WEEK 7 CFB INFO

[Lumi]

Look Aheads, Let Downs - Week 7


There was a pair of big games this past weekend on the college gridiron that gave us a clearer view of the pretenders and contenders from both the national and conference standpoint.

The biggest thing I saw from this past weekend is that the Gators are head and shoulders above the rest of the nation. LSU may have only lost by 10 to Florida, but it might as well have been 30 points.

We?ve got another three-pack of matches this week that set up nicely for a trap.

A Devilish Problem?

Washington looked like they were heading to a 33-28 loss as the Wildcats were moving the ball with under 40 seconds to play. Instead of sulking, the Huskies got a lucky break as Mason Foster picked off Nick Foles for a 37-yard touchdown to claim a 36-33 victory as 3 ?-point home underdogs.

Now Steve Sarkisian and the Huskies head out to Tempe to play with Arizona State.

The Sun Devils are coming off of a 27-14 win at Washington State. A nice victory, but the Cougars have been embarrassed by a Hawaii squad that isn?t all that great.

So why would you take a chance on Arizona State to cover? Try the fact that the Sun Devils have gone 5-0 straight up and against the spread in the last five head-to-head meetings. Plus, the Huskies have already failed to cover at Stanford after pulling off the upset against Southern Cal this season.

Horned Frog Stomp?

The Horned Frogs had their problems with the weather in Colorado this past weekend as they took on Air Force. Quarterback Andy Dalton had a rough day, completing just 16-of-28 passes for 198 yards to go along with being sacked three times. Yet TCU still found a way to keep perfect on the year with a 20-17 win as a 10-point road ?chalk.?

TCU heads home this week to play against the Rams, but there is a reason to be a little apprehensive of backing the home team.

Colorado State may not look like a team that could pull off the upset. After all, they are just 3-3 SU this season, but 3-1-1ATS. And the Rams? actually coughed up a 17-10 lead in the final quarter last week to Utah to fall 24-17.

Another thing to consider is that the Rams were stopped only by Texas Christian?s defense in the 2008 battle. Colorado State was able to cover as a heavy 15 ?-point home pup, 13-7. The Frogs held on for that win due to holding CSU to just four third-down conversions in 14 chances.

Also, the Horned Frogs will no doubt be thinking of their huge tilt with Brigham Young the following week. A victory there could pace TCU to an unbeaten year and maybe another BCS berth for the Mountain West Conference.

Hawkeyes Down?

There is only one team left unbeaten in the Big Ten this year and it?s Iowa. The Hawkeyes retained that distinction after holding on to beat Michigan 30-28 last Saturday night. Their defense was impressive in holding the Wolverines to just 3-of-11 third-down conversions. They also knocked Tate Forcier out of the game after connecting on eight passes for 94 yards and a pick.

The Hawkeyes will look to stay perfect this Saturday when they travel to Madison for a showdown with Wisconsin.

Forgive me for buying into Iowa this weekend, but I?ve seen this fade spot before. As a matter of fact, we all saw it happen just a couple of weeks ago. The Hawkeyes won at Penn State a couple weeks ago under the lights. The following week, they failed to cover as 21 ?-point home favorites in a 24-21 win against Arkansas State.

The Hawkeyes actually own this series for bettors recently with a 7-2 ATS mark in the last nine games against Wisky. However, Iowa is 0-3 SU and ATS in its last three games on the road after playing against the Wolverines.

 

[Lumi]

Stoops: WR Broyles not ruled out

Stoops: WR Broyles not ruled out

Stoops: WR Broyles not ruled out
October 12, 2009


NORMAN, Okla. (AP) -Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops says leading receiver Ryan Broyles ``has not been ruled out'' for No. 20 Oklahoma's game Saturday against No. 3 Texas.

Broyles missed last week's game against Baylor after suffering a hairline fracture in his left shoulder blade the previous week in the Sooners' 21-20 loss at Miami.

He had been expected to miss two to four weeks because of the injury.

Even after missing most of the past two games, Broyles leads Oklahoma with 23 catches for 346 yards and seven touchdowns this season.

 

[Lumi]

Tebow still taking post-concussion tests

Tebow still taking post-concussion tests

Tebow still taking post-concussion tests
October 12, 2009


GAINESVILLE, Fla. (AP) -Tim Tebow is still undergoing post-concussion evaluations.

Florida's star quarterback says that team doctors checked him out before, during and after Saturday night's 13-3 victory at LSU.

Tebow says doctors have ``been checking up on me, just like any concussion.'' Tebow added Monday that he doesn't have to do the same thing as far as the extent of the test, but says the doctors ``are still checking on me, doing little balance tests and eye tests.''

His post-concussion tests before he was cleared to play Saturday included computer tests, reaction tests, eye-focusing tests, balancing tests, motion-sickness tests, MRI exams and CT scans.

The 2007 Heisman Trophy winner doesn't know when the tests will end, either. He says he just does ``what they tell me.''

 

[Lumi]

Police: Southern Miss player took own life

Police: Southern Miss player took own life

Police: Southern Miss player took own life


UNION CITY, Tenn. (AP) - Tennessee police say an 18-year-old walk-on punter at the University of Southern Mississippi committed suicide.

Union City special police investigator Derrick Odell said Monday that Peter Wilkes died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Wilkes of Union City died Saturday, four days after the shooting at his home.

Wilkes had not played this season. Coach Larry Fedora says Wilkes was home on fall break to help pick out a headstone for his father's grave. His father died of a heart attack over the summer.

Fedora says Wilkes had decided to continue school and that ``it was a dream that he had and his dad had for him.''

He called him a great kid with a great attitude.

 

[Lumi]

Fla. appeal court again rules against NCAA

Fla. appeal court again rules against NCAA

Fla. appeal court again rules against NCAA

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) -A Florida appellate court again has rebuffed the NCAA's effort to prevent public release of documents on academic cheating at Florida State.

The 1st District Court of Appeal late Monday denied the college athletics organization's motions for a rehearing or certification of the case to the Florida Supreme Court.

The documents being sought by The Associated Press and other news media concern a proposal to take wins away from coaches and athletes.

That includes football coach Bobby Bowden who could lose 14 victories - diminishing his already dwindling chances of overtaking Penn State's Joe Paterno as major college football's winningest coach.

 

[Lumi]

Upon further review in college football

Upon further review in college football

Upon further review in college football



It seems a little dull, at least at this time that Florida and Alabama are clearly the two best teams in the country and not much excitement stands in their way until they play in one BSC semifinal game again this year, referred to as the SEC Championship Game brought to by Dr. Pepper. (No money changed hands for product mention; it?s just how the announcers promote the game).

On Saturday afternoon, Alabama played a version of Bear Bryant football in smothering Ole Miss 22-3 as four point favorites. The Crimson Tide was effective enough against a very good Rebels defense (the score could have easily been 40-3) and moved the ball and played outstanding defense. Quarterback Jevan Snead looks like a not ready for primetime player and coach Houston Nutt will have to do serious damage control to save this season and his signal caller.

Later, Florida?s defense so thoroughly bottle up LSU on their home turf, they looked like they could stop the recession in conceding a measly 162 yards. Offensively, coach Urban Meyer was very cautious, having Tim Tebow play, but never exposing him to a lot of big hits. If you noticed, Tebow went down in piles more readily to protect himself.

Texas dropped to No.3 in the pools, but that is no big deal since they are the top team in the other quasi-bracket as long as they keep winning.

If I were an Iowa fan, I?d be very nervous about trip to Madison this week. Granted, the Hawkeyes have had success at Camp Randall; however, they have surrendered 49 total points the last two weeks and have given 145 or more yards on the ground in half their games this season. Bettors have taken Iowa from short favorite to 2.5-point underdog quickly.

Though the line didn?t move virtually all week, Connecticut was receiving a lot of love from handicappers in forums, based on their defensive play. Pittsburgh was a seven point favorite right up until game time and had a chance early to blow them out, but a dropped pass for touchdown and an overthrow for another by QB Bob Stull left the Panthers without points. Connecticut capitalized on Pittsburgh?s mishaps and built a 21-6. At that point, the Panthers went on the prowl and ended up with a 489-305 yards advantage. After coming back to tie the score at 21-21, Pitt was moving the ball effortlessly and had first and goal at the three and gave backers hope for a well-deserved push or win. Instead, they plowed the ball three times into the middle of the line and were all too pleased to kick game winning field goal. They have a game at Rutgers this Friday and the underdog is 6-1 ATS.

UCLA held Oregon in check with the Ducks using backup quarterback Nate Costa and led 3-0 at halftime, catching 3.5-points as home underdog. Well, faster than you can University of California, Los Angeles, Oregon opened the second half with kickoff return for touchdown, a Pick Six interception and engineered a 53-yard touchdown drive off another UCLA turnover in less than four minutes, rendering Bruins betting tickets useless.

Auburn looked liked paper Tigers as Arkansas had a superior offensive game plan and was shredded by the Razorbacks for 495 yards and 28 first downs. Arkansas contained the Tigers explosive offense for over 40 minutes before they had a few big plays against them in easy 44-23 whipping.

The SEC is very top heavy this season. Mississippi State and Vanderbilt both lost in non-conference action as favorites and Kentucky gave South Carolina fits in 28-26 cover. Georgia was destroyed by Tennessee, with the much maligned Jonathan Crompton having career game with four TD passes.

Study the numbers

This has been reported here for weeks and is deserves your attention. It is imperative to find the early numbers on totals in college football and if you have access to the up to the minute figures on Saturday?s, you have to start finding these. This season in college football, totals that have moved three or moves points in either direction have been correct 79-35-1, 69.2 percent. That is money waiting to be made and the oddsmakers haven?t been able to work it fast enough either as 25-9 (73.5 percent) record proves the last two weeks.

Did you know CFB underdogs have yet to have a losing week this season? At 20-20 ATS opening week, they are 137-109-2, 55.7 percent. The last three weeks, dogs catching 10 or more points are 41-21, 66.1 percent.

In the NFL, after a 5-11 against the spread start, home dogs have started to bark the last couple of weeks with 7-3 ATS record. This seems to happen every year of late, mostly in the first half of the season, but teams traveling three time zones are 2-6 ATS thus far.

It is being widely discussed that oddsmakers have a real issue concerning the best teams playing the worst teams. How high a number do you place on teams like St. Louis, Oakland or Tampa Bay when playing one of the better NFL teams? This is bore-out in this simple method. The last two weeks, team?s over .500 playing against teams with a record below .500 are 8-3 ATS.

If you look around the internet you will find any number of game predictors that tout there?s has the most accurate scores, seldom with any proof or claims of ?hitting 53.8 percent? which is fine if you can lay 10 dimes a game. Season to date in college football; Game Estimator is 53-32-1 ATS, 62.3 percent in highlighted plays on sides and 24-15-1, 61.5 percent on the total for the same criteria. Combined that it 62 percent on 121 plays (pushes not included). Plus you have all the other material to choose to help make you a winner.

 

[Lumi]

Games to Watch - Week 7

Games to Watch - Week 7

Games to Watch - Week 7

Week 7



Wednesday - Boise State at Tulsa (ESPN, 8:00 p.m.)
Matchup Skinny


Will we have another midweek upset on tap? Fifth-ranked Boise State (5-0 straight up, 4-0 against the spread) will face a tough test when it travels to Tulsa (4-1 SU, 2-1 ATS) for a non-conference showdown this Wednesday. The Golden Hurricane is hoping to put itself on the national map like the Broncos did, by winning these types of primetime games. Last year, Tulsa opened with eight straight wins before being humbled against a top-tier team in Arkansas (30-23). This season, the school had a chance to make some noise against a banged-up Oklahoma team in Week 3 but was blanked 45-0. The oddsmakers have made the Broncos 10-point road favorites and Chris Petersen's team has had no trouble covering outside of Boise lately (6-1 ATS run). The two schools have met four times and BSU won all four (2-2 ATS), with the last meeting coming in 2004. It could be a longshot folks but you might want to look at BCS future odds for Boise State, especially if you're catching 15/1 or higher.


