Get Gamm - Week Five
Hard to believe we are just one week from the middle of college football's regular season. Big Ten play is underway and folks, it is as open a race as it's been in years. Yes, Ohio State is very impressive right now. Yes, Michigan is on the way back up and will be in the race. Yes, Wisconsin has struggled week-to-week but has won 13-straight and is of course a factor. And don't discount Penn State, Iowa, Purdue, Michigan State, maybe even Illinois. You know it to be the case (wide open year) when the schedule presents some real thought-provoking match-ups that in other years would be slam dunk locks.
Picking with me this week is Dan Meyer. The Purdue fan went a perfect 6-0 for the week and gets the spotlight in this tough week of prognostication...
Schedule:
Indiana at Iowa
Penn State at Illinois
Notre Dame at Purdue
Michigan at Northwestern
Michigan State at Wisconsin (Tiebreaker)
Ohio State at Minnesota
The Picks:
Indiana at Iowa
Indiana's season hit its first speed bump last week in a home loss to Illinois that wasn't even as close as the 13-point final margin. The Hoosiers' defense might be just what the struggling Iowa offense needs, although the Hawkeyes have lost second leading receiver and key return man Andy Brodell to a torn hamstring. Indiana's offense is going to find it really tough to move the ball against the stiffling Iowa defense. Iowa won't score much, but it won't have to. Iowa 19 - Indiana 7.
Dan Meyer says ... Indiana 14 at IOWA 27 - A real key to this game is which Iowa team shows up: the one that battled Wisconsin to the buzzer at Camp Randall or the one that lost to an Iowa State team which might end up with double-digit losses. As Andy pointed out, the questions on the Hawkeyes come from the offense - their D is as good as Ohio State or Penn State. On the other hand, IU continued a bad habit from the last couple of seasons - play well enough early to get Hoosier nation excited, then lay an egg when games matter. 41 points may be too high and it is certainly possible that IU may keep the winning margin under double-digits. A Hoosier upset sets the Cream and Crimson in great shape for bowl-eligibility--but with the Hawks back in beloved Kinnick Stadium I can't see the Hoosiers overcoming the Hawkeye D.
Penn State at Illinois
This is one of the games I was talking about in my open. Penn State is good but got stung by a Michigan team it really should have handled. Illinois looked great at Indiana and has won three games for the first time in a few years. The Illini have plenty of good young offensive weapons and have a nice, balanced attack or at least the potential for one. Penn State has not been able to run the ball at all and that single dimension killed them in the loss at Michigan. Illinois leads the Big Ten in rushing, Penn State leads the Big Ten in stopping the run. Illinois has the home field but Penn State has urgency. I see this as being a great game, a true sign that Illinois football is on the rebound. Penn State 34 - Illinois 31 - in overtime.
Dan Meyer says ... PENN STATE 20 at Illinois 17 - A dangerous pick in what might be the toughest pick of the weekend. Penn State handled early competition well enough, but questions about schedule strength bit them in Ann Arbor. Like Iowa, the questions revolve around offensive production; "Linebacker U" still knows how to play D. Illinois competes with Andy's Spartans as the most improved this year - a road win at IU, another road win at a Syracuse team that might be better than originally thought and a painfully (for Illini fans) close call against present # 20 Missouri in St. Louis. Juice Williams will be exciting - both in helping and perhaps hindering Illini hopes. Special teams probably will matter; so will penalties. I'm going with the team with more experience in big games - but I easily could be wrong.
Notre Dame at Purdue
Michigan State moved the Big Ten to 3-0 versus Notre Dame and there is almost 100% certainty that Purdue will make it 4-0. Unless the Boilermaker offense comes down with serious food poisoning (and if Weis is around, he's more likely to get it by eating all of the food ear-marked for the Boilers) there is almost no chance ND can score an upset. The Irish are improving but are staring an 0-8 start squarely in the face. I love the offensive attack for Purdue, I just would like to see the defense come around and make some plays. This is a good game to build some defensive confidence because PU will need D to challenge for the title this year. Purdue 41 - Notre Dame 23.
Dan Meyer says ... Notre Dame 17 at PURDUE 31 - Purdue's offense has been a thing of wonder during most of the Boilers' 4-0 start; unfortunately, the same cannot be said about its defense. While looking okay in the first two games, Purdue has given up 50 second half points in its two most recent. One pleasant surprise--special teams; Chris Summers has started 4 of 6 after a DREADFUL 2006 and the Boilers already have two kickoff returns for TDs. After an awful first three games, the Irish showed some signs of life in the first half against Michigan State; an encouraging sign for Spartan fans was that the Green and White came back with a solid second half. All in all, when ND has the ball, it will be the stoppable force against the movable object. Painter will have less gaudy numbers than vs. Eastern Illinois or Central Michigan and the Irish will put some points on the board. However, I think/hope that playing at Ross-Ade will keep the Boilers on track.
Michigan at Northwestern
Two teams headed in opposite directions. The Wildcats pitched a shutout of a 1-AA foe in week one, Michigan was handed the upset heard 'round the world by a 1-AA foe. Northwestern came back late to win against Nevada in week two while Michigan played worse in a blowout loss to Oregon. Then the shift... Michigan hammered Notre Dame (who hasn't) and got some confidence. NU failed to score with several chances late and suffered an embarrassing loss to Duke - then riding a 22-game losing streak. Last week, Michigan stymied Penn State while Northwestern more or less failed to show up in a pasting at Ohio State. The only, and I mean only thing going for the Wildcats for this one is that they run the spread offense and the spread makes the M defense sweat profusely. Henne will come in and save the day in a game that will be close only because of the offense NU employs. Michigan 34 - Northwestern 27.
Dan Meyer says ... MICHIGAN 34 at Northwestern 14 - There is legitimate Mike Hart for Heisman talk and rightly so; Hart has walked the walk and talked the talk; showing great leadership as well as quality running. A potential Achilles heel for a Wolverine Big Ten run--placekicking. Maize and Blue fans may longing for the "glory" days of Rivas soon. Meanwhile, Northwestern has more substantive problems - a promising 2-0 has been undone by a stunning home loss to Duke and a full-fledged thrashing by the Buckeyes. The trend continues: Northwestern may not be as bad as their last weeks, but Michigan is DEFINITELY better than their first two weeks.
Michigan State at Wisconsin (Tiebreaker)
This is quietly becoming one of the games of the week in college football. It doesn't have the flash and dash of Oregon and Cal or the on-the-rise intrigue of West Virginia at South Florida (which by the way is in Tampa, clearly not "South" Florida) but it could, make that should, be a slugfest. Wisconsin has won a nation's best 13 in a row. The Spartans have been 4-0 recently (2005) and traditionally start strong. However this is where the wheels seem to fall off. The last time the schools met, MSU pasted an unbeaten Badger squad in East Lansing. Camp Randall is a daunting place to play, but MSU seems focused and ready to exorcise past demons. Both teams can run, both teams can defense. Special teams play and passing game will be the points of differentiation. Wisconsin is a bit better on special teams while State holds an edge in the passing game. If it was in East Lansing, I'd swing a different direction. Wisconsin 16 - Michigan State 13.
Dan Meyer says ... *Michigan State 14 at WISCONSIN 24* - This week's tiebreaker; hence the stars. The Spartans have started very well as alluded to earlier and rest at #23 in the polls. The running attack has been strong and allowed the Spartans to beat a respectable Pittsburgh team, then follow it up with a solid win over the Blustering Irish. Meanwhile, Wisconsin has unsettled its less-macho fans with three wins (UNLV, the Citadel and Iowa) which count for bowl eligibility but won no style points. P.J. Hill has done a mighty job keeping the Badgers on track. My guess - the Badgers will use superior defense and special team play to hold off a game Spartan effort and settle the emotions of their more cautious fans.
Ohio State at Minnesota
Let's summarize. Ohio State's defense is good, damn good. Ohio State's offense is coming along nicely. Minnesota's defense is bad, damn bad. Minnesota's offense is explosive. What does it mean? OSU's offense will pad stats against a defense that couldn't stop a crawling baby. The Buckeyes' defense will slow an offense that hasn't played a team with any defense to a crawl. It's going to be ugly, there is no way around it. Still wish you'd fired Glen Mason? Not so much... Ohio State 44 - Minnesota 10.
