Saturday, September 30, 2017
Predictions and Best Bets
Last Week: 8-4
Season: 37-18
Thursday
Texas @ Iowa State
Friday
#14 Miami @ Duke
#5 USC @ #16 Washington State
Saturday
Northwestern @ #10 Wisconsin
Vanderbilt @ #21 Florida
#7 Georgia @ Tennessee
Florida State @ Wake Forest
#24 Mississippi State @ # 13 Auburn
#2 Clemson @ #12 Virginia Tech
Ole Miss @ #1 Alabama
Northern Illinois @ #19 San Diego State
Colorado @ UCLA
Best Bets
Last Week: 3-3
Season: 15-6 (Lock of the Week: 4-0)
Northwestern @ Wisconsin -14.5
North Carolina @ Georgia Tech -9.5
Georgia -6.5 @ Tennessee
Iowa +3.5 @ Michigan State
Mississippi State +10 @ Auburn
Oklahoma State -9.5 @ Texas Tech
Colorado +7 @ UCLA
Wednesday, September 20, 2017
Predictions and Best Bets for Week 4
Last Week: 9-2
Season: 29-14
Thursday
Temple @ #21 South Florida- 7:30 ESPN
Friday
Virginia @ Boise State- 8:00 ESPN2
#23 Utah @ Arizona- 10:30 FS1
Saturday
NC State @ #12 Florida State- 12:00 ABC
Texas A&M VS Arkansas- Southwest Classic (Arlington, Texas)- 12:00 ESPN
#16 TCU @ #6 Oklahoma State- 3:30 ESPN
#1 Alabama @ Vanderbilt- 3:30 CBS
#8 Michigan @ Purdue- 4:00 FOX
#17 Mississippi State @ #11 Georgia- 7:00 ESPN
#4 Penn State @ Iowa- 7:30 ABC
Notre Dame @ Michigan State (Megaphone Trophy)- 8:30 FOX
#7 Washington @ Colorado- 10:00 FS1
UCLA @ Stanford- 10:30 ESPN
Best Bets
Last Week: 3-2
Season: 12-3 (Locks of the Week: 3-0)
Pittsburgh @ Georgia Tech -7.5 (Lock of the Week)
UCF @ Maryland -3.5
Wake Forest – 4.5 @ Appalachian State
Duke -2.5 @ North Carolina
Cincinnati +11.5 @ Navy
Washington @ Colorado +11.5
Season: 29-14
Thursday
Temple @ #21 South Florida- 7:30 ESPN
Friday
Virginia @ Boise State- 8:00 ESPN2
#23 Utah @ Arizona- 10:30 FS1
Saturday
NC State @ #12 Florida State- 12:00 ABC
Texas A&M VS Arkansas- Southwest Classic (Arlington, Texas)- 12:00 ESPN
#16 TCU @ #6 Oklahoma State- 3:30 ESPN
#1 Alabama @ Vanderbilt- 3:30 CBS
#8 Michigan @ Purdue- 4:00 FOX
#17 Mississippi State @ #11 Georgia- 7:00 ESPN
#4 Penn State @ Iowa- 7:30 ABC
Notre Dame @ Michigan State (Megaphone Trophy)- 8:30 FOX
#7 Washington @ Colorado- 10:00 FS1
UCLA @ Stanford- 10:30 ESPN
Best Bets
Last Week: 3-2
Season: 12-3 (Locks of the Week: 3-0)
Pittsburgh @ Georgia Tech -7.5 (Lock of the Week)
UCF @ Maryland -3.5
Wake Forest – 4.5 @ Appalachian State
Duke -2.5 @ North Carolina
Cincinnati +11.5 @ Navy
Washington @ Colorado +11.5
What to Watch in Week 4 in College Football
Thursday Night
Temple @ #21 South Florida- 7:30 ESPN
In an AAC matchup, Temple takes on USF. The Bulls did not look rusty last weekend after missing time due to Hurricane Irma. They need to win convincingly in front of a national audience if they want to continue their path to a NY6 bowl game.
Friday Night
Virginia @ Boise State- 8:00 ESPN2
#23 Utah @ Arizona- 10:30 FS1
UVA, coming off one of its most impressive wins in years, heads to Idaho to take on Boise State. The Broncos have struggled on the offensive side of the ball this year, but still have an excellent defense. Look for another low scoring close game in this when. Later in the evening, Utah opens up its PAC12 schedule against Arizona. Utha’s defense has yet to give up 20 points in a game this season, while Arizona’s offense has put up over 60 points in 2 out of 3 games. Whoever wins that matchup should win this game.
Saturday Day
NC State @ #12 Florida State- 12:00 ABC
Texas A&M VS Arkansas- Southwest Classic (Arlington, Texas)- 12:00 ESPN
In Florida State’s first game since week 1, they host NC State. FSU lost star QB Deondre Francois for the season, and this will be the first start for freshman backup James Blackmon. NC State has constantly given FSU fits, and if the Seminoles are not ready, will do so again. In Arlington, old SWC rivals Texas A&M and Arkansas play in the Southwest Classic. Arkansas has yet to beat Texas A&M since the Aggies joined the SEC. Both teams come in with only 1 loss, but each loss was very disappointing. The coach of the loser of this game will be firmly on the hotseat.
