Week 2: Mid-Major picks

Courtesy of blockonation.com

Central Michigan @ Temple


Line: 7 Temple

Prediction: Temple



UTEP @ Houston

Line: 19 1/2 Houston

Prediction: UTEP



Memphis @ East Carolina

Line: 13 1/2 East Carolina

Prediction: East Carolina



Hawaii @ Army

Line: 3 Army

Prediction: Hawaii



Eastern Michigan @ Miami (OH)

Line: 16 Miami (OH)

Prediction: Miami (OH)



Bowling Green @ Tulsa

Line: 17 Tulsa

Prediction: Tulsa



Toledo @ Ohio

Line: 7 1/2 Ohio

Prediction: Ohio



San Diego State vs. New Mexico State

Line: 13 San Diego State

Prediction: San Diego State


UAB @ SMU

Line: 12 1/2 SMU

Prediction: SMU


Colorado State @ Nevada

Line: 23 1/2 Nevada

Prediction: Nevada

Week 2 Picks- Bank ON EM'

Here are my picks for Week 2 Action. These games have at least one team from the Big 6 conferences in them. I will unveil my mid-major type picks later on tonight. When I say prediction, I am predicting the line, not the result. For example, I think Ohio State will beat Miami, but I believe Miami will beat the spread. Take a gander, let me know what you think in the comments or tweet me with @WarrenLent

Thursday---

Auburn @ Mississippi State
Line: 1 1/2 Auburn
Prediction: Auburn

Friday---

West Virginia @ Marshall
Line: 12 1/2 West Virginia
Prediction: West Virginia

Saturday---

Georgia Tech @ Kansas
Line: 14 Georgia Tech
Prediction: Georgia Tech

Georgia @ South Carolina
Line: 3 1/2 South Carolina
Prediction: South Carolina

Duke @ Wake Forest
Line: 4 1/2 Wake Forest
Prediction: Duke



San Jose State @ Wisconsin
Line: 38 Wisconsin
Prediction: Wisconsin

South Florida @ Florida
Line: 15 Florida
Prediction: South Florida

Idaho @ Nebraska
Line: 28 Nebraska
Prediction: Nebraska

LSU @ Vanderbilt
Line: 9 1/2 LSU
Prediction: LSU

Iowa State @ Iowa
Line: 13 1/2 Iowa
Prediction: Iowa State

Colorado @ California
Line: 9 California
Prediction: Colorado

Florida State @ Oklahoma
Line: 7 1/2 Oklahoma
Prediction: Florida State

Michigan @ Notre Dame
Line: 4 Notre Dame
Prediction: Michigan

Kent State @ Boston College
Line: 17 Boston College
Prediction: Boston College

Miami (Fl) vs. Ohio State
Line: 8 1/2 Ohio State
Prediction: Miami (FL)

BYU @ Air Force
Line: 1 Air Force
Prediction: BYU

UNLV @ Utah
Line: 22 Utah
Prediction: Utah

Oregon @ Tennessee
Line: 12 Oregon
Prediction: Oregon

Wyoming @ Texas
Line: 28 1/2 Texas
Prediction: Wyoming

Louisiana Tech @ Texas A&M
Line: 19 TA&M
Prediction: Texas A&M

Syracuse @ Washington
Line: 13 1/2 Washington
Prediction: Syracuse

Buffalo @ Baylor
Line: 16 1/2 Baylor
Prediction: Baylor

Penn State @ Alabama
Line: 11 1/2 Alabama
Prediction: Alabama

NC State @ Central Florida
Line: 3 1/2 UCF
Prediction: UCF

Texas Tech @ New Mexico
Line: 24 1/2 Texas Tech
Prediction: Texas Tech

Mississippi @ Tulane
Line: 20 1/2 Miss
Prediction: Miss

Stanford @ UCLA
Line: 6 Stanford
Prediction: UCLA

Virginia @ USC
Line: 19 1/2 USC
Prediction: USC

Western Kentucky @ Kentucky
Line: 24 Kentucky
Prediction: Kentucky

Troy @ Oklahoma State
Line: 13 1/2 Oklahoma State
Prediction: Troy

Rutgers @ Florida International
Line: 19 1/2 Rutgers
Prediction: Rutgers

Week 2: Top 25

=

25. Michigan 1-0
24. West Virginia (1-0)
23. Missouri (1-0)
22. Clemson (1-0)
21. USC (1-0)
20. Arkansas (1-0)
19. Virginia Tech (0-1)
18. Utah (1-0)
17.  LSU (1-0)
16. Georgia 1-0)
15. Notre Dame (1-0)
14. Penn State (1-0)
13. Florida State (1-0)
12. TCU (1-0)
11. Iowa (1-0)
10. Nebraska (1-0)
9. Wisconsin (1-0)
8. Oklahoma (1-0)
7. Florida (1-0)
6. Miami (FL) (1-0)
5. Texas (1-0)
4. Oregon (1-0)
3. Boise State (1-0)
2. Ohio State (1-0)
1. Alabama (1-0)

Knocked off the list: Pittsburgh (13) Texas Tech (21)

Next Four In: Stanford, South Carolina, BYU, Georgia Tech

Predictions: Big Ten Week 1

Western Michigan at Michigan State (12:00 PM, Sat.)

What to watch for: MSU running game. If Michigan State wants to compete for a Big Ten title this season, they need at least an adequate rushing attack to compliment QB Kirk Cousins, who may be the best QB in the Big Ten. Both Larry Caper and Edwin Baker are back this year for Sparty, but they will have to replace three starting OL form last year, including second team All Big Ten C Joel Nitchman. Michigan State should have no trouble taking care of the Broncos this week.