Dan Meyer says ... OHIO STATE 38 at Minnesota 14 - Full kudos to Tressel, the Buckeyes have reloaded far faster than expected. The defense was never in doubt, but an offense with early game issues clearly found themselves against Washington and Northwestern. Minnesota, conversely, has been painful to watch; splitting home games in the Metrodome against MAC foes (both OT games), losing to Florida Atlantic and losing to Purdue. The comparative strength of the Gophers is offense and they took a step forward last Saturday night by hanging 28 second-half points on the undefeated Boilers. The Buckeyes only have to worry about distraction and lack of focus. While the Gophers stepped up in the second half last week; they will be hard-pressed to keep from falling back this week.
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Monday, September 24, 2007
Monday Evening QB ...
League play got underway this weekend with a blow-out, a shoot-out, a road surprise, a home surprise and a night-time grinder. One team - Michigan State - played out of conference and handed the Fighting Irish their tarnished hats. It was a weekend with some brow raising games for sure and one of many to be played over the next two months.
Four teams remain unbeaten overall, and five teams are ranked in the latest Coaches Poll with a few knocking on the door. The race will only get wilder as we go, starting with this weekend, when two of the unbeatens do battle in Madison. Right now, the Big Ten has eight or nine teams with legitimate bowl aspirations, with two looking like the fodder for the rest...
League play got underway this weekend with a blow-out, a shoot-out, a road surprise, a home surprise and a night-time grinder. One team - Michigan State - played out of conference and handed the Fighting Irish their tarnished hats. It was a weekend with some brow raising games for sure and one of many to be played over the next two months.
Four teams remain unbeaten overall, and five teams are ranked in the latest Coaches Poll with a few knocking on the door. The race will only get wilder as we go, starting with this weekend, when two of the unbeatens do battle in Madison. Right now, the Big Ten has eight or nine teams with legitimate bowl aspirations, with two looking like the fodder for the rest...
- Wisconsin - The Badgers had to fight for every yard and point they got Saturday night against Iowa, but rode the home crowd to a victory - their national best 14th straight. It wasn't pretty, but Big Ten football is supposed to be ugly!
- Purdue - It wasn't all that pretty and the defense proved why there are still doubters but it was a conference opening road win for the Boilermakers who played nearly flawless offensive football in the second half to pull away for a 14 point win. This week, Purdue gets a break when rival Notre Dame comes to town...
- Penn State - Make it NINE in a row. Penn State has not won against Michigan since 1996 and will have to wait another year for a shot. The Nittany Lions were very disappointing on offense while the defense played good enough to win. Maybe there is something to a tougher test in the opening three games?
- Ohio State - Yawn. The Buckeyes killed the Wildcats in a game that was almost over before it started (28-0 after one quarter) and appear at this point to be the team to beat in the Big Ten.
- Northwestern - How quickly a nice 2-0 start flushes down the toilet. A week after the abysmal loss to Duke, the Wildcats were steamrolled early and often en route to a crushing defeat. The reward? A resurgent Michigan squad in Evanston this weekend.
- Minnesota - Golden Gophers fans are gonna need to be patient because there appears to be nothing but rebuilding going on this year. The offense can rack up yards in droves, but is mistake prone. The defense? I've seen D2 squads put up a better effort.
- Michigan State - Here we go again, right? State is no stranger to 4-0. The Spartans were 4-0 in 2005, went 5-0 only to lose seven straight to end the season. That was with a coach who didn't believe in defense or playing to win. Mark Dantonio is building something that Spartans fans have to be proud of and it sets up a nice little game in Mad Town this weekend...
- Michigan - Just when you had them pegged as dead, the Wolverines jump up and bite a highly ranked team. The defense has had a total turn around in the past few games and proves something many have been arguing for a while now - the best way to beat them is with a flashy, mobile quarterback and an offense that spreads the field. That isn't ND or PSU. Will they lose again this season?
- Iowa - The Hawkeyes are hurting at 2-2 but are a better team than the record indicates. That defense will win the black and gold a game or two this season, and almost did against rival Wisconsin. The trouble is the offense. It just isn't that good right now.
- Indiana - Saturday was a prime opportunity to get-r-done at home and get within two victories of bowl eligibility. However, the defense was exposed while the offense sputtered. It might be another close but no cigar campaign in Bloomington this fall.
- Illinois - I was impressed with the way the Illini fought back after IU seemed to take the momentum late in the first half. This team has play-makers on both sides of the ball and will escape the basement for the first time in a while this year.
Players of the Week:
Offense - Rashard Mendenhall, RB - ILL - 214 yards on the ground and 2 TDs.
Defense - E.J. Edds, LB - Iowa - 7 tackles, 1 INT and 1 Forced Fumble
Special Teams - Ken DeBauche, P - WIS - 47.6 YPK in a field position battle vs. Iowa
Get Gamm:
Only one person went unscathed and that man rose from the basement to take a share of the overall lead. Purdue fan Dan Meyer was perfect for the week and gets the honor this week. Dan, send me your picks by Thursday.
Schedule:
Indiana at Iowa
Penn State at Illinois
Notre Dame at Purdue
Michigan at Northwestern
Michigan State at Wisconsin (Tiebreaker)
Ohio State at Minnesota
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Get Gamm - Week Four
Ernie - aka mayo170 - took the honors last week with a very nice 9-2 record. He was the only one who picked the Hawkeyes to take it on the chin in Ames and otherwise missed on games the rest of us failed to pick correctly.
For ten Big Ten teams, conference play starts so let the wide-open league race begin. My how different things look after three weeks than they did as I wrote my previews...
Schedule:
Illinois at Indiana (Noon) - Tiebreaker
Northwestern at Ohio State (3:30)
Penn State at Michigan (3:30)
Michigan State at Notre Dame (3:30)
Iowa at Wisconsin (7:oo)
Purdue at Minnesota (8:00)
Illinois at Indiana
For the past several years this one was a battle of futility. The winner got to grab solid hold of tenth place and avoid the very bottom of the rung. That was then. Now we've got a game with some intrigue. Enough so that I have made it the tiebreaker. This contest is HUGE - yes, even at this point in the season - in terms of what it means for bowl eligibility. Both teams field impressive young quarterbacks and some turn-your-head receivers. The difference may be that the Illini are a bit more tested and have more defensive play-makers. Give it another year and this one may be more than for a bowl berth, it may factor into the Big Ten race! Indiana rides the home field, but barely: Indiana 27 - Illinois 24.
Ernie says ... Both teams are showing signs of life after several years of misery. Though Illinois seems to be putting things together nicely under Zook, Indiana has home field, along with the possibility of coach Lynch making history as the Hoosiers can improve to 4-0 for the first time under a first-year coach. I really like the Hoosiers to start the Big Ten season with a win, 23-19.
Northwestern at Ohio State
Just when I thought the Wildcats might be turning a corner, they go and lay an egg against hapless Duke. The Blue Devils snapped a 22-game losing streak on Northwestern's home turf - ouch! Meanwhile, the Buckeyes really impressed me with a resounding road win against a good Washington team. Ohio State is winning with defense while the offense gels. Northwestern got lucky to beat Nevada, then lost to Duke. I don't think the men in purple have a prayer unless they play the perfect game. Ohio State 34 - Northwestern 10.
Ernie says ... Northwestern started the season off right, reeling off two victories, but boy does the loss to Duke sting. Ohio State is right back where they left off, winning game after game. Northwestern is dangerous when they are allowed to hang around in games, but Ohio State’s defense is so adept at making adjustments on the fly and moving to the ball, I don’t see any way the Wildcats pull an upset here. Ohio State takes their first Big Ten win in the 2007 season 31-10.
Penn State at Michigan
Might JoePa finally get a long - and that's an understatement - awaited victory over nemesis Michigan? Since joining the Big Ten, the Nittany Lions are 3-9 against the maize and blue. The last PSU win over Michigan? 1996 in Ann Arbor. To put that in perspective, the freshmen on this year's team were 7 or 8 years old then! Granted, it isn't like the dominant stretch is full of Michigan run-aways wins. The last three (2006, 2005 and 2002) are by a combined 12 points and the last one in Ann Arbor came on a semi-controversial last play of the game. At any rate, the past is past. Penn State is a better football team right now than Michigan. Chad Henne is still dinged up. Michigan is still stinging from losses to Appalachian State and Oregon despite a hollow blow-out win over lowly Notre Dame. Penn State hasn't played anyone of note and struggled with Buffalo. It'll be better than some might expect, but Penn State keeps the pressure on Lloyd Carr. Penn State 27 - Michigan 13.