Saturday Afternoon
#16 TCU @ #6 Oklahoma State- 3:30 ESPN
#1 Alabama @ Vanderbilt- 3:30 CBS
#8 Michigan @ Purdue- 4:00 FOX
In arguable the game of the day, TCU heads to Stillwater to take on Oklahoma State. Ok State has looked incredible so far this season, although it has all been against subpar opponents. WB Mason Rudolph is firmly in Heisman contention. TCU has won easily over Arkansas and rival SMU, but has yet to play a team as good as OK State. The winner of this game will become a favorite to make it to the Big 12 championship game. In the SEC, Vanderbilt host the CBS game of the week for the first time in school history when #1 Alabama visits. Vandy is coming off an upset win over Kansas State last weekend, while Alabama has won 29 out of its last 30 games. Vandy will need to force Alabama to throw the ball, and try to win a low scoring sloppy affair. At 4:00on Fox, Michigan plays Purdue. Purdue has been a surprise team this year, blowing out Missouri last weekend and nearly upsetting Louisville early in the season. Michigan’s offense has had it troubles so far this season, but it has one of the best defenses in the country. This will be a good test for them in their first conference game of the season.
Saturday Night
#17 Mississippi State @ #11 Georgia- 7:00 ESPN
#4 Penn State @ Iowa- 7:30 ABC
Notre Dame @ Michigan State (Megaphone Trophy)- 8:30 FOX
Mississippi State coming off of its huge upset over LSU last weekend heads to Athens to take on Georgia. Nick Fitzgerald looks like he might be the best quarterback in the SEC and will need to have a big game if MSU wants to win this one. Georgia is starting backup Freshman Jake Fromm, who played well enough to win against Notre Dame 2 weeks ago. UGA will rely on its dynamic duo at running back to create offense in this one. Starting at 7:30 on ABC, Penn State travels to Big 10 conference foe Iowa. Penn State is clearly the more talented team, but Iowa is 5-2 against top 10 opponents at home in the last 10 years. Penn State’s offense relies on the big play, and if Iowa can stop those, this one will go down to the wire. In a rivalry matchup, Notre Dame heads to East Lansing to take on Michigan State. Both teams had down seasons last year, and this matchup could be used as a springboard for the 2 schools.
Saturday Late Night
#7 Washington @ Colorado- 10:00 FS1
UCLA @ Stanford- 10:30 ESPN
In a rematch of last year’s PAC 12 title game, Washington faces Colorado. The Buffaloes will be Washington’s toughtest opponent in the early part of this season. Colorado has played excellent defense this season, and should be a good test for Washington QB Jake Browning. In the last game of the night, UCLA takes on Stanford. Both of these teams were ranked last weekend until losing to a group of 5 team on the road. If either of these teams want to be considered contenders for the PAC 12 title game, they have to win this one.
Temple @ #21 South Florida- 7:30 ESPN
In an AAC matchup, Temple takes on USF. The Bulls did not look rusty last weekend after missing time due to Hurricane Irma. They need to win convincingly in front of a national audience if they want to continue their path to a NY6 bowl game.
Friday Night
Virginia @ Boise State- 8:00 ESPN2
#23 Utah @ Arizona- 10:30 FS1
UVA, coming off one of its most impressive wins in years, heads to Idaho to take on Boise State. The Broncos have struggled on the offensive side of the ball this year, but still have an excellent defense. Look for another low scoring close game in this when. Later in the evening, Utah opens up its PAC12 schedule against Arizona. Utha’s defense has yet to give up 20 points in a game this season, while Arizona’s offense has put up over 60 points in 2 out of 3 games. Whoever wins that matchup should win this game.
Saturday Day
NC State @ #12 Florida State- 12:00 ABC
Texas A&M VS Arkansas- Southwest Classic (Arlington, Texas)- 12:00 ESPN
In Florida State’s first game since week 1, they host NC State. FSU lost star QB Deondre Francois for the season, and this will be the first start for freshman backup James Blackmon. NC State has constantly given FSU fits, and if the Seminoles are not ready, will do so again. In Arlington, old SWC rivals Texas A&M and Arkansas play in the Southwest Classic. Arkansas has yet to beat Texas A&M since the Aggies joined the SEC. Both teams come in with only 1 loss, but each loss was very disappointing. The coach of the loser of this game will be firmly on the hotseat.
Saturday Afternoon
#16 TCU @ #6 Oklahoma State- 3:30 ESPN
#1 Alabama @ Vanderbilt- 3:30 CBS
#8 Michigan @ Purdue- 4:00 FOX
In arguable the game of the day, TCU heads to Stillwater to take on Oklahoma State. Ok State has looked incredible so far this season, although it has all been against subpar opponents. WB Mason Rudolph is firmly in Heisman contention. TCU has won easily over Arkansas and rival SMU, but has yet to play a team as good as OK State. The winner of this game will become a favorite to make it to the Big 12 championship game. In the SEC, Vanderbilt host the CBS game of the week for the first time in school history when #1 Alabama visits. Vandy is coming off an upset win over Kansas State last weekend, while Alabama has won 29 out of its last 30 games. Vandy will need to force Alabama to throw the ball, and try to win a low scoring sloppy affair. At 4:00on Fox, Michigan plays Purdue. Purdue has been a surprise team this year, blowing out Missouri last weekend and nearly upsetting Louisville early in the season. Michigan’s offense has had it troubles so far this season, but it has one of the best defenses in the country. This will be a good test for them in their first conference game of the season.