Prediction: Michigan State 45, Western Michigan 7

Youngstown State at Penn State (12:00 PM, Sat.)

What to watch for: Penn State QB Robert Bolden. Joe Paterno made waves throughout Big Ten country when he named true freshman Robert Bolden the starter for this season's opener. Bolden, who had only arrived on campus a little over a month ago, has a good supporting cast of wide recievers and running backs, but the offensive line, which has to replace both starting tackles, will also be key to protect Bolden. The Penguins will be a warm up game for the Nittany Lions, who travel to Tuscaloosa to play Alabama next week.

Prediction: Penn State 37, Youngstown State 3

Eastern Illinois at Iowa (12:05 PM, Sat.)

What to watch for: Iowa QB Ricky Stanzi. Stanzi was an honorable mention all Big Ten quarterback last season, but he was wildly inconsistent in 2009 (56% completion pct, 17 TD, 15 INT). Iowa returns running backs Adam Robinson and Brandon Wegher, but does not have much experience on the offensive line, as they return just two starters from last season. Iowa's defense, which brings back eight starters including DE Adrian Clayborn (11.5 sacks in 2009) will be fantastic, but Iowa's offense will have to be solid if they want to contend for a Big Ten title, and possibly a National title.

Prediction: Iowa 44, Eastern Illinois 3

Illinois vs. Missouri (in St. Louis, 12:30 PM, Sat.)

What to watch for: The Illinois defense. If Illinois wants to make it to a bowl game this season, they will have to improve on defense. They ranked 9th in the Big Ten in total defense in conference play last year (395 yards/game). Illinois does get MLB Martez Wilson back this season, after missing all of 2009 following neck surgery. He will have to lead the Illini defense against a stout Mizzou offense, which loses playmaker WR Denario Alexander, but does bring back eight starters from last year, including QB Blaine Gabbert (3593 yards, 24 TD, 9 INT in 2009). I look for Illinois to struggle a bit on offense, giving good field position to Missouri, who will capitalize.

Prediction: Missouri 34, Illinois 17

Purdue at Notre Dame (3:30 PM, Sat.)

What to watch for: Purdue defensive line vs. Notre Dame offensive line. Whoever wins this matchup will put themselves in great position to win the game. Purdue returns three of four defensive linemen starters from last year, including first team all Big Ten DE Ryan Kerrigan (13 sacks in 2009). On the flip side, Notre Dame returns just two offensive line starters from last season's group which averaged 452 yards of total offense per game in 2009. I expect Michael Floyd to have a big game and take advantage of Purdue's secondary, which does not return any starters from last year's team.

Prediction: Notre Dame 31, Purdue 20

Uconn at Michigan (3:30 PM, Sat.)

What to watch for: Michigan's quarterback situation. It appears as though Denard Robinson will start for Michigan, but don't be surprised if you see last year's starter Tate Forcier or true freshman Denard Robinson get see action this week. Michigan will need a quarterback who can get the ball to WR Roy Roundtree, who led the team in receptions, recieving yards, and touchdowns last season. Uconn returns eight defensive starters from last season's team. Uconn RB Jordan Todman will have a chance to show off his skills against Michigan's 3-3-5 defense. A solid Uconn offensive line and balanced offensive attack make the difference in the game of the week in the Big Ten.

Prediction: Uconn 31, Michigan 27

Northwestern at Vanderbilt (7:30 PM, Sat.)

What to watch for: Northwestern defensive line. Vanderbilt returns SEC freshman of the year RB Warren Norman, but he will have a hard time finding holes as Vandy returns just one starter from last year's 2-10 team. Northwestern returns two of four defensive linemen from last season, but I also expect sophomore DE Quentin Williams to have a breakout season for the 'Cats. I expect Northwestern to win the battle of the trenches, which will allow their LBs (their entire 2 deep from 2009 returns) to roam free and stymie Vanderbilt's offensive attack. NU loses QB Mike Kafka and their top two pass catchers from last season, but they will find enough offense to win this game on the road.

Prediction: Northwestern 27, Vanderbilt 20

Wisconsin at UNLV (11:00 PM, Sat.)

What to watch for: Wisconsin's offensive line. I love this Wisconsin team, and it starts up front. They return all five starters from last year's team which averaged 4.6 yards per carry in 2009. The rock of the line is senior LT Gabe Carimi, who was first team all Big Ten last year and ranks 24th on Mel Kiper's 2011 NFL Draft big board. Wisconsin also returns QB Scott Tolzien and their top 3 running backs, headlined by 2009 Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year John Clay. Their defense will be solid enough that they should contend for the Big Ten title and are a darkhorse National championship contender. UNLV plays a very tough schedule but should be improved from last season and could make some noise in the Mountain West Bobby Hauck's first season as head coach of the Rebels.

Prediction: Wisconsin 48, UNLV 10

Predictions: Big Ten Thursday Games

Towson at Indiana (7:30 PM, Thurs.)
What to watch for: Indiana's offense. Indiana returns nine offensive starters from last year's team which averaged 365 yards of total offense per game in 2009, including senior QB Ben Chappell and all other skill postions. The Hoosiers will need Chappell to be more consistent (17 TD, 15 INT in 2009) if they want to reach a bowl game. For now, they will handle the Tigers easily.

Prediction: Indiana 41, Towson 13

Marshall at Ohio State (7:30 PM, Thurs.)
What to watch for: Which Terrelle Pryor will show up? If Ohio State's offense wants to be sucessful, it will depend largely on Pryor, who was magnificent in the Rose Bowl against Oregon last year. Marshall will be breaking in a new quarterback and running back, and at Ohio State the first week is not the best way to do that.