Thursday - Cincinnati at South Florida (ESPN, 7:45 p.m.)
Matchup Skinny


The Big East, Big 12 and SEC are the only three conferences in the country that have two unbeaten teams left standing. That number will definitely change this weekend, as Cincinnati (5-0 SU, 2-2 ATS) visits South Florida (5-0 SU, 2-1 ATS) for a conference clash. This series has been owned by the Bearcats, who are 4-1 SU and 5-0 ATS in the last five meetings. Last year, Cincinnati QB Tony Pike lit up the Bulls for 281 yards and two scores. South Florida's defense is just as good this year and its offense has gotten a recent jolt from freshman QB B.J. Daniels. Since filling in for the injured Matt Grothe, he's tossed six touchdowns and run for over 291 yards (3 TDs). Thursday night games on ESPN have been known to produce upsets but there has only been one (S. Car over Miss) that stands out through the first six weeks. If Brian Kelly and the 'Cats win this road game, look out folks. Cincinnati will be favored in its next five games, which appear to be very winnable. The last test will come on Dec. 5 at Pittsburgh. Perhaps another team to put on your midseason future wish list!


Saturday - Iowa at Wisconsin (ESPN, 12:00 p.m.)
Matchup Skinny


Is Iowa (6-0 SU, 3-2 ATS) as good as its perfect record? If you answered yes, then why are the Hawkeyes catching points at Madison this week in a battle against Wisconsin (5-1, 2-3 ATS)? The Badgers were exposed last week when they were stifled by Ohio State 31-13 in Columbus. In 2008, Wisconsin lost to the Buckeyes after starting 4-0 and the proceeded to lose two more in a row, one setback coming to the Hawkeyes (38-16). Should we expect a similar outcome this week or will Bret Bielema's troops bounce back? Including last year's loss, Iowa has gone 5-2 SU and 6-1 ATS in the previous seven meetings with two of the wins coming at Madison. After this game, Iowa heads to Michigan State for its second straight road test. Then, Ferentz has a pair of winnable games (IU, NW) on deck before a huge game against Ohio State, which could be for the conference title if both keep winning.



Saturday - Oklahoma vs. Texas from Dallas (ABC, 12:00 p.m.)
Matchup Skinny


The Red River Shootout between Oklahoma (3-2 SU, 1-3 ATS) and Texas (5-0 SU, 1-4 ATS) doesn't have that much luster this year due to the pair of early losses suffered by the Sooners. The Longhorns are still poised to make a run at the national title but a setback here would more than likely crush their chances. Texas has won three of the last four (4-0 ATS) against Oklahoma and the three victories came by double digits. Both the Longhorns and the Sooners have burned gamblers this year with a combined ATS record of 2-7. If Texas wants to win this game on Saturday, it will need to run the football better and that's not easy considering Oklahoma (53 YPG) is ranked third in the country. Texas isn't too shabby either, ranked first (46 YPG) against the run. Considering the defensive units on the field, a low-scoring affair could be produced and the 'under' has gone 3-2 in the last five encounters. The Longhorns opened as 3 ?-point favorites for this contest at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas and while OU has two losses, both came by one-point to BYU (14-13) and Miami, Fl. (21-20).



Saturday - USC at Notre Dame (NBC, 3:30 p.m.)
Matchup Skinny


Don't look now folks but Notre Dame (4-1 SU, 1-4 ATS) could be making some national noise with a win over USC (4-1 SU, 2-3 ATS) in South Bend on Saturday. A win over the Trojans is much easier said than done, especially when you look at the past history. Pete Carroll and Southern California have won seven straight (6-1 ATS) against the Fighting Irish and six of the wins came by double digits too. The last two meetings have been outright embarrassing for head coach Charlie Weis and Notre Dame, who have been outscored 76-3. Fortunately for the Irish, their quarterback Jimmy Clausen (1,544 yards, 12 TDs) has been outstanding this year but that can't be said for the defense. Since the unit shut out Nevada 35-0 in Week 1, they've given up 29.8 PPG in the last four. USC's offense isn't exactly a powerhouse this year but they do have playmakers in the backfield. Even though the Trojans defense lost a ton of starters to the NFL, they're ranked sixth in yards (238 YPG) and fourth in scoring (8.6). The front seven has accounted for 21 sacks but they've only forced eight turnovers. Carroll and the Trojans used to be golden as road favorites yet they're just 3-6 ATS in their last nine spots, including 1-2 this year. ND is just 3-3 ATS as a home underdog under Weis.



Saturday - Arkansas at Florida (CBS, 3:30 p.m.)
Matchup Skinny


Is top-ranked Florida (5-0 SU, 2-1 ATS) in for a letdown against Arkansas (3-2 SU, 2-2 ATS) this Saturday at Gainesville? With or without QB Tim Tebow, the history doesn't side with the Razorbacks at all in this series. UF has won and covered seven in a row against Arkansas and it's handled some hefty numbers as well during this stretch. Last year, the Gators needed a late burst but they still dismantled Arkansas 38-7 as 26 ?-point road favorites. Head coach Urban Meyer won a national championship last year behind a great offense. This season, the Gators own the best defense (202 YPG, 6.4 PPG) and it's hard to imagine anybody putting up points on this unit. If there is a team that can explode, then look no further than Arkansas (451 YPG, 37 PPG). This matchup will be a nice measuring stick for the Gators' D considering Alabama held Arkansas to 7 at home on Sept. 26. Florida is 11-3 ATS as home favorites in the last three seasons.



Saturday - Virginia Tech at Georgia Tech (ESPN2, 6:00 p.m.)
Matchup Skinny


We're still in October but this week's ACC showdown in Atlanta between No. 4 Virginia Tech (5-1 SU, 3-3 ATS) and No. 19 Georgia Tech (5-1 SU, 3-2 ATS) is huge contest for the Coastal Division. If the Hokies win on the road Saturday, the schedule is set up perfectly for a trip to the ACC Championship. A loss for the Yellow Jackets would all but eliminate the team from the title game, since they lost to Miami (33-17) on Sept. 17. Since that loss to the Hurricanes, G-Tech has ripped off three straight wins both SU and ATS behind some offensive fireworks as well. The attack has posted 38.3 PPG during this span. V-Tech has been suspected against the run (123 YPG) this year and GT is averaging a league-best 277 YPG on the ground. Last year, the Yellow Jackets outgained (387-247) the Hokies but lost the turnover battle (3-0), which led to a 20-17 setback. Frank Beamer and his troops are 4-1 SU and 3-2 ATS in their last five battles against GT, and that includes a pair of double-digit victories in Atlanta too. The Yellow Jackets are 4-2 ATS as underdogs under head coach Paul Johnson.



Saturday - South Carolina at Alabama (ESPN, 7:45 p.m.)
Matchup Skinny


Steve Spurrier owns a 2-0 record in his only two battles against Nick Saban, which might give South Carolina (5-1 SU, 4-1 ATS) much needed confidence when it meets second-ranked Alabama (6-0 SU, 5-1 ATS) in Tuscaloosa. The Crimson Tide's defense is scary good and it showed in last week's 22-3 road win against Ole Miss. Alabama dominated from start to finish and it's fair to say that it hasn't been challenged by anybody all year. The Gamecocks are a tough team to gauge, since they've been up and down all year. The lone loss came by four points (41-37) to Georgia and three of their victories against quality opponents were by 4, 6 and 2. The first year (7-6 SU, 3-8-1 ATS) at Alabama under Saban wasn't great for gamblers but since then he owns an 18-2 SU and 14-6 ATS mark. The total in this game has been low in recent meetings (36, 38, 42) and the 'over' has gone 2-1 during this span. South Carolina is 2-1 SU and 3-0 ATS as an underdog this year. All six of Alabama's wins have come by double-digits and the lone ATS setback came in a 26-point victory (40-14) against Florida International in Week 2.

 

[ripken8]

good stuff, thanks illuminati...

 

[Lumi]

You are welcome Ripken,

More to come

 

[Lumi]

SOME DUNKLE ......

SOME DUNKLE ......

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15
Time Posted: 8:00 p.m. EST (10/13)
Game 105-106: Cincinnati at South Florida
Dunkel Ratings: Cincinnati 97.788; South Florida 103.472
Dunkel Line: South Florida by 5 1/2; 56
Vegas Line: Cincinnati by 3; 49
Dunkel Pick: South Florida (+3); Over

OTHER MAJOR GAMES:
Time Posted: 8:00 p.m. EST (10/13)
Howard at Morgan State
Dunkel Ratings: Howard 34.007; Morgan State 50.372
Dunkel Line: Morgan State by 16 1/2

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16
Time Posted: 8:00 p.m. EST (10/13)
Game 107-108: Pittsburgh at Rutgers
Dunkel Ratings: Pittsburgh 96.302; Rutgers 88.302
Dunkel Line: Pittsburgh by 8; 44
Vegas Line: Pittsburgh by 3; 50
Dunkel Pick: Pittsburgh (-3); Under

 

[Lumi]

Who?s the better BCS buster to bet: TCU or Boise State?

Who?s the better BCS buster to bet: TCU or Boise State?

Who?s the better BCS buster to bet: TCU or Boise State?

Life is tough in the MWC and WAC. Lose one game, and you go from a potential BCS bowl to the Humanitarian Bowl. That?s a mammoth pay cut, and a lot of pressure on the coaches from the non-BCS conferences.

As we head into the second half of the season, TCU and Boise State are the only non-BCS teams to have a shot at crashing the big boys? party. Both are undefeated and ranked in the Top 10 of the Coaches and Harris Polls. But only one will be headed to a BCS Bowl, most likely the Fiesta or Orange Bowl, even if they both finish undefeated.

Right now, that team appears to be Boise State, which because of nothing more than the preseason polls, is ranked higher than TCU. The Horned Frogs beat the Broncos in last year?s Poinsettia Bowl, but lost more starters and didn?t receive as much preseason hype as Boise State.

It doesn?t seem to matter that the Horned Frogs have played a much tougher schedule. Because Boise State was ranked ahead of them to start the year, TCU is going to have a difficult time leapfrogging the Broncos. (Got to love the BCS!)

The Broncos (5-0, 4-1 ATS) sit at No. 6 in the Coaches? and Harris Poll. Their best wins are vs. Oregon to start the season and at Fresno State. Tonight?s game at Tulsa, a road game at Louisiana Tech (Nov. 6) and a home game against improving Nevada (Nov. 27) are the toughest games left for the Broncos.

The Horned Frogs (5-0, 2-3 ATS) sit at No. 10 in the Coaches? and Harris Poll. They own impressive road wins at Virginia and Clemson. A trip to BYU (Oct. 24) and a home date against Utah (Nov. 14) are the toughest road blocks facing the Frogs.

Statistically, both teams are excellent. Boise State owns the No. 5 scoring offense in the nation, averaging 40 points a game. The Broncos are No. 14 in total defense.

The Horned Frogs are built more around their defense, which ranks No. 7 in total defense. They have an exceptional pass rush, averaging 3.2 sacks per game and are solid in special teams. Offensively, they are built around the nation?s 12th best rushing attack, which averages 215 yards.

Both teams are very well-coached. Chris Peterson is 25-16 ATS in his three years. TCU?s Gary Patterson is on a 32-19-3 run.

As you can tell, these are two evenly matched squads, who both deserve a sniff of the BCS. But only one is going to get it. Who will it be?

