Last week was another good week for the predictions, though bittersweet because I picked against the Irish. Alas, I went 4-0, and need to quickly put this week's picks down before the games begin.
Only three games this week, as Arizona is off. So, I'll do my best with the three game on the docket. But, no matter how I do this week, we're all winners after USU's 31-16 beatdown of BYU on Friday night! Now, let the fun begin!
Note: Rankings this week are courtesy of the AP Top-25 Poll.
#14 Arizona - Idle
No pick necessary! Enjoy the off week, Cats!
#22 Penn State @ #17 Iowa
Penn State is on the right track, but was steamrolled in their only real test of the season. Iowa suffered a setback in Arizona Stadium, but played an impressive second half and was able to move the ball on one of the best defenses in the nation. This will be a test of wills. Who's will will pull out a victory? That's anyone's guess (including mine).
Prediction: Penn State by a field goal over the Hawkeyes.
Notre Dame @ Boston College
The annual rivalry of the two largest Catholic Universities in the US. This game has had some memorable moments, and I'm hoping that this year's edition will see a memorable moment or two for the Irish, who have come off three consecutive losses (two of them were heartbreaking...one was a beatdown).
Prediction: Notre Dame brings home the Ireland Trophy after rolling over BC.
#21 Texas @ #8 Oklahoma (Played at The Cotton Bowl in Dallas, TX)
The major attraction at the Texas State Fair isn't the Deep Fried Snickers Bar (though I've heard that they're very good), but it's the annual Red River Shootout. These two teams loathe each other, and they play each year at a neutral site to work out those differences on the football field. Oklahoma is still unbeaten and is looking for the inside track to win the Big-12 South. Texas is looking to right the ship after the embarrassing loss to UCLA at home last week. Texas has won 4 out of the last 6 meetings. Oklahoma will look to change that trend today.
Prediction: Boomer Sooner!
Last Week: 4-0 Season 14-2
Thus Sayeth Your Haus
The Protection of Saint Dogbert
Showing posts with label College Football Predictions. Show all posts
Showing posts with label College Football Predictions. Show all posts
02 October 2010
24 September 2010
College Football 2010 - Week 4
Another week...another full schedule of important games. Also, another opportunity for the Irish to pull out a victory. They've had two very close games the past two weeks, but they've resulted in two heartbreaking losses. But, despite that, I had another 3-1 week last week. So, without further ado...
Note: Rankings this week use the AP Top 25 poll.
California @ #14 Arizona
Did you just see that? If you didn't, let me repeat that...#14 Arizona. A ranking that high hasn't been seen in Tucson in over a decade! After a gutsy win over Iowa last week, Arizona is full of momentum going into the Pac-10 schedule. Cal, on the other hand, was embarrassed by Nevada last week, and it looking to get back on track to make a run at Pasadena. Unfortunately for them, that road starts in Arizona Stadium, which is still buzzing after last week.
Prediction: The Wildcats tame the Golden Bears of Berkeley.
#16 Stanford @ Notre Dame
The Irish have had two tough losses the past two weeks, and face a Stanford team that is considerably more talented than either Michigan or Michigan State. The upside...Stanford doesn't have the ground game that either Michigan or Michigan State has. If the Irish secondary can hold up against Stanford, the Irish will have a fighter's chance against the Tree.
Prediction: In a battle of nicknames that don't end in 'S', the Cardinal hold on to out fight the Fighting Irish.
Temple @ #23 Penn State
The Nittany Lions got back on the right track after a shutout victory over Kent State last week. This momentum will continue as they face in-state rival Temple. The Owls just aren't on the same level as Penn State, and it will be evident Saturday afternoon.
Prediction: Penn State pitches another shutout against the Owls of Temple.
Army @ Duke
It's not often you talk about Duke Football, so I thought I'd show them a little bit of love and give them a quick mention. That's all they'll get, though, as the Black Knights will outclass the Blue Devils in all aspects of the game. Stick the Basketball, Dukies.
Prediction: Army goes rolling along over the Dukies.
Last Week: 3-1 Season: 10-2
Thus Sayeth Your Haus
Note: Rankings this week use the AP Top 25 poll.
California @ #14 Arizona
Did you just see that? If you didn't, let me repeat that...#14 Arizona. A ranking that high hasn't been seen in Tucson in over a decade! After a gutsy win over Iowa last week, Arizona is full of momentum going into the Pac-10 schedule. Cal, on the other hand, was embarrassed by Nevada last week, and it looking to get back on track to make a run at Pasadena. Unfortunately for them, that road starts in Arizona Stadium, which is still buzzing after last week.
Prediction: The Wildcats tame the Golden Bears of Berkeley.
#16 Stanford @ Notre Dame
The Irish have had two tough losses the past two weeks, and face a Stanford team that is considerably more talented than either Michigan or Michigan State. The upside...Stanford doesn't have the ground game that either Michigan or Michigan State has. If the Irish secondary can hold up against Stanford, the Irish will have a fighter's chance against the Tree.