Prediction: Ohio State 44, Marshall 10

Minnesota at Middle Tennessee State (7:30 PM, Thurs.)
What to watch for: Minnesota's defense. The Minny D is a unit that only returns two starters from last year, when the Gopher's allowed only 3.8 yards per carry. Middle Tennessee State might have been favored in this game if it wasn't for QB Dwight Dasher's suspension. I would expect this game to be close, but in the end I see Minnesota pulling out the W.

Prediction: Minnesota 24, Middle Tennessee State 20

Week 1 Preview: Southern Mississippi @ South Carolina

South Carolina 2009 Results: 7-6

Southern Mississippi 2009 Results: 7-6

Who edges who

Quarterbacks: Southern Mississippi- Stephen Garcia will be taking the first offensive snap of the game for South Carolina. This decision was finally given to the media Wednesday morning but the competition is still very heated between Garcia and true freshman Connor Shaw. While controversy strikes the Gamecocks down a peg, Southern Mississippi has one of the better quarterbacks in the CUSA. Case Keenum is ovbiously the best, but I would put SMU's Austin Davis as the second best in the conference. Davis was injured for a good portion of the season last year but had a great TD/INT ratio of 10:2 when he started for the Eagles. His potential may not be superior to Garcia or Shaw, but Davis has the ability right now to beat out either opponent.

Running Backs: South Carolina- Sophomore Kenny Miles is back and rearing to go but he has an outstanding running mate along with him for the ride. The most intriguing recruit of the 2010 class, Marcus Lattimore, by all accounts will be electric on the field. If he can live up to the hype against the best returning defense in the Conference USA, Gamecock fans have a lot to be excited about in the very near future. Southern Mississippi brings back only one running back with in-game experience. While Kendrick Hardy looks to be a great replacement to Damion Fletcher in a few years, the experience is not quite there yet.

Wide Receivers: Wash- For South Carolina, Alshon Jeffery and Tori Gurley are growing into the most dynamic duo in the sophomore class. Last year they combined for eight touchdowns as freshmen and look to vastly improve on those numbers. While those sophomores get going, DeAndre Brown is set to dominate in his junior year. Brown returns as the leading receiver last season and is apart of my Biletnikoff award watch list.

Tight Ends: Wash- Weslye Saunders will not be playing in Thursday's game and Southern Mississippi don't have a tight end with a reception on the team. the tight end postion will not be an important factor Thursday.

Offensive Line: South Carolina- South Carolina basically win by default because the SMU Eagles only return one starter from last year. South Carolina doesn't exactly have the best offensive line in the SEC, but the 72 combined starts on the O-line pale in comparison to 26 total starts for SMU

Defensive Line: South Carolina- I was going to go with Southern Mississippi in this case as they look to have a great defensive line in 2010, but Cliff Matthews single-handedly changed my mind. His 7 sacks as a junior last year makes him one of the most feared defensive ends in the SEC. Watch out for Cardarro Law to pressure the quarterback all night.

Linebackers: Southern Mississippi- Korey Williams, Ronnie Thornton, and Martez Smith were the top tacklers in 2009 and combined for 11 sacks come back this year to be the best non-AQ linebacking corps in the country. South Carolina can't mess with that.

Secondary: South Carolina- Although interceptions were not the forte of USC's secondary, this will be their most experienced secondary in the Spurrier era.

Prediction: South Carolina by 6

Conference Preview: Standings in the ACC

Wujciak is a complete beast

ACC Atlantic

1) Florida State
2) Boston College
3) Clemson
4) Maryland
5) Wake Forest
6) NC State

Who wins the Division: Florida State

ACC Coastal

1) Virginia Tech
2) Miami
3) Georgia Tech
4) North Carolina
5) Duke
6) Virginia

Who wins the Division: Virginia Tech

ACC Championship Game: Virginia Tech vs. Florida State

Winner: Virginia Tech

ACC Offensive Player of the Year: Montel Harris

ACC Defensive Player of the Year: Alex Wujciak

Freshman of the Year: Jeff Luc (FSU)

Caleb's Take on Ex-Duck Jeremiah Masoli

By Caleb

Jeremiah Masoli looked golden just a couple weeks ago.


He would transfer from Oregon to Mississippi, enter the Parks and Recreation graduate program, and still get to play football in 2010—possibly even get Heisman nominations.

Sound too good to be true? Well, it is.

The NCAA has officially denied Masoli's request to play in 2010. They stated two reasons for doing so:

Jeremiah Masoli wasn't going to be eligible for the 2010 season at Oregon.

The time frame between when the discrepancies against the University of Oregon occurred, and when he requested a transfer.

He's not taking it too well, as you can imagine. He was quoted saying:

"I'm just shocked and disappointed. I've done everything I can to follow the rules."

Does this bother anyone besides me? He's done everything he can to follow the rules? There's a lie if I've ever heard one.

Let's review.

Masoli pleads guilty (NOTE: after lying about it and covering it up) to theft at a fraternity house back in January. He gets benched for 2010 at Oregon.

Then, not half a year later he gets busted on marijuana possession. This doesn't sound like "following the rules" to me.

From my point of view, Masoli got off easy. After all the crap the Oregon Ducks have had to deal with under a brand new coach one of their stars pulls this stunt. I was glad honestly when he got benched.

I'm glad he won't be getting out of it.

True, Masoli will just use his redshirt year this year, and play his senior year in 2011, but he's getting what he deserves in my opinion. He broke the law, lied to his team, and should face the consequences.