Ernie says ... If you ask me, this is one of the toughest calls of the week. There is so much going on in the minds of both Michigan and Penn State, it’s a difficult one to figure out logically. Michigan needs to win now, but are they capable? Penn State hasn’t really played anyone, and they haven’t beaten the Wolverines since JoePa was middle-aged. Fortunately or unfortunately for Michigan it’s at home. I’m not sure that Michigan is going to hold on with this one. Penn State takes down Michigan 31-28.
Michigan State at Notre Dame
This one has long been a friendly rivalry. Notre Dame was instrumental in helping State build its national stature, the two played in the famed 10-10 tie in 1966 ... the list goes on and on. Things haven't been nearly as chummy of late - flag plantings, trophy with-holding, false accusations of players slapping the head coach, MSU having won the last five in South Bend and 7 of the last ten overall. Combined with the exasperating ineptitude of the Fighting Irish this season, you have the makings of a nasty, physical football game. MSU is in a situation where it is expected to win. ND isn't expected to do anything and can't really lose. All of it makes for an interesting build up. The bottom line is, Notre Dame has no offense and the defense is dog tired. MSU has a better than advertised defense with an offense that has sputtered of late. It'll be a good game, believe it or not. Why? Because it almost always is... Michigan State 24 - Notre Dame 16.
Ernie says ... Notre Dame is pulling out everything to get a victory over their nemesis this week, and they need to. The Ara Parseghian Statue will be dedicated, and there will be many alumni football players on hand. State is impressing a lot of people with their ability to not shoot their own foot this year. The mistakes are gone, they are focused, they are hungry and they are very well-coached. In essence, MSU is everything that Notre Dame is not this season. I look for MSU to put a big hurt on Notre Dame early and get past all the hype that is Notre Dame 31-10. Whether or not ND’s touchdown is offensive or defensive, who knows.
Iowa at Wisconsin
Hmmm, what to think here. A big time opener for both teams. Wisconsin has beaten more formidable foes, if you can put Wazzou in that category. Iowa's defense is downright stifling, but the offense has left a lot to be desired. The Badgers were matched for three quarters, score for score by The Citadel and barely beat UNLV. The Hawkeyes lost to rival Iowa State who was 0-2 with a loss to 1-AA Northern Iowa. What to think? One thing is for sure - Camp Randall will be rocking. It is honestly the closest the Big Ten can get to the Richter Scale atmosphere in Baton Rouge. Wisconsin rides the home crowd to extend the streak to 13-straight. Wisconsin 20 - Iowa 13.
Ernie says ... What bad timing the Hawkeyes have. Iowa just lost to their in-state rival and Wisconsin needs to remind everyone why they are worthy of their high-ranking after some shaky wins recently. I see Wisconsin making a statement this week with a big victory, 28-16.
Purdue at Minnesota
I wonder if Coach Mason is smirking to himself these days? There is some definite rebuilding going on in the Twin Cities. The Gophers are pretty fortunate to be 1-2 as they could just as easily be 0-3. Then again, all the games were close ... if you can count close against lesser foes as a moral victory. Purdue's offense is firing on all cylinders and has to be licking its chops right now. The Boilers aren't exactly stopping teams with the defense, but they'll get it done in the opener. Purdue 42 - Minnesota 30.
Ernie says ... Is a preview necessary for this? Minnesota sits just above Michigan in the basement of the Big Ten, having barely eclipsed the 100-points for, while Purdue has racked up over 150 points in three games and hasn’t lost yet. This will be the biggest shakedown of the week, with Purdue welcoming Minnesota’s coach Brewer to the Big Ten with a loss. Purdue 45-14.
Ernie - aka mayo170 - took the honors last week with a very nice 9-2 record. He was the only one who picked the Hawkeyes to take it on the chin in Ames and otherwise missed on games the rest of us failed to pick correctly.
For ten Big Ten teams, conference play starts so let the wide-open league race begin. My how different things look after three weeks than they did as I wrote my previews...
Schedule:
Illinois at Indiana (Noon) - Tiebreaker
Northwestern at Ohio State (3:30)
Penn State at Michigan (3:30)
Michigan State at Notre Dame (3:30)
Iowa at Wisconsin (7:oo)
Purdue at Minnesota (8:00)
Illinois at Indiana
For the past several years this one was a battle of futility. The winner got to grab solid hold of tenth place and avoid the very bottom of the rung. That was then. Now we've got a game with some intrigue. Enough so that I have made it the tiebreaker. This contest is HUGE - yes, even at this point in the season - in terms of what it means for bowl eligibility. Both teams field impressive young quarterbacks and some turn-your-head receivers. The difference may be that the Illini are a bit more tested and have more defensive play-makers. Give it another year and this one may be more than for a bowl berth, it may factor into the Big Ten race! Indiana rides the home field, but barely: Indiana 27 - Illinois 24.
Ernie says ... Both teams are showing signs of life after several years of misery. Though Illinois seems to be putting things together nicely under Zook, Indiana has home field, along with the possibility of coach Lynch making history as the Hoosiers can improve to 4-0 for the first time under a first-year coach. I really like the Hoosiers to start the Big Ten season with a win, 23-19.
Northwestern at Ohio State
Just when I thought the Wildcats might be turning a corner, they go and lay an egg against hapless Duke. The Blue Devils snapped a 22-game losing streak on Northwestern's home turf - ouch! Meanwhile, the Buckeyes really impressed me with a resounding road win against a good Washington team. Ohio State is winning with defense while the offense gels. Northwestern got lucky to beat Nevada, then lost to Duke. I don't think the men in purple have a prayer unless they play the perfect game. Ohio State 34 - Northwestern 10.
Ernie says ... Northwestern started the season off right, reeling off two victories, but boy does the loss to Duke sting. Ohio State is right back where they left off, winning game after game. Northwestern is dangerous when they are allowed to hang around in games, but Ohio State’s defense is so adept at making adjustments on the fly and moving to the ball, I don’t see any way the Wildcats pull an upset here. Ohio State takes their first Big Ten win in the 2007 season 31-10.
Penn State at Michigan
Might JoePa finally get a long - and that's an understatement - awaited victory over nemesis Michigan? Since joining the Big Ten, the Nittany Lions are 3-9 against the maize and blue. The last PSU win over Michigan? 1996 in Ann Arbor. To put that in perspective, the freshmen on this year's team were 7 or 8 years old then! Granted, it isn't like the dominant stretch is full of Michigan run-aways wins. The last three (2006, 2005 and 2002) are by a combined 12 points and the last one in Ann Arbor came on a semi-controversial last play of the game. At any rate, the past is past. Penn State is a better football team right now than Michigan. Chad Henne is still dinged up. Michigan is still stinging from losses to Appalachian State and Oregon despite a hollow blow-out win over lowly Notre Dame. Penn State hasn't played anyone of note and struggled with Buffalo. It'll be better than some might expect, but Penn State keeps the pressure on Lloyd Carr. Penn State 27 - Michigan 13.
Ernie says ... If you ask me, this is one of the toughest calls of the week. There is so much going on in the minds of both Michigan and Penn State, it’s a difficult one to figure out logically. Michigan needs to win now, but are they capable? Penn State hasn’t really played anyone, and they haven’t beaten the Wolverines since JoePa was middle-aged. Fortunately or unfortunately for Michigan it’s at home. I’m not sure that Michigan is going to hold on with this one. Penn State takes down Michigan 31-28.
Michigan State at Notre Dame
This one has long been a friendly rivalry. Notre Dame was instrumental in helping State build its national stature, the two played in the famed 10-10 tie in 1966 ... the list goes on and on. Things haven't been nearly as chummy of late - flag plantings, trophy with-holding, false accusations of players slapping the head coach, MSU having won the last five in South Bend and 7 of the last ten overall. Combined with the exasperating ineptitude of the Fighting Irish this season, you have the makings of a nasty, physical football game. MSU is in a situation where it is expected to win. ND isn't expected to do anything and can't really lose. All of it makes for an interesting build up. The bottom line is, Notre Dame has no offense and the defense is dog tired. MSU has a better than advertised defense with an offense that has sputtered of late. It'll be a good game, believe it or not. Why? Because it almost always is... Michigan State 24 - Notre Dame 16.