Saturday Night
#17 Mississippi State @ #11 Georgia- 7:00 ESPN
#4 Penn State @ Iowa- 7:30 ABC
Notre Dame @ Michigan State (Megaphone Trophy)- 8:30 FOX
Mississippi State coming off of its huge upset over LSU last weekend heads to Athens to take on Georgia. Nick Fitzgerald looks like he might be the best quarterback in the SEC and will need to have a big game if MSU wants to win this one. Georgia is starting backup Freshman Jake Fromm, who played well enough to win against Notre Dame 2 weeks ago. UGA will rely on its dynamic duo at running back to create offense in this one. Starting at 7:30 on ABC, Penn State travels to Big 10 conference foe Iowa. Penn State is clearly the more talented team, but Iowa is 5-2 against top 10 opponents at home in the last 10 years. Penn State’s offense relies on the big play, and if Iowa can stop those, this one will go down to the wire. In a rivalry matchup, Notre Dame heads to East Lansing to take on Michigan State. Both teams had down seasons last year, and this matchup could be used as a springboard for the 2 schools.
Saturday Late Night
#7 Washington @ Colorado- 10:00 FS1
UCLA @ Stanford- 10:30 ESPN
In a rematch of last year’s PAC 12 title game, Washington faces Colorado. The Buffaloes will be Washington’s toughtest opponent in the early part of this season. Colorado has played excellent defense this season, and should be a good test for Washington QB Jake Browning. In the last game of the night, UCLA takes on Stanford. Both of these teams were ranked last weekend until losing to a group of 5 team on the road. If either of these teams want to be considered contenders for the PAC 12 title game, they have to win this one.
Friday, September 15, 2017
Boston College Notre Dame Preview
After a hugely disappointing loss to Wake Forest last weekend, the Eagles take the field again against Notre Dame. The Irish suffered a one point road loss in South Bend to Georgia last weekend. It is quite possible for the loser of this game to have their season spiral out of control, and it could lead to the firing of either team’s coach. Currently the line is BC +13.5.
What to Watch When BC has the Ball: The BC offense looked lost for most of the game last weekend against Wake. They did not create any big plays, and turned the ball over 4 times, leading to 21 Wake Forest points. BC needs that to change this weekend. Look for the Eagles to take shots down the field in order to pull the Irish off of the line of scrimmage. Also, look for the carries to be spread around more as both AJ Dillon and Jon Hilliman were ineffective last weekend. This game lies in the hands of the offense, and their ability to put up points, and put the defense in a position to win the game.
What to Watch When Notre Dame has the Ball: Notre Dame’s offensive line struggled to contain Georgia’s defensive line last weekend, and the Eagles defense should be able to get pressure onto quarterback Brandon Wimbush. The defense played well enough to win last weekend, but failed in two key areas. It struggled in the red zone, allowing Wake to score TDs on 3 out of 4 trips, and it didn’t create any turnovers. BC needs its defense to set its offense up with turnovers for easy points. If the defense doesn’t improve in those 2 areas, BC will struggle to stay in this one.
Overall: If BC loses this game, the season is pretty much over, and Daz will likely be gone next year. The way the schedule lays out, they could be 2-5 in October before the schedule gets easier. Due to this, I expect the Eagles to come out and play inspired football. Last weekend, in the second half, it looked like the team did not care. I don’t expect that to happen again against the Irish. Look for the Eagles to break out trick plays and throw everything at Notre Dame. BC will come out strong and I think they hang on in the second half to win a low scoring close one.
Prediction: Boston College 21, Notre Dame 20
What to Watch When BC has the Ball: The BC offense looked lost for most of the game last weekend against Wake. They did not create any big plays, and turned the ball over 4 times, leading to 21 Wake Forest points. BC needs that to change this weekend. Look for the Eagles to take shots down the field in order to pull the Irish off of the line of scrimmage. Also, look for the carries to be spread around more as both AJ Dillon and Jon Hilliman were ineffective last weekend. This game lies in the hands of the offense, and their ability to put up points, and put the defense in a position to win the game.
What to Watch When Notre Dame has the Ball: Notre Dame’s offensive line struggled to contain Georgia’s defensive line last weekend, and the Eagles defense should be able to get pressure onto quarterback Brandon Wimbush. The defense played well enough to win last weekend, but failed in two key areas. It struggled in the red zone, allowing Wake to score TDs on 3 out of 4 trips, and it didn’t create any turnovers. BC needs its defense to set its offense up with turnovers for easy points. If the defense doesn’t improve in those 2 areas, BC will struggle to stay in this one.
Overall: If BC loses this game, the season is pretty much over, and Daz will likely be gone next year. The way the schedule lays out, they could be 2-5 in October before the schedule gets easier. Due to this, I expect the Eagles to come out and play inspired football. Last weekend, in the second half, it looked like the team did not care. I don’t expect that to happen again against the Irish. Look for the Eagles to break out trick plays and throw everything at Notre Dame. BC will come out strong and I think they hang on in the second half to win a low scoring close one.
Prediction: Boston College 21, Notre Dame 20
Thursday, September 14, 2017
Week 3 Predictions and Best Bets
Predictions
Last Week: 11-3
Season: 20-12
Thursday Night
New Mexico @ Boise State- 8:00 ESPN.
