUS
Insert the painful "throw out the record book" cliche here as Iowa State always gives Iowa problems. The Cyclones would like to throw out the first two games of the Gene Chizik era, losing home games to Kent State and Northern Iowa, and looking awful in both. As bad as things have been, the season can take a wicked 180-degree turn if the Cyclones can pull off their magic against an Iowa team that struggled against Northern Illinois, and then dominated Syracuse in a 35-0 stomping. With a showdown against Wisconsin next week, Iowa could use a breather of a game to work on getting all the young players and the backups some meaningful work, but this is a rivalry game. Iowa State will have other ideas.
Why Iowa might win
When in doubt, when Iowa State starts to get a little bit of momentum, Iowa should be able to rely on the lines and come through with a long drive, or a stuffing stop, when it absolutely needs to. The Cyclone running game hasn't been bad, but it's about to hit a brick wall against a Hawkeye defensive front that's swallowing up the run. Iowa State's biggest problem has been turning the ball over and making big mistakes, and with the fearsome Hawkeye pass rush sure to pressure Bret Meyer, there should be several opportunities to force turnovers. Northern Illinois and Syracuse aren't great, but they're better than Iowa State and they combined to net 45 rushing yards.
Why Iowa State might win
Iowa State's defense hasn't been awful so far, and it should play just well enough to keep the game close. The offense has been the issue, and the run defense has struggled, but the secondary has done a good job so far, while the defensive front has generated decent pressure. This is an entirely different animal for new Iowa QB Jake Christensen, as he'll now have to deal with a road game in a rivalry game. Better Iowa teams than this have fallen tothe Cyclones in the past. Iowa State will play like this is its Super Bowl.
Who to Watch
It's time for Bret Meyer to save his season and come up with his first really good performance against Iowa. Meyer is 1-2 against the Hawkeyes, and while he ran well last year, he struggled mightily to get anything going in the passing game with just 152 yards, 154 the year before, and 100 as a freshman. He had to do everything for the offense last week, but while he threw for 255 yards he didn't throw a touchdown pass and tossed two picks. For Iowa State to have any shot, he can't just be effective, he has to be brilliant. For that to happen, it's time for WR Todd Blythe to show up. With only seven catches for 97 yards and a touchdown in the first two games, he hasn't been able to help the struggling attack.
What Will Happen
The emotion of the game will carry Iowa State for a half, as the defense forces a few Iowa mistakes, but the Cyclone offense will be shut down in the second half. The Iowa defensive line will be the difference.
Prediction
Iowa 23, Iowa State 10
=========================================================================
Notre Dame (0-2) at Michigan (0-2)
2:30 p.m. - ABC
While everyone loves the big game, and Michigan and Notre Dame have played some classics over the years with some of the most important showdowns in college football history, this year's matchup might be the most interesting yet. In the same way you don't want to watch the car crash, but can't seem to turn away, this game has now become a battle to see which all-time great program has fallen the furthest, and which coaching staff is on the hotter seat. These two haven't just lost their first two games of the season, they've done it with flair, and now it's desperation time. That means this game won't just have the pressure of being NOTRE DAME VS. MICHIGAN, it'll be about survival, and trying to jump-start a season. It's still early, and there's still plenty of time for each team to turn things around, but for the loser, its season will have the potential to go from disastrous to a whole other level of bad. Notre Dame has to face six likely bowl-bound teams in a row after the trip to Ann Arbor, and Michigan has to deal with a strong Penn State next week in the Big Ten opener.
Why Notre Dame might win
The general sense seems to be that Notre Dame had to play two elite level teams in Georgia Tech and Penn State, who are each likely to be in the top ten at some point, while there was no honor in Michigan's loss to Appalachian State. Oregon, while good, isn't seen as strong as the two opponents the Irish have faced, so while things might have been ugly so far, there's a chance the Yellow Jackets and Nittany Lions will do that do just about everyone. If the Irish offense ever wanted a jump start, this would be the time against a Michigan secondary that's been a step slow and way out of position time and again in the first two games. As long as Jimmy Clausen gets time to throw, he should be able to fire away at will against the nation's second worst pass efficiency defense. Fortunately for Michigan ...
Why Michigan might win
... the Irish offensive line hasn't been remotely close to stopping a pass rush so far, and that's led to the quarterbacks being wildly inefficient. Notre Dame has allowed a whopping 15 sacks in two games, and while the Wolverine defense has been miserable, there's been a little bit of a pass rush. Michigan simply isn't playing up to its talent level, but it actually has the horses in place to turn the production up a few notches and start winning, while Notre Dame just plain stinks right now. Keeping it basic, which is what the Wolverines need to do right now, they should be able to pound the ball as much as they want to against an Irish line that's totally incapable of shedding blocks. The Wolverine offensive line should dominate from the start.