Whining and acting like a victim shouldn't be fooling anyone.

This also puts Mississippi in a tough spot, as they're now without a solid starter. It looks like Nathan Stanley at this point, who played in five games last year and didn't post up very good numbers.

The NCAA still has one week to overrule their decision, as it was appealed by the University of Mississippi, but I honestly think that the ruling will stand. Masoli gets what he deserves, yet still gets to play in 2011. Seems pretty fair to me.

Previewing the Conference: Big East

Courtesy of rushthecourt.net

By Warren Lent
Teams with chances in the Big East

-Pittsburgh- Predicted Chance: 42%-- Returning---Offense: (5 of 11) Defense: (6 of 11)

Offense Impact Players: Dion Lewis RB, Jon Baldwin WR
Defense Impact players: Max Gruder LB, Greg Romeus DE

Why: Dion Lewis is one of the best running backs in the country and proved it last season with over 1,800 yards rushing. His dominance last season could be repeated this year as dependence on him grows greater. It looks like sophomore Tino Sunseri will replace Bill Stull at quarterback, but has Jon Baldwin as a receiver to boot. Both Baldwin and Lewis are top shelf at their position, and darkhorse candidates for the Heisman trophy. Pitt has good returning depth including Greg Romeus (8 sacks) and looks to keep opponents under 20 ppg once again this year. The Panthers will play all of their important conference games in November, but could be tripped up by teams like Rutgers and Louisville in October. The last 3 of 4 games in conference are away when they play @Connecticut, @USF, and @Cincinnati. They also play WVU at home in the backyard brawl. Asking for 4-0 out of those games may be asking too much, but going 3-1 is definitely realistic.

-West Virginia- Predicted Chance: 39%-- Returning--- Offense (7 of 11) Defense (9 of 11)

Offensive Impact Players: Noel Devine RB
Defensive Impact Players: Pat Lazear LB, Julian Miller DE

Why: While WVU doesn't have the receiving playmaker Pittsburgh does, they are almost dead even in every other category. Noel Devine is the most exciting running back in the Big East (Sorry Dion) and can break out for a touchdown any given play. On defense, Julian Miller (9 sacks) will cause havoc on the defensive line as much as he can. With the Mountaineers schedule, they are able to host all other viable BE champs besides Pittsburgh and Connecticut. QB Geno Smith will need to step up and become a game manager if WVU wants to make a trip to the Orange Bowl.

-Cincinnati- Predicted Chance: 19%-- Returning--- Offense (7 of 11) Defense (5 of 11)

Offensive Impact Players: Zach Collaros QB, Armon Binns
Defensive Impact Players: Walter Stewart LB

Why: Tony Pike and Mardy Gilyard are gone on an offense that led the Bearcats to the Sugar Bowl. Depth at quarterback was not an issue last year as Zach Collaros actually made a push to start over Pike. Gilyard was an extremely good wide reciever, but Armon Binns could be a great replacement at the #1 receiving position. The defense only returned one starter in 2009 so they will definitely improve this season.

Previewing the Conferences: Mountain West Conference

Courtesy of collegefabricstore.com

By Warren Lent

Teams with chances for the Conference:

-TCU- Predicted chance: 53%-- Great offense with almost all players returning (9 of 11).
Impact players: Andy Dalton QB, Matthew Tucker RB, Jeremey Kerley WR

Defense- Rebuilding, but still very powerful. Returning (7 of 11)
Impact players: Tank Carder MLB, Wayne Daniels DE

Why: I give them 53% chance because they are definitely the favorites to win the conference, but Utah and BYU are always in the hunt. TCU hosts BYU, but has to travel to Utah which should effectively decide the conference.

-BYU- Predicted chance: 7%-- Freshman quarterback, other impact players need to step up. Returning (7 of 11)

Impact Players: Jake Heaps QB, Matt Reynolds LT

Defense- Underclassmen need to improve to have a consistent defensive effort. Returning (5 of 11 on defense)

Impact Players: Andrew Rich FS, Zac Stout LB

Why: The odds are against the Cougars this year. QB Max Hall has graduated, and the weight of the world on the shoulders of true freshman Jake Heaps. BYU has to travel to TCU AND Utah during the season. While a win in each game is attainable, it is very unlikely.

-Utah-Predicted Chance: 33%-- Explosive backfield, Smooth quarterback. Returning (8 of 11 on offense)

Impact Players: Jordan Wynn QB, Jereme Brooks WR

Defense- Only return 4 of 11, but they have some very good potential with their underclassmen

Impact Players: Derrick Shelby DE, VJ Fehoko MLB

Why: While TCU seems to have a slight talent advantage, Utah is able to host two possible MWC champs at home this year. They host TCU and BYU.

-Air Force- Predicted Chance: 2%-- Good running back, very good defense. Returning (5 of 11 on offense)

Impact Players: Jared Tew RB, Asher Clark RB

Defense- Very good linebacking corps, but lacks true experience

Why: 2% isn't much at all, but at least its something. With the triple option offense, anything is possible (see Navy vs. Notre Dame 2009) but don't count on seeing AF any further than #3 in the MWC.

The AP Top 25: Makes Sense, Kind Of..

