1. Ron Zook has Mikel Leshoure at the top of his 2010 Christmas list. The Junior RB for Illinois had a career day against Northwestern on Saturday when the Illini played the Wildcats in the worst venue ever to host a college football game — Wrigley Field. Leshoure ran for 330 yards and 2 TDs as the Illini beat the Wildcats 48 – 27. This stopped an Illini losing streak at 2 games. They had lost in the Big House to Michigan in 2OT and then at home to …. Minnesota??? The win made the Illini bowl-eligible, finally, after just a few weeks ago they were thinking a 9-win season in Champagne. Not so fast my friend.
2. Nebraska and Bo Pelini might want to talk about his sideline demeanor. Chancellor Periman has already come out this morning with his displeasure at the antics of his head football coach. He called it "unfortunate" and "something we'll have to address." He was speaking to Pelini's verbal abuse of officials resulting in an unsportsmanlike penalty as well as reports of Pelini chasing after an official before shaking Aggie coach Mike Sherman's hand after the conclusion of the game. But IMO, the biggest question is what exactly this was all about. Martinez had to leave the game earlier when his OL stepped on an rolled his already severely injured ankle. Pelini has LOTS of 'splaining to do IMO.
3. There is just something about a game involving Houston Nutt and Les Miles when they get together on opposing sidelines … no matter the team. The Rebels were coming off a shellacking at the hands of the SEC-winless Volunteers from Tennessee and LSU was lobbying for potential BCS Championship aspirations. So what happens when the Rebel Black Bears visit Death Valley?? Oh just a complete track meet of course. It took 20 4th quarter points from LSU's anemic offense to finally win the game for the Tigers. Amazing that John Chavis' defense gave up 36 points and 420 yards to a very, very average Ole Miss offense.
4. Bedlam will truly be Bedlam this weekend when the Sooners roll into Stillwater. The Cowboys wrapped up their first 10-win regular season in school history by defeating the Jayhawks on Saturday. The Sooners offense finally showed life on the road in a rout of the Baylor Bears in Waco. So, what happens Saturday? Well, a Cowboy win and they go to the Little XII Championship game for the first time. A Sooner win and then we truly do have Bedlam in the Little XII South. If that happens and the Aggies beat the Shorthorns, then we go once again to the BCS Rankings due to a 3-way tie. More than likely it is winner take-all in Stillwater for the Little XII South representative.
5. On an extremely emotional night in Starkville, MS, the Arkansas Razorbacks showed just how far they have come as a program under the three short years of Bobby Petrino. This team showed the resiliency that hasn't been there since a guy name Frank Broyles roamed the sidelines for the Hogs. Leading 31- 28 and under 2 minutes to go in the game, with the ball, the Hogs call a run play on 3rd and 8 and Knile Davis fumbles for the second time. The Bulldogs run down the field and as time expired kicked the game-tying FG. After a Bulldog fumble out of the endzone for a touchback, a missed FB by Arkansas Freshman Zack Hocker, the second OT started with a Knile Davis 7-yard TD. Then on 4th and 7 from the MSU 21, the Hogs sacked the Bulldog QB Relf to end the game. That wouldn't have happened three years ago when the used car salesman roamed the sideline. Discipline and resiliency are now in the program along with lots of talent.

Brick of the Week

This week, the group did much better. However, there were a couple of games that were great candidates for BOTW honors. They were the Wisconsin @ Michigan and Stanford @ California games. I could go with either of the 2 who chose Michigan or the 2 that chose California to beat Stanford. Considering that California was never really in the game, maybe because the didn't fake any injuries this week, I am going with those 2. Therefore, the BOTW this week goes to Mr. Jason "Hey, sleep deprivation isn't good for making picks" Shirey and Mr. Lee "I can relate to sleep deprivation" Smith. Sorry guys. Cal really let you down this week after that great showing last week.

Pick of the Week

This week, it was very difficult to choose a POTW. There was truly only one game that could even be considered a POTW candidate. However, if I had to choose a game, it would have to be the NC State @ North Carolina game. And if you haven't seen the replay highlights of that game and how it ended, well, you truly are in for a treat. Therefore, this week, I am awarding the POTW to the 9 individuals who correctly picked that game. You can see who you are and gloat in your glory with family members and friends here. Congratulations.

Champion of the Week

This week, we had some great picks as the average pick was up almost a full pick over last week at 6.5. However, once again, we had one individual pick 9 out of 10 correctly. They only missed the one game that EVERY single contestant missed. That was the shocking thumping of USC by Oregon State in Corvalis (the House of Horrors for the Trojans). But, still, going 9 – 1 is very impressive. Therefore, the winner of week 12 Pick-Em is Mr. Steven "Hey, the Red Raiders finally found someone they can beat" Leija. Congratulations bud.

Actual Game Scores

Review the Game Scores on the site.