Prediction: In a battle of nicknames that don't end in 'S', the Cardinal hold on to out fight the Fighting Irish.
Temple @ #23 Penn State
The Nittany Lions got back on the right track after a shutout victory over Kent State last week. This momentum will continue as they face in-state rival Temple. The Owls just aren't on the same level as Penn State, and it will be evident Saturday afternoon.
Prediction: Penn State pitches another shutout against the Owls of Temple.
Army @ Duke
It's not often you talk about Duke Football, so I thought I'd show them a little bit of love and give them a quick mention. That's all they'll get, though, as the Black Knights will outclass the Blue Devils in all aspects of the game. Stick the Basketball, Dukies.
Prediction: Army goes rolling along over the Dukies.
Last Week: 3-1 Season: 10-2
Thus Sayeth Your Haus
18 September 2010
College Football 2010 - Week 3
So, I went 3-1 last week, with the Irish falling late against Michigan. But, 'The Shirt 2010' has finally arrived in the Sperlein home, so this week will be a bit better.
Here are this week's game. The breakdowns will be short, as I'm writing this very late in the week.
Note: Rankings this week are using the AP Top-25 poll.
Kent @ #22 Penn State
Yeah...after a bad loss to Alabama last week, Penn State is going to look to right the ship this week. And, they can do that easily against Kent.
Prediction: Penn State...big!
Notre Dame @ Michigan State
The Irish have come off a heartbreaking loss to Michigan, and now they face their first road test of the season.
Prediction: The Irish pull it out, but it's a close one.
#9 Iowa @ #24 Arizona
These two teams played last year at Iowa, and that game saw the beginning of the Nick Foles era at Arizona. While Arizona does have a different offensive line, I believe that they will be able to find a way to stop the Iowa defense enough to put some points up on the board. On the other side of the ball, Iowa has the 4th ranked passing offense in the nation. Arizona has the 4th ranked passing defense in the nation. This is where the game will be decided. The X-Factor: Arizona Stadium has proved to be the place where BCS dreams go to die.
Prediction: Arizona pulls out another Top-10 upset at home and edges out the Hawkeyes.
BYU @ Florida State
After a big loss to Oklahoma last week, Florida State is going to look to get back into the win column against a BYU teams that lost on the beginning of it's MWC Farewell tour against Air Force.
Prediction: Really? Do you have to ask? FSU won last year @ BYU, they'll win this year at home. Seminoles over the Cougars by 14.
Last Week: 3-1 Season: 7-1
Thus Sayeth Your Haus
Here are this week's game. The breakdowns will be short, as I'm writing this very late in the week.
Note: Rankings this week are using the AP Top-25 poll.
Kent @ #22 Penn State
Yeah...after a bad loss to Alabama last week, Penn State is going to look to right the ship this week. And, they can do that easily against Kent.
Prediction: Penn State...big!
Notre Dame @ Michigan State
The Irish have come off a heartbreaking loss to Michigan, and now they face their first road test of the season.
Prediction: The Irish pull it out, but it's a close one.
#9 Iowa @ #24 Arizona
These two teams played last year at Iowa, and that game saw the beginning of the Nick Foles era at Arizona. While Arizona does have a different offensive line, I believe that they will be able to find a way to stop the Iowa defense enough to put some points up on the board. On the other side of the ball, Iowa has the 4th ranked passing offense in the nation. Arizona has the 4th ranked passing defense in the nation. This is where the game will be decided. The X-Factor: Arizona Stadium has proved to be the place where BCS dreams go to die.
Prediction: Arizona pulls out another Top-10 upset at home and edges out the Hawkeyes.
BYU @ Florida State
After a big loss to Oklahoma last week, Florida State is going to look to get back into the win column against a BYU teams that lost on the beginning of it's MWC Farewell tour against Air Force.
Prediction: Really? Do you have to ask? FSU won last year @ BYU, they'll win this year at home. Seminoles over the Cougars by 14.
Last Week: 3-1 Season: 7-1
Thus Sayeth Your Haus
09 September 2010
College Football 2010 - Week 2
Last week was a great week for College Football fans across the country. A new season started, carrying with it all of the hopes of hard hits, great catches, and breathtaking bursts of speed, and the week didn't disappoint.
Last week was also a great week for my prediction abilities...a perfect 4-0 in the mentioned games last week. Now, onto Week 2!
Note: All rankings this week come from the USA Today Coaches Poll.
Citadel @ #23 Arizona
Did you just see that! Week 2, and there's a number next to Arizona's name! Anyway...after an impressive season opener on the road, the Wildcats come home to Arizona Stadium to meet their annual D 1-AA...I mean FCS...cupcake, Citadel. While the 'Cats cannot just put it in cruise control for this game (we all remember App State @ Michigan), they should be able to put the Citadel away early and give their backups some valuable playing time in the second half (much like they did at Toledo). Also, giving this new defense two confidence-building games in a row will be needed before facing the first real test of the season next week.