Who to Watch
The future is now for the two storied programs as true freshman quarterbacks Jimmy Clausen and Ryan Mallett square off in what many talent scouts think could be the first of many showdowns that'll span the course of long NFL careers. Thrown to the wolves last week, Clausen wasn't horrible, considering the Nittany Lion defense and revved up crowd. He completed 17 of 32 passes for 144 yards with an interception, and while those numbers aren't going to get him into any hall of fame, they're better than they appear to be considering he rarely got time to throw and didn't have any running game to help the cause. For Mallett, a huge 6-6, 250-pound bomber, all he has to do is hand off to Mike Hart, not throw interceptions, and occasionally air it out to loosen things up. With Chad Henne out for at least three weeks with a knee injury, Mallett will have time to make the job his, just like Henne was able to do as a freshman. If Michigan wins, and if Mallett plays reasonably well, he could be seen as the spark who kicked off a new season.
What Will Happen
Mallett has Mike Hart, Mario Manningham, Adrian Arrington, and Jake Long to help ease him into the job. Clausen has....Armando Allen? David Grimes? Actually, Allen and Grimes are dangerous speedsters who have the potential to rip apart the Michigan defense, but there is a big production gap between the Michigan skill players and Notre Dame's. Michigan had problems with mobile quarterbacks over the last two weeks, so look for Demetrius Jones to see time here and there. It won't matter though. This is the week Michigan gets back on track in an ugly game for both teams.
Prediction
Michigan 31, Notre Dame 17
|
|
|
|
|
vranged
Posts:2813
|
| 09/13/2007 9:22 AM |
Alert
|
Holy crap. Another Nebraska victory. First, the video game. Then, egami. Now, Sporting News.
Is it too late to change my prediction?
And what's with that KState/Mizzou prediction? Wow.
EDIT: Apparently I can't read. It's Missouri State. |
|
After acknowledging that he was desperate, Dwight said "people will resort to saying things they know aren't true when they are desperate." That about sums it up! |
|
|
Logan
Posts:2525
|
| 09/13/2007 9:22 AM |
Alert
|
superfan,
how accurate have these guys predictions been thus far? i think they have the first one wrong. |
|
dwight, refuting reality one post at a time. |
|
|
egami
Posts:5397
|
| 09/13/2007 9:28 AM |
Alert
|
Posted By vranged on 09/13/2007 9:22 AM
EDIT: Apparently I can't read. It's Missouri State.
Wondered if you hadn't misread that...I had to read it twice going through. I had forgot there was even a Missouri State. Think they renamed at one time. |
|
Posted By Omahan on 11/04/2008 2:24 PM
I've worked very hard to become your friend egami. |
|
|
Logan
Posts:2525
|
| 09/13/2007 9:46 AM |
Alert
|
| missouri state used to be southwest mo state. |
|
dwight, refuting reality one post at a time. |
|
|
wscsuperfan
Posts:230
|
| 09/13/2007 11:35 AM |
Alert
|
Based solely on just the Big 12 games, Iowa and Notre Dame games, Pete Fiutak of CollegeFootballNews.com is 23-5 in predicting the outcomes so far this year. But also remember that most of these early games are no-brainer picks.
His misses were:
Oklahoma State vs. Georgia
Iowa State vs. Northern Iowa
Iowa State vs. Kent State
Central Michigan vs. Kansas
Southern Methodist vs. Texas Tech
|
|
|
|
|
egami
Posts:5397
|
| 09/13/2007 11:37 AM |
Alert
|
I noticed last season that they like to take the occassional flier on the upset potentials too.
Which, Logan, pretty much settles are litte debate that there are upset potentials favoring a NU win! |
|
Posted By Omahan on 11/04/2008 2:24 PM
I've worked very hard to become your friend egami. |
|
|
Logan
Posts:2525
|
| 09/13/2007 12:19 PM |
Alert
|
Posted By egami on 09/13/2007 11:37 AM
I noticed last season that they like to take the occassional flier on the upset potentials too.
Which, Logan, pretty much settles are litte debate that there are upset potentials favoring a NU win!
in his and your opinions anyway. |
|
dwight, refuting reality one post at a time. |
|
|
Logan
Posts:2525
|
| 09/13/2007 12:26 PM |
Alert
|
Posted By wscsuperfan on 09/13/2007 11:35 AM
Based solely on just the Big 12 games, Iowa and Notre Dame games, Pete Fiutak of CollegeFootballNews.com is 23-5 in predicting the outcomes so far this year. But also remember that most of these early games are no-brainer picks.
His misses were:
Oklahoma State vs. Georgia
Iowa State vs. Northern Iowa
Iowa State vs. Kent State
Central Michigan vs. Kansas
Southern Methodist vs. Texas Tech
it appears that 3 of those would have been considered upsets. while he picked isu to win games and not be upset while others thought at least uni would knock the cyclones off. to me his upset specials appear to have missed the mark. i think that'll be the case again this saturday. |
|
dwight, refuting reality one post at a time. |
|
|
Screamincheetahwillie
Posts:100
|
| 09/14/2007 9:26 PM |
Alert
|
So what you are saying is to stay away from picking Iowa State to win all season long??? Imagine that. Bring back McCarney.
2007's Championship Predictions: All of my favorite teams: Huskers, Rams, Suns, Avalanche, and Red Sox. Hey, can't a guy dream??? |
|
|
|
|
|