Week 12 Results

See how well you did this week.

Overall Standings

See where you stand after 12 weeks.

1. Wisconsin 65 @ Michigan 42 — Whisky scored 83, yes, 83 last week on Indiana who had came within a dropped TD pass the week before of beating Iowa. Indiana's defense is not that great … Michigan's defense is much, much worse though. This one could be one for the ages, and my score may be the score at half time. Good grief there will be offense to spare in this one.
2. NC State 17 @ North Carolina 23 - The Tarheels have had a season to forget … off the field. They have actually played extremely well, considering, on the football field. We got word this week that North Carolina will NOT self-impose sanctions on itself for the entire debacle that is John Blake as part-time assistant coach/part-time runner for an agent. Really? Either way, this is a classic in-state battle that I feel the home team will be ready for and actually play well. The Tarheel defense is very good even without half of the starters that have been permanently or temporarily suspended.
3. Stanford 27 @ California 14 – Stanford is just a very good football team this year. Their only loss was on the road @ Oregon and we all know how good the Ducks are. Cal however last week held Oregon to a season low 15 points and came within a missed FG at the end of upsetting the mighty ducks. How did they slow down the Ducks? Well, lots of different ways, but this might be the most publicized. I think Cal tries to keep it on the up and up in this game to avoid more potential bad press, and in doing so, the Cardinal run all over them to a 10 – 1 record.
4. Ohio State 24 @ Iowa 21 – Iowa has been very schizophrenic the last couple of weeks. The lost by one at home to Wisconsin, they destroy previously undefeated Michigan State in Iowa City the following week, and then two weeks ago in Indiana they are the benefactors of a game-winnind DROPPED TD by Indiana in the end-zone to escape Bloomington with a 5 point win. Finally last week they lose on a last-mintue TD pass and injury by Dan Persa at the hands of Northwestern. Iowa has been in every game this year, but just unlucky … a LOT. Tressel is lucky. Iowa, unlucky. See the difference here?
5. Virginia Tech 27 @ Miami 21 — Miami has played well since Harris went down with an injury due to TRUE Freshman QB Stephen Morris. However, Morris hasn't yet played a defense like he will face in Bud Foster and the Hokies today. VA Tech on the other hand has reeled off 8 straight wins since losing to one guy, James Madison, in week 2. Now they look to wrap up another ACC Coastal Division crown with a win in South Beach. Tyrod Taylor and the Hokies do enough and the Defense wins is for them late with a valiant stand.
6. Arkansas 45 @ Mississippi State 23 — Last week State was in Tuscaloosa for a game against the Crimson Tide. After 1 Quarter it was still a close game at 6 – 3 Tide. However, then State forgot how to tackle on defense. McElroy ended up 12 /18 for 227 and 2TD in a 30 – 10 win that wasn't that close. This week, the Bulldogs are back home for a matchup against Ryan Mallett. Mallett and the Hogs might be playing the best football played at Arkansas in a long, long time. They have won 4 in a row and appear to be clicking on all cylinders on offense. If they Hogs can jump out early on the Bulldogs, it may be over quickly in Starkville. Look for a great game as the Hogs are notorious for having trouble in StarkVegas and the Hogs pull away late. LSU in LR next week will be all that is standing in the Hogs way of their first potential BCS Bowl bid in school history.
7. Oklahoma 49 @ Baylor 31 — OU has not played well on the road at all this season. Look at the abysmal play in Columbia to lose to the Tigers and then the horrific game they played in College Station to lose to the resurgent Aggies. They could potentially lose ANOTHER road game this week in Waco, except for the fact that Baylor doesn't have a defense. They have lost of offense, and have made HUGE strides, but still they can't stop anyone yet. Once they can, look out Big XII South. Sooners should make easy and quick work of the Bears as Landry Jones may break some school records in this one.
8. USC 35 @ Oregon State 17 — The Beavers have fallen on extremely tough times in Corvallis. This was one of the teams that Boise State was hanging its cap on after beating the Beavers early in the season. However, the Beavers have not held up their end of the bargain as they have just tanked in a big, big way late in the season. How badly you ask? How about losing to Washington State. Yes, Washington State and Ryan Leaf wasn't playing QB. The Trojans have regrouped, to some extent and have put together a decent season. Barkley is playing very good, and a 10-win season is still possible for the Trojans with games against Notre Dame and UCLA remaining. No bowl game though. They cheated.
9. Florida State 34 @ Maryland 24 — There are still 3 teams that could win the ACC Atlantic crown. One team will be eliminated in this game in College Park. How, Maryland has remained in the race is a testament to Ralph Friedgen and his coaching staff. The Terps have beaten the teams they should and been in every other game (except the Clemson game in Death Valley). Look for Christian Ponder to do his magic today though as the Seminoles wrap up the Atlantic crown with a win here and an NC State loss in Chapel Hill.
10. Nebraska 30 @ Texas A&M 24 — The Aggies are an extremely hot team right now. They have won four straight and they have been led by QB turned WR turned QB Ryan Tannehill. In the last 3 1/2  games he has thrown for 1,108 yards and 10 TD. All wins for the Aggies and he may have saved Mike Sherman's job in College Station. Nebraska on the other hand has won 9 straight November games. Their Defense is coming off its best performance in the program's storied history. They allowed only 87 yards of total offense to the hapless Jayhawks. However, the offense needs to get back on track.k That could be tough this week in College Station. However, look for Helu Jr. and Taylor Martinez to be ready to go and the Huskers to wrap-up the Big XII North crown.