Prediction: Arizona wins big in front of the home crowd and downs the Bulldogs of Citadel.
Michigan @ Notre Dame
One of the oldest rivalries in College Football will have it's latest chapter written on Saturday afternoon at Notre Dame Stadium. Both teams come into this game 1-0, having won their respective openers at home. Now, the Irish look to win again in the friendly confines of home with a win over archrival Michigan. The Wolverine thin secondary took a hit with the announced transfer of Sophomore Safety Vladimir Emilien. The Irish come into this game off of a solid performance over a good Purdue squad. Michigan hits the road after a solid performance of their own over UConn. This game will come down to which team is able to impose their will over the other.
Prediction: The Irish are at home, and will be able to impose their will better than Michigan. Plus, the 'Kelly' Green clad students will help will the Irish to a victory over their bitter rivals from Ann Arbor!
#14 Penn State @ #1 Alabama
Penn State travels to Tuscaloosa to take on the defending National Champions, but Alabama will be without reigning Heisman winner Mark Ingram (Junior RB). Both teams have stingy run defenses, so the defensive battles will be decided in the secondary. Both teams dispatched their Week 1 cupcakes, and this is truly the first test for both teams this season. The Nittany Lions are starting a true Freshman at QB, while the Tide have most of their offensive starters returning. As much as it pains me to say this, Alabama has the advantage on offense, while the two teams are fairly evenly matched on defense.
Prediction: This will be one of the classic games this season, but Alabama finds a way to ride that Crimson Tide over the Nittany Lions.
#18 Florida State @ #10 Oklahoma
You thought I was going to pick another Top-25 showdown, didn't you? Well, the U and the Sweater can have their fun, I'm more interested in this showdown. This is a big game in the new Jimbo Fisher era at FSU. Can he bring FSU back from the slump they have been in over the past few years and into the national spotlight again? Well, a win on the road in Norman, OK would do the trick. OU, on the other hand, is looking to keep things going in the right direction, and make sure they're in a good position heading into the rest of their schedule. OU owns the longest home winning streak in College Football today (remember...the Texas game is played at a neutral site), and they will be looking to extend that streak to 35.
Prediction: This will be another classic game of the season, and OU will find a way to pull this one out at home, and put the Seminoles in a bad mood (and that bad mood will come at just the right time, as I'll explain next week). Boomer Sooner!
Last Week: 4-0 Season: 4-0
Thus Sayeth Your Haus
Last week was also a great week for my prediction abilities...a perfect 4-0 in the mentioned games last week. Now, onto Week 2!
Note: All rankings this week come from the USA Today Coaches Poll.
Citadel @ #23 Arizona
Did you just see that! Week 2, and there's a number next to Arizona's name! Anyway...after an impressive season opener on the road, the Wildcats come home to Arizona Stadium to meet their annual D 1-AA...I mean FCS...cupcake, Citadel. While the 'Cats cannot just put it in cruise control for this game (we all remember App State @ Michigan), they should be able to put the Citadel away early and give their backups some valuable playing time in the second half (much like they did at Toledo). Also, giving this new defense two confidence-building games in a row will be needed before facing the first real test of the season next week.
Prediction: Arizona wins big in front of the home crowd and downs the Bulldogs of Citadel.
Michigan @ Notre Dame
One of the oldest rivalries in College Football will have it's latest chapter written on Saturday afternoon at Notre Dame Stadium. Both teams come into this game 1-0, having won their respective openers at home. Now, the Irish look to win again in the friendly confines of home with a win over archrival Michigan. The Wolverine thin secondary took a hit with the announced transfer of Sophomore Safety Vladimir Emilien. The Irish come into this game off of a solid performance over a good Purdue squad. Michigan hits the road after a solid performance of their own over UConn. This game will come down to which team is able to impose their will over the other.
Prediction: The Irish are at home, and will be able to impose their will better than Michigan. Plus, the 'Kelly' Green clad students will help will the Irish to a victory over their bitter rivals from Ann Arbor!
#14 Penn State @ #1 Alabama
Penn State travels to Tuscaloosa to take on the defending National Champions, but Alabama will be without reigning Heisman winner Mark Ingram (Junior RB). Both teams have stingy run defenses, so the defensive battles will be decided in the secondary. Both teams dispatched their Week 1 cupcakes, and this is truly the first test for both teams this season. The Nittany Lions are starting a true Freshman at QB, while the Tide have most of their offensive starters returning. As much as it pains me to say this, Alabama has the advantage on offense, while the two teams are fairly evenly matched on defense.
Prediction: This will be one of the classic games this season, but Alabama finds a way to ride that Crimson Tide over the Nittany Lions.