Friday
Illinois @ #22 South Florida- 7:00 ESPN
Saturday
#25 UCLA @ Memphis- 12:00 ABC
#9 Oklahoma State @ Pittsburgh- 12:00 ESPN
#23 Tennessee @ #24 Florida- 3:30 CBS
#10 Wisconsin @ BYU- 3:30 ABC
Notre Dame @ Boston College- 3:30 ESPN
#12 LSU @ Mississippi State- 7:00 ESPN
#3 Clemson @ #14 Louisville- 8:00 ABC
Texas @ #4 Southern California- 8:30 FOX
Ole Miss @ California- 10:30 ESPN
Best Bets
Last Week: 5-0
Season-9-1 (Lock of the Week: 2-0)
Oklahoma State -13.5 @ Pittsburgh- Lock of the Week
Purdue +7 @ Missouri
Clemson-3 @ Louisville
Notre Dame @ Boston College- Under 51.5
Baylor @ Duke- Over 58.5
Last Week: 11-3
Season: 20-12
Thursday Night
New Mexico @ Boise State- 8:00 ESPN.
Friday
Illinois @ #22 South Florida- 7:00 ESPN
Saturday
#25 UCLA @ Memphis- 12:00 ABC
#9 Oklahoma State @ Pittsburgh- 12:00 ESPN
#23 Tennessee @ #24 Florida- 3:30 CBS
#10 Wisconsin @ BYU- 3:30 ABC
Notre Dame @ Boston College- 3:30 ESPN
#12 LSU @ Mississippi State- 7:00 ESPN
#3 Clemson @ #14 Louisville- 8:00 ABC
Texas @ #4 Southern California- 8:30 FOX
Ole Miss @ California- 10:30 ESPN
Best Bets
Last Week: 5-0
Season-9-1 (Lock of the Week: 2-0)
Oklahoma State -13.5 @ Pittsburgh- Lock of the Week
Purdue +7 @ Missouri
Clemson-3 @ Louisville
Notre Dame @ Boston College- Under 51.5
Baylor @ Duke- Over 58.5
What to Watch this Weekend in College Football
Thursday Night
New Mexico @ Boise State- 8:00 ESPN
Boise State must bounce back after giving up a 21 point fourth quarter lead to Washington State last weekend. The Broncos choked away the game with 2 turnovers leading directly to touchdowns. If Boise can limit their mistakes, they should roll over the Lobos.
Friday Night
Illinois @ #22 South Florida- 7:00 ESPN
South Florida takes the field again after cancelling last weekend’s game due to hurricane Irma. South Florida struggled in its first 2 games against inferior opponents, particularly on the offensive side of the football. It will be interesting to see how they play considering they have not been able to practice until the middle of this week. Illinois is much improved, and will be the most talented team they have played so far.
Saturday Day
#25 UCLA @ Memphis- 12:00 ABC
#9 Oklahoma State @ Pittsburgh- 12:00 ESPN
UCLA heads to the Liberty Bowl to take on Memphis in a game that starts at 9:00 am Pacific time. Memphis will be geared up for the game, and UCLA will need to match its intensity. Josh Rosen leads the Bruins, who while being streaky, is one of the best players in the country. The Tigers should be able to get through a weak UCLA offensive line, and will need to get pressure on Rosen if they want to win. Elsewhere, Oklahoma State plays Pittsburgh. The Panthers got down early against Penn State, and never really threaten. They can not let that happen against the Cowboys who posses one of the best big play offenses in the country.
Saturday Afternoon
#23 Tennessee @ #24 Florida- 3:30 CBS
#10 Wisconsin @ BYU- 3:30 ABC
Notre Dame @ Boston College- 3:30 ESPN
In the annual 3rd Saturday in September matchup, Tennessee plays Florida. Florida missed some practice time due to Hurricane Irma, and it will be interesting to see how they start early. The Gators had major QB issues in their game against Michigan, while Tennessee struggled mightily on defense when they took on Georgia Tech. Whatever unit improved the most will the winner on Saturday. Wisconsin goes to the Rocky Mountains in a non-conference game against BYU. BYU has struggled on offense all season, but posses a quality defense. Wisconsin has blown out inferior opponents so far this season, especially in the second half of games. BYU’s defense will be a good test for their rush offense. On ESPN, the Catholic Holy War takes place between Notre Dame and BC. Both teams had disappointing losses last weekend, and both play tough games next week. The loser of this game could have their season go down the drain quickly.
Saturday Night
#12 LSU @ Mississippi State- 7:00 ESPN
#3 Clemson @ #14 Louisville- 8:00 ABC
Texas @ #4 Southern California- 8:30 FOX
LSU faces their first real test of the season when they go to Starkville. LSU has used a power running game to control the ball, and wear down opposing defenses. They have not yet faced a quality offense, and will be tested by MSU quarterback Nick Fitzgerald. At 8 o’clock on ABC, Clemson plays Louisville in the game of the day. Clemson comes in off of a great win over Auburn last weekend, while Louisville has struggled in its 2 wins this season. However, the Tigers only managed 14 points in their win over Auburn, and their running game did not get going. QB Kelly Bryant did most of his damage with his legs. For the Cardinals, Heisman winner Lamar Jackson has been excellent again this season, and is already over 1,00 yards of total offense. He has to put up a superhero effort for the Cardinals to win. Finally, in their first meeting since arguably the greatest college football game ever played, Texas returns to Los Angeles to take on USC. USC is a clear favorite in this one, as they are lead by Heisman contender Sam Darnold. Texas looked awful on both sides of the ball in a loss to Maryland in the first game of this season, and will need force turnovers if they want to stay in this one.