1. Ryan Mallett and the Arkansas offense seemed to have found a pretty good groove over the past couple of games. The running game is tarting to flourish and that only makes the cannon-for-an-arm Mallett all that more lethal. Knile (the K is silent  and it is like the river in Egypt for those taking notes) Davis is on a tear. He has rushed for 176, 82, 110, and 182 the last four games. The 82 was in a blowout against Vandy. Combine that with Mallett's record 5 TD passes Saturday against UTEP and the offense is humming. Can they avoid a letdown in a "trap-game" of sorts this weekend in StarkVegas? State is a very good team in a STACKED SEC West this year. The Hogs could be looking ahead to a matchup with LSU in LR to potentially determine who gets a Sugar Bowl BCS invite. Petrino will have them focused, ready, and hungry. Bank on it.
2. Off the field, Auburn is dealing with one distraction after another as CamGate revs up even more this week. Today Kenny Rogers and John Bond met with both the FBI and the NCAA. What happens from here is only anyone's guess, but I bet the FBI gets to a resolution before the NCAA. Now, on the field. Cam is still running through opposing defenses with ease, but the bigger story is quickly becoming the play of one of the dirtiest players ever to grace the Plains. Nick Fairley. He is ridiculous. Racking up personal foul after personal foul and getting away with more late hits and cheap shots than anyone in the history of the SEC. Here is some video evidence of how big of an bush league player Fairley truly is. And as is evidenced by the fact that Fairley hasn't been disciplined, we know the SEC protects its BCS Championship contenders. Period.
3. Man the non-automatic qualifiers for the BCS took another huge hit this weekend. TCU and Boise must wonder who they should schedule at this point. Boise played and beat two BCS teams in Virginia Tech and Oregon State. It was well documented that Virginia Tech lost the next week to FCS opponent James Madison at home. However, now for Boise, Oregon State loses to …. Washington State??? At home?? And TCU thought they had a feather in their cap last week when they went to Salt Lake City and just pounded the then undefeated Utes from Utah. Only to see that same highly overrated Utah team travel to South Bend and lose to a below average Notre Dame team. A ND team that was below .500 before the win. Wow.
4. Another head scratcher took place in The Swamp this past Saturday as the Ol Ball Coach traveled with his South Carolina team to Florida for a showdown with the Gators. It was winner take all for the SEC East crown in this matchup of Top 25 teams. However, someone forgot to tell Florida and its offense that a game was scheduled and they were slated to participate. The Gator Defense also forgot how to defend against the run, as Marcus Lattimore (who the week before at home had 26 yards in a loss to Arkansas) ran all over them for 212 yards and 3 TD (actually I think Lattimore just scored again). The Florida offense could do absolutely nothing against South Carolina. The same USC-E defense that had just been torched 7 days before at home by the Hogs. Spurrier gets Cocky to Atlanta for the first time in the SEC for the school. Too bad they will just be the sacrificial lamb this year to the SECW.
5. And last, but certainly not least by any means, the Texas Longhorns. Wow. Just wow. They played in the BCS Championship game last year with a 12 – 0 record. This year, they won't go to a bowl. Any bowl. In an era when every team including Mary Sisters of the Poor goes to a bowl, the Mighty Burnt Orange will be sitting at home. How bad are they Longhorns? So bad that people are scoffing at the idea of them being a 21 point favorite at home against … Florida Atlantic??? Wow. I. Love. This. Dearly. How do you think "Boom" Muschamp is enjoying his time in Austin these days as the "coach in waiting"??? Love. It.

Brick of the Week

So we got closer to 60% this week as the average correct was 5.91 out of 10. And we had another individual correctly pick 9 out of 10. However, there was one game that was just a dead ringer for the BOTW candidacy. That game was the Ole Miss Rebels at the Tennessee Volunteers. The Vols had not won a conference game all year. The Rebels had somehow managed to get an SEC victory by defeating the Kentucky Wildcats in Oxford. So, you thought it would be a toss-up. And most picked it that was as 61% picked the Vols at home. Boy did the Vols roll them up some Rebel Black Bears. Before the end of the 1st quarter it was 21 – 0 Vols and at half it was 31 – 14. It only got worse in the second half as the Vols raced to a 52 – 14 victory. I won't list all of you but those on the Incorrect list here are the recipients of the BOTW, all 9 of you.