The AP Top 25 poll has come out for all college football fans to gaze at with wonder. A few suprises in there to be honest. Not in the teams, but in the placement of the teams. Here is a look at the AP Top 25 and MY Top 25 where there is most debate... 25-17

AP 25
The full poll:
1. Alabama
2. Ohio State
3. Boise State
4. Florida
5. Texas
6. TCU
7. Oklahoma
8. Nebraska
9. Iowa
10. Virginia Tech
11. Oregon
12. Wisconsin
13. Miami
14. USC
15. Pittsburgh
16. Georgia Tech
17. Arkansas
18. North Carolina
19. Penn State
20. Florida State
21. LSU
22. Auburn
23. Georgia
24. Oregon State
25. West Virginia

MY 25:
25. West Virginia

24. Missouri
23. USC
22. Clemson
21. Texas Tech
20. Arkansas
19. Wisconsin
18. TCU
17. Georgia
16. Notre Dame
15. Virginia Tech
14. Georgia Tech
13. Pittsburgh
12. Oregon
11. Penn State
10. Nebraska
9. Iowa
8. Auburn
7. Miami (FL)
6. Texas
5. Florida
4. Oklahoma
3. Boise State
2. Ohio State
1. Alabama

Thoughts by #:
25: We both had West Virginia. I completely agree. The second best team in the Big East (preseason) deserves to be in the Top 25. Because of the quality in the Big East, WVU at #25 is extremely sensible

24: AP: Oregon State--- Warren: Missouri
Where they have Missouri: Unranked--- Where I have OSU: Unranked

This one is very difficult because I had Oregon State in my first Top 25, but took them out for multiple reasons. While I thought they belonged in the Top 25 to start the year, I found that they simply do not have the personell this year to crack the Top 25 more than once during the season. I chose Missouri because they have the ability to run the table until mid-October which would ovbiously warrant a Top 25 bid.

23: AP: Georgia--- Warren: USC
Where they have USC: 14--- Where I have Georgia: 17

So I have USC 9 slots lower than the AP. I feel as if USC have to prove themselves in the first half of the season to break the top 15. They have around 6 games to start the season where there is no doubt they'll be the favorite. If they are able to win those games, I will bring them as high as the AP and probably even higher. With USC at 14, I expect no movement whatsoever until someone ahead of them falls, or they lose one of those first 6 games. For Georgia, I expect a very good season, but I would like to see them play at South Carolina before I place them ahead of too many other teams. With a victory @South Carolina, They will be poised to move ahead of those two teams regardless of record.

22: AP: Auburn--- Warren: Clemson
Where they have Clemson: Unranked--- Where I have Auburn: 8

I am an Auburn believer this year, and my ranking ovbiously proves that. Newton should be a great quarterback, and he has the type of weapons with him like Mario Fannin to really challenge Alabama this time around. With Clemson, Kyle Parker played a huge part in my decision. With an experienced quarterback and a still prestigious defense, they will be in my 25 until they lose.

21: AP: LSU---Warren: Texas Tech
Where I have LSU ranked: Unranked--- Where they have Texas Tech: Unranked

I really like LSU and they will always have one of the best defenses in the country, but I have to hold judgement or movement until they show they are able to replace Charles Scott and Brandon LaFell on offense. They also have UNC to start off the year which will either give them an in to the 25 or kick them out. Texas Tech has a quarterback battle that will only make the team better. Two seniors fighting for playing time could work out perfectly for their offense. Their offense will always be proficient, but it is their defense that could actually improve with experience across the board.

20: AP: Florida State--- Warren: Arkansas
Where I rank Florida State: Unranked--- Where they rank Arkansas: 17

Florida State does deserve to be pretty damn close to the Top 25, but when they head into Norman in Week 2, they will be seriously challenged. I see them making their way into the Top 25 once they get on a roll before their battle with Miami (FL), but a 7-6 with only a slight turnover can be much better while the season goes on, but do not deserve to be in the Top 25 to start the year.

19: AP: Penn State--- Warren: Wisconsin
Where I have Penn State: 11--- Where they have Wisconsin: 12

We may both be wrong here, but I think that having such a dominant defense last year along with one of the best running backs in the Country deserves to be high to start the year. They will have a huge test at week two versus Alabama that will ultimately decide their expecations for the year. If PSU loses to Alabama, they still deserve to be somewhere in the Top 25, and placing them at 19 doesn't give them that oppourtunity. Wisconsin on the other hand, will have an amazing offense that needs their defense to step up. Wisconsin will most likely go into their meeting in East Lansing versus Michigan State undefeated. At that point, I would say Wisconsin deserves that #12 spot.

18.: AP: North Carolina--- TCU
Where they have TCU: 6--- Where I have North Carolina: Unranked

No, I am not crazy. TCU will move up as long as they beat Oregon State to start the season. They will fly once it happens, I promise that. I don't have UNC ranked for the exact same reason why I don't have LSU ranked; They play each other in the first game of the season. With that result, either team will move to #22 or higher.

17: AP: Arkansas--- Warren: Georgia

Arkansas: Check #20 for explanation
Georgia: Check #23 for explanation

Heisman Candidates: The Final Four

Courtesty of Secsportshub.com

4. Dion Lewis-- Dion Lewis makes a more compelling argument in his sophomore year to contend for the Heisman. The Pittsburgh running back ran wild all over the Big East. With the expectations set at BCS status for the Panthers, Lewis could lead his team to the chosen land while picking up some serious hardware on the way.
2009 Stats: Yards: 1,862--- YPC: 5.5--- TD: 17

3. Case Keenum-- Case Keenum would’ve made the trip to New York last year if it wasn’t for his implosive behavior in the last two games of the season. Against ECU he threw 3 interceptions that prevented a Liberty Bowl berth for the Cougars. To add insult to injury, Keenum proceeded to throw a whopping 6 INTERCEPTIONS versus Air Force in the Armed Forces Bowl. I had my money (hypothetical) on Houston to perform in that game. Houston performed, Case just didn’t show up. Now in his senior year, Case has to have the conisistency to stay on top of his game. If he does so and the Cougars make their way up the polls, he could be standing in front of a podium to accept the Heisman trophy.