 

[Lumi]

****** I know it's hard to read, but it is what it is :shrug: ********



College Football - Top 25

Current Rank Last Week Change Team W-L
(ATS) Power Rating Team Comments
1 1 Florida 5-0
(3-1-0) -28.94 Only one team currently ranked is left on the regular-season schedule ? at South Carolina. Arkansas could cause trouble for a half against UF this week if the Gators aren?t focused.
2 2 Texas 5-0
(1-4-0) -23.73 The Horns slipped below Alabama in the national polls, but that'll be just a one-week term if UT beats Oklahoma this weekend.
3 3 Alabama 6-0
(5-1-0) -21.85 It?s not out of the question that the SEC title game loser, if it pits two unbeaten teams in UF and Bama, might get a rematch in the national championship game.
4 5 1 Boise State 5-0
(4-1-0) -21.40 This is the last real upset alert for BSU. The Golden Hurricane lead C-USA in defense. If throw out the Oklahoma game, that unit has allowed just two offensive scores.
5 8 3 Oregon 5-1
(4-2-0) -20.02 Dangerous sandwich game this weekend at Washington ahead of Southern Cal on Halloween. The Oregon defense gets all the pub, but the Ducks lead the Pac-10 in scoring offense.
6 6 Ohio State 5-1
(5-1-0) -19.90 This looks like a typically overrated Ohio State team. Do you realize the Buckeyes were outgained 368 to 184 yards and were held to eight first downs against Wisconsin?
7 4 3 Texas Christian 5-0
(2-3-0) -19.82 The Frogs better not overlook Colorado State this week ahead of the biggest game left on their schedule: Oct. 24 at BYU.
8 7 1 Southern California 4-1
(2-3-0) -19.29 WR Ronald Johnson?s likely return for the Notre Dame game this week comes just in time. The Trojans can wreck Jimmy Clausen?s Heisman hopes on Saturday.
9 13 4 Virginia Tech 5-1
(3-3-0) -18.64 The only way the Hokies don?t win the Coastal Division is if they lose this week at Georgia Tech. The Jackets have run for 317, 213 and 401 yards in the past three games.
10 12 2 Iowa 6-0
(3-2-0) -18.60 Iowa hasn't started a season 6-0 since 1985 and hasn't been 2-0 in the Big Ten since 2002. I still don?t buy the Hawkeyes. The Big Ten?s last unbeaten team will go down at Wisconsin.
11 9 2 Kansas 5-0
(2-2-0) -18.42 Nebraska and Missouri are getting all the love in the Big 12 North, but all the Jayhawks do is keep winning.
12 14 2 Miami 4-1
(4-1-0) -18.30 Miami deserved a few gimme games after opening with four straight ranked foes. UM did lose valuable linebacker Jordan Futch for the season last Saturday.
13 11 2 Louisiana State 5-1
(2-4-0) -18.17 LSU is a year away from being able to contend for the SEC title. The Tigers could still finish with four conference losses with games vs. Auburn and at Alabama and Ole Miss still to come.
14 10 4 Cincinnati 5-0
(3-2-0) -17.53 The Bearcats have won three in a row against South Florida, which is Thursday?s opponent. But Cincy?s former defensive coordinator is now on the Bulls? sideline, so that could help USF?s upset bid.
15 16 1 Oklahoma 3-2
(2-3-0) -16.97 BCS bowl and Big 12 title hopes are on the line this weekend. Ryan Broyles? return would be a big boost this week.
16 15 1 Penn State 5-1
(2-4-0) -16.84 Minnesota visits this week and JoePa is just 6-4 against the Gophers in his career. Penn State has not allowed a first-half touchdown this season.
17 18 1 Brigham Young 5-1
(4-2-0) -16.81 Mountain West officials will be rooting against BYU in two weeks against TCU. A Cougar win there pretty much eliminates the MWC from BCS bowl contention.
18 23 5 Nebraska 4-1
(5-0-0) -16.53 How good is Huskers defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh? He leads the Cornhuskers in tackles (which is amazing for a defensive lineman) and has three sacks, one interception and a forced fumble.
19 17 2 Mississippi 3-2
(3-2-0) -16.48 Clearly both Ole Miss and Jevan Snead were overrated coming into this season. The Rebels are a good team but far from a great one. Best they can hope for now is another Cotton Bowl spot.
20 19 1 Oklahoma State 4-1
(1-2-1) -15.42 Star WR Dez Bryant met with the NCAA on Tuesday to try and get reinstated, but that?s going to take some time. And it?s not clear if star RB Kendall Hunter will return for Saturday?s game with Missouri.
21 20 1 Auburn 5-1
(4-2-0) -15.31 The Tigers were exposed in last week?s loss to Arkansas. Auburn is a fun team to watch but still not deep enough to where it can turn the ball over and win.
22 21 1 Georgia Tech 5-1
(3-2-0) -14.52 Jackets? ACC title hopes are on the line this week against Virginia Tech. Last year Georgia Tech rushed for 278 yards against the Hokies, 105 yards more than Virginia Tech allowed to any other opponent.
23 22 1 Utah 4-1
(1-4-0) -14.08 While the Utes sit with a respectable straight up record, they've been a backer's worst nightmare this season. Utah has just one ATS win under its belt in five games.
24 24 Notre Dame 4-1
(1-4-0) -12.95 This week?s game against USC really is the biggest in Charlie Weis? career at Notre Dame. The Irish have a six-game losing streak against top-10 opponents.
25 25 West Virginia 4-1
(2-2-0) -12.62 Underrated WVU RB Noel Devine has 95 carries this season with the same 6.6-yard average. He has five career runs of at least 70 yards. Why doesn?t he get the ball more!?

 

[Lumi]

LVSC Rankings - Week 7

LVSC Rankings - Week 7

LVSC Rankings - Week 7


The SEC faithful have owned bragging rights for the past three years and it could be a bit longer after watching the first half of this college football season. Florida (1) is ranked first in every poll and its not beating up on cupcakes either. According to the latest Las Vegas Sports Consultants power rankings, the SEC boasts eight schools in the Top 30, plus they have one more (Auburn) right on the cusp.
Can anybody else come close to that number? The Big 12 has six but after watching Texas (2) play in its first five games, we wouldn?t be surprised to see the Longhorns lose one of their next three against Oklahoma (5), Missouri or Oklahoma State (19). Keep in mind that all three contests are outside of Austin too.




Getting back to the best group, it makes you wonder if anybody can slow down the Gators. The only logical guess at this point would be Alabama (4), who is also unbeaten in the SEC and it has a big-time defensive attack. The pair isn?t scheduled to play during the regular season but an expected showdown in the SEC Championship is looming.

Florida doesn?t have a major test on its path, except for a trip to South Carolina on Nov. 14. Meanwhile, ?Bama will be challenged in its next three at home versus the Gamecocks, Tennessee and LSU (12). Plus, the Iron Bowl finale is in Auburn this year.

Since it appears the Gators will control their own destiny, we asked senior oddsmaker Mike Seba of Las Vegas Sports Consultants to set some tentative future lines on possible matchups for UF on neutral fields.

SEC Championship
Florida -5 Alabama

BCS Championship
Florida -4.5 vs. Southern California
Florida -6 vs. Texas
Florida -14.5 vs. Ohio State
Florida -14.5 vs. Virginia Tech
Florida -17.5 vs. Boise State

Urban Meyer and his squad defeated Alabama 31-20 in last year?s SEC title game, and they covered the 10-point spread as well. Seba did note that the oddsmakers are high on the Trojans and Pete Carroll and if they do happen to meet, the college football finale is at the Rose Bowl from Pasadena.

People outside of Southern California (3) don?t care for Troy much but it?s hard to argue against the team under Carroll. During his nine-year tenure, he's only lost 16 games. And of those 16, the worst outcome was an 11-point (27-16) deficit in his opening year (2001) to Notre Dame (20). Since that loss to ND, he?s destroyed the Irish for seven straight victories and No. 8 could be on tap this weekend.

Carroll continues to come up short with weak regular season losses and misses out on national championship games but a Florida-USC matchup would be a classic, at least the oddsmakers think so.

Below is a complete breakdown of this week?s LVSC rankings.

Las Vegas Sports Consultants - Week 7 Rankings
Rank Team Rating Last Week
1 Florida 123.5 1
2 Texas 119.5 2
3 Southern Cal 118.6 3
4 Alabama 117.1 4
5 Oklahoma 116.5 6
6 Ohio State 113.5 5
7 Nebraska 110.7 12
8 Penn State 110.6 9
9 Boise State 110.4 8
10 Texas Christian 110.2 9
10 Oregon 110.2 11
12 LSU 109.9 7
13 Virginia Tech 109.8 16
14 Mississippi 109.1 12
14 Iowa 109.1 12
16 Miami 108.2 18
17 California 108.0 16
18 Brigham Young 107.6 20
19 Oklahoma State 107.5 15
20 Notre Dame 107.4 19
21 Cincinnati 106.9 22
22 Texas Tech 106.8 29
23 Georgia Tech 106.6 28
24 Clemson 106.5 24
25 Kansas 106.2 23
26 South Carolina 106.1 25
27 South Florida 106.0 26
28 Tennessee 105.7 (NR) 38
29 Arkansas 105.6 (NR) 36
30 Georgia 105.5 21
Dropped out of Top 30: Stanford (26), Auburn (30)
Next 10: Stanford, Missouri, Michigan State, Pittsburgh,
West Virginia, Auburn, Utah, Tulsa, Michigan, Wake Forest

 

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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16
Time Posted: 8:00 p.m. EST (10/13)
Game 107-108: Pittsburgh at Rutgers
Dunkel Ratings: Pittsburgh 96.302; Rutgers 88.302
Dunkel Line: Pittsburgh by 8; 44
Vegas Line: Pittsburgh by 3; 50
Dunkel Pick: Pittsburgh (-3); Under