Ernie says ... Notre Dame is pulling out everything to get a victory over their nemesis this week, and they need to. The Ara Parseghian Statue will be dedicated, and there will be many alumni football players on hand. State is impressing a lot of people with their ability to not shoot their own foot this year. The mistakes are gone, they are focused, they are hungry and they are very well-coached. In essence, MSU is everything that Notre Dame is not this season. I look for MSU to put a big hurt on Notre Dame early and get past all the hype that is Notre Dame 31-10. Whether or not ND’s touchdown is offensive or defensive, who knows.
Iowa at Wisconsin
Hmmm, what to think here. A big time opener for both teams. Wisconsin has beaten more formidable foes, if you can put Wazzou in that category. Iowa's defense is downright stifling, but the offense has left a lot to be desired. The Badgers were matched for three quarters, score for score by The Citadel and barely beat UNLV. The Hawkeyes lost to rival Iowa State who was 0-2 with a loss to 1-AA Northern Iowa. What to think? One thing is for sure - Camp Randall will be rocking. It is honestly the closest the Big Ten can get to the Richter Scale atmosphere in Baton Rouge. Wisconsin rides the home crowd to extend the streak to 13-straight. Wisconsin 20 - Iowa 13.
Ernie says ... What bad timing the Hawkeyes have. Iowa just lost to their in-state rival and Wisconsin needs to remind everyone why they are worthy of their high-ranking after some shaky wins recently. I see Wisconsin making a statement this week with a big victory, 28-16.
Purdue at Minnesota
I wonder if Coach Mason is smirking to himself these days? There is some definite rebuilding going on in the Twin Cities. The Gophers are pretty fortunate to be 1-2 as they could just as easily be 0-3. Then again, all the games were close ... if you can count close against lesser foes as a moral victory. Purdue's offense is firing on all cylinders and has to be licking its chops right now. The Boilers aren't exactly stopping teams with the defense, but they'll get it done in the opener. Purdue 42 - Minnesota 30.
Ernie says ... Is a preview necessary for this? Minnesota sits just above Michigan in the basement of the Big Ten, having barely eclipsed the 100-points for, while Purdue has racked up over 150 points in three games and hasn’t lost yet. This will be the biggest shakedown of the week, with Purdue welcoming Minnesota’s coach Brewer to the Big Ten with a loss. Purdue 45-14.
Monday, September 17, 2007
Monday Morning QB ... in the evening
F-U-G-L-Y. Not much more you can say about the weekend that was in the Big Ten. More trouble with 1-AA foes (I still can't say championship sub-division), losses to previously winless teams who had lost to a 1-AA team, a home rotten egg against the team with the longest current losing streak in the Big Ten? So much for the return to glory for the conference. Guess that means the race is wide open though, which will mean a fun couple of months here in Big Ten Country!
In reality, the Big Ten has but one good win to its name in 33 contests to date - Ohio State's solid road win over previously unbeaten Washington over the weekend. That's pretty pathetic if you ask me. For more on a team by team basis of what might have been the worst non-conference week in recent memory, follow along:
F-U-G-L-Y. Not much more you can say about the weekend that was in the Big Ten. More trouble with 1-AA foes (I still can't say championship sub-division), losses to previously winless teams who had lost to a 1-AA team, a home rotten egg against the team with the longest current losing streak in the Big Ten? So much for the return to glory for the conference. Guess that means the race is wide open though, which will mean a fun couple of months here in Big Ten Country!
In reality, the Big Ten has but one good win to its name in 33 contests to date - Ohio State's solid road win over previously unbeaten Washington over the weekend. That's pretty pathetic if you ask me. For more on a team by team basis of what might have been the worst non-conference week in recent memory, follow along:
- Illinois - the Illini actually looked really good against lowly Syracuse. It was the first win over a 1A foe since the road upset in East Lansing last fall and might be the springboard this team needs to get back to respectability.
- Indiana - well, the Hoosiers didn't stop the Zips like OSU did the week prior, but man does that offense look smooth with Kellen Lewis at the helm. This team will score an upset this season and prove me right with a bowl berth.
- Iowa - oh my. Previously, the Cyclones had lost in ugly ways to 1-AA Northern Iowa and Kent State. Just goes to show you the power of a rivalry. Iowa was caught looking ahead to the Big Ten opener... or their offense is just not nearly the caliber of the defense.
- Michigan - the preseason favorite of many to get to the Rose Bowl finally got a W. Notre Dame might be the worst team in the bowl sub-division but still, it was a good win for the Wolverines who had been reeling.
- Michigan State - put it this way, it was the FIRST win without scoring at least 20 points since 2001 for the Spartans. It was ugly in a lot of ways but beautiful when it comes to the scoreboard. State finally won with its defense, when is the last time that happened?
- Minnesota - ugh. Ouch. So many preseason rags touted this as a bowl team while I picked them last in the Big Ten. But even I didn't expect this loss. Enough said.
- Northwestern - double UGH! A loss to Duke in basketball is okay, in football - at home - unforgivable. The Wildcats almost got the win, with four shots at the end zone late, but took a tough one on the chin when it comes to building to six wins on the season.
- Ohio State - the Buckeyes more or less dominated a good Washington team, on the road. The defense was rock solid again and the offense finally came to life. Might be a Rose Bowl year after all for the reloading scarlet and gray.
- Penn State - this game was 3-3 late in the second quarter. I'll chalk it up to the Nits looking ahead to a date in Ann Arbor because they finally snapped too and stuck it to lowly Buffalo.
- Purdue - cruised early, held on late and lost a tailback in the process. I like this Boilermaker offense - a lot - but the defense is going to cost this team a game or two in conference play.
- Wisconsin - yes the Badgers own the longest win streak in the nation but it hasn't been pretty so far this season. The Citadel matched UW score for score early and then finally succumb to PJ Hill's pounding attack.
Players of the Week:
Offense - PJ Hill, TB - Wisconsin. 5 touchdowns.
Defense - Jonal St. Dic, DE - Michigan State. 5 TFL, 2 sacks, 2 forced fumble.
Special Teams - David Gilreath, WR - Wisconsin. 148 total return yards.
Get Gamm:
Ernie, aka mayo170 was the only player with some decent success, going 9-2 for the week. He was the only one to pick the ISU upset over Iowa and gets to pick on the home page for the week.
This week's schedule:
Illinois at Indiana (Tiebreaker)
Northwestern at Ohio State
Penn State at Michigan
Michigan State at Notre Dame
Iowa at Wisconsin
Purdue at Minnesota
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Get Gamm - Week Three
Only one person nailed all of the games last week and that means BruceS gets the neon lights treatment. I.E. his picks make the front page of the blog.
Buffalo at Penn State
Pittsburgh at Michigan State
The Citadel at Wisconsin
Illinois at Syracuse
Akron at Indiana
Duke at Northwestern
Central Michigan at Purdue
Iowa at Iowa State
Notre Dame at Michigan
Ohio State at Washington (Tiebreaker)
Minnesota at Florida Atlantic
Buffalo at Penn State
The Big Ten is 6-1 against the MAC and Minnesota is the only team to give the MAC a real shot in one of the games to date. Penn State is not about to be loss number two, not even in a game sandwiched between Notre Dame and Michigan. Buffalo might be better than ND and is certainly better than FIU. It'll be close, until kickoff. Penn State 52 - Buffalo 10.
BruceS says ... Buffalo 0 - Penn State 63. Come on, how about playing somebody. The Nittany Lion's non-conference schedule is as soft as cotton. This score could be closer to 163 - 0. PSU is very good and Buffalo is no match at all. This should never have been scheduled.
Pittsburgh at Michigan State
Another week, another game that will be a bit tougher than the previous game for the Spartans. The Panthers have suffered more than one loss of a starter on the offensive side of the ball and went from playing a really bad MAC team in Eastern Michigan to a so-so 1-AA squad in Grambling State. Michigan State is off to its eighth 2-0 start in the last nine seasons and while rebuilding, every win is key. This is a game State should win, especially after romping at Pitt a season ago - against arguably a better Panthers team. It'll be a tough one... Michigan State 33 - Pittsburgh 21.
BruceS says ... Pittburgh 17 - Michigan State 34. Spartans rebound from a tougher than expected BGSU game while Pitt has already been bitten by the injury bug at QB & WR.