2009 Stats: Comp %: 70.3--- Pass yds: 5,671--- TD/Int: 44/15

2. Terrelle Pryor-- Yeah, I buy the hype. I bought it once Pryor chose the Buckeyes in his senior year. I was disappointed for two years, but hope was brought to all that support OSU once the Buckeyes beat Oregon in the Rose Bowl. Pryor gave the best effort of the year as hope was rejuvenated in and around Columbus, Ohio. If Terrelle Pryor builds on that performance and improves each and every game, He will win the Heisman trophy.

2009 Stats: Comp %: 56.6--- Pass yds: 2094--- TD/Int: 18/11

1. Ryan Mallett-- The Michigan transfer may have the toughest road towards winning the Heisman trophy, but if well played a very rewarding one. After breaking his foot earlier this year, Mallett missed all spring practices and is finally getting back in shape to start the Arkansas opener versus Tennessee Tech. Mallett has all the physical tools to be the best quarterback in the country this year. Ipso de facto, Ryan Mallett could be the best player in the country this season.

2009 Stats: Comp %: 55.8--- Pass yds: 3,624--- TD/Int: 30/7

When it's all said and done: I think Case Keenum will win the Heisman trophy. He has enough high profile games in the 2010 schedule to showcase his talent, but at the same time, he has many games where Houston's high octane offense can win the day.

Heisman Candidates

Courtesy of SI.com

Always a hotly contested topic when the College Football season comes around. Here is my list of Heisman candidates. Here are my rankings 10-5.


10. Jake Locker-- Locker is arguably the best quarterback in the Nation this year, and would be at the top of my list if it wasn't for the team around him. He has a great wide recieving corps behind him, but little else as UW looks to mkae it to a bowl game for the first time since 2002. That's going to be a greater concern than Locker's Heisman chances. A 9-10 win season WOULD make Locker a favorite though, but many (myself included) do not see the Huskies winning over 6 games with such a difficult schedule.

2009 Stats: Comp %: 58.4--- Pass Yds: 2,800--- TD/INT: 21/11

9. Michael Floyd-- In his sophomore year, many would argue that Floyd had a better chance because the talent at quarterback for the Irish. Unfortunately, Floyd missed over half of the season with a shoulder injury and missed out on any sort of Heisman mention. This year, he will be a legitimate contender because he has the buzz, and could become a favorite option for a young quarterback. We will need to see over 12 TD's and 1,000 Rec yards for Floyd to be invited to NYC.

2009 Stats: Missed 5 games: Rec Yds: 795--- TD: 9

8. Christian Ponder-- In 2009, I witnessed Christian Ponder throw an interception right into the hands of a Clemson linebacker. In vain, Ponder chased after the oppressor and did his best to tackle the linebacking mammoth. It was to no avail, and Ponder's shoulder was destroyed. A successful offseason surgery later, Ponder has a chance to get to the top of the Heisman table, but his recieving unit is very unexperienced. If he is able to get FSU to a BCS bowl, he will deserve it.

2009 Stats: (Missed 4 starts) Comp %: 68.8--- Pass yds: 2717--- TD/Int: 14/7

7. Kellen Moore-- Simple enough for Junior Kellen Moore: Get to the BCS title game and the trophy is yours. The Heisman has always celebrated those who have let their talent shed light onto other players, and Moore is a very diverse passer. If he can replicate the same stats from '09, he is a shoe in for a visit to the Big Apple.

2009 Stats: Comp %: 64.3--- Pass yds: 3536--- TD/Int: 35/3

6. Matt Barkley-- The Cali Kid may be ranked too high for the taste of some USC haters, but with a very promising freshman season, I think he has to be mentioned with the big boys this time around. He has weapons, all USC quarterbacks will, but it will take some pretty stats to see him hoisting the Heisman until 2011 or 2012.

2009 Stats: Comp %: 59.9--- Pass yds: 2735--- TD/Int: 15/14

5. Ryan Williams-- Now to the two most compelling running backs in College Football. First, Ryan Williams. Williams was thought to be a suitable replacement for an injured Darren Evans, but he turned out to be an absolutle machine. I'm not even a VT fan (far from it) but it was beautiful to watch Ryan Williams tear up defenses left and right. A season just like '09 and a better overall result for the Hokies (I know they were 10-3) and I see Ryan Williams pretty far up the list. The problem is, the Hokies have a vast array of talented running backs. Evans is back, and Oglesby will get the short yardage. My point is, carries, yards, and touchdowns could be taken away from Williams during the year.

2009 Stats: Yards: 1,720--- YPC: 5.6--- TD: 21

Breaking Down the Top 25: #21 Texas Tech

Courtesy of thematadorsports.com

Since I am stuck in my Mike Leach phase, I thought it fitting to pump out another Top 25 preview for ya'll. Texas Tech has a new coach this year. The Mike Leach saga has come to a close for TT fans. Tommy Tuberville is heading into this situation with his head held high. After taking a year off of coaching, Thomas will come into Lubbock where a pirate crazy HC has been the BMOC for years. Will we see some more running with Tuberville at TT? Probably, but if it ain't broke don't fix it, right? Either way, TT has a very difficult schedule this season, and no offensive scheme can truly save them from a treacherous schedule. A bowl bid may seem like the worst case scenario for the Red Raiders, but where is the ceiling in 2010?
#21 Texas Tech

2009: 8-4

Better or Worse in 2010: Better

September 5th: SMU-- W
Why: June Jones is a great coach and could have SMU making a run at the CUSA title this fall, but Tuberville will be determined to get on the winning track quickly in the 2010 campaign for TT. He'll do it, but it will take all his team has to beat a very well disciplined SMU squad.