Pick of the Week

So, let's see. We have a previously undefeated Top 5 BCS team who just suffered their first loss of the year at home, traveling to South Bend. South Bend is where dreams go to die in the past 6 – 8 years it seems. So, who in their right mind would have given the Fighting Irish a chance against the Utes from Utah? Not many it seems. But, not only did the Irish win, they completely dominated the game from start to finish en route to a 28 – 3 win. Wow. Just plain Wow. However, we did have two individuals who were pulling for the Irish. Therefore they are the POTW for Week 11. They are Mr. Lance "Giggity!" Williams and Mr. Lee "there is a new lil princess in the Smith household" Smith. Congratulations guys.

Champion of the Week

Well, as mentioned above, we did once again have someone go 9 – 1. There were two 8 – 2 contestants this week, so it was a clear cut runaway. However, 9 – 1 with the games this past week was quite impressive to say the least. And they weren't that far off on the Tiebreak score either. Therefore, for their 9 correct picks in week 11, the COTW goes to Mr. Lance "Tom Cable for President" Williams is your winner. Congratulations bud.

Actual Game Scores

You can find those on the site.

Week 11 Results

Find out how you did this week.

Overall Standings

Find out where you stack up after 11 weeks.

So, some highlights and lowlights if you will from week 10 in college football:

1. Hey, Arkansas found a running game. And at a great time too when the Hogs needed it the most in the biggest road game of the season. By cruising past South Carolina, the Hogs now have a very decent shot at their first ever BCS bowl. They need to win out (UTEP, @ Miss State, LSU in LR) and have Auburn win out as well. This will give them 2nd place in the SECW and essentially 2nd place in the SEC. At 10 – 2 they would be a perfect candidate for the Sugar Bowl.
2. Cam Newton is being scrutinized pretty harshly the last couple of weeks. It appears this may become the norm in college football moving forward with start athletes, unless the NCAA does something quickly. Any star player from a questionable recruitment will be run over the coals by jilted schools to try and tarnish the star players reputation and the school he chooses. However, if these allegations are true with Newton, and Auburn knew, and played him anyways? Well, then, all bets are off.
3. The Hat. What more can you say or need to say than "The Hat". Kiss my grits. This guy is amazing. Simply amazing. The whole "Deal with the Devil" is starting to look very, very likely at this point. How else could you explain the fake FG in the 4th quarter down by 4? And it wasn't a simple straight-forward handoff up the middle for the 1st down either. It was a toss sweep left, toss reverse right for a HUGE gain that setup the go ahead TD. Really?? Two tosses on one play for a fake FG that were performed by individuals who don't normally execute that type of play? Oh, and let's not even talk about this.
4. Now the question seems to be is TCU legit or was Utah an impostor extraordinaire??? TCU travels on the road to face unbeaten and #5 Utah. The result was a massive 40 point victory for the Horned Frogs and it wasn't even that close. The only that could have been uglier than the score were the atrocious uniforms that Utah was wearing. I get the whole Veteran's Day celebration and everything, but those things were God-awful.
5. And finally, let's not move past another week in college football w/out discussing the severe mediocore-level of football currently being played in the Little XII. Two weeks ago everyone was agush about OU, Mizzou, and possibly Nebraska being able to play for the BCS Championship. Now?? Well, let's see. OU loses on the road to a very, very average Texas A&M team. Mizzou loses on the road to Nebraska (not that bad really since they haven't won there since, well, a long, long time) AND Mizzou loses on the road to a very below average Texas Tech team. What about Nebraska? They did beat Mizzou for their first loss right? Well, that same Nebraska team came within a failed two-point conversion attempt in the 1st OT on the road at … AIMES, IOWA of losing on the road as well. Geez. Folks it just doesn't get anymore mediocre than that. Oh, and Texas won't be bowl-eligible this year. HAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHA

Brick of the Week

Talk about a game. Wow. I watched the first quarter, then came back for the 4th quarter and the subsequent 3 OT. Amazing game. It was amazing how defense was clearly optional in this game and there was so much on the line for both teams. Rich Rodriguez was teetering again after a great start to the season and needed this win at home to stave off some critics (still needs to dump Greg Robinson though). Ron Zook on the other side, if he could get a win here, could theoretically lead his team to a 9 – 3 season. Great considering he replaced everyone not named Zook on this staff last year. In the end, in a game dominated by offense, it came down to a defensive play … by MICHIGAN. Stopping the Illini short on their 2-point conversion in the 3 OT and winning 67 – 65. It is very hard to give the BOTW for this game, but EVERYONE except this person picked Michigan. So, ball bounces another way, and he is POTW. However, for his pick of Illinois, Mr. Jason "Is it softball season yet?" Shirey gets the award for Week 10.