The Citadel at Wisconsin
Hmmm, an interesting one here. Yes, Citadel is a 1-AA foe. Yes, Wisconsin has won 12 straight. However, the Bulldogs' last loss was at a little school we've become quite familiar with - Appalachian State. The Citadel is 2-0 and has gone on the road for a D1 upset before (Arkansas). The Badgers are coming off an embarrassing effort, albeit a win, at UNLV. We've learned our lesson - never count out a 1-AA foe - however, it won't happen in the Big Ten again any time soon. Wisconsin 41 - The Citadel 14.
BruceS says ... The Citadel 0 - Wisconsin 56. I could almost use the same explanation I used for the Penn St./Buffalo game. This will be a cake walk for the Badgers.
Illinois at Syracuse
Man, if this were the Maui Classic or March Madness, we'd have something to talk about. But let me put it bluntly - Syracuse sucks at football. Washington pasted them in the opener. Iowa dismantled them last week. Illinois is not of the caliber of the Huskies or the Hawkeyes, but are young and improving, close to being 2-0 as opposed to 1-1 and ready to get a win against someone other than a 1-AA directional school or Michigan State. Juice Williams will have a hey day in the Carrier Dome. Illinois 37 - Syracuse 23.
BruceS says ... Illinois 31 - Syracuse 13. Illinois needs to improve upon its effort in last week's win. There may not be a better "name" team to do that against right now than Syracuse. My, how the once mighty have fallen.
Akron at Indiana
Big Ten v. MAC round 9. IU v. MAC round 2. I like this Indiana team. The offense is potent and the defense is coming up with big plays. The win at Western Michigan was worth more than it might appear as the Broncos are a really good Mid-American Conference team. Just as for the Spartans, every one of these "should wins" is a must win if a bowl berth is to remain a legitimate goal. Akron held tough at Ohio State but at this point, the Buckeyes are not as potent on offense as the Hoosiers. Indiana 30 - Akron 13.
BruceS says ... Akron 20 - Indiana 17. My upset of the week. I going to believe the Zip's defense is for real and will shut down IU while the offense will score just enough to pull off the win.
Duke at Northwestern
Sorry Wildcats fans, this is the must find something better to do than watch this game of the week. Northwestern staged a great comeback last week against Nevada and looks to start 3-0. Duke is just looking to do something, anything, to bide time until basketball season starts. Northwestern 34 - Duke 7.
BruceS says ... Duke 10 - Northwestern 31. Duke is another "name" school that is not very good. The Wildcats will get it going and pull away for the win.
Central Michigan at Purdue
This one could quickly become a basketball game. Both offenses are wide open and can score in droves. The Chippewas pummeled the Toledo Rockets just like Purdue did but got hammered in the opener at Kansas. Purdue feasted on under manned Eastern Illinois and has yet to be tested. Central Michigan is one of the better teams in the MAC and will stay with the Boilermakers for at least a half. Still, the maroon and gold gave up 50+ in the opener so Painter has to be licking his chops. Purdue 48 - Central Michigan 24.
BruceS says ... Central Michigan 16 - Purdue 38. Purdue's offense will score more than enough points to prevent another MAC team from getting a win against a B10 opponent.
Iowa at Iowa State
Iowa has to be chomping at the bit to play its in-state rival. Why? The Cyclones were another major program to get bitten by a 1-AA opponent (Northern Iowa). It is in Ames and a rivalry game, but I like how the Hawkeyes have improved from game to game this season. A big win here sets the tone for the start of Big Ten play next week. The Iowa offense is far from pretty right now, but the defense is nasty and will win this game. Iowa 24 - Iowa State 10.
BruceS says ... Iowa 28 - Iowa State 13. Hawkeyes getting better and will win this bitter in-state battle.
Notre Dame at Michigan
We've all heard the facts - this is the first time ever that these two storied programs are 0-2 at the same time. The two winningest programs in college football history have a lot to play for this weekend. Each team has a tough home game in week four and would love to get off the mat sooner rather than later. Michigan's defense is as bad as I have ever seen. Notre Dame's offense is worse than Michigan's defense. Something has to give. Mike Hart guaranteed a victory but that might have been before he know Chad Henne was injured enough to miss this game. It will be entertaining to watch this slug fest. Michigan 13 - Notre Dame 9.
BruceS says ... Notre Dame 20 - Michigan 13. The battle of the freshman QB's. I give the edge to the Irish only because Clausen has 1 game under his belt while the Michigan defense appears to be unable to stop anybody.
Ohio State at Washington
This is the Game of the Week in the Big Ten - by far. Ohio State hasn't been tested yet, Washington has. The Buckeyes are winning with defense while the offense retools. The Huskies are getting it done on both sides of the ball. The way the purple and gold handled Boise State doesn't bode well for the scarlet and gray. OSU will have to win this one on limited mistakes and solid defense. At home, I think that happens. But in Seattle? I'm not so sure. Washington 20 - Ohio State 17.
BruceS says ... Ohio State 27 - Washington 21. I look for Buckeyes to play better than last week. Washington had a good looking win against Boise St. but I'm not ready to believe they can beat this OSU team. Buckeyes too much for the Huskies.
Minnesota at Florida Atlantic
Okay, maybe I labeled the Duke v. Northwestern game as the one not to watch a smidge too soon. Minnesota is barely 1-1 right now, and arguments could be made that they could as easily be 0-2 or 2-0. Florida Atlantic gets to bring a big boy to town but I predict this one could be really ugly to watch! FAU did beat Middle Tennessee, who gave Louisville all they could handle, but I see Minnesota getting this one right and riding Amir Pinnix to victory. Minnesota 31 - Florida Atlantic 20.
BruceS says ... Minnesota 38 - Florida Atlantic 13. Minnesota travels south to pick up a win. This is another example of Minnesota's recent past of scheduling a very weak non-conference opponent. This should be a blowout win for Minnesota. If not, it will be another signal for what could be a long season for the Gophers.
Only one person nailed all of the games last week and that means BruceS gets the neon lights treatment. I.E. his picks make the front page of the blog.
Buffalo at Penn State
Pittsburgh at Michigan State
The Citadel at Wisconsin
Illinois at Syracuse
Akron at Indiana
Duke at Northwestern
Central Michigan at Purdue
Iowa at Iowa State
Notre Dame at Michigan
Ohio State at Washington (Tiebreaker)
Minnesota at Florida Atlantic
Buffalo at Penn State
The Big Ten is 6-1 against the MAC and Minnesota is the only team to give the MAC a real shot in one of the games to date. Penn State is not about to be loss number two, not even in a game sandwiched between Notre Dame and Michigan. Buffalo might be better than ND and is certainly better than FIU. It'll be close, until kickoff. Penn State 52 - Buffalo 10.
BruceS says ... Buffalo 0 - Penn State 63. Come on, how about playing somebody. The Nittany Lion's non-conference schedule is as soft as cotton. This score could be closer to 163 - 0. PSU is very good and Buffalo is no match at all. This should never have been scheduled.
Pittsburgh at Michigan State
Another week, another game that will be a bit tougher than the previous game for the Spartans. The Panthers have suffered more than one loss of a starter on the offensive side of the ball and went from playing a really bad MAC team in Eastern Michigan to a so-so 1-AA squad in Grambling State. Michigan State is off to its eighth 2-0 start in the last nine seasons and while rebuilding, every win is key. This is a game State should win, especially after romping at Pitt a season ago - against arguably a better Panthers team. It'll be a tough one... Michigan State 33 - Pittsburgh 21.
BruceS says ... Pittburgh 17 - Michigan State 34. Spartans rebound from a tougher than expected BGSU game while Pitt has already been bitten by the injury bug at QB & WR.
The Citadel at Wisconsin
Hmmm, an interesting one here. Yes, Citadel is a 1-AA foe. Yes, Wisconsin has won 12 straight. However, the Bulldogs' last loss was at a little school we've become quite familiar with - Appalachian State. The Citadel is 2-0 and has gone on the road for a D1 upset before (Arkansas). The Badgers are coming off an embarrassing effort, albeit a win, at UNLV. We've learned our lesson - never count out a 1-AA foe - however, it won't happen in the Big Ten again any time soon. Wisconsin 41 - The Citadel 14.
BruceS says ... The Citadel 0 - Wisconsin 56. I could almost use the same explanation I used for the Penn St./Buffalo game. This will be a cake walk for the Badgers.