Saturday Late Night
Ole Miss @ California- 10:30 ESPN
In the nightcap, Cal hosts Ole Miss. Cal is off to a surprising 2-0 start, including a win at North Carolina, while Ole Miss is 2-0 playing cupcakes. Ole Miss is lead by talented sophomore QB Shea Patterson, who goes up against a much improved Golden Bear defense. Look for both teams to throw plenty of passes in this on.
New Mexico @ Boise State- 8:00 ESPN
Boise State must bounce back after giving up a 21 point fourth quarter lead to Washington State last weekend. The Broncos choked away the game with 2 turnovers leading directly to touchdowns. If Boise can limit their mistakes, they should roll over the Lobos.
Friday Night
Illinois @ #22 South Florida- 7:00 ESPN
South Florida takes the field again after cancelling last weekend’s game due to hurricane Irma. South Florida struggled in its first 2 games against inferior opponents, particularly on the offensive side of the football. It will be interesting to see how they play considering they have not been able to practice until the middle of this week. Illinois is much improved, and will be the most talented team they have played so far.
Saturday Day
#25 UCLA @ Memphis- 12:00 ABC
#9 Oklahoma State @ Pittsburgh- 12:00 ESPN
UCLA heads to the Liberty Bowl to take on Memphis in a game that starts at 9:00 am Pacific time. Memphis will be geared up for the game, and UCLA will need to match its intensity. Josh Rosen leads the Bruins, who while being streaky, is one of the best players in the country. The Tigers should be able to get through a weak UCLA offensive line, and will need to get pressure on Rosen if they want to win. Elsewhere, Oklahoma State plays Pittsburgh. The Panthers got down early against Penn State, and never really threaten. They can not let that happen against the Cowboys who posses one of the best big play offenses in the country.
Saturday Afternoon
#23 Tennessee @ #24 Florida- 3:30 CBS
#10 Wisconsin @ BYU- 3:30 ABC
Notre Dame @ Boston College- 3:30 ESPN
In the annual 3rd Saturday in September matchup, Tennessee plays Florida. Florida missed some practice time due to Hurricane Irma, and it will be interesting to see how they start early. The Gators had major QB issues in their game against Michigan, while Tennessee struggled mightily on defense when they took on Georgia Tech. Whatever unit improved the most will the winner on Saturday. Wisconsin goes to the Rocky Mountains in a non-conference game against BYU. BYU has struggled on offense all season, but posses a quality defense. Wisconsin has blown out inferior opponents so far this season, especially in the second half of games. BYU’s defense will be a good test for their rush offense. On ESPN, the Catholic Holy War takes place between Notre Dame and BC. Both teams had disappointing losses last weekend, and both play tough games next week. The loser of this game could have their season go down the drain quickly.
Saturday Night
#12 LSU @ Mississippi State- 7:00 ESPN
#3 Clemson @ #14 Louisville- 8:00 ABC
Texas @ #4 Southern California- 8:30 FOX
LSU faces their first real test of the season when they go to Starkville. LSU has used a power running game to control the ball, and wear down opposing defenses. They have not yet faced a quality offense, and will be tested by MSU quarterback Nick Fitzgerald. At 8 o’clock on ABC, Clemson plays Louisville in the game of the day. Clemson comes in off of a great win over Auburn last weekend, while Louisville has struggled in its 2 wins this season. However, the Tigers only managed 14 points in their win over Auburn, and their running game did not get going. QB Kelly Bryant did most of his damage with his legs. For the Cardinals, Heisman winner Lamar Jackson has been excellent again this season, and is already over 1,00 yards of total offense. He has to put up a superhero effort for the Cardinals to win. Finally, in their first meeting since arguably the greatest college football game ever played, Texas returns to Los Angeles to take on USC. USC is a clear favorite in this one, as they are lead by Heisman contender Sam Darnold. Texas looked awful on both sides of the ball in a loss to Maryland in the first game of this season, and will need force turnovers if they want to stay in this one.
Saturday Late Night
Ole Miss @ California- 10:30 ESPN
In the nightcap, Cal hosts Ole Miss. Cal is off to a surprising 2-0 start, including a win at North Carolina, while Ole Miss is 2-0 playing cupcakes. Ole Miss is lead by talented sophomore QB Shea Patterson, who goes up against a much improved Golden Bear defense. Look for both teams to throw plenty of passes in this on.
Friday, September 8, 2017
Boston College Wake Forest Preview
Boston College begins their home slate this season with a game against Wake Forest. BC has played well against Wake under Daz, winning 3 out of the 4 times they played. However, the last two games have been close, ugly games, with Wake winning 3-0 in 2015, and BC winning 17-14 in 2016. The Demon Deacons will like to have another ugly one this weekend as they rely on their strength on defense in order to win games. Currently the line is BC-1.
What to Watch When BC has the Ball: The two keys for the game offensively for the Eagles are likely to be the same 2 keys the rest of the season; the decision making of Anthony Brown, and the run blocking abilities of the offensive line. Brown had a good game last weekend, and one of the key reasons for that was he didn’t try to do too much. He didn’t throw into coverage often, and didn’t try to force a big play. However, Brown also left yards on the field. He needs to improve this weekend on reading the defense, as he missed some wide open receivers. He also should tuck and run more when things open up in front of him. While NIU had a good secondary, Wake has a much better defense overall, and should be a good test for Brown in his first ACC start.