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17
Time Posted: 11:00 p.m. EST (10/14)
Game 109-110: Oklahoma vs. Texas
Dunkel Ratings: Oklahoma 111.922; Texas 113.144
Dunkel Line: Texas by 1; 52
Vegas Line: Texas by 3 1/2; 51 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Oklahoma (+3 1/2); Over
Game 111-112: NC State at Boston College
Dunkel Ratings: NC State 85.309; Boston College 93.812
Dunkel Line: Boston College by 8 1/2; 56
Vegas Line: Boston College by 2; 50 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Boston College (-2); Over
Game 113-114: Ohio State at Purdue
Dunkel Ratings: Ohio State 109.791; Purdue 90.075
Dunkel Line: Ohio State by 19 1/2; 53
Vegas Line: Ohio State by 13; 48
Dunkel Pick: Ohio State (-13); Over
Game 115-116: Bowling Green at Ball State
Dunkel Ratings: Bowling Green 77.285; Ball State 72.912
Dunkel Line: Bowling Green by 4 1/2; 47
Vegas Line: Bowling Green by 2 1/2; 54 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Bowling Green (-2 1/2); Under
Game 117-118: Northwestern at Michigan State
Dunkel Ratings: Northwestern 80.094; Michigan State 97.224
Dunkel Line: Michigan State by 17; 45
Vegas Line: Michigan State by 13 1/2; 52
Dunkel Pick: Michigan State (-13 1/2); Under
Game 119-120: Iowa at Wisconsin
Dunkel Ratings: Iowa 94.680; Wisconsin 98.556
Dunkel Line: Wisconsin by 4; 42
Vegas Line: Wisconsin by 3; 48
Dunkel Pick: Wisconsin (-3); Under
Game 121-122: Virginia at Maryland
Dunkel Ratings: Virginia 93.213; Maryland 84.753
Dunkel Line: Virginia by 8 1/2; 55
Vegas Line: Virginia by 3; 50 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Virginia (-3); Over
Game 123-124: Wake Forest at Clemson
Dunkel Ratings: Wake Forest 93.162; Clemson 93.873
Dunkel Line: Clemson by 1; 46
Vegas Line: Clemson by 7 1/2; 44 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Wake Forest (+7 1/2); Over
Game 125-126: Baylor at Iowa State
Dunkel Ratings: Baylor 84.887; Iowa State 88.953
Dunkel Line: Iowa State by 4; 62
Vegas Line: Iowa State by 2; 54
Dunkel Pick: Iowa State (-2); Over
Game 127-128: UAB at Mississippi
Dunkel Ratings: UAB 76.085; Mississippi 95.467
Dunkel Line: Mississippi by 19 1/2; 45
Vegas Line: Mississippi by 22; 50
Dunkel Pick: UAB (+22); Under
Game 129-130: Georgia at Vanderbilt
Dunkel Ratings: Georgia 91.262; Vanderbilt 82.438
Dunkel Line: Georgia by 9; 39
Vegas Line: Georgia by 7 1/2; 44
Dunkel Pick: Georgia (-7 1/2); Under
Game 131-132: Kentucky at Auburn
Dunkel Ratings: Kentucky 84.948; Auburn 100.370
Dunkel Line: Auburn by 15 1/2; 63
Vegas Line: Auburn by 13 1/2; 58 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Auburn (-13 1/2); Over
Game 133-134: Army at Temple
Dunkel Ratings: Army 74.305; Temple 82.489
Dunkel Line: Temple by 8; 42
Vegas Line: Temple by 10; 39
Dunkel Pick: Army (+10); Over
Game 135-136: Central Michigan at Western Michigan
Dunkel Ratings: Central Michigan 85.499; Western Michigan 80.003
Dunkel Line: Central Michigan by 5 1/2; 66
Vegas Line: Central Michigan by 6 1/2; 55 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Western Michigan (+6 1/2); Over
Game 137-138: Wyoming at Air Force
Dunkel Ratings: Wyoming 76.406; Air Force 91.626
Dunkel Line: Air Force by 15; 37
Vegas Line: Air Force by 10 1/2; 43 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Air Force (-10 1/2); Under
Game 139-140: Miami (OH) at Ohio
Dunkel Ratings: Miami (OH) 65.864; Ohio 83.699
Dunkel Line: Ohio by 18; 43
Vegas Line: Ohio by 13 1/2; 50 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Ohio (-13 1/2); Under
Game 141-142: Nevada at Utah State
Dunkel Ratings: Nevada 89.062; Utah State 77.363
Dunkel Line: Nevada by 11 1/2; 54
Vegas Line: Nevada by 8; 61
Dunkel Pick: Nevada (-8); Under
Game 143-144: Minnesota at Penn State
Dunkel Ratings: Minnesota 87.070; Penn State 107.548
Dunkel Line: Penn State by 20 1/2; 54
Vegas Line: Penn State by 16; 49
Dunkel Pick: Penn State (-16); Over
Game 145-146: Marshall at West Virginia
Dunkel Ratings: Marshall 76.675; West Virginia 98.991
Dunkel Line: West Virginia by 22 1/2; 47
Vegas Line: West Virginia by 20 1/2; 51 1/2
Dunkel Pick: West Virginia (-20 1/2); Under
Game 147-148: South Carolina at Alabama
Dunkel Ratings: South Carolina 92.861; Alabama 112.294
Dunkel Line: Alabama by 19 1/2; 36
Vegas Line: Alabama by 17; 44 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Alabama (-17); Under
Game 149-150: USC at Notre Dame
Dunkel Ratings: USC 107.403; Notre Dame 95.457
Dunkel Line: USC by 12; 53
Vegas Line: USC by 10; 48
Dunkel Pick: USC (-10); Over
Game 151-152: California at UCLA
Dunkel Ratings: California 89.199; UCLA 96.147
Dunkel Line: UCLA by 7; 37
Vegas Line: California by 4; 44
Dunkel Pick: UCLA (+4); Under
Game 153-154: Houston at Tulane
Dunkel Ratings: Houston 89.540; Tulane 76.041
Dunkel Line: Houston by 13 1/2; 59
Vegas Line: Houston by 17; 64
Dunkel Pick: Tulane (+17); Under
Game 155-156: Texas Tech at Nebraska
Dunkel Ratings: Texas Tech 102.737; Nebraska 111.121
Dunkel Line: Nebraska by 8 1/2; 56
Vegas Line: Nebraska by 10 1/2; 59
Dunkel Pick: Texas Tech (+10 1/2); Under
Game 157-158: Texas A&M at Kansas State
Dunkel Ratings: Texas A&M 82.572; Kansas State 81.991
Dunkel Line: Texas A&M by 1; 67
Vegas Line: Texas A&M by 5 1/2; 60
Dunkel Pick: Kansas State (+5 1/2); Over
Game 159-160: Virginia Tech at Georgia Tech
Dunkel Ratings: Virginia Tech 103.841; Georgia Tech 98.772
Dunkel Line: Virginia Tech by 5; 55
Vegas Line: Virginia Tech by 3; 53
Dunkel Pick: Virginia Tech (-3); Over
Game 161-162: Missouri at Oklahoma State
Dunkel Ratings: Missouri 94.554; Oklahoma State 104.094
Dunkel Line: Oklahoma State by 9 1/2; 64
Vegas Line: Oklahoma State by 7; 57
Dunkel Pick: Oklahoma State (-7); Over
Game 163-164: Rice at East Carolina
Dunkel Ratings: Rice 67.549; East Carolina 82.643
Dunkel Line: East Carolina by 15; 53
Vegas Line: East Carolina by 18; 55
Dunkel Pick: Rice (+18); Under
Game 165-166: Akron at Buffalo
Dunkel Ratings: Akron 70.343; Buffalo 79.520
Dunkel Line: Buffalo by 9; 42
Vegas Line: Buffalo by 7 1/2; 47
Dunkel Pick: Buffalo (-7 1/2); Under
Game 167-168: Colorado State at TCU
Dunkel Ratings: Colorado State 81.680; TCU 100.904
Dunkel Line: TCU by 19 1/2; 40
Vegas Line: TCU by 22; 50
Dunkel Pick: Colorado State (+23 1/2); Under
Game 169-170: New Mexico State at Louisiana Tech
Dunkel Ratings: New Mexico State 59.363; Louisiana Tech 86.916
Dunkel Line: Louisiana Tech by 27 1/2; 51
Vegas Line: Louisiana Tech by 20; 44 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Louisiana Tech (-20); Over
Game 171-172: Kent at Eastern Michigan
Dunkel Ratings: Kent 74.704; Eastern Michigan 63.932
Dunkel Line: Kent by 9; 56
Vegas Line: Kent by 7; 51 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Kent (-7); Over
Game 173-174: Hawaii at Idaho
Dunkel Ratings: Hawaii 72.678; Idaho 82.006
Dunkel Line: Idaho by 9 1/2; 55
Vegas Line: Idaho by 8 1/2; 59
Dunkel Pick: Idaho (-8 1/2); Under
Game 175-176: BYU at San Diego State
Dunkel Ratings: BYU 94.128; San Diego State 78.888
Dunkel Line: BYU by 15 1/2; 51
Vegas Line: BYU by 17; 55 1/2
Dunkel Pick: San Diego State (+17); Under
Game 177-178: Stanford at Arizona
Dunkel Ratings: Stanford 91.516; Arizona 99.413
Dunkel Line: Arizona by 8; 61
Vegas Line: Arizona by 4; 52
Dunkel Pick: Arizona (-4); Over
Game 179-180: Illinois at Indiana
Dunkel Ratings: Illinois 86.962; Indiana 82.291
Dunkel Line: Illinois by 4 1/2; 55
Vegas Line: Illinois by 1 1/2; 53
Dunkel Pick: Illinois (-1 1/2); Over
Game 181-182: Memphis at Southern Mississippi
Dunkel Ratings: Memphis 74.854; Southern Misissippi 81.288
Dunkel Line: Southern Mississippi by 6 1/2; 47
Vegas Line: Southern Mississippi by 14 1/2; 53
Dunkel Pick: Memphis (+14 1/2); Under
Game 183-184: Northern Illinois at Toledo
Dunkel Ratings: Northern Illinois 85.646; Toledo 74.182
Dunkel Line: Northern Illinois by 11 1/2; 68
Vegas Line: Northern Illinois by 3 1/2; 61
Dunkel Pick: Northern Illinois (-3 1/2); Over
Game 185-186: Louisville at Connecticut
Dunkel Ratings: Louisville 78.560; Connecticut 95.452
Dunkel Line: Connecticut by 17; 44
Vegas Line: Connecticut by 13 1/2; 47
Dunkel Pick: Connecticut (-13 1/2); Under
Game 187-188: Kansas at Colorado
Dunkel Ratings: Kansas 99.973; Colorado 84.401
Dunkel Line: Kansas by 15 1/2; 52
Vegas Line: Kansas by 9 1/2; 56 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Kansas (-9 1/2); Under
Game 189-190: Miami (FL) at Central Florida
Dunkel Ratings: Miami (FL) 99.592; Central Florida 81.118
Dunkel Line: Miami (FL) by 18 1/2; 46
Vegas Line: Miami (FL) by 14; 47
Dunkel Pick: Miami (FL) (-14); Under
Game 191-192: Arkansas at Florida
Dunkel Ratings: Arkansas 100.582; Florida 117.361
Dunkel Line: Florida by 17; 51
Vegas Line: Florida by 26; 54 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Arkansas (+26); Under
Game 193-194: Navy at SMU
Dunkel Ratings: Navy 87.794; SMU 77.389
Dunkel Line: Navy by 10 1/2; 52
Vegas Line: Navy by 7 1/2; 57
Dunkel Pick: Navy (-7 1/2); Under
Game 195-196: Washington at Arizona State
Dunkel Ratings: Washington 90.583; Arizona State 92.407
Dunkel Line: Arizona State by 2; 43
Vegas Line: Arizona State by 6 1/2; 47
Dunkel Pick: Washington (+6 1/2); Under
Game 197-198: Utah at UNLV
Dunkel Ratings: Utah 94.903; UNLV 73.595
Dunkel Line: Utah by 21 1/2; 66
Vegas Line: Utah by 16; 59
Dunkel Pick: Utah (-16); Over
Game 199-200: San Jose State at Fresno State
Dunkel Ratings: San Jose State 74.780; Fresno State 95.638
Dunkel Line: Fresno State by 21; 58
Vegas Line: Fresno State by 19; 54
Dunkel Pick: Fresno State (-19); Over
Game 201-202: UL Lafayette at Western Kentucky
Dunkel Ratings: UL Lafayette 71.581; Western Kentucky 66.667
Dunkel Line: UL Lafayette by 5; 56
Vegas Line: UL Lafayette by 7 1/2; 55 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Western Kentucky (+7 1/2); Over
Game 203-204: Troy at Florida International
Dunkel Ratings: Troy 84.314; Florida International 75.418
Dunkel Line: Troy by 9; 58
Vegas Line: Troy by 10; 56
Dunkel Pick: Florida International (+10); Over
Game 205-206: Florida Atlantic at North Texas
Dunkel Ratings: Florida Atlantic 67.317; North Texas 70.828
Dunkel Line: North Texas by 3 1/2; 64
Vegas Line: North Texas by 1; 59
Dunkel Pick: North Texas (-1); Over
Game 207-208: Mississippi State at Middle Tennessee State
Dunkel Ratings: Mississippi State 86.538; Middle Tennessee State 80.052
Dunkel Line: Mississippi State by 6 1/2; 47
Vegas Line: Mississippi State by 3 1/2; 54 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Mississippi State (-3 1/2); Under