Illinois at Syracuse
Man, if this were the Maui Classic or March Madness, we'd have something to talk about. But let me put it bluntly - Syracuse sucks at football. Washington pasted them in the opener. Iowa dismantled them last week. Illinois is not of the caliber of the Huskies or the Hawkeyes, but are young and improving, close to being 2-0 as opposed to 1-1 and ready to get a win against someone other than a 1-AA directional school or Michigan State. Juice Williams will have a hey day in the Carrier Dome. Illinois 37 - Syracuse 23.
BruceS says ... Illinois 31 - Syracuse 13. Illinois needs to improve upon its effort in last week's win. There may not be a better "name" team to do that against right now than Syracuse. My, how the once mighty have fallen.
Akron at Indiana
Big Ten v. MAC round 9. IU v. MAC round 2. I like this Indiana team. The offense is potent and the defense is coming up with big plays. The win at Western Michigan was worth more than it might appear as the Broncos are a really good Mid-American Conference team. Just as for the Spartans, every one of these "should wins" is a must win if a bowl berth is to remain a legitimate goal. Akron held tough at Ohio State but at this point, the Buckeyes are not as potent on offense as the Hoosiers. Indiana 30 - Akron 13.
BruceS says ... Akron 20 - Indiana 17. My upset of the week. I going to believe the Zip's defense is for real and will shut down IU while the offense will score just enough to pull off the win.
Duke at Northwestern
Sorry Wildcats fans, this is the must find something better to do than watch this game of the week. Northwestern staged a great comeback last week against Nevada and looks to start 3-0. Duke is just looking to do something, anything, to bide time until basketball season starts. Northwestern 34 - Duke 7.
BruceS says ... Duke 10 - Northwestern 31. Duke is another "name" school that is not very good. The Wildcats will get it going and pull away for the win.
Central Michigan at Purdue
This one could quickly become a basketball game. Both offenses are wide open and can score in droves. The Chippewas pummeled the Toledo Rockets just like Purdue did but got hammered in the opener at Kansas. Purdue feasted on under manned Eastern Illinois and has yet to be tested. Central Michigan is one of the better teams in the MAC and will stay with the Boilermakers for at least a half. Still, the maroon and gold gave up 50+ in the opener so Painter has to be licking his chops. Purdue 48 - Central Michigan 24.
BruceS says ... Central Michigan 16 - Purdue 38. Purdue's offense will score more than enough points to prevent another MAC team from getting a win against a B10 opponent.
Iowa at Iowa State
Iowa has to be chomping at the bit to play its in-state rival. Why? The Cyclones were another major program to get bitten by a 1-AA opponent (Northern Iowa). It is in Ames and a rivalry game, but I like how the Hawkeyes have improved from game to game this season. A big win here sets the tone for the start of Big Ten play next week. The Iowa offense is far from pretty right now, but the defense is nasty and will win this game. Iowa 24 - Iowa State 10.
BruceS says ... Iowa 28 - Iowa State 13. Hawkeyes getting better and will win this bitter in-state battle.
Notre Dame at Michigan
We've all heard the facts - this is the first time ever that these two storied programs are 0-2 at the same time. The two winningest programs in college football history have a lot to play for this weekend. Each team has a tough home game in week four and would love to get off the mat sooner rather than later. Michigan's defense is as bad as I have ever seen. Notre Dame's offense is worse than Michigan's defense. Something has to give. Mike Hart guaranteed a victory but that might have been before he know Chad Henne was injured enough to miss this game. It will be entertaining to watch this slug fest. Michigan 13 - Notre Dame 9.
BruceS says ... Notre Dame 20 - Michigan 13. The battle of the freshman QB's. I give the edge to the Irish only because Clausen has 1 game under his belt while the Michigan defense appears to be unable to stop anybody.
Ohio State at Washington
This is the Game of the Week in the Big Ten - by far. Ohio State hasn't been tested yet, Washington has. The Buckeyes are winning with defense while the offense retools. The Huskies are getting it done on both sides of the ball. The way the purple and gold handled Boise State doesn't bode well for the scarlet and gray. OSU will have to win this one on limited mistakes and solid defense. At home, I think that happens. But in Seattle? I'm not so sure. Washington 20 - Ohio State 17.
BruceS says ... Ohio State 27 - Washington 21. I look for Buckeyes to play better than last week. Washington had a good looking win against Boise St. but I'm not ready to believe they can beat this OSU team. Buckeyes too much for the Huskies.
Minnesota at Florida Atlantic
Okay, maybe I labeled the Duke v. Northwestern game as the one not to watch a smidge too soon. Minnesota is barely 1-1 right now, and arguments could be made that they could as easily be 0-2 or 2-0. Florida Atlantic gets to bring a big boy to town but I predict this one could be really ugly to watch! FAU did beat Middle Tennessee, who gave Louisville all they could handle, but I see Minnesota getting this one right and riding Amir Pinnix to victory. Minnesota 31 - Florida Atlantic 20.
BruceS says ... Minnesota 38 - Florida Atlantic 13. Minnesota travels south to pick up a win. This is another example of Minnesota's recent past of scheduling a very weak non-conference opponent. This should be a blowout win for Minnesota. If not, it will be another signal for what could be a long season for the Gophers.
Monday, September 10, 2007
Monday Morning QB - Week Two in Review...
The football world has turned on its ear. Michigan is 0-2 for the first time since 1988 and only the tenth time in its history - all others coming between 1883 and 1959! Toss in an abysmal Notre Dame squad that is also 0-2 and we have the two winningest programs in college football history sitting at 0-2 at the same time for the first time - EVER!
Memo to the pollsters - this is why we should scarp the preseason polls. They are way off base. No way Michigan was the fifth best team heading into the season. Now that it has been proven out, this is the perfect proof that the polls should kick in AFTER week three, when we have a much better gauge on who is worthy of such hype and praise.
Michigan has had all of the attention - rightfully so - for their epic upset loss and week two thumping, but meanwhile, the rest of the Big Ten is off to a pretty good start. The other ten squads brought home victories on Saturday, even if they weren't all pretty.
The football world has turned on its ear. Michigan is 0-2 for the first time since 1988 and only the tenth time in its history - all others coming between 1883 and 1959! Toss in an abysmal Notre Dame squad that is also 0-2 and we have the two winningest programs in college football history sitting at 0-2 at the same time for the first time - EVER!
Memo to the pollsters - this is why we should scarp the preseason polls. They are way off base. No way Michigan was the fifth best team heading into the season. Now that it has been proven out, this is the perfect proof that the polls should kick in AFTER week three, when we have a much better gauge on who is worthy of such hype and praise.
Michigan has had all of the attention - rightfully so - for their epic upset loss and week two thumping, but meanwhile, the rest of the Big Ten is off to a pretty good start. The other ten squads brought home victories on Saturday, even if they weren't all pretty.
- Illinois shut out Western Illinois 21-0 but struggled more than it should have.
- Indiana had to hold on to win at Western Michigan, but improved to 2-0 with a nice defensive performance.
- Iowa hammered Syracuse and proved that the old adage that teams often show the most improvement between week one and two still rings true.
- Michigan - Dead horse. Been there done that. Next.
- Michigan State handled a game Bowling Green team with a stout second half defensive effort and a mega fourth quarter grinder of a drive.
- Minnesota almost played victim to a MAC school at home on successive weeks, going to three overtimes to hold off a frenzied comeback from Miami-OH.
- Northwestern staged its own great comeback in beating Nevada to get to 2-0.
- Ohio State forced 14 punts out of Akron and cruised to a 20-2 win.
- Penn State is probably the most impressive team so far, but hey, they've beaten up on two of the worst teams in football this year - with no apologies to any rogue domers or fans of field goal Jesus reading this blog.
- Purdue is right behind the Nits in terms of impressiveness, but who have they played? Still, 2-0 is 2-0.
- Wisconsin survived UNLV. Must have been too many distractions in Sin City for the Badgers to handle the Rebels like they should have!
Players of the Week:
Offense - Curtis Painter, Purdue QB - 6 touchdown passes, 348 yards passing and a 77.6% completion percentage.
Defense - Indiana Team Defense - 5 turnovers, 5 sacks in taking over a potential trap road game at Western Michigan.
Special Teams - Ken Iwebema, Iowa - Not one, but two blocked field goals in Iowa's romp.