#18 Florida State @ #10 Oklahoma
You thought I was going to pick another Top-25 showdown, didn't you? Well, the U and the Sweater can have their fun, I'm more interested in this showdown. This is a big game in the new Jimbo Fisher era at FSU. Can he bring FSU back from the slump they have been in over the past few years and into the national spotlight again? Well, a win on the road in Norman, OK would do the trick. OU, on the other hand, is looking to keep things going in the right direction, and make sure they're in a good position heading into the rest of their schedule. OU owns the longest home winning streak in College Football today (remember...the Texas game is played at a neutral site), and they will be looking to extend that streak to 35.
Prediction: This will be another classic game of the season, and OU will find a way to pull this one out at home, and put the Seminoles in a bad mood (and that bad mood will come at just the right time, as I'll explain next week). Boomer Sooner!
Last Week: 4-0 Season: 4-0
Thus Sayeth Your Haus
02 November 2009
College Football - Week 10
So, I once again forgot to put my picks down in writing for Week 9, but I am happy to report that Week 8 went very well for me...4-0 kind of well. Now, I will be traveling this weekend, so I do not plan on watching any of the games that I'll write about, but I expect that they all will be good games. As an added bonus this week, I will be covering all three of the Service Academies this week!
Washington State at #18 Arizona
Arizona is coming off a bye week. A great mid-season opportunity to rest and recover before the final five games of the year. Washington State went to San Antonio and got manhandled by Notre Dame (Go Irish!). Washington State has been a stumbling block for Arizona in the past, but the pass defense of WSU will fold under the pressure of Arizona's spread offense attack. By the way, this game is at Arizona, and the crowd will be ready to welcome their team, ranked in the BCS for a second straight week!
The Wildcats tame the Cougars at Arizona Stadium.
Navy at #22 Notre Dame
In one of college football's storied, yet most lopsided, rivalries, Notre Dame will once again be tested by the triple-option offense of Navy. The Midshipmen are coming into this game in much the same shape at Notre Dame (lots of very close games with just two real blowouts). The difference is that Navy has not had the kind of consistent competition that Notre Dame has defeated.
Notre Dame pulls out the win over Navy for a second year in a row.
#16 Ohio State at #11 Penn State
In the event that Iowa trips up in the next few weeks, both of these teams will be looking to take Iowa's place in Pasadena. Penn State has already fallen to Iowa. Ohio State plays them later this month. Here's the difference between Penn State and Ohio State. PSU lost to Iowa. OSU lost to USC and Purdue. There's a quality of loss difference, plus OSU has dropped two games this year. Sophomore QB Terrell Prior of OSU is not the same caliber QB as Penn State's Senior Captain Darryl Clark.
The experience of the Nittany Lions will stop the Buckeyes on their trip to Happy Valley.
Army at Air Force
ESPN's College GameDay is making the road trip to Colorado Springs as part of ESPN's Veterans Day-week festivities. Air Force has already lost to Navy, knocking it out of contention for the Commander-in-Chief's Trophy. The only way to keep Navy from taking that trophy back to Annapolis is by Army beating Air Force this weekend and Navy in December. Since Army isn't going to beat Navy, there's no reason for them to beat Air Force.
Air Force's option attack stops the Black Knights in their marching cadence.
Week 8: 4-0 Season: 19-5
Washington State at #18 Arizona
Arizona is coming off a bye week. A great mid-season opportunity to rest and recover before the final five games of the year. Washington State went to San Antonio and got manhandled by Notre Dame (Go Irish!). Washington State has been a stumbling block for Arizona in the past, but the pass defense of WSU will fold under the pressure of Arizona's spread offense attack. By the way, this game is at Arizona, and the crowd will be ready to welcome their team, ranked in the BCS for a second straight week!
The Wildcats tame the Cougars at Arizona Stadium.
Navy at #22 Notre Dame
In one of college football's storied, yet most lopsided, rivalries, Notre Dame will once again be tested by the triple-option offense of Navy. The Midshipmen are coming into this game in much the same shape at Notre Dame (lots of very close games with just two real blowouts). The difference is that Navy has not had the kind of consistent competition that Notre Dame has defeated.
Notre Dame pulls out the win over Navy for a second year in a row.
#16 Ohio State at #11 Penn State
In the event that Iowa trips up in the next few weeks, both of these teams will be looking to take Iowa's place in Pasadena. Penn State has already fallen to Iowa. Ohio State plays them later this month. Here's the difference between Penn State and Ohio State. PSU lost to Iowa. OSU lost to USC and Purdue. There's a quality of loss difference, plus OSU has dropped two games this year. Sophomore QB Terrell Prior of OSU is not the same caliber QB as Penn State's Senior Captain Darryl Clark.
The experience of the Nittany Lions will stop the Buckeyes on their trip to Happy Valley.
Army at Air Force
ESPN's College GameDay is making the road trip to Colorado Springs as part of ESPN's Veterans Day-week festivities. Air Force has already lost to Navy, knocking it out of contention for the Commander-in-Chief's Trophy. The only way to keep Navy from taking that trophy back to Annapolis is by Army beating Air Force this weekend and Navy in December. Since Army isn't going to beat Navy, there's no reason for them to beat Air Force.