OTHER MAJOR GAMES:
Time Posted: 11:00 p.m. EST (10/14)
Charleston Southern at Gardner-Webb
Dunkel Ratings: Charleston Southern 52.159; Gardner-Webb 54.646
Dunkel Line: Gardner-Webb by 2 1/2
Lafayette at Harvard
Dunkel Ratings: Lafayette 66.467; Harvard 68.698
Dunkel Line: Harvard by 2
Delaware State at Michigan
Dunkel Ratings: Delaware State 49.918; Michigan 93.710
Dunkel Line: Michigan by 44
Hofstra at Rhode Island
Dunkel Ratings: Hofstra 63.597; Rhode Island 53.855
Dunkel Line: Hofstra by 9 1/2
Richmond at Maine
Dunkel Ratings: Richmond 79.405; Maine 67.198
Dunkel Line: Richmond by 12
Central Connecticut State at Duquesne
Dunkel Ratings: Central Connecticut State 57.132; Duquesne 45.054
Dunkel Line: Central Connecticut State by 12
St. Francis (PA) at Robert Morris
Dunkel Ratings: St. Francis (PA) 35.791; Robert Morris 41.151
Dunkel Line: Robert Morris by 5 1/2
Fordham at Cornell
Dunkel Ratings: Fordham 51.846; Cornell 56.653
Dunkel Line: Cornell by 5
Princeton at Brown
Dunkel Ratings: Princeton 41.852; Brown 64.723
Dunkel Line: Brown by 23
Yale at Lehigh
Dunkel Ratings: Yale 60.618; Lehigh 56.186
Dunkel Line: Yale by 4 1/2
Colgate at Georgetown
Dunkel Ratings: Colgate 61.988; Georgetown 37.506
Dunkel Line: Colgate by 24 1/2
Dartmouth at Holy Cross
Dunkel Ratings: Dartmouth 42.763; Holy Cross 66.542
Dunkel Line: Holy Cross by 24
Morehead State at Jacksonville
Dunkel Ratings: Morehead State 30.729; Jacksonville 40.963
Dunkel Line: Jacksonville by 10
Bryant at Albany
Dunkel Ratings: Bryant 41.888; Albany 65.669
Dunkel Line: Albany by 24
Valparaiso at Butler
Dunkel Ratings: Valparaiso 20.939; Butler 40.801
Dunkel Line: Butler by 20
Davidson at Dayton
Dunkel Ratings: Davidson 33.293; Dayton 51.978
Dunkel Line: Dayton by 18 1/2
Hampton at Norfolk State
Dunkel Ratings: Hampton 49.309; Norfolk State 54.102
Dunkel Line: Norfolk State by 5
Monmouth at Sacred Heart
Dunkel Ratings: Monmouth 46.887; Sacred Heart 46.173
Dunkel Line: Monmouth by 1
Pennsylvania at Columbia
Dunkel Ratings: Pennsylvania 59.524; Columbia 67.001
Dunkel Line: Columbia by 7 1/2
Stony Brook at VMI
Dunkel Ratings: Stony Brook 58.800; VMI 52.966
Dunkel Line: Stony Brook by 6
Samford at Furman
Dunkel Ratings: Samford 62.100; Furman 70.101
Dunkel Line: Furman by 8
Grambling State vs. Alabama State
Dunkel Ratings: Grambling State 58.599; Alabama State 35.240
Dunkel Line: Grambling State by 23 1/2
Texas State at Nicholls State
Dunkel Ratings: Texas State 53.882; Nicholls State 45.634
Dunkel Line: Texas State by 8
Florida A&M at South Carolina State
Dunkel Ratings: Florida A&M 61.846; South Carolina State 70.387
Dunkel Line: South Carolina State by 8 1/2
Tennessee Tech at Eastern Illinois
Dunkel Ratings: Tennessee Tech 50.884; Eastern Illinois 62.729
Dunkel Line: Eastern Illinois by 12
Alabama A&M vs. Alcorn State
Dunkel Ratings: Alabama A&M 51.194; Alcorn State 40.902
Dunkel Line: Alabama A&M by 10 1/2
Tennessee-Martin at Eastern Kentucky
Dunkel Ratings: Tennessee-Martin 46.337; Eastern Kentucky 61.711
Dunkel Line: Eastern Kentucky by 15 1/2
Indiana State at Illinois State
Dunkel Ratings: Indiana State 38.689; Illinois State 66.365
Dunkel Line: Illinois State by 27 1/2
Mississippi Valley State at Prairie View A&M
Dunkel Ratings: Mississippi Valley State 29.052; Prairie View A&M 56.529
Dunkel Line: Prairie View A&M by 27 1/2
Appalachian State at Wofford
Dunkel Ratings: Appalachian State 75.117; Wofford 60.969
Dunkel Line: Appalachian State by 14
South Dakota at Montana State
Dunkel Ratings: South Dakota 58.921; Montana State 65.395
Dunkel Line: Montana State by 6 1/2
Eastern Washington at Montana
Dunkel Ratings: Eastern Washington 67.394; Montana 81.130
Dunkel Line: Montana by 13 1/2
New Hampshire at Massachusetts
Dunkel Ratings: New Hampshire 79.089; Massachusetts 77.781
Dunkel Line: New Hampshire by 1 1/2
Delaware at Towson
Dunkel Ratings: Delaware 76.961; Towson 54.413
Dunkel Line: Delaware by 22 1/2
Villanova at James Madison
Dunkel Ratings: Villanova 79.890; James Madison 76.659
Dunkel Line: Villanova by 3
Coastal Carolina at Liberty
Dunkel Ratings: Coastal Carolina 58.235; Liberty 71.141
Dunkel Line: Liberty by 13
Sacramento State at Weber State
Dunkel Ratings: Sacramento State 62.283; Weber State 74.941
Dunkel Line: Weber State by 12 1/2
Missouri State at Western Illinois
Dunkel Ratings: Missouri State 65.071; Western Illinois 59.779
Dunkel Line: Missouri State by 5 1/2
The Citadel at Western Carolina
Dunkel Ratings: The Citadel 65.050; Western Carolina 49.780
Dunkel Line: The Citadel by 15 1/2
Northern Arizona at Portland State
Dunkel Ratings: Northern Arizona 70.222; Portland State 57.001
Dunkel Line: Northern Arizona by 13
Drake at San Diego
Dunkel Ratings: Drake 44.579; San Diego 49.812
Dunkel Line: San Diego by 5 1/2
Texas Southern at Jackson State
Dunkel Ratings: Texas Southern 32.398; Jackson State 49.330
Dunkel Line: Jackson State by 17
Bethune-Cookman at Savannah State
Dunkel Ratings: Bethune-Cookman 46.006; Savannah State 31.219
Dunkel Line: Bethune-Cookman by 15
Southern Illinois at Northern Iowa
Dunkel Ratings: Southern Illinois 78.495; Northern Iowa 89.538
Dunkel Line: Northern Iowa by 11
Northern Colorado at Idaho State
Dunkel Ratings: Northern Colorado 51.118; Idaho State 48.134
Dunkel Line: Northern Colorado by 3
Chattanooga at Georgia Southern
Dunkel Ratings: Chattanooga 66.428; Georgia Southern 64.068
Dunkel Line: Chattanooga by 2 1/2
Campbell at Old Dominion
Dunkel Ratings: Campbell 14.413; Old Dominion 49.486
Dunkel Line: Old Dominion by 35
Stephen F. Austin at Central Arkansas
Dunkel Ratings: Stephen F. Austin 70.321; Central Arkansas 78.324
Dunkel Line: Central Arkansas by 8
Sam Houston State at SE Louisiana
Dunkel Ratings: Sam Houston State 62.497; SE Louisiana 54.514
Dunkel Line: Sam Houston State by 8
North Dakota State at South Dakota State
Dunkel Ratings: North Dakota State 66.543; South Dakota State 78.883
Dunkel Line: South Dakota State by 12 1/2
Murray State at Tennessee State
Dunkel Ratings: Murray State 43.583; Tennessee State 55.365
Dunkel Line: Tennessee State by 12
Northwestern State at McNeese State
Dunkel Ratings: Northwestern State 46.629; McNeese State 75.075
Dunkel Line: McNeese State by 28 1/2
Winston-Salem at UC Davis
Dunkel Ratings: Winston-Salem 36.060; UC Davis 66.716
Dunkel Line: UC Davis by 30 1/2
Southern Utah at Cal Poly
Dunkel Ratings: Southern Utah 64.951; Cal Poly 76.439
Dunkel Line: Cal Poly by 11 1/2

 

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NCAAF betting's notable quotes

NCAAF betting's notable quotes

NCAAF betting's notable quotes

Sports bettors hear a million quotes from players and coaches a week. Some of those quotes are just fluff. Others are mere posturing before the big game. But sometimes, a quote can give you insight into how a game will play out.

Check out what notable quotables are catching the ears of Las Vegas wise guys heading into Week 5 of the college football schedule.

Healthy Sooners

Oklahoma lost their two toughest tests through the first month of the season. With Heisman winning quarterback Sam Bradford on the sidelines with a sprained shoulder, the Sooners were upset by BYU and Miami by a single point each time. Oklahoma got a big boost last week against Baylor, when Bradford returned to the lineup.

Bradford showed no signs of rust against the Bears, throwing for 389 yards and a touchdown in the Sooners 33-7 victory. Those numbers could have been even better if his receivers didn't have trouble handling his throws. Bradford had a career high 22 incomplete passes, many of them coming on accurate throws that simply weren?t caught. He felt great after the game.

?I think that's something that we were all curious around here is how I would react to four hours in my pads, on and off, not throwing the whole time, kind of sitting on the bench, coming back and making some throws,? Bradford told reporters. ?I felt good just the way my arm responded, the way I was able to play four quarters and the way I was able to make some throws in the fourth quarter that had some heat on them.?

Head coach Bob Stoops was equally pleased with his quarterback?s performance.

"To have been off as much as he has and go out there in his first go at it to play as well as he did, I thought he played great,? said Stoops. ?He stays away from the poor, the negative plays or the bad plays and he had a great night. If you add in seven, eight, nine drops -- you could cut that and say there's five legitimate that are dead right in their hands - he has an incredible night."

?I was disappointed in the drops, but again I think a lot of that is just inexperience,? Stoops continued. ?We've got all kinds of yardage and big plays if we'd just catch the ball better. I'm hopeful and I believe that the ability is there. It's just time, time on the field for those guys to make improvement and make those plays when they're there to make.?

Receiver Cameron Kenney echoed those sentiments.

?Sam has that inspiration on the team,? he told the media. ?He's a captain and everyone follows him and vibes off of him, and it's definitely a good thing that he's coming back. He just made good plays today, and he was just real relaxed.?

Oklahoma faces another tough test this weekend, with the Big 12 South title on the line. Oklahoma has been installed as a 3.5-point underdog against Texas at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas Saturday.

Hokie humdinger

Virginia Tech had trouble putting opponents away through the first month of the season. The Hokies looked outclassed against Alabama in their opener, and barely squeaked out the victory in games against Nebraska and Duke. But the Hokies came alive on both sides of the football last Saturday in their blowout win against Boston College.

Virginia Tech?s defense was downright dominant, holding BC to two first downs and 28 total yards until garbage time in the fourth quarter.

?It's good that finally all our hard work paid off because we've been down on ourselves,? linebacker Cody Grimm told the press. ?We've been working hard and playing what we thought were some good games and having some plays that killed us. For it all to come together is awesome.?

The quotes from the Boston College locker room echoed those sentiments.

?We had some manners laid on us,? said Eagles head coach Frank Spaziani.

?I don't know what I was seeing back there. They switch up their looks a lot. It just felt like they were swimming around the ball,? admitted freshman quarterback Dave Shinskie, talking about Bud Foster?s defense.

Meanwhile, the Virginia Tech offense finally put together a performance befitting of a Top 5 team.

?We just have to go out there and execute those plays he?s calling (offensive coordinator Bryan Stinespring),? said quarterback Tyrod Taylor. ?He?s putting us in great situations and it?s our job to go out there and take advantage of those situations.?