Get Gamm Winner:
Only one person saw Michigan staying down after the Appy State loss. BruceS went 11-0 to win the second week of Get Gamm and nudge to the top of the standings. Bruce, send me your picks by Thursday sometime.
This week's schedule:
Buffalo at Penn State
Pittsburgh at Michigan State
The Citadel at Wisconsin
Illinois at Syracuse
Akron at Indiana
Duke at Northwestern
Central Michigan at Purdue
Iowa at Iowa State
Notre Dame at Michigan
Ohio State at Washington (Tiebreaker)
Minnesota at Florida Atlantic
Friday, September 07, 2007
Get Gamm - Week Two
That time again. Will there be a big upset this weekend? We'll see...
Miami-OH at Minnesota
BSGU at Michigan State
Eastern Illinois at Purdue
Akron at Ohio State
Nevada at Northwestern
Oregon at Michigan (Tiebreaker)
Notre Dame at Penn State
Western Illinois at Illinois
Syracuse at Iowa
Indiana at Western Michigan
Wisconsin at UNLV
Miami-OH at Minnesota
Hmmm, where to go with this one. The Big Ten was 2-1 versus the MAC on opening weekend – one blowout win, one closer than expected win and one overtime loss. The loss? Minnesota. At home. Insert cringe and shudder here. I watched that game on the Big Ten Network and wondered where the heck the running game was as BGSU racked up and early 21-0 lead? The Gophers mounted a solid comeback but Bowling Green was gutsy and got the win on an unnecessary (at that point) two-point conversion. But enough of last week. I suspect that Coach Brewster will ride his horse – Pinnix – until his legs fall off against the Red Hawks. Miami nipped Ball State in its opener with a late touchdown. Can the MAC make it 2-0 against Minny this fall? Not likely. Minnesota 27 – Miami-OH 14.
Bowling Green State at Michigan State
Speak of the orange and brown devil. The Falcons are looking to make a statement to Big Ten commish Jim Delaney that they should be the 12th conference team. Well, maybe not but you can bet they would love to improve to 6-12 all-time against the Big Ten conference. The difference is that Michigan State has more talent, a better defense and a more proven coach than Minnesota. BGSU got the Spartans’ attention with last week’s win and after the Appalachian State upset over Michigan, don’t expect anyone to overlook the smaller foe this weekend. State got its feet wet against the spread last week when UAB unveiled it to an unsuspecting green and white defense. It’ll be a tougher go this week, but MSU will build on last week’s success. Michigan State 38 – Bowling Green 21.
Eastern Illinois at Purdue
After last week’s showing by the Mountaineers, don’t expect any 1-AA team to go on the road without expecting they too can pull a shocking upset. While beating the Boilers at home would not equal what ASU did at Michigan, it would serve more notice around college football. That said, as good as the Panthers looked in whipping on Ohio Valley Conference foe Tennessee Tech last week, the chances that they beat Purdue are slim to none. Purdue took a while to get in gear at Toledo but once they did, they rolled. I expect Eastern Illinois to battle for a quarter and a half but not much longer. Purdue 52 – Eastern Illinois 17.
Akron at Ohio State
It is MAC v. Big Ten III when the Zips take to the ‘shoe to face the retooled Buckeyes. Ohio State was strong in its opening win over Youngstown State and now the competition bumps up, if ever so slightly. Akron struggled to dispatch an Army team in a several year tailspin and if the most improvement comes between the first and second games, look out. The more time and success the new faces at OSU get under their belts, the scarier that team becomes. Ohio State 41 – Akron 7.
Nevada at Northwestern
It’s pay back time for the Wildcats. NU lost a tough one at Nevada last season and comes in having shut out fellow directional school Northeastern. The Wolfpack were pushed and shoved all over the place in a blow out loss to Nebraska. While Northwestern is not Nebraska, the Wildcats will ride the legs of Sutton to a comfortable win and a sweet little 2-0 start. Northwestern 24 – Nevada 14.
Oregon at Michigan
Easily the Game of the Week – particularly in light of Michigan’s opening debacle. Why particularly? Because Michigan must have this one to start to restore some normalcy and respectability around Ann Arbor. Trouble is, the Ducks bring the same brand of fast football that has killed the Wolverines the last few years. If Oregon gets out to a fast start, things could snowball out of control for Michigan. That seems unthinkable, but so did a loss to a 1-AA school. I think the players have a lot to prove and will, even if it is a tough game. Oregon gives the maize and blue all they can handle, but this time, M holds on. Michigan 31 – Oregon 27.
Notre Dame at Penn State
Last year, everyone had an eye on this game. ND killed Penn State. Now the shoe is on the other foot. The Irish managed just one field goal and the offense was so inept that Jim Rome dubbed “touchdown Jesus” as “field goal Jesus.” Irish fans, it’s gonna get worse before it gets better. Penn State is hungry for payback and looked damn good in its cupcake of an opener. Look for the Nittany Lions to send a message to the nation, early and often. Penn State 41 – Notre Dame 13.
Western Illinois at Illinois
The Leathernecks invade Champaign for what the Illini hope is a home opener that goes a little better than last week’s close loss to Mizzou. The Illini have to wonder what might have been had Juice Williams not gone down with an injury early in that game. Western Illinois will be hyped to play the big boys from the state, but will run out of gas by the half. Illinois 40 – Western Illinois 14.
Syracuse at Iowa
Neither team looked particularly good in its opener, though at least Iowa was victorious. This was a barn-burner last year but you can bet that the Hawkeyes will be a lot sharper this week than last. Iowa rolls. Iowa 37 – Syracuse 10.
Indiana at Western Michigan
This is actually quite an intriguing game. It is the fourth Big Ten v. MAC showdown of the week and quite possibly the best chance for the MAC to win another game against the vaunted Big Ten this year. Indiana looked solid in its opener, but that was against 1-AA Indiana State. The Broncos got whipped at West Virginia but have the talent to get the win here. It’s always dangerous to go into a MAC stadium knowing that team will be sky high. That said, I like what I saw in IU last week and they win a close one. Indiana 34 – Western Michigan 27.
Wisconsin at UNLV
This might be a decent game for a bit, but UNLV has an anemic run defense and Wisconsin has PJ Hill. The Badgers were impressive in the opener and should roll again. Wisconsin 45 – UNLV 17.
That time again. Will there be a big upset this weekend? We'll see...
Miami-OH at Minnesota
BSGU at Michigan State
Eastern Illinois at Purdue
Akron at Ohio State
Nevada at Northwestern
Oregon at Michigan (Tiebreaker)
Notre Dame at Penn State
Western Illinois at Illinois
Syracuse at Iowa
Indiana at Western Michigan
Wisconsin at UNLV
Miami-OH at Minnesota
Hmmm, where to go with this one. The Big Ten was 2-1 versus the MAC on opening weekend – one blowout win, one closer than expected win and one overtime loss. The loss? Minnesota. At home. Insert cringe and shudder here. I watched that game on the Big Ten Network and wondered where the heck the running game was as BGSU racked up and early 21-0 lead? The Gophers mounted a solid comeback but Bowling Green was gutsy and got the win on an unnecessary (at that point) two-point conversion. But enough of last week. I suspect that Coach Brewster will ride his horse – Pinnix – until his legs fall off against the Red Hawks. Miami nipped Ball State in its opener with a late touchdown. Can the MAC make it 2-0 against Minny this fall? Not likely. Minnesota 27 – Miami-OH 14.
Bowling Green State at Michigan State
Speak of the orange and brown devil. The Falcons are looking to make a statement to Big Ten commish Jim Delaney that they should be the 12th conference team. Well, maybe not but you can bet they would love to improve to 6-12 all-time against the Big Ten conference. The difference is that Michigan State has more talent, a better defense and a more proven coach than Minnesota. BGSU got the Spartans’ attention with last week’s win and after the Appalachian State upset over Michigan, don’t expect anyone to overlook the smaller foe this weekend. State got its feet wet against the spread last week when UAB unveiled it to an unsuspecting green and white defense. It’ll be a tougher go this week, but MSU will build on last week’s success. Michigan State 38 – Bowling Green 21.