Pick of the Week

There were a couple of candidates for POTW this week. We had one person who felt The Hat would upend Saban in his return to Death Valley. They were right. Although, I don't remember seeing anything about The Mad Hatter eating grass in the pick. So, we move to the next candidate. Having seen this team play on the road in Columbia should have been a sign to us all. But since we aren't all fast learners everyone picked OU to go to College Station and win. But they didn't. Not only did they not win, they must have left their Offensive Coordinator at home and let some guy from Slaughterville, OK call the plays. On two separate occasions inside the 5 with first and goal, the Sooners run 4 consecutive rushing plays. Net points? 0. So, for picking the Aggies to rise up and beat back the Rushing Stoops, Mr. Jerry "I never cheated on a journalism exam, I don't think." Tucker is your winner. Congrats my friend.

Champion of the Week

This week was another wild and crazy week in college football. Great games were to be found in almost every conference. Upsets were everywhere and when the dust settled we learned a little  more than we did going in and the biggest thing was that Bama won't play for its second straight BCS Championship. We learned also that Oregon's offense can have a "off-day" …. and score 53. We learned that LSU's defense is … decent. We learned that Utah was … O-V-E-R-R-A-T-E-D. We learned the TCU is … pretty salty. And finally we learned that Boise State … still whines. A LOT! And we learned that I guess it takes us getting to a week of upsets and conference titles being decided before we can find out who can really pick some games. This individual missed one game. ONE! And it was the 3-point loss by Saban in Death Valley. Therefore, by going 9 – 1, Mr. Jerry "Mizzou is DUE for a letdown" Tucker is your Week 10 winner. Congrats.

Game Scores for Week 10

View the scores and recaps from Week 10.

Week 10 Results

See how you stacked up against Mr. Tucker.

Overall Standings

See where you stand after 10 weeks.

1. NC State 27 @ Clemson 21 — The Wolfpack have played extremely well this year on the road. They won at Georgia Tech and at Boston College. They got a gift last Thursday night when Christian Ponder fumbled what would have been the game winning throw on the Wolfpack 6 late in the fourth quarter. Clemson on the other hand seemed to be playing"better" until last week when they were shut down completely by Boston College on the road. Hard to figure this team out really. They could win easily or get shut out. I expect a great game and NC State coming out on top in the end.
2. Illinois 38 @ Michigan 41 — I think the Wolverines find a way to beat the Zooker in the Big House this weekend. Their defense is just abysmal, but I think that Shoelace will be enough to get the over the top in the end in what will be a very entertaining game in Ann Arbor.  Zook has the Illini playing extremely well (for the Big 10) but I don't think they will be able to outscore the Wolverines in the final quarter. Comeback will be big for the Wolverines.
3. Baylor 45 @ Okie State 49 – In another matchup where defense will be optional, I completely expect a very high scoring affair in Stillwater when the Bears and Cowboys hook up. Blackmon is back for the Cowboys and Griffin is playing tremendously for the Bears. Look for there to be a football game scheduled and a track meet breaks out.
4. Alabama 21 @ LSU 20 — This game will be an instant classic. I don't genuinely think that LSU will score 20 points on the Bama defense, but the game is in Death Valley (though not at night and the locals are NONE to happy about that, by the way), and The Hat is still on the sidelines for the Tigers. He somehow finds a way to be in every stinking game they play this year. If not for ONE blown play in the Auburn game, we would have seen OT. But Mcalleb made sure that didn't happen with his big 4th quarter run. Look for Ingram or Richardson to have another big run this week and the Tide to eek out a hard fought, smash-mouth game in the Bayou.
5. Oklahoma 42 @ aTm 28 — While OU has struggled on the road this year, I don't look for it to be a problem for them this week in College Station. It will be a different matchup for the OU defense though as Tannehill will get the start over the hot-cold-hot-cold-very cold-sub-zero Johnson at QB for the Aggies. All Tannehill did last week was come in for Johnson and throw for a school record 449 yards in leading the Aggies to their second straight victory over their arch-nemesis Red Raiders from Lubbock.  Landry Jones and Demarco Murray should have monster games this weekend.
6. Arkansas 38 @ South Carolina 28 — So, South Carolina's pass defense is ranked 105 out of 120 FBS schools. They give up an average of 260 yards per game. On average. Arkansas pass offense is ranked #2 in the country averaging 360 yards per game. Arkansas run defense is ranked 78 allowing 168 yards per game. South Carolinas rush offense is ranked 62 averaging 152 yards per game. So it will be which team can play to its strengths the best. I don't think that South Carolina can stop the passing game at all from Mallet even w/out Greg Childs. I think Mallet gets close to breaking his school record of 409 yards again. I think Lattimore will have some big runs, but it won't be enough. In the end, the Hogs get a HUGE win on the road and move closer to an improbable BCS bid.
7. Missouri 35 @ Texas Tech 24 — Tech is having a big transition year. It is hard to go from a major system coach to a real coach in West Texas. But have faith Red Raiders, Big Ears will build you a program if you give him time. He will get big time talent in there and you will have a defense for once in your program's history. Just hope Tubbs stays there long enough to build it and doesn't run off to the SEC again at the first chance. Mizzou rolls here.
8. Arizona State 24 @ USC 48 - It is hard to know what to expect with Arizona State. They win at Washington by 10 then just get obliterated by Cal on the road by 33 points. Then they manhandle hapless Wazzu 42 – 0 at home. One thing that is for certain though, Half-Monty will give up some points. So look for another high scoring affair, where Matt Barkley shines and Dennis Erickson wonders what in the world he is doing all over again.
9. Texas 24 @ K-State 28 - Yes, I am going to say that for the first time in the Mack Brown era, the Shorthorns will be below .500 overall. They will struggle again against a sub-par opponent on the road and Bill Snyder's magic will be just enough for the Wildcats to get the win. Man, it is just going to be wonderful down in Austin. Good thing Texas convinced all those suckers to stay in the Texas 10 with them, and let them have their own TV network, and let them let ESPN pay them truck loads of money to carry their games. Man, you guys in the Texas 10 need to grow a spine.
10. TCU 24 @ Utah 27 - In a game that will have every announcer and analyst that is on the ESPN payrolls just tingly with excitement and anticipation, the Mountain West will get its showcase game once and for all. TCU is a great, great defensive team. However, Utah has flown under the radar for quite a while now. Whittingham took over for Meyer and it doesn't appear that the wins have slowed down at all for the Utes. Whittingham is 56 – 17 in his tenure in Salt Lake. Look for it to be cold. Look for it to be a hard-hitting mid-major game. And look for the winner to be in prime position to whine when they don't get invited to the BCS Championship game. Oh the drama.