September 11th: @New Mexico-- W
Why: Carmen Messina cannot prevent the inevitable. Roll Tech Roll.

September 18th: Texas-- L
Why: The magical win in 2008 versus the Longhorns was with different players. Many different players. Mr. Tuberville may have talent to compete versus UT consistently in years to come, but with only 4 starters coming back on offense, TT will be unable to set up shop in the pocket like they had last year.

September 25th: BYE
October 2nd: @Iowa State-- W
Why: ISU may look at this as a winnable game, but the time to get excited by Cyclone football is not here quite yet. Poor defense will leave TT wanting to play ISU every week.

October 9th: Baylor (Dallas)-- W
Why: Robert Griffin and Baylor will put up a solid fight, but no team can rely on one man. Baylor should find that out sooner than October 9th, but they'll be reminded by the 2nd half against the Red Raiders.

October 16th: Oklahoma State-- W
Why: OK State is rebuilding this season after losing Zac Robinson and Dez Bryant. OSU will get their fill of wins this season, but they won't find any in Lubbock, Texas.

October 23rd: @Colorado-- W
Why: Colorado is not there quite yet.

October 30th: @Texas A&M-- L
Why: Tech will give the Aggies a handful, but playing at College Station is far too uplifting for A&M to lose a game they want to win, especially with the expectations set upon them this year.

November 6th: Missouri-- L
Why: A hard fought game all the way into the 4th quarter, but I see Missouri against the home Raiders. Gabbert goes off for a great game.

November 13th: @Oklahoma-- L
Why: Texas Tech destroyed Oklahoma last year, but Stoops and Jones make sure that won't happen two years in a row. Espically with Oklahoma in the hunt for a National Championship nod.

November 20th: Weber State-- W
Why: Bah

November 27th: Houston-- L
Why: With a bowl game already locked up and their place in the Big 12 South all but secure, I see Houston wanting this game more than TT. Depending on the season, I may change my opinion though. Houston has to come into  Lubbock with a scent of success.
December 4th: BYE

2010 Prediction: (7-5) (4-4)

Mike Leach heads to CBS, but Still wants to Coach

Courtesy of EDSBS

By Warren Lent

I love Mike Leach. He was dismissed from TT for obscure and stupid reasons. Hindsight is 20/20 though. If you watch this video (EXPLICIT) he is directly speaking to Adam James.

Mike Leach after Baylor

Leach at His Best

I would love to see him on the sideline as soon as possible. I wish it was this year, but everything needs to cool down for a year before we can see him anywhere soon. 10 straight bowl games in a row. Someone WILL take a risk on him. Will it be in the Big 12 or a BCS conference, I doubt it. I can definitely see him heading back to his roots out west.

Report: Tate Forcier to transfer from Michigan

I can't tell you I told ya so, because I didn't tell anyone besides a few friends of mine, but I could smell a transfer coming from Ann Arbor. I really didn't think it would be Tate Forcier though. Tate was the #1 quarterback in 2009. He led the Wolverines to a late, great win against the Irish. I really liked Tate's play, but I had always thought Denard Robinson was the favorite once he came in. Rich Rod just wanted to get Robinson used to the pace of College Football and ovbiously work on his overall skills as a quarterback. An athlete turned quarterback formula has ovbiously worked for Rich Rodriguez in the past with players like Pat White back at WVU.

Forcier had to deal with a few concussions last season, but still (at least to me) looked like the starter at quarterback. More news will follow with this transfer news, but for now it seems like the quarterback battle has been determined to a degree. Either Denard Robinson (So.) or Devin Gardner (Fr.) will make the start against Connecticut as September 4th creeps closer and closer.

Here are Tate's stats from 2009. Not too good, but did very well as UM went 4-0 to start the season

Forcier: Pass yds: 2050--Pass TD's 13-- INT's: 10--- Rush yds: 240---Rush TD's: 3

Breaking Down the Top 25: #22 Clemson

Courtesty of mkrob.com

Clemson's Kyle Parker had a big decision to make earlier on this summer. It seemed like he had to make a decision between going straight to the MLB, or play college football. In the end, Parker is $1.4 million richer, and the Clemson coaching staff/fanbase couldn't be happier. Parker was a redshirt freshman last year as he threw for 20 TD's for the Tigers. Even though the losses of C.J. Spiller, Kavell Conner, and Ricky Sapp will be tough to swallow, the return of Parker has given me the confidence to put the Tigers within my Top 25.

#22 Clemson Tigers

2009 Record: 8-4

Better or Worse in 2010: Same

September 4th: North Texas-- W
Why: North Texas @ Clemson

September 11th: Presbyterian-- W
Why: Child please

September 18th: @Auburn-- L
Why: After two cupcakes to start the season, Clemson will have to drink a bottle of humble milk as Auburn's hopes for a double digit win will not be thrown off by their hardest OOC game in 2010. Cameron Newton gets used to an offense fit for even a medicore quarterback and gets by Clemson's defense just enough to warrant a win in Auburn

September 25th: BYE

October 2nd: Miami, FL-- L
Why: Clemson beat UM in overtime last season as defense simply did not show up in a 40-37 slugfest. Both teams are much improved defensively and this game will be extremely close. Low scoring, but Jacory Harris has a thing for being clutch.