Air Force's option attack stops the Black Knights in their marching cadence.
Week 8: 4-0 Season: 19-5
21 October 2009
College Football - Week 8
So, I've missed doing my picks for the past two weeks, but I did have a very good Week 5, going 4-0.
Now, back on track for this week's games: (By the way, ranking numbers are now shifting from the AP Poll to the BCS Rankings)
UCLA at #22 Arizona
Arizona is coming off an exciting win over a talented Stanford team. The Arizona offense is running on all cylinders, it's just up to the defense to really begin to step up. UCLA is on the rise, but is not at the same level as Arizona.
The Wildcats stop the Bruins in Arizona Stadium
Boston College at Notre Dame
Notre Dame is coming off another loss to USC. It's been a long time since the Irish have beaten the Trojans...but I digress. Boston College is the only other Catholic University that plays D-I football...I mean, plays FCS Football. This is a major rivalry, and typically produces a very exciting game. Boston College continues to climb their way up the ACC's pecking order, having made multiple appearances in the ACC Championship Game in their brief tenure in that conference.
The Irish look to get the sour taste out of their mouth, and takes it out on BC.
#13 Penn State at Michigan
Penn State wants to climb back into the Top 10 and into the Rose Bowl picture. While this will take Iowa being knocked off a few times, Penn State will need to win out. Michigan is a decent team, but they are not at the same level as Penn State. The Wolverines' advantage will be the location, as this game is being played in the Big House.
The Nittany Lions tame the Wolverines in the Big House.
#8 TCU at #16 BYU
In the revolving door of potential BCS busters, TCU is the ugly stepchild. They're always right there in the mix, until they face either BYU or Utah. The downside to TCU's stellar season...Boise State is also undefeated. If there's going to be a BCS buster this year, it won't be TCU. But, BYU won't be the team to keep them out of the BCS hunt.
TCU wins on the road and stays in the Top 10.
Week 5: 4-0 Season: 15-5
Now, back on track for this week's games: (By the way, ranking numbers are now shifting from the AP Poll to the BCS Rankings)
UCLA at #22 Arizona
Arizona is coming off an exciting win over a talented Stanford team. The Arizona offense is running on all cylinders, it's just up to the defense to really begin to step up. UCLA is on the rise, but is not at the same level as Arizona.
The Wildcats stop the Bruins in Arizona Stadium
Boston College at Notre Dame
Notre Dame is coming off another loss to USC. It's been a long time since the Irish have beaten the Trojans...but I digress. Boston College is the only other Catholic University that plays D-I football...I mean, plays FCS Football. This is a major rivalry, and typically produces a very exciting game. Boston College continues to climb their way up the ACC's pecking order, having made multiple appearances in the ACC Championship Game in their brief tenure in that conference.
The Irish look to get the sour taste out of their mouth, and takes it out on BC.
#13 Penn State at Michigan
Penn State wants to climb back into the Top 10 and into the Rose Bowl picture. While this will take Iowa being knocked off a few times, Penn State will need to win out. Michigan is a decent team, but they are not at the same level as Penn State. The Wolverines' advantage will be the location, as this game is being played in the Big House.
The Nittany Lions tame the Wolverines in the Big House.
#8 TCU at #16 BYU
In the revolving door of potential BCS busters, TCU is the ugly stepchild. They're always right there in the mix, until they face either BYU or Utah. The downside to TCU's stellar season...Boise State is also undefeated. If there's going to be a BCS buster this year, it won't be TCU. But, BYU won't be the team to keep them out of the BCS hunt.
TCU wins on the road and stays in the Top 10.
Week 5: 4-0 Season: 15-5
30 September 2009
College Football - Week 5
So, I've gotten back on the right track, survived the past working weekend, and managed to see the second half of three decent games last week. Two of them I was happy about. The third...not so much. I went 3-1 again, with the incorrect pick coming when Iowa upset Penn State...at Happy Valley...at a White-Out! Not happy!
This week sees our first bye week for a team, as Arizona does not play this week. So, there will be two bonus games to compensate.
Now, let the games begin!
Washington at Notre Dame
The Irish are coming off an exciting last minute win over Big-10 Purdue. The Huskies are coming off a disappointing loss to Stanford. Notre Dame Junior QB Jimmy Clausen is still suffering from Turf Toe. Washington Senior QB Jake Lockner is in good form, especially after leading his team to a win over Pac-10 powerhouse USC. This game will come down to how well the QBs play.
The Irish, in another close and exciting game, win another game at Notre Dame Stadium.
#15 Penn State at Illinois
Penn State faced their first loss of the season last week at the hands of Iowa. Illinois is being Illinios. Penn State will look to silence their critics by beating up on a Big-10 school. Of course, this game won't help much, as they are Illinios.
The Nitany Lions beat the Illini big on the road.