A Few Things We Learned in Week 9

• Reality set in for a few BCS Championship contenders. Nebraska's Helu Jr. made sure in the first quarter that Mizzou's BCS dreams were completely destroyed with his unbelievable performance. And at the same time, the Hawkeyes were making Kirk Cousins and Mark Dantonio's life just plain miserable in Iowa City. Both previously undefeated teams were ceremoniously bounced and therefore throwing into an even great quandary the broken system that is the BCS.
• Oregon showed just how far USC has fallen in such a very short period of time. The Trojans were able to hang with the Ducks for about 2 1/4 quarters. After taking a 32 – 29 lead, the Trojans were then blitzed for 24 straight points as the Ducks just sailed right by them. The lack of depth for USC is only going to get worse as the sanctions just pile up and bury the Trojans. Good luck out there Lane. You are going to need it my friend.
• Jake Locker is having the year to forget. It was supposed to be the year he and the Huskies returned to the national spotlight and challenged Oregon for the PAC-10 title. Yeah, things aren't exactly going as planned. As a matter of fact Locker and Washington were shut out at home for the first time since 1976 against Stanford, and it was the worst offensive performance by a Husky team in 37 years. Oh, btw, Andrew Luck, he is very, very good, and very, very smart. He goes to Stanford after all folks.
• Yeah, that "trap game" that so many predicted for Cam Newton and the Tigers as they traveled to Oxford, MS to take on the Ole Miss Rebel Black Bears (sorry, but I chuckle every time I write that), never materialized. Someone forgot to tell Gus Malzahn. He probably had this date circled on his calendar ever since Newton stepped foot on campus. The Tigers roared to a 51 – 17 lead early in the 4th and coasted to a 51 – 31 win over the Rebel Black Bears (chuckle). Newton is sailing to a showdown with the Saban D of Bama in the Iron Bowl. Should be one for the ages.
• Of course, I can't go without talking about what happened down in Austin, TX. It is just so amazingly brilliant that I just can't pass up the opportunity.  After trailing 19 – 10 in the third quarter, Baylor clawed their way back to take a 30 – 19 lead in the 4th. They then held off Texas and won against the Longhorns for the first time since 1997. It was also the third consecutive loss at home for the Longhorns. The best part was the retiring of Colt McCoy's #12 jersey before the game. Colt lost only 2 home games in his seemingly 10 years in Austin. Garret Gilbert has now lost 3 home games, in his first season. Wow.