October 9th: @North Carolina-- W
Why: UNC is in a bit of trouble right now with a few off the field issues as well as a somewhat poor offense. If UNC is at full strength, this game will be tough to call, but at this point, Advantage: Clemson

October 16th: Maryland-- W
Why: In College Park, I would say a possible upset could be in order, but this game will be played in Clemson. Clemson wins games at home against medicore opponents 9 of 10 times.

October 23rd: Georgia Tech-- W
Why: No one will figure out the GT triple option, but Clemson has seen it almost as much as anyone. 3 times in the last two years. Familiarity breeds contempt, and Clemson is 0-3 against the Yellow Jackets. The Tigers will make that statistic look a little better.

October 30th: @Boston College-- L
Why: Boston College and Clemson have had some thrilling games as this rivalry has become a great addition to the ACC. Clemson dismembered BC last year and BC will be seeking some sort of revenge. In Chestnut Hill, a game is always in play.

November 6th: NC State-- W
Why: NC State will stay competitive with a decent passing attack and a great quarterback, but the NC State defense is not a strength at this point. Tigers win by the commencement of the 4th quarter.

November 13th: @Florida State-- W
Why: Clemson beat FSU soundly last year as Kyle Parker was able to find his rythym during the end of the season. FSU only has 5 returning starters on defense but talent on offense is where the fall of the Seminoles will be. Low scoring affair as Clemson contains Ponder and his minions.

November 20th: @Wake Forest-- W
Why: Wake Forest will not have a great team this year as they try and rebuild after the departure of Riley Skinner. Grobe does his best, but in the end, athletes and talent will seize the day.

November 27th: South Carolina-- L
Why: The SEC is a great conference, and worst case scenario for the Gamecocks, they are fighting for a bowl bid at this point while Clemson will not have too much to fight for. Stephen Garcia shows why he was 2nd to only Jimmy Clausen during their high school recruitment.

December 4th: BYE

2010 Prediction: (8-4) (6-2)

Breaking Down the Top 25: #23 USC

Courtesy of sportressofblogitude.com

About everything that could go wrong for the mighty men from Troy during the offseason DID go wrong. their head coach left, they were punched repeatedly in the face by the NCAA (metaphor) and now have suspended freshman Dillon Baxter for the game versus Hawaii. Lane Kiffin aims to please and discipline, and it seems like he will be doing a good amount of both while in his "dream job". The beginning of the 2010 season takes away all pressure during the offseason, and what a way to get rid of some stress the Trojans will have to begin the season. USC head down to the beautiful Hawiaan Islands to get their tan on, and win a game as well. Even though they are unable to participate in a bowl game at the end of the season, the expectation for a Pac-10 championship still remains.

#23 USC Trojans

2009 Record: 8-4

Better or Worse in 2010: Better

September 2nd: @Hawaii-- W
Why: This is not Colt Brennan's team from way back when, and USC (sans Dillon Baxter) will enjoy the beautiful weather while going 1-0 to start off the 2010 season

September 11th: Virginia-- W
Why: USC have a weak Virginia team at home this year. Last year, they traveled to Charlottesville and beat the Cavs 52-7. UVA are arguably better this year, but good enough to encroach on a 45 point deficit? I don't think so.

September 18th: @Minnesota-- W
Why: In the past two years, USC was able to play a Big Ten team in the first few weeks of the season. That Big Ten team was Ohio State, and they pose a much greater threat to USC than Minnesota (2010's opponent). USC rolls.

September 25th: @Washington State-- W
Why: No comment

October 2nd: Washington-- W
Why: UW snuck up on USC last year and beat them with a last minute field goal. Matt Barkley did not play in that game with a shoulder injury. Up in Seattle, Washington shocked the college football world and beat the Trojans. Coming back LA for this game, Monty Kiffin and his defense have the ability to stop a Locker led offense and possibly shut down Jake's heisman bid.

October 9th: @Stanford-- W
Why: Stanford's crowd usually consists of alumni that graduated from the prestigious University circa 1960. The atmosphere will not strike fear into USC and they are able to take care of business up north with some solid quarterbacking by Barkley.

October 16th: California-- W
Why: This year could very well be UC's best chance in a while to beat their counterparts in LA, but a good USC defense should be able to stop Shane Vereen for at least one more year.

October 23rd: BYE
October 30th: Oregon-- L
Why: USC lost two home games last year. This year they will most likely only lose one, but a loss to Oregon could determine the Pac-10 champion. Oregon had USC's number last season with the zone read. No Masoli, no problem. The Ducks win by a lesser amount, but a win is always a win.

November 6th: Arizona State-- W
Why: Yes, USC is good this year. No, Arizona State is not.

November 13th: @Arizona-- L
Why: Nick Foles was able to turn a few heads with his preformance against USC with a very good preformance as he lead the Wildcats to victory while visiting the Trojans. AU brings the fight home with them and is able to give them the edge over a vicious USC team.

November 20th: @Oregon State-- W
Why: After being knocked off of the #1 spot by the Beavers in 2008, USC was able to avenge their loss last season with a solid win at home. This year, OSU is a little weaker and USC will smell blood once the 4th quarter begins.

November 27th: Notre Dame-- W
Why: Taking emotion out of this we have to be honest with ourselves. USC has owned this series home AND away since it began. This game will mean more to Notre Dame to USC, but Lane Kiffin knows that he has an image to uphold. Losing to ND would not paint a pretty image his first year in office.

December 4th: @UCLA-- W
Why: The Trojans have held UCLA to 7 points in each of the last three years. UCLA has the ability to score more than that in 2010, but to no effect in the W column.

2010 Prediction: (11-2) (7-2)