?It builds confidence for us to go out there and prove people wrong. I know I love being in those type of situations, and I?m pretty sure a lot of our offensive guys on the team have been in a situation where you could prove somebody wrong,? Taylor continued. ?That?s what we do every week -- just go out there, play our game, and show people we can play.?

Virginia Tech faces a tougher test this weekend as it travels to Atlanta to take on Georgia Tech. The Hokies are -3 on the road with the total set at 51.5.

Volunteer velocity

Tennessee came alive on both sides of the football this past weekend, blowing out Georgia 45-19. First-year Volunteers head coach Lane Kiffin placed considerable emphasis on beating the Bulldogs, a little tidbit to file away for next year.

Kiffin had emphasized the Georgia game due to its importance in recruiting. The state of Tennessee is not a recruiting hotbed for elite prospects, and their staff go after Georgia recruits early and often, with a dozen current Vols from Georgia on the roster.

?(Kiffin) basically made a promise to us that we wouldn't lose to them anymore, forever or until he leaves. He's not going to let Georgia beat us,? admitted Vols safety Eric Berry.

?There are a lot of great teams in this conference. But I told them, to me, this is the biggest matchup,? Kiffin confirmed to the media.

Georgia's offense never reached the red zone, and the Tennessee defense held them to 241 total yards.

Bulldogsa head coach Mark Richt heaped credit upon his opponent, saying, ?They played better. They coached better. It's very obvious their team was a better team by a long shot.?

The Vols head into their bye week with a 3-3 record. Road trips to Alabama and Ole Miss won?t be easy over the back half of the season, but the Vols should be favored in their three remaining home games and in their regular season finale at Kentucky.

Lions intensity

Penn State?s 52-3 win over FCS Eastern Illinois last week didn?t raise many eyebrows ? the Nittany Lions were expected to thrash their outmanned foe. The spot, however, was a big concern for Joe Paterno. Penn State was coming off games against Iowa and Illinois, with the meat of their Big Ten slate just ahead.

?One of the biggest tests of a game like this is what kind of attitude your team shows up with. We had to see if the kids could come out and self-motivate themselves, and they did,? said quarterbacks coach Jay Paterno.

JoePa was not as ebullient in his praise for Penn State.

?We're not anywhere near as good as where we have to be, but we think we are a better football team than three or four weeks ago. We played with a little more poise,? he told reporters.

The Nittany Lions gained a season-high 553 yards, including 285 on the ground. Eastern Illinois head coach Bob Spoo was impressed, saying, ?They just outmuscled us. They just controlled everything. That was the basis of it really, we couldn't block them, couldn't tackle them.?

Penn State?s motivation against lesser foes is likely to be a big ATS issue down the stretch. The Nittany Lions will be favored by double digits in at least half of their remaining games, starting with a -17 this at home against Minnesota Saturday.

 

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2009 Big East Fearless Picks - Week 7

2009 Big East Fearless Picks - Week 7

2009 Big East Fearless Picks - Week 7


Alright, so which one is for real? It's unbeaten South Florida against the critics' choice team, Cincinnati. The winner will hover around the national title chase, while the loser will have to fight in the Big East title chase. Check out the Previews and Predictions for the Week 7 Big East Games



2009 Big East Fearless Predictions

Week 7 ... Oct. 17 Games


Game of the Week

Cincinnati (5-0) at South Florida (5-0),7:30 EST, ESPN, Thursday, October 15

Why to watch: You might have to go back to the days when Miami and Virginia Tech were in the league to find a bigger Big East game than the one being staged in Tampa Thursday night. Cincinnati and South Florida are both unbeaten through five weeks, entering the showdown ranked and eager to take early control of the conference race. Although the Bearcats are the defending champs, few expected a team gutted by graduations to be even better than a year ago. They are. And the Bulls have been equally difficult to rationalize. Of all times to stun Florida State in Tallahassee, they did it a week after losing heart-and-soul QB Matt Grothe to a season-ending knee injury. Go figure. Whoever leaves Raymond James Stadium 6-0 will be labeled a fringe national championship contender for as long as it remains perfect.
Why Cincinnati might win: While the Tony Pike-to-Mardy Gilyard hook-up will be a huge concern for South Florida, solving the Bearcat D might be even tougher. With 10 new starters, Cincinnati has exceeded all expectations, allowing just 13 points a game and leading the nation in tackles for loss. The contributions aren?t limited to just a few players, though DE Alex Daniels and DT Derek Wolfe have been particularly ornery in recent weeks. While redshirt freshman B.J. Daniels has been terrific in Grothe?s absence, he?s still surrounded by an inconsistent ground game and an average offensive line. When the Bulls have the ball, the edge at the line of scrimmage goes to the Bearcats.
Why South Florida might win: The defensive talent has always been there for the Bulls, but now the production is finally matching it. Blessed with speed everywhere, South Florida has given up just 47 points all season, ranking No. 5 nationally in scoring defense. This is easily Pike?s biggest challenge of the year, trying to avoid the rush of linemen George Selvie, Terrell McClain, and Jason Pierre-Paul, while not getting robbed by CB Jerome Murphy and FS Nate Allen. No one in the league has more takeaways than USF. It?d be foolish to discount the importance of the home crowd, which is going to be electric for one of the biggest games in school history.
Who to watch: Gilyard has a most unique story. Lightly-recruited and, for a time, homeless, he left the state of Florida to become the king of the Queen City. One of the truly dynamic athletes in the country, he returns to the Sunshine State looking to make a statement on offense and special teams. South Florida is one of the few teams in the country that can match his burst, and the duel with Murphy will be sensational.
What will happen: In a huge game, take the team with the better combination of quarterback and head coach. In both cases, the edge goes to Cincinnati. Jim Leavitt is an icon, but give Brian Kelly almost two weeks to prepare and he?ll find the soft zones in the South Florida defense. While it certainly won?t be easy, the Bearcats are playing like a team on a mission, especially now that the defense is no longer a question mark. Pike will outplay Daniels, tossing a pair of touchdown passes and beefing up his resume for postseason individual honors.
CFN Prediction: Cincinnati 26 ? South Florida 21 ... Line: USF -3

Pittsburgh (5-1) at Rutgers (4-1),8:00 EST, ESPN, Friday, October 16

Why to watch: As the Big East schedule gradually starts taking shape, only Syracuse and Louisville appear to be on the outside looking in. So whenever contenders, such as Pittsburgh and Rutgers, get together, it has added significance in the battle for a league title and BCS bowl game. The Panthers actually enjoy an early lead in the race, courtesy of Saturday?s come-from-behind win over Connecticut, the biggest in the Dave Wannstedt era. They battled back from a 21-6 deficit, scoring the last 18 points, capped by a game-winning field goal on the final play. The Scarlet Knights have won four in-a-row since getting ambushed by Cincinnati on Labor Day, but remain a mystery. Beating Howard, Florida International, Maryland, and Texas Southern hasn?t answered many questions about their 2009 ceiling. A visit from Pitt, however, will.
Why Pittsburgh might win: This game could represent a culture shock for Rutgers, which hasn?t really been tested since Week 1 and is led by true freshman QB Tom Savage. Despite the tissue-soft schedule, the Scarlet Knights have struggled in the trenches, ranking 100th nationally in sacks allowed. That?s a big concern with the Panthers heading to Piscataway. Pitt is No. 3 in the country at getting to the quarterback, thanks to a deep and talented rotation in the front seven. The combination of Greg Romeus, Mick Williams, and Jabaal Sheard up front and Adam Gunn at linebacker is a tall order for a young quarterback just a couple weeks removed from returning from a concussion.
Why Rutgers might win: Fair or not, plenty will hinge on the performance of Savage, who?s playing in the first really big game of his young career. Right now, the best way to attack Pittsburgh is through the air, especially with CB Aaron Berry slowed by a shoulder injury. The Panthers have had frequent lapses in pass defense, which could be further exploited by speedy Tim Brown and talented rookie Mohamed Sanu. If the Knights? No. 6 ranking in run defense is even remotely accurate, they?re liable to slow down RB Dion Lewis and squelch the balance that?s helped make QB Bill Stull effective.
Who to watch: Slowly but surely, Pitt?s Jonathan Baldwin is emerging into one of the top young wide receivers in the country. A human mismatch because of his size and speed, he?s averaging almost 20 yards a reception and has scored a touchdown in each of the last three games. If someone other than Devin McCourty gets matched with the sophomore, it?ll be a long night for the Rutgers D.
What will happen: With so much riding on the play of Savage, it?s difficult seeing the Scarlet Knights beat such a feisty defense with such an inexperienced player. The Panthers will inch up as much as possible to stop RB Joe Martinek, daring the rookie quarterback to beat them over the top. While the Pitt offense won?t flourish, it does have enough weapons, like Lewis, Baldwin, and TE Dorin Dickerson to extend drives and put points on the board.
CFN Prediction: Pittsburgh 24 ? Rutgers 17 ... Line: Pitt -3
Louisville (2-3) at Connecticut (3-2),12:00 EST, ESPN Gameplan, Saturday, October 17

Why to watch: If ever a loss was going to linger for Connecticut, last Saturday?s in Pittsburgh was it. The Huskies appeared headed toward a pivotal third straight win, leading 21-6 late in the third, before the wheels came off in a disappointing 24-21 defeat. In the tightly-packed Big East, sulking could mean a bowl-less December, so the program needs to have a short memory heading into this week?s game. Louisville earned a must-win at the expense of Southern Miss, rallying twice in the second half and surviving, 25-23. Although last weekend was a temporary tourniquet, if the Cards are going to stop the bleeding, they?ll need to beat a quality opponent away from home at some point.
Why Louisville might win: The Cardinals might be able to handle a one-dimensional offense, like the one they?ll be facing in East Hartford. Whether it?s been Zach Frazer or Cody Endres at the controls, the passing game has been awful, producing just a single touchdown pass in the last three games with FBS opponents. With few worries about the quarterbacks, Louisville can focus on stopping backs Jordan Todman and Andre Dixon. Led by DT L.D. Scott, who?s coming off a career game, and linebackers Jon Dempsey and Chris Campa, the Cards will be able to contain a Husky offense that rarely can build much distance.
Why Connecticut might win: The Husky D won?t have any problems suffocating this Cardinal team. Louisville has had issues of its own behind center, averaging less than 20 points a game since the opener with lowly Indiana State. The problems at quarterback have begun to impact the play of RB Victor Anderson, the team?s best offensive weapon. DE Lindsey Witten, S Robert Vaughn, and linebackers Lawrence Wilson and Greg Lloyd are the cornerstones of a disciplined defense that?s giving up just 283 yards and 16 points a game.
Who to watch: Dixon is once again running like he did in 2007, when he earned All-Big East honors. A tremendous complement to Todman, the two have both rushed for more than 400 yards and are fresher than opposing defenses in the final 15 minutes. As long as these backs continue to wear down the other team, Connecticut will be competitive on every Saturday.
What will happen: Randy Edsall is too good of a coach to allow last week?s loss to beat his Huskies twice. They?ll play with a sense of purpose, grinding out more than 200 yards on the ground and completely clamping down on a sub par Louisville offense. Once the spread gets into the double-digits, the game will already be out of reach for the Cardinals.
CFN Prediction: Connecticut 26 ? Louisville 13 ... Line: Connecticut -11

Marshall (4-2) at West Virginia (4-1),3:30 EST, ESPN Gameplan, Saturday, October 17