BC’s offensive line struggled against NIU last weekend, particularly in the running game. The unit is likely to look different this weekend as Marcell Lazard was pulled in the 2nd half last weekend, and Jon Baker is out with a leg injury. Sam Schmal replaced Lazard, while true freshman Alec Lindstrom replaced Baker. The Eagles do get lineman Shane Leonard back for this game as well. Wake does have a solid front seven, so it will be interesting to see if the Eagles fixed their blocking issues. Another area to look at it is the carries that the running backs get. Last week, Hilliman got the bulk of the carries, while freshman AJ Dillion only got 5. No other back touched the ball. Hilliman was largely ineffective last weekend, and the ball should be spread around more. With the up tempo offense last weekend, the Eagles didn’t sub much between plays. Hopefully that changes on Saturday,
What to Watch when Wake Forest has the Ball: BC’s defense had a decent game last week against NIU. They benefited from a few drops by the Huskies, but BC also missed out on chances for turnovers. Wake Forest’s offense is similar in style to NIU, with John Wolford at quarterback. Wolford is a dual-threat QB, who doesn’t have breakaway speed or pinpoint accuracy. However, Wolford is great at picking his spots to run, and creating big plays. BC mostly shut him down last season, but he was still able to break off a few longer runs. The defensive line for the Eagles should once again have an advantage. They should be able to push the Wake line back, and create havoc in the backfield. Wake looks for longer throws than NIU, do BC should be able to get to the quarterback and pick up some sacks. This will be a telling game for the BC linebackers. The LBs can be put onto an island when facing a dual –threat QB, so the Eagles will need to use their speed to stop Wolford from gaining yards. Last week, the linebackers got too close to the line of scrimmage and took themselves out of plays, resulting in very few tackles for the unit. They must keep their levels to ensure Wolford can get yards by keeping it on the zone read.
Outside of one or two bad plays, the secondary had a very good game last weekend. That should continue this week, as Wake does not have much of a passing attack, especially deep down the field. The BC secondary did a great job tackling, especially Lukas Dennis, and the Eagles will need that again. The secondary should also be more aggressive when the ball is in the air this weekend. Wolford has a tendency to let the ball hang in the air, which can be picked off. The Eagles missed a few chances last week for picks. Wake does not have great receivers, or speed on the outside, so the safetys should not be beat deep.
Overall: it seems like every year that these teams play, it is an ugly low scoring close game. Look for that to continue this weekend, as each team’s strength is its defense. However, BC has the better skill position players, and greater speed than Wake. This should result in some big plays. Also look for the defense to be more aggressive and create turnovers and get some sacks. Look for the game to be close through the first 3 quarters, with BC pulling away in the 3rd.
Prediction: BC 27, Wake Forest 17
What to Watch When BC has the Ball: The two keys for the game offensively for the Eagles are likely to be the same 2 keys the rest of the season; the decision making of Anthony Brown, and the run blocking abilities of the offensive line. Brown had a good game last weekend, and one of the key reasons for that was he didn’t try to do too much. He didn’t throw into coverage often, and didn’t try to force a big play. However, Brown also left yards on the field. He needs to improve this weekend on reading the defense, as he missed some wide open receivers. He also should tuck and run more when things open up in front of him. While NIU had a good secondary, Wake has a much better defense overall, and should be a good test for Brown in his first ACC start.
BC’s offensive line struggled against NIU last weekend, particularly in the running game. The unit is likely to look different this weekend as Marcell Lazard was pulled in the 2nd half last weekend, and Jon Baker is out with a leg injury. Sam Schmal replaced Lazard, while true freshman Alec Lindstrom replaced Baker. The Eagles do get lineman Shane Leonard back for this game as well. Wake does have a solid front seven, so it will be interesting to see if the Eagles fixed their blocking issues. Another area to look at it is the carries that the running backs get. Last week, Hilliman got the bulk of the carries, while freshman AJ Dillion only got 5. No other back touched the ball. Hilliman was largely ineffective last weekend, and the ball should be spread around more. With the up tempo offense last weekend, the Eagles didn’t sub much between plays. Hopefully that changes on Saturday,
What to Watch when Wake Forest has the Ball: BC’s defense had a decent game last week against NIU. They benefited from a few drops by the Huskies, but BC also missed out on chances for turnovers. Wake Forest’s offense is similar in style to NIU, with John Wolford at quarterback. Wolford is a dual-threat QB, who doesn’t have breakaway speed or pinpoint accuracy. However, Wolford is great at picking his spots to run, and creating big plays. BC mostly shut him down last season, but he was still able to break off a few longer runs. The defensive line for the Eagles should once again have an advantage. They should be able to push the Wake line back, and create havoc in the backfield. Wake looks for longer throws than NIU, do BC should be able to get to the quarterback and pick up some sacks. This will be a telling game for the BC linebackers. The LBs can be put onto an island when facing a dual –threat QB, so the Eagles will need to use their speed to stop Wolford from gaining yards. Last week, the linebackers got too close to the line of scrimmage and took themselves out of plays, resulting in very few tackles for the unit. They must keep their levels to ensure Wolford can get yards by keeping it on the zone read.