Air Force at Navy
The first meeting of two service academies of the year pits the powerful triple option of Air Force against the wishbone option of Navy. Navy managed to give Ohio State all they could handle. Air Force beat SDSU last weekend. Navy has won the Commander-in-Chief's Trophy for the past three seasons. As much as I'd like Air Force to pull this one out, I know better.
Navy continues it's resurgence in football and begins their quest for another C-in-C Trophy.
#8 Oklahoma at #17 Miami (FL)
Sooner Heisman Trophy winner and Junior QB Sam Bradford will still be out for this week's game at Miami. He did work out this week, but he also received a consultation from Dr. James Andrews (surgeon to athletes of all kinds). Miami is coming off an embarrassing loss to Virginia Tech. Miami is hungry to win this one and let America know that "The U" really is back.
The 'swagger' of "The U" overcomes the tenacity of the Sooners.
Last Week: 3-1 Season: 11-5
This week sees our first bye week for a team, as Arizona does not play this week. So, there will be two bonus games to compensate.
Now, let the games begin!
Washington at Notre Dame
The Irish are coming off an exciting last minute win over Big-10 Purdue. The Huskies are coming off a disappointing loss to Stanford. Notre Dame Junior QB Jimmy Clausen is still suffering from Turf Toe. Washington Senior QB Jake Lockner is in good form, especially after leading his team to a win over Pac-10 powerhouse USC. This game will come down to how well the QBs play.
The Irish, in another close and exciting game, win another game at Notre Dame Stadium.
#15 Penn State at Illinois
Penn State faced their first loss of the season last week at the hands of Iowa. Illinois is being Illinios. Penn State will look to silence their critics by beating up on a Big-10 school. Of course, this game won't help much, as they are Illinios.
The Nitany Lions beat the Illini big on the road.
Air Force at Navy
The first meeting of two service academies of the year pits the powerful triple option of Air Force against the wishbone option of Navy. Navy managed to give Ohio State all they could handle. Air Force beat SDSU last weekend. Navy has won the Commander-in-Chief's Trophy for the past three seasons. As much as I'd like Air Force to pull this one out, I know better.
Navy continues it's resurgence in football and begins their quest for another C-in-C Trophy.
#8 Oklahoma at #17 Miami (FL)
Sooner Heisman Trophy winner and Junior QB Sam Bradford will still be out for this week's game at Miami. He did work out this week, but he also received a consultation from Dr. James Andrews (surgeon to athletes of all kinds). Miami is coming off an embarrassing loss to Virginia Tech. Miami is hungry to win this one and let America know that "The U" really is back.
The 'swagger' of "The U" overcomes the tenacity of the Sooners.
Last Week: 3-1 Season: 11-5
23 September 2009
College Football - Week 4
So, Week 3 was a rough one on me. Arizona announced mid-week that Junior TE Rob Gronkowski would not play against Iowa, and then announced on Saturday that his season was over before it began. Notre Dame lost Sophmore WR Michael Floyd to a broken collarbone, which will keep him out until a bowl game, at the soonest. The scores didn't help my mood much either, as both Arizona and Utah let me down, with Notre Dame and Penn State picking up the slack. I went 2-2 last week, and hope to improve this week.
Arizona at Oregon State
Arizona will be utilizing Sophmore QB Nick Foles for the first time this week. The announcment, made mid-week, will put Matt Scott on the bench, where he can hopefully refine his technique for mobile passing. The Arizona offense has sputtered over the first three games, and that sputtering cost them at Iowa last weekend. Oregon State's Jacquiz Rodgers leads a dangerous Beaver offense that will give the Arizona defense a run for their money on Saturday evening.
Arizona in a defensive slugfest. But, slim margin.
Penn State is looking for retribution. A loss at Iowa was the game that kept Penn State out of the BCS Title Game. Daryll Clark has played well, but still has room for improvement (especially as the Penn State O-Line improves). Iowa played well last week against Arizona, especially the defense stopping the running game of Arizona. Iowa has the defense to stall the Penn State offense, but I don't think that Iowa has the offense to score on the Penn State defense.
Nitany Lions begin the Big-10 season on the right note, avenging last year's loss.
Notre Dame at Purdue
The Irish roll over the Boilermakers on the road.
Arizona State at #21 Georgia
UGA VI takes a bite out of Sparky, and Georgia wins big in Athens
Last Week: 2-2 Season: 8-4
Last Week: 2-2 Season: 8-4
15 September 2009
College Football - Week 3
Last week was another 3-1 week, though I was two minutes away from a perfect 4-0 (thanks Michigan...jerks). The heartbreaking upset of my beloved Irish was the low point in last week's college football season. But, I remain undeterred and overall, very happy with my performance thus far this year. Kudos to UCLA for pulling out the win in the Deep South.
Now, on to this week.