Why to watch: Although West Virginia has traditionally dominated Marshall in this brief series, you can guarantee that emotions will be running high when they meet in the fourth annual Friends of Coal Bowl. The Mountaineers don?t have much respect for the Herd. And the Herd doesn?t have any love for the Mountaineers. The hate will be palpable. Since giving a game away to Auburn, West Virginia has comfortably won consecutive games over Colorado and Syracuse. At 4-1, the ?eers are poised to make a run at a Big East title once this week?s game is over. Marshall played well during the first half of the season, getting two games over .500 with last weekend?s rout of Tulane. While head coach Mark Snyder remains on probation, he might earn himself a long-term contract if he can finally shock the cross-state rival.
Why Marshall might win: As Darius Marshall goes, so goes the Herd. The nation?s No. 2 rusher, he?s averaging 147 yards a game, helping the transition of QB Brian Anderson into the starting role. The defense has been the surprise this year in Huntington. Since getting blown out in Blacksburg, Marshall has stiffened, allowing the last four opponents to an average of just 14 points a game. LB Mario Harvey has become the leader of a unit that?s gaining confidence every weekend. If West Virginia keeps having problems holding on to the ball, it?ll never be safe.
Why West Virginia might win: Playing the likes of Memphis and Bowling Green does little to prepare a team for the Mountaineer offense, which is chock full of speed and getting better. West Virginia has scored at least 30 points every game, blending a combination of Noel Devine on the ground and Jarrett Brown through the air. The defense hasn?t been too shabby either, holding teams to just 84 yards a game on the ground and 2.8 yards a carry. If linebackers J.T. Thomas and Reed Williams can help contain Marshall, Anderson doesn?t have a prayer of leading the Herd to an upset.
Who to watch: West Virginia DE Julian Miller is enjoying somewhat of a coming-out party in his second season in Morgantown. Part of the solution for the Mountaineers? concerns with the pass rush, he?s had five stops behind the line and a team-high 3.5 sacks. A speed guy, if he gets around the edge, Anderson doesn?t have the quickness to get out of trouble.
What will happen: Snyder deserves credit for the job he?s doing this fall under difficult circumstances. He just doesn?t have the right mix of talent to deliver a breakthrough win of this magnitude. Although West Virginia won?t run away and hide until the second half, it?ll keep Marshall at arms length, getting big plays on offense from Devine and Brown. Marshall, the back, can only do so much without more help from the passing game.
CFN Prediction: West Virginia 35 ? Marshall 17 ... Line: West Virginia -19

 

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Aztecs try to deter BYU 'road graders'

Aztecs try to deter BYU 'road graders'

Aztecs try to deter BYU 'road graders'

Cougars' huge O-line worries SDSU's Hoke



SAN DIEGO -- Coach Brady Hoke isn't kidding when he says his San Diego State Aztecs face a big challenge against No. 18 Brigham Young today.

The Aztecs need only to look at BYU's massive offensive line, which averages 321 pounds and does quite nicely in opening holes for running back Harvey Unga and protecting quarterback Max Hall.

Hoke likens BYU's offensive linemen to heavy machinery.

"You always want to try and limit an opponent's offense in one phase of the game, and we want to make sure we stop the run," Hoke said. "That is a goal every week. If you can get a team one-dimensional, then you play into your hands a little bit, but it's going to be a real challenge for us up front to handle some of those big road graders they have."

The Aztecs' defensive line averages 250 pounds. With such a size discrepancy, Hoke said the Aztecs will have to survive on fundamentals, technique and intangibles.

"We all would like big guys who are athletic and fast," he said. "Well, there's only so many of those in this country, and so with what we do defensively, it enables us to do some things with guys who aren't quite as stout or as big as you'd like them, but they're guys who I think have a lot of heart to them, a lot of toughness and a lot of effort to them."

While the Aztecs (2-3, 0-1 Mountain West Conference) are coming off a bye, BYU (5-1, 2-0) displayed its offensive balance by gaining 611 yards in a 59-21 win at UNLV last week. Unga ran for three touchdowns and 149 yards, and Hall completed 21 of 27 passes for 320 yards and two scores.

"We're going to try to work edges, try to use our speed to get around them and hopefully get them on their toes, try and work that game," San Diego State linebacker Luke Laolagi said. "They're big, but hopefully we can use our speed against them."

The Aztecs have won as many games as they did last year, when they finished 2-10 and got Chuck Long fired as coach.

"I think San Diego State is an improved football team," BYU coach Bronco Mendenhall said. "They are certainly playing with a lot more effort than what I have seen in the past. I think they are being coached very well, and I think there is a resiliency that they have added that possibly has been missing in years past, at least since I have been in the league. So I think it will be a difficult test on the road, and we're anxious to play."

A win would be the 500th in BYU's history. To get it, Mendenhall will have to triumph over some old friends. Hoke, Mendenhall and San Diego State defensive coordinator Rocky Long crossed paths at Oregon State in the 1990s.

Mendenhall said he considers Hoke and Long mentors, "and I've learned a lot of football from them. So that has put a unique take on this particular game."

The Cougars have won seven of the last eight games against the Aztecs, averaging 46 points in those wins.


BRIGHAM YOUNG VS. SAN DIEGO STATE

WHEN: 3 p.m. today

WHERE: Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego

TV/RADIO: The Mtn. (334); KDOX-AM (1280)

LINE: BYU -17; total 53

 

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COMING OFF LACKLUSTER OUTING: Buckeyes' offense gets help

COMING OFF LACKLUSTER OUTING: Buckeyes' offense gets help

COMING OFF LACKLUSTER OUTING: Buckeyes' offense gets help

Pryor, Ohio State should shine today against weak Purdue 'D'

Ohio State's 31-13 victory over Big Ten rival Wisconsin last week was a classic example of a misleading final score.

The Buckeyes were outgained by a substantial margin -- 368 total yards to 184 -- and had just eight first downs to the Badgers' 22.

Ohio State's offense accounted for only one of its four touchdowns; the other three came on two interception returns and a kickoff return.

Wisconsin deserved a better fate, but the Buckeyes got the victory, and bettors who backed them got the money as Ohio State covered the 141/2-point spread.

One can be certain the Buckeyes' offense, on the heels of such a lackluster performance, will be seeking redemption at Purdue today.

The Boilermakers, ranked 76th in the NCAA in total defense, are just the tonic for an ailing offensive unit.

Ohio State quarterback Terrelle Pryor, whose sophomore season has yet to take flight, should put up solid numbers both rushing and passing against a Purdue defense that has allowed an average of 30.5 points through six games, including two against Mid-American Conference foes.

From a technical standpoint, the Buckeyes are in one of their most preferred point-spread roles: They are 14-3 against the spread as double-digit favorites in conference play.

Look for Pryor to find the end zone, and lay the 131/2 points with Ohio State, which usually beats up on weak opponents.

Four more plays for today (home team in CAPS):

? Oklahoma-Texas (Under 521/2) -- Last year's total in the Red River Rivalry was in the same neighborhood at 561/2. But quite frankly, neither team is in the same stratosphere offensively now.

The Sooners are without All-America tight end Jermaine Gresham. Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Sam Bradford and wide receiver Ryan Broyles each will play at less than 100 percent.

Defensively, Texas allows only 3.5 yards per play, with Oklahoma yielding opposing offenses 4 yards per play.

? WISCONSIN (-21/2) over Iowa -- Despite being undefeated, the Hawkeyes are one of the country's most overrated teams at the season's midpoint, with narrow escapes against the likes of Northern Iowa, Arkansas State and Michigan.

Iowa will not be so fortunate against a Wisconsin team that statistically dominated Ohio State and returns home to Camp Randall Stadium.

? IOWA STATE (-11/2) over Baylor -- The Cyclones are emerging offensively behind the guidance of quarterback Austen Arnaud.

The Bears, meanwhile, are not the same without do-everything quarterback Robert Griffin.

Baylor has won two Big 12 Conference road games in 53 tries. After coming close against Kansas State and Kansas, Iowa State should break through with a home conference victory over a Bears team starting to point to 2010.

? Southern California (-10) over NOTRE DAME -- Many would like nothing more than for Notre Dame to return to the upper echelon of college football, but the truth is the Fighting Irish simply do not have the same level of speed at all positions as the game's elite teams.

In the past seven meetings in the series, USC has won by an average score of 41-14, with only one of those games decided by fewer than 20 points.

***** THIS GUY IS NOT VERY GOOD *****

Last week: 2-3 against the spread

Season: 10-19-1

 

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Public Enemies - Week 7

Public Enemies - Week 7

Public Enemies - Week 7


Conference races are heating up around college football, as many teams' identities are getting figured out. Several teams that made headlines last week are road underdogs this week. Will these clubs cash, or fall apart after a strong performance?

Louisville at Connecticut (-13) - 12:00 PM EST

The Cardinals pulled off their first win over an FBS opponent last week by upending Southern Miss, 25-23. Louisville, despite a 2-3 record, has played only one conference game so far, falling to Pittsburgh. UConn has covered all five of their games, but come in 3-2 SU. In the Huskies' two losses, they have been outgained in total yards. In UConn's three victories, they have outgained the opposition.

The Huskies blew a late 21-6 lead in last week's 24-21 at Pitt, and capper Joe feels there could be a carryover effect this week. "Connecticut is still a perfect ATS team, but the schedule has been fairly weak and Louisville has been reasonably competitive in most games this year. Connecticut struggled with tackling the big backs for Pittsburgh last week and coming off a tough loss could take a toll here," says Nelson.

UConn sophomore QB Cody Endres has stepped up for the injured Zack Fraser. Endres has thrown three touchdowns in three starts for the Huskies, while completing at least 72% of his passes the last two games.

Adam Froman's numbers haven't compared to the stats Endres is putting up, but the Louisville backup QB did lead the Cardinals to a game-winning field goal in the final minute over Southern Miss.

The Cardinals are 0-6 ATS their last six games against Big East opponents, while going 1-4 ATS the last five meetings against UConn.

Iowa at Wisconsin (-2 ?, 48) - 12:00 PM EST

The Hawkeyes continue to win, after holding off Michigan last week, 30-28. Iowa is unbeaten at 6-0, while Wisconsin is coming off its first loss of the season at Ohio State.




The Badgers outgained the Buckeyes 368-184, while picking up 14 more first downs than Ohio State. Nelson says, "Sharp money appears to be on the Badgers this week and Wisconsin certainly deserved better in last week's loss to Ohio State as they moved the ball very effectively and dominated the time of possession. Iowa is the lone undefeated hope for the Big Ten but there have been a lot of breaks going Iowa's way this season."

Iowa has won at Penn State already this season, but the Hawkeyes did cause four Nittany Lion turnovers in a 21-10 victory. Kirk Ferentz's team has owned this matchup recently, covering six of the last seven meetings, including five SU wins. Nelson believes that Ricky Stanzi and Iowa have the advantage, "The experience edge at QB lies with the Hawkeyes and Iowa has also proven to be a much better fourth quarter team as Wisconsin has given up a lot of late points and could struggle to close out the win. Both teams are probably overrated, but Wisconsin is much less attractive in this match-up now that they are favorites."

Arkansas at Florida (-25) - 3:30 PM EST

It's homecoming in Gainesville, as the top-ranked Gators are fresh off a 13-3 victory at Baton Rouge over LSU. The Razorbacks are making people notice them after their drilling of Auburn last week. Arkansas possesses the best offense to face Florida this season. The Hogs tallied nearly 500 yards in the win over the Tigers, while forcing three turnovers.

Except for a 31-point first quarter at Kentucky, the Gators have scored 46 points in 11 quarters against conference opponents this season. Arkansas' two losses have come against Georgia and Alabama, allowing 87 points in those games. However, the Hogs have eclipsed the 40-point mark in four of five games.

Nelson notes UF's susceptibility to the home upset, "Florida has lost a home game each of the last two years and with some of the recent distractions and the homecoming attention this could be problematic situation. Still, Florida is 11-3 as a home favorite the last three years and the Arkansas defense has some clear liabilities in a match-up like this."