Eastern Illinois at Purdue
After last week’s showing by the Mountaineers, don’t expect any 1-AA team to go on the road without expecting they too can pull a shocking upset. While beating the Boilers at home would not equal what ASU did at Michigan, it would serve more notice around college football. That said, as good as the Panthers looked in whipping on Ohio Valley Conference foe Tennessee Tech last week, the chances that they beat Purdue are slim to none. Purdue took a while to get in gear at Toledo but once they did, they rolled. I expect Eastern Illinois to battle for a quarter and a half but not much longer. Purdue 52 – Eastern Illinois 17.
Akron at Ohio State
It is MAC v. Big Ten III when the Zips take to the ‘shoe to face the retooled Buckeyes. Ohio State was strong in its opening win over Youngstown State and now the competition bumps up, if ever so slightly. Akron struggled to dispatch an Army team in a several year tailspin and if the most improvement comes between the first and second games, look out. The more time and success the new faces at OSU get under their belts, the scarier that team becomes. Ohio State 41 – Akron 7.
Nevada at Northwestern
It’s pay back time for the Wildcats. NU lost a tough one at Nevada last season and comes in having shut out fellow directional school Northeastern. The Wolfpack were pushed and shoved all over the place in a blow out loss to Nebraska. While Northwestern is not Nebraska, the Wildcats will ride the legs of Sutton to a comfortable win and a sweet little 2-0 start. Northwestern 24 – Nevada 14.
Oregon at Michigan
Easily the Game of the Week – particularly in light of Michigan’s opening debacle. Why particularly? Because Michigan must have this one to start to restore some normalcy and respectability around Ann Arbor. Trouble is, the Ducks bring the same brand of fast football that has killed the Wolverines the last few years. If Oregon gets out to a fast start, things could snowball out of control for Michigan. That seems unthinkable, but so did a loss to a 1-AA school. I think the players have a lot to prove and will, even if it is a tough game. Oregon gives the maize and blue all they can handle, but this time, M holds on. Michigan 31 – Oregon 27.
Notre Dame at Penn State
Last year, everyone had an eye on this game. ND killed Penn State. Now the shoe is on the other foot. The Irish managed just one field goal and the offense was so inept that Jim Rome dubbed “touchdown Jesus” as “field goal Jesus.” Irish fans, it’s gonna get worse before it gets better. Penn State is hungry for payback and looked damn good in its cupcake of an opener. Look for the Nittany Lions to send a message to the nation, early and often. Penn State 41 – Notre Dame 13.
Western Illinois at Illinois
The Leathernecks invade Champaign for what the Illini hope is a home opener that goes a little better than last week’s close loss to Mizzou. The Illini have to wonder what might have been had Juice Williams not gone down with an injury early in that game. Western Illinois will be hyped to play the big boys from the state, but will run out of gas by the half. Illinois 40 – Western Illinois 14.
Syracuse at Iowa
Neither team looked particularly good in its opener, though at least Iowa was victorious. This was a barn-burner last year but you can bet that the Hawkeyes will be a lot sharper this week than last. Iowa rolls. Iowa 37 – Syracuse 10.
Indiana at Western Michigan
This is actually quite an intriguing game. It is the fourth Big Ten v. MAC showdown of the week and quite possibly the best chance for the MAC to win another game against the vaunted Big Ten this year. Indiana looked solid in its opener, but that was against 1-AA Indiana State. The Broncos got whipped at West Virginia but have the talent to get the win here. It’s always dangerous to go into a MAC stadium knowing that team will be sky high. That said, I like what I saw in IU last week and they win a close one. Indiana 34 – Western Michigan 27.
Wisconsin at UNLV
This might be a decent game for a bit, but UNLV has an anemic run defense and Wisconsin has PJ Hill. The Badgers were impressive in the opener and should roll again. Wisconsin 45 – UNLV 17.
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
Monday morning QB ... on Tuesday
Some news headlines: Updated ESPN.com Bowl Projections; M falls out of Top 25; Players of the Week
What an unbelievable opening weekend for college football.
To borrow from my take over at the BitterRivals blog (yes, it's back): "Oh my!" "Holy cow!" "Who Nellie!" "Oh Doctor!" "No way that just happened." "Do you believe in miracles? YES!"
Those are just a handful of the classic sports calls (and one great movie clip) that come to mind when thinking about the Appalachian State upset of Michigan in Ann Arbor on Saturday. We're talking the supposed best of the best in the Big Ten. The winningest college football program - EVER - and they lost to a 1-AA foe - albeit a darn good one. OUCH.
Luckily for Minnesota, that debacle in the Big House let their OT loss and epic three quarter goose egg against BGSU slip by the wayside. Memo to Coach Brewster - you need to win with Pinnix, not through the air.
Illinois was the only other Big Ten team to take a lump, but that one was more or less expected and without Juice Williams, Illinois was literally a fumble and subsequent 100-yard return away from beating one of the Big 12 North favorites.
Elsewhere around the conference it was business as expected. Penn State throttled FIU. Ohio State looked solid with a bevy of new starters. Northwestern pitched a shutout. Purdue struggled early and cruised late. Indiana won one for Hepp - and how (stat line of the weekend, 3 catches for 153 yards and two scores - James Hardy). Iowa struggled but gutted out a win with great defense. Wisconsin picked up where it left off. Michigan State, for a change, did what it was supposed to do without leaving questions behind - it blew out an inferior opponent.
Players of the Week:
Jehuu Caulcrik, RB - MSU. Four touchdowns.
J. Leman, LB - ILL. 20 tackles.
Dorien Bryant - WR/KR - PUR. Kickoff return for a TD.
This week's schedule:
Miami-OH at Minnesota
BSGU at Michigan State
Eastern Illinois at Purdue
Akron at Ohio State
Nevada at Northwestern
Oregon at Michigan (Tiebreaker)
Notre Dame at Penn State
Western Illinois at Illinois
Syracuse at Iowa
Indiana at Western Michigan
Wisconsin at UNLV
Get Gamm results:
New this year, the leaderboard is posted in the right nav of the page. A lot of 9-2 records this week, but I nailed the differential in the Wisconsin game and thus win for the week. Of note, NO ONE picked Michigan to lose and one picked Bowling Green to beat Minnesota.
Some news headlines: Updated ESPN.com Bowl Projections; M falls out of Top 25; Players of the Week
What an unbelievable opening weekend for college football.
To borrow from my take over at the BitterRivals blog (yes, it's back): "Oh my!" "Holy cow!" "Who Nellie!" "Oh Doctor!" "No way that just happened." "Do you believe in miracles? YES!"
Those are just a handful of the classic sports calls (and one great movie clip) that come to mind when thinking about the Appalachian State upset of Michigan in Ann Arbor on Saturday. We're talking the supposed best of the best in the Big Ten. The winningest college football program - EVER - and they lost to a 1-AA foe - albeit a darn good one. OUCH.
Luckily for Minnesota, that debacle in the Big House let their OT loss and epic three quarter goose egg against BGSU slip by the wayside. Memo to Coach Brewster - you need to win with Pinnix, not through the air.
Illinois was the only other Big Ten team to take a lump, but that one was more or less expected and without Juice Williams, Illinois was literally a fumble and subsequent 100-yard return away from beating one of the Big 12 North favorites.
Elsewhere around the conference it was business as expected. Penn State throttled FIU. Ohio State looked solid with a bevy of new starters. Northwestern pitched a shutout. Purdue struggled early and cruised late. Indiana won one for Hepp - and how (stat line of the weekend, 3 catches for 153 yards and two scores - James Hardy). Iowa struggled but gutted out a win with great defense. Wisconsin picked up where it left off. Michigan State, for a change, did what it was supposed to do without leaving questions behind - it blew out an inferior opponent.
Players of the Week:
Jehuu Caulcrik, RB - MSU. Four touchdowns.
J. Leman, LB - ILL. 20 tackles.
Dorien Bryant - WR/KR - PUR. Kickoff return for a TD.
This week's schedule:
Miami-OH at Minnesota
BSGU at Michigan State
Eastern Illinois at Purdue
Akron at Ohio State
Nevada at Northwestern
Oregon at Michigan (Tiebreaker)
Notre Dame at Penn State
Western Illinois at Illinois
Syracuse at Iowa
Indiana at Western Michigan
Wisconsin at UNLV
Get Gamm results:
New this year, the leaderboard is posted in the right nav of the page. A lot of 9-2 records this week, but I nailed the differential in the Wisconsin game and thus win for the week. Of note, NO ONE picked Michigan to lose and one picked Bowling Green to beat Minnesota.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