Outside of one or two bad plays, the secondary had a very good game last weekend. That should continue this week, as Wake does not have much of a passing attack, especially deep down the field. The BC secondary did a great job tackling, especially Lukas Dennis, and the Eagles will need that again. The secondary should also be more aggressive when the ball is in the air this weekend. Wolford has a tendency to let the ball hang in the air, which can be picked off. The Eagles missed a few chances last week for picks. Wake does not have great receivers, or speed on the outside, so the safetys should not be beat deep.
Overall: it seems like every year that these teams play, it is an ugly low scoring close game. Look for that to continue this weekend, as each team’s strength is its defense. However, BC has the better skill position players, and greater speed than Wake. This should result in some big plays. Also look for the defense to be more aggressive and create turnovers and get some sacks. Look for the game to be close through the first 3 quarters, with BC pulling away in the 3rd.
Prediction: BC 27, Wake Forest 17
Thursday, September 7, 2017
Week 2 Picks and Best Bets
Picks
Last Week: 9-9
#11 Oklahoma State @ South Alabama
Ohio @ Purdue
Cincinnati @ #8 Michigan
#17 Louisville @ North Carolina
Northwestern @ Duke
#23 TCU @ Arkansas
Pittsburgh @ #4 Penn State
Nebraska @ Oregon
#13 Auburn @ #4 Clemson
#5 Oklahoma @ #2 Ohio State
#15 Georgia @ #25 Notre Dame
#14 Stanford @ #3 USC
Utah @ BYU- Holy War
Boise State @ #21 Washington State
Best Bets
Last Week: 4-1 (Lock of the Week: 1-0)
Louisville -10 @ North Carolina (Lock of the Week)
Iowa -2.5 @ Iowa State
Nebraska +14 @ Oregon
Utah -1.5 @ BYU
Pitt +22.5 @ Penn State
Last Week: 9-9
#11 Oklahoma State @ South Alabama
Ohio @ Purdue
Cincinnati @ #8 Michigan
#17 Louisville @ North Carolina
Northwestern @ Duke
#23 TCU @ Arkansas
Pittsburgh @ #4 Penn State
Nebraska @ Oregon
#13 Auburn @ #4 Clemson
#5 Oklahoma @ #2 Ohio State
#15 Georgia @ #25 Notre Dame
#14 Stanford @ #3 USC
Utah @ BYU- Holy War
Boise State @ #21 Washington State
Best Bets
Last Week: 4-1 (Lock of the Week: 1-0)
Louisville -10 @ North Carolina (Lock of the Week)
Iowa -2.5 @ Iowa State
Nebraska +14 @ Oregon
Utah -1.5 @ BYU
Pitt +22.5 @ Penn State
Wednesday, September 6, 2017
What to Watch in Week 2
Friday Night
#11 Oklahoma State @ South Alabama- 8:00 ESPN2
Ohio @ Purdue- 8:30 FS1
Oklahoma State rolled over Tulsa in their opener, and now head to South Alabama in a weird game to be playing on the road. However, as long as Mason Rudolph shows up, the Cowboys should win easily. In East Lafayette, Indiana, Ohio takes on Purdue. Purdue played Louisville tough last weekend, almost pulling off the upset. It has yet to be seen if that was an aberration, or if Purdue will be much improved this season. If they can beat Ohio, an above average MAC team, then this could be the year Purdue climbs out of mediocrity.
Saturday Day
Cincinnati @ #8 Michigan- 12:00 ABC
#17 Louisville @ North Carolina- 12:00 ESPN
Northwestern @ Duke- 12:00 ESPNU
Michigan looked strong in its win over Florida last weekend while Cincinnati beat Austin Peay. If Michigan can get its offense going, it should win easily. In Chapel Hill, Louisville takes on UNC. Both of these teams struggled in their opening game. Lamar Jackson played well for Louisville but the rest of the team did not. Look for them to try to right the ship this weekend. Elsewhere in North Carolina, Northwestern takes on Duke. The Wildcats will have to stop Duke Sophomore quarterback Daniel Jones is one of the most underrated players in the country.
Saturday Afternoon
#23 TCU @ Arkansas- 3:30 CBS
Pittsburgh @ #4 Penn State- 3:30 ABC
Nebraska @ Oregon- 4:30 Fox
CBS’ opening game of the year is an old Southwest Conference rivalry. TCU enters the game as the lone Texas school ranked, while Arkansas is just outside the top 25. Last season, these two played an epic which the Razorbacks pulled out in overtime. It should be another close one this weekend. Over on ABC, Penn State will take on Pittsburgh for the 98th time. Last year, Pitt pulled off the upset, which may have prevented the Nittany Lions from making the playoff. Penn State will be out for revenge, and will use its big play offense to put points on the board. At 4:30, Nebraska travels to the west coast to face Oregon. Both of these team had a disappointing 2016 and will try to use this game as a springboard for 2017.
Saturday Night
#13 Auburn @ #4 Clemson- 7:00 ESPN
#5 Oklahoma @ #2 Ohio State- 7:30 ABC
#15 Georgia @ #25 Notre Dame- 7:30 NBC
#14 Stanford @ #3 USC- 8:30 FOX
In a battle of the tigers, Auburn faces off against Clemson. Last season, Clemson won a close one in Auburn. Clemson starting QB Kelly Bryant looked good in his first start, but has yet to face a defense like Auburns. Later at 7:30, in one of the biggest matchups of the year, Oklahoma takes on Ohio State. Last season, Ohio State blew out Oklahoma in Norman. Each team has one of the best quarterbacks in the country in Oklahoma’s Baker Mayfield and Ohio State’s JT Barrett. Ohio State may be the more complete team, but they struggled to defend the pass in the 1st half of their win over Indiana. Elsewhere on NBC, Georgia makes its first trip above the Mason-Dixon line since the 1960’s as they play Notre Dame. The Bulldogs lost starting Jacob Eason last weekend to injury, but still managed to beat Appalachian State easily. Notre Dame starts Brandon Wimbush in just his second career start against a very good Georgia defense. On Fox, Stanford takes on USC in a battle of top 15 teams. Stanford has started slow in each of the past 2 seasons with a loss in the first 3 weeks of both. They will try to stop that streak against Sam Darnold, the Heisman trophy favorite. The winner of this game will be the favorite to win the Pac 12, and will be a playoff contender.