The Razorbacks have no doubt been impressive offensively, as Nelson feels this is a good spot for Arkansas to become relevant again, "Bobby Petrino will relish an opportunity back on the national stage and his offense posted 361 yards against the national champions last year. QB Ryan Mallet has nearly double the yards and touchdowns that Tim Tebow has, so Arkansas is likely to score some points and could be an underdog worth a look."

The Gators have won each of the last seven meetings with the Razorbacks dating back to 1995, while covering each game.

 

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Wagering on College Football?s Top Tilts

Wagering on College Football?s Top Tilts

Wagering on College Football?s Top Tilts


For this Saturday on the collegiate gridiron, two longstanding rivalries top the schedule. The evenly divided Cotton Bowl, half burnt orange and half red, presents a perfect setting for the Red River Rivalry, with the winner again taking command of the Big 12 South. The best annual intersectional rivalry resumes with USC traveling to South Bend. An influential Big Ten battle has Iowa at Wisconsin and the same goes in the ACC with Virginia Tech visiting Georgia Tech. Nebraska still hasn?t forgotten 70-10 loss to Texas Tech five years ago and would love to lay out the Red Raiders. Can the Ol? ball coach work magic and upset No. 2 Alabama? Everything will be determined on another great Saturday of college football action. Lines courtesy of Bookmaker.com.

Oklahoma (+3, 52) vs Texas 12:00E ABC

For Oklahoma (3-2, 2-3 ATS), it has been a tough go in 2009. Having to play without its Heisman Trophy quarterback for most of the season, potential All-American tight end and recently losing its best receiver. Despite having more problems than David Letterman, the Sooners still control their own destiny with a win over archrival Texas. Like most coaches, Bob Stoops doesn?t worry about whose not there, instead trying to get the most out of who is. Sam Bradford played last week in Baylor bounce back win 33-7 and is having to go without TE Jermaine Gresham for the season and WR Ryan Broyles is questionable. Another factor in this equation is a defense lacking in big stops. In spite of nine starters returning and No.9 ranking, the Oklahoma defense did not made an important shutdown in their losses to BYU or Miami. The Sooners are 1-3 in last four meetings and haven?t covered since 2004.

As Texas (5-0, 1-4 ATS) found out last season, beating Oklahoma isn?t enough and they have to keep focused with road games at Missouri and Oklahoma State up next. Colt McCoy hasn?t been quite the quarterback he was a season ago, but still having a very good 2009 campaign. He?s been helped by a running back by committee this season, as coach Mack Brown has gone with the hot hand and kept feeding the ball to that back. What might make the difference for the Longhorns this season is the defense (No.4 overall). The defensive line was hit by graduation, nonetheless defensive coordinator Will Muschamp has pleaded with his team about the importance of seizing the momentum with key stops and turnovers and its paid dividends. Texas is 5-12 ATS vs ranked teams on neutral fields.

The underdog is 14-7 ATS since 1988 in Red River Rivalry?s, with the margin of victory 10 or more points in 10 of last 11 battles. The Longhorns are 6-18 ATS away from home after five or more consecutive straight up wins. The Sooners are 8-1 ATS after a game with a turnover margin of +2 or better over the last two seasons. Oklahoma is 6-2 ATS as road underdog under coach Stoops, upset in the making?

Power Line ? Oklahoma by 3
? Texas covers

Iowa (+2.5, 47.5) at Wisconsin 12:00E ESPN

If a person is ardent fan of Big Ten football, than you know Wisconsin hates Iowa. Neither school would consider the other its biggest rival, nevertheless Badger fans detest Iowans. After losing at Ohio State last week 31-13, Wisconsin (5-1, 2-3 ATS) is setup nicely to run the table in the conference after their upcoming bye week. Running back John Clay has dropped a few calories and is back to running hard behind an improving offense line, with Badgers rushing for over 200 yards per game. Quarterback Scott Tolzien has more weapons at his disposal than what was believed in the preseason, with better athletes manning skill positions. Coach Brett Bielema and his defensive staff have out-maneuvered opponents with attacking defense. The Badgers are 20-11 ATS as single digit Big Ten favorites.

Coach Kirk Ferentz has never big on style over substance, which is why he?s pleased with Iowa?s 6-0 record. Closer than anticipated victories over Northern Iowa (17-16) and Arkansas State (24-21) are much better than a loss from Ferentz point of view. After last week?s thrilling 30-28 victory against Michigan, the Hawkeyes hit the road for a pair. Top priority is stopping the Wisconsin run game and making the Badgers as one-dimensional as possible. This strategy worked versus Arizona and Penn State and Iowa is confident it can work again. On offense, quarterback Ricky Stanzi has hit a few big plays the last couple of weeks and Wisky is vulnerable in the secondary, allowing 210.3 yards per game against opponents that only throw for 174 YPG. Iowa is 5-9 ATS in the first of two road games.

The Hawkeyes are 19-10-1 ATS since the turn of the century as conference dogs of 9.5 or less and they are 6-1 ATS facing the Badgers. Wisconsin has not covered last three tilts at home against the Iowa and the underdog is 4-0 ATS in Madison.

Power Line ? Iowa by 5
? Iowa covers

USC (-10, 50) at Notre Dame 3:30E NBC

Forget all the come-from-behind wins, forget the 4-1 record and forget Jimmy Clausen Heisman talk, for Notre Dame followers and detractors, this is the benchmark game of the season. The Fighting Irish have a BCS bowl offense and an International Bowl defense. Notre Dame (1-4 ATS) has lost seven in a row to USC (1-6 ATS) and six of those games, the Trojans margin of victory has been Nancy Pelosi eye-opening 31 points per game. Charley Weis and his team feel this team is different, having a potential All-American quarterback and an offense that keeps overcoming the defenses? flaws. The two biggest factors for Notre Dame will be keeping Clausen in vertical position and the ability of Irish defenders to keep USC out of the end zone. Notre Dame is 11-27 ATS having won four out of their last five games.

If the California game is precursor of USC?s true abilities, watch out. The Trojans (4-1, 2-3 ATS) defense tamed the Bears like a zoo keeper and now has similar numbers to last year?s unbelievable group. QB Matt Barkley was productive against Cal and won?t be intimidated at South Bend, having played at Columbus and at Berkeley already. Pete Carroll is pleased to report injured players like wide receiver Ronald Johnson should be back, which can open up the Trojan playbook. The Men of Troy are 39-7 and 29-17 ATS in non-conference action.

Rest assured, USC has no problem playing the Irish since they have a ?who?s your daddy sticker? on them. The Trojans are 14-3 ATS with two or more weeks of preparation and figure to be in good shape wanting to continue domination. This has to be a ?Wake up the Echoes? game for Notre Dame. Somehow, someway they find a way and pull the upset and move to 5-2 ATS as home underdog against Top 10 team.

Power Line ? USC by 16
? USC covers

Texas Tech (+11, 61) at Nebraska 3:30E ABC/GP

With regular starting quarterback Taylor Potts out with concussion for undetermined amount of time, coach Mike Leach looks on building the confidence of his backup Steven Sheffield. Leach not only likes his quick delivery, but his mobility also. ?Of our quarterbacks we have right now, he creates the best tempo for the group,? said Leach. The Texas Tech head man as other issues, like an offensive line that is allowing too much pressure on his pigskin passers. That needs to be solved with Nebraska?s ability to turn up the heat. They will face a strong Huskers running game (5.2 yards per carry), however the Red Raiders (4-2, 3-2 ATS) are 15-4 ATS versus excellent rushing teams averaging 5.25 or more rushing yards per carry.

Playing in a steady downpour, it?s hard to look overly impressive; nonetheless Nebraska (5-0 ATS) played 15 minutes of football that will be remembered in Lincoln. Down 12-0 after three quarters at Missouri, the Cornhuskers scored the game?s last 27 points to raise record to 4-1. Led by likely All-American defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh, he and his defense teammates took over the game and a soggy Nebraska offense cashed in on their opportunities. If coach Bo Pelini?s squad can win this Big 12 contest, this sets up for the Cornhuskers to be 7-1 when they host Oklahoma on Nov.7. Nebraska is 7-3 ATS in the first or two or more home games.

Nebraska has dropped three straight to Texas Tech after winning the first seven meetings in the series. No Cornhusker fan will ever forget the 2004, 70-10 massacre in Lubbock and returning the favor would be the sweetest revenge. The Huskers are 15-3 ATS in home games vs. good offensive teams scoring 34 or more points a game. This has become a potentially ruse line, with Nebraska money flooding in from opening line of the Huskers at -6.

Power Line ? Nebraska by 5
? Nebraska covers

Virginia Tech (-3, 52) at Georgia Tech 6:00E ESPN2

Virginia Tech (5-1, 3-3 ATS) buried Boston College 48-14 at home and has rugged assignment. The Hokies defensive front will be put to the test against the Georgia Tech option offense. This isn?t your vintage Frank Beamer defense, allowing over 123 yards rushing per game and not in the Top 25 in total defense (34th). This will be another tester in terms of desire to succeed and hold the line. Virginia Tech might gain one advantage if Tyrod Taylor continues to throw the ball well, since the Yellow Jackets are a rambling wreck against the pass, being burned for over 249 yards a game. Hokie offensive football is still based around the running game and they will have to run the pigskin on the ground to be successful. The Hokies are sensational 17-3 ATS as a road favorite of seven points or less.

Georgia Tech (5-1, 3-2 ATS) has a Sesame Street lineup having three games against teams that start with the letter V (Virginia and Vanderbilt on deck) in a row. The success the Yellow Jackets have enjoyed this season is when they attack early, both on offense and defense. The option will bog down from time to time, which means if Josh Nesbitt can get things started quickly, that helps momentum, particularly helpful in front of the throng at Bobby Dodd Stadium. The defense has been plagued by missed assignments in the secondary and poor tackling. The Jackets will look to crank up the running game and are 17-6 ATS when they rush for 5.5 or more yards per attempt.

Virginia Tech has won four of the last five tilts; with the road team 5-1 ATS in recent clashes. Prior to last season?s 20-17 Hokies win, the average margin of victory was 23 points per game.

Power Line ? Virginia Tech by 6
Forecaster ? Georgia Tech covers

South Carolina (+17.5, 45) at Alabama 7:45E ESPN

This has to rank among the stranger seasons the ol? ball coach has had being a head coach (working for Daniel Snyder not included). The defense lost a ton of talent from last year, yet South Carolina (5-1, 4-1 ATS) has only conceded more than 17 points twice this season. Despite constant shuffling in the offense line, the Gamecocks total on average just over 370 yards per game, not bad considering the turmoil. Senior linebacker and captain Eric Norwood finds a way to make an impact in every game and he will need to in a big way to slow down the Alabama attack. South Carolina is 9-4-1 ATS as road underdogs under coach Steve Spurrier.

Coming into the season, Crimson Tide (6-0, 5-1 ATS) backers thought their team had the potential to be even better than last year?s club that took 12-0 record into the SEC title game. The 55 returning lettermen are all physically stronger and a year wiser to coach Nick Saban?s no nonsense approach and if quarterback Greg McElroy could come thru, no telling how far Alabama could rise. McElroy has been tremendous and other pieces have fallen into place. Sophomore running back Mark Ingram has been as good as advertised, but tight end transfer Colin Peek is really fitting in, as he and McElroy have gotten more comfortable with each other. The Tide is 9-22-2 ATS in SEC home games, which includes three straight covers.

This is the first of trio of conference home games for Bama, who is 9-16-1 ATS when favored by 10 or more points. In studying Crimson Tide trends, most have come from the past and under coach Saban, most everything has been a lot different. For proof, check out 9-2 ATS record after a win by 17 or more points over the last two seasons, winning by 21.6 points per game. These teams last met in 2005 and the visitor has covered the oddsmakers number the last three times.


Power Line ? Alabama by 20

Consensus ? South Carolina covers