Brick of the Week

Well, it wan't a blowout by any means in the BOTW candidate game. However, when you are the only one to go against the grain, the game is a conference game, you pick the home team, and they lose? You are probably going to get the dubious honor for that week. So, therefore, the BOTW goes to Mr. Jason "It had to happen eventually, right" Nelligan for his pick of K-State to knock off the Cowpokes from Stillwater in Manhattan. It didn't happen and therefore he gets the award for week 9. Enjoy my friend

Pick of the Week

This one was a great pick, IMO. As bad as the defense was for this visiting team, the home team's offense had been equally if not more so, anemic. So to think that the defense for the Nitny Lions was going to be able to stop Shoelaces AND that their offense was going to be able to put up 41 points was quite a stretch to say the least. But guess what? Both things happened in State College, PA last Saturday night. Coming into the game, the most points the Nitny Lions offense had scored was 44, and that was against FCS opponent Youngstown State. So putting up 41 was monumental to say the least. For picking JoePa to pull out the win gets you POTW honors and they go to Mr. Jason "Got to tie those shoelaces" Shirey and Dr. Brian "Don't diss the JoePa" Mashburn. Congratulations guys.

Champion of the Week

So this week, the picks were much better (comparitavely). The average correct was 5.08. So, it is getting better considering this year the games are MUCH more difficult than in years past. This week we had 4 individuals correctly pick 7 of the games correctly. So taking into account the tiebreak score, we had tiebreak scores of 4, 10, 11, and 33. And, for at least the second time and possibly the third time, we have a repeat winner. She is just tearing it up (when she doesn't ask her husband for advice that is). Therefore, the winner of week 9 with a record of 7 – 3 and a tiebreak score of 4 is Mrs. Lisa "I hate Notre Dame" Hill. Congratulations Honey!

Actual Game Scores

View the game scores here.

Weekly Results

View the weeks results here.

Overall Standings Through Week 9

View Overall Standings here.

• North Carolina 20 @ Miami (FL) 17 — Butch Davis is in quite possibly the worst situation in college football today. More than likely this is a swan song not only for him, but for AD Dick Baddour. Someone's heads are going to roll for the calamity that is UNC football, and they will start at the top. Putting that aside, North Carolina has won 4 in a row. They take on a TO-prone Miami team that just isn't impressive at all yet. Look for the UNC defense to be the difference here in South Florida.
• Georgia Tech 24 @ Clemson 27 - Georgia Tech is really the only one of these teams with a shot at returning to the ACC Championship game (which isn't really saying alot for Clemson). However, I still can't get out of my mind the thrashing the Yellow Jackets took at home to NC State a couple of weeks ago. Man that game was ugly. It just showed me that the Jackets will have a tough time stopping the RB Duo of Harper and Ellington for the Tigers who are very, very good. Clemson wins in a close, close game.
• #13 Wisconsin 17 @ #15 Iowa 24 – It's Big 10 football. It won't be pretty. It won't even be entertaining. But it IS Big 10 football. Look for the Hawkeyes to be ready and for the Badgers to have a letdown from that emotional win last weekend @ Camp Randall over #1 Ohio State. Ferentz is a better coach than Bielema and it shows today. Boring football folks.
• Ole Miss 13 @ #23 Arkansas 38 - The questions on everyone's mind is if the Razorback Defense is really THAT bad, is Cam Newton really THAT good, or was it just a BAD day for defense and a GOOD day for offense last week on the Plains? Either way, look for a re-focused (hopefully) Razorback team to be ready to handle their old coach this year. It will be over quickly I believe as the Hogs wills score on their first 3 possessions and Ole Miss won't be able to play catchup with their anemic passing game.
• #22 K-State 28 @ Baylor 35 – Yeah, I know that up until 2 weeks ago K-State was undefeated. They are still 5 – 1 overall, but that is a fluke if you ask me. Look for Baylor to run roughshod over that Wildcat defense at home and look for Baylor to become bowl eligible this weekend. Sic em Bears.
• #16 Nebraska 31 @ #14 Okie State 21 – Look for Taylor Martinez to bounce back this week, mainly because his receivers have learned how to hang onto the ball. 3 dropped potential TD passes against the Shorthorns last week didn't help the cause one bit. The Blackshirt defense, if it is worth it's salt, will be ready as well. Okie State can light up a scoreboard with the best of them, but look for this game to be tough sledding for the Cowboy O.
• Texas Tech 31 @ Colorado 27 – Tech is an enigma this year. They play well, then stink it up. They play well, then REALLY stink it up. Since they played horrific last week at home against Okie State, look for them to bounce back against the Hawk and play well. Big Ears is slowly molding this program into his own. It will take a little longer, but they will get there eventually. Question is, will defense win championships in the Little XII??
• Notre Dame 35 @ Navy 17 – Notre Dame is showing promise for first year coach Kelley. They have more discipline and are more balanced. Amazing what a real coach can do huh Irish? Anyways, they play another military academy and come out on the top … again.
• #1 Oklahoma 42 @ #11 Missouri 17 – Mizzou better revel in the fact that College Gameday is in town. It will be the only victory they will have this weekend. I am still in awe at the lofty ranking that the Tigers have in the computer polls. It's okay though as reality is about to set in. In a Big Big way. Sooners roll in Columbia.
• Georgia 38 @ Kentucky 35 – Georgia is a completely different team with AJ Green and their offense is really starting to come around now. Look for them to be able to score on Kentucky. The question is, will they be able to hold off a Kentucky second half surge? The Wildcats have done it each week this year and don't expect that to change. The Bulldogs do however hold on and get the win to right the ship a little more in Athens.
• #5 LSU 27 @ #4 Auburn 24 – This one should be a great, great game. Cam Newton finally faces a TRUE SEC defense when the Bayou Tigers come to town. John Chavis is a master at Defense and he will have the schemes and the players in place to stop the Heisman chances of Newton on the Plains. There will be a LOT of hitting on the field and only one Tiger will remain standing. And if you wonder how I could pick LSU?? How in the world, especially this year, do you pick against The Hat???