Temple at #5 Penn State
Penn State has looked solid in their first two games. Senior QB Daryll Clark has lead this consistent and dangerous offense while the moniker "Linebacker U" has lived up to its defensive reputation. While Temple is an in-state rival, they're don't have anywhere near the same talent that Penn State has.
Penn State rolls over the Owls.
Michigan State at Notre Dame
The Irish return to the friendly confines of Notre Dame Stadium after losing a heartbreaker in The Big House. The offense had sparks of brilliance that were dimmed by moments or ineptitude. The Irish defense also played an aweful third quarter last week, which didn't help matters. If Notre Dame wants to overcome this talented Big-10 team, they will need a consistent defense, outstanding play from Clausen, and a solid running game to set up Jimmy. Of course, if they need any additional motivation, they can always look back to a recent Michigan State visit to South Bend.
Notre Dame defends the home field, in more ways than one, and beats the Spartans.
Arizona at Iowa
Arizona will be getting All-American Tight End Rob Gronkowski back in the line up this week after missing the first two games of the year with back problems. This is huge for an Arizona offense that has not been able to pass the ball effectively in their first two games (both wins), which has allowed defenses to focus on stuffing the run. Iowa is a talented Big-10 team that welcomes the challenge of playing a Pac-10 team during the season. With this game in Iowa City, they will think that they have a distinct advantage. I still like Arizona to pull out the upset on the road.
Arizona clips the Hawkeyes' wings in a close (and I mean close) game.
#18 Utah at Oregon
Oregon is trying to get back to being Oregon. They had high hopes coming into the season, even being one of four teams featured on the SI College Football Preview issue cover. But, after a loss at Boise State, the loss of their Senior RB Blount for the year due to suspension, and then a squeaker of a win over Purdue, the Ducks are looking to correct their course before they begin Pac-10 play. Unfortunately, they scheduled Utah. They are trying to become the BCS buster again and show that they are a superior team to their in-state rivals, #7 BYU. While Utah has played a relatively weak non-conference schedule, they are going to be ready when they travel to Autzen Stadium this weekend.
Utah puts the Ducks in a tailspin, wins big in Autzen.
Last Week: 3-1 Season: 6-2
Now, on to this week.
Temple at #5 Penn State
Penn State has looked solid in their first two games. Senior QB Daryll Clark has lead this consistent and dangerous offense while the moniker "Linebacker U" has lived up to its defensive reputation. While Temple is an in-state rival, they're don't have anywhere near the same talent that Penn State has.
Penn State rolls over the Owls.
Michigan State at Notre Dame
The Irish return to the friendly confines of Notre Dame Stadium after losing a heartbreaker in The Big House. The offense had sparks of brilliance that were dimmed by moments or ineptitude. The Irish defense also played an aweful third quarter last week, which didn't help matters. If Notre Dame wants to overcome this talented Big-10 team, they will need a consistent defense, outstanding play from Clausen, and a solid running game to set up Jimmy. Of course, if they need any additional motivation, they can always look back to a recent Michigan State visit to South Bend.
Notre Dame defends the home field, in more ways than one, and beats the Spartans.
Arizona at Iowa
Arizona will be getting All-American Tight End Rob Gronkowski back in the line up this week after missing the first two games of the year with back problems. This is huge for an Arizona offense that has not been able to pass the ball effectively in their first two games (both wins), which has allowed defenses to focus on stuffing the run. Iowa is a talented Big-10 team that welcomes the challenge of playing a Pac-10 team during the season. With this game in Iowa City, they will think that they have a distinct advantage. I still like Arizona to pull out the upset on the road.
Arizona clips the Hawkeyes' wings in a close (and I mean close) game.
#18 Utah at Oregon
Oregon is trying to get back to being Oregon. They had high hopes coming into the season, even being one of four teams featured on the SI College Football Preview issue cover. But, after a loss at Boise State, the loss of their Senior RB Blount for the year due to suspension, and then a squeaker of a win over Purdue, the Ducks are looking to correct their course before they begin Pac-10 play. Unfortunately, they scheduled Utah. They are trying to become the BCS buster again and show that they are a superior team to their in-state rivals, #7 BYU. While Utah has played a relatively weak non-conference schedule, they are going to be ready when they travel to Autzen Stadium this weekend.
Utah puts the Ducks in a tailspin, wins big in Autzen.
Last Week: 3-1 Season: 6-2
08 September 2009
College Football - Week 2
A recap of Week 1 - The Haus went 3-1. This occured due to the unexpected departure of Sam Bradford from the BYU/OU game. A good game to watch, but the wrong outcome for my mood.
In a non-talked about game last week, Boise State defeated Oregon on the Smurf Turf in Boise. BSU controlled most of the game, yet did not fare well in the post-game impromptu boxing match. If you didn't see OU's (former) starting RB Blount take a sucker punch at a BSU player, than I'd point you to ESPN.com's video section. It's there. Good for Oregon for suspending this guy for the rest of the season. Blount's actions give the game of College Football a black eye.
Now, on to this weeks games.