Saturday Late Night
Utah @ BYU- Holy War- 10:15 ESPN2
Boise State @ #21 Washington State- 10:30 ESPN
In a bitter rivalry, Utah takes on BYU in the Holy War. BYU has struggled in its first 2 games of the season, barely beating Portland State, and getting blown out by LSU. Last year’s game came down to a 2 point conversion. In a late game on ESPN, Boise State heads to take on Washington State. Boise beat the Cougars last year, and will try to pull off the upset again. A win will go a long way for Boise’s New Years Six hopes.
#11 Oklahoma State @ South Alabama- 8:00 ESPN2
Ohio @ Purdue- 8:30 FS1
Oklahoma State rolled over Tulsa in their opener, and now head to South Alabama in a weird game to be playing on the road. However, as long as Mason Rudolph shows up, the Cowboys should win easily. In East Lafayette, Indiana, Ohio takes on Purdue. Purdue played Louisville tough last weekend, almost pulling off the upset. It has yet to be seen if that was an aberration, or if Purdue will be much improved this season. If they can beat Ohio, an above average MAC team, then this could be the year Purdue climbs out of mediocrity.
Saturday Day
Cincinnati @ #8 Michigan- 12:00 ABC
#17 Louisville @ North Carolina- 12:00 ESPN
Northwestern @ Duke- 12:00 ESPNU
Michigan looked strong in its win over Florida last weekend while Cincinnati beat Austin Peay. If Michigan can get its offense going, it should win easily. In Chapel Hill, Louisville takes on UNC. Both of these teams struggled in their opening game. Lamar Jackson played well for Louisville but the rest of the team did not. Look for them to try to right the ship this weekend. Elsewhere in North Carolina, Northwestern takes on Duke. The Wildcats will have to stop Duke Sophomore quarterback Daniel Jones is one of the most underrated players in the country.
Saturday Afternoon
#23 TCU @ Arkansas- 3:30 CBS
Pittsburgh @ #4 Penn State- 3:30 ABC
Nebraska @ Oregon- 4:30 Fox
CBS’ opening game of the year is an old Southwest Conference rivalry. TCU enters the game as the lone Texas school ranked, while Arkansas is just outside the top 25. Last season, these two played an epic which the Razorbacks pulled out in overtime. It should be another close one this weekend. Over on ABC, Penn State will take on Pittsburgh for the 98th time. Last year, Pitt pulled off the upset, which may have prevented the Nittany Lions from making the playoff. Penn State will be out for revenge, and will use its big play offense to put points on the board. At 4:30, Nebraska travels to the west coast to face Oregon. Both of these team had a disappointing 2016 and will try to use this game as a springboard for 2017.
Saturday Night
#13 Auburn @ #4 Clemson- 7:00 ESPN
#5 Oklahoma @ #2 Ohio State- 7:30 ABC
#15 Georgia @ #25 Notre Dame- 7:30 NBC
#14 Stanford @ #3 USC- 8:30 FOX
In a battle of the tigers, Auburn faces off against Clemson. Last season, Clemson won a close one in Auburn. Clemson starting QB Kelly Bryant looked good in his first start, but has yet to face a defense like Auburns. Later at 7:30, in one of the biggest matchups of the year, Oklahoma takes on Ohio State. Last season, Ohio State blew out Oklahoma in Norman. Each team has one of the best quarterbacks in the country in Oklahoma’s Baker Mayfield and Ohio State’s JT Barrett. Ohio State may be the more complete team, but they struggled to defend the pass in the 1st half of their win over Indiana. Elsewhere on NBC, Georgia makes its first trip above the Mason-Dixon line since the 1960’s as they play Notre Dame. The Bulldogs lost starting Jacob Eason last weekend to injury, but still managed to beat Appalachian State easily. Notre Dame starts Brandon Wimbush in just his second career start against a very good Georgia defense. On Fox, Stanford takes on USC in a battle of top 15 teams. Stanford has started slow in each of the past 2 seasons with a loss in the first 3 weeks of both. They will try to stop that streak against Sam Darnold, the Heisman trophy favorite. The winner of this game will be the favorite to win the Pac 12, and will be a playoff contender.
Saturday Late Night
Utah @ BYU- Holy War- 10:15 ESPN2
Boise State @ #21 Washington State- 10:30 ESPN
In a bitter rivalry, Utah takes on BYU in the Holy War. BYU has struggled in its first 2 games of the season, barely beating Portland State, and getting blown out by LSU. Last year’s game came down to a 2 point conversion. In a late game on ESPN, Boise State heads to take on Washington State. Boise beat the Cougars last year, and will try to pull off the upset again. A win will go a long way for Boise’s New Years Six hopes.
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