1. #12 Arkansas (SEC) @ Georgia (SEC)
2. Baylor (Little XII) @ #4 TCU (MWC)
3. #6 Texas (Little XII) @ Texas Tech (Little XII)
4. #10 Florida (SEC) @ Tennessee (SEC)
5. Mississippi State @ #15 LSU (SEC)
6. Clemson (ACC) @ #16 Auburn (SEC)
7. Vanderbilt (SEC) @ Mississippi (SEC)
8. Notre Dame (Independent) @ Michigan State (Big 10)
9. Arizona State (PAC-10) @ #11 Wisconsin (Big 10)
10. #9 Iowa (Big 10) @ #24 Arizona (PAC-10) Give the Score

How Ron Zook still has a job must only be attributed to the fact that Illinois can get no one else!

#5 Texas (Little XII) 42 @ Rice (C-USA) 10

Ho hum start to the season for the over-rated Horns. Rice won't put up much of a fight here.
Purdue (Big 10) 31 @ Notre Dame (Independent) 35

The Brian Kelley era gets off well, albeit in a close game at home to the Boilermakers.

UCLA (PAC-10) 24 @ Kansas State (Little XII) 13

Slick Rick better hope he can put it all together this season. There won't be much competition from his cross-town rival so seize the opportunity.

Tennessee Tech (OVC) 7  @ #17 Arkansas (SEC) 55

Mallett's Heisman campaign gets off to a so-so start as he only plays for 4 or 5 series. The running game and OL get a lot of work for the Hogs. Vanilla Petrino for the first two games.

#24 Oregon State (PAC-10) 13 @ #6 TCU (MWC) 21

I am going to bite on this one. I think the Beavers start slow and TCU is looking at this as their statement game that they truly belong. That Horn Frog D is stingy.

Stephen F. Austin (Southland) 24 @ aTm (Little XII) 52

Jerrod Johnson gets off to an okay start. His shoulder is still not completely 100% though. SFA is as good as it gets in the FCS.

Jacksonville State (OVC) 10 @ Ole Miss (SEC) 41

Hootie got an early b-day present when the NCAA unbelievably decided to change its mind in a span of 48 hours. I don't know what Hootie has on the NCAA, but it must be some priceless photos of someone.

#21 LSU (SEC) 24 @ #18 North Carolina (ACC) 13

Since UNC won't have a defense for this game, it is going to be tough. The Tigers O though isn't that great anyways. They will struggle to get the 24 points. Butch Davis has a LOT of explaining to do I think.

#3 Boise State (MWC) 17 @ #10 Virginia Tech (ACC) 27

I have heard ALL my life that Good D beats Good O every single time, and that Defense Wins Championships. Well, Bud Foster and Va Tech have a GREAT D. Peterson and Boise have a GREAT O. So, edge to Foster and Tyrod Taylor. Tech ends this nonsensical Boise for BCS Championship talk almost before it began.

Hope to have everything ready with the online app by next week.

Rules are simple:

1. Register for an account on my site here.
2. In the comment section of this post, leave your winners for each game.
3. For the 10th Game, provide a score for a tiebreaker.

Prizes: Nothing but the ability to say you beat your friends!

Picks are due by 1 hour prior to kick off of the first game. So, here they are:

1. Illinois (Big 10) @ Missouri (Little XII)
2. #5 Texas (Little XII) @ Rice (C-USA)
3. Purdue (Big 10) @ Notre Dame (Independent)
4. UCLA (PAC-10) @ Kansas State (Little XII)
5. Tennessee Tech (OVC) @ #17 Arkansas (SEC)
6. #24 Oregon State (PAC-10) @ #6 TCU (MWC)
7. Stephen F. Austin (Southland) @ aTm (Little XII)
8. Jacksonville State (OVC) @ Ole Miss (SEC)
9. #21 LSU (SEC) @ #18 North Carolina (ACC)
10. #3 Boise State (MWC) @ #10 Virginia Tech (ACC) (Give Score)

Good luck!