#18 Notre Dame at Michigan
The Irish are coming off an impressive 35-0 will over Nevada. The Irish defense was able to contain the dangerous Colin Kapernick (sp?) and the Irish offense looked better than it has at any time over the past two years. Michigan spent their opening weekend with a typical FCS opponent (and this year managed not to get upset by them) in Western Michigan. Michigan has announced that their freshman phoenom Nate Forcier will start at QB. Notre Dame has announced that RB James Aldridge will sit after being injured against Nevada.
This boils down to one thing...this is a big rivalry for both schools. This is one of college football's oldest rivalries. These guys want to beat each other into a pulp, and then keep beating them.
The Irish will 'Rise and Strike', pulling out a 'Victory' (see above video) in the Big House and avenging the defeats of the past two years.
Northern Arizona at Arizona
This is Arizona's yearly FCS opponent. While NAU should not be overlooked, this game will not be nearly as close as last weeks game was against Central Michigan. Newly minted Arizona Sophmore QB Matt Scott looked good in the pocket, but has work to do on the move. Also, Scott needs to learn to slide feet first. Arizona's defense looked like it was in midseason form. Any improvement on last weeks effort will be warmly received, especially as the Pac-10 season draws near.
Arizona sends the Lumberjacks north emptyhanded.
Syracuse at #7 Penn State
The Nittany Lions rolled the 'Mightly Zips' of Akron, earning Senior QB Daryll Clark Big-10 Offensive Player of the Week honors. Syracuse had a close game with Minnessota, coming up just short behind the valiant effort of former Duke Basketball player Greg Paulus.
Linebacker U. gives the Dukie trouble all...day...long, and wins in a game that's over by the end of the 3rd quarter.
And, a 'for the fun of it' pick (this way I have four games each week)
UCLA at Tennessee
UCLA beat SDSU at the Rose Bowl, despite the impending fires throughout Los Angeles. Tennesse beat up on Western Kentucky. UCLA plays a team with a shot at an upset, Tennessee rings in the Lane Kiffin era with a cupcake. And, as I recall, UCLA found a way to beat Tennessee last year at the Rose Bowl (a nice way to ring in the Rick Neuheisel era). The Vols are favored by 8 in what will be a closely played matchup.
UCLA finds a way to pull the upset over Tennessee in Lane's first real NCAA test.
Last Week: 3-1 Season: 3-1
31 August 2009
College Football - Week 1
Saturday marks the beginning of the 2009 College Football Season. Now, as can be accurately said, I have four teams that I follow and root for religiously:
1 - The University of Arizona (my Alma Mater)
2 - The University of Notre Dame (the team of my childhood)
3 - Pennsylvania State University (it's a family thing)
4 - Any team playing against BYU (did you expect anything different?)
So, I'll give my breakdown of each of these team's games from a fan's perspective.
Central Michigan @ Arizona
Central Michigan is not to be overlooked. A Bowl-Bound team from last year and one of the MACs better programs, the Chippewas will be ready to pull an upset over a Pac-10 team. Their case is improved by Gronk being out indefinitely and a starting QB not being named yet. But, a strong returning receiving corps, mixed with a solid O-Line and a re-tooled defense will help UA overcome their few downside and defeat a good CMU at home.
The Wildcats give the home crowd something to cheer about and beat CMU.
Nevada @ Notre Dame
The video above is from a Notre Dame pep rally last season. The band is playing Celtic Chant, a personal favorite of mine. The only song better than that is the Notre Dame Victory March, a song I expect will be heard frequently in Notre Dame Stadium on Saturday. A quarterback that is finally comfortable in Charlie Weis' offense, a receiving corps that is used to their quarterback, and a defense that is a year older and wiser. I'm optimistic for 9 Irish wins this year, and their first will come at the expense of Nevada.
The Irish will 'Rise and Strike', beating Nevada by at least 21
Akron @ Penn State
Really? Do I even have to say anything about this one? No, but I will anyway. Akron is the annual sacrificial lamb for Penn State. They'll get trounced, JoePa will come out in his khaki pants that are two inches too short and fire up the students who idolize their octogenarian coach, and the classically dressed Nittany Lions will make Akron look like the MAC team they are.
PSU mauling the 'Mighty Zips' of Akron.
BYU @ Oklahoma (at Dallas Cowboys Stadium)
Here are the advantages that BYU has in this game - It's not in Norman, It's...well, that's really the only advantage that BYU has in this game. OU is the better team, top to bottom (having a Heisman Trophy winner in your locker room helps). BYU isn't a bad team, but they're not OU. It makes one wonder why a decent program would take a game of this difficulty to start the new season, especially when one loss in the Mountain West (especially a non-conference loss) will keep you out of the BCS. But, for as much credit as I may give BYU, they'll see the Sooner Schooner and the Ruff Necks too many times on Saturday.
Oklahoma big in this one. Boomer Sooner!
Thus Sayeth Your Haus
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)